Prologue
Part Two
James huffed and looked away from the window. For a moment he channeled his magic and looked into the wards around the newly bought house. They had to leave all the other houses behind. Tom had refused to return to Riddle Manor and Potter Manor had been donated to the Order of the Phoenix. Oh how James wished he could reclaim it. Not that he couldn't he just didn't really want to compromise their position any more than it already was.
"Albus can have that stupid old Manor." James huffed and glared angrily at the wall. Let the old man think that he'd taken something from James. He, the descendant and rightful heir of the place, had given it of his own free will. It was just rude to take back gifts- even he knew that.
"Eh?" The sound of his son clambering around the room brought James ire to a lower level but he was still irritated. Harry was a beautiful baby at a year old, and he was incredibly fast on his legs. James loved that Harry adored moving. His son was happily trudging around the room with a not so graceful gait but it got him around nonetheless. It was newly developed ability, he'd been taking his first steps before the moving had begun.
Again, James cursed Albus to the Founder of Hogwarts above. Why did he have to feel that he was in control of Tom and of the Wizarding World? Couldn't he just be content that Tom was happily becoming domestic at the hands of one of his own Order members and just eat his lemon drops and be the old man he was supposed to be?
"He can't do even that right." James told Harry who had trotted off to his father, laughing and babbling as he was caught in strong and firm arms before he was thrown into the air.
Harry settled comfortably in James' arms as the man moved out of the room and into the other parts of the house. Indeed, this was not as big as Riddle Manor or Potter Manor for that matter, still it was enough. It wasn't like James would be hosting any balls or Tom would be calling in any meetings. The git would have to be there to call any meetings for a start.
James held his son closer to his chest and took a deep breath. He knew that Tom didn't want to not be there. He wanted to be with his son and husband just as much as James wanted him to be. If it were up to James, Tom would never be allowed to leave the bedroom (and he'd so get away with it, he already has) much less participate in the war.
And it was a war. Even Narcissa and Lily had gone into hiding. He wasn't sure where they were but they did visit sometimes, when it was possible. This was difficult, having to raise children whilst the beginning of a war was on going. James did not want Harry growing up to be sheltered, to not be able to meet friends, to not be able to play outside. Of course the Fidelus Charm around their house and the land around it would give him that, but what about the rest of the children of England?
Again James cursed Albus for driving them to live like this. Hidden away from civilization to keep the women and children alive whilst their husbands went out to fight for the good of the future. Not that James thought he was any less of a man just because he refused to leave his son and he'd hexed anyone who thought differently. Or Tom would.
"Oph!" Harry cried and wormed and wriggled in James' arms, prompting the man to turn around and look at the blinking fireplace. He gave Harry a soft kiss before placing his son in one of the many cots in the house and took a firm hold of his wand.
It wouldn't do for him to be holding his son when spells flew. The warning of the Floo had been a precaution Sirius had rigged for him. It was the least he could do for his best mate when he was still undecided on what side he would be fighting on. James understood him, at one side, Sirius had always detested the Dark though he came from a rather Dark family. On the other, James had practically adopted him over the years that they grew up together. Nothing could possibly repay that.
James took in a deep breath and held it as the Floo flashed green and he quickly released it when he saw the familiar face. Lily beamed at him though there were tired circles under her eyes and her hair did not shine as it always did. Standing by her feet was Alexander and in her arms was Delphine.
James took hold of the baby girl and aided Alexander out of the fireplace. Lily followed with a grateful look as she sank down in one of the hard back arm chairs that had been of Tom's choosing.
"Just thought we'd drop by." Lily whispered, her voice tired. She watched as Alexander walked off to the pile of toys to the side, knowing that they had been set out for him to play with. It wasn't like Harry could use them yet. The best he could do was bang them around and shower them with drool.
James rocked Delphine in his arms and smiled at the sleeping face. Alexander Evan Snape, Lily and Severus' eldest, was nearly two years old now, his birthday falling on the third of March while Delphine Rose Snape was only a month old and her eyes were still that vague baby-blue color that James was sure would be turning green in the future. It only made sense though Severus' dark brown eyes were more of a dominating color.
"How are things?" James asked as he continued rocking Delphine. He wasn't very updated on the war and though he liked to believe that Tom often came home to tell him about it, it was often Lily or Narcissa who kept him up to speed.
The redheaded witch sighed and sagged against the back of her chair. "So much is happening. Severus barely comes home anymore and I think the same goes for Lucius. They're always with Tom, making sure that he's fine and he does send the occasional Patronus to show that he's okay."
James nodded, mind a bit far away.
Lily sent him a small smile before she pulled at her purse and dug around and took hold of something metallic. "They really are, fine, I mean. Anyways, I came here with gifts."
James' eyes widened at that. "You didn't have to get me anything."
"Oh it's not for you." Lily stuck her tongue out. "It's for Harry. I'm sure the poor boy gets lonely what with having only you around. Merlin knows just how boring you can get."
"Cruel." James glared playfully at his best friend and watched as she produced a rather huge mirror from out of her spaced purses and placed it against the wall. She then commandeered Harry from his cot and how he giggled when his Aunt Lily picked him up.
It had been so long since he'd seen Aunty Lily, he'd slept for so many times and had eaten plenty too since the last time Aunty Lily had come over. And his toys had complained that they were not being played with properly because Alexander wouldn't come over. Harry had pouted something awful when Lily and Alexander refused to show for tea and James had taken plenty of pictures of his son at that stage. Perfect for blackmail in the future.
Lily kneeled in front of the mirror and tapped it three times. It pulsed and rippled before the image distorted and James saw Narcissa beaming tiredly at them through it. Amazing.
Harry let out a cry of delight and banged on the mirror with his palms at the sight of his other Aunty. She was someone he hadn't seen even far more longer!
Narcissa cooed towards her godson and smiled at James. "It has been so long! How are you all? I do hope nothing's gone wrong over at your end."
"We're doing pretty good Cissa." James smiled. "How's everything there?"
"Messy." The blonde ex-Slytherin said, frowning. "They've gotten even more playful and energetic since the last time you've seen them and they're now heavier."
"I would expect that." James nodded. "Their six months old aren't they?"
"Yes." Narcissa nodded, she looked at Harry whose attention had been stolen by both Malfoy babies sitting at the floor by the mirror as well.
One was staring at Lily and happily bouncing, or at least trying to since he couldn't quite lift his small bum off of the floor while the other was contently chewing on a soother.
James winced. "Are they both teething?"
"No." Narcissa shuffled and dropped down to the floor behind her sweet babies. She smoothed one hand over dandelion fluff like hair that stuck out at all angles, it was the baby holding a soother and she sighed when it just stuck out all over again. "Only Draco is teething, and I was terrified. All my books say it's too early for him to be teething."
"It happens when it happens." Lily answered. "Alexander cut his first tooth when he was nine months old. Althea said he was neither late nor early. Babies are peculiar that way."
Harry, who had been staring at Draco had taken to smacking against the mirror, startling the poor baby into a soft sneeze. The soother flew from his hand and he immediately moved to get it, shoving it back into his mouth.
"He doesn't cry?" James wondered. "Harry nearly deafened me whenever he lost a soother or whenever it was too warm to do anything but give him something to chew on."
"He's in a better mood right now." Narcissa said. "Phoenix has been understanding, for some reason. He doesn't pick fights with his brother. He's usually very grabby."
"Naughty." Lily commented good naturedly, poking Phoenix on the nose though her finger only touched the mirror. For a second the baby went cross eyed before he scowled at Lily. The redheaded witch laughed. "And has the infamous Black temper!"
"They both do." Narcissa nodded. "You should see Draco in one of his bad days. He refuses to be picked up or carried anywhere and when he can't move by himself he cries himself silly and to sleep."
"It must be difficult." James wondered out loud. He knew how much trouble his Harry was, never mind two twins that had both Malfoy and Black blood. The horror.
Narcissa chuckled and stared lovingly at her twins. "Yes… but it's worth it. It will all be worth it."
Tom let out a frustrated sound. Nothing was going as he had expected it. He was supposed to be with his husband and son right now, not out here attempting to infiltrate his school and the first place he'd ever considered to be his home.
But this was happening. And it was all Dumbledore's fault. If he could just leave well enough alone this stupid ward wouldn't be happening! Tom nearly shattered the Ravenclaw hour glass as he walked passed that corridor and towards on to the entrance of the Headmaster's office. It would go down and it would be his way or the hard way. Preferably his way because he just wanted to go home.
He and James were barely married a year and he had a son who was now walking and babbling and possibly even talking who were trapped at home kept safe thanks to a Fidelus Charm. This was wrong. James was supposed to be working as an Auror, because he wanted to keep people safe and Harry was supposed to go walking in the park, sliding on the slides, and bewitching people with his adorable good looks. His son was meant to charm people, why else would he be so bloody adorable?
Glaring at the gargoyle that had moved on its own accord, Tom hurried up the steps as fast as he could without it looking like he was running. The guard had been ordered to move when he came. He was obviously expected.
Tom walked through the doors and glared at the man sitting behind the desk. Never mind that he was in great danger, Tom just wanted it all over with. He had his wand drawn and he projected all his hate towards Albus Dumbledore, the man who screwed his life.
"My boy, welcome, welcome." Albus remained seated, his damn blue eyes twinkling with light from the burning fire. He pushed the bowl of sweets towards him and Tom could feel a muscle pull at the restraint he used on himself. He would not throttle the wizard, he had too much pride for that. "Lemon drop?"
"No, thank you." Tom bit back curtly. He stayed where he was and refused to move closer. Who knew what charms Dumbledore had around his stupid desk. There were sure to be charms since the old man wouldn't move away from it. Coward, hiding behind shields. "This is all your fault."
"My fault?" Albus said. "What is it Tom? Tell this old man your thoughts."
Tom glared even harder at that. "Do not call me that! Only people I love can call me that."
"Ah, and who are those people then?" Albus asked conversationally.
Tom took in a deep breath and had to admire the man's guts. Only he would act like they were discussing the bloody weather when talking to someone who so obviously wanted t o kill him. "I do not need to tell you that."
Albus stared at him. "Oh, surely you want to share just who you feel so deeply about. It's been so long since you were ever cared for. Not after what happened to your mother."
Tom growled and looked away from Dumbledore, his anger spiking. "How dare you! Do you think I wouldn't know when someone is using Legillemency on me. It is rude to eavesdrop on other peoples' thoughts."
"My apologizes, my dear boy. This old man is simply curious." Albus smiled.
"And curiosity killed the cat you awful Gryffindor." Tom hissed. "Why are you doing this? I'm not out cursing muggles and seeking world domination anymore. I am leaving you alone. Why can't you grant me the same favor?"
Albus was frowning now. "Well you see Tom, I met you when you were quite young. Same as I had met Grindelwald in all his glory when he'd started off as a Dark Lord. I had done nothing to stop him. I thought that he could change."
Tom's brows furrowed. "I have changed."
"Yes, but at what price." Albus continued. "You may not want to take over the Wizarding World now, but what of your son. What if something were to happen to your family?"
"How do you know about Harry?" Tom snapped, panic lacing in his head. He had done everything, everything to keep his son a secret from anyone he did not want to find out. Dumbledore had been number one on that list. How did the old bastard know?
"Ah," Albus said softly. "Is that his name then, Harry?"
"I'd rather you stopped playing games with me, Sir." Tom hissed. "I am not in a very patient mood."
"You never really were." Albus chuckled, taking a lemon drop and dropping it into his mouth. He sucked on it for a moment. "What happened to you Tom? You rarely ever made friends, I feared that Dark magic would corrupt your soul. Especially with the crowd you surrounded yourself with. Suddenly there's a change in you and I hear that your circle of service has disbanded itself."
"I found love." Tom answered curtly. "Something you thought I would never find but I have! You can't take them away from me Albus Dumbledore. Not you or your army."
"My boy, I have no army." Albus chuckled but then silenced himself. "Very well. I do not wish to put war upon us."
"Isn't it a little too late for that?" Tom asked, his eyes narrowing.
"I suppose." Albus nodded. "But, I will have a talk with the Minister of Magic and we shall put an end to this fighting. You and your followers will be able to live in peace."
"And in return?" There was a catch. There would always, always be a catch.
"You will leave the country." Albus said firmly. "I do not wish to make you feel like outsiders. But with the war being very fresh I do not think that you will be able to live here in peace."
"Fresh?" Tom echoed. "And just whose fault is that? I was content with living with James. I was happy with where my life was going. You ruined it!"
"And I apologize." Albus conceded. "This is all I can do for you now. Everything had been done for the greater good. Diagon Alley will be open to your services for the next twenty four hours and you may do so as you wish. But after that, I hope you will be as far as way as you want to be. It comes with the most sincerest apologies of a paranoid old man."
Tom sighed and shook his head. This was the best that he was going to get. Live, not under the worries of war, and in exchange he would be shipped off to another country. It was too good to believe and frankly Tom wanted to hex Dumbledore to death. For interfering with his life and having such good standing that Tom would always seem to be in the wrong.
"Will you leave me alone then? Leave me to my life?" Tom asked quietly.
Albus nodded. "You have my word."
"I don't find that very valuable anymore, Sir." The titled had been added in rather bitterly and, quite frankly, tiredly but Tom nodded his head and turned. "I shall inform all members of my service, and we will be making our way out the country. I trust that you will hold up your end of the bargain."
"Indeed." Albus' voice called after him as he then made his way out of the rooms and directly out of the castle and into the forest.
Tom announced what had happened and told his loyal followers to go home. Go home and take their families to any country that they wished. Gringotts would be opened for them, they were to go out and collect their money and transfer the contents of their vaults.
They would not be coming back to Britain, Tom acknowledge that. He just couldn't help but feel that this happened a little too fast and a little too easily. Something was telling him that this was not the end.
Albus watched as the boy he knew as Tom Riddle left his office and his presence. For a second his magic reached out to the boy but he drew back. There would be no reason for him to leave any traces on Tom because whether anyone liked it or not, Harry would be the player in their new game.
If not because Albus couldn't handle Tom at the present, but because Albus knew a losing fight when he saw it. Tom had been right when he said that he'd been living his life quietly. It had been him who opened war and honestly most Wizards, even the people in his Order, grew hesitant during attacks.
They believed that Voldemort's rise to power had fizzled out like most aspiring Dark Lords. But Albus knew better.
And he would be prepared for Hadrian… Yes, he would be prepared for Harry and the rest of the new generation. The Department of Mysteries had been quite helpful and he knew somewhat what to expect.
Hadrian Thames Potter-Riddle would be the centre of most of his problems, well not problem exactly, but his attention would be taken by the boy. He was after all the son of the Dark Lord. He had a sure friend in Alexander Evan Snape and a confidant in Luna Althea Lovegood. He would be taken by Draco Abraxas Malfoy and troubled by Phoenix Orion Malfoy.
The Seer had forsaken it, and so it would be.
Albus would be prepared. He would never let another Dark Lord rise to power. Not after Gellert and if he could stop Tom, he would stop his son too.
Even if little Harry knew nothing about his future of becoming the next Dark Lord. Albus did, he knew, and that would make the difference.
Harry let out a shout of joy at the sound of wings fluttering near his bed. His Dad had promised that he'd placed a warning charm around his window if ever an owl got close by and true to his word here the owl was. It was the day of his birthday, the 31st of July and he was officially eleven years old. He would be going to school now and hopefully along with the rest of his friends.
His parents had told him about going to Beauxbatons or Durmstrang or even Pangmataasan, just like Alexander had been told by Aunt Lily and Uncle Severus. But he would be firm about this. In his dreams, Harry had always known that he would need to go to Hogwarts. He was supposed to go there for what reason he didn't know. Aunt Althea had told him to trust in his dreams though, and he would do so because he trusted his Aunty.
Harry took the owl's burden from him and gestured to the owl treats on his table. "Have some of these if you want."
He then proceeded to run down the hall though he had been asked not to do time and time again. Of course excitement overruled every single order and rule that had been engrained in him since he could climb the stairs and he banged on his parents' bedroom door.
"Dad! Father! It's here!" Harry heard a soft groan come from inside the room before the door flew open and he hurried inside, watching as the curtains parted themselves and let light shine into the room from his Father's wandless magic.
Even at this age, Harry happily clambered up the bed and settled in between his just waking Dad and his Father who had turned over and smothered his face into his pillow.
"What's that?" Dad asked, yawning ever so slightly. He smacked Father's shoulder and Harry grinned. "Tom, your son's here."
"I didn't ask him to be." Was the muffled reply before his Father turned over and grabbed at his shoulders and got him to lie down. "He should be in bed. Sleeping in is a plus for birthday boys. Or maybe it isn't his birthday so he isn't sleeping in?"
"No!" Harry cried as he struggled to get back up. "It is my birthday! But the Hogwarts letter is here and I wanted to show it you!"
James, who had been leaning against the headboard and watching quite happily, stiffened a bit at that. "Oh?"
"Yeah!" Harry managed to sit up and grinned, his hair flying all over the place. He was too excited to notice the slightly subdued parent to his left. "Look! It's got the seal and everything!"
"I see." James took the letter from his son and read the front. He then handed it back to Harry. "You open it. It's tradition."
"Okay." Harry broke the seal in half and pulled the heavy piece of parchment from inside and read it with a huge grin on his face. "I really got in. I can't believe I got in!"
"Of course you got in." Father groaned. "You're the son of two very competent wizards. There would be no reason that you wouldn't get in."
"Still…" Harry hummed, staring at the letter quite besotted. He then realized that someone else would have received the letter by now if they were on the list. He shot out of his parents' bed. "I'm going to call the Malfoy's!"
"You go do that." Dad called after him.
James watched as his now eleven year old son ran off before he laid back down beside his husband, whose arms wrapped around him. "I didn't think… because of what happened…"
"Neither did I." Tom murmured. "I thought it had been a mistake when Alexander got his letter but he's been there for an entire year now and he will be coming back this coming September. There's also the Parkinson's daughter, she got a letter as well."
"Is it not an accident then?" James asked. "Are our children being welcomed back to the country?"
"If it's the old man who is still in charge then I have no doubt about it." Tom noted. "He always believed in offering the best for children. Even if the best isn't what he has to give."
James pulled back and stared at his husband." Will Harry be safe there Tom? I don't want to have to send him and worry about him when he's there. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if something were to happen."
"I know." Tom answered, pulling James even closer. "It's been more than a decade though. I don't think anything will happen to him."
James took in a deep breath. "Okay."
"Okay."
Harry flew down the stairs (not quite literally) and threw himself in front of the fireplace, he threw a bit of Floo powder and said quite clearly "Malfoy chateau" and stuck his head in. He'd been quite accustomed to this type of calling and he still found himself getting dizzy. He never liked Floos, he'd much rather talk face to face. But since it was still quite early, he was sure that neither Aunt Cissa nor Uncle Lucius fancied an unannounced guest.
"Hello? Phoenix? Draco?" Harry called out to the slightly dark room. It was also quite disconcerting having your body at home and your head a few towns over. He let out a breath and called out again, in a much louder voice and his efforts were rewarded when the door he could see by the far left opened. He knew that it lead to the living room, and it could be anyone who would greet him.
"What do you want Riddle?" Phoenix Orion Malfoy shuffled into the room, his blonde hair stuck up much like Harry's very own and his glasz blue eyes were glassy with sleep.
Harry let out a frustrated breath because as much as he liked Draco, he could not stand Phoenix. He was so touchy and moody. All Harry wanted to do was be friends, but Phoenix hated it whenever Harry tried to play with them back when they were kids. He would grab whatever toy he or Draco was holding and take off with it. And Phoenix hated Harry just as much. The only person Phoenix seemed to like was Alexander! And that just wasn't bloody fair.
Still, no sense in ruining a perfectly good morning. "Good morning Phoenix."
"Because of you, it's not anymore."
Harry scowled. "Can I please speak to your brother?"
Phoenix mirrored the expression. "Draco is still asleep, much like the rest of the world. He was kept all night thinking of what present he ought to get you for your birthday. He's exhausted, I hope you know."
"I do now." Harry mumbled, not really knowing what to say to that. It wasn't like he'd held Draco at wandpoint and force him to think of a good present for Harry. Heck! He didn't even ask for a present. But still… "He got me a present? That was nice of him."
Phoenix stared at him for a second and Harry shifted uncomfortably. The blonde boy frowned and crossed his arms over his chest. "I don't even want to think of why you've called so early in the bloody morning. Are you stressing the fact that today was the day you came into the world? Newsflash, not everybody cares!"
Harry's temper flared then and he opened his mouth to give back as good as he'd gotten but didn't get the chance to when the door to the left once again opened. This time the blonde that stepped through was similarly frowning but at least he wasn't cursing the fact that Harry's head was in the fireplace.
Draco Abraxas Malfoy stared at Harry for a second, stopping by the door before he shuffled on to where his brother stood. Seeing them stand side by side made Harry go cross eyed for a bit before Draco let out a small sound of irritation. "It's bloody six o'clock in the morning! Just what in Merlin's frilly dress robes do you want?"
From behind the blonde, Phoenix was smirking and Harry grit his teeth. He knew better than to disturb the Malfoy's so early in the morning but he did have a good reason.
"I'll tell you in a sec." Harry winced as he could feel his knees start hurting. He gave Draco a pointed look. "Can I come through?"
Draco blew on his fringe but nodded. "Go ahead."
Harry withdrew his head from the fireplace with a soft breath, not at all surprised to find his Dad and Father with the table set. He gave them a pleading look to which Father rolled his eyes at but nodded his head anyways.
Harry then stepped through the Floo and found himself in the Malfoy's living room. Phoenix was sitting on the settee and Draco was beside him. There were two gift boxes in front of the twins and Harry, despite his earlier fit smiled brightly at them.
"Those for me?" He took a seat in between the twins when Draco made space for him.
"Oh no Potter, they're Mother's new center pieces and for some reason they're scarlet and gold. Yes, scarhead. They're yours!" Phoenix let his head loll against the back of the settee and his sarcastic response had Draco rolling his eyes.
Harry glared at the soft jibe and subconsciously raised a hand to comb through his bangs. He did not like being reminded of that incident, as both Phoenix and Draco ought to know and so he did not appreciate it when either pulled it into a fight. That was just low.
Draco, seeing that Harry was about ready to explode and this brother was not going to apologize any time soon, stood up and all but shoved the wrapped presents onto Harry's lap and reclaimed the seat between Harry and his brother. Better have someone in between than have them hex each other with free ranges.
"Open it." Draco prompted as he leaned against his brother. Phoenix had gone quiet, and that was good. He had stepped on the line there just now and he better know it.
Harry pulled on the ribbons (gold as Phoenix had said) and lifted the top of the box. He smiled at the gleaming medallion. It was a pin that he could wear over his robes when he went to Hogwarts. He was sure it wouldn't be against the rules. It was also a very beautiful bird, like a… no not an owl.
"A Phoenix." Draco breathed, he looked over his shoulder at his twin who was looking straight at the pin.
"This is beautiful." Harry stammered, his cheeks flushing. He looked at Phoenix who was back to glaring at him. The boy had his moments. "Thanks Phoenix. I promise to wear him all the time!"
"My gift is nowhere this special." Draco huffed and shrunk back into Phoenix who nearly fell back at his brother's weight. "You won't like it as much."
"I'm sure I will." Harry smiled, tucking the pin back in its box and setting it aside before opening the next gift box. Again, he could feel his ears flush red. "How do you choose such good presents?"
Draco frowned. "Phoenix I believe he is talking to you."
"I was talking to both of you." Harry insisted but his attention was riveted on the ring with its emerald stone. It looked extremely expensive. He turned to Draco. "How much did this cost you?"
"Nothing really." Draco shrugged. "The emerald was a gift from Mother and the silver band…"
"Yes?" Harry prompted.
Phoenix nudged his brother. "Father helped him make it."
"You made it?" Harry gaped. "Draco… you aren't even supposed to know how to use magic yet!"
Draco and Phoenix visibly bristled. "We're Malfoy's! There's no way we wouldn't be able to use magic."
Harry good naturedly rolled his eyes before settling the ring back in its box. He regarded Draco with a questioning look. "Why a ring though?"
Draco paused for a second, as if unsure before he cleared his throat. "I wanted to give you something you always had on. You always have that necklace Uncle James gave you so I thought you wouldn't appreciate another one to hang about your neck. A ring seemed like the next best thing."
"Not a bracelet?" Harry asked, grinning at the healthy flush of Draco's cheeks. "Or a watch?"
"If you don't like it then you can bloody well give it back!" Draco cried indignantly. "I just thought you'd appreciate a little bit of home when you're over at Hogwarts."
Harry's grin froze a bit. "You... What do you mean? Won't you be there to do the reminding?"
Phoenix cut in then. "We didn't get in."
Harry's hair stood on end. "What? That's not fair! Why wouldn't you get in? I mean, I got in!"
"It's not that." Phoenix answered shaking his head. "Mother says it's because we're too young. Which is true, mind, we're not even eleven yet."
Harry frowned. "Well… that is true. But this is unfair, I thought we'd start school together! I mean, Alexander is a year ahead of us and Delphine and Luna are a year younger than us! We were meant to stick together!"
"Don't forget Harry, Alexander is really a year older than you and you are half a year older than us." Draco said. "It was a very slim chance that we'd all go together at the same year."
Harry worried on his bottom lip. "I'll wait a year then."
"Wait for what?" Draco asked.
"Wait for you guys." Harry said, quite decided. "Yes, that way we can all start together at the same time."
"Harry you can't do that!" Draco gasped. "You're of Wizarding age! You can't postpone schooling just because you want us to be with you."
"I do agree Potter." Phoenix nodded condescendingly. "Much as you're incompetent, you have a great deal of passion for certain things. Who knows, you might have an affinity for learning!"
"You know I can hex you right. I mean, I am now legally allowed my wand." Harry hissed.
Phoenix smirked. "See! You're learning already!"
"Draco hold me back."
"Yes please Draco, we wouldn't want him to make a fool out of himself."
"Draco says knock it off!" Said blonde snapped. "There will be no hexing, much as I want to see both of you dead I don't want to have to explain to Mother and Uncle James. Now, Harry you will be attending Hogwarts this coming September. End of discussion. And Phoenix you will stop baiting him, you know he has his Father's temper."
"Which Father?" Harry asked amused.
"Uncle Tom." Draco replied without missing a beat. He then continued off with his rant. "And besides, we won't be waiting half a year longer than you."
"Technically we start a month ahead of you." Phoenix added in. He didn't seem too amused that his little brother was yet again lecturing him.
"What do you mean?" Harry asked.
"Beauxbatons doesn't care about your age." Draco shrugged. "You just take a test and if you pass then you're one of their students. You can even skip a few years if you like but Mother says it's better if we take all our year levels. It'll be in our best interest to do so."
Phoenix picked up on his brother's high pitched voice. "And of course it wouldn't do to boast. We are Malfoy's. We have albino peacocks as pets for a reason."
Harry laughed at the twins' imitation of their Mother. "And that is?"
"To learn how to be smug in utmost silence!" The twins chorused before quietly snickering to themselves.
Harry chuckled at their antics before he sobered up, his smile falling a bit sad. "You tested in? And you passed?"
"I believe that Draco has just said that." Phoenix shook his head as if baffled. "Must you repeat everything? Isn't once enough?"
Harry sighed. "I can't believe this. Were you guys going to tell me?"
Draco frowned. "We decided it wouldn't do any good to worry you if we weren't sure if we'd pass or not."
"Who says I'm worried?" Harry asked as detached as possible.
Draco pursed his lips and Phoenix raised a blonde eyebrow (just one mind you) and said "Uh, say you're reaction not ten minutes ago that you wished to postpone your schooling so that we could all go at the same time?"
Harry shrugged but his cheeks flushed bright red.
Draco chuckled a bit at his friends expense but extended a hand and laid it over Harry's. "Hey."
Harry turned his gaze towards the blonde who was leaning against his brother. Phoenix had an arm around Draco's shoulders and Draco was leaning against him. They both looked at him with slightly sad looks.
"What?" He asked dumbly.
"Everything's going to be all right." Draco said, finally. "We'll still see each other over the summer. And don't forget, there's always the Triwizard Tournament every year."
"I won't get to go until I'm a fourth year." Harry grumbled. "Don't tell me Beauxbatons' allows first years to go."
"Not alone." Phoenix smirked. "But as escorts…"
Harry's eyes bugged. "You're that confident that a fourth year girl will take interest in you, are you?"
"Of course." Draco said, his back straightening. "We're smart."
"Blonde."
"Proper gentlemen."
"Pureblooded."
"Bilingual."
"Absolutely brilliant."
"Charming."
"Funny."
"And above all," Draco raised his eyebrows suggestively.
"We can show a girl a good time." Phoenix ended.
Harry took it all in for a moment before he burst out laughing. The twins looked quite put out at this but he couldn't help himself. Through the tears he'd nearly shed he looked at his best friends and said quite breathily, "I'll miss you guys so much."
"Sap." Draco conked him playfully on the head. "We've still got a month."
Harry looked at him confused. "Don't you mean two?"
"Just one." Phoenix said with a frustrated huff. "Weren't you listening to what Draco said? Beauxbatons' starts ahead of Hogwarts."
"Oh." Harry frowned. "Well, I guess we'll have to make the most of it."
"We will." Draco nodded before he stood up. "Starting with your birthday party! Are we invited to breakfast?"
Harry grinned as Phoenix followed after his brother and they both strode to the Floo. "Aren't you always?"
"Yes, I suppose." Draco then went to go call their parents and Phoenix went ahead to call the Snape family.
Harry felt a bit overwhelmed as he Flooed back home to be greeted by Luna and Uncle Xenophilius. He was painfully reminded that they'd lost Aunt Althea three years ago and he swallowed the lump in his throat. He was a bit over that though, but it was still painful to think of.
And now he would be going to Hogwarts but it would be by himself. No Draco and no Phoenix. Of course, Alexander would be there but that was only half a consolation. The redheaded menace loved to play pranks on him.
"Hadrian." Turning, Harry stared at his Father who was frowning slightly.
"I'm fine." He said, nodding though he didn't really feel it. He could tell that his Father was not convinced and let out a small sigh before stepping into his Father's strong and protective arms. No matter what anyone said, he was not too old for hugs and he would never be. "I feel slightly overwhelmed."
"Why is that?" His Father asked.
"Draco and Phoenix aren't going to attend Hogwarts." He mumbled. "And I thought this would be something I wouldn't have to do alone."
Father drew back and tipped his face to look up. He stared into the green eyes that were similar to his and he couldn't help but be in awe. He wished he could be more like his Father. Strong and confident and so sure of himself.
"Hadrian," Father started. "You are never alone. You're Dad and I are only a mirror away and owls too. We'll go to Diagon Alley and buy you one that you like plus any other pet that you want. And because Beauxbatons' starts early, they also end early and believe me when I say that everyone and I mean everyone will be at the station to greet you just like we greet Alexander."
Harry nodded. "Okay."
"Okay?" Father asked again.
"Okay." Harry breathed before he looked up again. "Father, why Diagon Alley? Why not Coulior Lane?"
"Because." Father said before guiding him to the dining room where everyone was now assembled in. "It's tradition."
Harry chuckled and shook his head before sitting himself down beside Draco and across from Alexander who looked like the end of the world was coming.
"What's wrong with you?" Harry asked the redhead.
Alexander turned to him, his face going blank. Beside him, Phoenix was worrying on his bottom lip. Alexander's eyebrows narrowed at Harry who froze with his hands in the middle of picking up his fork. "Did you know that they're going to attend Beauxbatons?"
Harry nodded sympathetically. "It sucks."
"I know!" Alexander cried before slamming his head into the table, rattling a bit of china. Beside him, Delphine scowled distastefully at her brother. "That means that I'll be spending the entire year with only you to remind me of home! Urgh!"
"Wow," Harry drawled. "Glad you appreciate my company."
"Think Mum dropped him one too many times when he was a baby." Delphine commented from Harry's side. She smirked at him, her green eyes gleaming mischievously and Harry grinned back.
Alexander rolled his eyes. "Very funny! You've gotta admit, it won't be as fun without these two."
Phoenix, who was now beaming quite happily, laid a hand on Alexander's hand on top of the table and the redhead sagged against his chair as if calmed instantly. Draco rolled his eyes at that but was beaming as well. "You'll be all right. Remember, Triwizard tournament."
Harry scoffed and pointed at the twins with his fork that still had a bit of pancake on it. "These two think that they can bag fourth years to take them to the Triwizard tournament as escorts."
"Good for them." Alexander mumbled. "You and me might have a bit more trouble with the girl bagging though."
Harry chewed on his slice of pancake then swallowed. "Why is that?"
Alexander grinned not at all ashamed. "Well, I sort of agreed that we'd all be together during the Triwizard Tournament and so we have two months to find a girl that will take us to the hosting school just in case it isn't going to be hosted at Hogwarts."
Harry, who was now chewing on another piece of pancake, promptly choked at that and had drawn everyone's attention. He meaningfully glared at Alexander who was still grinning before sending the twins looks.
"Are you all right?" his Dad asked from the head of the table.
"Yes." Harry finally mumbled once he was finally able to breathe. He took a drink of water before mouthing to Alexander "I hate you."
Alexander grinned. "Remember, two months!"
Albus sat down into his chair and waited for the knock he knew was coming. When it did he gave a cheery greeting and asked for his visitor to come inside. His apprentice and long time friend stepped in and took a seat in front of him, deigning to take a lemon drop without needing to be asked. Albus always loved that about Minerva, she always understood him.
"I see that you've sent the first year invitations already?" Albus asked as he waved his hand and asked for tea. It appeared on the table and he offered a cup to Minerva who accepted it.
"Yes." She nodded. "Including a very important someone from across the pond. Are you sure about this Albus?"
Albus frowned. "Sure about what, Minerva?"
"Inviting that boy to Hogwarts?" Minerva started. "You'd asked them to live out of the country for a reason. And now they will be taken back just like that?"
"They are only children." Albus argued. "It is not as if they will be much of a threat."
"We never know." Minerva stirred her tea.
"And we never will." Albus countered. "Unless they are here, where we will be able to keep an eye on them. To help them if they fail to follow the right path and they fall into the dark like their parents."
Minerva considered that. "I see your point, Albus. But I still can't feel too comfortable with having the son of Tom Riddle walk through these halls."
"You must remember Minerva, he is also James Potter's."
"As if that's any better!" Minerva cried. "I remember James Potter, he was a troublemaker if I ever saw one!"
"But he had a good heart." Albus followed. "Let us hope his son has inherited that much at least."
"Yes, let us." Minerva nodded and sipped her tea. She then proceeded to change the subject.
Albus entertained his friend but he couldn't help but silently think that Harry might have inherited James' good nature, that didn't mean he wouldn't be corrupted as his Father had been. It was why he refused to send the Malfoy children their Hogwarts letters and why next year he would also reject Delphine Snape from attending Hogwarts.
They were the keys to turning Harry away from the light.
Albus could not allow that and so he won't.
AN: Here's the second part of the grounding chapter! I needed to age them a whole lot and bear in mind they live in France and so they're probably fluent in French, only I want them to be able to speak like the Brits they are. So French speakers but fluent and rather British speakers as well.
Much thanks to my two reviewers! And I'm sorry if you think that Tom packed up and went just because Dumbles told him so. Remember, he's in love and has a son to think about. As a Slytherin he still values self-preservation.
