One Shots pt 3

by phoenixgirl26

Another bunch of one shots.

9. Chapter 9

The Letter:

During his first year at Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardry, Harry Potter, the-boy-who-lived, did a lot of thinking. While he was thinking he was also observing. This magical world was so different to what he was familiar with, he wasn't sure if he could fit in, or if he just needed more time. That was one of the reasons he was doing a lot of thinking, to see if he would fit in and if he wanted to fit in.

Harry was surprised and, in some cases, shocked at the things he saw or learned about the magical world. One thing that shocked Harry, not to mention made him furious was how some people acted. First was Snape, the potions teacher. Harry couldn't believe that man hadn't been sacked or that he was allowed to bully students. Then there was Binns who shouldn't be teaching especially when he was a ghost and wouldn't know anything about what had gone on since he died. He only taught about giant wars and goblin rebellions and only taught things from the times when he was alive and before. There was nothing about Grindelwald or the war with Voldemort. One thing really made him angry, none of the other teachers did anything about the bullying, not just from Snape, but from many of the other students. Apart from bad teaching, the biggest concern was the danger.

Even though he really wasn't interested in what was hidden on the third floor, his friends had talked him into finding out, then saving the philosophers stone. Harry should have trusted his instincts since he ended up unconscious after facing the spirit of Voldemort. It was then that Harry knew he couldn't trust anyone, not his friends and not the staff. He had decided that Ron and Hermione were not people he wanted to associate with, in any way.

When Harry had woken up and after his talk with the headmaster, Harry did more thinking. The first thing that Harry wondered about was why the headmaster of the school thought he could tell Harry what he could do and couldn't do during the holidays. Dumbledore told Harry he would have to return to the Dursley's due to the blood wards that the old man had erected when he placed Harry with them. He also said he should not go to far from the house in case of danger.

Harry didn't plan on returning to the Dursley's and he didn't care what the headmaster said.

The second reason and the biggest as far as Harry was concerned was why was such a dangerous item hidden at a school? The philosophers stone could make someone immortal and turn any metal into gold, which means it could make people really rich. Harry was curious about how the parent's would react if they knew about the stone, but also what had been guarding it. Hermione had proven that the door could be opened with a first year spell and you would be facing fluffy. A giant three headed dog that could have eaten Harry, Hermione and Ron for a snack.

Because he didn't trust anyone, especially the teachers, Harry never told Dumbledore that he still had the stone. Somehow, he got it, but another one appeared in the mirror as well. Harry realised some type of magic duplicated the stone, but he got the real one. The mirror had shown him he had the real one and the one in the mirror was a fake to fool everyone, but the fake would also be stuck in the mirror, forever.

When Harry had been released from the hospital, he returned to Gryffindor tower. He hid the stone in the bottom of his trunk. It had still be in his trouser pockets and it was just lucky no one saw it, then he thought maybe magic kept it hidden from others. Maybe the magic in the stone knew he didn't want to use it for evil purposes so that's why it allowed Harry to keep it. Once it was safely hidden, he joined the other Gryffindor's for dinner in the great hall, but he watched the headmaster along with many others.

He returned to the tower and went straight to bed. But Harry wasn't going to sleep, he planned to write a letter. He had pulled the curtains around his bed then slowly and carefully wrote his letter. He wasn't sure if this letter would do any good or if the people he planned to send it to already knew. But something told Harry that what had been going on at Hogwarts wasn't known and Harry learned to listen to his instincts. It was how he survived at the Dursley's.

The following morning Harry was the first one up out of the boys in his dorm. He showered, dressed, made sure all his things were packed, then took his letter and left Gryffindor tower.

Harry entered the owlery to see Hedwig sitting in one of the perches. He smiled as she flew down to him. Harry gave her some meat he kept from his dinner the previous night then tied his letter to her leg.

'This is to go to the director of the auror office, but when you finish delivering it, you will need to find me. I don't plan to return to the Dursley's, for now I'll get a room at the Leaky Cauldron. I need to be somewhere that an auror could find me and it can't be at the Dursley's. Besides, I'm a wizard, I belong in this world, not with them.' Harry had already sent a letter to the Dursley's telling them he won't be returning. He told Hedwig to drop the letter and leave. He didn't want his owl hurt, he also knew the Dursley's wouldn't remove the letter if Harry had used the tie on Hedwig's leg. She took it in her beak. he had Hedwig go through the day when he knew Vernon would be at work. Vernon had a temper and he could get violent, so Harry was not going to send his beautiful owl into that house where Vernon might kill her.

Harry knew people would think he was crazy talking to his owl, but Harry didn't and he knew his owl could understand him. He gave her a pat then moved to one of the windows. Harry watched her fly away before he returned to the castle and to the great hall for breakfast.

The great hall was slowly filling up with students and staff, but Harry was the first Gryffindor. He was used to spending time alone, so he just sat and he ate breakfast.

It was fifteen minutes later that Hermione and Ron sat opposite and dished up some breakfast.

'I'm going to ask mum and dad if you can visit during the holidays,' Ron said between mouth fulls of food.

'I doubt I would be allowed, they don't like our kind and it will just make them angry. I'll see you when we return,' Harry said but thinking, if I return, at the moment he wasn't going to return.

'I'm sure dad can explain to them.'

'No, if more of our kind turn up, they will just make my life worse than it already is. So I don't end up in trouble I'll explain I didn't want anyone there so I won't be going with them, so just leave it,' Harry lowered his head and went back to his breakfast hoping Ron would drop it. Even though he might not be returning, that had still to be decided, he really didn't want to spend more time with Ron.

Harry at first got on well with Ron, but after spending months with him, he realised Ron wasn't the type of friend he wanted. He also didn't want to spend more time with Hermione since she wanted to tell him what to do. Harry had enough of that with the Dursley's, he wasn't going to take it from others.

Harry remained quiet on the train ride home, he didn't even react when Malfoy began sprouting shit. Ron and Malfoy got into a fight, Harry just continued to stare out the window. Hermione asked why Harry didn't help. All he said was if the two fools wanted to fight then it had nothing to do with him.

When he knew the train was getting close to London, he went to the toilet, but really, he just wanted to sneak away using his invisibility cloak. He hoped the Dursley's wouldn't be there, expecting to pick him up, he didn't think they would, but he wasn't sure they would touch his letter to read it.

He was able to get his trunk out of the train without anyone noticing him. He sat on the trunk under his invisibility cloak in the bathroom and waited until everyone left. He did see Hermione look around for him, he also noticed Ron's mother looking around as if she was searching for someone. He planned to wait for an hour before going through the barrier, he just hoped no one was waiting for him on the other side of the barrier. He knew Ron's mother wouldn't wait that long and hopefully she would believe she just missed Harry. If it was Harry she was looking for, he had a feeling it was him she was looking for.

Harry was under his cloak as he stepped through the barrier. When he saw no one was waiting there for him he went back for his trunk. He removed the cloak then slipped through the barrier again and out into London. Harry was able to get a taxi so he could get to the Leaky Cauldron. He was lucky he had enough muggle money on him. He had only changed some galleons into muggle money for when he returned to the Dursley's. He figured he could get to the shops and buy some food he could hide in his room in case the Dursley's decided not to feed him for a few days, like they had done plenty of time before.

He was able to get room, which did surprise him as he thought he would be asked questions about why he was alone. But Tom, the owner seemed to want to help out the boy who lived. Harry didn't know if that was true or not, he was just thankful that he didn't have to answer any questions.

He got settled into his room, just as Hedwig flew in the window, 'I'm glad you found me,' Harry laughed when Hedwig hooted. He put some treats on the cupboard for her then sat near the window. He wasn't sure how long it might take before he heard something from the auror office, or if he would hear from them. He needed to make some plans in case he didn't hear from them. He knew he would visit Gringotts and get some money out of his vault. He wanted to get some clothes that fit so he didn't have to wear dudley's old clothes. but he wasn't going to get clothes yet. He wanted to prove that he wasn't looked after.

'I know this is a risk,' Harry sighed, he hoped there was some good people in the ministry and at the auror office so he decided to take the risk and hope it paid off.

Harry was able to eat in his room. He really didn't want to be down in the pub where he would get stared at. Tom seemed to realise so he worked on what Harry wanted to eat then had it sent up with a house elf. He planned to get a hat when he went to get clothes. He figured a small cap would work in keeping his scar from being seen.

The following morning Harry was able to sneak out early, he went straight to Gringotts. He wanted to keep some money on him, in case he ended up being found and sent back to the Dursley's. He would sneak away again then hide somewhere in the muggle world if that happened. He just needed muggle money so he could eat and pay for somewhere to stay. So, after visiting his vault he had half changed to muggle money bought one of the money pouches the goblins sold which had a lot of charms, like anti-theft charms. Harry needed that in case he did end up back at the Dursley's and it took him a while before he could sneak away. If they knew he had money they would take it from him.

Again, Harry ate in his room, he made sure to give Hedwig plenty of bacon. He would watch her as she ate, then she put her head under her wing and went to sleep.

Harry was reading through some of his books from his first year at Hogwarts. He never normally got a chance to read, Ron always annoyed him, especially about playing chess and skiving off his work. At first Harry just let Ron talk him into anything and he realised why. He never had a friend before and thought if he didn't do what Ron said then he would lose that friend. Now Harry didn't really want Ron as a friend, not now he had seen what type of boy Ron was, a bully and someone that would do all he could to get out of doing his school work, even if that meant copying off Harry. Harry figured if he had to do the work, then Ron should as well. If he returned to Hogwarts Harry planned to study more and even spend more time in the library. He didn't have to worry that the Dursley's would punish him if he got better grades than Dudley.

He just got through the first chapter of his charms book when there was a knock at the door. Harry was nervous, he wasn't sure if it was an auror or someone to take him back to the Dursley's. When he opened the door, he saw a woman with a monocle on one eye and two men behind her in red robes. Harry figured they had to be aurors.

'Um.'

'Mr Potter, I'm Amelia Bones, director of the department of magical law enforcement.'

'It's nice to meet you ma'am. Won't you and the two men with you come in?'

Harry waited until the three adults conjured seats before he sat on the bed, 'I wasn't sure who to write to or even if anything could be done.'

'You were right to send your letter to me. Now, I was shocked to hear you were raised by muggles. From what we were told you had powerful protection.'

'Um, well, Dumbledore did say he used blood wards. I'm not sure how it works, but it was something to do with my mother who sacrificed herself for me, so he used her blood and that of her sister, her muggle sister. If there is some type of protection, it didn't protect me from the muggles. They hate our kind and didn't even tell me I was a wizard. Hagrid had to tell me, then they tried to stop me going to Hogwarts.'

'Blood wards are considered dark magic so I will be speaking with Professor Dumbledore about this. Now as to you living with a muggle, I was able to unseal your parent's wills. They specifically stated that you were to be raised in the magical world. There was a list of people who were to take you if they died. Since you are known as the-boy-who-lived, it could be dangerous for you if the wrong person ended up having legal custody of you. I am still working on where you can go, but for now you will be under my protection.'

'Okay, so I'll have somewhere to stay?'

'You do, I will take you there later. It will be temporary, for now until I can work through all the information and who would be safe to take you. Now you mentioned in your letter that there had been danger and a death at Hogwarts. can you explain?'

'Well, at the start of term feast Dumbledore said the third floor corridor was off limits, unless we want to die a painful death. No one was sure if he was serious or not. I wasn't sure if he was crazy or something and this boy said he was brilliant but he was crazy. I didn't know anyone in this world and only just heard of people like Dumbledore, so I wasn't sure what to think. But me and two others from Gryffindor found out that Dumbledore was hiding the philosophers stone in the castle. The two others with me talked me into investigating. I wasn't going to and we did tell McGonagall, she didn't believe the stone was in danger. I found out through one of the centaurs that Voldemort was the one killing the unicorns. Firenze, the centaur helped me escape. Anyway, we figured we should try to save the stone since none of the teachers were going to help. Hermione was able to unlock the door with a first year spell, we were facing a giant three headed dog. Hagrid had given me a handmade flute for Christmas and we found out that fluffy would fall asleep if you played music.'

'Are you telling me that a Cerberus was inside the castle?'

'Yes ma'am, even though I didn't know what it was called at the time. Hermione found out last week.'

'My niece said she needed to speak to me about something that happened at Hogwarts. I would say this is what she meant. So, you were able to get past the dog?'

'Yeah, through a trap door, we landed on devil's snare. Hermione remembered they didn't like fire. We got through that and found a room with brooms and hundreds of flying keys. Ron said since I was the youngest seeker in a century, then I should be able to get the key. I did and we got into the next room which held a giant wizard chess set. Ron is really good at chess, so he directed me and Hermione until he ended up unconscious and Hermione and I went on. We found an unconscious troll in the next room. Then we found bottles, some had wine, some were poison and one was to get one drinker back through the purple flames and one to go on through the black flames. We knew both of us couldn't leave or go on together because the bottles only held enough for one person. So, after Hermione figured out the clue, she returned to Ron and see if she could get a message out, somehow. I went on and I found Quirrell along with the spirit of Voldemort.'

'That is the second time you mentioned Voldemort. Can you explain?'

'He was possessing Quirrell. they were trying to get the stone out of the mirror of erised. Quirrell couldn't work out how, Voldemort's voice said to use me. Dumbledore had told me how the mirror worked at Christmas time. Quirrell was going to let me go when I made up a story about what I saw in the mirror. Quirrell had remove the turban and I saw Voldemort's face on the back of his head. Voldemort said I was lying and told Quirrell to kill me. I don't know what happened ma'am, but when Quirrell touched me, it hurt him. But Voldemort kept telling him to kill me. I knew I had to do something or I was going to die. So, I grabbed him and he sort of turned to dust. Voldemort's spirit flew through me then through the wall. I passed out, I woke up two days later in the hospital. I was originally told by Hagrid that I'm known as the-boy-who-lived because I got rid of Voldemort, which I don't believe, I think it was my mother that did it. Anyway, then Hagrid said Dumbledore didn't believe he was gone and he wasn't. But I sent the letter mainly because the stone was a dangerous item and could attract attention of people like dark wizards. It did, it attracted Voldemort. It should not have been in a school full of children.'

'No, it should not have. Where was Dumbledore at this time?'

'He flew to the ministry. I thought that was strange when he normally uses the floo or apparates. He told me he got to me just as I passed out. I'm not sure what to believe but I know I don't trust him. He had a dangerous item at Hogwarts, with students and he fly's away.'

'I will be investigating all this Mr Potter, but especially why he believed a school was the safest place to hide a very dangerous artefact. Now, you also mention bad teaching. My niece had already sent me letters about Quirrell, Snape and Binns. I plan to speak with the governors and have all three sacked, now two since Quirrell is dead.'

'Um, will I get in trouble ma'am? I didn't mean to kill him, just stop him so I could get away.'

'You will not get in trouble Mr Potter. First, he was possessed by the spirit of a dark wizard and second, you were just trying to save your own life. Even though I do believe you, I will need to see proof. Tell me some of your experience in Snape's class?'

Harry sat there for the next hour telling the woman about every class he had with Snape, from the first to the last. Even though Madam Bones was good at hiding her emotions, Harry did see a slight tightening around her eyes, which told him she was angry. he couldn't blame her, he was angry as well.

'I believe the governors might need to find a new headmaster as well. That might not be possible since Albus Dumbledore is very respected. But something has to be done if he is putting students in danger. But I will do what I can. How about you pack your things and I will take you to the safe house.'

'Thank you, ma'am,' Harry quickly packed his stuff, Hedwig even jumped in her cage, hooting happily. Harry paid his bill, thanked Tom for not telling anyone he had been there before he left with Madam Bones.

He was taken by side-along apparition, something he didn't like. He was in front of a very large house. Harry could feel something but he wasn't sure what it was.

'Um Ma'am, is there wards here?'

'Yes, all magical homes or properties have some type of wards Mr Potter. Why do you ask?'

'Um, I feel something, like a tingle over my skin.'

'You are sensitive to wards. Once you have been allowed passed the wards that feeling will stop. There are not many of us who can sense wards Mr Potter, it's a rare gift.'

'Oh, I didn't know any of that.'

A minute later a house elf opened the door and allowed the group to enter. The elf led them into a room off the large entry way.

'This is Tilly, she will look after you while you are here. Auror Proudfoot will be remaining here until morning when he will be relieved by Auror Hammer.'

Harry turned to the auror, 'I'm sorry for taking you away from your work, sir.'

'There is no need to apologise. This is part of what my job entails Mr Potter.'

'Now, I will need to remove the memories of your encounter with Quirrell and Voldemort. I would also like to see exactly how Snape and Binns were in class and the announcement by Dumbledore at the start of term feast.'

'Um, how will you remove a memory?'

'It's quite easy Mr Potter, I will assist you. We use memories sometimes during trials, but this will help get rid of some bad teachers, also to find out the truth about Voldemort.'

Amelia explained to Harry what he had to do. The first memory she removed was when he and his friends got to the door with the Cerberus, right until he passed out due to Voldemort. She then took a few memories of Harry's different classes with Snape, Binns and Quirrell. The more proof she had, the better chance she had of getting rid of those last two teachers and maybe Dumbledore. The last memory he removed was when Dumbledore announced that the third floor corridor was out of bounds.

'Tilly, can you should Mr Potter to the room he will be using?'

'Yes Madam.'

'I will return either tomorrow evening or the following day. Now there is a large garden out the back, so you won't be confined to the house. I just ask that you do not leave the property.'

'I won't ma'am. I saw and heard enough to know there are some dangerous people around. I haven't learn anything that could keep me safe.'

'Hopefully, that will also change and Hogwarts will have decent teachers. Now go settle in.'

'Thank you again Ma'am,' Harry gave her a small smile then followed the little elf upstairs.

Harry smiled when he saw the room that would now be his. It was as large as all the Dursley's four bedrooms put together and it had it's own bathroom. Harry thanked the elf, then asked more about what house elves were and what they do. The little elf looked surprised at first then explained how house elves look after their masters. She told Harry there were two other house elves, one was looking after the grounds and the other was preparing dinner. Harry asked about the house and grounds, so the little elf explained. after the elf left, Harry checked out his new room before he went into the bathroom to clean up.

When Harry finished in the bathroom, he sat on the window seat, staring out over the garden. Harry thought about what Madam Bones said, how she was going to speak with the governors and have three teachers sacked, Snape being one of them. He had already decided he wasn't returning to Hogwarts because of Snape but also because of Dumbledore hiding something dangerous in the school. When he first wrote the letter to Madam Bones, he wasn't sure if anything would be done. Aince he doesn't really know anything about this world, he wasn't sure if anyone would bother or if Snape and Hogwarts was normal. Now he was glad he followed his instincts and wrote the letter.

Harry thought about how he had been left uniformed about this world and right now he didn't feel like he fits in. He thought leaving him with the Dursley's was wrong. He was a wizard and he should have been brought up in the wizarding world, not the muggle world. One thing he did know, if he was to fit in, he needed to learn. So, whether he return to Hogwarts or not, he plan to study a lot so he can learn more about this world he belonged to.

Harry thought about the large library the elf told him about. Even if he wanted to buy your own books, many would be here so he can use them for now. He knew he would spend as much time as he could in the library. He wasn't sure how long he would be here, but he would make the most of it. He figured he should do more than just sit on the window seat, thinking. He got up and headed downstairs. He had to look in a lot of rooms before he found the large library. Once he saw how many books there was, he knew it would take a long time to find a book that he wanted to read.

Over the following days, Harry mainly spent his time in the library, but he did speak with the aurors about the wizarding world. He would also take his broom out into the garden. He couldn't have a proper fly since it wasn't that big, but he did hover and it allowed him to see the surrounding countryside.

Amelia Bones along with Augusta Longbottom spoke with the governors. At first Lucius Malfoy wanted to keep Snape at Hogwarts and get rid of Dumbledore. When the other governors and Amelia saw that, he ended up sacked. It was Snape that needed to be rid of and he was the one that allowed the Slytherin's to get away with hexing students without being punished. They had proof at just how dangerous Snape was in the classroom so there was no way they could allow Snape to remain at Hogwarts.

After Malfoy was gone, the governors seemed to sag in relief, they explained to Madam Bones how Malfoy was using his friendship with the ministry to make them agree with him. Now that Amelia Bones was involved, the governors knew the minister could not interfere. Amelia was going to do more investigating after she finished working on Hogwarts. She was going to investigate not only Lucius Malfoy but the minister for magic, Cornelius Fudge.

The governors decided to sack Snape and get rid of Binns, but they also decided that Albus Dumbledore and Minerva McGonagall would be placed on probation until they could prove that they were there for the children. The governors were also going to have the school's wards checked. After hearing about the spirit of Voldemort possessing a teacher and how a troll almost killed a student inside the castle, they realised the wards weren't working as they were supposed to. The wards were meant to keep the children safe.

Augusta and Amelia left the meeting with the governors but continued talking about the children and Hogwarts. Both woman decided that until they could get Dumbledore and McGonagall out of Hogwarts then Neville, Harry and Susan would not be returning to the castle. Augusta was going to teach the three students, but also have her brother help a couple of days a week. What no one knew was her brother was an unspeakable, only Augusta knew about his secret identity. Amelia would explain to her niece, Susan and she would go to the safe house to speak with Harry. She hoped this would just be temporary, until better staff was at Hogwarts.

The governors called a meeting with Dumbledore and the entire staff of Hogwarts. Albus and Minerva ended up shocked that they were now on probation for placing students in danger. When Snape heard he was sacked, he began to get angry and Albus tried to explain that Severus was needed. The governors said if Dumbledore believed that then he should go as well. In the end, Severus was escorted to his rooms to pack his belongings and Albus realised that he should have done things differently. Some student had spoken to the governors about what had happened during the year, but also about the way Snape acted. Albus believed Amelia Bones' niece was probably one of those that spoke about Snape and other children who were related to the governors spoke to them. Albus wanted the children of death eaters to believe Snape was really on their side, so Albus allowed Snape to get away with treating people like Harry Potter cruelly. Now it had backfired; he had lost Snape and almost lost his job.

Harry had the best holidays of his life. With his auror guards, he was able to learn more than he thought possible. They allowed him to spend time with Neville Longbottom and Susan Bones along her friend Hannah Abbott. The four of them were told they would now be home schooled due to the staff's lack of help and how they allowed students to hex and bully others, not to mention bad teaching.

Harry had received two letters, one from Ron and one from Hermione. He wanted to tell them that he would not be returning to Hogwarts, but he had to wait until he knew where he might end up living. He also knew he may end up back at Hogwarts, it would just depend on Dumbledore once Madam Bones and Madam Longbottom informed the headmaster and deputy head that Harry, Neville, Susan and Hannah would not be returning.

Harry decided to write to Hermione, he told Hermione that he just didn't want her as his friend because of her attitude and her belief that all adults should be respected and how she always tried to tell him what to do. He wrote it all politely but made sure she understood that from that moment on, they were not friends and would not be spending any time together.

Harry wrote to Ron and explained that he didn't believe they should be friends and one reason was Ron didn't like to study where Harry planned to study during his free time. He also wrote that Ron liked to bully and call people names, that was something Harry hated. He hope writing to Ron would stop the red head so he wouldn't try and talk his dad into picking him up, if they did, they would know Harry was no longer at the muggles. He wanted to keep his whereabouts quiet, for as long as possible. After seeing Voldemort's spirit, he knew it meant the spirit could try to find him. Harry wasn't sure if Voldemort would, but he wasn't going to take the chance that he could end up possessed by the dark wizard who had murdered his parent's. He was safe and he had aurors around him at all time, at least for now. But one thing Harry liked, he was able to read and learn without having Ron or Hermione annoying him or worrying about some type of danger.

Harry thought about what Ron had said, about how his father would be able to pick him up.

'If that is true and Ron's father could find out where the Dursley's lived, that would mean people like death eaters could find out. So really, it wasn't safe with the muggles,' Harry knew it was true but decided since he would never return, he wasn't going to worry about that anymore.

What Harry didn't know was Ron did ask his father about having Harry stay during the holidays before he received Harry's letter. Arthur took Ron to Surrey and found out that Harry never returned and the Dursley's had no idea where he was. They also said they would not have him back and didn't want any of the freaks coming to their home again. The moment Arthur and Ron returned to the Burrow, Arthur sent a letter of to Albus Dumbledore.

Auror Proudfoot was watching Harry as he read yet another book. He had been going through a book a day. It seems Harry Potter was determined to learn all he could about the wizarding world.

'Auror Proudfoot, how is everything?'

'All quiet, Ma'am.'

'I knew it would be, but until things could be finalised, no one could know where the boy was staying. How has he been?'

'Quiet, reading all the time. It's like he is determined to read every book as fast as he can. He does enjoy spending time with your niece and the Longbottom boy, but I also noticed he's cautious.'

'Yes, I found out that not only did his aunt and uncle mistreat him, but they allowed his cousin to beat Harry up. He would be worried that Neville and Susan might hurt him as well. He will need time to realise they are just children like him, looking for a friend. But I came because Albus Dumbledore has finally found out Harry isn't with the muggles. He went to speak to them first and argued with them when they refuse to take Harry back, when Dumbledore found him that is.'

'So, he is trying to dictate where the boy stays. Do you think he will realise you have hidden him away?'

'Eventually, hopefully by then I'll have a permanent home for him. Trying to sort out who might have supported Voldemort and who didn't could take years, so I must be cautious.'

Amelia headed to the library, not to speak with Harry but just to observe him. As she was about to leave a phoenix flashed into the room right next to Harry. Amelia sent a dozen stunners at the bird making it disappear, she ran to Harry who had fallen to the floor.

'Are you okay?'

'Yeah, sort of, what was that?'

'A phoenix and I believe it was Albus Dumbledore's phoenix. He would believe you were just hiding so he sent his phoenix to take you to him. I want you to remain with Auror Proudfoot while I ward this place against the phoenix.'

'He was going to kidnap me?' Harry whispered.

'Yes, and if I find out that the phoenix does belong to Dumbledore then he will be going to jail.'

Amelia called her auror to remain in the library with Harry, she explained what had happened. As she turned to leave, she noticed her auror had his wand in his hand and had moved closer to the boy. She knew he would make sure Harry Potter was safe.

Amelia and a large group of aurors stormed Hogwarts and headed straight up to the headmaster's office. The moment they entered the room, Amelia saw the phoenix and before Albus could say anything, she stunned him, shocking Minerva who was sitting in front of the desk.

'Why did you stun him?'

'I was with Harry Potter when his phoenix tried to kidnap the boy. So Slbus Dumbledore is no longer headmaster and I believe he will end up in Azkaban by the time I'm through with him.'

'You know where Potter is?'

'I've always known since I am the one that organised for him to be removed from those people.' Amelia had two of her aurors place magical suppressant shackles on Albus Dumbledore, while she removed his wand. They took the floo from the office straight to the ministry where Albus was placed in one of the cells that cut off all magic. Only then was the shackles removed. He would remain isolated for five days so he's body will naturally flush any type of potion from his system. She did not want Albus getting around the truth potion. It normally takes three days but Albus was very powerful and he did work beside Nicolas Flamel who was an alchemist.

Amelia had a lot of work to do and she wanted to make sure there were no mistakes so Albus wouldn't end up free. she had witnessed his attempt to kidnap Harry Potter, so that will get him time in Azkaban. But she knew there was more to the man and was determined to find out all his dirty little secrets.

Harry continued reading over the next few days, he also spent time with his new friends.

'So, a phoenix that belonged to Dumbledore tried to kidnap you?' Neville asked.

'Yeah, it's lucky that Madam Bones was here. She saved me then had the aurors remain with me even when I'm just eating, or reading. I don't mind, they are protecting me.'

'Especially since you know someone wanted to kidnap you. Blimey, I never thought Dumbledore would do something like that. I know he wasn't doing a good job as headmaster, but this, it's breaking the law and he is chief warlock of the Wizengamot.'

'From what Madam Bones said, he won't be for long. I don't understand him. For some reason he pays me a lot of attention, he told me what I could and couldn't do during the holidays, then tries to kidnap me. If he really wanted me to listen and respect him he should not have allowed Snape to act the way he did and he would have made sure the students were safe and they weren't. It's like he did everything wrong, or to me he did.'

'He did, the third floor corridor and the troll. It's lucky you went to find Granger or she would have been killed. Also, we got in trouble but the trouble was caused by Malfoy.' Neville said.

'Yeah, it's like they knew they could get away with anything and the teachers would allow it, yet they punished us. Well, mainly McGonagall, Snape and Dumbledore. The others seem okay.' Harry said.

'They do, maybe after all this we might get teachers who are actually good at teaching but also listen to both sides of the story to work out who is in the wrong and who isn't,' Susan said.

The friends continued to talk about Hogwarts and what might happen. But they all agreed, they would not return unless it was made safer and the students who caused trouble, were punished. Harry also said if McGonagall remained then he wanted to be placed in Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw. he didn't think he was smart enough for Ravenclaw, even if he did try to hide his intelligence. He heard a lot about Hufflepuff from Susan and Hannah and so far, he liked what he heard. Neville actually said he would rather go into Hufflepuff as well, if it was allowed. Harry and Neville decided that unless they could go to another house, then they would not return to Hogwarts.

Once Amelia got enough evidence that Lucius Malfoy had bribed the minister and his undersecretary, she was able to arrest all three. It also meant they immediately lost their jobs. Now they had to wait for their trials before Amelia could do more.

One thing Amelia planned was have the wards of Hogwarts updated. When the governors spoke about the wards it gave her an idea. She wanted them to detect the dark mark, or a dark object or dark animal, like werewolves or vampires. She also wanted to make sure the wards would pick up disguises or possession. The children of Hogwarts deserved to feel safe and right now they weren't.

With all her investigation, she ended up having the governors sack Minerva McGonagall, for her lack of help in protecting the students. She had been told there was danger with the stone and she refuse to believe them. Even if she wasn't sure if they were lying or not, she should have investigated or at least placed more protection around the entrance until she could find out the truth. Since she didn't, she lost her job. The governors voted in a new headmistress, Augusta Longbottom, Filius Flitwick was given the job as deputy head. The four friends would now discuss whether they would return but if they did, Harry still wanted to change houses. He would prefer to be in Hufflepuff. Neville said he also wanted to change houses and like Harry, he wanted to go into Hufflepuff. They mentioned it to Madam Bones, who was going to work something out. She knew if the-boy-who-lived refuse to return to Hogwarts it could cause more trouble. Harry didn't like to use his fame, she had seen that. But it was thanks to him that she was able to get some dangerous people locked up. She would make sure Harry and Neville could be moved into Hufflepuff.

The trials for Malfoy, Fudge and Umbridge ended up with all three being found guilty, which allowed Amelia to use veritaserum to get answers to other crimes they might have committed. Fudge would go to Azkaban for five years and he was told he will never be allowed to work in places like the ministry, Hogwarts or even St Mungo's. Umbridge got sentenced for ten years and like Fudge, she would never be able to work at the ministry, Hogwarts or

St Mungo's. Most of the contents of their vaults had been seized, they were only left with quarter of what they had, that way they would have some money to live on when they were released from Azkaban, until they could find work. She was able to do this since most of their money came from being paid bribes by people like Lucius Malfoy.

After being questioned under the influence of veritaserum, Lucius Malfoy was found guilty and sent to Azkaban for life. His wife was implicated, she was also put on trial and found guilty of being a death eater during the war with Voldemort. When the aurors searched Malfoy manor, they found many dark items and dark potions. Draco Malfoy was removed from the house and sent to live in a muggle orphanage, something he tried to get out of. He screamed and cried about disgusting muggles until Madam Bones told him he either behaved and went to the muggle orphanage or he would have his memory modified so he would believe he was a muggle and an orphan, he would also have his magic bound. That shut Draco up. Right now, he would still be able to go to Hogwarts and access his trust vault. If they modified his memory, he would have nothing. Since he agreed, he would keep his magic, but if he didn't behave, he would basically be a muggle.

Once Madam Bones had all the information on death eaters from both Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy, her aurors began to arrest those that had been named. While her aurors were doing their job, she was at Hogwarts overseeing the upgrades being done on the wards.

During Albus Dumbledore's trial, which he was questioned using the truth potion, Madam Bones got more information than she thought possible. Even though she did not believe in prophecies, Dumbledore and Voldemort did, so it meant that Harry Potter would need to be trained, which should have been done from a young age. What Amelia and everyone else heard that day shocked them. It seems that Sirius Black did not murder Peter Pettigrew, as Pettigrew was an animagus rat and had been hiding with the Weasley's, who had no idea their was a rat animagus living in their house.

Amelia went to Azkaban herself to question Sirius Black, 'So what your saying is someone didn't bother giving you a trial and just assumed you murdered the muggles and Peter Pettigrew.'

'Yes, I wasn't even questioned. Bagnold and Crouch just sent me to Azkaban.'

'What about the Potters and the secret keeper?'

'We switched in the hope it would keep them safe. Albus suggested Peter since he could turn into such a small animal. It would be easy for him to escape if he got caught. None of us thought Peter was the spy. All we knew at the time there was a spy. I thought it was Snape. We didn't know Dumbledore knew we were animagus until then.'

'Snape probably slipped information to Voldemort as well. I found out he was playing both sides hoping he would survive. Alright Sirius, I'll be escorting you back to the ministry's holding cells where you will be questioned using veritaserum.'

'That's all I ever wanted Madam Bones, for someone to listen. Can you tell me, how is my godson?'

'Right now, I have him in a safe house with auror guards. Voldemort's spirit was inside Hogwarts and it was thanks to your godson it was discovered. Albus explained about the prophecy, so Harry may need to remain in a safe house, but he will have specialised training no matter where he is. We may not believe in the prophecy, but Voldemort does, so if he ends up returning properly, he will go after Harry. I have already discussed this with Harry, he said even if Voldemort doesn't return properly, the training will help him become an auror. He said the moment he found out what type of careers there were in the wizarding world, he knew what he wanted and that was to be an auror.'

'Will I be able to see him?'

'Once you are officially cleared, yes, you may even be allowed to stay with him. Once you are well, you could help teach him. Right now Harry, my niece Susan, her friend Hannah Abbott and Neville Longbottom are having lessons with Augusta Longbottom, but she has just been appointed headmistress so she will not have time to teach them any longer. Two aurors have been teaching them and they will eventually train Harry. You fought in the war, you know what is necessary, which could help Harry.'

'I'll help any way I can.'

It was a formality, Sirius Black was cleared of all charges, then a healer examined him. She proscribed a series of potions that he will have to take over the next month which will help Sirius get over the affects of the dementors. Amelia made sure to release a statement about Sirius being cleared but also, about how he was Harry Potter's godfather, named by James and Lily Potter.

Harry was once again sitting out the back on his broom. Since he could not do any proper flying, he mainly did things like turn quickly or roll over, which he used often when bludgers were heading towards him.

'As you can see, Harry's fine. One thing the aurors and I noticed, he has no problem with being alone or keeping himself occupied when he is alone. He mainly reads, but at least once a day he will bring his broom out here.'

'Is he trying to get on the quidditch team?' Sirius asked.

'He got on the quidditch team already Sirius. He plays seeker and from what my niece has told me, Harry could easily go on to play professional quidditch if he wanted to. Ever since he started, he never loses a game. Gryffindor only lost the last game as Harry was unconscious in the hospital because of the incident with Voldemort and the philosophers stone.'

'Does he know his father played quidditch?'

'I have no idea. How about I call him in then explain your situation. Just remember Sirius, he was badly mistreated by those muggles, so it's made him very cautious.'

'I would like to curse those people, along with Dumbledore. When Hagrid took Harry that night, he said he was taking him to Dumbledore, but nothing about the muggles. I was named first, then Alice. That night, Alice was still fine. But Dumbledore didn't have the right to deny me custody of my godson.'

'No, but he knew you wanted to go after Peter so used that to put Harry with the muggles. Because he went against the will and not give Harry to you or Alice, he will do three years for that. For attempting to kidnap Harry, he does another twelve years. Now that's up to twenty years for not coming forward with the information on you and Peter. You head into the library, I'll bring Harry in.'

'Alright,' Sirius stared at his godson for a few more seconds before he turned and headed back into the house.

'Harry,' Amelia called. as soon as Harry turned towards her, she smiled, 'Can you come in for a moment?'

'Yes Ma'am,' Harry landed then walked into the house with Madam Bones. When they got to the library there was a man there, 'I recognise him,' Harry whispered.

'This is Sirius Black, your godfather. There was a big miscarriage of justice. Sirius was thrown in Azkaban without a trial. During Albus' trial we found out that Sirius was actually innocent and the real death eater has been using his animagus form to stay hidden. Ron Weasley's rat was really an animagus and the man that betrayed your parent's to Voldemort. Sirius has been cleared and would like to get to know you. He is also staying her for a while.'

Harry nodded then moved into the room, 'I remember I black dog and a stag.'

Sirius grinned then changed into padfoot. He barked and ran around the room before changing back.

'I'm Padfoot, your dad could turn into a stag. His name was Prongs. I'm surprised you remembered.'

'I had a lot of dreams I thought were just dreams. a dog and a stag, a flying motorbike, a flash of green light and screaming.'

'Oh pup,' Sirius went move but he noticed Harry stiffened, 'I owned the motorbike, still do. I just have to find out what Hagrid did with it when I let him borrow it.'

'Will you be okay Harry?' Amelia asked.

'Um, yeah, I'm fine ma'am.'

'Alright, Auror Hammer is here right now so if you need anything just ask her.'

Sirius watched Harry as he moved further into the room but still kept his distant, 'Do you know of a bloke named Remus Lupin?'

Harry shook his head, 'No.'

Sirius sighed, 'I bet Albus kept him away from you. Remus was also good friends with your parent's.'

'Is he an animagus as well?'

'No, he's a werewolf, but one that doesn't want to hurt anyone. He always locks himself up on the wolf nights. He's name is Moony.'

'Moony,' Harry's brow furrowed, 'It sounds familiar.'

'Even though you were only a baby, we were at your home all the time and we hardly ever used our real names. I doubt I called your father by his real name from the moment he became an animagus.'

'Is it hard to learn?'

'It took us three years but we were doing it without a teacher. If we had a proper instructor, we probably could have completed the transformation within a year. James was able to change first, he was brilliant at transfiguration and it worked for the animagus transformation. I was next, the rat took the longest. Madam Bones told me you got on the quidditch team, in your first year. Did you know your father played quidditch?'

'I didn't, not until Hermione told me, then she showed me the quidditch cup. He was a chaser, I'm a seeker.'

'Madam Bones mentions you like to spend a lot of time alone, so a seeker works for you as you don't need to work with the other players.'

Harry nodded, 'Um, so what did you do before you went to jail?'

'Since we were in the midst of a war, I joined the aurors, with your dad. We didn't really want a career as an auror, but at the time it did help. We respect aurors and what they do, it just wasn't for us. We figured since we were both good fighters then we'd help by joining the ones that fight people like death eaters. Madam Bones mentioned you want to be an auror, a good career choice. So, Hogwarts, since things are different, do you think you want to return?'

'I don't know. Susan, Neville, Hannah and I have been talking about it. We really like learning from Madam Longbottom and Mr Croaker. The aurors are fantastic as well. We've learnt more from them than we did at Hogwarts. I know Quirrell was really working for Voldemort but we found out no one lasts in the defence job. Potions wasn't worth going, not with Snape and Binns didn't teach anything other than goblin wars or giant wars. McGonagall was just so cold that none of us were ever comfortable with her. The other teachers were great. But we said if we do decide to return then Neville and I want to be resorted into Hufflepuff.'

'After hearing what Madam Bones said about what happened to you, I don't blame you. At least you picked a great house. So, you're friends with Frank and Alice's son, Neville?'

'Um, Neville and I only became friends near the end of the year. Who are Frank and Alice?'

'His parent's, hasn't Neville told you what happened to them?'

'He never mentions them. All I know is he lives with his grandmother.'

'Two death eaters cursed Frank and Alice using the cruciatus curse until their minds snapped. They will live out their days in St Mungo's hospital. I don't know much more than that, only that they will never be able to leave the hospital.'

'Then I won't bring it up, since Neville didn't.'

'It's best to wait and see if he does. If you only recently got to know Neville, did you make other friends while you were at Hogwarts?'

'Yeah, but I don't want anything to do with them. Ron is a bully and wants to always skive off work or copy mine. There is no way I'm going to allow him to do that, nor try to force me to do things that I don't want to do. Hermione is bossy and always went on about her being right. She also said we should trust Dumbledore and the staff. I knew the moment I saw Snape I would never trust him and when he was allowed to bully students, I knew I couldn't trust Dumbledore since he allowed Snape to mistreat students. Poor Neville, he was burned during our first potions lessons because Snape didn't give any instructions or really explain anything. When Neville's cauldron exploded, he then blamed me, yet I was at another table, concentrating on my own potion.'

'Snape was in love with your mother, they were friends. At the end of our fifth year they had a big argument and never spoke again. Your dad and mum began dating in seventh year and your dad and Snape hated each other.'

'So, the woman he loves ends up with his worst enemy and I happen to look like my father.'

'Exactly, he couldn't let go, but since he could not take his hatred and anger out on your father, he took it out on James' son, you. He became a death eater, even before leaving Hogwarts. I don't get how he got off or how he was allowed to teach.'

'I did find out that Dumbledore spoke up for him, said he was a spy. That's all I know though.'

'Dumbledore made a lot of mistakes back during the war and it sounds like he was still making them. He is finally gone from Hogwarts. He had too much control and too much influence, it was time he lost those jobs. No one should ever be able to hold that type of power, not one person. Since he also had to deal with the Wizengamot and the ICW, it meant taking his time away from his job of being headmaster, then add his age.'

'What mistakes did he make during the war?'

'He refused to allow us to take out death eaters completely, he wanted them stunned and bound. He said everyone deserves a second chance but if we killed them, they would not get that chance. They all proved that they didn't care and killed anyone that wasn't a pure-blood or got in their way. But they did kill pure-bloods if they didn't follow you-know-who. You see Harry, my family, the Blacks, were a dark family. I left home the moment I turned sixteen. Your grandparent's allowed me to live with them until I got a job. I was lucky, my uncle, one of the good ones, he left me some money when he died, so I was able to get myself a flat just after I left Hogwarts. Now I don't have a lot of family left, but I do have three cousins who are sisters, two of them have one child each. Two of my cousins are death eaters, Bellatrix Lestrange, nee Black, she's already in Azkaban and Narcissa Malfoy, nee Black, who recently went to Azkaban. Andromeda Tonks, nee Black, the oldest sister married a muggleborn and her daughter is an auror trainee. My own brother became a death eater, but from what I found out, he died around the same time as your parent's.'

'So, people just believed you were like your family, dark?'

'Exactly, but Madam Bones said that Dumbledore was involved, he made everyone believe I was the secret keeper for your family when he knew I wasn't. He cast the fidelius charm, so he had to know who the secret keeper was. We never found out if he knew Peter was the spy or a death eater, but the old man never told anyone that Peter and I switched, in the hope to keep your family safe.'

'I forgot to ask, but did the Weasley family know the rat was really a death eater?'

'No, they had no idea, but they were loyal to Dumbledore. I wouldn't be surprised if Molly and Arthur were told by Dumbledore to get their kids friendly with you. He would want you close to people loyal to only him and not others, like Madam Bones, who is light but didn't support him, or someone from a dark family.'

'I think you're right. the Dursley's dropped me off at kings cross station, yet I had no idea where to find platform nine and three quarters. I thought I was going to miss the train, but a few minutes to eleven I heard this woman speaking loudly about muggles. She also asked about the platform number. The young girl said platform nine and three quarters. I decided to follow them, as they also had an owl and trunks. It was the Weasley's.'

Sirius sighed, 'Sounds like they were there so you would approach them, which would give them the reason to become friendly with you. All muggleborns or raised are given a small booklet with their introductory letter. The booklet explains about the barrier that allows you to get through to platform nine and three quarters, which by the way, it's the only platform that the Hogwarts express leaves from. In the booklet it also explains about the night bus, in case you get stranded. It explains about St Mungo's and how to find it, but also the ministry. Lily told us about a lot of muggle diseases which witches and wizards don't get, but we had to explain to Lily about diseases we get. This booklet that was finally put out explains how a muggleborn or raised would need to visit St Mungo's so they can get inoculated against things like dragon pox or wizards flu. Sounds like you were not given that booklet.'

Harry shook his head, 'Hagrid came to get me, all he had was the introductory letter and the list of stuff I needed for Hogwarts. He also had my key to my vault. when I decided to stay in Diagon alley, I spoke with the goblins and explained how Dumbledore had my key, but I wanted it. They worked on having the contents of my vaults moved to others, then they gave me knew keys. They also explained about the Potter family vault, which I wasn't told about until then.'

'Your family were well off, not rich, but you could probably live off it all your life, if you were careful. Now though, since I am the last male Black and my grandfather did not officially disown me, I am Lord Black and I named you my heir, until such time as I had my own kids. I found out after being released from Azkaban that I cannot have children, so one day you will end up Lord Black.'

'But you could adopt.'

'I know, but right now naming you my heir keeps the money out of Draco Malfoy's hands. he is next in line, as it needs to be a male who takes the head of the family. Right now, Harry, I'm not interested in meeting anyone. I lost my chance to raise you, I won't lose anymore chances with you. You're my godson and your parent's wanted me to raise you if they died. I have a lot to make up for, so I'll be getting to know you and maybe when I'm up to it, I can help train you to fight using magic. I could also help with fighting muggle style. I would do anything that went against my family, so I learnt some muggle fighting techniques. I will need to get fit and refresh my memory, but that won't take long.'

'I would like that. I got beat up so often by Dudley and his gang. I would have liked to go learn martial arts, but they wouldn't give me money or allow me to learn something that could be used against their son.'

'Then maybe you can learn now. I'm sure Madam Bones can work on a way for you to do those lessons. I might have a look myself. I've heard about martial arts, never saw it though. most witches and wizards would never know how to handle someone using a muggle fighting technique, but dark witches and wizards would be lost if someone kept hitting them. If you're close, it gets difficult to use you wand.'

'Then martial arts would come in handy,' Harry gave Sirius a smile. He could tell his godfather was sincere. He would still take his time and get to know the man, but he knew if he needed to, he could count on Sirius Black to be there for him.

Augusta was able to work it for Harry and Neville to change to Hufflepuff. The four friends talked and decided they would return to Hogwarts. Augusta was headmistress and from what she had been telling them, a lot of changes had gone on at Hogwarts. One big change was the wards. Now there was a ward to block anyone with the dark mark. The four friends were told to keep this information to themselves that way if anyone with a dark mark tried to get into Hogwarts the wards would render them unconscious. One of the other wards would prevent words like mudblood or words meant to insult, they worked on intent. The portraits would now act as witnesses so if students were in a fight, the portraits would be able to explain who was doing what. There were now portraits in every part of the castle. They also listened in on everyone so if they heard anything that could put the students, or staff in danger, they could instantly inform the headmistress or deputy head.

Sirius had been asked to go to Hogwarts three days a week so he could continue to train not only Harry but his three friends. Since Neville, Susan and Hannah had become close friends with Harry, they also wanted to train for when Voldemort returned. One good thing was Amelia had been able to capture and lock up all the death eaters who had been able to pay for their freedom. If Voldemort did return, he would no longer have any supporters, or their money since she confiscated the contents of their vaults. If they had family that were not death eaters, then quarter would be returned. Any death eater already in Azkaban but had no family left had their vaults seized. She used some of the funds to boost the auror department and hit wizards, some went to the victims families. She was also able to work a law so she could question every person working at the ministry with veritaserum. They found many Voldemort supporters, even in the auror department. they were now in Azkaban.

When Amelia first began to investigate everyone involved with Sirius going to jail, she found out that Bartemius Crouch senior, who was head of the DMLE at the time had been one of those involved. He had snuck his death eater son out of Azkaban and used the imperius curse to keep him locked up at his home. Both of them were now in Azkaban.

It came as a shock to Gryffindor when the new headmistress explained that Harry and Neville were now members of Hufflepuff. The colours on their robes changed the moment they arrived at Hogwarts. The four friends did not take the Hogwarts express, Amelia still felt there could be more danger around so she had them floo straight in. She planned to work with the governors so the students could floo in from designated fireplaces. They didn't believe the kids should be subjected to such a long journey, especially without adult supervision. If they took the floo, it would give them that day to settle in, especially the first years. The train would be stored until they decided what to do with it.

The first thing Harry did when he took a seat at the Hufflepuff table was speak with Cedric Diggory. He was the seeker for Hufflepuff, all Harry asked if he could become the reserve seeker for when Cedric got hurt or sick. It was agreed by all the Hufflepuff quidditch team that Harry would be the reserve seeker. They had all seen Harry play, they knew how good he was so they were going to make sure he ended up on the team when Cedric left in another two years, then Harry would be the teams seeker.

Ron Weasley ended up furious, he thought being friends with the-boy-who-lived would finally give him some recognition. Now Potter was no longer in the same house with him so they would not get to spend any time together. The twins didn't blame Harry, they just hated the fact that Harry would not longer be on their team. Ginny Weasley, the new first year of Gryffindor, was upset. She had been hoping that since her brother was Harry Potter's best friend it would give her an advantage so she could end up Harry's girlfriend when they got older. Now Harry was in another house and wanted nothing to do with Ron. She planned to send her mother a letter in the hope something could be done so Harry would end up back in Gryffindor. Hermione wasn't angry, she was upset. After she showed her parent's the letter Harry wrote, they explained how it was her fault that she drove away her first friend. If she changed her ways, she may be able to become close to him again, if she wanted to. She had a lot of thinking to do.

Many of the students from Gryffindor, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw couldn't help feeling happy that Snape was gone, but also because some of the Slytherin's had lost both their parent's, who had been death eaters, those students were angry. Draco Malfoy was wearing his old robes from the previous year and his hair didn't look as good as it had before. He was one that was now living in a muggle orphanage. He wanted to keep that quiet, but it didn't take long before everyone found out. Harry, Susan, Neville and Hannah had made sure they were heard talking about what happened to Draco Malfoy after his parents were sent to Azkaban. Many of the Slytherin students were now living in muggle orphanages since their parents were in Azkaban and any family they had left was also in Azkaban.

Sirius had told him that he received a letter from Draco, asking if Sirius would take him in since they were cousins. Sirius sent a letter back stating who his godson was and how Harry lived with him, so he said no. Harry Potter was his first priority. Sirius found out that Andromeda also received a letter from Draco, she also turned him down due to who his father was.

Harry and Neville were really happy with their lives now at Hogwarts. They had friends but they got on well with almost everyone in Hufflepuff. There was no bullying prats like Ron, or any bossy know-it-all's like Hermione. If someone wanted help, many of the older students would help. But Harry, Neville, Susan and Hannah found they didn't need any help. They always studied together in the library before curfew, then they would just enjoy their time in the Hufflepuff common room.

It didn't take long before some students fell to the anti bullying wards. Three girls from Ravenclaw were given detentions for a month and also had all their free time taken from them. From the time they finished their last class they had to sit in the library and do their work, without talking. They were at separate tables which was charmed to prevent anyone from sitting at the same table. After dinner they were in detention. The girls were also banned from quidditch, player, or watching. One girl lost her prefect badge which would go on her record. It might make it difficult for her to get a job.

People like Malfoy and Parkinson had tried to curse some students but the portraits explained what happened. Malfoy only lasted a week before he was expelled, Parkinson realised she could also end up expelled, so she decided to just keep to herself until she could do her owls, then she would leave. Many of the older Slytherin's had transferred to Durmstrang. What they didn't know was any person wishing to use their owl or newt scores to get jobs in England had to do their owls or newts in England if they were born there and if their families lived there. If someone moved from another country, then all they would need to do is take an aptitude test.

Harry stepped into the training room to see Sirius and Auror Hammer, talking quietly. It made Harry wonder if maybe the young auror and Sirius were more than just friends.

'Before we begin Harry, I figured you should know that Remus Lupin contacted me. The first thing he asked was if he could see you. I basically said what you said to me, if he wanted to see you then he should have turned up years ago. I found out through Connie that Albus contacted Remus and wanted Remus to get close to you. That happened before Albus was arrested and he found out you disappeared.'

'I hope you told him I want nothing to do with him.'

'I did, I also told him we were done as he believed I could have betrayed you and your parent's. James was like my brother and Lily ended up being like a sister. Your grandparents were more my parent's than my own.'

'Did he say why?'

'Albus told him I was guilty, he also told him you were happy. Instead of checking for himself, he just believed the old man. I basically told him to leave and go back to wherever he was hiding.'

'Good.'

'So, have you had any trouble from the Gryffindor's?'

'Only Ron, but the twins took care of him. They overheard me talking about Padfoot to Neville. they basically harassed me into meeting you. It seems the Marauders are the Weasley twins hero's,' Harry held up some parchment, 'They gave me this.'

'The map, how did they get hold of it?'

'They said they nicked it from Filch when they were first years. Once I explained that padfoot was my godfather they asked about the other names. They figured since my father and godfather owned the map, it should be given to me. I can keep it, right?'

'Yes, but I might see if Filius can copy it. If the staff had this, it might help in case there is danger.'

'That's fine, it's not like I was going to sneak out. I just wanted it because dad helped make it.'

'Then you'll have it returned. Now let's get started. We'll work with the other three as soon as they arrive.'

'They just wanted to finish their homework. I finished mine so they told me to come here, that they will join me soon.'

Only four weeks into the new term before Ron Weasley ended up expelled. Molly Weasley had tried to get into Hogwarts to have a go at Augusta. She was refused entry. Molly then threatened to pull her other children out, until Arthur informed her if she did that than none of them could ever work for the ministry, St Mungo's or Hogwarts. Molly had no choice but to leave Percy, Fred, George and Ginny at Hogwarts. She did send a letter to Harry, asking if he would spend his school holidays at the Burrow with Ron, since they were best friends. Harry had Sirius write to her, as Lord Black and his guardian. Sirius wrote that Harry and Ron were not friends at all and he would be spending his holidays with his best friends, Neville, Susan, and Hannah, apart from when Sirius took Harry overseas. Sirius made sure that if Ron or Molly tried to continue to lie by saying Harry was friends with Ron, he would make sure they paid, in some way and it wouldn't be good.

Sirius and Amelia had worked out to celebrate Christmas together along with Neville and his grandmother and the Abbott's. It would be held at Bones manor.

What Harry didn't know was during the day, gifts turned up for Harry, but all mail went to a special room in Bones manor. The room also had wards which would detect curses, portkeys, even potions. Amelia and Sirius had slipped away when one of the house elves told her mistress about the gifts.

Sirius was furious, so was Amelia. She sent word to her aurors to go arrest Molly Weasley for trying to potion Harry Potter with loyalty potions, which was considered dark, also love potions aimed at her daughter. No matter what, Molly Weasley would do ten years in Azkaban.

Arthur Weasley realised that his wife had basically ruined their family. He pulled his children out of Hogwarts and with some help from his oldest sons, moved away from England. He wanted to get his daughter away from Harry Potter before she did something that could get her into serious trouble. Molly had basically brainwashed Ginny into thinking she would marry Harry one day. When Arthur spoke with Percy and the twins, he realised he didn't need to take the boys out of Hogwarts, since they were good friends with Harry. He just needed to remove his daughter.

Amelia and Sirius did not tell Harry about the gifts or potions. He had already had enough trouble with the Ron Weasley, he didn't need to know more had happened. He was finally settling down and beginning to trust not only his new friends but the adults around him. They did not want Harry to worry about who might be trying to kill him or use him for his fame as the-boy-who-lived. They did know that Fred and George were good boys and Harry liked them. Percy wasn't anyone to worry about, even if he didn't know Harry that well. They would keep an eye on the three boys, but they both believed they had nothing to worry about.

It took a full year for Albus to realised he would need to speak with Amelia about the prophecy. Even though he was in Azkaban, he was able to get one of the guards to send a message to Amelia Bones. He hoped by giving that information, it might lesson his sentence.

With Croaker's help, Sirius and Amelia snuck Harry in to retrieve the prophecy. Even though they would have preferred to keep this information away from Harry, so he wouldn't end up scared, they realised Harry had the right to know. Amelia, Sirius and Harry listened to the prophecy together.

'It's fulfilled so I don't get why Albus would believe it's still up to Harry. He got the scar, which is the mark. He vanquished him in a way dark wizards would never understand. Love of a mother for her son. Harry was using magic from the time he was a few months old, so he is powerful, an equal to him,' Sirius turned to look at Harry, 'What do you think pup?'

'I agree with you. It's done, finished that night. Even though he somehow is still around, it has nothing to do with me.'

'I agree as well. I will speak with Croaker and see what he has to say but I believe it's done.'

'The only problem I see is if he does return, he will still want to kill Harry for what happened that night,' Sirius said, 'So we continue to train.'

'We do, but we can use this to our advantage which could also mean keeping Harry safe,' Amelia said.

'How?' Harry asked.

'We release the information that you, along with an unspeakable listened to the prophecy. We explain it was fulfilled that night. Now as for keeping Harry safe, why not use what you two spoke about, Lily. She is the reason you survived that night Harry. We can work on a scenario where Lily worked rare magic that allowed the killing curse to rebound if he tried to use that spell on you.'

'Lily would prefer everyone believe it was her if it will protect Harry.'

'But would Voldemort believe it?' Harry asked.

'Only your closest friends and us know you are being trained. With the amount of time you are seen in the library studying, no one would think you're anything special if you do well in your owls and newts. You fall back on what you had to do when you were with the muggles, don't show anyone exactly what you can do. Still train, in secret in case he doesn't care, we just don't allow anyone to know. I can work something out with Croaker about how Lily was the one to create a spell that would make sure you could deflect the killing curse, everyone will believe it. We make sure we let it be known that it was Lily Potter who did this, not Harry. It only took Albus telling everyone Harry destroyed Voldemort for everyone to believe it. There wasn't any proof that Harry did anything yet everyone just believed what that man said. Now he's had his reputation destroyed, so putting out a more likely scenario will be believed.' Amelia said.

Harry turned to see what his godfather thought of the idea and instantly noticed the smile on Sirius' face, which made him smile. He liked the idea and it actually made more sense than him, as a baby, being able to survive the killing curse. It might be true but it was a miracle and one of those impossible things that became possible. Saying lily found a way to save her son made more sense, which means people will believe it.

From the moment the unspeakables released the statement about Lily Potter, many all said the same thing. Why did Albus Dumbledore tell everyone it was Harry. Amelia released a statement to explain that Albus wanted everyone to have a young hero they could follow and look up to. He also wanted to be seen as the mentor to the-boy-who-lived. Harry did still survive that curse and everyone knew that. Now though, they knew it was due to Lily Potter who did very rare and forgotten magic which created a new spell that protected her son. She was the hero who destroyed Voldemort and protected her baby boy at the same time. Harry might have survived the killing curse but he only did because his mother found information old magic that was lost long ago and was able to use that to create a new spell. The unspeakables made sure to say that they would not be giving out the information as they did not want dark wizards to get hold of it and use it against innocent people.

Vernon, Petunia and Marge Dursley were all found guilty of child abuse and sentence to seven years in jail. Dudley was also found guilty of not just hurting Harry all the time but because he also beat up a lot of children in the neighbourhood. He was sent to a juvenile jail. Vernon died with a month, he had a heart attack. Marge Dursley was beaten by a group of woman when they found out that she allowed her bulldogs to attack and bite a two year old baby. Petunia went through years of being beaten. By the time she was released, she would live a lonely life in a small council flat. Dudley ended up being killed by some of the other teenagers when Dudley tried to become the leader. The others didn't take that very well.

Hermione Granger ended up leaving the wizarding world after doing her owls. She had no friends and spent all her time alone. It was a lonely experience for her. She never ended up getting close to Harry because he said he just couldn't trust her not to return to her old ways. No one ever heard from Hermione again.

There had been a few times when Ginny had tried to sneak away from Romania where the Weasley's were now living. Arthur caught her each time. In her fourth year, she ended up expelled for sending a cursed letter to Susan Bones after she found out that Harry was dating Susan. When it was discovered to be a particularly dark and nasty curse, she was sent to Romanian's jail for twelve years.

Harry did stay close to Fred and George Weasley along with others in Gryffindor. He took over as seeker when Cedric left and Hufflepuff broken many records once Harry was on the team. He had many offers by quidditch teams, he turned them all down. He knew what he wanted to do and he wanted to be an auror.

From fifth year on, the four friends became closer. Harry and Susan began dating, Neville and Hannah also began dating. They still trained, in secret with Amelia, Sirius, Tim and Connie. so far, there has been no sign of Voldemort but the friends would be ready if he did return.

It was when Harry was in his last year at Hogwarts that Amelia explained to him that every marked death eater died. Once the unspeakables investigated, they found proof that the spirit of Voldemort had tried to use the dark mark and his connection to his death eaters to return. He ended up killing all his supporters before his piece of soul finally disintegrated.

Amelia and the head unspeakable released some of the information so everyone would know that Voldemort was finally gone for good. Amelia went with Sirius to tell Albus exactly what happened. Due to the years in Azkaban and the shock of everything he had heard or be told, his heart finally gave out. He was buried next to his sister and mother in the cemetery at Godric's Hollow. Only two people turned up for his funeral. Minerva McGonagall and Aberforth Dumbledore. Molly Weasley had asked if she could be released for the funeral, she was turned down. She died in Azkaban only a year later.

Harry stared around at the students in the great hall. It was his last day at Hogwarts. it might have started off where he wanted to leave the wizarding world. Now he was going to be sad to leave the old castle.

Harry and Susan plan to marry during the summer holidays. They planned to take a month long honeymoon before both began training to be aurors. Susan had known for years that she wanted to follow her aunt into the auror department. Harry said he liked to help and he couldn't think of anything better than becoming an auror.

Neville and Hannah were going to have a Christmas wedding, then spend a month away. Neville would be doing an apprenticeship at Hogwarts under Professor Sprout. One day, Neville would be the herbology teacher. Hannah always wanted to help people, she was going to be Madam Pomfrey's apprentice and one day become the matron of Hogwarts.

Sirius and Connie ended up marrying and both ended up taking teaching positions at Hogwarts. Sirius had to wait until Harry left before he could official start but he had been filling in for the teachers when they were sick or had some type of family problems. They did decide to adopt but adopt older magical children that were found in muggle orphanages. Sirius didn't change his will and Harry would still be his heir, mainly because he did come to think of Harry as a son. Even though Harry was Sirius's godson, they did share blood. Harry's great, great grandmother was born Dorea Black. Sirius felt Harry deserved to be Lord Black, when the time came.

It took a few years but Hogwarts was finally known and proven to be the best wizarding school in the world. That only happened once they got rid of Albus Dumbledore. Now all students were safe while they studied at Hogwarts, they also enjoyed their classes which was taught by great teachers.

Harry thought of all this as he stared around at everyone and everything in the great hall. It had started with a letter that not only changed his life for the better but it also brought Hogwarts back to the way it should be.

The end: