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New Family	By : kirallie Category: Anita Blake > Crossovers > AB/Harry Potter Views: 18587 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 4
Disclaimer: I do not own the Anita Blake series nor Harry Potter. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 4
- 5
- 6
Disclaimer: It’s a real pain having to do this every chapter. Don’t own them, wish I did, but I don’t.
I’m an Aussie so the school system will probably end up an interesting mix, especially subjects, as I don’t know what they do in America.
Also know nothing about child abuse, so just using some of what others have written in fics where the Dursley’s were utter monsters.

Chapter 5 – Secrets and School

“Welcome to the Salem Academy Mr. Potter-Black. I am Mrs. Smythe, the Headmistress.” The woman who spoke had short blond hair that was cut to her ears. She was dressed in a muggle suit, and seemed perfectly comfortable in it, unlike most of the wizards Harry knew back home. She looked very mature, but her face had few wrinkles. Harry knew from what he had read while waiting for her outside in a school brochure that she was only about 10 years younger than Professor McGonagall. She didn't look that old.

“It’s nice to meet you ma’am.” Harry said as he took the offered seat in front of her desk. Her office was nothing like Dumbledore’s. It was missing the multitude of portraits and nick knacks that Dumbledore had filled his own with, and even the furniture was modern and comfortable. To Harry it felt newer somehow. Actually, almost everything in America had felt that way to him. Harry had grown up at Hogwarts, a school that was a thousand years old. It was claimed by some that the very school itself was alive, and it was true that it had built up an extraordinary supply of magic from the children who passed through those halls. It was this ancient awareness and sense of magic that was absent here that Harry missed. Hogwarts had always felt like home to him, and he had accepted the magic that hung heavy in the air there as natural. Salem Academy, although a prestigious school, did not have the same aura Hogwarts possessed, indeed, no other magic school in the world was like Hogwarts, and that lack of long centuries of magic and awareness that Hogwarts school had translated to Harry as a feeling of newness to Salem Academy. The pleasantly modern office furniture helped that impression too.

“Mrs. Smythe will do.” The woman said a bit sternly, her hazel eyes firm.

“Then please, call me Harry,” he offered. Teachers calling him by his last name always made him think he was going to be in trouble. Although to be fair, when he thought about it, when they called him Potter he usually had been.

“Very well Harry. Have you had time to read the material we sent you?” Mrs. Smythe asked. She reminded Harry a bit of Professor McGonagall. They looked nothing a like, and it was more the way she held herself and spoke that reminded him of his Transfigurations Professor and it helped that she was missing his old teachers distinctive Scottish accent.

“Most of it Mrs. Smythe. I have my OWL results like you requested.” Harry politely told her as he handed her the official piece of parchment. Mr. Merewether, Alex, he reminded himself firmly, had needed to go to the Ministry to get another copy, as the original was at Hogwarts and Dumbledore had refused to give it to anyone but Harry, obviously hoping to get him into the castle. How stupid did the old man think he was? Harry was very unimpressed with that poor ploy, although he was rather impressed with his marks, because for once he hadn’t really held back. Everyone had spent the last five years telling him how important those tests were, so instead of holding back like he usually did for his grades, Harry had tried harder than usual. By doing almost the best he was capable of he had achieved Outstanding in DADA, Potions, Charms and Transfiguration with Exceeds Expectations in Herbology, CoMC and of all things, Divination. He was happy with his Acceptables in Astronomy and History of Magic, especially since he’d been distracted by the Aurors attacking Professor McGonagall and those wonderful visions, courtesy of Tom. Harry wondered if she'd be interested in the special circumstances regarding those tests.

“Not bad at all Harry, considering what I’ve heard about the teaching standards at Hogwarts these days." Mrs. Smythe told him kindly. "I heard there were..." she paused delicately, "incidences regarding those tests. However I also heard you can conjure a corporeal Patronus?” she asked. Harry just started at her, slightly stunned. Merlin! Did everyone in the Wizarding World hear about everything else? If that was true, there was no hope for him.

“How did you hear about that?" he asked in consternation. Then he remembered her question...
"Oh, yes Mrs. Smythe, mine’s a stag.” She smiled reassuringly at him.

“Very impressive. Don't worry; I merely made some discreet enquiries because you are to be a student here. I would do the same for any other, although I don't usually contact Britain. We don't have many transfers from that country. Rest assured that I did nothing to let anyone know that I was enquiring about you. I also feel I should mention that our curriculum is very different to that of the European schools in that we insist our students also pass muggle high school. You have had a purely magical education for the last five years, correct?” she asked. Harry nodded, feeling slightly relieved.
“For the first and possibly second terms you will be privately tutored in those subjects to allow you to catch up with your peers. You will still need to fill out the relevant subject choices so we know what to tutor you in specifically although all subjects will be covered in general. We believe this enables our graduates more opportunities as they can then easily enroll in a muggle university. You will need to return your choices by the tenth at the latest. My suggestion is you discuss them with someone close, perhaps even a muggle or muggle-born relative or a close friend. Have you decided to board during term?” she looked at him steadily, waiting for his answer.

“I don’t know yet,” he said honestly.
"I have... family... in St. Louis but we only just met. They may be getting custody but even then I don’t whether they would want me to board or not.” he said slowly. He knew better than to leave hints that could be used to trace him back to Mr. Zeeman. Mr. Zeeman, who after two days of Harry being as polite as possible and calling him Mr. Zeeman all the time had finally told Harry to call him Richard, as Mr. Zeeman made him feel uncomfortable. Harry had apologized and was doing his best to remember, but it was a bit hard and he still had trouble remembering inside his head. He was doing well when he talked to his cousin out loud, but he still felt a bit uncomfortable. His cousin Richard was from muggle and squib lines, and he’d have no chance if Death Eaters tracked Harry to him, so Harry was being as careful as he knew how.
“They don’t know about me... us.” he continued.

“Perhaps you should explain to them before they decided on custody.” Mrs. Smythe suggested.

“I will Mrs. Smythe, I was planning on telling them tonight.” Harry admitted to her. Since Richard was family it was quite legal for Harry to tell him about their world.

“A good idea. Well, unlike Hogwarts we do not have Houses, as we believe in school unity, not pitting students against each other." Mrs. Smythe said. Harry got the impression she didn't think much of the houses of Hogwarts.
"If you are interested in Quidditch we have eight school teams, four junior and four senior, and you will be eligible for the senior teams. Tryouts are held second week. I have been told you are a Seeker?” She smiled.

“Yes ma’am.” Harry answered enthusiastically. He didn't know if his ban extended to America, but he wasn't going to mention it until somebody else did.

“There are two teams looking for Seekers and reserves. As you know our curriculum is for eight years, not the seven it is in England, and this means you will be the same age as the muggles here when you graduate. There are three main meals and two small ones held in the main hall. Breakfast and dinner are for the boarders while the others are for everyone. Your days will be very long and busy and we don’t want our students collapsing from lack of food. If you chose to live at home there is a group of twenty or so students who portkey to and from St. Louis daily. They meet in a small building, and the information of where, and the rules you must obey before, during and after that portkey are to be found in your information packet. Dress code is informal, with no robes unless specifically stated for that class. We encourage that students wear jeans and t-shirts for most of the time. For formal dances and other such occasions when dress robes and suites are appropriate you will be informed. I believe that is everything. Mr. Hawkes, one of our science teachers, will give you the tour. He should be waiting for you outside this office.” she concluded. Harry smiled tentatively at her, a bit overwhelmed.

"Thank you very much for explaining things to me." he said.
"I do have one request though. I know you know who I am, but I don't want it to get around. I was wondering if I could just use two of my middle names?" he tried to look as serious and responsible as possible. It was a big thing to ask.

"Well," said Mrs. Smythe slowly as she thought about it. "Normally I would not allow it, but under the circumstances, it might be wise. You are very lucky in that so far I am the only one who has seen the records with your name on them. This school knows how to be discreet, and nothing is seen by anyone else before each student is enrolled for security purposes. There have been cases like this in the past. We pride ourselves on giving everyone an equal chance here, and sometimes we have to do a bit more to give that. Which names did you wish to use Harry?" Harry smiled at her in relief.

"James Black." he said, after all it was the name Mr. Merewether had made all of his reservations under so he might as well get some more use out of it. She offered her own, rather knowing smile in return.

"I see." she said lightly.
“Well then James Black, that can be arranged. However, I believe there is a physics teacher waiting to take you on a tour of our school." Then before Harry could even get up or thank her again the door opened.

“Actually, it’s Biology Mrs. Smythe.” someone drawled. Harry turned to see a man no older than twenty-five leaning against the doorway. He was tall; maybe six foot five and he had long black hair and brown eyes and was also dressed in muggle clothes. He was wearing black jeans and a blue dress shirt and sneakers. He was instantly reminded of Sirius and he felt his knees buckle.

“If you say so.” Mrs. Smythe said, her eyes twinkling. Even through his shock Harry registered that they seemed to be sharing some sort of private joke. "So, are you going to take Mr. Black out, or just stand there?" she teased her teacher.

“Follow me Mr. Black,” the man said to Harry with a wink at Mrs. Smythe. Harry recovered himself, firmly pushing memories of his godfather aside. Now was not the time. He offered a lop-sided grin to the teacher, feeling relieved that neither of them had noticed anything. Looking at him, he had a feeling he’d like this new teacher. Mr. Hawkes, hadn't Mrs. Smythe said his name was? He turned back to Mrs. Smythe to thank her.

“Very well Mr. Hawkes. I will see you during term Mr. Black.” Mrs. Smythe cut him off before Harry could even say anything. He left the office, trailing after the Biology teacher Mr. Hawkes.

“What shall we see first Mr. Black?” the man asked. Harry was relieved that he didn't sound like Sirius. For a moment he had expected to hear the man speaking in Sirius's gruff voice, but he sounded as American as everyone else here.

“It’s just James sir,” he said, hastening his stride to catch up with the other man.

“Call me Ethan then, school hasn’t started yet James." his new teacher said easily. "Thinking of taking Biology as one of your sciences?” he asked.

“I don't know sir, I haven’t been to muggle school since I was eleven.” Harry replied, a bit breathlessly since Ethan was walking so quickly and Harry had to stretch a bit to keep up. Normally he didn't hurry to walk beside a teacher, he'd always been content to walk with his friends, and they'd always walked much more slowly than this man did.

“That’s where the Europeans go wrong, no offence James. If they didn’t try to segregate themselves so much they’d have half the problems. There’s even talk that we’ll go public in a few more years, once people are used to the preternatural and all here. Please tell me you at least know what a TV is!” he finished his little spontaneous speech with a pleading voice. Because of his agitation he'd increased his pace, and was now going so fast Harry barely had breath to talk.

“I used to live with purely muggle relatives so yes I do. I didn’t even know magic existed till I got my letter.” Harry explained with a grin on his face, unvoiced laughter hovering in his tone and eyes even as he tried very hard not to gasp for breath.

“At least you’ll have an easier time than most transfers then. Last one was a ‘pureblood’, and didn’t have a clue.” Ethan exclaimed in relief, even as he stopped walking. It was so sudden Harry nearly ran into him. Only years of fast reflexes and Quidditch helped him stop now. “Right, this is the main hall where meals and assemblies are held. Food here is pretty good. You boarding?” Ethan asked, all in one breath.

“Maybe.” Harry replied. He didn't know what he was going to do yet, although he half hoped Richard might let him stay with him. If he accepted Harry, which Harry doubted he would. He let vague ideas of not telling Richard; of keeping his secret from him as he lived with his cousin swim idly through his head, knowing he wouldn't do that. Harry was also mildly impressed the man could fit all that in one breath. He thought of Hermione with a brief pang, but pushed that emotion aside.

“The boys your age aren’t a bad lot, I mean, there's a few trouble makers in every group, but I think this lot is pretty good generally. Any questions? No, ok then, outside now.” he said. Harry followed Ethan out of the building. “The rest of the building is staff offices and quarters, so if you need a teacher and they’re not in their class room then that’s where they’re likely to be. Over to our right you can see the Quidditch pitches; there are two since we have two sets of teams. The big building to the left is the library, and let me assure you, it will become your best friend.” Ethan said with a smile. They walked towards it. Harry smiled; it was bigger than the one at Hogwarts! Again he thought of Hermione, before resolutely pushing all thoughts of his ex-friend aside. Ethan led him past the building, staying on a well-kept path. "To the right of us is the Science and Arts building, and all of those classes are held either in there or outside. I prefer outside myself. To the left is the History and English building. Any questions, no? Ok then. And now, back the way we came.” They turned around. “See behind the main building? That’s the Defence building, muggle and magical. Over that hill near the pitches are where we teach Languages, Astronomy and Divination. Maths and Arithmacy are in the building next to it. Fine Arts, Home Ec and anything technological are in the building next to the lake that is behind the Maths building. Sports are generally held on the pitches or in the lake except for things like Fencing and Martial Arts, which are held in the Defense building. Spell Building, Ritual and Blood Magics are held in an underground complex located under the lake. Some Dark Arts classes are held there too. Potions are held with the Sciences. If there's anything I forgot there’s a map in your orientation packet, and I suggest carrying it with you for at least the first few weeks.” Ethan said. Harry nodded, trying desperately to remember everything.

“Good idea. I thought Hogwarts was big but at least it was one building. Please tell me the staircases and classes don’t change here!” he begged.

“”You mean that’s true? I always thought it was a story!” Ethan stared at him in amazement.

“It’s true and a real pain when you’re running late and the staircase your on decides to go to a different floor. Or you forget about the trick step on Fridays or the door that only works on Tuesdays” Harry said ruefully.

“Ouch! No problem with that here. We do have a few ghosts and some teachers who aren’t human. Do you have a problem with that?” Ethan asked Harry, suddenly serious.

“As long as they can teach I don’t care. The best DADA teacher I’ve had was a werewolf; he got sacked when another teacher blabbed his condition to the school. Said werewolf is also my godfather.” Harry said honestly, looking Ethan directly in the eye to show his sincerity.

“I’m glad you don’t have a problem with it. Some students do and it can make teaching hard.” Ethan said with a hint of some emotion Harry didn't recognise in his voice.

“You look human but you’re not, are you? You feel different somehow.” Harry said suddenly. Ethan shot him a surprised look as they wandered the paths around the grounds.

“You can tell?” he asked in surprise.

“Can’t everybody?” Harry said in bewilderment.

“No, the only other person who can do that is our Advanced Dark Arts teacher, Amanda Belrose. She knew the first time we met. You might want to talk to her, because even if you’re not in her class, maybe she can help you hone that ability.” Ethan suggested.

“Ok. So, if you don’t mind me asking…” Harry said, looking at Ethan hopefully.

“I’m quarter Fey. My grandmother is full blooded.” Ethan told him.

“Wow! I've never met a Fey before. I’ve met a half-Veela, a half-giant, a giant, centaurs, goblins of course, a werewolf, merpeople and a few others including a giant spider named Aragog and even a troll, but never a Fey.” Harry said excitedly.

“Veela, huh? That would be interesting to see.” Ethan managed to say. He looked at the boy bouncing beside him eagerly, dazedly wondering what he meant by 'a few others'. Most people never even met that many. Who was he, or better yet, what had he been doing, to have met so many?

“Not really, it’s really annoying when everyone starts drooling all over them.” Harry complained good naturedly.

“You don’t?” Ethan gave Harry a funny look immediately thrown from his earlier contemplation by this startling news.

“No, I don't. Well not really. I mean, it’s hard to concentrate for a while and then I’m fine.” Harry assured the man.

“Ever been subjected to Imperio?” Ethan asked.

“Yes. I can throw it off. Why?” Harry said shortly, looking at Ethan suspiciously. Why did he want to know this?

“You should really talk to Amanda. Do you know how rare that is? It’s tempting to find a vampire just to see if he or she can roll your mind or if you can throw that off as well.” Ethan explained, startled at how the boy before him had gone from good-natured to suspicious so suddenly.

“How about we don’t but say we did?” Harry said shortly as they made their way back to the main building. Ethan couldn't think of anything to say to this suddenly closed off boy, so wisely didn't say anything to him at all.

“Well, it was a pleasure meeting you James. I look forward to seeing you around,” he offered a bit awkwardly when they arrived at Administration.

“Same. Do you think I could do biology?” Harry asked by way of apology. He still felt a bit unstable, his emotions swirling around him, but he knew he'd been impolite to someone who seemed only to be trying to help.

“With a bit of tutoring, sure.” Ethan recognised Harry's apology, years of teaching students coming to his aid as he tried to say the right thing. "Hope to see you in class then." He said to let the boy know he understood and accepted it. Ethan then waved as Harry’s return portkey activated back to St. Louis.

-------
Richard really felt like hitting his head against something hard, preferably the nearest wall. Why had he agreed to have the coalition meeting at his place? Especially with Harry due at any time for dinner. He was looking forward to hearing how Harry liked the look of his new school. It didn’t help that he was planning to tell Harry about his lycanthropy after the meal. It was only the right thing to do, letting Harry know that he would be living with a monster if he accepted Richard. He just hoped Harry would accept it and not be afraid of him. It would hurt if his cousin, a boy he'd only known a few days, rejected him. But still, it left a dull ache in him, something to match the nervous clenching of his stomach, and the pressure between his eyes that seemed to throb in his head.

“Richard? Are you alright?” Anita asked tentatively. He looked up to see everyone staring at him.

“Sorry, I've got a lot on my mind.” Richard said shortly. They all nodded, thinking he meant his family’s death. Truthfully that was part of it but the largest part was a certain green-eyed teen.

“Taxi's here.” Jamil’s voice cut through the silence.

“Jason, go with Jamil, keep Harry company till we’re done.” Richard ordered. The two men nodded to their Ulfric and left the house.

“Harry? Is he a new wolf?” Anita asked with a frown. Shouldn't she be aware of new wolves in the pack?

“No Anita, he’s human.” Richard patiently explained. He had known she would immediately jump to conclusions.

“Looks like a kid. Tutoring students after hours?” Christine, a were-tiger, asked rudely and suggestively. Richard growled, even as he was aware of Anita scowling at her too. It was nice to know that she at least didn't believe he would do what Christine was implying.

“Back off Christine. Harry doesn’t concern you. And for the record he isn’t a student. He may be living here soon and even if he doesn’t he is under my protection. Hurt or infect him and deal with me.” Richard said fiercely. Everyone blinked in surprise at Richard’s outright protectiveness.
“Anyway, we’re finished here, as long nobody has anything to say?” he looked around, and people dropped their eyes and looked away as they murmured that there was nothing to say, and that they really should be going now. People began making their way outside but Anita hung back, motioning for Micah and Nathaniel to go ahead.
“Anita?” Richard questioned.

“I haven’t seen you this protective since…” Anita trailed off uncomfortably.

“You can say it Anita. You haven't seen me this protective since I introduced you to the pack. He’s my cousin.” Richard said tiredly. Why did she always have to question and know everything? He loved her, but she really was too curious for her own good sometimes.

“Cousin? Does he know about you?” Anita asked in surprise. It was the first time she had heard of a kid cousin of Richard's.

“I'm planning to tell him tonight.” Richard said stiffly. Anita smiled gently at him, her heart aching. Sometimes she had to wonder about Richard. He might have accepted the beast inside him, but he still seemed to think he was a monster.

“Good luck.” She said softly, reaching out to run her fingers along his arm comfortingly.

“I’ll need it.” He said shortly as they watched as Harry sat on the grass, smiling at something Jason had said. “Promise me something?" he asked her suddenly. He stepped closer to her and could feel the familiar energy rise between them. “If anything happens to me, protect Harry. He’s just a kid but his life hasn't been easy.” Richard said solemnly.

“Nothing is going to happen.” She whispered, automatically denying the possibility as she reached to grip his arm, her brown eyes wide with alarm.

“We don’t know that. Please Anita.” Richard begged. He knew Anita would take care of his cousin if she gave her word.

“I promise.” Anita said reluctantly. Once, Richard would have thought it reluctance for anything to do with him. Now, he knew it was still that she was trying to deny that anything would happen to him. It warmed him that she was concerned, that she cared for him.

“I plan to take custody of him. I’ll update my will so responsibility for him will be split between you, Jamil and Jason.” Richard told her. He might have chosen Shang-Da, but if Anita would protect Harry then Jamil was the better choice. Shang-Da and Anita clashed a bit.

“Odd choices.” Anita commented. Richard smiled. He could practically feel her curiosity about why she would choose Jason. Jamil was a practical choice, and she could probably even understand herself, but Jason?

“He needs people he feels comfortable with and he genuinely likes Jason. Jamil is starting to get protective around him, more so than Shang-Da.” Richard explained. And that was true enough.

“He doesn’t know me.” Anita protested. Sometimes Richard thought Anita argued just because she could.

“He doesn't know you yet." he corrected, "and I can’t think of anyone better to protect him.” he said sincerely.

“Nothing is going to happen Richard." Anita said fiercely, daring him to contradict her. "I better go, good luck telling him,” she said, squeezing his arm gently before stepping away. Once she would have kissed him but things between them were still too rocky for that yet.

“Good night.” Richard replied. He watched as Anita headed for her jeep, pausing to look at Harry who was now sitting between Jamil and Jason, chatting away. Richard smiled at the scene as Anita waved to Jason. And then she was gone, a small dark whirlwind of energy rushing away. Back to her leopards and her vampires. Away from him.

“We’re done Harry, come on in.” Richard called to his cousin, eager to hear about his day. Maybe it would help distract Richard from his own thoughts to hear about the boy's day.

“Hello Richard. Sorry I was early, guess I was a bit excited after today.” Harry apologised as he came in.

“No problem. I’m guessing the bag’s full of school papers.” Richard said easily as he indicated the worn backpack, sighing internally that Harry still wasn't easy enough around him to stop constantly apologising.

“Good guess. Orientation kit, subject selection, book lists, lots of paperwork.” Harry said with a by now familiar lop-sided grin as he dumped the bag on the table.

“Need help with it?” Richard offered, and grew puzzled as Harry hesitated. “Harry? What’s wrong?” he asked.

“There’s some stuff I should tell you, about school and what Mr. Tate was saying.” Harry stared at his shoes as he said this.
“You deserve to know, after all it’s your heritage too,” he continued, still looking at his shoes.

“Lets have dinner and save the heavy conversation for after. I need to tell you some things too. Do you want Jamil or Jason to stay? They know about what I need to tell you.” Richard offered, trying to make his cousin feel more comfortable. Harry thought about it. Technically he should only tell Richard because he was family and he did carry some Wizarding blood. Even if he couldn’t use it didn’t mean his kids wouldn’t be able to. But he hated lying to people he considered friends, and besides, his great uncle had told Mr. Tate. The American Secrecy Act seemed pretty lax compared to the one at home and Ethan had said they were going public in a few years. Harry made up his mind.

“Could they both stay? They have to promise not to ever tell anyone though.” he said solemnly, looking Richard directly in the eye.

“We can do that kiddo.” Jason said easily, grinning at Harry’s glare. He laughed. “You need to work on that glare, it's not very scary.” he teased Harry. For a minute, the teen’s eyes flickered with an emotion that went away again too fast for Jason to recognise, and his scent spiked sharply the same way. But as quickly as it came, it was gone.

“Oh sod off Jason.” Harry said in his distinct accent as he smiled at Jason to show he was teasing. He knew Jason liked it when he was acted very British. Jason claimed it was because it made it easier for him to tease Harry.

“Come on you two, dinner.” Richard said to them, smiling at their antics.

“Yeah! Food!” Jason cheered, as Harry and Richard laughed at him, and even Jamil smiled slightly.
------
“The food was great Richard.” Jason said as he laid down his fork. Conversation during dinner had been kept purposely light and unimportant and the tension level had dropped back to normal.
“Your cousin gives bachelors a bad name, we’re not supposed to be able to cook.” Jason continued, now talking to Harry, keeping his face straight as if he were being serious.

“What’s wrong with being able to cook?” Harry asked with a puzzled frown on his face.

“You can cook?” Jason asked in surprise, letting his chair drop back down from where he had been leaning back on it as he sat up in shock.

“Used to cook all the time back home.” Harry said and shrugged, standing to help clean up and not adding that none of the Dursley’s could cook so he’d been doing it since he could reach the stove from a stool. He didn't know what the big deal about it was anyway. He'd always assumed that most people learned sometime. So what if he'd started a bit earlier than most? He missed the glances exchanged as Richard automatically poured two cups of coffee and two of tea and the four headed into the living room.

“Guess it’s time to talk so I’ll go first.” Richard said, and then paused to take a few mouthfuls of tea and to organise his thoughts, not that it worked.
“First off I’m going to sign the papers. Even if you decide not to stay here no one will be able to make you go back to the Dursley’s.” He said.

“I…thanks.” Harry said awkwardly as he smiled tentatively but Richard could not muster a return smile.

“There’s no easy way to lead into this so I’ll just say it. I don't want you to be alarmed, because I'd never intentionally hurt you Harry. I hope that you'll understand but I'll completely understand if you don't." Jason cleared his throat.

"You know, for just saying it, you're talking around in circles a lot,” he said in amusement. Richard frowned at the young wolf, who immediately lowered his eyes in submission. But Richard had to admit he had a point.

"I’m a werewolf Harry. You don’t have to be scared; I’d never hurt you. I promise you’re safe here.” Richard said, rushing it all out. He looked at Harry to see how he took it. He was getting more and more worried the longer Harry just sat and stared at him.

“A werewolf.” Harry looked between the three men, puzzled.
“That's it. That’s what you were afraid to tell me? That's the big deal?” he asked, wanting to be sure he understood clearly.

“It’s a pretty big thing. Werewolves can be dangerous. You have to understand Harry, if people found out I'd lose my job. No one wants a monster teaching their kids.” Richard explained gently.

“Don’t you dare say that!” Harry was on his feet, his anger almost boiling around him in physical form. Richard sat back in shock.
“You are not a monster!” Harry said as he collapsed back onto his chair, shaking. “Please don’t say that,” he whispered. The other three stared at him in shock. This was not how they'd thought he'd take it.

“You’re not afraid of me?” Richard asked hesitantly. Harry shook his head and stood, walking over to the couch to stand in front of Richard. He dropped to his knees and slowly put his arms around his cousin, hugging him tightly. Slowly, not wanting to startle him, Richard wrapped his own arms around Harry. It was the first time Harry had voluntarily hugged anyone here.
“I’ll never raise a hand to you, no one here will. I promise.” Richard whispered, wincing as he felt Harry tensing slightly in his arms. So, his suspicions had been correct. He had only held the boy for a few seconds, but already the teen was pulling back, retreating into himself.
“It’s okay." Richard said slowly, as he rubbing soothing circles on his cousins’ back, trying to get him to relax. Inside his emotions were a mess. On one hand he was ecstatic that Harry wasn't running far and fast from him. On the other hand he wanted to get his claws into the Dursley’s for what they’d done to Harry, show them what pack justice was. He was such a kind kid, how could anyone hurt him? Especially to the point where someone would flinch away from contact. But there was a large part of him that was wondering how long it would take Harry to run if he saw what being a werewolf truly meant. He was convinced his cousin didn't really understand what being a werewolf meant. Richard held Harry tighter; because this was the first time the teen had initiated contact. Before he'd subtly flinched from him, from all of them. It was not even really noticeable unless you were looking for it, and even then it was easy to miss, but Harry really did not seem to like body contact. As werewolves, pack creatures who used touch to comfort and communicate they were more aware of it than ordinary people would be. He loosened his grip as Harry squirmed, trying to pull back.

“Sorry.” He muttered, looking everywhere but at Richard. Richard didn't know what he was apologising for. He'd been the one to upset his cousin, not the other way around.

“Look at me Harry.” Richard said, his heart breaking as hesitant eyes met his, waiting for rejection or punishment.
“You didn’t do anything wrong. You’ve had a lot to deal with lately, your godfather, my family, a new country and now finding out about me. I made an educated guess, that's all. There’s nothing wrong with wanting physical contact, everyone needs a hug now and then. I wont turn you away or hurt you if you want one. Werewolves, shifters of any variety really, are very physical. We touch each other a lot; you’ve seen Jason and how he’s always touching people. You can’t bottle everything inside forever. I’m here when you want to talk, about anything. Okay?” He said. He knew he couldn't press the boy to talk about anything he didn't want to. That wasn't the right way to win his trust. Although he was concerned that his cousin appeared to be hiding so much. It really was unhealthy, and when he broke, Richard knew his cousin would fall apart big time.

“Okay.” the agreement spilled easily from Harry, and Richard sighed, knowing his cousin didn't really mean it, and that he really didn't trust Richard. It hurt, more than he would expect. He smiled gently at Harry.

Jamil and Jason stayed quiet for the moment, not knowing what to say. Silence hung heavy in the air.

“Yeah Harry, at least you weren’t naked in the shower and a girl came to talk to you.” Jason grinned at the shocked and scandalised proper British look Harry gave him. It was funny, getting that look on Harry's face.

“Thanks.” Harry said quietly to the room as his eyes slid to Jamil who nodded.

“There is no shame in admitting something has been done to you, it is not your fault.” The usually silent man reassured him.

“So, does this mean you’re staying?” Jason asked as he threw himself on the floor in front of the cousins.

“If Richard still wants me after I give my own confession.” Harry said in as a gentle reminder that he still had his own secrets to share.

“Harry, of course we'll accept you.” Richard protested. Why did his cousin believe he was so unworthy?

“Please don’t Richard, not yet. You need to hear everything first.” Harry said uncomfortably.

“Alright.” Richard agreed mildly. Harry stood up and moved away from them, arms crossed defensively.

“Off topic, does that mean you two and Shang-Da are werewolves as well?” Harry asked.

“Yep, we are.” Jason confirmed, pleased when Harry smiled at him.

“Remus is a werewolf, it’s why he couldn’t take me in. They wouldn’t let him.” Harry said. Richard was confused for a moment, before he figured out what Harry meant. Remus was his teacher, and his godfather. Apparently he was a werewolf as well. And because of that the authorities hadn't let him take care of Harry?!

“What? England has similar laws to here, that’s illegal.” Richard burst out. He was mad, infuriated that Harry could have had a loving childhood with someone Harry obviously felt cared for him a great deal, but his own government had taken it away just because his godfather was a shifter.

“Maybe the Muggle Government does, but we don’t.” Harry tried to lessen Richard's anger, shrugging his shoulders slightly as if it didn't matter much.

“Muggle.” Richard repeated flatly. The look on Harry’s face as he realized what he would said would have been comical if the conversation wasn’t so serious.

“Yes, muggle. A slip of the tongue is not the best way to get into this, but yeah. Muggle means non-magical.” Harry said, and then paused to take a deep breath.
“I’m a Wizard. Well a Wizard-in-training to be more exact. We have our own government and everything, a secret world living next to yours. Your Mum should have told you Richard because the Potters are what is called a Pureblood Family, and an old one at that. That means we’ve been purely magical, or at least had a direct continuation of the magical line, for a long time. Your grandfather was a squib, a non-magical person born to a magical family. My mum was a muggle-born, sort of the opposite of a Squib. It means that your kids or theirs, etc down the line could end up being a Witch or Wizard.” He explained.

“You can do magic.” Richard felt he had to clarify. Harry didn't seem to mean what he knew of as witchcraft, most of which involved the magic of the earth and blood sacrifices and other stuff Richard was only vaguely aware of. Anita could probably tell him more about it. He seemed to be talking about a structured society of witches who lived on earth, yet not with everyday people. And they all did magic together, not just an individual coven. What ever he'd been expecting, this wasn't it.

“Yeah, I’m a real wand waving, cauldron using, broom flying Wizard.” Harry said with a small grin and a flourish of his hand.

“You can actually fly on a broom?” Jason asked incredulously.

“There’s a whole sport based around it. I’m the youngest Seeker in a century. I just enrolled in the Salem Academy of Magic; and in England I attended Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Children are monitored for magical potential and then sent an acceptance letter when they’re eleven. After that you disappear from the Muggle school system. I even had a ghost for a teacher in England. I haven’t done anything like Maths or Science beyond primary school level.” Harry said. He hoped they'd ask questions about things he'd just mentioned, so that he could carefully steer the conversation around topics he wasn't ready to talk about yet.

“You’re a Wizard.” Richard felt really stupid for repeating it like that.
“So why can’t I feel your power?” he asked.

“Huh?” Harry said, frowning at him in confusion.

Being a lycanthrope I can usually sense power unless you’re shielding really well.” Richard said to him. Harry looked surprised.

“I noticed.” Jamil said, and everyone turned to look at him.
“When I first saw you, there was something about you. Not dangerous exactly but enough to make me cautious.” he said to Harry.

“Really? Weird. Maybe you’re not used my type of magic?” Harry said thoughtfully, not noticing Richard’s stare.

“You thought I wouldn’t want you because you can do magic.” Richard asked him incredulously.

“Well that and the homicidal Dark Wizard whose been trying to kill me since I was one." Harry said flippantly, then froze as he realised what he'd just said. He closed his eyes.
"I said that out loud didn’t I?” He asked, looking ashen and swaying on his feet. He opened his eyes, and looked at Jason who nodded silently at him. In fact they were all deadly silent.
“Um…” Harry said awkwardly, trying desperately to think of some way to convince then he'd been kidding.

“Maybe you should start from the beginning.” Richard said, giving him no chance to try to work his way out of the mess.

----
Richard stared at his cousin. He’d been through a lot, more than most people ever had. Sure, he knew of people who probably had worse childhoods; Gregory and Stephen came to mind, but to then to endure everything else in a place that was supposedly the safest in England? Fighting possessed teachers at 11, killing giant snakes at twelve, freeing his godfather at thirteen! And then this evil wizard had come back when he was fourteen! He hadn't said much about the last year, except that his godfather had died saving him, but it was clear that was another big thing he should talk about. Harry was one tough teen, no young man, he corrected in his mind. He may be young in body but he was old where it counted. You could see it in the emerald depths of his eyes, when he talked about what he'd been through. Although getting information out of him had been like drawing blood from a stone. Richard had always thought Anita was the most stubborn person he had ever met, and when she repressed things they would never come out, but his cousin was definitely the same as her. Harry had managed to keep his voice pretty flat as he'd talked, but he’d pushed himself into a corner and was pretty much curled up there, hugging his knees to his chest as if cold. Knowing he needed to act before Harry retreated further Richard moved towards him, dropping to sit beside him on the floor.

“You should never have had to go through any of that, especially alone Harry, but you’re not alone anymore. You have a home here now and people who care about you. I won’t abandon you.” Richard said as he carefully wrapped an arm around Harry’s shoulders, ignoring the way his cousin tensed further. “We can get your things from the hotel in the morning and redecorate one of the spare bedrooms however you want.” Richard said, not knowing any other way to show Harry he really did want him. Harry looked up at him, surprise in his eyes.

“You still want me? Why? Didn’t you listen? Everyone dies! They get close and he kills them! He’ll kill you.” Harry exclaimed. The last part was said in a whisper.

“Harry, I’m Ulfric, the pack leader, I can take care of myself. I’ve survived the vampire council, he can’t be worse than them.” Richard said, trying to reassure his cousin. Warmth rushed over him, that his cousin was concerned about him. He did care. It wasn't trust, not all the way, but it was a start.

“Can they kill with two words?” Harry asked.

“That’s not possible Harry.” Richard said, and then flinched at the bitterness and pain that flowed in Harry’s laugh. Where had he learned to laugh like that, like the vampires who served evil masters, who'd known despair and sorrow and pain for centauries? Richard didn't hear laughter like that often, and when he did, it was usually when he was near Anita, and always it had come from a vampire. He'd never heard anyone human laugh like that.

“Isn’t it? It's the killing curse, Avada Kevada. You die; he says it and you just die." Harry spat out, glaring at him. "But I didn’t because of Mum. All I got was this stupid scar and some sort of screwed up connection with him!” Harry ranted on, even as he pushed his hair up to reveal the lightning bolt. “I should never have come here. I’m putting you all in danger.” Harry said as he tried to pull away but Richard didn’t let him.

“You said only your lawyer knows you’re here. Sounds pretty safe to me. We will work this out Harry, just stay here. Please” Richard said. Harry stared into Richards oh so serious eyes and swallowed hard. He wanted to give in, to let someone else worry about it but wasn’t that what he’d done with Dumbledore? And that old man had used and betrayed him. But Richard wasn’t Albus; he wouldn’t use him like that, would he? Harry didn't know, but he thought not.

“Richard’s right, you should stay. The pack can protect you.” Jamil said, trying to offer Harry his own support.

“After the messes of the last few years there will be a lot who won’t want to protect a human, no offence Harry.” Surprisingly it was Jason who pointed that particular point out.

“I don’t want them too! I can take care of myself, I’ve done it for years!” Harry protested, even as Richard growled and hugged him closer.

“You shouldn’t have to Harry.” Richard said.

“Never turn down help in a fight.” Jamil stated. “As Richard’s family you are afforded some protection, as Pack Vargamour it could be even more.” He continued.

“No Jamil, I won’t have him dragged into our world.” Richard glared up at his bodyguard; furious that Jamil, who he had thought cared about Harry, suggested something that would only drag Harry further into their world, further into the dangers that surrounded them. Didn't he have enough to deal with?

“But it’s okay for me to drag you into mine?” Harry said challengingly. His gaze was moving between the two men nervously, but his voice was strong. Even Jason was sitting up a little straighter.

“What sort of things can you do?” Jamil asked Harry.

“No Jamil.” Richard’s voice had dropped to a growl and his arm tightened around Harry who had uncurled as they talked.

“He’s got a point Richard. Having someone with magic different to Anita’s around could help the pack.” Jason offered timidly.

“Can you heal?” Jamil turned serious eyes to Harry who swallowed.

“I know the theory behind the basic charms and potions but I haven’t had the opportunity to test many of them.” Harry said.

“A healer who doesn’t rely on the Munin or sex.” Jamil said pointedly to Richard who only growled dangerously.

“Please don’t.” Harry had tensed under his arm and Richard forced himself to calm down. He didn't want to scare or hurt his cousin. He was trying to protect him!

“I’m sorry Harry, I wasn’t growling at you.” He apologised.

“Jamil, please drop it. Richard doesn’t want it and I don’t know how long I’ll be here for anyway.” Harry said.

“What do you mean?” There was some hurt in Richard’s voice so Harry rushed to reassure him.

“While I’m safe here others back home are dieing. I’ll have to go back at some point to finish it one way or the other.” He explained.

“No! Why you Harry? Surely there are more experienced, more powerful people who can handle it. What about that Dumbledore person or the Aurors, that's what you call police isn't it?” Richard bit out. But Harry shook his head.

“I…I can’t tell you. Please don’t ask. If I don’t go back he’ll eventually track me down. Dumbledore and I are the only ones he really sees as a threat to his power, he has to kill us. As long as I live…” Harry trailed off.

“You are a reminder of his failure and vulnerability.” Richard concluded gloomily.

“Yeah, he has to kill me to regain respect.” Harry agreed. He was leaving something big out, Richard knew, but they wouldn’t push it, yet. “Maybe when it’s all over we can discuss my being Var, um whatever that word was. You like hard words don’t you?” Harry said, as he flashed a half powered smile. It was obvious he was trying to distract them from their earlier conversation. “So if Richard is Ulfric do you guys have nifty titles?” Harry asked Jamil and Jason. They looked at Richard who nodded his assent. Let Harry distract them for now. It didn't mean they would forget.

“Not me, I’m just a lowly beta. I am the local vampire master's pomme de sang though.” Jason went first, flashing a grin at them. It was a lovely smile, but it lacked the usual energy they associated with him.

“That’s French, though I’ve no clue what it means.” Harry said. Jason laughed lightly, already pulling himself together.

“Roughly it means I’m his food.” he said, and laughed again as Harry made a face.

“Ick!!!” he exclaimed, wrinkling his nose. Even Richard laughed.

“Hey! Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.” Jason joked.

“No thank you. What about you Jamil?” Harry asked.

“Skoll.” Jamil answered.

“He’s an enforcer, one of my bodyguards.” Richard explained at Harry's blank look.

“Cool. So Shang-Da’s the other?” Harry asked.

“How’d you guess? Not like it’s obvious or anything.” Jason teased, and Jamil took a swing at Jason who easily rolled out of the way, laughing.

“How about we watch a movie? I think we’ve all had enough serious conversation for one night. How do you feel about musicals Harry?” Richard asked. Harry was smiling now, and the time for talking was over.

“Um, okay?” Harry hazarded a guess.

“Come on Harry, us stunningly handsome young ones will pick.” Jason said as he offered him a hand up and Harry took it.

“Wow!” He exclaimed. Jason had easily lifted Harry to his feet, steadying him as he swayed form the sudden move.

“Werewolf strength.” Jason explained to Harry, grinning at Harry's astonished face before they smiled at each other as they moved to Richard’s videos.

TBC…
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