On the Way to Greatness

Synopsis: After a normal, happy childhood with the Dursleys, an intelligent, powerful, ambitious Harry arrives at Hogwarts, ready to leave his mark on the wizarding world and become the greatest wizard the world has ever known. HP/DG/SB/FD/OC. AU.

A/N: A few things to take notice of... First, Cedric Diggory and Roger Davies are three years younger than in canon. They are in Harry's year. In addition, Draco has an older sister, Lucretia, that is a year older than him. This story will feature a powerful, charismatic Harry, will be Harry/multi, and will be full of clichés. If that is not your cup of tea, don't read.

Chapter 1

Petunia awoke to the sound of a baby crying. Wiping the sleep from her eyes, she slid out of bed and walked to her son Dudley's room. However, as she opened the door and peered into the crib, she was shocked to see he wasn't crying. In fact, he was sound asleep.

Startled, she looked around, attempting to ascertain the origin of the sound. After a moment, she realized the cries were coming from downstairs, near the front door. She hurried down the stairs and peered out the window. To her astonishment, there was a baby, wrapped in a blanket, laying in front of the door. Quickly, she opened the door and picked up the baby, attempting to hush its cries.

As she looked at the baby, she saw a lightning shaped cut on its forehead, still bleeding. Then, she gasped as she saw the baby's bright green eyes. They were the same brilliant shade as her sister Lily's, eyes. This baby was, without a doubt, Lily's son, Harry.

She felt sick with worry when she realized who the baby was. If Harry was here, that meant something had happened to her sister. As she stepped back into the house and closed the door, she noticed an envelope tucked into the folds of the blanket. It was addressed to Petunia Dursley, 4 Privet Drive.

Hesitantly, she opened the letter and removed the enclosed letter. She sat on the couch in the living room and placed Harry next to her. Slowly, she began to read the spidery handwriting.

Dear Petunia,

It is my regret to inform you that earlier tonight, your sister, Lily, and her husband, James, were murdered in their home by a man known as Lord Voldemort. Your nephew, Harry, was attacked as well. For some unknown reason, Harry managed to survive the attack. In the process, Lord Voldemort was killed.

You and your family are the closest living relatives of young Harry. As such, guardianship of Harry falls to you. I have arranged for a payment of £1,000 to be transferred into your bank account every month to pay for any expenses you might incur. I have also set up protective wards around your house that will protect Harry and your family from any that might wish to hurt him.

I will be in contact over the coming weeks with more information. Once again, my deepest condolences on the passing of your sister.

Yours,

Albus Dumbledore

Petunia clutched the letter to her chest as tears rolled down her cheeks. She could not believe it. Her only sister was dead. How was this possible?

She and Lily had not always gotten along. They had experienced their fair share of fights and disagreements. For a long time, Petunia had even been jealous of Lily and her magical abilities. However, she was still her sister, and she loved her dearly. She could not believe that she was gone.

Sobs wracked her body as she began to cry uncontrollably. Suddenly, a strong pair of arms wrapped around her while she cried.

Vernon had heard the noise downstairs and had come to investigate. Seeing his wife crying, he held her to his chest while he read the letter she clutched in her hand.

"Lily's dead," Petunia sobbed. "Lily's dead."

"I know," murmured Vernon, not knowing what else to say. He looked over at the baby laying on the couch.

"That's Harry?" asked Vernon. Petunia nodded into his chest.

Vernon sighed, trying to decide what they would do with the baby. Petunia had explained to him about her sister and brother-in-law and their strange magical abilities. Vernon had tried his best to stay clear of all that nonsense. Now, their son had been forced on them!

However, as he looked down at the baby, who laying crying after witnessing the death of his parents earlier that night, he couldn't help but feel pity. He couldn't bring himself to hate an innocent child. In that moment, he decided that he would do raise this child as best he could.

Letting go of Petunia, he picked up Harry.

"Come on, Tuny," he said. "Let's go back to bed. Harry here needs to sleep."

Petunia nodded and let Vernon lead her up the stairs. Vernon first stopped at Dudley's nursery. Gently, he laid Harry in the crib next to Dudley.

"Goodnight, Harry. Goodnight, Dudley," he said softly. He quietly backed out of the room and walked to his bedroom, where Petunia sat on the bed, staring into the distance. Sighing, he pulled her back onto the bed and held her until she cried herself to sleep.

Ten years later…

"Harry! Dudley! Breakfast is ready!" Petunia called from downstairs.

"Coming!" yelled Harry, who was buttoning up the last few buttons of his shirt. Just then, his bedroom door burst open to reveal his cousin Dudley.

"Happy birthday, cousin!" Dudley exclaimed. He ran into the room, put Harry in a headlock, and messed up his hair.

"Dud, let go!" exclaimed Harry. "I just combed my hair!"

Dudley just laughed, let Harry go, and ran out of the bedroom in the direction of the kitchen.

Harry shook his head in exasperation. He grabbed a comb and ran it through his hair once more. Once he was presentable, he walked down the stairs to the kitchen.

"Happy birthday!" Petunia exclaimed when Harry entered the kitchen. "Eleven years old!"

"Thanks, Aunt Petunia," said Harry respectfully as he sat down at the table. Petunia placed a plate in front of him full of pancakes and eggs.

"Eat up!" she said. "It's going to be a big day!" Harry nodded and began to eat.

Almost ten years had passed since that fateful night when Harry had been left on the Dursleys' doorstep. Since then, Petunia and Vernon had done their best to raise him as their own son, along with their biological son, Dudley.

Harry had exceled in his 10 years at #4 Privet Drive. Soon after he arrived at Privet Drive, he began to talk. It was then that the Dursleys began to notice Harry's keen intelligence. As the months passed, his vocabulary continued to grow. By age 3, Harry had already learned how to read, years before other kids his age.

The Dursleys were also astounded by Harry's incredible memory. It seemed he could read any book and remember exactly what he had read, and on which page the information was located. This memory, combined with his new ability to read, led to a voracious appetite for books and information. Harry would constantly check out stacks of books from the local library in order to satisfy his thirst for knowledge.

When Harry finally started school, his teachers were astounded at his intelligence. He was years ahead of the other kids in the class, many of whom were still learning to read. In order to keep him busy, the teachers would continue giving him harder and harder material. However, it never seemed difficult enough. Harry seemed to soak up information and knowledge like a sponge.

By the time Harry reached 10 years old, he was on the same level as many university students. He spoke several different languages fluently, including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and Russian. He was a prodigy in every sense of the word. He was not, however, only focused on academics. He also became very involved in athletics.

Years earlier, Petunia had noticed Dudley and Harry getting into physical fights quite often. In order to stop this behavior, she had quickly gotten the two involved in various sports. The two practiced martial arts together, and both exceled. Petunia also signed Harry up for a local football team. Harry took to football like a fish to water. He was currently the captain of his youth football team and had been offered football scholarships by several prestigious private schools. He was also well-liked by many of the children at his school.

Just then, Vernon walked into the kitchen, reading through the stack of mail in his hands. Suddenly, he froze and grabbed a piece of mail out of the stack. He looked at Petunia and said simply, "It's here."

"What's here?" Harry asked respectfully.

Vernon turned and looked at him. "Your Hogwarts letter," he replied. He held the letter out to Harry, who jumped out of his seat and excitedly grabbed the letter. He ripped the envelope open, took out the letter inside, and began to read.

*HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,
Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Mr. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

UNIFORM

First-year students will require:

1. Three sets of plain work robes (black)

2. One plain pointed hat (black) for day wear

3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)

4. One winter cloak (black, with silver fastenings)

Please note that all pupil's clothes should carry name tags.

COURSE BOOKS

All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore

Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 wand

1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)

1 set glass or crystal phials

1 telescope

1 set brass scales

Students may also bring, if they desire, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS

ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICK

Yours sincerely,

Lucinda Thomsonicle-Pocus

Chief Attendant of Witchcraft Provisions*

Harry looked up from reading the letter with a huge grin on his face.

"It's finally here!" he exclaimed. "I can't believe it!"

Petunia smiled softly. She remembered when Lily had received her own Hogwarts letter. She had a very similar reaction.

Years earlier, Petunia and Vernon made the decision to tell Harry about his special abilities, as well as the truth about his parents and his heritage. As a young child, Harry had many bouts of accidental magic. Vernon and Petunia were patient and endured his displays of magic.

However, his accidental magic became an issue when he went to school for the first time and was still unable to control it. In one instance, he had turned his teacher's hair neon blue. It had been very difficult for the Dursleys to convince the teacher that it had been a freak accident.

After that incident, Vernon and Petunia sat Harry down and explained to him about magic and the magical world. However, they also asked him to make an effort to control his magic. Although he was only a child, Harry understood completely and was able to control his accidental magic from then on, a feat almost unheard of in magical children.

Since that day, Harry had been looking forward to the day when he would be able to go to Hogwarts and finally use his powers. It seemed that day had finally arrived.

"When can I go pick up my school supplies?" he asked immediately, looking at Petunia.

"Finish your breakfast, brush your teeth, and I will drop you off at the Leaky Cauldron," said Petunia. They had already decided that Harry would go alone into Diagon Alley. Petunia and Vernon were uncomfortable around magic, and Diagon Alley brought back unpleasant memories for Petunia.

Harry nodded eagerly and began to eat as quickly as possible. In minutes, he was finished. He raced upstairs and brushed his teeth as fast as possible. He ran back downstairs and waited for his aunt.

Trying to hide her amusement, Petunia grabbed the keys to the car and ushered Harry out the door. Soon, they had arrived at the Leaky Cauldron, which Petunia remembered from decades earlier when her parents had taken Lily to purchase her school supplies.

"Remember to go to the bank first," Petunia instructed. "Dumbledore said your parents left you money there. Also, try and see what other wizarding families you might be related to," she said mysteriously.

Harry nodded in understanding. Years earlier, Petunia had told Harry one of the Evans family secrets. Lily had actually been adopted as a baby. Petunia remembered the day that her parents brought her home from the hospital, where she had been abandoned. Petunia's parents never even told Lily that she had been adopted. However, Petunia suspected that Lily was actually from a wizarding family, and she wanted Harry to be able to find that family.

Finally, Harry got out of the car, waving at Petunia as she drove away. "I'll pick you up at 4:00," she yelled.

Harry entered the Leaky Cauldron and walked up to the barman, who was busy drying glasses.

"Excuse me," said Harry politely. "Would you mind showing me how to get into Diagon Alley?"

The barman looked down at him. "Muggleborn, eh? Of course, come right this way," he said in a booming voice. "The name's Tom, by the way."

"Nice to meet you, Tom," said Harry politely. Soon, they arrived at a brick wall. Tom took out his wand and tapped the wall in a strange pattern. Suddenly, the bricks shifted and revealed Diagon Alley.

Harry looked around in awe. Tom chuckled and patted Harry on the shoulder. "Have fun kid," he said.

Harry stepped forward and looked around. In the distance, he said a large white building.

That looks like a bank, he thought to himself and began walking toward it.

When he arrived, he saw a sign on the front that read Gringotts, Wizarding Bank. Smiling, Harry climbed up the steps gracefully. As he walked through the doors, he saw tall, marble counters lining each wall. Sitting at these counters were strange creatures who were counting money.

Those must be the goblins Aunt Petunia mentioned, Harry thought.

Harry continued walking until he reached the front counter. The goblin was busy reading some documents, so Harry waited respectfully. However, the goblin continued to ignore his presence. Finally, Harry forcefully cleared his throat, which caused the goblin to look at him over his glasses.

"Excuse me," Harry said. "My name is Harry Potter. I was told that my parents left me money before I died. I want to make a withdrawal."

The goblin leaned over the counter and peered at Harry, who noticed the goblin looking at his scar.

"Very well, we will see about that," said the goblin. "Griphook, take him to see the Potter Account Manager."

A goblin at the side of the counter stepped forward and motioned for Harry to follow, which he did. They made their way farther into Gringotts. After a moment, they arrived at a door with a sign that read Bogrod: Potter Account Manager. Griphook knocked and opened the door to reveal a goblin sitting at a desk.

"Bogrod, this wizard claims to be Harry Potter and is making an inquiry about his accounts," said Griphook.

"Let him in," said the goblin. Harry walked in and sat in a chair in front of the desk.

"So you are Harry Potter?" said the goblin snarkily. "First you must prove it." He withdrew a small dagger from his desk as well as a piece of parchment. "I need one drop of blood on this parchment to prove your identity," he said.

Harry nodded and gulped nervously. He grabbed the dagger and gently pricked his thumb, allowing a drop of blood to coalesce on his fingertip. He then pressed his thumb to the parchment and waited. Within a few seconds, blood red letters began to form on the page. They read: Harry James Potter.

"Very well," said the goblin gruffly. "What business do you have with Gringotts today, Mr. Potter?"

"I was told my parents left me money here," said Harry. "I want to know how to access it."

"Do you have your vault key?" the goblin asked.

Harry shook his head. "I was never given a vault key," he said.

"That is a problem," said the goblin, writing notes on a parchment. "We will have to recall all keys to your vaults and issue you a new key. The cost will be 15 Galleons."

Harry nodded. "How much is a Galleon, sir?" he asked.

"A Galleon is the main currency in the magical world," said the goblin. "It is equivalent to about 5 pounds. There are also 17 Sickles in a Galleon and 29 Knuts in a Sickle," he explained.

Harry nodded, running through the information in his head.

"Okay, I will pay the fee," said Harry. "How much money do I have in my vault?"

Bogrod shuffled through a stack of papers until pulling one out and handing it to Harry. "This is a summary of your account and holdings," he explained.

Harry took a look at it and his eyes bulged open in shock. According to the document, he had several vaults with over 50 million Galleons in liquid assets, as well as stakes in numerous businesses and extensive real estate holdings.

Noticing his surprise, the goblin spoke up. "The Potters are a very old, very wealthy family," he explained. "I have been managing the Potter estate since the death of your parents 10 years ago, and I have managed to modestly increase your wealth."

Harry nodded in shock. He would have to examine his accounts more fully when he got home. Taking a deep breath, he turned back to the goblin.

"It seems you have done a good job in managing the estate," he said. Bogrod nodded, enjoying the compliment.

"I have another question, however. Is it possible to see if I am related to any other wizarding families?" Harry asked.

Bogrod nodded. "Yes, Gringotts offers a comprehensive inheritance test for a fee of 50 Galleons."

Harry glanced at his account summary. Fifty Galleons was pocket change. "Okay, I wish to do the inheritance test."

Bogrod opened his desk drawer and withdrew another piece of parchment. "Very well," he said. "Use the dagger again. This time we will need 10 drops of your blood on this parchment."

Harry grabbed the dagger and cut his finger a little more deeply. He held it over the parchment and let 10 drops fall. Nothing happened for several moments. Finally, words began to appear on the parchment.

Harry James Potter

Father: James Charlus Potter

Mother: Lily Vinda Potter née Black

Paternal Grandparents:

Charlus Potter

Dorea Potter née Black

Maternal Grandparents:

Orion Black

Vinda Rosier

Potential Titles:

Lord Potter

Lord Black

Lord Rosier

"Fascinating," said the goblin mysteriously. He got up, opened the door, and walked into the hall. "Bring me the account managers for the Black and Rosier families," Harry heard him say.

"What does this mean?" asked Harry in confusion.

"It means that you are a very interesting customer," said the goblin. "It seems your mother was not a Muggleborn, as everyone assumed. She was the daughter of Orion Black and Vinda Rosier. However, Orion Black was married to Walburga Black and had two sons with her: Sirius Orion and Regulus Arcturus. It seems that Orion had a secret affair with Vinda Rosier, which resulted in the birth of your mother. It also appears that your mother was given to a Muggle family to be raised because Orion and Vinda did not want their relationship to become public knowledge."

Harry nodded. It seemed Aunt Petunia's suspicions were correct.

"What are these potential titles?" Harry asked.

"That is the best part," the goblin said. "By completing the Last Son Rite, you are eligible to become Lord Potter, Lord Black, and Lord Rosier. Orion Black was the previous Lord Black and he died five years ago. The only surviving male Black, Sirius Black, died in Azkaban prison two years ago. Because of your mother and your paternal grandmother who was also a Black, you are the next in line to inherit the title of Lord Black. Finally, the last member of the Rosier family died over a decade ago and you are the next in line because of your maternal grandmother."

Harry sat back, shocked by all of the information.

"Are these titles significant in the wizarding world?" Harry asked.

The goblin snorted. "Very. The Black, Potter, and Rosier families are some of the wealthiest families in magical Britain. They all hold seats on the Wizengamot."

Suddenly, they were interrupted as the door opened and two more goblins walked in.

"What is so important?" one of them asked. Bogrod merely handed them the inheritance test. As they read, their faces broke into toothy smiles.

"Very good," one of them said. "Shall we complete the process?"

Bogrod nodded and turned to Harry. "Mr. Potter, these are the account managers for the Black and Rosier families. Are you ready to assume these titles? Because you are the last member of each of these families, you can take up these titles immediately and gain access to all of their vaults. However, you will not be able to take your seat on the Wizengamot until you reach the age of 15. Do you understand?"

Harry nodded. Everything was going so fast, but he knew that this was the right thing to do. He wanted to represent his family, even if he didn't know they existed until today.

Bogrod smiled and grabbed a box from his desk. Inside, there was a flash of light which quickly faded. The goblin opened the box to reveal three gold rings, each with a different coat of arms inscribed on it.

"Merely put these rings on," instructed the goblin.

Harry nodded. He reached into the box and put on each ring, one by one. Nothing happened for a moment until suddenly, there was a flash of light in the room. Harry felt a rush of energy go through him. Then, just as quickly as it had begun, it stopped.

Harry looked at the goblins and found them grinning.

"Excellent," said one of the goblins. "You are now known as Lord Potter-Black-Rosier."

Two of the goblins reached into the stacks of papers they were carrying and handed several documents to Harry. "These are the account summaries for the Black and Rosier families," one said.

Harry took a quick look and was shocked. These families were even wealthier than the Potter family. He would have to take a much deeper look when he got home.

Suddenly, another goblin burst into the room carrying more papers, who handed them to the three goblins already present. "These were just activated," he said in explanation, before hurrying from the room. The three account managers quickly read through the papers as toothy grins appeared on their faces.

"It appears that you are tied to some marriage contracts," Bogrod said. "It seems there was a marriage contract written between the Potter family and the Bones family several centuries ago. It has just been activated by your ascension as Lord Potter. It seems you are contracted to marry one Susan Bones."

"Indeed, there is also a marriage contract between the Black Family and the Greengrass family, concerning Lord Potter Black Rosier and one Daphne Greengrass," another goblin said.

"There is yet another contract between the Rosier family and the Malfoy family," another goblin replied. "Lord Potter Black Rosier is contracted to marry one Lucretia Malfoy, eldest daughter of Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy."

Harry gulped nervously. "Marriage contract? What does that mean?" he asked.

"It means that you must marry whoever it says in the contract, or lose your magic and your life," said one goblin savagely.

"Wait! I have to marry those girls or I will lose my magic and die?" asked Harry in a panic.

"Yes, that is the essence of it," said Bogrod. "The good news is that you don't have to marry them until you are 20 years of age. You have nine years to prepare."

Harry sat down in a panic. Noticing his panic, Bogrod spoke up.

"It seems that all three girls are very near your age," the goblin said. "I suggest contacting them when you reach Hogwarts, as it is likely all three will be studying there. Gringotts will notify the families of the activation of the contract, so the girls should already be aware.'

Harry nodded dumbly, still trying to process all of the information. He was betrothed to three girls?

"Is there anything else you need from Gringotts?" one of the goblins asked.

Harry nodded. "Yes, can I withdraw money to make some purchases?" he asked.

The goblin nodded. He reached into his desk drawer and pulled out a black pouch.

"This is a money pouch," the goblin said. "It is connected to your trust vault. Any money you take out of this pouch will be withdrawn from your trust vault."

"I understand," said Harry. He had a desire to visit his vaults and look around, but that would have to wait for another day. He had a lot to do still.

He thanked the goblins for their help and exited the bank. As he reentered Diagon Alley, he pulled out his Hogwarts letter with the list of needed supplies.

First on the list was the uniform. A few stores down, he spotted a sign that said Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. Harry walked towards the shop and went in.

He was immediately met by a plump, older woman.

"Hello, how may I help you?" the woman asked.

"I need to purchase a Hogwarts uniform," Harry said simply.

"Of course. Step right up here and we will take your measurements," the woman said kindly. As she measured him, she noticed the rings he wore on his right hand and her eyes widened in shock.

"If you are interested, my lord, we also offer more expensive robes and dress robes that we can embroider with the coat of arms of your families," she suggested.

Harry thought about it. He had plenty of money, and it sounded like a good idea.

"I am in need of a completely new wardrobe," said Harry. "I trust your judgment in choosing which robes would look best. However, I would like the robes embroidered with the Potter, Black, and Rosier coats of arms."

Madam Malkin's eyes widened even further as she realized that her client was Harry Potter.

"Yes, Mr. Potter. It would be my pleasure."

An hour later, Harry walked out of the shop with numerous bags on his arms. He had purchased the Hogwarts uniform and several dress robes for formal occasions.

After Madam Malkin's, he went to the trunk shop, where he purchased an expensive trunk with numerous expanded compartments that could even serve as a small apartment. Harry thought it would come in handy, especially if he ever had to travel.

He also stopped by the potions ingredients shop, where he bought an expensive potions kit. He enjoyed cooking, which he assumed was somewhat similar to potions, so he wanted to be able to practice a lot.

After the potions shop, he set off to find a wand. As he wandered down the Alley, however, he noticed a store to his life called Magical Menagerie. Numerous cages of pets were on display in front of the store. Intrigued, Harry made a detour to check it out.

As he looked at the cages, he discovered numerous strange types of cats, toads, snakes, and other animals that he didn't recognize. As he neared the bank of the store, he felt a pull coming from a glass container on the bank wall. He approached it and found a single white egg inside.

Harry looked to the side and found the shopkeeper cleaning a cage.

"Excuse me," Harry said politely. "What is this egg?"

The shopkeeper looked surprised. "That is supposed to be a phoenix egg," he replied. "It's been in my family for centuries, but it has never hatched. I imagine it's not actually a phoenix, just a joke made up by one of my ancestors."

Just then, they heard a loud cracking noise. Harry turned to look at the egg and was surprised to see a large crack running down it.

"Impossible!" the shopkeeper exclaimed, scrambling to Harry's side. As they watched, the egg continued hatching. Little by little, a small, golden bird emerged from the egg.

"A golden phoenix! Merlin's beard!" exclaimed the shopkeeper, obviously in shock. The tiny phoenix struggled to its feet, looked directly at Harry, and gave a small chirp.

"It hatched for you!" the shopkeeper concluded. He opened the glass case and gestured to Harry. "Go ahead, pick it up!"

Harry reached in his arms and gently scooped up the small phoenix. As he did so, he felt a surge of magic run through his body.

"My word! I think you just bonded! It must be your familiar!" said the shopkeeper. "I cannot believe this is happening!"

Harry stroked the phoenix's head. "Her name is Corona," Harry said suddenly. He was unsure where the name came from, but it felt right.

Just then, the phoenix chirped and disappeared in a ball of fire.

"There she goes," said the shopkeeper. "She'll be back, though," he added, seeing Harry's worried expression. "She will always come back to you, wherever you are."

"How much do I owe you?" asked Harry.

"A thousand Galleons," said the shopkeeper. "It's very expensive, but my ancestors went to great lengths to obtain that egg."

A little dismayed, Harry withdrew the money from his pouch and handed it to the shopkeeper. He left the shop excited about his new phoenix.

Harry returned to the alley and found a shop called Ollivander's Wands. He entered the shop but found it empty. He stepped up to the counter and rung the bell there. Immediately, a gray-haired old man emerged from the back of the shop.

"Ah, Mr. Potter. I wondered when I would be seeing you," he said mysteriously. "I am Garrick Ollivander. I assume you are here for your wand?"

Harry nodded.

"I remember when your parents came in for their wands. Your father's was 11 inches, mahogany, with a dragon heartstring core. Your mother's was 10 and a quarter inches, willow, with a unicorn tail hair. I wonder what yours will be. Step up here and let us find you a wand!" Ollivander said enthusiastically.

He went to the back of the shop and emerged with a stack of thin boxes. He opened the first one, withdrew a wand, and gave it to Harry.

"Well, give it a wave!" he said to Harry, who hesitantly waved it. Immediately, a glass vase shattered.

"No, not that one," he said, taking it back. Harry continued trying the wands that Ollivander gave him, but to no success.

Finally, Ollivander handed him a final wand. "I wonder…" he whispered as he handed it to Harry. "Holly and phoenix feather."

Immediately, the wand felt hot in Harry's hand like it was burning him. He dropped it immediately, unwilling to touch it again.

"How curious!" Ollivander exclaimed. "I was sure that would be the right match for you."

Just then, a ball of flame popped into existence on Harry's shoulder, which dissipated into his new golden phoenix, Corona. Ollivander's eyes widened in shock.

"Is that your phoenix?" he asked Harry.

"Yes, this is Corona," Harry replied. "She just hatched for me a few minutes ago."

Ollivander face erupted in glee. "Mr. Potter, you are a fascinating customer. If you would, I would like to craft a wand for you."

Harry nodded his assent, to Ollivander's happiness.

"I would also like to know if your young phoenix would like to donate a tail feather for wand," he said, looking at the phoenix. The phoenix chirped, almost as if she understood the wandmaker, and shook her feathers. A single feather came loose and floated onto the counter.

"My word," said Ollivander.

"What is so exciting?" asked Harry.

"The younger a phoenix is when it donates a tailfeather, the more powerful the wand that contains it will be," Ollivander explained. "Your phoenix is only a few minutes old – I imagine that your wand will be exceptionally powerful."

Harry smiled, excited at the prospect. He grabbed the tailfeather and followed Ollivander into the back of the store. Strange glass bottles and wood blocks littered the tables and countertops. Ollivander guided Harry in front of table covered with wood blocks.

"I want you to feel these wood blocks and tell me if any of them feel special," he instructed Harry. He nodded and began touching the wood. After several tries, he paused on a particular block.

"This feels really warm," he said.

"Curious indeed," murmured Ollivander. "Wood from an elder tree. You are a fascinating customer. I think I have all I need. Return in an hour and your wand will be ready for you."

Harry nodded and exited the shop. While he waited, he stopped by Flourish and Blotts. He was amazed by the sheer number of books as he walked into the bookstore. He immediately found the textbooks listed on his Hogwarts letter. However, he also purchased several books that the shopkeeper had recommended for someone new to the wizarding world. He left the bookstore several hundred Galleons lighter with several bags of books put into his shrunken trunk.

An hour had passed, so he returned to the wand shop, where Ollivander waited for him with a wand in his hands. He reverently handed it to Harry, who gripped it tightly. He immediately felt an intense surge of magical energy rush through him, similar to when his phoenix had bonded with him. The magic dissipated finally, and Harry found Ollivander staring at him in awe.

"That is undoubtedly the most powerful wand I have ever created," Ollivander admitted. "You are destined for great things, Mr. Potter."

Harry thanked him for his wand, paid him, and left the shop. He hurried back to the Leaky Cauldron, where his aunt was waiting to pick him up.

For the next month, Harry read as much as he could about the wizarding world. He read through all of the introductory books that had been recommended to him. He studied the history of magical Britain, including a detailed history of the major pureblood families. He read about pureblood social customs and what was expected of him as a lord of three major houses. He learned about the structure of the government and what role he would one day play.

He also studied the account summaries and ledgers that he had received from Gringotts. He learned that he was now very rich. He owned several billion Galleons, as well as numerous manors and properties across Britain and the world. He would never have to worry about money in his life.

He kept Corona with him in his room. He had purchased a small perch for her, as well as a book about phoenixes. She had grown considerably in only a month and would continue to grow until her first burning day.

Most importantly, he read about magic. He devoured the textbooks assigned for the upcoming year, soaking up every single word. He committed it all to memory, but he couldn't wait to actually try it out when he got to Hogwarts. He was accustomed to being the best student in school. He would do everything he could to ensure that continued at Hogwarts.

Finally, September 1 arrived. Harry loaded his trunk into the car and the Dursleys drove him to the train station. Instead of dropping him off, they surprised him and decided to walk him all the way to the platform

They arrived at Platform 9 and Harry looked around in confusion, unable to locate Platform 9 ¾. Petunia tapped his shoulder and pointed at a solid brick wall.

"It's through that wall," she explained. "You have to run through it. Apparently, it's just an illusion. Your mother had to do the same thing."

Harry gulped, unsure about the whole thing. He turned to the Dursleys.

"Thanks for everything," Harry said. "I'll see you in a few months!"

Petunia gave him a hug. "You will do great," she assured him.

Dudley was next and gave him a bone-crushing hug. "You'd better show those wizards who's boss!" he exclaimed.

Finally, Vernon came up and put a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Work hard and you'll do great," he said.

Harry nodded and said goodbye for the final time. He turned back towards the brick wall. He took a deep breath and trotted towards the wall. Instead of hitting it, he continued moving forward until he arrived on another platform, full of people.

A red and black train stood on the tracks. Written on its side were the words Hogwarts Express.

Harry grinned. He had made it. He made his way to the train, grabbed his trunk, and stepped on. He walked down the hall, looking for an empty compartment. Finally, he managed to find an empty compartment. He walked in, stowed his trunk, and sat down. He stared out the window, watching all of the kids saying goodbye to their families.

His attention was diverted by a knocking on the door. He turned to see a young boy who looked to be his age. He had platinum blonde hair that was slicked back.

"Mind if I sit here?" the boy asked Harry.

"Not at all," said Harry, motioning to the empty seat.

The boy entered the compartment and sat down across from Harry. He extended his hand to Harry. "I'm Draco. Draco Malfoy."

Harry's eyes widened. "Are you by chance related to Lucretia Malfoy?" he asked as he shook Draco's hand.

"Yeah, Lucretia is my older sister," Draco said. "She's a second year. Why do you ask?"

"Because my name is Harry Potter Black Rosier," Harry said. "I am betrothed to your sister."

Draco's eyes widened at the revelation. "You're Harry Potter?" he exclaimed. His eyes flicked to Harry's forehead for confirmation. "I can't believe it! We are going to be family!"

Harry chuckled at Draco's enthusiasm. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Draco."

They were interrupted by another knocking on the door. They turned to see two boys standing there, trunks in hand.

"Do you mind if we sit with you guys?" one of the boys said. "Everywhere else is full."

"Not at all," said Harry. The two boys shuffled in and sat down.

"Thanks," the first boy said. "My name is Roger Davies." He was well-built with brown hair and brown eyes.

"And I'm Cedric Diggory," said the other boy.

"No problem," said Harry. "This is Draco Malfoy," he said, gesturing to Draco. "And I am Harry Potter Black Rosier."

"Wicked," said Roger. "Are you first years as well?" Harry and Draco nodded.

"Wicked," Roger said again. "What houses do you reckon you'll be sorted into?"

Draco spoke up immediately. "Slytherin, of course. My family has been in Slytherin for centuries."

Harry smiled and replied. "I am not sure, to be honest. Both my parents were in Gryffindor, but most of my grandparents were in Slytherin. But I think I might end up in Ravenclaw."

Draco gave him a confused look. "What do you mean most of your grandparents were in Slytherin? I thought your mother was a Muggleborn?" he asked.

Harry shook his head. "My mother was Muggle raised, but she was actually a pureblood," he explained. "Her father was Orion Black and her mother was Vinda Rosier. They gave her to a Muggle family to be raised without anyone knowing."

All three boys' mouths hung open in shock.

"That's insane!" said Cedric, who was obviously familiar with pureblood history. "Lily Potter was the daughter of Orion Black and Vinda Rosier? Are you serious?"

"Dead serious," said Harry. He lifted his hand and showed them the three rings he was wearing. Their eyes bulged out of their heads in shock.

"You are the lord of three families?" exclaimed Roger.

"Yep," said Harry cooling, reveling in the attention. "Potter, Black, and Rosier."

"Wicked," said Draco. "Welcome to the family."

Harry rolled his eyes. It was obvious that Draco was excited to have such a powerful brother-in-law.

"Family?" asked Cedric in confusion.

"Harry is betrothed to my sister Lucretia," Draco bragged.

"Wicked," said Roger yet again.

Harry shook his head in amusement. "So what Quidditch teams do you cheer for?" he asked the boys, trying to change the topic of conversation.

"I'm Puddlemere United, through and through," said Draco proudly.

"No way, me too!" exclaimed Cedric.

"Me three!" shouted Roger.

"Me four!" exclaimed Harry.

"Wicked!" laughed Roger. "We are all Puddlemere fans!"

With that, the boys began discussing their favorite players and the upcoming Puddlemere season. They became so excited that they didn't even notice the train leave London and head into the countryside.

They were in the middle of a game of exploding snap when they heard a knock. The door opened to reveal a pretty girl with long blonde hair and icy blue eyes.

"Draco," she said coldly. "Did you steal my snack money?"

"No!" exclaimed Draco quickly. He suddenly looked at Harry with a smirk. "Hey Lucretia, guess who this is?" he said, pointing to Harry.

The blonde girl, who Harry assumed was Lucretia Malfoy, turned to look at him. After a second, she noticed his scar and her eyes widened in recognition. Feeling the need to act, Harry got to his feet, gently grabbed her hand and lightly kissed it, like he had read in the books about pureblood customs.

"I am Harry Potter Black Rosier," Harry said, standing up straight. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, my lady."

Lucretia looked caught off guard for a second before she quickly regained control of her emotions. "The pleasure is mine, my lord. I am Lucretia Malfoy," she said formally, slightly bowing her head.

Harry finally released her hand, realizing that he had been holding it this whole time.

"Did you know Harry's mom was really the daughter of Orion Black and Vinda Rosier?" Draco blurted out with another smirk on his face.

"Manners, Draco!" chastised Lucretia before turning to Harry. "Is that true?" she asked.

"Yes, my lady," Harry replied formally.

"Interesting," Lucretia muttered softly, still eyeing Harry. "I am sorry you have to sit with my brother. He can be quite annoying."

Harry chuckled lightly. "He has been great so far," he said, earning a grin from Draco.

"Be that as it may, I still want my snack money!" she said angrily, glaring at Draco.

"I told you I didn't take it! Maybe you should keep better track of your things!" exclaimed Draco, which caused Lucretia to glare at him even more.

"Here, take some of mine," said Harry, grabbing a handful of Galleons out of his pocket and offering them to Lucretia. She looked at him in surprise.

"I can't take that," she said uncertainly.

"Of course you can. I insist," said Harry, pressing the coins into her hand. "I have more than enough to spare."

"Thank you," she said softly, still looking at him as if she were trying to figure him out. She took a step backward, heading back to her own compartment. "Let's talk later," she said before turning around and walking away.

Harry closed the compartment door and sat down again.

"Way to go, Harry!" Draco exclaimed, slapping Harry on the shoulder.

"What just happened?" asked Cedric, confused.

"What happened is that my sister is into Harry!" Draco exclaimed.

"What are you talking about?" asked Harry.

"I've never seen Lucretia act like that around a guy," said Draco. "Usually they can't even get her attention. But she couldn't stop looking at you! And she was nervous!"

Harry shook his head. "I don't think it's that simple," he said.

"Let's finish the game," said Roger. With that, they resumed their game of exploding snap. Before they knew it, they were arriving at Hogsmeade Station. They quickly changed into their Hogwarts uniforms and filed out of the train.

"Firs' years, over here!" they heard a booming voice yell. "Firs' years, follow me!"

The voice belonged to a massive man who was swinging a lantern. The four boys walked over to him and followed him as he led them to the lake. The four friends got into a boat together as they started sailing across the lake. After several moments, the castle came into view.

"Wicked!" exclaimed Roger.

Harry's breath was taken away as he saw the magnificent castle illuminated by numerous torches. It was more than he could have ever imagined.

After a few more minutes, the boats arrived at the shore, where an older, stern looking woman was waiting for them.

"My name is Professor McGonagall. Please follow me," she said tersely. They all jumped out of their boats and followed her throughout the castle, until they reached a pair of massive doors. As they waited in front of the doors, McGonagall explained to them the house system and how they would be sorted into their respective houses.

Finally, she opened the doors and led them into the Great Hall, where the rest of the school was waiting. They gathered at the front of the hall, in front of a stool with a hat on it. Suddenly, the hat began moving, and more surprising, singing. It sang of the different houses and the qualities embodied by each one.

The sorting hat finished its song and Professor McGonagall opened the scroll that contained the list of names.

"Abbott, Hannah!"

A short girl with dirty blonde hair walked up to the stool and had the hat placed on her head. After a few moments, the hat shouted, "HUFFLEPUFF!"

Next, McGonagall called, "Bones, Susan!"

Harry immediately craned his head, trying to get a better look at the girl. This was one of his future wives, after all. She was a very pretty girl with beautiful red hair. Harry was impressed.

Susan sat on the stool with the hat on her head. After a few long moments of deliberation, the hat shouted, "HUFFLEPUFF!"

Susan took off the hat and walked over to the Hufflepuff table with a smile on her face.

A few names later, McGonagall called, "Davies, Roger!"

Harry clapped Roger on the shoulder in encouragement. Roger nervously walked up to the stool and placed the hat on his head. Almost immediately, the hat yelled, "RAVENCLAW!"

Harry was surprised as Roger sat down at the Ravenclaw table. He had not been expecting that.

Next up was Cedric. He sat on the stool for over a minute before the hat called out, "HUFFLEPUFF!"

Several names later, Harry's interest was piqued again. McGonagall called out, "Greengrass, Daphne!"

Another one of Harry's future wives walked up the steps and sat down on the stool. She had beautiful blonde hair and blue eyes. After a short moment, the hat called out, "SLYTHERIN!" Daphne walked to the Slytherin table with a smile on her face, obviously happy with the choice.

A few minutes later, Draco's name was called. Harry gave him a smile of encouragement as the hat was placed on his head. Almost as soon as the it touched his head, the hat yelled, "SLYTHERIN!"

With a smirk on his face, Draco strutted over to the Slytherin table.

Harry waited patiently as several other students were sorted. Then, his turn finally arrived.

"Potter Black Rosier, Harry," called out McGonagall, although it was easy to hear the shock and surprise in her voice at his new last name.

Whispers immediately began spreading throughout the Great Hall. The boy who lived was finally at Hogwarts. Not only that, his last name was Potter Black Rosier!

The whispers only increased in volume as Harry walked up the steps. He stood up straight and kept his head high, trying to act confident like the pureblood lords he had read about in the books he had bought.

He sat down on the stool. He noticed Professor McGonagall had a concerned look on her face as he placed the hat on his head.

"Hmm, difficult. Very difficult," Harry heard a voice in his mind say. "Plenty of courage and loyalty. And yes, my goodness, plenty of ambition here. You would do well in Slytherin. But, oh my, what a great mind. With that intellect, there is only one place for you."

"RAVENCLAW!" he heard the hat yell aloud.

Harry gave a sigh of relief as he took the hat off his head and walked down to the Ravenclaw table. He sat next to Roger, who clapped him on the shoulder in excitement. The rest of the Ravenclaw table was ecstatic as well – they were clapping and cheering madly. The rest of the hall, however, was shocked by the news. After a few moments of surprise, the other houses burst into excited whispers and murmurs.

Harry looked back to the front of the Great Hall. He saw the headmaster looking back at him with a confused look. Professor McGonagall looked like she had swallowed something sour.

Harry turned his head and saw Draco grinning at him from the Slytherin table, giving him a thumbs up. Near him, he saw Daphne Greengrass giving him an appraising look. Harry smiled politely at her, causing her to blush and look away.

The sorting ended soon after Harry's name was called, to the relief of the entire school. Soon, Dumbledore caused the food to appear, which made Harry's eyes widen in shock.

The feast was fantastic. Harry gorged himself on the endless amount of food at the table. As he ate, he introduced himself to some of the new Ravenclaw first years sitting around him: Terry Boot, Anthony Goldstein, Su Li, and Padma Patil.

Roger was especially happy that Harry had been sorted into Ravenclaw. "This is going to be great!" he told Harry happily. "Both of us in Ravenclaw! I bet Cedric and Draco are jealous!" Harry chuckled, amused by Roger's enthusiasm.

Soon, the meal ended, and the prefects led the first years up to the Ravenclaw common room. They demonstrated how to they had to answer a riddle before the door would open. Harry was especially pleased with this – it would constantly test his intellect.

The common room was filled with bookshelves, comfortable couches and chairs for reading, and numerous tables to do homework. Harry stared in awe at all of the books – he knew he had been sorted into the right house.

After a short speech from the prefects, they climbed the stairs to the first-year dormitories. To his surprise, his trunk and belongings were already laying at the foot of his bed. Next to his bed, his phoenix perch had already been set up and Corona was perched there.

"Corona!" Harry exclaimed as he walked up to the phoenix and began stroking her feathers.

The rest of the first-year boys looked at him in shock.

"Harry, that's a phoenix!" Roger exclaimed behind him.

"I know," replied Harry sarcastically. "Her name is Corona. She is my familiar."

"You have a phoenix familiar?" asked Michael Corner, another one of the first years.

"Yeah, she hatched for me," said Harry as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

"Wicked," said Roger, using his favorite word. Suddenly, his attention was diverted. "Look, Harry, my bed is right next to yours!"

Indeed, Roger's bed was just to the left of Harry's bed.

"Looks like I'm stuck with you," joked Harry as he sat on his bed.

The boys quickly got ready for bed. As Harry lay in his bed, trying to fall asleep, he smiled to himself. He was finally at Hogwarts, and the best was yet to come.

*From Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone*