Chapter Ten: Finding Harry

Evangeline stood on the ragged cliff side. The wind blustering around her, the rain thundering down on her. She watched with a stony face as the small hut abandoned in the middle of the sea was battered by the crashing waves of the sea. 'So ..' she began, her voice dripping with wrath, 'My nephew is living in a bloody hut in the middle of the ocean.' A gale of wind whipped around her, making her robes dance and her hair fly about her face; it made her look scarily daunting. 'Those muggles must really have it in for themselves,' she added acidly.

'Harry still ain't replied to 'is letter,' Hagrid said, he too had his eyes on the small hut. 'I reckon them Dursley's been keepin' them from 'im. That's why they moved out 'ere,' he said, glancing down at Evangeline who looked as though she would throttle the next living thing she saw. But, he knew it was hard for her. She hadn't seen Harry in almost ten years. He knew how she had kept going back to Dumbledore and demanding that she should go and visit her nephew; the Headmaster always had the same reply.

Evangeline breathed out loudly. 'Well, as much as I love the scenery of their 'new humble abode'. I would like to go and rescue my nephew,' she said sharply, striding determinedly past Hagrid. She stopped abruptly, remembering that she couldn't exactly waltz up to the front door of the house considering it was planted in the middle of a fierce, stormy sea. 'We're apparating, right?' she asked, turning around to face Hagrid.

'Oh aye. Wouldn't fancy rowin' a boat in that,' Hagrid chuckled, glancing towards the crashing waves. 'An' I'm surprised that those waves haven' knocked that house ter the ground,' he added, which obviously made Evangeline more eager to reach her nephew. She quickly grabbed onto Hagrid's sleeve and with a loud crack they disappeared. They landed rather roughly on the rocky foundations on which the hut was built.

Evangeline stumbled slightly, and send rocks tumbling into the sea. The rocks crunched beneath their feet as they walked towards the wooden door of the hut. She surveyed the problem before them. 'I don't think they'll let us in,' she said thoughtfully before glancing towards Hagrid. 'Just... break it down,' she said simply, stepping out of his way.

Hagrid raised his massive fist and knocked on the door. The loud noise echoed through the sky and the shack shivered as his fist made contact with the door once more. Evangeline stood back as Hagrid delivered a final blow and the door wrenched straight off it's hinges and went crashing to the ground. He stood in the doorway, blocking Evangeline from view before he squeezed his way in. She followed him and made her way inside, glancing around for any signs of her nephew. Finally her eyes rested on the scrawny, black haired boy sitting on the floor. He was the identical image of James, with Lily's eyes of course. She smiled lovingly at him, he smiled back but she could see the confusion in his expression. Behind her, Hagrid had stooped down, picked up the door and fitted it easily back in it's frame. 'A cup o' tea would be mighty nice,' the giant mumbled, 'Ain't been an easy journey fer us.' He made his way over to the sofa where Petunia's son was sitting, he stared at Hagrid as the giant sat down beside him. Suddenly he squeaked, jumped off the sofa and ran towards his parents. 'An' there's Harry. I ain't seen you since you was a baby.'

'And that was an awful long time ago,' Evangeline said, sitting down on the sofa beside Hagrid. Green eyes stared up at her full of wonder and curiousness. 'Happy birthday, Harry,' she said, with a broad grin before nudging Hagrid. Startled, he let out a mumble before he began fumbling in one of his pockets. He pulled out a slightly squished box. 'Hagrid made it himself, blooming good cook he is.'

'Excuse me! But I demand that you leave at once!' came a voice from behind the sofa. Evangeline glanced around, it was the first time she had noticed Vernon Dursley and his wife standing there. He had a muggle weapon in his hands, wielding it cautiously. 'You are breaking and entering!'

Hagrid also turned around, he snorted incredulously. 'Ah, shut up Dursley, yeh great prune,' he said, grabbing the gun in his hand and twisting it into a knot like it was made of rubber. Then he threw it across the room where it clattered on the floor. He raised his bushy eyebrow and turned around. 'I hope you like chocolate, Harry,' he said, as the black haired boy opened the box to reveal a very sticky chocolate cake with green icing that said Happy Birthday Harry. 'Twas' Evangeline's idea to get yeh the chocolate, she's a big fan.' Evangeline grinned, wiggling her eyebrows.

Harry gulped, glancing between the cake and the two people sitting before him. He opened his mouth slightly, before closing it again and glancing towards the ground. Finally he looked up, 'Who are you?' he asked, glancing between Hagrid and Evangeline.

Hagrid chuckled. 'True, we haven' introduced ourselves. Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts,' he said, holding out his hand. Harry took it cautiously, whilst Hagrid shook it vigorously, making Harry's whole arm shake. Then Harry glanced towards Evangeline, as if awaiting for her to introduce herself.

'I'm Evangeline April Potter,' she said, Harry's eyes widened. She smiled but continued to speak. 'Former Auror, mother of twins and … your aunt,' she said, watching Harry for a reaction. She bit her lip when he remained quiet. She was anxious. She wondered if he would be angry with her, or not remember her at all. 'But, you can call me Evie or Eva or even Liney. Evangeline is a bit of a mouth-full,' she said, hoping that her nephew would reply in some shape or form.

'You're my aunt?' Harry asked. Evangeline nodded with a feeble smile. 'But I don't understand. Why are you here? And what's Hogwarts?' he questioned, turning to face Hagrid.

Evangeline gasped, 'What's Hogwarts?' she echoed.

'Well, where did yeh think yer parents learnt it all? We knew you weren't getting' yer letters an' all, Harry, but I woulda thought you knew all about Hogwarts. That's were yer parents and Evangeline learnt everything they know,' Hagrid said, looking down at Harry with concern.

'Learnt what?' Harry inquired

'LEARNT WHAT?' Evangeline shouted, jumping to her feet in a sudden rage. She spun around to face the Dursleys. 'Are you telling me that Harry doesn't know a thing about – about ANYTHING?' she snarled, stalking towards them. She was furious that Harry did not know a thing about his past, or what he was. His life. Magic.

'But I do know some things though,' Harry piped up, Evangeline glanced at him. 'I know how to do Maths and English .. a-and Science. And I get good marks and stuff,' he said, Evangeline just stared at him before glancing back at the Dursleys, a furious expression etched across her face.

'About our world, Harry,' Hagrid said irritatedly, waving his enormous hand. 'I mean. Your world. My world. Evangeline's world. Your parent's world.'

'What world?'

'DURSLEY!' Hagrid roared, getting to his feet. At the same time Evangeline had shouted in protest and was growing ever more enraged. She couldn't believe it, they had kept everything from him. Everything that made him special; famous. He didn't know about anything. 'But Harry, you gotta know about yer mum an' dad. They're famous. I mean, you're famous,' he said, staring wildly down at Harry.

'My parents were famous?' Harry said disbelievingly.

Evangeline stared wide-eyed at the Dursleys. 'He doesn't know,' she said quietly, fuming silently. Her breathing became uneasy. 'YOU HAVEN'T TOLD HIM A BLOODY THING!' she yelled, causing Petunia to whimper and hide behind her husband. Evangeline calmed herself down, she couldn't afford to slip; she knew what her anger could make her do. 'He doesn't even know what he is,' she said calmly, shaking her head before walking towards Harry.

'Stop,' Vernon Dursley said, finding his voice. 'I forbid you to tell him anything.'

'And you think I'm going to listen to a bloody prat like you, Dursley,' Evangeline hissed, staring vehemently back at him. She was furious. Dumbledore had chosen them over her and look what had happened. Harry didn't know a thing. She turned to face Harry, knelt down beside him and looked him in the eye. It was like staring back at Lily, it was amazing how similar Harry's eyes were to his mother's. 'Harry – '

'STOP! DON'T TELL HIM ANYTHING!' Dursley yelled.

Evangeline subtly pulled her wand out of her pocket and juggled it in her hand, making sure that Dursley could see it. She caught it nimbly and threw a deathly glare at him – his eyes widened and he stepped back into the shadows – before turning back to her nephew. 'Harry. You're a wizard,' she said with a small smile. Harry's expression turned immediately to astonishment. Evangeline could see him thinking ferociously to himself. He opened his mouth slightly, but nothing came out. She almost laughed, it was something James would have done. Gape blankly in shock. He closed his mouth again, biting his lip.

Harry stared back at her, his eyebrows knitted together in confusion. 'I – I'm a wizard,' he gasped, glancing to Hagrid for conformation. The giant nodded, a broad grin spread across his face. Harry glanced back to Evangeline. 'Are you sure?' he asked, inquisitively.

'Of course I'm sure, Harry,' Evangeline chuckled, putting her hand on Harry's shoulder comfortingly. 'Your mum and dad were wizards. Bloody good ones too,' she said, reminiscing the skill that Lily and James had possessed. Harry glanced up at her doubtfully. 'Oh!' Evangeline exclaimed, before glancing back at Hagrid. 'You have his letter, don't you, Hagrid?'

'Should be in here somewhere,' Hagrid said, as he began fumbling about in the pockets of his large coat. He took out a large bunch of keys of all shapes and sizes, slug pellets, balls of string and eventually he pulled out a stained envelope. 'There we go,' he said, handing it to Evangeline who smiled and gave it to Harry.

Harry glanced up at her. 'Go on, open it,' Evangeline said, egging him on. She watched him curiously as he ripped open the envelope. He unfolded the parchment carefully and scanned his eyes over it. Evangeline smiled fondly as his eyes widened in amazement. 'You okay, Harry?' she asked.

Harry reread the letter, skimming over it quickly. He let out a deep sigh. He had been holding his breath the since Evangeline had shoved the letter into his hands. He glanced up at Evangeline, 'They await my owl? But … why? And I don't have an owl, so ..' he blurted out quickly before glancing down at the letter again to make sure that was exactly what it said.

'Oh aye!' Hagrid suddenly exclaimed, 'That reminds me. I almost forgot.' He began to fumble in the pockets of his coat once more; this time pulling out a real live owl. Harry gaped at it before glancing quickly at Evangeline. Even she was staring strangely at the ruffled owl now sitting in the palm of Hagrid's hand. 'Gotta write a letter ter Professor Dumbledore,' Hagrid informed them as he pulled out a large feather quill and a roll of parchment. He scribbled down a note, before rolling it up and giving it to the owl. He went to the door, the owl in his hand, and threw the owl out of the hut and into the storm. He returned, sitting down back down on the couch. Evangeline chuckled at Harry's expression. 'Now, where were we?' Hagrid said, leaning back on the couch.

'We were telling Harry about Hog – '

'He's not going,' Vernon Dursley interrupted with a snarl. He had moved from his position behind the couch and was now wavering beside the fire. He didn't look at all happy.

'Like a great Muggle like you is going to stop him, Dursley,' Evangeline hissed venomously, getting to her feet. Harry had never seen a woman look so menacing, it was clear that she was furious. 'It was just Harry's luck to get stuck with you all these years. When I would have ….' she stopped herself from going further, afraid of what she might say. 'Just Harry's luck to get stuck with the biggest pile of Muggles that ever walked the planet.'

'We swore when we took him in we'd put a stop to all that rubbish,' Vernon said, rather bravely in Harry's opinion. 'We swore we'd stamp it out of him! One way or another, we'd get rid of all that stupid namby-pamby .. magic. Wizard, indeed!'

Harry's eyes flashed to his Uncle Vernon, then to his Aunt Petunia. 'You knew?' he said, 'You knew I'm a – a wizard?'

'Knew?' Harry's Aunt Petunia shrieked suddenly. 'How could we not have known? My sister being what she was, of course you were going to be one of them as well! And when she got her letter, when perfect Lily got her letter she disappeared off to – that school – and came home every holiday showing off what she had learnt. It was perfect Lily this, perfect Lily that. I was the only one who saw her for what she was – a freak!'

'HOW DARE YOU SAY THAT ABOUT LILY POTTER!' Evangeline roared, suddenly overcome with rage. She had shouted so loudly that it caused even Harry to jump in surprise. She was furious, outraged that someone could say that about their own sister. 'How dare you call Lily Potter a freak!' she hissed, stalking towards Harry's Aunt Petunia. 'She was the nicest person that I have ever known. And you stand there – her sister – calling her a – a freak.'

'You're no different! Standing there, that stupid stick in your hand thinking you are something!' Petunia screeched. 'But of course, you're that Potter's sister. You're going to be like him, aren't you?' Evangeline was so infuriated she couldn't speak. Petunia turned to face Harry once more. 'Yes, perfect Lily met that Potter at school, they left and got married. And then they had you, and I knew, yes I knew, that you would be just as strange. Who wouldn't with parents like them? And then, then, she went and got herself blown up and we got landed with you!'

'Blown up?' Harry said, in disbelief. 'You told me that my parents died in a car crash!'

'CAR CRASH!' Hagrid and Evangeline roared simultaneously. Hagrid had jumped to his feet so ferociously that the hut shuddered. The Dursleys had scuttled into the corner, frightened out of their wits. 'How could a car crash kill Lily an' James Potter! It's an outrage! A scandal! An' Harry not knowin' his own story when everybody in our world knows 'is name!'

Evangeline turned on the Dursleys, Hagrid shot her a knowing look. 'You didn't tell him. All this time and you never told him about his parents?' she snarled, glancing between the frightened eyes of Vernon and Petunia Dursley. 'You didn't tell him what happened, when everyone in our world knows his bloody name.'

'But why? What happened?' Harry asked desperately, glancing between Evangeline, who had shot her gaze in his direction, and Hagrid who suddenly looked more anxious than angry.

'I never expected this, Harry,' Hagrid said in a low, distressed voice. 'Dumbledore said there migh' be some trouble getting' hold of yeh an' about how much yeh knew. I dunno if I'm the righ' person ter tell yeh – ' he glanced at Evangeline who nodded painfully, she knew she could try to tell Harry but it would be hard for her, ' – Evangeline'll help me – 'cause you can't go off ter Hogwarts not knowin'.' Evangeline had wandered over and taken the seat on the couch beside Hagrid, it was strange that she was nervous about telling a story. But this story wasn't exactly one that she wanted to hear about again. 'We'll try an' tell yeh most of it, Harry. But some parts of it are a mys'try, nobody knows 'bout them.' He stopped briefly and stared into the blazing fire. 'I s'ppose you could say it begins with – with a person – nobody likes ter say 'is name. But everybody in our world knows 'is name.'

'But why?' Harry asked.

''Cause they're scared, Harry! Blimey, this ain't a good wizard we're talkin' bout here. See, this wizard, he went … bad. Very bad, as bad as you can go. But worse, worse than worse. His name was …' Hagrid gulped, but he said nothing. 'His name … – '

'Was Voldemort,' Evangeline answered for him. She was glaring into the fire, her expression stony. 'He started looking for followers about twenty years ago. Got plenty of them, too. They wanted power, his power. But most of them were just scared, afraid of what he would do to them if they refused to follow him. It was dark times, Harry, dark times,' she said, glancing towards him. Her green eyes were no longer sparkling like they had been when he first met her, they were dark and dismal. 'You didn't know who to trust, didn't dare get friendly with strange wizards and witches you'd never met before … anything could happen. Voldemort, was taking over. Some tried to stand up to him, not that it mattered. He killed them, and brutally at that. The only safe place left was Hogwarts. Voldemort didn't dare try and take the school, not with Dumbledore there. He was frightened of him, I reckon.'

'Your mum and dad, the most talented wizard and witch that ever walked through the Great Hall of Hogwarts. They were Head Boy and Girl when we were at school. Now that was a surprise let me tell you! James Potter, Head Boy! I thought Dumbledore had lost his marbles, he was already showing signs of it when he made me a Prefect,' Evangeline said, shaking her head. 'Part of the mystery is why Voldemort never tried to get them to go to the Dark Side. He tried with me … all I could hear was voices in my head, trying to persuade me. That's why Dumbledore taught me Occlumens, so I could divert them. I never could understand why Voldemort had went after me and not my brother. But we knew something would happen sooner or later. Most people know the short story, its just as bad as the long one. Voldemort went to your village, where you were living, on Hallowe'en ten years ago. He went to your house and – ' Evangeline exhaled loudly before gulping, ' – and he killed them. He tried to kill you too, but he couldn't. And no one knows why.' She glanced down at Harry who was touching the scar on his forehead, a pained look etched across his face. 'That isn't an ordinary scar, Harry. That's what you get when you get touched by an evil curse, and a powerful one at that. No one is supposed to survive the killing curse, Harry. No one ever lived after he decided to kill them, no one, except you.'

'What a load of old tosh!' Vernon Dursley snorted, walking out of his hiding place under the shadows. He was glaring at Evangeline and Hagrid his fists clenched tightly. 'Now you listen here, boy!' he said, pointing his chubby finger at Harry. 'I know there is something strange about you, yes, I accept that. A good beating probably would have sure that. And as for your parents and this pile of rubbish, it's poppycock. They were weirdos and they deserved what they got, the world's better off without them –'

'You'll be surprised to hear, Dursley, that it's us weirdos that keep you and your Muggle chums safe in this world,' Evangeline hissed, jumping to her feet and spinning around to face him. 'If we weren't around, you'd be hanging upside down in the air, screaming to die. One day – ' she said, pointing her wand towards him. ' – One day, you'll be grateful that us weirdos even exist.' Vernon eyed her wand carefully, stepped back and stood against the wall. Evangeline narrowed her eyes – a warning – before returning to her seat on the sofa.

'But what happened to Voldemort?'

Hagrid almost choked. 'Don't say his name, Harry. It's all right for, Evangeline here. She knows nothing but trouble. But I'd stick to saying .. You-Know-Who.'

'It's only a name, Hagrid. There's no point being afraid of a name,' Evangeline said simply, before turning to Harry. 'He disappeared, gone. That's what makes you even more famous, because he disappeared the night he tried to kill you. Some say he died, but I don't believe that. He was more powerful than any other wizard out there, except Dumbledore. I doubt that he could die … but I don't know how. Others say he's still out there, waiting. Most of us say that he's lost his powers, too weak to carry on what he started.'

'What happened to his followers?'

Evangeline's expression darkened once more. 'Some of them returned to our side, or so they say. Personally I think they're just waiting for him to return. Waiting so they can don their masks again. That's why you keep your wits about you, even if he is gone. His followers are still out there, they could be willing to avenge him.' She glanced at Harry, he seemed to be strangely confused at what she had said. 'But you don't need to worry about that, there's too many people that can keep you safe out there, Harry.'

Harry thought for a moment. How could he have stopped a notoriously bad wizard, they had obviously gotten him confused with someone else. All those times, he had been kicked around by Dudley and his friends, he had been bullied by Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia, why hadn't he been able to do something about it? 'You've made a mistake .. I mean .. how can I be a wizard?' he said quietly.

Evangeline laughed heartily. 'I used to think the same way when I was your age, Harry. I always wondered why James was able to do amazing things without a wand and I wasn't. But then my dad explained that I had been doing things all along, just that I had learnt to control my magic better,' she said with a smile. 'For instance, James got me so angry one day that I was able to slam the door in his face without even touching it. I'm sure you made things happen without actually meaning to … like when you're angry, or scared.'

Harry thought for a moment, he had made things happen. He was able to grow back his hair when Aunt Petunia had shaved it off; if he was being chased by Dudley's gang he would suddenly find himself out of their reach and when Dudley had pushed him over at the Zoo, hadn't he set the boa constrictor free? A smile suddenly glazed over his face and he glanced up at Evangeline and Hagrid. 'See! Harry Potter, not a wizard!' Hagrid snorted, 'You wait, you'll have a right good time at Hogwarts.'

'He's not going!' Uncle Vernon snarled suddenly, he seemed to have regained his courage. 'He's going to Stonewall High and he'll be grateful that we're even allowing him to go there! I've read those letters and all he needs is a pile of rubbish – wands, spell books and – '

'He'll go if he wants ter,' Hagrid growled, 'An' a great Muggle like you can't stop him. Stop Lily an' James' son goin' ter Hogwarts! You're mad! He's had 'is name down ever since he was born! He'll be goin' ter the finest school of witchcraft and wizardry and he'll be under the finest Headmaster that Hogwarts has ever seen, Albus Dumbled – '

'I AM NOT PAYING FOR SOME CRACKPOT OLD FOOL TO TEACH HIM MAGIC TRICKS!' Uncle Vernon yelled, his face turning bright purple in the process.

Uncle Vernon had gone too far. Hagrid seized his umbrella from his pocked and waved it over his head before pointing it at Dursley. 'NEVER – INSULT – ALBUS – DUMBLEDORE – IN – FRONT – OF – ME!' He quickly swished the pink umbrella towards Dudley. And after a flash of purple light, a crack like a whip, a loud squeal; Dudley clasped his fat bottom and began dancing on the spot in pain. Vernon yelled in protest at the sight of the curly pigs tail poking out from Dudley's trousers, he sent a glare back at Evangeline, Hagrid and Harry before dragging Dudley and Petunia into the other room, slamming the door behind him.

There was an impish giggle and Evangeline clapped her hand over her mouth. She turned and grinned at her giant friend. 'Nice one, Hagrid!' she exclaimed, throwing her arms in the air. 'I didn't know you still had your old wand on you!' She wiggled her eyebrows at the frilly pink umbrella.

'Strictly speakin' I really shouldn't a done that,' Hagrid said ruefully, before glancing towards Harry. 'I would appreciate it if yeh didn' mention that at Hogwarts. I'm not supposed ter do magic yeh see – I am ter some degree, like keepin' yeh safe, ter get yer letter's ter yeh an' stuff – that's why I really wanted the job, yeh see …'

'Why aren't you supposed to do magic?' Harry asked.

'He got expelled,' Evangeline answered, grinning and winking at Harry's surprised expression.

Hagrid threw an annoyed look at Evangeline, but he didn't seem too bothered. 'I was at Hogwarts meself, but as Evangeline said, I – er – got expelled. Snapped me wand in half an' everything. But Dumbledore let me stay on as gamekeeper.'

'Why were you expelled, Hagrid?' asked Harry.

'It's getting' late, ain't it Evangeline,' Hagrid said loudly, glancing towards Evangeline who grinned, before taking off his coat. 'We gotta go an' get your books an' stuff in town tomorrow,' he said, throwing his coat over Harry. 'You can kip under that – an' don't mind if it wriggles a bit, I might have a few dormice in there.'

Evangeline laughed and got up off the couch, 'You can sleep there, Hagrid,' she said, wandering over to the broken wooden chair in the corner. She took her wand out of her pocket and pointed it towards the chair, 'Reparo,' she said, flicking her wand rather quickly. Harry watched in amazement as the chair snapped back to it's original state. Evangeline glanced back at Harry, a cheeky grin etched across her face, 'Don't pass out in astonishment at this next bit, please,' she laughed, 'I'm not a qualified Healer.' She turned back to face the chair, she waved her wand, not saying a word but suddenly the chair began to grow in size and width.

'How did you do that?' Harry asked, the shock was clear in his voice as he surveyed the plump, pink, flowery armchair.

Evangeline plunked herself down on the soft chair and leant back, 'Magic, is a wondrous thing, Harry,' she said with a smile, 'Use it to the best of it's ability, but to do good, not evil,' she added wisely. Suddenly she sat up, 'Are you comfortable enough down there? I could always swap with you,' she suggested, tilting her head to the side.

'No, it's fine,' Harry said, but Evangeline cocked her eyebrow. 'No, really. It's nice and warm, and surprisingly comfortable.'

'Well, as long as you're happy,' Evangeline said, leaning back in the chair and pulling her cloak over her. 'Goodnight, Harry,' she said drowsily, before yawning and closing her eyes. But her green eyes snapped open once more. 'Oh, and Harry?'

'Yes, Evangeline?'

'Oh, call me Evie or something. Evangeline sounds all very formal,' she said, rolling her eyes, before resting them on the heap on the floor where Harry was lying. 'Anyway, Happy Birthday, mate,' she said, resting her head back against the chair and closing her eyes once more.

There was silence for a while before Harry replied, he smiled to himself. 'Thanks, Auntie Evie .. and goodnight,' he said before snuggling down under Hagrid's coat. What a truly amusing birthday he had had.

***

CRACK! The small hand in Evangeline's tightened as they landed in a small alleyway, just of a bustling street. She swayed slightly before gaining her centre of gravity. She glanced down, to see Harry with eyes as wide as saucers. She chuckled, and squeezed Harry's hand. 'I never did like apparating myself. I was always scared of getting splinched,' she said, grimacing at the thought.

'Splinched?' Harry asked as they walked towards the bustling street where Hagrid was supposed to meet them.

Evangeline glanced down at him. 'You know the way we just went from that hut to here,' Harry nodded to show that he understood. 'Well, splinching is when one part of you gets left behind,' she said grimly. 'It's quite painful, so I tend to stick to flying.' As the approached the main street, the could see Hagrid easily in the large crowd of people as he towered over everyone. 'There's Hagrid,' Evangeline said, pulling Harry along with her. 'Alright, Hagrid? Have a nice flight?' she asked with a small snicker as they reached where he was standing.

'Wasn't too bad,' Hagrid admitted, and they began to walk through the crowds of people. 'Didn't get spotted anyway,' he said, and the whole time Harry was wondering what they were talking about. Hagrid glanced down at him, 'Still got your letter, Harry?'

Harry nodded and took the piece of folded parchment out of his pocket before unfolding it. 'There's the list of things I need to get,' he said, scanning down it before glancing between Hagrid and his Aunt. 'Can I get all this in London?'

Hagrid bent down, 'If you know where to go,' he said quietly. Harry looked up at Evangeline who smiled and winked before pulling him out of the crowds and down a small back-alley. 'Just down the next street, Evangeline,' Hagrid said, pointing towards the left.

'I know where it is, Hagrid,' Evangeline chuckled. She continued to lead Harry by the hand down street after street, Hagrid following behind closely. Harry had noticed that the streets seemed to be becoming more and more dingier. Eventually, without Harry ever noticing anything special, Evangeline came to a halt. 'This is it, Harry. The Leaky Cauldron,' she said, nodding towards the rather grubby pub that was barely noticeable. It almost seemed like he, Evangeline and Hagrid were the only ones who could see it, no one else seemed to observe its existence. But before Harry could get a proper look at the outside of it, Evangeline had steered him inside.

'It's a famous place, so it is, Harry,' Hagrid said, between waving and smiling to people he knew. And he seemed to know almost everyone in the pub. 'Everyone knows the Leaky Cauldron.' Harry followed Evangeline towards the bar of the pub, whilst Hagrid walked behind, still waving.

'Ah, Hagrid! The usual I presume?' the barman asked, holding a glass in his hand and gesturing towards Hagrid with a smile.

'Can't Tom. I'm on Hogwarts business with Evangeline here,' Hagrid replied, nodding towards Evangeline who smiled politely, before placing his large hand on Harry's shoulder almost making his knees buckle.

'Well, bless us all. Haven't seen you in a while, Evangeline,' Tom said, reaching his hand over the counter to which Evangeline took and shook briefly. 'Good to have you back, dear. I don't suppose you can resist your usual, can you? Firewhiskey Cocktail, eh?' he said with a wink.

'I think I'll have to pass, Tom,' Evangeline said simply. 'Maybe at the end of the day though,' she said with a feeble laugh, before swinging her hand in which Harry was holding onto.

Tom gasped, and glanced over the bar at Harry. 'Bless my soul … it can't be! Harry Potter, what an honour,' he said, scurrying around the back of the bar and rushing towards Harry before seizing his hand. 'Good to have you back, Mr Potter, good to have you back!'

This seemed to have stunned the rest of the pub, silence had overcome it. But suddenly there was a scraping of chairs and one moment later Harry was surrounded by people wanting to shake his hand. He didn't know what to say or do, he just shook everyone's hand. One woman, Doris Crockford, kept coming back for more. And all that time, Hagrid and Evangeline just stood, beaming down at Harry who's hands were almost shaking of their own accord.

Finally Hagrid interrupted the babbling and made himself heard. 'Well, we must get goin', lots ter buy,' he said with a chuckle before Evangeline pulled Harry towards the back of the bar. 'Hello there, Professor Quirrell!' Hagrid said suddenly, before Evangeline and Harry could make it out the back door. 'Harry, Professor Quirrell will be one of your teachers at Hogwarts.' Harry could see the reluctance in Evangeline's eyes to turn back, but as soon as she noticed him looking up at her, she smiled and pulled him back into the pub.

Hagrid was standing close by a rather young looking man, who Evangeline thought looked rather nervous. She narrowed her eyes in suspicion, and gently pulled Harry along. 'P-P-Potter,' Professor Quirrell stammered, 'C-Can't t-tell you how p-please I am to meet you.'

Evangeline eyed him carefully, but Harry smiled back politely and asked, 'What sort of magic do you teach at Hogwarts, Professor?'

'D-Defence Against the D-Dark Arts,' Professor Quirrell murmured, 'N-Not that you'll n-need it, eh, P-Potter?' he said with a nervous laugh. Evangeline raised her eyebrow, and caught eye contact with him. 'You m-must be E-Evangeline, p-pleasure,' he said, offering her his hand.

Evangeline smiled, a rather put on smile actually, before taking his hand and shaking it briefly. 'Nice to meet you,' she said plainly. 'Defence Against the Dark Arts was always one of my favourite subjects, must be a delight teaching it.' She looked back at him, expecting an answer.

Quirrell looked rather taken aback by her question. 'Y-Yes, it is a-a … d-delight and m-most rewarding,' he said, glancing away from her and resting his gaze on Hagrid and Harry. 'I-I suppose y-you'll be g-getting your equipment, eh? I-I m-myself have t-to p-pick up a b-book on vampires,' he said, his expression revealing that he wasn't entirely looking forward to it.

'Aye, we are,' Hagrid answered. 'Got a lot ter buy, so we best be goin'. See you on the firs' o' September, Professor,' he said, walking Harry and Evangeline towards the back of the pub once more before waving back at the quavering Professor. 'Told yeh, didn' we, Harry? Told yeh, you was famous,' he said, patting Harry on the shoulder.

'What was wrong with that Quirrell fellow?' Evangeline asked, she was still pondering on whether or not she liked him. 'He seemed pretty nervous,' she said, revealing what she had observed.

'Oh, yeah. Poor bloke. Brilliant mind. He was fine while he was studyin' outta books, but then he took a year off ter get some firs' hand experience. Some say he met some vampires, and had a bit o' a run-in with a hag … ne'er been the same since. Scared o' everythin', even his students,' Hagrid said as they walked out the back of the pub into a small walled courtyard.

'Right,' Evangeline said, although she wasn't entirely convinced. Whilst Hagrid was fumbling about in his pockets, she had already pulled out her wand and was tapping it on the wall in front of her. The brick she had touched began to quiver, then it wriggled and a small hole appeared, gradually it got bigger, and wider. Eventually they were faced with a small cobbled street that winded out of sight. 'Welcome to Diagon Alley, Harry,' she said, grinning at Harry's amazed expression. The street was bustling with people, the shops were bursting with people. They were dressed in robes of every colour and hats of every type. Harry couldn't help but stare at their peculiar clothes. He was astonished at the many types of strange shops; selling everything from robes, to brooms, to cauldrons to telescopes. 'We gotta go to Gringott's first, Harry, to get you some money,' Evangeline said, glancing down at Harry and pointing at the snowy white building that towered over every other building on the street.

They walked up the white marble steps towards furnished bronze doors. On making their way through the walked past goblins dressed in red and gold uniforms. Now they faced a second pair of doors, although, they were silver this time, with writing engraved on them. Goblins bowed as they walked through the silver doorway and into a large marble hallway. In the hallway, dozens of goblins where sitting on high stools behind a large counter. Evangeline gently tugged Harry towards the counter where she found a free goblin.

'Morning,' Evangeline said, looking up at the goblin, the counter was almost as tall as her. 'We've come to take money out of Mr Harry Potter's safe,' she informed the goblin as he glanced over the edge of the counter towards Harry.

'And does Mr Potter have his key?' the goblin asked with a slight sneer. Harry saw Evangeline throw the goblin a cold look before turning to Hagrid who gave her a small golden key. She set it on the desk, and watched the goblin as he examined it. 'This seems to be in order.'

Hagrid bustled past Harry, before leaning over closely to the counter. 'An' I've also got a letter here from Professor Dumbledore,' he said proudly, before he dropped his voice. 'It's about the You-Know-What in vault seven hundred and thirteen.' The goblin looked up at him and raised his eyebrow before taking the letter from Hagrid.

The goblin read the letter carefully before handing it back to Hagrid. 'Very well,' he said, glancing over Evangeline's shoulder. 'I shall get someone to take you to both vaults. Griphook!' he shouted, towards yet another goblin.

Harry, Evangeline and Hagrid followed Griphook out of one of the doors that lead out of the hall. They walked down a narrow stone passageway lit with flaming torches towards another pathway with little railway tracks on the ground. One whistle from Griphook and a cart cam speeding down towards them. They all climbed in and then began speeding down a maze of passageways, deeper and deeper underground. Suddenly they pulled to an abrupt halt, Hagrid looked rather green in the face. The cart had stopped in front of a door on the passageway. They all climbed out of the cart, Hagrid rather uneasily; he had to lean against a large pillar to stop himself from falling over because of how sick he was. Griphook, with the small key in his hand, opened the lock on the door. The door swung open to reveal mounds of gold coins, silver coins and small bronze coins. Evangeline helped Harry gather up enough money that would do him for the whole year, and put it into a bag. They clambered back into the cart, and it continued to travel deeper down the passageway, where it was becoming much colder. Finally they reached vault seven hundred and thirteen, it had no keyhole. Griphook stroked the door with his long finger, and it melted away. Hagrid walked into the vault, which at first looked empty, but he bent down and picked up a small grubby package and put it carefully in his pocket. After another cart ride back and Harry's bag filled with money, they found themselves in the bright sunlight of Diagon Alley once more.

'You alright, Hagrid?' Evangeline asked, as she looked up at him, whilst shielding her eyes from the sun. 'You look a bit green,' she observed, with an awkward smile.

'Aye, I hate them Gringott's carts,' Hagrid grumbled, shaking his head. 'You wouldn't mind me heading off ter the Leaky Cauldron fer a bit o' a pick-me-up. I should feel a bit better after a large whiskey,' he said, with a feeble chuckle.

Evangeline laughed. 'Sure, Hagrid, that's fine,' she said looking down at Harry, 'We'll go and get Harry's robes,' she said, nodding over at Madame Malkin's Robes For All Occasions. 'See you later. Have a good lunch!' she said as she steered Harry towards the robe shop. As soon as they walked in the door they were almost attacked by Madam Malkin who seemed very eager to serve them.

'Hello! Fittings for Hogwarts, I'm guessing,' Madam Malkin said, as she grabbed Harry by the shoulder and pushed him through a door into a fitting room where another blonde haired boy was also getting fitted. Evangeline followed behind. Harry stood up on the stool whilst Madam Malkin pulled a long black robe over his head and began to pin it to the right length. 'Are you his mum, dear?' the shop-owner asked Evangeline.

'Oh – er – no, I'm his Aunt,' Evangeline said, glancing up at Harry who was grinning back at her. As soon as Madame Malkin had turned his back on her, she stuck her tongue out at Harry.

'Just, you look awfully like him,' Madam Malkin said, glancing up at Evangeline before sticking a pin rather roughly into Harry's robe. Evangeline raised her eyebrow and gestured to Harry that she would be looking at the robes at the front of the shop. Harry nodded, and glanced down at Madame Malkin who was working away at his robe.

'Hi,' the blonde haired boy beside him said, 'You going to Hogwarts too?'

'Yes,' Harry answered.

'My father is away buying my books and my mum is away looking at wands. I might drag them off to look at brooms afterwards,' the boy drawled. 'I really don't think it's fair that first years aren't allowed their own brooms; it's ridiculous. I think I'll just smuggle it in anyway. Do you have your own broom?' the boy asked.

'No,' Harry replied simply, wishing that Evangeline would come back.

'Do you play Quidditch?'

'No,' Harry said, sighing in relief as he spotted Evangeline returning to the back room.

'So, do you know what house you'll be in?' the boy asked, Harry didn't have a clue what he was talking about.

'Well, of course Harry'll be in Gryffindor,' Evangeline said, suddenly appearing in the doorway. She smiled at Harry before turning to the blonde boy. 'His mother and father were both in Gryffindor, so was I. It runs in the family,' she said simply.

'Oh, well I'll be in Slytherin,' the boy said in a slightly haughty tone. 'All of my family are.'

Harry saw Evangeline's expression darken, but she smiled as she made eye contact with him. Madame Malkin got to her feet, holding the pins between her teeth. She took them in her hand, before running her other hand down the side of Harry's robe and nodding contentedly. 'That's you all done, dear,' she said, as Harry hopped off the stool, smiled goodbye to the blonde boy before Evangeline dragged him towards the front of the shop. She set ten galleons and six sickles on the counter and gathered Harry's robes up into a bag.

Harry glanced up at her in confusion. 'That was a Malfoy, Harry. They aren't exactly people i would want you to have anything to do with,' Evangeline said, as she opened the door and forced him out. 'His father is a horrible, horrible man and I wouldn't be surprised if his son is anything like him,' she said, her expression suddenly brightening and she waved across the crowds. Harry looked up and seen Hagrid with three large ice creams in his hands. 'Hagrid, you didn't have to,' she said, with a grin as Hagrid handed her an ice cream.

'No problem, Evangeline,' Hagrid said, handing Harry his ice cream. 'Get your robes, Harry?' he asked, to which Harry nodded feebly and began eating his ice cream.

They continued to walk around the street, where they stopped to buy parchment, inks and quills. They then walked on to buy Harry's school books in a book shop called Flourish and Blotts where the wall were filled with shelves full of books. Thousands of books of every shape and size. Once Evangeline had gathered up all Harry's books, she went and paid for them as he was too engrossed in a book to remember that he actually had to buy his schoolbooks. As she made her way out, the books in a large bag, she found Harry still immersed in the book. 'Got enemies already, have you?' Evangeline whispered in his ear and he jumped in surprise.

'Nope,' Harry said, cocking his head sideways and looking at the large bag in Evangeline's hand. 'I was looking up how to curse Dudley.'

'Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you, but you're not allowed to use magic outside of school,' Evangeline said, smiling as she saw Harry's expression sadden. 'But don't worry, just tell him your Aunt will be after him if he tries anything. Oh, and I got all your books for you,' she said, holding the bag up for him to see before she fumbled around in it and pulled out a green book. 'And I also got you this one,' she said, handing it to him; Quidditch Through the Ages.

'Thanks Evie,' Harry said beaming and already flicking through the book.

'Well, I felt sorry for you after that conversation you had with Malfoy in Madam Malkins,' Evangeline said, with a shrug. 'And seeing as it was such a big part of my life and your dad's life I thought it would be a good idea for you to know a bit about it before you went to Hogwarts.'

'Thanks,' Harry said, glancing up at Evangeline and smiling.

'No problem, Harry,' Evangeline said, putting her hand on his shoulder and leading him down the street. 'I mean, you are my nephew and I haven't seen you since you were a year old, so I think I should spoil you,' she said, as they walked past a crowd of children with their noses against the glass of a shop window. Harry had also noticed them, and was craning his neck to see what they were looking at; a Nimbus 2000. He glanced up at Evangeline, a hopeful look on his face. She chuckled, 'First years aren't allowed brooms, but I'll get you it when you need it.'

They began to walk up the street towards the wand-makers as Evangeline told Harry that Hagrid had wondered off to get him some basic Potion ingredients. They were about to enter Ollivander's when Harry finally found his courage and asked Evangeline about what he had been thinking about ever since he had met her. 'Um – Evie?' Evangeline hummed to show she was listening. 'If you're my aunt, then why was I sent to live with the Dursleys?'

Evangeline bit her lip, before sitting down on the bench outside the wand-makers. 'Well, you see, Harry,' she began, gesturing for Harry to sit down beside her. 'When your parents died, I wasn't really in a state to be looking after anybody, not even myself. I was really depressed, and I barely ate anything. Your parents meant a lot to me, your father was my twin brother and even if he was a pain sometimes, I still loved him. And your mother, Lily, was the best friend I could have asked for. I loved her like a sister. I lost everybody that night, Harry. You, your parents and my husband and I also lost a part of myself; I felt empty. Shortly after, I found out I was pregnant with my twins – ' Harry glanced quickly towards her, his eyebrows knitted, '– Yes, you have two cousins,' Evangeline said, with a small smile. 'You might be able to meet them soon.'

'Are they my age?' Harry asked.

Evangeline shook her head, 'No, they're a year younger. But they'll be going to Hogwarts next year,' she said with a small smile. 'I'm afraid that after today you'll have to go back to your Uncle's, Harry. I tried; I asked Professor Dumbledore but he wouldn't let me take you for a month,' she said sullenly, frowning slightly. 'But I'll pick you up from their house on September the first and take you to Kings Cross – and I'll bring the twins too,' she said, hoping to make up for not being able to take him away from the Dursleys for a while.

'That would be nice,' Harry said, with a smile. 'But why wouldn't Professor Dumbledore let me stay with you for a while?'

'I think that maybe by living with me you might find out too many things that you might not be able to understand, Harry,' Evangeline said, although she didn't know the exact reason that Dumbledore had not allowed it. 'I'm having the same problem with my twins; they want to find out so many things about my past – things that not even I can cope with – and I don't want them to suffer from it. But Harry, if the Dursleys treat you badly, I want you to owl me,' she said, a stern tone in her voice.

'But Evie, I don't have an owl,' Harry said grimly.

Evangeline grinned, 'I think Hagrid may be sorting that out right now,' she said, Harry's expression brightened. 'It was meant to be a surprise, so when Hagrid comes back; act surprised,' she said, standing up from the bench and grabbing the bags. 'Right …. wand? Ah, yes. Mr Ollivander's, this is where I got my wand.' She nodded to the shop behind them, before making her way to the door and pushing it open; Harry followed closely behind her.

As soon as the door open, a bell echoed through the shop. It was a rather odd shop, a small gathering area with a counter that separated both parts of the shop. On the other side of the counter, on both walls, which seemed to go one forever, were shelves of long, narrow boxes. The shop was deathly quiet, it reminded both Harry and Evangeline of a library. Everything was quiet until Evangeline walked up to the counter, and pushed the small bell which made a small tinkling sound that echoed down the shop. There was a scraping sound, and instantly a man situated on a ladder stopped directly behind the counter. 'Good afternoon,' the man said, this was presumably Mr Ollivander.

'Good afternoon, Mr Ollivander,' Evangeline said, with a dazzling smile. 'We've come to get Harry's wand,' she said, nodding towards Harry who had found himself a chair. 'C'mon Harry, this is fun; trust me,' she said, grinning impishly as Harry got off the spindly chair and made his way towards the counter.

'Hello Mr Potter,' Mr Ollivander said, smiling before turning his back on both Harry and Evangeline to begin searching in the many shelves on the walls behind him. 'I truly did wonder when I'd be seeing you … Hmmm, where is my tape measure?' he muttered to himself, 'Ah!' he exclaimed before returning to the counter. He lifted the counter door and walked through, the tape measure in his hand. 'Now, Mr Potter, which is your wand arm?'

'Well, I – em – I'm right-handed,' Harry said, holding out his arm.

'That's it,' Mr Ollivander said as he began to measure Harry's arm. 'Ah, Mrs Black – '

'Miss Potter,' Evangeline corrected him rapidly, with a feeble smile and a rather embarrassed expression. She sent Mr Ollivander a rather pleading look, as though wishing for him to not start a conversation about her past.

'Ah .. right,' Mr Ollivander said as he measured from Harry's wrist to elbow. 'You've still got your wand I presume; Mahogany, like your brother. But a bit longer; twelve inches unlike his eleven inch. Swishy with excellent flight. And the core was a phoenix feather if I am correct – ' Evangeline nodded, taking her wand out of her pocket, ' – and a particularly excellent wand for duelling.' Evangeline grinned. Mr Ollivander had left Harry – and the measuring tape which was still measuring Harry – and had gone around the other side of the counter once more. 'Hmmm … let me see – Ah! This might be the one we're looking for. Hmm, maybe this one too. And … possibly,' he said, quickly returning with three long, narrow, scarlet boxes in his hand. 'Let's try this one,' Mr Ollivander said, taking a wand out of one of the boxes and handing it to Harry. 'Beechwood and Dragon Heartstring. Nine inches. Nice and flexible. Well, go on. Give it a wave!'

Harry glanced awkwardly towards Evangeline who was grinning and egging him on. He glanced back to Mr Ollivander before waving the wand around a bit. As soon as he moved his arm, the lamp above Evangeline's head smashed into pieces and she just managed to jump out of the way as it fell to the ground. 'Sorry!' Harry gasped, as Mr Ollivander snatched the wand out of his hand and replaced it with another.

'Clearly not that one. Try this one,' Mr Ollivander said, standing back beside Evangeline. 'Ebony and Unicorn Hair. Eight and a half inches, nice and springy. 'Right, wave it around.'

Feeling foolish after what had happened the first time, Harry reluctantly waved the wand. This time, making both Harry and Evangeline jump in shock, a few of the empty boxes on the shelves exploded with a loud bang. Harry shook his head and quickly set the wand down on the counter. Wand after wand, and none of them seemed to be a success, Harry was beginning to grow impatient. 'Evie? How long does this normally take?' he asked. Mr Ollivander was searching the shelves for yet more wands.

'It took me about four wands,' Evangeline admitted, her expression turned to a grin rather suddenly. 'But that was after I nearly blew up the shop, broke the front window and smashed a flowerpot on James' head,' she said, with a chuckle.

'Yes. Miss Potter was one of the more violent customers,' Mr Ollivander said, returning with two more boxes. 'Tricky customer, you are, Mr Potter. No matter, we will find one eventually,' he said, cheerfully before handing Harry another wand. 'Try that one – not one of my usual combinations – holly and phoenix feather, nice and supple. Well, give it a wave and see.'

Harry sighed, and took the wand from Mr Ollivander. A sudden warmth radiated from the wand, and Harry knitted his eyebrows in confusion. He waved the wand quickly and instantly, a shot like a canon and red and gold sparks shot out of the end of the wand like fireworks. Evangeline clapped buoyantly and Harry smiled back. He had finally found his wand. 'Well done, Mr Potter,' Mr Ollivander said, taking the wand from him and examining it thoroughly. 'Curious … very curious indeed,' he muttered.

'Is something wrong, Mr Ollivander?' Evangeline asked suspiciously. She stepped forward to survey the wand herself. 'Is everything alright with the wand?'

'Oh yes, Miss Potter,' Mr Ollivander said, placing Harry's wand in it's box. 'It's very curious, you see, because the phoenix who's feather is in your wand – ' he glanced at Harry, ' – gave another feather – just one other. It is curious because whilst you should are destined for this wand, it's brother gave you that scar,' he said darkly.

Evangeline gasped, 'You – You mean … The brother wand of Harry's, k-killed his parents? My brother? My best friend? The brother wand of Harry's belongs to ... Voldemort,' she said, her eyes wide.

'I am afraid so, Miss Potter,' Mr Ollivander replied, thought he didn't seem too bothered by the fact that Evangeline was flabbergasted. 'But remember it's the wand that chooses the wizard, and it's not the wand's fault that it belongs to the most powerful, but terrible wizard know. Now,' he said, placing the box which contained Harry's wand into a bag, 'Seven galleons, please.'

Harry was about to scoop seven galleons out of his bag, but Evangeline pushed his hand away and set seven galleons of her own on the counter. She picked up the bag that contained Harry's wand and handed it to him. 'Thanks, Mr Ollivander!' Evangeline said, smiling. 'I'll be back next year with two more boys.'

'I'll look forward to seeing Caleb and Aidan, Miss Potter,' Mr Ollivander said with an airy wave. Harry glanced back, wondering how he knew the names of Evangeline's sons, when he didn't even know. 'Goodbye!'

'Well, what an eventful afternoon,' Evangeline said, as they walked down the street. She rested her arm around Harry's shoulders and they walked towards the Leaky Cauldron. They met Hagrid at the end of the street, a large cage in his hand. Evangeline beamed, 'Now that is a pretty owl!'

'Best lookin' bird in the shop,' Hagrid said, holding the cage up to his face and peering in at the white snowy owl. 'Happy Birthday, Harry!' he said, handing the cage to Harry who just stared at the bird.

'T-Thanks, Hagrid,' Harry said, watching the owl who had her head under her wing.

Evangeline laughed, 'Honestly, Harry! You're stuttering like Professor Quirrell!' she said, clapping him on the back and walking him towards the wall which lead to the Leaky Cauldron. Hagrid followed behind, shaking his head at Evangeline's statement. 'Hmmm, d'ya think we should grab some lunch now? You look like you could do with something to eat, Harry. And come to think of it I could get my Firewhiskey Cocktail after all!'

Hope you liked the chapter! It's my longest yet! REVIEWS are very, very much appreciated. Oh, and I won't update until I have at least TEN REVIEWS, seeing as this chapter was so long … it's only fair. Yeah, um, add my story if you want .. etc, etc. And, check out my other stories (: Tori xo

P.S .. I was thinking, if this story goes down well; how about another one ... Evangeline April Potter; The Forgotten Years? Just a suggestion (:

P.P.S Any other stories you want me to update .. Please tell me! I would be very happy to oblige (: