Comments: e-mail at sstar_luna@yahoo.co.uk or Review button below.
Rating: PG-13 for now, may change later. Will be slash later in the story: HP/?, JP/LE
Spoilers: Books 1-5. Do not read unless you have FINISHED The Order of the Phoenix.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything except the plot. All Harry Potter™ characters and settings are the sole intellectual property of JK Rowling, Warner Bros. and various others who all aren't connected to me in any way. No money is being made with this fanfiction and no copyright infringement is intended.
Chapter 4: Revelations
"Thank Merlin!" muttered James under his breath as he and Sirius finally found the compartment which held his other two best friends, Remus and Peter. Seeing Remus' raised eyebrow at their harried appearance, James grimaced before explaining. "There was a small umm … delay this morning on our way to the station. We only just got here as you can see. Hey Wormtail, move will you so I can store this?" motioning to his trunk. As he struggled to secure his trunk, he heard Sirius snort behind him.
"Moony mate, what James here isn't telling you is that we're so late because his mom shouted at him for absolutely ages this morning. Seems Mrs Potter didn't appreciate her breakfast this morning!" revealed Sirius, whose handsome face was lit up with a grin.
"Sirius! That wasn't even my fault, you were the one who changed the teacup! All I did was pour the tea in that blasted cup for her and she decided to blame me! It was not the way I wanted to say goodbye" snapped James, a light blush forming on his cheeks.
"Face it Prongs, you were laughing at that look on your mom's face as well! She looked hilarious, oh Moony, you should have seen it, the cup attached to her nose" said Sirius between chuckles. "I don't think I've seen her turn so red so fast, and that's saying something, having to put up with James here for sixteen years".
"Yeah mate, and with you there this summer as well! I swear my mom's suddenly sprouted double the amount of grey hairs. It was all your fault Padfoot … well most of it" retorted James with a grin, as he finally sat down opposite Sirius. He couldn't help feeling that tingling feeling. Finally, he would be back at Hogwarts with his best friends, and he'd be seeing Lily Evans again, with pranks to pull, and full moons. He couldn't wait.
"Sounds like you've been behaving this summer then James" Remus remarked with a wry smile. "What with Sirius' good influence and all".
James snorted in response as Sirius pouted and affected a wounded look. He saw the 'puppy' look aimed at both himself and the other two, but felt the effect was ruined by the glint in his bright sapphire eyes. "Come now Padfoot, you know Moony is just saying it as it is. That look only works on first years now since they don't know what a devious devil you are".
"Ah, but I'm a devastatingly handsome devil remember!"
"Yes, yes Padfoot. Careful now or we won't be able to fit your head in here, if it gets any bigger that is", Remus teased. "Mind you, I hope there won't be a repeat of that incident at last year's Sorting!"
James, Remus, and Peter all laughed at the expression that formed on Sirius' face. "That wasn't my fault I tell you. How was I supposed to know that new first-year was going to faint when I grinned at her!" he exclaimed.
"Sirius' grin. Beware Death Eaters! He'll stun you with a flash of his teeth" said Peter, but there was no laughter for his comment. The situation regarding Voldemort and his followers were worrying everybody, especially James, who could not stop his eyes travelling to Sirius.
Obviously, Remus was following the same trail of thought for he asked rather hesitantly, "Sirius? Well, we got your letters this summer, yours and James of course. I suppose, do you mind? What did happen this summer?"
James felt Sirius gather his resolve, his blue eyes dimming as he remembered the events that bought him to James' home. Sirius started the tale, "Well…"
**********
Albus Dumbledore hurried from his office towards the main entrance of the school. It was September 1st 1976, the first day of a new academic year at Hogwarts, and the students would be arriving through those very doors in just a few hours. He had just been alerted to a disturbance in the wards surrounding the school a few minutes before and thus had abandoned his work to immediately see to the matter, taking no risks especially with the increasing threat from the Dark. Not that Voldemort would dare attack Hogwarts at the moment, he hoped. Tom wasn't quite enough powerful yet, but then Albus wasn't one to pin his hopes on just that: hope. He knew that he would see Tom again, but not today, not today.
As he neared the corridor leading to the Entrance Hall, he could hear the hooting of a distressed owl. Frowning, he hurried his steps and as he entered the hall, he immediately saw the cause. There on the floor lay a young man, no, a teenager. He could see the trunk next to the boy and a white snowy owl, who had just landed and was now resting on the trunk by her master. He made his way to stand in front of the unconscious boy and ran his eyes over the figure. Bending over, he tilted the head so to gain a better look at the boy and his frown deepened.
He heard a gasp from behind him, "Headmaster! Is that? What is he doing here? He should be on the Hogwarts Express with his friends, not here and unconscious", said Minerva. "How did he get here Albus? That Potter, he can't even wait for school to start before getting into some kind of mischief or trouble".
"I don't know Minerva", sighed Albus in response. "We'll have to ask young James when he wakes up. Would you terribly mind taking Mr Potter up to the Hospital Wing while I tend to his belongings?"
"Of course Headmaster" replied the Deputy Headmistress and with a flick of her wand, she levitated the teenager and made her way towards Madam Pomfrey's domain.
"Daisy" the Headmaster called out. With a pop, a house-elf stood in front of the old wizard. "Ah Daisy. Could you send this trunk to my office for the moment and take the owl to the Owlery please?"
"Yes Sir. Of course" and with a pop the elf, trunk, and owl all disappeared, leaving the Headmaster to his thoughts in the empty Hall.
**********
"Hey guys, have you heard about this new course they're offering this year?" asked Sirius.
Remus looked at the taller boy and nodded. "I did, it sounds interesting, but I can't take it. I've already got a full schedule. I've got the basics of course, Transfigurations, Charms, DADA, and Potions, though Merlin only knows how I got an Exceeds in the OWLs! Then, what with Magical Creatures and Runes, I doubt I'd be able to fit anything else in!"
"Moony! I didn't know we were doing the same subjects, well, I should've guessed you were going to choose Runes I suppose" commented James. "Looks like we'll have class together",
"Hey! No fair! What if we're separated? Oh no", wailed Sirius, a hand at his head, "how will we survive? We might not be able to prank the greasy git or … I'll … I'll actually have to behave?"
Peter looked torn between sniggering at Sirius and worrying regarding his comments. James just rolled his eyes at his friend's behaviour while Remus looked thoughtful. "You know Padfoot?" he started, "I doubt it. Most of our courses are the same, we'll probably be together for most of them. Mind you, why are you taking Runes James, I didn't think you enjoyed it that much? It's a pity you can't take Quidditch as a NEWT I suppose".
James felt his face burn as Sirius turned bright eyes onto the werewolf. "Come on Remus, isn't it obvious? Jamie-boy here is taking Runes so he can be closer to Evans!"
"Shut it" growled James, but his friends took no notice, instead filling the compartment with their laughter. James snorted, "Just you wait Black! You'll get your comeuppance, don't you worry".
"Oh no! Save me Remus!" but Remus was in no state to do anything of the sort, he was too busy holding his sides, laughing at the faces his two friends were pulling at each other. Trying to distract his more hot-headed friends, he asked Peter, "Say Wormtail, what are you taking? You're keeping awfully quiet about it".
Peter blushed slightly as he saw all three heads turn to him. Twisting his fingers in his lap, he muttered, "I'm taking Transfigurations, DADA and Magical Creatures as well, but I'm also taking History, Herbology, and Divination".
"Divination!" exclaimed Sirius. "That pile of tripe!"
"Don't worry Peter", said James comfortingly. "I'm sure you'll have lots of fun making up predictions and all that. We'll help as well, excuses and whatnot. Won't we?"
"Thanks James" squeaked Peter, a pleased smile on his lips.
Deciding to change the subject, Sirius opened his mouth in anticipation of discussing his plan for the pranks that he had thought of pulling at this evening's feast when the door to their compartment opened. Twisting around, he gritted his teeth and clenched his fists when he saw who was at the door.
"Ah, Black. Or perhaps I shouldn't call you that anymore, after all I hear you ran away from home" sneered Snape, his two goons Crabbe and Goyle standing behind him. "Just like a scared little boy".
"Shut it, you greasy git!" spat Sirius. "Shut up and get out or I'll hex you!"
"Can't handle the truth? Scared little Black. Can't cope at home so runs away like a scared cat", laughed Snape at an increasingly angrier Sirius, who was reaching for his wand.
"Go away Snape, you're outnumbered here. Crabbe and Goyle can't help you and you're no match for us, or perhaps you'd like another example of my levitation spell", shouted James, who had his wand in his hand, pointing it at the Slytherin.
"Leave now Snape, and I won't report you" ordered Remus.
"Ha, I don't want to breathe the same air as traitors and mudblood lovers like you anyway. Just thought I'd see how the arrogant homeless bastard was" and with that he turned around and stalked away down the train, his two housemates following stupidly behind.
"Damn it Remus! I wish you'd let me hex him, he had no right at all, that snake!" shouted Sirius.
"Padfoot! You don't need any more opportunities to get into more trouble, it always seem to find you anyway" chastised Remus. "I'm just trying to keep you out of trouble, besides, it's not like you weren't expecting something like this anyway".
"That's right Sirius. You know your dear brother and cousin will talk about it anyway, I'm pretty sure everyone will know about it soon enough" reasoned James as he guided his friend to his seat.
Remus sat down next to the angry teenager and added, "you can't hex each and every person who makes a comment about you. You'll just have to put up with it, but you have us to help you out".
"Maybe I can't hex each person, I suppose I'll just have to prank the whole lot of them instead. It'll make me feel a damn sight better" said Sirius, a red blush still staining his cheeks from his earlier anger. Suddenly, he heard the sound of the door to their compartment sliding open again and reached for his wand in anticipation of another unwelcome encounter, but relaxed when he noticed it was only the witch with the food trolley.
"Anything off the trolleys dear…"
**********
Poppy Pomfrey had just examined the unconscious boy and had left to return to her office, leaving Minerva with the student. Potter looked different from the last time she had seen him, she mused, which had only been a few weeks ago at the Potters' home. He looked to be paler and had a slightly pinched look about him. Although James had always been thin, this seemed more … pronounced she thought, as he lay on the bed.
A small cough alerted her to the presence of the Headmaster who had just entered the Hospital Wing. "So how is Mr Potter" he asked.
"Poppy says she's not sure what's wrong with him. He's not got any broken bones nor is he sick. Hopefully he'll regain consciousness soon and we can ask him" she replied, a small frown on her face.
"Hmmm. Well, could you look out for his friends, young Mr Black or Mr Lupin may know about his conditions", asked the old wizard. "Perhaps also Mr Pettigrew? If you could ask them to see me just before the feast?"
"Of course Headmaster" she replied. "If you could excuse me, I still need to finish my preparations for tonight"
"Of course Professor McGonagall, of course" he said, and so she left him staring at the only occupant of the Hospital Wing with his bright blue eyes,
**********
James, Sirius, and Remus were caught up in the large crowd of excited students as they neared the large doors, at the start of a new year at Hogwarts. Somehow, they had managed to lose Peter, who was shorter than the rest of the Marauders, after they stepped off the train. Although they had looked around for a moment for the missing boy, they moved on knowing they would eventually find Peter at the Gryffindor table, as he wasn't one to miss a feast.
As they walked into the large Entrance Hall, they were stopped by the shouts of their Head of House, "Lupin! Black!"
Ignoring the curious looks and muted laughter from their fellow students, and wondering what trouble they were in, the trio waited for McGonagall to reach them. "Have you already done something Sirius and not told us, your best friends?" whispered James, who though not asked to wait, was not going to leave his friends side unless he was specifically told to.
"No, at least not to my knowledge. Remus?"
"Me?"
"Oh yeah, I forgot!"
Remus snorted but was stopped from making a reply by the appearance of Professor McGonagall, who stood in front of the three teenagers. "Ah there you are, Mr Black, Mr Lupin, and Mr P-". The trio stared at their teacher in shock as she gasped and her face paled when she turned her eyes onto James. "Ja- James? Mr Potter? How are you here?" she asked, clearly shaken.
"Yes" said the boy, drawing out his answer as he looked at his teacher in confusion. "Why? Has my name changed without my knowing? Or do I look that striking Professor, that you're awed by my good looks" he asked, flashing a grin at McGonagall, though his hazel eyes betrayed his inner worry regarding her reaction to seeing him.
It seemed to bring her out of her daze. "Please keep such comments to yourself Mr Potter" chastised the Transfiguration teacher. "Now, if you could follow me. The Headmaster would like a word with you before you join your fellow students". The three just blinked and followed the Deputy Headmistress as she walked away, trailing her as she made for the Hospital Wing.
Confused at their destination, the three boys shot each other concerned looks as a strange foreboding feeling settled in their stomachs, hoping that no-one they knew or loved had been hurt. They entered the Hospital Wing and immediately saw the Headmaster standing at the foot of one of the beds, talking to Professor McGonagall, a perplexed look on his face. He bid McGonagall to return to see to the new first years and then turned his eyes on James, examining him before noticing the other two with him.
"Ah, Mr Potter. I see Mr Black and Mr Lupin have also accompanied you" he said.
"Yes sir. Professor McGonagall said you wanted a word with us? She seemed awfully shocked when she saw James here. There's nothing the matter sir, is there? We just followed Professor McGonagall like she asked us to" replied Remus, shooting his two friends a concerned look at their teachers' strange behaviour.
"No dear boy, no. Well, lets see" he muttered, once more shooting a concerned look at the bed. He beckoned the boys to come closer and asked James, "Mr Potter. If I may, I was wondering, do you recognise this young man here?"
James moved closer to the Headmaster, his friends a step behind and looked in the direction indicated and let out a small gasp. 'He looks like me, but not quite. It looks like he's got my messy black hair, though mine is a bit shorter', thought James. 'He's also thinner than I am' and his face is slightly different I suppose'. James tried to remember whether any of his relatives were around his age and in similar appearance, but came up with no one. "Sorry Professor. I can't think of anyone. I don't know who he is ".
The Headmaster turned his piercing gaze on him and seemed to be lost in thought for a few moments before he came to a decision. He asked the three boys to return to the feast after making them promise not to mention the stranger to anyone else. He watched as the trio walked out of the Hospital Wing, shooting looks at the bed as they left before he turned his gaze back onto the young man.
"Who are you and why are you here? I don't suppose I'll find out until you wake up". With a final piercing look at the boy on the bed, he turned and went to join the rest of the castle's occupants in the Great Hall, to welcome in a new year.
**********
Harry slowly regained consciousness. First he felt several aches in his body and realised that he was lying down on a bed, but with no memory of actually going to sleep. Then his hearing came back to him, the silence ringing in his ears. He tried to open his eyes, but it felt as if there were weights attached to his eyelids, so hard was it to open them. He relaxed for a few moments while listening for any signs of movement before he tried to open his eyes again. Slowly they fluttered open revealing bright emerald eyes, the brightness of the room startling him before he finally adjusted. With a small groan, he pushed himself up into a sitting position on the bed. He put on his glasses that he noticed on the bedside table, so that he could better discern his surroundings and what he saw made him groan louder into the still air.
"The Hospital wing?" muttered Harry, a frown forming on his slightly pale face. "This must be a record" he decided.
The noise was obviously loud enough to summon Madam Pomfrey from wherever she had been. As she checked him over, Harry asked her, "Madam Pomfrey? What happened?"
"You were found in the Entrance Hall yesterday afternoon, unconscious", she replied, eyeing him curiously. "We had no idea what happened to you, or how you arrived but you were brought here. You've been sleeping now for almost 24 hours. I want you to drink this before you leave this bed", she said handing him a goblet. As Harry took the goblet raising it to his lips, she turned and left for her office, no doubt to summon the Headmaster.
Harry's thoughts swirled around his head. Yesterday … the Hogwarts Express, it seemed like so long ago, not just a day. Concentrating, Harry recalled that he had been talking to his friends and then Malfoy happened. Suppressing a groan, he narrowed his eyes as he tried to remember. Malfoy was being his usual arrogant self, and … he was blaming him for his father's imprisonment. Merlin! They'd started to duel, ha! Well if you call throwing one hex each a duel, and then … then, the portkey! Harry's eyes widened as he remembered the portkey Remus had given him before he had left Order Headquarters. Harry quickly scanned the rest of the room but saw no other occupants and so assumed that the others had not been hurt. He felt a small jolt when he realised that whatever Malfoy had sent his way had probably caused him to lose consciousness, but shook the feeling off. Now was not the time to wonder on that, especially as he heard footsteps approaching the Hospital Wing.
Looking expectantly to the door, he was not that surprised to see that it was Professor Dumbledore walking towards him. Harry thought Dumbledore seemed somewhat more tired than normal, but shrugged the feeling off, after all the old wizard had many things to worry about; Voldemort, the Order, and of course the start of a new school year. Even so, Harry noticed that the Dumbledore's blue eyes were still twinkling.
Harry greeted the older wizard with a neutral look. "Headmaster" he said, after all what with the events from his Fifth year and Dumbledore keeping the Prophesy from him, Harry was still unsure about his feelings regarding the Headmaster and his behaviour. He acknowledged some of the responsibilities and pressure the old wizard was under, but yet he still couldn't find it in his heart to completely forgive him, even though he had come far in his feelings over the course of the summer.
"Ah, Mr Potter I believe?" asked the Headmaster, peering down at Harry over his glasses.
Harry looked at the wizard thinking that he'd finally gone mad. "Yes sir" he replied, confusion evident in his voice.
"Related to James Potter I assume?" Dumbledore continued. The Headmaster seemed nonplussed at the incredulous look he received from Harry, who was completely confused at the questioning tone of the older wizard's statements.
"Of course I damn well am", started Harry in an angry voice. His small resentment and confusion regarding Dumbledore's behaviour, both past and present, caused him to lose his temper. "Why are you asking me this? You know perfectly well that I'm Harry Potter and that James Potter was my father, everyone knows this! Who are you? What is going on?" he asked, green eyes glinting with anger.
"Ah, well that is interesting" muttered Dumbledore while stroking his long white beard. Harry watched incredulously as the older wizard became silent as he thought about what he had just heard, his confusion increasing with each second that passed. Finally Dumbledore seemed to decide on something and turned his gaze back onto Harry, who was still sitting on the bed. "So Mr Potter, could you tell me how you got here?"
Harry frowned as he answered, "By portkey. Professor, don't you remember? You made it for me in case there was an attack during the train journey, it would bring me straight to Hogwarts".
"I'm afraid I didn't-" Dumbledore started, but was cut off by a frantic Harry.
"What do you mean? You didn't make the portkey? But … but, you must have, I wouldn't have…" Harry trailed off, Remus had definitely said the Headmaster had made it, and he knew Remus wouldn't lie. 'What is going on!'
Taking advantage of Harry's silence, the Headmaster began to explain. "Now Mr Potter, if you waited to hear me out, I was about to say that I didn't make this portkey for you, well not yet. I believe you are from the future".
Harry blinked.
He was aware that the Headmaster was waiting for some sort of reaction, but Harry was numb. He tried to process what he had just heard. He was in the past. Not 1996, but Merlin knows when! 'Well it can't be too long ago, less than 50 years' he mused in the small part of his brain what was still working despite the shock. 'After all, when I went into Riddle's diary, Dumbledore hair wasn't white like it is now. Besides he knows my father!' That thought seemed to lift the shock surrounding Harry. 'He knows my father, so that must mean he's alive, right? Please let me be right. My mother too, and Sirius! Merlin, Sirius would be alive as well. This is … it's … no, it can't be true. It isn't, I can't hope, I just can't. What have I got myself into!'
Harry tried several attempts to get a sentence out of his dry mouth before finally succeeding. "I'm sorry Professor, but could you repeat that? I don't think I heard you correctly".
Dumbledore did not seem surprised at the request and repeated his statement. "Mr Potter, I believe you are in the past. The date today is September 2nd, 1976".
Harry shook his head, trying desperately to clear his thoughts. 'Come on Harry!' he chastised. 'We don't have time for you to act like a fish'. He looked at Dumbledore, frowning as he attempted to sort out the jumble of thoughts in his head. "So, it's 1976, the start of the new school year? I've somehow managed to travel 20 years into the past? How-, how did I get here then? I thought you could only travel through time with a Time-Turner" asked Harry.
The Headmaster raised his eyebrow in surprise at the mention of the device. "You know about Time-Turners?"
"Yes", Harry said slowly, recalling the events of his Third Year, when they had rescued Sirius. Forcing aside the surge of conflicting emotions regarding his godfather, he instead focused on what Hermione had told him. Nobody was supposed to change time, it was one of the most important wizarding laws. He couldn't tell anyone what happens in the future, no matter what.
He looked at Dumbledore, who looked concerned at the sad expression on Harry's face. 'If I didn't know about the Prophesy, maybe I wouldn't have cared quite so much, but I can't do what I want to. I have to do what is best for everyone else, no matter what it costs me. But damn it, it isn't fair!' Blinking rapidly to stop the tears from falling, Harry continued, "I've had dealings with one before. However, I didn't use a Time-Turner, so how did I manage to get here?"
Dumbledore clearly saw the sadness in Harry's green eyes but the boy's posture had stopped him from prying to deeply. He sighed before answering, "I'm afraid then that I'm at a bit of a loss. I don't suppose you could tell me what happened just before you arrived here, perhaps we can discover something".
Harry closed his eyes, picturing the events of the previous day and retold the events carefully without mentioning any names. He told Dumbledore about the portkey and how it was keyed to activate. He mentioned that he had been forced to defend himself from a fellow student and how he had fallen and then the portkey had automatically activated and he realised that he had arrived in the Entrance Hall before falling unconscious.
The Headmaster listened patiently and when Harry had finished, he spent a few minutes considering what he had heard. Finally, he cleared his throat and said "I shall have to do some research into what happened, but at the moment I'm afraid that I don't know how you managed to travel here. I have even less of one regarding how to get you back to your correct time, which I believe is 1996?" Upon seeing Harry's affirmative nod, he carried on, "I warn you now Mr Potter that it may take a while. I will try and give it priority, but I hope you understand that I have many other commitments, so it may take a while to return you to the correct period".
"Professor? What about using a Time-Turner though?" Harry interrupted, Pausing for a moment, he continued with "I know there are several at the Department of Mysteries. Maybe I could use one of them?"
Harry noticed that the Headmaster's face betrayed his surprise. "Mr Potter, how is it that you know what can be found in that particular Department? I do believe it is supposed to be top-secret".
Harry blushed at the tone of the question before remembering how he had learnt about what went on in the Department of Mysteries. Slowly and answering carefully, Harry said "Something happened at the end of last year, it's still … painful. I lost someone, someone really close to me and it was my fault. I … I endangered my friends and several others going to the Ministry of Magic to save him, but it was a trap and he…" Harry trailed off, blinking rapidly as he fought to retain his composure. "We fought in some of the rooms in the Department of Mysteries, which is how I know what I do, bu-, but it was all for nothing! He still died!" he finished, a single tear falling from his eyes. As soon as he realised, Harry angrily wiped the tear away.
Looking up at the Headmaster, Harry saw sympathy in the blue eyes and although anger flowed through Harry, he realised that this Dumbledore wasn't the one who had kept the Prophesy from him, that he wasn't to blame. Harry was in turmoil, this was all too strange, unbelievable. Harry wasn't at all sure what to think, to feel anymore.
Dumbledore watched as several emotions flew across the boy's face as he told his story. It was obvious the boy had gone through a terrible ordeal, but there was something that intrigued the old wizard. There was pain and loss, but also bravery, courage and love. He had a feeling that young Mr Potter would prove to be very interesting indeed. Giving him a few moments to compose himself, the Headmaster said "I'm sorry about the death of your friend".
Ignoring the narrowing of those green eyes, he continued. "As for using a Time-Turner to return to your time. I'm afraid that they are only used for travelling a few hours. If you were to try and travel 20 years into the future, well I cannot predict what would happen. Time-Turners are only stable for short periods of time, the longer the 'jump', the more unstable the travel. You may perhaps not even travel 20 years, but overshoot that by many years instead. It is too dangerous. No, we shall find some other way. I believe the portkey is significant and will start my work there. I do not suppose you still have it?"
Harry remembered that he had put the portkey in his trouser pocket the previous day and so handed it over to the Headmaster, who examined it for something that Harry could not tell before putting it in his robe. "Now Mr Potter … Harry?" Dumbledore started. "I need to know a bit about you. I presume that you will be continuing your schooling while you remain here, so would you mind answering a few of my questions?"
"No sir" replied Harry.
"How old are you?"
"16, I would be entering my Sixth Year".
"James Potter is your father then?"
Harry sighed. He knew he had to tell the Headmaster certain events, but the problem was that he might inadvertently end up revealing more than he wanted to. Slowly he began to explain. "Professor Dumbledore, I'm not entirely sure what to do here, obviously since I know certain events, and I can't reveal specific information for fear that I'll change the future". Harry let out a short bitter laugh before continuing. "Even though I'd love to change the future, you … well, in the future you taught me certain things, and I realise that things have to happen a certain way".
Dumbledore did not interrupt Harry, instead remaining standing silently. Taking a calming breath, Harry continued, hoping that he was doing the right thing. "My parents are James and Lily Potter, I don't see the harm in telling you that. They were … they died the same night I got this scar" and he parted his hair, so that the Headmaster could get a clearer look.
Harry saw Dumbledore move closer and felt his fingers approach this forehead but before they made contact, he let his hair fall back and leaned back slightly. Dumbledore in response took a step back before saying, "That is a curse scar. How did you get that? They usually occur when a powerful curse fails?"
"I can't tell you I'm afraid" answered Harry, having been caught in the old wizard's gaze. Harry took a breath, about to continue with his explanation when he felt a small presence in his mind. It felt strangely familiar. Within the space of a second, Harry had brought the barrier in his mind up to its maximum strength and pushed the invading touch out with a mental shove. Confident that the barrier would not be broken anytime soon, he glared at the shocked Headmaster.
"I would appreciate it if you would not try that again", said Harry in a quiet voice, anger lacing the tone in which he addressed Dumbledore. "I learnt Occlumency this summer due to visions from Voldemort all last year, which ended in the death of my godfather. I had to put up with a teacher who preferred to humiliate me, rather than teach me anything worthwhile in protecting my mind. I do not want you, or Voldemort, or anyone else prying into my mind!"
Harry glared at Dumbledore until he uttered an apology for his behaviour. Still slightly angry with the older wizard, but nonetheless understanding that it was his nature, after all, Harry could recall several situations where he unknowingly had his memories searched. Harry made a conscious effort to rein in his anger, knowing that he had lost control seconds ago.
After several tension-laden moments, Harry carried on. "That happened many years ago, and I was sent to live with relatives. At 11, I started at Hogwarts and each year has been anything but normal. I should probably warn you", Harry said with a wry grin, "trouble seems to follow me no matter what".
"As it does to most teenagers, though I would say you are following in your father's footsteps in that regard" replied Dumbledore, the twinkle reappearing in his eyes.
Harry shook his head, a small frown on his face. "No, I doubt it. My trouble tends to be more inclined to people trying to kill me, rather than pranks".
Harry saw Dumbledore raise an eyebrow at his statement, most likely trying to figure out why someone would want to kill me he mused. He was brought out of his thoughts by the Headmaster's next question. "Mr Potter? Harry. You do not have to answer this if you do not wish to, but you made several mentions of Voldemort. Is he still 'alive' then from when you came from? Have you met him?"
Harry closed his eyes. This was a question that Harry did not want to answer, but at the same time, he felt that he had to reassure the Headmaster in some way. "I don't know what to tell you. He … disappeared for a while. He had gone, I don't know how but somehow it happened. Then the summer before last, there was a ritual of some sort, and Voldemort returned. The Ministry of Magic was somewhat late in acknowledging his return but luckily, you and the Order were already working against Voldemort and his Death Eaters. As for your second question, you may have noticed that I say his name when so many of my friends are afraid to. I do not fear the name anymore. Yes I have met him several times, but that is something that I do not think you need to know right now ".
Harry finally opened his eyes and noted that the Headmaster was again wearing a face filled with shock. "My dear boy", he said. "You do keep coming out with the most surprising things, information that you should not know about. How much do you know about the Order? After all, it is supposed to be a secret to everyone except the members".
"Actually I don't know all that much, and what I know I can't tell you. Not that what I know is all that appropriate in this time, or I can't tell you in case it changes the future!" he said, frustration evident in Harry's face.
Harry saw Dumbledore smile under his white beard. "Well Harry, it does seem that you are in a rather unique position. I cannot tell you to do this or that after all, I myself must remain ignorant of events that occur in the future as well. What I would suggest is that you refuse to answer anything that you are not comfortable revealing, and to just do what you think is right. What is meant to happen will happen, and you must meet it when it does, there is no point in worrying about it. I'm sorry if it does not comfort you, but it is the only advice I have".
Harry felt the burden lighten slightly, though thoughts of the future still weighed heavily on his mind. Smiling slightly, he continued. "I would be starting my Sixth Year since I took my OWLs last summer". Quickly Harry informed Dumbledore of his grades and the subjects he had chosen to study to NEWT level.
"Mr Potter, you have only informed me of 5 electives: Transfiguration, Charms, Potions, DADA, and Magical Creatures" said Dumbledore. "We currently ask most Sixth Years to take six electives, only those with difficulties take five, and with your grades, I would recomment that you choose another subject".
"Oh, I didn't realise" apologised Harry. "Well at least I can definitely drop Divination" he mused, ignoring the twinkle in the Headmaster's blue eyes. "I'm not particularly keen on continuing with History either. I had thought of training to become an Auror after school so Professor McGonagall suggested the first four subjects. Professor Dumbledore? Do you have any advice? I could take Herbology or Astronomy, although I did get a higher grade in Herbology"
"Well Mr Potter, I'm not sure. Perhaps I could offer you another option" he said. Harry's curiosity was piqued, another subject? "This year, we are offering a new NEWT level subject" Dumbledore continued, "in Healing. It is as it sounds; a course in treating injuries and illnesses. It is not so in depth as the training you would receive to become a Mediwizard, but you will learn much of the basic skills and treatments as well as a few of the more advanced ones. The course will also teach you both magical and muggle methods of Healing, and how to treat combat injuries, especially in these dangerous times. To take it, we require at least two 'Outstanding' out of DADA, Transfiguration, Charms, or Potions. Although a high Herbology grade is recommended, it isn't necessary".
Harry perked up significantly as he listened to the Headmaster explain the new course, and when he finished, Harry knew that he would definitely be interested in the subject. "Sir, if it's not too late, I would like to take Healing as my sixth elective" he asked with a smile. Then suddenly he remembered his belongings. "Professor! My things, my trunk? I don't know what happened. I think I fell onto my trunk when the portkey activated, but I don't see it! What will I do for supplies?"
"Ah, not to worry there. Your trunk and owl arrived with you. Your trunk is currently in my office and your owl is in the Owlery I believe. Regarding your coursebooks for your NEWT subjects, don't worry about them, I'll sort that out for you. You should get them in a few days. Now, what House are you in?"
Harry smiled proudly as he said "Gryffindor sir".
"Wonderful. I'll let Professor McGonagall know that you'll be joining her House and she'll sort out your timetable. I believe you'll be joining your parents in the Sixth Year. Now I must caution you, as I'm sure you have already realised. The less they know the better. Unfortunately, we cannot let it be known that you are from the future and are James Potter's son. Which reminds me, I shall have to place a small obscuring charm on your trunk. That is after all, how I realised your identity after meeting with James last night. We'll keep the Harry though, but we'll need a surname that won't arouse any suspicion, as well as a background for how you suddenly appeared…"
**********
Harry sat on the bed in the Hospital Wing after getting changed into clean robes, which a house-elf had brought him twenty minutes ago. Dumbledore had left around 45 minutes before, after they had worked out the basic details of Harry's 'cover' story. Harry was becoming more and more nervous as he waited for someone to escort him. He was in the same time-period as his parents, as well as Sirius and Remus. He still couldn't believe it! He probably wouldn't until he saw them with his own eyes. Even then, he couldn't act like he knew them; he had to pretend to be a transfer student. Harry sighed, thinking how hard this was going to be, but still he knew it was worth it. He would be able to discover what his parents were really like. Not someone else's memories or taunts, but the real thing.
The door to the Hospital Wing suddenly opened, jerking Harry from his thoughts. Looking at who had entered the room, he noticed that it was his Transfiguration teacher, Professor McGonagall. "Ah, there you are. You gave us quite the shock yesterday young man. I'm Professor McGonagall and I'll be your Transfiguration teacher. I'm also the Head of House for Gryffindor, which the Headmaster has informed me you have been sorted into".
"Yes Professor" replied Harry, standing up, more than ready to leave the Hospital Wing.
"Well then if you'll follow me, I'll show you how to get to the Gryffindor Tower and introduce you to some of your housemates. I hope that they can answer any questions you may have regarding the school", she said as they started walking towards the Tower. "If you do have any other questions or problems, you can come and talk to me and the Headmaster has also asked me to pass the same offer on from himself.
"Your trunk has already been sent up to the boy's Sixth Year dorm. Your current roommates are James Potter", she continued, casting a quick look as she mentioned his father's name. "Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. The Prefects for your Year are Lily Evans and Remus Lupin. However, most of the students are actually outside today, since it's a Sunday and there are no classes, but hopefully there will be someone still in the Tower".
After another couple of minutes navigating the various stairs, Professor McGonagall and Harry eventually found themselves outside the portrait of the Fat Lady. Harry hid his impatience, remembering that he wasn't supposed to know, when McGonagall explained that he would need to know the current password to enter the Tower, which was currently 'Tempus Fugit'.
Harry entered the familiar common room, a step behind his teacher, who was already walking towards a small group sat in the corner of the room. Harry felt himself blushing slightly as he looked at his 16-year-old father. Sitting next to him was Sirius, who looked as Harry had seen in Snape's memory. Once again, Harry noted that he looked much better than the older Sirius, obviously Azkaban had a more permanent effect on his looks. Harry was almost overwhelmed at the emotions flowing through him as he looked at the two boys, but all thoughts ceased by the shock of seeing a much younger Remus, who was lounging on a couch next to Sirius. Remus who still had those wonderful amber eyes, but had light brown hair which fell to his shoulders. There was no trace of grey at all, and his face was younger and there were fewer lines. He looked happy.
Unwillingly, Harry's green eyes moved to Peter. The betrayer, the Death Eater. Harry felt the hate he felt for the rat rise up, but with a struggle, he pushed it back down. Peter had technically done nothing to make Harry hate him, yet. Even so, Harry knew that he would never be able to be friends with him, the knowledge of the future tainting everything. 'Oh this is not going to be easy' Harry thought. 'My dead dad, my godfather who I pretty much murdered, my friend the werewolf who lost all his friends, and one of the people I hate the most in the world, my parent's betrayer. Oh yes, this is definitely not going to be easy'.
Harry was so preoccupied in scrutinising his 'new school friends', he did not notice that he was also the object of much examination himself. James, Sirius, and Remus had instantly recognised him from the previous night, while Peter was meeting him for the very first time. Harry became aware that McGonagall was talking to the four boys, warning them not to do anything that may cause them to lose house points. McGonagall then introduced the four boys to Harry. Harry nodded when introduced to Peter, successfully hiding the hate in his eyes. Harry gave Sirius and Remus a shy smile and when he was introduced to James, the two just stared at each other for a moment.
"Right" drawled Harry, before he grinned at James. "I guess we'll be getting this a lot, right?" Rolling his eyes, he held out his hand and introduced himself. "Hi, I'm Harry Granger. I guess you're James Potter from what little I've already heard. The Headmaster mentioned the likeness between us".
Harry waited nervously as he saw James' hazel eyes narrow slightly, as if he was sizing him up. Then without warning, James jumped up and grabbed his hand in a firm handshake. "Nice to meet you Harry. You're right, I'm James, and I agree. You do look like me".
"Are you sure you two aren't related?" asked Remus, a small frown on his face.
Harry took a breath. He hated having to lie especially to Remus, but he knew it was necessary. "I'm afraid I'm not. At least I don't believe so. My parents died when I was very young and a muggle family took me in. I don't know who my parents were unfortunately, except they were both magical. The muggles who took me in didn't know about magic either. I've lived in South Africa for as long as I can remember and that's where I had my first five years of schooling" he said, telling them the cover story he had concocted with the Headmaster.
The four boys looked at him with sympathy in their eyes. "I'm sorry" said Remus softly, echoed by Sirius and James. Professor McGonagall, who had been standing silently the entire time, cleared her throat. Talking to the four boys, but especially directing her comments to Remus, she asked them to show Harry how to get around the school and to help him get to classes. After getting their agreement, she left Harry alone with the four boys.
Harry began to notice that he was the object of much scrutiny from several strangers. Although there were few people still inside this sunny afternoon, Harry began to blush, feeling slightly uncomfortable with the attention. James, noticing the stares and Harry's subsequent behaviour, suggested that they all go up to their dorm until it was time for dinner. Harry followed the slightly taller boy up the stairs until they reached the room labelled 'Sixth Year'. Walking in, he saw that his trunk had indeed been brought up. Harry mentally noted that his bed was closest to the door. It looked like he was to sleep in the bed opposite James, and next to Remus. Sirius' bed was next to James, while Peter's was on the other side of Remus'' bed.
Harry sat on his bed, and after a few seconds, James and Peter sat down next to him, while Remus and Sirius sat opposite them on Remus' bed. The atmosphere was slightly tense and Harry could sense that the four boys were desperate to bombard him with questions. He sighed quietly, and with a small smile he said "Go ahead, hit me".
Taking up the offer, Sirius jumped in. "So Harry. Why is it that you look so much like James here? I mean, you're not identical or anything, but it's kind of odd".
"I really am going to be asked this a lot aren't I?" complained Harry, but the smile on his face showing his good humour. "I don't know why? Is it the hair?"
"Well both of you do have rather uncontrollable hair it seems" Remus replied.
"Hey! My hair isn't all that bad!" said James with an injured look.
"Yes it is James" laughed Sirius. "The only time I've seen it behave was that time when we stuck a galleon of Sleekeasy on it!"
"I still haven't forgiven you for that!" said James.
"Maybe not, but you did get revenge" Remus reminded him. "Remember, you hexed Sirius so he couldn't write for a week".
Harry laughed at the indignant look that formed on Sirius' face and the smug grin on James'. "Why do I get a feeling" he started, "that you four like practical jokes?"
He knew he had broken some of the tension with that comment, because all their faces lit up. James sat up slightly straighter as he replied, "Pranks? We love them, it's almost like a job for us!"
"Especially the Slytherins. They make the best targets!" said Sirius, a huge grin on his face.
"It's usually left to me to try and rein these two in, not that they ever listen to me" Remus sighed, a defeated look on his face, but he was betrayed by the amused look in his eyes.
"Ha! Come on Remus, admit it, you enjoy them just as much! Besides you've played your fair share of pranks as well" replied Sirius. Turning back to Harry, he asked, "So Harry, are you a prankster?"
"Well, I don't think I'm much of one, but then I've not really had the opportunity to prank people I guess" he said slowly. "However, my best mate's brothers were pranksters and they were absolutely brilliant at it so I've picked up a few things. I wouldn't mind playing some harmless pranks" offered Harry, a playful look on his face.
"Great! I can't wait!" replied Sirius. Harry was astonished. The older Sirius had never been this exuberant. There was always a small amount of sadness in his eyes, as if he still relived the nightmares of the Dementors. This Sirius, with his black hair falling in front of sparkling blue eyes, had no such experiences to deal with, was still innocent. Well as innocent as Sirius Black ever was, Harry presumed. He could see the happiness shining through those eyes. Once more, he silently grieved for what had happened to Sirius, but at the same time felt almost powerless to stop things happening the same way.
Peter, who mentioned that it was time for dinner, suddenly brought him out of his thoughts. The five boys left the dorm, Remus explaining on their way down that they would be happy to show him around, how to get to classes and such, for the next few days. At least until he got used to the school and it's peculiarities. Harry graciously agreed, knowing he had to try and keep up the pretence of being an ignorant transfer student, but otherwise basking in the joy that James, Sirius, and Remus surrounded him. That he could get to know them before tragedy struck.
It was not until he was just outside the Great Hall that he realised that he would finally get to meet his mother, Lily Evans. Gathering his courage and resolve, he followed the four boys into the Great Hall.
**********
Notes:
Sorry it took me so long to get this chapter out. I hadn't expected to be away for so long, and then I got ill. But I'm better now, and my muse came back, and AJ helped me out with a small problem that had got me stuck, so really big thanks there!
You may have noticed that some of the things I said were going to be in chapter aren't. The reason is that the first part by itself is over 8500 words, so it's quite hefty by itself. I decided to split the chapter up, so the next one will include Harry's new NEWT lessons, the prank, and Quidditch!
Many thanks to Facade1, Arsinoe, Darth Koltaram, Vicious Lily, DUDE, VLBVLB, Julianna5, Lady Cinnibar, Cestari, ping*pong5, Patricia Black, Kitsune Girl, Minnie, Hyperbole, Megz2, Witchy-Athea, Necromant, Romm, Lily, Jania, Elfy19, quantum, Piper of Locksley, Rakshasa, penny, Susan Bischoff, Alynna Lis Eachann, HarryGryffinGirl, Elisabeth Potter, gaul1, and Aku Soku Zan87.
Extra special thanks to Firesword and Acacia Jules for their help and ideas, especially when I get stuck!
Acacia Jules - Harry didn't hear what curse Draco threw at him. He was distracted by the taunts about Sirius as well as thinking of a spell to defend/attack Draco with. I just want to say thank you again, and please update your new fic, please? You can put off the newspaper-length review for the next chapter if you want, I think you might want to as I'm sure you'll love it (I hope!)
DUDE - Thank you so much for your lovely comments. I'll try to remember to e-mail you with updates. If enough people ask me, I may sort something out, but I'll wait and see. I must, however, respectively disagree regarding HarryTonks. I think it's more believable and preferable to pairing poor Harry with Luna, or god forbid Ginny!
Ping*pong5 - I hope the wait wasn't too unbearable and I apologise again for making you wait so long *hides under bed in case reviewers start throwing things at me!* I still haven't decided whether the creature in the Egg will become Harry's familiar or not. After all, I must consider Hedwig's feelings, and she does seem slightly possessive, don't you think?
Witch-Athea - Thank you. These long chapters are fantastic to read, but they take a hell of a lot to write. I have so much more respect for authors now that I did before, especially those who write incredibly brilliant long pieces. Nor did I realise that I could write this much either. My notes make me think that the scene won't be that long, but then I put fingers to the keyboard, and well, you can see how much I write! I sit here and worry that most of its irrevalent, but as long as the reviewers like it, I'll try and keep it up.
Necromant - Yes it is. Congratulations! Now if you can work out my Christmas surprise for Harry? Then I'd be completely floored.
Romm - Regarding the WWW sweets and that curse Draco threw. Hmmm, close but no cigar, sorry. I agree, I've read a few fics where Harry's belongings suddenly appear out of thin air, or he just doesn't bother about it. I hate that, so I definitely made sure Harry has everything he need, including those leather trousers! I'm surprised at the comments regarding Harry and Tonks as sibs. I've fallen in love with it as well. I will say this, this isn't the end of the sibs!
Jania - I'm glad you enjoyed the humour. I think it's important to have a healthy dose of humour in fic, as well as in life. I was slightly worried that readers wouldn't pick up on my slightly bizarre sense of humour. I still remember sitting in the theatre watching The Two Towers and laughing at the fight scenes with a couple of my mates, and no one else was laughing. I definitely left the movie thinking I was strange! This chapter was slightly more serious, but I promise to bring the funny back in the next chapter!
Elfy19 - I must disagree. I can see HarryTonks, but I can agree to disagree on this. I do agree that Tonks rules! She is the best female role model, in my opinion, so far in the Hpverse, if you forget the clumsy factor, but then, its so cute!
penny - 50 chapters?!! I think my fingers would fall off! I don't plan on it being that long, it more like 20-25 at the moment. So far, I've planned most things until the end of the year, and I'll reveal now that there's a huge life changing moment in March.
Susan Bischoff - Thank you very much for your lovely comments, but I was under the impression that Sugerquills was only for het fiction. Anyway, thanks for saying it's good enough to post there, it makes this all worth it.
Elisabeth Potter - Thank you. I have read you time-travel fic and I thought it was great. The sequel isn't quite my cup of tea though (HPGW bleugh!) but I still like what I've read.
Aku Soku Zar87 - Yes, Harry is paired off with someone, but it's a mystery at the moment, though you are more than welcome to guess. I don't want to give it away just yet, but some readers have guessed already.
I apologise in advance for any mistakes, spelling, grammatical or otherwise. It is all my fault since this is unbeta'd. Please review (long is good!) and send any helpful comments, all will be appreciated. Any flames, however, will be, in all honesty, read then disregarded. Thank you for reading!
SStar