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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: Revelations, Betrayal, and Rescue

Summary: Harry hears a conversation, is used, finds out and leaves with the help of Fawkes. McGonagall sees the memories and is horrified. Shows a pov of Toni Stark's partying in 2008.

May 2nd, 2008, Hogwarts 

The once majestic halls of Hogwarts lay in ruin, a solemn reminder of the battle that had raged just hours before. The castle, always a symbol of hope and strength, now bore deep scars that whispered stories of bravery and loss. Towering spires were reduced to rubble, their fragments scattered across the grounds like the broken dreams of the fallen. The Great Hall, where students had once gathered in laughter and warmth, was a cold shadow of itself—its enchanted ceiling dark and unresponsive, a silent echo of the devastation below. Tables were overturned, shattered glass and debris littered the floor, and the once vibrant banners hung in tattered strips, their colours muted by ash and dust.

Outside, the grounds were a wasteland of destruction. The Whomping Willow stood motionless, its branches charred and broken. At the same time, the Black Lake, calm and still, reflected the darkened sky above as if in mourning. The air was thick with smoke, the acrid scent of spells and fire lingering, and the distant cries of those searching for loved ones blended with the occasional rumble of collapsing stone. Shadows moved slowly through the wreckage—survivors, friends, and families—each step heavy with grief as they passed the bodies of fallen comrades, their faces pale beneath the first rays of the dawn that did little to warm the devastation.

The castle had always felt alive, but now it was silent, its spirit seemingly broken by the night's events. The statues and suits of armour stood damaged and still, guardians that had given their all and had nothing left. The walls seemed to weep, cracks running like veins through the stone as if the heart of Hogwarts itself had been torn apart. The air held a chill that had nothing to do with the season, a deep coldness from the emptiness left behind—the loss of innocence, the price of freedom, and the realization that nothing would ever be the same again.

Harry was tired. Very tired, actually. Of loss. Of pain. Of everything. They had won today, but the atmosphere was sombre. Some people have lost family, some friends and all their innocence. If one looks at it clearly, people have paid the ultimate price for this war, which has gone on for decades. Harry had not slept in more than 70 hours. He was weary. He had given everything he had since entering this world to this war. People greeted him when he entered the great hall, but he did not believe this would last. He had heard some whispers about this being his fault from some of the people, and he knew they would eventually abandon him. Again. Like they always did when he needed it. The only people who cared about him were professors, Weasleys, Hermione and some of his other friends.

Harry looked at the wands in his hand. There were three. The first one was the Wand that defeated Lord Voldemort, the hawthorn wand which Harry won after disarming Draco Malfoy. Second was the holly wand, which Harry had repaired with the help of the Elder's Wand. It's usually not possible to repair a wand. Still, Harry had learned when he held the Elder's Wand while thinking about repairing his faithful companion. The last was the Elder Wand, also known as Deathstick. He was going to put it back into Dumbledore's grave. 

Harry was thinking this as he walked toward the Headmaster's office in his invisibility cloak. He did not want even portraits to know about this decision. He carefully climbed the stairs to the Headmaster's office; he heard voices as he neared the office. He thought some death eater was still inside, so he entered while still wrapped in his invisibility cloak. He was about to take it off when he heard something which made him freeze. He saw that only Weasleys were there, and they were just talking about Dumbledore's portrait. Actually, they were all shouting at him. The only weasleys not available were Fred and George. 

"How is he still alive, Albus? You told us he would die, and then you will sweep in with the help of your Horcrux, and we will take the glory of defeating Voldemort as we planned this from the beginning. Neither of the things happened." Molly Weasley asked shrill, and Harry winced, his eyes widening in horror at what he was listening to.

"I don't know what happened, Molly. I don't think my Horcrux worked, and everything else went to plan, but I cannot understand how he is still alive. He went from this office just as we planned. And everything worked fine. Till he came back," Dumbledore said back to her, frowning. His eyes twinkled as he had a thought.

"We can still salvage this. Why don't you make sure that he gives you a son, Ginevra, and kill it once you get his accounts of the Potter and black accounts?" Dumbledore said, eyes twinkling merrily, and Ginevra looked disgusted at the suggestion while the other Weasleys brightened. 

"Why do I have to do this. Why not someone else? Why do I have to touch that… that disgusting freak. He is not even good to look at. He is a freak, as his relatives told him. He cries more than a little girl because his relatives don't love him enough. He is not even a man." Ginny said while looking disgusted. Harry's heart broke at hearing this. It made his world spin around his axis. He had to keep the support of the wall to remain standing.

"Yeah, I know he is a disgusting freak, Gin, I have always told you this. But we had a plan that almost worked. We met him at the platform as Dumbledore asked us. We became his friends and made him think we were his friends. But this is important. You must have sex with that freak and take a fertility potion to get a son. Listen, Gin, this is just once; you don't have to do it again. We will then become as rich as we always thought. He doesn't need any money anyway. Who will he spend it on? We will leave him ten galleons as we are generous. He doesn't need money. He knows how to live like a slave that he is. He will just have to accept his fate," Ron told his sister, who smiled cruelly after hearing this, and the rest of the family laughed at the tasteless joke as though it was the funniest thing in the world.

"I still cannot believe he thought that we were his friends. We died multiple times because of him. He took us to rescue that stupid mutt of his. It was a genius move on Dumbledore's and Snape's part to destroy his natural mind defences so that he can go and get his mutt killed," Percy said while laughing with his family. Harry was horrified as he heard everything. They left, and Harry was left heartbroken because of this. He still couldn't believe everything was a lie till now. That his friendship meant nothing to them. He had saved almost half of that family over the years. 

Harry felt betrayed. He wondered who he could trust. Was Hermione in on this. Of course, she was. He remembered her and Ron planning everything behind his back when they thought he was unaware. They left with him because they wanted to keep an eye on him. He remembered how he was left alone to find everything every time something happened. He had to fight Quirrelmort alone. How he was alone in the chamber to fight the basilisk. How he faced the dementors alone as Granger was hiding behind a rock. He was alone while fighting Voldemort in the graveyard. He was alone when he fought Voldemort's control and alone the night Dumbledore died. They weren't even helping in the Horcrux hunt. Granger was reading books, and Weasley was complaining about food. Whenever he thought about going to someplace where there might be a Horcrux, either Gringotts or Hogwarts, they would call him an idiot and stop him. He realized he was alone now. No. He has always been alone. 

He put his invisibility cloak off as he entered the seventh-floor corridor. He called Kreacher and told him to take the cloak and Wand to keep it safe. Kreacher bowed to him in respect. Kreacher's behaviour changes after he destroys the locket, and he inspires every elf to march to war for his master.

Just as he was about to enter the Room Of Requirements, he was bound and stunned. He awoke to find he was in a room with a bed, and Ginny was there, and both were naked. He was still bound, and he was horrified to see Ginny stroking his member. She looked at him when she saw the movement and smiled at him, which she must have thought was charming, but Harry knew this was all for a show. He felt terrified. He had never feared Voldemort as much as he feared Ginny right now.

For the next half hour, Harry was completely violated. He begged her to stop, but she didn't. He did everything he could, but he was weakened by fighting Voldemort. He was magically and physically exhausted, so he could not do anything. He tried to stop his release continuously for the whole hour. He cried silently throughout it all, but Ginny did not care about this cooperation. She took and took and took every last bit of his dignity from him. He was fully sobbing now. It had been a quarter of an hour now. He knew that his body was about to betray him soon. He tried and tried to stop, but he could not, and Ginny finally achieved her goal. She smiled smugly as she came back from her high as she released him. 

Harry was half unconscious as his body had taken its toll on everything that happened that day. He was only half awake, but he knew one thing. He was done with everyone and everything. He felt disgusted and violated. The second thing he knew was that he could not allow his son to be born from this bitch. Ginny had fallen asleep by now.

Harry knew that the room of requirements could conjure anything, so he asked the room for help. He found a book in the centre of the room as the room provided it. First, he found nothing, but then he found something. A ritual to transfer Ginny's egg and his sperm to his own body. It was for rape victims. But it was only possible for rape victims. Merlin created it, but he was not even able to cast it. No one has been able to do this. But Harry had something Merlin did not. The elder Wand.

"Kreacher," Harry asked softly. The elf appeared and was horrified to see the state of his master. He was about to ask when he got the request to bring the elder Wand. He obeyed instantly as he had not seen his master like this time. His master had always been determined and intense, in one word, a protector. He vowed vengeance on the person who did this to his master.

Harry got the Elder Wand, and with sheer willpower and the help of the Elder Wand, he was successful, but it took the last of the reserves he had gained the whole time after the battle. It was not enough when Ginny started, but by the end, he had regained enough to remove his binding. Harry knew it would be pointless as she would restrain him again. It was a simple blood ritual. Harry sacrificed blood with his intent and saw a light from Ginny entering him. His body reacted and started making space for the invasion. At first, it hesitated as his body was not supposed to do this, but Harry knew that wizards could get pregnant. So he used his magic to soothe his stomach and finally succeeded. 

Harry was exhausted and almost unconscious by the end of the session. He knew he had to leave the room. But where would he go? He had no one to go to. But he then had a thought. He was always alone, wasn't he? He became determined and started crawling to the gate and left. He went for about half the corridors crawling. The portraits were horrified to see this but could do nothing. He could not apparate; he did not know how it would affect his body and had no magic right now. He could ask Kreacher, but he knew Weasleys could find Grimmauld's place. Then he saw a fire and a trilling sound in front of him. He flinched back, but then he heard Fawkes' mournful cry. He looked in awe at the majestic creature. He could feel a bond snap into place with the phoenix and understood it was now his familiar.

"Fawkes, everyone has betrayed me; please take me somewhere safe." He begged the phoenix, who let out a musical trill, calmed Harry a bit and flamed him away. Kreacher watched everything happening, saw the book his master was reading and became very angry. He understood everything then and took the book and every belonging his master had and took them to Grimmauld Place. He knew that the phoenix would keep his master safe, as he had seen the bond becoming stronger between them as the bond was already there but very weak. He vowed to protect his master in the best way he could. He left Hogwarts and a sleeping Ginny Weasley behind.

On the other side of the castle, Minerva, Filius, and Horace enter the Headmaster's office after meeting the officials. Minerva was distraught. She had seen her favourite cub, Harry, who was almost a grandson to her, die. 

"Minerva, why is this old thing out," Filius asked questioningly while pointing to something in the corner. She was shocked to see the pensive there with swirling what she thought was a memory. 

"I don't know Filius. It feels like someone's memories. Let's see them and return them to whomever these belong to." Minerva said firmly before entering the memories along with both of her colleagues. They were shocked by what they found. Minerva understood that these were Snape's memories. She was stunned after seeing these memories. She now knew about what happened in the war. Apparently, Harry and his friends were searching for Horcruxes. Harry was a Horcrux, and he sacrificed himself. She was horrified at seeing what was blatant manipulations and choked a sob at hearing the words 'a pig for slaughter'. She also understood what happened in the last hour of the war. She was proud of her cub for the way he had performed. 

Both Filius and Horace were in a similar state. Horace explained everything to her and Filius about Horcruxes and what was being discussed. Minerva would never claim to be biased, but she is her favourite Harry Potter because he may have some issues with theory. However, he was practically flawless with practicals, as she had noticed when he was not holding back. She knew he was always holding back because of jealousy of Ron and Hermione. Still, from what she had heard from Filius, he was even better than his father in transfiguration and even better at charms. Horace also claimed that Harry was his favourite and the best he had ever seen anyone at potion. They vowed to help Harry to the best of their abilities. They were drinking and were deep in talks about how to help them when they heard a panicked noise, and she saw Dippet trying to gain her attention from his portrait. He was huffing.

"Minerva, something awful has happened. Harry Potter needs your help. He is currently crawling on the seventh-floor corridor. He looks exhausted, and he is crying. Minerva, you need to go now." Dippet said, snapping at her when she was not paying attention after the first sentence. She started moving towards the seventh floor while thinking furiously. Why would Harry cry? Why was he crawling? She had a horrible feeling about this. She was going to get to the bottom of this. Her colleagues were in a similar state. They had just turned a corner when they saw Fawkes leaving with a naked, crying, half-dead Harry Potter, along with Kreacher standing there muttering threats.

"Kreacher, what happened?" Minerva asked in a threatening voice and was taken aback at the look of fury on the House elf. She had never seen a house elf this angry before. He looked at her like she was a bug he would squash. She honestly felt quite threatened.

"You are asking Kreacher what happened. Kreacher will not tell you what happened but will ensure you are all punished. None of you deserve to be a speck on Master Harry's shoe. You all do not deserve to know about what happened. You all will pay for what you all, and especially that female Weasley whore did. Oh yes, Kreacher will have vengeance." Kreacher said, looking at the professors threateningly. Even the half-goblin was taken aback. All of them looked at each other and could only come to one conclusion that they did not want to be true. 

"Kreacher, please tell us what happened? We just want to help your master? He is a friend of ours and almost a grandson of Minerva? She was his father's godmother. Please, we will not threaten his safety," Filius said beseechingly. Kreacher still looked wary and suspicious of them, but he was at least not threatening them.

"Then make a vow to now betray Master Harry and his secrets", Kreacher asked sternly, and they were again shocked into silence. But this time, Slughord surprised them by taking the vow first. They looked at him, shocked at this behaviour.

"What? I trust Harry; he is my favourite for a reason other than being the most talented student I have ever taught. He forgave me for everything I did. He has earned that trust." He huffed at them, half offended, half amused. Filius and Minerva also took the vows after this. Kreacher then told them everything. They were horrified to learn what happened in the last few hours after the war, as their suspicions became true. Minerva was furious and about to give Weasleys what they deserved, but Kreacher stopped her.

"No, you mustn't; Master Harry is with a child, and he needs your help, and the revenge is my master's. You must act naturally and learn everything you can. The master will need your help. He told me to tell you that he will not be returning." Kreacher told her sternly, and she gaped at him and then grinned as she understood the plan. She acquiesced.

Minerva was quite angry, but she did not have a complete story. The professors were horrified after the portraits told them everything. Dumbledore had left his portrait when he saw he was about to be seen for what he was. Minerva was furious that even after giving his life, her grandson was not happy but broken. 

"He must have felt so alone and helpless." She told her fellow professors with a sob, and they were sombre. 

"I don't know about you, but I will accept Harry's plan and help him. "Slughorn said, and Filius agreed. Both of them were angry. Slughorn because Lily was almost like a daughter to him. Harry had always been kind to him. He was angered that such a spirit that even Voldemort could not destroy, Weasleys destroyed it almost completely. He was also proud that Harry could figure out a solution, even in such a state. Filius was angry because Lily was his apprentice, and he was planning to take Harry as an apprentice as well for his last year, but he did not come to school. He had seen the battle between Harry and Voldemort today. It was even more intense than the duel between Dumbledore and Grindelwald. Harry only used spells a bit till mastery level, but he was amazed at Harry's ability to use his surroundings. He had seen the whole battle, how they attacked each other physically and magically and gave everything they could. He was proud to have Harry as a student. He decided he would help Harry as much as needed.

May 2nd 2008, Malibu, USA

While this was happening in the castle of Hogwarts, a billionaire was enjoying his party in a club in Malibu. Toni Stark, 26, was having a party with two females on either arm of hers. She did not care about the world. She was a genius and one of the top weapon manufacturers. She was also one of the wealthiest women in the world. She had to go for a weapon presentation in Afghanistan. She had no clue her life would change as soon as she left. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: Godson, Meeting the Parents, Potter Manor and History

May 3rd, 2008

Harry woke up to light illuminating from a window in an unfamiliar place. He panicked at first, then remembered that Fawkes had brought him here. He turned around to take in the place he was in. It was the most very luxurious room Harry had ever seen. It contained a table with a luxurious and posh washroom the size of his entire dorm room. The bedroom was big enough to cover the whole Gryffindor common room. The quality of materials in the room was top-notch- The bed was of the finest silk, and the whole room was decorated in diamonds. It was a statement of wealth. He turned around and saw a wardrobe full of clothes that would not be out of place if worn by a Malfoy. It was even better than that. He was just looking through it when he heard a pop and turned around to see an unfamiliar house elf looking at him. 

"Master Harry has returned. Oh, how Tilly searched for Master Harry but could not find him. Tilly is so happy that Master has returned." Tilly, now named, said this while looking at him in adoration.

"Tilly, do I know you? You look familiar, but I don't think I ever met you. And can you please tell me where I am?" Harry said as they went down to her eye level. Tilly looked absolutely delighted after hearing that she looked familiar. 

"You were just a babe when you last came here and met Tilly Master Harry. You came with Master James and Mistress Lily. Oh, how Tilly mourned when she felt the bond weaken; she knew that Master James and Mistress Lily were no more. You are at Potter Manor, Master." Tilly said while choking down a sob and looking at her Master. She was devastated at the state she found him when he came, but she had nursed him back to health. 

Harry was ecstatic to hear that he was at Potter Manor, his ancestral home. Then reality caught up to him, as his head began to spin, and he had to support himself with the wall, but his legs gave out, and he started sobbing with his head on his hands. Tilly was very concerned about what happened. She did not know what was happening but felt helpless and could not help her Master. Tilly had an idea to help her Master, so she left her to arrange it. She was sure it would help her master.

Harry was still not able to stop crying. He was trying to stop the tears but could not. He could also feel fatigued. His whole body was aching from the fight with Voldemort. His pelvic muscles were in a lot of pain, along with his wrists. He was very distraught. He was trying to fight the tears, but no matter how much he tried, he could not. He was feeling depressed by watching everything that happened to him yesterday in a loop in his head. He could not, no matter how much he tried to forget and stop it. He just gave up, and the sound of silent sobs was heard in the potter manor for some time before Harry again fell asleep while sleeping.

It was two hours later, at three p.m. on May third, when he woke again. He awoke to hushed whispers, instantly alert, and searched for his wands. Then he remembered that he had given it to Kreacher yesterday. He did not open his eyes to alert the supposed enemy because he wanted to have the element of surprise. He could do wandless magic such as Expelliarmus, Stupefy, a rudimentary shield, levitation, and a Protego. He was worried it might not be enough, but he would give his all. He could feel the bed below him and hear the voice from his left, so he formed a plan. The next moment, he enacted his plan. He got off towards the right side of the bed. He performed a Wingardium Leviosa on the bed to use it as a shield and started to attack the intruder with a stunner on his lips. When he saw who the supposed attacker was, he stopped. And stared. And started. And stared. He tried to speak to the intruder, but he became tongue-tied. He could not find his voice. The reason was that they were not his enemy but two portraits: James and Lily Potter. Harry kept wordlessly moving his lips. But could only say two words as silent tears streamed down his eyes.

"Mum, Dad", Harry choked down a sob as the bed rearranged itself. The portraits were shocked to see all this. They had heard Harry crying from Tilly but did not know how someone could act so fast. But that was just a tiny reason for shock. They were more shocked by hearing those words from their son's lips. They had waited 17 years for this. Even they cannot stop their tears.

"Harry, baby. Where were you? We have waited seventeen years for you to come. Why didn't you come before?" Lily asked the first question after she had regained her composure. She then analysed her son. He looked starved. Lily was sure he was very handsome as both she and James were the best-looking people of their generation. She saw Harry trying to answer her and breaking down again, and he started crying again. She was horrified to see this. She looked at James, who was horrified to see his son's behaviour. She then became furious. Whoever had done this, she would find a way to avenge the ones who had turned her son into this. First, she needed to find out what happened. She was about to ask some more, but James shook his head and stopped her.

"Harry, son. Please tell us what happened. We will help you. Son, please let us help you. That's right, son. Just drink some water and tell us." James asked in a soothing voice that shocked Lily. She had never heard that tone from her. She observes Harry throughout. He first looks like he is trying but cannot and then becomes doubtful. But after some time, he seemed resolute and accepted that they would help him. She was shocked as he wandlessly conjured a glass and water and took a gulp. Now, he seemed calmer. But he still looked lost and helpless.

Harry looked at them and tried to smile. Still, he was unsuccessful in determining if his parents' looks were any indication. He was overwhelmed, but he knew he needed this. He may or may not need his parents. But he always wanted to meet his parents when he was a child. He remembered how much he wanted his parents to rescue him from Dursleys. He remembered crying himself to sleep. To be honest with his parents, he owed the little boy in the cupboard.

James, like Lily, was also observing his son. He knew something was wrong the moment he saw his son. Harry looked a lot worse than James ever did, even after his parent's death. He was sure something horrible had happened. This was the reason he stopped Mount Lily from erupting.  He respected his wife's temper but had a horrible feeling something terrible had happened. He saw his son nod at him after some time in resolution as he began explaining.

Harry started speaking in a monotone starting from his life after their death. But the more he spoke, the more he felt free. He started with Dursleys to his Hogwarts letter arrival to his Hogwarts years, and finally, the Horcrux hunt. He stopped after the final demise of Voldemort. It was liberating, but he did not want his parents to know about what Ginny did.

The more Harry spoke, Lily and James became increasingly furious and horror-stricken. They became furious when he described his life at Dursleys. Lily felt heartbroken that her sister treated her son as a slave and how much he suffered because of her sister. James became furious at the Dursleys, and he was sure that if he had been alive, he would have killed them, laws be damned. Their horror grew when Harry told them about his first year and confrontation with Voldemort, then Basilisk, dementors; they became sad about Sirius going to prison and angry at Pettigrew for going scot-free for years. They felt hopeless when they were told about his Triwizard championship year and dragons and felt grief-stricken at the torture from Voldemort's hand. They could just look at what told them about Sirius' death in a broken voice, Dumbledore's death, and their son's mission of Horcrux hunt, how he used to kill death eaters and snatchers at night to get any information in secret. They could only look with sadness, but with pride as their son described the Horcrux hunt; they became incredulous at Gringotts breakout, his return to Hogwarts and finally, the intense duel with Voldemort. 

James could feel his sadness grow the more Harry recounted the tale. Lily could also feel this. Their gaze found each other, and they could look in horror at what their son had revealed. That his life had been nothing like they had planned. He said that he had not been spoiled but had to fight every step of the way to even eat. They would have never laid a hand on him, but he had been beaten from the age of 3. They felt sadness envelop them. They would have never allowed him to fight in a war. Now, he had to fight and lead the resistance against Voldemort. He had defeated the most powerful dark lord since Morgana Ley Fay. They felt heartbreak when he told them his thoughts about Weasleys and Hermione betraying him. But what they felt most was pride in their son. That their son had, no matter what happened, fought against everything and won.

"Harry, I think you should give Hermione and Weasleys a chance. I know you don't want to, but they have been with you every step of the way when you need them. I know you think that they have betrayed you. But you should try to talk to them. Also, Hermione is a muggleborn. You should at least give her a chance. She must have felt overwhelmed when entering the wizarding world. I know the feeling. Dumbledore must have manipulated her too," Lily said to Harry, hoping to make him understand. James knew that their son was holding something back. When he heard Lily, he watched Harry's reaction and saw the anger and hurt in his son's eyes; he knew Lily had made a mistake. James knew that infamous Potter temper was about to emerge. He did not expect Harry to calm himself and look at them in disappointment.

"I don't know why I expect you to understand. I should have known you would never support me. Looks like Voldemort was right about one thing. I have always been undesirable. Even my parents support others instead of myself," Harry said, looking disappointed and heartbrokenly at James. James' heart broke when he saw Harry's expression and heard him. He turned around and saw Mount Lily was again about to erupt.

"Lily, ENOUGH. Harry, son, why don't you tell us why you are naked? Why are those marks on your wrist? And why are you crying like this." James said in a firm tone first, which shocked Lily. Harry was also shocked. He hesitated, but on James' insistence, he continued.

James thought he had heard every bad thing about their son's life. But when Harry continued, both James and Lily were left thunderstruck. They became furious after that. Rape. As their son told them everything, they were shocked that their son was used like that. Now, Lily did not want to forgive anyone. If she had been alive, she would've burned both Weasleys and Granger. James would have declared a blood feud. They again felt pride that their son had taken the baby inside him. They nodded to each other. They would support their son in everything.

"Harry, you don't have to forgive anyone. No matter what anyone says. But you will have to wait for it. Now, listen to me; you did everything you could then. You have to think of the baby first. It has only been a day. You most probably will have a fetus within 1-2 weeks. You should contact a healer and get yourself checked. Then, we will prepare for revenge. Do you agree?" James asked Harry while Lily nodded her head in agreement. She was too shocked and ashamed to speak.

Harry agreed and was very happy that his parents helped. Next, Harry took a tour of the Manor. The Manor was a testament to the Potter family's wealth. Contrary to what most people thought, the Potter family originated from the Roman empire; they were found before even Hogwarts founder houses. They could have bought hundreds of generations of Malfoys. Harry took a tour of Manor after wearing a robe of James after getting washed up and a shower. The Manor had one master bedroom in which Harry was sleeping. All ten family bedrooms and the master bedroom were on the first floor. The ground floor had a dining room, a ballroom the size of Hogwarts Great Hall, and house elf quarters. The second floor had twenty-one guest rooms and a dining hall. The third floor had a duelling room with more than a hundred dummies charmed for training based on level from novice to prodigy, a Lords room, and a Library half the size of Hogwarts. Harry was drooling when he saw the books; all of them were for all types of magic. He loved learning even though he never told anyone. He was afraid of Ron's jealousy or Granger's competitive and overbearing nature.

The third floor also had a muggle training room with all the gym equipment and different fighting arts. The fourth floor was just a roof from where you can see everywhere. Harry was shocked to see a lot of empty land surrounding Potter Manor. He was astonished to see different animals living here. Horses, Hippogryffs, Griffins, Dragons, Thestrals, Stags, Doe, Lions, and Tigers. He could feel a connection to every single animal. He could feel their surprise and joy at finding that the Lord of Manor had returned, and the atmosphere became joyful. Harry laughed at the exhilaration he felt through the connection. He was truly home.

After the tour, Harry started making plans. First, he had to meet Andromeda and take care of Teddy. Then he had to go and sort out with the goblins. Then came the training. And then the rest. He first recharged the ward through the ward stone. Now, the Potter Manor again became a fortress. Now that he thought about it, his mind felt very clear, and he could feel the vast amount of magic under his skin. The rest has healed his magical core to the full. He kept pumping magic until he was half drained. The wards became visible. He could feel the safety that animals felt through the bond. He then removed every name from the floo ledger. Only his name was there. He decided he would manage it later on. Currently, he needs to perform his duties as a godfather.

Harry apparated in front of a home in England in a London muggle neighbourhood. He knew this was Tonks residence. He rang the bell but did not get a response for about five minutes. He kept ringing the bell. He was about to enter alone when the door revealed a hazard-looking Andromeda Tonks nee Black. He could see her gaze looking at him, but it was vacant. 

The death of her child and husband had devastated Andromeda, and she did not know what to do or how to help Teddy when she could not do anything but cry. She had cared for Teddy for a day, but she felt a hopeless claw in her heart. As she was thinking this, the doorbell rang. She did not want to open the door. She just wanted to be left alone. The doorbell continued to ring for five minutes, and she had enough. She opened the door with her wand clutched behind her back to find none other than Harry Potter, and her wand loosened from her hand. She could only look back at him and get lost in thought of her Dora. The child she lost to this war. She was brought back to the present with a hug and assurances that it would be alright. She did not know about it, but for now, it was enough. The floodgates opened, and she began to cry on his shoulder. For her son-in-law, her daughter, her husband, and the child in the hall who was an orphan now. But she also felt hope when Harry told her to pack everything after she had cried, that they would live with him. Harry was her grandson's godfather. She could only agree to that request. She could hardly believe that while she was grieving, this young man who had lost everything came to help her, and he was just 17 and ready to take care of her godson. Maybe they will be really alright.

Harry followed Andromeda to the main hall and found a sight that made his heart tighten in his chest. He saw a child in a crib looking directly into his eyes. The child's eyes were red from crying, as though he knew something was wrong. Harry approached him and picked him up at Andi's urging. He slowly and fearfully picked up and looked into the eyes of the child and felt something settle inside his heart. Harry melted at the toddler's smile, who looked at the new person with curiosity. He felt very safe and happy in this new person's arms. Harry knew then that he would burn the world to keep a smile on this child. He smiled back at his godson, who grabbed his nose as a new toy to play with. Harry looked back at Andromeda and became red as she looked fondly at him with Teddy.

After that, Harry helped Andi pack, and that evening, they left and went to Potter Manor. The elves were very happy to have a baby to take care of. Andromeda was told everything about what happened and Harry's child. She became furious, and her Black temper showed; she secretly vowed to destroy the Weasleys, especially the Ginevra and Granger families. She could see that the war hero was barely holding himself but still trying to give her and her godson whatever was left of him. She was angry at the Wizarding world for placing expectations on a teenager to fight a war and defeat the most powerful dark wizard. She was furious at Weasleys and Granger for breaking a person with such a beautiful soul. She also vowed to protect with everything she had. She will make sure that Harry would know love. He was her daughter's age, already like a son, as he cared for her grandson. She would protect them both.

"So what next, Harry" Andromeda asked in a curious tone. She also started planning revenge against Weasleys and Granger. 

"Next, I meet the Goblins, clear the air, and look at my investments. Also, I would like to blood-adopt Teddy as I don't want the world to discriminate against him for being a werewolf's son. Then we begin my training to become strong enough to protect you both," Harry said in a questioning tone. Andromeda agreed. She gave him a fond look. Andromeda was thinking about how a person could be this good. Who stood against the world, took everything they threw at him, and protected them after everything. She knew that Teddy would grow nicely with Harry helping her. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: Training, Goblins, Beginning of Revenge

30th May 2008
It had been almost a month since Harry took Teddy and Andromeda. The last four weeks have gone into a whirlwind of activities. With the help of Andromeda, Harry slowly but steadily starts building himself up to be capable of taking care of Teddy. It has been challenging. Sometimes Andromeda went into a state of grief that was hard to get over; sometimes Harry had nightmares of death or being tied again and not being able to do anything. But throughout it all, they grieved together, helped each other, and slowly and steadily became a family. Andromeda had met James and Lily; it had been a tearful reunion. James was Andromeda's favourite cousin, and Lily was one of her best friends. Harry often woke up screaming, but Andromeda was there to help him through it. She had become very maternal throughout the stay. Together, they took care of Teddy and each other.

Apart from grieving, two crucial events took place. Harry had asked Kreacher and Fawkes to get Tonks and Remus' bodies, and they had been laid to rest in Godric Hollow. There was just a simple ceremony with just Andromeda, Teddy, and Harry. Harry had done the right thing by considering Tonks, his sister, and Remus, his last link to his parents. Even if Remus was not that close to Harry, Harry still felt that he would be happy to be cremated beside James and Lily. Harry had also created a resting place for Sirius. Harry and Andromeda conducted the whole thing privately, silent tears streaming down their faces and Teddy crying throughout it all.

The second significant event was the confirmation of the fetus inside Harry's body and Harry's body changing internally to accommodate the pregnancy process. It was a good thing Andromeda was a media witch, and they did not need to call anyone. Harry had become nervous many times, but Andromeda assured him that Wizards gave birth in the wizarding world, as the same-sex relationship was not frowned upon in the Wizarding world but was very ordinary.

Throughout the last four weeks, Harry has started training because he does not want to rely on luck. He was sure he could defeat most wizards in a single, two-on-one or, even worse, oddly, favoured combat. Still, he did not want to leave Teddy defenceless if the government started attacking or discriminating against children of werewolves or other dark creatures. He will not allow anyone to hurt Teddy. Harry did not trust the wizarding government. The wizarding world one day hailed him as a hero; the next, they hailed them as a dark lord. He would not trust anyone, no matter who was in the position of authority.

Harry suspected either Amelia Bones or Kingsley Shacklebolt would be the minister, and the Greengrass wanted to grab power. Contrary to what people thought, he did not consider Amelia Bones an honest official. If she had been honest, she would have gotten Sirius a trial and would not have let him rot in a cell in Azkaban. She was the head of DMLE when Sirius was put in Azkaban without trial and even twelve years after that. From what Harry could think, she was just like the rest of them, who did not want to risk her neck to save someone, even if it was her responsibility as the head of DMLE to do so. He respected Kingsley, but He would have to see how he performed or even if he became the minister, as the current Interim Minister of Magic was Amelia Bones.

For Harry, the last four weeks had been very tiring but rewarding. He had started training. For the first two weeks, he revised every book he could find upto ICW NEWTs curriculum, which was more challenging than Hogwarts level as it had deteriorated during Dumbledore's time. He was surprisingly able to remember everything he read, train very extensively, and quickly master the spell the first or second time. He was already done with the syllabus for the wanded subject, except Ancient Runes and Arithmacy, where he was done upto 6th year level. He also learned everything about Potions and started reading about Alchemy. Surprisingly, he was also very good with Dark Arts and could do NEWT-LEVEL studies.

Harry was furious when he tried to understand Occumulency. Occumulency was a very forbidden art. It was only practised cautiously because anything wrong can mess up your brain. There were six levels of occumulency. Level one was arranging your memories. Level two was detecting probes. Level three was created shields on your memories, which would also give you an eidetic memory. Level four was creating your mindscape, giving you access to your magical core. Level five was connecting and completing the protection of your mindscape, and it would connect your magical core to your mind. You can become an animagus at this level. Level six was complete mastery over your mind, allowing the wielder to bend magic to their will. There were only three level six Occumulens in the last century: Grindelwald, Dumbledore, and Voldemort. There were some level-five Occumulens. Both these levels were challenging, but some powerful wizards could do level five. Only the magical Titans have been able to master level six to date. Harry also discovers that Snape is not teaching Occumulency but is breaking his natural barriers. Andromeda was furious when she found that Snape was mind-raping him. Harry started building his natural defences and could go up to level 3 of occumulency with the help of natural Occumulency shields.

Harry planned to take his NEWTs in the first week of July and apply for multiple Guilds after that result. He planned to complete the mastery before the end of the year. The simple reason for this was to become the most skilled wizard, as he was sure that he was a magical titan from what he had read. He defeated Voldemort twice in the battle of wills, which means Harry has more raw power than Voldemort. He was sure that after magical maturity if he had become skilled enough, he could have quickly taken on Voldemort with that amount of preparation. He also knew Vultures would soon try to swoop in and disrupt his family. Harry vowed that he would not allow it.

Throughout the last two weeks, Harry has started his journey towards potion mastery with the help of Andromeda, who was a potion mistress. To gain a potion mastery, one has to either gain an apprenticeship with a master. They can sponsor you, and you publish your invention with them as a co-writer, and if the Guild Masters agree, you get a master title. Then you send it, or you have to go separately to the respective Guilds and present your projects in front of a panel of the topmost magic practitioners in that field. Andromeda also taught him about wizarding traditions and culture. He had been able to bridge that gap in his education. Andromeda was a hard taskmaster, but she was also patient with him, so he was able to understand everything in this domain quickly.

At the same time, Harry completed his high school classes last week. Now, he wished to enrol in college courses and learn to survive. Harry quickly noted that while the wizarding world was quite happy to be in the dark ages, the muggle world had reached new heights in technology and could now rival magic. Muggles have also become quite dangerous with their advanced weaponry, and recent developments such as advanced satellites and cameras are threatening the exposure of the Wizarding World. Harry planned to study Muggle technology extensively and take countermeasures to protect the wizarding world. The reason for this is that Harry realised that no matter what anyone thinks of him, he has always been a warrior and protector. So, he will do what he does best. He will become the protector but will not be anyone's puppet.

30th May 2008, Diagon Ally

The atmosphere in Diagon Ally was light and happy. The reason was that people were still celebrating the defeat of Dark Lord Voldemort and the victory of Harry Potter. Finally, everybody could get out of their home. Finally, everybody could freely roam around after almost three years of fear. People were drinking, screaming, and enjoying their freedom when the reason for their victory appeared in front of Gringotts in the alley.

Stunned silence greeted Harry as he apparated to Diagon Alley. Then the cheering started. People started coming around to shake his hand or pat him on his back. Earlier, he would have shied from this attention. Now he has decided to embrace it, so he just nodded and smiled at them. People were looking at the toddler with interest. Harry held a hand to stop the sound, and the entire place became quiet.

"Hello, I know you want to know where I was, what I was doing after the final battle; the answer is simple, something happened after the final battle; some people who I thought were family betrayed me; I am still recovering from the duel with Tom, Thank you," Harry said while smiling at them. He went inside Gringotts, leaving the people shocked behind him. People were shocked as they guessed that Weasleys betrayed Harry Potter, and they started getting angry because of that. Especially Rita Skeeter. She had a poisonous quill, but she had seen the sacrifices Potter made for everyone, so she would not write anything wrong about him unless it was true. Then, it was fair game. But she had to find out what happened first.

Gringotts

Harry entered Gringotts, which had been completely repaired. Just as he entered, he was surrounded by twenty surrounding goblins.
"Why have you come here, wizard? How dare you come here after robbing us?" One goblin snarled just as hundreds of goblins entered and surrounded him. Just as he was about to speak, the goblins parted, and a regal-looking goblin entered. He had a crown on his head, surrounded by around thirteen goblin warriors.

"I came to make amends and tell you the whole truth about the invasion. You don't have the full story." Harry said firmly while looking at the regal goblin.
"I am Ragnok, the current King of Goblin nation. And can you tell us what information you have that you thought robbing this place was a good idea? I doubt you can say anything that can absolve your guilt." Ragnok snarled, but he was at least more composed than the others. Harry was becoming angry. By now, the whole bank only had goblins, and every wizard had left the premises.
"Are you sure about that?" Harry said, and while he started projecting his aura, the bank trembled. He was not even at half of his power. The warriors became afraid, and the King's stance became firmer as he eyed Harry critically. Then, the King panicked as the bank trembled from the young man's anger. The King was sure that there was no reason important enough to rob the goblins. But the man in front of him was determined and angry. And he was sure that he would at least lose more than half of the goblins here if he tried to fight. So, he decided to take a calming approach. He was about to tell his warriors to stand down when the man in front of him started explaining, and the King's warrior blood ran cold at the first word.
"Horcrux", Harry said with a deathly intent, which made every goblin warrior tremble and sent a chill down their spine. They were a warrior race, but even they could feel the power of death attached to this man. Maybe they had been hasty. All of them were shocked at the cursed word uttered in front of them.

"Lord Voldemort had a horcrux in this bank, Lord Ragnok. Do you support the idea that people should be allowed to house a Horcrux here? Then I will tell every wizarding folk to take their money to the gnomes in Switzerland. I only took Hufflepuff's cup from the Lestrange vault, which was a Horcrux; you can check." Harry said, still in the same voice. Harry was pissed because he came here as a form of honour, not as an act of subservience. He would never bow to anyone, and he would not be manipulated by anyone.
Meanwhile, the goblin king was shocked to hear this. A fucking horcrux. There was a Horcrux in the bank, and he had no idea. He became furious and called the Lestrange account manager. After talking to him, he finds that the only thing taken is the cup, and the young Potter tells them the truth. Merlin and Morgana almost lost their most important client.

"I am sorry, Lord Potter, we did not know that there was a Horcrux in the bank. You can be sure that precautions will be taken to prevent this from happening again. I apologise for the mistakes made during your arrival. You are pardoned of any crimes. Come, let's talk in our office." Ragnok said, still in shock, that a Horcrux was in his bank.

After that, the bank resumed its activity, and Harry was taken to Ragnok's cabin, where he took the inheritance test. The results were quite shocking, to say the least, and Ragnok cursed again after seeing this.
Inheritance Test
Name: Hadrian James Potter
Father: James Charlus Potter(dead)
Mother: Lily Anne Potter(dead)
Godfather: Sirius Black(dead)
Godmother: Alice Longbottom(dead)
Lordships:
Potter Family(by father's lineage)
Black Family(by Godfather's Will)
Peverall Family(by father's lineage)
Gryffindor Family(by father's lineage)
Ravenclaw Family(by father's lineage)
Slytherin Family(right to conquest):Defeated Voldemort 3 times
Hufflepuff Family(by mother's lineage)
Emrys Family(magical heir)
Lefay Family(magical heir)
Skills and Abilities:
Metamorphmagus
Animagus
Mage sight
Shapeshifter(Female name: Holly Lily Potter)(SUBMISSIVE)
Parseltongue/Parselmagic
Affinities
Elemental Magic: Fire, water, ice, air
Transfiguration
Charms
DADAl
Potions
Dark Arts
Warding
Spell crafting
Core: Dark Gold
Occumulency
Legimilency

Monies:
Potter Trust Vault: 1 million galleons(10 thousand galleons added yearly after initial deposition), parents' books, wands, heirlooms, books, and journals.
Potter Family Vault: 700 million galleons, heirlooms, books
Black Family Vault: 500 million galleons, heirlooms, books
Peverall Family Vault: 35 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Gryffindor Family Vault: 10 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Ravenclaw Family Vault: 6.5 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Slytherin Family Vault: 8 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Hufflepuff Family Vault: 7 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Emrys Family Vault: 18 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Lefay Family Vault: 16 billion galleons, heirlooms, books
Properties: 10 castles, 32 vacation homes, 20 cottages, Hogsmeade Village Land, Hogwarts.
Stocks:
24% Stark Industries, 35% Flourish and Botts, 23% Frost Industries, 40% Honeydukes, 39% Daily Prophet, 10% Oscorp, 12% Zonkos, 33% Weasley wizards Wheezes.
Transactions:
Potter Vault:
Potter Grimoire: by Hermione Granger(since 2001)
Invisibility Cloak: by Albus Dumbledore(since 1991)
500 galleons/ month: Weasley Family Vault(since 2001)
200 galleons/month: Hermione Granger Vault(since 2001)
1 million gallons/month: Albus Dumbledore Vault(since 1991)

Harry was shocked to see his wealth. He grew furious when looking at the end. How dare they steal from him. His grimoire. He will destroy them.

"I would like to take my lordship rings, and I want you to call everything taken from my vault without my permission since November 1991," Harry told Ragnok, who was still shocked at the theft he had seen on the test. He then called everything back.
"I, Harry James Potter, curse Hermione Granger Weasley to lose all the knowledge of Potter Family magic, be it anywhere written, spoken, or anyway, to preserve the knowledge." Harry snarled in anger and then grinned viciously a goblin smile.

"Why don't you take all the money from Weasley vault and everything from the Grangers except their main residence as compensation for a break," Harry said with a vicious smile. Ragnok eyes gleamed with viciousness, and he grinned, which would have disturbed anyone.

"Of course, Lord Potter, you are a goblin friend from today. Not only do you think like a goblin, but you also destroyed an abomination like a Horcrux from our bank. You are worthy to be a goblin friend." Ragnok said with a grin at Harry's shocked face, which then broke into a grin.

Harry apparated after claiming his lordships and taking the wristband band, representing a goblin friend. He was shocked by the offer but was very happy at becoming the first goblin friend after Godric Gryffindor. Harry left for home. He told Andromeda, who was angry at the betrayal and then in stitches when she saw what Harry had done for revenge. Harry then went to his bedroom and went to sleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Return, Politics, An Unforgettable Meeting, NEWTs and Results

The 15th of July 2008, California, USA

The Potter-Black family left for America on the 15th of July via muggle means as they wanted to remain undetected. Harry was pleased with the anonymity that he got in the muggle world. Ever since the day in Diagon Alley, where people crowded him, he stopped going into the wizarding world. They had planned to stay for -five days in America, where Harry would take his exams at the ICW headquarters.

Harry was taking nineteen exams, including all the Hogwarts subjects except Divination. Contrary to what people believed, Harry found out that he could attempt NEWTs in any subject he wanted and if he performed better, his OWLs would also be replaced with the grades he got if he did an ICW-level NEWT. Harry's schedule was fully packed for the five days. 

The 16th of July, Monday: Transfiguration, Politics, Herbology, Magical Creatures

The 17th of July, Tuesday: Charms, Astronomy, Defence, Ancient Runes

The 18th of July, Wednesday: Dark Arts, Arithmancy, Flying, Languages

The 19th of July, Thursday: Ancient Studies, Duelling, Muggle Studies, Mind Arts

The 20th of July, Friday: Potions, Alchemy, History of Magic

They boarded the flight on the 14th of July and reached California on the 15th of July. Harry had paid extra to keep his name and privacy. The examiners will only know who he was once he finished the exams. He had to sign a contract stating that there was no malicious intent and that he was not cheating on the exam. Apparently, they took this very seriously since Grindelwald set MACUSA on fire in 1901. Huh, who knew, Harry thought wryly.

The following five days could not quite go fast enough for Harry. He was thoroughly tired every evening. But still, he took care of his blood-adopted son, Teddy. The reason for taking the NEWT as soon as possible was that Harry did not want to take the exam during his pregnancy. He wanted to keep the news of his pregnancy as quiet as possible. The reason for this was twofold; Harry wanted to protect his child from his enemies. Harry knew he was vulnerable right now because he could not fight properly, and it could damage the child growing inside him. Another reason was Harry did not want the Weasleys to know. He wanted them to live in ignorance. So, that's why Harry went everywhere in glamour except the muggle world. 

On the last day of the trip, Harry planned to go to the bar for the Stark Industry Gala. Andi and Teddy were relaxing in the hotel for the day, but Harry had to meet the head of Stark Industries, Toni Stark. Harry had started studying for his mundane classes, as he planned to attend university after the child's birth, and had come to know a lot about the Toni Stark. From what Harry understood, she was a bit of a freak of nature. She was a famous billionaire, playgirl, philanthropist type of girl. The girl had a mountain-sized ego if the famous incident the month before was any indication where she revealed herself as Iron Maiden after her fight with the Iron Monger. 

Harry did not know what happened precisely during the whole thing till about two days later. He was still recovering from the war injuries at that time in mid-June and was not sure what to think. But Harry was impressed with the tech Toni could create with Science. He was amazed and started learning everything he could about technology.

Personally, Harry did not put much stake in tabloid rumours, so he was already expecting to be surprised. Harry also understood the reason for her being revealed as Iron Maiden, even if it was a dangerous thing to do for her safety. He could see that the government intelligence agencies did not want it to be known that she was Iron Maden, so they could put the suit on someone in their organisation. Harry knew how they could have easily manipulated the situation to their advantage. They could have used coercion or blackmail to get the suit and remove her from the equation altogether. So Harry was very impressed with her quick solution and did not go through the whole press conference as a puppet. 

The Man-Who-Conquered was walking towards the Stark Industries building near the Woolworth Building, which opened the portal to MACUSA. Harry was told to enter the ICW embassy building to take exams. He was currently dressed to the tee. Harry was pleased with the recent decision to close the Weapons division of Stark Industries. Currently, he is here to meet the Stark Heiress. 

People in high circles were famous and often knew each other. As Harry entered the hall, his eyes started looking for the women he wanted to meet and discuss stuff with. He was taking in the room when his eyes caught something that made his heart race like nothing before; his feet got stuck where he was, and his mouth stopped working. He was looking at the most beautiful women in the world. She was a tall woman, 5'11, the same height as Harry. She had blood-red lips and the most beautiful blue eyes he had ever seen. Said the woman felt his gaze and met his eyes, and Harry's breath caught in his throat as he felt her stare. He was looking at Toni Stark, and she was gorgeous.

Toni Stark POV's

Toni was bored for half an hour in the gala. She had already met everyone important hundreds of times before. She was avoiding Justin Hammer as much as she could. Pepper was absent as she was on a break for a week after the stressful situation. Toni had already met everybody important, and she was not expecting anyone she didn't know. She was already three shots into forgetting this thing. Just as she drank from her shot, she saw a man staring at her and doing a spit-take. The man who entered was perhaps the most handsome man she had ever seen. He had a black m, which was definitely the hair of a troublemaker, and Toni adores people who are troublemakers. He was lean and well muscled but not in a bodybuilder way, but a swimmer type. He was simply gorgeous in Toni's view. But the most impressive thing about the man was his expressive and beautiful emerald eyes that could look into your soul. Currently, said eyes were looking at her with a shocked expression. And she was sure she was the same. This was interesting, in Toni's opinion. She was a playgirl and would get a piece of that thing today. She smirked and made her way over to him.

"May I know your name, Handsome?" Toni asked suggestively and was gleeful when the man before her blushed. He had taken control of his features when she approached him, and she did not like that. She was Toni Fucking Stark, and she would make sure he was not expressionless in front of her but blushing.

"Harry Potter. Nice to meet you, Miss Stark. I actually came here for you today." The man responded with a smile at her. Toni was glad she could control her features, or she would have swooned when he said he had come for her that day.

"Toni Stark. And you came to meet me especially, have you? What can I do for a beautiful man like you?" Tony asked huskily, and Harry breathed heavily. He looked flustered, and Tony smirked inwardly. This was a win. She wanted Harry completely red. She decided he would look gorgeous, completely red.

"I a-actually am a share holder in Stark Industries, and I wanted you to know that I was thrilled with your decision about not manufacturing weapons anymore. I know that many people are not happy, but I wanted you to know that there are people like me who appreciate what you are doing," Harry stammered in the beginning with a red hue on his neck and cheeks, which Toni found adorable, but he ended the speech with a confident tone in his voice. 

And Toni was, for a single word, shocked. She thought he was one of the kids of the billionaires at first. To find out he was a shareholder with a seat on the board of directors was shocking news to her. She was also very appreciative of the gesture when he said that he liked her decision. She blinked back tears when he said that he appreciated what she did. Nobody had ever told her that everybody only criticised her as though she was a child. When she looked into the eyes of the man, she was once again shocked to see the earnest look in his eyes as though those eyes said, 'Please believe me. I am honest.' It was impossible to ignore.

After that, she and Harry started talking. She wanted to really get to know this man. What she found out was fantastic. He was a great conversationalist. He could match pace with her when talking about technology even though he said he is only a beginner and had only started learning about tech and Science a month ago. She was shocked to hear that someone could keep up with her only after a month of studies. The more she talked with him, the more impressed she became. She got the impression that Harry was a sincere person and a beautiful soul. He was earnest in everything she said and called her bullshit when he thought she was overreacting about something or talking bullshit. 

She was engrossed in the talk with him. They talked about technology, Science, business, politics and many other topics. Tony was once again stunned that this seventeen-year-old was not only able to keep up with her but was able to teach her many things. She also thought Harry had self-esteem issues when he talked with her, as he praised her way more but put himself down. At one time, she had gone angry, and she had seen feat in his eyes and knew she had messed up. She apologised, and they continued talking.

Before they knew it, it was two o'clock at night, and they were still talking. All the guests had almost left. Only a few people were waiting. About halfway there talk, Tony had decided she was going to fuck this beautiful man in front of today. She knew Harry was touch starved and thought of him as a virgin by the way he got flustered on even a little bit of flirting. She considered this a way to defile Harry and take something sacred from the world. The more she touched him, the more flustered and beautifully red he got. She also knew he was hiding something, and he told her he was not allowed to talk about this. She understood. Everybody had secrets.

It was three o'clock, and Toni Stark was a bot of lust and arousal right now. She had decided that it was time to go.

Harry's POV

Harry was pleased right now. He was talking with Toni Stark for about six hours now and didn't even feel it. It was the first time he felt this free. Harry was enjoying this conversation a lot. If he had to describe Tony Stark, he would think of only one word: Passionate. But one word was not enough. She was so beautiful that she could easily rival and win against a hoard of villas. The more they talked, the more Harry understood she was flirting with him, and he flirted back. He felt free. He had the biggest smile of his life on his face. The Stark Heiress offered him a drink, but he refused. He was about to leave when Toni Stark put an arm around his waist and started taking him out. She took him to her car and told him to sit.

Toni's POV

Harry was about to leave when Toni decided enough was enough. She took him by the waist and told him to get in the car.

"Come home with me tonight," She asked huskily and saw Harry shiver at her tone. She smiled outwardly this time and crooked her fingers towards him. He leaned into her finger, and she kissed him. She did not just kiss him, she devoured him. Her lips fell on his, and she started devouring him. She held him by his tie, and her tongue entered his mouth. He tasted good. She ended the kiss and smirked at the lost gaze in his eyes. She started driving, and they reached home. 

While driving, Tony noticed that Harry was dazed for the first few minutes; he grew quiet and started fidgeting. She became curious and worried. She saw in the mirror that Harry was breathing heavily, and tears were leaking from his eyes. She became distraught. The home was just twenty seconds away, so she drove it home first. The moment she stopped driving, she noticed something. Harry was shaking completely now. She saw that his eyes were wide, with a look of fear. He was having a panic attack. It had never happened before. People always loved to spend the night with her. This was the first time something like this had happened. But she did not want Harry to be just a one-night stand. She knew Harry was special the moment she saw him, and the more they talked, the more she learned how special Harry was. She decided to try talking to him about more in the morning.

She knew she had to handle the current situation carefully. She did only what she could think of, as Harry's situation needed to improve with simple talk. She hugged him, and it brought him back. But he was now fully sobbing and saying sorry. She was shocked at this behaviour. 

"Shh, Harry, it's alright. Just tell me what happened? Deep breathes first,"Tony said gently 

Harry started taking deep breaths, and then he was better. Then he started talking, and Tony listened. Harry told her about how he was not a virgin, but he only had one encounter. How Ginny raped him and everything he could of that night without exposing magic. The more Tony heard, the more furious she became. She could not believe it. She was ashamed of how she acted without any facts but told her it was not her fault. Tony wanted to ignore it, but Harry was relentless, and she accepted. She decided she was going to destroy Ginny Weasley anyway but put it off her mind for now. Harry needed her now. Toni told Harry they did not have to do anything he was uncomfortable with. But Harry just told her to be gentle. She smirked at him and told him she would ruin him today and be very gentle.

Harry's POV

Harry was looking at a naked Toni in awe, who was smirking at him. After the talk, they both reached a breaking point, and they started undressing themselves.

"Too much for you, cutie?," Tony asked, smirking, to which Harry just smirked back.

"No, just you are just gorgeous" Harry dropped his pants, and he was now naked in front of Toni, who was the one now drooling. Harry clicked his fingers, and she blushed when she was caught. Her eyes became predatory.

The next three hours went in a moment, and Harry did not think; he just felt. First, Tony touched his cock, and his breathing became heavy. She started stroking him and led him towards the bed like it was a leash. He dropped down next to her, and she started the stalking towards him. If he knew one thing about Toni Stark today, she was dominant. And that's what she did for the next three hours. She dominated him.

She started by stroking his member at a slow and traitorous pace. She used one hand to stroke him and the second to fondle his balls. This continued for fifteen minutes. He was on the edge for the last few minutes but could not find the cliff to cum. She stopped stroking when she saw Harry was on edge. He looked at her in betrayal. She just smirked at him and started moving her hands on his body from head to toe. Her lips met his, entered his mouth, and then her hands wandered. She roamed her hands at his neck, then she made her way to the nipples, and she twisted them. Harry groaned. He did not know that it was an erogenous zone. She then kept one hand on his nipple and pinched it every few seconds, and her other hand moved around his ribs and again reached his cock. She took him in her hand again and started stroking very slowly again, all the while smirking at him.

 Harry knew the truth in her words now. She would ruin him. This continued for some time. After half an hour, when Harry had lost any coherent thought, Tony gave him the release. Harry arched into her hand and came onto his chest and her hand. Toni looked at Harry and sensually drank every drop from his chest and her hand while swallowing it and looking Harry in the eyes.

Harry was hard again, and Tony smirked that mischievous smirk of hers. 

Harry narrowed his eyes at her and flipped them off. Then he started eating Tony out. He put Tony on his lap, her head on his shoulder, her back to his front. He got her seated on his cock. He then bit her earlobe, and Toni shivered. Toni could feel her heartbeat increasing. Toni absolutely loved seeing Harry in his post-orgasm state. He looked lovely like that: needy and satisfied. She decided she would ensure Harry was in that state most of the time. Her thought process came to a halt as Harry's lips claimed her, and he pinched her nipples. He entered her mouth with his tongue and thoroughly snogged her. He then left her mouth and bit on her left nipple while he twisted her right one. She screamed as she came from this. But Harry did not even stop. He fucked her through the orgasm. He then did the same other nipple. He then started eating her out. His tongue entered her pussy, and she started feeling the familiar pleasure of a man eating her out. Then his tongue started vibrating, and she screamed as she came again. This was a big one. She was sure that it went on for at least a minute. She had creamed herself. She took stock of Harry; he was flushed and wet from her juices. 

Tony then turned the tables again and flipped them again. Harry looked at her in shock as she took him directly this time. Harry's member entered her, and she gripped him in a vice with her excellent muscle control. Then Harry found out exactly why Tony Stark was a sex machine. She gripped him, and Harry felt that he was about to cum, but stopped himself somehow. Toni smirked at him as though she knew exactly what was happening in his mind. She again gripped her vaginal muscles and started contracting and relaxing them. Harry's eyes went wide, and he screamed as he came involuntarily and so suddenly that his body was not prepared for it. He came and came and came continuously. His body shook out of control, and Toni had to control him as he lost control and screamed, "Toniiiiiii". Not expecting this reaction, Tony was surprised, but then a grin took over her face, and she came with the thought of what she had just achieved. She had fucked Harry Potter into unconsciousness, and she came and squirted. Midway through her orgasm, Harry started stirring, but she knew they both were done for tonight. So, she held Harry, still shaking him against her chest, where he had slept with her. Toni just smiled and fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: Aftermath and New Bonds

July 21, 2008, California

Harry Potter stirred, wrapped in an unfamiliar warmth. The sleek ceiling of Toni Stark’s Malibu mansion gleamed above, a stark contrast to Potter Manor’s ancient stone. A gentle weight on his shoulder anchored him, and he turned to meet Toni’s electric blue eyes, her smirk teasing yet tender. Memories of the previous night—the gala, their six-hour conversation, her dominant yet gentle touch—flooded back. Unlike the violation he’d endured at Ginny’s hands, Toni made him feel safe, desired, a balm to his wounded soul. His face flushed crimson, and he ducked his head, only for Toni to chuckle and pull him closer.

“Last night was… wow,” Harry stammered, his voice barely a whisper. Her confidence and passion had been a revelation, healing scars he hadn’t dared touch.

“It was the best,” Toni replied, her smile softening as she traced patterns on his palm. “You’re something else, Harry Potter.”

Harry squeezed her hand, his heart swelling. His stomach growled, shattering the moment, and Toni laughed, eyes sparkling. “Hungry, troublemaker? I’d cook, but I’d torch the place. Go whip something up—I’ll join you.”

Harry grinned, sliding out of bed. “Pancakes it is.” He grabbed his snitch-patterned boxers—Andromeda’s gift—blushing under Toni’s appreciative whistle as he headed to the kitchen.

The high-tech kitchen dazzled, all steel and gadgets Harry barely grasped. Opting for muggle cooking, he used wandless Accio for flour and eggs, humming as flour dusted his hair. In his boxers, the mansion’s warmth was a relief after England’s chill. He didn’t hear the front door until a sharp gasp startled him.

“Oh my God!” Pepper Potts stood frozen, her briefcase crashing to the floor. Her tailored suit screamed authority, but her cheeks blazed scarlet as her eyes locked onto Harry’s near-naked form, snitch boxers barely covering him. “Who—who are you, and why are you naked in Toni’s kitchen?” Her voice squeaked, her hand flying to her mouth as she tried—and failed—to look away, her gaze darting to his flour-dusted chest.

Harry yelped, spatula slipping as a pancake soared and stuck to the ceiling with a splat. His wandless magic misfired, sending a bowl of batter wobbling. “I—Harry Potter!” he stammered, grabbing a batter-smeared dish towel, worsening his predicament. “Toni’s friend! I didn’t know anyone was coming!”

Pepper’s flush deepened, her eyes flickering to his shoulders, away, and back. “Harry Potter? The shareholder?” Her voice cracked, betraying her composure. “Toni’s been… um… raving about you. But not about this!” She gestured at his boxers, fanning herself with a shaky hand, her cheeks crimson.

Harry groaned, mortified, his own face flaming. “I was surprising her. Worst idea ever.” He waved a hand to clean the mess, but his magic surged, vanishing the pancake entirely. Pepper’s eyes widened at the shimmer, too flustered to question it.

“S-surprise is… one way to put it,” she stammered, sinking onto a barstool, still fanning herself. “You backed Toni’s weapons shutdown. It meant a lot. Not many… stand by her.” Her eyes lingered on his arms, her blush intensifying as she bit her lip.

Harry, clutching the towel, flipped a pancake, desperate for normalcy. “She’s doing the right thing. I know what it’s like to fight for something bigger.” His voice caught, memories of betrayal surfacing.

Pepper’s gaze softened, her fluster easing into concern. “You’ve got that look—too much pain for someone so young.” She hesitated, her voice gentler. “Toni’s the same, after Afghanistan. She hides it, but she’s hurting. You two… seem good for each other.” Her blush returned as she added, “Even if you’re a kitchen disaster.” Her fingers brushed his as she took a pancake, sending a spark through them both, her eyes widening briefly.

Harry laughed, relaxing. “Sorry for the, uh, show. I’ll cook with clothes on next time.” He grinned, and Pepper’s shy smile hinted at something more.

“Not bad, Potter,” she said, biting the pancake, her composure returning but her cheeks still pink. “Just… warn me next time.”

Toni sauntered in, hair tousled, grin mischievous. “Potter, stealing my assistant?” She slung an arm around Harry, eyeing the flour-dusted chaos. “What did I miss?”

“Just Harry redefining kitchen fashion,” Pepper teased, her blush lingering as she met Harry’s eyes. She whispered to Toni, “He’s a keeper. Don’t screw this up.” Toni grinned, pulling Harry into a kiss that left him breathless, Pepper’s flustered gaze lingering a moment too long.

The farewell came too soon. Harry’s flight to England loomed, and the goodbye was tearful. “Stay in contact, Harry,” Toni said firmly. “We can’t be permanent now—my power struggles, your responsibilities—but I want to try this when the time’s right.”

“I promise,” Harry said, kissing her hair, forehead, then lips, tender and slow. Toni melted into him, feeling cherished. They exchanged phone numbers and emails, Toni threatening to “hunt him down” if he didn’t call. Watching from the doorway, Pepper gave Harry a shy, flustered smile, her earlier spark lingering. As Harry left for the airport, their words echoed: He’s a keeper.

Six weeks later, Harry paced the grand library of Potter Manor, nerves frayed as he awaited his NEWT results. He couldn’t venture out—the wizarding world was chaotic. Rita Skeeter’s exposé, fueled by Kreacher’s leaked memories, had branded Ginny Weasley a manipulator, her false pregnancy claim crumbling as healers found no fetus. The public’s outrage was relentless, painting Harry as a victim and a vigilante. The Ministry, led by Amelia Bones, demanded his testimony about the Gringotts and the Weasleys’ betrayal, his curses on Hermione, and his seizure of their wealth, making him a target. Lord Greengrass’s faction pushed a “Magical Oversight Act” to leash powerful wizards like Harry. At the same time, whispers of a “shadow” group—possibly former Death Eaters—coveting his Potter and Black vaults added danger. His visible pregnancy and Teddy’s safety tethered him to the manor’s wards, any outing risking exposure.

His second trimester brought hormonal surges—cravings for pickles drowned in chocolate syrup drove Andromeda to distraction, and one scolding reduced Harry to tears, only for him to sob again over crying too much. Andromeda, now a mother figure, soothed him, her arms a haven. Teddy, his hair flashing colors, was Harry’s anchor, giggling as they played with the manor’s thestrals and griffins, the creatures nuzzling Harry with uncanny affection, sensing his Emrys blood.

The training was Harry’s sanctuary, a daily ritual in the manor’s duelling chamber where Andromeda, Teddy, and the portraits of James and Lily wove a tapestry of support. Andromeda stood at the chamber’s edge, her wand ready, as Harry cast Vitae Revelio, golden runes shimmering over Teddy, revealing his vibrant health. “Perfect,” Andromeda said, her smile proud. “Now, Sanare Vulnera.” Harry focused, healing a scrape on his arm from a stray spell, the skin knitting seamlessly. Teddy clapped, his hair turning emerald, mimicking Harry’s eyes. 

“You’ll be ready for the birth,” Andromeda said, noting his accelerated pregnancy—four months remained due to the ritual’s magic. She taught Sanguis Restituo, guiding Harry to stabilize blood flow on a conjured dummy, her hand steadying his when his pregnancy made him tremble.

James’s portrait whooped as Harry shifted to Battle Charms, casting Vinculum Animus. 

Animated ropes sprang from his wand, coiling around a conjured dummy, pinning it in seconds. “That’s my boy!” James cheered while Lily’s portrait cautioned, “Focus on precision.” Harry’s next spell, Scutum Flamma, conjured a flaming shield that incinerated a mock Stupefy from Andromeda. However, his breath hitched, his pregnancy sapping stamina. Teddy giggled, toddling closer, his hair flaming red to match the shield, earning a laugh from Harry. 

Battle Transfiguration followed, Harry turning pebbles into animated golems. His first attempt misfired, the golem dancing a jig, sending Teddy into peals of laughter. “Intent, Harry!” James called, grinning. Harry refocused, his next golem deflecting Andromeda’s Expelliarmus with stone fists, its movements fluid. Lily nodded approvingly. “You’re blending creativity and power—perfect for the guilds.”

In quieter moments, Harry honed his Occlumency, his level 4 mindscape a fortified Potter Manor guarded by a stag and phoenix. Lily guided him, her voice steady: “Visualize walls of flame and vines.” Harry repelled a mock intrusion from Andromeda; his mindscape was unshaken, the clarity sharpening his eidetic memory. Teddy, watching, mimicked Harry’s focused expression, his hair flickering silver, making Harry smile.

His phoenix animagus form, emerald and gold, tied to Fawkes, was a work in progress. Harry visualized its flames, managing a short flame travel across the chamber, reappearing in sparks. Andromeda caught him as he swayed, pregnancy limiting his strength. “No transformations until after the birth,” she warned, but her eyes shone with pride. Teddy toddled over, hugging Harry’s leg, his hair gold like the phoenix, grounding Harry in love.

Harry aimed to join the Defence, Dark Arts, Transfiguration, Potions, and Charms guilds by year’s end, self-studying Ancient Runes, Spell Crafting, and Warding for next summer’s NEWTs. The family’s support—Andromeda’s guidance, Teddy’s joy, the portraits’ encouragement—made the gruelling sessions bearable, each spell a step toward protecting his child and Teddy.

A sudden pop interrupted his pacing. An ICW owl dropped a thick envelope sealed with a golden crest. Harry’s hands trembled as he opened it, Andromeda and Teddy watching, the portraits leaning in.

Following are the NEWT results of Hadrian James Potter:

Transfiguration: O++

 Charms: O++ 

Dark Arts: O+ 

Herbology: O 

Care of Magical Creatures: O 

Astronomy: O 

Defence Against the Dark Arts: O++ 

Ancient Runes: O++ 

Arithmancy: O++ 

Flying: O++

Languages: O++ 

Ancient Studies: O++

 Duelling: O++ 

Muggle Studies: O++ 

Mind Arts: O+

 Potions: O++ 

Alchemy: O+ 

History of Magic: O++ 

Politics: O+

Congratulations on achieving 19 NEWTS. O++ marks the highest score ever achieved. O+ marks the highest score in the last 50 years.

Regards,

International Confederation of Wizards

19 NEWTS. Highest score ever in 13 branches of magic. Harry stood stunned as he looked at his results. Andromeda whooped, startling Teddy, whose hair flashed green. “You did amazing, Harry!” she exclaimed, hugging him. James’s portrait roared, “That’s our boy!” while Lily beamed. Harry grinned, pride swelling, though his thoughts drifted to Toni and Pepper, wondering what they’d say about his triumph.

Harry’s seclusion was non-negotiable. Minerva’s coded letter, delivered by Kreacher, detailed the chaos. Skeeter’s article vilified the Weasleys, and the Ministry’s Gringotts investigation branded Harry a rogue lord. Lord Greengrass’s faction pushed the “Magical Oversight Act” to leash his power. At the same time, the “shadow” group—possibly former Death Eaters—coveted his vaults, their motives unclear. His visible pregnancy and Teddy’s safety made outings unthinkable, the manor’s wards his only shield.

Harry crafted a warding scheme, etching goblin runes and Emrys sigils into the manor’s stones, their glow pulsing with intent. Andromeda taught Ossum Reparo for minor fractures, practising on a conjured bone model, her hand guiding Harry’s wand. His phoenix form grew stronger, allowing flame travel across the grounds, though Andromeda limited transformations. Teddy watched, his hair mimicking the flames, clapping as Harry reappeared in sparks.

Harry called Toni, their conversation warm. He hinted at his “unique skills,” promising to show her soon. Toni offered a Stark Industries jet, joking about a “pancake-proof kitchen.” Harry laughed, then called Pepper, whose flustered tone made him smile—she teased about his cooking but asked about his return, the spark lingering.

Watching Teddy play with a toy griffin, Harry felt his unborn child stir. A mysterious owl arrived, its letter unsigned: “The shadow rises. Protect your blood, Heir of Emrys.” Harry’s eyes narrowed. Whoever this was, they knew his heritage—and his vulnerabilities. Clutching his phoenix pendant, he vowed to become the protector his family needed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: Reminiscing and Birth

January 1, 2009, Potter Manor

Holly Potter, now fully embracing her female identity to ease her pregnancy, paced the library of Potter Manor, her swollen belly a constant reminder of her new reality. Confined by Ministry scrutiny over her Gringotts actions—cursing Hermione and seizing the Weasleys’ wealth—and whispers of a “shadow” group targeting her Potter and Black vaults, she couldn’t risk exposure. For two months, she’d forsaken practical training for theory, poring over ancient tomes on Potions, Runes, and Warding. With Andromeda’s guidance, she crafted a cleansing potion to purge all but the rarest poisons, a breakthrough she sent to Horace Slughorn. His reply, brimming with praise, arrived with a guild invitation: “Mister Potter, your innovation is historic. Welcome to the Potions Guild as our youngest Master.” Holly’s heart swelled, Teddy’s clapping and emerald hair mirroring her joy.

In the duelling chamber, Holly delved into theoretical spellcraft, her eidetic memory weaving Charms and Transfiguration matrices. Andromeda conjured parchment diagrams of warding sigils, guiding Holly’s quill as she sketched a rune-enhanced shield. James’s portrait urged, “Blend intent with structure,” while Lily refined her Occlumency mindscape—a fortified manor with stag and phoenix guards. “Your mind’s a fortress,” Lily said. Teddy, scribbling nearby, giggled, his hair flashing gold as Holly theorized a protective ward, its glow pulsing on parchment. Andromeda squeezed her shoulder, their bond a shield in her seclusion. Holly’s phoenix animagus form, untested due to pregnancy, shimmered in visualizations, its emerald flames fueling her resolve to protect Teddy and her unborn child.

Youngest Potions Master

January 1, 2009

Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, has become the youngest Potions Master at 18, the International Potions Guild announced. His revolutionary cleansing potion, purging all but the rarest toxins, earned rapturous acclaim from Master Horace Slughorn, who hailed Potter’s “unmatched brilliance that redefines the art.” Absent from public life amid Ministry scrutiny over his bold Gringotts actions—stripping the Weasley family of wealth and cursing Hermione Granger—Potter’s achievement cements his status as a magical prodigy. “He’s rewritten potion-making’s future,” Slughorn declared, noting the potion’s potential to save countless lives. 

The wizarding world, still reeling from Potter’s unprecedented NEWT triumphs, including thirteen highest-ever scores, buzzes with speculation about his next move. Yet, his whereabouts remain a tantalizing mystery, with Ministry officials pressing for answers and the public clamoring for a glimpse of their elusive hero. Potter’s genius, however, shines undimmed, a beacon of innovation in turbulent times.
—Rita Skeeter, Daily Prophet

The past six months had been a maelstrom. Holly, carrying her child, avoided risks—a daunting task for a Potter. Hormonal surges turned her into a tempest, yelling at Andromeda over misplaced quills, only to collapse in tears, sobbing for her outburst. “I’m a mess,” she’d wail, but Andromeda, a godsend, never wavered, her arms a haven as she whispered, “You’re doing beautifully, love.” Teddy’s giggles, his hair shifting—red for Holly’s anger, blue for her sorrow—grounded her. She clung to them, their support shielding her from Ministry demands and the “shadow” threat, her confinement a sacrifice for her family’s safety.

One frosty morning, Holly read a magical creatures book with Teddy, his hair mimicking her black locks, when a sharp pain gripped her. Warmth flooded her legs, and she gasped, “Andi!” Andromeda rushed in, medi-witch instincts sharp. “It’s time,” she said, guiding Holly to the infirmary. Teddy, hair flashing silver with worry, clung to her hand. “Baby’s coming, Teddy,” Holly whispered, smiling through the pain. Andromeda’s calm voice steadied her as contractions surged, the manor’s wards glowing protectively. Holly gripped Teddy’s tiny hand, fear and hope warring as she braced for the birth.

Andromeda transformed the infirmary, her wand weaving Sterilis Totum to create a sterile field, the air shimmering with cleanliness. Holly lay back, panting, sweat beading on her brow as contractions tightened like a vice. Andromeda cast Vitae Revelio, golden runes flaring over Holly’s belly, confirming the baby’s robust health. “You’re brilliant, Holly,” Andromeda soothed, her voice a lifeline, guiding Holly’s ragged breaths through the searing pain. Holly clung to her words, focusing as Andromeda murmured Sanguis Restituo, stabilizing her blood flow with a warm glow that eased the strain. Minor pelvic strains from the labor’s intensity were mended with Ossum Reparo, Andromeda’s wand tracing precise arcs to knit the bones. Teddy, perched on a cushioned stool, sang a soft lullaby, his voice wobbling but earnest, his hair flashing gold with excitement. The sight of his eager face, mimicking Holly’s determination, dulled her fear, a spark of courage igniting. Hours blurred, pain cresting like a tidal wave, but Andromeda’s steady hands and Teddy’s song anchored her. “Push, love,” Andromeda urged, her eyes fierce with pride. With a final, wrenching effort, Holly pushed, her cry echoing as Andromeda delivered the baby, her wand glowing with Diffindo to sever the cord cleanly. “A boy,” Andromeda announced, tears streaming down her face, her voice thick with emotion as she wrapped the squirming infant in a charmed blanket, its soft glow warming him. She placed him in Holly’s trembling arms, her own hands shaking with joy.

Holly cradled her son, his tiny face scrunched, his emerald eyes—mirror images of hers—blinking up at her. “James Sirius Potter,” she whispered, voice breaking as she honored her father and godfather, their names a vow to carry their legacy. Teddy, clambering closer, his hair shifting to mimic James’s black tufts, touched his brother’s cheek with a chubby finger, giggling as James squirmed. Holly’s tears fell freely, her heart swelling as James’s tiny hand grasped her finger, his grip surprisingly strong. “I’ll protect you, always,” she vowed, her phoenix pendant pulsing warm against her chest, its emerald glow reflecting her resolve. The manor’s creatures—thestrals and griffins—hummed outside, their soft chorus vibrating through the wards, sensing new life. Andromeda knelt beside her, brushing a strand of hair from Holly’s face, her eyes shining with love. Teddy nestled against Holly, his hair flickering between gold and black, a silent promise of brotherhood. In that moment, surrounded by Andromeda’s strength and Teddy’s joy, Holly felt whole, a fierce determination settling in her bones. The “shadow” threat loomed, and Ministry scrutiny pressed closer, but with James in her arms and her family beside her, Holly was ready to face any challenge, her magic and love a shield for her sons.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: Justice and Legacy

February 1, 2009, Potter Manor

Harry Potter stood before the full-length mirror in his chambers at Potter Manor, his wand tracing practiced arcs through the air. A soft, shimmering glow enveloped him, and the curves of Holly—his female form, embraced during pregnancy to ease its toll—faded, replaced by the lean, angular lines of his male body. The transformation felt like coming home, a return to a form that now fit his soul after James’s birth. His emerald eyes, still carrying the fierce maternal instinct, softened as he adjusted his robes, the weight of the past month settling like a warm hearthfire. He was Harry again, comfortable and whole, ready to face the challenges ahead.

In the nursery, sunlight filtered through enchanted windows, casting playful shadows of prancing thestrals across the walls. Harry leaned against the doorframe, his heart swelling at the sight before him. Teddy, his godson, sat cross-legged on a charmed rug, his hair a vibrant swirl of turquoise and black as he cooed at James Sirius Potter, nestled in a cradle woven with protective runes. James, one month old, sucked his thumb with a contented gurgle, his tiny face scrunched in a way that made Harry’s chest ache with love. Teddy, mimicking James’s expression, reached out, gently poking his brother’s cheek, eliciting a soft giggle from the baby. “Hawwy! Jamie’s smilin’!” Teddy chirped, his hair flashing gold with joy, his small hands waving excitedly.

Harry knelt beside them, ruffling Teddy’s hair, his grin wide. “You’re the best big brother, Ted. James is lucky to have you.” Teddy beamed, leaning into Harry’s side, his hair shifting to a soft green that matched Harry’s eyes. The scene was pure, a moment of peace Harry cherished deeply.

The past month had been a tapestry of joy woven with challenges. James’s arrival had transformed Potter Manor into a haven of laughter and warmth, every cry and giggle a reminder of why Harry fought. Sleepless nights rocking James, his tiny hand grasping Harry’s finger, felt like miracles. Teddy’s endless questions—“Why’s Jamie’s hair so fluffy?”—sparked laughter, while Andromeda’s patient guidance through diaper charms and feeding spells anchored them. Her support had been a godsend through Harry’s postpartum haze, when hormones left him teary over a spilled bottle or snapping over a misplaced quill. “You’re a brilliant father, Harry,” she’d soothed, her arms a haven. Teddy and James were the loves of his life, their presence a fire that fueled his resolve to protect them from the Ministry’s scrutiny and the mysterious “shadow” threat.

Harry’s thoughts drifted to Toni Stark, a flush creeping up his neck. Their hours-long phone calls—muggle tech miraculously working despite the manor’s wards—made him feel like a teenager, heart racing at her voice. Toni was a great woman, her sharp wit and fiery passion igniting something deep within him. He was utterly infatuated, her laughter over his clumsy attempts to explain British tea customs lingering in his mind. She knew nothing of his magic, their talks grounded in shared stories of loss and resilience, yet her spark made him feel alive, hopeful for a future where they could be more.

Andromeda’s voice cut through his musings, laced with mischief. “Daydreaming about your American sweetheart again, Harry?” She stood in the doorway, arms crossed, a teasing smirk playing on her lips. Harry flushed deeper, scratching his neck. “Just… thinking about stuff,” he mumbled, but Andromeda chuckled, tossing a charmed rattle to Teddy, who caught it with a giggle.

“Stuff named Toni Stark, I wager,” she teased, her eyes twinkling. “You’re smitten, lad. It’s adorable, but don’t let those puppy eyes distract you from fatherhood.”

Harry groaned, but his smile betrayed him. “She’s… different, Andi. Talks a mile a minute, all fire and ideas. Makes me feel like I’m sixteen again.” He shook his head, laughing softly. “But Teddy and James come first. Always.”

Andromeda nodded, her smirk softening. “Good lad. They’re lucky to have you.”

A sudden pop broke the moment. An owl swooped into the nursery, dropping a rolled Daily Prophet onto the table. Harry unrolled it, his eyes narrowing at the headline: Malfoy Trials Begin Tomorrow: Justice or Vengeance? The article, penned by Rita Skeeter, detailed the Wizengamot trials of Lucius, Draco, and Narcissa Malfoy, set to start February 2, 2009. Amelia Bones, Minister for Magic, had grown ruthless in her prosecution of Death Eaters, her reforms unyielding. The article noted her refusal to distinguish between coerced and willing supporters, painting her as a crusader against dark magic. The neutral bloc, led by Joshua Greengrass, pushed laws like the “Magical Oversight Act” to monitor powerful wizards, citing Harry’s Gringotts actions—cursing Hermione and seizing Weasley wealth—as a cautionary tale. Lucius, backed by influential allies, was rumored to face leniency, while Draco’s youth might spare him. Narcissa’s fate, however, seemed grim, her Black heritage a liability in the eyes of the Ministry.

Harry’s jaw tightened as he handed the paper to Andromeda. “They’re targeting Narcissa hardest,” he said, voice low with anger. “Lucius has his allies, Draco’s young enough to slip through, but Narcissa? She’s alone, Andi. I can’t let her be sacrificed.”

Andromeda scanned the article, her brow furrowing. “Amelia’s playing a brutal game, Harry. She’s out for blood, coerced or not. The Greengrasses are pushing their own agenda—control, not justice. Why risk exposing yourself for the Malfoys?”

Harry paced, his voice steady but fierce. “Narcissa lied to Voldemort, said I was dead. That lie saved me, turned the war. Draco… he hesitated at Hogwarts, couldn’t kill Dumbledore. They’re not Lucius. They’re innocent of the worst, and Narcissa’s a Black—my family by blood. I won’t let them destroy her.”

Andromeda’s eyes softened, but her tone was firm. “You’re still a target, Harry. The Ministry’s watching, and this ‘shadow’ group is circling your vaults. Why go to the trial? You’re a father now—Teddy and James need you safe.”

Harry met her gaze, his resolve unyielding. “Because it’s right, Andi. Narcissa protected me when it mattered. Draco was a kid caught in a war. I’ll use the Invisibility Cloak, a Notice-Me-Not charm. I’ll stay hidden, but I’m going. They deserve a chance.”

Andromeda sighed, placing a hand on his arm. “You’ve got your mother’s heart and your father’s stubbornness. Be careful, Harry. The Wizengamot’s a viper’s nest, and Greengrass is no fool.”

Harry nodded, squeezing her hand. “I’ll be back for Teddy and James. Promise.”

February 2, 2009, Wizengamot Chambers

Harry slipped into the Wizengamot chambers under his Invisibility Cloak, the familiar weight of the fabric grounding him. He cast a Notice-Me-Not charm, its subtle hum rendering him a shadow among the robed figures. The chamber buzzed with tension, the air thick with whispered alliances and the clink of enchanted quills. Amelia Bones presided from the central dais, her face carved from stone, her eyes sharp as she surveyed the crowd. Joshua Greengrass sat among the neutral bloc, his daughter Daphne at his side, their expressions smug as they whispered to allies.

Lucius Malfoy’s trial began first. He entered, silver hair gleaming, his posture regal despite months in hiding. Protected by Greengrass’s neutral bloc, he faced minor charges—possession of dark artifacts, alleged coercion. His allies argued his “reformation,” their voices dripping with rehearsed sincerity. Amelia’s lips thinned, but her verdict was lenient, a political concession. “House arrest, two years,” she declared, her gavel striking like a judge’s final word. Lucius bowed, his smirk a blade to Harry’s temper, but he held his silence, his magic coiled beneath the cloak.

Draco followed, his pale face drawn but composed, his youth a shield bolstered by Greengrass backing. The charges—minor Death Eater involvement—were met with pleas of coercion. Amelia’s tone softened, her verdict almost gentle. “Community service, one year,” she ruled, dismissing him swiftly. Draco’s shoulders sagged with relief, but Harry’s fists clenched under the cloak. The game was clear: Lucius and Draco were pawns of power, spared by Greengrass’s influence for political gain.

Narcissa entered next, and Harry’s heart sank. She was still beautiful, her blonde hair cascading in waves, but her eyes were dull, haunted, her gaunt frame trembling in tattered robes that hung like shrouds. The crowd’s whispers turned cruel, their pity laced with disdain. Amelia’s voice cut through, listing charges: aiding Death Eaters, harboring fugitives. No one spoke for her, the neutral bloc silent, their earlier smugness replaced by cold indifference. Harry saw the truth—Narcissa, a Black, was expendable. With Draco of age, the Black vault, ten times the Malfoy fortune, needed no steward. Joshua Greengrass’s subtle nod to Amelia confirmed it: they’d sacrificed Narcissa to secure Lucius and Draco, cementing their control.

As Amelia raised her gavel, her voice icy—“Narcissa Black Malfoy, sentenced to life in Azkaban”—Harry’s rage erupted. “Enough,” he said, his voice calm but deadly, slicing through the chamber like a curse. Heads whipped around, searching for the source, but the Notice-Me-Not held. Amelia’s eyes blazed, her wand raised. “Who dares interrupt this court?” she demanded, her voice echoing with authority.

Harry stepped forward, shedding his cloak and charm from the Black family seat, its obsidian crest pulsing with ancient magic. Gasps rippled through the chamber, murmurs rising like a tide. “Harry Potter, Lord Black and Potter,” he declared, his voice steady but laced with steel. “A daughter of my house is being misjudged, and I will not allow this injustice to stand.”

Narcissa’s head snapped up, her dull eyes flickering with hope as they met his. “Harry?” she whispered, her voice raw, barely audible over the crowd’s din.

Joshua Greengrass’s smug smile faltered, Daphne’s frown deepening beside him. Amelia’s face twitched, torn between fury and caution. Harry pressed forward, his Occlumency-sharpened mind weaving a defense with precision and passion. “Narcissa Black Malfoy lied to Voldemort on the night of the Battle of Hogwarts,” he began, his voice ringing clear. “She claimed I was dead, risking her life and her son’s to protect me. That lie turned the tide, gave me the chance to defeat him. She acted under duress, her family threatened. Yet you stand here, ready to condemn her while Lucius walks free, shielded by your politics?”

He turned to Greengrass, his gaze piercing. “You’ve orchestrated this, haven’t you? Protecting Lucius and Draco for your own gain, sacrificing Narcissa because she’s a Black, because her vault tempts you. Shame on this Wizengamot for letting wealth and influence twist justice. Narcissa is innocent, and I’ll prove it.”

Narcissa’s voice, weak but steady, broke through. “Harry, you don’t have to do this. I… I accepted my fate long ago.” Her eyes glistened, but she held her head high, a spark of the proud Black heiress returning.

Harry shook his head, his voice softening but firm. “No, Narcissa. You’re family. You saved me, and I won’t let you fall. Not now, not ever.” He faced the chamber again. “I invoke the rights of House Black. As Lord, I demand a fair hearing for my kin. Narcissa acted to protect her son, to protect me. She’s no Death Eater—she’s a mother, a survivor.”

Greengrass rose, his voice oily but strained. “Lord Potter, your display of power proves our point. The Magical Oversight Act is necessary to prevent wizards like you—or Voldemort—from threatening the balance. A committee must regulate such strength, for the safety of all.”

Harry’s eyes flashed, his magic crackling in the air like a storm. “Regulate? You speak of control while shielding snakes like Lucius. If you dare touch Narcissa—or any of my family—I’ll declare a blood feud against House Greengrass. Your vaults, your legacy, will be dust. And you, Minister Bones,” he turned to Amelia, his voice a low growl, “if the Ministry targets my family again, I’ll tear this institution apart. I’ve faced worse than you and won. Test me, and you’ll see what the Boy-Who-Lived can do.”

The chamber fell silent, the weight of his words a physical force. Narcissa’s hand trembled as she reached for him, her voice stronger now. “Harry, you’re risking too much. The Black vault, the Ministry—they’ll never stop. Let me go.”

“No,” Harry said, his voice fierce but tender. “You’re a Black, Narcissa. My family. I protect my own. You saved me, and now I’m saving you. That’s how it works.” He squeezed her hand, his eyes burning with conviction.

Amelia’s face was a mask of fury, but her voice wavered. “You overstep, Potter. But present your case. The Wizengamot will vote.”

Harry launched into a relentless defense, citing Wizengamot law and Narcissa’s actions. “Article Seven of the Black Charter grants a lord the right to defend kin under duress. Narcissa’s lie to Voldemort was an act of courage, not betrayal. She faced death to protect her son, to protect me. You’ve spared Lucius, who served willingly, yet condemn her? Where’s the justice in that?” His voice rose, shaming the neutrals. “You let politics blind you. The Black vault isn’t yours to claim, Greengrass. Try, and you’ll face me.”

Greengrass sputtered, his arguments unraveling. “This is why we need oversight, Potter! Your power threatens us all!”

“My power protects what’s mine,” Harry shot back. “You want a committee? Fine. But harm my family, and no committee will save you.” His voice dropped, deadly. “I swear a blood feud on any who try.”

Narcissa’s voice broke through, soft but clear. “Harry, you’ve given me hope I thought lost. I… I never expected this. Thank you.” Her eyes, no longer dull, shone with gratitude, a tear slipping down her cheek.

Harry nodded, his throat tight. “You’re free, Narcissa. I meant it—family stays together.” He turned to the chamber. “Vote. Now.”

Hands rose, hesitant at first, then in a wave. Narcissa was acquitted, her head lifting as a faint smile broke through her haunted expression. She gripped Harry’s arm, her voice steady. “You’ve saved me, Harry. I’ll never forget this. The Blacks owe you everything.”

“You owe me nothing,” Harry said softly. “Just stay safe. We’re family now.”

Before leaving, Harry faced the chamber, his voice ringing like a bell. “I claim the Black and Potter seats, effective immediately. Cross my family again, and you’ll regret it. That’s a promise.” He swept Narcissa from the room, her arm steady in his, her steps lighter despite her gaunt frame. The crowd parted, fear and awe in their eyes.

Later that Day

Back at Potter Manor, Harry sat with Narcissa in the library, a fire crackling as Andromeda served tea, her eyes wary but warm. Narcissa, wrapped in a charmed blanket, sipped slowly, her gaunt face regaining color. “Harry, you’ve changed everything,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “The ‘shadow’—they’re not just after vaults. They seek power, control, like Voldemort. They’ll come for you, for Teddy, for James.”

Harry nodded, his jaw set. “Let them try. I’ve faced worse. You’re here now, Narcissa. You’re safe, and we’ll fight this together.” He squeezed her hand, feeling the weight of family.

Narcissa’s eyes glistened. “I was wrong about you, Harry. All those years, I saw only a boy. Now… you’re a lord, a protector. I’ll stand with you, teach you the Black ways. We’ll protect our own.”

Andromeda smiled, setting down her cup. “You’ve got the same fire as always, Cissy. Like Harry. This manor’s stronger with you both.” She glanced at Harry. “And your Toni—she’s waiting for a call, I bet. Don’t keep her hanging.”

Harry laughed, his heart lighter despite the threats. His nightly calls with Toni, hours of banter and shared dreams, made him feel alive, like a teenager stealing moments under the stars. She knew nothing of his magic, but her fire matched his own, a promise of something more. With Teddy, James, Andromeda, and now Narcissa by his side, Harry was ready to face the “shadow” and any challenge, his family his unbreakable shield.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: Toni’s Truth

February 3, 2009, Stark Industries Penthouse, Malibu

Toni Stark’s life was a whirlwind, a relentless storm of chaos and creation that spun faster with each passing day. She sat at her workbench in the penthouse lab, the Pacific Ocean glinting beyond the glass walls, a stark contrast to the turmoil within her. The arc reactor in her chest hummed softly, a lifeline and a curse, its blue glow casting shadows across her tools. Once, she’d been blind—arrogant, reckless, drowning in her own brilliance. The world had revolved around her, a playground for the genius billionaire playgirl. But that was before Afghanistan, before the cave, before Yinsen. Now, her purpose burned clearer than ever: to rebuild, to protect, to make things right. Yet the cost was steep, and the scars—both visible and hidden—never let her forget.

The nightmares hadn’t stopped, not even after her return. Every night, they clawed at her, vivid and merciless. She’d wake gasping, the memory of shrapnel tearing through her chest, the searing pain, the cold cave floor. Worse was Yinsen’s face, his calm eyes urging her to live, to not waste her life. He’d died for her, and that weight crushed her more than the arc reactor ever could. She’d see his blood on her hands, hear his final words, and bolt upright, heart pounding, the penthouse’s silence deafening. Vulnerability wasn’t her style—she was Toni Stark, iron-clad and untouchable—but in those dark hours, she was just a woman haunted by what she’d survived.

“Another sleepless night, Miss Stark?” Jarvis’s voice cut through the dim lab, laced with his signature sass but edged with concern. The AI’s interface flickered on her monitor, a swirl of code that somehow felt more human than most people she knew. “Might I suggest chamomile tea? Or, perhaps, a less self-destructive hobby than staring at your own mortality?”

Toni snorted, tossing a wrench onto the bench. “Sassy as ever, Jarv. What’s the score—how many nights have I pulled this week?”

“Four, if we’re counting the ones where you pretended to sleep for my benefit,” Jarvis replied, his tone dry. “My primary directive is to protect you, even from yourself. Shall I lock the lab and force you to bed?”

She smirked, but her heart warmed. Jarvis was her constant, her shield when the world turned vicious. Built to protect, he never wavered, his sarcasm a balm to her frayed nerves. “You’re a glorified nanny, you know that? But don’t stop. I need you, buddy.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere,” Jarvis quipped, but his processors hummed, a silent vow to keep her safe.

Her thoughts drifted to Obadiah Stane, and her stomach twisted. His betrayal had shattered her, a knife to the heart deeper than any shrapnel. He’d been family—Uncle Obie, her father’s friend, her mentor. Yet he’d sold her out, orchestrated her kidnapping, tried to steal her legacy. When she’d faced him in the Iron Monger suit, her fury had been cold, precise, but killing him had left her hollow. She’d felt helpless, not in the fight but in the loss of trust, of the man she’d thought he was. Pepper—sweet, steadfast Pepper—had been her anchor through it all. When Toni had stumbled from the wreckage, broken and shaking, Pepper had held her, whispering, “You’re enough, Toni. You’re enough.” Without her, Toni might’ve drowned in her own guilt.

SHIELD had swooped in like vultures, their polished suits and cryptic smiles hiding their true intent. Phil Coulson’s debrief had been the tipping point, his carefully worded offer of “partnership” reeking of control. Toni wasn’t blind—she knew SHIELD’s game, had known it since she’d hacked her father’s files years ago and learned he was a founder. They wanted her tech, her mind, her suit, all under their leash. But Toni Stark answered to no one, especially not a shadowy outfit playing hero while pulling strings. She’d decided then: her oversight would come from the public, the people she swore to protect, not some secret club her father had helped build. Freedom meant accountability, not chains.

She was stretched thin, though. Pepper and Jarvis were her only allies now. Rhodey, loyal to the military, had pulled back when she’d shut down Stark Industries’ weapons division. His absence stung, but she understood—his world was duty, hers was redemption. The weight of running the company, building the suits, and facing the world alone pressed on her, but Pepper’s steady hand and Jarvis’s sharp wit kept her grounded.

Then there was Harry. Amazing, infuriating, secretive Harry Potter. Meeting him had been a spark in the dark, a chance encounter at a charity gala in New York that pulled her into a world of their own making. The gala was a swirl of glittering chandeliers and hollow small talk, but Harry—unassuming in a tailored suit, green eyes sharp yet warm—had drawn her in like gravity. They’d found a quiet corner, lost in their own universe, oblivious to the crowd’s chatter and clinking glasses. He wasn’t dazzled by her fame or intimidated by her intellect, a rarity that set her heart racing. Instead, he matched her sarcasm with a dry British quip, parried her sass with a sly grin, and met her rapid-fire intellect with a quiet intensity that left her breathless. Their conversation danced from tech to philosophy to the absurdity of gala etiquette, his laughter a melody she hadn’t known she craved.

Harry’s grasp of tech was astonishing for someone with just a month of study, a fact that floored her. He wasn’t on her level—nobody was—but his questions about her arc reactor, AI algorithms, and suit schematics were sharp, thoughtful, revealing a mind hungry to learn. “So, the reactor’s like a self-sustaining energy loop?” he’d asked, leaning closer, his brow furrowed in concentration. She’d nodded, grinning, delighted by his ability to keep up despite his beginner status. “Not bad for a newbie, Potter,” she’d teased, and his shy smile had warmed her in a way she hadn’t felt since Yinsen. He’d admitted he’d started studying tech to understand her world, and that earnestness—his willingness to dive into her domain for her—had cracked something open in her chest.

They’d danced that night, his steps sure despite the gala’s chaos, their banter flowing as they swayed under the starlit ceiling. He’d teased her about her “fancy tech talk,” and she’d fired back about his “posh British charm,” their laughter weaving a bubble around them. She’d been out of her depth, her usual confidence shaken by the depth of her feelings, but every quip, every smile they shared had been magic. She wasn’t Toni Stark, genius billionaire—she was just Toni, alive in his presence, and it had been the best night of her life.

As they’d left the gala, slipping into the backseat of her car, the city lights blurring past, Harry’s demeanor had shifted. His eyes darkened, and in a quiet, halting voice, he’d opened up about Ginny—how she’d forced herself on him, violating his trust in his darkest hour. The confession, raw and vulnerable, had stunned her, his pain cutting through her defenses like a blade. “How could anyone do that to you?” she’d whispered, her voice shaking with fury, her hands clenched as she imagined tracking Ginny down and making her pay. Harry’s quiet, “It’s over now,” hadn’t dulled her anger, but his strength, his willingness to share that wound with her, had steadied her. In that moment, she’d vowed to make the night unforgettable, to outweigh his pain with the joy they’d shared. His vulnerability had mirrored her own, forging a bond she hadn’t expected, and she’d reached for his hand, her touch a promise to protect the light in his eyes.

Their phone calls, though not as frequent as she craved, were a lifeline, hours of banter that made her feel like a teenager sneaking calls past curfew. His voice, soft but steady, was a reminder she wasn’t alone, even when his secrets kept him distant. He’d hinted at a life he couldn’t share, his careful pauses and darting eyes betraying a past he guarded closely. It frustrated her, but it only deepened her curiosity, her need to know him—not out of suspicion, but because she cared, far more than she’d expected. She liked him—loved him, maybe—far more than she was supposed to, and the realization both thrilled and terrified her.

Pepper’s amused chuckle broke her reverie. “Lost in Harry-land again, Toni?” She stood in the lab doorway, arms crossed, her red hair catching the light. Her teasing grin was relentless, but her eyes were warm.

Toni flushed, a rare crack in her armor. “Oh, shut it, Pep. I’m just… thinking strategy. Big picture stuff.”

“Strategy named Harry Potter?” Pepper raised an eyebrow, stepping closer. “You’ve got that look—starry-eyed, blushing like a schoolgirl. It’s cute, but don’t think I’m buying the ‘big picture’ excuse.”

Toni groaned, tossing a rag at her. “You’re the worst. Can’t a girl think without an inquisition?”

Pepper caught the rag, laughing. “Not when you’re this smitten. He’s good for you, Toni. Harry’s a keeper—steady, kind, not dazzled by your fame. Don’t let him slip away.”

Toni’s blush deepened, but she softened, her voice quiet. “He’s… different, Pep. Makes me feel like I’m enough, you know? Not the suit, not the name. Just me.” She looked away, her fingers tracing the arc reactor’s edge. “I don’t know how to do this, but I want to try.”

Pepper’s smile turned gentle, and she squeezed Toni’s shoulder. “Then try. You deserve it, Toni. He’s worth it.”

The moment lingered, warm and grounding, until Toni’s gaze fell on the arc reactor’s glow. A faint unease stirred, a shadow she’d been ignoring. The palladium core—her lifeline—was poisoning her. She’d felt it for weeks, subtle but undeniable: a sluggishness in her blood, a fog creeping into her brain. She’d run diagnostics in secret, Jarvis’s scans confirming her fears. Palladium poisoning, 4% progression, just beginning to taint her system. Her mind, her greatest asset, was under threat, and the clock was ticking. She had to fix this, had to find a way to survive, not just for herself but for Pepper, for Jarvis, for Harry. She was Toni Stark—she didn’t quit, didn’t break. But as she stared at the reactor, her reflection fractured in the glass, she felt the weight of her mortality pressing closer than ever.

“Jarvis,” she said, her voice steady despite the fear. “Pull up the palladium research. We’ve got work to do.”

“Already on it, Miss Stark,” Jarvis replied, his tone sharp but loyal. “And might I suggest a nap afterward? You’re no good to anyone if you collapse.”

Toni smirked, but her heart pounded. She’d fight this, like she’d fought everything else. For her purpose, her family, her future—and maybe, just maybe, for Harry.