chapter 8

Gobrook led me into a smaller, dimly lit room off the main office, the atmosphere filled with an air of formality as well as a hint of excitement on from Gobrook himself. The room itself was lined with shelves of documents, and many items that hold my family crest. The room reminded me that just like Odbert whose family looked after the Black vault for centuries, Gobrooks family must be the same way.

Gobrook, dawning a serious expression, looked at me like he was assessing whether I could handle all this. I guess it's not every day an eleven-year-old tries to hand over an ancient family name like it's a hot potato.

"You've made a significant decision today, Mr. Sayre," Gobrook started, his voice all serious and official. "Restoring Andromeda Tonks to the Black family and stepping away from that legacy is no small matter. You also gain a substantial amount of money and ancient knowledge from the Black library.

I nodded, "Yeah, it was the right thing to do. I'm sure Andromeda will use the power she now has to help out the Muggles in magical society—they sure do need it. While I'm still in my youth, I want to enjoy being a kid at Hogwarts, learning magic, and exploring all that it has to offer. Politics? That can wait for when I graduate."

Gobrook gave me that same unreadable look, but I could tell he was processing what I'd said. "Your priorities are clear, Mr. Sayre. But remember, the world doesn't always wait until we're ready. While you focus on your studies, know that your actions today have set wheels in motion."

"I get that," I replied, my tone a bit more serious. "But right now, I'm more interested in mastering every spell I can get my hands on, figuring out how to make potions that won't blow up in my face, and maybe finding a few secret passages at Hogwarts. I've got plenty of time to worry about all the heavy stuff later."

Gobrook nodded, finally showing the faintest hint of approval. "Ambition and curiosity are traits well-suited to the House of Sayre. However, don't underestimate the power and knowledge you've inherited. There's magic in your vault that could aid you greatly in your studies—if you approach it with care."

The idea of having access to ancient magic, spells that most students would never even dream of, made my heart race with excitement but I quickly calmed myself down. "Don't worry, Gobrook, I'll be careful. I'm definitely going to dive into that library, but I'll be spending my time on the basics for the time being. Who knows what kinds of spells I'll find in there? It'll be better I have at least a solid foundation and knowledge."

A small smile tugged at the corner of Gobrook's mouth. "Indeed. Your enthusiasm is commendable, Mr. Sayre. Just remember, magic is a tool—powerful, yes, but also dangerous if misused. Seek guidance when needed, and don't rush the learning process."

I grinned, feeling more determined than ever. "I'll keep that in mind. But I've got a feeling Hogwarts is going to be the best place to start."

Gobrook's expression returned to its usual, relaxed state as he inclined his head. "Very well, Mr. Sayre. Our business here is concluded. Should you require further assistance, Gringotts and I will always be available."

With our business concluded, I followed Gobrook out of the room, my thoughts still spinning with everything that had just happened. I had a powerful family name, access to an ancient library, and a clear path ahead of me. But for now, all I could think about was getting to Hogwarts and diving into the world of magic. Sure, I had responsibilities, but those could wait until after I'd learned how to levitate a feather or brew a basic potion.

There was also Voldemort, who'd begin to peek his nasty head out at the beginning of the year, reinforcing my decision to focus on school and not play "who's better than who" with the kids at Hogwarts. The Dark Lord was a problem for another time, one I wasn't eager to deal with before I had a few years of magical education under my belt. Honestly, the idea of getting involved in that whole mess sent a shiver down my spine.

I shook off the dark thoughts and focused on the positives. Hogwarts was going to be incredible. A place full of magic, history, and hidden wonders that most kids would only dream about. My plan was simple: lay low, learn everything I could, and avoid any unnecessary drama. Sure, there'd plenty of annoying kids who'd want to show off, but I wasn't going to get sucked into that.

Besides, there was so much to discover that I couldn't afford to get distracted. The thought of secret passages, forbidden spells, and maybe even a few hidden treasures had me grinning like an idiot. Who needed politics when you had all of that? Plus I already have all the money I'd ever need.

Walking through Diagon Alley with my thoughts in the clouds, I arrived back in my room at the Leaky Cauldron and packed all my things. The room had been my temporary home, but now that I was moving in with the Tonks, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement.

It had been getting pretty lonely in my tedious repetition of exercises, reading, and visits to that café.

There wasn't really much to pack. I'd been living out of my trunk this whole time, so all my things were already neatly tucked away. I double-checked to make sure I hadn't left anything behind—just my first-year charms book on the bed. With everything ready, I sat down and opened the book to pass the time.

As I studied the notes, I appreciated how they pushed me to think beyond the basics. It was like having a tutor who challenged me to do better, to see magic not just as a series of spells but as something deeper, more nuanced. Even though I was just getting started, I could already feel the difference in my understanding. It was truly surprising how he thought, even at the young age of eleven.

A soft knock at the door interrupted my reading, there was only one person I was expecting to show up so I called for them.

"Come in," I called, setting the book aside.

The door creaked open, and Andromeda stepped into the room. She looked around briefly before her eyes settled on me.

"Ready to go?" she asked with a small smile, her voice gentle.

I nodded, standing up and grabbing the handle of my trunk. "Yeah, I'm all set."

As I moved towards the door, she reached out and touched my shoulder lightly. "You're sure about this? It's a big change."

"Yeah, I'm sure," I said without a hint of hesitation. "You guys are the only family I believe I can trust right now, and I can't describe how grateful I am that you're allowing me into your home even though you just met me." I finished with a slight bow of gratitude

Andromeda's eyes softened, and she placed a gentle hand on my shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "You're family, Greyson. That's what matters. We'll figure everything out together."

Andromeda and I came to a calm silence, for it to be immediately interrupted by Ted.

"Now with all the awkwardness out of the way let's get going. I want to get this young man moved in so we have the rest of the day to get to know one another."

With an energized grin, Ted walked over and place a hand on both Andromeda and my shoulders, his enthusiasm infectious. Andromeda smiled, giving me a nod as if to say, let the adventure begin. I tried to match the grin but I knew exactly what was going to happen. I prepared my stomach and nodded.

At my confirmation to go, the same nauseous feeling of being squeez took me away with the Tonks.

Feeling the beautiful ground below me feet again, I open my eyes to the sight of a The Tonks' house before me, it was a charming two story home with its ivy-clad walls and colorful garden with all kinds of vegetables. Andromeda offered Greyson a reassuring smile as they stepped onto the cobblestone path leading to the front door.

"Welcome home, Greyson," she said warmly, her voice infused with a mix of pride and kindness.

Ted, ever the energetic host, clapped his hands together. "Let's go in. I think you'll find the inside even more to your liking."

As they entered the house, I was enveloped by a sense of warmth and the faint smell of something delicious cooking. It was a far cry from the stark and cold shed at the orphanage, and every detail, from the cozy throws on the couches to the family photos on the mantle, told its own story.

Reaching the top, Ted swung open a door to reveal a cozy room painted in warm hues, with a window that offered a view of the garden below. "This will be your space, Greyson," Ted announced, gesturing expansively. "We hope you'll find it comfortable."

The room was more than comfortable. A bed with neatly arranged pillows and a quilt that seemed to invite rest and dreams, a sturdy desk with an empty shelf above it waiting to be filled with books I'm sure to bring back.

I set my bag down, still looking around the room. "It's perfect, really," I said, turning to them with genuine appreciation. "Thank you both so much."

"And later," Ted continued with a wink, "we'll have a little welcome dinner. Andi's been preparing some of her specialty."

Andromeda chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Let's just say we want your first day to be memorable."

With that they walked out of the room to finish with the dinner, giving me room to unpack my small amount of things.

This is truly going to be a wonderful life.

(Next chapter will be the start of school. I'll be setting up a small summary of the two month time skip)