- Work in Progress
- R
Relationship(s):
Warning(s):
- Abuse - Child
- Character Bashing
- Death - Minor Character
- No Beta
- Violence - Canon-Level
- Fix It
- Hurt/Comfort
- Male Pregnancy
- Romance
- Slash
- Time Travel
Author's Note:
Summary:
Cedric stood by Harry at the Triwizard presentation, their hands firmly grasped together. Harry had been unsure about outing the two, but Cedric had put his foot down, they had other things to worry about without having to hide their relationship.
“I’m proud to be your boyfriend, Harry, and I don’t care who knows it. Unless you are ashamed to be seen with me?” Cedric had smirked at Harry as he watched him sputter out his denials.
They had talked long into the night about the opposition they would receive from certain people, mainly those that wanted Harry to do things their way. There was also no getting around how annoyed Cho and Ginny would be, though only Cedric knew about Ginny’s obsession. Harry would be informed soon enough. Cho though, she would be a handful, but he only had himself to blame, he should have seen the way she looked at him when he had taken her to the Ball. Looking back he could see it now, but at the time, he only had eyes for Harry.
They had not had time to see anybody yet, as they had been held in the Hospital Wing for the last week, recovering. The awards ceremony was supposed to take place the day after the Tournament but had to be postponed due to their health. Madam Pomfrey had been like a woman possessed, in treating Harry, she had run every scan she could come up with and had the Goblins do they same. The end result had Harry standing at five feet ten instead of five feet four inches, his body had added some mass to it, not a lot but enough to make him look healthy and give him a glow. His scarring had cleared up, even the Basilisk bite had healed.
That conversation with Ragnok had caused another meltdown and had Harry pulled from the Hospital Wing on day six of their recovery, to show the Goblins, Madam Pomfrey, Madam Bones, Cedric and his mum and dad down to the Chamber of Secrets to explore and harvest a very large snake. His scar on his head had also been healed, when the last essence of the dark magic had been cleansed from it, which caused another conversation to take place.
“It happened when I was tied to the headstone and Pettigrew was collecting my blood. The cut caused me pain, but it was overshadowed by the pain in my scar. It hurt so bad, I could barely breathe and then I heard this screaming and black smoke seemed to dance in front of my eyes.”Harry paused and seemed to take a long cleansing breath, his eyes were wide with horror as he remembered what had happened, “it wasn’t till later when Primrose was walking us to the Hospital Wing did I wipe my brow and found black sludge mixed with blood on my hand.”
Cedric noticed Ragnok look at him, and he nodded his head. That discussion would be fun. Everything else had been put on hold until the holidays began, the day after the award ceremony.
Harry leant into Cedric’s side as the crowd grew restless, waiting for the Minister for Magic to take to the podium. “Do you think Sirius will be here?”
Cedric kissed the top of Harry’s head, ignoring the “awwww’s” that echoed around the silent room. “Madam Bones said the trial went well, what with the Will, your memories and his testimony under truth serum, what else could they do. You know the Goblins were working on his health and healing him while we were being healed, or held away from prying eyes so we could work out your accounts and get Sirius assigned as your Guardian in both worlds.” He squeezed Harry’s hand, just as the doors to the Great Hall opened and Amelia walked in with Sirius Black.
The whispers grew as he walked up to Harry and Cedric without pause, and pulled them both into a hug. It had been plastered over the Prophet all week about his illegal incarceration and subsequent trial and release. “Sirius,” Harry whispered as he released Cedric’s hand and wrapped both arms around his Godfather.
“Harry, it’s so good to see you again. I hope you don’t mind but I had Potter Castle reopened, and put Dobby and Winky to work, helping the other elves get it ready for our arrival.” A clearing of a throat had him pull back slightly and look at a very uncomfortable Headmaster trying to gain their attention, “we will talk more after the ceremony, I have permission for us to leave directly after so you don’t have to wait around.”
“Cedric?” Harry asked.
“Yes, him too,” Sirius replied and smiled at them both. He moved away as the Minister took to the podium.
The speeches were long and boring, and not one mention was made of Voldemort’s return which caused both boys to scowl. Cedric wondered if the Minister would bury his head in the sand again, one thing he knew for sure, though, if he went after Harry again, they would not stand idly by and let it happen. He had already gotten his dad to get a long list of Law-witches and Law-wizards for them to look over during the break.
Sirius, Amos and Primrose joined them as they were exiting the Great Hall, Cedric turned to Harry and asked, “so what do you want to do with the Galleons?”
“I don’t know. I don’t want them, Ced, I never wanted to participate in this thing, to begin with.”
“Well, how about we put it to a good cause?” Cedric smirked as Harry looked up at him in question. “You said the twins are tying to raise funds to start their own joke shop, how about we become official investors?” Harry was nodding before he had even finished the sentence.
“That is a great idea, we should go tell them before we leave,” Harry said as he started to pull Cedric back towards the Gryffindor table. “Fred, George, come here for a minute,” Harry yelled and waiting for the twins to join them. He manoeuvres the twins out of the Great Hall and pulled them down the corridor. “So,” he said, “Cedric and I were wondering, well it was Cedric’s idea, but I agree..”
“Breath Harry,” George said as Cedric rubbed his back, trying to calm him down, “now what has you so excited?”
“We have decided to use our winnings to invest in a certain joke shop. What do you say?” Cedric asked as Harry nodded along with him, a massive smile on his face. The twins looked completely shocked, before they had one of their conversations without saying a word, “we can draw up a contract if you like?” Cedric added.
“We trust Harry completely, but we want to make sure that he doesn’t just find a way to give us the money and get nothing in return,” Fred said.
“It’s the sort of thing he would do,” George added.
“Well, I don’t really need the money,” Harry mumbled.
“See,” the twins said together, smiling at Harry, “he’s a big softy. You wouldn’t want Cedric to miss out would you?” They watched as Harry sighed and shook his head.
“Okay you lot, how about we have the twins over to Potter Castle during the holidays and you can sort out the agreement. I wouldn’t mind taking a look at it myself.” Sirius said, his eyes all misty, “the Marauders ride again!” he added with a sad smile. “I may even have some things lying around that could be helpful.”
The twins turned to Harry, their mouths hanging open and eyes wide, “Harry, is there something you want to tell us?” the twins asked. Harry and Cedric couldn’t hold in their laughter anymore.
“Harry, you did tell them about Sirius being Padfoot right?” Cedric asked, knowing full well he hadn’t, “and about being taught DADA by Moony last year?” Even Sirius was laughing now at the look of shock on the red headed faces. Sirius leant forward and placed a hand on each twin’s shoulder, causing them to look at the hands in awe.
“How about we tell you all about it over the summer, when you come stay with us?” The twins were nodding their heads, unable to properly form words for a moment. Harry found it hilarious, he had never seen the twins speechless before.
“We better go,” Amos said, looking over his shoulder, all eyes followed to see Dumbledore attempting to get to them.
“Yes, we should.” Sirius said, “we will send Dobby to you with a Portkey to the Castle. Be aware, it will only work for you two, anyone else who tries to use it will not like the results.” With that last warning the group took off, Harry and Cedric’s belongings already having been retrieved and placed at Potter Castle.
They arrived at Potter Castle, and Harry had been stunned at the opulence that surrounded him, “it is hard to go from nothing to owning Hogwarts and this place,” he said sounding a little sad.
Cedric wrapped his arm around Harry, and Sirius led them through to the family room. Cedric steered Harry towards the couch and pulled him down beside him. “Just take a breath and relax, Harry. Dobby.” the elf popped in quivering slightly.
“What can Dobby be doing for Master Harry’s Ceddy?” the little elf asked. Everyone in the room could see the joy emanating from Dobby as he bounced on his feet slightly, his eyes flicking from Harry to Cedric.
“Could you get some tea please, and something light to eat, Harry needs a full stomach to take his potions before he goes to bed.”
“Dobby be doing, right now,” he said and popped away. Harry leant into Cedric as the tea tray popped into place and a plate of sandwiches followed.
“We have a lot to talk about Harry,” Sirius said, “I have been busy with the Goblins while you were recovering at Hogwarts. Amelia has been a great help, getting me a quick trial and the Goblins have been wonderful, running through our paperwork and duties while I was under their care.” Sirius looked down at Harry’s hand, noticing him twirling his Heir ring, it was a habit James had, had also and it caused Sirius to smile. Sirius ran his own fingers over his Lord and Regent rings. It had taken a lot to get the mess the Potter Account Manager had left behind. They were still trying to recover items that had been stolen from the vaults.
“As you know I am unable to go into the Potter or Gryffindor vaults until you key me in, it was only the forethought of your dad, that I was already keyed into the wards here at Potter Castle. He and your mum had wanted you raised here, you see. I am still unsure as to why they didn’t stay here when they were in hidden..” he broke off in thought and seemed to shake himself back to the here and now. Cedric managed to get Harry to eat, while he listened to Sirius, absent-mindedly running a hand through Harry’s hair as he tried to decide if he should include his parents in the conversation he had to have with the other two. It was something he had not discussed with Lily, and now he was unsure as to what he should do. He knew his parents could be very helpful, especially his mother, she was a strong, determined woman, but Lily had not mentioned them at all, and it hadn’t even crossed his mind to ask. He felt a soft breeze skim across his face, almost like a loving touch and sighed softly as the smell of lily’s filled the air.
Sirius stopped speaking mid-sentence as the scent reached his nostrils. He inhaled sharply, a soft, sad smile on his lips and he whispered, “Lily,” and look over at Harry. Harry’s face was one of wonder and sadness, and tears fell from his eyes as his hair rustled in an unseen breeze. He could feel her all around him, like an invisible hug. It was gone just as quick as it appeared, and Harry turned into Cedric, as he held him tight.
“Thank you,” he whispered into the room as he pulled Harry closer. “I have something I need to talk to you all about, and not all of it is going to be easy to hear.”
“What is it Cedric?” his mother asked as she leant forward in her seat.
“When we were in the graveyard when we first landed,” he paused at looked at Harry, who was shaking slightly at the reminder of the events, “we heard voices, and then, I was hit with the Killing Curse,” he paused at the reactions of the room. His mother was shocked, one hand over her heart the other over her mouth, while his dad was shaking his head in denial.
“Cedric,” his mother cried, as she moved off of her seat and knelt in front of him, grabbing his hand and squeezing tightly.
“There was no pain, it was all so sudden. My first thought, honestly, was of Harry, the thought of leaving him behind, it was heartbreaking to me. I noticed I was in what looked like the corridor I first met Harry in and then a voice came out of nowhere ‘I thought you would be more comfortable here,’ she said, and I about fainted, I think all I could say was ‘how?’ as I saw her walking towards me.”
“Lily?” he asked, catching on quickly, “she always was the smartest witch we knew, even death couldn’t stop her protecting Harry.”
“Yes, I met Lily, and we talked. She told me many things, some disturbing, some wonderful,” Cedric smiled as he held onto Harry, “she also told me how she had arranged it so Harry and I would meet his second year. ‘A little nudge in the right direction’, she called it. If it hadn’t been for her, I would have died that night and never come back. I owe her, everything,” he breathed out, as he turned his head burying his nose in Harry’s hair and using the scent to centre himself. “She has messages, for Harry and Sirius, it was, meeting her, being in her presence when she talked about Harry, her love for him, it was like another entity in the room, it flowed out of every part of her. It is so hard to describe, I hope the Pensieve memories can do it justice.”
“I remember,” Sirius said, his voice sorrowful, “when she held him for the first time, her face lit up with happiness and love fill the room like magic itself was rejoicing with her. James was completely overwhelmed and I wasn’t much better. When she let me hold you for the first time, Harry, I am not ashamed to say I cried with the joy of it, James as well, though he was more of a blubbering mess,” Sirius added with a laugh. Harry had been very quiet besides Cedric, his tears falling freely as he listens to them talk, a soft smile on his face.
“Can we, I would like to view the memories, it would be nice to have one of her that wasn’t about her death,” Harry said, leaning into Cedric.
“Lily said there would be a Pensieve in the office here, you need the Lord or Heir ring to open the hidden room behind the desk.”
“Yes, I remember Charlus showing it to us when we were fifteen, I’ll just go get it,” Sirius said as he got up.
“Cedric,” Primrose’s voice shook slightly, “my baby, you..” her sobs stopped her short. She had moved back to the couch next to her husband and was squeezing his hand tightly, his father didn’t look much better, but Cedric could see he was trying to be strong for her.
“I know mum, try not to dwell on the Killing Curse part, and remember that I am still here.” It was hollow words, he knew, but he was not sure what he was supposed to say. He knew his mother would be devastated by this, but there was no easy way to tell them, ‘hey guess what, I died, but no worries, Mrs Potter made a deal with Death and I’m fine now!’
He could see her struggling to come to terms with the fact, that she could have lost her baby, her only child. He understood the look, it was similar to the one Lily Potter wore when she spoke of Harry, though hers was more heartbreaking in the fact that she would have to wait for Death to take her son before she could hold him in her arms again. And what a terrible thing to have to wait for, the constant struggle between wanting to be with your baby, but wanting him to live a full and loving life. Lily would always choose a full and loving life, she had proven that already, but the cost of that could be found shining in her eyes, Harry’s eyes.
At that moment Sirius returned with the Pensieve and placed it on the table between them. “You know what to do I take it?”
“Yes,” he turned to Harry, “where do you want me to start it from?” Cedric was unsure if Harry could handle seeing him hit with the curse again, and didn’t think his parents needed to see that.
“After,” Harry and Primrose said and the same time, and smiled sadly at each other.
“Okay, I will show you from where she said she thought I would be more comfortable where we were.” Cedric placed his wand against his temple and pulled the memory out, placing it into the Pensieve, “ready?”
Sirius dimmed the lighting and tapped the bowl three times, on the projection rune. The room was suddenly filled with the image of a confused looking Cedric and Lily Potter’s smiling face. They watched as Lily spoke of what she had done to make sure he could go back, the talk about the exchange had all but Cedric suck in harsh breaths. Sirius paused the memory and turned to Cedric,”is it gone, the piece in him?”
“Yes, Harry told Ragnok of the pain in his head and the black mist, the Horcrux was taken while he was tied to the gravestone. I have already given him the list of what the others are and where they are. I am pretty sure they will be all taken care of over the holidays. You will see Lily left nothing to chance.”
Sirius nodded and restarted the memory, and Harry leant into Cedric for support, “she is so beautiful,” Harry whispered.
“Yes, she really is.”
The memory continued, as Lily talked about titles and money, all the legal things Sirius and Ragnok were already sorting out, but things got quite heated when the memories, within the memories played out. They watch as Cedric went into the Pensieve Lily had supplied, it caused a nauseating experience to all watching, before horror washed over their faces at the life Harry lead, without Cedric.
The blame for his death, the loneliness, you could see the exact moment he had given up. But it was the potions that had the most response. It was hard to understand how anyone could do that, but it was worse for Harry, knowing it was people he thought were his friends. All for jealousy.
“We need to keep a close eye on those little Weasley’s,” Sirius said, as he paused the memory again, and everyone agreed.
“We need to keep a close eye on Hermione,” Harry added, mortified that he would not be the only victim.
As the memory restarted, Lily’s voice echoed around the room, “I have a message for Sirius Black that you need to show him.” They saw Cedric nod, and Lily continued, “Sirius,” she said, “I want you to know, that you never stood a chance when it came to getting Harry. Plan upon plan had been made to ensure it,” she paused and gave him her patent, ‘you did something wrong’ look, “but did you have to make it so easy on Dumbledore. I mean, come on, going after Peter like that was just plain stupid.” She seemed to shake herself and smiled again, “anyway, as I was saying, it was never going to be, so I don’t want you to blame yourself any longer, because I know you Sirius Black, and I know it would be eating you up inside, what Harry suffered. Just know I never left him unprotected, I made sure my magic was wrapped around him, helping him as much as I could.”’
Sirius had tears in his eyes as he looked at her, “I’ll try, Lily,” he said. It was almost like she had heard him when her smile grew.
“Make sure you tell Harry all about us, I want him to know how much he was loved, how much I wish I could be there, now, holding him when he cries, celebrating his joys and laughing with him in the good times. He made my life worth every sacrifice, worth every tear, the joy I felt, the love I still feel,” she paused as a tear ran down her face. “Just make sure, Sirius, above all else, my boy knows love.”
The sombre mood changed as Lily and Cedric started to plan, deciding how they were going to go ahead, “You need to Goblin King, Ragnok, and Madam Bones, as soon as possible, it will cut off Dumbledores access to Harry, and it will help get Sirius free. I do not want Harry going back to my sister’s house,” Lily said, and everyone could tell how angry she was, “he was never supposed to go there, its just lucky for me that I had placed my own special wards around my sister and her family, just in case. It would have been a lot worse for my precious boy if I hadn’t. Anyway, tell Ragnok Figuli contractum fuerit dissipata, and he will act accordingly. It is the quickest and most efficient way to get the Goblins behind Harry. We are just lucky Griphook had no honour, which is a real shame since his Grandfather was a wonderful Goblin.”
The planning continued for a while, both throwing ideas back and forth and getting rather rowdy with it. When the two were finally satisfied, they both stood and Lily pulled him close, “give Harry a hug and kiss from me, and tell him I will always love him, and I am proud, every minute of every day that he is my son.” She kissed his cheek, and then the world began to spin and the memory ended with Cedric waking up, Harry on top of him, crying.
“I can’t even begin to express my gratefulness to Lily,” Primrose stated as she patted her tears away with her handkerchief, “ but I will do everything I can to help you with your plans.” She stood gracefully and walked over to her son, pulling him up and into an embrace. “Lily has given me a gift beyond all gifts. To have you here with me, when things could have been so different, the thought of you not being with us anymore, it is just too much to bare, Cedric.” Primrose turned and reached for Harry, pulling him up when he accepted her hand, “and you my dear, dear boy, you are family, and from now on, in honour of Lily, I must insist you call me mum.”
She squeezed both her boys and plotted in her mind, her own ways to protect them both, starting with their relationship. “Amos, Sirius,” she said as she released the boys, “I think it is time we discuss an iron clad betrothal contract. I will not have anyone trying to separate our boys unless it is our boys themselves.”
“How about we have some tea,” Sirius said calling for Dobby to bring fresh tea, “and ask the boys what they want.”
“Yes,” Amos agreed, “quite right, Primrose, I understand your determination after what we have just seen, but we must take their feelings into account.”
“Of course, but anyone can see the boys are in love, Amos, I am just making sure no Weasley, or anyone else, gets in the way. And we must keep an eye on that girl Cedric took to the Ball, did you see the way she was watching them at the Winners Ceremony.”
The adults began to discuss things between them, and Cedric just laughed softly and pulled Harry close, “they will realise we are in the room soon enough, I think, but I owe you a gift from your mother.” With that, he pulled Harry close and kissed his cheek, the smell of Lily’s surrounding them as they held each other close.
Chapter 3
Cedric rolled over in the bed on his side of Harry’s room, where Dobby had to lead them last night. He had inquired about his own room, which had been set up for him, but Harry had asked him to stay, and he had agreed easily. It had been a rough time for Harry and last night just added to it.
He smiled to himself as he wondered what his parents and Sirius had finally decided, and wondered if he and Harry should give them a hard time about it. Cedric was of legal age now, so nothing could be done without his approval, but Harry, who would be fifteen next month, was at the mercy of his guardian. Lucky for them it was Sirius, and they both knew he would not do anything Harry didn’t approve of. The sound of movement broke his thoughts, and he watched as Harry stretched and his eyes fluttered open.
He smiled, Harry’s eyes were even more beautiful when they were not hidden behind those hideous frames, “we should take you to the optometrist as soon as we can,” Cedric said, startling Harry, who reached out blindly for his glasses and smiled at Cedric as soon as his vision cleared.
“Sound good to me, and maybe some new clothes would be nice too.” Harry’s voice was soft and sleep ridden, and Cedric thought he sounded adorable, and not for the first time, was grateful he was a Hufflepuff, who had mountains of patience. He knew he was going to need it sooner or later, probably sooner, since Harry’s hormones were already kicking in. He was very nervous for when that happened, right now Harry was more than happy with quick chaste kisses and plenty of hugs and hand holding, but he knew it would change soon enough. He had told Harry, under no uncertain terms, there would be no snogging till Harry was at least sixteen, and definitely no sexual contact of any kind until Harry was of age, and he meant every word, though he knew Harry’s Gryffindor tendencies would come out to play eventually and he would be tested beyond any reasonable man. This is where he held firmly to his Hufflepuff tendencies. It would be a battle of will and he was determined to win this battle.
Harry giggled from across the room, and then slapped a hand over his mouth, embarrassed by the sound that came out, and Cedric looked at him quizzically. “You should learn not to talk out loud when you are distracted, Mr Hufflepuff tendencies,” Harry said as he quickly got out of bed and made his way to the bathroom. Cedric could feel the blush run up his neck and take over his face as the door shut behind Harry.
“Damn it!”
Harry’s voice drifted from the bathroom, “I heard that too,” followed by his laughter.
By the time both boys were dressed and ready the adults were already at the dining room table, and breakfast popped in just as the boys sat down.
“You two have fun last night?” Sirius said, waggling his eyebrows at Harry causing the boy to blush like mad. Cedric couldn’t help but laugh, payback was a witch sometimes.
“Sirius Black sir, knows boys slept in separate beds, Master Harry’s Dogfather checked in on them to make sure no hanky-panky was going on,” Dobby said as he finished setting Harry’s potions in front of him. “Master Harry must take this one,” he pushed a phial towards Harry, “before food, and these two after,” he added as he lined them up in order.
“Thanks, Dobby,” Harry said and then downed the first potion and sighed in relief at the taste. “Goblins really are brilliant,” he said as he picked up his fork, casting a glance at his blushing Godfather, and chuckling.
Amos was chuckling at Sirius, while Primrose gave him a look that could freeze Voldemort himself, but Cedric could see the humour in her eyes, and nudge Harry, jerking his head in the direction of his mother. “This should be good,” he whispered.
“And what exactly are you trying to imply about my son and his intentions towards Harry?” Primrose said. Sirius sputtered as his mouth opened and closed many times, as Primrose continued, “because I can assure you, Lord Black,” and even Cedric flinched slightly at the way she said his name, “I have raised a perfect gentleman and for you to even suggest otherwise,” she turned and winked at Harry, while Sirius was still trying to splutter out something, “well lets just say, comments like that, won’t end well for the one saying them.”
Sirius squeaked as Primrose’s wand disappeared up her sleeve, no one had even seen her draw it. Dobby tutted and popped away, with Harry, Cedric and Amos lost total control as they looked at Sirius sitting there with Hufflepuff yellow hair, which took on the form of Badgers, his skin now had black and yellow stripes and every time he went to talk the only thing that came out of his mouth was “Hufflepuffs do it best.”
“I think we might leave that there until he has to speak to the Goblins,” she smirked, and turned to Harry and Cedric, “and I’m sure you boys would like to have a bit of a walk around Diagon Alley before you see them. Some shopping is in order for Harry after all.”
Sirius chuckled at a prank well played and wrote out in the air with his wand, I would so marry you if you were single.
“That’s what all the Lords say,” she said dismissively, before a giggle escaped her, as Amos smirked smugly beside her.
“Master needs to be going, if he wants to be doing some shopping for his Heir,” Winky said as she popped in, then screeched as she took one look at her Master Sirius. “Who be doing this to Winky’s beloved Master, Winky not be happy,” she said as she glared around the room, before clicking her fingers and setting her Master to rights. “I needs to be keeping a closer eye on the happenings around here,” she muttered as she clicked her fingers again to straighter her Master’s clothes and hair.
Primrose frowned slightly, but let it go, planning on keeping an eye on the little elf, she seemed to be as fanatical to Sirius as Dobby was to Harry, so she needed to figure out a way to get the little elf on her side, or Sirius would be insufferable.
Sirius was smirking at the woman until he saw the glint in her eye and he swallowed convulsively. That look reminded him very much of Lily Potter when revenge was to be had. “Okay, let’s go,” he said getting up quickly and moving around to stand behind Harry.
“I’m not going to save you Padfoot,” Harry whispered to him and trying to move away, only to be held into place by Sirius’ hand.
“Traitor,” Sirius growled, but let go of the boy at his persistence. He placed a smile on his face and headed for the Floo room, taking his coat from Winky, “thank you Winky, you’re the best,” he said with a smile.
Winky smiled indulgently at the man, she had only been with him for five days, but it had been the best five days of her life and she would do anything for new Master. She even had to begrudgingly thank Dobby for getting her such a good Master, though the arguments between the two about who’s Master was best aggravated her. Everyone knew Lord Black was the best Master ever.
The shopping trip was a huge shock to Harry’s system, and Cedric had to reassure him many times, with the amount of clothing that was being purchased for him. Harry couldn’t believe anyone needed so much of it. Though he was grateful for all of it, especially the new underwear, socks and shoes. But Cedric pulled the adults back when Harry started to get really overwhelmed, he figured they had everything they needed, and if the grow ups wanted to get more, they had Harry’s measurements now on file. It was a very relieved Harry, Cedric, and Amos that walked out of the last store, much to the amusement of Primrose and Sirius.
“Food, I need food,” Cedric muttered as he leads Harry over to the Leaky Cauldron for lunch. They had an hour before their meeting at Gringotts.
“Me too, who knew shopping was so much work,” Harry muttered as he leant into Cedric while they walked.
“Well you don’t have to worry anymore, now the shops have your measurements you can just order anything else you need or Sirius or mum can pick up extras if they want.” Cedric laughed as Harry shuddered into his side.
“I don’t think there is anything left in any of those stores to get more,” Harry said, shaking slightly.
They arrived at the Leaky and Tom gave them his best table, “what an honour it is to have both the Triwizard Champions in here,” he said as he sat them down and laid their menus in front of them.
“And what are we,” Sirius muttered as Tom walked away.
“Not worth mentioning, I’d say,” Cedric said with a laugh, “that’s what happens when you travel with us famous folk,” he added, earning an elbow in the ribs from a blushing Harry. It was worth it, though, he was bound and determined to make sure Harry wasn’t embarrassed or ashamed of who he was. He looked over at his mother who smiled at him in approval. Fun, laughter, love and confidence building, that is what they had decided on, during one of their talks in the Infirmary.
“So,” Cedric said, clearing his throat, “are you going to talk to us about your talk on the Betrothal Contract?” The adults around the table blushed slightly.
“We did get a little bit carried away,” Primrose said, “but I would really love to have one draw up. The thought of having Harry as a son,” she smiled softly at Harry, “I couldn’t ask for a better addition to the family.”
“I agree wholeheartedly,” Amos added, grabbing his wives hand in support. “Cedric has very good taste I must say. I was a little nervous when he took Cho Chang to the Ball, even when he explained that it was only for appearances, that girl shows too much interest in Cedric, and her father is as dark as they come.”
“Now is not the time to discuss that, honey,” Primrose said, ignoring the curious looks from the rest of the table. “We can discuss that at a later, more private time.
“Well, I don’t mind a contract, Cedric explained it to me last night, and I like the idea of being protected from other advances,” no one missed the shudder passing through Harry. Who could blame him after what they had seen in the Pensieve?
“We have an idea of how to set it up so that there are no penalties for either side if one of you decide that this is not what you want in the future.” Cedric was shaking his head at this, and so was Harry. “I know you two want to be together, but Harry, you are only fourteen, fifteen next month, you could change your mind as you age.”
“No,” he said, laying his head against Cedric’s shoulder, “I don’t think I will. I know feelings can be fickle, I have seen it at school, as people move from person to person, but what I feel for Cedric, it’s hard to explain, but I think we will last.” Harry ducked his head and blushed slightly, “besides, I love the git.”
Cedric sucked in a breath as everyone chuckled at Harry’s comment. What no one could possible know is that this was the first time Harry had ever so those words, and it made Cedric’s heart skip a beat. “I love you too, brat,” he whispered into Harry’s ear, causing the blush to spread, but a huge smile took over his features.
“That’s settled, them, we will take care of the Contract at Gringotts,” Sirius said smiling at the happiness on his Godson’s face.
Cedric and Harry let the sounds of the adults talking wash over them as they ordered and ate their lunch. Neither could wipe the smiles off of their faces.
The carefree morning happy bubble was burst, the moment they walked into Gringotts. “I’m sure we checked you for tracking charms, Harry,” Cedric said, voice dripping with sarcasm as they spotted Dumbledore with the Weasley’s in the bank’s lobby.
Amos slipped away as the old man and his entourage approached, “Harry, my dear boy,” Dumbledore said as he approached, “I have been trying to get into contact with you since you slipped out of the awards ceremony so quickly.” Nobody missed the disapproving look he gave Harry.
“Harry’s been getting his mail just fine, Mr Dumbledore,” Primrose said, her face the picture of innocence, “the only letters not getting through are the cursed one.” She sent him a quizzical look, raising an eyebrow in faux surprise. “Surely, you are not sending Harry Potter, of all people, cursed letter?” All this was spoken loud enough to draw the attention of the other patrons of the bank, and the whispers had already broken out.
“I would never do such a thing,” Dumbledore stated, his voice dripping in incredulity.
“We can only assume one of two things, either you are sending him cursed letters, or you are not sending him any letters at all and are being dishonest about trying to contact Harry at all,” Primrose smiled politely at him, though her eyes were glittering with barely suppressed humour at the old man’s predicament. “So, which is it, are you sending the boy who lived,” here she squeezed Harry’s shoulder in support and silent apology, “cursed letters or are you a liar?”
Molly was spluttering indignantly in the background as the chatter of the crowd seemed to rise up around them. “Well I never,” the red-headed mother screeched, “we were just trying to find Harry to invite him to spend some time at the Burrow, with Ron.”
“No, thank you, Mrs Weasley,” Harry spoke up, he wanted to get out of there as soon as he could, it was very hard to hold in his laughter,” I plan on spending the holidays with my Godfather, and learning all about my place in the Magical World. It’s all so very exciting isn’t it.”
The innocent way in which this was express, had Cedric, Sirius and Primrose, trying to hold in their laughter.
“Surely, you are too young to be worried about such things, Harry?” Dumbledore asked, his eyes twinkling brightly. Harry felt the pressure on his mind and looked away quickly, taking hold of Cedric’s hand and squeezing in the process.
“Lord Black, Regent of Gryffindor, Heir Potter-Black Gryffindor, Diggory Clan, please follow me, Ragnok will see you now,” the Goblin interrupted causing Harry to breathe out in relief. Dumbledore made to follow and was quickly shut down, “you are not invited,” the Goblin said, and two guards came over to block his way as the group was lead down to Ragnok’s office.
“He tried to read my mind, Cedric,” Harry whispered, twirling his Heir ring as they made their way down the hall. The stopped in front of an ornate door and the Goblin knocked, before entering to announce their arrival.
“I told you he would don’t worry Harry, your mind is protected and your Occlumency is coming along brilliantly,” Cedric said, reassuringly, smiling at him, causing Harry to relax and smile back as they enter the office.
They had only just been seated before Ragnok began, he seemed equal parts furious and happy, which was a shocking look for a Goblin. “Shall I start with the good news or the upsetting news?” he asked, and Sirius, who was seated next to Harry turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow in question.
“I don’t know, Sirius. You’re my Regent, you are supposed to make these decisions for me, right?”
“Yes, but you know I want you fully involved. Many things have been kept from you, and I promised you I would never do that. But I can make an exception this time, I guess.” He ruffled Harry’s hair and turned back to Ragnok, let’s start on a bad note and end on a good one.”
“Very good.” He pulled some papers in front of him, and shuffled them around, “it seems that the Potter account is doing okay, now that we have started to collect the required payments from rentals and businesses that had decided they didn’t need to keep up with payments since Harry was only a little boy. Since the Account Manager was indifferent to the accounts he couldn’t physically get his hands on, he paid no attention to it.”
“Some of the money from the Account Trust has been recovered, but we still need to access the Dursley’s accounts to recovery the money pay to them for your upkeep. Dumbledore took it upon himself to also pay himself a fee.” He paused as if to centre himself, this next bit he was reluctant to tell the boy, but he had no choice, “also since your first year at Hogwarts, Dumbledore has been paying Molly Weasley a stipend for your upkeep, for when you go to the Burrow. We have been made aware that not only did you pay for their vacation to Egypt, you also paid for the World Cup tickets.”
Harry was shaking his head in denial, he could understand Molly doing it, he had seen the memories from his mum, but, “Arthur, the twins, Bill, Charlie, they wouldn’t,” he said sounding deflated.
“From what we have been able to gather so far, is that Bill and the twins had no idea. They all believed the contest story and the tickets being given by the Ministry. We asked the twins about it when they come in asking about contracts for their business, saying they were going to be partners with Harry Potter and Cedric Diggory and wanted to make sure that it was a fair contract since they knew Harry would try to make it more in their favour. They were horrified by what they had heard, but had promised to keep quiet until they visited you during the Holidays.” Harry was nodding his head automatically, but Cedric could feel the relief in him as his shoulders relaxed slightly. “As you may know, William Weasley works for us, and he was put under truth serum and questioned quite thoroughly. He knew nothing of this at all, and truly believes that his father would not know anything about it either. He also mentioned Life Debts the family owe you, and requested we ask you for a time that would be convenient for him to discuss this with you Sirius, as Harry’s guardian.”
“We can organise that at the end of the meeting,” Sirius said, angry on behalf of his Godson.
“He assured us he would be putting his family’s affairs in order as soon as possible, he has also offered to pay back every penny his mother has taken from Harry.”
Sirius looked at Harry, who sighed, “I don’t know what to do, can we discuss it later as a family and make a decision? It’s just a lot to take in, what with the Dursleys as well.”
“Of course,” Sirius said, causing Harry to smile tiredly at him. Harry was feeling exhausted and it seemed they had only just begun.
“On to other business, The Daily Prophet has been contacted, and you can expect a full page apology in the next edition. The editor was very upset to learn who exactly owned majority shares in the paper, and has, under duress, agreed to do what is right. You will need to decide on a new board for the paper and whether you are going to get a new editor as well. We hear Skeeter is in a panic, after discovering exactly who her boss is.” Ragnok’s chuckle was an unnerving sound to the humans in the room.
Ragnok pulled out another folder and placed it in front of himself, opening it up, “as per your other request, the Board of Governors has been disbanded, and letters send to all those you have approved of to be on the Board, of course, you have put you down as the one who will run the Board, we hope this is satisfactory?” Ragnok said, and Sirius was sure he couldn’t say no even if he wanted to.
“Are you not suppose to be working for me?” he asked incredulously, causing the Goblin King to laugh loudly.
“If you say so,” he said, “and part of that is to make sure you do what is best for your Heir,” and there Sirius knew he was only being given as much as he was due to Harry. He nodded his head in agreement, it was all for Harry after all.
“After the Board has been assembled, we will send the letters out to the teaching staff, and the Headmaster, letting them know their jobs will be evaluated and pending the outcome, a decision will be made about their continued employment.”
“You’re going to fire the Headmaster?” Harry asked, a huge smile taking over his face, “I didn’t know you could do that.”
“You own the Castle, Harry, all decisions made by you are enforced by the magic of the building, and the Board was put in place, long ago, to make sure the Staff kept to the Founders will. As you know they have failed miserably, and the clause to enact a cleanse has been put into place.” Sirius said, “next year will be a very different experience for you at Hogwarts.”
“I hope Flitwick keeps his job, I am supposed to start my Charms Mastery under him next year,” Cedric said.
“You never said anything, Cedric,” Harry said, mouth agape slightly in surprise, “that’s brilliant,” he added as he grabbed a hold of Cedric’s hand.
“All the easier to keep an eye on my betrothed,” Cedric said smirking. “The amount of trouble you attract, you need all the eyes on you, we can manage.”
“Oy,” Harry said, almost as a reflex, since he couldn’t wipe the smile from his face. Having Cedric at school still would be awesome. “Who is the new Headmaster going to be?”
“We don’t know yet, but the school has failed and the old ways enacted, which means,” Ragnok paused, smirking at Harry, “the owner of the school will decide on the new Headmaster or Mistress.”
Harry face-palmed, muttering to himself about the injustice of it all, before he looked up with a glint in his eye that had everyone in the room worried, but he kept quiet.
“Everything else is running smoothly, money has been reinvested as per your suggestions, Lord Black, and things are looking up already. I have a copy of the contract I gave the red-headed menaces, which you can look over and discuss with them when they see you next.” Ragnok cleared his throat and pulled another form from a different folder, “also, I heard talk of Betrothals, is this true?”
“Yes, the Diggory’s and I have come to an arrangement for Cedric and Harry, and both boys are happy with it,” Sirius answered, smiling at the boys.
“I have here a standard contract for someone of Harry’s standing. It is the contract that was used by all the Gryffindor Heirs, as they requested them. All Gryffindor’s and Potter’s married for love, but it was popular in the past for Betrothal Contracts to be put into place to protect the family’s involved. Many coveted the Gryffindor name and tried to end relationships by notorious means, which lead to the practice becoming popular by the family. Would you like to look over the contract?”
With nods all around the papers were laid on the table and, past around, until all had read them. It was a very good template, and neither Sirius or the Diggory’s had an issue with it. They were about to sign when Harry piped up, “you will obviously have to make changes to the part where Heirs are required, since, you know, we are boys.”
“Why is that Harry?” Primrose asked though she was pretty sure she knew where this was going.
“Well, boys can’t have babies, obviously,” he said blushing slightly. Cedric nudged him while Sirius and Amos chuckled slightly.
“Of course they can, Harry,” Primrose said, causing Harry’s mouth to drop open, “there are many rituals that can be used, and in a few cases, where the Wizard is magical enough, they can conceive with the help of potions to create artificial wombs.” She waved her hand around as she continued, “I don’t see any problems with you two giving me plenty of grandchildren, eventually.”
Harry was somewhere close to catatonic by the time Primrose had finished taking, so Cedric did his best to comfort him, “don’t worry Harry, we will discuss it fully later. Besides, it’s not a decision we need to make right now, we have plenty of time to decide how we want to produce Heirs,” Cedric didn’t think Harry needed to know they would need to produce quite a few Heirs to fulfil the requirement.
“Speaking of Heirs, Lord Black, did you talk to yours about the blood adoption you wanted to perform?”
Sirius smiled softly at Harry and nodded his head. “Yes, Harry and I discussed it, and he has agreed to elevate me from Godfather to Father.” Harry and Sirius both looked joyous at the thought.
“Let’s sign the Betrothal Contract, and then we can adjourn to the Ritual room. Harry will need to have a medical check, first and if everything is fine, we can do the Adoption Ceremony, straight after. You will, of course, have to then pick a new Godfather, to put into place, but that can be arranged at another time.”
They signed the forms and were lead to the room for the Ritual to take place. Harry sat as patiently as he could through the Medical Scan and only squirmed slightly as the Goblin Healers magic checked him over. She seemed to nod her head from time to time and then frown slightly in places, causing Harry to worry he wouldn’t be well enough for the Adoption. He had done very well with his healing, Goblin magic worked a lot faster than their magic, but it would still take time to deal with all of his injuries.
“You are doing well, Heir Gryffindor, I am pleased with your progress.” Harry smiled at her, it was common for most Goblins to call him Heir Potter-Black since that was his preference, but his Goblin Healer, Kia, refused to call him anything but Gryffindor. She insisted such an important name should be used. It had caused great amusement in the Infirmary when she had stayed to take care of him, as Harry had to get used to answering to the name, and she was not adverse to smacking him upside the head when he did not answer in a timely fashion.
“Thank you, Mia, you take very good care of me,” Harry said smiling at the Goblin.
“Someone has too,” she grumbled as she patted him on the head gently, “just make sure you take your potions for two more weeks and you will be as good as new. I would have stopped them tomorrow but with the Ritual, I think added a few weeks would be beneficial.”
“Okay,” he replied, smiling over at Sirius, his excitement bubbling to the surface at the thought of finally being given something he had wished for his whole life.
The Ritual was pretty straight forward, Sirius and Harry’s blood was added to the potion and mixed before being divided and given to each of them, “I declare my will in front of these witnesses and Lady Magic, to take Harry James Potter, as my son, in blood and magic, so mote it be,” Sirius said and then downed the potions.
“I declare my will in front of these witnesses and Lady Magic to accept Sirius Orion Black as my father in blood and magic, so mote it be,” Harry added and drank his potions. Their hands were taken and a dagger drawn down both, their bloodied hands joined together and tied by a silk rope.
“May Lady Magic and the spirits of James Charlus Potter and Lily Elisabeth Potter give their blessing to this Adoption,” the Goblin intoned.
The spirits of Lily and James erupt from the transfer Runes in the floor, as magic filled the room, encasing Harry and Sirius. “We give our blessing on this most wondrous day,” they said in unison, as the magic built to a crescendo. As it started to dissipate James and Lily looked at the two of them and whispered,“Take care of each other,” echoed through the chamber, as the Ritual ended, and Sirius grabbed hold of Harry, hugging him tightly to him.
“You can count on me this time James and Lily, I promise you, I will keep him safe with everything I am,” he whispered into Harry’s hair, as the tears fell silently down his face.
“Love each other,” they heard Lily’s voice say as the two began to fade from sight.
“Always.”
Lovely update
Okay, all of this was fabulous, but it was the “Always” that got me to tear up. Thank you for posting, this is such a great piece.
wow…!! No words but a heartfelt *thank you*!
Not a pairing I have seen before, but it works and with a brilliant storyline. Thank you.
This is an awesome story!
♡
Really good
Ok so I watched “The Goblet of Fire” at the Hollywood Bowl with the La Phil Harmonic playing and it was wonderful of course, but as usual I cried when Cedric died. Once I got home I immediately started reading this story because I knew it would cheer me up. Thank you so much for the wonderful story! 🙂
This is a great story