The Lost Years

Chapter 5

Harry was nervous as he stepped off of the plane. Severus smiled tersely, an attempt of encouragement. They had forced their way onto the muggle contraption in the middle of the night, only to arrive in America at two-thirty in the morning. The air-port was barren and dark; the flickering lights only glowed slightly.

"Sir, where are we going now?"

Severus paused, "I know of someone, a friend that still owes me a favor. He will take care of you."

Harry stopped walking, his eyes glazing over in shock, "You're not staying, sir?" His voice was slight and wavering.

The older man stopped and turned to the boy, finally noticing that he had stopped walking. He looked at the child, "No, Potter, I will not. This is the last time you will see or hear from me."

Tears streaked the boys' face, "W-What? You're leaving me?" He was shaking in fear. The chairs in the terminal started to shake offensively, making Severus step toward him consciously.

"Get a grip, boy. This is something you undoubtedly know, but we must do things we don't want to do. We must swallow our pride and do what it is required of us. I'm needed in England, but you aren't. Not yet."

"Yet, sir?" Harry asked attentively.

"There will come a time, my boy that you shall return to London. Not yet, but in time."

Xxx

Severus had tracked his way through the Chicago streets, and towards a suburb in the upper end of the city, Harry jogging to keep up with him.

He suddenly veered left to head down a paved driveway, strolling right up to the large oak door, knocking twice. It wasn't long before a tall, lanky man opened the door. His eyes graced the other wizards face.

"Hello, Severus. What brings you here?"

Severus smiled, grabbing Harry by the shoulder and bringing him into view. "I need a favor."

The man quirked his eyebrows, "Well then, come inside. I'll fix us something to drink."

And Harry's new life began.

XxX

Dumbledore led the small group through the windy streets. The portkey had landed them in an empty alley in Washington, D.C. on a splendid morning. Looking around, they saw a thriving city, filled with people bustling to and fro; shops steaming with products of the day, and a bright attitude floating in the atmosphere. But they could feel the hurt underneath. The dark spells left lingering traces of the battles that had taken place.

Remus stiffened, "These people have been through much."

"Why have we heard nothing of this?" Alastor demanded, stumping beside Remus. His magic eye was swiveling around to observe a small boy across the street suspiciously. This scene was too surreal.

Dumbledore sighed, "This country has always kept to themselves. Among other things, they are rather 'new-age' when it comes to foreign affairs."

"What are their…laws like?" Remus asked hesitantly. He was suddenly nervous of this crowd, not knowing how they would re-act. Dumbledore only chucked.

"They are rather open-minded my dear boy." Alastor snorted.

They passed through the streets, feeling awkward in their muggle clothing. They soon came to a giant white building, with tall, black gates etched around the front lawn. Two soldiers were stationed at the front.

"Hello, my good sirs. We are here to see President Kerry. We have an appointment."

One of the men raised an eyebrow, before pulling out his radio.

"We have three non-descript at the front asking for a meeting with Mr. President."

There was a momentum of silence before a mumbled reply into his earpiece, and the man seemed surprised.

"Very well." He turned to his companion," Escort them in. They are on their way to the Oval Room."

XxX

The door opened and they were lead into a giant office. In the far back, a desk was set in front of the window, and a man sat at it, pouring over paper work. He looked up as they entered, and smiled graciously. His hair was dusty, and cut short. His face was stern, but old wrinkles showed the happy times. His tan was soft, and complimented his bright blue eyes.

He stood to great them, "Ann, I'm glad to see that you mad it. What a time change –eh?" He shook their hands, and they all exchanged names and greeting.

"I must say, this is impressive. I have never been this far west and it is so beautiful. It's the first time in years we have seen such a clear sky." Dumbledore smiled pleasantly.

The president smiled sadly, "Yes it is quite the same for some here as well. We have had our share of war."

Alastor inclined his head, "We felt it as we arrived. What happened?" His rough voice caught hold of the conversation.

"Well we have our own…radical groups here, claiming for different ideals. Well… six years ago, it spiraled into violence. The government was no longer in control; it was mainly the parties and major crime families. It has been a mess to organize and clean."

The guests nodded, so Kerry continued, "We found out of your…plight and felt empathetic. Therefore, our government extends our help. We can ship supplies, give tactical advice, offer resources and training. I am also prepared to lend you a few of my soldiers."

Alastor tiled his head, "How does this military of yours work anyhow? How were you able to end what we have been trying to stop for about thirty years in just six?"

Kerry smiled, "We begin training at a young age. Every school has a militaristic foundation. We don't do anything until they are twelve. That is where they are instructed in tactical strategy and other progress to training as in fighting. Nothing intensive of course; that starts when you actually join the army which every man and woman is required to do; give service for up to two years." The silence was tangible. The men just blinked, taking in the information.

"Finally, a country with CONSTANT VIGILANCE!" Moody cried, smiling. Kerry smiled as well.

"Yes, we are all raised that way. We have seen the problems that have been started by mad men around the world. Not only that but hot-headed countries have seen us as a target for years. We need to be prepare."

Remus paused, "What about muggles? Is it the same for them?"

"Oh, yes. They have the same upbringing. Trust me; the muggle world has too many conflicts to county. They are raised this way to further their own independence. They fight alongside our troops."

"How do they not discover magic?" Alastor asked, alarmed. Dumbledore's eyes twinkled.

"They already know. Most of the population of this fair nation are wizarding, and have not bothered to hide it. Most of the Native Americans were born with it, and when Europeans immigrated, well lets just say that our muggle population is less than 10 percent.

"Now, do you trust that Americans are well enough trained to help you in your war: He chuckled "because I would like you to meet one of my men. He's one you should take with you."

XxX

Harry sighed, rubbing his temples. He leaned back in his chair, thinking about the conversation over breakfast this morning. Jamie did not take the news of his next assignment well. He never liked it when Harry left.

"You're all I have left, Dad. Please, say you cant go."

"I just can't 'say no' Jamie."

"Dad, you can't leave…you just got back…"

"Jamie," Harry sighed, standing in front of the sink, hanging his head, "I'll come home. I'll always come home to you. And when I'm gone, you'll be staying with some friends. Leander will check on you for me. It's only for a short time."

Jamie sighed, "How long?" his voice was broken. Harry walked over to his boy and pulled him into a hug.

"I don't know. But I'll be home as soon as I can."

Harry had to leave after dinner that night.

"Hey, Potter. Tough morning?"

Harry opened his eyes, "Yes, Barty. I told my fifteen year old son that I'm leaving. Again. You tell your family yet?"

Barty grimaced, "Two days ago. It…well, it didn't turn out too well." He sat down across from Harry in the office they shared, "Stacy wasn't too thrilled with I brought up the face of who would be the one helping out…"

"They would NEVER-"
"I know, I know. Their loyalty is strong, especially to you. But Stacy gets nervous, especially with Kelly…"

Harry nodded. He understood how protective you could be over your baby.

Just then, a notice appeared on his desk. He sighed while reading it.

They got up to join the meeting.

XxX

Their conversation was interrupted by the door opening and two men walking in. Kerry stood up, smiling once more.

"Ah, the two I've told you about. This here is Barty Crouch Jr. He's been with us a long time, he has. " Bart shook hands with every one there. No one noticed how Remus was holding Harry's gaze, or how Harry's eyes sparkled in recognition when Remus' name was said.

Kerry turned to Harry, "And this is one of our top jobs; Harry Potter."

The reaction was mind-numbing. Dubledore was pale, looking as if he was seeing a ghost. Alastor was demanding proof to know if he really was their lost savior. But Remus stepped forward and embraced the boy that had captured his heart all those years ago.