A/N: Again, I'd like to thank all of those who took the time out to send me a review on the last chapter.
This one is a little different in some ways, but it has a few explanations and a couple of confrontations in it.
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The next day, Lily was making her way to the Great Hall for breakfast, tired and lost in thought. She hadn't gotten that much sleep because of her brain thinking back on her life, especially with James. At first when those memories started coming up, she had tried to push them aside knowing that today was the start of classes, but, the harder she tried to push them away, more of them came to her.
The memories and questioning of her decisions in life was something that she had been doing now for quite some time. She'd started thinking about them when she first saw Harry after so many years. He had been so angry at them and it had made her heart break. All she had wanted to do was, take him in her arms and tell him how sorry she was for having left him, but he just yelled at them before storming out.
By the time the trial had come she was already beginning to separate herself from James. She had silently stood back and watched as he got angrier and cockier then ever before. She, like him wanted her son back where he belonged, with them. However, thanks to their stupidity, her son was having none of that. Then the final straw had come that made her finally wake up and see exactly what she had done.
Stopping in the middle of the hallway she remembered back to that day when her very own sister stood up to her. How the usual hateful woman actually admitted what she had done to Harry. How she would never have left Dudley behind for anything, even her own life. It was then that she had finally made her decision.
So lost in her thoughts she didn't hear her name being shouted from down the corridor. Nor did she see the red face of James Potter storming towards her. If she had, she would have been more then prepared for the confrontation. Alas, she didn't until he was right in her face yelling.
Looking up into the furious hazel eyes, she started shouting back. "James Potter, I can do whatever I want!" Putting her hands on her hips as her face grew red.
"What the hell is wrong with you, Lily? You know damn well we need get our son back!" James yelled.
"There's nothing wrong with me! It's you that has something wrong!"
"Well, there has to be or you wouldn't be leaving me." He huffed.
"Do you really want to know why?" She asked him.
"Yes Lily, I do want to know." He said leaning against the wall.
"Fine, I will tell you." She said. Looking him directly in the eyes, she started. "You have become the arrogant prat that I knew in school. You believe like you did in sixth year that the world revolves around the Great James Potter. Well, I have news for you…the world doesn't revolve around you." She angrily said.
Before he had a chance to respond, she continued. "I have no idea what happened to you, but you're not the same man that I fell in love with. You have turned your back on your friends; the friends that stood by you through thick and thin."
"They turned their backs on me!" He shouted angrily.
"No James, they didn't do that…you did." She replied sadly.
"Fine, whatever, but that doesn't explain why you're leaving me."
"I'm leaving you because, because you have ultimately destroyed any chance that I or we could ever have with our son. You have acted like he's an out of control teenager who needs controlling."
"Well he is out of control." He said fiercely.
"No James, Harry is far from being out of control."
"Did you already forget how he acted last night towards our daughter?"
"No I didn't forget. I can't blame him for acting that way…and you shouldn't either."
"So, you're leaving me because of our son who hates us."
"That is only part of it." She said sadly.
"What else is? It's obvious that you don't care about me or the rest of the world." He spat.
"That's not true James and you damn well know it!" She shouted her eyes burning with a fire. "The reason I'm leaving is because I no longer love you." She yelled even though her heart was telling her that she indeed still loved him.
"You don't love me anymore." He said incredulously.
"That's right James, I don't." She stated firmly trying to keep the tears from her eyes.
"That brat is the reason for this, isn't he?" James suddenly yelled at her.
Rolling her eyes and shaking her head at his sudden outburst. "Fine, if that is what you want to believe, then yes, it's because of Harry. I don't know what the hell I was thinking all those years ago when I agreed with you and Albus about leaving him. I told you and him that I didn't want to leave my little boy behind."
"We had to do it, and you know it!"
"No James, I don't believe that, and at one point you believed that too. It was all Albus' idea about us leaving Harry behind."
"Lily, you know damn well Albus only had are best interest at hearts. Besides, there's that prophecy about me killing Voldemort."
"No, James, the prophecy doesn't state that it will be you. It didn't even say who the person would be. No one knew until afterwards, and you damn well know that." She said angrily.
I don't know what happened to you or how you blindly believe that you are the so-called destined one to defeat Voldemort. At this point, it's Harry and I will do what I can to help him survive."
"Well, you can say that I blindly believe Albus, but you also believed it as well." He stated firmly.
"That may well be true, but I always had my doubts…unlike you."
"I don't understand what you're even going on about. Albus Dumbledore is the greatest wizard since Merlin, and you know that. You followed him just like I do."
"No, I didn't follow him like you do…I followed the man that I loved." She replied sadly hanging her head in shame. "I followed you and let you be the head of the house. I allowed you to make all of the decisions, whether I agreed with them or not."
This admission took him by complete shock, and he had no clue what to say. He loved her with all his heart, always doing what he believed was right for them. But now…but now he wasn't so sure.
"I don't know why you are acting this way. I feel like you are a completely different person, one that I would have never…ever fallen in love with no matter what they said or did." She said softly once again looking him in the eye.
"When…when did you decide to leave me?" He asked hesitantly unsure if he truly wanted the answer.
"I had been thinking about it for awhile now."
"How long—"
"A couple of years," she replied. "I didn't want to, but with your attitude and how you have threatened to hurt my son…well, I couldn't let you."
"He needs discipline Lily."
"Yes, he does need some discipline."
"Some…how can you say some? Look at what he has said and done since we came back.
Then there's' all of the things he has done over the years." He began to rant waving his hands in the air.
"All of those things, as you so eloquently call them were not because of his actions. Oh, and as for how he has acted since we've been back…well, how would you expect him to act?" She asked sarcastically.
"He should have been, and still should be happy that we are alive." He retorted.
"If that is what you believe James Potter, then you are just as delusional as you used to be. I don't know how or why you are acting this way, but you're not you."
Ignoring her, he said. "If you think he's going to welcome you back with open arms, then you're sadly mistaken. Have you forgotten that he hates us…that means you too." He stated smugly seeing the defiant expression falter.
"I know he hates me. I hate myself for having listened to you and Albus. I knew it was a mistake, but that didn't stop me from making it anyway. All I can do is to stand in the shadows and watch him…help him…guide him in anyway possible." She said tears now filling her green eyes. "But that won't change my mind in divorcing you." With that said she brushed passed him and headed for the Great Hall, brushing the tears from her eyes.
James briefly stood their in shock at the finality of her words. He'd thought that he was getting through to her, especially with the last bit. Evidently he was wrong in that assumption. Realizing this, he spun around and shouted at her retreating back. "I should have never married you!" That finished he whirled back around and headed for the Great Hall in a different way.
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Emily was walking with another first year Slytherin, Helena MacAfee. The blond haired girl was the only one that had been nice to her at all last night. She like Emily wasn't a pureblood, no she too was a half-blood. The girl had been deathly afraid of having been put in this particular house because of her blood status Emily had found out during their talk in their dorm.
She had assured Helena that no one there would harm her because of this. At first the blond haired girl wasn't sure; she even said that she was thinking about leaving. Emily upon hearing this immediately put her fears to rest and told her that she had a wonderful opportunity to help stop the prejudices that were in abundance.
So, here they were talking amongst themselves about everything and anything on their way to breakfast. Emily could see that her new friend was a little less fearful about her sorting, but nevertheless, it was obvious that she still felt uneasy.
Emily had to silently thank her mother for having her do this. She remembered the argument that they had a week ago when her mother broached the subject of her sorting.
Flashback
Emily heard her mother stepping into the room but chose not to look up from the book that she was reading. If she wanted to speak with her, then she would start the conversation. It wasn't like she angry at her mom, more like peeved. She'd felt this way since her mom had explained everything about her brother. Needless to say, since she wasn't speaking to her father, she wouldn't speak with her mother either. It was fair she reasoned.
"Emily dear, we need to talk." She heard her mother say from the seat across from her.
Looking up from her book and staring at her mum, she asked. "What do you need to talk to me about?"
"I know you've been upset with me about your brother, especially with what is happening now, but you have to understand I am just as upset with myself as you are." Her mum said.
"I know mum. I just wish you had told me sooner that he wouldn't…or rather, may not like me when he finds out that I'm alive." Emily replied a little sadly.
She had always wanted to meet her brother, especially after having heard about him since she was seven years old. The stories back then all sounded fantastic, like they were from one of the many fantasy books that she would read or her mum would read to her.
Eventually, she found herself becoming enthralled with her mysterious brother. She would often have dreams of meeting him and being a family. Sometimes in her dreams; her and her brother would go flying or go to the mall and have ice cream together.
However, not one of her dreams about her older brother ever pointed towards him not liking her. She was fully aware that they when they met for the first time would awkward for them, especially Harry, but not to the point where he would hate her.
"Emily, you are a strong girl. I know that you can handle whatever happens when the two of you meet. Like I already said, he will more then likely lash out at you because you got what he always wanted and should have had."
"I understand mum, but I can't help wishing that he would like me." Emily replied sadly.
That was all that she had wanted from Harry; was for him to like her. For him to be happy that he had a little sister, and to be her big brother, always there when she was in trouble, or when she needed someone too talk to.
"I may have come up with a way that he will like you." Lily told her daughter with a smile.
"How—"Emily exclaimed sitting straighter in the chair with an excited expression on her tan face.
Lily couldn't help herself from giggling at the excitement on her daughter's face. "By being put in Slytherin." She smirked.
Emily's eyes nearly bugged out of her head hearing her mum's words. "Slytherin…how will that help…isn't that the evil house…won't he hate me more." She said beginning to babble incoherently.
"At first he might not like you, but we already know that he probably won't anyway. So, there really isn't any difference in that. Yes and no, Slytherin, like all of the other houses can have both good and evil in it. Slytherin just so happens to be the one that is known for having dark wizards, especially with Salazar Slytherin being its founder. Being in Slytherin will help because you will be able to help your brother."
"Huh…Are you out of your mind mum? There's no way being in Slytherin will help Harry. Plus, how do you expect me to get into it?" She asked her.
"No, I'm not out of my mind, Emily." Lily scolded her daughter. "As to how you will get into Slytherin…let's just say it won't be that difficult.
Emily leaned back into the couch and thought about what her mom had just suggested. She began weighing the pros and cons of being in Slytherin in her head. Mentally counting exactly how many advantages there were, to how many disadvantages there were.
"I'll do it mum, but you have to tell me exactly how this will help Harry." She finally stated after ten minutes of arguing with herself.
"Thank You Emily." Lily said a genuine smile brightening her face.
Leaning closer to her daughter, she began telling her just how this would all help her brother. She went on to tell her how she was going to be sorted into Slytherin.
End of Flashback
"Emily, what is our first class today?" Helena asked nervously, bringing Emily out of daydream.
Shrugging her shoulders, Emily said. "I don't know Helena. My mum said we'd get out schedule after breakfast."
With that, the two fell into a comfortable silence as they reached the hall for breakfast.
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Like everyday, Harry had had a difficult time in getting Ron up. Everything he tried short of magic couldn't get his red-headed best friend awake. So, after fifteen minutes of trying in which the rest of the dorm had left an idea struck him. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, he raised his hands, palms facing the bed. Laughing lightly, he called on the air to swirl around the bed, causing the blankets to be plucked up and thrown across the room.
Harry laughed louder when Ron still refused to wake except for some strange muttering about, 'go away, I'm sleeping.'
"That's the way you want to play it huh." He spoke before allowing a smirk to appear on his lips. With that said, the wind started to pick up even more as it swirled around the entire room now, knocking things off the shelves and throwing blankets and pillows all over.
Even with the now faster wind and loud sounds, Ron refused to wake up. Giving a slight shake of his head in disappointment, Harry directed the wind towards his friend's bed.
He watched as the wind now solely concentrated on Ron once again, but this time it was a different. Since it was a faster and harder wind then before, the entire bed began to shake from side to side. It even rattled some in the wind.
At first it hadn't had the desired effect, but once the bed shook more violent then when it started, Ron shot up looking around wildly. This only caused Harry to cease his elemental control and break out laughing hysterically.
By the time Ron scrambled off his bed, Harry was bent over in half, clutching his stomach in his laughter over his friend's reaction.
"That's not funny Mate." Ron huffed before walking over to his trunk to grab what he needed for a shower.
"You…should…have…seen…your…face." Harry answered through his laughter. This only got a glare in return.
Twenty minutes later saw the two along with Ginny and Hermione walking down to the Great Hall. They were all laughing except for Ron since Harry had just finished telling the others about what he had done. Ron was just glaring at them. After a few minutes later they were able to get themselves under control.
On their way Hermione couldn't help noticing that Harry was looking calm and relaxed as they talked about nothing in particular. She was happy to see him this way, especially after the last few days. She hadn't liked the new Harry, the one that was too serious like her; the one who was accepting his fate with an air of anger. In her eyes, this Harry wasn't as fun to be around, but that didn't mean she was going to stop being his friend.
Last night she had brought this very thing up to Ron after Harry had gone up to bed.
Flashback
She was sitting in front of the fireplace with pensive look; one of her best friends, Ron was sitting across from him. She was currently thinking about her other friend, Harry and his sudden attitude change. Granted she knew that he had to become more serious, more determined if were to survive this war. Nevertheless, that didn't mean she had to like it.
"Hermione, what do you think of the new Harry?" Ron suddenly asked breaking the silence, bringing her out of her thoughts.
Turning her head to the right, she looked at her friend with that pensive look and answered. "I don't know Ron. I understand why he's acting this way, but I don't like it."
"I know what you mean. He seems so cold. I hope he's not going to always be like this now."
"You know he has to be strong and determined if he's to survive." She answered firmly.
"Hermione, I know that." He whined. "But all he did since after the trial was to train. That even got worse after those damn deatheaters in Diagon Alley."
Ignoring his cussing, she replied. "He has to train."
"I know that, but he's not that fun anymore." Ron whined.
"No…no, he isn't." she replied sadly.
"I wish there was something we could do to help him."
"We are helping him Ron." Seeing the incredulous look on her friend's face, she quickly elaborated. "By being there for him, giving him the strength to do what he has too."
They fell into silence for awhile thinking about their friend and all of the adventures that the three had been on since their first year. All of the adventures had been dangerous, and anyone of them could have been killed, but they were doing it together and having some fun as well. Like, in first year where they snuck out using Harrys' invisibility cloak.
Then there was their third year when they used the time-turner to save Sirius and Buckbeak.
Hermione, herself wanted to see the old Harry some. She didn't want the serious, determined boy all of the time. Even she, the know-it-all knew that a person, especially a teen needed to have some fun at times.
"Maybe we can get him to have some fun once in awhile." She suddenly said causing Ron to nearly jump out of his skin because the silence they had been in.
"How," he answered.
"I'm not too sure…but you know me, I'll think of something." With that she gave a small yawn before standing up. "I'll see you in the morning. Goodnight Ron." Having said that, she headed towards the staircase up to her dorm trying to think of a way to get Harry to have some fun and be a little less serious.
End of Flashback
Reaching the Great Hall, the three took their seats and waited for the food to arrive. They knew that they had to wait because Dumbledore was to make the announcements that he hadn't the night before. They knew this only because McGonagall had informed the tower of this before having let them leave from the feast.
Hermione noticed that Harry was staring up at the Head Table with a deep scowl. Without even having to glance in the same direction, she knew exactly who he was looking at. She shook head in disapproval at him, but didn't say a word knowing that it wouldn't do any good.
Her attention was soon grabbed when Dumbledore stood and began to speak.
A few minutes earlier.
Dumbledore was sitting at the table watching the students file in. He had yet to see Harry or his friends arrive. This didn't please him at all since they had been told they had to be here.
He hadn't had a good night after the board investigators had left his office. He had been so angry that he wound up breaking several items in is office due to having been put on the spot at the opening feast. He knew who had been behind the prank that had garnered the attention of the investigators.
Once he had calmed down to think clearly, he began to work on his plans for getting Harry back under his control. He knew that it was going to be even harder then he had expected because Lily had decided to turn away from him as well. This had caused him yet again to get furious about his plans being shuttered.
He had known from the very beginning when he had hatched the plot all those years ago to gain his power base and garner the fame that he once had back using the Potters, she could be the one to throw the proverbially monkey wrench into it.
It wasn't to say that he didn't have a lot of power and fame still; however, they were beginning to dwindle. In particular; it was his power that was dropping the fastest. And I don't mean his power in the Wizengamot.
Once he had noticed the leak during James and Lily's fifth year, he had begun to try and find a way that would allow him to regain what he was losing. He also had searched to see just how bad the leak was, and how long it would take before he no longer had enough magic to sustain his position in the world.
It took him over a year before he'd found the information he needed. At the time he'd been grateful that he was such a persuasive orator, or he might not have been able to gain enough followers to help him in his search or even the first war.
Once having found the information it took him another six months before he found what he would need to do in order to not only stop the leak, but also to gain even more. At first he didn't like what he would have to do, after all, he was a light wizard, and he just didn't do these kinds of things. Needless to say, he changed his mind after one particular battle that had left him nearly drained from exhaustion.
Once having made the decision to go ahead and do the deed, he began to search for the right family for this. It wasn't until he had heard the prophecy concerning Harry Potter did he find the perfect family to help him. After all, he reasoned James Potter had no living relatives and had always looked up to him like a grandfather. Even Lily had looked up to him in that manner; always following the rules, and willing to help anyone in need. The prophecy, itself, made not only his job easier, but the war as well.
Now, however, many years' later things weren't going according how he had planned them. Oh, he had James in the position that he needed him, but he had lost Harry…and this was just not acceptable. Not to mention that he, Albus Dumbledore was being investigated by the Governors of the school. All because of a snot nosed brat who refused to listen to him anymore.
He watched as the trio strolled into the room nonchalantly like they had no cares in the world. Seeing them act like this made him bristle and seethe inside. Here he was trying to win a war and save himself, along with thousands others and the person who was supposed to save them all was acting like a teenager. He knew he had to get him back soon or he could lose everything. And that was just not an option for him…not after having gone to the lengths that he had.
Calming himself down quickly, he stood and stepped around the table to stand at the podium that was once again back in the hall. Looking over the students, he saw that they were all giving him their attention except for one; Harry Potter was sitting, talking with his best friend. He cleared his throat and began his usual beginning of the year announcements.
"I would like to welcome you all back to yet another year at Hogwarts. I would like to especially welcome the new students and congratulate them on a wonderful sorting last night. Now, as our returning students are aware, the Forbidden Forrest is off limits to all students. There are various creatures that live within its trees that could seriously harm you or...let's just say it wouldn't be pleasant. I would also like to inform you that there is to be no magic whatsoever in the halls of Hogwarts. This is for the safety of you and anyone else who may be in the area. Also, all Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes items are banned from the school. If you would like to see exactly what is restricted, then you may see our caretaker, Mr. Filch." With this said, before continuing his speech he looked over to the three Gryffindors. Turning back to the students as a whole, he continued on.
"This year we have two new professors. First, I would like you all to welcome Mr. James Potter. He will be taking over the Defense Against The Dark Arts. Secondly, I would like to introduce, Lily Potter. She will be taking over the Muggle Studies class. Please give them both a round of applause."
Whispering and talking broke out amongst the students once they had taken their seats again. Both knowing very well what they were discussing and why. Lily felt a slightly uncomfortable at being talked about in such a manner knowing that they were probably not saying many good things about her. Still, she wasn't going to let them ruffle her feathers. James however was enjoying the attention even if it wasn't good. He had always enjoyed attention, and once again he was getting it.
Albus seeing this frowned lightly at their lack of enthusiasm towards his new professors, especially James since he was replacing Umbridge. Clearing his throat loudly, he continued on with his opening speech.
"Sadly, I must inform each and every one of you to be more cautious then ever before. As you are all aware Lord Voldemort has indeed return…" Upon saying the Dark Lord's name there were several screams and flinches from the student body and even a few teachers, but he continued on as if nothing had happened. "Let me assure you that Hogwarts is the safest place to be. However, I must insist that you travel in groups at all times, and heed the curfew times. Detentions will be longer then usual for being out after curfew for this reason.
On a lighter note, I would like to inform you that there will be a Halloween Ball for third year and above. There will be Halloween parties in each house for first and second years. A special Hogsmeade trip will be allowed that morning for those who may need any last minute items. Oh, and before I forget, this is a costume ball. This means, anyone attending the ball must have a costume. So, with that all said, I believe it is time to tuck in for a wonderful breakfast." With that, he clapped his hands and food suddenly appeared on the tables.
While Dumbledore was giving his start of term speech, Harry was doing his best to tune the man out. That is until he heard the introductions of his former parents, causing his head to jerk up towards the table. It was just as he had expected, his father would be teaching his favorite subject. He shook his head in resignation that for the second year in a row he would have a horrible teacher before turning back around to stare at his plate.
They were all finishing their breakfast; Ron finishing his second one when McGonagall stopped behind them to give them their schedules. Harry graciously took his and glanced down to see what his first class of the day was. He gave a loud groan at seeing that he would have to go to potions. Of all the classes that he could have started with, he would get this one, he muttered under his breath.
McGonagall saw or rather sensed his discomfort and smirked a little. She chuckled inwardly with the knowledge that Severus wouldn't be able to intimidate one of her favorite students any longer. Not if this summer had anything to say about it. All she could hope for was that Harry didn't get into too much trouble over it. She'd hate to see that, especially after having promised him last year that she would help him in attaining his goal of being an auror.
Before moving on, she leaned down and said in his ear. "I would like to see you after classes today in my office." With that, she straitened up and moved on, giving him no chance to reply back.
Harry and his friends stood up; grabbing their bags they headed for their first class. Ron was groaning loudly about having to take potions first thing in the morning. Harry just ignored him as they turned down the corridor leading towards the dungeon. Hermione was bickering with Ron about his issue with the class.
"But Hermione…first thing Monday morning." He whined.
"Look at it this way, getting it done now means we won't have to deal with Snape later." She reasoned.
"But Hermione—"He whined again.
"No buts Ron." She told him firmly before proceeding to ignore him.
Harry on the other hand was just aimless walking down the corridor trying to keep from answering anyone's questions. He knew that there would be some, especially with the trial and the publicity surround it, but that didn't mean he had to like it. So far he'd been lucky in the respect, and only a handful of students, mostly Gryffindors had eagerly questioned him about the events of the summer. He was even luckier when they'd been satisfied with his answers to only a few of their questions. However, this didn't mean it would last, and now that everyone knew his parents would be teaching this year, there were bound to be a lot more questions.
The trio reached the potions lab where they saw several students waiting for the door to be opened. One of those students waiting was Draco, who was wearing a sneer on his face as he they approached.
"Well…well…well, if it isn't the Scarhead, Mudblood, and Weasel." Draco sneered looking directly at the trio.
Harry only rolled his eyes at this comment knowing that the blond was trying to get a rise out of him. He was certain that Hermione was feeling the same way as he, but Ron…well, he was a whole different person.
"Shut your hole, Ferret." Ron spat.
"so the Weasley has a bit to him." Draco remarked pushing himself off the wall and striding up to Ron. "I would watch what you say to your betters." He sneered in the face of the red head.
"Why don't you go back to your boot licking father?" Ron spat back.
"My father is no boot licker—"He paused briefly before continuing. "Then again, you would know all about boot licking now wouldn't you?" Smirking at Ron who who's face was reddening in anger.
Seeing that his friend was about to explode with anger at the idiotic blond, Harry stepped up, placing a calming hand on his friend's shoulder. "come on Ron don't let the ferret get you. We both know that he's beneath us." Harry said calmly." Looking directly at Malfoy when he said this.
Draco's eyes narrowed and his sneer turned to a malicious smile. "I would watch who you consider beneath the other, or I may just have to show you who's beneath whom."
"Oh, what is the great Draco Malfoy going to do? Go running to his daddy like always." Harry asked sarcastically. He could hear Ron snickering next him and knew that Hermione was shaking her head in exasperation at him.
Draco didn't respond to the insult; instead he whipped out his wand, about to cast a hex on Harry when the door suddenly burst open, and out stepped Snape.
"What is going on out here?" Snape asked in his usual deep dark tone.
"Nothing Professor…we, well that is to say Malfoy and I were having a disagreement of sorts." Harry explained sweetly. He saw Snape's eye narrow at this explanation, but he didn't take it any further.
"Alright all of you in now." He commanded before sweeping back into his classroom.
Harry, though he was secretly glad that Snape hadn't made a big deal of what he had said couldn't help wondering why. It was just not the thing that Snape would normally do, especially seeing as how he had been involved. Whatever the reason, he would still expect the man to verbally attack whenever he got the chance. However, he chose not to dwell on this since he had to get to charms, and figured that he could mull it over once classes were done for the day.
By the time Harry had finished his potions class he was thoroughly convinced that something was seriously wrong with the usual snarky potions master. He may not have gotten any points in the class, but the man didn't take any away either. Hell, the man didn't even give him a detention; which was extremely unusual since the man basked in giving him detentions.
Snape leaned back in his chair, giving a sigh of relief, or maybe resignation once all of the dunderheads, as he liked to call them had left. That had been the hardest class ever with Harry Potter being in it. He hadn't taken a single point, given a detention, or even make one derogatory comment to the boy. He just ignored him completely and concentrated on the other students. Oh, there were a couple of times during the class period that he wanted to say something, but was forced to bite his tongue on the matter. He did after all agree to be nice to the raven haired boy. But that didn't mean he had to like it in anyway. It just took the fun out of teaching the brat.
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After his last class, which coincidentally was Transfiguration, he told his friends to go on with out him. At first, both of them tried objecting, but he had quickly squashed that idea by telling them that he didn't think it was anything serious. And so reluctantly they both left telling him they'd meet him in the common room.
Once the room was empty except for Harry and her; Professor McGonagall, with a wave of her wand cast a locking and silencing charm on the door. She wasn't about to have anyone overhearing this conversation, especially the headmaster.
Harry had tensed when he saw his professor take out her wand, but had relaxed a little when she did not point it at him. However, that didn't make his nervousness go away, especially when he watched her casting the charms from his desk.
McGonagall sat back down in her chair and told Harry to move up front in her normal tone. He gave her a short nod before doing as she ordered, yet, he remained silent. Even though, he was beginning to feel apprehensive in regards to this meeting.
"Mr. Potter—"But before she could continued she was interrupted.
"Professor, as I stated in class, my name is no longer Potter; it is now and forever will be Potter-Black." He stated sounding annoyed that he had to correct her.
She gave him a stern look before giving him a curt nod and continuing on. "Very well, if that is what you want," she replied flatly. "You may be wondering why I asked you to see me after classes today." Seeing him nod, she went on. "As you are aware, Professor Umbridge issued a lifetime ban to you in regards to your playing Quidditch. I would like to say that the ban has been lifted. It should have never been issued in the first place." She said distastefully.
Harry was secretly thrilled that he would be able to play Quidditch this year; that is if he decided to. As of now, he had yet to decided if he would play or not seeing as his life was more complicated now then ever before.
"Now, I know you are fully aware that we are in need of a captain for the Quidditch team. I would like to offer you the position." She stated a small smile tugging at the sides of her lips.
He fell back against the chair, his eyes blinking rapidly. "Me, you want me to be the captain?" He asked sounding like he hadn't heard her correctly.
"Yes, Mr. Potter-Black, I want you to take the position. You, after all, are the only one who has been on the team the longest. Besides, you're the best candidate for it too."
"I…I don't know what to say." He stammered wondering if this was all some kind of joke. Then it hit him, and he straightened up, squaring his shoulders and looking directly into his professor's eyes. "Professor, is this some sort of way to control me? Did the Headmaster ask you to give me the position?" He asked coldly.
To say Minerva McGonagall was shocked would be an understatement. Her jaw dropped nearly to the top of the desk, and her eyes widened at the implications he was suggesting. Quickly regaining her composure, she fixed him with one of her usual stern expressions.
"I can assure you the Headmaster has nothing whatsoever to do with this. In fact—"She trailed off catching herself before saying anymore.
However, Harry did catch her. Narrowing his eyes, he asked. "He's against this, isn't he?"
She knew she was caught, and should be honest with him about the entire issue. Unfortunately, she wasn't sure that would be such a good idea, especially with the animosity between the headmaster and her student. She may not agree with the man in his handling of the boy, but that didn't mean she would add fuel to the already out of control fire.
"Professor, its true, isn't it? That old man once again is trying to control my life." Harry hissed while his face became red with anger.
Seeing that her student was becoming angry, and could very well do something he'd regret later on, she chose to tell him the truth. "Yes, Mr. Potter-Black, he is completely against me giving you the captaincy. He feels that you did not earn the right to the position. "She stated firmly twisting the truth a little.
"Then why are you offering it to me?" He asked leery of her intentions.
"For one very simple reason; you are the best candidate for the position, Mr. Black." She answered choosing to shorten his name.
"That may will be true, but isn't this wrong? I mean going behind the Headmaster like this." He hurriedly added.
"No, I don't believe it is wrong at all." shaking her head in the negative. "It's up to the Head of House to decide who rightfully deserves the position."
"Then why is he involved in it?" He asked clearly confused.
This was the question that she didn't want to answer out of all of them. This one question, she knew could send Harry over he edge; yelling about the injustices and the manipulations of the Headmaster, even if she did agree with him on that. Needless to say, she had no choice but to answer him truthfully since she believed in honesty, or as close to it as possible.
"Ever since he became the headmaster, Albus has requested that we get his approval for these matters. He believed at one point, and then he was correct in his assumption, that certain Head of Houses were playing favorites far too much. The Quidditch Captaincy was one of those little things that they played favorites with."
"You mean like Malfoy and the way he go onto the team?"
"Yes, that is exactly what I mean." She too felt like Harry about Malfoy and his buying his way onto the team; disgraceful.
"Then how can you give me position if he refuses to allow it?" He asked spitefully.
"Let's just say that I have my ways." She replied dryly giving him a rare smile. "Will you accept the position?"
"I'm not sure, Professor." He replied thoughtfully. Truthfully, he wasn't sure at all about being the captain of the Quidditch team. That didn't mean he didn't like the offer or the idea behind it, it was just…well, he didn't need more problems with the man who had completely tried to ruin his life.
"Mr. Black, may I ask why you are hesitant about accepting?" She asked even though she could make a guess as to why and probably be right.
He looked directly into her eyes once again, and said. "I don't want to deal with that man at all. And if this is going to get you into trouble; then I would rather decline." He replied honestly.
The first part she had been right about, but the last part…that had taken completely by surprise. However, she did have to smile a little at his thoughtfulness. She silently thanked whichever deity was listening that her student still put others above himself. This wasn't to say that she fully agreed with him doing this, it was more of a feeling that he hadn't been completely changed by the recent events.
"You needn't worry about me, Mr. Black. I can assure you I won't get into any trouble by doing this."
"Are you sure, Professor?" Still not sounding completely convinced on the matter.
"Yes, I am quite sure. Besides, you should and do need to have some fun. You can't go around being serious and worried about your destiny all of the time."
"I do have fun." He cried scandalously.
"Mr. Black, we both know of the recent events. It doesn't take a genius to know that you, of all people would throw away whatever is left of your childhood for others." Chastising him lightly for what she knew he was doing.
He didn't try to contradict his Head of House, choosing to change the subject. "Is it possible to have co-captains?" Thinking he could ask Ron to help him, especially since he's only known about Quidditch for about six years now.
"I don't see why you can't. Do you have someone in mind?"
"I was thinking that Ron could be the co-captain."
"And why is that?"
"He knows more about the game then I do. He did grow up here in the wizarding world." He explained.
A lump formed in her throat at hearing why he wanted Mr. Weasley to become co-captain with him. It made her angry, angry at Albus and the Potters for having put this nice young man through a life of hell. "I do believe that would be acceptable. Only, you will have to be the one to ask him. But I must warn you, if he declines the offer, then you will be sole captain." Harry nodded his understanding.
Seeing his quiet acceptance, she reached over and pulled the top right hand drawer open. She rummaged around briefly before pulling out a shiny badge; one that looked like the prefects wore. Handing over to him, she spoke.
"Now, the first thing you will need to do is schedule tryouts. We are in need of a chaser. I also believe that you may want to see about two new beaters. The one's we had last year were all right, but I think we can do better, don't you."
"Yes, Professor, I do too." He answered with a smile.
"Just let me know what Mr. Weasley's answer is, and when you want to schedule the pitch."
Sensing this as a dismissal, Harry stood, grabbing his bag and bidding his Professor a goodbye, he walked towards the door. He wanted to get back to the dorm in a hurry and tell the others.
He weaved his way trough the crowded corridors on is way to the tower. Oblivious to the hushed tones of the students and various stares he was receiving. He even ignored a couple of the professors that he came across.
In his oblivious state, he turned the last corner, only to bump into someone. Shaking his head and stepping backwards, he was about to apologize to whoever was there, but the words died on his lips. For standing there with a large smile on her face was his little sister.
He shut his eyes briefly, counted to ten before turning back and opening his eyes. "What do you want?" He asked through gritted teeth. He didn't want to yell at her, yet, at the same time he didn't want anything whatsoever to do with her. For this little red head had taken not only his place, but had taken the things that he had always wished for since he was a child.
"I want to talk to you." Emily said calmly, walking up to him, a serious expression replacing her smile.
"That's nice…but I don't want to talk with you."
"Why? What did I do to you?" She asked trying not to show her hurt. Yes, she had expected this from him, but it still hurt.
"What did you do?" He asked incredulously. "You did everything!" He nearly shouted causing many heads to turn in his direction.
"Harry, I don't know you. So, how can you say that I did anything to you?
"You want to know what you did." He asked coldly.
Nodding her head, she said. "Yes, I do."
"Fine, I'll tell you. For starters, you got to live with your parents—"
"Our parents," she quietly corrected him not wanting to upset anymore then he currently was, but he heard her anyway.
"Fine, our parents," rolling his eyes at this comment. "You got all their love, all their time. You got a childhood filled with gifts on your birthdays and Christmas. You got to have them hold you after a nightmare, and help you when you fell down." He said with a raised, yet quivering voice. "They didn't abandon you like me."
Suddenly, before she could even say a single word, Harry continued on, but this time hi voice was hard and cold.
"All I got was the chance to live in a cupboard for ten years. Yelled at for the littlest thing that happened in our aunt and uncle's house. I was given all the chores, even the cooking. I was given our cousin's huge hand me down clothes. Given the opportunity to be beaten up whenever our cousin decided he wanted to do it. Oh, and let's not forget that I was the lucky one when it came to never having any food." He sarcastically stated.
Emily felt tears prickling at her eyes as her brother told his story. She wanted to throw herself in his arms and cry for him. She wanted to tell him that everything was alright, but she couldn't.
"I had no friends until I got here. No one wanted to be friends with a freak or someone who was a criminal." He said softly looking down at his shoes. "You got it all. You took my dream away from me. I don't ever want to talk or see you again. Like I told them, I hate you." And with that, he turned and fled down the corridors and out to the grounds.
Emily stood watching her brother flee, her heart breaking for him. She couldn't believe what he'd gone through. Her mind just couldn't wrap itself around the idea of being treated in such a manner.
Briefly, she thought about going after him and talking with him about all of it. However, it was very brief since it was obvious he wanted nothing to do with her. And it was all because of their parents. Yes, she knew most of it from their mother, but even she hadn't told her all of this.
She could feel the anger boiling just below the surface, wanting to escape, to destroy. Instead of doing anything about it at the moment, she decided to go to the one person she could take it out on. The one person who hadn't had the decency to be honest about her brother and all of what he had been through. And so, with this in mind, she took off at a run towards the room.
A few minutes after having dodged the students, Emily was now standing in front of a portrait of Demeter; Greek Goddess of the Earth. She didn't even stop as she shouted the password and jumped inside before the portrait could open completely.
Walking into the living room, she looked around for her mother. Not seeing her there, she began to shout for her. It only took her shouting for her mother twice when said woman came running out of the bedroom with her wand in her hand.
"Emily, what's wrong?" Lily asked lowering her wand before walking over to the couch and sitting down.
Emily didn't follow suit. Only placing her hands on her hips and giving her mother a very dark and angry look. "Why didn't you tell me?"
Furrowing her brow, Lily asked. "Tell you about what, honey?"
"The truth—"
"Honey, I'm not sure what you're talking about." Lily replied with a shake of her head. "Why don't you come over and sit down? Then you can tell me what this is all about."
At first Emily wasn't going to do this, but then thought better of it. So, walking over and sitting down across from her mother, she gave her a piercing stare. "The truth about my brother," she said folding her small arms across her chest.
"Honey, I did tell you the truth about Harry." Lily replied clearly showing her confusion.
"No mother, you didn't tell me everything." Emily stated adamantly.
Perplexed by her daughter's behavior and comments, she wondered exactly what had happened to cause this.
"You didn't tell me that you abandoned him. Or that he was starved, and had to live in a cupboard."
"What!" Lily cried sounding surprised.
"You heard me Mother."
"I told you we didn't abandon him. And I had no idea that he was starved." She replied.
"Then why did Harry say those things?" Emily asked her anger having deflated.
"Honey, like I explained, we had to leave him behind. It was the only thing we could at the time to keep him safe." Lily paused briefly. "Well, at least that is what we were told."
"By that old fart of a Headmaster."
"Yes, by Albus Dumbledore." Lily replied sadly.
"Why did you listen to him? I know what you told me and how it was a mistake. One that you wish you hadn't made. But it still doesn't make sense too me."
"At the time, I and your father were worried that he, and us might be killed any moment. We weren't as worried for our own lives as we were for your brother's. The headmaster came to our house one night and explained that it would be in our best interest if we were to disappear for awhile."
She didn't want to tell Emily everything, at least not yet. She was afraid that her fiery red head of a daughter might get herself into trouble, especially since she had a tendency to act before thinking.
"Mother, you have already told me those things. And it still doesn't make any sense." Emily said.
"Emily, I'm not sure how much I should tell you. Yes, there is a lot more to it then that. But, I'm afraid that you may be in danger if I told you all of it." Lily answered matter-of-factly.
"I don't care. I want to know it all. How am I supposed to help my brother if I don't know it all?"
Closing her green eyes for a moment, Lily tried to come up with a way of explaining everything to her daughter. Granted, Emily was right in the fact that she did need to know everything. Opening her eyes to see her daughter looking at her with a stern expression that demanded to be told, she sighed and nodded to her that she would explain.
"Before I tell you, I want you to promise me that you won't ask any questions until I'm finished." Seeing her daughter nod, she started.
"There was a prophecy made regarding your brother and another child. This prophecy stated that one of them would be the one to defeat the Dark Lord. That is, he would be the only one who could." She added correcting her mistake. "'At the time, Albus Dumbledore was leading a group that was against the Dark Lord. Your father and I were members of it, and still are.
Like I had already told you, Albus had come to our home one night about the prophecy. He tried to explain that he had interpreted the prophecy wrong. That instead of it being Harry or the other boy to be the one to defeat the dark lord; it would actually be the father of the child." Lily paused so that this information could sink in before continuing.
"At first neither I nor your father believed this to be accurate. The prophecy never mentioned anything about a father or an adult. It only stated that the one with the power would be born as the seventh month dies. We both tried to tell him this, but he wouldn't listen to us. Yes, he did admit that he could be wrong, but that we had to be careful anyway.
It was then that he suggested we leave Harry behind and that we go into hiding in America. I was horrified at this suggestion; I didn't want to leave my boy behind. Even your father felt the same way. We even told him this, but he wouldn't listen to our pleas. He just keep on telling us that it was all for the best." She paused once again when she felt tears prickling in her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she continued with her story.
"After awhile of arguing about the whole idea, you father for some reason agreed with the man about doing this. I still tried to put up an argument about leaving him behind. I even went as far as to suggest that your father go by himself. But, Albus and even your father eventually talked me into it. They said that it wouldn't be for long, and then we could be a family once again.
Being in love with your father and looking up to Albus as a mentor, I stupidly agreed to do it. I told myself that they knew what was right, and I'd see Harry soon. Yet, somewhere in the back of my brain I had some doubt that this was the right course too take.
These past few months, that doubt has grown stronger then ever before. I have also, like I explained to you before, have become suspicious of Albus' motives. There's just something that doesn't add up. It's like a puzzle and there are a few pieces missing.
I can honestly say that one of them is your father's attitude.
Your father was always like that…well, not to this extreme when we were in school. He always believed that he was better then everyone else. However, that attitude had taken a drastic turn in our seventh year. He seemed more humble, more caring about others then ever before. That new attitude of his was what caused me to fall in love with him. Oh, that didn't mean that there weren't times when he still acted like the arrogant prat that he'd been.
When your brother was born, he was the happiest person I'd ever seen. He doted on him like the world revolved around him. He and his friends were always going on and on about teaching him bad habits, like; pulling pranks, or how to get out of trouble, even talking about teaching him to fly when he was still a baby." Lily fondly recalled.
"I remember how sad he was when we left. I would find him sitting in the darkened living room of our house lost in memories. Whenever I would try to get him to talk about these memories, he would only ever say that he wished Harry was there. It always brought tears to my eyes to hear him so broken hearted. During this time we never heard anything about your brother. Albus had told us that it wouldn't be a good idea if we were in contact with the wizarding world here. He said that there were still followers of the Dark Lord around.
Then you were born and he seemed to smile more and be happier then he had been for years. He would talk about how he couldn't wait for you and Harry to meet. He was sure that the two of you would become fast friends. I was so happy to see him like this again, even if I was sad and wanted Harry to be with us. Then something happened to change all this.
I don't know what it was, but I know that he changed for the worse. You see, it was just after your brother's second year when Albus contacted us. He requested James to come here and speak with him. Your father, as I did thought that we were going to be getting Harry back. So, your father quickly changed his appearance and took an international portkey to see him.
I remember he was gone for nearly a week before he returned. I was so eager to see him and expecting that he would have Harry with him that I couldn't sleep much. When he walked into the house, I noticed right away that something was wrong.
Your father didn't have that usual bright smile that he always had. He stormed in, saying that your brother was acting reckless and endangering people's lives. When I tried asking him about what he meant, he just said that your brother had nearly gotten four people killed at the end of the term. That he didn't stop to think of the consequences before acting like a reckless brat. He went on to say that he wouldn't be coming to live with us because he needed to get his act together.
After this, your father started coming back her to England at least twice a year to talk with Albus. And each time, he would come back angrier and more arrogant then before he left. I would always try and talk with him, but he wouldn't listen. Instead he would tell me that I should listen to him because he was the man of the house.
Now, that was funny since I hadn't ever listened to him before we got married. I was the one who was always standing up to him, and he was the one listening to me. However, I had chosen to let him lead the family with me following his decisions." She gave a small laugh at this. "Anyway, I don't know why I ever did that. I don't know why I suddenly changed into being so submissive. Then when we finally came over here to get your brother since Albus told us it was time, things just got even worse. But I've already told you all that." She stated finishing her tale.
"How could you treat Harry like that? Didn't he deserve the truth long ago?" She asked sadly.
"Yes, honey he did."
"I remember how daddy seemed different, he didn't spend a lot of time we me anymore. He always seemed angry about something. He's worse now then ever, isn't he?" She asked her mother.
"Yes, he is, honey. He seems to have this sudden obsession with your brother. He thinks that he's dangerous and out of control. And that he needs to be controlled and taught how to behave."
"You don't see it that way?" Lily wasn't sure if her daughter was asking or stating a fact.
"I do agree with him to a point. Your brother is a very angry young man who needs guidance. He needs his parents to love him and tell him that everything will be alright. He needs the safety that only a parent can give. But, I do not agree that he is dangerous at all. From everything that I have learned, your brother is a very caring person who is willing to defend anyone." Lily explained.
"But how can daddy be this way, especially towards Harry?"
"I don't know honey…I just don't know." Lily said sadly shaking her head.
"Do you think that there is some spell on him?"
"I thought about that, and even looked for one. I didn't find anything on him, and I've looked more then once. If there is, then I can't find it."
"How am I helping Harry by being in Slytherin? I know you told me what I'm to do, but how is that going to help him. How is that going to bring me and him together?"
"You are helping him by gathering information."
"You mean spying. But isn't that wrong, Mother?" She asked.
"In most cases yes, it is wrong to spy. However, in this case, spying is perfectly acceptable. And it's even suggested." Lily added.
"Okay, but how does it help my brother?"
"It will give him an advantage in this war."
"How," Emily asked.
"Many of the Slytherins as I've told you are either planning to join the Dark Lord, or have parents that are deatheaters. They will have first hand knowledge about any possible attacks on Hogwarts. They may even have knowledge of plans regarding your brother. With anything you hear in these matters will allow Harry to be prepared for the worse."
"That makes sense, but how am I going to get to him."
"You leave that to me, Honey."
"Alright Mother," She replied still unsure of how this would help her and Harry become the siblings they were always supposed to be.
"So, how was your first day of classes?" Lily asked changing the subject to a neutral.
Emily hearing this launched into telling her mother about her classes excitedly.
HPHPHPHPHPHPHPH
I thought this was a good place to stop. I tried to fix a few plot holes and strengthen what was already there. I hope that I was able to succeed with that.
Next chapter will have the rest of the first day, including Harry's detention with his father.
Please leave me a review and tell me what you thought of this.