Standard Disclaimer: I own nothing, I'm dirt poor and JK Rowlings owns it all.

Hogwarts, Headmasters office…

Albus Dumbledore was sitting at his desk enjoying a cup of tea with Hestia Jones and Remus Lupin, having just finished discussing the evenings security arrangements for the arrival of the Express. Some four hundred students would be arriving in just over two hours, and parents around the country had insisted that the children be given an Auror escort from Hogsmeade to the school.

All the plans were in place, and in a little over one and a half hours the train station would have 20 Aurors, plus another 10 Order members watching over things.

Suddenly, a fire call came in from Poppy Pomfrey. "Headmaster, the Express has arrived early. They are showing the signal for a medical emergency. There's no security at the platform!"

"Poppy, alert all of the teachers, have them assemble and portkey to the station immediately. Hestia, return to headquarters and bring everyone there to the station right now."

Dumbledore pulled out a sheet of parchment and mumbled "Portus", and then turned to Remus. "Come Remus, let us go help."

What has gone wrong now? Things were going so well!
Hogsmeade Station…

At the train station the scene was one of chaos. Most students did not know why they had arrived early and were piling out of the train. Prefects were shouting for people to line up by year and frantically looking for the carriages to take them to the castle. There was no sign of Hagrid to collect the first years. Tonks, Ron, Neville, Luna, Hermione and Ginny refused to leave Harry's side. Finally Tonks sent Ron out to look for a teacher, anyone. Neville's hands trembled as he continued to maintain the difficult spell, but clearly his strength was waning.

Suddenly, teachers started arriving via portkey and order members apparated around the train station in such numbers, it sounded like popcorn popping. Ron, spotting Molly Weasely, ran to her. "Mum! It's Harry. He's hurt real bad."

Molly turned white and hurried to the train, followed closely by Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey. Dumbledore turned his wand on himself, amplifying his voice.

"Prefects, escort your classmates to their houses, the carriages will be here shortly. Hagrid take the first years to the great hall, it looks like we'll have the welcoming feast a little early." Dumbledore turned to follow McGonagall, but the chaos at the station prevented it. None of the Hogwarts house-elves had arrived yet and the station was quickly piling up with trunks and creatures. He'd have to stay here and trust McGonagall and Poppy to handle the problem on the train for at least a few more minutes.

Madam Pomfrey entered the cabin where Harry lay, with a quick glance at Neville she nodded. "Smart thinking, Mr. Longbottom! Now, lets get him portkeyed back to the infirmary. Can you hold on a few more minutes Mr. Longbottom?"

Neville nodded wearily. Madam Pomfrey produced a portkey, which she laid on Harry's chest. Everyone grabbed at either the portkey or Harry; in an instant they were gone. Molly wrung her hands and rushed from the train. The students were milling about as most of the carriages were just now beginning to arrive. Spotting Remus and Tonks talking, Molly hurried over to Remus. Tonks nodded once to Molly and disapparated. She was after all, an Auror, and a crime had been committed.

"We've got to get up to the castle Remus, its Harry!"

"I know, Tonks just told me. Let's grab one of these carriages and get up there now."

Up in the infirmary, they levitated Harry into one of the beds. Ginny refused to leave his side. Madam Pomfrey performed a scanning spell, and then turned to Neville. "Alright, Mr. Longbottom, you can cancel your spell."

Neville slumped back, exhausted. Ron and Luna caught him and laid him out on another bed.

Madam Pomfrey placed a fire call to Professor Snape. "Severus, I need four units of blood replenishment potions and a lung clearer potion as quick as you can! Oh, and bring a high fever reducer also!" Without waiting for a reply she turned back to Harry and started to repair his damaged ribs.

Madam Pomfrey looked at Hermione, Ron and Luna and told them to go to their houses. Snape arrived with the potions and she quickly administered them, and then sat back. "Well, that's all we can do for the moment. I think he's out of danger at least."

Madam Pomfrey went into her office and returned with a camera and a handful of forms. She looked at Professors Snape and McGonagall. "I know this isn't going to be tasteful, but we need to strip him down so I can document these injuries. I'll need your help and you'll have to sign as witnesses."

Both Snape and McGonagall looked startled. Snape coughed and McGonagall asked "Why Poppy? Why are you documenting this?"

"Minerva, these injuries weren't caused by magic! The boy's been beaten badly. He probably wouldn't have survived at all had it not been for the quick thinking of Mr. Longbottom over there." She pointed at the sleeping Neville. "We have to document this and report it to the Aurors, I don't know who did this, but they nearly killed him."

Ginny whispered, "It was his Uncle." She looked up at Madam Pomfrey who stared down at her in shock. "Harry told me that his Uncle used to beat him fairly often. Back in the summer of his second year, my brothers rescued him from them; he was locked in his room with bars on the windows. They were starving him. I didn't think anything about it! I thought he only meant a spanking like we all got growing up!" She choked back a sob. Snape's normal frowned deepened and Professor McGonagall looked positively furious.

The three adults traded glances and Professor McGonagall turned to Ginny, her look softened. "Miss Weasely lets give Professor Snape and Madam Pomfrey a few minutes to do what they have to do. Why don't we go visit Neville for a bit? Then you can come back to Harry."

Ginny reluctantly put Harry's hand down on the bed; she softly straightened out his hair a bit and got up to follow Professor McGonagall. Madam Pomfrey conjured some curtains to hide the bed and Harry from view.

Professor McGonagall and Ginny sat next to Neville's bed for what seemed like a very long time as a light flashed behind the curtain. After about 15 minutes, Remus and Molly came rushing into the infirmary. Ginny bolted over to her Mum and grabbed her, sobbing uncontrollably. Professor McGonagall walked over to Remus and Molly. "He's out of danger now. Madam Pomfrey is with him at the moment, along with Severus. She has to document his injuries before she can finish treating him."

At this point Neville sat upright in his bed. "Wha…? HARRY! Is he ok?"

For the first time in his life Neville saw a sight he didn't believe possible. To be frank, it was nearly enough to send Neville back into unconsciousness. Professor McGonagall smiled warmly at him. "Aye, that he is Mr. Longbottom. Oh, and 50 points to Griffyndor for your quick actions. Madam Pomfrey says you saved his life. Now, since your feeling better, why don't you head back to your house and get settled in."

Neville got up shakily and started to wobble to the door. Fifty points? He never earned that kind of points before! As he passed Molly and Ginny, Ginny grabbed his arm.

"Thank you Neville!"

Neville nodded and Ginny released him and wobbled his way out the door with a look of pure shock on his face.

Neville passed Dumbledore on his way out. Dumbledore was just arriving after having seen all the students safely to the school, the sound of the camera and the flash still coming from behind the curtains. Finally the sounds stopped and the curtains were banished. Harry was dressed in infirmary pajamas and starting to look a lot better as Madam Pomfrey attended to the bruising. A tall dark man entered the infirmary silently. Madam Pomfrey looked up while Snape made duplicates of the forms and photos. "It was close, a lot closer than I'd like. He'll wake up in an hour or two." She looked at the dark man. "And you are?"

He stepped forward. And spoke with an American accent.

"Excuse me ma'am, I just arrived. I'm Auror William Hill, from the office of child protective services. I take it you have the documentation already for me? Director Bones flooed me personally after the incident was reported; she's directed me to investigate this case. So here I am."

Dumbledore winced at hearing that; this was the last thing he wanted. Official involvement was going to make this a mess.

Madam Pomfrey handed over the copies to Mr. Hill.

"Since you expect him to wake in two hours, I'll return in three hours. I'll be bringing a Magistrate and a Mind Healer along with me. Often in these cases a Mind Healer helps to get the victim to talk. It's fortunate, tonight we have one of our best empaths on duty."

Dumbledore spoke up. "Is all this really necessary?" Nearly everyone in the room scowled at him. It was important that Harry get better of course, but having the Ministry involved would only complicate matters.

Auror Hill looked at his sharply. "Headmaster, you of all people should know that protecting our children is critical! Harry arrived at the school nearly dead. The law is quite specific on this point."

Dumbledore sighed and nodded in acceptance.

Remus leaned over and whispered something in Molly's ear. "Ginny dear, why don't you go sit with Harry while I go have a talk with Remus."

Ginny nodded and walked back over to Harry, taking his hand again. Dumbledore looked surprised and not quite pleased at what he was seeing. Molly and Remus left the infirmary.

Dumbledore turned to leave. There was the Welcoming feast to attend to.

Molly and Remus…

Molly and Remus found themselves an empty classroom to talk in.

"Remus, what is it that's so important?"

Remus explained how James and Lily had wanted Harry to go to either Sirius or himself after their death, about how Dumbledore had violated their wishes and placed Harry with the Dursley's. He also told her what little he knew about Harry's life, prior to Hogwarts. Molly's expression grew darker. Finally winding down, Remus looked at Molly.

"I have to ask a favor of you and Arthur, Molly. I can't legally adopt Harry. The anti-werewolf laws prevent that. I can't even be his guardian. Would you and Arthur be willing to take him in? He needs a home and parents so badly. He's had a bad life and a great task ahead of him. He needs the stability and love that only parents like you and Arthur can provide. Harry and I inherited fortunes, I'll gladly pay all of the legal expenses, and I'd burn all those galleons to see him happy. All I ask is can I be his uncle?" The pleading expression in his eyes was plain.

Molly smiled at Remus; clearly the man loved Harry like a son, but was in a tight spot due to the anti-werewolf laws. Molly embraced him with a warm hug. "Welcome to the family, Uncle Remus!"

Remus smiled at her. "Thank you, for myself and for Harry."

Molly and Remus left the classroom. Both had calls to place. Important calls.

Harry…

Molly and Ginny sat with Harry. A house elf had brought them both something to eat earlier. Professor Dumbledore had been up once to visit and left briefly after seeing Harry still unconscious. Ginny still held his hand and talked quietly with her Mum.

Slowly, Harry started stirring, and then he opened his eyes. He blinked and murmured "I really need to ask Madam Pomfrey to reserve a bed for me in here."

He looked around; his body ached from his head to his toes. Ginny? "Ginny? Is that you?" He fumbled around looking for his glasses, but couldn't find them.

"Where are my glasses? I can't see anything without them." He started to sit up, but two hands pressed him back down.

Ginny helped him get more comfortable. "Welcome back love. You scared us for a while there, but you're going to be fine." She smoothed the hair on his head, and then ran her hand along his cheek. Harry closed his eyes and leaned into her hand with a small smile.

Molly was amazed. She always knew that Ginny liked Harry, but had no idea it had progressed to his point. After all, Ginny hadn't seen or wrote to Harry over the summer and they didn't seem to be that close back at Kings Crossing at the end of the last school term. She was pleased, but her mother's instincts clearly said something had happened between the two of them during the summer.

Harry then he heard Mrs. Weasely's voice. "Just relax, dear. Arthur will be here soon. He's taking care of a few things with Remus first, and then he'll bring you a new pair of glasses. Harry, in a little while, some people will be coming in to talk to you. Arthur, Remus and myself will be here with you to help you. I want you to know that everything is going to turn out alright."

Harry nodded silently, wondering what was happening. "Can Ginny stay also Mrs. Weasely?"

"Are you sure about that Harry? Some of the questions are bound to be very painful for you."

"I think it's important that she be here. I'm not sure why, but I think it's important that she hear the answers also."

"Very well Harry. She'll be right here with you, but in the meantime I'd like to talk to her for a moment."

Ginny followed her mother over to the entrance of the infirmary. Molly eyed her carefully.

"Ginny dear, Harry wants you here and I'm not sure that's a really good idea, but I want you to try very hard to control your emotions. The process Harry is going to be undergoing with the empath is easily disrupted if Harry gets upset because you're upset. I don't think any one of us is going to like what we hear tonight, least of all Harry. Be strong for him. I promise it's going to be better."

Ginny nodded at her mother and they both returned to his bedside. Harry's vision was such that without his glasses he really had a difficult time telling people apart. But Ginny was shorter than her mother, so that made it easier for him. He watched the two red headed blurs sit down and he smiled.

"This is nice. I'm with my two favorite red heads. Well, the color red anyway. For all I know, you," he said, pointing at Molly, "could be Professor Snape wearing a wig." Ginny giggled.

Madam Pomfrey came out of her office and walked over to Harry. She clucked over him for a few minutes.

"Well Mr. Potter, I see managed to survive once again. I swear I should put a sign over this bed reading, 'Reserved for Harry Potter!'" Both Molly and Ginny laughed, and explained to Madam Pomfrey that Harry had said much the same thing when he awoke.

"I'll have dinner sent up after you're done with your visitors, Mr. Potter. Then I have this nice dreamless sleep potion for you to drink." With that Madam Pomfrey returned to her office.

The double doors to the infirmary swung open and a small crowd of people came in. Arthur Weasely handed Ginny a pair of glasses that she put on Harry. Suddenly everything came into focus. Harry looked around; there was Remus, Mr. & Mrs. Weasely, Ginny, Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape, and four people he didn't know.

"Enchanted glassed Harry, they adapt to your own eyes. I didn't have time to go to a muggle eye glass store, which I'm sure would have been fascinating!" Said Mr. Weasely

"Thank you Mr. Weasely. I don't feel comfortable without my glasses on."

Arthur moved over to stand next to Ginny, followed by both Molly and Remus. Ginny tightened her grip on Harry's hand. Remus seeing that broke into a wide grin.

"I think Lily would approve cub. Another red head."

Harry blushed.

One of the strangers spoke up.

"Harry, we met briefly earlier, but you weren't in any condition to meet people. I'm Auror William Hill, but you can call me Bill. I represent the Ministry of Magic, Department of Child Protective Services. We're going to ask you some questions, but I want to make it clear from the start, you are NOT in trouble. Take your time answering the questions. Relax; we'll all here to help you. We'll try to make this as easy as possible for you."

Auror Hill then turned to the man next to him and pointed, "This is Magistrate Janicak. He's the one that will be asking you some questions. Mind Healer Sorenson," he continued, pointing to a short, mousy haired woman, "is here to help you answer the questions."

Magistrate Janicak conjured a table and chair and sat down. He pulled some parchment and an enchanted quill out of his case and said "Right, let's get started then. This is a preliminary hearing into the incident at Hogsmeade station concerning Harry James Potter. It will be the intent of these proceedings to investigate and, if necessary, take steps to insure the safety of Mr. Potter. I'd like all those present to identify themselves for the record please. Please state your name and why you're here." On the table next to the Magistrate, the quill scribbled furiously, taking notes.

"Auror William Hill. Caseworker and friend of the court in regards to the current status of Harry James Potter."

"Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts. It is my intent to take petition for Guardianship of Mr. Potter."

Harry tensed and glared at that murmuring, "Over my dead body." Arthur Weasely touched Harry on the shoulder and told him to relax.

"Remus Lupin, a close family friend of Harry's parents."

"Professor Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress and the head of Mr. Potter's house here at school."

"Severus Snape, Potions Master for Hogwarts."

"Barrister Parton, I represent Arthur and Molly Weasely and the rest of the Weasely family. I have already filed preliminary paperwork to the court with regards to beginning formal guardian rights for Harry James Potter." He handed papers over to the Magistrate.

Dumbledore looked shocked at this, shooting an inquisitive look at Arthur and Molly.

Magistrate Janicak looked up saying, "I suppose all the red heads in here belong to the Weasely family?" Arthur, Molly and Ginny nodded. The magistrate looked at Ginny. "Miss, I'm not so sure this is something you should be partaking in."

Harry spoke up. "I asked her to be here Sir. I know some of this won't be pleasant, but it's important to me that she be here."

"Very well then, Healer Sorenson, if you would be so kind, we can begin." The woman sat on the edge of Harry's bed and smiled. "Just relax Harry and let me hold your hand Harry. This isn't going to hurt you and I'll do my best to keep you calm." She took his hand.

Harry felt himself drifting. His eyes fluttered rapidly and it felt like he was somewhere in that place between being asleep and awake. From a great distance, he heard a voice saying, "Magistrate, his mind shields are too strong. I can keep him calm, but can't reach his memories directly. We'll have to ask questions and go with verbal replies. He should be nearly asleep now and the shields are rock steady. Astounding!"

Then another voice asked, "Harry, please tell us what happened to you."

"Uncle Vernon beat me a couple days before I was supposed to leave for Hogwarts. I accidentally bumped into him coming out of my room. He hit me in the head before I could defend myself then dragged me back into my room by my hair. I don't remember much after that. I do remember Aunt Petunia came into the room to tell him dinner was ready, I think I might have passed out after that. When I woke up, it was nearly time to go to the train station."

"Did your Aunt Petunia do anything to stop your Uncle?"

"No, never. Sometimes she'd even help him hit me."

"Did they hit you often Harry?"

"All the time, before I got my first Hogwarts letter and Hagrid rescued me. Not so much after I started going to Hogwarts. Couple times a summer I guess. That's why I never wanted to go back there, but Dumbledore insisted, even when Molly and Arthur Weasely said I was welcome in their home for the summer."

"Did they do anything else besides hitting you?"

"Yes, they always called me names. Freak, strange, they always insulted me or my parents or the wizarding world. They also sometimes kept me from eating for days at a time. They made me sleep in the cupboard under the stairs until I was sent to Hogwarts. Then I was allowed to move my mattress into Dudley's old toy room."

"Ok Harry, I want you to think back. What is the first memory you have of your Aunt and Uncle?"

"I'm three. Dudley, my cousin is playing in the living room. I come out of the cupboard and pick up one of the toys. Dudley starts to cry. Aunt Petunia rushes into the living room, kicks me in the stomach and drags me back to the cupboard."

Ginny reached up to grab her father's hand. Molly looked horrified, and then buried her head into Arthur's shoulder. Remus's face contorted he looked like he was about to break down and weep. Professor McGonagall looked like she was planning on visiting the Dursley's herself, and deducting points would be the last thing she had on her mind.

Albus Dumbledore was surprised at what he was hearing, but was outwardly calm. He knew thing hadn't been easy for Harry, but never really suspected that things were that bad.

"How about another memory Harry? Tell us about your sixth birthday, Harry."

"It's morning. Uncle Vernon is screaming because I haven't finished cooking breakfast. I burn my hand on hot grease trying to get the slices out of the pan and start to cry. Uncle Vernon tries to kick me, but I dodge and he misses my body. He's kicked my arm. My arm is bent funny and hurts so much. Aunt Petunia grabs me by that arm and throws me back into the cupboard. They don't let me out until Monday morning. I'm in there three days. I'm so hungry it hurts, my arm hurts, hurts hurts hurts…"

"Magistrate, you better wrap this up, he's feeling real pain now and the backlash of continued questioning is going to be very hard to deal with."

The Magistrate looked at Auror Hill. "Do you have enough information?" Hill nodded grimly. "Very well Healer Sorenson, bring him out of it."

Harry jerked like someone had kicked him. That calm floating feeling was completely gone and, like a tidal wave, the horrors of those memories came crashing down on him. The use of the mind healer had brought all those deeply suppressed memories to the front. His face screwed up and he curled into a fetal position on the bed, sobbing uncontrollably. Molly took one look and swept him into her arms. Ginny frowned at Molly.

"Right now he needs his mum more dear," Molly said, looking at her daughter gently. Ginny suddenly understood. There is a time for lovers to hold each other, and a time for a mother to hold her child. She grinned at Molly.

Madam Pomfrey appeared, a calming draught in her hand. It took both Madam Pomfrey and Molly several minutes to coax the draught into him.

The Magistrate had watched all this dispassionately. He had noted the adult reactions during and after the session with Harry. Filling out some paperwork, he handed it to Arthur's barrister. "I'm granting temporary custody of Harry James Potter to Molly and Arthur Weasely. This order will become permanent unless a petition for a formal custody hearing occurs within the next 30 days. It is the opinion of this Magistrate, and I will personally testify to such, that the Weasely's are obviously capable parents, and Harry will do well placed there. Auror Hill has, in my opinion, enough information to follow up with an arrest warrant for Petunia and Vernon Dursley. Their son Dudley, as a minor, will have his memory oblivated and be sent to live with his paternal aunt. I hearby declare these proceedings closed."

Harry looked up at Molly and whispered "Does this mean Ginny is my sister now and I can't date her?"

Molly smiled. "No love, you can still date her. Who knows, we might make a Weasely out of you yet. Now rest love, we're here for you."

Harry closed his eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep.

Madam Pomfrey put the dreamless sleep potion she had been holding away. Obviously, Harry wouldn't need it tonight. Some things, she thought, are even better than potions.

Griffyndor Common Room…

Ron, Neville and Hermione waited up anxiously for Ginny to return from the infirmary. At this point, they had no idea how Harry was and no one saw fit to provide them with any updates. Ron and Neville tried to pass the time with some wizard's chess and exploding snap, but, like Hermione reading her book, they had trouble concentrating on what they were doing. Eventually the three of them migrated to the large couch in front of the fire and just stared into it.

The door to the common room swung open. Ginny walked in and, seeing the three of them still up, gave them all a wan smile. She sat next to Hermione on the edge of the couch and closed her eyes briefly before speaking.

"Can you imagine growing up in a place where everyone hates you and treats you worse than any house-elf? Where you're beaten regularly? How Harry could have gone through all that and still be so kind and gentle and giving is beyond me."

Ron spoke up. "So, are you going to tell us what happened or not?"

Ginny sighed. "Ok, here's the short story Ron. Mum and Dad have become Harry's guardians. The Dursley's are to be arrested and sent to Azkaban if, they are lucky. Harry will be living with us from now on. Harry's fine now. Madam Pomfrey will probably let him out in time for tomorrow's breakfast. In the meantime, I think I'll go to bed. I learned tonight that there are some things even worse than Tom Riddle and I don't really want to talk about it."

Hermione looked worriedly at Ron, gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, and then followed Ginny up the girls' staircase. Ron and Neville shrugged to each other and headed up to bed.

Hermione got ready for bed, but decided to check on Ginny first. Approaching Ginny's bed, she could see a small light peeking from behind the curtains. Ginny sat on the bed, her knees pulled up close. Hermione climbed into the bed and cast an Impertable charm around the bed, so their talking wouldn't wake anyone. The light of a small, ever-lasting candle lit the interior of the bed. Ginny looked at Hermione, tears streaming down her face.

"How can someone be so cruel to a child 'Mione? Oh Merlin, the things they did to him." she sniffled. "Did you know, on his sixth birthday, they broke his arm and then locked him in that cupboard for three days? I keep thinking about Tom Riddle. He was badly treated also. How could he turn out so bad and Harry so good?"

Hermione pulled Ginny into an embrace. "He's good because his heart is in the right place Ginny. And he has you to see it stays there. I don't know why some people do what they do. Harry could have easily turned out as bad or even worse than Tom, but he didn't and he's not going to."

Ginny and Hermione talked long into the night.

The Dursley's Residence, 4 Privet Drive...

The door opened silently. It was late as the six-man extraction team moved in with a minimum of fuss. Within three minutes, the two elder Dursley's were on the way to the Ministry of Magic, under arrest. Dudley was obliviated and sent to his Aunt Marge's to live.

12 Grimmauld Place…

Tonks entered the bedroom, her nightshirt cut to just above mid thigh, a towel about her neck. She padded along the floor and slipped under the covers snuggling up to Remus. Remus lay in the bed with a dreamy smile on his face. Tonks propped her head up on one arm and looked at him.

"What are you on about? You normally only smile like that after… you know…" she blushed and stammered to a halt.

Remus turned his head and brushed a finger down her cheek. "Harry. Somehow, I just have this feeling that Lily, James and Sirius are smiling right now."

Tonks smiled at Remus. She laid one arm across his chest and her head on his shoulder. They were both asleep in minutes.

Slytherin House, Private Quarters…

In his private quarters, Severus Snape sat on couch staring into the fire, brooding. He was good at 'brooding'. The hooked nose, long, lanky hair and dark menacing attitude had served him well over the years. Not least of which to keep a bunch of sniveling students in line. Education through intimidation was his motto. Besides, if the little buggers were worried about him, it left them less time to try to blow each other up in his class.

But this time, his broody silence had a cause. Potter! It always comes back to Potter, he thought. Attention seeking do-gooder! Just like his damn father. Every time I turn around, I'm tripping over the boy, or cleaning up after him. The perfect bloody Griffyndor! Why couldn't he just…

Snape's thin lips twisted into a bitter grimace, and he shifted uncomfortably on the couch. While he was an accomplished liar, he made it a point never to lie to himself. And that was just what he was doing. However much he may dislike it, his view of Potter had changed, significantly, in the last few hours.

How could anyone do that to a child, he asked himself. It makes no sense. They started beating this child at the age of three? The real surprise is, not only did Harry survive, but he also managed to hang on to the ability to trust. How…

His reverie was interrupted by the presence of a hand, holding out a glass of brandy. Taking the glass and glancing up, he smiled his thanks to the striking woman standing before him.

She sat, curling into the corner of the couch so she could turn and face him comfortably. He went back to staring at the fire, thinking.

"What has you looking so ominous tonight? I know it can't be your first years melting their cauldrons," she teased. "Classes haven't started yet!"

Severus leaned back and sipped his brandy. How to explain?

"Serena, you know about my…dislike, for Harry Potter. Merlin knows I've ranted about that boy enough times to you. You know my history with his father and godfather. Hell, I've told you about the incident with Lupin."

"I remember," Serena said, confused. "And you know my feelings on the matter. Why you continue to hold James Potter's actions against his son, I'll never know. It's one of the few bones of contention between us. In all honesty Severus, has the boy ever done anything to you? How could he? He's a child!"

Snape pinched the bridge of his nose, and then sat up. Placing the brandy snifter on the table, he turned to look at the woman beside him. She stared him, her large almond shaped blue eyes pleading for …something. Answers? Oh how he wished he could give her some!

"I'm trying to explain, Serena. I'm going to fumble it a bit, I'm sure. I've had a rather rude awakening tonight, and I'm finding myself in the uncomfortable position of having to reevaluate everything I thought to be correct."

Sitting up, the woman tossed her waist length white curly hair behind her shoulders before reaching out and touching his arm. "What's happened, Severus?"

"You know that the Hogwarts Express arrived early today. Turns out, Potter…" Snape ran one hand down his face and cleared his throat. "Harry was injured at home. Badly. No one knew about it until after the train left the station. His injuries were so bad. Once he was taken to the infirmary, Poppy examined him. I was there. Merlin! The boy had broken ribs! Some of the fragments pierced his lung. Had he not gotten to the infirmary when he did, had one of his friends not cast a sustaining spell on him on the train, he would have died!"

The woman looked at him in puzzled horror. "Severus, I know some of the students can get out of hand on the train, but surely…"

"It wasn't a student!" Snape snarled. "His family did it. His family beat him!" His bitter laugh shocked Serena. "Oh yes, Serena. His aunt and uncle nearly beat the boy to death! For the last five years, I've punished that child for the sins of his father. I've punished him for thinking he was a pampered prince, another Draco Malfoy. I've punished him for being a Griffyndor. Hell Serena, I punished him for the perfect life I assumed he had. Fame, fortune and a fabulous home life! The perfect Harry Potter. And the whole time…the whole fucking time, the boy was suffering something no child should go through!"

"Severus, you're not responsible for what happened to the boy at home. While you may have been unfair to him here at school, your actions didn't cause his family to beat him. Unless you've been sending his aunt and uncle owls I don't know about," she asked, gently teasing.

"Damnit Serena, this isn't funny!" Snape stood and started to pace. "Nothing about this is funny. You wouldn't be teasing if you'd seen his body in the infirmary! He was covered in bruises. Some no older than two days! He spends months in this school, away from that 'family' of his. It's probably the only break he gets from the abuse. And what do I do? Heap it on! That's what I'm good at. I've picked on that child since day one, for no better reason than his name. Potter!"

Serena stood and stopped his pacing by the simple means of standing in front of him. Snape rocked back on his heels and met her eyes. "Serena…" he said, painfully.

She wrapped her arms around him and held him tight. "Severus, listen to me. There was no way you could have known what Harry was going through. I agree that your treatment of the boy has been deplorable. But that's not simply because he was abused. You've behaved this way because you've never been able to let go of what happened between you and James. Even with this new information, if you don't let go of the past, you'll be stuck in it forever. And while I'm certainly glad you're beginning to realize the magnitude of your mistake, I hope it's not only because the child's been abused. Can't you see him as an individual, rather than an extension of his father? He's not James, Severus. He's Harry. He doesn't even remember his father."

Snape finally wrapped his arms around her and rested his chin on the top of her white curls. "I find myself in the rare position of having no idea what I'm supposed to do or feel. Obviously everything I thought about Pott…Harry was incorrect. But it's not like I can suddenly befriend the boy, Serena. I'd send him screaming to the infirmary in terror if I tried." He growled in frustration.

"It's going to take time, my love. And, I think, an awareness of your behavior around him. While I'm not saying you should become his best friend, I do think you should moderate your behavior in such a way that you're not always singling him out. While Harry is used to 'Snarky-Snape' and 'Snape-the-Bastard', why not do him a favor and spread your 'Snarky-ness' out, so everyone can enjoy it, rather than just Mr. Potter? You might even find yourself enjoying it." She leaned out slightly and looked up at him with a smirk. "Imagine, a room full of fourth years, trembling and in tears. Ah, the possibilities! Hell, you might even be able to make a first year piss his pants!"

Snape grinned down at her, then chuckled. "No, no, mustn't scare them that badly. Think of the mess that would cause!" He kissed the top of her head, feeling slightly better. Leaning down, he whispered to her, "Let's go to bed, wife."

Hogwarts, Headmasters office…

Albus Dumbledore was not happy. His plan for Harry has been seriously derailed by this incident, and with the Dursley's out of the picture, he could never return to Privet Drive again. Perhaps he could be persuaded to remain at Hogwarts? Yes, that is probably the best thing for him.

The Headmaster sat down and planned how he would introduce Harry to his planned training schedule.

Breakfast with a lone Marauder...

The following morning Ron, Hermione and Ginny headed down to the great hall. Ginny and Hermione squealed when they spotted Harry and ran to hug him. Harry winced a bit.

"Easy with me you two. I may be free from Madam Pomfrey, but all the bits and pieces are still a little sore. Especially when I'm getting hugged by the two prettiest witches in school." Ginny sat down next to Harry and looked at him carefully.

"You alright Harry?"

"I'm getting there Gin, but yes I'm much better this morning." He leaned over and kissed her softly, cupping one hand behind her neck.

"Oi Potter! That's my little sister you know?" Harry turned to Ron.

"Mine too, Ron." he said with a smirk, causing Ron to grin back at him. Harry turned back to Ginny and said "I guess I'll just have to make sure you go out with the right type of guys from here on out Gin. Sorry."

Ginny's face turned beet red.

"Oh Mr. Potter? And what kind of guy is the right type?"

"Why, me of course." Then he leaned down and kissed her again. She closed her eyes and leaned back into him, then whispered in his ear "I'll get you for that Mr. Potter."

Harry smiled and whispered back "You already got me, Gin."

"How touching, Potty has bagged himself the Weaselette!"

Harry turned to see Crabbe, Goyle and Malfoy, sneering at him. Malfoy buffed his nails and grinned maliciously at Harry.

"Rumor has it you've been adopted by the poorest wizarding family in England. You must really be hard up, Potty."

Ron started to turn red and stand up. Harry reached across the table grabbing his arm pulling him back into his seat. "Let it go Ron. He's just pissed because he failed to obtain his Death Eater Merit Badge this week." Turning back to Malfoy, Harry smiled nicely. "I don't know Malfoy, the Weasely's have a form of wealth you'd never understand. If you're talking about money, well I do believe I'm worth more than the Malfoy and LeStrange families combined." Harry eyed Draco up and down, before sniffing, disdainfully. "You may leave now, ferret." It was a clear dismissal.

Malfoy paled and ground his teeth before he stomped away, his ever present goons in tow.

Ron sat muttering, "Stupid bloody git, one of these days…"

Harry reached over and turned his arm. "Just watch Ron. See what the weather is out side?"

Ron looked up at the enchanted ceiling.

"Yeah it's raining, what of it?"

"Watch"

All four of them turned to watch Malfoy.

Malfoy strutted over to the Slytherin table and sat down. Suddenly, the charm, echoing the weather outside, became a little too realistic as rain poured down on the Slytherins at the table, and their Head of House at the head table. As everybody jumped up and away from the table, the rain stopped.

One by one they returned to the table with no rain. That is, until Malfoy sat down again.

Sheets of water once more drenched the Slytherin table, its occupants, and Professor Snape.

The Slytherins repeated this process several times until it became apparent that it was Malfoy causing the rain to start.

A very wet, very annoyed Professor Snape stalked down from the Head table and picked up an extremely soggy muffin. Giving the sodden bread to an embarrassed Malfoy, Snape sent him from the Great Hall.

The other tables erupted in laughter.

Ron had huge smile on his face. "That was bloody brilliant!"

Harry grinned back, then shrugged. "'Mischief managed', as the saying goes. Besides, I missed my opportunity to scare him away yesterday."

Hermione frowned. "You know Harry, as Prefect, I'm not supposed to allow that sort of pranking. But it was really impressive." Harry grinned back at Hermione.

Ginny leaned close to Harry and asked, "Are you going to be the only one to have any fun this year?"

Harry whispered in her ear. "Well, I sort of hoped to have some fun with you too Gin, but yeah, if you want to help with the pranks, that's fine by me too." Ginny blushed prettily. At that point Professor McGonagall walked up the aisle handing out class schedules.

"Nice to see you looking better, Mr. Potter. Professor Dumbledore would like to see you this evening after dinner."

"Thank you, Professor."

Harry checked his schedule and groaned, dropping his head to the table and bouncing it up and down. Everyone looked at him concerned.

"I have a double DADA and double Potions tomorrow and both are being taught by Snape? This has got to be a mistake!"

Ron, Ginny and Hermione looked amused. Hermione said, "No, it's not a mistake Harry. Defense is being taught by Professor Severus Snape, and Potions is now being taught by Professor Serena Snape, his wife."

Harry's jaw dropped "Snape got married? What woman was barking mental enough to do that? What is she, a stunted mountain troll?"

Ron snorted through his drink, spraying pumpkin juice all over Hermione. Turning pink, he started to scramble for napkins. Hermione glared at Ron, while Ginny collapsed against Harry, unable to control her laughter. Harry pulled out his wand and performed a cleaning charm on Hermione. She looked at him gratefully, and then turned back to Ron, who was running around the table trying to find more napkins.

"REALLY RONALD WEASELY! WHERE ARE YOUR MANNERS?"

Taking his seat, he looked sheepishly at Hermione. "Sorry 'Mione, but its not all my fault! You heard what Harry said!"

"I heard him Ron, but that doesn't excuse your spraying me with pumpkin juice!"

Harry leaned over to Ginny and asked if he could walk her to class. She smiled back up at him and the two walked hand in hand from the great hall, while Ron and Hermione continued their argument.

Harry's morning schedule for that day was pretty light, just a double Charms with Professor Flitwick. Harry always enjoyed Professor Flitwick. Unlike so many of the Hogwarts teachers, the diminutive professor was fun to be around, and easy to approach. Professor Flitwick would gladly help any student having difficulties, and did his best to make learning Charms fun.

After Charms, Harry visited the library; he wanted to look up information on magic bonds. He knew Hermione had already researched the topic several times in regard to his scar, but it had been bothering him a lot lately and he thought that maybe, just maybe, he might be able to find out more information that Hermione might have missed. He did find one book called "Spells that Bind". It described a number of spells, which create a magical bond that looked interesting; it even had one, which allowed lovers to feel what the other person was feeling. That caused Harry to blush. The book looked like it might be a good starting point for his research.

After lunch with Ginny, and the still arguing Ron and Hermione, Harry headed off to Transfiguration with the fighting duo and Neville, in tow.

"Welcome to NEWT level Transfiguration," lectured Professor McGonagall. "In this year we will examine in detail Animagus and the rare Metamorphamagus. We will also examine form altering spells and the Polyjuice potion."

"For those wishing to see what, if any, animagus form you might have, we have a sign up sheet for a dose of the Animas Revelus potion. It's a complex potion to brew, and has a very short shelf life. Therefore, we need to know who wants to try it before we have our potions master brew the potion."

Professor McGonagall passed around the form, with nearly everyone signing it. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Neville exchanged a look as the signup sheet was passed around. The notable exceptions to the list were Harry, Ron, Hermione and Neville. The DA just opened up its campaign of underground training.

Putting the sign up sheet back on her desk, Professor McGonagall continued her lecture.

After Transfiguration, Harry went off to the room of requirement for some personal training. While his abilities had increased enormously over the summer, the one thing he had not been able to do was much in the way of combat training. Harry set the room to use something he had read about, combat trainers. These were simulated opponents, a common training method in muggle militaries. He wasn't sure what the room would come up with, but it would probably do. Upon entering the room he found it nearly empty. There was a small parchment on the floor and faceless figure standing against the wall. Scanning the parchment he read how to animate his opponent, speed it up and shut it down.

An hour later, sweaty and still sore from a number of stinging hexes that had broken through his shields, Harry hurried up to his dorm for a quick shower before heading down to the great hall for dinner.

Harry sat down next to Ginny after giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. Hermione looked at Harry, hair still wet and gave him a puzzled look.

"Harry, what have you been doing?"

"I felt the need to do some training in the room, 'Mione. I was kind of smelly after that, so I needed to shower."

Professor McGonagall interrupted the conversation, "Mr. Potter, the headmaster has been unavoidably detained on business away from Hogwarts. He asks instead that you see Professor Snape after dinner in his quarters."

Harry winced inwardly and nodded to Professor McGonagall, "Thank you Professor. I'll see him after dinner." McGonagall nodded back and headed up to the teacher's table.

Ron rolled his eyes at Harry and mumbled around a mouthful of food, "Better you than me, mate!" Hermione frowned at Ron, probably prepared to start her tirade about table manners again, but Harry cut her off.

"'Mione, lets see if we can try to schedule a DA meeting this week. I'll probably have to see Dumbledore some time this week though, so lets make it later, say Thursday or Friday."

"How did your potions go today Ginny? How is Snape's wife?" Harry asked.

She smiled. "It was the best potions class I've ever had! She's really a nice lady and willing to answer questions. She even prevented me from mixing up my brew today, and didn't take any points from me!"

"Ok, maybe she's not a mountain troll," Harry mused.

"No she's not! She's nice. I like her. I only wish the teachers weren't handing out so much homework. It's only the first day and I have four 3 foot parchment essays already!"

"Sorry luv, its your owl year. We'll help you as much as we can," Hermione and Ron nodded at this, "but expect the teachers to attempt to kill you with work this year."

Harry looked down at his now empty plate and his shoulders slumped in resignation.

"I guess I had better go see Snape now. Merlin knows I don't want to give him more reasons to take house points away if I'm late." Kissing Ginny, he stood and looked at the three. "See you in the common room later?" The three of them smiled encouragingly, nodding at him. Harry walked from the great hall.

Snape's Quarters...

Harry went down to the dungeon and located Snape's private quarters. With more than a little reluctance, Harry knocked on the door and waited. The door opened, revealing a strange woman Harry had never seen before. She wasn't tall, or short, she had the most strikingly white curly hair he had ever seen. Despite the white hair, she looked younger than Snape. Her hair, combined with her blue eyes and her smile gave her a friendly appearance. If first impressions could be counted on, then Harry felt he just might like this woman.

Serena took in her first view of Harry Potter. He's just a skinny boy she thought, and then she corrected herself. No, he's not a boy…but a young man. His frame was thin, but it was easy to note a layering of muscle underneath, and his green eyes seemed to almost glow in their intensity. His eyes alone must have every girl in school chasing him she thought. But she could sense underneath his exterior there was a fire, a solid core, tempered by the pain he had suffered. Still suffering, she again corrected. She could also feel a sense of power, a presence; Harry radiated this without even thinking about it. Severus was good, but he worked hard to present a formidable presence. Harry did the same thing without even trying. She smiled warmly at Harry and motioned him into the apartment.

"You must be Harry Potter. Please, come in. The headmaster informed us that he asked you to stop by this evening. My husband will join us shortly. Would you care for something, Mr. Potter? Or would you prefer I call you Harry?"

Harry appeared confused for a moment, his illusion of a stunted mountain troll shattered forever. He gave her a shy smile and thanked her for the offer, but he was fine, he had just come from dinner in the great hall. Serena motioned him to sit on the couch by the fire. She curled up on the opposite end of the couch facing him.

Severus was walking through the apartment when he paused just outside the living room door. He had heard voices. He stood there, listening. Some habits were hard to break for a man that had spent a long time as a spy for the side of the light.

"So tell me Harry, are you glad to be back at Hogwarts? I know most of my students wish that summer would last all year."

The thought of spending all year with the Dursley's caused Harry to flinch slightly and his complexion paled. He looked bleakly at the fireplace and said, "I'm always glad to be back at Hogwarts. The work isn't that bad, and all my friends are here. Hogwarts is like home to me."

Serena was instantly kicking herself mentally. She had wanted to engage him in small talk until Severus came in, make him feel comfortable and at ease. The last thing she wanted to do was bring up bad memories for him. She smiled at him and touched his arm, "We're glad you're here too, Harry."

At that point Severus Snape walked into the living room. Serena and Harry stood up, Harry nervously. Serena walked over to Severus, gave him a quick hug and whispered in his ear, "Go easy on him tonight Severus. I'll tell you why later." Severus nodded slightly and Serena walked from the room saying, "I look forward to seeing you in my class, Harry."

Severus eyed the boy in front of him.

"Mr. Potter, the headmaster has asked me to evaluate how well you've managed to do with your occulmency over the summer. When you are ready, we'll begin." He tone was devoid of the usual sarcastic sneer he normally used when addressing Harry in the past.

Harry took a cleansing breath. He then nodded to signal his readiness, his face masked, his wand at the ready. Snape snapped up his wand.

"Legilimens!"

At first, Snape thought the spell hadn't worked. There was nothing, just nothing, and then he felt it. It was a wall; it stretched as far as his mind could see in every direction. He tried pushing against the wall and it didn't budge. Beads of sweat appeared on his brow as he tried hammering against the wall. He didn't have the strength to break it! Remembering his legilimency training, he started searching along the wall for a flaw, a crack, something he could wedge open. Finally he found a small flaw and wormed his way in only to discover…ANOTHER WALL? And what's worse, the flaw he had entered through wasn't there anymore! He was trapped! He searched for a bit and then the outer wall dropped away allowing him to leave.

Snape gasped in a shuddering breath and swayed, trembling. Serena, who had been watching from the doorway rushed to his side. Disdaining any help from his wife, he straightened up and stared at Harry. Serena turned towards Harry so that her husband couldn't see her face, and grinned, devilishly. Harry gaped at her for a moment, but was interrupted.

"That was most impressive Mr. Potter," Snape said as he steadied himself. "I'll inform the headmaster that it seems you have mastered Occulmency. You may go now, Harry."

Harry turned towards the door and started to walk out when he stopped and turned around again.

"Professor?" he asked in a hesitant voice.

Both of them looked at Harry and Severus replied "Yes, Mr. Potter?"

Harry looked down at the carpet, his face flaming again.

"I talked with Remus Lupin a lot about what my father and Sirius did to you Sir, what I saw in your pensieve that night. I know this isn't as good as it should be…I mean, they're not here and can't do it themselves…what I mean is…" Harry stopped, inhaled deeply and raised his eyes to his teacher. "Sir, I'd like to apologize for what they did. They were wrong, and I'm sorry for it."

Harry felt a deep sense of shame and embarrassment, but this was something that had to be said. Even if Snape brushed it off, he had to say it.

Snape felt an upwelling of anger at the mention of the pensieve, but Serena touched his arm, calming him. He looked over at his wife and could see the unspoken appeal in her eyes. He nodded to her. "Thank you for that Mr. Pot…Harry. I know we can't change the past between us, so lets try to work on a better future."

Harry looked up and gave them a weak smile, then left the apartment. It was time to join his friends in the Griffyndor common room.

Headmaster's office, Hogwarts…

Albus Dumbledore had just returned from a most frustrating experience. He's spent most of his day at the Ministry of Magic. He went there in the hope of starting the process to overturn the temporary custody order issued by Magistrate Janicak and found himself shunted from office to office, filing out form after form, only to be told he'd need to restart the process, because he was missing a stamp on one form. Just when he thought everything had been corrected, he was informed that the proceedings could not take place for another sixty days. Director Bones had opened a formal investigation into irregularities that occurred sixteen years ago, when Harry was placed with the muggles. On top of which, he found, that until the Dursley's trial, there could be no formal placement proceedings. All this boiled down to one simple fact. The temporary order issued by Magistrate Janicak would become permanent, and there was nothing he could do to stop it.

Dumbledore paced back and forth, considering his options. First off, he was surprised by the apparent hostility Harry had towards him. Surely he wasn't still blaming him for Sirius's death! No, something else was bothering the boy, but he didn't know what it was. The boy must be convinced that Dumbledore's way was what was best for him. He also considered the issue of young Miss Weasely. That could not be allowed to continue. Harry needed to concentrate all of his efforts on training and not become romantically entangled. No, he'd nip that in the bud as soon as possible, even if it meant expelling her from the school.

Back in Snape's apartment…

Severus and Serena watched Harry leaved their apartment and Severus shuddered slightly with the memory of what Harry had managed to do to him. Serena watched him closely.

"Severus, take a breath and tell me what just happened."

"That… that… boy… he has the most incredible shields I have ever seen Serena. He deliberately laid a trap for me and I blindly walked into it. He could have killed me in a blink of an eye. Instead, he showed me the trap, held me there for a moment, and then let me out. I've never heard or seen anything like it. It's like he's taken Occulmency to a mastery and beyond."

"Severus, he never once lifted his wand, I watched it all from the doorway. In fact, as soon as you cast the spell, he pocketed his wand and looked at me. Then he smiled and winked at me!"

"Well it's true, a master of Occulmens doesn't need the wand to break the connection. Normally they have shields, which are strong enough that they don't need a wand to distract an opponent. We only train students to use the wand as a way of distracting the person casting the Legilimens. Now, what was it you wanted to tell me about Serena?"

Serena sat back a moment considering how to phrase what she had to say. Severus wasn't stupid, and he really wasn't arrogant, but he didn't take criticism well. Severus looked at his wife. Although they had been married only a few short months, he knew that look of hers. She was ordering her thoughts to begin one of "those" discussions. The type of discussion that he was coming to learn all husbands feared and dreaded above all others. She placed a hand on his arm and began.

"Severus, first off let me say, you handled his apology very well. Far better than I thought you would. I'm proud of you for that. On the other hand, I looked at him and I saw a young man that's been treated brutally most of his life, burdened with a fame that embarrasses him. He's very brittle, just barely started on a road to recovery. He has an extraordinary low sense of self-esteem, and seems to be easily wounded. One off hand comment of mine made him feeling like I told him his favorite pet had died. I don't know what plans for him our headmaster might have, but I've been around enough healers in my capacity as a Potions Mistress to know he needs help, Severus. One strong push and he might snap. You've always seen him in a peculiar kind of way Severus, but that boy just radiates power, and if he's pushed the wrong way, we'll have no one but ourselves to blame for creating another dark lord!"

Severus's eyes snapped shut at that thought and he shuddered. No, Serena was right, Potter was at a crossroads. The wrong kind of push could send him completely in the wrong direction. Severus rubbed his eyes hard.

"Oh Merlin, what a mess this is Serena. You saw him tonight. We made a bit of a peace, but he won't accept any help from me. Our peace is too new for that."

"Well I'm not a mind healer, but maybe he'll accept some help from me. I've been around mind healers enough to know the basics; I'll also keep my ear out on the rumor network to see if I can find out some additional information about him. I'm concerned Severus. That boy is in trouble and crying out for help, but so few of us are listening. What about the other teachers? Should we bring this to their attention? Maybe Poppy as well?"

"That's probably a good idea Serena. Why not invite them to lunch tomorrow? We can talk about it here."

"I'll do that first thing in the morning."

Severus pulled Serena close to him and said, "How did I ever get so lucky to find you?"

Her eyes sparkled at that. "You got yourself injured severely enough to be given over to my tender care. Besides," she continued with a wicked grin, "you didn't get lucky. I decided you were suitable and set out to ensnare you with my wiles."

Back in the Griffyndor Common Room…

Harry entered the Griffyndor common room. It was late, and many of the students had already gone off to bed. Ginny was sitting at one of the tables, working on an essay. Ron and Hermione were sitting on one of the couches by the fire, talking.

Ron looked up as Harry entered the common room. "Hey mate, what did Snape want?"

"He wanted to test my Occulmency shields," said Harry with a wry grin. Ron and Ginny grinned back at him. Since they had all started working with wandless magic, they had picked up a fair amount of Occulmency as well.

"Do you want to join us on the couch Harry?" asked Hermione.

"Nah, you two will eventually start snogging each other and I'd rather not watch that. I have a book I want to read and I think I'll sit with Ginny to keep her company."

Harry walked over to Ginny and leaned over to kiss the top of her head, then playfully he leaned a little further down and nipped at her earlobe sending shivers up and down her spine. She watched him as he sat down and pulled out two books, one apparently blank.

"Do you mind some company, Miss Weasely?" he said.

"Not at all, Mr. Potter."

Ginny turned back to her essay and Harry turned to his book, both taking comfort from the presence of the other.

Author Notes:

To those that have left reviews, thank you. And now for a couple miscellaneous notes.

Remus Lupin will not need to take care of the Dursleys. While it's true he's very angry at their treatment of him, his primary concern is for Harry.

Dumbledore isn't quite the moron he turning out to be, but its going to take a solid swift kick in the pants before he sees the light. In the meantime expect Dumbledore to become worse, much worse before he gets better. Next chapter has the Dumbledore Vs Harry knockout fight and Harry receives support from unexpected quarters.

Who was that old man? Excellent question. Merlin? Maybe yes, Maybe no.

The sixth year is going to remain an angsty one for Harry as he tries to come to grips with the wreckage of created by a lifetime of physical and emotional abuse. Harry won't be the only one to share the angst however.

SNAPE! Yes, I've decided for a kinder gentler Snape. According to cannon the man's behavior should have gotten him fired years ago, if not prosecuted. I thought it would be nice to make Snape a little more open to humanity than make him into a Mini Voldemort.