(This is strictly AU! You don't like it, please find something else that will entertain you and your Canon restrictions. I have changed several things (hence, it's fanfic). Firstly, there's a 10 year difference. Harry is born in 1991, not 1981. So everything that is said will have a modern outlook. Alyssa, his sister is my creation, She's born in 1987-which changes the timeline for James/Lily. Secondly, I have added the Royal family. Both William and Harry will be magical beings in this, but Muggle-born. Thirdly, it's a Harmony ship. Meaning it's H/Hr. (Sorry to the R/Hr fans-won't happen!) Fourthly, there will be new powers and MAJOR changes to the storyline that JKR has given us. With that being said, please feel free to flame me all you want. As always: Enjoy!

October 31, 1992

"Alyssa! Get under the bed now!" My father yelled as he raced out the door. Crying, I crawled under my little bed. Huddling in the corner, I gripped my teddy with all my five year old strength. Squeezing my eyes closed, I heard booms and thundering noises. I didn't want to cry any louder. The bad man had found us. Oh Merlin! Harry! My little brother. My baby brother.

I started to crawl out from underneath my little bed when I heard a piercing scream. "HARRRRY!" My little heart sank into my stomach. Oh no! Please don't let him be dead. Please don't let anyone be dead. Another blast shook the house and everything was silent like playing silent mouse. Inching my way out of the bed, I grasped the handle and yanked the door open. Daddy hadn't told me to leave and I knew I was being naughty, but I didn't care.

In the hallway, the smoking ruins of my home was all around me. I couldn't see very well but I knew my home. Rushing down the hallway to Harry's room, I pushed the door open and saw a tall man in a black cloak. Lily was laying on the ground, not moving. When I heard the words 'Avada….' I screamed as loudly as I could. I knew it was stupid but in that moment, I think I saved us both. When the Dark Man crumpled to the ground, a magical blast escaped him and hit me square in the chest. Crying, I ran from the room and headed outside. I needed to breath. Maybe someone was there to tell me what happened. I couldn't find my daddy anywhere.

Stepping out into the cold October air, I knew that today was Halloween, but it wasn't a very festive night for us. Breathing in fresh air, I gripped my teddy tightly and wished I was bigger. I could have helped daddy and Lily.

"There you are!" a voice said from a distance. It was one I knew well.

"Uncle Siriy!" I screamed running to him. Jumping in his arms, I hugged him tightly. "Where's my daddy?"

I felt him collapse into the cold grass and I shivered from the touch. Noticing this, he wrapped his cloak tighter around me. Turning around, I could see the smoking ruins of my home, Godric's Hollow. Where was my daddy, brother and Lily? Uncle Siriy was crying very hard and I held him like Lily used to do for me when I was sad.

"Uncle Siriy, where's my daddy?" I asked him again. This time he looked at me and tears were flowing down his face. My little heart clenched in my chest. Dear Merlin, what had happened.

"I'm sorry Lyssa, but…" he didn't have to finish his sentence because I already knew.

"No! NO! Not them! Not daddy! Where is he? Take me to him!" I screamed at him. Wrestling in his arms, I was like a wild cat. Unhinged and terrified. He held me tightly and wouldn't let go. "Let me go Uncle Siriy!" I demanded.

"I can't. Please Alyssa, don't make me." he sobbed. His words broke me and I began crying. We held each other tightly until the tears subsided.

His grip on me loosened and I ran. Ran as fast as I could. Rushing back to my house, I could hear the faint screams of two men, one being Uncle Siriy. Skidding to a stop, I saw a foot in the doorway of the living room and kitchen. Peering into the kitchen, I saw my daddy. Screaming as loud as I could, I hoped I could wake him up. Grabbing his shoulders, I begin to shake him with all the strength I could muster.

"Please! Please! Daddy wake up!" I could hear myself sobbing. My hair was wild, coming loose from my nighttime braid. It was in my face and I couldn't see but his body through my tears. "Daddy! Please...It's Alyssa! Please, why won't you wake up? I love you, I'm so sorry! I promise I'll be a good girl and listen." I begged to the still body of my father. A set of arms wrapped around me and I tried to fight but this time I was too tired. Daddy wasn't waking up.

"Ah, there you are Sirius." we heard a voice say. Looking up, I saw it was Albus. "We need to get the children away from this place. Alyssa will stay with her mother in America."

"And Harry?" my uncle asked coming to his feet.

Albus sighed and lowered his head. "I've got Hagrid taking him to his Aunt and Uncle's for right now. We'll see how it goes from here."

My mother? The one that gave me up a long time ago? "She doesn't want me Mr. Albus. That's why she left me with daddy." I protested. "I want to stay with Uncle Siriy and Harry."

"I understand that, but for right now it's in your best interest that you go with her."

"But..but…" I protested again looking at my uncle.

"You need to listen to him Lyssa." my uncle said softly. I nodded reluctantly to him. Not knowing it would be a long time before I saw him again.

Twelve Years later…..

BEEP! BEEP!

Jolting myself from my dream, I opened my eyes and slammed my hand on the alarm clock. Flopping back down into my soft pillow, a tear slipped from my eyes. It was the same nightmare that I had every year. Sometimes during stressful times, it would be on constant loop. Over the past couple of years, around Halloween, it especially gotten bad. Looking around the room, I realized that I had left the window open last night. My owl Poe wasn't there but that was fine. He was entitled to not come back all the time.

Looking at the clock it was already past seven and I knew my...family would already be gone for the day. I hardly saw them anyway. Since returning from Ilvermorny at the end of May, they had left me alone. I had one more year left and frankly going back to Ilvermorny wasn't on my to do list. I was going to be seventeen soon and when the time came, I was heading to Hogwarts.

I removed myself slowly from the warm bed and got dressed. Not having to wear school robes was refreshing but Muggle clothes were just as painful. Pocketing my wand, I thundered down the stairs. Not caring if anyone was home or not. Slipping into the kitchen, there wasn't a note from my mother, but a chore list….along with a hefty warning that if I didn't complete it before they returned, I would be in serious trouble.

Just two more weeks, Alyssa...you can do it. I encouraged myself. Taking a glance at the calendar, it was July 31st. Harry's birthday. "Happy Birthday little brother." I whispered to myself before tackling the chore list.

My stepfather had told me if I kept myself out of his hair during the summer, he would pay my fare to get out of the country. So far, it had worked. I was ready to leave. I wanted to go home. My own mother had denied me access to go to Hogwarts when my letter flew in years ago. I was already at Ilvermorny, and I knew I could have transferred but she was adamant. I would not be going to the same school my father had went too...The same one she had went too. I knew that in England, once I turned seventeen, I would be legal.

Thank Merlin for small favors.

My birthday came and went without any pomp or congratulations. Which was fine with me. I hadn't had a real birthday since I was five anyway. I think my family was glad for me leaving. I hated my stepfather and didn't like my brothers. Yes, more brothers. Two and a half weeks later, I left America for good. I was going home. What I didn't figure was that the school term was going to start in three days.

Thankfully for me, when I arrived, I knew where to go. Or at least I thought I did. There wasn't anyone around to meet me. Like I had planned. Everyone already thought I was dead anyway. FInding my way to the Leaky Cauldron, I snuck behind the building and from what I had learned, tapped the way into Diagon Alley.

I stood back and watched as the stones rearranged themselves to make an entrance. The other side, compared to Muggle London, looked old fashioned and worn. Better than the wizarding town in America. Stepping through the entranceway, I kept my head down and tried my best to appear invisible. I'm sure I could have Disillusioned myself, but I needed to keep a low profile.

Ignoring the stares from the hustle and bustle of the witches and wizards that passed me, I kept walking. Of course, if I looked around, I would be labelled a tourist. I had to fit in. Looming ahead, in it's pristine white marble columns was Gringotts. I could see the sparkling of the wards that were enacted to protect the goblins from intruders. Strange! I never noticed this before. I suppose I could have went to the Ministry to declare my origins but the thought of dealing with politicians this early in the morning didn't appeal to me.

Stepping into the bank, I finally looked up and glanced at the goblins who were working diligently. Light scones brightened the cherry and gold interior making it seem less daunting. Row after row of goblins behind desks were busy stamping and signing paperwork as well as dealing with the constant flow of witches and wizards.

Now where too?

I hadn't the foggiest idea where to go, but taking a glance at a nearby goblin, I figured I'd start there. Putting my brave foot forward, I sucked in a breath and walked over to him. Thankfully for me, he wasn't busy. Or at least, I didn't think he was busy.

"Hello. I need to talk to someone about accessing my family vault."

"Name?"

"Alyssa Nicole Potter."

The entire bank stopped moving. The bustling sounds of the working goblins ceased and you could almost hear heartbeats. Just that one sentence stopped the entire business day. Shifting from one foot to the next, I nervously kept my eyes from everyone's prying ones. Everyone was looking at me and I felt too uncomfortable. Maybe I should have asked to see someone specific without an audience.

"Alyssa Potter is dead….."

"No, I'm not."

He leaned toward me, his long teeth gleaming in the light making him seem much more scarier than possible, "Then, you will need proof."

Damn. Hadn't thought of that….well not fully.

"I don't have lineage paperwork, but I do have my birth certificate. Will that do?" I asked him reaching into my rucksack and procuring said article. Handing it to him, he took it from me slowly. It listed my name, place of birth, my mother's name as well as my father's name. I watched his face carefully. If he was surprised, he didn't show it. Turning away from me, he called to another goblin. Quickly speaking in Gobbledegook, the second goblin looked at me curiously before running off.

"We're going to move you to a private room where we can verify your claim." he told me carefully.

I nodded and stood there. Within seconds three goblin guards showed up and escorted me to a private room. Taking the hint, I took a seat and waited. I didn't have to wait long, and catch a glimpse of the ornate room, before the same goblin and two other showed up. Oh bother...more goblins. They were talking quietly in Gobbledegook but peered at me cautiously.

When they broke apart, I looked at them apprehensively. Each of them took a seat and I could see my birth certificate in the hands of the one that looked like he was in charge. I didn't know much about goblins, or much of British Wizarding History but I had a good idea that whatever was going on wasn't going to be pleasant.

"My name is Ragnok. My assistants tell me that you're Alyssa Potter."

It wasn't a question, I realized. "I am."

"Alyssa Potter died twelve years ago." Yea, I had heard the stories. I was dead and my brother was "The-boy-who-lived" "So how can you be her?"

"My word and my birth certificate."

"That...is just a piece of paper."

"But it's signed by James Oliver Potter. You can pull his signature and compare it yourselves!" I pointed out.

"May it be so, but how do we know you're not a fraud, hmm?"

I sighed in frustration. "I'm willing to subject myself to whatever is needed to prove this." I told him sincerely, yet with a little heat behind it. Ragnok raised an eyebrow at me and nodded.

"Very well." he motioned for a goblin to approach me. Grabbing my hand, a long silver dagger appeared and he sliced my palm quickly. I hissed and tried jerking my hand away from him, but he held fast. The blood started to drip onto parchment. "You do realize we take this claims seriously." Ragnok mentioned absently while watching the blood pour from my palm.

I could only nod. My hand was in serious pain and I wished he would hurry up. After a few seconds, the goblin handed me back my hand and I quickly muttered a healing charm. "How long does it take?"

"A mere few minutes." Ragnok replied.

So, we sat there. I kept my eyes on my hands, but I was curious as well. Peeking up, I saw black lines spread over the parchment. The had to keep making it longer because the black ink kept flowing. After several long agonizing minutes. Well, at least mentally. The goblins let out a sigh of relief.

"Well it seems you are telling the truth Miss Potter." I sighed in relief as well. "You indeed are related to James Oliver Potter, deceased and to a Lauren Ransier, alive. This is most unusual. We were told you were deceased some twelve years ago. Can you explain this?"

I shook my head. "I'm sorry, but your guess is as good as mine. I had heard this rumor, but I knew I was alive. I took my mother's name until I was told who my father was. Then, I, unofficially changed it to Potter."

He nodded at me. "We appreciate your honesty Miss Potter and welcome back. Griphook, here will take care of all your needs. That means inventorying the Potter Family Vault if it needs it."

"Oh! I'm not sure if it needs it. I have complete faith in Gringotts." I said quickly. This illicit a smile from him. "But I am curious…." The goblins stopped their movements and looked at me. "Has my brother been to the vault?"

"Harry James Potter?" Ragnok inquired.

"Yes. Harry."

Ragnok looked at the one called Griphook and muttered something in Gobbledegook again. Griphook nodded and looked back at me. "No, he hasn't. He isn't allowed until he's of age. He does have his trust vault, 678, that covers his tuition and expenses. Now, if you'll follow me."

I nodded and internally sighed. This meant he was indeed alive. It was a thought that plagued me for years. With that said, I stood up to move around the room. Following Griphook out of the room, he led me to his desk where he explained procedures of pulling money from the vault as well as giving me a card to use. I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Consider it a bank card. It will deduct money from your vault when you use it." Nodding at him, I knew of my muggle-born friends displaying them. "If you need anything else, please don't hesitate to ask. Though, you might want to register at the Ministry. Good day Lady Potter."

I stood shell-shocked. Lady Potter? Was I now the head of the family? Wouldn't that go to Harry, but then I thought about it. It wouldn't until he reached of age. Damn, I had to be born four years older than him.

Leaving Gringotts, my next place was to figure out how to get to Hogwarts. I knew how to get to Diagon Alley, but I couldn't apparate yet. Nor, from my reliable sources, did I know how to get to Hogsmeade. The day was pretty and school wasn't supposed to be in session yet. At Ilvermorny, I would already be a week in. But the lure of traveling Muggle London was too appealing. I knew I couldn't find my brother. I hadn't a clue how to start.

Smiling to myself, I quickly made my way back to the Leaky Cauldron. Pulling out my mobile, I quickly dialed a number that I did know. Hanging up, I stood there and smiled again. When a black car showed up twenty minutes later, the window rolled down and a voice called out to me.

"Alyssa Potter, get your arse in here!" Giving a little squeal, I climbed in and landed in the lap of my, err-boyfriend-well if you can call him that. We had been friends for four years. It was our once a year trip to England for the Royal Ascot that my witch-born mother loved so much is how I met him.

"Harry Wales! You behave this instant." I mocking chastised him. When his lips found mine, I figured I would start my chaos tomorrow.

The next morning, I opened my eyes and tried to roll over. I stopped. This wasn't my bed. I looked around the room. This wasn't my room. A hand tugged on my hip and last night's memories came flooding back. I was in Harry's bed.

Shit! Harry's bed. Frantic, I nudged him and forced him awake.

"You prat! I need to escape."

"Relax. There's a silencing charm on the door as well as a 'notice-me-not' charm." he mummered sleepily, yet smugly.

"I didn't place them." I countered.

"No, I did. Now, do as I ask and relax."

"What if Will walks in. He's not impervious to the charms." I protested.

"And he's not here. I made sure of it. Now, do I have to order you around?" he teased kissing me.

"Well, no, but you could have told me."

"And ruin your birthday present from me." he pouted. I rolled my eyes at him.

"I do have to go to Hogwarts. The term is about to start. I have to bully my way into the school." I said looking into his blue eyes. His lopsided grin made me roll my eyes at him again. Then his face became serious.

"How do you think Harry will take the news?"

I chewed on my lower lip. "I'm not sure. I'm afraid he's going to freak out." I said feeling his hands entwine with mine. "Anger isn't our best strength. But I promise to act like a big girl and not threaten anyone." I replied impishly.

He mockingly sighed in relief. "That's good to hear. The last time you threatened anyone it was Will. Think he's still afraid of you."

"Whatever. Now are you going to get me to Hogsmeade or not?"

"Yes, I will. I've told you this several times. You need to relax. Have a spot of breakfast and we'll get going."

"Fine." I pouted but gave him a smile.

"Good girl. Let's eat."

Finding breakfast in the adjacent sitting room smelled heavenly. My stomach growled and I now realized how hungry I actually was. We sat closely as we at a light breakfast. About halfway through, I realized I would have to face off with the same man that had sent me to America. That hollow stomach of mine closed quick. Pushing away the food, I leaned back and watched as Harry finished. He didn't ask me what was wrong. I'm sure he could have sensed it by now.

"You'll be fine, Alyssa." he reassured me in-between bites. I didn't believe him. Of course I didn't, why would I? Had Albus let me stay in England, close to my brother; and not in another country with that sadistic stepfather of mine, I wouldn't be so frightened.

When he realized I wasn't taking his bait, he sat his cup of tea down and looked at me. Concern flooding his face. His blue eyes that were normally laughing seemed too serious. Pulling me close to him, where I was almost in his lap. "You will be all right. I promise you."

"Can we get going?" I interrupted before he could start reassuring me even further. I didn't want to hear it. I cared deeply for him, but his words of comfort weren't going to make this easier. He sighed and closed his eyes. Not daring to look at me. He had known about my plans since the beginning of summer and I just now saw how much of a toll it was taking on him.

It had been my plan since I turned sixteen. I remember telling Harry what I was going to do last year when I was (happily) dragged to Ascot. At first, he was a bit hesitant that I would do something like it, but he soon realized it was something that needed to be done. He even offered to run a check to see where my brother was. Maybe talk to him before I stormed the gates of Hogwarts like a Saxon demanding to see him. Unlike myself, his job was easier. All he had to do was get me into Hogsmeade and steer me toward the castle. I wasn't even asking him to come with me! He had already done enough teaching me Diagon Alley and Gringotts. Now, it was my turn.

"I, uh, can get there myself." I offered lamely.

"No, I promised I'd take you as far as Hogsmeade. And I will. Do you want me to wait on you?" he asked entwining our hands.

"Don't you have Royal duties today?" I asked hesitantly. That was the one thing that was constantly in the way of a real relationship. Where I wanted to spend ample time with him while I was with him, something else always pulled him from me. I didn't know how it affected him, but I ached to be with him today. I would need his strength; as if he hadn't already given his full support.

"To Hell with my duties!" he cried out quietly. "You…." he cupped my chin to make me look at him. "...are more important today. You always are." Kissing my lips softly, he tightened his grip around my waist and held me there while we snogged.

Breaking the kiss a few minutes later, I sighed and rested my head on his forehead. I loved being this close to him. I would never confess my real feelings for him because of our differences. I didn't belittle myself that what we had could become more. It wasn't like me. Deep down, I was terrified. I didn't know what real love was. My mother didn't express it to me and my stepfather...well; he hated me from the first moment I stepped into his home.

I shuddered trying to rid myself of the evil thoughts that plagued me. School was my safe haven away from my mother's house. Harry didn't know about the secrets that I harbored. I didn't know how well he would take them if he knew. Some secrets are better left buried.

"You know I haven't passed my apparition test yet."

"S'Okay, I can side apparate." he smiled cheekily. Grinning, I quickly kissed him and stood up.

"Well, let's go. I'm ready to get this over with. Maybe do something mundane tonight."

If I don't wind up in Azkaban, that is.

Grabbing our robes, I slipped mine on. I didn't even have my Potter robes yet. I wouldn't get them until they were presented to me after I made my announcement at the Ministry. Or, I could order them. I'm sure Albus would push along my appearance to the Ministry when he turned my school file to the Department of Magical Education. Looking at Harry, it I peered closely at his. It wasn't the first time I had seen him in robes, but these seemed different.

"Those aren't traveling robes, are they?"

He looked down at the set of robes he had adorned. "No, I've had them modified. They show the House of Windsor now. Just as yours will show the House of Potter when you get them."

"How did you know I was thinking of that?" I asked peering at him suspiciously.

He turned nervous. When he did, he always missed his hair and never looked at me in the eye. He was caught doing something he shouldn't have done. Like normal, the second son was the most mischievous. And Harry fit that to a tee.

"I, uh…." he stammered. "I ordered a set for you. Madam Malkin's, actually. Nothing special, they are." He left me simmering in building anger. Ugh! I hated presumptuous people. I mean, I understand that he did it knowing I was a Potter, but still. The nerve. When he returned, he held a shimmering dark blue robe. I knew exactly what it was before he opened it to me.

Shrugging my traveling robes off, he helped me slip into the new ones. They were soft and felt exquisite. Above the left breast was the Potter crest representing my status as Lady Potter. Running my hands over the silk, I sighed and felt almost important.

"Now you look the part. Just don't let it go to your head. Distasteful." he smirked caressing the side of my face.

Taking my hand quickly he yanked me close to him. Our bodies were so close that I was tempted to call it a day and drag him back to his bed. My breath hitched in my throat but before I could say anything, I felt my whole body squeeze then stretch in all different directions. When I opened my eyes, I saw we were outside, in a town.

Narrowing my eyes at him. "You could have told me you were apparating! Merlin, I don't want to do that again. At least, without warning."

"Sorry, I figured I'd jump so you couldn't talk me out of it." he smirked kissing my mouth quickly to diffuse the situation.

"So this is Hogsmeade? It's not very big, is it?" I asked looking around the town. Small shops and cottages adorned the area making it seem like something out of a painting. Like Diagon Alley, the buildings were sloped and some looked like they were falling apart.

Taking my hand, Harry led me around Hogsmeade. Pointing out every shop from Zonko's to Honeydukes to finally the Three Broomsticks. Where he swears had the best food. Or at least it did when he went to Hogwarts. I was too absorbed in looking around that I never noticed that we were walking out of town.

"So, if you keeping walking down this path, you'll run into Hogwarts. It's a mile away, but that's not too bad. If you want me too, I can wait around. Browse and maybe shop a bit." he offered.

Chewing on my lower lip, I seriously thought about dragging him with me. Not just because I was scared but more for emotional support. I could wind up getting too angry and blowing Albus' office apart. "I don't know how long it's going to take. I really don't. I have a feeling he's gonna fight me over it."

"You know I've got your back. I'll be close by if you need me." he said before kissing me slowly. Letting me go, I sighed and turned away from him.

My feet carried me down a well worn path that I'm sure hundreds of Hogwarts students had traveled. Including my parents, uncle and godfather. Sadness swept me suddenly. I missed them terribly. I missed my brother. The last time I saw him he was fifteen months old. Daddy had placed him a pumpkin that we had carved. I couldn't tell you where the picture went but I remember it was perfect.

It was all perfect until Voldemort came for us. Even today I didn't know why he had came. I didn't have access to Hogwarts, a History at Ilvermorny. This was my ignorance. I never asked Harry about it. I knew he knew. A breeze swept by me and I'm glad I'm in my robes because it sent a chill down my spine.

Then, I realized that it got colder quicker here in Scotland than it did in London. Oh Merlin, how was I going to handle this? Even at Ilvermorny, the temperatures didn't start to fall until October. It didn't occur to me to use a warming charm. I pulled my eyes away from the dirt pathway to glance up.

There it stood.

Hogwarts.

The school I longed to attend for years. The same one that generations of Potters had graduated from. This was technically my last year and I was determined to keep up the tradition. The castle was surrounded by mountains and water. I'm assuming this was the Great Lake that held the giant squid. The seven story castle was imposing and from where I stood, I could feel the magic pouring off it. I wondered if anyone else could felt the majesty of the castle besides myself.

A tingling sensation crawled down my spine when I passed by an invisible ward. It must be the Anti-Disapparation wards. I knew no one could apparate inside the school grounds. Ilvermorny was done the same way. A protection to the students.

Picking up my pace, I hurried quietly toward the huge wooden entrance doors. They were opened allowing me to peek inside to see the grand staircase. I had heard so many stories of Hogwarts that I'm sure I could locate everything. Scoffing, I wasn't sure even how to find Albus's office. I knew from what Harry told me it was located in the Headmaster's tower accessed through the Gargoyle Corridor. Like I knew where that was.

Walking into the school, I was bombarded with noises. Not silence like I had anticipated. Was school already in session? The sounds of students and flapping of owls pulsed from the Great Hall. I hesitated. Did I want to make myself known already? What if I ran into my brother? My heart started hammering in my chest. Sweat broke out over my forehead and I begin to panic. I wasn't ready to see him yet.

What would I say to him? I cringed to see the anger and distrust that would befall his young face. Would I even recognize him? I hadn't seen him since he was a toddler; would he even still look the same? Leaning against the stone wall, I cast a Disillusion spell. It would hide me long enough to push the panic at bay.

After a few minutes, I regained my composure. Good thing I had cast the spell because as soon as I did, I heard footsteps. It was Professor McGonagall. My eyes nearly popped out my head. I haven't seen her since I was little. I wanted to rush to her and tell her it was me and I was alive. Oh! How she must have thought I was dead too. I watched her stop and stare in my direction but shook her head and walked off.

Sighing, I watched as her form disappeared from sight before I ended the spell. Looking around, I begin my search of Albus's office. I must have looked lost because finally I came upon a wandering student. He looked at me curiously but said nothing until I caught his eye.

"Scuse me, where's the Headmaster's office?" I spoke aloud. The boy stopped and looked at me even more curiously.

"Surely you know, don't you?"

"No, 'fraid not. I'm not a student." I offered starting to get annoyed.

"Well that explains it. I'll show you. I've got a free period." he offered as nicely as he could.

"Thanks. It's appreciated." I said following him. I was headed in the right direction anyway. We skipped over the staircases and leaped toward the moving ones that would take me to the office. I couldn't keep my eyes off the interior. It was everything I had dreamed of. Everything daddy had told me about. Portraits hung everywhere. You could feel the magic flowing around you. Or at least I did. The kid I was following didn't even flinch. Stoic even. Finally reaching a corridor, which I recognized from Harry as the Gargoyle corridor, he stopped and looked at me expectantly.

"Down the hall, you'll find it. The password is "Sugar Quills'. I hope you find what you're looking for and if you're going to be a student, welcome!" he said with a tad too much enthusiasm. I nodded and gave him a tight smile. How I wish I had brought Harry with me.

Walking down the hallway, I felt eerie. Like I shouldn't be walking down the hallway. Thankfully, I wasn't scared too much. Stopping, I looked out the window and could see the grounds from my view. Breathtaking, if you ask me. Coming to the gargoyle, I looked at it. He said the password was 'Sugar Quills'. Was I supposed to speak it out loud? This was different than from Ilvermorny's headmaster's office. His was a portrait.

"Sugar Quills?" I said as a question hanging off my lips.

The Gargoyle begun to spin in a circular motion with stairs. Stepping onto one, it led me up a narrow tunnel. When it stopped a minute later, I was sure I was further up in the sky. There before me stood a large wooden door with a black handle. This was it. Taking a deep breath, I raised my hand and knocked.

Nothing.

I raised my fist to knock again and this time I heard a faint "Come in". Twisting the knob, I gently pushed it open. It was a large and beautiful circular room, full of funny little noises. A number of curious silver instruments stood on spindle-legged tables, whirring and emitting little puffs of smoke. The walls were covered with portraits of old headmasters and headmistresses, all of whom were snoozing gently in their frames. It was amazing! I was in complete awe of the room. Before me stood a large desk and behind it an even larger ornate chair.

Albus Dumbledore looked at me closely like he was trying to probe my mind and figure out who I was. Luckily for me, my mentor had schooled me in Occlumency two summers ago. When he couldn't penetrate my mind, he smiled benignly at me.

"Hello Albus Dumbledore." I said softly coming to the desk. He looked at me startled that I would be so upfront with him. He wasn't expecting it.

"How may I help you today?"

Great. Down to the point.

"I want to enroll at Hogwarts. I'm sure you're not accepting students, but I figured I would try it." I told him.

"Ah! A transfer. How lovely. May I see your school file?" he asked me. I was curious as to why he never asked my name. Did he already know it? I was becoming annoyed and very suspicious. Reaching into my robes, I found the small parcel that contained my school ledger. Expanding it to its original size, I handed it to the Headmaster.

Taking it from me, "Please have a seat while I look through your files." he offered. I turned around there sat a chair that wasn't there before. Shrugging, I took my seat and waited. I watched him carefully. If he was surprised, he didn't show it. What caught my attention was when he looked at the name.

Dropping the file, he looked at me then back at the file. Disbelief flooded his face and I could see the wheels turning in his head. Yea, old man. I'm not dead. I looked down at my nails and wished I had changed the color.

"Are you saying you're Alyssa Nicole Potter? Daughter to James Potter?" he asked incredulously.

"Yes, I am. I have paperwork from Gringotts confirming this. Had to do a lineage tests of sorts before they would let me in the Potter Vault." I explained reaching into my robes again and procuring the documents. Handing them over to him, he took them with a trembling hand. Woo...must have rattled the great Dumbledore. Must be in the record books.

He scanned the paperwork. The lineage that spread back as far as who knows when. I never checked it. I looked long enough to see that I was related to James Potter before I rolled it up and stored it away. He couldn't keep his eyes off me. Was he searching for some falsity in my declaration?

"How..how can this be?" he asked.

"You don't remember? You're the one that sent me to America with my mother. You're the one that separated Harry and I. Speaking of which, where is he?" I asked coming to my feet. How in the Hell could he forget about this detail? I was pushed aside for what? Greatness?

"Now… now we're not going to argue about this. Harry is perfectly fine. Don't worry about him. I'm sorry Miss Potter if I sound like I don't believe you but rumor has it that you died years ago. I'm just going on what I heard." he tried placating me.

"And you, of all people in this world, didn't even find this news a bit disturbing?! I'm James Potter's daughter! If I had died, I would have been brought back to England and buried in the Potter family plot, wouldn't I?" I tried to keep my shouting down. My anger was starting to boil and I knew if things didn't chill out I would lose control.

"I am truly sorry Miss Potter. I should have checked in on you."

"It wasn't you that sent my mother those letters every year?" I asked aghast.

"What letters?"

"The ones telling her that I needed to stay with her. She wanted to send me to a damn orphanage! But the letters kept her from doing it."

"I don't know who sent them, but I can assure you, Miss Potter; it was not I." he said with a degree of sincerity.

I sat back down and looked at him. Someone, out there was keeping an eye on me. But who? I shook my head of these suspicious thoughts. "Anyway, I want to enroll."

"Out of the question. You're enrolled at Ilvermorny." That was like a slap to the face. Who in the Hell does he think he is?! Time to change my tactics.

"Is that so? I am of age. I want to come here. It's my right as a Potter."

"It wouldn't be good for young Mr. Potter to know that you're alive." Ring-a-ding-ding. That's his whole scheme. "Protecting my brother."

"Nonsense. He's my brother and I will become his guardian."

"I can't let that happen. He is protected and well taken care of."

"Fine. Then I'll yank him out of Hogwarts and I'll take him to Ilvermorny where he can finish his schooling there. I'm may not be his parent or guardian, but I AM his sister." I threatened finally tired of this argument.

"You wouldn't!?" he gasped.

"I would. Don't think I wouldn't. I know he's built a life here but he can easily make a new one at Ilvermorny." I shrugged like it wasn't a big deal. Inside I was screaming profanities and cursing him into the next life. "I'm sure money isn't a problem. I can have the entire year paid up today if you'll be so kind to accept me."

He sighed in resignation. I watched as he took his glasses off and cleaned them quickly then looked back at me. "Are you sure I can't change your mind?"

My silence was my only answer. I glared at him until he nodded. I did a little mental victory dance. I hated to be a bully with a passion but he didn't have the slightest clue how determined I was to come to Hogwarts and find my brother.

"Now that's settled, I will send your transfer paperwork to the Department of Magical Education today. You will need to get robes, schoolbooks and among other necessities for the school year. From what your file say, you're eligible to take all NEWT level courses, is that correct?"

"It is. I would like to enroll in Runes and/or Arithmancy as well."

"First, you'll need to be sorted. I'm sure I know which house you'll belong too but on the safe side." he said coming to his feet. Reaching to the top shelf, he grabbed a ratty old hat. I wasn't sure what it was but if I had to guess it was the famous Sorting Hat. Holding it gently in his hands, he walked toward me. I didn't flinch when he placed it upon my head.

"Ah, I see it's another Potter." the hat said. Quirking my eyes toward it, I watched in fascination as it talked.

"Where to place you? I know you're telling me quite loudly where you want to go. Do you think best in Ravenclaw? You have the mind for it." he asked,

"Not really. Bravery and brains go together." I told him amused. I didn't think I had been that loud.

"If you must. Your brother fought against my decision as well. So I'll place you in Gryffindor." the hat went quiet. Taking the gingerly from my head, I preened a little and leaned against my chair.

"Now that's settled." the Headmaster said setting the hat back in its spot, "Your Head of House is Minerva McGonagall. I need to call her up here to go over your schedule." Looking at the clock, he noticed it was mid-day. "It's lunchtime. I'm sure I can get her up to talk to you. I will send your paperwork myself." he said getting up from his chair.

A few minutes later, the door opened and Professor McGonagall entered. She didn't looked entirely pleased to be missing lunch. The Headmaster looked up and smiled at her. "Ah, Minerva. I am truly sorry you're missing lunch but you have a new student here." he said indicating to me.

"Ah, Miss…" she trailed off.

"Potter. Alyssa." I said looking at her. She gasped and her hand closed around her throat. Looking wildly at the Headmaster, she opened her mouth a few times before closing it.

"Are you certain!?" she cried.

"We are. She has the paperwork from Gringotts to prove it. You know the goblins never lie. She is qualified to take her NEWTS this year and needs to discuss her classes with you since you are her Head of House." Albus informed her.

She nodded jerkily and transfigured a few items. "Fine, that's fine." looking at me curiously, "I'm assuming Miss Potter that you will be taking standard NEWT level classes?"

"I am. I thought about adding Runes or Arithmancy to that list. Even though, I won't be taking the NEWT level for them." I confirmed.

"It will be Transfiguration, Potions, Charms, Herbology, & Defense. You can add two electives if you wish. Like Care of Magical Creatures or Runes and/or Arithmancy." she told me eyeing me as she wrote it down. "Of course from the duplicate of your transcript, you could take your NEWTS tomorrow and probably pass, why is that?"

"That's because Ilvermorny starts school when we're ten, not eleven. So, technically I'm a year ahead." I explained to her. She only nodded for me to continue. "I think I'll take Care of Creatures and Runes. I took a rudimentary course in it last year and loved it."

She nodded at me. Stern, like dad had always told me about. I wasn't quite intimidating by her but she seemed like all she had to stay was one word and it could make you cry. The scratching of her quill against the parchment was the only sound in the room for a long few minutes. I tried to keep myself from fidgeting. After a few minutes, she made a duplicate of my school list. Handing it to me, she rolled the rest up and handed it over to Albus.

Reading over it, I figured out quickly I would have to run back to Diagon Alley and pick up supplies. "Since it is Friday, I will permit you to have the weekend free to gather your things and become associated with the school. However, once school has begun for you. I don't want you roaming off on the weekends…."

"Impossible. I'm a legal adult. I will adhere school rules from Monday through Friday, but I want the weekends, at least the first few weeks, to be free. I have a lot of things that need to be taken care of." I interrupted the Headmaster's spiel.

"Such things?" he asked trying to probe my mind again. Which was starting to become quite rude and annoying.

"That's personal family business. I'm sure you understand." I said with trying to keep the acid out of my voice. I had a feeling he and I was not going to get along. "Now, onto next business. When can I see my brother? Privately, if you don't mind. I don't need the whole school witnessing my first viewing of him-when I haven't seen him since he was fifteen months old."

"Harry Potter…" Professor McGonagall started. "One of my lions…"

"Yes." I said looking at her.

"We can handle that sometime this weekend…." the headmaster started again.

"Negative. I want to see him today. If possible. I realize he's now thirteen and able to travel to Hogsmeade, is that correct?" I saw my Head of House nod.

"His permission slip hasn't been signed…."

"Then I'll sign it. Where is it?" I asked looking at Professor McGonagall. With a wave of her wand, a piece of parchment appeared. Handing it to me, I carefully read it over and signed it. "There. Now he can go. I know whoever you stuck him with wouldn't have signed it."

"He'll be informed that he can go tonight. I'll make sure of it." Professor McGonagall said firmly giving Albus a look.

"So getting back to my question. I want to meet him. Not here in Hogwarts. Too public. Might I chance it at the Three Broomsticks? If it pleases the court, then give him an escort."

"That sounds fine to me, Miss Potter." Albus said with a sly smirk. Oh Merlin, I don't like where this is going….

"Let me know, please. My date and I will be in and out of Hogsmeade today. I've to pick my supplies up." I said getting up from my chair. Leaving the two adults in the room, I leaned against the wall once I escaped the staircase. My hands were trembling and I squeezed them tightly trying to control myself. I had too many emotions flowing around me. This was slightly less new. I knew I could feel the emotions around me for a couple of years now, but damn it! I must have been letting my Occlumency wards crumble for a while now. I was out of practice.

Even in the room, I tried my best to block the both of them. Albus was far too sinister for my taste and I could feel his distrust of me. Minerva was at least calm, yet slightly suspicious of my origins. Things would become clearer in the next few weeks.

The sounds of the school swirled around me as I stumbled down the Grand Staircase, promptly ignoring the stares of the students that were on their way to their classes from lunch. My own stomach growled and I realized I had used a lot of energy controlling myself. I was starved. For more than just food. I needed Harry's strength to keep me running. Coming to the main door, I narrowly escaped a small crowd of young students who were milling around the courtyard. None of them stopped to stare at me, but a few older students did.

I was stupid to wear the Potter robes. One of the pureblood families could see it. I kept my walk brisk, yet with a clear purpose of 'please leave me alone'. Thankfully, no one stopped me as I escaped down the well trodden pathway that led back to Hogsmeade. After a while of walking, my gait slowed down and I could see the tiny town becoming clearer. I happily sighed and began looking for Harry. Finding him, he was waiting by a tall, aged, oak tree.

Throwing myself in his arms, I felt my body recharge slowly. I hated siphoning off him, but I needed a quick boost. Kissing his mouth before he could ask me how things went, we leaned against the tree snogging. Coming up for air, he pushed a stray lock of my hair away from my face.

"So...how did it go?"

"I'm starting school on Monday." I proclaimed proudly.

"You didn't threaten him, did you?" he asked seriously.

"I, uh…."

"Alyssa!" he exclaimed loudly and I winced. "I thought we talked about not threatening anyone."

"Yea, well he was being a pompous ass. He wasn't even going to let me enroll until I threatened to yank Harry from the school." I protested.

He sighed and shook his head at me. "What am I gonna do with you?"

I smirked tugging on his robes. "Oh, I'm sure you can think of a few things….." dropping my voice an octave. He shuddered deliciously. Oh, I could read his emotions well. I didn't have to block him at all.

"You're a very naughty girl….You know that?" he protested weakly.

"Hmmm...you wanna tell me how naughty I really am?" I asked nibbling on his neck. He would have let me keep going but he gently, yet very hesitantly, pushed me back from him. Pouting, I looked up at him. "What was that for?"

"You and I need to sit, eat, and discuss." he told me with a bit too much force. Of course, he was trying to reign himself in. I was doing a number on him. I nodded, but kissed him again and I let him take my hand and drag me back to the Three Broomsticks.