One Shots pt 6

by phoenixgirl26

Another selection of one shots.

10. Chapter 10

Quiet in his solitude:

The first month of Hogwarts showed Harry Potter just what the magical world was like and he wasn't sure he liked it very much. He may remain so he could learn what he needs, but he probably wouldn't stay in the magical world once he had done his o.w.l.s. He would only stay at Hogwarts until then as it got him out of the Dursley's house. After putting up with their treatment since he was a baby, he could handle the two months of the summer holidays. Once he turned fifteen, he could hide away until he was sixteen then no one can tell him where he has to live. Knowing he had money in a vault at Gringotts meant he could at least look after himself, for a while at least.

Harry was standing outside the potions classroom, he ignored the comments from the Slytherin's. It seemed they did not know what to do when Harry refused to respond to their scathing and insulting comments. It had been like that since the first day, but it didn't stop them trying to insult Harry or get a rise out of him. They liked it when Snape always did something so Harry would lose points and be given detentions. They weren't sure how to take it when Harry never showed any emotion to being given detentions and he didn't seem upset when he lost points. They only found out a week ago that Harry was not serving detentions with Snape, he was serving them with McGonagall. It seems the heads of house now took their own students detention no matter who gave them the detention. They didn't know that it was changed when Harry refused to go to any detention given to him by Snape. He even said he wouldn't care if he got expelled. The headmaster realised it would not look good if the-boy-who-lived left Hogwarts just because of Severus, so he had no choice. It was from then on that the heads of house took their students for detention.

The Gryffindor's and the Slytherin's were all muttering about Snape being late. He was never late and it was now ten minutes after the class was due to start.

'You are all to go to your common rooms, the library or into the great hall. Potions have been cancelled,' Percy said.

'For how long Percy?' Ron asked.

'I do not know, the only thing I do know is the headmaster is looking for a new potions teacher. Now move, all of you.'

Harry walked off first, he had been expecting this he just hadn't expected it to be so soon. He went straight to the great hall, pulled out his books and began to study.

'What happened to Snape?' Ron asked as he sat beside Harry, all he did was glance up then went back to his work, 'I'm trying to be a friend here Harry.'

Harry looked up again, 'I do not want friends, now allow me to finish my work.'

Ron huffed then got up and moved further down the table, 'He doesn't seem to want to talk to anyone?'

'I can't blame him for snubbing you Ron, you're pushy and you eat like a pig,' Lavender said.

'He's spoken to the bookworm, I would say they are alike, both quiet and all they do is read,' Parvati said.

'Yeah, but Dumbledore thought if we became friends then he could spend time at my place during the holidays.'

'That would be up to Harry, not the headmaster,' Neville said softly, 'Maybe he likes being alone.'

'We found out what is going on…' Fred said.

'…with Snape,' George said then the twins sat down.

'It seems someone spoke to the potions guild, they showed memories of how Snape was in class,' Fred said.

'They weren't happy with him, they knew something was going on as no one has applied to sit for their masters in potions since he became a teacher,' George said.

'It seems they put someone here to see why,' Fred said.

'There are no new teachers and the only new students are first years. So, we have no idea who it was,' George said.

A black boy with dreadlocks joined them, 'Dumbledore's not happy, he tried to get the guild to allow Snape to keep his potions decree, that he needed him at the school. They refused and Snape can't teach potions without his masters decree,' Lee said, 'but I heard something else, after the guild left, the old man said something about the tests he set up and how to get the boy to follow the clues when the boy refuses to talk to anyone.'

The group all looked down to the end of the table where Harry Potter was sitting, 'So he wants to test the-boy-who-lived?' Lavender asked.

'Sounds like it, but if he picks up the clues or not, I doubt he will still do anything, he doesn't do anything but study,' Fred said.

'Yeah, he's as bad as Granger,' George said.

'We heard he lives with muggles, maybe he just wants to learn enough so he can finally leave them,' Parvati said.

'Not all muggles are bad Parvati, I've met a few great ones,' Lee said, 'A lot of my mother's family are muggles.'

'Same here, my dad's family are all muggles. They don't know about me and mum, only dad knows about magic,' Seamus said.

'Yeah, I get that, but don't you think Potter seems skinny and small, even smaller than all of us first years?' Parvati asked.

'He also doesn't like anyone getting too close to him,' Fred said.

'Yeah, he flinched when I brushed past him last week. The look he had on his face, he was scared, then he just walked away,' George said.

'You don't think they hurt him, do you?' Lavender asked as she glanced down at Harry Potter.

'Maybe, since he doesn't really talk to anyone, it's hard to say,' Lee said.

Lavender and Parvati glanced at each other, they nodded then left the great hall together.

Harry was still reading when he felt someone near him, 'Can I help you with something?' He asked the small girl from Hufflepuff.

'I was asked to give you this,' she held out a note.

'Thank you,' Harry took the note, he read it but his brow furrowed. He closed the book then left the great hall.

'You wished to see me Madam Pomfrey?'

'I do, it is time for your first magical check up Mr. Potter. If you will remove your shoes and robe and lie on the bed we will get started.'

'I never heard anything about us having a check up.'

'There are serious diseases and illnesses in the magical world Mr. Potter, just as the muggle world has deadly diseases. Since you are new to this world it is easy for you to contract one of these diseases. You will never get a muggle disease, but you could easily get something that only happens to witches and wizards.'

Harry shrugged then took his shoes and robe off, he laid his wand on top of his robe then lay on the bed. He watched the matron use her wand, he had no idea what spells she was casting but he did realise how different magical healers were to muggle doctors.

'You will need three potions Mr. Potter, it's nothing serious, but they are necessary. You will remain here for the night so the potions have time to work. I will pull some screens around you so you can change.'

'Okay, but you never told me why I need the potions ma'am.'

'You are severely malnourished, your growth has been stunted due to lack of vitamins. Your Bones are weak, which is also due to lack of vitamins and sunshine along with a poor diet. You have some old injuries that did not heal right. It is due to some of these injuries that you require glasses. Once the potions have finished working you will not need them anymore. If you are not healthy, then it can affect your magic, it will always limit how much magic you can use. You must drink all of these,' Poppy left the potions on the cabinet, took the clipboard and went to her office where Minerva was waiting. She handed over the clipboard.

'It's easy to see that he has been abused his whole life Minerva. You know what this will mean.'

'I do, but I was the one that told him they were not right to raise Harry, he did not believe me. Send your findings to the head of the DMLE and chief healer at St Mungo's,' Minerva sighed as she looked down at the notes Poppy made, 'At least it explains why he flinches when anyone touches him or he freezes when someone shouts.'

'How did you find out?'

'Two girls from my house, they were talking with some of the Weasley children, they all spoke about the way Harry Potter acts. They just seemed to know something is going on. Both girls have had family members who were abused so they always keep an eye out for any signs. I'll leave you to it, there is someone I need to speak to before any students get hurt.'

Minerva left the school to speak with Augusta Longbottom, she was on the board of governors and one who would understand her concerns.

Poppy filled out her paperwork, she added her comments but also her findings. She made two copies then sent her house elf to take the paperwork to the ministry and St Mungo's. She went back to Harry to make sure he had taken his potions.

Minerva and Augusta spoke for an hour before they went to speak with Amelia Bones, the head of the department of magical law.

'I received the file, you were right Minerva and now it's time to do what should have been done when his parent's were murdered,' Amelia, Augusta and Minerva went over the forms each signed before Amelia left to go to another department.

The following morning Harry felt better than he had ever felt and he could see perfectly without his glasses.

'These potions really work,' he smiled, 'maybe I'll stay in this world and become a healer, I'm still not sure though. I suppose staying at Hogwarts for a few years will tell me if this world is worth it. It will be better now without Snape so maybe it will be worth it,' he sat up when he heard footsteps.

'Good morning Mr. Potter, how do you feel?'

'Good morning ma'am and I'm feeling great, your potions really work.'

'Yes, they do. Now a house elf will bring you breakfast, after you eat you can leave. But Professor McGonagall wishes to see you before you head to your classes.'

'Okay, thank you,' Harry gave the matron a smile, a second later a house elf appeared with a tray of food, juice and tea, 'Thanks.'

'Yous welcome,' the little elf squeaked then popped away.

'Strange,' Harry shrugged then began to eat, but he did wonder what his head of house needed to see him for. Maybe she eventually sees all the first years, maybe it was about his stay in the hospital. He suppose he would find out. It had only been two months since he started at Hogwarts, so it might take her a while to see all her new students.

Harry knocked on the door, he heard his head of house called to come in, 'You wanted to see me Professor?'

'Yes Mr. Potter, please have a seat.'

Harry sat down and wondered if he was in trouble, he hadn't done anything so he wasn't sure what was going on.

'Did I do something wrong Professor?'

'No Mr. Potter,' Minerva sighed, 'First I have to apologise for deceiving you. I was approached by a couple of students who thought there was something wrong. I in turn spoke with Madam Pomfrey to organise you to be checked.

'I don't get it, why when I'm fine?'

'What was found is anything but fine Mr. Potter. Let me tell you this, just after your parent's died, I found out where you were being placed. I argued about being left with muggles, but I also knew what your mother's sister was like. Lily and Petunia had a falling out when she began at Hogwarts, Petunia was jealous that Lily was a witch and she wasn't.'

'But she said it's freaky, that I'm a freak. She said that I'm unnatural.'

'You are not a freak, you are a wizard, she was jealous. Well, I knew there was no use arguing about your placement and I did try to find out how you were. The wards placed around that house meant I could not enter, I just hoped you were okay. After the matron examined you, we realised what type of life you had, neither of us were going to stand for that and now we had proof so you can be removed.'

'Removed, you mean I can live somewhere else, like an orphanage? I wouldn't mind being in one as long as I could leave the Dursley's.'

Minerva sighed again, 'You are going to live somewhere else, but it will not be an orphanage. Because you are known as the-boy-who-lived, it would be dangerous if some people tried to get custody of you. I went to speak with two people I know, the mother-in-law of your godmother who I am sorry to say will live out her days in St Mungo's hospital. This woman is also on the board of governors for Hogwarts. Once I explained more about your situation and who decided you would live with the muggles, we began to discuss what else he was involved in. Now the second person I spoke with was the head of the department of magical law, Madam Bones. She was a friend of your mother's when they were students, even if she was a few years older than Lily.'

'You know, I didn't even know my parent's names, not until Hagrid told me.'

'Yes, I am sorry Harry. Now to what was organised on your behalf. You will now be under the guardianship of Amelia Bones. Why we decided on this was she is not someone who can be intimidated or coerced in any way. She was a great auror and follows the our laws and rules. Like you Harry, her family were all killed during the first war, all except her niece, Susan who is in Hufflepuff, the same year as you. We felt that being with a family who were similar would benefit you than if you were placed with others. You see Harry, when you first lost your parent's many families offered to take you. I will say that not all had good intentions and that is the reasons given as to why you should be with blood family where blood wards could protect you. They might have protected you from dark wizards, just not from those people. And this is the reason why we worked this out before any of them could get hold of you.'

'So, I really don't have to return to them?'

'No, you don't. Now, it was the headmaster who decided you were to live with Petunia, against many people's advice, he did not listen. Before the start of the school year I began to get suspicious about Professor Dumbledore's intentions and motives. When you arrived, I realise he has some type of plans that involve you. The two students who came to me also said they heard other students talking about Professor Dumbledore's plans and how he was trying to get you to find the clues he left. I won't tell you what these clues were as they are no longer important.'

'That red head…um Ron I think his name is, he hasn't stopped trying to become my friend and how together we could have a great adventure. He said he knew something that no one else did and I could help with something. He even said something about spending the holidays with him and his family. I'm sorry Professor, but one reason I do not want to be his friend is he's a bully. I do not like bully's, he's also lazy, he tries to copy off my work and he has no manners at all. If that is the typical of his family then I really don't want to know them.'

'I do not blame you, but who is Ronald Weasley bullying?'

'Hermione Granger, he's been really mean to her. She's a bit snobby but no one deserves that, especially when she was trying to help him in class. I decided to talk to her, now we usually study together in the library or common room.'

'I will have words with Mr. Weasley. But if you feel strongly about Mr Weasley then follow your feeling. On the weekend Madam Bones will be here to introduce herself. You two will sit down and talk, get to know each other a little, Susan will be there as well.'

'She might not like the idea that I'll be living in her home.'

'Susan would approve Harry, believe me. She suffered the same as you, she lost her parent's, grandparent's and uncle. She would have been in the same position as you if it wasn't for Amelia, her aunt. Now the governors are making inquires into these plans the headmaster had. Madam Bones is making inquires as to why the headmaster took it upon himself to decide where you were to live. He is not a relative Harry nor does he work in the department of magical orphans, so really, he had no right to decide where you would live. With Ronald Weasley, I believe the headmaster asked him to become your friend as I know his parent's are very loyal to Professor Dumbledore. It may be all innocent Harry, but you are the-boy-who-lived, you will get people who wish to know you for the wrong reasons.'

'That's why I don't really talk to anyone, they keep staring at my scar then ask if I remember that night. I mean how many people would remember things from when they were a baby. I used to dream though, about a flash of green light. Aunt Petunia said my parent's died in a car crash while they were drunk, I figured the green light was from the crash, until Hagrid explained what happened. I don't even know what they look like, Hagrid just said I look like my dad but have mum's eyes.'

'I will organise some pictures for you, from their time at school, to when they were married. Your father is from a very old ancient and noble wizarding family, their wedding picture was on the front cover of Witch Weekly magazine. I also know someone who may have some pictures of them.'

'I'd like that, thank you Professor. But what were they like?'

'Lily was a brilliant student, very much like Miss Granger, but and I'm sorry to say this, Miss Granger does tend to alienate her fellow students with her attitude. Lily was liked by almost everyone, she was friendly and would help anyone that asked for it. Now your father, yes he was a good student but he did enjoy his jokes and would pull pranks on many students, especially the Slytherin's. They began dating at the beginning of their seventh year, which surprised all the staff. Lily liked to study even if she enjoyed spending time with her friends. James was very smart as well but he just did not put any effort into his work. He was a very nice boy and turned into a serious man, but he was raised with money. He did not act like some of the rich children you see here, but he did flaunt it a bit. They were very different in personality, James loved quidditch, Lily did not like to fly.'

'What were their best subjects?'

'Lily was brilliant at ancient runes, charms and potions. James' favourite subjects were transfiguration and defence against the dark arts. I have heard you seem to have talent in all subjects, apart from potions.'

'I wanted to do well in potions Professor, but Professor Snape kept picking on me. He asked all these questions on the first day, I had no idea even if I had read the book. I ended up looking up the ingredients he spoke about and found they were fourth year and above potions. He knew I couldn't answer, so he took a lot of points. Now that you've told me about my mother I want to excel in potions, I want to make her proud of me.'

'Then let's hope our new potions professor will be a lot fairer on the students.'

'You don't mind me asking about my parent's, do you Professor?'

'No, I do not and I will make sure some of the staff that knew them can tell you what they remember. Now you should get your books for class.'

Harry stood, 'Thank you for helping, for getting me out of there,' Harry shrugged then left the office. He couldn't believe that he would never see the Dursley's again, not unless he wanted to, which he didn't. He wasn't sure about living with people he didn't know. He wondered if he should find Susan Bones, introduce himself. They could talk, maybe they could become friends, or at least be friendly. Harry decided he would do that the next time Gryffindor and Hufflepuff shared a class. For now, he had charms so he hurried to Gryffindor tower to get his charms book and to make sure he had an extra quill. He still couldn't get the hang of quills and kept breaking them. It's lucky that Angelina Johnson explained that he could owl order things like quills, even books.

The last class on the following day was herbology, Gryffindor shared that class with Hufflepuff. Harry joined his house mates as they made their way towards the greenhouses.

'Excuse me Miss Bones, I was wondering if we could talk before class.'

'Of course,' Susan blushed but followed Harry away from the other students.

'Professor McGonagall told me that your aunt is now my guardian. I wanted to ask if this is alright with you, with me living in your home with your aunt?'

'Oh, that's fine, Aunty sent me a letter this morning. She did not tell me why just that she was now your guardian. She said she would be here on the weekend to talk to both of us.'

'Yes, I am a bit nervous about meeting her, but I was more worried about how you would feel.'

'I'm fine, if it's something you need then I want to help.'

'Thank you, we should join the rest.'

'Would you like to team up? We can talk more, get to know each other.'

'I would like that, thank you.'

Harry gave the girl a smile then followed the students into the greenhouse. Harry and Susan stood together, Hannah and Hermione stood beside them. But a lot of Gryffindor's were all curious as to why Harry Potter was only speaking with girls and two from a different house.

The next few days, whenever Hufflepuff and Gryffindor shared a class, Harry and Susan sat together, Hannah and Hermione sat together. But it seems the talk Harry and McGonagall had with Hermione had worked. She would help anyone but only if they asked and she never went on about studying all the time or trying to get others to agree to her opinions and ideas. The four new friends would spend some time studying but they also spent time talking or playing games like chess or gobstones. Harry and Hermione did like to study, but they found they enjoyed their time with the two Hufflepuff girls.

On Saturday during breakfast a woman walked into the great hall, she spoke with Minerva before going to Susan. Once the girl stood up, they both went to the Gryffindor table.

'Mr. Potter, I'm Amelia Bones.'

Harry stood and shook her hand, 'It's nice to meet you Ma'am.'

'Let's go outside so we can talk.'

The Gryffindor's all watched as Harry left with Madam Amelia Bones, the head of the department of magical law.

'What do you think that's about?' Ron asked.

'No idea, but maybe it has something to do with why Harry's been spending time with the Hufflepuff's,' Seamus said.

'We heard a story, we're not sure if it's true,' Lee said.

'Someone told McGonagall that Harry has been mistreated by his muggle relatives so he ended up having a checkup with Pomfrey…' Fred said.

'They found he had been hurt by those muggles, so now he has a new guardian,' George said.

'So, you think Bones is now Harry Potter's guardian?' Ron asked.

'Makes sense, but we can't say if any of this is true. But have any of you noticed that Dumbledore hasn't been at any meals over the last three days?' Lee asked.

Most of the first years shook their heads, 'I haven't seen him at all,' Neville said.

'Snape is gone, you don't think Dumbledore left because he couldn't get Snape back?' Lee asked.

'We know he never did anything about the complaints…' Fred said.

'…so maybe he did leave and he's with Snape,' George raised his eyebrows making all the boys grimace.

'Don't put me off my food,' Ron groaned.

'We're just saying, he always stuck up for Snape even over the students who were in the right,' Lee said.

'I'm sure we will be informed if Professor Dumbledore has left, he may just be ill,' Lavender said, 'But I have to admit, I am glad Snape is gone.'

'We all are, the new teacher is friendly enough and gives points to every house even though he is head of Slytherin house,' Lavender said.

'The Slytherin's haven't been happy since Snape left, they also haven't been causing trouble,' Parvati said.

'A few tried to cause trouble, they ended up in detention,' George said.

'They haven't got the protection anymore that Snape gave them,' Fred said.

Outside Susan was explaining to her aunt how her and Harry have been spending time together whenever they shared classes. They would also study in the library together, along with Hannah and Hermione.

'So, you were concerned how Susan would take the news that you were now living with us?'

'Yes, Ma'am, I didn't want her to feel that she had to like me just because I'm going to be there. I figured if we could talk and get to know each other then at least we may become friendly and then maybe we would end up friends.'

'It worked, Harry and I sit together during any classes where Hufflepuff and Gryffindor are together.'

'Then I'm pleased you two get on. Now as I am the head of the department of magical law, I do get called away quite often. I have a full staff of house elves and if you are curious, they are all very well cared for and very loyal. During the holidays I do spend at least half at home, we sometimes go on holidays. Tell me Harry, is there any place you would like to visit?'

'Um, well, I've never been anywhere, they would never take me.'

'Where did you stay when they went out for the day?'

'A lady that lived in the next street, Mrs. Figg, I would stay there for holidays as well. Um, I should tell you this even though I won't be returning. But they used to lock me in a cupboard for a couple of days while they went away, to visit Uncle Vernon's sister. She did not like me, used to make her dogs bite me.'

'I know who Mrs. Figg is, she is a squib and I would say she was placed there to keep an eye on you, yet she did a poor job. I will be speaking with her about what she knows. What they did to you could be classed as child abuse, since we cannot prosecute muggles, I plan to prosecute the one who placed you with them then left you to their mercy. You were a magical child in a muggle home, being mistreated I'm sure you did accidental magic when you were upset or angry. Yet my department was never notified of any magic taking place at that house. Did you use magic Harry?'

'A couple of times, I broke a glass once, I didn't know I did it until I found out I was a wizard. I ended up on a roof when I was trying to run away from my cousin and his gang, they were Harry hunting. I made some glass disappear at a zoo once, it was the only time they took me anywhere. Mrs. Figg broke her leg so she couldn't take me. My Aunt was trying to put this really ugly old jumper of Dudley's on me and it shrunk. My hair grew back overnight, my aunt hacked it off, apart from the front, to keep my scar covered. I turned my teachers hair blue, but that's all the magic I did.'

'Going over your file from Madam Pomfrey told me you had a lot of injuries from those people. You should have used magic quite often during those times. I am going to have Madam Pomfrey check your magical core and your blood, just to find out why. I don't believe anything is wrong, but it's best to check. Now to something else, Professor McGonagall mentioned that you did not know about this world until Hagrid came to give you your letter.'

'No Ma'am I didn't know anything and they kept taking the letters, ripping them up or throwing them in the fireplace. I never received a letter before and when I saw my name, I was curious.'

'Would there have been other letters sent to you that you didn't know about?'

'Um, not in the last few years. From the time I was five that was one of my jobs, to get the mail every morning right after I finished cooking breakfast.'

'Then there are two more things I need to investigate. The first is why your accidental magic did not get picked up, the second is what happened to all your mail. I know for a fact you received many every year from the time your parent's died. Harry, you are the-boy-who-lived, many people wished to thank you, as you were a baby they sent you things, like clothes, toys, books, some sent money in a card. Susan was five years old when she first heard your story, she sent you a card on your birthday along with a stuffed dragon.'

'Oh,' Harry looked at Susan who he could tell felt sorry for him, but he didn't mind this time she was nice, 'I never got anything, but I saw my cousin get mail from the time he was five. I remember because that's when they began to make me cook breakfast.'

'Then I will find out what happened, the clothes might not be much use to you but I'm sure the money would come in handy. But people wrote many letters to you, when they find out you never received them, they will be angry, so I will need answers.'

'I'm sorry for making more work for you ma'am.'

'You aren't, someone else is responsible, but this is what I do Harry and I happen to be very good at my job. Now I will make sure the house elves have a room ready for you in the north wing, since you both will be home for Christmas.'

'Wing?'

'We live in a very large manor home Harry; it's been in my family for generations. When you are there, I will show you some pictures of the Potter manor, which I'm sorry to say, was badly damaged during the war. It can be fixed, when you are older you may wish to have it repaired.'

'Is that where they were living when they died?'

Amelia had been shocked, surprised or saddened by everything she had heard from Harry Potter. Now she finds out he knew nothing about where he was living when his parent's were murdered which meant he would not even know where his parent's were buried. While she had time, she planned to get a lot of information for Harry, about his family and about the properties this young man now owned.

After Amelia left Harry and Susan kept talking, they were joined later by Hannah and Hermione.

'We can tell you're curious,' Susan said.

'Madam Bones is now my guardian; I'll be living with Susan and her aunt.'

'The twins said they heard a rumour you were getting a new guardian,' Hermione said.

'My muggle family weren't very nice to me.'

'It was more, but I'm sure Harry doesn't want to talk about it.'

'The twins were saying they hurt you. But I won't ask, this is none of my business, I'm just pleased you have a good home to go too.' Hannah said.

'I do, but Professor McGonagall said two girls went to see her about me. Would you know who they were?'

'I would say Lavender and Parvati. But it could be one of the older girls, I just never saw them take much notice of you,' Hermione said.

'Even if I don't like people knowing about what happened, they did help.'

'Hermione, who went to see you and your parent's when you got your Hogwarts letter?' Susan asked.

'Professor McGonagall, she said it was part of her duties as deputy head, to visit all muggleborns, or muggle raised children. She had to explain about this world to my parent's and show them magic so they would know it was real.'

'That's what I thought, yet it was Hagrid that went to speak with Harry.'

'I liked the fact that he intimidated the Dursley's, but all he kept going on about was how great a man Dumbledore was and how all Slytherin's were evil. I don't believe that, I'm sure there are good and bad in all four houses. Look at Ron, his a bully and his a bigot, that's why I don't want anything to do with him.'

'He keeps trying though,' Hermione said.

'Hagrid gave my cousin a pig's tail,' Harry sighed, 'I knew when I returned there, they would punish me for it. I know he was trying to help but it only made things worse. Vernon's anger will be building up until I returned.'

'You won't be returning anymore so you don't need to worry about that,' Susan said kindly.

'But why would they send the game keeper to see someone who had no idea about magic?' Hannah asked.

'That's what my aunt wants to know,' Susan turned to Harry, 'I have to ask, but do you know anything about Professor Snape?'

Harry blushed slightly as he nodded, 'Um, one of the potions guild members slipped me a letter when I was in Gringotts. They knew of some rivalry between Snape and my father, they wanted to know how Snape treated me. I wrote to them and said I would let them know but they gave me this orb thing which worked like a muggle video recorder.'

'The aurors use them when they take statements or when they question suspects. My aunt showed them to me when I visited her office one day,' Susan said.

'Oh, well, it seemed to work, I recorded every class I had with Snape for six weeks then sent them the orb. I got a letter a few days before Snape left, they told me he would be losing his masters decree since he basically did not teach and he was putting students in danger. I really wanted to do well in potions, I enjoyed reading books on chemistry when I was in the school library and again when I got my books for here, yet Snape was so mean and calling all of us bad names. I like it now, Slughorn seems to know what he's talking about and he doesn't favour Slytherin.'

'He even gives points to students from other houses,' Hermione said.

'Now all they have to do is get rid of Binns,' Hannah said, but the other three agreed.

'How will your aunt find out what happened to my letters?'

'I'm not sure how she works except for a lot of investigating. She said she will be prosecuting the one who decided you had to live with them since she can't prosecute muggles.'

'It was Professor Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall told me. She said many tried to tell him they would not be a good family, but he didn't listen. Oh and the lady that the Dursley's made me stay with when they went out is a squib. Madam Bones thinks Professor Dumbledore put her there to keep an eye on me. She never once mentioned the magical world or how I'm thought of. I didn't know a thing until Hagrid showed up. Then I kept thinking that I was dreaming or it was a big joke.'

'So, Madam Bones is going to prosecute Albus Dumbledore,' Hermione said, 'I know I've been finding out that not all that is in books is true. Do you think some of what we know about Professor Dumbledore is a lie, or exaggerated?'

'He did stop the dark wizard Grindelwald and I know he is good friends with Nicholas Flamel,' Hannah said.

'So how did you realise that not all books print the truth?' Susan asked.

'Because of Harry, when we began talking, he told me he lives with muggles. He mentioned that he didn't know he was a wizard until he got the letter. In one of those books written about the night Harry got his scar it said he was being cared for by a magical family, but it was kept hidden so he was protected from the death eaters that never went to Azkaban. Nothing was written about muggles or Lily potter's sister. I'm sorry Harry, I know you don't like all this.'

'It's fine, I just feel guilty that I lived and they died. They were so young.'

'Any parent would do what yours did Harry,' Susan said kindly.

'Then why did I survive when other kids died?'

'Good question, maybe if we get a decent defence against the dark arts teacher, they might have some answers,' Hannah said.

'Quirrell is hopeless. You can't understand a word he says,' Susan said.

'Yeah, he stutters all the time. I heard he was the muggle studies teacher before this year,' Harry said.

'He was, then he went on a holiday. He came back completely different. Stuttering scared of is own shadow. Some say he met vampires, that's why his classroom smells of garlic,' Hannah said.

The four friends kept talking, mainly about their classes. But other students couldn't stop staring at Harry Potter with three girls. They wondered if maybe the girls wanted to be closer to the-boy-who-lived, or if Harry Potter was just that type of boy that girls seemed to like to hang around.

Harry received a letter from his new guardian a week after he had first met her. She found out that Petunia Dursley was a squib and that is why she hated Harry, just as she hated Lily. They had magic and she didn't. She could see places like Hogwarts and magical creatures, but she could not perform magic. It turned her jealousy to hate for her sister which she then turned that hate onto Harry.

Even though Harry will never like any of the Dursley's, he could understand being jealous. He used to get jealous of Dudley when he received gifts for his birthday and Christmas and he, Harry never got anything, except made to work.

During this time, the headmaster still had not been seen at Hogwarts, yet the students weren't told if he left or if he was just sick. Harry, Susan, Hannah, Neville and Hermione all figured that Dumbledore was away because of how he left Harry with the Dursley's, then never checked on him. They weren't sure if he would return to Hogwarts or even if he would get punished. All they could do was wait and see. Harry hoped he didn't return, but if he did, he would just stay away from the headmaster and hoped he didn't interfere in his life like he did when he was a baby.

No matter what Ron tried, Harry refused to talk to him. Ron would try to follow Harry, but he ended up usually in the library, studying and he always sat with Granger and the two girls from Hufflepuff. He was getting angry and wanted to say something to the other girls, but the twins told him who Susan Bones' aunt is and he realised he could get into trouble, big trouble if he did something to Susan Bones. He realised he would just have to try other ways to get Harry to be his friend.

The other three boys that share the dorm all saw what Ron was up to, so they were going to keep an eye on him, but they also decided not to have anything to do with him. They did not like the fact that Ron only wanted to be friends with Harry because he was famous. Seamus, Dean and Neville all like Harry, even if he was a little quiet and liked to study all the time, he was a nice boy, so they were nice to him. Now they would make sure Ron didn't do anything to hurt Harry Potter.

What none of the boys in Gryffindor knew was because Ron hardly did his work and never finished any homework, he would end up repeating his first year. Ron had tried to bully Hermione into doing his work for him, then he wanted to copy from Harry. None of that worked so when the end of the school year comes, he will find out how he will have to redo his first year all over again.

Over the next two weeks, Harry found that he was finally enjoying his life at Hogwarts. He had a friend who was going to be like his sister. He had two other female friends who enjoyed spending time with him. He had Neville as a friend who even though he was shy, seemed to like Harry. Seamus and Dean were nice as well, but they liked to play games and talk over different muggle sports, so they didn't hang around Harry, but they were friendly. Neville began to hang around them when he asked Hermione for help with transfiguration, then he asked Susan for help with charms. Hermione, Susan, Hannah and Harry ended up asking Neville for help in herbology. The five friends all seemed to be better at one subject over the others, so they could help each other.

Harry never had friends before and the ones that did befriend him where set up by Dudley and his gang to get Harry alone. It was the main reason why he was wary of becoming friendly with the other kids. But now he found some that actually liked him.

After finding out from Madam Bones that his aunt was a squib, he found a book on squibs. Aunt Petunia always said Harry was a freak and unnatural. He knew Madam Bones had been right, she was jealous that she couldn't do magic, like her sister. Harry was curious as to why his mother was a witch and her sister wasn't. He also wondered why he was a wizard and Dudley wasn't. The book said that squibs can sometimes have kids that do have magic, yet Dudley didn't. He knew he probably would never find out the answers, at least, not until he was a lot older where he could research more about squibs and why they had no magic when their parent's did.

It was a few days before Christmas that Professor McGonagall informed the students that she had replaced Albus Dumbledore as headmistress and Dumbledore was no longer at the school. She also informed them that after Christmas there would be some changes being made, the students would find out when they returned from the holidays. Everyone had been curious as to where Dumbledore disappeared to, now he was no longer headmaster but they still had no idea why he left.

Harry was sitting in the back of the library finishing his homework. He didn't want to do it during the holidays, not when Susan had told him that her aunt planned to take them away for a week. Just as he was finishing up on his charms essay, someone grab him around the throat from behind. Apart from being scared, his head felt like it was going to explode. As he screamed out in pain, another voice began screaming.

Madam Pince raced to the back of her library to find out what was going on and who was making all the noise. What she saw shocked her, she quickly called a house elf to go to Minerva while she tried to help Harry Potter.

Minerva raced to the library and just got inside when Poppy joined her. They found Irma holding an unconscious Harry who was beside a pile of clothes and a turban. Poppy went straight to Harry while Minerva helped Irma up, they moved aside to give Poppy room.

'What happened?'

'I heard a scream, then I heard another scream, from a different person. I hurried to see what was going on and saw Professor Quirrell holding Harry around the neck. Harry's scar began to bleed then Quirrell screamed as he began to disintegrate. Minerva, I saw him, you-know-who, he was this black spirit. I'm not sure how to describe it. But he glared down at Harry then flew away, but he came out of Quirrell. Similar black stuff came out of Harry's scar before he passed out.'

'I will notify Madam Bones; she may need to see your memory Irma. Albus did say that you-know-who never died back then. It seems he was able to keep his soul from moving on and he still wants to kill Harry Potter. But I have no idea why something came out of Harry's scar.'

'But why does he want to kill a boy?'

'I don't know, we never found out why he went after the Potters. I need to speak with Amelia. Keep this area closed off, I'm sure she will have aurors investigate. If you could, please pack up Harry's things and leave them in your office.'

Minerva and Irma watched as Poppy placed Harry on a conjured stretcher then levitate him out of the library and to her hospital. Irma placed invisible wards around the area that Quirrell and Harry had been in. She did pack up Harry's belongings, then put them on her desk. Minerva hurried straight to her office and to her fireplace to speak with Amelia Bones.

Susan got a note from the headmistress about Harry being attacked and he was now in the hospital. She told Hannah who told Hermione and Neville and the four friends hurried to the hospital. They found Harry asleep in one of the beds.

'Will Harry be okay Madam Pomfrey?' Susan asked anxiously.

'Yes, but he will need a few days under my care.'

'What happened?' Hermione whispered as she took Harry's hand in hers.

'I cannot speak of it right now, the aurors are investigating. I'm sure your aunt will explain later Miss Bones. If you wish you can stay with Mr potter, but he will not wake for a day, at least.'

The three girls and Neville decided to sit with Harry even if he wouldn't know they were there.

'His scar is inflamed,' Hermione said as she brushed his hair back.

'So, it must have something to do with his scar,' Hannah said.

'Harry has rubbed it a few times. I remember he winced and ended up with a headache. That happened a few times. That happened during the welcoming feast and again in defence against the dark arts. Harry's also had a few nightmares, the following morning Harry's scar always seems to stand out more,' Neville said.

'So even though it's just an old scar it's causing him pain. No one knows why he survived the killing curse, but it seems to still be causing him pain,' Hannah said.

'The note said he was attacked,' Susan very gently brushed her fingers over the bruises on Harry's neck making the other three stare at the bruise. They could tell it was made by a large hand, an adults hand.

The castle was swarming with aurors, most were in the library investigating what had happened to Quinirius Quirrell and Harry Potter. Amelia had taken the memory from Irma so she could find out what happened. But she couldn't do much more until Harry Potter woke up. She did confirm that Quirrell had been possessed by some dark spirit and had died when he touched Harry. She knew she would need to speak with an unspeakable as to why this happened, but for now they needed to make sure the dark spirit was gone and wouldn't be a danger to any other student. She knew the dark spirit was Voldemort since she got to see what the spirit looked like in Irma Pince's memory. She also knew she would need to speak with Cornelius Fudge, the minister for magic. She could show him proof that Voldemort wasn't gone which meant he would be trying to return and recruit. It was time the auror office had more funds and it was time she took more control so the many death eaters that got away with their crimes last time will finally be given trials. Once the man knew what happened to Harry Potter, which would eventually get out, the people who called Harry a hero would be angry and want the minister to do all they could to stop Harry being hurt again.

When Harry woke, he looked at Susan and Hannah who were sitting beside him. They were whispering to each other.

'Hi,' Harry croaked out. Susan quickly poured Harry a glass of water then helped him drink it, 'Thanks. What happened?'

'We're not sure, we were hoping you could tell us. But my aunt and a heap of aurors have been here since yesterday, mainly in the library where you were sitting.'

'Quirrell, he grabbed my throat from behind. I felt like my head was ripping apart, then he began to scream. I don't know what happened after that.'

'You're scar was really red yesterday when you were first brought here. Hermione and Neville was with us. Neville mentioned the pain you got in your scar.'

'Yeah, during the feast and I always got a headache during defence. The pain was always around my scar. It's an old scar, so why would it still hurt?'

'We don't know Harry, maybe auntie will have some answers. We go home for the holidays tomorrow.'

'I really want to leave, at least for a couple of weeks. It's been a strange few months.'

'I'm sure it has for you Harry. All this is new to you and Hermione,' Hannah said.

'Yeah, it is but it's a lot of little things. Like Dumbledore and the way he always watched me. Snape and how cruel he was to the students. Quirrell, I always knew he was watching me, but I could never figure out why. Then you have Weasley who kept trying to be my friend yet he knew I hated the way he acted, especially how he bullied Hermione. She was the first person who was nice to me, I wasn't going to allow Ron to upset her. I wouldn't let anyone upset my friends. I don't know, just a lot of strange things happened. I thought when Snape and Dumbledore left then things would settle down, but Quirrell tried to choke me.'

'You have a bruise around your neck, you can tell it was a hand that did it,' Susan said kindly.

'Why would a teacher try to kill Harry?' Hannah asked.

'He might be one of those death eaters that never went to Azkaban. Auntie told me about them so I would know to be careful.'

'What are death eaters?' Harry asked.

'They were Voldemort supporters. They would kill and torture just like him. Some are in Azkaban but some got away with what they did. Auntie said a lot of money changed hands but she could never prove it.'

'Professor McGonagall told me that Dumbledore used the argument about my placement meant that no dark wizards could get me. She might have been talking about these death eaters.'

'If there was some type of protection, then Professor Dumbledore must have cast some type of enchantment around the house. We're not allowed to cast things like wards around a muggle home. When Hermione gets older, she can apply to have her families home warded, but not until she's done her o.w.l.s,' Susan said.

'So that's something else that's strange. Let's hope after Christmas all the weird, strange and dangerous things will be gone.'

'We may be lucky. I mean Quirrell is dead, that's all Aunty would tell me.'

'You mean I killed him,' Harry squeaked as his eyes widened.

Susan realised Harry was upset, so she sat on the bed and wrapped her arms around him. Then she began to talk softly to him, to get him to calm down. Hannah went to see Madam Pomfrey so she could get Harry a calming draught. Between the two girls and the matron, they got Harry calm and lying down, where he drifted back off to sleep.

When Harry woke the next morning, Susan was sitting beside him, 'Hi.'

'Hi, what happened?'

'You thought you were going to be in trouble because of Quirrell and you panicked. Madam Pomfrey gave you a calming draught with a sleeping potion. Aunty told me to give you this,' Susan held out the note. Harry sat up and began to read.

'So, I won't get in trouble.'

'No, she is still investigating but she did say he died due to dark magic and Voldemort.'

'Voldemort, what did he have to do with all this?'

'I don't know, Aunty said she will explain when we get home. But Madam Pomfrey said you can leave when you woke, we can have breakfast together before getting the train home.'

'Okay, I would like to leave,' Harry smiled when Susan stood and walked behind the screen to give him some privacy so he could get changed.

Once Harry dressed, he moved the screen to see Susan sitting on one of the other beds.

'I told Madam Pomfrey you're awake, she said I can take you to breakfast.'

'Thanks.'

Harry kept thinking about Quirrell and why he died. He hoped Madam Bones could tell him what happened.

Susan watched Harry as they walked through the castle. She could tell he was curious, but she could also tell he was still worried. She knew her aunt will be able to explain things to Harry, which hopefully would stop him worrying.

Susan made sure Harry sat between Neville and Hermione before she gave his hand a squeeze then went to the Hufflepuff table.

'Are you okay Harry?'

Harry turned to Hermione and gave her a small smile, 'I'm fine, just wondering what Madam Bones will tell me when we get home.'

'I'm sure it's all fine Harry, you don't need to worry. You didn't attack anyone, he attacked you,' Neville said.

'Yeah, I know, but he still died and I need to know why.'

'I'm sure she will explain. Now eat, it's a long train ride,' Hermione said kindly.

Harry nodded and even though he didn't have much of an appetite, he got himself some cereal. He couldn't stomach a big breakfast while he was still nervous.

'Hey Harry, mum asked if you want to spend some time at our place during the holidays?' Ron asked.

'No, my new guardian said we're going away. But I told you Weasley, I don't like your attitude or they way you pick on my friends, so we'll never be more than just students who share the same house. I will never be your friend so leave me alone,' Harry turned his head so he couldn't see Ron, then finished his breakfast.

Hermione and Neville noticed at first Ron looked angry, then he seemed worried. They couldn't understand why Ron kept trying to be Harry's friend when he had been told why Harry would never like him. He still picked on Neville and Hermione, but now they instantly told Percy who would tell McGonagall. Ron had been spending many nights in detention. Hermione believed Ron would end up having to repeat a year since he hadn't passed any of the tests the teachers had given them so far. He tried to intimidate her and Neville so he could copy of their work. They weren't intimidated, they just told the prefect which happened to be Ron's brother, who didn't like anyone cheating or not following the rules.

Susan, Hannah, Harry, Hermione and Neville shared a compartment on the train. At one time they heard some arguments from out in the corridor but they didn't bother finding out what was going on. What they didn't know was there were two hit wizards now on the train to stop any problems that might occur. That is what they had to tell the students if asked, but they were really there to keep an eye on students whose parent's had been accused of being death eaters. They had been informed from Madam Bones about a tip she received that some of these students planned on attacking Harry Potter, the-boy-who-lived. The hit wizards had stopped many, but the one who kept arguing with them was Draco Malfoy. They had seen him with his wand in hand as he approached the compartment where the-boy-who-lived was sitting. Since they stayed disillusioned until they had to show themselves, they heard what Malfoy said to the other students he was with. The hit wizards ended up stunning Malfoy and all those with him and they were now sealed inside an empty compartment until they could be interviewed.

Harry and his friends had no idea any of this was going on, they were just enjoying their ride on the Hogwarts express.

When the friends got off the train, Amelia Bones, along with an auror greeted Susan and Harry. Susan introduced the others to her aunt. Susan and Harry got introduced to Hannah's parents, then Lady Longbottom, before they met Hermione's parents, who seemed like genuine nice people. Harry thought they were completely different from the muggles he had met before, especially the Dursley's.

Harry did notice the Ron kept staring at him, but so was his mother and sister. Harry ignored them and just spoke with his new guardian. What none of them saw was another auror who was under an invisibility cloak. He was listening to what students were saying but also to what the Weasley's were saying. Amelia had received a lot of information about Albus Dumbledore and his plans and one of these plans had been for the Weasley's to befriend Harry so they could manipulate him for Dumbledore. They needed more information that's why the auror he was hidden. She would be meeting her auror that night, after Susan and Harry went to bed.

Harry couldn't stop staring as Susan and Amelia showed him around the very large home. It was four stories high and went right back. It had a lot of land around it, Susan said they could fly during the holidays. There was also an indoor swimming pool that was charmed to be the perfect temperature

After the tour and Harry unpacked, Amelia said she would be taking Harry shopping in a few days, as his casual clothes were pretty much rags. She introduced the house elves so Harry would know if he needed anything all he had to do was call one of them.

They had a great dinner, where they talked, but they didn't talk about anything serious. That discussion was for after dinner.

'After seeing the memory from Madam Pince, I found out that Voldemort's spirit was possession Professor Quirrell. I can't say if he allowed it or if it was forced. I found out that your mother sacrificed herself to protect you which gave you a protection. It's how you survived that night. Well, you still have that protection. Quirrell, or Voldemort, could not touch you. Because Voldemort was forcing Quirrell to kill you, it ended up too much for his body, which is why he disintegrated. He would have died the moment Voldemort left him, so it had nothing to do with you. You were a victim. I took the memory to the minister, who finally realised the war that ended ten years ago, never really ended, just delayed. He will return one day and it seems he still wants to kill you. I am going to make sure you are trained, as we will not know when he returns, not until he is seen. But no one will know about your training. Now I did find out from Albus Dumbledore that there is a prophecy about you and Voldemort, one of you has to vanquish the other. I spoke with one of the unspeakables, who is in charge of the prophecy's. He is of the same opinion as I am, the prophecy was fulfilled that night. You did vanquish him. So even though the prophecy was fulfilled, Voldemort will want to prove he is more powerful than you, that is why I planned to make sure you are trained.'

'Can I learn with Harry?' Susan asked.

'Yes, that is also organised, along with your other close friends. It's just a precaution in case he goes after you and them. But they will be told it must remain a secret. Now as for Ronald Weasley, Albus Dumbledore wanted him to befriend you then keep you from learning too much, but also keep you loyal to him. I found out that Albus tried to sign a marriage contract for you and Molly Weasley was going to sign for her daughter. It was proven that Albus was not your guardian, nor was he named by your parents. If he was named then it would be known by the department of magical orphans. Also, some of the death eaters who paid their way out of Azkaban told their children to attack you, kill you if they could. I had two hit wizards on the Hogwarts express, hidden under disillusionment charms. They got to hear and see anyone who approached the compartment you were in. Draco Malfoy, Adrian Pucey and Marcus Flint along with a group of Slytherin's were going to surprise you. The others were to take care of Susan and the others with you. Malfoy, Pucey and Flint were the ones who were going to curse you. They are now in holding cells, until their trial, but I was able to question them using the truth potion. The information they gave me allowed my aurors to arrest twenty people who were death eaters and are still loyal to Voldemort. They got off the first time by saying they were under the imperius curse, they also paid a lot of bribes. They will now have the trials they should have had ten years ago, but this time I am allowed to use veritaserum. Because I will be using the truth potion, I will be able to get the names of anyone else that is still loyal to Voldemort or support the dark arts. There may be others who support him but they do not have the dark mark.'

'What's the dark mark?'

'It's a tattoo that Voldemort gave his death eaters. He uses it to call them, but he can use it to track them and punish them. That is all I have found out about that, at the moment. If there is anymore, I will find out. Now there is one more serious matter I need to explain to you Harry, it's not dangerous, just extremely upsetting, not just for you but for many people as well.'

Harry wondered what this was about, but at least he knew it was not dangerous. He already had a lot to think about, especially about Weasley's. He was glad that this marriage contract wasn't able to be signed. He hated Ron, thought the twins might be okay even if they made a lot of noise in the common room. Percy was okay even if he was a bit pompous. He would hate to be stuck with someone from that family.

'I will give you a bit of back story so you will know how this injustice happened. Right after you survived that night, death eaters went after everyone to try to find out what happened to Voldemort. Many good people were killed or cursed during that first few days. Two days after Voldemort disappeared, a man was arrested. Now from witness statements and investigation, which wasn't as thorough as it should have been, the man was sentenced to life in Azkaban. He was not given a trial as there seemed to be enough evidence that this man was a dangerous death eater and Voldemort's right hand man. What was known, or what we believed was true, this man was the secret keeper for your family and he gave the secret to Voldemort, which allowed him into your home that night. This man was best friend to your father.'

'My father's best friend betrayed him, betrayed us?'

'That is what we believe. It's not true Harry, this man was not a death eater or a supporter. He was set up by another death eater and a friend of your father's. You see Harry, your father had three best friends. The four boys called themselves the Marauders and did everything together. The one who did betray your family was a weak little wizard who mainly followed your father and the other two. Well, we all believed he was killed by this first man. He faked his death and set up the man for his murder and the murder of twelve others. What this comes down to Harry is, the man that really betrayed your family was found. He is now in Azkaban waiting for his trial. The man that we all believed betrayed your family was released and is now in St Mungo's being healed for ten years of exposure to dementors. The healer told me he will need months of intense healing and a lot of potions before he will be well enough to be released. He was your father's best man at your parent's wedding.'

'Will he be okay?'

Amelia smiled, Harry heard all this yet he was concerned for the man, 'He will be fine, it will just take a while. Now before I explain more about this man, you need to know that Albus Dumbledore knew he was innocent since he was the one that performed the fidelius charm on your parent's cottage. He also told the Wizengamot that this man was the secret keeper and he allowed Voldemort into your home, which killed your parent's. This man was the secret keeper at first, but he and your parent's talked and decided to switch because everyone would believe this man was the secret keeper since he was your father's best friend. Dumbledore made everyone believe the man was guilty, when he wasn't. He has also been arrested and is now in Azkaban, waiting for his trial.'

'So, Dumbledore wanted this man in jail, why?'

'Because if this man was free, he would have been your guardian, as he was named your godfather. This is where it gets difficult. Your godfather can still gain custody of you, if you want him to, but before you decide you need all the facts. His name is Sirius Black, or Padfoot is his nickname. He supported Albus Dumbledore and his order of the phoenix, his other best friend, Remus Lupin, also supports Albus. Sirius may not support him now that he knows the truth, but Remus will always support Albus. Or we believe he will. That is not my story to tell. But many friends that Sirius had back then are all supporters of Albus Dumbledore. Until Sirius has healed enough, I cannot talk to him to find out if he would stay loyal to these people and Dumbledore. If he does, then it would not be wise for you to live with him. If he is loyal to you and your parent's, then if you wanted, he could take his duty as godfather and raise you.'

'Aunty, you said it was two days after Voldemort disappeared when the man was arrested. Why didn't he take Harry right after if he was named godfather?' Susan asked.

'I only have some snippets of what happened back then, until I can question Sirius. From what I found out, Sirius went after the other man, Peter. Hagrid had been at the house, on Dumbledore's orders, to take Harry to him. Sirius had handed over his motorbike to Hagrid to get Harry to safety, then he went after Peter for betraying the Potters. That's all I know right now. All this has just come to light and I still have many people to question, including Sirius, Hagrid, Peter and Albus. What this comes down to Harry is Sirius was named by your parent's to be your guardian if anything happened to them. But until we know the full story, it would be difficult for me, as well as you to know if he should be your guardian or not. I knew a bit about Sirius and his friends, which include your father. They were pranksters and troublemakers. That was when they were at Hogwarts. Now your mother was completely different, yet she ended up married to James. From what I know, they all became a bit more serious as the war was heating up. Before that, I am sorry to say, but Sirius and your father were a bit arrogant and often bullied other students. They both came from rich families and old families. As I said, they changed because of the war. Lily on the other hand was a muggleborn, who happened to get top scores during her n.e.w.t.s and was a more studious person. She would not have trusted people like James and Sirius unless they did change. You, nor I can make a decision on any of this until Sirius has healed. But if you want, you can visit Sirius without living with him, if you prefer. Lily was a good friend and she did name me as a guardian if the first two could not. Sirius was named first, as godfather, Alice Longbottom was named second, as your godmother.'

'Did Mrs Longbottom die?'

'Mo, her and her husband, Frank were cursed by death eaters two days after your parent's were killed. Their minds snapped and will live out their days in the mind damage ward at St Mungo's. They were powerful aurors and captured a lot of death eaters. So, you see, you have a decision to make but until we get all the facts it will have to wait. Let me say this, I would have taken you the moment your parent's died, if Albus Dumbledore had not interfered. He had many supporters on the Wizengamot and at the ministry that he was able to use blood as the reason you should go to your aunt. Yes, it stopped death eaters from gaining custody of you, but he did it for his plans for you, not for your well being. I have given you a lot to think about, but I also have this for you. It's what I know of Sirius, along with your parent's, this is from when they began at Hogwarts up until that night. I want you to take your time, read this, think things over, talk to me, or even Susan and your other friends. Then you can make your final decision on who you want as your guardian.'

Harry took the file, 'Right now, I know I would like to stay with you and Susan. But I will do what you ask and read this and think about everything you've told me. If Sirius isn't loyal to Dumbledore, then I might get to know him, but stay here.'

'It will be your decision. Now since we only have a couple of weeks for the holidays, you won't be able to meet Sirius just yet, but I will organise for you to meet him during the Easter break. By then you will have a better understanding of everything. Why don't you go shower and get ready for bed. It's been a traumatic few days, I'm sure you are tired.'

'Yeah, I am and my head is buzzing with all this information,' Harry stood but so did Amelia and Susan. He gave Amelia a small smile before he hugged her then practically ran from the room.

Amelia sighed, 'Keep an eye on him Susan. He's had a lot of information in a short space of time. If he is going to talk, he may want to talk to you before he talks to me. He still has trust issues when it comes to adults.'

'I'll be here for him.'

'I know you will. I wish I could give him more information on Sirius so he could better understand. But right now, I can't speak with him due to how bad he is. I also have to speak with many more people, not just about what was going on back then, but what type of person Sirius was. I was close to Lily and I did get to know James, but I never got close to Sirius, Remus or Peter. It's late, you should also get ready for bed.'

Susan hugged her aunt then headed upstairs. Before she went to have her own shower, she wanted to see if Harry was okay. She saw him sitting on his bed, reading the file her aunt gave him. She would talk to him the following morning. Hopefully by then he would have read the file and know more so he could make a decision. She just hoped Harry would want to remain with her and her aunt.

Susan and Amelia didn't know it, but Harry had already decided. He wanted to remain with Susan and Amelia. Susan was already his best friend and Amelia had been kind to him and gave him a home. Sirius Black decided going after Peter was more important than taking his godson, who was only a baby at the time. To Harry, the man wanted revenge more than looking after Harry who had just lost his parent's and survived the killing curse. To Harry, Sirius Black was not the type of person who would make a good guardian, he was not responsible enough, where Amelia Bones was responsible and she was a good person.

Even though Harry was a little unsure about his new home and how things are, Susan and Amelia made him realise that this was his home now and he was to treat it like his home. The only room that was off limits was Amelia's office, unless she was in there, then the two children could enter, otherwise it was always locked. Amelia often brought work home with her and it was not stuff that children should see or read.

Amelia and Susan did take Harry shopping. Even though Harry had his own vault and money, Amelia refused to let Harry use his money for clothes. She paid for those. She did allow Harry to use his own money for other things, like Christmas gifts for his friends and Amelia. He had Susan help him with something for Amelia and he had Amelia's help finding something for Susan. He did get suggestions from Amelia and Susan about gifts for Hannah, Hermione and Neville. What Amelia and Susan didn't know was, Harry didn't expect anything for Christmas as he had never received a gift before. But when Harry was with Susan buying things for Amelia, Amelia was buying gifts for them. Susan did the same when Harry was with Amelia.

One thing that he liked was the swimming pool. Susan found out Harry couldn't swim, so she took it upon herself to teach him and it didn't take long before Harry was swimming the length of the pool. Hannah and Neville had visited, their homes were connected to the floo network so they were able to floo in. Hermione wrote, she was going away with her parent's, so she said she would see her friends when they returned to Hogwarts. Because Harry and Susan wouldn't see Hermione until after the holidays, they did use Harry's owl to send her their Christmas gifts they bought her. Hedwig hadn't had a lot to do so far, now at least he could deliver some gifts to one of Harry's friends.

On Christmas morning, Susan woke Harry then dragged him downstairs to the living room. Harry knew Susan was excited and wanted to open her gifts. He sat on the sofa and watched Susan separate the gifts. One of the house elves brought in cups of tea for them just as Amelia joined them.

'Let's start, Susan,' Amelia smiled then nodded.

Susan took one of the gifts and walked over to Harry, holding out the gift.

'What?'

'It's one of your gifts Harry. That's how we do it. We all open one at a time. Since you're the newest member of the family you get your gift first.'

Harry stared at the gift then to Susan and Amelia before looking at the brightly wrapped package.

'But I never get gifts.'

Amelia instantly moved up so she could wrap her arms around Harry, 'You do now. We're a real family and family that give each other things. So how about you take your first gift from your new family.'

Harry nodded, but instead of taking the gift, he wrapped his arms around Amelia and hugged her tight. She hugged him just as tight. Susan watched, but she had to wipe the tears from her cheek. She could not believe that Harry had never received any gifts before.

The two Bones woman watched as Harry very slowly and carefully unwrap his gift. He made sure not to rip the paper. He even folded it and left it sitting on his lap before he opened the box that had been wrapped. He held a leather wand holster for his wrist. They watched Harry as he carefully ran his fingers along the leather. He looked up at his new aunt and smile.

From then on, the three just kept opening gifts until all were open. Harry received more clothes, but he also received muggle games and jigsaw puzzles. One thing he loved was a ring made for boys to wear on their right ring finger. It had a griffin sitting on crossed wands. Amelia explained it was the Potter coat of arms and she was able to retrieve the ring from his family's vault. It will expand as he grows so it will always fit.

After they finished opening gifts, they went into the dinning room to have breakfast. While they were eating an owl flew into the room, it was carrying a parcel. The owl crashed into the table, splattering food everywhere.

'That's the Weasley's owl,' Harry said.

'Allow me Harry, then I will be sending these back with a note from you guardian to people you do not know and will not accept anything from them.'

'I don't want it, whatever it is.'

Once Amelia untied the parcel from the owl, one of the house elves took the owl up to the owlery so it could recover. She unwrapped the package to see a homemade green jumper with a h knitted into it. There was also a package of fruit mince pies. Amelia began to cast some charms, the pies glowed.

'I need to work for a few hours, but I will be finished in time for our Christmas dinner,' Amelia looked at Harry trying to decide if she should explain, then she realised too many people had already kept things from him, she was not going to do the same, 'It seems Mrs Weasley believes you are Ron's best friend who has never received any gifts before so she made you one, she makes them for all her family. Now as for the glow before, the pies have been dosed with a potion. Right now, I cannot tell you what type of potion. I need one of our healers to investigate. Either way, Molly Weasley is not going to be having a very good Christmas since she will be spending it in a holding cell.'

'Ron lied to her about us being friends, but I don't get why she would give me something like a potion.'

'There are many potions in our world Harry and not all of them are good for us. Just like the unforgivable curses, there are also potions that control people. The simplest is a love potion. If these pies had one of those then it could mean you will feel like you are in love with whoever the potion was made for. Since we do know that Molly and Albus tried to set up a marriage contract, I would say it was towards Ginny Weasley. But as I said I need a healer to examine the pies and determined exactly what potion was used. Go and enjoy yourselves and I will see you in a few hours. Just remember, tomorrow we're going away for a week so you'll need to pack tonight.'

Susan and Harry watched their guardian leave before they looked at each other, 'Love potions?' Harry asked.

'Many people use them, sometimes it just to give someone a push. It's like Neville who is very shy. He might like Hermione but is too scared to say anything, yet she may notice so she gives the potion which has a bit of her blood in it. From what I know of love potions, they only last a few hours.'

'Okay, but I'm sure the twins or Percy would have told their mother I don't like Ron and I told him I don't want anything to do with him.'

'Remember what Aunty said, how they are loyal to Dumbledore. If they are and he did have plans for you then they want you close to them. Making you believe you love Ginny Weasley would have you close to the whole Weasley family. Right now, if you get any mail, I think you should get Aunty to open it first.'

Harry sighed as he nodded, 'Yeah, I will. I just wish none of this was happening.'

Susan gave Harry a hug then took his hand and pulled him into the living room to play one of his new games. Since neither of them had ever played any of these games before they had to go over the rules first.

At the Burrow everyone was in shock. Aurors had stormed the house, stunned everyone before they placed shackles on Molly Weasley. The rest of the family was woken then they were questioned. Arthur offered to take veritaserum to show he had no idea what was going on. The aurors did use the truth potion on Arthur. He was innocent and knew nothing of what his wife had done. The aurors asked for permission to question the rest of the family using the truth potion. Arthur agree, that's when Ron and Ginny tried to run away, they were stunned again.

While all this was going on Harry and Susan had been having fun playing games. When they decided to have a break, then decided to go swimming. They took their gifts up to their rooms and use the bathroom. Harry found a package on his bed, wrapped in brightly coloured paper.

'Susan,' Harry called from the doorway.

A minute later Susan hurried towards Harry. She could see he looked scared, 'What's wrong?'

Harry pointed to the bed, 'I found it there, but I don't know how it got there. I didn't touch it but I noticed there wasn't a card.'

'Let's leave it until Aunty gets home. Come on,' Susan took Harry's hand and lead him downstairs and back into the living room.

Amelia arrived back at home a few hours later. Susan instantly told her what Harry had found.

'No one could get into the house without me lowering the wards or they already have access. Not even a house elf that isn't owned by the family could get in here. I will go see what it is. You two did the right thing, I'm proud of you.'

Amelia needed to tell Harry what happened but now she had something else to deal with. She also had to figure out how someone got into her home and leave something for Harry.

Susan could tell Harry was still scared so she just sat beside him and held his hand.

'Your safe Harry, Aunty will make sure you are.'

'I don't understand why all this is happening. Ron, Quirrell, Voldemort, packages from Ron's mum and now that mysterious package. How did it get in here?'

'Aunty will find out.'

Both looked up at the sound of footsteps, 'The package was…for the most part, harmless. This,' she held up a cloak, 'is an invisibility cloak, that belonged to your father. Whoever sent it to you said they borrowed it from your father and felt it was time it was returned to you. Before you can have it though Harry, I did find a few charms on it that should not be there. I plan to take it to someone I know who can remove them but also find out what these charms do. Once I know it's harmless, you can have it. I will allow you to take this to Hogwarts if you promise you will not use it to go against the rules or use it in a way that could put you in danger. This could be used to save you if something happened again, which I don't think it will. Professor McGonagall is having the wards updated so no one with dark objects or dark souls can get into the castle. That includes anyone with a dark mark.'

'But how did it end up here?' Susan asked.

'I will find out. I checked for magical residue. It was not a person, owl or house elf. Try not to let this ruin your day Harry. Everything will be okay, I promise.'

'Okay, but I'm not sure I should use that even if it's safe. Someone sent it to me without telling me who they are and somehow got into here. I might wait until I'm older, a lot older.'

Amelia smiled, 'You are very wise Harry. If that's your decision I support you. I will keep it in my office after it has been checked for spells. If at any time you wish to have it, just ask and I will get it for you. I believe you are doing the right thing.'

Amelia, Susan and Harry had a good time eating their Christmas dinner. It was one time that Amelia insisted the house elves join them. Since they would be freed if given clothes, Amelia always gets them wool or material so they can make things for themselves. One thing Amelia changed once she took over Bones manor, she had a uniform made for the elves. She did not like them wearing t-towels as clothes. She never gave the elves the uniform, she gave them a picture and the material so they could make them, which they did.

Harry got to have his first real holiday and he got to see the ocean. Amelia took him and Susan to Hawaii, where they spent most of the time on the beach or in the water. They returned home two days before Susan and Harry were due to return to Hogwarts.

Amelia called the two children into the living room, 'I had the charms removed from the cloak. Albus Dumbledore had the cloak and yes, he did borrow it from your father a few weeks before they died. It should have been placed in your vault, he kept it. I found out that there were tracking charms on them and they were linked to a few people. Dumbledore and Snape were two who would be able to find you any time if you had the cloak on you or you were wearing it. It was also linked to Ron, Ginny and Molly Weasley. I have not been able to find out why Albus borrowed the cloak when your family were in danger. We know he wanted to always know where you were. But there were some other charms, darker charms on the cloak. So far, my friend has not been able to find out exactly what the charms do, but he said he would continue to work on this until he does find out. But they are removed so the cloak is safe to use, if you want to.'

'I'd rather not, at least not yet.'

'Then I'll leave it in my office until you do.'

'Will anything happen with Ron and Ginny Weasley?' Susan asked.

'I spoke with their father, he is a good man. When he found out about everything his wife and Albus had done, not to mention his two youngest children, he was very upset. He has decided that Ron and Ginny will not be doing their education at Hogwarts. They will be taught by family members. You can get a special permission given to you if you have legitimate reasons, but any magic taught has to be done at the ministry between 9 and 4. I was told that Ron would have repeated first year, which is when Arthur decided that they will not return. Their family is very low income and sending so many to Hogwarts puts a strain on their finances. This will help them but it will also stop them causing problems for you. He believes they can be changed since they won't be at Hogwarts. Their mother has basically brainwashed them with stories of you and how you will eventually be part of their family and help them, financially. Being away from Hogwarts and their mother, will hopefully teach them right from wrong. Arthur is going to keep a close eye on them and Minerva is going to keep an eye on the twins and Percy. So far, they are not involved and none of us believe they will get involved. This is just a precaution.'

'Okay, I feel better knowing they won't be there. I would always been wondering what they were going to do.'

'Yes, you would, which is understandable. Now though, it's late and you have a long day tomorrow.'

Susan hugged her aunt while Harry watched, then like before, he hugged Amelia before running from the room.

'He will be safe, won't he?'

'Yes, what I have only just worked out is for an auror to be at Hogwarts. She will be taking defence against the dark arts and she will be head of Gryffindor, for now. She always hoped to teach once she knew her auror career was over. She just decided to leave a few years earlier than she planned. She is going to be keeping an eye on everyone but especially anyone that pays attention to Harry.'

Susan couldn't help smiling. She thought something had to be done or Harry would never relax.

Harry, Susan, Hannah, Neville and Hermione shared a compartment on the Hogwarts express. There were hit wizards in the corridor again but this time, there was no trouble from any of the students. Fred and George did visit, to say how sorry they were for everything their mother, brother and sister had done or were going to do.

'Amelia told me you weren't involved, so you don't really need to apologise.'

'We know Harry,' Fred said.

'We know it was the right thing to do,' George said.

'They won't be at Hogwarts,' Fred said.

'But we'll watch your back, just in case,' George said.

'Thanks,' Harry gave the twins a smile before they left, 'I've never seen them two look so serious before.'

'It's why Aunty is keeping their names out of it. They don't want people going after the others just because of what their mother, brother and sister had done or were going to do,' Susan said.

'Even though I understand why you would be concerned, I believe everything will be alright now,' Hermione said.

'I think Hermione's right,' Neville said.

'I hope so.'

The friends knew Harry would not believe everything would be fine until nothing happened, especially to him. They would be keeping an eye out for anything strange or unusual but like Harry, they really hoped nothing was going to happen.

Over the next few months Harry did begin to relax. He spent time with his friends. He enjoyed his classes and there was no trouble from anyone.

Amelia did take Harry to meet Sirius. Before she did she explained to Harry what she found out once she questioned Sirius. Even though Harry had made up his mind months before, he never told anyone. Right then he told Amelia he would prefer to remain with her and Susan.

Harry spoke with Sirius and he told the man that he would be living with Amelia and Susan. Susan was one of his best friends. Sirius wasn't happy about it at all. That's when Harry said then he should have taken him from the moment his parents had been murdered instead of handing him over to Dumbledore, who left him to be hurt and that continued for years. Sirius wasn't thinking of Harry back then, so Harry wasn't going to let Sirius make him feel bad. He turned around and asked Amelia if they could go home. Amelia gave Sirius a look before taken Harry home.

Harry found out that the Slytherin students who was going to attack Harry on the train had been expelled which means they can never own a wand again. Draco Malfoy, Marcus Flint and Adrian Pucey was also sent to the minimum security cells at Azkaban for two years. After they have been released, they will be monitored and visited at random times. If they have found to do anything illegal, they will return to Azkaban. Their fathers were now doing life in Azkaban and their mothers only got off as they had no idea about the plans to harm Harry Potter, they also didn't have the dark mark so they weren't questioned with veritaserum. The aurors plan to keep an eye on them, just in case.

The last couple of months were normal for Harry and his friends. There was no trouble from anyone and some of the Slytherin students had begun to make friends with students from other houses.

Once their tests were over, all the students, from first year to seventh years, cheered making the staff laugh. They had seen that many times before and would see it again in years to come.

The new headmistress stared around at the students while they enjoyed the leaving feast but her eyes lingered on Harry Potter. She was pleased that she could help the boy and now she could see just how better he was. He looked healthy and he was a very happy boy. Minerva had no idea what Albus planned for Harry, she was just glad that he was gone and Harry was finally with people who cared about him. She would keep her eyes open and make sure there wasn't more people who tried to get close to Harry, for Albus. He might be in Azkaban but it didn't mean he hadn't made plans with many people before he was sent to jail. No matter what, she would make sure Harry Potter got to be a normal student while he was at Hogwarts.

The end: