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Chapter Text

Harry blinked in confusion at the letter he had just received. It was the first letter other than his Hogwarts letter that he had ever received so it was rather a momentous occasion. Since returning from Diagon Alley he had not really expected any further contact until he headed off to Hogwarts. He examined the letter which was also on parchment, on the back was a return address and sender:

              Gringotts Nation Bank, Diagon Alley.

The wax mark a stylised G and N.

Gringotts was the bank he had visited and where he had found a he actually had money from his parents. Harry sent the door a wary glance. The Dursleys had been pretending he didn’t exist since he returned from Diagon alley but he didn’t think even Uncle Vernon’s distain of magic would extend to a pile of gold. He cautiously opened the letter wondering what the bank may want. He knew from Uncle Vernon’s mutterings about ruddy bankers and finances that there was a lot of things that needed signing and forms and proper ID to ensure people don’t steal your money. Maybe that was what they were writing about?

Curious Harry unfolded the letter:

Dear Mr Potter

There is some discrepancies noted in your finances that can only be sorted with your presence.

Please make yourself known to Gringotts by no later than the 2^nd of August 11:59 PM or your finances will be frozen.

May your gold continue to grow

Ironclaw

Potter Accounts Manager

Gringotts Nation

Discrepancies? That didn’t sound good. Harry knew it was never good when the bank wanted to see you (See Uncle Vernon and the ruddy banker rant) but he didn’t know how he could be in trouble if he hadn’t even known about his money until yesterday.

More troubling than that was they wanted to see him by tomorrow night. How would he get to Diagon alley again by tomorrow. True the Dursleys were ignoring him now but would they let him leave the house…?

It was question that he didn’t have to worry about long when the door slammed open and he scrambled to hide the letter. “BOY”

“Uncle Vernon”

“We’re going into town for a consult. You are to be locked in this room until we return from London.”

Harry blinked. Wow that was a little too convenient “Yes sir”

“No leaving. No funny business. If the house is touched then you will regret it”

“Yes sir”

Harry waited a good fifteen minutes after Vernon and Petunia and Dudley had left. From what he had gathered from their whispers it was a surgery consult to remove the tail Hagrid had given Dudley. He waited as it would be just like Vernon to double back to try and catch him leaving or doing something freaky. However the house and Privet drive remained quiet as ever so Harry didn’t waste time and quickly set to work on picking the lock, a skill he had long perfected after being locked in his cupboard, locked out of the house (accidentally sure Aunt Petunia), locked in the shed, locked in stuff at school (thanks Dudley).

Harry stole some pounds from the endless amount of cash Dudley had lying around his room. He never used it with his parents buying everything and anything he asked for but he was also always given money as well. For what Harry never knew but it often made his life easier for Dudley never kept track of his money unlike Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon.

Harry followed the route he and Hagrid went to get to Charing Cross and then to the Leaky Cauldron. This time though he wore a bloody hat. He didn’t know what wizards were smoking if they all revered a baby for defeating a Dark Lord but he certainly didn’t like the attention. Harry always preferred the background, easier to get away with things.

He slipped easily into the pub and out the back, following a group through the portal into the alley way. He walked into Gringotts less confidently as he was a bit unsure where to go. None of the tellers seemed to have nameplates, so finding Ironclaw that way wasn’t possible. There was one for Enquiries so that seemed to his best choice.

“Excuse Mr Goblin?”

The Goblin leaned over his tall table with an arched brow “And how may Gringotts help you young wizard?”

Harry gulped and placed the request on the bench “I received a request for a meeting with my account manager Mr Ironclaw. I was hoping you could direct me to him if he is available that is.”

“And if he is not?”

“Ahh” that stumped Harry. “its quite difficult for me to get here so if Mr Ironclaw would supply me with dates and times that suit him best I’m sure I can figure out when I can fit in to his schedule”

Goblin looked at him with wide eyes “You would adhere to Ironclaw’s schedule.”

Harry frowned wondering what he had said wrong. “Of course he’s the one doing the hard work taking care of my finances. I respect that and will come when its best for him”

The Goblin sent Harry a toothy smile. “Interesting. I will let Ironclaw know you are here.” As he pressed a button.

A door to his right opened moments later with an older goblin coming out, the teller and he exchange a few words in another language that seemed to make the older goblin glance at him a few times.

“Mr Potter, I am Ironclaw your accounts manager” with a bow he introduced himself which Harry hastily returned with a “Nice to meet you”

 “Please come through we have much to talk about” as he gestured to a large hallway to the far right of the tellers.

Harry was guided through a maze of hallways until they stopped at a door marked with Ironclaw also with other script that he presumed was the Goblins traditional language below it. Ironclaw led him in gesturing him to a seat across from a large gold inlaid desk.

“So Mr Potter before we begin anything we must first establish identity.”

“Er right” Harry wondered how they would do that without a drivers license or passport.

Ironclaw placed some paper that seemed to sparkled in front of him. “Prick your finger Mr Potter we need 7 drops”

Blood? Right magic okay.

Harry watched as the paper sucked in his blood. Then a beat later words formed from it seemingly written in it.

Real Name: Haraldr Ragnvald Alvis Lokison

Born 19th April 1978 -3:39pm

Bearer: Loki Odinson (Loptr Lafaeyson – kidnapped as a child by Odin Borson):cursed to be never be able to see/contact his children

Sire: Alvar Vanason (deceased)

Siblings: Half-siblings via Bearer:

• Hela Lokisdottir, Queen of Helheim (cursed by Odin Borson to never leave the realm of the dead)

• Fenrir Lokison, Alpha of Wolves (cursed by Odin Borson to also wear the unbreakable chains and remain in wolf form)

• Slepnir Lokisdottir, Stallion that Rides that Rainbow Bridge, Best of all Horses (cursed by Odin Borson to remain in horse form and be his mounted steed)

• Jormungandr Lokison, The World Serpent (cursed by Odin Borson to never leave Midguard’s Oceans and to remain in snake form)

Subject has been adapted/cursed to be human by Odin Borson, King of the Nine Realms, Ruler of Asgard.

Cursed by Odin Borrson to be Hadrian James Potter, subject of an Impossible Prophecy – The Boy Who Lived (See prophecy section for details). Hadrian James Potter does/does not exist.

Adapted Name: Hadrian James Potter

Deaged and Adapted birthdate - 31st July 1980 11:59pm

Adapted Bearer: Lady Lily Marie Potter nee Evans (deceased)

Adapted Sire: Lord James Fleamont Potter (deceased)

Blood adoption: Lord Sirius Orion Black III on 2^nd August 1980 (illegally incarcerated - November 1st 1981)

Swore godfather oath to Hadrian James Potter

Gifts/Talents:

illusion based magic - from bearer

Parseltongue/magic – from bearer (Blocked by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Natural Occulemens/Legilimens – from bearer (Blocked by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Natural Shapeshifter – from bearer (enhanced by blood adoption) (Blocked by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Vanir/Jotuun magic – ice and air inclinations (Blocked by Odin Borson RotNR, KoA)

Vanir/Jotuun lifespan/healing abilities (Blocked by Odin Borson RotNR, KoA)

     Large Grey core (Blocked by 50% by Albus PWB Dumbledore) changed to small/moderate light core

Natural athleticism from sire 

Talents towards potions and charms from adapted bearer (Blocked Potions by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Talent towards flying, transfiguration and animagus magic from adapted sire (Blocked Animagus by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Talent towards martial magic and Dark arts from blood adoption (Blocked Dark arts by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

death & soul magic affinities ((Blocked by Albus PWB Dumbledore)

Curses and other harmful magic:

Impossible Prophecy – The Boy Who Lived by Odin Borson

Magic blocked 50% by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Magic orientation forced changed from grey to light by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Cursed from Vanir/Jotuun hybrid to human by Odin Borson (did not take fully – human with seidir attributes)

Cursed to remain subservient to Dursley family and never tell anyone about it by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Cursed to hate dark magic, dark wizards, Slytherins, Severus Snape, Death Eaters, and the Dark Lord (YKW, HWMNBN, Voldemort) by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Cursed to be loyal to the light, Albus Dumbledore, to the Weasley family, to Gryffindor by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Cursed to be reckless, have low self-preservation by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Cursed to always listen to Albus PWB Dumbledore by Albus PWB Dumbledore

Base image changed by Odin Borson to look more like Adapted Bearer and adapted sire

Changes from Blood adoption – enhanced Black features

Blood based glamor by Albus PWB Dumbledore on 31^st October 1981 – adapted bearer’s eyes with adapted sires features.

Titles

Heir to Ancient and Noble House of Potter (via adapted sire)

Heir to Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Black (via blood adoption and heir ritual)

Heir to Most Ancient and Most Cunning House of Slytherin (via Conquest)

Heir to Most Imperial and Most Magical House of Lefay (via Adapted bearer)

Heir to Most Imperial and Most Chaos House of Sylvern (via bearer)

Heir to Most Ancient and Most Deathly House of Peverell (via adapted sire but gifted by Death)

***

Harry didn’t really know what to say. It was too much. It also felt like his head was at war with itself. Part of him was reading the paper and wanted to burn the whole wizarding world down, but another part was saying that Dumbledore wouldn’t do this. That Hagrid had told him what a great wizard he was and how awesome he was.

Ironclaw needed some goblin crafted spirits for this consult as he read through the complete mess that was his client’s scan. But first he wouldn’t get a word of sense from his young wizard until he was purged from the curses he was under. He could see the inner struggle the wizard was feeling, no doubt the strange inner turmoil between the curses and his real feelings.

“I need a ritual room for an emergency cleanse and I need one ASAP” he murmured into the intercom. He got an affirmative and was glad when his client was bustled out almost instantly.

Once cleansed and free of all, well most of the curses on his body, Harry had never felt lighter in his body and clearer in his mind. He still felt incomplete in a way which was likely due to the fact he wasn’t supposed to be human.

Once again seated in front of Ironclaw, no longer looking like James Potter’s twin with green eyes but more like a Black apparently according to what Ironclaw told him. The blood adoption by his godfather likely had strengthened his Black genes from his grandmother making them more dominant. Not that Harry minded, his feature had gained a refined look to them. His hair, thank Magic, had flattened considerably. Not totally unfortunately but enough not to look like a birds nest. It was more the careless roll out of bed look, with some slight waves if he were to let it grow. His eyes were still green but in a different way. Harry actually suspected these might be his real eyes shining through, as Loki’s eyes were famously emerald green.

Harry pursued his lips as he scanned the inheritance sheet once more.

“So let me know if I’ve got this straight.” Sending a look to Ironclaw “I'm not really human just cursed to be it by my evil grandfather who isn't really my grandfather but my dad's kidnapper. I have other half-siblings who are also cursed by my evil not-grandfather as he fears this end of the world prophecy.”

“End of Asgard not end of the world” the goblin interjected.

Harry blinked then sneered, “Right Asgard because that's sounding like such a grand place right now” shaking his head he continued “So Odin fears this End of Asgard prophecy so much that he's cursed my entire family”

Ironclaw nodded sadly “it seems so young wizard, luckily he was not able to fully block all your magic so you are a reasonable powerful mage.”

Harry nodded then gestured at the second offensive name on the curse list “And this Dumbledore person is in cahoots with him huh?”

The goblin chuckled “Ironically no, he isn't. He has his own separate agenda all depending on your adapted persona and the impossible prophecy you have been cursed with. He isn't aware of Odin's machinations, as far as he knows you are Hadrian ‘Harry’ James Potter.”

Harry stewed for a moment. Overwhelmed and frustrated by how trapped he felt. Sighing he glanced at Ironclaw. “What are my options with all this” with a helpless gesture to the parchment.

Ironclaw glared at it himself “Unfortunately King Odin's curses are too powerful for us to undo, we are unable to aid you there.” This obviously was hard for the goblin to admit and it looked like it left a bad taste in his mouth. “However on a more positive note Odin has done us a few favours. You are in all accounts that matter Hadrian ‘Harry’ James Potter so we can organise all the legal and finances regarding to the Potter estate. At the same time you are also NOT Hadrian ‘Harry’ James Potter so we can pick and choose what things we like of the Potter’s wishes. Your bearer is alive and even cursed can still be your Magical Guardian as Hadrian/Harry James Potter technically isn’t his son.  James Potter was a notorious prankster, so it wouldn't be odd for him to dedicate his son to a god of mischief. This would negate the old fool Dumbledore attempts at installing himself.”

Harry’s smirk became sharp “I see what you mean about Odin giving you good ammunition with me being Schrodinger's Potter.”

Ironclaw nodded with sharp grin of his own “I don't think he realised how thorough our magic really is or he would never leave such a wide loophole but all the better for it.”

Harry sighed “What about this stupid prophecy and why is it called impossible?”

In that instant Harry’s vision whited out. He came to in a room that was filled to the brim with thread and woven pieces. A huge loom was in the centre with three old ladies muttering over it.

“Completed twisted it he did...”
     “Ruined it!”
              “Almost...still salvageable...depends...”

Harry frowned “Ummm hello?”

The ladies all looked up in sync “Hello child” they chorused in eerie unison

Suspicious he asked “Who are you and why am I here?”

We
Are the Fates
The Morai
The Norns.
We weave destiny
What is to be
Will be
Won't be
May be
And could be
Prophecies are given out at our discretion
To give warning
Advice
direction

But Odin they all cursed
He has interfered with our design
Not once
Twice
Thrice
Multiple times!!

“Why haven't you punished him? Aren't you like really powerful?” Harry wondered confused
They all seemed to age, even more so, if possible.

Tricked us he did
Oh so charming
Very
Oh so complimentary he was
Asked us to bless his reign he did
We do not interfere we said
Odin all smiles
Knows this he does
Asked us to allow him power to protect his people
Just a little he say
To fight their fates
To give the unfortunate better ends.
Relent we did
swayed we were
For we do not relish our job
Ending those lives with more life to live
Thought Odin might bring balance
Understood our balance
Greedy he was though
Secure himself on the throne he did
Tyrant he made himself
Conquerer he then became
No fate or destiny he could not undo
Ashamed we are
Balance always comes due though
Prophecy of his demise came
Interfere once again he did
With Loki
With his children
And now subverting the Magical worlds prophecy.
The more he upsets the balance of Yggdrasil the more it will build and build to restore itself.

Harry realised “He's creating Ragnarok himself”

Ironic it is but that is what happens when you try to subvert destiny.

"What does this have to do with me" he asked

Furious we are at Odin
Undo his work we cannot until Ragnarok.
Free your siblings and Bearer we can aid with

Harry’s eyes lit up “Really?!”
The Norns nodded

Not easy will it be
You must first complete the impossible prophecy then your inheritance will be back upon you

“How on earth do I do that, I thought it was impossible?!”

Impossible for you
Not for the real prophecy child.
Could have been Hadrian James Potter but he did not come to be in this universe
In this one it is Neville Longbottom

“So I just have to get this guy Neville to complete the prophecy which is what?”

All the crones eyes become white and milky

Their voices echoed in triplicate as they spoke

The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches...

born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies...

and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not...

and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives...

the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies....

Harry’s eyes narrowed in irritation “So we have to kill the Dark Lord. How is that fair he's like 60 years old and I'm eleven I bet this Neville is the same”

It was not supposed to be an easy prophecy young one why do think it got marked as impossible

Harry rolled his eyes “Ergh fine do I get a hint?”

The three crones swapped looks and shrugged
'Odin's cheated enough so...'they all nodded
The Dark Lord’s real name is Tom Marvolo riddle and he split his soul several times so you will need to kill those pieces too

“So he has nine lives or something. So not only do we have to kill but kill him multiple times. I’m starting to see the impossible in this.”

We hear 7 is quite the magical number
And you might want to get that scar checked out

Good luck little godling

You’re going to need it

He was suddenly back in Ironclaw’s office
“Mr Potter?”
He glanced up at the goblin stunned

“Oh Sorry I was just summoned by the fates and Ah it seems the fates are really not happy with Odin either and gave me some pointers on how to get out from his curse”

The goblins eyes widened. “The fates themselves?”
“Yeah the ladies are really unhappy with Odin as he's upset the balance of yggiydrsil”
“Yggdrasil”
“Yeah that”
“That's most severe we can only hope it is righted soon or we may all feel the effects.”
“Pretty much”
“What advice if I may inquired at all...” Ironclaw spoke tentively as the Fates words were usually very private.

“I have to complete the impossible prophecy, with it done I will have my full powers as my bearers son and be able to look into breaking my siblings bearers curses.”
Ironclaw leaned in interested “How can you complete an impossible prophecy?”
“That's the catch apparently it's impossible for me as I am not the prophecy child just the one who got subplanted into this universe as one. The real prophecy child is some guy named Neville Longbottom. I've got to aid him in completing it.”

Ironclaw hmmed thoughtfully “Fascinating how destiny works. I believe I can assist you on your quest. Neville Longbottom is heir to the Longbottom family and will be in your year when you start Hogwarts. The Potter's and Longbottom’s have a long historical alliance, that would be a good way to strike up a conversation with the young heir.”

“Sounds like a plan Ironclaw. Can I leave you in charge of sorting out my pseudo parents assets and wills if they even had any and other things? Go ahead and increase the portfolio as best you can.”

“Certainly young lord” Ironclaw relished the opportunity and rarely were goblins given no holds bar to let lose. “May I request we put a solicitor on retainer I believe we may need to get nasty with some people”

Harry arched a brow “Sue them?”

“Destroy them to more precise” Giving the young lord a toothy grin, who laughed.
Harry smirked “bring the chaos then sir”
“May your enemies feel the wraith of your vengeance young lord”
Harry laughed “they will and may your gold always glimmer and grow”

Whilst he was in Diagon alley Harry took the chance to buy a few things that Hagrid had told him off for. Recalling the big man's almost devout way he had talked about dumbles then he suspected he was a follower of the man's meant to indoctrinate him and guide him away from things the old man did not approve of.
Harry went back and bought all those books he had wanted, the bigger trunk (he could actually switch his old one over with magic handy that) he held out against the solid gold cauldron shiny though it was. The guy at the apothecary actually told him though it looked nice gold wasn't that useful for a lot of brewing, better to save for a glass or a Crystal one or even a diamond. He asked why he didn't stock or show those and the guy gave a price that blew his mind while the man nodded sagely that's why. Just asking for thieves he said better to order it when someone wants one. Gold though was easier to replace.
Harry was fascinated by all the types and reasons the storekeeper told him about for different cauldrons for brewing. He had already been excited for potions now he really couldn't wait to try making his own.

Harry had a late lunch at the leaky cauldron and hurried home not wanting to push his luck with Dursleys. On that note he was going to ask Iron claw if he really needed to be here? Like technically he wasn’t even related to these wastes of space. For another time. He made his way inside without a hitch glad to see the car not in the drive.

He settled in his room with the owl Hagrid had bought him who was actually good company.
“Well Hedwig I guess you need to know I'm not Harry Potter. I mean I am as far as the wizarding world needs to know but on a broader scale I am Haraldr Lokison”
Hedwig gave him a look that spoke volumes, of course I know who my person is or isn't. You think I'm stupid?!
Harry smiled “of course you already know. You’re smarter that all of us aren't you Hedwig”
Hedwig nodded imperiously that had an of course I am and don't you forget it feel to it.
Giving her a few scratches Harry pondered his next move. Hedwig I need to make friends with a boy to complete this stupid prophecy but I’m not sure where to start. Should I just wait until Hogwarts?
Hedwig barked and nipped him.
“What girl?”
She held out her leg delicate as a ballet dancer.
“I should write to him. I don't know him. Plus he's probably got tonnes of friends.”
Hedwig tilted a sly look at him, causing him to narrow his eyes.
“Okay you know something so I should write then?”
Hedwig bobbed her head
Musing about weird owls Harry put pen to paper

Dear heir Longbottom
To Neville

My name is Harry Potter. I am writing as I am very new to all this magic stuff. I Only found out I was a wizard on birthday but the goblins have shown me some of my history and we are apparently godbrothers which is cool as I have always wanted a brother. I ahve a cousin but he's a bully and doesn't count. I was reading my family journals and potters and long bottoms have always been allies which goblins told me is like brothers in arms which is nice that our families have had each other's backs for a long long time it seems. I thought I would reach out and see if we could be allies once more or even better friends, godbrothers? If I am being to forward I apologise.

Yours sincerely

Hadrian James Potter

Heir to Ancient and Noble House of Potter

Hedwig took off gracefully with his missive, Harry hoped that this wasn’t going to bite him in his backside as he really needed Neville to like him.

Neville Longbottom always knew he was a disappointment. For long time he thought he was a disappointment and a squib but last summer one of Uncle Algie’s…tests finally worked and he displayed some accidental magic. Unfortunately that only fixed half the problem.

He was still a disappointment.

He saw it in the way his Gran’s lips tightened when he stuttered or shrunk away from her when she loomed over him (she was very tall and only made taller by the vulture hat she always wore).  He saw it in the grimace she never managed to hide when he struggled with athletic things, like quidditch and running. Things his dad liked to do. He saw it in the way she furrowed her brows when he was wrist deep in the soil transplanting a dancing daisy or singing daffodil.

He was a disappointment because he wasn’t like his father. He was smart enough to figure out that much. He was also smart enough to have given up trying to be. He was never going to meet the invisible standard his Gran and the other longbottoms held him too. Oh don’t get him wrong he had tried so very hard. If anything though that had made it worse. Attempts at athletics were met with trips and falls and broken bones and Gran sighing with her eyes closed in that certain way. Attempts at flying on a broom went even more spectacularly wrong and he was now banned from flying not that he really wanted to leave the ground much.

Yes Neville was a disappointment. There were days when Gran was in a particularly nasty mood and the longbottoms were being quite cutthroat that he often wondered while tending his garden if maybe it would’ve been better if he and his dad had  swapped places that fateful night. Not that he wanted to be insensate, but gazing around the robust greenhouse he had retreated to after being told that he ‘would never amount to much as he is just above squib level magic’ sometimes he wondered if living was really worth it when it hurt this much. Surely the Cruciatus couldn’t hurt worse that the barbs his family threw at him. Or Gran’s looks.

Tap. Tap. Tap. Neville blinked and turned around. Tap. Tap. Tap- Tap-Tap. He glanced it was an owl. Slightly confused as all owls came to his Gran, who was regent of the Longbottom family. He never received owls he thought a bit sourly as his relatives had done a bang up job of spreading the squib rumor throughout the pureblood circles. It didn’t matter that he had received his Hogwarts letter. It didn’t matter that he obviously had magic enough to go to a wizarding school. For the presiding years prior to Hogwarts no one had wanted to taint themselves by acquainting with a possible squib. Oh sure they made the niceties at balls and gatherings but no one wrote for a play date later or sent a gift for his birthday or Yule present.

Nevile sighed he really shouldn’t rile himself up over things that he couldn’t change. He offered the pretty white owl some treats and water. He was all set to take it straight to Gran, assuming it was misdelivered when he spied his name on the letter.

Curious and little spark of pleasure at receiving mail he opened it. To say he was shocked would be an understatement.

Harry Potter

The Boy-Who-Lived

Wrote to him?!

There was a small part of him that was squealing in glee at the honor and actually receiving a letter from the boy hero. However Neville was a smart boy, more than that he was a perceptive one. This was the Potter Heir reaching out to the Longbottom heir to reaffirm their alliance. This was also one god brother, an orphan reaching out to another orphan hoping for a friend, a brother. Nevile also didn’t miss how Heir Potter mentioned how he did not know about magic until a few days ago and was only now learning. Whoever’s the Potter’s Heirs guardian who was in charge of his heir instruction had slacked off, for the boy-who-lived to not know magic Neville could only guess it must have been deliberate. No one is that bad.

Neville didn’t know how long he stared at the incredible and lifechanging letter he had in his hands. He only tuned back in when the owl nudged him.

“Oh a reply” he murmured. Yes he should reply. The question would be, should he tell Gran? He remembered the one time he had had correspondence; it had been with the Lovegood Heiress. Gran had ended that stating that the family’s eccentricity and other quirks would reflect badly on the Longbottoms. Never mind that Neville did not have any other friends his age. Never mind that it meant he had no one to write to. It was one of the times he had felt truly betrayed by his Gran.

Neville felt his face harden, well not this time. This time it was all his. Hadrian wrote to him! Hadrian was his godbrother, was going to be his friend, his ally, his brother in arms!

Dear Heir Potter

To Hadrian

Thank you so much for your letter, I don’t think you realise how much it means to me. I confess I was not aware we were godbrothers and I too have always wanted a sibling. It is very lonely here in the Manor. I have Gran and my relatives but they can be also be a bit of a bully too. I am aware of the Potter and Longbottom alliance, it has long rich history. Our parents revived the alliance, and I too think it would be grand to keep it going. To have someone watch my back as I watch theirs. I think brothers in arms is a great way to put it and would be honored to be yours Hadrian. I’m sure you have many friends Hadrian unlike myself but I would definitely love to be included as one of them.

On that note I am very concerned for you Hadrian as you mentioned not knowing of magic until a few days ago. It sounds like your guardians or magical guardian who is the one who should be teaching you your heirs duty and other magical preparations had dropped the ball quite heinously. I would take this up with your account manager as soon as you can as it might be placing you and the Potter estates in danger. I hope I haven’t spoken to forwardly but I feel that if you are new to this world more information is better than less information.

Your friend and ally

Heir Longbottom

Neville

The beautiful white bird winged away and Neville set about his work in the green house once again, Humming a hopeful tune.

Chapter Text

Harry was plotting as he gardened. He needed to get back to Diagon Alley but he didn’t know when he would be able to do so.

He had been delightfully surprised but also suspicious to receive an almost immediate reply from the Neville kid. He had thought he would have to wait before either getting something pompous or a fan letter. He didn’t know which would have been worse. However what he received was a letter from a kid who just as lonely and likely just as devoid of love as he was. Harry could read between the lines.

He felt a little awful now about manipulating the kid into friendship so they could defeat the stupid prophecy but he consoled himself that this was was the kid's destiny no matter what. He wouldn’t even have Harry here helping him if not for Odin being a dick. He felt a bit better after that, hopefully he could come clean with the guy and they could help each other.

They exchanged letters through out the month of August. He found out that Neville lived with his Grandmother who sounded like a older and bitter version of Petunia, not to mention the various relatives from the Longbottom side of the family who would also visit and sounded just as delightful as Aunt Marge.

Neville had slowly opened up about how they were disappointed in him as a person, basically because he was not his father reborn. Neville told him how much it hurt that they didn’t love him for him but constantly saw his dad and found him wanting. Neville was a kind person though, he wasn’t filled with vengeance (unlike Harry ha!), he just wanted to prove himself to his family and grandmother.

Harry had long stopped trying to earn or prove himself worthy of love or even basic decency to the Dursleys. They didn’t want him. Period. Admittedly it was lot easier to cut off that little worm that was baby Harry that constantly murmured “maybe this will make them love me, maybe this time…” when he knew he wasn’t related to them at all. So they didn’t matter. If he actually was Harry James Potter then maybe, maybe that worm would be harder to kill because then these useless wastes of existence would be his only real family left. 

And they chose to abuse him.

Neville didn’t have that and it would likely take him longer to reach that point. Harry was definitely going to help his friend there though. Emphasising he shouldn’t and doesn’t need to prove himself worthy for love.

Harry sent his thanks regarding the advice on his accounts. To be brutally honest he had left those hints to see what a Pureblood would do with them. Neville really was a stand up guy both in picking up all the hints and also giving him advice to check it out.

Neville and him were organising a day to meet up before Hogwarts. Harry was thinking he might just go early on August 30th or 31st and then stay in London. He could definitely afford a night or two in London and it would be worth it to get all his affairs in order.

August 30^th was decided on. Neville had been pretty handy when letting Harry know about his options. If he couldn’t get the Dursleys to take him there was a Magical bus that would take him to Diagon Alley, he just had to flag it down with his wand (Harry did snigger at that he admits it) and apparently the Leaky Cauldron also rented rooms (well that would’ve been nice to know before he came back to the Dursleys).

Hindsight.

As it happened the Dursleys weren’t even home when he decided to head off. Dudley had his surgery on the Friday 28/9^th and Petunia didn’t want poor Dudders to have travel by car all the way back after surgery so they also rented a room in London for the weekend.

Harry headed out on the morning of 30^th, packing all his belongings into his new trunk that shrank as needed. Hedwig flew on a head of him. He dubiously stuck out his wand and was almost knocked off his feet.

A giant purple triple decker bus stood before him, Harry blinked at its sudden appearance. Typical that wizards who think they are so superior to muggles would be hypocrites, as they would still utilise muggle inventions. The attendant droned on as he read off a card the standard welcome and rules with prices too.

“One ticket to Diagon Alley thanks. No extras.”

“Diagon Alley it is. Whats ‘yer name?”

Harry felt his eyes narrow. He knew he had covered the stupid scar and he no longer looked like James Potter’s twin. “Do you need my name to sell me a ticket?”

“Well…er no but wes like to runa good service. Personalised and all that, ya know?”

Harry relaxed “I see. I’m Neville then”

“Nice ta meet ya Neville. Welcome aboard the Knight bus, I’m your conductor Stan”

The next 20 minutes was the wildest ride Harry had ever been on. He thinks he was in love with the sheer bloody chaos of it. It came to a very abrupt stop with Harry only stopping himself hitting the window due to his iron grip on his arm chair with the young Stan calling out Diagon Alley.

Harry stumbled off the bus towards the Leaky Cauldron, getting his balance back with every step. He didn’t pause in the pub this time, simply went straight through to the alley. Thankfully he was able to tag along with someone when they opened the gateway. Not that he didn’t remember but it was a time-consuming process.

He headed straight to Gringotts once again and was shown right into Ironclaw’s office.

“Heir Potter-Black-Slytherin-Sylvern-Le Fey-Peverell may your enemies quake before you”

Harry sent the goblin a deadpan look as he replied in kind “And may rivers of gold funnel into your vaults from unsuspecting fools.”

Ironclaw smirked, “A bit of a deviation from the traditional but I do think I like it more

“I hope Ironclaw you won’t be insisting on calling me that. It’s tedious and a mouthful.”

“Not all the time but first greetings unfortunately I do need to stand ceremony young lord”

Harrry sighed heavily. “Alright but the rest of time you are to call me Harry.”

“Very well” Ironclaw glanced up at the boy from his papers “To business then?”

“To business. So how bad is it?”

Ironclaw tilted his head in consideration, “Not as bad as it could have been.” Seeing Harry’s questioning look he continued “When the Chief Warlock managed to install himself illegally as your magical guardian over the last 10 years, it granted him provisional access to the Potter trust vault for money for care of you.” In answer to Harry’s dark look “Which we are aware from the scan and cleanse he did not do.”

Bringing a roll of parchment forward “however he was using the money for something. I took the liberty of tracing the deposits and transfers he made with that money. Some went to the people you are living” Harry sneered (oh a burden was he, Uncle Vernon? Had to earn his keep did he? Why was he surprised that liars were lying to him)

“As your magical guardian and one for a young heir, he was entitled to a significant amount of money. 5000G a year, this was for tutors and anything else that may be required of a young heir.

Not all of this went to the Dursley family. Some went to the Chief Warlocks personal account, some to another account named Crispy Chicken Group, and the rest went to accounts listed under Margaret Prewett aka Molly Weasley, Ronald Weasley, and Ginevra Weasley.”

Harry was now examining the roll of parchment that had these transactions all highlighted “So he was stealing from me. Not to mention paying my…jailors to abuse me if the curses on me are any indication. What of these Weasley people, they were also on his list of people to be loyal to”

“They are some of Dumbledore’s most rabid supporters, a notoriously light family. Well the matriarch of the Weasley family, Molly Weasley certainly is. She rules her family with an iron fist. However I know for a fact that the older children have wised up to the type of person she is. We actually employ her eldest son as a cursebreaker in Egypt. And the second youngest is in Romania as a Dragon Caretaker. Neither professions are light as both require significant understanding of Darker varieties of magic.”

Harry nodded in understanding, seeing where Ironclaw was going with this “If they want to be any way good at their job they would need to shed any prejudice about Dark magic. Plus” he added on amused “I notice both of the older boys have moved out of the country?”

Ironclaw nodded “And know that Bill Weasley was good enough for a London posting should he have requested it.”

Harry chuckled, “Well I won’t write the whole family off then as it sounds like its just few bad eggs. I guess my real questions is what are we doing about it”

“The Chief Warlock has been ousted as your magical guardian and your real parent installed. Magic has allowed that as there is no need for a guardian if the bearer or sire is alive. Nothing he tries will be able to change that due to your connection”

Harry liked that, grinning “What if he argues against me having a literal god as my magical guardian?”

Ironclaw smirked “That is the beauty of it young lord. Many of the Dark Sect still worship the old Gods, Loki included. Although the practices are banned, many still hold the old gods in high esteem and many do their rites in secret. Having magic itself acknowledge your guardianship bond is a great honour, it shows that James or Lily were likely particularly devout to Loki and to magic itself. It will strike a blow against Dumbledore as his main supporters will be seen as practicing old & banned magic. Combined with that, even with the more light aligned wixen, it is seen as a taboo, a great slight to try and wrestle your guardianship away from a magic ordained one. A god at that.”

If Harry was grinning before he was practically beaming now “Oh Ironclaw, that is devious. So truly devious."

The goblin was also grinning, his sharp teeth bared viciously “I will try to get a memory for us both to enjoy young lord, when he realises his mistake.”

Harry chuckled.

“In light of the Chief Warlock no longer having guardianship we are able to recall all the funds that weren’t used for your wellbeing.” Ironclaw gave him a serious look “When magic takes away a guardianship there is always a reason so no one will question why we looked.”

“Brilliant” Harry said.

“We also looked over your results and noted Lord Black's unfortunate circumstance. Although we, at Gringotts, have no care for Wizarding drama and law, however when it takes a fortune like the Blacks out of circulation…” Ironclaw gave Harry a considering look “And I won’t deny your case Heir Potter has even the King himself very interested. So we may have looked into things”

Ironcalaw continued “It seems your godfather was sentenced without a trial, without a conviction, without any due processing to ensure he was acting without influences.”

Harry’s brows raised, even he knew that was a big no-no “Woah”

“Yes. So as my client I ask, would you also like to set about finding justice for Lord Black?”

Harry’s eyes narrowed “You know something Ironclaw don’t you? You certainly would not be pressing this unless you, or the Goblin Nation, felt that you had a good chance of proving Lord Black's innocence”

Ironclaw casually examined his his rather long nails “It is merely speculation Heir Potter but it is certainly strange how the vaults of Pettigrew, the supposed real hero that Black killed, have not collapsed. Strange indeed that they remain open 10 years after his supposed death.”

Harry smirked “How strange indeed. Very well set the solicitor on the case, I believe you’ve found one to tackle those horrendous books”

“I have. I’ll get you to sign the contract before leaving”

“Great, well I think our business is done.

“That is is young heir, may I advise that you think about giving a statement to the public”

Harry stared “Why?”

Ironclaw looked at him, bemused but also with a hint of concern. “The wizarding world has been waiting for the Boy-Who-Lived for a decade. They have built you up in their minds. It gives you incredible political power but at the same time it’s a double edged sword, as they may hate you for not being what they want. Right now you have the opportunity to control the narrative, to give the public some pieces of you so if you do make a mistake they are more likely to over look it.”

Harry had at first bucked at the idea of going public. It went against the grain a little, to step into the spotlight. So much time blending into the background at the Dursleys, slinking in the shadows had taught him that being noticed or calling attention to oneself was rarely optimal. However as Ironclaw spoke he realised that he didn’t really have a choice about his fame, it was better he control it then it control him. It was like those celebrities that he heard Petunia tutting about when she read the gossip magazines in the line for the groceries. They all gave interviews regularly. Talk shows, radios, magazines.

He nodded slowly “Hm I can see where that may be important.” He was turning the new scene over in his mind. He could work with this. Throw some stink onto Dumbledore but accidently. As poor Harry Potter has no idea what he is doing in the wizarding world right? Oh that appealed to his inner chaos and cunning alright. He voiced this to Ironclaw who sent a calculating grin back to him.

“I will set up a reporter to ‘ambush’ you Heir Potter. Do not worry, I will ensure they will write something favourable. The Blacks and the Sylverns own quite a lot of The Daily Prophet.” Ironclaw added with a grin.

Harry echoed it with his own. “Very well I will be prepared. May your gold to continue to grow Ironclaw”

“And may your enemies suffer greatly if they dare to trespass against you”

Harry laughed thinking he’ll have to get creative with his traditional greeting next time.

Harry woke on the 30^th feeling excited and a little apprehensive as today was the day he would meet Neville. For better or for worse he would have to guide the other boy to complete his own prophecy so he hoped that he liked the boy as much in person as he did via the letters they had exchanged.

Before meeting Neville at the ice cream parlour as agreed he had a one task and that was tailoring his first interview and public appearance just right. He needed to strike the right chord between naïve and curious, ignorant yet eager to learn and of course dropping some strategic hints of his less than informative and idyllic home life.

Yes sorry to break it to you Wizarding Britain but this boy-who-lived was cleaning out his lazy muggle relatives gutters not fighting dragons or rescuing damsels (unless you count the various snakes he made sure Petunia didn’t find). 

He was staying temporarily at the Leaky Cauldron under an alias while employing his shapeshifter gift so no one knew that he, the famous Harry Potter, was staying there. It had made his coming and goings rather easy and cringe-free, unlike when he came with Hagrid. Ironclaw was currently compiling all the properties he owned and ensuring all of them were warded and up to living standards. By the time summer rolled around he wouldn’t have to return to the Dursleys for he would have his pick of ancestral mansions and holiday homes. It blew Harry’s mind and the vindictive part of him almost wanted to stop by the Dursleys one more time to rub it in their fat faces. Alas it was likely not meant to be, nor the smartest path either.

Harry was back in the rags that the Dursley’s had graciously bestowed on him and also back in his “Harry Potter” TM shift. He had debated with himself greatly about keeping the changes made by Wannabe Odindore as he really wanted to do away with them but unfortunately since he had already been seen he couldn’t do that. Strategy and cunning demanded he keep them but he wasn’t going to keep it forever.  No he was going to slowly and carefully shift over the coming years towards his, well Hadrian Potter’s real looks. That way it would look like the glamor on his looks was slowly fading.  

Harry ready himself outside the Leaky Cauldron, making sure he looked the part and that his wild hair was falling just so that you could catch a glimpse of the famous scar. He entered the dingy pub and paused, making it look like he was nervous but really he wanted the attention on him. He shift so one of the rare spots of light shined upon him, highlighting his features. He pushed forward, not letting the smirk spread as he heard the whispers begin,

“It’s Harry Potter…!”

“The Boy-Who-Lived”

“Wow he looks just like I thought he would.”

Irritating though it was, it was a necessary evil. Nervously he asked the barmen, Tom, if he could help him enter Diagon Alley as he couldn’t remember the wand sequence.

“No worries laddie. Not to pry but you here on your lonesome?”

“My family gave permission for me to come. I’m meeting a friend. He’s told me so much about what the Wixen world is like”

“Good, Good”

Diagon Alley opened up after Tom showed Harry how to recall the sequence easier. Harry did not get far when a nasally voice intruded on his walk to Gringotts.

“My, my. As I live and breath, its Harry Potter. The Boy-who-lived”

Harry blinked as his vision was assaulted by the most acidic green he had ever encountered. He glanced away from the vibrant robes into a toothily smiling lady with coiffed blonde hair.

“Rita Skeeter, Daily Prophet. It’s an honour, truly.”

“Oh wow so are you like a reporter?” Harry mused injecting awe and wonder into his voice.

“Exactly like dear” as she brought up her pad and an electric green quill. “The world has been dying to hear from you Harry since you vanished in 1981 with nary a whisper. Care to share where you’ve been and why you’ve been so silent these ten years?”

“Really? I mean I’m not that important I’m just, well…Harry?”  he said with a shrug making sure to sound confused and doubtful. “I don’t think people will care about me and what I’ve done.”

Rita blinked, nonplussed “But you’re the Boy-who-lived? Of course people want to know!”

Harry frowned, very doubtful “Really Miss Skeeter? Hagrid explained all the Boy-who-lived stuff but really that happened 10 years ago.”

Rita’s expression turned sly “Harry dear I absolutely promise you people will want to know. How about you humour me and we see who’s right?”

“Well you’ve been awful nice Ms Skeeter, I guess if you’re sure I’m not wasting your time…”

“Never.” As she steered the boy to a little café off the main drag that she knew had booths with good privacy and notice-me-not charms. She ordered the usual tea and snack special that she got when charming an interview subject.

She slide back into the booth and was surprised to find the boy writing down somethings on a muggle notepad with a biro. Bemused she watched on, she wasn’t offended by the muggle items (some of those stationary things were amazing, sticky notes who would have thought?) merely just taking in the picture of the Boy-Who-Lived using it so easily. Being a reporter was knowing ones own biases and Rita was more than aware that she and the wizarding world at large had their own built up picture of Harry Potter. This naïve almost muggle like child certainly wasn’t what people had pictured, certainly some would be thrilled at his easy acceptance of muggle items however the more traditional would be appalled. She would need to wait though for the boy to reveal more to know what angle she would be pushing.

Suddenly the notebook was pushed towards her along with the pen, “Here Miss Skeeter”

 Bewildered she took the notebook and read the child-like writing, as she went on her brows climbed higher and higher. It was an agreement, to basically write things close to the truth. To only publish what Harry had agreed to. In return Harry was granting her exclusive rights to first interviews and other relevant features. There were other points in there but she just skimmed then until she flicked over to the last page which asked for the recipients signatures.  It was actually pretty well written however it was on muggle notebook, albeit a nice one, and with a muggle pen. Only contacts written on magical parchment and ink worked. They also had to be cleared by a Goblin at Gringotts. Rita felt both impressed but also felt patting the poor child, bless him. He would learn but it would take more than this to leash her.

Said child beamed at her “So? I think it’s a good deal Miss Skeeter. And my uncle, well he didn’t teach me much, but he did always say to always agree on terms prior to a business deal”

Rita beamed back at the oblivious child, feeling a slight pang to her conscious, “Your uncle sounds like a smart man. And I think this is a quite a fair deal too. I see you’ve signed so I’ll add mine in next…” as she scribbled her name with the biro. What happened next left Rita gobsmacked as the contract she just signed turned gold and duplicated thrice. One copy landed before her, the other Harry and the other shot off in the direction of the bank.

The child oohed as he watched the contracts “So that’s what Ironclaw meant when I didn’t have to bring one to the bank later. So convenient.”

Rita stared she couldn’t believe it. The little miscreant had pulled a fast one on her. And she still couldn’t tell if it was on purpose or not (the only reason why she wasn’t strangling the little shit).

He smiled at her “Magic’s so amazing isn’t Miss Skeeter?”

Rita struggled with herself under that innocent gaze. The contact wasn’t actually that bad and the kid, seemed to be oblivious to what he had just done (probably his goblin actually...sneaky beasts). She had just signed on to be his first contact with press with the BWL (what reporter wouldn’t die for that), she would just have to curb her quill with Harry so she didn’t violate the contract.

Taking a deep breath and telling herself she only had herself to blame. “it certainly is dear” she poured him a cup of tea as she leant in “You’ve been away from the wizarding world for so long dear, it must be like missing a part of yourself”

Harry looked at her confused “But I only learnt I was magic on my birthday this year?”

The teapot bobbled as Rita struggled not to gape “What?”

“I mean I guess I did when I lived with my parents but then I forgot.”

“But we’ve been told you were living with a magical family and training for inevitable return”

“Um sorry to tell you this Miss Skeeter but I think someone’s been spreading false rumours or lies.” Harry patted her hand sadly “My –“ grimace “the people I live with are muggles”

Rita’s eyes narrowed at the phrasing. “And did they not enlighten you to the fact that you were magical? That you were a wizard? Surely there were signs”

The boy hunched himself into the booth. “Well it seems like they knew but just never told me. They don’t like anything not normal. And I’m not normal” he whispered.

Now Rita could admit she was ruthless, she was cold and efficient when it came to getting a story. But she wasn't heartless. Hearing that the Harry Potter, the most famous orphan of all had been abused. Well she wasn’t going to let that stand.

“Harry, darling, you are normal. You are a wizard and I promised you whatever those things said about you is not true.”

“Really?” Green beseeching eyes

“Yes dear” Rita cleared her throat as she continued “Now magic is wonderful and powerful but Harry dear I am going teach you the power of words.”

Harry cocked his head “words?”

“With words I alone I can get you out your relatives house. Do you give me permission to publish this and maybe give me a few key other things like their address to investigate”

“Um sure. I don’t think it work though. No one has ever helped me get away from them before” Harry shrugged “or they forget me”

Forget huh? Rita was smelling something mighty fishy going on here. “Even your magical guardian?”

“Ironclaw asked about them too. Said they were supposed to teach me stuff and check on me but I never met anyone that wasn’t my relatives.”

That wasn’t right as Albus Dumbledore was famously the child’s magical guardian. Harry would certainly remember meeting the headmaster as the man didn’t exactly blend. He was also the one who assured the public regularly that Harry was growing up well and training to be a great wizard. All lies apparently.

Rita was starting to see there was more to this story than meets the eye. Just off the top her head she had abuse, negligence on behalf of a magical guardian, negligence of an heir, with the suspected obliviates it could be also be malicious negligence, never mind setting up the child to fail with all the false expectations he kept putting around.

As a Slytherin Rita had never liked Albus Dumbledore. She had idly hoped one day to tear him off his golden throne (she had always hated that thing). As a man that powerful and that high up always had skeletons. Maybe Harry Potter was going to be the chink in the man’s rainbow coloured armour.

She would need to investigate extensively and she couldn’t tip her hand. Not with someone like Dumbledore.

“Harry believe me when I say that this isn’t right. I will do my due diligence and make sure we have enough to prove this. Unfortunately that means it might take several months. I think what we should do is release a soft article, you’re Harry Potter and have been kept in the dark. You want to thank everyone for their thoughts and wishes about you’re parents, and hope to make them proud.

Harry added “Please be patient with me as I am still learning but I eager to embrace my place as an heir and my culture” 

Rita nodded, impressed, that was a good addition indeed. As it would definitely get some of the more traditional purebloods off his back and any etiquette faux pas he might make  for the next several months would be forgiven. 

“That should keep the traditional and fans off your back for a bit.” She also examined Harry and thought she would get a picture from her pensieve of one of Harry’s cute smiles. It would be a great accompaniment to the piece, innocent yet slight naive. 

Harry held out a hand “Thank you miss skeeter, Ironclaw said you were the best. He sure was right”

Rita blushed as she shook the kid's hand, Magic the kid was going to make her soft. “No sweat dearie. This will be out for the September 1^st edition. Everyone will read it before they go to Hogwarts or on the train.”

He nodded “Oh Miss skeeter. Here” and pushed a sack towards her.

She opened and stared “What? I haven’t even published anything”

“That’s for the first article. There’s also a bit in there for investigative expenses Ironclaw says. Ironclaw says in 3 months to present your draft to him if he likes it he will give you another one depending where you are on your findings.”

Rita stared at the galleons. It was more than generous and definitely would help her with the necessary bribes and gifts she gives out to grease the way for information. She narrowed her eyes at the boy, he was too prepared. She really was starting to suspect he intentionally tricked her.

She couldn’t stay mad at him. She would’ve taken the job anyway. Plus she almost reeved with how juicy this was. 

“Thank you. I’ll be touch Harry.”

Harry waved her off and couldn’t stop the smirk when she was out of sight.

Oh he got her good.

And she seemed both reluctantly impressed and annoyed at herself. There was also the looks where she seemed torn, obviously she couldn't decide if he had been aware of the implications of his little scam or not. It seems his cute smile and big eyes made it hard for her to see behind the mask.

He was keeping that one up for a while.

He dashed over to Fortescues just in time to see a nervous blonde looking around the tables worriedly. As he was the only unaccompanied boy, Harry guessed that this was Neville. Harry did take a moment before introducing himself to take stock. Neville was a little pudgy with baby fat but Harry had no doubt he would drop all that come their next growth spurt. What annoyed him was the baseline anxiety and nervousness that he seemed to exhibit, no doubt a by-product of his dear relatives and that bitch of a grandmother. That would have to go, Harry couldn’t have his chosen one looking like a good jump scare would cause him to faint. Striding up to the boy he quickly introduced himself “Neville?” rapid nod “Great it’s me Harry, Harry Potter. Nice to meet you in person.”

Neville seemed paused in… shock? Harry didn’t know but he seemed to gather himself pretty quickly “Nice to finally meet you too Harry.” He blushed “I admit for a minute there I thought it had all been a joke”

“While I am not to opposed to a good prank or joke done right. That would be outright cruel and not a joke at all.” Harry said. “I admit I was worried too.”

Neville looked incredulously at the other boy, wondering what on earth he could be worried about. Harry shrugged “I haven’t had a friend before so…” he added “I also was worried your grandmother might not let you come. She sounds mean”

“Me neither Harry so I was definitely coming” Neville smiled shyly, looking a bit more at ease now that he knew that his fears were shared. “Gran’s weird  when it comes to outings. Official outings, she dubs them, like getting my school stuff and all that she wouldn’t let me go by myself. But when it comes to me ducking out to the local nursery or apothecary she has long stopped caring if I go by myself.”

“Soooo technically you shouldn’t be here?” Maybe he didn’t have as much work to do as he thought if Neville was already this sly.

“I know that she wouldn’t be happy but technically I didn’t say which apothecary” Neville’s shy smile became a smirk.

Harry smirked back. Both boys broke out into laughs.

“Well good sir shall we enjoy our technicalities in Diagon Alley today? We best make sure to stop by the apothecary of course”

Neville nodded seriously “of course”

The two boys had a grand day exploring Diagon Alley which they found was larger than either of them thought.  Branching out were of course Knockturn Alley but then there was Horizant Alley, Vertik Alley, Celestial Way, Tenic Alley and Romantic Way

All though they both had purchased their things for school, the boys did find a few things that tickled their fancy. Neville couldn’t say no to a plant cutting he found at the apothecary which was supposedly for a super rare variety of devil snare. Harry had called bullshit. Neville had shrugged, saying even if it wasn’t he still wouldn’t mind a normal devil snare. Apparently the longer one tends them the more loyal the plant is. Harry looked at the plant a little less critically, if Neville had an attack plant on call that would be good protection. Harry bought a ring, it was nothing spectacular and had been gathering dust in the junk shop they went to but that was because no one could get the ring to work, apparently the magic remained sealed no matter what. Harry bought it, not to unravel the mystery as he said to Neville but because he could feel his bearer’s magic on it, Loki’s magic. No wonder these mortals couldn’t unlock the magic. He’d examine it more at home but a great find.

Harry insisted on buying Neville a wand. Neville was so worried that his Gran might notice. Harry argued that she wasn’t going to Hogwarts so what she didn’t know… Neville remained conflicted all through Olivander’s visit, even with the old man muttering shit under his breath about legacy wands, it wasn’t until he grabbed his wand with sparks christening the moment that he settled with a soft “oh” as he stared at the wand in awe. “I didn’t realise it was supposed to feel this way” Neville murmured as Harry paid.

“You can understand why I insisted then”

Sensing Olivander was about to go on another lecture, Harry quickly intervened with a question regarding if there were wand holders. Olivander showed then to the wall of wand holsters. They both bought a wrist holder. Harry also bullied Neville into getting a ankle holser for his father’s wand.

The two boys were more than exhausted when they collapsed back into the chairs at Fortescue’s ice cream parlor once again.  

Harry was overall quite pleased with how the day had gone. Neville was a great guy, humble, kind and maybe had some self-esteem issues due to his bitch of a Gran but Harry was determined to bring his new friend and future chosen one out of his shell.

“This was nice Harry, thanks for inviting me to come with you”

Harry glanced over to Neville who was shyly staring into his salted caramel with dancing stars “Couldn’t ask for better company Neville. We’ll be at Hogwarts in a few days, us brother-in-arms will have to stick together no matter what the masses throw at us won’t we?”

Neville looked a little uncertain for moment, as if he thought after all this Harry would drop him when he got to Hogwarts. But then his resolve seemed to harden and he nodded “yeah brothers, no matter what Harry.” He hesitated “No matter what house too”

Harry laughed “What are you talking about we’ll both be in Gryffindor?” He bloody would make sure of it.

Neville looked at him so hopefully it was painful. “You’d think so? Gran wants me to be but thinks I’m most likely a Hufflepuff”

Translation: Neville’s dad was a Gryffindor and Neville wasn’t likely as good as him.

Man Harry was going to prank that woman hard and not in a nice way when he met her.

To be honest Neville could be either Gryffindor or Hufflepuff, Harry thought, they both suited him. Unfortunately Harry needed to be in Gryffindor to play Dumbledore’s game thus he needed Neville in there with him. Out of the two of them Harry knew that he had less chance then Neville of getting in the lion’s house. What can he say? He was a product of the Dursley’s loving care. More than that he was a child of Loki at his core, and what is Loki if not cunning and sly?

A complete Slytherin to be frank.

He can only hope he convince whatever the sorting process is that his quest is bigger than all of them. Which it was.

He was saving the Yggdrasil. And his family. (Well he didn’t work for free.)

“Don’t worry Neville, it’s going to be great. You and me are going to be seeing out the next seven years in Gryffindor. Just you wait and see” Yeah fake it til you make it is what Harry is going to live by until the sorting and he figured out how to scam it.

Neville at least appreciated his inspiring (cough bullshitting) words by his beaming smile.  

Harry was going to like having someone so easily reassured and not cynical like himself around.

Chapter Text

September 1^st dawned with Harry practically vibrating with sheer energy. That also wasn’t counting the caffeine he had swiped at the Cauldron during his early breakfast since he had stayed up late plotting alternate contingencies depending on his house sorting vs Neville's house sorting.

He couldn’t wait for this day to be over so he knew what path was set before him but at the same time he couldn’t afford a single misstep today. First impressions were everything and from what he had found while chatting to some of the store keepers, a lot of the cliques or basis of friendships were formed on the Express.

Even though the train didn’t leave until 11, Harry was going to get there as early as possible and stake it out. It was a perfect time to assess the enemy (ahem), the other players and their families. His chosen one would need allies, and connections and who best to help him get those, why the Boy-Who-Lived that’s who?

Neville, being the helpful guy that he was, told Harry all the ways he could get to the platform that Hagrid conveniently forgot to tell him. Harry smelt a rat or more precisely heard a bee. But all's well that ends well with a manipulation thwarted. He would watch closely though to see what scheme Dumb-as-a-Door had planned.

He ended up flooing to the platform after letting Hedwig fly on ahead. It was only 8 o’clock and the conductor was doing spot checks it seemed and had glanced up in surprise at him there so early. He informed Harry that no one could board to at least 930-945am. The early birds didn’t usually arrive until around then due to this.

Harry said this was fine, unfortunately he could only come at this time. Apparently this wasn’t too strange as sometimes they did get the odd one coming in a bit early being the only time that they can be seen off.

Harry parked himself on a nice bench, spreading his jacket over him to keep warm. He only had his backpack of course, everything else was shrinkable. The bench had a decent view of the muggle entrance to the platform as well as being able to see the floo and apparition station, while also not being too visible.

He watched on with curiosity as slowly but surely the platform filled up. Several of those that were early seemed to be wearing badges and already in their robes. Harry guessed this was some sort of student hall monitor thing, his school had done the same thing in more senior years to encourage the development of leadership qualities. He memorised most their faces as they would be people to appeal to or avoid in his school career.

The next stage were those of clearly working families, where the parents all said a farewell and dashed off. It seemed to be a mix of muggleborn and those of less affluent wizarding families. Harry was particularly interested in a girl who had tumbled out of the floo, her hair rapidly changing colour in her apparent embarrassment as she picked herself up off the ground. Her parents seemed to be a mix of wixen and muggle as the mother was dressed in nice robes and looked like she was born in that style with her effortless grace whereas the dad was dressed in what muggles called business casual.

The next wave seemed to come and Harry could see those of the apparent ‘Purebloods’ stride in like they had all the time in the world, likely because they had gotten the day off to do just this or could afford to go in late. Harry watched on as a family of pale blondes, all with neutral faces, said their goodbyes. Harry supposed keeping things like hugs and all to private areas was their way of maintaining their cold Pureblood façade. Still, he didn’t think if it was worth it when the blonde haired kid clearly looked like he wanted to hug his parents one more time.

Harry felt a pang of envy. All these people had someone to see them off. Harry packed up his jacket as he made his way to grab a seat on the train. One day, he swore, one day he and his siblings would be seen off by their mother (maybe not to Hogwarts), even if its just to a sleepover, they would get that experience too. 

Harry noticed Neville on his way to the train. Poor Neville was hunched over and with his head bowed, as a tall, stern older lady dressed in the ugliest vulture hat Harry had ever seen scolded him or appeared to be. Her mouth was stretched thin, and she seemed to have a look of resigned disappointment as she stared at Neville. As if she was hoping for something else, or maybe someone else.

Oh yeah she was an older and bitterer Petunia 2.0 who had not aged like fine wine but more like algae in a stagnant pool. She was perhaps worse than Petunia, as dear old Petunia had never looked at him expecting him to be anything other than what she labelled him, a freak. There was never a hint of nostalgia or bitter recriminations about her sister. Probably, Harry mused, because she was jealous of his adopted mum, as the display with Hagrid had shown, which later became hate. 

Petunia 2.0 clearly looked at Neville and wished for him to act like her son. Or worse to be her son.

She was on Harry’s shit list. Not right now, but one day she will go down.

Harry made the effort to brush past Neville when his Grandmother was distracted by all the other parents on the platform. He saw Neville light up when he saw him, Harry pointed silently to the train then gestured to both of them. Hopefully he understood that he wanted to sit together. Neville nodded vigorously so Harry guessed he got some idea of what he meant. Sending him a thumbs up he headed up to snag a compartment.

He found one towards the front of the train. Hoping people would go to the back rather than the front. Moments later Neville came in looking relieved, but a bit upset.

“Hey Nev, glad you found me,” he looked a bit closer, “you okay?”

“Yeah just Gran being Gran.” The boy wilted, “I tripped in the floo on the way into the platform so she was embarrassed about that. Then I lost Trevor my new toad, so I had to scramble around to find him. Then when I said I was boarding…” Neville’s lip trembled, “She didn’t even say goodbye. I mean I wasn’t expecting a hug. Gran’s not a hugging person but you know, just a farewell would be nice? But all she could say was 'don’t disappoint me or for Magic’s sake embarrass me further'.”

Pranks were looking almost too good for this old biddy Harry mused darkly. He would need to think creatively to give this woman a real lesson.  Harry noticed that good old Gran didn’t seem inclined to help her grandson either when magic would’ve solved both of those so-called embarrassments. There was an anti-tripping spell that one could cast before flooing, mostly for young children but some people still use it as they never get the hang of flooing. And there was the bloody summoning charm that she could’ve use for the toad. Obviously, this sadistic biddy would rather berate her grandson and take pleasure in his discomfort than lift a wand to ease his burden.

“Nev, what she said was not okay. Especially where she said it.” Nev glanced at Harry, with glassy eyes, “I get it, you know. I was looking at all of them, parents and siblings seeing off their family. And I was thinking I – “

“ – would give anything to have that.” Neville finished.

Both boys swapped sad smiles of mutual understanding.

Harry didn’t know what he may be capable of once he was free of Odin’s curse but he swore if he was able to or if there was something out there in the wider Nine Realms, he would help his friend also get his family back too.

Determined to lift the mood, Harry said “Anyway, who cares about that old bitch.” Startling a laugh and a gasp from Neville, “We are here to blaze our own destiny my friend” Leaping up into a pose like he had sword in hand.

“To strike down our enemies” Neville jumped up too, caught in the mood.

“To bravely defend the weak”

“And break curses and heal the sick”

“To fight for the truth, brothers” Harry raised a hand

“To fight for freedom, brothers” Neville clasped his hand but Harry quickly moved it so they were holding each other forearms. And that’s when magic recognised it.

A shield brother oath.

Both boys sat back down grinning. Harry doubted Neville realised the importance of what went on here. Shield brother/sisters oaths were so old. From what reading he had done they had slipped out of fashion centuries ago. He did suspect that the founders likely had done one though.

Neville excused himself as his toad made another attempt to escape. Harry merely went back to people watching. It was a bit amusing as some people started rushing onto the platform, as it was nearly 11.

Seeing that it was almost 11, Harry wondered about what little trap Dumblewhore had planted for his golden boy as time was running out. Options would be limited as his ticket had said King Cross station, platform 9 3/4. So he presumed, without Neville, he would’ve been stuck looking for the muggle entrance.

Planting someone at the entrance would be tricky but the likely event. Still, how would they even know when he came? He had rocked up here at 8 via floo. He would’ve done the same for Kings cross. Tracking magic on him potentially. He would check that but it wasn’t super vital right now despite how much it irritated him as he was where the old wizard wanted him to be. He would need to look into further so he could circumvent it when needed and disappear from the old coot's watching eyes. As to how he was going to manipulate him Harry shrugged mentally, not his problem. All that mattered was it hadn’t worked.  

It was practically eleven and the conductor was making his rounds closing doors and locking them and the whistle was blown. it was a sweet moment when all the children were waving to the adults gathered there. It was broken when a group of redheads barrelled through the muggle entrance and dashed for the train, they started jumping on the train when it was literally in motion. Harry stared incredulously, you would think if you had that many children you would prepare and come early. Two of the redheads seemed to be having a grand old time as they climbed and pretended to slip and eventually dove in the window as the matriarch shrieked like a harridan and the little girl of the lot giggled. The older one looked strained in a way that said he clearly had been ready early, why is my family like this, why couldn’t I have just come by myself. The last one to be helped on was clearly torn between exhalation and embarrassment if the bright red colour of his ears were anything to go by. The mother seemed impervious to the looks of the other parents which were a mix of disdain, appalled and mirth as she continued to shout to her children.

“FRED, GEORGE, PERCY, TAKE CARE OF RON”

“NOT TO WORRY MOTHER RONNIKINS IS SAFE WITH US!” the identical twins shouted back joyfully, seeming to delight in this chaotic goodbye.

“FRED, GEORGE YOU TWO BEHAVE, I DON’T WANT ANOTHER LETTER SAYING YOU’VE……BLOWN UP A TOILET SEAT OR SUCH”

“BLOWN UP A TOILET SEAT?!” one queried

“WE’VE NEVER BLOWN UP A TOILET SEAT!” the other added

“THANKS FOR THE SUGGESTION MUM!” came a joint call.

“BOYS!!”

“Don’t worry mother I’ll keep an eye on them” came a loud and stern voice of someone struggling not to yell.

“THANK YOU PERCY, SO PROUD OF YOU”

“HERE THAT GEORGE?”

“OOOOH YES FRED PREFECT PERCY IS GOING TO KEEP AN EYE ON US”

“WE TREMBLE WITH FEAR”

“BOYS BE NICE TO YOUR BROTHER, THAT INCLUDES RON!”

“YEAH YEAH KEEP YOUR HAIR ON”

A girlish giggle came as the train speed picked up. “BYE GIN-GIN, WE’LL MISS YOU”

“WE’LL SEND YOU A HOGWARTS TOILET SEAT”

The loud women’s last recrimination of ‘boys’ was lost to the wind as the train finally left the station and picked up too much speed.

Both Harry and Neville swapped looks having spent the last 5 minutes watching or well listening to the drama outside. Neville sent him an exasperated shrug.

“Ah that’s the Weasley family. They’re a pureblood family that lost their fortune and Wizengamot seat a century or so ago to a scandal with the Malfoy family. They are always like that I’m afraid” Neville winced despite how delicately he had phrased it.

“Loud?” Harry said sceptically, to be honest that was putting it mildly.

Neville nodded sheepishly, “Even Gran is not a fan of Molly Weasley. Thinks she lost all her decorum when she became a Weasley but then she also thinks she never had much to begin with”

Someone even snobbish Vulture lady didn’t want to associate with huh? Harry didn’t know if this was a great character reference or a terrible one. Could go either way. Still that display had been…off-putting to say the least. Harry also felt the name Weasley sounded familiar for some reason.

“Well I think we’ll take your gran’s opinions with some salt.” Not one to resist information, especially on a scandal Harry asked, "What was the thing that lost them their fortune?”

“Well its mostly rumour so all I know is that about century and a bit ago, a Weasley male and a Malfoy lady were contracted to be married. It was a big deal as the Weasleys were very prominent and so were, well still are, the Malfoys. Malfoy born women are rare for some reason, some suspect a curse or something. Anyway the Weasley male reportedly broke the contract for another woman, a lesser born woman. This may not have been so bad as this has happened before, the family just makes reparations, disavows the contact breaker and perhaps can make another contract with another family member.”

Harry arched a brow “I’m guessing this did not happen”

Neville shook his head “No the Weasley family refused to disavow the heir, refused pay reparations for the contract broken. They argued that acting for love was greater than any contract. That bravery to do so shouldn’t be punished.”

Harry kind of got where they were coming from but the way he had done it was wrong. It sounded like if the heir had asked, he could’ve got out of the contract if his family was for the love conquers all approach. Not easily and not without consequences but it would’ve been better and less embarrassing for all families. But no, he had been selfish.

“Let me guess the Malfoys didn’t like that?” Cause he wouldn’t either.

“No, they did what any family that’s honour was besmirched would do and acted on the contracts contingencies.” Neville grimaced “Contracts like those, well there’s a reason people don’t break them or try to find a way around them. For their pride, the Weasley lost their estate, their fortune and their Wizengamot seat. They also have an ongoing blood feud with the Malfoys which doesn’t help their lot in life”

Harry whistled.

“They could make steps to resolve the feud and their reputation as the contingencies were hinged on disavowing and disinheriting the heir who started the feud. To this day though the Weasleys refuse to do it, standing by their heirs’, now ancestors, decision.”

“Wow,” Harry stared wide eyed. “Pride cometh before thy fall as they say” Shaking his head in amazement, sure he had pride but there was point where he knew other things take precedence, like necessities in life, your family, your future. Well not his problem, but it was useful information. He wondered what else Neville might know. Did this make him a gossip? maybe?

Still that name, Weasley. Harry could swear he had heard it before.

Harry was pondering why it sounded so familiar when the compartment door slammed open.  One of the redheads from earlier poked their heads in drifting over Neville’s blonde hair and then latching onto Harry’s messy Potter™ hair (Ergh obvious much? he couldn’t wait to slowly let this stupid glamor seep away).

“Um do you mind if I join you? All the others are full.”

Harry knew a lie when he saw one. There was no way all of them were full. The conductor had explained the train magically expanded which was so cool. However he had been wondering when the fame seekers would come. Wait a second, Weasley as his eyes narrowed at the newcomer. They were the ones on his list of loyalty compulsions.

Harry smirked. Oh hello manipulation, let’s see what hand you want to play this time, old man.

“Sure take a seat” He said with a gesture to one.

The gangly boy smiled and jumped right in. Harry did his best not to notice the way his eyes kept flicking to his bloody forehead. Subtle this one was not. He sent a look and a gesture of their oath to Neville who was looking at the boy with trepidation. It seemed to settle him as he seemed to straighten up. Harry was going to need to find a way to talk without talking.

“I’m Ron Weasley” shared the redhead boy as he not so blatantly looked at Harry.

“Neville Longbottom” which caused Ron to look at him for once, then dismiss him barely a second later. If that wasn’t enough for Harry to dislike him then what came next did.

“I’m Hadrian Potter”  cue gasp.

“woah” awestruck look “are you really Harry potter?”

Harry sent him a deadpan look “It’s Hadrian actually and yes I really, really am.”

“Wow. So do you have” Ron squirmed. Harry refused to help him despite knowing what he was about to ask. “the scar?” as he stared hungrily at Harry’s forehead.

Harry swapped looks of disbelief with Neville. “Yes I do”

Ron looked excited and actually leaned over with an outstretched arm. Harry's eyes widened as he leaned away and slapped the hand “No you may not see the scar that I got the night my parents died and I was orphaned.”

Neville looked at the boy disgusted “Really Ron? Have you no tact? Not to mention any respect for someone's personal space”

Ron sneered at Neville but quickly masked it when he looked back at Harry, “I just wanted a peek” he said with a bit of whine, “We’ve all heard so much about you Harry. How you defeated You-know-who and saved us and then became famous!” Ron turned to him again, openly curious “Say you don’t like maybe –“

Harry could not believe this kid. Maybe the loyalty compulsion was to make him overlook how bloody rude he was, not to mention a fame chaser. It hadn’t escaped his noticed how fevered Ron’s voice got when talking about how ‘famous’ he was. Lucky he had Neville who would never let such a transgression go.

Neville cut in before Ron could finish his question as he had a good idea where it was going “For Merlin’s sake, you are not just about to ask Hadrian if he remembers the night his parents were brutally murdered by a maniac? I sincerely hope you have more sense than that”

“Oh shut up squib. No one wants you here. Me and Harry are fine enough without your magicless presence so why don’t you toddle off.” Ron made a walking gesture towards the door then dismissed Neville in the same breath as he spun back around to Harry with an expectant expression.

Harry was pretty certain dear old Ronald knew about the compulsions. For only an idiot would act like that and expect friends.

 Well, he could be an idiot too. Can’t discount that either.

Ron spun around and came face to face with Harry’s wand. “Ronald, no one speaks to my best friend that way.” His Wand sparked making Ron jump, “In fact I think there’s no longer any room left in this compartment for you. We’re all full right Neville?”

Neville sidled up alongside him, as he too smirked. “Right indeed Hadrian, way too full for Ronald here.”

Ron gaped, looking back and forth, “But Harry we’re supposed to best mates?!” he sputtered.

“Sorry I already have one. Guess you’ll have to apply else where. Bye” They didn't bother waiting for the Ron to protest further as both he and Neville forced a shocked Ron out into the hallway then slammed the door and locked it.

“Can you believe that idiot?” Harry muttered incredulously. He knows mo-Ron likely thought Harry would choose him due to the loyalty potions, but still Harry was almost pained by the lack of subtly and finesse displayed. When you’re trying to pull of scheme of the scale that they are, never tip your hand. Harry ditching Neville as soon as Ron walked in, even though he acted like a prat had red flags all over it. He does not know why he cares, guess he’s just offended they are so…lackadaisical?

Neville nodded, “Yeah even for Ron, that was…”

“Odd?” 

“I was going to say painfully honest but odd also works. I mean I knew he thought those things, but he’s always kept his opinions to himself or on the downlow. But to just loses all social etiquette, maybe it really was his mum keeping him in check…”

Harry thought it was more likely that Ron felt confident in the potions and compulsions he was supposed to be under and with Neville the only witness, someone he obviously thought himself superior too, he didn’t see any point keeping up a pretence.

“What ever it is, I say we avoid him. He’s obviously looking to jump on my coat-tails and we don’t need losers like that”

Harry wished he could say that was the last of the visitors but unfortunately they had a couple more. He was quickly jotting down more people for his prank to-do list. And it wasn’t due to his trickster nature, these idiots deserved what was coming to them.

“Some idiot is saying Harry Potter is in here” announced their second visitor.

Harry almost rolled his eyes, as he exchanged an exasperated look with Neville. Looking over he saw the blonde boy from Madam Malkins in the door who had reminded him a bit of Dudley. The boy wasn’t tiny by any means but he was bracketed by two hulking boys so looked even smaller and daintier than he likely would usually. The blonde’s haughty expression didn’t escape Harry. This should be interesting.

“Who’s asking?”

“Malfoy, Draco Malfoy. Heir to the Noble house of Malfoy.”

Neville stepped in quickly, “Greetings Heir Malfoy, I am Heir Neville Longbottom of the Ancient and Noble House of Longbottom” Neville sent Harry a meaningful look.

Catching on Harry continued the dance,  “And I am Heir Hadrian Potter of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter”. Technically he was the Lord plus a few, but not the time or place for that reveal.

Malfoy gave both of them a something like a half-bow, not a nod but not quite a bow, as did the other two.  “Please let me introduce Heir Crabbe and Heir Goyle, Vassals to the house of Malfoy”

Harry watched Neville from the corner of his eye and was glad when all he did was give a slight nod. Mimicking this he realised he probably should learn all this. Subterfuge and cunning was hard when you didn’t know the language and etiquette was just that. He had seen Petunia at it enough to know there were ways to say fuck you without ever voicing the word, through flowers, seating arrangements and the personal customs of a housewife.

“I wanted to introduce myself to you Heir Potter and maybe lend you my advice on certain topics, you have been away from the wizarding world for a while. I imagine it might daunting and I offer my knowledge and house Malfoys to aid you”

Harry wondered how long the little blonde took to memorise that speech.  Oh don’t get him wrong it was very nice and he was touched by the offer. He could see what Malfoy was doing, trying to get the jump on everyone and influence the BWL. Maybe make BWL looked to a certain  Malfoy for answers and knowledge.

Harry nodded “I thank you Heir Malfoy  and know that I will keep your offer in mind.”

Knowing a neutral answer when he heard it Malfoy merely gave a small smile and nodded. Harry had a feeling he wanted to talk more but decided against it as he watched the other boy glance at them consideringly then state, “You should both change into your robes, we're likely arriving soon.”

“Thank you Heir Malfoy we’ll endeavour to do that soon”.

The three boys left after that. Harry and Neville both swapped a sigh and mutually moved to get changed, hoping they would finally be left undisturbed.

It was not meant to be as the door was slammed open rudely moments later. A girl with bushy hair stood there, “Hello, a boy has lost his pet rat, you haven’t seen it have you?”

Both Harry and Neville swapped non-plus looks, a rat? “No, sorry” Before they could even say a word about how they were about to change and shut the door again, the girl jumped in like a hurricane.

“Are you first years too? I’m Hermione Granger by the way, my parents were ever so proud to find out I was witch. I can’t wait to study magic, I’ve tried a few basic spells but nothing too complex. Where do you think you’ll be sorted? Well no one really knows do they? But I really want Gryffindor, it seems by far the best house. Headmaster Dumbledore was a Gryffindor you know. I suppose Ravenclaw wouldn’t be too bad though.”

Harry was impressed by her great breath control. And wondered if he was seeing manipulation attempt number 2 or just another really bad attempt at making friends? Neville also looked dazed but even overwhelmed, Neville was a polite kind of guy.

“I’m Neville Longbottom”

“Hadrian Potter”

The girl’s gaze snapped to Harry, “Holy cricket you’re Harry Potter. Did you know you’re in the Rise and Fall of the Wizarding War, Dark Lords and Their Demise, and The Greatest Wizarding Deeds.”

“No and soon I won’t be”. Yes soon those coat rider losers will pay and pay and pay.

It was fun watching the girl lose momentum, almost like a record hitting a scratch.

“What do you mean you won’t be?” She asked.

Hadrian smirked, “I mean all those books you gleefully quoted that have me featured are going to be sued and force to retract or change what is written as no one asked permission to write about me, no one asked me for a statement, let alone researched what might have happened.”

The girl sputtered, seemingly outraged, “Of course they would of, they would have never gotten published if they had nothing to back up their work. People would hardly put a book out there with nothing but lies in it.”

“You’re very naïve if you think books and the people who write them are infallible. People always have agendas, in this case it was an easy way to make money, to twist the story a certain way or even to just ride the fame train.  Because I can tell you now all of the information about how I destroyed the Dark Lord and what happened that night is false.”

The girl sniffed, “Well what did happen if you’re more knowledgeable than over 50 published authors?”

“None of your business”

Granger looked gobsmacked, her mouth dropped open. “You can’t just say all that and not – ”

“What? Not tell you? Yes I can because it is none of your business.”

Neville was tried to supress his laughter as the girl riled herself into a right snit. They both watched amused as she stormed out and slammed the compartment door. Hadrian smirked, he had her number all right. Nothing irks a Know-it-all more than when they don’t know it all. She also had a thing about books as well which is why he brought up how they were all wrong. Can’t wait to shove those retractions up her nose.

Hadrian wondered if she had been manipulation number 2 but just shrugged. She’d try again if she was and he’d delight in twisting her into knots. She looked like the person easily ruffled.

Harry and Neville finally changed into their robes. The landscape outside of the windows had turned dark as they neared their destination. They were instructed to leave all their belongings on the train when it pulled into a station. Disembarking the train, Harry felt the chill of the Scottish air curl around him. Neville and him were starting to wonder where to go as they neared the end of the platform when a loud voice called over all the students.

“First years! First years! First years follow me.” Harry recognised Hagrid’s voice and could easily see the tall man’s silhouette so he and Neville slowly moved towards that direction.

“Alright all the first years here?” Harry didn’t know how they were supposed to know. Most of them having literally met today. Obviously it was more of a statement as Hagrid nodded and turned to lead them down the path.

“Follow me!”

It was a short walk and luckily very smooth, as there was very little light except for what was provided by Hagrid's large lantern. Harry thought it was a bit shoddy, what if they slipped? He didn’t often agree with his not-Uncle Vernon but some basic OH&S does go a long way. He is sure they could magic up some glow lights or sensor ones maybe.

Before Harry could get to into his rant they had reached the lake, it was dark and very cold by the looks. Not some where he wanted to fall in at the moment.

“Right four to a boat!” called Hagrid

Harry and Neville quickly sat in one, they were soon joined by two girls who introduced themselves as Hannah and Susan. Harry was just glad it wasn’t the MoRon and Know-it-all. Harry and Neville chatted to the girls as they waited, they were very excited about going to Hogwarts. Keen to join the badgers which was a refreshing change.

“Everyone in? Alright forward!” And the boats set off, propelling themselves lazily across the lake.

Harry felt his nerves return as he sat there looking into the night sky and the water was quietly lapping around them. Neville, loyal, brave, Neville, was also vibrating with nerves beside him. He gave his friend a squeeze of the shoulder, who sent him back a grateful smile. It didn’t ease Harry’s worry about the eventual sorting.

“Right you all, just after this bend should give you your first look at Hogwarts” Hagrid informed them as they approached a large rock. The boats gently curved around it and an awed gasp went through the group. It was a an extraordinary sight, the castle was warmly light up in a golden light and looked grand, magnificent really. Despite that this would be his battle field for the next seven years Harry was also filled with amazement and appreciation at the sight. He swapped beaming looks with Neville who had seemed to have forgotten his nerves now.

The boats finally docked and they were led up to the largest doors he had ever seen. Even Hagrid looked small as he knocked. They were opened by a stern looking woman in her older years with her hair in a tight bun.

“Ah Hagrid, thank you for bringing the first years,” she said, whisps of the Scottish highlands threaded through her voice.

“No trouble Professor McGonagall. I will see you at the feast” said Hagrid as he departed.

She waited until Hagrid left and seemed to survey them for beat. She stared at them until they all settled “I am the Deputy Headmistress Professor McGonagall, and I welcome you to Hogwarts. Here you will learn how to be responsible and disciplined witches and wizards over the next seven years. At Hogwarts we sort students into houses, these houses are like your family while you are here at Hogwarts. You can win points for your houses with your triumphs and successes whereas any rule breaking will lose you points. The four houses are Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin.”

Harry wondered how many times she has said that speech and how much merit it actually had.

“Now I will come and get you in a moment when it is time for the sorting.”

It wasn’t until she left that all the whispering broke out. Everyone wondering what the sorting would entail and where they might go. Harry admits he wish he had just an inkling so he could figure out how to trick it. He could see that Know-it-all was psyching Neville and few others out by wondering what spells they might need to do and reciting all she knew. Wasn’t she a muggleborn…?

“We won’t actually have to do anything, right Hadrian?” Neville whispered nervously.

Harry shook his head, “Don’t see how that’s fair or possible with some kids coming from muggle backgrounds and others with tutors.”

Neville seemed to relax a bit as he nodded at the sense of it.

Both he and Neville were interrupted when there were gasps and shrieks. Harry whipped around to see a group of ghosts floating through the wall in the midst of an argument. Harry supposes he should be shocked but after meeting the literal Fates, ghosts are just less impactful. The ghosts seemed to be arguing about someone called Peeves then were shocked to see the first years here.

On September 1^st.

Yeah Harry doesn’t buy it. He bets this is one of their yearly entertainments. Like really if he were a ghost he’d be marking the days he could do an awesome flyby with guaranteed shock and screams.

Thankfully they are saved by the stern presence of McG, who shooed away the ghosts then gestured for them to follow her in two lines which Harry did not appreciate. They were not in kindergarten for Merlin’s sake.

The other large doors opened for them with McG leading the way into a huge hall, like it looked like at least two or three of the Dursleys houses could fit in here. Not only that the room looked even bigger because it looked like there was no ceiling, like the room literally opened straight up the heavens as the slightly cloudy but starry sky was reflected on the roof. Harry could hear Miss Know-it-alls smarmy voice as she informed whatever poor soul she had walk in with that "it's not really the night sky, the ceiling is just bewitched to reflect what the sky is at its current time. I read about it Hogwarts, A History'. Goody for her. 

The room was lite up with hundreds of floating candles that were suspended several metres above the tables. There were four tables Harry noted, likely for the four houses. There was a staff table on a raised area of the room. Harry ran a glance up the table and got his first glance at Dumbledore. The arrogant bastard was sitting on an actual golden throne or at least a chair with as much throne-like qualities that he could reasonably get away with. He had definitely gone for broke on the Merlin impersonation with the long white beard and the voluminous robes. Harry had to give the man credit it was a good ploy on the populaces subconscious.  The man seemed very peppy today, likely cause his long awaited weapon was coming to his castle. There was a definite glint of eagerness in the old man's eyes when McG stepped forward to start this off. 

Mcg placed a three-legged stool in the middle of the raised area where the staff table was located and then plopped a rather rough looking hat on top of it. Like seriously rough. Positively medieval.

Then the hall went quiet.

Harry glanced around.

Everyone was watching the ugly hat.

Huh…ok…

There was a beat where Harry was swear the wizards were taking the piss. But then the brim of the ugly hat broke open like a mouth and it started singing.

Singing for gods sake.

Okay not singing, more like reciting poetry.

“Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find
A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black,
Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head
The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you
Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folk use any means
To achieve their ends.
So put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
You're in safe hands (though I have none)
For I'm a Thinking Cap!”

Everyone burst into applause at the conclusion of the song? Poem? Whatever. Harry was feeling both relieved and nervous (again). It seems he didn’t have to do anything but try on a hat. But the hat itself made the decision. Based on what he didn’t know.

Stern McG unrolled a piece of parchment as she announced to the group “As I call your name please step forward and sit on the stool. I will then place the hat on your head to sort you”.

“Hannah Abbott”

“HUFFLEPUFF!” screamed the hat amount later.

Harry only had to listen to a few names to know they were going in alphabetical order. So he would be after Neville. That was good.

The name he was waiting for came all too soon.

“Neville Longbottom”

As if it wasn’t already stressful enough watching his friend and the chosen one decide which path in life he should follow, Ronald decided now was a good time for manipulation attempt number 3. Or 2. Or is this 4? Depends on if you're counting group manipulation or manipulation by individuals separately he supposes.

“Hey Harry mate, don’t worry about Longbottom pal, I’m sure he’ll go to Hufflepuff with the rest of the duffers.” There were some venomous looks sent his way by some no doubt stalwart Hufflepuffs for that, “Don’t worry though, it’ll be me and you in Gryffindor.”

If Harry had to go to Gryffindor then Neville is coming too, he will not be living alone with this idiot. He will kill him. Neville is a calming influence, Neville is reason personified. He would not let Harry kill this prat.

Harry didn’t even have to rebuke him because the hat did it for him.

“GRYFFINDOR”

Ronald’s jaw dropped. Harry just sent him a sneer.

Unfortunately Malfoy’s sorting was next and Ronald was just as verbal about his sorting too. “Oh all dark wizards go to Slytherin pal, mate, old buddy” Harry’s arm hurt from all the elbowing. When his name was called it wasn’t soon enough.

“Harry Potter”

“did she mean the…

“Look I can see the scar…”

“He’s kind of tiny…”

Ergh he was going to get tired of that really soon. At least Rita’s article had eased a little of fervour he noticed but not by much. His vision was soon blocked out by the large manky hat being dropped onto his head.

“I resent that! I am the original hat owned by Godric Gryffindor himself!"

Harry didn't see how that refuted anything. Gryffindor could just have had extraordinarily bad taste, in fact wasn't the hat proof he did. And he was right about it looking medieval. 

"You know i can hear that"

Harry thought the hat was a nosy bugger who should get a life and mind of his own. 

"I would say you're a rude one but I've had worse. Besides its not my fault i look like this! I'm supposed to get regular maintenance! but does that old codger keep up with what the Founders stipulated in their charter? Oh nooooo. If there's a rule don't worry he's broken it or perverted it."

Harry felt a bit bad about his earlier comments. Of course Dumbledore was at fault. 

"Can't trust that man with anything, I see that you're already aware of his duplicity. O-ho he is not going to see that coming. He's expecting a nice malleable little weapon but that's not you is it? Why don't we get back to business though....oh my what an interesting find you are Mr Potter or should I say Mr Lokison?”

“You tell anyone I cut you to ribbons you ugly piece of leather.”

“Calm down. I have no interest in outing you. I see you already know where you truly belong. Salazar would delight in a pupil like you. But I agree that is not the safest place for you.”

“Then you know where I must go, to complete my task and the prophecy.”

“Indeed, you will have to be the snake in the lions den young one, be careful not to let their impetuousness and reckless nature rub off on you. Before we part young one, you should know. There is one here in the castle. The old fool keeps one here to sustain the curse of the DADA position. I do not know where though. He also plans to have one appear next year for your test”

“Test” oh harry had a bad feeling about this.

“yes, he is setting up test to make sure you are exactly what he wants from his weapon”

“greeeeeatttt, so what is it this year?”

“the third corridor”

“Fucking fantastic,” Harry didn’t even want to know what was down there but if he was ‘playing the game’ he guessed he would be finding out soon enough.

“That's all I know I'm afraid. Now, are you ready child of mischief and chaos? Ready to start your life in GRYFFINDOR!”

Harry was so not but he was glad that this part was over as he placed his BWL mask on and beamed as he strode over to Neville to give him a high five as the rest of table celebrated.