Chapter 2 Family
Harry and company had been very impressed with their journey on the small boats. Crossing the lake had been a beautiful experience, made even more so by the witch holding his hand. Catching sight of Hogwarts castle had caused him to gasp, the majesty of the structure a wonder to behold.
All the students followed the large form of Hagrid, as they made their way up to the castle. As a group, they gathered on the landing of the large marble staircase that led to an impressive set of double doors. Standing before them was a stern looking older woman, who surveyed the incoming students with an eagle eye.
"I am Professor McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts, and professor of transfiguration." she said loudly. "You will soon be sorted into your houses. Your House will be like your family during your stay here at Hogwarts. You will all wait here a moment while I go and make sure the preparations are complete. Behave yourselves!" She gave them all a withering glare before turning on her heels and disappearing behind the double door.
"So, Prince Potter deigns to join us?" asked the loud mouthed blonde boy who strutted over to Harry. "I'm Draco Malfoy, Harry, and it is a pleasure to meet you." he said contemptuously.
Susan felt Harry tense, and holding tighter to his hand whispered, "Let Neville deal with the git!"
"That's Lord Potter to you, Mr. Malfoy!" said Neville harshly.
The blonde turned his sight away from Harry to focus on the tall boy before him. Draco directed a look of scorn at the boy before him. "Stand aside, squib! Do not presume to speak to your betters!" he sneered.
Neville drew himself up, straightening his tall frame so that he loomed over the ponce. "I am Neville Longbottom, Malfoy, heir to the Longbottom title and definitely your better." he growled.
Draco shrunk back, bumping in to the two troll like kids behind him. He gathered his courage and glared at Neville, "Prince Potter needs a protector?" he said disparagingly.
Neville smiled at the boy, "Lord Potter doesn't wish to be addressed by the likes of you, Slytherin, so step aside!"
"What's a Slytherin?" asked Harry in a soft voice.
"They're one of the houses. They've long been considered dark…evil even!"
"So I don't want to be in Slytherin?" he smirked at her. "Prat!" she said as she smacked his arm.
Minerva had caught the end of the altercation, and was a bit surprised at hearing Harry named Lord Potter. She knew, of course, that he was intended to take up his title. She hadn't grasped that he'd already taken up his position, but seeing the Potter crest on his robes and the gleaming golden ring on his finger she realized that he had indeed been elevated to his Lordship.
"Mr. Potter…" she began.
"Lord Potter!" said Neville insistently.
She took in the Longbottom heir, a bit put out at being spoken to in such a way by a first year. She saw the iron in his posture, 'Augusta taught him well' she thought. "Very well then, Lord Potter, all first years, please follow me as we make our way into the Great Hall"
Harry called up his courage, trying to remember everything Neville had told him about what was about to happen. Having a plan was all well and good, as long as he could keep his cool. He was Lord Potter now after all, and that had to count for something. He knew the Headmaster would try to interfere at some point in his life; it was going to be up to him to not let him. But standing up to the greatest wizard in the world was going to be a bit scary!
The group of students made their way into the hall, wonder in their eyes as they gazed at their surroundings. Harry loved the ceiling, which at the moment was displaying a star filled night sky. Susan held Harry's hand tightly; she was a bit afraid of what would happen next. She knew she was the second to go when selection started, and the thought of being sorted away from Harry frightened her.
"What is it Sue?" he asked curiously.
"I'm just a little scared Harry. The sorting will take place now, what if they put you in a different House than me? I don't want to lose you, Harry; I don't have that many friends that I can afford to lose one!"
"Do you think I'd give this up?" he said raising her hand in his, "Meeting you has been the happiest thing that has ever happened to me. Let yourself be sorted, I'll never stop being your friend."
Hannah yelped in delight as she made her way to the Hufflepuff table.
"Susan Bones!" intoned McGonagall.
She looked into Harry's eyes, who nodded at her reassuringly, she hesitantly let go of Harry and slowly made her way to the stool. "Well hello future Lady Bones, I hope you're having a good time so far?" asked the hat.
Susan raised her eyebrows in surprise, not sure what to make of the fact that the hat was talking to her!
"Of course I'm talking to you! How else am I going to sort you if I can't find out a little about you?"
"That makes sense, I suppose. Ask away then, hat!"
"You may call me Sebastian, Susan. I can tell you are intelligent; there is also a hint of bravery lurking beneath there as well. But it is your sense of loyalty which shines through."
"What does that mean, Sebastian? I'll go anywhere you put me as long as Harry is there too!"
"Harry? Harry Potter is here? Interesting… And why must you be with Harry?" asked Sebastian.
"He's my friend, he needs me." she said with a blush.
"Indeed? Well, I will see what I can do about that, Susan. But for now, I think I am ready to sort you. Hufflepuff!" Sebastian bellowed.
Susan stood and placed Sebastian back on the stool. She turned toward the Hall and made her way to her new House. She took Harry's hand in hers and grasped it briefly as she made her way to Hannah and the Hufflepuffs.
When it was Neville's turn, he confidently took up the hat and placed it on his head. "Hello Sebastian," he said, "Gran asked me to convey to you her regards."
"Augusta, huh? Well then, please send her my greetings as well. What to do about you though, Neville?"
"Anywhere is fine, Sebastian. As long as I can stand by Harry, that is."
"You know, you're the second person that has mentioned Harry, the young man sure inspires a lot of loyalty!"
"He does indeed. But he is a Potter. The last of the Potters. He will help change the world, and I stand by him, as a Longbottom should!" said Neville seriously.
"Hufflepuff!" shouted Sebastian.
Albus Dumbledore waited patiently for the name he'd been waiting on for so long to be called. Harry coming to Hogwarts meant that his plans to defeat the Dark Lord could begin. It was a shame he was the last Potter as a noble family would be extinguished, and he deeply regretted that. But he'd planned for Harry to arrive at Hogwarts a broken lad, and so placed him with those despicable people to be raised. He caught a glimpse of the boy, standing awkwardly behind the gathered first years. He was a bit surprised that he was between Longbottom and Bones. He was certain that he would befriend the young Weasley boy. But he had no control over what happened on the Express. As long as he was sorted into Gryffindor, Harry would be well and truly under his thumb. The influence of Longbottom and Bones would hinder his plans; he might have to deal with that!
"Harry Potter!" spoke Minerva.
Harry slowly made his way toward the dais. He took up the hat and placed it on his head as he sat on the stool.
"Welcome to Hogwarts, Lord Potter! I am Sebastian, I hope you don't mind if we chat a bit?"
"Of course not, Sebastian, I find that I like meeting new 'people'. And call me Harry, please; I don't know anything about that whole Lord business."
"What do you mean you don't know? Why don't you know?" asked Sebastian seriously.
"I was raised by muggles. I didn't know anything about magic or this world at all. It was only last week when I received my letter that I learned about magic!"
"Hmmm…indeed. May I ask, could I be allowed to read your memories Harry? I need to know what happened to you and that would be the quickest way to do it."
Harry was a bit skeptical about that, not knowing if he wanted someone in his mind like that. "I promise never to tell anyone what I see, Harry." Reassured by that, Harry consented.
It was a very angry hat that spoke again after a few moments. "Those people will be dealt with, Harry, you have my word! But I'm beginning to understand the reasons behind the Headmaster wanting me to place you in Gryffindor. Now the things your mother told me are starting to make sense!"
"You spoke to my mother?" asked an awed Harry.
"I did Harry, she was a magnificent person, quite simply wonderful. She was kind and generous, and loved you above all things. She'd often come back to Hogwarts talk to me, as she was curious as to how I was made. We became friends through our conversations. I was so very sorry to hear about your parents passing. Your mother came by the school a few days before her death. She'd grown suspicious of some of the things going on around her family. James, your father, was at the time making sure you three were safe. I think she feared that she wasn't long for this world, and came to me with hopes that I'd do something for her."
"What did she want?"
"I was to convey a message to you."
"My Mom asked you to talk to me?" Harry asked amazed.
"She did, I never really gave it much thought, as I was sure that your parents would be the ones to see you to Hogwarts when the time came. Seeing you here now, lacking the knowledge of your family and its place in our world, offends me deeply. Lily was right, they were being manipulated. And somehow, you are the key to solving that puzzle."
"My life is going to be really complicated, isn't it?"
Sebastian chortled at that. "More than likely Harry, but your friends and family will help. As to your mother's message, she said simply 'Trust Longbottom, Trust Bones, Trust Moony, and Trust Padfoot. Don't trust Dumbledore.'
"That's it?" asked Harry.
"Yes, not much I know. I know you're now acquainted with Susan. Lily wanted to make sure you were placed with her, absolutely insisted on it!"
Harry reddened, but happy that she'd asked Sebastian for that. "Do you know who Padfoot and Moony are?"
"Sorry, Harry, I don't. But I'm sure they'll turn up eventually. Now, onto the sorting!"
"Not Gryffindor!"
"Not Gryffindor? You could be great there, you know? Well, if you're certain, I guess I better place you with Susan so she doesn't come back and hurt me!"
Harry chuckled at that, sure that his new friend had indeed threatened Sebastian with injury. "I'd like that Sebastian."
"Yeah, I'm sure you would," snorted the hat, "very well then, Hufflepuff!"
OoOOooOOoo
"Wait…what…Hufflepuff!?" yelled Dumbledore.
"I'm sorry Albus, is there a problem?" asked Sebastian.
"Yes, Sebastian, I believe Harry is supposed to be in Gryffindor."
"And why would you think that, Albus? Harry is, quintessentially, a Hufflepuff. Yes, he does have many Gryffindor traits but his loyalty to friends and family outweigh his bravery. Not by much, mind you!"
"Harry, wouldn't you prefer to be in Gryffindor?" asked Albus.
Harry stood, as did Neville and Susan, and faced the Headmaster.
"Thank you, Professor, but I believe that I am where I am meant to be." he replied.
"And I believe that you should be resorted into Gryffindor, Harry. Your family has been in that House for generations, I believe that Sebastian may have made a mistake."
"Harry has spoken Headmaster." said Neville as he stepped forward. "And you will address him as Lord Potter!"
Dumbledore gasped, shocked at that last statement. "I'm sorry, I must have misheard you, did you say Lord Potter?"
Neville glanced back at Harry, and jerked his head towards the headmaster. Harry understood, and gathered up his courage as he walked forward.
"Lord Harry James Potter, Headmaster, a pleasure to meet you." he replied with a slight bow.
"Harry…"
"Lord Potter, Headmaster. I'll allow Mr. Potter if you prefer."
Pomona Sprout was having the night of her life! Here was a student, a first year, spanking the great Albus Dumbledore in front of the whole school. She was more pleased than she could say at having young Lord Potter in her House. Long had Hufflepuff been the butt of school jokes, and she expected that the addition of Harry to her House that that would be a thing of the past! She would have to make sure that Harry had all the support from her she could muster.
"Very well then, Lord Potter, would you please take up the hat again so you may be resorted." said Albus more forcefully.
Harry was starting to get angry at this man, what right did he have to tell him what to do? "I have been sorted, Headmaster. That is the end of it!" he said with a bit more steel in his voice than he actually felt.
Harry felt his ring vibrating, and was a little curious as to why. The question would have to wait though as the Headmaster, as if by some unknown hand, flew back into his throne-like chair. Neville gasped at that, and whipped his head at Harry, "Was your ring acting up?" he asked.
Harry nodded his head. "Did he just try to read my mind?" he asked gravely. Neville nodded once and returned his attention to the Headmaster.
"I'll send a note to Auntie later, Harry. She should know what happened!"
"Headmaster?" asked Harry, "Are you quite alright?"
"Yes, yes, just a little tired is all. Thank you for asking." he said with a wave of his hand. "First Hufflepuff Potter in generations, how remarkable."
"Madam Sprout," said Harry as he bowed to his Head of House, "As Lord of House Potter, I ask that Hogwarts please provide me with private quarters in Hufflepuff."
"Of course Lord Potter, I have already seen to it that the house-elves make preparations for your living arrangements. It is a great pleasure to welcome you to Hufflepuff." she smiled at him widely.
"Excellent," added Albus sarcastically, "let us please continue sorting, as we have hungry children waiting for dinner."
OoOOooOOoo
"Well done, Harry!" said Neville.
"Are you kidding, I almost peed myself I was so scared!" whispered Harry.
Susan, Hannah, and Neville giggled at that, thinking it would have been quite funny to see Harry wet himself on his first day in school.
"I couldn't tell you were scared, Harry. You looked composed, 'Lordly', even!" added Hannah.
Susan nodded in agreement, "She's right Harry, you looked calm and in control."
"It will take practice, being able to do that. Gran's been teaching me for years and I still get scared when she yells at me!" said Neville shivering theatrically causing everyone to laugh.
Harry reached under the table and took hold of Susan's hand. "Thank you." he whispered.
"For what?" she whispered back.
"For being you, for standing with me, for being my friend."
"Always, Harry, you're not getting rid of me. Well, maybe if you were Slytherin…" she laughed as she caught the look on his face. Gratefully, dinner was quite uneventful from that point on. Harry, Susan, Neville, and Hannah just enjoyed themselves.
"First Year 'Puffs, follow me as we make our way to the dormitories. Stay close everybody, Hogwarts has a habit of changing things around." intoned the prefect. "I am Michael Blake, sixth year prefect, and you host and entertainment for the evening."
The first years chuckled at the prefect, who was hamming it up for the new students. "We're heading down this way, and just so you know, our dormitories are really close to the kitchens if you fancy a late night snack. Don't make a habit of it though, as the house-elves are a busy bunch, what with taking care of us and all!" he said with a wink.
"You all notice the stack of barrels over here, well, that is the entrance to the common room and our dormitory. All you have to do is take your wand, and tap it against this barrel right here." he said as he demonstrated.
The barrel opened up, revealing a large circular door through which Michael stepped through. "Come on now, don't be shy, come on through…"
Harry had yet to let go of Susan's hand, as simply holding it made everything happening a bit less intimidating. Susan, for her part, was not going to let go of Harry's hand anytime soon. Just having him close was reassuring and comforting to her as well.
The common room was magnificent, thought Harry. It was done up in black and gold colors, accented every so often with copper and brass. Plants hung everywhere, giving the impression of being in an arboretum.
"Welcome to Hufflepuff!" said the matronly woman. "I am you Head of House, Professor Sprout. For those of you who don't know, I teach Herbology. We in this House pride ourselves on our loyalty to each other, our hard work in school, and our compassion towards others. You will soon find out that the other Houses of Hogwarts hold us in low regard. Let them! As long as we are here for each other, that is all that matters. We've a good chance of winning the Quidditch cup this year, as we have a really good team. As for the House Cup, let's give it our best shot. I'd like not to be at the bottom this year if at all possible."
"For you that are muggle born or muggle raised, I know this school and our world is quite a shock to the system. Please ask if you find something confusing or curious. I'd rather you lot know what's going on than not. Now, a warning to you all, beware of Professor Snape and his Slytherins. He will be your potions professor, and is not known as a kind or generous man. Quite the contrary, actually; just keep your heads down and anything you don't learn in his class will be covered in the remedial classes that I and some of the seventh years teach on Sunday afternoons. His Slytherins are to be avoided. If you share a class with them, make sure you all leave together or in groups. I don't want to hear of any of you travelling these halls alone, ever, is that understood?"
"Yes, Professor." replied the firsties.
"Alright then everyone, all your things should be up in your rooms. Thank the elves if you get a chance, as they were the ones that brought all your stuff up here to you. Lord Potter, a word, if I may?"
Still holding on to Susan, he walked over to his new Head of House. "Yes Professor Sprout?" he asked.
She eyed Susan, and noticed her holding tightly to Harry's hand. She found it a bit odd, they were both so young after all, but conceded that in the magical world anything was possible. "Lord Potter…"
"Harry, ma'am, please just call me Harry. I only insisted the Headmaster call me that, as he seemed determined to make me do something I had no intention of doing."
"I understand, Harry. Our Headmaster has for far too long gotten his way, and I was pleased that you stood up for yourself. Remember that as your Head I can accompany you to any meetings he intends to have with you." Harry thanked her for the information.
"Madam Sprout, Harry here had no knowledge of his heritage until a few hours ago." this knocked the professor for a loop. "Madam Longbottom has long thought that Harry's upbringing was somehow orchestrated by the Headmaster." stated Susan.
"It this true, Harry?" she asked.
"Yes, Professor, until a week ago I had no idea about this world I now find myself in. Until today, I had no idea what it meant to be a Potter." said Harry apologetically.
"It appears that many have failed you Harry. And what of your family?" Harry lowered his head in shame. Susan caught the professors eye and shook her head. She mouthed 'later'.
"Come Harry, let me show you to your rooms, okay?"
"Is it alright if Susan and Neville accompany me Professor, Hannah too?" he asked politely.
"Of course, Harry, they are your friends after all!" she smiled at him as she led the quartet toward a rather new looking door.
"This Harry, is the entrance your rooms. You are the only one in Hogwarts that has rooms like that at the moment, although Susan, Neville, and Hannah could have all requested them had they been Lord or Lady of their House. There are a few in Slytherin and Ravenclaw who could also in time call for this privilege. And this is a privilege Harry, please remember that."
"I will, ma'am, and will not abuse your trust in me."
"Good, see that you don't. Also, before I forget, as Lord Potter you may leave the school grounds if you need to for family business; so long as you tell me your destination and the time of your return, understand? Given that you are new in your Lordship, not to mention this world, I imagine that many people will want to talk to you."
"Yes, ma'am, I understand." answered Harry.
"There is no password to your room; however, it will only open for you as you are wearing the Potter ring. Press it to the keyhole." she indicated.
Harry did as instructed and as his ring touched the keyhole, a loud click was heard. The doors swung open to the nicest room he'd ever been inside of his whole life! He was pretty sure that he was going to love it here, and how could he not, a place that was all his own. A small but comfortable living room was just beyond the entrance. He slowly walked in, Susan at his side, and took in the cozy surroundings. He liked that it had a large table to one side, thinking it would be a great place for his friends and he to do their homework. The door to the left was a very large bathroom, which contained the largest tub that he'd ever seen. The door on the right was his bedroom. The bed was enormous, and looked softer than a cloud. He was certain he'd finally be able to get good night's sleep.
With a quick smile to Susan, he let go of her hand and ran as fast as he could towards the bed. He launched himself into the air, and landed gently on the soft down comforters. He quickly kicked off his shoes and started jumping and laughing. Susan thought it was the sweetest thing she'd ever seen. She laughed along with Harry, who kept trying to wave her over to join him.
"Harry, come the weekend, I wonder of it would be alright if I ask my Gran to come and visit. She's long wanted to meet you, and I'm sure she's going to have a ton of questions for you. My guess is that she'll also want to get you to the bank. Gringotts has held your families trust for generations, and I for one would like to know why they would have ever let the Heir to the Potter Lordship be raised in the manner he was."
"Gringotts?" asked Harry as he got down from the bed. "The goblins? Oh, I see, they hold all the money. Of course they'd know about the Potter's, especially if, as you said, my family is as wealthy as you think it is."
Neville nodded his head, "We're also going to have to set up some extra classes for you. There is no way that I can convey all the information that you're going to have to learn without some help. Between Susan, Hannah, and me we know a lot. But we'd run the risk of forgetting to mention something, or not teaching you correctly. Better that we hire a tutor to help."
"I'll agree to that as long as the three of you join me as well. I don't fancy being in a classroom all by myself."
Susan agreed with Harry, as did Neville and Hannah. "I've been taking classes like that for as long as I can remember. Hannah and Neville too, I'm sure. Neville and I will be Head of House when we turn seventeen. Hannah has an older brother, who will be getting the Abbott Lordship. We could all use the tutoring, so I will gladly join you."
"Could we do the same for potions?" asked a curious Harry.
"Uhm, huh…honestly that is a question I don't know the answer to. I imagine that it would be feasible, provided we can find an appropriate tutor for you. That professor, Snape was it, he can't really be that bad, can he?" wondered Neville.
"I don't know Neville, the stories I've heard from some of my Aunties younger Aurors have had me scared for a while now. They say he's a despicable man, taking points and giving detention to anyone and everyone who isn't a Slytherin."
"I suppose we just go to his class and see? If he's as bad as you've all heard, we get someone better." stated Harry.
"Agreed!" added his three friends.
Madam Sprout peeked into the room, looking in wonder at the young man before her. Harry Potter had been sorted into her House, despite the wishes of the Headmaster. She could see that he was malnourished, and promised herself to speak to Poppy in the morning regarding that. The obvious bruising on his face was something that also concerned her. Child abuse may be legal in the magical world, but she'd be less than human if she didn't do all she could to prevent that from happening in the future. If she'd heard correctly, Madam Longbottom would be coming to speak to the young Lord during the weekend. The esteemed witch would get to the bottom of Harry's upbringing, and be in a position to do something about it.
"Harry, it's almost curfew. Time for the three of you to start heading to bed; tomorrow promises to be a long day for all of you. I will have your class schedules ready, and will be handing them out during breakfast. Now, off to bed you three. You can all get a good night sleep and get together in the morning."
"Yes, Madam Sprout, we'll be heading to bed. And thank you for your kindness." Harry said sincerely.
"You're welcome Harry. Lights out in twenty minutes!" she said as she left the four to head to make sure the other first years were managing their first night away from home without too much trouble.
"I'll see you in the morning, Harry; we'll head over to breakfast together. 'Nite, mate!" Neville said as he left the room with a wave to Susan and Hannah.
"I'm knackered, guys, see you in the morning Harry. Come on Sue, before we get in trouble."
"Go on Hannah, I'll be there in a minute." she stared at Hannah, who finally caught on and left with a smile on her face at Susan's attempt at some alone time with Harry.
"Are you going to be okay in this room all by yourself Harry?" she asked curiously.
"I really don't see how I couldn't be alright! I mean, look at it. That bed is so comfortable I will probably fall asleep before my head hits the pillow."
"Yeah, you're right, that bed does look comfortable. Hopefully my bed is just as comfy. See you in the morning Harry?"
"Of course you will, Sue. I will be waiting for you in the common room until you come down. I don't sleep very well most nights; I'm hoping the new surroundings will help out with that." he added sadly.
Deliberately, she hugged Harry tightly. She wasn't about to let the boy feel anything other than wanted. She let go of Harry, and stepped back. Smiling at him, she curtsied as she'd been taught, "'Nite, Lord Potter."
OoOOooOOoo
Harry had the best night of his young life. No confined spaces, nobody running up and down the stairs, nobody yelling his name to perform some menial task; yes, it was an awesome night. Glancing around, trying to wipe the cobwebs from his eyes, Harry put on his glasses and meandered groggily toward the bathroom.
The hot shower was another thing he was eternally thankful for. He couldn't remember the last time he'd had a shower that not only was hot, but also one that lasted more than the minute and a half that the Dursley's strictly enforced. The big and soft downy towels, made warm by the steam from his shower, felt like heavenly silk on his skin.
Not knowing what time it was, he hurriedly dressed and made his way into the common room, eager to start his first day of schooling. He was the first, as far as he could tell, to make it to the common room. 'Must be really early.' he thought. He glanced out one of the large windows that dotted the room and saw that the sun had just started to peek over the hills on the far side of the Black Lake. It was a wondrous and beautiful sight, the sun slowly rising, gracing the school with its warmth and light.
He found a comfortable chair, and sat himself down to take in his surroundings. It was really nice here in the Hufflepuff common room, warm and inviting. He thought back to his time aboard the Express, and smiled at the people he had met. Finding Neville had been a revelation. They were brothers, in some sense of the word. He was thankful to him for standing with him and backing him up. He couldn't wait to meet Lady Longbottom, even though Neville had said she was a stern woman. She couldn't be any scarier than Vernon had been on his worst days. But, aside from that, the woman was also family. She had searched for him for years, and no one did that for just anybody. He hoped to be able to learn more about his parents from her, to learn about his heritage, and to learn what it meant to be Harry Potter.
Hannah was sure to become a close friend to him as well. He felt privileged that the young blonde had taken to teasing him. Not at the teasing, per se, more so at the fact that the teasing indicated the she also considered him someone who would be a friend to her. She was nice, and had a wicked sense of humor that he hoped wouldn't be directed at him too often.
But it was Susan who he really couldn't wait to see again. His dreams had been filled with the beautiful young auburn-haired girl that had been so kind to him the day before. He was sure he'd found a friend for life. Finding, as if Fate herself had decreed it, the one who'd be forever at his side; she was honest, and witty, and so very beautiful.
"Harry, why are you up this early?" asked the Head of House as she approached one of her newest protégées.
"It was just time to get up, Ma'am. I had the best night of sleep in my life, and I couldn't be more thankful to you for that. It's been a very long time since I've been able to sleep that well."
Pomona looked at boy before her, and noticed again the fading bruises that were on his cheeks. She reminded herself once again to take him to see Poppy later in the day. She wanted to make sure he received any treatment if he required it. She didn't know what kind of home life Harry had, but if the bruising was any indication, then she would do all within her power to help him escape that life.
"You've nothing to thank me for, Harry. It's what we in Hufflepuff do. We look out for each other."
"Like a family?" he asked with a look of hope.
"Indeed, Harry, exactly like family. Everyone in this House, from you first years all the way up to the seventh years, will look out for each other. I understand that the Lady Longbottom and Madam Bones are coming to see you this weekend?"
"They are, ma'am. They both wish to get to know me, and as I never knew anything of my parents or my family, I'm looking forward to learning about them."
"What do you know about your parents, Harry?" she asked curiously.
"Nothing at all; I know nothing about them."
"Your mother and father were both Gryffindors. Your father was an extraordinary quidditch player…"
"Quidditch, ma'am?"
"You'll learn about that wizarding pastime in due course, Harry. Now, your father was also a prankster, and truth be told," she said looking around to make sure they were alone, "he was also kind of a dick for his first few years at school. He changed though, especially after he took a liking to your mother. She would never have been with him if he had not become the kind and gentle man that he eventually became. You mother, well…your mother was simply the most brilliant witch it has ever been my pleasure to teach. She loved to learn, loved trying new things, she did all she could to take in everything she could of this world she had joined. When your parents finally got together, sometime during sixth year I believe, they were the golden couple of our school. They complemented each other, you know, her seriousness was offset by his cheerful nature." she said with fondness.
"Ma'am, if I may…?"
"Yes, Harry, what is it?"
"Ma'am, what were their names?"
Pomona paled at the thought of this young man not knowing the name of his own parents. What kind of messed up life had he had up to this point that he'd never even been told that?
"James and Lily, Harry. Your mother was Lily Evans before she married your dad."
"James and Lily…"said Harry with wonder in his eyes.
"Talk to Professor McGonagall sometime, I'm sure that as their Head of House she would have some better stories for you to hear."
"I will, and thank you."
She waved aside the thanks, "Today is your first day of schooling in magic. I want you to remember something for me, okay? Learning is something that you must yearn for, something that you must strive for, and something you must forever work on. Your now know that your mother was the most brilliant witch of her generation; you would do her a great disservice if you didn't try to reach the heights that she did. But don't do it for her, Harry, do it for you. Also, don't forget to have fun. We are, after all, only young once."
With a tear in his eye, Harry asked. "Do you think Mom would be proud of me? Would my Dad?"
She held back the sob and tears that threatened to tear out of her body. She was now certain, without a doubt, that the boy before her had been mistreated in the most abominable way. "I certainly do Harry. Every day that you are alive, you make them proud. They are looking down on you from beyond, and are most certainly proud of you. And their pride will grow as you mature into a kind and honorable man."
"Thank you, ma'am." he said genuinely with a tear in his eye.
OoOOooOOoo
Susan had come upon the conversation between her Head of House and Harry and had nearly burst into tears. All she wanted to do was run up to him and squeeze him in a tight hug. But she held herself back, knowing that allowing Harry to get close the Madam Sprout would help with some of his self-doubt and introversion. He needed an adult he could talk to.
"Good morning, Susan." said Madam Sprout as she left Harry's side and walked out of the common room.
"Good morning, Madam Sprout." she answered back.
Her eyes focused back on Harry, her features softening at seeing him with tears in his eyes. "Sleep well?" she asked him in a soft voice. He nodded, a smile on his face, as he wiped away the tear with the back of his hand.
"It was brilliant! I don't think I've ever slept so well in my entire life."
"Good, because it looked like you needed it. Should we head to breakfast?"
He stood up, offering his elbow, "My Lady?"
She pinked slightly, but took his arm nonetheless. "My Lord." she replied.
They walked arm in arm through the halls of the school, taking in the new sights and sounds that they heard. They were a bit startled to be approached by what appeared to be a spirit. "Ah, new Hufflepuffs; welcome to my House!"
"Hello, sir." said Harry warily.
"No, none of that now, you all may call me the Friar. I am the ghost of Hufflepuff."
"A pleasure to meet you, Friar." said Susan with a bewildered look on her face.
"Yes, I know, it is indeed odd to meet a ghost, isn't it. But, we do exist, and have been a part of the school for quite some time. You'll even have a ghost teacher for your history class."
"A ghost teaches history?" asked Harry.
"Indeed!" the Friar said sadly. "He's been a teacher for over two centuries now. Most of the students fall asleep in his class, unfortunately. After your first class with him, you and any friends you wish to bring along, should come and find me. The other ghosts, along with me of course, give a privileged few a real understanding of the history of our world. Hey, you're Harry Potter, aren't you?" asked the Friar excitedly.
"Yes, sir, I am. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"I knew your mother, you know?" he stated. "She was one of the few in her year that accepted the invitation to join me and my friends in the extra history classes."
"Really?" asked Harry in wonder.
The Friar smiled at Harry. "Yes, Harry, really."
"Then it would be an honor for me to attend your class, sir. Susan?" he asked the witch at his side.
"Oh, yes please! That sounds wonderfully interesting. And I'm sure we can convince Hannah and Neville to join us." she said hopping happily.
"I'd think I'd like the four of us to attend too. Well Friar, I say you have four new students! When shall we meet?"
"All the ghosts meet in the Charms classroom, Sundays, three o'clock. Mostly we just sit and talk about when we were alive with whoever deigns to join us. Nothing formal, mind you. Attend when you will, I promise you'll all at least learn something new each week." The Friar smiled at the couple, before floating through a wall.
"I don't know about you, but I thought that was the coolest thing I ever experienced!" said Harry ecstatically.
"Oh, and I suppose meeting me has been relegated to second place?" she asked with a pout.
Harry panicked and his mind was racing as he tried to come up with a way to get out of the hole that he'd just dug himself into. Luckily, Susan started giggling, which saw him frown.
"You should've seen your face! It was hilarious; I can't wait to tell Hannah."
"Shush, you! You'll not be telling Ms. Abbott anything, thank you very much. One person teasing me is quite enough. If we add you to the mix I may just explode in embarrassment at the worst possible moment."
"Relax, Harry, I will only ever tease you when we're alone." she promised. She knew Harry had a long way to go before the emotional problems he'd suffered at the hands of his relatives could be washed away.
Hand in hand, the couple entered the great hall and made their way to the 'Puff table, where they noticed the half-asleep form of their prefect, Michael Blake.
"Hey, mini-puffs, how was your first night in the badgers den?"
"Great!" replied Harry and Susan.
"Honestly, Michael, I've never slept so well in my life." added Harry.
"That's good, Harry. I know that it can be tough being a first year, first time away from home and family and all."
Susan felt the tension in Harry's body. She squeezed his hand, reminding him that she was there with him. "Auntie said that some nights would be rough for us, but that by making friends and with help from senior students we would be alright. She said she's only a letter or a floo-call away after all."
"Your Aunt is Amelia Bones?" wondered Michael.
"She is, you know her?"
"Well, I know of her of course. Youngest head of the DMLE, highest arrest and conviction rate of any active Auror since Auror Moody…yeah, I know who she is. I hope to enter the Academy once I graduate from here next year." said Michael in admiration.
"Would you like an introduction? She's going to stop by the school this weekend if you happen to be around."
"Please?" Michael begged her. Susan smiled at him and told him she would arrange it.
"You'll excuse us Michael, Harry and I need some food in us if we're to make it through our first day."
Susan led Harry toward the far end of the 'Puff table, "Are you excited about your first day, Harry?"
"Yes I am, I almost couldn't sleep last night in anticipation. I'm just happy I'll finally be able to use my wand. They guy who sold me the wand…"
"Mr. Ollivander?"
"Yeah, that's the guy. He was impressed by the wand that had chosen me, said that I would do great things with it. I guess I want to be able to see if that's true or not."
"Why was he impressed?"
"Well, if I understood correctly, my wand has a twin. A twin wand that happened to choose Voldemort…" Susan gasped in shock at the mention of that dreaded name.
"What's wrong Susan?"
"Harry, you mustn't say that name. Never say that name aloud. We usually call him he-who-must-not-be-named or you-know-who; we never call him by his real name."
"Why not?" wondered Harry.
"I'm sorry Harry; I sometimes forget that you weren't raised in our world. That name is never mentioned aloud. You know he was the responsible for the death of your parents, right?"
Harry saddened at that, and nodded his head. "I'm sorry, Susan, but I refuse to let that man have any hold over me. Yes, he murdered my parents and almost killed me. I will not be frightened of him though, and I will certainly not be scared of a name."
"You sound like my Auntie; she says exactly the same thing. I'll try Harry, really I will." she said squeezing his hand. He looked at her gratefully, and squeezed her hand back.
"Now, before the mood gets any darker, let's eat. I'm starving, and this food looks delicious." he said trying to lighten the mood a little.
It was then that Neville and Hannah arrived. "Good night's sleep there, Harry?" asked the young man.
"Nev, it was an amazing night. I don't think I have ever slept that well in my entire life."
"Ladies, Neville, Lord Potter, a good morning to you all." said the approaching form of their Head of House. "I have your timetables here with me. Looks like you all have Charms first thing this morning. It's a marvelous class, and Professor Flitwick is a brilliant teacher. Pay attention to him and you will all do well in his class."
Harry stood up and faced Madam Sprout. "Ma'am, I want to thank you for the kind words of this morning. I really appreciated them."
"Of course, Harry, it was my pleasure. And don't be afraid to look me up if you ever need anything, even if it's just to talk."
Harry nodded, and sat to once again tackle the breakfast that lay before him.
"What did you guys talk about this morning?" asked Hannah between forkfuls of scrambled eggs.
"My parents, mostly, she told me their names."
Harry's three friend's eyes almost popped out of their head. Susan, without pretext, simply wrapped her arms around Harry. "Guys, it's okay, really. I want to know who they are, who they were, I want to learn everything about them that I can. It's sad, I know, but learning their names was just a first step."
Neville though was hard pressed to hide his anger. The grip on his fork and knife was turning his knuckles white. "Harry…"
"It's all right, Nev."
"No Harry, it is not bloody well alright! Your family is one of the most distinguished in magical Britain. That you hadn't even a clue as to your parents' names is…is…"
"Will you help me, Neville? Will you show me what it means to be a Potter?"
"Of course I will."
"Then it will all be alright. I have a lifetime ahead of me to learn all about them and my family. And with the three of you by my side, well, nothing would make me happier."
"Guys, finish breakfast quickly or we'll be late for Charms." Hannah said with a look at her watch.
OoOOooOOoo
Once again arm in arm, Susan and Harry entered a Hogwarts classroom for the first time. They noticed the diminutive professor standing on top of his desk.
"Greetings everyone, please find a seat. There you go, quickly now. We've much to cover today, and I am certain most of you are eager to try out your new wands."
Sitting in rapt attention, Harry listened to Flitwick as he outlined the course and spoke to them about what their work would consist of as first year Charm students. "Now, for your first spell we will be learning the levitation spell. Can anyone tell me what the incantation is?"
Susan quickly raised her hand, and with a nod from the Professor said, "The incantation is 'wingardium leviosa' professor."
"Very good, Miss Bones, take ten points for Hufflepuff. Now, everyone, this is one of the simplest spells we will be teaching. Most of you that come from magical families will have probably have seen it performed already. For those of you muggle-born or raised please do not be discouraged if you are not able to perform it. You are only now learning about magic, after all. So, it's a flick and a swish, like so. Then one only need speak the incantation. Go on now, give it a try."
Harry was excited, as he now held his wand in his hand and was for the first time going to attempt to perform real magic. Hannah had a look of extreme concentration on her face, a bit if her tongue sticking out of the side of her mouth, as she tried again and again to make the feather move. Neville had the same look, and he was the first of the quartet to get his feather to move. Susan, on her third try, was successful in getting her feather to float a couple of feet above her desk.
"Come now, Mr. Potter, give it a try. Don't be shy." said Professor Flitwick as he walked up to him.
"Yes, sir, I will try." Harry squared himself, and looked intently at the feather before him. He brandished his wand before him and said the incantation. The feather shivered a bit before once again lying flat on the table.
"You almost had it, Harry. You can do it!" encouraged Susan.
He closed his eyes, imagining in his mind's the success of his spell. And as he concentrated, he felt himself embracing the magic within. It felt wonderful, as though a warm and cozy blanket had enveloped him on a cold winter's night. He let some of that warmth flow through his arm.
"Wingardium Leviosa." he chanted.
To say that the feather merely levitated would have been a truly poor choice of words. Flitwick was flabbergasted. The professor could only look in wonder at the hole that now decorated the ceiling of his classroom.
"Twenty points to Hufflepuff, Mr. Potter. I don't think I've ever seen anyone put a feather into orbit before." he said wide-eyed.
"Did I do it wrong, Professor?" asked Harry worriedly.
"Merlin no, Harry, that was fabulous. I don't think even your mother could have accomplished that. And she was brilliant at charms. I'm going to be keeping an eye on you Mr. Potter."
"Harry, that was brilliant. You have to tell me how you did that." whispered Susan.
"Me too!" added Hannah. "I barely got my feather to move at all."
"Well, obviously the flick and swish, also the incantation. But added to that was pushing my magic through my wand."
"Pushing your magic?" asked Neville.
"You know, you grab a hold of your magic and push it through your wand."
Neville glanced at the girls, both who had wide-eyed looks of awe on their faces. "That's not something you should be able to do, Harry."
"What do you mean?"
"C'mon, Harry, we're eleven! Not only that, but that was the first spell you ever cast. 'Grabbing you magic' is something that only seventh years and adults can do, and only some of them at that!"
"Really? Huh. I found it pretty easy, though. I just closed my eyes, felt my magic wrap around me, and let it out through my wand."
"Do you think you can teach us that, Harry?" asked Susan.
"I don't see why not. It felt really wonderful, you know, like a hug or being in a marvelously hot bubble bath." Harry looked around, and then up at the ceiling. "Do you think Professor Flitwick will give me another feather?"
"Try not to put more holes in the castle though, Harry. The elves my get mad at you of they have to come in here after every class and fix something you broke." said the teasing Hannah.
ooOOooOOoo
"Pomona, what brings you here today?" asked Madam Pomfrey as she saw the 'Puff Head of House approach with a young student.
"Harry, would you sit there please and wait for a moment while I speak to Madam Pomfrey?"
"Of course, ma'am." said Harry as he took a seat.
"Pomona?" asked the curious nurse.
"It's Harry Potter, Poppy, I've brought him to you to be examined. He…well, he shows signs of abuse. There are bruises on his face, which I'm sure extend into his body. I believe that there is malnourishment evident as well, but I'll leave that to you to decide."
"Harry Potter? You think Harry Potter is being abused?" she asked in astonishment.
Pomona nodded her head, and glanced back at the young boy. "I do. From what I've learned, he was left at the home of aunt, Lily's sister. She's a muggle."
"And you think she had something to do with this?"
"As much as I hate thinking that that could be the case…"
"Bring him over, we'll get him sorted out. I should call the Headmaster, too."
"Why?" asked Pomona.
"Why call the Headmaster? Well, he is the headmaster after all, and he wanted to be informed about anything that had to do with Mr. Potter. I believe that Albus is Harry's guardian in our world."
"Is he now?"
"As I understand it, he is. Why is this upsetting you?"
"Because it was Albus that put Harry in that place; Harry has been at that home for ten years now, I wonder if it ever occurred to him to check up on the boy. Call him if you must, but I am staying right here. I will not leave Harry alone with that man if I have anything to say about it!"
"Very well, Pomona. Harry, would you join me please?" Harry stood up from his seat, and slowly made his way toward the school nurse. "Harry, I am Madam Pomfrey, and I am the nurse here at Hogwarts. We are just going to run a series of tests on you, nothing intrusive at all. This is only to make sure that you are in good health."
Harry looked a little scared, but when the hand of his Head of House squeezed his shoulder, he felt much better. "A pleasure, ma'am. Do you need me to do anything?"
"Just step in here, Harry, remove your robes. I'll close the curtain for now to offer us some privacy while I run the scans, okay?"
"Go on, Harry, I'll be right here if you need me." added Pomona with an encouraging tone.
Harry disrobed, the shame evident on his face. Poppy had to hold in a gasp of astonishment as she beheld the scarring on the boy's body. She slowly raised her wand and started casting her scanning spells in earnest, the information the spells gathered was being written down automatically on the parchment resting on the bedside table.
Trying to control her anger, Poppy said, "Harry, we're all done. You can get dressed again. Come on out when you're ready." She parted the privacy curtains and stepped out, making sure to close them behind her.
"Poppy?" asked Albus as he approached the nurse.
"Did you know?" asked the nurse in anger. "Did you have any idea what was happening to that boy in that house you left him at?"
"I don't understand, please explain yourself." he asked calmly.
With supreme effort, she tried to regain control of her emotions. "Pomona brought Mr. Potter up to see me today, and I've just completed scanning him. The amount of pain and damage that young boy has suffered…"
"What are you saying, Poppy?" asked Pomona.
"I've documented years of abuse. Broken bones, scarring, burn marks…the list goes on."
"Surely you're mistaken, Poppy? Harry was living with Lily's sister, his only living blood relative. I cannot imagine her to be abusive towards her nephew."
"Are you calling me a liar?" she growled at him. "Are you questioning my ability?"
"I am not; I simply ask whether the scans could be misinforming you."
"Albus! Enough! Poppy has decades of experience, and you questioning her ability has me wondering whether you did indeed know what was happening to Harry." interjected Pomona.
"Professor, Headmaster?" said Harry as he stepped out from behind the curtains.
"Harry, come over here, please?" said Pomona. Harry walked over to her, and she drew him nearer her. She placed a comforting arm around his shoulders and looked him in the eye. "Do me a favor, Harry, if you would please? Head back down to our common room; I know Susan and your friends are probably worried about you. Go on, run along now."
"Yes, ma'am. Will we be talking about what you've found out later?" he asked.
"Of course, Harry. I will be there shortly; I just have a few questions for Madam Pomfrey and the Headmaster." Harry nodded at her as he turned and headed toward the exit. She waited until the door closed behind him before she whirled around and glared at the Headmaster.
"I want answers, and I want them now, Headmaster!" she roared angrily.
"I'm sorry, Madam Sprout, but I have no answers to give you." he replied serenely.
"No answers? Really? How long has it been since you've checked on your charge? You being his guardian, I imagine you checked on Harry regularly, to make sure that he was safe and in good health?"
"I had someone nearby to keep an eye on him. She never reported anything unusual."
"So you never went to see him yourself?"
"I never saw the need to do that."
"And Poppy's scans regarding the boy's health mean nothing?"
"I am just as surprised about her conclusions as you are. I never had any indication that Harry was being mistreated."
"What indications are you talking about, exactly? Because you've just said that you never went to see him yourself. How could you possibly explain away the abuse that Harry has most certainly suffered?"
"I will have to inform the DMLE, Albus." added Poppy.
"No, I don't think there is any reason to do so." said Albus quickly.
"I'm sorry, Albus, but it is the law. All cases of mistreatment of children is to be immediately reported. And given the severity of the abuse, there is no way in hell I will let those muggles get away with abusing Harry any longer."
"But, Poppy…"
"No! I will call the DMLE in the morning, and will make available the physical I have performed on Harry."
Albus sighed unhappily, "Very well, do so if you must."
"This is not the end of this conversation, Headmaster."
"No, I expect that it is not." The Headmaster turned and headed toward his office.
"The nerve of that man!" snarled Pomona.
"I will call the Aurors, Pomona. Rest assured that I will do all in my power to make sure Harry doesn't have to go back to those people."
"Thank you, Poppy. What is your recommendation regarding Harry, though? I imagine he will need some extensive healing."
"He will, indeed. I can fix most of his problems."
"Most?"
"Hmm…" she said distractedly as she read Harry's scans. "Oh, the scar on his forehead is unusual. I will have to examine it more closely."
"Okay, Poppy. Let me know when you need Harry to come back. I will make sure he follows your advice and treatment."
"That, my dear, would be an achievement in and of itself. Being the son of James Potter, I don't imagine he will heed my advice any more that James did. That boy had no regard for his life when he was on a broom, and he spent quite a fair amount of time in my company. It will be nice to have a Potter at school that won't require my ministrations quite so regularly."
Pomona headed back to her common room, thoughts of Harry and revenge on her 'relatives' circling in her mind. Making a decision, she hurriedly went to her office. Grabbing a handful of floo powder, she tossed it into the fireplace, "Amelia Bones."
"Madam Sprout? Is everything alright? Susan?" said the Director of the DMLE.
"All is well with her, Madam Bones. I am actually calling on another matter. You've met Lord Potter, I take it?"
"Yes, I did, Susan and I helped him get to the Express on time. I've also planned on coming to see him this weekend. There are questions I have regarding his home life."
"I see. I take it you have an opinion as to what that young man's life was like?"
"I do, the bruising on his face…well, let's just say that I have seen signs like that before."
"I took Harry to see Madam Pomfrey, and had her run a full physical on him. I was disturbing, to say the least. All signs point to Harry being abysmally treated in that home. Poppy will call you in the morning to file her findings and I hope you will open an investigation."
Even through the fire, it was clear to see the anger on Amelia's face. "I don't think I will wait until the weekend. I believe I will come to see Poppy personally tomorrow. Will you please also inform Lord Potter that I will want to have a word with him?"
"Of course."
"It will be nice to see Susan, also. I have missed her, and it's only been a couple of days."
"Don't worry about that. If you're coming to see Harry, you will most certainly run in to Susan."
"Oh?"
Pomona smiled, "Yes, they seem quite taken with each other. I don't believe I have seen them apart since they got here."
"Really? How amazing? Well, it's as it should be, I suppose."
"As it should be?"
"Oh, sorry, it's a family thing. Susan and Harry were really close as toddlers, spent countless hours with each other. I don't think I've mentioned it to either of them. I suppose I should at some point."
"So they've met each other before? Interesting. They are really close, Madam Bones. If they were a few years older, I would say that they were as close as a married couple."
Amelia smiled, "well, despite their age, I wholeheartedly approve. Harry showed himself to be a most kind and caring young man."
"It makes me wonder; how could such a kind soul exist in that young man given what we know about his upbringing?"
"Remember that he is Jamie and Lily's son."
Pomona sighed, "what time shall I expect you?"
"After breakfast? I should get a hold of Augusta as well. She was most insistent to see Harry. She might be able to shed some light on Harry's current situation."
"After breakfast then; and thank you for coming to help Harry."
