Chapter 1

Harry sat alone in his room, staring off into space as he went over everything that had happened that year.

He'd been forced into the tri-wizard tournament. And through blind luck, some help, and the manipulation of a faux teacher, he won. As well as provided to blood to bring back the most feared enemy of the magical world in the same instant.

Voldemort was back. Somehow, with help from his dead parents and a fellow champion he'd managed to push the Dark Lord back enough to escape with the body of his friend and champion.

He'd arrived back in the maze in a daze, blood still dripping from his wounds, looking with unseeing eyes forward, ignoring the flash of camera's and many questions.

While he'd hopped that Dumbledore would sit with him, at least let him mourn. Or do anything for that matter. He'd merely given some small speech and sent the boy away to his summer prison. The Dursley's.

And perhaps Dumbledore had said something do them, for they'd left him alone. Only bringing in a tray of food each day and leaving again without a word. Sadly Harry had to admit that this was probably the best they'd ever treated him, especially since his magic had started manifesting and he'd attended Hogwarts.

His thoughts range again to that cursed tournament. Furious that he'd been abandoned there. No one had stepped in to help him, not Dumbledore or anyone.

These thought left him when the telling pop of the arrival of a house-elf.

"Master Potters sirs! I has message!" Came the telltale voice of Dobby.

"Dobby. I thought I told you not to call me master! And what letter?" Harry exclaimed, slightly annoyed with the Elf's stubbornness in calling him Harry. But even so he reached down to take the letter that was preferred him by the excitable elf.

As soon as his hand closed around the letter he felt the familiar tug of a portkey. Surprise marring his face as he briefly caught sight of the guilty look on Dobby's face, Harry disappeared from sight.

/-/-/

Harry found himself deposited in some grand room, with several rows of seats set up to face a a large desk, filled with three seats and a podium, he himself being set off to the side so as to have a good view of both the podium and whoever was meant to be seated in the rows of chairs.

"Ah Mr. Potter so glad you could join us, follow me sir. And my name is Riphook if you have any questions." Came a voice to his left as he found himself face to face with a smiling goblin.

Harry nodded slightly in respect before following the Goblin down the halls, missing the look of approval at his behavior as he did so.

"What am I doing here? And where am I?" Harry questioned.

"Well today is a special meeting of the Wizengamot young Potter, and you are in Gringotts of course. There is a special law to be put forward today, as well as a special speaker who requested we call this meeting. And after talking with Minister Fudge who agreed to allow this meeting to be held with promises of a special alliance and a letter from the man who asked us to act on his behalf. But enough from me. Here is the room, he will be waiting inside. If you need be but say my name and I will shortly come." The kind Goblin explained opening the door to one of many rooms down the hall he'd been led.

"Thank you master Riphook, and may your coffers overflow and your enemies flee your blade." Harry quoted, bowing slightly to the aged Goblin.

"And may gold never leave you barren, and the blood of your enemies spill upon your blade young Potter." Riphook approved, inclining his head, deciding he would indeed talk to Ragnak about this young wizard.

Harry walked in with mild trepidation into the room, only slightly glad that no magic other than Goblin magic was allowed use inside of Gringotts. But what he found inside stopped him cold.

"Sirius!" Harry shouted, leaping forward to grab the man into a tight hug.

"Hello Harry. How are you my boy?" Sirius asked smiling, looking only slightly better than he'd been the last time Harry'd been able to see him.

"What are you doing here?! Won't you get caught?!" Harry questioned, worried for his godfather.

"No Harry. The Goblins have promised me protection and help in my endeavor. It cost a pretty penny, but nothing really to the head of House Black. Now, before we can talk, or I can tell you much of anything I need you to do something for me. You got it Harry?" Sirius questioned, looking into Harry's eyes with a mischievous grin in his own.

"Yes. What is it?"

"Good. Now listen. First off, the Goblin's managed to get me into contact with Fudge. Hush now! I know you don't like him, but for now he's a pawn I'm using so don't mess this up. He's agreed to meet me here for this meeting with the Wizengamot and Amelia Bones and some Aurors to allow me to prove my innocence. After will be the actual meeting of the Wizengamot and that will be where Fudge will push for this new law to be made. Now listen carefully Harry. Through all of this, you are to remain silent and underneath your invisibility cloak, which I had Dobby pick up, and not say a word." Pausing here, Sirius waited for Harry to nod his agreement and promise to do as Sirius had said.

"Good. Now when the meeting starts they will read off the names of everyone's family who has a seat on the Wizengamot. If the head of house is not there and they have someone sitting in their seat for them, that person will announce it with a letter or spoken word from the missing individual. When they announce the name of Potter, someone may stand and say they are your adjunct chair and will be sitting in for you. No matter who it is, I want you to reveal yourself then and say that I will be sitting in for you. Because if everything with my impromptu trial goes well I shall be reinstated as Lord Black and take the Black seats of the Wizengamot. But it is vital that you give me your seats Harry. And no matter who else says they have them, or who tries to persuade you when you name your adjunct seat that you denounce them and proclaim me as it. Understood my boy?" Sirius finished, Gazing deeply into Harry's eyes, ensuring he understood.

"I understand Sirius. But after this you'll be free? Does that mean I can live with you and not the Dursley's?!" Harry excitedly exclaimed, nothing could have made him happier than to escape his horrid relatives and live with Sirius, one of his few connections to his mother and father.

Smiling Sirius responded with enthusiasm, "Yes Harry. I'll make sure you never have to see them again and that they suffer for everything they've done to you. Two final things before you go take your seat. First off, take this pen, it's a portkey for you to use after you announce me as your adjunct. It will take you to a room above the meeting place for you to watch and see what's going on. Two, no matter what you here, and what I vote for or don't. It's all for you, though you may not understand it. I was able to access some interesting information from the Goblins, as well as from Fudge, after he found that I could be a useful ally. So I'm asking you to trust me. More than Dumbledore or anyone else Pup. Can you do that?"

"Yeah. To be honest Sirius, I'm not sure how much I really trust Dumbledore right now. He seemed to blow me off after the tournament, and he didn't even really talk to me at all. It's pretty aggravating honestly. But I do and will trust you Sirius. Thanks." Harry answered, taking the pen from Sirius as he exited the room and found Riphook outside with his cloak, waiting to guide him back to his seat.

/-/-/

Harry sat behind his cloak and watched as many distinguished Wizards began filtering in, all heading to a seemingly predetermined seat. Even catching sight of Dumbledore who strode in with a curious face on, as if he wasn't sure he should have come. He took his seat with a mumble and began chatting to the wizards surrounding him. The next Wizard he recognized was Fudge the Minister of Magic, with Amelia Bones the head of the DMLE and both taking a seat next to Dumbledore. Something that seemed to irk the wizened wizard considerably.

Several times Harry had to stifle his laughter, as well as anger by some of their comments, as the tri-wizard tournament, and Harry in particular were a hot topic.

It took an hour before everyone was gathered and Fudge took the stand. "Attention everyone. Before we begin our wonderful hosts have two announcements to make. Senior teller Riphook if you please." Fudge announced, pointing to the Goblin who then took the stand with a tooth grin.

"I haven't much to say for now. Instead. Allow me to introduce one of our closest and dearest friends," here Riphook paused at the gasps that echoed around the room. Everyone knowing that to be named closest, let alone dearest, meant they had the full backing of Gringotts, and would be supported in everything. Whether from attack or anything else. "Sirius Black."

His name was greeted with total silence as Sirius walked from the side door behind the stand, smiling and waving as if he hadn't a care in the world, or that he was supposed to be kissed on sight. It was many a wizard who reached for their wand only to get a warning growl from one of the many Goblin warrior's guarding the room.

"Thank you Riphook. Hello everyone! Decades since I seen you lot last. Now as much as I'd love to tell you why I'm here, or any other rubbish. I'd first like to do this. Amelia and Fudge, if you would both be so kind as to take these two seats here in the front." Sirius began, directing the two named individuals to chairs that were conjured by Riphook who was standing in front of Black's podium.

"Yes. Now second, I have here the Goblin equivalent of Veritaserum. I will now let Amelia test the validity of this Serum." Sirius spoke, taking a bowl of some unseen liquid from another Goblin who walked in at the direction of Riphook. Handing the bowl to Riphook, who then strode forward to allow Amelia to see and smell the substance.

"Yes I'm familiar with this potion. It is as Lord Black states." Amelia sniffed, barely keeping a small smirk off her face at the outcries of calling Sirius Lord Black.

"Thank you Lady Bones. Now I shall dispense with the swallowing." So saying Sirius gulped down the whole mix. Stumbling slightly Sirius gripped the podium for support. "Amelia, Riphook here has a list of questions for you to ask once this finishes kicking in. Man that's strong. And you may add your own if you wish." Sirius managed a smile, obviously feeling the effects of the potion as a slight sweat broke out on his forehead.

Taking the aforementioned list, Amelia read it with a smirk before turning to look at Sirius. "Very well Lord Black. Fudge I formerly ask that this be made the trial for Sirius he never received. Are you in agreeance?" Amelia asked, turning to the Smirking Minister next to her.

Before he could get in a word Dumbledore stood up with a huff of annoyance. "Surely this will now be allowed. Sirius I don't know what you're doing but I wish you'd brought this to me before going on some, some… Grand prank!" Dumbledore all but shouted, clearly angered with Sirius's behavior.

"Shut your mouth Dumbledore before I do it for you." Sirius growled out, glaring at the wizard who took a step back with hesitation before taking his seat as Fudge motioned to him to sit.

"Yes Amelia. I'm in agreement." Fudge answered, much to the surprise of the Wizengamot and Dumbledore especially.

"Thank you Minister. Now Mr. Black. Were you the secret keeper for a Lily and James Potter?"

"No."

"Thank you. Who was said secret keeper? If you know of course."

"Peter Pettigrew, who for the last few years has lived as Ronald Weasley's rat, as he's an Animagus." Black said, grimacing at the effects of the potion, but still standing upright even in the face of such a powerful substance.

"Duly noted. Where you the cause of the muggles death the night of your arrest?"

"No. Peter was."

"Thank you once again Lord Black. That seems to be enough from you list Sirius, this is enough to free you. But as to my own questions. I must ask, did you like me during Auror training or was it all a show?" Amelia questioned, an obvious gleam in her eye and smile on her face as she asked.

"Come now Amel—"

"Answer me Sirius." Amelia firmly interrupted.

"Yes. I was quiet taken with you, but thought you out of my reach. Dammit shut up Sirius." Sirius admonished himself, much to the amusement of the gathered wizards as they got over their surprise at Sirius's innocence.

"If you are freed today. Would you be willing to go on a date with an old gal?" Amelia questioned.

"How is this relevant Mrs. Bones?! I wish you would take this serious!" Dumbledore angrily stated, standing up red faced at what was occurring.

"Dumbledore if you wish to not be forcefully removed I suggest you sit and be quiet. I'm asking these question to test the validity of the truth potion. Extra evidence if you will." Amelia smoothly answered, meeting the eyes of Dumbledore with ease. "Now answer me Sirius."

"Old gal? Come now, you aren't a day over 30 and you don't look a day older than 23. What a year that was for you too." Sirius smirked out, chuckling at Amelia's blush. "And yes. I would love a date with you." Sirius genuinely responded.

Harry was trying his hardest not to laugh at the scene before him. Thankful the other wizards found it as funny as he and so covered up his gasps for air as he quietly chuckled.

"That should be enough Riphook. If you have an antidote feel free to administer it now." Amelia finished, taking her seat with a pleased look upon her face. "Fudge. I believe the next stage of this trial is your job."

"Yes. Yes. Quiet right. Alright. Let's do this painlessly and with ease. All in favor of releasing Sirius Black from all charges, as well as reimbursing him for time spent in Azkaban, and reinstate him as Lord Black of House Black. Please light your wand up blue, all those against in red." Fudge stated, standing up to face the assembled Wizards.

Harry watched with delight as Blue became the dominant colours, though there were a few red ones scattered here and there. As Harry's gaze swept across the room his eyes froze in horror on Dumbledore, who's want was lit up red, angry visible on his face as he glared at a Smirking Sirius who was drinking down the antidote.

Harry made to stand and shout when he felt tiny hands pull him down and another small set of hands on his mouth. He looked down to find Dobby in his lap, hands over his mouth, with Winky having pulled him back down.

Harry nodded when his anger had abated, but the look of horror and betrayal evident in his eyes caused them to glow green.

"Well, majority ruling. Congratulations Lord Black, you are cleared of all charges, and Riphook if you would be so kinds as to transfer the amount of two million galleons to Lord Blacks vaults as recompense for being locked away unjustly. Lord Black will you be taking your seat on the Wizengamot with us today?" Fudge questioned, his smile to obvious, seeming to imply this was all planned.

"I would, after one more set of business with Senior Teller Riphook. Riphook, I would formerly like to take over, as specified in Lily and James Potter's will as Godfather of one Harry James Potter, as well as name him as heir of House Black should I not have a child in the next two years." Sirius smiled at the sudden uptake in whispered conversations at his declaration, as well as Dumbledore's eyes widening in surprise then narrowing to a glare at the young wizard. "Thank you Fudge."

With that Sirius took his seat next to Dumbledore, smiling as the wizard did his best to turn away from Sirius as if to talk to his neighbor.

"Now let us take attendance and make sure everyone is present. House Malfoy?" Fudge called.

"Present." Sneered Malfoy raising a hand from where he sat, coincidently near Black and Dumbledore. Harry almost missed the frightened look he gave Sirius as he looked down at him.

Harry listened on as many names were called, and people stood calling present, or presenting letters saying they were sitting in for the named individuals. Till finally. "Potter!"

"Ah yes. That would be me Fudge. Harry gave me this letter to sit in for him. Young lad doesn't wish to delve into our politics and has asked me to sit in. As I'm sure that will change to our illustrious Lord Black once news reaches him of this change. News I'm sure he shall be overjoyed to hear. But for now, as I am his proclaimed adjunct I believe it necessary I hold his seats for now. The seats of Potter, and Peverell." Dumbledore announced, a twinkle in his eyes as he motioned to Sirius from time to time, his grandfather persona coming up immediately.

Harry's rage was almost instant. He'd had no idea he had seats upon the Wizengamot, nor did he write some letter! With his anger still present from seeing Dumbledore vote against Sirius being innocent Harry stood with a defiant shout, throwing off his invisibility cloak as everyone turned in surprise to see Harry, Dumbledore especially. Fear maring his face as he beheld the livid young wizard.

"I wrote no such letter! I never even knew I carried seats!" Harry shouted, cries of outrage coming from many of the gathered as Dumbledore looked on in fear, anger shining in his eyes as he beheld the boy.

"Harry my boy. But of course you did. Don't you remember?" Dumbledore tried, Harry suddenly feeling an itch at the back of his mind, a small voice seemingly whispering that he had indeed written that letter.

"Master Dumbledore. If you know what's good for you, you shall immediately stop casting wandless silent spells of compulsion on our closest and dear friend Harry Potter." Riphook dangerously admonished, a glint in his eyes as two goblin warriors stepped forward, swords drawn as they seemed to beg Dumbledore with their eyes to keep casting so they might attack him.

"Of course Riphook." Dumbledore stuttered out, blushing profusely as angry murmurs and whispering broke out among the wizards, many glaring at, who they had assumed was an upstanding wizard.

"Now master Harry. Who shall be sitting in for you? As regrettably you aren't of age yet, till twenty one at the least." Amelia informed. Giving a reproachful look of disappointment.

"Sirius Black my Lord." Harry firmly stated, still glaring at Dumbledore with such rage that the old wizard seemed to feel the heat of his gaze as an actual burning sensation before pulling out the pen from Sirius and disappearing from view.

"Good. Then let us continue. Lord Fudge?" Amelia finished, nodding at Harry's leaving the proceedings.

/-/-/

Harry watched from the room he'd been transported to as Fudge took the stage and began talking.

"Not a problem Lord Black. Now as to the law I wish to see passed today. It is a massive step forward into the future for us of the wizarding Britain. To some, it will seem like a step backwards to ancient times, to other's a step forward. No matter your view I hope you all see it as an advantage and something we must do. Put simply this is a law that will reinstate marriage contracts. Except now each contract forged will come with the automatic sum of one hundred thousand galleons from the ministry to go directly to that couple to start them out. As well as it shall require all witches and wizards, under the age of twenty five, and over the age fifteen to have a marriage contract for every bloodline they are responsible for. Which will be proven through the Goblins, and their use of blood parchment. The parent's, or guardians of every male heir shall have the right to accept whatever offers they wish. But each contract shall be magically binding and permanent. With no escape except through death. They will also be immediately forced to at least begin staying together. This law will be to ensure that lines are not ended, but grown, and excuse the pun, but reborn." Fudge said with a smile, as a groan escaped the mouth of several wizards. While many like Dumbledore looked incredulously at Fudge for putting forward such a law.

"But we will be bypassing all that mud-blood nonsense, and half-blood garbage. It's time we step forward. Now I'm not saying we shall force purebloods into marriage with the others. That will be entirely up to the father's and whose contracts they accept, as well as who they offer contracts too. All that matters is that all lines are accounted for. This bill will focus more on Purebloods than anything else. This law will also make any wizard three quarters and more of wizard blood a full-fledged pureblood, but not an ancient or noble house of any sort. And finally, all those who are sole heirs shall be given the right to accept their lordship and be known as Lords, with access to all vaults and properties, but still be under the command of their guardians." Fudge finally finished. Looking with a smile at the murmuring crowd, many wondering how he planned to pass this law at all.

Harry, though worried about being forced into marriage, but was more curious as to how Sirius thought this would be helpful, or in any way advantageous to him. He was actually slightly worried about what Sirius was going to do. Fearing this just some grand prank to Sirius, or a game perhaps.

"Shall we vote then? I do not wish to take up these fine Goblins valuable time." Fudge asked, smiling and nodding towards Riphook who returned the gesture. "Blue for it. Red against."

Harry watched with wonder, curious as no one immediately raised their wands. He wondered what they were all waiting on till he saw many looking towards Sirius or Malfoy for guidance. It hit him like a ton of bricks. Those two were the controlling parties. Malfoy paid for all his votes, and everyone knew Sirius was more light inclined, as well as he had House of Black, Potter, and Peverell behind him. Making him a major player in the voting.

Sirius raised his wand with a smug look, lighting up the tip of his wand blue, much to the surprise of everyone present.

With his declaration it seemed almost every other eye turned towards Malfoy. Malfoy looked at Sirius, fear flashing across his face quickly followed by anger, before he too raised his wand. The tip glowing bright blue.

It was as if a light switch was turned on, almost every other wand present immediately glowed blue, only a few brave souls and Dumbledore's want glowing red in the room.

"Well that decides it. We shall now pass around the bill for everyone to sign, and the announcement shall be in the Daily Prophet, with a full description of the law. Are there any other things that should be brought to our attention?" Fudge finished as the Wizengamot began signing the bill as it passed by them.

"I would like a word Minister Fudge." Sirius said, standing with a mischievous smirk. "Harry please come down here."

Dobby suddenly appeared behind Harry, Apparating him down to Sirius.

"Thank you Dobby. Now for everyone gathered, I have been in talks with Fudge and fully support this law. And to prove that I shall have Harry here be the first to have his blood-line tested. Riphook?"

Riphook pulled out a piece of parchment and ornate knife, handing them to Sirius. Both with matching smirks upon their face, excited by what could occur with Harry.

Harry sliced open his palm, allowing his blood to pool onto the parchment before disappearing into the paper.

The room was dead silent as words began forming on the paper before Riphook took hold of it.

Name: Harry James Potter.

Parents: Lily and James Potter (Deceased)

Heir to:

Most Ancient and Most Noble house of Potter

Most Ancient and Most Noble house of Peverell.

Most Ancient and Most Noble house of Gryffindor.

Most Ancient and Noble house of Black, (if no child present in two years.)

The room seemed dead as Riphook finished reading the parchment, everyone stunned into silence at the mention of House Gryffindor. Even Harry was looking in shock at the smiling Goblin.

Sirius, seemingly unaffected announced in a booming voice, many jumping at the sudden noise. "I will now be accepting any and all marriage proposals for my Godson. Regrettably there is a criteria for each bloodline, which I have already looked up as I had an inkling of Harry's blood from being with his father. For house Potter, must be pureblooded, for house Peverell, must be aligned with the light, and for house Gryffindor, she must bring some sort of power, or ability to the marriage. Deemed appropriate by, well me of course. Send them to me as you will. That is all. Come along Harry. We've got some catching up to do. And remember everyone! This is the bid of a lifetime!" Sirius said with a smile, as the room erupted, many Apparating home to draw up marriage contracts for the young heir.

Amelia only chuckled at Sirius's antics before Apparating away herself, thinking with devious thoughts of her young niece.

"They are something else are they not Riphook? Those two there." Came the voice of a Goblin in the shadows as he walked into the room once all the wizards had left. Dumbledore in particular furious.

"Yes my lord. They indeed are. Respect for the People. Calling us what we wish, not the detestable term of Goblin. As well as they show us respect with bowing, and learning our customs. I deem them worthy of further inspection.

"I agree Riphook. See to it." Ragnak declared.

"Yes your majesty." Riphook finished with a smile.

/-/-/

Harry and Sirius apparated away shortly after, Harry a flurry of motion as he turned to glare at Sirius who could barely contain his laughter

"What was all that for!? Now I'll have even more people after me. Isn't being known as the boy-who-lived enough? And Dumbledore! What was his problem? Why would he. I mean. Like… Gah!" Harry stumbled through, his anger growing as he went, pacing in front of an amused Sirius.

"Harry. Listen up. PUP!" Sirius finally shouted, grabbing his attention. "Now. There's a lot you'll need to know. So listen up. Dumbledore has been manipulating you for a long time. There are many things I can't tell you as I don't know why he was doing it yet. But I plan to find out. I'll be forcing Dumbledore to tell me what was going on or threaten pulling you from Hogwarts among other thing. But that is of little consequence right now. Needless to say, Dumbledore knew your mother had forbidden you to ever be sent to her sister's should anything happen. He ignored that to do as he wished. There are other things that must wait to come to light as well that he did while he was in control. But let's take a look at his treatment of you during school and everything that happened. Everything that occurred with the Philosopher's stone? Who in their right mind tells children not to enter a place without knowing they will indeed do so. And those supposed 'traps' to guards it? So easy that three first years. Albeit talented first years, could do it. Then the Diary with Ginny, and the Basilisk. Why did he not try researching what truly happened with Hagrid? Once again, leaving it to a first year to save everyone and protect those who you were supposed to protect. And don't get me started about your third. And fourth year, even if you argued there was no way Albus couldn't tell that one of his closest friends was a Death Eater using polyjuice who manipulated the entire trip. But there's a little known rule I discovered when reading about the tri-wizard tournament, that allows the judges, specifically the judge from the school the tournament is taking place at, may take a competitor out of the tournament to be replaced or disqualified without any repercussions. So tell me. Why didn't Dumbledore let you out?" Sirius concluded, watching the emotions rage across Harry's face.

"You mean… That I could have gotten out of all that, in the tournament. And he… he didn't let me?" Harry questioned, tears coming to his eyes, remembering everything that had happened, the pain, anguish. At seeing Cedric dropping dead upon the unrelenting ground as Voldemort and his lackey's laughed.

"Sh. Sh. Come here pup. It's alright. Look at me. Hey! Look at me. That wasn't your fault at all alright. I can see it in your eyes that you're blaming yourself for the death of Cedric. I know because I saw those same eyes for years every time I looked in a mirror. But you listen up. That wasn't your fault. If anyone's other than Voldemort himself, it would be Dumbledore who didn't help you, or try to stop what happened from happening." Sirius grabbed Harry by his chin. Forcing him to look at him till he nodded understanding before wrapping him up in a hug again.

"Now come on pup. Let's go get a bite to eat. Then I think it's high time you saw Potter Manor." Sirius stated with a grin, pulling Harry up and Apparating away again.

/-/-/

When they arrived Harry could only stare in wonder at the house that stood before him. It was a massive structure. Sirius grinned when he saw Harry's face. "Come on inside pup. That's where it truly gets amazing." Sirius grinned, leading Harry towards the large Stone building. "We abandoned it during the war, didn't want it getting destroyed in all the chaos. As well as when your parents went into hiding this large home would be the first placed they'd look. Now, where are they? Ah here we go. Harry, I'd like you to meet Mathew and Julia Adams. They and their parents have been in charge of maintaining this house for as long as I've known your father Harry. They recently took over a few years ago when Mathew's parent's passed away." Sirius said, pointing to an older looking fellow and his wife who'd come from a hallway to the left of the entrance to the massive hall they were in. The woman was dressed in the standard black and white dress of a maid, while the man was dressed in a finely pressed tux with coat-tails. Bowing slightly when they made eye contact with Harry. The woman stepping forward first.

"It's a pleasure Lord Harry. It's wonderful to finally see you again. You were so young when you left." Julia said stepping forward with tears in her eyes as she fought the urge to hug the young Lord to be.

"Go ahead Julia. He'll probably love it." Sirius said, gesturing to the boy who was looking at the two with wonder.

Needing no further prodding Julia leapt forward, engulfing Harry in a hug, who after a moment of shock hugged her back, reveling in the warmth of the hug. One that put Molly's bone crushing hugs to shame.

"My Lord. It is a pleasure. As Sirius stated, I and my family have served the Potter's for generations. And I'm happy to continue on. I would also like to introduce the Potter house-elves. Well at least the two main ones you will be dealing with. Nelly! Fleck!"

With two loud pops the elves appeared, each dressed to their human counterpart, Nelly in a dress like Julia's, and Fleck in a coat-tailed tux.

"Hello Master Potters sir!" They cried in unison.

"I would also like to introduce two more elves for you Mathew. This is Dobby, and Winky." Upon his words both named elves appeared, bowing to Harry before turning excitedly to the two other house elves.

"They will be most welcome. As I'm sure the little one bouncing with joy has lot's to share with us about Harry's preferences." Mathew said with a smirk as Dobby bounced up and down with joy at finally being Harry's elf.

"Also. I will be expecting lots of mail today and tomorrow. Including some visits. Let them all in and show them into the grand hall with refreshments. Then one at a time starting around nine O'clock show them into the tea room where I and Harry shall await them Mathew. And Julia if you could call a medic from St. Mungo's, a curse breaker from Gringotts, and finally the best warder Gringotts has as well?" Sirius commanded, ignoring the weird look Harry gave him.

"Of course Lord Sirius. It would be our honor." Mathew stated, bowing as he and his wife walked away, the elves all disappearing with a telling pop.

"Now follow me Harry and let me show you to your room. I know you haven't much, if anything to put there. But we'll get that sorted out soon enough after tomorrow." Sirius explained, pulling Harry out of the massive entrance hall, and down the hallway to the right and up three flights of stairs.

They arrived on the third floor, Harry almost giddy at seeing what his room would be like.

"Alright pup. It isn't much but I hope it does for now." Sirius said with a smile, opening the door to a room almost at the end of the hall.

Harry hurried inside only to stop two steps in, his jaw handing as he took in the room.

It was immaculately decorated in the colors of Gryffindor. Red's and gold everywhere. A huge four poster bed with a large red duvet with the Potter Crest embossed upon the top in gold thread. It had its own floo system, the fire roaring and offering some heat to the surprisingly cool room. There was a red velvet couch in front of the fire place, along with two matching chairs on the right side of the room, a chess set in between them.

Sirius then led him to a door at the back left of the room, showing Harry his own private bathroom. Complete with separate showers and bathtubs, both some of the largest he'd ever seen. With plush red towels and robes all about the room.

"We can make it better later like I said pup. Add more of a personal touch and all. But until then will this do?" Sirius seriously questioned, knowing the boy should be used to better but doubting he did.

"It's… It's perfect." Harry whispered, turning to hug Sirius fiercely. "Thank you so much." He got out, tears filling his eyes quickly as his vocal cords seized up.

"For you my boy. Anything." Sirius whispered back, tears in his own eyes as he made a promise to do everything he could for the boy. Everything. "He'll never be alone again James. Lilly. I promise you that. He'll never want for anything either." He prayed.

/-/-/

It was later on that day that the healer, curse breaker, and warders arrived. Harry met them at the door along with Sirius, as he'd hardly left the man's side that day.

"Hello and welcome to Potter Manor. I'm Lord Black, and this is my godson Harry." Sirius introduced.

Harry was happy none of them seemed to freak out or stare at him or his scar. Minus the healer's eyes momentarily widening before she schooled her features. The Goblin Curse breaker showing the least amount of emotion.

"Thank you all for coming. If you would follow me up to Harry's room I have several tasks for you. If you would be so kind as to follow Mathew he shall tell you what wards I require upon the place and such." Sirius finished, pointing the Warder in the direction of Mathew who led the man away, then taking the lead, led them all up the stairs and to Harry's room, Harry himself curious as to what was going on.

"Now. I can't tell you my sources or anything else, but I'm fairly certain someone has been toying with my godson's core, as well as I believe him to be woefully underdeveloped for his age due to… May I Harry?" Sirius asked permission before delving into this touchy subject for the boy.

"… It's up to you. I trust you Sirius." Harry whispered, looking down in embarrassment.

"Thanks pup. I will keep it short. While he stayed with his muggle…. Relatives he was beaten quiet severely several times, as well as fed little if at all, and suffered many other horrendous things that they will all pay for soon enough. But I was hoping that you, miss…" He trailed off.

"You may call me Sarah."

"Yes Sarah. I was hoping you could check him out to see if I'm correct in my assumptions and if there's anything we can do. As for you Gripthorn, good to see you, I believe there's a limiter on Harry's core, preventing him from full access to his abilities and was hoping you could take care of that." Sirius didn't seemed phased at all when both present cried in outrage as they stared first to Harry and then Sirius. Harry looking just as surprised though a little confused.

"That's a serious assumption Lord Black. But I shall do my best to see what can be done if it's there." Gripthorn mumbled, eyes Harry curiously, his eyes momentarily shifting to his scar with a look of curiosity before returning to normal. "I'll let you go first Sarah."

"Thank you. Now Harry dear. If you would be so kind as to strip out of those baggy clothes there. Yep, you can leave on your boxer's deary. But otherwise I need your bare."

A blushing Harry slowly removed his shirt and pants, trying to ignore everyone else in the room, especially snorting Sirius trying to hold in his laughter.

But all laughter ceased when Harry's shirt finally came off and he turned around to put it on the bed, exposing his bare back to them all.

Their deep intake of breathe cause Harry to tense up, knowing they'd caught sight of his numerous scares and other markings on his back. Including the bruises on his sides and chest from Vernon's 'greeting'.

Harry turned expecting to see pity in everyone's eyes, wishing for all the world he could permanently become invisible. But to his surprise that wasn't at all what he saw. Sarah's eyes were sad, wishing to comfort the hurting young boy, while Gripthorn had a burning rage in his own eyes. Though the People were accustomed to battle and brutality, to beat the young was a death sentence unless they were tried and accused of a serious crime. His king would surely hear of what happened to young Potter at his blood relative's home. While Sirius seemed to for the first time realize just how bad Harry'd had it.

"I'm so sorry pup. I should have gotten you sooner. Never again Harry. Never again." Sirius said, embracing his godson quickly before motioning for the healer to take over.

Sarah stepped forward, casting various spells and looking at the clip board she carried, writing appearing on it with each spell, and her anger and frown growing with every sentence. "Yes. Harry is quite behind in his physical growth. I have some potions to help with that, I'll leave that with you when I leave Sirius. As well as a physical regime he needs to start doing, at the least every other day, but preferably every day. If he can follow it, after a week the potions will have him at the height, strength and such that he should be, while the workout will help him maintain it." Sarah began. "Now sit still Harry. I'm not done with you, I'm going to cast a few more spells alright. Prepare yourself."

With those words she began muttering incantations, her wand swashing back and forth as coloured light poured form her wand and onto Harry. First his bruises all disappeared, followed by the sound of bones cracking into place, straightening out, and growing correctly, as some had been broken and left to set themselves with no medical help. A thought which outraged Sarah.

Harry thought it weird that with all the sounds it didn't hurt, there was just a slight numb sensation and warmth that spread throughout his body. Followed by the lessening of the pain he'd gotten used to baring. "Thank you" He quietly said once she had finished.

"You're right welcome." Sarah smiled, placing a hand on his back as she did so.

"Now it's my turn Mr. Potter. If you would be so kind as to lay on the bed here and I shall begin." Gripthorn spoke, following Harry to the bed as he laid down.

Gripthorn began muttering to himself as he cast spells on Harry, only for his eyes to widen when almost immediately at his starting place. Harry's head. Instantly he raised his head in worry, suddenly shouting in Gobbledegook. Suddenly five other Goblins popped in, much to Sirius and Harry's worry. They each cast a spell over Harry's head as well, each one's eyes widening in turn as they did so.

The oldest of the People present, took Sirius out to the hallway. Only to return ten minutes later with a furious Sirius. "Remove it now! I don't care the cost or anything! Remove it!"

The Goblins nodded, having Harry stand up before levitating him close to the ground so they could all stand about him in the middle of the room, Sarah and Sirius watching the proceedings.

"Now I'm sorry but this is going to hurt Harry. But stay with us alright?" Gripthorn informed before they all broke out into a chant, placing their hands on Harry wherever they were stationed.

The pain was almost instant, Harry's scream torn from his lips as he began convulsing, Sirius watching with worry evident, fighting himself in springing forward to protect Harry.

As they watched a horrid scream suddenly ripped through the house, as a black liquid began bleeding from Harry's scar as his own scream grew, joining the second scream and matching it in pain.

Then as suddenly as it began, Harry stopped moving, seemingly unconscious as he levitated in the air. The black liquid disappearing and fading as if never there before.

"What was that?" Sarah asked, face pale and white with fear.

"What you would call a horcrux. When someone commits murder in pure hate to split their soul so as to live forever. This particular soul piece belonged to He-who-must-not-be-named." Gripthorn gravely informed. "And this was a small piece, leading me to think that he has made others. How many I'm unsure on, but at the least four. The most, eight. Maybe."

"Can you get rid of the others were we to find them?" Sirius questioned. "And why couldn't anyone tell it was there?"

"Well, we of the People have an affinity with sensing things like this. I could sense the dark magic coming from his scar, which was why I started there with my examination. Second, it's a closely guarded secret horcruxs and how to destroy them. As to why no one noticed it, well I think someone did. I could feel reverbs of someone else's magic on it, as if they'd been looking at it. Much like the spell I used to be sure what it was in the beginning."

"Do you know whose magic it was?" Sirius asked, eyes narrowing in anger as he felt he could guess already.

"You know very well who it was. The only one capable of the knowledge to find the spell to use, let alone information on such a dark and black thing." Gripthorn stated, refusing to name names for now. "We managed to store a piece of his magical signature in this ring here. Use it if you need leverage, or finding out who it is positively." Gripthorn muttered, handing a plain silver ring to Sirius who gladly accepted it.

"Thank you. Now please continue, and I hope there's nothing else to serious with the boy."

Gripthorn dismissed the other assembled Goblins who apparated away with a bow after having placed Harry back on the bed, still unconscious and pale looking.

He began at his head again, making his way down his body, pausing momentarily over his stomach where it is said the core is easily felt.

"Well this is peculiar indeed. It seems you were right, there was indeed a limiter on Harry. Which I have already removed. He has an enormous core, I don't think I've seen one as large since Dumbledore was young. It's been stunted quite a bit from the limiter, but it should grow quickly now that it's free. As well as it seems that being connected to He-who-must-not-be-named effected his core, growing it even more than it would have naturally. He's a strong boy to be sure. And he'll soon be a force to be reckoned with." Gripthorn commented.

"Thank you Gripthorn. You as well Sarah. Shall I show you two out? For now I'll let Harry rest, as long as he needs to. I'll administer his potions to him as well, no worries Sarah."

With that Lord Black turned the lights out after covering Harry in to his bed and led the two individuals from the room.

/-/-/

Harry's eyes opened slowly, the light from his window blinding him as he looked about.

"So you're awake are you pup? Took you long enough you lazy arse."

"Shut up! You've never had to go through… whatever I just went through." Harry weakly responded, throwing one of his pillows at Sirius who dodged easily.

"Just went through? Don't you just mean, went through?" Sirius asked with a gleam in his eye.

"What? How long have I been out?" Harry questioned, suddenly worrying as to what the answer would be.

"Oh. Let's just say you don't have to take those potions anymore." Sirius finished with a wink, nodding towards harry exposed chest.

He looked down to find a site he'd never thought to see. Developed abs and chest muscles met his eyes. He turned felt his face suddenly realizing he wasn't wearing glasses either. Quickly getting out of bed, following a chuckle from Sirius, Harry found that he was definitely taller. At least two, maybe three inches.

"Yeah, yeah we get it pup. You're a really ladies' man now. Now put some pants on at least." Sirius laughed, throwing a pair of sleeping pants at him, deftly catching them and putting them on.

"So what all's happened while I was out?" Harry questioned.

"Sirius! What's going on!? Is he awake now?" Came a voice down the hallway followed by multiple steps following.

Before Sirius could even answer or close the door, in burst a small group wizards and witched on a shirtless and blushing Harry Potter.

"Oh my…"

"I'm slightly more ok with this right now."

"Mon dieu"

Sirius's laughter was instant as he bent at the waist from laughing so hard, struggling not to fall as Harry blushed profusely. Harry grabbing a shirt that was thrown to him by Mathew and putting it on with speed.

It took a moment for Sirius to get ahold of himself. "Oh my. Harry, your face my boy. It's just… whew. Alright. Harry allow me to introduce your wives to be. Yes you hear right. Wives. I decided on the contracts I would accept while you were out. It's been almost two weeks now. First off, Susan Bones. Daughter of Amelia. She has been accepted as your wife for the Peverell line." Sirius began as a stunning red head stepped forward, a smirk on her face as she brazenly perused Harry's upper body with her eyes.

"Hello Harry. As your godfather stated. I'm Susan." With a bow she then stepped forward and hugged him tight, perhaps holding on a little longer than she needed to, but Harry was to frozen to move. Harry instantly recognizing her voice as the person who was 'more ok with it now'.

"Next Harry, I know you already know her, Fleur Delacour, has been chosen as your wife for the Gryffindor line." Sirius motioned as Fleur stepped forward, a slight blush on her face as she did so.

"Bonjour arry. It is good to see you again non?" She questions, bowing slightly before stepping forward to hug and kiss him on the cheek. Whispering as she did so, "You've never looked better arry." Before pulling away, smiling as they were both blushing profusely.

"And finally. The elegant Daphne Greengrass has been chosen for the Potter line." Sirius finished, slightly worried as to how he'd react to being with a Slytherin. Albeit a very attractive Slytherin. But still.

"Hello again Harry." Daphne shyly said a blush on her cheeks as she did so, startling everyone in the room as they looked between the two of them.

"Hello Daphne. It's good to see you outside of school." Harry managed, stepping forward some.

"How do you two know each other?" Sirius questioned, now very interested in this development.

"Well… um. I'll leave it to her. Say what you will Daph." Harry stated, looking away from embarrassment, especially at the raised eyebrow Sirius gave him at his use of 'Daph'.

"Well. I suppose I might as well just say it, probably won't stun most of you. Draco and his goons had me cornered one night in the hall. They were planning on making sure I… took care of them since I refused every time they tried in the commons room, or hexed them for even asking usually. There was no one around and I was sure I was done for. When… out of nowhere three stunners took each of them out, and suddenly a blur ran past, grabbing my hand with a laugh and pulled me away from them. When I followed the arm pulling me, I found the smiling face of Potter there. He led me to safety, with a warning to watch out for the git, and left. We didn't talk much after that. At least until the tri-wizard tournament. There we started hanging out in the library together as I helped him as best as I could prepare for everything. And… well yeah. That's it." Daphne finished with a blush, all eyes on her before shifting to Harry with an approving look.

Sirius walked over, pulling Harry into a head lock and roughing up his hair, "That's my boy. Protecting the ladies. Well done lad. Must say. I'm glad you met, I was worried about trying to get you two past that whole Gryffindor Slytherin thing." Sirius smiled, noticing many of the adults present shook their heads in response.

"Now as their parents and I need to finish up the contracts now that you're awake Harry. Let me get some of your blood to finalize the documents. Then I'd like you and the girls to go to Diagon ally, as well as London and do some shopping. You need out of these horrid clothes into something that fits you, as well as get whatever they'll need. They'll be staying in here with you Harry. Quit blushing you're a man aren't you? Now as I was saying, get whatever they need as well. Here's a bag linked to your account at Gringotts, and one for mine. Use mine for your things, and your own for them. Now get going. Use the floo for Diagon Ally then call a taxy when you leave for London." Sirius commanded, first holding out a vial and giving Harry a large needle to prick his finger, soon followed by two small money bags. "And let the girls help you out. Lord only knows what kind of fashion sense you have dressing as a whale for the last 16 years of your life."

Sirius was answered by laughter from a dazed Harry as he was escorted out by the excited girls, even Daphne having thrown aside her mask for now at the prospect of it. Especially as they all were eager to dress up Harry.

"They'll be good for each other. A job well done Sirius." Cyrus Greengrass stated, walking up and shaking hands with Sirius.

"I hope so. I just want him happy, and I feel like they can do it. I chose those three more for what they said about him then their looks or the offers each of you made. I know they care for Harry, not the boy-who-lived. Susan, the distanced love, always seeing him and wishing to know him better. Seeing how he really felt about all the fame and attention, and how much he hated it. Wishing she could help some way. But being kept at bay by another jealous red head. Fleur, the half-Veela whose sister was saved by Harry, finally opening her eyes to the chivalrous hero who was not here to win, but just survive. And finally the 'ice queen' of Slytherin. Who has liked him since he saved her all those years ago, and stayed by his side when his eager friends tried keeping her at bay and then abandoned him in his time of need." Sirius sighed, watching them walk out.

"You knew about Daphne and Harry before?"

"Oh yes. She told me, but begged me not to tell anyone, especially not Harry that I knew. She wasn't sure how he'd take it as she knew he's a very private boy. I think she has a good guess at what Harry's been through. Especially at home…"

"When are you going to tell him about the Weasley's? Hermione already knows but…" Amelia questioned, stepping forward and taking Sirius's hand in her own.

"When he returns I believe. I can't keep it from him, but I can give him a moment of joy before dropping that in his lap. I'm just glad that Sarah was quiet about it when she found them before." Sirius muttered before turning to face the assembled parents. "Alrighty then. Let's go sign some contracts."

/-/-/