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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
- 6
- 7
- 8
Disclaimer: Still the same.
So, do you all like the changes Mercy Rose and I made? Hope you do. Feel free to comment, good or bad, as long as it’s polite.

Chapter 7 – Full Moon, Requiem and First Days

“Morning.” Harry heard a voice say as he fumbled for his glasses and slipped them on, his cousin coming into focus. “Breakfast’s nearly ready.” And with that, a disgustingly cheery Richard left him alone. It was morning, why was the man so happy?

“Ok.” Harry muttered as he got out of bed and grabbed some clean clothes.

“I was thinking of visiting a friend of mine at the university today. Want to come?” Richard asked Harry as he stumbled into the kitchen, practically sleepwalking. He knew that Harry could appear alert the second he woke up if he felt there was need, but most mornings he seemed to feel content to act like a normal teenage zombie in the morning.

“My appointment with Gwen isn’t till five.” Harry said, and Richard grinned, pleased that Harry seemed to want to talk with Gwen. Calling her had been the right thing to do. It had only been six days but he could see a small improvement, and Harry seemed a little less tense now that he was talking to someone.

“I think you’ll like Louie.” Richard said as he handed Harry a cup of tea. Harry refused to drink coffee, which was fine with Richard since he’d only started stocking the stuff for Anita. Dealing with her without coffee was just something no sane person attempted.

“Is he a werewolf too?” Harry perked up, eager to meet another werewolf like Richard.

“Wererat.” Richard said.

“Wererat? Someone really needs to write new books in England.” Harry said as he shook his head in disbelief.

“You could.” Richard suggested.

“Right… No thank you, I have enough trouble with fame as it is.” Harry said with a shudder making Richard laugh.

“How will you handle that at Salem?” He asked, genuinely curious.

“Handle what? Didn’t realise James Black is famous.” Harry said with a grin.

“Is that legal?” Richard wondered.

“Yep, there are no laws against only using part of your name.” Harry said with a wink.

“Clever.” Richard nodded approval, and only after that did Harry un-tense. Richard hadn't even been aware he had been. He sighed. Two steps forward and one step back. Still, at least they were making progress.

“I thought so too.” Harry beamed as he ate his cereal, lost in thought. Richard left him to it, eating his own breakfast. He knew when Harry fell silent like that to just let him be, and that he’d talk when he was ready. “Richard?” Harry said tentatively a few minutes later.

“Yes Harry?” Richard replied.

“Isn’t the full moon tomorrow?” Harry said tentatively. Richard put his spoon down. He'd been wondering if Harry would ask about that.

“Yes it is. You know I won’t hurt you.” Richard assured him, and then swallowed nervously. The next two days would be the test of whether Harry really did accept his condition, not that he’d actually get to see anything if Richard got his way. Unless of course Richard got into a fight.

“I know.” Harry met Richard’s eyes, emerald depths calm and trusting. Richard felt some his tension ease. Harry really trusted him, not an easy feat for the young Wizard. “What exactly will happen? Do you stay here or do you have a special place to go? What’ll happen to me?” Harry's questions spilled forth now that he'd broached the subject.

“The pack has a place in the woods so that we can hunt. Never, no matter where you are, go into the woods on the night of a full moon. Once caught up in the hunt a lot of shifters will go for anything that seems like prey.” Richard warned Harry who nodded seriously. “I’ll be back by morning but I’ll sleep for a good portion of the day. Do you want to stay here by yourself for the night? I was thinking of asking Larry, a co-worker of Anita’s and a Federal marshal, to stay with you. He’s a good man and will protect you if anything happens while I’m gone.” Richard said. This was a gamble. Harry might not want to stay with another Necromancer. And Richard wouldn't blame him.

“No, it’s okay. I’ll be fine by myself.” So, he didn't want to. Why, instead of the relief he'd expected he'd feel for accurately predicting Harry's answer, was Richard upset?

“Are you sure? Jean-Claude’s still insisting on meeting you and there’s nothing stopping him from showing up while I’m gone.” Richard said, finally figuring out what it was. He was worried that if Larry wasn't here, Harry would have no one to protect him.

“But vampires can’t get in without an invite, right?” Harry asked with a frown.

“Yes, you're right, but still…” Richard trailed off, uncomfortably aware that he sounded like a worried parent, like his mother. For the first time, there wasn't an automatic clench of his heart at the thought of one of his dead family. Oh, it still hurt that they were gone, but with Harry here to take his focus off his own life, Richard's grief had diminished. It hurt, it would always hurt, but the pain was no longer new, more like an old scar, comfortable and familiar, although still tender to touch.

“Richard, I’ll be fine.” Harry said with amusement before leaving the kitchen to go get ready for the day.

----------------
“You sure you’ll be alright?” Richard fussed. Harry fought the urge to roll his eyes as Jason hid a snicker behind his hand.

“Positive. Worst comes to worst I have an emergency portkey straight to Auror HQ. Get going before your wolves think you’ve gone missing or something.” Harry ordered exasperatedly.

“I’ll be back in the morning.” Richard promised.

“You said that already. Go! The sun sets in half an hour. I promise, I won’t leave the house and I’ve set up some low-level wards and alarms. No one’s getting near without me knowing. Shang-Da, Jamil, can you guys carry him out?” Harry asked, and grinned as Jason cracked up and Jamil smiled. Even Shang-Da curved his lips.

“Brat! Alright, I’m going.” Richard said, pretending to huff even as he ruffled Harry's hair. Harry dodged back with a laugh. It pained Richard to see how easily he avoided him, the obvious skill practise of years of needing to dodge.

“Be careful.” Harry smiled at him, running his fingertips over Richard's hand in his own version of a good-bye handshake.

“You too.” Richard told him. Harry watched as they drove off before shutting and locking the door. He switched the TV on and flopped on the couch, content to watch some mindless American drivel for the night. He knew there was no point in trying to sleep with Richard out in the woods somewhere.

------
“Richard.” Anita greeted him.

“Anita.” He answered.

“Where’s Harry tonight?” Anita asked him in concern. The day after Gwen came Anita had phoned Richard to apologise. He'd accepted, and even let her apologise to Harry, who had waved it off. Anita hadn't been satisfied with that, and she'd suggested they spend some time together; to make sure Harry didn't have another reaction to her and her magic. Harry had agreed, and Anita had taken him home, with Jamil along for the ride, and introduced him to Nathaniel. The two got on really well, and Nathaniel had convinced Anita to take them to the movies and for ice cream afterwards. Harry said he'd had a great time. He still wouldn't be alone with Anita, but he was fine when someone else he knew was in the room. Anita had to be content with that.

“Why do you want to know?” Richard asked her, although he thought he could guess. He was pleased that Anita was taking her duty to care for Harry so seriously. It would be no use to step in after something happened to Richard. Anita had to gain Harry's trust now, and Richard was pleased she seemed to realise that, although she had a lot of work ahead of her.

“Larry mentioned he might be keeping him company.” Anita told him.

“He’s not. Harry’s safe where he is.” Richard said.

“What are you protecting him from? This?” Anita asked with a frown, waving her hand around to indicate the lupanar.

“No, Harry knows and accepts what I am. He doesn’t care that all his friends here are shifters, it honestly doesn’t bother him.” Richard said happily.

“Then what?” Anita asked in confusion.

“You and Jean-Claude.” Richard answered honestly. It was the least he could do for her. He would let her try to gain Harry's trust; after all, he had been the one to ask her to take care of Harry if anything happened to him, but that didn't mean he would let her drag Harry into her own messed up life while he was around to prevent that.

“Me? I’ve only met him twice, and I wouldn’t hurt a kid.” Anita protested.

“It took nearly an hour to calm him down after you left the first time. The last Necromancer he met killed a school mate of his and nearly killed him.” Richard told her quietly. He hadn't explained to her before why Harry had freaked out, but he felt that she deserved to know.

“I didn’t know. Have you thought about getting him to see someone?” Anita said, frowning slightly in guilt and worry.

“He is and he’s making progress. Eventually he’ll need to see you alone and let you touch him with your power, but not yet.” Richard said seriously.

“Let me know when.” Anita jumped in.

“Eager to help?” Richard asked with a smile.

“He’s just a kid Richard, he’s what? Thirteen?” Anita said in exasperation.

“Sixteen actually.” Richard corrected her.

“Doesn’t look it.” Anita said, this time with a more suspicious frown.

“I know. You should join your Pard. The moon is rising.” Richard told her, even as he held her hand. Anita smiled at him.

“I’m sorry I hurt him.” She apologised again. Richard stared at her with amber eyes. Then he nodded and moved away.

-----
Harry was startled out of his doze by one of his wards being triggered. He’d already slipped into his battle robes and his wand was ready. He stayed still, waiting and listening, but there was nothing to hear. The sudden knock on the door nearly made him jump.

“Who is it?” he called out.

“I am Requiem, I wish to speak with you Harry Potter.” Harry heard a voice say as he opened the door a crack.

“Have you ever been invited in?” Harry asked casually. How he could tell he didn't know, but the person on the other side of the door felt magical to him. Magic full of darkness and silence. Grave silence.

“I swear I haven’t.” The vampire said. Harry stared at him, avoiding his eyes, and trying to judge his sincerity. Finally he opened the door fully, allowing them to see each other properly. Harry was surprised by the appearance of the vampire, with his black hair and blue eyes he looked a bit like Sirius, even more so that the part fey biology teacher Ethan he'd met.

“What did you want to talk about?” He asked.

“First, I need to apologise for bringing attention to you. I should not have reacted the way I did. I may have unintentionally put you in danger and that was not my wish.” The vampire, Requiem, said seriously. Harry was unimpressed with this apology. Anita's hadn't been too good either, but at least he'd been able to tell she was sincere, and that, more than anything else she'd done, had impressed Harry. It was so rare for him to find someone who was sincere like she was. And, she'd made up for it in his books by introducing him to Nathaniel. Harry really liked Nathaniel.

“Apology accepted.” he said though. After all, it wouldn't do to stupidly offend the vampire. And he could accept the apology. It didn't mean he'd forgive the vampire any time soon.

“Thank you. Is it true that you will be Lord Black once of age?” Requiem asked him, his voice intense. Harry hesitated; there was something very important about his answer he felt. He could feel the magic building in the air, the vampire's reacting to his but he didn’t know why.

“Yes, I am my godfather’s heir. I will be of age next summer and will take up my full responsibilities then.” He admitted at last, and stared in shock as the vampire dropped to one knee.

“I wish to re-affirm my allegiance to the House of Black. Before I died I was a Black, and once I died it was no different. My Master acknowledged my prior debt, but my family disowned me, so I was free to follow my new Master. But now the House of Black rises again with a new Lord and the oldest debt, of Blood and Family call to me. My Lord, I am yours to command.” The vampire bowed his head.

“What? Why?” Harry blurted out, bewildered.

“My name in life was Orion Black. Great grandson of Phineas Nigellus Black. Grandson of Arcturus Black. Son of Callidora Black and her husband Harfang Longbottom, who took the name Black when he married into the family. I was a squib and their only son. When my parents learnt of my fate they cast me from the family, leaving only their daughter, a witch and my sister, as their heir.” Requiem explained.

“Sirius mentioned you once, though he didn’t tell me you were a vampire. You’re his great something uncle.” Harry told the vampire.

“Yes, I am sorry he cost you your family.” Requiem said.

“Sirius was innocent.” Harry said angrily. Requiem looked up, shocked. “He was framed by another one of their friends who is still on the loose. Sirius died protecting me.” Harry said, and shut his eyes, fighting tears and gasped as the magic swelled a final time, taking hold of him. He opened his eyes and held out his hand, the Black Family Ring appearing on it when he knew he’d left it in his trunk. “Rise Orion Black. You are a son of the Black Family for all time. Your allegiance lies with us alone. Forsake all former ties you once had and come back to the Blood that you came from. To betray us is death. You have the protection of the Noble House of Black again.” Harry said, barely aware of what he was saying. He didn’t know where the words came from, as he did his best not to drown in the waves of magic swamping him. He didn't understand, nothing like this had happened when he’d accepted Draco as a Black. He gasped again as his magic flared a final time, extending to wrap around the now standing vampire before plunging into him. Requiem fell, gasping for unneeded air, staring at Harry in shock as the teen also collapsed. As suddenly as it had begun it stopped and everything was silent, only their heavy breathing could be heard. Not even a trace of the magic remained.

“Are you hurt My Lord?” Requiem asked quietly.

“I’m alright, just a little tired. Don’t call me that though, my name’s Harry.” Said Harry, even as he knelt gasping for breath.

“As you wish M…Harry. Can you stand?” Requiem asked him. Harry glared at him.

“Can you? I’m not the one who had someone else’s magic shoved through them.” He said huffily.

“I believe so.” Requiem said. However it took two tries and a little help from Harry who cautiously left the safety of the house before he managed to eventually stand.

“How did you get here? I don’t see a car.” Harry said as he looked around.

“I flew.” Requiem said shortly, still a little dizzy from the magic backlash he'd gone through.

“Can you get back?” Harry asked him curiously. The vampire looked kind of wobbly. Like a first muggle-born year at their first flying lesson on a broom, Harry decided.

“Not at the moment.” Requiem admitted after a short while. Harry thought about it for a few moments.

“Don’t tell Richard I did this then. Come on in Requiem.” He said. The vampire shot him a surprised yet grateful look as they went in, Harry hovering at his elbow in case he needed help.

“Thank you Harry.” He said gratefully.

“Do you need anything?” Harry asked him. He had nothing better to do than play host he supposed. And he should probably look up what you were supposed to do for magical backlash like that although where he’d begin he had no idea, and what he was supposed to do with a vampire anyway? Harry breathed deeply, trying to focus his churning thoughts.

“Nothing you can give me.” Requiem said with a careful smile. At Harry’s puzzled look he continued. “I need to feed again.”

“Oh. Um… you won’t decide I look tasty will you?” Harry asked nervously. Helping was one thing, being the vampire's meal? He wasn't quite ready for that, no matter how good Jason claimed it felt.

“No, I couldn't. You are my Lord and I am bound to you. I can't roll you to make it pleasant, and to harm you would break my oath. Do you know what the consequences of breaking a magical oath are?” Requiem asked him. Harry winced.

“Ouch, okay, I understand. Will you be able to get home without feeding though?” he said. The vampire still looked a bit pale to him, but then, for all he knew it was his natural colour.

“In a little while. I will do what I can to distract Jean-Claude’s attention from you.” Requiem told him, closing his eyes to rest.

“Thank you.” Harry said gratefully. Honestly, he didn't mind too much about the Master Vampire. He was confident Richard could handle it. Harry was more concerned about Richard.

“It is the least I can do.” Requiem protested about Harry's thanks. They fell silent but Harry could almost feel Requiem wanting to ask him something. Actually, when he thought about it Harry actually could feel Requiem, sort of hovering at the back of his head in his own little bubble of emotions. And Harry was picking up on him. It was almost like mind reading. Except not.

“What is it?” Harry asked exasperatedly when Requiem had failed to talk for about half an hour. The longing in his mind, now that he was aware it was there, was getting uncomfortable.

“Why did you accept me back into the family? I am a vampire and a Squib.” Requiem asked quietly. Harry looked away, uncomfortable about a topic that might reveal something of himself to the vampire.

“I know what it’s like to not be accepted because you’re different. It’s not fair that they did that to you. I…I had to make it right. I know Sirius would have done the same.” Harry said, pleased with the conviction in his voice. Because really, when he thought about Sirius, past the guilt and the hurt and everything else, he wasn't sure Sirius would have accepted him. Harry had loved Sirius dearly, but when he looked clearly, like Hermione had, even he could tell that Sirius had been about as responsible and mature as well, Ron probably. It hurt Harry to think that, but it was true. And another truth he realised was that he would never know if Sirius would have accepted Orion, who called himself Requiem, because he was dead. For the first time, that thought didn't send him running to his room to comfort himself. It still hurt, but Harry could look past that, and where once there had been a gaping hole of nothing, now there was something else. He was Lord Black, and now he could see that there were other Black's beside Sirius worth knowing. Malfoy, who'd turned out ok, and Orion. And if he got right down to it, even Tonks and her family were ok, even if they did follow Dumbledore. She was only trying to do the right thing in the only way she knew how. It wasn't her fault Dumbledore was a manipulative old coot.

“Thank you. I will never be able to repay you for this. If you ever need me, call and I will come. We are tied by magic now.” Requiem said to Harry.

“I will.” Harry nodded solemnly. Requiem stood and moved to leave, and Harry followed as far as the door.

“You are a very special person Harry James Potter-Black, not because of that scar on your forehead, but because of who you are. I hope you never lose that.” Requiem said quietly. With that he was gone. Harry shut and locked the door, leaning tiredly against it. At the very back of his mind he could feel a small thread and he knew all he had to do was tug it and Requiem would be at his side as fast as vampiricly possible. And that, he supposed tiredly, was very fast indeed.

-----------
Richard stumbled into the kitchen to see Harry at the stove, moving to whatever music was playing on his Discman. He smiled at the sight and waited patiently for the teen to notice him, not wanting to startle him since it appeared he was using magic to cook. Unless of course his pans had been taking flying lessons without his knowledge.

“Oh, hey Richard. I didn’t wake you, did I?” Harry said as he slipped his headphones off. It had been Jason who discovered that Harry had never had a Discman before coming to America, and it had been he who introduced Harry to the sorts of music that he had on now.

“No, what are you cooking?” Richard asked him.

“Brunch I guess, seeing as we both slept in.” Harry said with a smile.

“You were alright last night?” Richard asked worriedly.

“Fine, went to bed pretty late though.” Harry said, and Richard could practically feel his eyes roll, even though Harry's voice remained mild.

“I thought I smelt a vampire when I got home, did you notice anything?” Richard asked. Harry had turned back to the stove so Richard missed his wince but he did notice the change in his scent. “Harry what happened? Are you hurt?” He said in sudden concern, silently cursing whichever vampire had come. If he got hold of them he'd ...

“I’m fine. It was Requiem, he came to apologise, and that’s all.” Harry said, trying to shrug it off as unimportant.

“I don’t want them near you Harry, you don’t know what they can do.” Richard tried to explain his worry to Harry.

“Requiem can’t hurt me.” Harry said with certainty.

“Harry…” Richard started to speak but Harry interrupted him.

“No, listen Richard. Do you know what his name was when he was alive?” Harry said. It was time to tell Richard anyway. Maybe it would help him not to worry so much.

“No, what has that got to do with anything?” Richard frowned, not seeing where Harry was going with this.

“Everything, because his name was Orion Black. As in the Black family I’m heir and soon to be Lord of. He showed up, apologised and the dropped to one knee.” Harry explained.

“What?” Richard yelped.

“As of next July I will be fully Lord Black and he is a Black. He’s magically bound to the family, as are Draco and I. Neither of them can hurt me. I’d heard of him from Sirius once but he never mentioned why his however many times great-uncle was kicked out of the family. He can't hurt me now, if he disowns his name as a Black then he might be able to, but as long as he claims the Family name Black he can't hurt me. I slept in because my magic reacted to him and decided to re-instate him into the family yesterday.” Harry said, and held up his hand where the family ring still rested as proof. “This was safely locked in my trunk but somehow it appeared on my finger last night. Magic has a mind of its own sometimes and we can’t explain why some things happen, which is why he got accepted and bound back into the family again last night.” Harry finished his explanation.

“Are you alright? Should you see someone?” Richard started to fuss.

“I’m fine, I’ve heard of this happening before. When nothing happened with Draco I figured I was safe from this bit of family magic, but guess I was wrong. Although maybe it was because Draco is a Black through his mother and she was never kicked out until I did it. Or because he's alive, or a Wizard, or, well, I really don't know. Besides, Requiem took the brunt of it, the magic shoved through him. It took him two tries and my help before he could stand and it was a while before he felt up to leaving but he managed to get home.” Harry said.

“He called and told you?” Richard asked incredulously.

“No, I could feel it. Whether I like it or not I am the Head of the House of Black, and I can feel him and Draco to a lesser extent. Makes me glad that currently we’re a small family.” Harry said.

“You’re tied to a vampire!” Richard yipped again. Harry sighed and slumped against the sink.

“Technically he’s tied to me. Richard relax, stuff like this is normal; it’s how the old families work. Please don’t be mad. Any way, we could end up with a similar link if we’re not careful.” Harry said, trying to stop Richard from going into what he privately thought of as full-fuss-mode.

“What?” Richard said again, diverted at least for now from the fact that his cousin had apparently bound a vampire to him.

“I’m a Potter and you’re a Potter. You may be older but you're from a Squib line descended from the younger child, which means I outrank you in Wizarding society. You’ll be fine as long as you don’t pledge loyalty to the Potter line or me though I think.” Harry tried to reassure him.

“Hasn’t really come up before. Sit down; it's better to eat before it all gets cold. I remembered what you said about changing and meat so I cooked sausages, bacon, eggs and toast. Hope it’s okay.” Harry said as he served two plates and sat opposite his cousin. Richard allowed himself to be distracted and they both dug in.

“This is really good.” Richard said appreciatively after he'd finished his first plate, as he loaded up another.

“Thanks, it's the first time I’ve cooked with magic. I think I prefer the old fashioned way, although I don’t mind the dishes washing themselves.” Harry admitted, looking pleased with himself.

“Better than a dishwasher.” Richard said, and they smiled at each other.

--------
“We’re here.” Richard announced. He looked around.
"Are you sure this is the right place Harry?" Harry looked around.

“Yeah I'm sure. I better get going. Thanks for the lift.” Harry said as he grabbed his backpack, a gift from Jason. The pack was dark green with two wolves embroidered on the front in silver, shown howling at the moon. That had earnt the surprised but pleased werewolf a quick hug. The times Harry initiated any kind of contact like that with anyone were still rare, and something to be valued. And he only did it with people he felt safe with.

“I’ll walk you over. Sure you have everything?” Richard said, once again fussing at Harry. Harry was learning to simply ignore it.

“Yes dad.” He said teasingly.

“Sorry.” Richard said sheepishly. They got out of the car and headed for the portkey station where other teens had already gathered and were watching the new arrival with interest.
“Shang-Da will pick you up and I’ll see you at dinner.” He reminded Harry, who merely smiled at him.

“I know, but you better go before you’re late for class.” he said.

“You’ll be alright?” Richard had to ask.

“Richard!” Harry exclaimed, and Richard laughed and left, leaving Harry to face his fellow students. A blond guy about his age stepped forward. Harry was instantly reminded of Draco when he'd been Malfoy, and a snotty little brat.

“You James?” He nodded warily. What did this boy want?
“I'm Josh Noel, we’re in the same year so they asked me to be your guide. You're British, right?” the other boy said, smiling at him. Ok, so maybe not like Draco when he was Malfoy.

“Yes, I moved here during the summer.” Harry said, offering his own grin.

“Love the accent. Portkey’s not for another few minutes. Your Dad didn’t look too keen on leaving you.” Noel said chattily, apparently not only willing, but eager to talk to Harry.

“He’s my cousin, my parents are dead.” Harry explained shortly. It wasn't that he was annoyed at Noel, but Harry didn't want to talk about it.

“Oh, I'm sorry. Is he a Wizard?” Noel asked.

“No, he's a Muggle, but he’s taking it well though.” Harry said.

“That’s good. I'm Pureblood myself, although you wouldn’t know it to look at me. Frankly I’d take technology over magic most days. What about you?” The other boy asked. Harry was a bit taken aback. Were all Americans as upfront as he was? Looking back on the people he'd met, Harry had to think they were. It was one thing coming from adults who might be responsible from him though, but another thing all together from a fellow student he'd only just met.

“My Dad was Pureblood, and my Mum was muggle-born. Does that matter a lot over here?” Harry asked shortly.

“Not really. Nothing like all that purity of blood trash they go on about in Europe. I mean, really stupid reason to start a war.” Noel said, a bit more quietly then he'd been talking before.

“Yeah.” Harry said shortly, feeling cross with the boy for no reason in particular.

“Get the feeling I just put my foot in it.” Noel said sheepishly. Harry sighed. This was the first person the same age who was talking to him, and he was going to be Harry's guide at school. He wasn't talking to Harry because he thought Harry was famous, he was just trying to be helpful to the new kid. And it wasn't his fault Harry was getting upset about what he'd been saying.

“Not your fault. My parents died in the war and I’ve lost friends since because of the trouble lately.” Harry said by way of apology.

“Don’t blame you for leaving. Hey, the Portkey’s ready, hang on.” Noel said, and Harry grabbed onto what looked like a piece of old playground equipment. He felt the horrible lurch of magic yanking at his stomach, and as always, he thought of Cedric, and then they were at Salem. “It’s the same one to get home." Noel explained. "What have you got first?” he asked. Harry studied the timetable he'd been sent.

“Advanced Charms with Professor Stardreamer.” He informed Noel.

“Cool, same here. Main hall first though, start of year stuff. Might call you up since you’re a transfer but you don’t have to say anything. Come on, I’ll introduce you to the group.” he said, and headed for a group of teens. Harry followed him over to the steps where a group of two guys and four girls were lounging. “Everyone! This is James Black, he’s new and from England. The guy with the three-foot ponytail is Lan Tyler, and he is our Healer. The pretty brunette next to him is Star Llewelyn, part Veela and our languages expert. The geek in glasses and with his head always in a book is Tim Knight, computer hacker extraordinaire. Rumour is he can hack anything. The red head next to him is Shelly Roberts; she transferred here two years ago from Australia and is a genius when it comes to Ancient Runes and Blood Runes, and Kanji and well, any kind of runes. The bored gypsy princess is Dumitrita, last name unpronounceable so we don’t bother with it, and you can call her Rita for short. She’s our Wicca, Herbology and Potions specialist. And last, but far from least is Nicole Pierce, and Dark Arts and ritual Magic are her forte. We’re all sixth years except poor little Tim who’s only a baby fifth year but we all love him anyway.” Josh said as he grabbed Tim in a bear hug.

“Hey! Let go!” Tim howled in outrage.

“Leave him alone Josh.” Rita frowned at the blond before turning to Harry. “What’s your best subject James?” She asked politely.

“DADA.” Harry said quietly.

“Guess that pairs you with me.” Nicole smiled at him in welcome.

“I beg your pardon?” Harry asked in confusion while the rest of the group howled with laughter.

“For certain things we pair off. You and Nic should compliment each others abilities nicely.” Lan explained after he'd finished laughing.

“What’s your specialty?” Harry asked as he turned to Noel, Josh, he supposed he should start calling him now, who blushed in embarrassment.

“Oops, forgot to properly introduce myself. I am Joshua Noel, Divination and Ancient Magic specialist. I usually go with Shell, Rita hangs with Lan and Star works with Tim. Basically, for one reason or another, we’re the social outcasts here so we decided to run with that and call ourselves The Outcasts. Not very original I know but it suits us. Stick with us James, and we’ll show you the ropes.” Josh said as he threw an arm across Harry’s shoulders, grinning from ear to ear. Harry gave him a hesitant smile in return. Josh claimed they were outcasts. But they seemed happy together, and they were inviting Harry to join them, but not insisting on it. They were giving him a choice.

“Sounds interesting.” he said.

-------
“The Outcasts Ethan?” The headmistress looked at Ethan in dismay.

“Don’t look at me Amelia, it was Pat’s idea. Seems to have worked too.” Ethan said smugly.

“Did she see it in her tea leaves? I hope this doesn’t backfire.” Amelia frowned in disapproval.

“Think about it, they don’t care about blood, money or fame, the three things most would try to befriend Harry, I mean, James because of. Plus their connections will give him an edge. They’re all top of their classes in their specialist subjects meaning he has a well rounded support group that can and will fight to protect one of their own.” Ethan said.

“Hopefully they won’t tattoo or pierce him.” Amelia said dryly, even as she frowned at his slip. Had it really been a good idea to let Ethan guess their new student James Blacks identity?

“His choice. Better stand up, it' time for your speech.” Ethan said cheekily and Amelia Smythe shot her biology teacher a look before standing to speak.

-------
“Tim, could I ask you something?” a hesitant voice interrupted Tim's concentration, and he looked up from his book. Without his glasses the younger teen looked a lot like Remus except his eyes were blue instead of wolf amber.

“Shoot.” He closed his book carefully, marking his page, before giving Harry his full attention.

“You’re good with computers, right?” Harry asked slowly.

“Yep, but ignore Josh, there are some government systems I have yet to find a way to get into.” Tim said seriously.

“Okay. The thing is, except for a few basic lessons from my cousin I’ve never used a computer before.” Harry admitted. Well, stretched the truth of. Dudley had never let him on the computer, but Harry had watched him.

“And you’re taking the class. No problem, I’ll help you out. I’ll have you hacking within six months. I’ve got that class with your group anyway.” Tim said with a smile. Harry smiled back in relief, before stopping to look puzzled.

“Thanks, but isn’t hacking illegal?” he questioned.

“Only if you get caught. Finish your lunch and we’ll hit the lab, get a head start before class.” Tim said with another grin before turning back to his book.

“Thank you.” Harry said, even as Tim immersed himself in his reading.

“Don’t mention it.” He said before he began to completely ignore Harry again.

------------------
“So, what do you think?” Lan asked Nicole as they moved to class.

“About?” Nicole asked quizzically.

“James, what else?” Lan said irritably. What else would he be talking about?

“Shy but nice. Cute too, he’ll be a real looker once he fills out. Why?” Nic asked with a shrug.

“Think he’s got what it takes to be an Outcast?” Nicole raised an eyebrow.
“What?” Lan really wanted to know; after all he'd only just met the boy, so how would he know? And why would Nicole look at him as if he was stupid for asking such a reasonable question?

“Nothing Lan. Gotta get to class. See you later.” Nicole said. With that she was gone, leaving him to stare after her in confusion.

-------
“Shang-Da! Over here!” Harry called out to Richard's bodyguard.

“Your ride?” Josh asked him.

“Yeah, I’ll see you tomorrow?” Harry asked.

“Count on it. Call if you need any help with the work.” Josh offered.

“Thanks!” Harry said, even as he ran over to the enforcer, grinning. “I’m ready,” he announced. Shang-Da stared for a moment before getting back into the car.

“Good day?” He asked.

“Great. I think I might have some friends.” Harry said happily.

“Good. The boy you were with?” Shang-Da asked.

“His name’s Joshua Noel. The others are Lan Tyler, Timothy Knight, Star Llewelyn, Shelly Roberts, Dumitrita and Nicole Pierce. They seem nice, and Timothy’s helping me in computers. He’s only a fifth year but he’s in our class because he’s really good. Do we have time to grab something to eat before my appointment with Gwen? I’m starved.” He said, practically in one breath. Shang-Da was surprised at how animated Harry was.

“Takeout’s in back.” He said. Harry twisted around and grabbed the bag. Shang-Da watched him eat. Just one day at Salem and he was a different kid, excited and apparently genuinely happy. He listened contentedly as Harry chatted on about his day. Gwen was in for a shock. He also couldn’t wait to see Richards’ reaction.

----------
“Richard? I’m home!” Richard grinned at hearing that familiar voice calling out; it felt good to hear Harry call the house home.

“I'm in the kitchen!” He called, and watched as Harry ran in and laughed as he skidded half way across the room in his socks.

“Oops.” Harry said unrepentantly. He laughed again at his cousins’ sheepish expression.

“Good day huh?” Richard asked.

“Yes. It’s so different from Hogwarts. I was right about the rooms; they’re charmed so time is faster inside than out. Charms was good, only a little harder than last year so far. I don’t see the point to English yet, why do I need to know Shakespeare? I was pretty lost in computers but Timothy, my new friend, is helping me. He’s a fifth year but Joshua said he’s a computer geek and a great hacker, although I asked if that was illegal and he said only if he got caught. Chemistry is kind of like Potions and Potions is a lot easier without Snape breathing down my neck. Latin seems all right, and I can guess some of it cause most spells are in Latin. I’m really glad we went over that math stuff, because it was a big help. Ancient Magic is fascinating, and the teacher is a centaur. Back home he would have taught Divination but apparently American centaurs aren’t as obsessed with it as those in England. How’d your day go?” Richard stared in amazement at Harry, who had only stopped talking because he'd run out of breath.

“Did you breathe at all? It was fine, a bit hectic but that’s normal for the first day. Sounds like yours was busier. How did it go with Gwen?” Richard said. Harry shrugged.

“Not bad.” he said.

“You like her?” Richard asked.

“She’s okay, I guess.” Harry said. Richard was becoming a bit frustrated with these short answers.

“You just don’t like talking.” He tried to guess.

“I talk. How long do I have to see her for?” Harry asked.

“As long as you need to Harry. Any normal school would have had you seeing the counselor. With everything you’ve gone through, its standard procedure so don’t worry about it.” Richard said, trying to reassure Harry.

“If you say so. Can I go do my homework?” Harry asked him.

“You don’t have to ask. Most kids hate homework.” Richard told him with a smile.

“It’s not that bad, and besides I’m already behind enough in some of the subjects.” Harry said even as he turned to go.

“Call me if you need help." Richard said to him, and then thought. "Can anyone help you with the magical part?" he asked.

“Joshua gave me his number. Is it okay to call him?” Harry questioned.

“As long as it’s before nine.” Richard told him. Harry gave him a brilliant smile.

“Thanks.” He said, and dashed out of the room.

TBC…
- 6
- 7
- 8
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