Harry woke to the sounds of a woman screaming in panic. Shaking his head he looked around to see a middle aged woman exiting her car. He was lying in the road directly in front of it and noticed a large dent in the front bumper. Several feet away on the sidewalk was his cousin looking pale faced down at him. This was not how he was hoping to start off his next adventure.

"Oh lord, are you alright!" Shrieked the woman. She came around the hood of her car to kneel next to him.

"Yes, I'm fine. Just a little bump." She looked around, noticing the large indentation from where he had been hit. She then scowled up at Dudley.

"What were you thinking, shoving this boy into the road like that? I'm calling the authorities! You just stay right here and sit still, okay?" She ordered before rushing off to the closest building. It was about then he took in that they were a few blocks away from Privet Drive and all the gawking neighbors. The situation was quickly getting out of hand. Thinking quickly he stood up and went over to his still gaping cousin.

"Look you fat lard, just tell them it was an accident. Don't say anything stupid and get me locked in the cupboard again, okay?" Dudley's eyes widened and his mouth opened, lips quivering.

"Y-you can't say that to me. I'll tell-" he was quickly cut off by Harry.

"I almost died, you arse. Be glad I'm not going to tell them the truth. Now be quiet." He sat down angrily in the grass on the side of the road. Before he had time to think about running away the woman was back babbling on and dabbing at her eyes with a napkin. Soon after her wails were joined by the cries of sirens and so began the circus.

It took nearly an hour in the back of an ambulance and talking to three different police officers before they accepted that he was fine and believed his story about his cousin tripping him on accident. In that time the Dursley's has shown up. Vernon has vehemently started blaming it all on Harry somehow under the impression that it was Dudley who had been thrown in front of a car. When the authorities told him there were several eye witness saying otherwise and that it was only Harry saying it was an accident the walrus of a man only grew even more red and started yelling louder. Then the driver had started shrieking back and it was all Harry could do to keep from just slipping away in the confusion. By the time everyone had calmed down and the two boys were sitting in the back of the Dursley's car on their way back to Number 4 it was clear there would be hell to pay for all this.

Several of the officers watched the car drive away with suspicion. The apparent reputation of the little black haired boy did not at all reflect how he had acted. His relatives reaction to the situation only increased interest in what was going on with the strange family.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

"Hurry up and make breakfast." Was all Petunia said to him after she opened the door to his cupboard and then walking away. Harry scowled at her back but shakily stood and made his way to the kitchen.

"Four bloody days." He mumbled under his breath as he entered the kitchen and began gathering things to make eggs and bacon. It was the length of time he had been locked away under the stairs following his return, or perhaps arrival, in the past.

It only took him a short while to prepare breakfast. He had managed to stuff some food into his mouth in the short intervals when his Aunt was not monitoring him. When he had originally been this age Harry never would have dared do this.

His cousin and uncle came down the stairs shortly after. Dudley, too groggy from sleep to notice anything but the food at the table, simply sat down. Vernon was however more than awake enough to notice the small boy and give him what he likely thought was an intimidating glare. Harry for a moment reconsidered killing them but quickly brushed away the notion. It was a line of thinking he found too dark.

Taking the opportunity while they were distracted he mumbled something vague about using the bathroom and made his way into the front hall. His sour mood was immediately cheered when he saw, as he had hoped, a latter slide through the mail slot and fall to the floor. After a glance behind himself to see if anyone else had seen it he rushed forwards and picked it up. It was his Hogwarts letter. Without a second thought he reached up to unlock the door and a minute later he was as far away as his little legs would carry him.

As he ran he mused that even in his current state he would still be able to outrun any of his relatives.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

After having ducked through several other yards and crossing as innocently looking as possible to the other side of the suburbs he had finally made it to the nearest train station. He was glad that the Dursley's were unlikely to call the police as they would have assuredly be waiting there for him. His relatives had decided to try and catch him themselves and were milling about the station. It took several hours of hiding across the street in a park before they finally got in their car and left. Relieved, he made his was across as soon as the next train was supposed to arrive.

He was nearly caught sneaking onto trains as he made his way towards London. Luckily it was not very far and he only needed to do so twice.

On his way he found himself at a familiar station and was too curious not to take a peak at his favorite coffee shop. To his surprise there was a familiar looking little girl there playing behind the counter who caught him staring at her. Embarrassed, he gave her a weak wave and ran off.

Arriving in London proper he began making his way through the streets. Harry was more than a little apprehensive of the fact he likely more think looked the part of a lost or runaway child and did his best to stick to busy footpaths near motherly looking women. Very tired and extremely hungry he finally made his way to the familiar sight of the Leaky Cauldron.

Harry spent a fair amount of time waiting outside a nearby store before he finally worked up the courage to slip inside behind two witches. Keeping his head down and hair patted over his scar He managed to make it through the Cauldron unnoticed. He was more than a little fortunate to come to the back passage the the alley just as the two witches were passing. Perhaps it was just his new body, but he felt a distinct sense of awe upon once again entering the magical world. His eyes were immediately drawn to the shining white marble of Gringotts. As he made his way over to and up the steps he pondered if the goblins had placed some sort of charm on the building.

After the expected glares from the guards as he passed the threshold into the dim teller area he hesitated. Obviously what he was about to do could be seen as illegal or at least of high question. Setting as stern a look upon his face as possible he made his way over to the first available teller with the hopes that his demeanor would be enough to sway the goblins opinion of him in a positive manor.

"I need to enter my trust vault." Harry started, interrupting the goblin just as he was about to speak. "I do not have my key but can prove who I say I am." In a moment he had his somewhat crumpled letter slid past the bars into the tellers window. The goblin flared at him for a moment before considering the parchment.

"Gringotts will require more than a letter to identify the owner of a vault." Harry was more than familiar with the grin that grew on the tellers face when it looked up. "If you are certain you are who this letter claims to be, we would be happy to verify your identity." After an affirmative nod the goblin simply gestures for him to follow it towards the back of the bank.

Following the goblin past a large oak door, himself followed by a pair of armed goblins, Harry once again reconsidered the benifits of dealing with the shorter beings. It may have just been his young body but there was a considerable amount of sweat running down his person as he was ushered into yet another door. The room it preceded simply contained a small desk with a chair on each side. As he entered the two following guards stood on either side of the doorway while the teller goblin took its place in the chair opposite and gave a gesture for him to sit.

"All we require is a small sample of blood." They said simply. It's eyes glanced pointedly at a small pad of rubber while pulling out a sheet of parchment. Harry had no idea what to immediately think but took a deep breath and placed his forefinger on the pad. Some kind of needle jabbed his finger and he pulled it away containing a hiss of pain. Looking at it he saw a small drop of blood and glancing at the goblin he was only given a toothy smile and a wave towards the parchment. Looking down he saw only blank parchment.

"This is not a trick, is it?" He asked, wishing at the moment he had at least a wand to defend himself with.

"Of course not, so long as you are who you claim to be." Harry wondered if he would ever grow accustomed to goblins seemingly malicious grins. With a short nod he placed his bloody finger on a corner of the parchment. It glowed a moment before the goblin quickly snatched it from its place on the table. Behind him he could hear a slight rustling of metal clearly coming from the two guards behind him. Across the table the teller-goblins eyes darted back and forth across the piece of parchment it held.

"Very well, I will be back in a moment." Replied the goblin with a frown. It shuffled off its chair and exited the room through a door that Harry had not seen before. His palms grew somewhat sweaty as the minutes passed by. Just as panic began to build in his chest the door suddenly swung open. In entered the goblin, which quickly made his way over to the table before gruffly slapping a dull brass key on the table in front of him.

After a curt command to follow him, ever after the guards were abandoned, Harry was quickly lead down several more hallways before entering a familiar area that held the carts down into the vaults. Despite being somewhat mollified by his visit so far it was hard for Harry to contain a few joyful yelps as the cart swung around the various bends of the tracks.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

After a slight nod to the goblins guarding the doors of the bank, one he somewhat recognized from some previous visit, Harry made his way down the steps to the Alley proper. Tied to his belt was a bulging sack of coins along with as much as he could seritpitoisly stuff in his pockets. Luckily his baggy clothing had made it easy to conceal the small fortune he carried on his person. Once he had ran a hand through his hair to scruff it back over his forehead Harry proceeded down the alley.

His face lit up as he remembered his dead companion. He had been considering what might be more important than a wand and thought about how it was Hedwig that brought him letters from his friends when locked up at the Dursley's. With that he was quick to make his way to Eeylops Owl Emporium. He nearly burst through the door in his excitement to find Hedwig. Eagerly the young man, dressed in ragged muggle clothing, began looking amongst the various types of owls for one that seemed familiar as he made his way through the somewhat smelly shop.

After making three loops of the shop he was filled with more than a little disappointment at not being able to locate his friend. He even asked the shopkeeper about any snowy owls in the back but was mollified when he was told they were all up front. Carefully he went back around the shop twice while ignoring the strange looks he received from his fellow proprietors before he suddenly felt the weight of a bird on his shoulder, it's talons lightly digging into his skin through the clothes. There was a familiar bark followed by and equally memorable sensation of his hair being preened.

"Hedwig!" He exclaimed, reaching a hand to ruffle the feathers on her head. She gave another short bark before nipping affectionately at his fingers.

"Wow, she's beautiful!" He noticed a girl in the store his own age for the first time. She had a sleeping kitten, the ones with two tails, that was sleeping in a comfortable looking cage. Looking nearby was a tall and imposing woman with a monocle fixed over one eye. Harry for a moment considered that he might not feel so intimidated if he were four head taller.

"I've never seen an owl take to a wizard so quickly." Stated the taller witch.

"How did you know to look for it?" Questioned the girl.

"I just felt I was missing something." He replied, shifting his feet a little as he felt uncomfortable under the scrutiny.

"Magic." Supplied Amelia with a smile. "What will you call her?"

"Hedwig." He replied immediately, not caring if it seemed suspicious. The owl in question looked at the others for a moment before giving a light hoot.

"A good choice." Announced the witch nearby at the desk. "Only fifteen galleons. I can offer you a discount on the cage and some treats if you would like." She offered. By her worried looks at the woman and overly eager tone Harry got the picture that the woman wanted him to leave. Walking up to the counter he pulled his money bag from its place in his pocket.

"No, I don't think I'd like to see her in a cage." The clerk simply shrugged and in a few moments he had produced the proper coinage. The shopkeeper gave him a smile and a nod while she deposited the Galleons into the register. He then nervously turned to face the older witch. She looked at him expectantly for a moment. He considered running but knew she would catch him before he could get the door to the alley open.

"Will you be waiting here for your chaperones or had they left you to navigate the alley yourself, Mr..." She trailed off at the end. Whoever this was they clearly were suspicious. Even worse was they were suspicious and got straight to the point. As an supposedly 11-year old boy she had effectively left him with no option but to explain himself.

"I was just on my way to Ollivanders, ma'am." He started politely. "My name is Harry." She stared down at him clearly taking in what she said. Harry noticed recognition in her eyes just before they flicked upwards towards where there was likely a little bit of his scar poking out from under his hair.

"What a coincidence, Me and Susan were just about to head there next. I never thought I would see two first years more eager to get their pets than their wands." Harry looked down over towards the girl apparently his own age. Considering there was only one Harry in Britain and he only knew of one Susan his own age, he was now walking on extremely thin ice.

"I am Amelia Bones, Directer of the Department for Magical Law Enforcement here on the isles. As I just mentioned this is my niece, Susan. Would you mind accompanying us today at the alley, so long as you are alone?" From where they now stood outside the shop, their conversation having carried over as they exited, Harry most definitely was considering the option to book it towards the exit. Maybe with his wand he could make it work and not draw too much suspicion.

"Certainly, I would be happy to. Then we are in the same year at this Hogwarts?" Harry asked Susan, giving him an excuse to break from his chat with the head of all Aurors and Hit-Wizards in the country.

They passed several shops that he dearly wished to visit and finally push open the door that lead to a dimly lit shop filled with rows of shelves containing small boxes. The bell above him rang unanswered for several moments until suddenly a disheveled old man with piercing blue eyes floated around one of the corners.

"Oh my, I wasn't expecting you for some time." The man simply stated. "I suppose you are here for your wand, Mr. Potter?" Asked the older wizard.

"Yes, sir. If you aren't busy." Was all he could reply, trying to be polite as possible. His mind recalled memories of both not uncanny wisdom and the unhealthy state in which he had last seen him during the war.

"Never too busy to find a wand it's young wizard." Stated the man with a smile. He then turned and bowed deeply two times, once towards both Amelia and Susan. "Of course I must not forget my expected guests! Amelia Bones," The shopkeeper said with a smile, "Six and a quarter inches oak with a dragon heartstring. Flexible yet sturdy, best carried by duelists. I take it this is your niece, Susan." He offered a hand to the girl who took it shyly. While Ollivander was certainly a nice man he could initially come off quite intimidating. Perhaps just a part of the mystique.

"Yes, it is finally time for little Sue to get her wand." Replied the woman after taking her monocle from her eye and moving to also shake Ollivanders hand. She ignored the glare she received from the younger witch. "Feel free to finish servicing this young man. Susan can wait a little bit longer."

"Of course, right this way Mr Potter." Ushered the older man. Harry had to stifle a groan as he walked over to the counter. "Simply start by raising the hand you use to write with our straight in front of you."

Lifting his arm up towards the wizard he was once again surrounded by the magical measuring tape of the man. Nothing at all seemed abnormal from the first time he had come to find a wand. Harry had to hold back his impatience as he tested wand after wand with no success. Just as before, the older wizard raised a finger and disappeared into the shelves.

"A rare combination," He started after appearing behind a shelf on the opposite side of the storeroom, "But fitting for the rare wizard such as yourself." Ollivander gently slid a box across the counter towards Harry. Without patience he opened it, ready to snatch his prize, only to hesitate upon seeing something completely unexpected.

In place of his favored length of holly was in stead a disturbingly familiar wand of yew. It's handle was not as hooked and jagged since he had last seen it but it was unmistakably the wand of Tom Marvolo Riddle.

"Are you sure this is mine?" He asked without taking his gaze from instrument that he had seen do unthinkable evils. Somehow drawn to it he found himself picking it up without waiting for a reply. As soon as he raised it out of the box it began to emit silver sparks that intensified when he raised it up and gave it a wave.

"I am never sure," Replied the older wizard, "But the wand always is. It would seem we have found a match. Thirteen and a half inches, yew, with a Phoenix feather core. Quite the strange combination. In fact, I believe the bird that gave that feather only ever-" The shopkeeper was cut off by the clapping of Susan who had approached to congratulate Harry. In quick order the man, having seemed to forget what he was about to say, began to fit Susan for her own wand. This left Harry waiting near the front of the shop with Amelia. Hedwig could sense his unease and nipped his ear lightly before resting her head against his.

"Where is Albus? I would be certain he would be here to see you choose your wand?" Questioned the older witch after giving him time to settle. Yet again Harry was considering running away from his problems that day. He considered saying the Headmaster was simply up the alley on personal business but quickly discarded the idea.

"I don't know who you are talking about." Harry stared at the floor trying his best to look the bashful child. "I'm here on my own." Harry was fiddling with the gallons and sickles in his hands that would be payment for his wand.

"That's-" Began Amelia before pausing. "Would you mind speaking with me openly for a moment?" Madam Bones asked Harry, who only gave a shake of the head for her to continue. "So why is it that you are alone her in Diagon Alley?" Her tone was nearly as hard as her features and he was under no illusion that she would buy his lies.

"Well, I just got my Hogwarts letter today." He started uncertainly. "When I learned about magic the first thing I did was try to find out more about it."

"Are you telling me you just learned about magic today?" Her tone was skeptical and her eyes narrowed.

"Yes, ma'am." Was all he felt comfortable replying.

"So you mean to say that you don't know of Albus Dumbledore or the World of Magic?" Her face darkened when he could only shake his head. For several minutes she stared at him. When his eyes darted upwards they were met with piercing golden pupils and a large frown.

"Aunty, look!" They were interrupted by a shower of yellow-ish sparks bursting out from the wand Susan held across the room. Her expression softening, the older woman made her way over to hug her Niece and in short order pay for the new wand in question. The pair then approached Harry; Susan clearly absorbed in studying her new wand while Amelia gave him an appraising look.

"I assume you have other items to purchase?" Asked the taller witch while she fixed her monocle back over her eye. "Very well then. Susan, could you accompany Mr. Potter across the street to buy a trunk? I must make a quick Floo call." She asked of the shorter witch when Harry replied with an affirmative nod. They had just made their way out the door, a faint farewell from Ollivander behind them, when Susan grabbed his hand.

"Of course, Auntie! Let's go!" Exclaimed the faintly red-headed girl as she led him a few doors down to the opposite side of the street. Harry didn't even have time to take in the name of the exact store before they were in at the counter.

"Well then, I am more than accustomed to students arriving here this time of year. What were the two of you looking for?" Asked a middle-aged wizard from behind the counter. There were several other customers inside that gave them only fleeting glances past the various stacks of magical trunks; some of which rattled unnaturally.

"Trunks, of course!" Came the eagerly the reply from the girl that still held Harry's hand. He could only nod in agreement before the shopkeeper nodded and proceeded to show them around the store.

By the time they had returned to the counter Harry found his hand freed, if a bit colder. Susan now held a standard Hogwarts trunk identical to the one he once owned. He had decided to spoil himself and purchased a briefcase with several expanded compartments that could be accessed by inputting different codes on the lock. It was yet another thing he had not previously been aware of. He never had time to consider that he used the same mundane wooden trunk for his entire career at Hogwarts whilst others had invariably purchased more useful items.

"Are you sure your guardians will be okay that you spent that much?" Questioned his friend as they exited the shop. While she was clearly too elated to be purchasing her Hogwarts supplies, namely her wand, he had distinct memories of her being very supportive during the D.A. and knew she would make a good friend this time around.

"I doubt they would even care." He responded.

After a few moments spent loitering on a nearby bench Susan stood up when she saw her Aunt.

"No troubles?" She asked simply of the two, taking in what they both now carried.

"I just got the standard expanded trunk like you suggested." Beamed Susan before looking back at Harry while he tried to avoid attention. "He bought a nice briefcase though."

"Really." Mused Amelia, her expression bland. "Perhaps you could also show Mr. Potter to Madame Malkins? It would seem I have need to drop by my office."

"Will you be gone long then?" His companion asked as she shuffled closer. Had he not held his trunk in the nearer hand he was certain she would have taken it.

"It should be no longer than it would take to get a fitting." She Replied.

"Okay, we'll wait outside if you do." Was the reply as the girl tugged Harry down the Alley with her. He cast a shy smile towards the older woman more than aware what her excursions were about. As he followed the soon-to-be Hufflepuff down the Alley he grew more than a little concerned about how he would be ending his day.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

"-and she wrote they will be back next week!" Exclaimed Susan as they stood on twin podiums getting fitted for robes.

Harry had been somewhat lost in thought as the girl talked about her best friend, Hannah Abbot, of the same age. She had also been a member of the DA and he could recall her amongst the wounded after the Battle for Hogwarts. Her fitter finished before his did prompting the girl to jump off her stool.

"Do you really think you will need a whole new wardrobe?" She asked after putting back on her overcloak. She eyed him appealingly in the mirror. The seamstress that was measuring him gave a light huff at her comment.

"Well," he began with a pause, "I think my muggle clothes don't fit in that well. My parents seemed to have left me a bit of money and I supposed I'd rather try to fit in with all of you." Despite the needled hands about his person it was hard to ignore the slight twitch in the shoulders of the witch currently fitting him.

"Well I do hope Aunty comes back soon. I'd hate to delay our shopping any further." He could see her beaming in the mirror.

"Me too, it's been a very long day." His smile was quite a bit more forced than hers but as genuine as he could make it. Her own darkened and for a few minutes the shop stood in silence besides the work of the witches taking measurements.

For a time the silence continued without interruption. Harry used this time to compose himself and try to decide how best to proceed from his current predicament. Escaping notice from the Bones was nearly impossible at this point. At best he could hope to placate them until further notice. His bets were on himself being sent back to the Dursley's following a stern talking to.

So Harry barely noticed others enter the store. His eyes lock upon his own in contemplation barely realized his companion greeting one of the newcomers as they stood upon the stool Susan had recently occupied.

"Bones, I had no idea you were friendly with Harry Potter." Stated the person next to him. It took him a moment to realize what they had said. His eyes darted across the mirror to see the face of an impassive blonde girl with an angular face. She too seemed somewhat familiar in the way Susan had.

"Only recently, Greengrass. Do you have a problem with that?" His gaze once again turned towards his new friend. It would seem that his luck had been all but spent traveling to this new past. Harry glanced towards the girl next to him that seemed to barely notice his presence.

"Of course not," The girl began with a huff that her seam-witch gave a grumble at, "I simply try to keep notice of the interactions between Ancient Houses." The girl in question had raised her nose as if her answer was obvious. Behind him he could see both Susan and the witch that accompanied his stool-mate, who was quite clearly the girls mother, each try to hide a small smirk.

"I expected you to care about that," Susan added with emphasis, "It is just surprising you would not adress him yourself." There was a barely contained snort from the older Greengrass. In the mirror he could see the other girls features redden at the response. A moment later he noticed her head turned towards his causing his eyes to move to find hers.

"Harry Potter, is it?" She asked with piercing eyes. Harry suddenly recalled precisely who she was; a Slytherin whom he had never talked to. In his surprise he couldn't immediately remember her name.

"Yes, and you are?" He Replied, doing his best to match her aloof tone.

"Daphne Greengrass, I expect you not to forget it." Was her reply.

"Are you also just going to Hogwarts then?" His question was somewhat genuine as he could not fully remember if he had taken classes with her. Having stared closer at her face he recalled another girl of similar age that had been at the castle during his stay. Her head should again to look at him with an angry expression.

"Of course I am! Don't tell me you are unaware of the Greengrass family!" Her pale face was flushed as she turned to address him.

"I-" He paused for a moment. While accustomed to the stress of battle he had little experience with engaging in conversation. Luckily his newfound confidence took over.

"I have no idea who you are." His statement was delivered in a manner far colder than he was used to using. "Maybe if I had not been raised by muggles I would. Despite that I still see no reason I should care who you are other than that my new friend Susan recognizes you." He ended his short tirade with a deep frown that he directed towards the upper edge of the mirror before him. Even so he could not miss the shocked expressions of the other occupants of the shop.

Within a few minutes his measurements were done and the witch having taken them told him he could wait while his clothes were made. Shortly after the other girl was told something similar. She waited by her mother whereas Susan went over to quietly talk to her friend about the clothing they had bit bought. Harry simply tried his best to look calm while he collected himself.

It was not long before Madam Malkin levitated several small packages onto the counter and ushered Harry forward. He quickly paid for his purchase and stuffed the parcels into a compartment of his trunk. As he thanked the shop owner the bell above the door chimed again, this time ushering in Madame Bones.

"Amelia, I was wondering when you would show up." Greeted the elder Greengrass woman.

"It's a pleasure to see you, Cecilia." Unlike the younger two girls they greeted each other with a quick hug.

"Since when do you know Mr. Potter?" Questioned Mrs Greengrass before both glanced his way.

"Not very long. Actually we just met an hour ago." Amelia frowned at Harry a moment before shaking her head and giving him a reserved smile. "I take it you found everything you needed, Harry?"

"Yes, Ma'am." He said, trying to pass off his nervousness as him just being shy.

"Where will you be shopping next?" Questioned Cecilia. "Perhaps we could accompany you and do a little catching up?"

"We were going to get textbooks next. I'm sure we would be more than glad for your company." Amelia opened the door and ushered them all out after quickly paying for Susans robes.

The two older woman fell back a ways behind the trio soon-to-be first years. To Harry it was obvious they were discussing him. The two girls next to him were both awkwardly quiet as they walked to Flourish and Blotts. When they entered the well lit lobby the three broke apart, Harry heading upstairs while the other two made their way to a section in the front. Their chaperones browsed the displays in the lobby near the door in order to keep an eye on them all.

Harry figured he might not get another chance to come here for a while and so was careful to slip a few books that were slightly out of his age range into his shopping bag. He hoped that the tomes on occlumency, health potions, and the history of Magical Britain's government would go unnoticed amongst his school books. Since they were all buying the same books it was inevitable that he would cross pass with the two girls again. Daphne was clearly upset at him from before and with a sigh he decided that if she was friends with Susan it would be in his best interests to mend things between them.

"About before," he began after tapping her on the arm, "I didn't mean to be rude. It's just, I only found out about all of this today. When you expected me to know who you were I got a bit upset because, well, I probably should." She stared at him for a moment with Susan standing off to the side looking a bit nervous.

"It's understandable," she gave a quick look at Susan, "She informed me you only learned about magic today. Like the rest of us I had assumed you were just being all high and mighty." He shook his head.

"No, I actually hated finding out about being this whole boy-who-lived nonsense. I'm of course happy to become a part of Magical Britain but I would trade the fame for my parents back in a heartbeat." Susan made her way over to him and gave him a brief hug.

"It's okay, we won't treat you any differently." She grinned. "Well maybe not too differently."

"There is quite a bit of mystery surrounding you." Affirmed Daphne with her own smile. "Maybe you can tell us a bit about yourself to help dispel some of those rumors."

"Only if I get to ask about you two." He returned with his own smile.

Tensions eased and they were able to finish book shopping and made their way to several othe shops for potions supplies and a few things the older witches needed. He kept his replies brief and vague as to the questions about himself, a bit apprehensive about the fact that he had a fairly poor childhood. Mostly he told them about the mutual dislike between himself and his relatives, briefly touched on "Harry Hunting", and that he grew up never really having friends. When asked about his hobbies he couldn't really think of anything other than cooking and gardening which were actually more like chores. However he grew to appreciate the normalcy of the activities therapeutic after defeating Voldemort and hunkering down in Grimmauld.

Much of what he learned about Susan he already knew. Her parents had died in the war with Voldemort and she dearly wanted to be a Hufflepuff. He did learn her best friend was Hannah Abbot, though he was fairly certain he already knew that, and that her favorite thing to do was go swimming.

Daphne was his companion of which he next to nothing about other than she wanted to be in Slytherin. She had a younger sister name Astoria whom he remembered was in a relationship with Draco by the time he had left for this universe. Her mother was apparently in the Wizengamot and her father was a wealthy businessman who traded in potions ingredients. Daphne also pointed out that their three families were fairly old and influential in Wizarding Britain, with all three of them expected to be taking up seats in the Government at some point. Harry was mildly surprised at this but realized it made sense. After his victory over Tom he had done his best to be left alone to contemplate his life. In fact he realized that he had conveniently decided to skip town about a week before he was to be presented with his Order of Merlin, First Class. Other than that he had no interest in politics. Maybe Greengrass could be of some help with that in the future.

Throughout their exchange he was keenly aware that their chaperones were paying rapt attention to whatever information he gave up. Based off what he remember from his own timeline and what little he gleamed from Susan and Daphne this was to be expected. He had always been too distracted to notice it but clearly his presence was more than a little lacking in the lives of his fellow witches and wizards. This was yet another thing he added to his dish of worries.

It was some time later that Harry and his new group of friends, motherly figures included, were perusing the oddest shop the young man had ever been in. Although it seemed by the reaction of the other witches and wizards he was unaware of something. His confusion stemmed from the fact it seemed the only thing the shop sold was pairs of enchanted dancing spoons. Whatever the intrigue over them was something he did not feel any need to bring the matter up. So it was soon the group exited the shop and found themselves all standing in a small circle.

"We should be returning home." Supplied the Greengrass matriarch after a moment.

"I believe we should as well." Replied Amelia while giving a knowing look towards both Susan and himself. The group was near the Apparation point of The Alley and quick farewell were exchanged at the Greengrasses left.

"So, Mr. Potter, would you like to spend the night at the Bones estate while you figure out your living situation?" Mrs Bones asked once the others had left. Susan was clearly elated at the idea whilst Amelia kept her normal neutral glare from behind her monocle. Harry knew he could somewhat easily fend for his own but was aware that insisting on doing so would only cast more suspicion on himself.

"I don't really have anyplace to stay. If you could help me find a hotel..." Was all he could reply.

"Well," The Bones Matriarch gazed at him appraisingly, "we have plenty of room at the Manor. I am sure we could easily situate you for the time being." Her smile was all the encouragement he needed.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

His first night at the Bones manor went far smoother than he expected. They had taken the floo from the Leaky Cauldron to the foyer of their home. Harry had, of course, been shoved out of the fireplace and landed unceremoniously on his face to the amusement of Susan.

He was quickly introduced to their house elf named Lipsy. She escorted him to his room and during that time she acted much like Amelia; reserved and polite. Despite the clear difference in demeanor he could not help but to think of Dobby whilst he followed her exuberant description of the mansion as they made their way through the the brightly colored halls of the manor.

"Down there be the misses rooms." Lipsy explained with a wave towards a passage to his left without stopping her pace. "Up ahead are being the guest quarters."

"That is a lovely garden." Harry mentioned as they passed by several large windows displaying the grounds.

"That is mostly Gurdlings work, Master Potter. He has tended to Master Julius' gardens since he passed away." She finished her explanation solemnly while Harry had stopped to take in the sight. The sun was still fairly high and it was obvious the gardens sprawled over at least and acre of land.

"Was he the former head of house Bones?" Harry asked simply.

"Yes, Lord Julius and Lady Sarah were being the head of the house." Lipsy's ears and shoulders dropped at the mention of her former owners.

"It is a lovely garden." Was all Harry managed to say. His knowledge on the Bones family was limited and he was unsure what to make of this new information.

The house elf wiped away a tear before beckoning Harry to follow her. He was soon shown to a rather spacious room that a dozen of the cupboards he had previously resides in would have barely cluttered a corner. After ensuring that he found the accommodations to his liking the elf told him to call her when he was done unpacking so that she could take him to the dining room. She popped away with a blush after he gave her a hearty thanks for her help.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

Harry was nervous as he finally met the piercing golden eyes of Amelia Bones. He had just recounted the best he could remember of his experiences at the Dursley's. Despite withholding what he now considered to be minor transgressions it was clear the elder witch was upset even before she responded. His eyes had never left his lap during the confession.

"Harry," she began after a painfully long pause. It was then followed by another as he met her eyes and looked away in shame. Even in his previous lifetime this was a topic which he had never discussed in detail.

"Would you appreciate me taking legal action against your relatives?" She held up a hand to momentarily stop him as his head snapped back up in protest. "Their mistreatment goes far beyond anything I could conceive. Might I remind you that my niece found her way into my care under similar circumstances. Even if I had loathed my brother and his wife I could not ever imagine mistreating a child." He thought on this for several moments.

"So long as I don't have to see them again I don't care what happens." He finally said, looking back up into her piercing gaze. Amelia said nothing for a while, clearly deep in thought.

"Very well," She decided, "I will let the matter go. If you should change your mind or have anything more serious about their conduct to tell me, please do so." Her eyebrows quirked in a questioning manner. Harry was glad he hadn't mentioned the cupboard under the stairs.

"No, Ma'am, that is all." The older woman finally leaned back in her chair and gave a sigh.

"Very well, Mr Potter. Why don't you go find Susan then. I am sure she is anxious to show you the grounds." She mentioned with a knowing smile. It faltered at Harry's next actions.

"Thank you for listening." He said slightly teary-eyed as he stood and gave the woman a hug. She returned it tightly and held the young man for several moments. With a slight sniff Harry managed a genuine smile. "I'll go find Susan then."

Amelia watched the young man depart somewhat shocked. Up until that point the boy had been more than a little reserved. It was the most emotion she had seen him display and the only time Harry had initiated physical contact with anyone. Despite the harrowing questions these facts raised she still gave a fond smile towards the doorway he had left through.

"Bloody little boy feelings." Harry commented under his breath after departing from the room. He wiped several more tears from his eyes as he wound his way through the halls towards the gardens. Normally he wouldn't have been so emotional, or so he told himself.

MODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMODMOD

The fireplace in the entry hall of Bones manor blazed with green flame for a moment before dying down to reveal a young blonde haired girl who was immediately enveloped in a hug by her red-headed friend.

"Geeze sue, let me clean the ash off first." She exclaimed despite eagerly returning the hug.

"I couldn't wait any longer!" Susan Bones shouted as she pulled back for a moment. In another she was squeezing her best friend back into another hug. "I haven't seen you in two months! Oh so much has happened!" Hannah eventually managed to pry herself from her best friends arms and dust the ashes from her cloak.

"Like you haven't sent me a thousand letters." She replied with a grin. "Please tell me you weren't joking about your new house-guest!" Susan grabbed her hand and began dragging her through the house.

"Harry is just out back by the pond! You absolutely must meet him!" The ginger haired girl exclaimed with a bit more shriek to her voice than would be considered normal. They were soon peaking around the edge of a window overlooking the back yard.

The boy himself was at that time relaxing on a comfortable patch of grass next to a blue pool of water that was used for swimming during the summer months. His previously pale skin had already taken to a more healthy looking hugh. With the help of some seritipitously ordered potions and the generously sized meals served at the Bones his scrawny frame was also starting to look normal.

After some blushing and giggling at the shirtless state of the young man both girls ran to Sudan's room to change into swimwear. In record time they were making their way outside to go bother the young man. While he had talked in length with the youngest Bones about school she had been hesitant to try discussing more about the boy himself. Hannah had always been the more social of the two and would assuredly bring out at least a few secrets during their afternoon hangout.

DSDSDSDSDSDSDSSDSDSDSDSDSDSDSDSDSDS

-AN-

Taking some time to get the creative juices flowing. Had some idea for this story on the back of my mind but never got around to coming back here.

In any case, this chapter is mostly the same as before this, probably, final update to it. Hopefully the transition into meeting the Bones is a bit more fluid than before. Really all I had to do was chop a few parts out and move them around. Much happier with it this way. Most of the summer stuff is unimportant.

Heads up, most of a story is unimportant. Those parts are made important by the details hidden within which are.

Thanks for reading.

~Fumbls