Chapter 1

Lily Potter was the youngest of three, and only girl of the famous Harry James Potter and his wife, Ginerva (Ginny) Weasley. Lily was the only one of the three Potter children to get their father's green eyes. She also inherited the trademark Weasley red hair from her mother, however her father remarked a few times that she gets it from both sides of the family as her Grandmother Potter was also a redhead. Her oldest brother, James Sirius was 15 years old and starting his fifth year at Hogwarts, looked like their father in every way, except the eyes which he got from their mother which were brown. Her other brother, Albus Severus was going to be 13 in August and going to be starting his third year at Hogwarts, looked like both parents. He got his fathers black hair, but their mother's eyes along with other features were from both parents.

On June 30, a letter arrived at the Potter household for Lily. Harry knew it was a little early for Hogwarts and he didn't recognize the seal. Lily opened the letter and red:

Dear Ms. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted into Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry of North America.

Please find an enclosed booklist of the required texts along with the other necessities.

We await your response no later than July 31, as term starts this year on August 17. Your bus leaves New York Port Authority Bus Station at 9 am on August 17 on the dot via Peter Pan Eastern Seaboard Line. Enclosed you will also find your bus ticket which you will present to the bus driver so that you get on the right bus at the bus termeinal. Please note, you will be riding bus number 1. The number corresponds with your year that you are in at Ilvermorny. Only your fellow year mates will be on the bus with you along with the bus driver, except for your first year. This will be explained at the bus terminal.

Sincrely,

Professor Sara Allen

Headmistress and Transfiguration Teacher

Lily looked perplexed. Why was a North American school wanting her? Her parents always expected her to go to Hogwarts like the rest of the family.

Harry said, "Ginny, have you heard of this school?"

Ginny said, "I think so, but not sure."

Harry said, "Let's do some research, but I would also like to invite a school representative over so we can learn more about the school. What do you think, Lily?"
Lily said, "I think that is the best way, as long as we can afford me going abroad if I decide to."

Harry said, "Your covered."
Harry never liked to let on to his kids that they had a substantial amount of money. It was their safeguard in case something ever happened to him and Ginny couldn't find work for a while.

A few days later, Lily, James, and Albus got their letters from Hogwarts. James' letter included a surprise. He was made a prefect and the Captain of the Griffindor Quidditch team. Everyone was happy for him.

A little bit later, they were enjoying watching Harry play chess against Albus when a knock came at the door. Harry got up to answer and said, "Professor McGonagall, what a pleasant surprise."

Professor McGonagall said, "Nice to see you too Harry. I've come to ask you a favor on school matters."

Harry led Professor McGonagall into the kitchen where everyone was seated. He said, "Sure, what can I do for you?"

Minerva said, "Well, we got our list of first years this year and on it not only were two names that you are familiar with, Ms. Lily and Mr. Hugo, but someone else that you know very well."

Ginny said, "Who, Minerva?"

Minerva said, "Rose Dursley."

Harry said, "I've suspected she might be a witch, with all that Dudley has told me about unusual things she has done in the past couple of years."

Minerva said, "You would only know, Mr. Potter. I would like you to accompany me to the Dursley household to relay the message of what she is, and what it means."

Harry said, "Dudley and his wife, Nancy would probably be happy, as Dudley can relate to me now, as for his parents..We all know that they were like when I was growing up with them."

Minerva nodded. She said, "Does that mean you will accompany me?"

Harry said, "Of course. Just let me change into some muggle clothes and grab a jacket."

Minerva nodded.

Trinity, their house-elf, came up and asked to take Minerva's coat.

Minerva said, "No, thank you Trinity. I'm not staying long. Oh, by the way James, there are a lot of things expected of you this year. I hope you will live up to those expectations."

James said, "Of course, Professor."

Harry and Minerva soon left.

After they left, Lily said, "Imagine Rose going to school with us! That would be so wonderful!"
Ginny said, "That would be. It also depends on Dudley's reaction and how much he accepts that Rose is who she is. I remember when Harry came over to the house every summer after he and Ron became friends. He was always wearing Dudley's hand me downs and was very skinny."
James said, "But Father and Dudley have made up, haven't they?"
Ginny said, "As much as they can, after all the years Harry had to put up with Dudley."

Professor McGonagall and Harry apparated to Little Whinging. Dudley never strayed too far from home even after he married Nancy, much to Nancy's chagrin. Petunia Dursley was a meddlesome fool in their lives. The Dursley's had returned to Surrey after being released to return home. Harry had gone over and helped them rebuild as 4 Private Drive had been attacked by Death Eaters during the time that Harry was out trying to destroy the horcruxes.

Harry said, "Let me knock, Minerva. I'll introduce you after we're inside."

Minerva nodded. Noting that Harry rarely called her Minerva, even after she had asked him to on numerous occasions. Guess old habits die hard.

Harry knocked three times.

Rose Dursley answered, and said, "Uncle Harry! Is Lily with you?"

Rose and Lily were close. Only being about 5 months apart in age.

Harry said, "No, I need to speak to your father and mother, Rose. Are they in?"

Rose said, "Yep. Daddy took the day off from the firm. Please come in. I'll let them know you are here."

Harry smiled. Dudley had taken up a position with his father at the drill company that he had worked for when Harry was growing up. Harry beckoned for Minerva to follow him, as Rose hadn't noticed her.

Dudley came into the hallway and said, "Cousin Harry, how are you?"

Harry said, "I'm good. This is Minerva McGonagall, Dudley. We would like a word with you and Nancy about Rose, with Rose present of course."
Dudley looked over Minerva for a second and came to realize one thing. That their lives were about to be changed forever. Dudley said, "I'll go and get Nancy and Rose. Should I ask Jasmine and Ivy?"

Harry looked to Minerva.

Minerva said, "I would like to just discuss it with the three of you first."

Dudley, Nancy, and Rose settled into the parlour with Harry and Minerva.

Minerva said, "My name is Professor Minerva McGonagall. I'm a teacher. I teach at a very special school called Hogwarts. I've come to offer Rose a place at our school."

Dudley groaned a bit. Nancy looked at him.

Harry said, "Dudley, I trust you haven't told Nancy about my secret?"

Dudley shook his head. Dudley said, "You told me that only people closest to you could know, but I got a feeling that Rose is what you are."

Professor McGonagall said, "Yes, Dudley. Rose is a witch. I've come to offer her a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

Nancy looked like she was about to faint. She said, "Magic's real?"

Rose looked stunned also, but a bit more relaxed. She said, "I can do magic?"

Harry said, "Yes, Rose. Your father has been telling me of what we call accidental magic which happens when you get upset or angry. Don't feel bad about it. Happened to me a lot when I was even younger than you."

Dudley said, "Oh, isn't that the truth."

Minerva said, "Mrs. Dursley, there are witches and wizards throughout the world. We are hidden and only those we deem prudent enough to know about us are told our secret. Mostly those who like Rose come from non-magical families, or as we call them muggles."

Rose said, "Is it a bad thing to come from a muggle family?"

Harry burst out laughing. He said, "No, Rose. My own mother, your father's aunt, came just like you did, and she was the brightest witch of her age, and my own best friend, is a muggle-born just like you and she too was a very bright and talented witch, which I am very grateful for."

Rose turned to her parents and said, "Can I go?"

Dudley said, "How much does it cost?"

Harry told him the cost, but said that he would be willing to help if needed. He remembered shortly after the war going to Gringotts to claim the potter vault, and finding that he had a great share of businesses to keep replenishing his vault. The only thing he regrets is not visiting his family home, Potter Manor.

Dudley said, "That is quite a bit of money. I don't think even father could have afforded that."

Harry said, "My offer still stands, Dudley. If you wish to wait and see, I can help cover any costs."

Minerva said, "I think my job is done. I shall see you on September 1, Rose. It was a pleasure to meet you all."

Harry soon returned to Grimauld Place and informed the waiting family of Rose's decision and his offer to help pay for her education at Hogwarts. After dinner, they went over their research on Ilvermorny.

Ginny said, "It seems a little bit more on the modern side of things than Hogwarts."

Just then a knock came at the door again.

Harry had James go answer it this time as he, Ginny, and Lily were immersed in their research. James soon returned with an older lady, probably abou the age of Grandma Molly Weasley. The lady had the appearance of not much knowledge of muggle clothing. She was wearing pajama pants with a nice shirt. James and Albus had to leave the room before they busted out laughing. Harry made a mental note to talk to them later.

Trinity appeared to take her traveling cloak and to offer refreshments.

Harry said, "Thank you for coming, Professor…."

The lady stated, "Allen. Thank you for asking me to come to answer any questions you may have."

Harry said, "My name is Harry Potter and this is my wife Ginerva who prefers Ginny. Our daughter, Lily."

Professor Allen said, "It's a pleasure to meet you all. What kind of questions can I answer for you?"

Harry asked, "This is our biggest concern. How did Lily's name end up on your list of prospective students? I know we didn't sign her up. Are you familiar with my story, Professor Allen?"

Professor Allen said, "Even in America, you are famous, Mr. Potter. I understand your concerns. I can assure you that this matter will be investigated thoroughly."

Harry said, "Thank you. Now can you tell us a little bit about Ilvermorny and how studies are done there?"

Professor Allen said, "We have two potions classes. From years 1-4, you are taught the regular stuff, getting harder as it goes on, and then from 5, if after year five you pass and achieve the required OWL mark, and continue on through to year 7, you will be taught more advanced potion making by another professor."

Harry said, "Less work on both professors on lesson plans and less students."

Professor Allen said, "Yes. Our transfiguration classes do not change, however. They stay the same with the professors. We do have a couple of them, but their lessons are the same. Just sometimes we get a big student body come in and they have to split up the classes same goes for Charms. We also have a general studies class where they focus on penmanship, math, and reading. Finally the other class you'll be learning is varying defense classes. In years 1-2, you learn about Dark Creatures and how to identify them and defeat them. Professor Flint also brushes on some of the regular creatures also. In years 3-5, you learn combat skills including how to duel. If you continue on after year 5, you hone your skills and learn more advance stuff."

Harry said, "Nice approach. Do you guys teach how to do non-verbal spells?"

Professor Allen said, "In year 5, they touch on it towards the end and if you continue on into year 6, you will definitely learn more on non-verbal spells."

Lily was dumbstruck.

Harry had a few more questions for Professor Allen, but Lily was lost in thought.

Professor Allen said, "Any questions from Ms. Lily?"

Lily said, "Not at this time Professor."

Professor Allen said, "I look forward to hearing from you. I understand that you will need to discuss this as a family. I need an answer by July 31, as classes begin August 17th."

Harry said, "You will probably have an answer in the next day or two, Professor Allen."

Harry led Professor Allen out.

Ginny was watching Lily. When Harry returned, he sat down beside Ginny, and they both turned to Lily.

Lily said, "That was quite a discussion."

Harry said, "Yes it was. I can tell you this, I wish they did that at Hogwarts."

Lily said, "Its not like that in Hogwarts?"

Harry shook his head. He said, "Nope."

Lily said, "Hmm."

Ginny said, "What are you thinking Lily?"

Lily said, "From what you guys have told me, and what I just heard about Ilvermorny, it seems to me that Ilvermorny is a better school."

Harry said, "Hogwarts probably is just as equally good, but you gotta remember, when your mother and I went there, we had a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher every year. Teaching styles were different. There was no consistency. Things have changed since then. The job is no longer cursed."

Lily giggled. Remembering how her parents said that that job had been cursed by Lord Voldermort when he was denied the position before becoming as powerful as he was.

Harry said, "So what are you thinking?"
Lily said, "Hmm. I think I would love to attend Ilvermorny. I know its different, but it sounds like it'll be an adventure. Plus, if I don't like it, I could always transfer to Hogwarts."

Harry said, "I'm sure Professor McGonagall would accept you. I think its been decided then. Our Lily is going to Ilvermorny."

Ginny got tears in her eyes. Now they just had to tell James and Albus, and not to mention the rest of the family.

Harry penned a letter to Professor McGonagall.

Dear Professor McGonagall,

Lily will not be attending Hogwarts this year. Lily has made the decision which Ginny and I fully support to go abroad for her education. She has been accepted to Ilvermorny in North America. She feels that is where she belongs. James and Albus will still be continuing their education at Hogwarts this year.

Hope you are well,

Harry James Potter

That Sunday, the Weasleys joined them at Grimauld place for Sunday dinner. Molly and Arthur were always welcome. Then Bill and Fleur with their children, Victoire, Dominique, and Louis. Of course Charlie was there. He would never miss his Sunday dinners with family. Percy and his wife, Audrey and their children, Molly and Lucy. They all knew Fred was with them in spirit. George and Angelina along with their two kids, Fred and Roxanne. And finally, Ron and Hermione, Harry's two best friends with Rose, Hugo, and twin girls Violet and Evelyn. Teddy Lupin was also there as he was Harry's godson and he was also dating Victoire Weasley.

When they anticipated everyone coming for Sunday dinner, they all came to Grimauld place, as it was the biggest house of the whole family and had enough room for everyone. Mrs. Weasley and Hermione would always come early and help prepare dinner with Ginny. Fleur, Angelina, and Audrey would bring over their dishes when they arrived.

Ginny and Harry had turned the drawing room into a big dining room for such occasions. Normally they would just eat in the kitchen.

When everyone was seated, Arthur stood up and said, "It is nice to have all my family gathered here today. Especially since two in our midst are about to start their lovely education at Hogwarts. Good luck Lily and Hugo."

Everyone raised their glasses. Lily and Hugo were the youngest of the Weasley clan.

Harry stood up and said, "I'm very excited to see my youngest off to school. However, Ms. Lily Potter will not be attending Hogwarts like the rest of the family. On my birthday, we received a letter for her from another school along with a visit from their Headmistress. After much discussion, Lily in agreement with Ginny and I, is going to be attending Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in North America."

Harry noticed the shocked looks on the Weasley's faces. As they began eating, questions started.

Lily fielded them the best she could. Harry answered the ones that she couldn't.

Molly said, "It does sound like a good opportunity. And if Lily wants to try it out. Why not? I'm sure if she thinks it doesn't suit her, Professor McGonagall will be more than likely to welcome her to Hogwarts."

Harry said, "Well said, Molly."

Everyone was also proud of James for become a prefect and Quidditch Captain in year 5. Molly fussed over him on that.

James said, "Grandma…"

Everyone laughed.

revamping the story. I decided to add the discussion with Dudley and his family in here. Definitely continue to leave reviews. I would like to hear takes on which house Lily should be in at Ilvermorny. I had her Horned Serpent, and I feel like I may have her end up with a bit of seer ability, but we shall see. Next chapter: Visit to Diagon Alley, including Gringotts with the Dursley's and a shocking find.

Also, how do you think that Lily should get to Ilvermorny? Train like Hogwarts? or something else?