HP: The Godfather (The Family Patriarch)

Chapter 2

"You will find Director Targnok as well as Mr. Black and Mr. Potter through here Lord Potter-Black." The Goblin guard mentioned as he led him and Daphne to the Halls of Feasting. "Per request of Mr. Charlus Potter, a small feasting has been prepared for the joyous occasion of your union Lord and Lady Potter-Black. May Fortune smile upon you."

"And your enemies scream at the terror of your axe," Harry responded curtly while holding the door open for Daphne to enter.

"How do you do it?" Daphne asked as she turned to face him after they stepped through the door.

"Do what?" Harry asked perplexed and offered her his left arm as earlier instructed by Daphne and studied the hall before them. His eyes widened slightly at the rather large room they found themselves in. In the back was a large fire pit, flames roared in their confined space as a pig was slowly roasted over the hearth. Multiple Goblins were entering out of a side door, carrying plates of delicious food ranging from meats, cheeses, bread and even fruits. Tankards of what Harry assumed must have been Ale were lined against a wall and immediately tapped. His continued observation was interrupted by Daphne as she repeated her question.

"How do you always know how to properly answer the Goblins? Even my father barely knows any, and his contact with them is extremely high for a Wizard."

"I don't know," Harry responded in earnest as he shrugged his shoulders. "The phrases just sit at the tip of my tongue whenever I need them. Maybe it's in my blood or something." He dismissed nonchalantly.

"I don't think…" Daphne spoke but was interrupted by Harry.

"Daphne don't you think this is a bit much?" He asked as he saw Orion Black talking quietly with an ancient looking Goblin as the two sat at a very long table that was filled with food.

"Lord Potter-Black," a voice piped up behind them. "You clearly need to brush up on Goblin traditions. If you had known, this isn't remotely close to what is required for tonight's festivities."

"Axe-Lord Ragnok," Harry turned and tipped his head in greeting. "Shall your axe lead you to victory."

"And may your wand keep you from harm," Ragnok returned. "May I present to you my wife Lord Potter-Black."

"A pleasure," Harry replied.

"Milord," the female Goblin nodded as she removed the massive axe from her shoulders. "Axe-Mistress Ha'tschi at your service."

"Gesundheit!" Harry mentally snickered. Clearing his throat, he slightly turned in order to bring Daphne to the attention of the female Goblin. "And may I introduce Daphne Gree… eh," Harry corrected himself. "May I introduce Daphne Potter-Black, my… well my wife, no, my soon to be wife... well whatever."

"Delighted," Daphne returned the small greeting but couldn't leave her annoyance at Harry's bumbling out of her voice.

"Have you spoken to my father yet Lord Potter-Black?"

"I thought we were on first names Axe-Lord Ragnok?" Harry returned before shaking his head. "And I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting Director Targnok."

"Well then Harry," Ragnok cheerily spoke. "Let me introduce you. He is quite interested in you."

"Well then, lead the way. We wouldn't want him kept waiting," Harry responded and followed Ragnok.

"Lady Potter-Black," Ragnok's wife spoke up as she watched the young woman scowl after Harry. "Shall we follow our dear husbands and remind them of their husbandly duties towards asking our permission before wandering off?"

Daphne slightly turned her head down to look at the shorter Goblin woman. Her icy blue eyes sparkled in delight upon seeing a toothy grin on the Axe-Mistress and Daphne nodded. "That is an excellent idea Axe-Mistress."

"Oh yes," Ha'tschi returned. "Can't let them think that they can leave our sphere of influence without us noticing. Where would we be, if not for us ti ensure they keep their wild tendencies to themselves."

"I am sure we'd be still trapped in a cave and enslaved behind a fire pit," Daphne responded in amusement. "And I think we should follow the example of our husband's Axe-Mistress – you may call me Daphne."

"Ha'tschi," the female Goblin responded in kind. "Ragnok has informed me about your extraordinary situation. I can't even begin to imagine how I would feel about finding myself displaced in time, not knowing if one could return to their own timeline."

"It is quite shocking and if I may be honest, mentally exhausting."

"Yes, I can believe that," Ha'tschi nodded in agreement. "But it could have been worse and that is finding yourself lost in time without your husband at your side."

A small frown crossed Daphne's face but she quickly schooled her features again. "You are correct. It could have been far worse and the fact that magic and Gringotts recognizes Harry's claim over his titles certainly helps this situation and calms me somewhat. Having to live without the safety of the family and their money to fall back on would certainly make living in this displaced time very uncomfortable."

"Yes, the comfort of money is certainly a factor one should not forget about," the female Goblin agreed. "But how do you handle finding yourself married?"

Daphne blinked and mentally cursed, "You are quite observant Ha'tschi."

"Oh it comes with the territory," the Goblin replied nonchalantly. "Now if you would please answer my question. I find the customs between our worlds interesting and even though I know 'forced' marriages have almost disappeared from the Wizarding world, I can now finally ask someone that has experienced it directly."

"I was raised by Pureblood standards," Daphne started as she fought to keep her voice uncaring. "I know what is expected of me and I will perform to everyone's expectations."

"Perform… an interesting choice of word," Ha'tschi interrupted. "That tells me that you are quite the opposite of happy."

"Quite," Daphne offered stiffly. "And I take it that you know this because it also comes with your territory. If I may ask, what is your specialty within Gringotts?"

"Oh just a little bit of this and a little bit of that," the Goblin offered in amusement. "However, I was unable to pick my own husband as well. My situation was different but it was destined for Ragnok to be my husband. The clerics foretold it; hence it had to come to pass. I was merely lucky that Ragnok is likeable but more importantly was able to best me in an axe fight. If he hadn't, I probably would have lopped of his head the minute I knew I was carrying one of his sprogs."

"Interesting," Daphne muttered.

"Indeed. Now tell me Daphne, how do you really feel about the young Lord Potter-Black?"

Daphne sighed as she came to realize that she needed to talk to somebody about this. Especially considering that her first choice in Tracy Davis being unavailable due to the fact that she wasn't born yet. Not having any friends or rather other acquaintances in this timeline, only narrowed down the choices immensely. "I… I do not lay blame upon Harry, well at least not completely. He did not know about the side effect of the necklace he gifted to me, or the meaning. I wish I could remember how we met and let alone how we came to go to the Ministry Ball together. All I know is that it all must have happened really fast and from the little things that I do remember, I was happy, excited, and very nervous about Harry. However, I also do not know him very well."

"In the end," Daphne continued after a slight pause. "I think I could have done far worse. He is considerate and the little that I know of him from school… I think I can learn to like and maybe even one day love him. However, I also know it's not going to be easy."

"Well I think you will do just fine," Ha'tschi offered. "If I may offer some advice?"

"Certainly," Daphne nodded.

"My great grandmother once told me that behind the greatest male – is an even greater female. One that is unseen, while at the same time known to all." Ha'tschi said as her eyes locked with those at Ragnok as they approached the men. Lowering her voice, she turned back to Daphne. "Support him, protect him, and give him what he wants – for none is as rewarding as seeing him ask for your guidance. And never trust the family you marry into, especially your husband's."

"Thank you," Daphne spoke and filed the information away for later deliberations.

XXXXX

"Director Targnok," Ragnok spoke up in greeting as he slammed his right fist over his heart. "May I present to you Lord Harry James Potter-Black."

"Son," the ancient Goblin muttered in acknowledgment as his beady eyes turned to Harry "Lord Potter-Black, I have heard that you caused quite the ruckus this morning in the Hall of Tellers."

"Yes… yes, I apparently did." Harry responded after clearing his throat. "It is an honor to meet you Director Targnok and I apologize to have been the cause of a disturbance for your majestic Gringotts and hope I have not unnecessarily caused your kingdom or yourself any troublesome problems."

"Everything is alright Milord. However, out of curiosity, how were you able to breach our wards?"

"I regretfully cannot tell you because I do not know. However, from the few things that I do remember of the previous day, it might have been plain old luck."

"Luck you say?" Director Targnok asked in clarification.

"Indeed it must have been luck," Harry repeated. "You have to understand, I believe that Daphne and I appeared through the means of apparition. We were at the Ministry's New Year's Ball and saw that we were about to be cursed. I tried to apparate Daphne and I out, however, before we were able to vanish from the spot, we were hit by the Avada Kadevra curse. I am honestly without an explanation as to how that led to us appearing in 1973 or even allowed us to penetrate your protections."

"An Avada curse in combination of regular apparition," Director Targnok rubbed his chin in thought. "Maybe even some added burst of wild magic combining with the spell matrices… I will have to inform the Warding Guild. Perhaps the Goblin bookworms can give us an answer. Thank you for your honesty Lord Potter-Black."

"It was nothing special," Harry returned. "I will not tell a soul about what has transpired today within your hallowed halls Director."

"Regardless, thank you again. It is refreshing to speak to a Wizard that does not try to hide information or knowledge and looks down upon us. However, as you are being truthful, may I ask about something else that has also pecked my curiosity?"

"Certainly Director Targnok, just ask away."

"If you would elaborate upon this supposed break-in you were involved in?"

Harry couldn't hide the grimace, let alone hide the nervousness that suddenly overcame him. "Sure Director," he finally replied and saw Daphne and Ragnok's wife approaching slowly. "Perhaps we should wait for the rest to arrive, so I don't have to repeat myself for those that are currently missing."

The Director hissed in amusement but nodded in agreement. "There is nothing to fear Lord Potter-Black. In my eyes, this supposed break-in happened in the future. Therefore, it would be foolish to punish you for a crime you have not yet committed at this point in time. However, perhaps by knowing and understanding the 'why', we can prevent it from ever being necessary; while at the same time strengthen Gringotts against future break-ins."

"Very well Director," Harry responded slightly more relaxed. "If I may ask, where is Charlus?"

"That fool is contacting Dorea and probably making a mockery out of himself once again," Orion muttered to which Ragnok chuckled.

"Remind me Lord Potter-Black that I tell you the story about how I met young Charlus," Director Targnok interjected in amusement.

"Father," Ragnok groaned. "Please do not bore Lord Potter-Black with your exaggerated stories."

"Silence son! You just don't want to be reminded about your own foolish actions that day."

Ragnok sighed, "Yes father."

"Besides," the Director continued. "I am sure Lord Potter-Black's story about his successful break-in into Gringotts is equally amusing and embarrassing."

"A Gringotts break-in?" Daphne asked in curiosity as she approached with Ha'tschi. "Harry, what is the Director speaking about?"

"Well," Harry hesitated as he nervously wiped his palms on his pants. "Do you remember our seventh year at Hogwarts? How Hermoine, Ron, and I didn't attend the school?"

"Yes, what of it? I know that you three were on the run from You-Know-Who but otherwise nothing else."

"Well what nobody other than the Goblins of Gringotts know, well and I guess Voldemort, was that we broke into Gringotts to retrieve one of Voldemort's personal artifacts."

Daphne and Orion both looked at Harry as if he was kidding, while the Goblins patiently waited for more information. Seeing the expressions, Harry sighed but before he could elaborate, he was interrupted as the doors behind them opened up.

"In here Dorea," the voice of Charlus echoed into the room in excitement.

"Yes I can see that Charlus," a strong no nonsense voice followed in annoyance that fearfully reminded Harry of a combination between Neville's grandmother and McGonagall. "Now that I am here, please do explain to me why it was required to drop everything and cancel Augusta. You know we have a lot of planning left to do for the yearly St. Mungo's charity event."

"Certainly my dear," Charlus quickly said. "Now once we are inside, please for the love of Merlin, refrain from shouting."

"Shouting? I do not shout," the women's voice returned coldly. The hints of a threat were clearly audible.

"Did I say shouting? I, of course, meant to hint at your strongly reprimanding tone of voice," Charlus corrected quickly.

"What a fool," Orion muttered and shook his head. "I doubt he'll ever learn. He'll just dig his grave deeper each time he opens his mouth."

"Sadly the cure for the 'foot in mouth' disease has yet to be invented," Ragnok added in a solemn nod.

"Oh," Daphne interjected with twinkling eyes. "I think my mother was onto something in that regard."

"Really? What did she find out?" Ha'tschi asked in amusement upon seeing the mischievous expression of the blonde woman.

"A quick slap to the back of the head does wonders," Daphne continued in a smirk as she felt Harry shift his weight in nervousness from one foot to the other and she gently took hold of one of Harry's hands into her own for reassurance.

"Yes," Director Targnok muttered as he rubbed the back of his head as if in memory. "That actually does help."

"Right," Ha'tschi replied and smirked as her eyes met those of her Goblin husband and winked.

"Dorea, honey-pie!"

Two slaps were heard instantly, one from Orion as he put palm to face and another that must have been Dorea introducing her hand to Charlus's head. "Do not call me that," Dorea growled and the door finally opened further. "At least not in public," she quietly added but it still echoed into the room.

Everyone watched how Charlus entered with Dorea on his arm and they were surprised to see them stop. "What is this Charlus?" Dorea growled in rising anger. "Please tell me that you did not make me cancel my plans so that you can celebrate with the Goblins?"

"Well…" Charlus started and visibly flinched as a pair of brown eyes focused on him. "I… well… what can I say… I…"

"Out with it!" Dorea hissed. "What did you do?"

"There will be celebrations later," Charlus quickly spoke and then started dragging her towards the waiting Goblins and Harry and Daphne. "And look, even Orion is here. You haven't seen each other in a while."

"Wow," Harry said and turned to a wide eyed Orion. "I think grandfather just threw you in front of the proverbial rampaging dragon."

"Orion?" Dorea's voice turned curious as her vision drifted towards the group. As they neared, everyone could see her eyes slowly turning emotional. "Orion! Brother!" She slipped off Charlus's arm and quickly glided towards them and threw her arms around her brother. "Oh how I have missed you Orion."

"Dori," Orion returned the hug. "It's been too long."

"Yes it has," Dorea muttered and when she finally pulled out of the embrace, she studied her brother. "So what brings you to Gringotts? Is everything alright with the family? How is Regulus? Have you spoken to Andromeda? You should be ashamed of yourself for casting her out. In fact…"

"Dorea," Charlus interrupted, attempting to keep Orion from getting chewed out. "We are not here for Orion but…"

"In a minute Charlus," Dorea said sternly. "And hello James, Mom will be with you shortly…"

Everyone suddenly took a step back as Dorea fell silent and everyone studied her reaction. Her eyes widened in surprise and her mouth suddenly shut with an angry click, and her face lost all form of an expression. "What is the meaning of this James Charlus Potter? Why are you in Gringotts? How did you even get here? You should be in school, at Hogwarts!"

"Um… I…" Harry stammered as he was suddenly the center of his grandmother's furious attention.

"And what is this?" Dorea continued as she studied Harry. "James Charlus Potter, where did you get your hands on an aging potion? Who gave it to you? CHARLUS!"

"Y-yes?" Charlus snapped in surprise at being suddenly singled out.

"It was you… wasn't it? You gave James an aging potion…"

"I… what?" Charlus looked baffled.

"Madame Potter," Daphne tried to intercede. "You are mistaken, but my husband is not your son."

Just as Daphne spoke up, the faces of Charlus, Orion, and Ragnok turned deathly white. "Excuse me?" Dorea hissed as she turned her focus upon Daphne. "That is still Lady Potter and who in Merlin's name are you? Never mind," Dorea changed tones instantly, not even bothering to stop for a breath. "You're just a helpless victim in this prank my son has pulled."

"Excuse me!" Daphne growled and stepped closer to Dorea and everyone else was quickly taking further steps away. The air turned frigid cold as icy blue eyes locked with warm browns. "I am Lady Daphne Potter-Black and I am the wife to Lord Harry James Potter-Black… your grandson!"

"Preposterous," Dorea snarled instantly in objection.

"Also," Daphne continued as her voice turned even colder as she wouldn't give ground to Harry's grandmother. "I am far from a helpless witch."

None of the occupants in the room dared breathe in fear of turning the attention of the seemingly two raging dragons that were Dorea and Daphne upon themselves. Minutes passed in silence as both witches were locked staring into each other eyes – clearly none willing to back down first and show weakness. The first inclination something was happening was when everyone watched Dorea study Daphne intently as her chocolate brown eyes scanned the honey blonde woman before her. Daphne's response to being studied was the raising of a perfectly manicured eye-brow.

"Slytherin?" Dorea finally broke the silence to which Daphne only nodded once before Dorea returned to inspecting Daphne.

After what felt like hours but truly only were minutes, Harry grabbed his courage and turned to his grandfather in a whisper. "Grandfather, what is going on? Why are they just looking at each other?"

Surprisingly it was Orion who was able to offer an explanation. "They are sizing each other up."

"Huh?" Harry returned eloquently.

Orion sighed. "It's a Slytherin thing Harry. Well actually it's a Hogwarts thing. If you will, they are establishing a pecking order."

"So why did Dorea ask for her Hogwarts House?"

"To establish the rules of engagement," Orion answered and sighed at seeing the confused expression on Harry. "I swear you bloody Gryffindor's don't know a thing about what is happening at Hogwarts. You are so blind that you don't even realize your own Gryff women drawing the lines of battle and stake their claims on boys like every other witch of the other houses."

"Wait you mean…"

"Yes," Orion answered irritated. "Unlike our Neanderthalian ways of grunting and fighting, witches fight their battles by establishing a pecking order. How or why they exactly do it, is beyond me but to them it's a sacred law that is to be uphold to the highest degree. Mind you, each House has a different set of rules, therefore by asking Daphne's Hogwarts House, Dorea is able to judge Daphne by a certain set of rules – obviously rules Dorea is well familiar with as a fellow Slytherin graduate."

"Oh," Harry mouthed in understanding. "Does Blood purity come to play as well?" He asked wondering as he thought of his mother and whether she had to undergo the same treatment when she met his grandmother.

"Who knows," Orion offered. "Like I said, the process is beyond my understanding and I doubt us wizards will ever understand it. It could be but it could also be non-consequential as well."

"So now that it's established that they are both Slytherins," Harry continued quietly. "What happens now?"

"Oh I know that one," Charlus finally spoke up proudly after having listened in and keeping surprisingly silent. "Since Daphne introduced herself as Lady Potter-Black, she threw the proverbial reducto into the ring by informing Dorea that she no longer is top Queen in the family. It now falls upon Dorea to judge Daphne whether she is suitable to take over the family or if there will be a duel to the death for Ladyship of the family."

"Duel to the death?" Harry asked in shock. "Are they insane?"

"Of course not," Charlus blinked in bafflement at Harry's outrage. "It is tradition for the Lady of the House to pass on her obligations and duties to the new Lady. However, you have to understand, normally the Lady of the House as well as the future Lady of the House have years to befriend each other and pass on the knowledge, secrets, and teachings from one generation to the next. But since Dorea doesn't know Daphne, the old traditions apply and it befalls upon Dorea to judge Daphne of being of proper standing for the position of Lady of the House. I am quite sure Daphne will have to undergo the same treatment when she meets the ol' Hag Walburga… right Orion?"

"Possible but I doubt it. If Dorea accepts Daphne, Walburga doesn't really have a choice in not accepting Daphne. After all, how would look if Walburga denies Daphne the Ladyship of the House of Black if a former Daughter has not only given her consent but also the title of Ladyship of House Potter to Daphne. Now be quiet," Orion interrupted. "I think they have come to an agreement."

Everyone looked as first Dorea's posture, followed by Daphne's visibly relaxed. A small nod by Dorea informed everyone of the outcome and they all relaxed before Dorea's chocolate eyes turned to Charlus and in a stern voice demanded, "Charlus explain! Now!"

"Well you see," Charlus stuttered and pushed Harry in front of his grandmother. "Sweetie, meet your grandson. Harry here will explain everything."

"W-whuaaaat?!" Harry almost yelled in surprise as his own grandfather pushed him in front of Dorea. Feeling her stern eyes focus on him, he visibly swallowed and forced a small smile onto his lips. "H-Hello grandmother."

"Well then," Dorea spoke up. "Let me have a look at you Harry and would you relax, I am not going to bite."

"That's easy for you to say," Harry muttered under his breath and had to chuckle uneasily as he watched Dorea's eyes narrow. "Shit! I think she heard me," Harry thought.

XXXX

Dorea was sitting at the table and rubbing the bridge of her nose. "So you two are from the future?!"

"Yep," Harry popped and instantly received a slap to the back of his head by Daphne. "What the hell," he complained and turned towards her.

"Language Potter," Daphne admonished. "You are Lord of two Ancient and Noble Houses, therefore you must speak properly. You answer with 'Yes' and not the uncivilized oafish ways of muggles."

"Really?" Harry asked in disbelief to which he received a simple nod of confirmation. "Even when we are amongst family?"

"Especially when you are amongst family," Dorea replied. "And thank you for correcting him Daphne."

"Well," Daphne offered with a shrug and a sigh. "Someone has to curtail his Gryffindor tendencies and as wife that role now lies with me. Why did it have to be Gryffindor?" She asked nobody in particular as she turned to Harry.

"What do you want me to say?" Harry replied while smirking. "My dashingly good looks were certainly not the deciding factor. In fact, I asked the Sorting Hat to place me into Gryffindor. I wanted to be as far away from Malfoy as possible and Slytherin was therefore out of the question."

"Slytherin?" Daphne and Dorea both asked in curiosity.

Harry nodded and failed to see Charlus desperately trying to signal Harry to stop talking. "Yes the Sorting Hat told me that I would do great things if I was to join Slytherin but I didn't want to go there because of Malfoy's pasty arse joining the snake pit."

"Wait a minute Potter," Daphne spoke up. "Are you telling me that you told the Hat to place you into Gryffindor because you didn't want to be in Slytherin due to Draco Malfoy?"

"Eh… yes."

"Unbelievable," Daphne muttered in shock. "A Potter, the Potter could have been a Slytherin."

"Charlus," Dorea suddenly croaked in victory and stuck out her hand, palm facing upwards. "Pay up my dear!"

"No," Charlus crossed his arms and dropped into a chair two seats away from his wife. "Harry is a Gryffindor."

"Well yes," Dorea continued with a smirk. "But he just told us himself that he would have been in Slytherin if it hadn't been for that Malfoy boy, whoever he is. Therefore, I win the bet that within five Generations, the Potters' would have at least one child join the noble house of Slytherin."

"No I refuse," Charlus expressed vehemently as he pouted. "This doesn't count."

"Don't be such a baby and pay up," Dorea demanded and waited patiently. "Fine," she finally relented after watching her husband sulk for several minutes. "If you pay up, I will allow the Elves to bake you that Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte that you love so much."

"Deal," Charlus grinned and handed over a single Knut.

"Are you serious? Are you bloody serious?" Orion spat in disgusted surprise. "You act like a two year old over a single Knut?"

"No, Sirius is your son" Harry snorted automatically.

"What?" Orion asked perplexed as he turned towards Harry in question.

"Damn it," Harry groaned. "I can't believe I just pulled a Sirius joke."

"Sirius joke?" Orion asked again in confusion. Turning to his sister, "Dorea do you…" He stopped as he saw his sister silently laughing behind her hand.

"I get it!" Ragnok suddenly spoke up and laughed loudly.

"Please kill me now," Harry muttered and turned towards Daphne to see an equal confused expression. Leaning closer, Harry whispered. "It's a play on words. You know, Sirius Black, he is Orion's son and he always did a play on words with his first name."

"Ah," Daphne replied softly. "Thank you for clearing it up Potter."

Harry sighed, "Daphne would it hurt to at least use my first name when you talk to me? I feel like I am in trouble whenever you call me by my last name."

Daphne didn't answer right away and instead studied Harry. "Sure," she finally relented. "It will be difficult to get used to not call you Potter but by tonight, you are going to be my husband, so I can see how that would be strange."

"Thank you."

"You're very welcome… Potter," Daphne returned in amusement and received a tiny groan of annoyance from Harry.

"As fun as it is to continue witnessing your Wizarding affairs," the Director finally spoke up. "I would like to get the official business out of the way so that we can pillage and plunder the glorious food that has been prepared by the kitchen staff. Therefore, without halt," Director Targnok continued and placed a large scroll of parchment upon the table. After opening said scroll, he pushed it towards Harry and Daphne.

"Now are you familiar with a blood quill?" The Director asked.

"Yes," Harry replied to Daphne's surprise as she had heard of a blood quill for the first time.

"Oh," the Director mouthed. "Had some business dealings with us Goblins I see?"

"Not really," Harry grimaced. "Let's just say that an overzealous Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic was very fond of those disgusting things."

"Curious," the old goblin muttered. "It sounds like an interesting story, perhaps one day you will share it with me. But for now, let us move forward."

"Miss Greengrass," the Director turned towards Daphne. "A blood quill is an enchanted quill that uses the writer's blood as ink. They are used for only the most important contracts within the Wizarding world."

"I see," Daphne offered calmly but was wondering why Harry had tensed at the mention of the unique quill.

"Most certainly," Targnok nodded. "Now, before you lies the standard marriage contract of an Ancient and Noble House. If you two would be as kind as peruse it and then sign at the appropriate places, I can than sign as witness and file it with the Gringotts Administrative Department, which will in turn pass all necessary documentations to the Ministry of Magic."

"Question," Harry interrupted. "How do we explain our appearance to the Ministry? I am certain you will require birth certificates and our OWL and NEWTS diplomas?"

"Glad that you ask Lord Potter-Black," Targnok smirked as if he had just caught Harry with his hand in the cookie jar. "For a reasonable fee, Gringotts will produce the necessary documentations that will withstand a thorough investigation by the International Confederation of Wizards and of course the British Wizarding Ministry."

"And I take it that only Gringotts would be able to supply such documentation?" Harry returned in amusement realizing where this conversation was going.

"Most definitely," Targnok replied and proudly squared his shoulders. "And since we are already discussing the procurement of said documentations," Targnok pulled out a plain folder. "In what subjects would you, and the future Mrs. Potter-Black, like to have an Outstanding for your OWL and NEWTS?"

"The ones that allow me to become an Auror," Harry replied instantly. "Daphne, what about you?"

"The same," Daphne replied and received a slight frown from Harry.

"Auror? I didn't know you had such ambitions," Harry asked her in surprise.

"Surprised?" Daphne asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Yes," Harry nodded and watched Targnok ink in the information. "I honestly didn't have you pecked for an Auror."

"And what is that supposed to mean?" Daphne asked coldly. "Did you expect me to look pretty all day and lounge around the house?"

"No, absolutely not," Harry quickly offered. "I wasn't thinking anything."

"Well that wouldn't be the first time," Daphne queried but her voice had lost the previous hardness.

"Perfect," Targnok spoke up and pushed another set of documents in front of both Harry and Daphne. "Now if you would please leave your signatures on the marriage contract, everything will be set."

"Alright," Harry leaned over and quickly perused the marriage document along with the birth certificate and his OWL and NEWTS results. As far as he could tell, everything appeared to be in order. He then picked up the offered blood quill and signed on the appropriate line. Afterwards, he offered the quill to Daphne as he unconsciously rubbed the back of his right hand.

Harry watched her studying the information before her – albeit she took a lot longer. As he saw her sign the marriage contract, the parchment flashed a mixture of black and red before rolling itself into a scroll and a Gringotts wax seal appeared that sealed the contract.

"Well if I may be so bold," Targnok spoke up and slowly rose from his chair. "It is an honor and it was a privilege to oversee this union between the most Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter-Black and House Greengrass. I believe congratulations are in order."

"Um… thank you," Harry replied in semi-shock as the fact sunk in that he was now truly married. He turned towards Daphne to see her reaction and was surprised at finding her staring at her ring finger that now beheld a delicate ring that represented her new status of being the Lady Potter-Black.

"Daphne," Harry gently spoke up as he took her hands in his. "Is everything alright?"

"Yes," Daphne quietly breathed as her shimmering eyes interlocked with Harry's. "I guess I can no longer be in denial over this."

"I think I know what you are talking about," Harry muttered and simply pulled her into his arms. He gently pressed her against his body and held her in his embrace. Whispering quietly into her ear, "Daphne I am so sorry but I swear, I will try… no I will be the perfect h-hu-h-husband to you."

A small smile played across Daphne's lips. "There is no such thing as a perfect husband Harry… but thank you. I hope I will not disappoint you either."

Their brief intimate moment was torn apart as an obnoxious Gryffindor in the form of Charlus Potter pulled both of them into an embrace. "This calls for celebrations! Dorea! Honey, cancel all my appointments for the week. I will be too drunk to be coherent."

"Oh hell no," Dorea muttered and quickly pulled Charlus away from Harry and Daphne. "Congratulations you two," She offered with a friendly smile. "Now if you'll excuse me, I think I need to chaperone my husband before he starts another Goblin Rebellion."

"Eh… sure Dorea," Harry stammered as he still recovered from being hugged to death by his grandfather.

"Lord Potter-Black," Orion spoke up as he approached. He offered a singular nod, "I believe congratulations are in order to the union between our Houses as well as House Greengrass."

"Orion please," Harry started but was interrupted by a gentle squeeze on his arm by Daphne.

"Sir Black," Daphne interrupted gently. "What Lord Potter-Black means to say is that we are amongst family and that the necessity of protocol is to be ignored. However, as is the custom in our world, Lord Potter-Black will gladly hear you out upon any bequests you have for the Lord of your House."

"Thank you Lady Potter-Black," Orion bowed. "And may I say... I am delighted that one such as yourself will stand at the side of my Lord. You honor my family with your presence and I wish from the deepest of my heart that you will forgive my family for having played a part in your forced marriage to the Lord Potter-Black."

"Forgiveness is not required Sir Black," Daphne responded. "I see no slight against my person by your family. If you would excuse us but I would like for my husband to finally kiss his bride."

"My apologies Lady Potter-Black," Orion bowed once more and stiffly walked away.

"W-what was that all about?" Harry asked in bewilderment as he watched Orion walk away and fall into a chair in contemplation.

"Protocol," Daphne offered and slowly turned Harry's face towards hers. "I am afraid you have a lot to learn Harry. Pureblood and Wizarding customs are a must to know in the circles we will be exposed to."

"Perfect," Harry groaned.

"Suck it up," Daphne almost growled. "You need to understand that a lot of responsibility now lies with you. You are now the Lord of the House Potter and House Black. The duty of protecting the families now lies with you. Everyone will look at you not just because of your position but because you are young and an unknown factor. Nobody knows us Harry and they will be like sharks in the water. The moment they smell blood or in your case the lack of knowledge of our customs, they will want to destroy us."

"Okay," Harry breathed as he began to realize what would await him. "But can we at least leave politics for another day? If I recall, I was just told that my wife requires a kiss."

"Of course," Daphne gently smiled.

XXXXX

Everyone was sitting along the table and feasting upon the delicacies before them and the murmur of several conversations droned on in the background as Harry sat back and nursed the mug of Goblin Ale before him. His vision drifted along the table and came to rest upon his grandfather and briefly watched as he and Ragnok laughed as they shared a joke. Continuing down the table he watched Sirius's father talking quietly to Director Targnok, as they conversed in hushed whispers.

To his left sat Daphne and he listened in on the conversation she was having with his grandmother. Currently Daphne was explaining the political climate of England from their time and was surprised at the detailed information Daphne was sharing. Looking into his mug his thoughts drifted to Ron and Hermoine.

"Would they even realize that I am missing?" Harry thought as he tipped the mug to his lips. "Nah… I doubt it," he chuckled as he thought of the chaos that would ensure.

"I wish I could remember how I met Daphne," he finished morosely as he watched her vigorously hold the political discussion with his grandmother. "Perhaps it will all come back to me with time. If not," he g he he briefly studied her. "I think we can manage even without us knowing."

Harry was eventually saved from his musings when the Director cleared his throat in an attempt to garner the attention of everyone sitting at the table. When the conversations trickled out and the faces turned towards the ancient goblin, the Director addressed Harry. "Lord Potter-Black if you may, perhaps now that we are all filled with food and beverage, you would be generous enough to tell us your story of breaking and thievery in Gringotts?"

Sighing, Harry mutely nodded his head. He slowly made eye connection with each individual sitting at the table and took one last swallow from his ale.

"I think I should start this tale with a simple question. Who here, knows what a Horcrux is?"

Besides Orion, Ragnok, and Director Targnok, Harry mostly saw confusion in the expressions of his listeners. "I see Orion, Ragnok, and Director Targnok are familiar with the term but to ensure you all understand, let me briefly explain. A Horcrux is one of the vilest things that I have ever heard or encountered. It is an anchor, specifically a soul anchor. A Horcrux is used to anchor somebody's soul to this plane of existence in order to cheat Death. And one such thing resided or will reside within Gringotts several years from now."

"Impossible," Ragnok hissed. "We do not allow such things to be kept here. Why didn't you contact the Goblins and informed them of your knowledge?"

"For starters, we didn't know that keeping a Horcrux within Gringotts is forbidden and secondly, we weren't entirely sure, if the woman we were suspecting truly had this cursed item."

"Granted," Charlus spoke up in interest. "Besides all that, how did you even manage to enter and penetrate Gringotts this deeply?"

"Well we used a combination of Polyjuice, a certain Potter family artifact, and the illegal use of the Imperious curse along with the help of a fellow Goblin."

"And with what did you bribe said Goblin with?" The Director asked coldly.

"The Sword of Gryffindor," Harry offered. "Ironically, the same Goblin also betrayed us the instant we reached the vault and handed over the sword. That sure earned me a lesson in paying closer attention to the wording of agreements when dealing with Goblins."

"I see," the Director continued. "I would like to know the name of this Goblin, as well as the Goblin you placed under the Imperious curse."

"May I ask why Director?" Harry asked out of pure curiosity.

"It is quite simple Harry," Ragnok spoke up instead. "We Goblins pride ourselves with our honor to never take bribes as well as being trained to resist the Imperious or any other mind altering curses and potions. In fact, it is anchored within our Charter. Therefore, knowing those names, you would help secure Gringotts from any future potential threats and liabilities pertaining to these two Goblins?"

"Well I don't know the name of the Goblin that we used the Imperious upon and I can only offer you a memory of the event in hopes for you being able to identify said Goblin, however, the one that took the bribe is called Griphook."

"That little slimy sprog," Ha'tschi spat. "I will lop his head off the minute he returns home from the Banking seminar."

"I… I am sorry," Harry spoke dejected. "Is Griphook your son?"

"No son of mine takes a bribe," Ragnok growled viciously. "And thankfully he isn't our son but merely the future waste excrement of a dragon."

"I don't understand," Daphne interrupted. "This Griphook, is he or isn't he your son?"

"He is a cousin twice removed," Ha'tschi spoke up as her right hand tightly gripped the mug of ale. "Thank you Lord Potter-Black for informing us of the dishonor within our family line, rest assured that I will deal with this little slime myself."

"And I thank you Axe-Mistress Ha'tschi," Harry returned. Turning towards the Director, Harry offered a suggestion. "Perhaps it is best to show you all the events of the break-in and the subsequent escape on the back of a dragon?"

"Yes it appears to be easier to just show the events," the Director muttered deep in thought. I will send for a projection pensieve immediately."

"Yes and while we wait, perhaps a refill is in order," Harry offered diplomatically. And even as they all waited for the pensieve to arrive, Harry's thoughts were currently reliving the hectic and frightening experience of escaping a Goblin bank on the back of a dragon. He was pulled out of it when Daphne gently took one of his hands into her own – offering a gentle squeeze of comfort and reassurance. Harry thanked her for her silent support and found it refreshing to not be instantly hassled about details.

XXXXX

Harry sat watching the fire dance in the pit as he waited for everyone to return from watching his memory of his Gringotts break-in. Having had some time to himself, his thoughts were on this latest development in his absurdly strange life. Sighing, he softly spoke to himself in his mind.

"Alright let's take stock. I am married to probably the hottest girl from my Hogwart's year. Do I even care that she was a Slytherin – surprisingly, I don't. Okay, so what are my priorities? One, keep my promise to Daphne and try to be the best husband I can be. Two, get to know my family – oh and especially get to know Daphne. Three, I dare say it, but I really need to learn what is to be expected of me, preferably fast. Daphne was right. I am now in charge of the Potter and Black families. Four, find a place to call home. Five, find a job? Do I even need a job? Hmmm… perhaps that is a discussion I'll have with Daphne first. Six, if possible, find a way to return to our own timeline. Although, I could be of help to Dumbledore in his fight against Voldemort, perhaps my being here is exactly what is needed to ensure the tyrant doesn't destroy our community as much as he did in my past. But do I even know enough to be of proper help?" Harry frowned as the last thought crossed his mind. "Regardless," Harry whispered. "I am sure we won't be able to return very soon anyways. Some of these points can certainly be considered to be not of top priority."

His further musings were interrupted as he heard the telltale sound of gasps that signaled the return of his family and the Goblins that had viewed his memory.

"So," Harry drawled the word as he studied the multiple expressions of shock, outrage and in Daphne's case pride. Not being able to help himself, a smirk split his lips. "What's for a desert?"

However, instead of receiving laughs or chuckles, Charlus approached Harry and rested his hands on his shoulders as he looked his grandson straight into the eyes. "Harry… this was by the far the most foolish, idiotic, and luckiest thing that you could have done. In fact, I am furious at you being so irresponsible but," and here Charlus's stern expression turned one to utter glee and pride. "I am damn proud of you for pulling such a stunt. You are a Gryffindor through and through."

Harry blinked several times as he tried to comprehend. "Wait, you are?"

"Damn right I am," Charlus boasted and hugged Harry. "I am sure your grandmother will chew us out now but rest assured, in the end she always means well. So, let's face the music."

"Yes Charlus my dear, face my 'music'." Dorea growled as she approached her husband and Harry. Staring down her nose, Dorea studied the two men that were becoming more nervous with each passing moment. Clucking her tongue, Dorea surprised them both by pulling Harry into a crushing hug. "You foolish rascal, if you ever think about doing something this crazy ever again, I swear on Merlin's beard, I will bend you over my knee, you won't be able to sit for weeks after. Do I make myself clear?"

"Y-yes grandmother," Harry replied shockingly.

"And like your grandfather, I am damn proud of you." Dorea finished and stepped aside for Daphne.

Daphne and Harry shared a look before Daphne pulled Harry into her arms. Whispering into his ear, "You're going to tell me everything and when that is all done, you and I will have a long… talk." She finished in a hush as she gently nibbled on his ear lobe. Not trusting his voice, Harry opted for a swallow and nod.

"Thank you Lord Potter-Black," the Director spoke up shortly after. "That was by far an interesting and studious experience. Now, if everyone would like to return to their seats, I would like to return the favor with a story of my own. I would like to tell a story, where a mere teller was confronted by a young wizard, and one barely out of his diapers, whose name was none other than Charlus Potter."

"I'll let you know, I was eight." Charlus interjected as he crossed his arms in mock anger.

"Yes, here he was, waltzing into Gringotts and strutting towards me and you know what he did… he challenged me to a duel. I was so flabbergasted; I had no idea what to do, let alone knew how to react."

"If I may ask," Harry spoke up as his curiosity rose. "How did you react?"

At this point both Ragnok and Charlus groaned in embarrassment as Targnok grinned happily. "I convinced him to challenge my son instead. I told him that Ragnok was the strongest and bravest Goblin within the bank. He, a brave and powerful wizard, obviously accepted without question."

"Yes," Ragnok growled. "And that is how Charlus and I met and were manipulated to fight each other by you father."

"Don't act like a spoiled sprog my son," Targnok hissed in amusement. "Do not forget the enjoyment and most importantly friendship you have gained from that moment in time. Besides, if it weren't for yours and Charlus constant fighting, the last Goblin Rebellion would have ended in a very high death toll with a likely possibility of the muggles discovering our hidden world."

"Wait," Harry interjected. "What fighting? Are you saying that my grandfather and Axe-Lord Ragnok have had numerous fights over the year?"

"Indeed they did," Targnok replied almost proudly. "One could say it has almost become a tradition within Gringotts. You have to understand, Charlus and Ragnok have turned this into a yearly event. Ever since their first fight was a stalemate, Charlus has returned each year and challenged Ragnok to a duel. We goblins even have begun to take bets on the victor of each duel."

"I take it they don't always end in a tie?" Harry asked.

"Of course not," Targnok replied. "I believe the score sits at Charlus leading by four wins."

"It's two wins," Ragnok growled in anger at the reminder.

"Actually I believe it is three wins," Charlus smugly butted in.

"No, it's two," Ragnok protested.

"I am sorry my friend," Charlus continued. "But I still lead by three wins. The one from several decades ago was ruled into my favor."

"But that one doesn't count," Ragnok protested and jumped on top of his chair. "That was the day of the Goblin Rebellion. That fight was a tie."

"Well yes," Charlus replied calmly. "But we wizards won the war."

Ragnok spluttered, "Won the war? We bloody well let you win the war or else you imbeciles would have exposed our hidden world to the muggles."

"Now calm down…"

"Calm down?" Ragnok growled. "Charlus, I officially challenge you to a duel. The winner will be declared the winner of our duel from several decades ago."

"I accept," Charlus nodded as his eyes lit up gleefully.

"Charlus!" Dorea screeched in indignation. "I told you that you were not allowed to cause any shenanigans. I forbid you!"

"Um… excuse me," Harry hesitantly spoke up as he kept one eye on his grandparents. "But I was under the impression that the Goblins always won the rebellions."

"Er… right?" Harry asked when everybody was looking at him wide eyed. It was finally the Director that spoke up and asked him to clarify.

"Why would you say that Lord Potter-Black?"

"Well," Harry calmly began. "Considering the Goblins monopolize the Wizarding World in the fields of Banking, Commerce, and Legal rights, it is only obvious that it was the Goblins that won the Rebellions, even if the Wizards and the Ministry of Magic claim otherwise and try to depict the Goblins' monopoly in a way that the ministry was being generous and explained it as a reason for placating the Goblins in order to prevent further rebellions."

"Well I'll be damned," Daphne spoke up softly. "Now that I think about it, all these rebellions and my father's hints about Goblin History now finally make sense."

Director Targnok began to chuckle and nodded to Harry in acknowledgement as he tipped his mug of Goblin Ale. "I knew you were a fountain of amusement Lord Potter-Black. You are indeed correct with your assumption. How did you arrive at that conclusion?"

"Well it's pretty obvious," Harry stated as he looked at the stunned faces of his grandparents and Orion. "Why give a race of so called 'inferior' beings a monopoly when you repeatedly defeated them? Why bother with placating them when you know that you can defeat them? And at last, why have the children study the Goblin Rebellions at Hogwart's if the Goblins' weren't a threat? It just makes no sense, therefore the only conclusion can be that the Ministry is lying and the Goblins do not care enough to correct the general population of sheep."

"Bravo! Bravo!" Targnok cheered and slammed his empty mug on the table in a reverberated bang and yelled. "Bring us more Ale! This needs to be celebrated!"

What none saw was that several armed goblins slowly edged into the room, their faces covered in a permanent scowl as they silently drew their weapons.

A/N: You guys are awesome! Enough said. I hoped you enjoyed the update and I caught most Grammar mistakes and spelling. If you find anything glaringly incorrect, point it out please.

I would say sorry for taking this long but life is filled with disappointments.

Anyways, can't promise a fast update but I will try my best. Real Life takes priority after all.

Don't forget to leave your comments.