Blood and Bastion

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Broken Shackles

Chapter 33

Blood and Bastion

18th May 1994

Hogwarts

Though Harry wanted to be sad about Lupin's abrupt departure, his upcoming ritual and plans to save Sirius kept him occupied. As his 14th birthday has passed, the Summer and Winter Solstice that follow play an important role in his magical growth according to Salazar and Harry trusts his ancestor.

For the past few weeks, he started going through Parsel magic and got a good grasp of its exceptional use. The magic allows many things, faster healing, easier spell casting and even blood cursing that can last generations.

Harry is both amazed and terrified at the possibilities and because of its natural origins as a snake tongue, the Parsel spells are more attuned to nature magic and result in extraordinary outcomes.

They are as good as they are tough. Even a small deviation can cause uncontrollable destruction and Harry learnt that the hard way when half of the Outer Chamber got blown away as his mind deviated from the magic.

And then there is the matter of deciding on the Apprenticeships he should take in the summer at Gringotts. He is determined to pick the best suitable for him and as the deadline approached, he thought deeply of all options. Today, he is determined to decide.

He is alone in his dorm, a common occurrence in the past month. As asked, Dobby kept regular tabs on Cho and reported to Harry if anything worth notice happened to the raven-haired beauty.

Except for Cho remembering their private room, nothing negative happened. She began to take her studies seriously and practise OWL and NEWT level spells. Dobby explained it very well with his enthusiasm at watching witch magic that close. As he only observed from far till then and didn't see such high-level spells in use.

Harry also scrapped his plan to take year 4 exams and join Cho next year as whenever she sees him, he can see the blankness that passes through her eyes and her internal struggle to remember something that she can't.

He doesn't want to torment her more by being beside her all the time in the same class and stunt her growth. That doesn't mean he is going to stop advancing himself.

Years are just numbers. If need be, he can take OWLS earlier and jump to Year 6 after his 4th year. It's not like he will fail his OWLS even if he takes them now. His 'students' are doing well in their Occlumency.

Thinking about them brought a fond smile to Harry's face. He can still remember the embarrassment he enacted on them. It-. Shaking himself, Harry returned back to the parchment in front of him.

The soft glow of his room's magical ceiling illuminated the parchment in front of him. He is at a critical juncture, a multitude of apprenticeship options lay before him. He already knew about the descriptions of each, but now is the time to truly analyse them, to feel which one might suit him and his plans.

1. Curse Breaker Apprenticeship: Harry's eyes lingered on the option. The adventure, the danger, and the need for strong theoretical knowledge appealed to his curiosity and his courage. However, he knew it would be demanding and potentially perilous. Did he feel the true pull towards this path? He isn't sure, but it intrigued him, nonetheless.

2. Potion Mastery Apprenticeship: Harry pondered the choice, reflecting on his growth in potion-making skills. The idea of creating unique potions is appealing, but he wondered if it was where his passion lay. He is a good brewer. No doubt of that as Snape can attest to his proficiency as a Potion Maker. Harry could attest to the unbiasedness of the opinion. Though it would require a depth of understanding of Potion making that he wasn't sure he possessed, the creative aspect is tempting.

3. Magical Law Apprenticeship: The law, contracts, and agreements. It seemed less thrilling than the others, yet Harry recognized the importance and respect that came with it. It is less about adventure and more about intellectual challenges. Could he find satisfaction in that? Harry sure as well can say he won't.

4. Magical Creature Caretaker Apprenticeship: This one brought a smile to Harry's face. His fondness for magical creatures is undeniable. The idea of working with them, understanding them, and taking care of them warmed his heart. It felt close to who he is, and his Magical Animagus only adds to the unique experiences he can get. Though does it fit his plans, No.

5. Magical Security and Warding Apprenticeship: Security and defences, the Potter House's expertise and a branch Harry wants to be a master of. Magical security can also include dark arts. And his mind drifted to the possibilities and experiences he would get in this with such variety. Harry is intrigued by the idea of understanding and creating magical barriers. It resonated with his protective nature, but did it align with his long-term goals? Sure as hell it did. Uncle Tommy won't be happy when he faces Harry.

6. Enchanting Apprenticeship: The artistry and inventiveness of enchanting caught Harry's imagination. To create, to invent, to make something new – it is a path that promised endless possibilities. It appealed to his creative side, yet he wondered if it was his true calling. He can think of many ways to use them. Harry kept it aside from others with Curse breaking and Security and Ward apprenticeship.

7. Appraising Apprenticeship: Finally, Harry considered the role of an appraiser. The balance of knowledge, intuition, and expertise sounded like a fascinating puzzle. It is different, unique, and involved a wide array of magical disciplines. The idea of assessing someone's or something's worth by a look certainly enticed Harry. This also piqued his interest and he filed it to the side.

Harry leaned back, feeling both excited and overwhelmed by the choices before him. Each option has its appeal, its challenges, and its potential. But what is right for him? What will allow him to grow, to thrive, to be himself and align with his plans?

Finally, he decided on the two he would pick. His decision has not come lightly. The choices before him, each held their own appeal, and narrowing them down has been a gruelling process that has occupied his mind for weeks on end.

The Enchanting Apprenticeship has sparked his imagination, beckoning him with its creative allure and artistic possibilities. He can see himself delving into spell crafting, experimenting with magical theory, and unlocking new enchantments. It is a field that allowed for innovation and expression, and Harry felt a strong pull towards it.

Then there is the Curse Breaker Apprenticeship, a path that promised adventure, danger, and a deep understanding of magical curses. The challenge of unravelling ancient enchantments and the thrill of exploration excited him. Harry knew it would require courage and a strong grasp of magical theory, but he felt drawn to the mystique and complexity of the role.

The Appraising Apprenticeship has caught his attention in a different way. It is a delicate and intricate field that combined knowledge, intuition, and expertise. Harry saw the value in understanding magical artefacts and recognized the potential in honing his skills in this area. The idea of understanding someone's worth at a glance is very useful for his plans.

Finally, the Magical Security and Warding Apprenticeship has resonated with him on a profound level. Not only did it connect with his family's speciality, but it also aligned with his interest in magical defences and the challenge of creating and maintaining wards. It felt personal, relevant, and deeply meaningful.

Each path has called to him in its own way, and Harry has wrestled with his thoughts, weighing the pros and cons, imagining himself in each role, and seeking to understand what truly resonated with his heart and mind.

It has been a contemplation filled with self-reflection, and he has come to recognize aspects of himself that he hasn't fully appreciated before. He has learned what excited him, what challenged him, and what felt authentically his.

In the end, the choices of Magical Security and Warding and Appraising emerged as the paths that spoke most clearly to him. They are the ones that felt right, that aligned with his interests and his identity, and that offered the promise of personal growth and fulfilment with his plans.

As he sat back, reflecting on his decision, Harry felt a sense of peace and clarity. He knew he had made the right choices, guided by his instincts and his understanding of himself. The paths clearly aligned and resonated with his inner self and protective nature and Harry decided to embrace them.

With his decision firm, Harry wrote a letter to Bloodstain outlining his choices and his current grades in the required subjects, which are above Exceeds Expectations in most of them. He sent the letter through his Gringotts box and got an instant reply.

'Greetings, Lord Potter,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. It is with great pleasure that I write to you on behalf of Gringotts Wizarding Bank regarding Potter Castle.

Your applications for your choice Apprenticeships have been duly received and are under review. Allow me to extend my congratulations on your choices. The two fields are both challenging and highly respected within our community. Your interest in them reflects your ambition and your desire to uphold the esteemed legacy of the Potter family.

As a part of this new chapter in your life, it is now time to formally key in your blood and magic to Potter Castle. This ancient goblin ritual will connect you more deeply to your lineage and grant you full access to the magical protections and capabilities of the Castle. Such a process is of significant importance and is traditionally carried out with the highest level of ceremony and respect.

We have scheduled this ritual for the 31st of May. The portkey for Potter Island is encased below. When you arrive there, your blood and magic will be keyed in upon which you can access the mythical Potter Castle, protected by Full Dimensional Isolation and a host of other enchantments.

The ritual will be overseen by a select team of Goblins who are experts in these matters. I trust this date will be suitable for you, and I look forward to receiving your confirmation.

May I also take this moment to commend you on your growth and achievements. Your decisions reflect wisdom beyond your years, and we at Gringotts are honoured to continue our longstanding partnership with you and the Potter family.

Please respond at your earliest convenience, and should you have any questions or require further information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Wishing you continued success and prosperity,

Bloodstain,

Potter Accounts Manager,

Gringotts Wizarding Bank.'

'P.S. I must extend a personal note of congratulations on your recent success at Hogwarts and your emerging talents in the magical arts. The future seems bright for you, Lord Potter.'

Harry is surprised by the suddenness of the whole thing. But seeing the positives of things, he shrugged it as his luck and continued reading through the interesting tome on magical healing using Parsel magic.

31st May 1994

Nothing interesting happened in the days that followed his apprenticeship applications and Harry excitedly waited for the day he could get a glimpse of Potter Castle. His vivid imagination went through many possible looks with all the features he asked.

But as the time approached for him to leave for the ceremony, Harry prepared himself in his latest, Basilisk skin-made robes with the new Potter Family crest proudly standing on his heart and his back.

Looking over himself, Harry stood before the full-length mirror in his room, taking in the reflection of his ceremonial attire. The robes are unlike anything he has ever worn, tailored specifically for ceremonies and other prestigious events he will be attending as Lord Potter. There is of course a wide variety to choose from.

Harry could feel the utmost care and magical precision the robes were treated with- in the process of transforming it into a deep, shimmering green that seemed to shift and move like liquid as Harry turned. There are also specs of burgundy on it, signifying the union of the 2 Houses. It is soft to the touch, yet it retained the strength and resilience for which the Basilisk is renowned. Harry is curious to know if the Goblins shared the whereabouts of the materials or not.

The robe is cut in a regal style, with a high collar that framed Harry's face, making his flaming emerald eyes even more pronounced. The sleeves are long and slightly flared, ending in intricate cuffs embroidered with gold thread, depicting the Potter family crest.

A matching cloak trailed behind him, lined with delicate silk that added a layer of elegance and comfort. The clasp of the cloak is fashioned from pure gold, shaped in the Potter Crest, the Lion's eyes are set with rubies that fit well with the robe's colour. The cloak also hid his wand holster and had a hidden pocket for his 2nd wand.

Around his waist, Harry wore a belt adorned with magical runes, adding a touch of sophistication and mystique. His shoes are made of black dragon leather, polished to a high shine, and his gloves, also fashioned from Basilisk skin, are both supple and formidable.

Harry's hair is neatly combed, though it didn't lose the Potter family's unruliness and he wore the Potter sword, a family heirloom passed down through generations, resting against his waist. It is a symbol of his connection to his heritage and his responsibility as the head of the Potter family.

Though Harry is curious to know why his Family have a Sword as an heirloom in addition to the Invisibility cloak he got from his father, he didn't think about it much as the occasion is very important.

As he gazed at his reflection, Harry felt a sense of pride and joy. He is not just a student at Hogwarts or the Boy Who Lived. He is Lord Potter, the latest in a long line of distinguished ancestors. The robes are not merely garments; they are a manifestation of his identity, his history, and his future.

With a determined expression, Harry turned away from the mirror, ready to embark on the next chapter of his life. The ceremonial robes imbued him with a sense of purpose, a reminder of who he is, and what he is meant to be. The ceremony awaited, and Harry is prepared to embrace it, adorned in the regalia befitting his station.

As Harry touched the port key that will take him to Potter Island, which is not surprisingly, a regal ceremonial dagger, he vanished from his room, Hogwarts loosening the Wards for his travel. She was very excited when Harry told her about the Castle he was building and gave her input wherever she could. Harry promised her he would show her how the castle looked as soon as he came back and the castle gave a vibrant shake of excitement.

As soon as Harry vanished, the Wards were tightened, not allowing any dark forces to notice the lapse of security in the Impregnable Castle.

"You do know I'm not needed for this," Mira whispered in his ear as Harry appeared on a barren island with a large storm in the middle which was visible for far as if it was warning everyone to not approach it.

Harry insisted on her addition as he wanted her to be the first person to see the castle with him and he wanted to know if her arrival would be restricted by the Magical creature travel wards he asked for.

As he looked around the island, Harry could see he stood at the edge of an island, the salty sea breeze playing with his hair as he looked out over the vast sea. He knew that somewhere out there lay Potter Castle on this very Island, hidden away in its pocket dimension, invisible and unreachable to all, even him for now.

As he appeared, a group of goblins from Gringotts approached him, noticing his arrival. They introduced themselves as the architects and overseers of the Potter Castle project, appreciating Harry's ceremonial robes.

Gurzog, the lead goblin, stepped forward, his sharp eyes examining Harry as if taking his measure. "Lord Potter, it is time to restore your connection to your family's residence. Are you prepared?"

Harry nodded, feeling a strange mixture of excitement and reverence. "I am Gurzog. Let's begin."

The goblins moved with precision, setting up an intricate array of runes around the area, each one meticulously drawn and charged with magic. Harry can feel and to some extent see the energy in the air, humming and vibrating as the goblins chanted in their guttural language.

Gurzog approached Harry with a small, ornate knife. Its blade glinted in the sunlight, and Harry could sense the old magic within it.

"This blade has been used for generations to key the Potter blood into the protections of this property. Its last use was in 1391 when the Potter family acquired Peverell island and renamed and renovated it as their ancestral property." Gurzog explained. "It will require 13 drops of your blood. Do you consent?"

Though surprised by the large amount of his blood, 13 drops rather than 7, Harry extended his arm, his heart pacing in his chest. "I consent."

The blade touched his skin, and Harry felt a slight sting as it drew 13 drops of his blood. The blood is then collected into a small grey-crystal vial, and Gurzog began to weave it into the ceremony, his voice rising and falling in an ancient incantation.

The runes around them glowed brighter, their colours shifting and swirling as they resonated with Harry's blood. The air seemed to thicken, charged with magic, and Harry felt a pull, a connection forming between him and something vast and unseen.

"Please take out your wand and point it here, Lord Potter," Gurzog asked and Harry pulled out his multicoloured wand and pointed at the place Gurzog asked. A large ripple of magic shimmered in front of them as if the Island recognizing Harry's blood and magic.

A tremor shook the island as everything fell into place with the goblins' chanting reaching a crescendo, and there was a sudden flash of light. Harry felt a rush of energy, a profound sense of unity with the castle and the island. It is as if a door has been unlocked, and he now has access to a part of himself that has been hidden away.

Harry felt nostalgic as a connection similar to Hogwarts formed in his mind, a second, smaller castle appearing beside Hogwarts and Mira's jewel in his mind. As if they knew each other, all the 3 structures formed an instant connection, Harry heard Mira's surprised gasp as the marvellous structure unravelled in front of them.

Gurzog's voice broke through Harry's reverie. "It is done, Lord Potter. The protections recognize you as their Master now. You may access Potter Castle and Potter Island as you please."

Harry's eyes are wide, his enhanced mind still reeling from the experience. "Thank you, Gurzog, and all of you," Harry said, with gratitude in his voice. "I don't know what to say."

"You need not say anything, Lord Potter," Gurzog replied, his face unreadable but his eyes glinting with something that might have been respect. "You have reclaimed your heritage. That is enough."

With formal bows, the goblins began to pack their things, their task completed. Harry stood for a moment longer, a sign of respect to the goblins that worked on the castle.

Harry took a deep breath as the goblins departed, leaving him standing on the edge of a new world. The magical pathway to Potter Castle has been opened, and now it is time for him to embark on a journey to his safe heaven.

With determined resolve, he activated the magical means that would transport him to Potter Castle. Even if someone managed to reach the island the goblins made sure they wouldn't directly get access to the Castle, instead they will be transported to the barren island Harry appeared on before.

As Harry is transported, he felt a sensation of being pulled through space and time, and then he is standing at the entrance to the most magnificent structure he has ever seen. The structure in his mind appeared in front of his eyes.

Potter Castle loomed before him, a majestic, mythical fortress that seemed to transcend reality. Towers reached skyward, glistening with ethereal light. Walls of shimmering stone are adorned with intricate carvings that told the stories of generations of Potters. Gardens bloomed with magical plants, and the air is filled with the song of unseen magical creatures.

Harry's breath caught in his throat as he took it all in. The full dimensional isolation has preserved the castle in a state of timeless beauty, untouched by the world outside its large expanse reaching far in all directions, appearing bigger than how it looks on the outside. Every aspect of it is a work of art, protected and guided by enchantments that responded to his very presence.

He felt the castle recognizing him, welcoming him as its rightful Lord. It is a sensation unlike anything he has ever experienced, even Hogwarts, a deep connection that resonated with his very soul.

As he walked through the grand entrance, he can see Bloodstain standing there, waiting for him.

"Welcome to Potter Castle, Lord Potter," Bloodstain said, his voice filled with warmth. The Castle's renovation has been a valuable business deal for Gringotts and Bloodstain is proud knowing that Harry trusts them this much.

Harry's eyes welled with emotion as he looked around, taking in the grandeur of his dream castle. "It's... it's incredible, Bloodstain. I never imagined anything like this."

Bloodstain's eyes twinkled. "It is a place of magic and wonder, Lord Potter. A reflection of your dreams and goals and now, it is yours. No one can trace you here however much they try. The Potter Castle is the safe heaven you have dreamed of." Bloodstain said with passion, respect evident in his voice for the young Potter Lord.

"Harry, this is so good!" Mira exclaimed excitedly in his mind. Seeing that she was allowed with him inside, Harry gave her a happy nod, drinking in the beauty of the castle.

They continued to walk through the castle, with Bloodstain pointing out various rooms, hidden chambers, and non-magical portraits of Harry's ancestors. Every corner held a secret, every room a story.

Eventually, they reached the study, where a spread of refreshments awaited them. As they settled in, Bloodstain congratulated Harry on his decision to pursue the Magical Security and Warding Apprenticeship and the Appraising Apprenticeships and explained how Harry will receive his official invitation to begin them a week before the scheduled start date.

"You have chosen wisely, Lord Potter," Bloodstain said, his voice filled with approval. "These apprenticeships will serve you well, strengthening your connection to the magical world and enhancing your ability to protect and preserve what is dear to you."

Harry's face lit up with a smile, knowing that he has made the right choices. The apprenticeships would not only help him grow as a wizard but also align with his family's traditions and his plans.

The castle is more than a structure; it is a symbol of who he is and what he wants to be. Strong, smart, unyielding and remembered forever. Bloodstain went over the specifics of how to Key someone to the castle and how to banish them.

He also explained in detail about various protections and restrictions the Castle has along with the various rooms and securities Harry asked for. The explanations took too long for Mira's liking and she left Harry as soon as the 'boring stuff' started.

"The Castle has many enchantments, chief of which are self-cleaning and self-repairing ones along with a hidden pathway to Gringotts which can only be opened in case of an emergency." Harry nodded in understanding.

"We met a House elf that's taking care of this when we arrived over a month ago. If you call Twinkly, she will appear." Bloodstain explained.

"Twinkly," Harry called, his voice strong. With a pop, an elf appeared in front of them. The elf is quite old, her skin a rich, weathered shade, filled with wisdom and experience. Her large, round eyes are gentle and welcoming, and she wore a neatly tailored uniform, complete with the old Potter family crest.

"Master Potter!" the elf exclaimed in joy and bowing deeply. "Oh, how Twinkly has waited for this day! Twinkly is most honoured to meet Master Potter, sir."

Harry is instantly touched by the elf's genuine warmth and joy. "Hello, Twinkly. I'm happy to meet you as well. Thank you for taking care of the castle and please continue to look after it as this is going to be my place of residence." Harry said with a warm smile.

Twinkly's eyes widened in surprise before her mind understood what Harry said and a wide happy smile came on her face as she approached Harry, taking his hand and giving it a gentle squeeze. "Twinkly is very honoured to serve the Potter family, sir. This castle is Twinkly's home, and Twinkly promises to keep it ready for Master Potter's use, sir." She said with passion.

Though Harry is taken aback by Twinkly's sudden approach and taking his hand, he allowed it seeing how the Elf is old and knowing she's been working for the Family for long, as soon as her name came up, the Lord Ring supplied with the necessary information about her.

As the House elves are anchored to the House magic, if they are Potter family house elves, they can come and go upon call. As Harry allowed Twinkly to stay in the Castle to take care of it, she can access the Castle.

Bloodstain looked on with satisfaction, seeing the instant connection between Harry and Twinkly. With a nod, they moved on to the next room, completing the full tour of the Castle.

By the end of it, Harry understood everything about the Potter Castle and how to effectively control its defences, its abilities and many possibilities of their potential went through his mind.

"I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me, Master Bloodstain. You've helped me understand so much about my family, my legacy, and even myself." He said with emotion.

Bloodstain nodded, his face inscrutable but his eyes gleaming with something that might have been approval. "It's an honour to be part of this phenomenal ceremony and celebration of Potter Castle's return, Lord Potter."

Harry nodded.

Bloodstain extended his hand, something Harry knew to be a significant gesture of respect among Goblins. Gratefully, Harry shook it.

"May your gold multiply and your enemies diminish," Bloodstain said, offering a traditional Goblin farewell. "Should you need further assistance in matters of family or finance, my door at Gringotts and my Gringotts box will always be open to you."

"Thank you, I'll remember that," Harry replied, touched by the Goblin's show of respect. "And may your deals be profitable and your vaults secure."

A hint of a smile crossed Bloodstain's face at Harry's use of the Goblin well-wishing. "Aye, may they ever be. Farewell, Lord Potter."

With that, Bloodstain tapped a small gemstone amulet hanging around his neck. A swirling vortex of magical energy enveloped him, and within a blink, he was gone, leaving Harry alone in the echoing emptiness of his family's castle.

Harry stood there for a moment longer, absorbing the enormity of it all. Finally, with a deep breath, he turned and walked through the grand entrance, stepping outside into the magical boundaries of his family's estate. With a small tap on the ring, he is gone.

9th June 1994

Chamber of Secrets

Things went back to normal after Harry returned from Potter Castle's inauguration and he went back to his fast-paced life filled with learning, planning and training every day. Today is another important one as Harry decided on Sirius's escape from Hogwarts.

Harry and Sirius stood in the Chamber of Secrets, the eerie echoes of the vast chamber resonating around them. The ancient room, once a place of dark secrets, now served as a meeting ground for the two, providing both privacy and security.

Following his rescue from werewolf Lupin and later found a hundred Dementors frozen around where they were, Sirius grew into the strong man he once was with Dobby's more than enthusiastic healthy meals and Harry's often pranks that involved chasing him around or pushing him into one of the ponds.

Sirius was saddened by his friend's sudden resignation from Hogwarts and going back to the isolation he had always been in. He understood Moony's thinking, but that doesn't mean he liked it. Maybe once he gets free, he can try talking some sense into him?

Sirius himself changed in just the past 50 days, though the haunted look in his eyes didn't fade, it at least had a layer of joy before it fully surfaced these days and Sirius enjoyed all the moments, treating them as a valuable second chance very few get.

Sirius looked intently at his godson, his eyes filled with a mixture of pride and concern. "Calm down, Harry. I know you want me to be safely taken to Tonks House, but you need to chill." Sirius said in exasperation.

For the past hour, Harry has been theorising and strategising the best way to get Sirius to Tonk's house as they both knew the sooner the better as soon as the word of Sirius's appeal comes out, the Ministry will dump all its resources to catch Sirius and taking him into custody, to happily deny his request as he was 'caught' before a 'decision' can be made.

Harry's brow furrowed, his mind already racing with ideas. "We'll have to be creative, Sirius. We need a plan that plays to our strengths and considers every potential risk."

Sirius nodded, his trust in Harry evident. "I know we can figure this out, Harry. Let's consider our options."

They began to brainstorm, laying out the resources at their disposal and considering various magical means of transportation.

The air in the room is thick with tension as Harry and Sirius weighed their options for a discreet escape. Both recognized the urgency, yet knew that a single mistake could cost them dearly.

Harry broke the silence, scratching his head nervously. "Portkeys could be an option, but they're heavily regulated by the Ministry. We'd need to create an unauthorised one, which is risky."

Harry isn't skilled enough or has the knowledge to create a strong portkey to take them to Tonks house discreetly. He knew the spell, but he needed to try a few times before he could trust his ability to take them there.

Though he is sure he can ask Ted, he doesn't know what regulations the Ministry is implementing to catch Sirius as Mafalda didn't know much about it and her Department is only tasked to report any unauthorised use of magic anywhere in the country.

Sirius leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "True, and the Ministry has spells to detect unauthorised Portkeys. It might lead them straight to us."

Nodding, Harry continued, "What about Apparition? I can do it well."

A wry smile appeared on Sirius's face. "Apparition can be tricky and dangerous. Plus, the Ministry can track Apparition to some extent I think. I'm not sure. We need something more discreet."

Harry's eyes flickered with a sudden realisation. "We could use the Thestrals. They're intelligent and with my invisibility cloak, you can be easily transported."

Sirius considered the idea for a moment. "A good idea, but it could take too long, and we might be spotted from the air. We need something quicker and more concealed."

Finally, Harry's face lit up as if hit by a bolt of inspiration. "How about you and me use our Animagus forms to reach London and from there I'll apply glamour charms and take you to Tonks House?"

The atmosphere shifted, and for the first time, Sirius seemed genuinely intrigued. "Now, that's a solid plan. It incorporates elements of surprise, speed, and discretion. But can you maintain your Animagus for that long? I agree it's strong and being a winged creature, it can fly, but can you keep up with the stress it would put on you?" Sirius asked in concern.

Though he appreciated Harry's dedication to save him and his continued efforts to safely transport him, as a Godfather, he can't help but have concerns about the young man's safety. Harry gave him a determined smile.

"If Wormtail can stay in his Animagus for years, why can't I stay for a few hours? I want to always test how fast Eidolon can go, either way. This will be the perfect chance to see." Harry said in determination.

Though he wanted to ask for Mira's help, he didn't want to involve her in this matter and didn't want to disclose about his familiar, yet. There is still time for that. Seeing Harry's resolve, Sirius gave in, agreeing to the plan. Who won't be interested in riding on an Arctic magical creature's back?

"Let's proceed with that." Sirius gave in. Harry got a bright smile at that.

With their minds set, both felt a palpable relief. They had a plan, a risky one, but it offered a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dire situation.

With the plan decided, they spent the next hour discussing the details, ensuring every aspect was carefully considered. Harry's magical knowledge and Sirius's experience combined to create a plan that was both innovative and foolproof.

As they finally left the Chamber of Secrets, both Harry and Sirius felt a sense of confidence and accomplishment. Together, they had crafted a plan that would keep Sirius safe and outwit the Ministry.

Both knew the risks and the necessity of what they were about to do. With a quick nod, Harry closed his eyes and began to focus on the image of Eidolon. As if summoned, the magical energies in his body shifted and contorted, expanding and morphing until he was no longer human. A surge of ancient, potent magic flowed through him, his senses sharpening tenfold.

Even though it was not his 1st time, Sirius looked up in awe and hints of fear, the majesty of Eidolon's form rendering him speechless and fearful. Gathering his courage, he approached and climbed onto Harry's back, settling himself between the spines that lined Harry's dorsal ridge.

"Edy?" Eidolon's cold and strong voice echoed in the empty night as they stood at the entrance of the Whomping Willow, everything coming back to normal. The Dementor's present didn't even dare approach them, as if knowing the magical creature is powerful.

"As I'll ever be," Sirius replied, gripping tightly.

With a powerful flap of his ethereal wings, Harry rose from the ground, the irritable branches of Whomping Willow standing still as they ascended at an incredible speed. They shot to the sky like a bullet, emerging high above the Hogwarts grounds, obscured by the night and the clouds.

With another powerful wingbeat, Harry soared higher into the sky, above the clouds where the moon and stars became their only companions. The sensation is exhilarating; the cold wind against his skin, the freedom of the open sky, and the trust of the man on his back filled Harry with a sense of purpose and power he had never felt before.

Unable to bear the cold, Sirius transformed into his Animagus form, sitting delicately on Eidolon's back as Harry tried his best to not shake too much as he didn't want to risk Sirius falling.

They sped through the night sky, crossing miles of mountains and forests. The world below was but a dark expanse, occasionally punctuated by the distant glimmer of Muggle towns and the sweeping beams of lighthouses along the coast.

It only took them a few hours, but it felt like mere minutes before they began their descent, the outline of the Tonks residence appearing below them as they broke through the final layer of clouds. Harry circled once before landing gently in the secluded backyard, his wings folding back as he touched down.

As soon as they landed, Harry focused again, this time on returning to his human form. The transformation was quicker but no less magical, his Eidolon form retracting and morphing until he stood on two legs, his human eyes meeting Sirius's, who transformed back as well.

Sirius dismounted a look of deep gratitude and disbelief on his face. "Harry, that was—I don't even have words. Thank you."

Harry smiled, feeling a new bond of trust and friendship solidifying between them. "You're family, Sirius. I'd do anything to keep you safe."

Knowing that he is always welcome at the home, Harry took Sirius's hand and apparated into the living room, both of them deciding to keep Harry's Animagus form secret for now as they didn't want to stress the Tonks family with one more concern.

The sound of laughter and a sudden appearance in the living room caught the attention of the Tonks family, who were enjoying a quiet evening in the adjacent room. As they rushed in, their eyes widened at the sight of Sirius and Harry standing together, grinning triumphantly.

"Sirius!" exclaimed Andromeda Tonks (neé Black), her face lighting up with surprise and joy. She hurried forward, embracing her cousin warmly. "It's wonderful to see you safe and sound! How did you...?"

Sirius chuckled, his eyes glinting with mischief. "A bit of creative planning and some help from Harry here."

Ted Tonks, wearing a broad smile, extended his hand to Sirius. "Well done, you two. That's some impressive work. Welcome, Sirius."

Don't call me (Nymphadora) Tonks hopped in, her hair changing to bright pink in her excitement. "Wotcher, Sirius! You've given the Ministry the slip again, haven't you? Brilliant!" She completely ignored Harry as if not noticing him.

"Ted, I hope we can win the case with everything ready?" Harry asked and Ted paused for a minute, thinking of everything about the case. He nodded after a moment.

"I'll talk to Madam Bones about the petition and I'm sure you'll hear about it sooner in The Daily Prophet," he said in amusement and everyone chuckled.

"Alright. I'll be leaving in that case. See you all soon," he said and with a crack, he vanished to visit his relatives. Though she ignored him, Tonks felt bad for not talking to Harry but settled to talk to Sirius, filling in with all the stories of her and Harry's adventures.

The room filled with laughter and lively conversation as the family gathered around, eager to hear the details of the daring escape. Sirius recounted the adventure, the planning and execution of their foolproof plan, and the thrill of success.

The atmosphere is warm and celebratory, and the Tonks family's genuine happiness at Sirius's arrival is palpable. They treated him like one of their own, their acceptance and support a balm to Sirius's soul.

As the evening wore on, they enjoyed a hearty meal together, sharing stories and laughter, the bonds of family and friendship strengthening with each passing moment.

For Sirius, being in the company of the Tonks family was a reminder that he had people who cared for him, who understood him, and who stood by him. The warmth of their welcome and their unwavering trust was a comfort and a joy, a bright spot in his tumultuous life.

And Cut.

That's it for this Chapter, folks. Hope you all liked it. Tell me, what you think of the chapter and story in general.

Any suggestions are welcomed.

See y'all in the next chapter.

Black Infinity 1289,

Ja Ne.