Disclaimer: JKR owns it all
Timeline: Alternate universe, the story will approx. spans 1980 to 1995
Rating: This chapter G
Chapter: Prologue
Summary: The letter that started it all
Author's note: I just assume here that Voldie killed Harry's parents 1980, it fits well into my plot since Harry can't remember them this way.
The Debt
By Artemis (Artemis1000@gmx.net)
Prologue
October 19th 1980
Dear Lucius.
My letter may come a bit as a surprise and I'm aware that it won't be welcome, but please read it. It's important, a matter of life or death.
I heard that you and Narcissa left Voldemort's circle and helped the Ministry of Magic to arrest more than 20 Death Eaters. I also heard that you are now working as an Auror. My congratulations, Lucius.
Do you remember when I saved your and Narcissa's life at Hogwarts, Lucius? You both told me afterwards that you owed me your lives and whenever I need help I shan't hesitate to ask.
This time is come now.
I'm not asking you to help me or Lily, we know that our lives are forfeit. But we ask you, no, we beseech you to take care of our little Harry.
When we die he has no relatives left but Lily's sister and she hates wizard. He can't stay with one of the Marauders, it would be too dangerous for both of them.
Voldemort won't stop chasing Harry until he has killed him. Even if we manage to weaken him it won't be of any help, then his inner circle of Death Eaters and him will be additionally out for revenge. No, this all won't protect Harry.
You can. You are a powerful Dark Wizard and an Auror into the bargain, non of the Death Eaters is a match for you. You can offer Harry a family with parents. And, most important, you can hide him from Lord Voldemort without anyone becoming suspicious.
Please, this is the only time I'll ever ask anything from you. It's your last opportunity to pay me back.
I'm desperate, Lucius, I don't know what to do and the idea that Harry won't be safe after my death drives me insane with grief.
Do whatever is necessary. Adopt him, pose him as your own son or the son of a relative, use countless glamour on him, I don't care. Just promise me that you and Narcissa will take care of Harry, please.
Please answer me as fast as possible, every minute counts, I can feel that he's getting closer to our hiding place.
Give my regards to Narcissa.
Yours faithfully
James Potter
tbc…