Ramblings and Dribbles

by WolfgangNH

This is a posting of ramblings, dribbles, one-shots, unfinished ideas or other stuff I just don't think deserves it's own storyline. Some I plan to finish someday, others are what they are. This is mature reading for some posts. Some items may be well developed, others are not yet, and may never be. There will many different pairings, and sometimes none.

11. Deaf Potter

Deaf Potter

A/N: This is just a ramblings for now as I focus on other projects. Hope you enjoy.

A/N: Welcome to a world where Harry learns to navigate magic as he slowly looses his sense of hearing and the ability to speak. Due to a near death experience where the soul fragment in his scar tried to save Harry during a beating from Vernon, he now suffers from a debilitating injury that is slowly deteriorating his hearing and vocal cords. The dark magic that is left over from a now horcrux-free Harry has no known cure.

It doesn't mean he isn't capable of magic, or even becoming truly powerful, but it will not be easy. Luckily, he find a few true friends on the ride to Hogwarts and over time becomes the power he should have been.

This is inspired by an anime, A Silent Voice: The Movie.

For general context, pretty much all italized words are done through sign language. This is to try to make it easy to understand when people are talking or signing.

-oOo-

UPDATE 08 OCT 21

-oOo-

Chapter 01

-oOo-

September 1, 1991

London, England

Harry looked at the big red steam engine at the head of the platform. It was languidly puffing smoke as it waited for all the students to board the train cars behind it. He was just enjoying watching the majestic engine. It had a feel to it that it was from a different era, one that was more unknown. The technology of it was advanced, but also so primitive to what a train was now.

Someone tapped his shoulder and he turned his right ear to the woman next to him. She was relatively short, with short brown hair and big lips. "You should have a good year. I gave all your information to the nice Healer at the school. She says she'll look at you tomorrow and see if they can do anything for you," she said kindly to him, speaking directly into his right ear.

Her hands moved, talking to him in sign language. He was grateful, because Harry had only made out three of every four words. He had no clue how he was going to make it at school, but he didn't want to stay at the Group home anymore. Now he knew he was a wizard, it made so much more sense the strange things that had happened to him.

He signed a Thank you to her.

She smiled. "I am just an owl away, or Madam Pomfrey has said she can get hold of me. I can't go with you though."

I will be fine. Thank you, he signed to her.

She helped him to take his trunk to the train. After a wave, he moved back down the train until he found an empty compartment. Watching all the other children and teens, he had a feeling none of them would understand him and he really wasn't looking forward to another new school. He was excited to learn magic though. Maybe he could find a way to hear and talk again?

More importantly, maybe he could find a way to get rid of the scars?

He hauled his trunk up and sat on the bench. The paper bag with his lunch was taken out of his backpack and put on the bench, then he took out a book and looked out the window.

Outside the train families were saying good bye. Friends hugged each other or shook hands after not seeing one another for a while. At one time Harry longed for a relationship like that. Now, he was just happy to have a roof over his head, and a place to return to when school let out in June. Ms. Bell had ensured he could go back.

After a few, he settled back, opened his book on Charms, and started to read. With any luck, he could make it to the school before anyone found out about him.

He wasn't that lucky. A few minutes later, the door opened. "... you alone," a girl asked. He missed much of what she initially said, his good ear had been towards the window.

She had a look to her as though nothing scared her, she would do as she pleased and she was not very concerned with her appearances. Her frizzy hair was done up in a loose pony tail, her front teeth were large and she wore clothes that said she probably came from an affluent family.

Her eyes quickly drifted over his face, but unlike most people, she regarded him as though it was normal. "I didn't mean to int... you. I can... lost in a book..., but we were looking... a compartment ... in. Would you... if we join...?" she asked.

Harry had never really been asked to have someone join him.

He indicated the seat across from him and signed to sit. Then he realized she probably didn't know how to sign and reached for a pad and one of the expensive ball point pens he had bought that day in Diagon Alley. He would use the required quills when he needed, but it was easier to use the pen or a pencil.

You can join me, he wrote.

The girl had waited patiently for him and when he showed her the paper, her mouth made a perfect 'O'.

"Were... using sign language?" she asked.

He nodded and was hoping he had not just lost a possible friend. "Just a moment," she said and Harry looked out the door. There was another girl there. She had long brown hair with wide brown eyes as she looked at him.

Harry tried to smile and wave, but she did as most people did. He couldn't really hear her, but he knew how to read lips when they said 'no' or 'get away'.

He sighed, and turned away. He heard the first girls angry voice. It sounded like she was saying something about his scars on his face and he put his hand over his right ear as he looked out the window. He didn't want to hear it.

The sound of a train whistle came to him and he sadly watched as a few late comers with red hair rushed to the train or a few others said hasty goodbyes to their parents or young siblings.

At eleven, Harry was already resigned to the fact he would be alone all his life.

He felt the door slam shut, and was surprised to feel that someone was still in the compartment. She tapped him on the shoulder and he turned. "...sorry. She shouldn't have sa... things about you."

He looked at her confused. She looked upset.

He took his pad up. I don't understand.

She looked at him for a moment before taking a breath and holding out her hand. "I am Hermione Granger," she said a little slower and in a clear voice.

Harry Potter, he wrote before taking her hand and holding up the notebook with his other hand. He saw a flash of recognition when she read his name. He did not know her.

She seemed to bite her tongue and then asked, "Can you help me with my trunk?"

He nodded and got up. Could it be possible he had actually made a friend? Only one other boy who had to sign all the time like him had treated him as a friend at the Group home.

"Are you reading one of our text books? I have read them all and can't wait to try some spells. It is going to be brilliant," she enthused, going faster the more she talked. Harry found that turning his head so his ear was facing her, he actually understood just about everything she said.

"Don't you think? How far are you along," she asked taking the book and looking at the page he was on.

He found himself wanting to chuckle, but any sound out of his throat hurt, and he couldn't form coherent words easily with the damage to his vocal cords.

I can not wait. I don't know how I will cast though. I can not speak.

She looked at him wide eyed. After a moment, she asked. "Can you only hear out of your right ear?"

He nodded. Most people didn't pick up on that. Not right away. "That is why you keep turning you head like that. Oh, Harry, I didn't mean to be so insensitive," she cried out.

The door to the compartment opened and a boy with a toad in a cage, blond hair and looking slightly dumpy was looking in at them. He started to speak and Harry had to turn to hear him properly. "... if I join you? All... other first years wouldn't... me."

"Only if you will be nice," she said rather bossily and defensively.

He had known her all of five minutes and she already was protecting him. The boy looked at him and nodded. "Neville Longbottom," he said holding out his hand. Harry looked at it for a moment. Hermione reached her hand out. "Hermione Granger. This is Harry Potter," she told Neville.

The boys eyes went wide and he stared at Harry for moment. "Are you really," he asked. Harry was about to write something and Hermione replied for him, "Yes. He is."

Harry looked at her. She was still looking at Neville something fierce. Neville held out his hand again. Harry took it and the boy joined them.

Hermione tapped his leg as he sat back down after helping Neville. "Can you teach me to do sign language?" she requested.

He blinked a few times. This was so unlike anything he had experienced before. "I am sure Neville will want to learn also," she said, giving Neville a look before looking back at him.

Neville just looked happy to be included. Harry found himself smiling a few hours later. Hermione was relentless in trying to learn the alphabet and would practice each movement a dozen times before he taught her the next. Neville started to lag about the time the trolley came, offering to buy them all some sweets.

Harry showed them his lunch, but Hermione and Neville insisted to pay and he found he couldn't remember ever having a day like this.

Neville wasn't as quick a study as Hermione, but by the time they made it to the school, they could sign each of their names, ask how he was doing and a few other simple phrases.

The only downside to the ride were the few visitors they had. A redhead, Ronald Weasley, showed, asking if anyone had seen Harry Potter. He had been told he was starting this year.

"What of it?" Neville asked.

"Well, you know, he's Harry Potter. Do you know anyone else that has defeated You-Know-Who?" the redhead shot back. Harry didn't' have trouble hearing the boy when his ear was turned to him, the boy was loud.

"I'm afraid we haven't seen him," Hermione informed to the redhead. Harry had swapped sides, so he could hear them all now.

He nudged Hermione and put the pad on her lap. "I know Harry, but did you really defeat Voldemort?" she enquirer in a low voice. Low enough he almost couldn't hear her.

Ron's head shot up. "You're Harry Potter!" Ronald asked incredulously. "I knew you had a scar, but it's supposed to be a lightening bolt, not..."

Hermione got up and snapped, "Are you saying anything bad about his scars?"

"No, but why isn't he saying anything?" Ronald asked.

"Maybe he doesn't want to," she responded, hands on her hips now.

"Alright, I didn't mean any offense," Ronald said holding up his hands. "I just want to meet him. Say hello. My mum told me he might need a friend or two. I was told he grew up with Muggles. I was just hoping to meet some people."

Harry pursed his lips. He was sure he hadn't quiet heard that right. Muggles?

"Well, you are welcome if you can be nice," she told him.

"Is he really Harry Potter?" Ronald asked again. He didn't like the weird face the boy made to see the red scars across his neck to his ear.

"Yes," Neville responded.

"And what does it matter if he grew up with Muggles?" Hermione asked.

"It doesn't," Ronald said irritatedly now. "You know what, it's not worth this."

The boy left.

Hermione huffed. "The nerve," she snarled. She sat back down next to him and eyed him.

Who is You-Know-Who and I haven't defeated anyone, he wrote.

Neville looked at him. "Are you j...j...joking?"

He looked at Neville perplexed.

"You are Harry Potter, are you not? You have a lightening shaped scar on your forehead?" Hermione looked at him.

Harry felt a little apprehensive and lifted his bangs. It was a white scar that looked like a lightening bolt. After a moment, he took his pad again. I don't' understand.

Hermione and Neville spent a while explaining about what they knew. He looked at Neville wide eyed when he said they were distant cousins and when they said a Dark Lord killed his parents, not a car accident.

He didn't have time to really ask them much before a blond boy with two large dark hair boys behind him showed up. The boy was dressed in nice slacks, with a button down shirt, vest and an open cloak, or where they robes? It spoke of someone who was of high class.

"I... Harry Potter was around here. Have... seen him?" the boy asked in a slow drawl, a haughty expression on his face.

Harry didn't like this boy and eyed him. I am Harry Potter, he wrote.

"W... w... we know Harry Potter," Neville answered. Harry didn't like the reaction in his friend.

The boy looked at Neville. "Oh, Longbottom. Last I saw you, you had spilled punch all down your robes," the boy supplied with an evil grin.

"Who's the one with the ugly scars?" Malfoy queried with a curl to his upper lip.

"If you don't get out right now, I will find a Prefect," Hermione demanded.

The boy turned to her. "And who are you?"

"Hermione Granger and this is Harry Potter," she said pushing his note pad aside. This irked him and asked 'why' in sign language. She seemed to get his meaning and shook her head.

"You don't look like you come from a magical family," Draco said before nodding to Harry. "Potter is it? What happened to your face?"

Harry flushed. He started to write again and Hermione spoke up. "What does it matter?"

Draco didn't seem to like it that she was talking to him. "I knew he has a scar, but not that it was that ugly. It doesn't look like a lightening bolt."

Harry clenched his hands. He did not want to be in a fight on his first day.

"Get out of..f..f hear, Malfoy," Neville demanded, getting up.

Harry stood too. If these two were willing to stick up for him, he would too. He needed to ask Hermione what that was about earlier.

"I can go where I want, Longbottom. If you change your mind and want to make some friends with real influence, we are a car up," Malfoy said to him and walked away.

After a second, Harry wrote furiously in his notebook and shoved it towards Hermione. She didn't look like she was sorry. "I have dealt with people like him. Malfoy was it, Neville?"

"Y... y... yes," Neville responded, still looking upset and spooked. "Draco M... M... Malfoy."

"I have dealt with people like him. If he found out you couldn't speak or hear well, it would be all over the train in ten minutes," she told him.

He could understand, but it didn't mean he wasn't upset. He ripped a small hole in the paper as he wrote, making an aggravated sound. He shoved it at her again. This time she looked a little repentant. "I can understand, Harry. I was not trying to offend you or not give you a chance to speak. I thought I was helping."

He wanted to huff, but didn't, and then sat back. He had been bullied all his life, having to find his own way of dealing with it. No one besides some of the adults at the Group home had ever stood up for him. He didn't want to get walked over by anyone, especially someone he was starting to think of as a possible friend.

After a second of her looking at him as though she had done something bad, Harry signed,Thank you.

She smiled after a moment and they picked up the lesson on sign language where they had left off. She was an incredibly fast study. Neville did his best, and didn't give up for the entire train ride.

Harry tried not to back away from the giant of a man on the platform when he walked by. "Firs' years. This way," the man bellowed loud enough to be heard without looking at him. Many looked at Harry and quickly looked away. A few held his eyes, and he even got a smile from a pair of girls that looked like they were friends. One was blonde, the other a redhead.

Who are they, he asked Neville on his pad, nodding to the girls. "Hannah Abbot and Susan Bones. Gran has had them over a few times a year. She is friends with Hannah's mother and Susan's Aunt."

Harry nodded. Maybe this school wouldn't be as bad as previous schools.

A hand slid into his and Hermione pulled him along, with Neville right on his heels. When they got so some boats, the three of them took one. Hannah and Susan sat in the boat before them, with two Indian looking girls. Neville didn't' know them.

The school was enormous, and he laughed internally when one of the large boys with Malfoy didn't duck and whacked his on the low ceiling on the tunnel they entered.

He was just as wide eyed as most of the others to see the ceiling in the giant hall with the other students. He liked the stars in the night sky. As they lined up, Hermione was still whispering everything to him that the Professor had told them. He had only heard about half of it. He tried not to sigh as they ended up on the right side of the hall. He stood sideways so he could hear the Professor call his name.

He watched many, including Neville and Hermione go up and be declared a Gryffindor. Harry hoped he would be a Gryffindor.

When they called his name, he walked up to the stool, relatively oblivious to the loud whispering all around him. He saw Hermione looking at him expectantly as the hat fell over his eyes.

Ah, a Potter. It has been a while since I sorted a Potter.

I just want to be with my... Hermione and Neville, he told the hat in his head, not realizing he sighed as he did.

You want to be your friends. You have been very lonely and have not had a nice life. What is it you wish to do while at Hogwarts?

Harry thought about it. I want to learn magic.

The hat chuckled. Right. I see that, but there are other things you want. You desire to not have others suffer as you have. You desire to prove yourself, but not by stepping over others. How much courage do you have?

Enough to walk over to the Gryffindor Table no matter what you say, Harry said rather fiercely.

The hat chuckled again. So much like your mother. And like your father, very loyal and I can see a very hard worker too. Are you sure you would not like Hufflepuff instead? They are very accepting and would help you in the ways you want.

Gryffindor. I would like be with... my friends. It was one of the hardest things he ever said. He had resigned himself to always be alone. Now two people wanted him around enough they spent hours trying to learn to sign. No one had ever done that before.

You do have courage, young, "GRYFFINDOR!"

Harry smiled and took the hat off. Professor McGonagall was looking at him strangely while Almost everyone was standing at the Gryffindor table and clapping.

-oOo-

September 2,1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry looked up when Hermione tapped his shoulder. Professor McGonagall was standing on the other side of the table. "I was trying to tell you, Potter, here is your schedule."

"Professor, Harry can only hear out of his right ear," Hermione said.

The woman pursed her lips. "Come again?"

"He can only hear out of his right ear, and usually only if it is pointing towards you," Hermione calmly explained.

"Is this true, Potter? I wasn't told about this," the woman said.

He reached for his pad and pen, which he had set on the table. Yes, Professor.

She read the paper and then looked at him. "You were using sign language last night while on the stool, weren't you?"

Harry hadn't realized he had been doing that. He nodded. She pursed her lips. "This complicates matters. I will inform your Professors and inquire why we were not informed."

The Healer was told and all my records were provided. I am supposed to have a meeting with her today.

She looked at him and then his schedule. "You have a full schedule today. I think it best you attend all your classes and see the matron either after dinner or first class tomorrow."

Harry frowned. That was not the plan. The letter said I should report to the Healer first thing, he wrote before reaching for his bag. He took the letter out and showed it to her.

"Very well. Mr. Weasley," she said to a red hair boy with a Prefects badge on his chest. "Will you show Mr. Potter where the Infirmary is, since he will miss the tour before their first class."

"Yes, Professor."

"Here is your schedule, Potter. I expect you to adhere to it once you are done."

She handed Neville his and Hermione leaned in. "I would figure they would all know if a new student with a disability was here."

"Hermione, it is not common for someone in our world to have what Harry has. It would have most likely been healed," Neville said lowly, looking embarrassed.

Harry was the way he was and he wouldn't feel sorry about it.

Percy Weasley spoke the entire time he walked Harry to he infirmary, but the boy kept walking before him or to his left. Harry didn't hear much, and understood less. When Percy stopped and turned on him, Harry just looked at him.

"Did you hear what I asked?"

Harry shook his head. I couldn't hear what you were saying, he wrote out.

Percy looked at him. "You aren't joking?"

Harry shook his head, pointing to his left ear and then his throat. Percy scrunched his eyebrows and put a hand behind his head. "You can hear me from your right ear?"

Harry nodded.

"Can you talk at all?"

Harry shook his head, knowing it was not the whole truth, but it was close enough.

"Oh, I thought Fred and George were just giving me the Mickey. Did you hear anything I said?"

Harry started to sign and then sighed before writing, Very little.

Percy nodded. "Let's get you to the Infirmary, and then I can tell you again later."

Harry nodded. When he walked in, a woman with greying hair, a kindly smile and old nurses hat met them. "Thank you, Weasley," she said and turned to him.

I trust you are using British sign language?

Harry smiled. Yes, ma'am. I can hear out of my right ear.

She nodded. "Would you prefer me to speak or sign," she asked him.

I prefer sign if you are not on my right side.

Very good. Would you take a seat on that bed while I retrieve some items?

Harry nodded and sat. She came back out with some bottles of liquid and strange instruments he had no clue what they were for. She set it up on a tray on his right side.

"I will not be able to sign while doing some of test. Before we start, would you be willing to tell me what happened?"

He pursed his lips. It was an accident, he signed.

"I have heard and read the reports. I am sorry, Mr. Potter, but if I know better what happened, I may be able to help you," she said.

Harry nodded. He didn't give any more details besides his Uncle had come after him when he was eight. He had an accidental burst of magic that killed his uncle, burned his face and left him deaf in one ear, hard of hearing in the other and his vocal cords just about gone.

"Thank you. That was brave of you to tell me that. I would like to do my tests now."

Harry nodded. It was more than an hour for her to run her wand over him and then use the instruments. When she was done, she looked at him with a sad smile.

Do you know who your guardian is? I did not see it on my paperwork.

Harry looked at her oddly. My case worker is Mr. Anderson.

Not your muggle case worker. You have, or should have, a magical guardian or WCS Case Worker.

Who is the WCS?

She looked at him, trying to hide her concern. Wizarding Child Services. The people that should have taken you to St. Mungo's after this injury.

My case worker, Mr. Anderson, was at the hospital when I woke up. I have been in child services since then, he told her.

The purse to her lips and the furrow to her brow made Harry very nervous. Was there something very wrong with him?

Do not worry, Potter. I will contact them and talk about my findings. I have a few potions to try that might make the pain in your vocal cords less and allow you to speak some. If you would like to try?

Yes, he said. He didn't care about speaking if he could have it so his throat felt better.

Take these. I will call you back when I hear from the WCS.

Is everything alright with me?"

She sighed. Harry, has anyone ever talked with you about what is wrong?

He shook his head. He only knew that he could hear or speak.

Harry, with the damage to your ears, and the fact they were not fixed by magic, I am unsure their is anything that can be done. I also fear the hearing in your right ear will eventually start to go. I don't really have a magic that will enhance your hearing right now. Not with the damage and scarring to your ear.

He blinked at her. He had known that, but having an adult tell him and be honest was something different.

When he didn't respond, she went on. Your vocal cords are in the same state. They are degenarating and someday you may not be able to talk at all. There may be some treatments, but I need to contact St. Mungo's. It is a wizarding hospital. I can't talk with them though, until I know who your magical guardian is.

Harry looked at her concerned. There was a hope, but he was most likely going to be partially deaf for now, most likely fully deaf at some point, and mute.

The potions will make it so you can attend classes and speak, even if it is a whisper, so you can learn spells until you can do it non-verbally.

He nodded. He had a chance to learn magic. He would take it. It was better than looking at the abyss of greif on the other side.

He forced himself to perk up. I will take them. How often do I need to come back?

Twice a week. I would say Monday and Thursday mornings. Try not to push yourself over the weekends or outside of class for now.

Yes, ma'am, he signed.

There is about forty minutes left of second period. Would you like me to take you there or wait for third period?

Please, can you take me?

She nodded and after he took the three potions, he soon found himself in Professor McGonagall's class. She nodded to the Matron and Harry took a seat at the back of class. Hermione and Neville were sitting at the front with another girl he had seen last night, but didn't know her name.

Sitting in the back was not a good thing. He tried to follow what his Professor was saying.

Hermione pushed her way though the ones leaving to get to his side. Hello.

He smiled at her. Hello.

Neville waited for them at the bottom of the stairs.

"I have the notes from the class. I figure we can go over them tonight," Hermione said. "I haven't had time to make out a study schedule yet."

"How did it go with Madam Pomfrey," Neville asked.

He appreciated how they were staying on his right. He let Hermione guide him as he wrote, Alright.

"Will you teach us more sign language later?"

He nodded at Hermione. Neville still looked surprised that they would include him.

Sitting through their next class, all Harry could do was look at the ghost in the front of the room. He was talking to the board while he wrote. Harry looked questioningly at Hermione, who was frantically writing. He frowned. He couldn't rely on his friend for notes all the time. At some point she would resent him for it.

At lunch, he took her notes and spent more time copying them than eating.

"Harry, it's alright. You can borrow them tonight or tomorrow. We have a mostly free day," she told him.

I don't want to always copy off you he wrote.

"Harry, I don't mind. Until we can figure out a better way for you to take notes or hear the Professors, you can copy them all you need."

He sat up, blinking at her. This isn't your problem.

She waved him off. "You are our friend. Would you think we wouldn't help you?"

Neville nodded. "What if we order dicta-quills? I am sure Professor McGonagall would approve for Harry to use them in class."

"What is a dicta-quill?"

Neville put his cup down. "It's a magical quill that records everything exactly as said. You should be able to use a school owl and order some from Tomes and Scrolls. I think that is the place in Hogsmeade. If we send it out before dinner, he may be able to get some before tomorrow morning."

Harry gave Neville a huge smile. If that was true, he could pay attention to the Professors easily.

He felt much better as they descended into the dungeons. The Gryffindors lined up outside the door with the Slytherin. He was writting something to Hermione when he was suddenly bumped really hard.

He didn't even think about it. The Group home encouraged the dozen boys there to learn how to defend themselves and to be physically active. As the hand reached around to grab his pad, he dropped it, grabbed the hand and pulled. The boy attached to the hand pivoted over his hip and landed on his back on the floor.

He hadn't even registered what he was doing until he saw the stunned form of Draco Malfoy roll over, his hands to his chest. "Harry!" Hermione called out. He turned to see her wide eyes before he felt the fist connect to his head. Harry staggered and Neville threw himself at his assailant as he turned, his hands up.

Goyle tried to punch Neville, but Neville pushed him into the wall. Crabbe went for him and Harry blocked the punch before landing a solid hit to the boys temple. Crabbe went down and he turned to help Neville, but saw Goyle miss and Neville rammed him into the wall again.

There were some screams and yells and Neville suddenly stopped stepping away. Goyle stood up, not looking please and rubbed his side. Someone grabbed his arm. Harry stepped back, kicked the foot behind him and then crashed his head into the face of a man.

He turned, ready to fight. His face went white to see a man with greasy hair, a pallid completion and robes that obviously marked him as a teacher. He backed up a few steps to stand beside Neville.

"He didn't know. He couldn't hear," Hermione was saying at the man stood up, a hand to his nose. Harry saw the blood. He was going to be expelled on his first day.

"Get away you, silly girl," the man spat. Harry saw blood on his lips.

NO! He screamed in his head. He hadn't meant to fight, but the last few times he had been hit like that from behind it was either fight or be beat. His breathing was coming hard.

"Malfoy bumped into Harry and hit his note pad away," Ronald said.

"To the Head Master's office. You are being expelled," the man said angrily.

He looked around. He didn't know where that was. He could find his way to Gryffindor, the hospital wing, transfiguration, Magical History and now potions. He had no clue where the Head Master's office was.

Tears built up in his eyes. It was just like all his other schools.

"Harry," he heard Hermione as he turned and ran. The only person he knew to trust was Madam Pomfrey, so that was where he ran too. Bursting into the hospital wing. He didn't know what to do when she walked out. He didn't look up at her.

"Harry," she asked coming up to him. She reached out and he took a step back. "Harry, what happened?"

He shook his head. He was going to be shipped back and he hadn't even been here for twenty-four hours. He wiped a tear from his cheek when the door to the hospital wing burst open. "Harry!"

Hermione rushed in, saw him crying and turned to Madam Pomfrey. Neville came in a few seconds later but Hermione was already talking. "Malfoy bumped into Harry from behind and knocked his pad and pen out of his hand. He then did a Judo throw on Malfoy. Goyle hit him in the back of the head. Then a fight broke out between Crabbe and Neville. Harry didn't hear Professor Snape saying to stop. When Snape grabbed him, Harry kicked him and then smashed his head into Professor Snape's face. I don't think he meant to do it. He looked so scared," she said turning to Harry and put her hands to her mouth. "Harry, you're bleeding."

He looked at her. Why would they come to help him.

"It would appear so. You look to be bleeding too, Mr. Longbottom. Sit on that bed. Harry over here," she said.

I didn't mean to do it! I thought I was being attacked, he signed furiously to the Matron. I don't want to be expelled!

You will not be expelled, Harry. You have been beat before like this?

After a moment, he nodded. I thought so by your hospital records. Can I look at your ear?

Yes, he said. Hermione moved closer, looking upset and scared.

She ran his wand over the side of his head. When the door opened and he saw Malfoy, Crabbe and Goyle come in, he jumped up, ready to defend himself. He may be expelled, but he was not going to let them get him or friends.

Malfoy snarled at him.

"Sit down, Potter," Madam Pomfrey said. "Did Professor Snape send you up here?"

"What is he doing here. Professor Snape told him to go to the Headmaster's office. He is going to be expelled," Malfoy said in his haughty voice.

"You started it," Hermione said back angrily.

"That is enough. You three will go sit on those beds and remain quiet. I will talk with the Headmaster after you are all checked," she said.

"Granger, is it," she asked.

Hermione nodded her head. "Are you hurt at all."

"No, ma'am," she said.

She eyed Hermione for a second. "There is a cabinet on the left of the door. On the third shelf is a vial of dittany. Please get it for me."

Hermione nodded and the Matron finished checking on Harry. He felt the slight sting and warmth. "That should be good. Thank you, Ms. Granger. Mr. Malfoy, if you say anything else, I will ensure your father hears of this."

She took a dropper out of the bottle then she had him turn his head and put a few drops in his ear. It felt cooling.

Stay here. Do not move, even for the Head Master, she said.

She looked at Neville's hand and healed the broken knuckles and scratches. She didn't get any further before the doors opened again. "I want him expelled," Professor Snape said, utter hatred in his eyes.

The older man with a long white beard and twinkling eyes said something in a low voice to the man. Harry couldn't hear. He looked to Hermione, who was staring at the men.

The man walked over to him. The man was to his left and he only heard, "...is this correct," by the time he turned his head.

He wanted his pad, but didn't have have it. He looked around and Madam Pomfrey was already walking over to him. I don't know know what they said, he signed in a panic.

Just stay there for the moment, she responded.

"Albus, Ms. Granger has already told me what happened, and Mr. Malfoy hit Mr. Potter first and knocked his writing pad and pen away," she said.

He watched her. The woman was the only chance he might have of staying. "I see. And who witnessed this? It would appear Professor Snapes students did not."

"I d.. d.. di... did, Head Master," Neville said.

"I did too, Headmaster Dumbledore," Hermione said. "As did most of Gryffindor."

"Are you going to beleive them? Three of my students have been accosted and Potter broke my nose. The rules state a student is to be expelled for attacking a teacher," Professor Snape spat.

I didn't know he was a teacher! I thought I was being attacked.

I know, Harry.

"Poppy, what is he doing," Headmaster Dumbledore asked.

"He is using sign language. He says he didn't know it was a teacher grabbing him," she said.

The Headmaster scrunched his brow. "What do you mean he is using sign language? Isn't he able to talk?"

"That is not a conversation I would prefer to have with everyone present," she said.

They eyed each other for some long seconds. "Are the others good to go?"

"Mr. Malfoy has nothing wrong, except maybe a bruise on his back. Mr. Goyle has a few bruises, but nothing else. Longbottom here, has a broken knuckle and some lasserations. I have healed Mr. Longbottom," she said.

Albus nodded. He turned to talk to the greasy hair potions Professor. Harry was scared, not of the man, but that he would be back on the train this evening. The man didn't look happy but nodded. "Come," he said and stepped out of the hospital wing. Three disgruntled Slytherin walked out behind him.

"Mr. Longbottom and, who are you miss?"

"Hermione Granger, sir," she said.

The man nodded. "Ms. Granger and Mr. Longbottom, would you please return to what is left of Potions. If you would be kind enough to retrieve Mr. Potters items, he will join you in the next class."

He turned to look at the Headmaster.

"Harry is not being expelled," Hermione asked.

"I think not. School yard brawls happen occasionally. Mr. Longbottom, you will join Mr. Potter for three nights of detention with your Head-of-House, starting tomorrow night."

He assumed Neville responded politely by the way the man nodded his head. Hermione nodded and looked at him. "I'll get your stuff and see you in Defense Against the Dark Arts."

He nodded.

Thank you.

She nodded.

When they left, the Headmaster looked at him. After a moment, he turned to Madam Pomfrey. I am not expelled?

No. You are not.

"Why can't he talk, Poppy," the Headmaster asked.

He turned to hear them. "Albus, It was in the report I give you and Minerva every year about the health of our students. Why are you acting so surprised?"

Dumbledore put a hand to the bridge of his nose. "I don't understand how he is hurt like this. He grew up with his mother's sister. What happened?"

Harry looked at the Matron in concern. He had trusted her with that truth he hadn't really told anyone else.

"I am not at liberty to discuss that Albus. That is between his Guardians, myself and the WCS," she told the man.

He thought he saw fear? Anger? It was some strong emotion that boiled to the surface quickly and was gone. "He is a muggle raised student with no magical relatives. I am his Guardian."

"If he was muggle-born, I would quiet agree, until he became a Gryffindor, then it would be Minerva. He is a half-blood and thus falls under the WCS, especially if there are outstanding guardian claims on him."

"Poppy, I am his Magical Guardian. He accepted to come here, and is now under my perview," the man said.

"He is not, Albus. I have a representative coming this evening to talk with him and start to sort this out," she said. "He needs treatments that may restore some of what is damaged, but I am afraid he will always have some."

The man looked at her for a long moment. "What is wrong with him?"

"I can tell you he has complete hearing loss in his left ear. About 40 percent in his right. His vocal cords have been damaged enough that he really can't talk without extreme pain or more damage to them. As the Healer here at Hogwarts, that's all I am releasing to the staff. I would have figured that Minerva and you would have worked out some program, but she came to me at lunch to determine what is the best method of teaching him. We have not had a deaf student here in years," she said, sounding a little angry.

I don't want you to get in trouble, he signed.

I will not, Harry.

"What are you talking about," the Headmaster asked.

"Harry is concerned that either I or him will be in trouble over this," she told him.

The man raised his brow at her, before turning to him. "Can you hear me, Mr. Potter?"

Harry nodded.

"Besides the detention you will serve for the fight, you are not in trouble. We were not expecting someone with your needs this year and will adjust accordingly," the man said, taking on a more grandfatherly expression.

Hermione, Neville and I were going to ask Professor McGonagall if I could use a dicta-quill in classes?

The Headmaster looked to the Matron. "Mr. Potter is asking permission to use a dicta-quill in class."

The man seemed to consider this for a moment. "I will grant it. Only for Mr. Potter, and I expect him not to share the notes he gets."

What about with my friends? Hermione was working on a study schedule, and will have to use the notes.

"And if he used the notes while studying with his friends," she asked.

The man nodded his head. "That is allowed."

Harry looked at Dumbledore. The man's eyes looked bothered. "Mr. Potter, why don't you get to your next class. I believe Mr. Granger said it was Defense Against the Dark Arts?"

Yes, sir.

"It is, Albus."

"Very well, you may go."

Harry looked a the Matron. I don't know where it is.

"I should show him, Albus. It is the first day and he missed orientation this morning to report here," she said.

"Report to me when done, Poppy. It should be decided soon if any other allowances will be made."

When she walked him to the next class, just before the bell rang to single the end of first period in the afternoon, she turned to him. Dinner is at six. I would like you to report to the Infirmary at seven.

Yes, Madam Pomfrey.

She didn't leave until Neville and Hermione joined him. Many of the Slytherin gave him looks behind the Matron's back. Hermione handed him his bag and note pad. "I couldn't find the pen," she said in an apologetic tone.

"I trust that you and Mr. Longbottom will remain out of trouble for the rest of the day?" The Matron gave then a stern look.

He nodded.

"Yes, ma'am," Neville said.

When she walked away, they walked in. By now, the only seats were towards the back. Hermione looked annoyed at it, but resolutely sat next to him. "You can copy these notes too."

He nodded and wrote on his pad. I can use dicta-quills.

She nodded and smiled. He liked her smile.

-oOo-

-oOo-

Chapter 2

September 2, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry was looking at the kind woman sitting across from him. He was in the Matron's office, with Madam Pomfrey was behind her desk.

"Hello, Harry. I am Agent Diggory of Wizarding Child Services. Can you hear me," the woman asked. She had long brown hair, with light brown eyes and a warm smile.

Can I sign or should I write, he asked Madam Pomfrey.

"It is up to you, Harry. You can write or I can translate for you."

He nodded. I can hear you.

Madam Pomfrey translated.

"Excellent," the woman said in response to the Matron. If you don't mind, I would like to establish a few basic facts, ask some questions of you and then, if you are agreeable, taking a small amount of blood so the Goblins could do a trace on you."

He looked at her totally confused. What is a trace and why does she need my blood?

"It is nothing bad, Harry. I am sure you remember the goblins from when you bought your supplies," Madam Pomfrey asked. She signed at the same time.

He nodded, remembering the short little men with pointed ears, sharp teeth and even sharper claws. He really thought he had walked into a fantasy to see the guards in armor out front.

"The Ministry has allowed them to keep practicing the blood magics they specialize in. One of them is the ability to perform a trace on your lineage, to verify you are a Potter and to release any vaults or other items your parents may have left you," she told him.

Oh.

"Do you understand, Harry," Agent Diggory asked.

He nodded.

The woman kept a smile. "From this point on, I would like to keep a record. I will use a dicta-quill. Are you good with this?"

He nodded. He would get to see what it could do. Hermione had taken his request to the Owlery, so hopefully he would have some tomorrow. He just didn't know how much they were.

"Mallory, do you have an extra quill I could buy off you. Harry has gotten permission to use one so he doesn't miss anything in class."

"Of course. I always carry three, just in case. As long as nothing happens, I can leave these two for Harry. No charge," she said reaching into her purse and pulling out two more brown quills.

Thank you.

"Harry just says thank you," the Matron said.

"You are welcome. Now," she said taking the feather and blowing on it before setting it on the paper. It leaned to the side as though it was being held by a hand. "Agent Mallory Diggory, Senior Agent of Wizarding Child Services. First interview with case 19765. Childs name: Harry James Potter."

Harry felt a small smile come over his face to see the quill write out the words. He wouldn't miss a thing in classes.

"Mr. Potter's responses shall be either written or translated by Healer Poppy Pomfrey of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Certified by St. Mungo's Hospital. Certification to be included in case file."

"Translation or written response required due to subjects inability to talk without pain or possible further damage."

She turned back to him when satisfied. "Now, are you Harry James Potter?"

He nodded.

"Can you please write your response or have the Matron translate?"

Yes, ma'am.

"Can you confirm your parents were James Fleamont Potter and Lily Jane Potter nee Evans?"

I don't know my father's name. I know my mother's was Lily. My Aunt used to say her name.

She woman's eyes scrunched. "Poppy, what does his records say?"

"He was a ward of Vernon and Petunia Dursley. Petunia is Lily's sister. The muggles have no other record of his ancestry, and only two years of school records before he was taken into their Social System."

"I see," the woman said sounding unhappy, but she took on the easy smile again when she turned back to him. "Harry, can you tell me why you were living with your Aunt and Uncle," she asked.

He shrugged. That is where I always lived, he said.

"Do you know when you were placed with the Dursleys?"

When my parents dies in car crash. I heard yesterday though that some think my parents were killed by a bad wizard.

Madam Pomfrey gasped before recovering herself. Harry wasn't sure what he said.

"He thinks his parents died in a car crash. It appears that some of his peers told him the truth yesterday," she said.

The truth? Are you saying they were killed? My Aunt always said they died in a car crash.

Both women looked at him sadly. No, Harry. Lily and James were killed by a very dark wizard. Do you know how you got the scar on your forehead?

The crash, he said, looking at her concerned. He had always been told in a crash.

The Matron sighed. I am unsure if this is the right time, but your parents were killed. That scar is the failed attempt to kill you.

He closed his eyes for a few seconds, and then opened them. He saw no lie in her eyes. Are you saying my parents were wizards?

She gave a sad smile. Yes. Was this not explained to you?

He shook his head.

"What are you telling him?"

"Harry does not know his parents were wizards, or that they were killed by You-Know-Who."

Agent Diggory looked at him.

Harry, you did go to Gringotts and get money from your vaults?

He shook his head. I used the school scholarship.

"Poppy, I really would like to record this properly. Could you please talk as you sign?"

"I apologize, Mallory. I will for now on. Harry is not aware that his parents were a witch and a wizard, or that he most likely has a vault in Gringotts. He used the School Scholarship to purchase his supplies," the Matron said, still looking at him.

His brows were furrowed. He thought his world had been turned upside down to receive his letter. Now they were saying he was born in this world. He might also have some money to his name.

"Harry, did anyone visit you when you got your letter to Hogwarts?"

No. We only received my acceptance letter and a list of school supplies. I had to mail my acceptance back and ask for directions to Diagon Alley. Madam Pomfrey contacted my through owl after seeing my records.

The woman was starting to look very upset. She repeated his answer before Agent Diggory spoke up. "Harry, am I to understand that you have no knowledge of who your birth parents really are, you were not met by a Professor or anyone from Hogwarts to introduce you to our world and you don't know that you probably have vaults in Gringotts?"

He was starting to feel angry. Why should I know? I grew up with non-magical relatives and then the Group Homes.

"I didn't mean to offend you, Harry. This is a point I can look into and we can address later," Agent Diggory told him. She schooled herself into a congenial face. "Now, I have read the record from the Muggle Agency. Do you remember your time at the Dursley's?"

Harry frowned. Yes.

"Will you talk about it?"

No.

She got that gesture. "Harry, I don't want to bring up bad memories, but I am trying to determine what happened to set you off that night the muggle Child Services took over. I found a record recorded the use of underage magic that night, but nothing else besides the Muggle paper reports of a gas leak and explosion."

He shook his head hard. He didn't want to think of that night and already told Madam Pomfrey what he would.

"Harry, she is not here to get you into trouble," Madam Pomfrey said.

"Harry, do you know your Uncle died that night?"

There was a silence for a moment or two as the two woman looked at him. He shook his head again.

"Let the record show, Harry is not willing to talk about the event at this time.

"I see you were hospitalized five times in the last three years. Would you like to talk about any of those?"

He looked at her and then Madam Pomfrey.

I will be willing to tell you some of it, he signed to her.

"Mallory, he is willing to talk to me about it. Can I give you a dictation of it later? Or even memories," Madam Pomfrey asked.

"It is not policy, but if he is willing to talk to you, I'll take it," she said.

I was beat at times. People didn't understand, he motioned to his ear and throat.

How many times were you bullied like that?

I think it's been ten schools.

She kept a friendly smile. I am sorry, Harry. Is that why you learned muggle fighting?

It's called martial arts. My last group home believed we should remain active and agreed to have some of us go to martial arts. I took Judo twice a week, and Kenpo twice a week.

Are those the names of the muggle fighting?

Yes.

Harry didn't mind telling her this. The Group Home had helped him speak out. He still refused to talk about about anything before the night he left his relatives house.

Is that what you did to Mr. Malfoy earlier?

It was Judo. I thought he was attacking me. I didn't hear him. He just hit me in the back. That was how it usually started.

And Professor Snape?

Someone grabbed my arm. It was painful, so I knew it wasn't a friend. I didn't mean to hit a teacher.

I know, Harry. We may need to work on your responses.

Yes, ma'am, he said, feeling like he had let her down.

"I will give you my memories when we are done," the Matron told Agent Diggory.

"Thank you. Harry, a few more questions and then I think we are done for the night."

Alright.

"Do you know of any other family you may have?"

Harry shook his head. No.

"Would you be willing to be placed with a wizarding family? If you want to go back to the Group Home, that can be arranged too."

He looked at her, blinking. He was living in the group homes because no Foster parents wanted him after they found out about his condition or saw his scars. The ones on his neck and face spread down to his chest and the upper part of his arm.

I am not sure anyone would want me.

She closed her eyes for a few long seconds. "I do not think that will be an issue. Are you agreeable to try? I may be able to find you a spot and have you in a place before Christmas break."

Harry still just blinked at her.

"My next question is going to be a little more personal."

He shifted in his seat.

"Your Aunt left a letter with the muggle Child Services that was supposed to be given to you on your eleventh birthday, but it was lost in the file."

She reached into her purse and pulled out a large and thick parchment.

To Harry James Potter. That was all that was written on it. He turned it over to see a dollop of red wax and an old fashion seal in it.

What is this, he asked Madam Pomfrey.

It a seal of House Potter. By the looks of it, I would say that is a Blood seal. Only you or someone related to the Potters would be able to open it.

He looked at it. Did this mean his parents really had been wizards?

Do I have to open it now?

"No. This is for you. The only thing I ask is if there is any official documentation in it, please let me know. I can make sure it is filed away properly."

He nodded, still looking at the seal. Is it really possible they weren't just drunkards?

"Until things are settled, Madam Pomfrey has temporary Guardianship over you. Only myself or Madam Pomfrey can give approval for anything that involves a Guardian signature or approval. If anyone else tries, it is not magically binding. Do you understand?"

What do you mean by magically binding? Are you like my case worker?

We are now your guardians, Harry. The muggle Child Services no longer have you in their system. You are now a Ward of the WCS until we find another relative or family willing to take you in.

"Do you have any items left at the Group Home?"

No. He didn't need to leave anything. The few possessions he had fit in his trunk.

"The last thing I have is that a Healer from St. Mungo's has agreed to come here tomorrow and evaluate you. It is relatively standard. She will be doing a complete check on you, including your hearing and throat."

Alright. It couldn't be any different than the doctors.

"Do you have any questions?"

Can I really take those quills? He tried not to look at them longingly.

Agent Diggory smiled. "Yes. I will send you a few more, just in case. Once we get you established and access to your vaults, you can set up an account with Tomes and Scrolls, or what ever writing supply shop you want."

Are you certain I have vaults? What is a vault?

The Goblins at Gringotts have dug deep underground and have established security vaults for witched and wizards to store their valuables and gold. I am positive you have a vault. The Potters are an old family.

I am?

Yes. I looked after your mother and father when they were here. I can assure you your parents would have left you what they had.

He nodded again.

"Any other questions?"

He shook his head.

"To be noted, Harry answered in the negative."

He watched the quill finish.

"If we are done, then I will deactivate this."

Why don't you go back to Gryffindor Tower. Say hi to your friends and get a good night sleep.

Thank you.

-oOo-

September 3, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

"Did you open your letter yet," Hermione asked at breakfast.

No. I want to find a quiet place. He wrote on his pad. She was learning quick, but not enough to have a really talk yet.

She nodded.

"You shouldn't wait to long. You really didn't know your parents were wizards?"

He looked at Neville. Why?

"If Mrs. Diggory was right, there might be important documents in there. Blood seals can only be open by very specific people," Neville told him

Hermione looked at Neville. "A Blood seal. You mean they used blood on that," she asked in a high pitch voice.

Neville shook his head. "No. Only Goblins are allowed to do that. When a House Ring is used, you can will it to only open for certain people. Once that happens, the letter can only be opened by who you want. It also can't be destroyed by any typical magic. Gran says only something like fiendfyre can destroy it."

Harry grinned. The more he learned about magic, the more he liked it.

They had come to breakfast just as it started and were not surprised when a few other of their first year dormmates sat about a half hour later. Ron, Dean and Seamus sat across from them.

"Potter, can I just say that was wicked yesterday," Dean said with a smile at him.

Harry didn't feel like it was.

"What was that you did," Ron asked. "No, I don't know."

Harry turned, not realizing that Lavender and Parvati had sat to his other side.

"He didn't hear you," Hermione said. "He can only hear out of his right ear." She sounded very defensive.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Lavender said. "I didn't know. I was just trying to say good morning. I also wondered where you learned martial arts? Its not something wizards usually know about."

"How do you know about it," Seamus asked.

"My mother is a muggle born. She wanted to make sure I could defend myself," she responded to him.

The place I came from wanted to make sure I could defend myself.

Ron chuckled. "I think that was more than defend yourself. Snape was furious when he came back. We lost fifteen points in the twenty minutes left in class."

He felt guilty and heard someone talking behind him, but couldn't make out their words. "Of course I don't blame Potter," Dean said. "I only wish I could do something like that if I thought I was being attacked. By the way, you think you could show us how you did that?"

"I am not sure Harry should be doing that without an instructor," Hermione said. "It is not something you go and flash around."

He looked at her. The way he she said it, sounded like his instructor. Do you know martial arts?

She looked at him, slightly nodded her head, and turned back to the others.

"I don't know, I would have rather tossed Goyle like Harry did Malfoy than hit him like that again," Neville said, rubbing his hand.

They talked about it for a while before they had to head to class. When they stepped in, Harry smiled at the smiling man. It was unmistakable the man had goblin blood. Harry was looking forward to learning from him. Many of the upper years seemed to really enjoy Professor Flitwick.

He sat with Hermione and Neville in the front row. Hermione seemed pleased to sit at the front. Harry was going to do his best. He took out his parchment, one of the dicta-quill he had been given and blew on it. When he put it on the parchment, it took up the exact position it would as if he was holding it.

"Is that one of the quills Agent Diggory gave you," she asked.

Harry nodded. He was curious why it didn't write though. "Good day, Mr. Potter. I see you obtained a dicta-quill. I give you permission to record my classes. You will need to get the permission from your other Professors, or anyone else you wish to record."

I did not know that. Thank you, Professor. Harry was a little concerned. He doubted he would get the permission from Professor Snape.

"The Staff has been informed of your abilities. I ask you try your hardest. It may prove difficult without being able to speak, but non-verbal spells can be learned at any age. Your mother performed her first in my class third year. Maybe you can beat that record," the man said with a smile before walking off.

Hermione looked at Professor Flitwick with an open mouth. "That is not supposed to be taught until sixth year."

Do I have another option, he asked her.

"We will help all we can," Neville said.

"Of course we will," Hermione said as though it wasn't even an option. "We will go to the library after class and find everything we can on it."

He couldn't help but smile at them.

He wasn't smiling by the end of class when more than half the class were able to cast sparks. Even with the potions it hurt to talk.

"You will get it, Harry. Lets go to the library and I want to go see Madam Pomfrey after lunch," she said.

He looked at her.

"Neville and I are going to ask Madam Pomfrey for lessons on sign language, or see if she has some books on it."

Harry smiled at her as they walked out of class. "Harry," Ron said bouncing around Hermione and Neville. "A few of us are going to go down to the quidditch pitch and toss a fanged frisbie. Want to come?"

He shook his head. Going to library.

The boy looked a little crestfallen. "It's only our second day. We don't have that much homework yet."

"We already have three essays, thirty-two pages to read for History of magic. At least a chapter in each book and we want to do some research," she said haughtily.

"Alright. Got it. What about you, Neville," Ron asked.

Go, Harry said to his friend.

Neville gave him a look. "How about tomorrow," Neville asked.

"Sure," Ron said.

Hermione frowned as the kid walked away and Neville looked after him. Neville, you can go.

He shook his head. "Tomorrow. I can work on the essays while you look."

Harry shrugged, not understanding why these two would want to hang out with him. He was very pleased they did though.

It was a while later, after he had been checked over by a Healer Tonks from St. Mungo's and was still sitting on the Hospital bed, with the curtains pulled around him, that he finally took the letter out of his inside pocket of his robes.

Sitting on the bed, he just held the envelope for a few minutes. His whole world felt upside down right now. He had a feeling this letter would change it again.

After a few, he cracked the wax and opened it. Two folded parchments, a few pages of letters and a ring fell out. He looked at them before picking up the loose letters. He realized only two of the pages were a letter. The other three looked like a deed and stock in two companies.

He put those to the side. He would hand them to Madam Pomfrey when he was done.

Looking at the letter, it was written in a rather elegant hand he liked immediately. He touched an 'L' and then a 'y'. They looked just the way he wrote.

-o-

To my darling son.

Harry, if you are reading this, then it means your father and I can longer be at your side. I hope this day would never come before we grew old.

First, know that James and I will always be with you, our little quidditch star. People are never truly gone as long as the memory of them still exists. Remember this, we will always be with you.

I am sorry we will not be there to see you grow into the fine young man I know you will.

Second, know you will always have those that will love you. I am sure you are already with your Aunt Alice, Uncle Frank and cousin Neville. I am sure you are grieving, but let her in. You always enjoy playing with Neville.

Listen to your Aunt Pandora, but please don't follow in her footsteps. She is brilliant, and you can learn much from her, but she is dangerous too. If she asks you to make a new potion, stand back. Please.

Next is your Uncle Sirius and Uncle Remus. I am sure they will draft you into their little group. Prongs, your father, has been encouraging it. Don't let them convince you it is a good joke to throw fireworks from the Astronomy tower first night you are Hogwarts. I am pretty sure Dumbledore meant he would expel them and their children if that happened again.

Let your Aunt Alice and Aunt Pandora keep you on the right path. I would listen to them more than Sirius and Remus. Those two would have you causing trouble everywhere.

Harry thought he saw a stain from a tear mark

Harry, know that I love you. Your father does too. You are the most important person we have in out lives. As such, I am leaving you with some of your inheritance and my will. We can not trust the Ministry, and perhaps not the Goblins, at this time. There are many rumors that Voldemort or someone else is close to taking the Ministry over.

Included in this letter is my will. There is also a copy of the one James and I made, but it is not the official on record. The deed to my parents House in Cokeworth is also included. It has been warded and is the safe house we were to fall back to if Potter Cottage was compromised.

I also included my ring for House Potter. It will allow you access to all vaults in Gringotts and to the house I leave you. I am unsure what other privileges you may gain. Sirius or your Uncle Frank would most likely know, but I cannot ask them. If him or James knew I was doing this, they would not be happy. They are still optimistic that Voldemort will be beaten and we can all come out of hiding soon. I want to think that.

I would like to write more of what a wonderful man I think you be, but I hear you crying and should go check on you.

Love you to the moon,

Lily Jane Potter

P.S. - Don't throw fireworks from the Astronomy tower!

-o-

He looked at the letter, a tear running down his cheek. He whipped it and sniffed.

His parents had been wizards.

They had loved him.

They loved him enough that they thought he would go to friends and family.

He had gone to family, but none of these people had been in his life.

He read it again. Neville was his cousin? Why hadn't Neville mentioned it?

"Harry," Madam Pomfrey said from outside the curtains. "I am going to come in."

He wipped as his face and tried to hide the fact he was crying. She stepped in and looked at the parchments all over the bed. He let out a long breath.

Do you need a few more minutes?

He shook his head. These are all from my mother. He pushed them all towards her.

She looked at them and sat on the end of the bed. Do you want to go through any of them? I can help you understand before I give them to Agent Diggory.

He shook his head.

She nodded and gather ups the papers. "I will make sure you have a copy if you change your mind."

Harry just looked at the pages in his hand.

-oOo-

October 24, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry was getting frustrated, and starting to think he should withdraw from Hogwarts. In almost two months, he had not been able to cast a single spell because he couldn't talk.

"Just concentrate," Hermione kept whispering.

Harry knew the theory behind non-verbal casting, but it also assumed that the caster already had a base knowledge on how it worked.

"Wingardium Leviosa," she said and her feather rose into the air.

Harry scrunched his face and thought the spell. He pictured the feather floating. It didn't budge. His anger at himself grew and felt something in his stir. He hadn't felt that before.

It was something very deep. It felt like a fire around his stomach. He clutched onto it. Hermione said she felt in her head. Neville thought he felt his toes tingle when he cast.

Harry ignored Hermione's encouragement as he focused on the feeling. In his head he thought verdillious as he stuck out his wand. The feeling in him moved. It felt like it coursed through his body and fat green sparks, bright enough to cause him to shield his eyes, suddenly leapt for his wand.

He let out a single "Ha!"

Hermione and Neville both turned to him. Hermione was beaming and Neville had his mouth open.

"Very good, Potter," Professor Flitwick said coming over to him.

Thank you he signed. Most of the Professors now knew some basic sign language, at least enough he say simple things. "I would like you to keep practicing that spell for the rest of class, and if you can master it, I am sure Ms. Granger can help you with the levitation spell."

Harry nodded, a smile on his face.

By the end of class, he had cast it a two dozen more times, oblivious to a few of the Ravenclaw looking at him jealously. The intensity of the sparks were starting to dim or brighten as changed the way he thought about it.

When they walked out of the class, Hermione took him into a hug that felt like he was being crushed. "Potter and Granger sitting on a dragon..." someone said as they walked by.

Harry turned to see Ron, Dean and Seamus laughing. Neville balled his fist. "I am getting tired of them teasing you," he said angrily.

Harry frowned. Hermione stepped back, her face flush and looking very upset at Ron. Hermione, how often does he do that? Is that why you won't tell me what they say at times!

Hermione started to move her hands, not as fast as his. Harry, I can't always understand you when you go so fast.

She had been learning more than anyone and was was actually almost as proficient as Madame Pomfrey now. He closed his eyes for a moment before repeating himself. Neville looked to only understand half of what he was saying, but it was still good for only about two months.

He stared at Hermione as she looked ready to cry. Yes. Neville and I don't want you to know what they are saying.

He threw his hands into the air and turned to walk the other way. Hermione grabbed his arm and pulled him back around. Don't walk away from me, Harry Potter!

Why not! All this time I thought you were my friends and you won't tell me what others are saying!

Don't you dare! Neville and I are your friends.

Then why won't you tell me! Neville is my cousin!

"What are two so angry about," Neville asked. People were walking by them and giving them strange looks as they yelled at each in silence.

"Harry is upset," she said.

Yes, I am upset. Tell him why.

She held his glare for a moment. The girl was fierce in her defense of him and Neville and didn't back down. Harry wasn't either right now.

"He's upset we haven't told him what people are saying about us," she said. I wasn't trying to hurt you. Neither of us were. You were already upset you couldn't cast anything and you didn't need to hear them calling you a squib and other bad things.

Harry smacked his hands together, upset at her for not telling him, but more upset at what was going on without him knowing. Until today I was a squib! I don't even know if I will able to do anything more than sparks. I am still not sure if I should stay at Hogwarts.

Hermione put her hands to her mouth. "You can't!"

"What is going on? In only understand half of what you two are saying. Did Harry just say he wants to leave Hogwarts," Neville asked.

"Yes. Harry, you can't. Do you just realize you did a non-verbal spell?"

Harry, that is something that even some adult wizards struggle with, never mind the typical sixth- and seventh-years. And none of us made sparks that bright.

"Harry, you can't leave."

Neville moved so Harry could see him. "She's right, mate. I'm sorry for not telling you. We thought it best if you didn't know."

Harry let out a breath, his anger at his friends subsiding. You really want me around?

Yes. Hermione's eyes were still bright. The hall was empty now. People going to class were there as the bell rang. Everyone else had disappeared. They only had flying lessons with Ravenclaw now.

Yes, Neville signed. "Besides, family doesn't give up on family."

Harry shook his head. We are third cousins.

"You are still family," Neville said.

"If you want, we can go sit out on the lawn and do our Charms homework before flying lessons," Hermione told him.

You hate flying.

You don't. You smile every time you are on the broom.

Harry did love flying. He was actually really good at flying.

And squibs can't fly brooms, she told him.

-oOo-

-oOo-

Chapter 3

October 30, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry sat in the front of the room with Hermione. Neville took the table behind them. Since finding out how Ron and his other dormmates were talking about him, Harry had been avoiding them.

Harry set up his quill.

Will you go to the library after dinner, Hermione asked him.

He turned to Neville. I am going to the library. Do you want to come?

"I am supposed to meet Susan, Hannah and a few others. They wanted to work on their Herbology essay for next week," he said, looking a little guilty.

Go have fun. Hermione and I will work on our other stuff, Harry told him.

"Hey, Potter," an annoying redhead said behind Neville. "The Puffs and us got permission to play a on the quidditch pitch tomorrow. You want to come?"

Harry looked at them. For once, he actually considered it.

"Why are you interested in him now? You haven't asked him to join you in over a month," Hermione said suspiciously.

"I didn't see anyone else catch those balls in class yesterday like he did," Seamus said.

She was about to say something when he touched her arm. She looked at him and he shook her head at her. He took up his pad. I would like to play.

Harry, I don't have a good feel about this, she signed.

I like to fly and I like what I have seen of quidditch.

Are you sure? She gave the three boys apprehensive looks.

Yes. I want to play.

I am coming too.

"It is rather rude to speak like that when we can't understand," Ron told them.

"Well then maybe you should learn sign language, Ronald Weasley. Madam Pomfrey has offered and I have only seen Lavender, Parvati, Padma, Neville, Susan and Hannah there," she retorted bossily.

"Why should we have to learn. He can speak," Seamus said.

Harry frowned. Maybe it wasn't a good idea?

"It is better for him not to," Neville told them. Harry saw him ball his fist. Harry had thought things would go well after their first day of classes, but as he struggled on the practical side, very few seemed to stay around him.

"And you expect us to believe that," Ron asked.

I think I have plans tomorrow afternoon, Harry wrote and showed them.

Ron's mouth dropped open. "You can't back out now! We need a seeker and you look to be a natural," Ron told him.

Hermione was about to retort when the Professor came out. It looked like Professor Quirrel was having one of his bad days. Neville had told him Fred and George had played a prank on the man before lunch.

"Now, all your at... t... t... tention here," the man said.

Harry turned. Hermione caught his attention. Please don't play with them tomorrow.

Harry wasn't sure. He wanted to play. He had a feeling Hermione was correct though.

"Today, w...w...we will be working on the kn...n...nockback jinx."

Harry groaned internally. Since last week, he had only gotten sparks and finally managed to get his match to turn shiny. Hermione was very proud of him. He thought he caught her trying to cast non-verbally, but she didn't get anywhere either.

It was a very stuttery Professor that described what they were going to do before lining them up. Harry was on one side with Hermione, Neville and Parvati, while Ron, Seamus, Dean and Lavender were lined up on the other side.

"Just ignore them," Hermione said. Malfoy and his goons were at the next practice run over. They kept pointing to him and miming his failures. He pursed his lips, especially when his own dormmates laughed at something Parkinson said. Lavendar pulled back, not looking pleased.

His eyes were narrowed and he had never felt so focused as he was now. Now that he knew what that small fire was in him, he was not going to let it go, and to see them obviously making fun of him, he drew on it, feeling it grow a little larger.

Ron lined up and he stepped forward for the first time.

Ron looked at him like he wasn't a threat. It was the second class of doing this.

Harry felt the fire grow. "B...b...begin," he heard Professor Quirrel.

Harry moved his wand in the precise way, and only a small wind came out. Ron flicked his wand and the spell shot right at him. Harry fell backwards and scrambled to his feet. Ron was laughing. Harry opened his mouth, not saying anything. He thought of the effects of the spell and it jumped out of his wand.

The wide eyes of Ron turned to surprise as he was thrown back. Harry stood there stunned for a moment. Malfoy, looking at him with an open mouth before he too was flung back. The redhead scrambled to his feet.

"FLIPENDO!" Ron called it out as loud as he could.

Harry, caught of guard, rushed his magic to his wand. He flicked it down and the spell deflected into the floor. He didn't think about it as he pointed his wand at Ron and thought of the flipendo jinx again.

The class looked at him. Ron flipped head over teakettle before landing hard on his stomach. Harry was breathing hard, feeling like he had just run a mile as fast as he could.

Ron and everyone looked surprised.

He turned to Hermione. She looked as shocked as the others. Neville looked at him with big eyes.

He thought he had done something wrong the way they all looked at him.

"H... h... h... how did you learn to block j... j... jinxes," Quirrell asked.

Harry turned to see the man only a few feet away and he took a step back. He slipped his wand into his pocket. Hermione stepped up to him. I will translate.

He nodded. I just felt it. I was upset at Ron and Malfoy, he told her. He knew she knew what he was as talking about. My magic just came to me. I didn't want Ron laughing at me again.

She looked at him for a moment. "He just felt it come up, Professor."

The man's eyes looked at him in a way Harry felt like he knew she was lying.

"Alright, P...P...Potter. Good job. Next people in line."

Parvati stepped up.

What was that, Hermione asked.

I just felt my magic and then I used it to stop his spell. I don't want to be laughed at anymore. A new determination was setting over him. He was feeling he would be able to do this.

What do you mean you felt your magic?

Like you and Neville say you feel something when you cast spells. I felt a fire in me that responded.

Neville looked at him like he was barmy. Hermione was very thought full.

"N...n...next," Quirrell called out.

Neville got up. "What ever you did, keep doing it." We have your back.

Parvati stepped back with them. "Harry, how do you cast like that?"

He took his note pad. We have been looking up non-verbal casting.

She read it and her eyes went wide. "Isn't that dangerous before we pass our OWL's?"

"Does he have another choice," Hermione asked with a raised brow.

He looked away from them to watch Neville knock Seamus off his feet. When Hermione went up, he could tell she went easy on Lavender. He liked her too.

-oOo-

October 31, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry watched the sloppy fun play below him. Only first years were down here and Madam Hooch was watching over them to make sure no one really got hurt. Harry pushed his glasses up again, looking for the snitch.

Susan Bones drifted over to him. "You see the snitch yet," she asked.

He shook his head. They drifted for a bit before Harry saw something. He pointed and took off. They were only on school brooms, so the broom bucked a little bit as he accelerated. He kept an eye on the ball as he looked around. He really didn't want to get hit.

Susan caught up to him and tried to nudge him. He had seen the Gryffindors practicing and nudged her back. The snitch suddenly took a right turn. "Heads!" he heard it and looked up, his glasses skewing on his face.

The bludger just barely missed him as he swerved. Susan pulled off and he saw the snitch again. He took off after it. He was getting close when another snitch zoomed by his face. Confused, Harry pulled to a stop. Looking around, he saw a dozen of them zooming around the pitch.

He was trying to figure out what was going on when the back of his broom suddenly was hit. He fell the ten feet to the ground as the twigs scattered everywhere. It was a solid thunk as he hit on his back on the pitch. All the air rushed out of his lungs. Harry rolled over clutching his chest.

When he could suddenly breath again, he found people around him. He could only make out Ron's face. The others were too far away without his glasses. "Guess you couldn't hear me warn you," he said and stepped forward. Harry heard the crunch of his lens breaking.

"Oh, I didn't see them. Squib."

Harry was still gasping for air as a girl launched herself as Ron. "You complete..." he didn't hear Hermione as she decked Ron and he stumbled out of his view.

Harry pushed himself up. He grabbed Hermione before she placed a round house on him. "Stop," he said to her. His throat hurt even with that little bit. It was also hoarse and low.

Hermione stopped. "Stay away from him. Who many of you were in on this joke," she said shaking him off!

She turned to look behind him. "The rules were changed just before we started. McMillan thought it would be fun to play with joke snitches."

"Not our fault the freak didn't hear the changes," Ron said, spitting.

Harry looked at the shape. The echoes of his Aunt and Uncle calling him a freak. How they used to encourage Dudley and his friends. The few times at schools or the Group Homes he had done accidental magic on, came crashing back to him.

He turned and ran. He plowed through the people. "Harry, wait," Susan called out.

"Let him go," another said. He couldn't see clearly more than a few feet before him so it was a stumbling gate up to the school. He ran into the main Entrance Hall, down a corridor and into the first room he found empty. He found a bathroom stall and pushed against the back wall, hot tears threatening to flow out of his eyes.

He sank down, making himself as small as he could, behind the toilet and jammed into the corner.

Tears started to roll down his face.

-oOo-

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry woke with a splitting headache and his body was very sore. He must have fallen harder than he thought. Looking up, he noticed the gas lamps were on now.

He wiped at what felt like dried tears on his face. Without his glasses, he felt vulnerable. He didn't usually let people get to him like that, but they had set him up to fail and then Ron had called him a freak.

Hermione had warned him. Neville had told him he shouldn't. Harry just wanted to feel like a normal kid, even if it was for only an afternoon.

He know knew he wouldn't be. He would never be normal.

Wiping his face one more time, he pulled himself up and went to a sink. He didn't want anyone to know he had been crying. After washing and drying his face, he sighed. He wasn't sure where he might get a new pair of glasses. Maybe Madam Pomfrey. She was his Guardian right now.

Walking out into the hall, he had no clue where he was. His stomach growled, probably meaning it was past supper. He didn't want to go to the Great Hall. He couldn't take anyone laughing at him right now.

He was halfway to the infirmary when he heard something big grunt. He turned, only seeing blurs more than a few feet from him. Something large was in the hall. Harry was sure it was half down the hall.

He took a step back and pulled out his wand. The only useful spells he really knew he could do was sparks and the knock back jinx. He had done it six more times yesterday.

The thing grunted and snorted this time, slowly coming for him. Harry backup up faster and the thing gave a great bellowing roar. Harry made a sound like a yell and turned. The thing bellowed again and even with one ear not able to hear, he heard something crash and screech like bending metal.

He ran around the corner, knowing whatever it was was behind him would kill him. He looked around and recognized the doors to the Hospital wing. He barged in to the infirmary. He cried out, running to Madam Pomfrey's door. He grabbed the handle and tried to lift the latch, ramming his shoulder into the door. It didn't budge. Pain lanced through his shoulder.

He smelt something incredibly horrid. Looking around, he could only see the shapes of the beds and a few curtains. He scrambled for a curtain at the far end, just barely missing the edge of the bed and diving behind a curtain before the ear shattering crash of the doors being knocked.

He grabbed at his good ear at the sound. The thing roared as it stepped into the hospital wing. Harry hunkered down on the floor. He felt it stepping around as the floor vibrated. He couldn't really hear it until it roared again and smashed a bed.

He didn't know what it was, but it came closer. A bed across from him was pummeled by what looked like a big stick.

He didn't scream as the curtain was ripped away. Instead, he shot up and over the bed neck to him. He felt the impact of the huge stick into the floor and pieces of rock hit his face. When it stepped close enough for it to finally come into view he wanted to cry out.

The thing was easily twice as tall as him, with bulging muscles under purplish-grey skin that looked like tanned hide, beady black eyes and a club easily the size of Harry.

The club had been raised and as it came down, Harry did the only thing he could. He thought flipendo in his mind and aimed it at the club. The club went flying across the room and the arm almost hit him. The think looked dumbfounded at him for second, looked at its hand and then him. It repeated the process again before looking angry and bellowed at him.

"HARRY!" He heard Hermione. The thing raised its hand and a bed crashed into it. It stumbled and almost fell on him. He rolled. "HARRY! MOVE!" She cried out out. It had turned impossibly fast and its arm moved to punch him.

He raised his wand again and put all the fire he felt in himself into the silent spell. The troll actually lifted off the ground and slammed into the wall before crashing onto the bed that had been thrown on it.

"HARRY!" This time it was Neville. He was running towards him as the smaller figure down the hall was moving her arm like it had a wand in it. The troll shook his head and moved to get up.

Neville reached him and grabbed an arm. "Let's go," he said, hauling Harry up.

The thing roared at him. Hermione screamed as loud as she could, "DOWN!"

Neville pulled him as he dropped. Harry saw something fly past them. The roar of the troll stopped suddenly and a second later, the whole room shook. Neville turned. "Merlin, did you kill it," Neville asked.

Harry turned over and heard the steps of Hermione running before she dropped to the floor. "Where did it get you? Where are you hurt," he said patting him down and looking at him, pulling him so he as looking at her. She started to look at his face. "Harry, you're bleeding."

He had to push her off him. Hermione, I'm fine.

She looked at him for a moment before tears came to her eyes. Then she hit him on his arm. Daft, stupid boy! It could have killed you! What were you thinking! Where you trying to go after it?

I wasn't trying to go after it!

Neville and I have been looking for you all afternoon. Harry, it was trying to kill you!

He saw the concern in her face. Looking at Neville, his cousin said, "She's been going mental to find you, mate."

There was a grunt that even he heard and they all turned to look at the thing. Harry could only make out the huge lump on the floor. "We need to find a Professor."

Neville and her suddenly looked up. He turned. "...three doing here! Heaven to Morgana, is that a mountain troll," Professor McGonagall said. Madam Pomfrey was right besides her.

It chased me here, he said quickly to her.

"Minerva, bind it up," Madam Pomfrey said rushing to them.

McGonagall stepped past them. How bad are you hurt, Pomfrey asked before putting a hand on his head.

I don't feel anything, he told her, trying not to wince.

"You have some scratches and you might have a good egg here," she said before running her wand over his body. "How does your shoulder and back feel? Madame Hooch and Hermione told me how hard you fell at the quidditch pitch."

It's a little sore, but I am fine. He didn't want her to know how sore it was.

Hermione whacked his leg. He looked at her as her hands went as fast as they could. You are not fine! Tell her the truth.

Harry glared at her for second. She looked back at him just as fiercely. The tears on her cheek was what broke him. He sighed. I have a bad headache. My shoulder hurts from trying to get into your office. My whole body is sore from falling off the broom.

She nodded and then looked up past him. "Are either of you hurt?"

"No, Madam Pomfrey," Neville said. Hermione shook her head.

Pomfrey looked up. "I don't know why he is here yet, Minerva. Let me take care of him, and then you can question him. Get that thing out of my hospital."

Harry looked up as three more people ran in. He only recognized Dumbledore by how tall he was. He was pretty sure Snape and Professor Kettleburn were the other too.

"That ain't ten foot tall if I'm not a hippogryph," the man said.

"Thank you, Sylvanus. Can you help get this troll out of here."

The man nodded and clumped past them. Pomfrey was twirling her wand and summoning things from her office. "Now take these and then tell me what happened."

Dumbledore came up to them. "I would like to know too."

Harry looked at the man a little scared. I was in the bathroom. When I came out, I saw the troll. Well it's, shape. It started to come for me and I ran. It chased me in here and found where I was hiding. Hermione and Neville came in before it crushed me.

"He said he was chased in here after coming out of a bathroom," Madam Pomfrey said.

"I saw him use a knockback that threw the troll across the hall into a hall. I levitate a bed into it to keep it from hitting Harry and then levitated the club into his head," Hermione told.

"You see. I told you Potter was just trying to hunt the troll," Snape said. "He is obviously lieing about just being chased."

"That is enough, Severus," the Headmaster admonished the man in a light tone.

"Harry, were you hiding in the bathroom the whole time," Hermione asked, clearly concerned.

He looked down. "Harry, Madam Hooch told us what happened and your friends and a few staff have been looking for you. We thought you would come to the feast," Madam Pomfrey said.

Hermione reached into the pockets of her robes. She tipped his chin with her finger and he looked up. Here, she signed, holding out his glasses.

"I think this is just a situation of the wrong place at the wrong time," Dumbledore said.

The troll floated past them with Professor Kettleburn and McGonagall levitating. Harry backed away slightly, pulling Hermione so they weren't as close to it. Neville backed up next to him.

"I still think Mr. Weasley and the others deserve more than just a nights detention, Albus. They bated him and used his disability to humiliate Harry," Pomfrey said standing up.

"There is no permanent damage, Poppy. Harry is well, is he not," the man asked.

She looked irate. "If you consider well a concussion, numerous bruises and a few sprains. I have seen you suspend students for acts like that. A single nights detention and five points each! I find that outrageous."

With his glasses, he could see the way people were looking. Snape just looked at him. There was an unreadable expression on his face. Harry looked down again. Hermione tapped his leg as Dumbledore and Pomfrey spoke.

Are you alright?

Yes, he signed.

Harry, we are your friends, Neville signed. He was getting better.

Hermione didn't look satisfied with his answer. Harry Potter, don't lie. I saw how you looked earlier. I was bullied enough in grade school. I won't put up with.

Harry searched her face. The anger in it wasn't at him. He sighed. I don't like being called 'freak' and don't want to be laughed at anymore.

She looked at him for moment before launching herself at him and hugging him. He looked at Neville for support. She had done this to him a few times now. He wasn't used to it. After a moment, he wrapped his arms around her. "I don't like that word either," she said into his ear.

-oOo-

November 27, 1991

Hogwarts, Scotland

Neville never looked happier except when he was in the Herbology. Just cut the tentacular at the base, Neville instructed, taking his wand and using a low level cutting spell.

Harry nodded and smiled at the frustrated look on Hermione's face. Have her do a charm, a transfiguration, a jynx or hex, she didn't seem to struggle. Put a plant or something else before her, and she struggled. It was about the only class she wasn't top in.

Harry was quite happy, he was staying fifth, mostly from the written portions and tests. Only Hermione was better than him on tests, usually eeking out an extra point or two. She studied with him and they competed against each other that way. Harry just wished he was better at the practical.

He had only been able able to really do well in Charms, Potions and Defense. He was still struggling with most non-verbal spells, especially the much harder Transfiguration work. Astronomy and Magical History were a joke and easy to match Hermione's grade. Herbology was fun, mostly to see Hermione. It was also fun when she would get annoyed that Neville was holding the top grade in the class.

What are you smiling at, Harry?

He shrugged at her and took the plant. The severing charm was one he had been able to master. Well, mostly, as it cut the plant and then the side of the wooden trough. He had used too much power.

She eyed him before cutting her own plant.

They laid them out to dry as Neville took out his herbology pad and started to sketch the plant.

I was laughing at how much you concentrate in this class.

She huffed and Neville chuckled. I should take you to my greenhouses. I'm sure she would like the help.

Hermione threw some dirt at Neville. Harry smiled and at them.

Hermione nudged him. "You are enjoying this too much."

He nodded. You can say that.

She tossed some dirt at him. He smiled. Harry wanted to laugh, but it would hurt too much. She stuck her tongue out at him and returned the favor.

Ron walked by and Harry kept his smile on. Since Halloween, no one was bothering him. What happened in the Hospital wing got out and their was a feeling that no one wanted to mess with them.

Half the Slytherin looked at him like he was going to curse them. Malfoy and his group sneered at him, but after another confrontation a week ago, they were staying clear of him. Harry had not thrown the first punch. Or even the third. He had finished it on the fourth, with Malfoy flying through the air after he avoided his goons. Goyle had a shiner from Hermione for a few days. Professor Flitwick, who saw the whole thing, gave the Slytherin's a week of detention with Hagrid and Professor Sprout. It was worth the three nights of detention with Professor Flitwick, who only made them do their homework.

Dean and Seamus had backed off and had actually apologized to him, Neville and Hermione. He suspected Lavender and Parvati had something to do with that. Ron just looked miserable most of the time. Most of the House was still upset with him once they found out how he had set Harry up.

They were drawing the plants when Madam Pomfrey came up to him. He looked up at her when she put a piece of paper on the desk. "A message from the Headmaster. You and Mr. Longbottom are wanted in the Headmaster's office. Clean up and head up there."

Harry felt his heart thump in his chest. Neville shared the same concerned look and Hermione had a brief look of terror. Had they finally decided he wasn't fit to be here? He wasn't a squib. He could cast spells. He was good at flying. Maybe next year he might actually try out for the team. Fred and George had been very nice to him.

I will wait for you at dinner, Hermione told them.

What did we do?

Neville shook his head.

A short while later, they were walking up the stairs. Harry had been shown where the Headmaster's office was a month ago when he had asked to be able to drop transfiguration. He had been denied. McGonagall had faith he would get it at some point. It was the only grade keeping him from possibly being second as he constantly failed the practical tests.

You ready, Neville asked as they reached the door.

No.

Harry knocked anyways. The door opened. Agent Diggory, Madam Pomfrey and a woman he had never seen before were in the office.

"You have no say over this, Chief Warlock. The WCS has vetted Mr. Potter's claims and the Will of his mother. Lady Longbottom is now his magic Guardian and Custodian of his inheritance," Agent Diggory said.

He looked to Neville. That's my Gran, Neville told him.

The adults were arguing about something, but standing by the door, he only caught snippets.

"The will of James and Lily Potter is still sealed and is to remain so until his twenty-first birthday," Dumbledore said.

"James died first, making Lily... Will overrides.." He could make out Agent Diggory talking. She spoke louder at the end. "...why we are having this conversation. The WCS is not under the purview of the Wizengamot for these matters."

Neville's gran said so something, but he couldn't hear her.

The Headmaster look at the women. "Mr. Potter... that was Certified the day... parents passed," he said.

Agent Diggory looked upset and spoke lower. With her back to him, he could hear her or see her lips.

Professor Dumbledore pursed his lips. "As a muggle raised child, I am his legal guardian."

Neville, what are they talking about, Harry asked.

Neville was listening. I think Gran is your new guardian and the Headmaster is trying to say he is.

Harry looked at the dumbfounded. He didn't want Madam Pomfrey to leave him. She was the first adult he had really trusted in years. All he saw was a new cycle of Foster parents. He backed towards the door.

Neville was still looking at the adults. Harry, Gran is going to have you come home with us over Christmas.

Harry backed up more. He was just really opening up to Neville. He felt like he had friends in his cousin and Hermione. He knew it had been too good.

Neville turned to him. Harry?

I thought Madame Pomfrey was my Guardian?

Neville's Gran came up behind Neville. "What are you two talking about?"

Neville looked at him, as though asking if it was alright. I don't want another Guardian, he signed and turned, walking out the door.

It was a while later that Madame Pomfrey found him sitting in a corner of the Hospital Ward. You're friends have been looking for you again, she signed.

He looked at her for a few. Am I that bad you don't want me?

She looked taken back for a few. Harry, I don't understand.

He huffed and looked away. After a moment, the springs on the bed creaked as she took a seat. He sat on the floor. It was hard and cold, but it was better than other places he had been forced to stay in before.

She nudged his shoulder and he didn't look up.

After a moment, she talked loud enough for him to hear. "Harry, you did know I only had temporary custody of you before we sorted out your mother's Will?"

He sniffed. It was always the same. Paperwork. He would do something wrong, and then get shipped somewhere else. He had let his guard down and trusted her. He let his guard down and trusted people he had come to believe as friends. He was sure Hermione wouldn't want to associate with him once he was moved again. No one ever did.

"Harry, Madame Longbottom is your Great Aunt. She is offering you a home that you will not be removed from," she said kindly.

I don't believe you. Madame Pomfrey had stuck up for him like no one had before. She knew how to sign. She had never looked at him oddly or comment on his scars in a bad way.

"Mr. Potter," another voice came to him. "My grandson has led me to believe you a fine young man. That is not the way I expect you to act."

He still didn't look up. Just leave me alone.

"I rather think Harry believes he is being shuffled again," Madame Pomfrey said.

"I see," the other woman said. "Mr. Potter, you shall live in Longbottom Manor for as long as you wish. It is your home now."

Madame Pomfrey tapped his shoulder again. He didn't look at her.

"Have Neville send me an owl when he decided to talk again," the woman said.

"Augusta, you should stay," Madame Pomfrey said.

"I have other items to handle today. Mr. Potter just needs some time. He will be better later," the woman said.

Harry wiped at his face. After a few minutes, he was tapped on the shoulder again. Just go away.

After a few minutes, the spring on the bed let up. He just sat there. He was alone. It was just like things were before.

As the sun went down, another tap came on his shoulder. This one felt different. Harry wiped at his face again before turning. Hermione's eyes met his.

Hi, she signed.

He didn't respond.

Neville told me what is going on.

Harry looked away again.

Hermione wasn't having it. She reached and pulled his face back to look at her. Neville wants you to move in with him.

Madame Pomfrey came up behind Hermione. She knelt down. Harry, do you think I don't want you?

Hermione looked behind herself.

Why doesn't anyone ever want me?

Hermione caught the movement and looked at him. He saw the tears start to well in her eyes.

Madam Pomfrey was moving her hands. I never said I didn't want you. Agent Diggory had be watch over you until we could find a permanent placement. The Longbottoms were supposed to be your Guardian. Madame Longbottom is a tough lady, but she cares for Neville and has already been fighting for you.

You also have some friends that won't leave you.

Hermione didn't wait. She moved in and pulled him into a hug. "I won't leave my first friend."

As he was hugging her, Neville came up to the bed. Harry. I would like you to come live with us. Gran is hard. She means well though. She doesn't like emotions.

I will always be here if you need me, the Matron said to him.

After a few, he wrapped his arms around Hermione, who hugged him even tighter.

-oOo-

-oOo-

Deaf Potter

Chapter 4

December 21, 1991

Hogwarts Express, Britain

They sat in the compartment. Susan, Hannah, Parvati, Padma and Lavender were talking with each other, occasionally pulling them in. Harry, Susan signed to him.

Yes, Su, he said, liking how she narrowed her eyes. The seven of them had been studying and hanging out with each other the last month. Hermione moved closer to his side as she read her book.

Are you doing anything... good, she had to spell out the last. Only Hermione could sign as fast as he could now. Neville was good, but not that fast. The other girls were proficient enough he understood them almost all the time. Only two other students not with them were learning sign language. He felt honored to have this many.

I am going to Longbottom Manor. Maybe to Hermione's for a day.

Hermione put her book down. We are going to France Monday for a week, but I am sure mum will let you come.

Just as long as we don't have to go on the Knight Bus, Neville added.

Susan and Lavender both paled. "I hate that thing," Lavender said.

What is the Knight Bus, Harry asked.

Neville tapped his leg. It is a magic bus. It's horrid.

"Is it really that horrid," Hermione asked.

"Yes," Susan yelled.

He turned to Hermione when she knocked his leg with hers. You will come over?

Are you sure your parents won't mind?

No. I want you to come over. We will be back by December 30th. I want a week to get our work done.

He turned to his cousin. Will Madam Longbottom mind if we go?

Neville shrugged. I don't see why not. "Susan, is your Aunt still going to have a New Years party?"

He turned to Susan. She made a disgruntled face. "Of course. I get to get dressed up like a doll and paraded around."

"You make such a cute doll," Parvati teased. "I would like to have red hair like you."

"Hannah is always there," Padma told her.

"I'll be a doll too," Hannah told her friend, though not sounding as unpleased.

"I hope Gran doesn't make us go," Neville spoke up

"Oh, you have too! You can't leave us with Corner and McMillan," Susan pleaded with him.

Neville rubbed the back of his neck. "We are already going to the Ministry's Christmas Ball."

They all started to talk about the Bone's New Year Celebration. He turned back to Hermione.

She was looking at him. What do you do on New Years Eve?

Hermione smiled. My parents have allowed me to stay up the last two years. We usually have a movie marathon. They let me have whatever sweets I want.

He smiled. That sounds nice.

Hermione looked down before looking up. I can ask if you want to stay over that night, instead of going to the New Year Eves ball?

Harry looked at her, and then the others. Harry had to admit that did sound really nice, to spend a quiet evening with his friend. He was not looking forward to the Balls and parties they were talking about. He doubted Madame Longbottom would like him to do that. In his experience, adults told him what to do.

I will ask, he told her.

She must have seen his face. Are you alright with this?

He knew what she was asking. He looked to make sure no one was looking. Neville is excited. I don't have a choice.

Hermione gave him a smile and leaned her head against him. I think it will work out.

He was hoping so.

Madame Longbottom met them and Harry was reluctant to say goodbye to Hermione. Of course, before they did, she dragged him by his hand to meet her parents. She made sure she stayed on his right side.

She waved with her other hand as she pulled him through the crowd. He looked behind to see Neville going the opposite direction before turning to him. He had no choice, not that he was trying to get away.

She let go of his hand. "Daddy," he heard her say. He turned to see her hug a tall man that looked muscular and with a short hair cut. Harry instinctively took a step back. The man hugged his daughter, but also had an eye on him.

She moved to a woman that looked like a much older version of her daughter, except with glasses. He was keeping an eye on her father. After a moment, she stepped back. "Harry, this is my father, Daniel Granger, and my mother, Jane Granger," she said while talking to him with her hands. She did that all the time when he was around her.

Her father extended a hand to him. "Nice to meet you. Hermione has written much about you," the man said loud enough for him to hear. It took him a few seconds to finally take the man's hand. Harry was not used to this.

After a moment, the man nodded. Hermione beamed, as well took on a little color at her father's comment. He gave her a quizzical look before turning to her mother. He extended a hand to her. It is a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Granger signed. He blinked for a moment before she took his hand.

He sent Hermione another look. She looked as surprised. "When did you learn sign language," she asked her mum.

Like Hermione, she signed. It was still awkward, and she had to spell some words, but the woman was not bad. "I figured when you asked in October if he could come over, it would be nice of me to learn," she said.

Hermione turned an even deeper shade of red. He smiled at her. How much have you written about me?

She waved him off. Your my friend. Who else would I write about? Besides Neville.

He turned when Mr. Granger looked behind him. He looked abashed as the stern woman with a vulture on her hat came up to them. Neville looked like he didn't want to be near her. He turned his head to hear them all.

"Are you Mr. and Mrs. Granger," the woman asked.

"Yes," he heard her father.

"Augusta Longbottom," the woman said holding out her hand. "And Miss Granger? Neville has written much about you and my new Ward. A friend of either boy is a friend of the Longbottoms."

"Thank you, ma'am." Hermione shook the woman's hand after her father had.

"And is this is Neville? Hermione hasn't written quite as much about you," her father said. Hermione looked like she wanted to crawl under a rock. Harry was smiling at his friend, not understanding why.

"Augusta, Dan and I would like to extend an invitation for Neville and Harry to come over December 30th or 31st," her mother said.

"We can arrange for the 30th. Both boys will be coming with me to Madame Bone's New Years Eve Ball. You are allowed to take a friend, if you would like to invite Ms. Granger," the woman informed him.

The way she just charged through things, Harry now understood why Neville was afraid of her.

Hermione looked at him, just barely meeting his eyes. Would you like too? I won't be able to come over now.

Let me talk with my parents, she signed back.

Hermione, if you want to go to this ball with your friends, go, her mum signed.

Harry was so used to only Hermione or Neville being able to following him when he went this fast.

"What are you talking about," Madam Longbottom asked.

"Harry was just asking Hermione if she wanted to go," Neville told her.

"How about we talk about it. We take a plane to France tomorrow and will be back the twenty-seventh. Would you like to come over for tea on the twenty-eight? The boys will still be invited on the thirtieth."

"We can do that, or you can come to Longbottom Manor. I'll send an owl when you get back. Now, say good bye to your friend. Verne will have dinner at 6:30 and I would like to have Harry setup in his new rooms this evening," Madam Longbottom ordered.

Her mum raised an eyebrow at the woman. Harry, it was nice to meet you.

Thank you, Mrs. Granger.

He turned to say good bye to Hermione. She wrapped him into a hug. "See you in about a week," she said into his right ear. It was a tight hug. She let him go and did the same to Neville.

Bye.

Bye, Hermione responded.

Neville tapped his shoulder and he followed. He turned once more to see if he could see her and she was still looking at him. Her father said something and she flushed again.

Harry smiled.

-oOo

December 24, 1991

Greenwich, England

Harry did not care for the tight robes he had been forced to wear tonight. Madame Longbottom was a task master and didn't take any flack from Neville or him. It was also apparent she was not interested in learning sign language, but one of Neville's House Elves had been ordered too. In the last week, the elf had become rather adept at signing.

Of course, the small little elf had been a surprise when it popped in on them. It bowed to them and Harry felt very uncomfortable with how it always wanted to serve him. Jules was a nice elf, but Harry didn't need an elf.

More surprising was the size of the old manor. Neville said it held fifty-three rooms. His suite, had a sitting room and his bedroom, with a walk-in closet and private bathroom. He could fit three or four dorms the size of the one he shared with Neville in Gryffindor in his quite. It felt odd to have his own desk, a couch, a comfy chair he had asked for, getting used to using the ones by the fireplace. There had been nights and some rainy days he had spent next to his his best mate in chairs like it.

He may have to ask for another, in case he has company, but felt guilty.

As hard as Madam Longbottom was, she obviously cared for Neville and was making an effort to let Harry know Longbottom Manor was his home now.

Looking up at the three story building they were outside of, Harry wished he was back in his rooms. Because of Hermione, he was trying to accept his new residence.

Someone tapped his shoulder. "Head up. Shoulders back. Stand tall."

Harry nodded and tried to copy Neville, who was doing all those things. You just need to get through the introductions, then we can go find a corner.

Sure.

He looked around as they walked into a set of double doors and he felt like he walked back a hundred years or more. It was opulent, with marble, antique dark woods and a wide set of stairs that went up to a large room. Forty or fifty people were in the lobby.

Stay standing tall. Eyes ahead. Gran want to go straight in.

Harry nodded.

He did have to look though as people moved. Many eyes fell on him. He wanted to sigh. It was the same as usual. Surprise, revulsion, pity... many looked at him that way. He saw a few of his year mates or others from Hogwarts. They mostly looked at him as though he was normal.

He kept looking around as Madam Longbottom stopped at the top of the stairs. Neville motioned to him look ahead. Madam Longbottom was giving him a stern look. Just do as we practiced this week. You can relax some inside.

Harry nodded. He was nervous.

They walked up and Harry was able to hear the man at the door, even if he was looking away. "Madam Longbottom with Mr. Longbottom and Mr. Potter."

Harry looked at the man, not understanding this ceremony. After he called out his name, Neville followed his Gran. Harry didn't want to get separated so he stayed close to his cousin's side. There was probably a hundred fifty people or more in the large ball room. There were tabled on side and under a balcony that wrapped around the room.

Harry turned around. He had never seen anything the like.

Neville pulled him and he stopped. Madam Longbottom was giving him an eye before she turned to a man portly man of short stature, smart dress robes, greying hair and a lime green bowler.

An equally short woman with dark hair and glasses stood next to the man.

They were standing far enough back he couldn't hear what the adults were saying over the general din in the hall.

Who is this?

Minister Fudge and his wife.

The man suddenly lit up and moved towards him, his hand out. Harry, not knowing him, and not expecting this, backed up.

The man looked uncertain and even more so to see his face.

"What happened to the boy," the man asked.

He didn't hear the reply, but the man took on the same friendly smile and took his hand. "Very nice to meet you, Mr. Potter. Many have wondered where you were all these years."

A camera went of and Harry pulled his hand out. Stepping back, he shielded his face as the flash went off again.

Neville stepped next to him again and when he put his arm down, Madam Longbottom was already confronting the cameraman and a woman.

Can I go find somewhere quiet?

Gran says to stay here for a moment, and to stay together.

"A bit jumpy, isn't he," he heard to his right.

Harry turned to see a man in what looked liked very expensive wizarding robes, very light blonde hair, grey eyes and a haughty expression.

"I told you Potter was not right in the head," the boy next to him said.

Harry had a hard time keeping his feelings for the boy show on his face. He also squared his shoulders.

The man eyed him for a moment. He turned to a tall woman with long blonde hair, blue eyes and pale skin, much like Draco Malfoy.

The woman looked at him like she was looking at something she didn't like. He didn't miss her looking at his scar.

What are they saying, he asked Neville.

Neville was standing there, looking very upset. He didn't see Draco's smirk

Madam Longbottom stepped back up to him.

"One might think one rude to talk of someone when they cannot hear you," she said rather loudly and other turned to them. "You would be one to talk of growing up in a barn, Lucius. I know where your grandfather came from."

The man took on a flat face. His eyes burned though. "I thought my voice quite clear, and my grandfather was a respectable man."

She snorted. "If that is what you believe. Come," she said to them.

Harry wasn't sure what had just happened. Neville still looked upset. Gran and the Malfoys don't' get along, Neville signed.

I don't either, he responded.

Neville nodded.

Harry was introduced to many others before they were finally released. Neville found a table in the corner and away from the main crowd. I hate these things, Neville told him.

Next year, I am finding and excuse to stay at Hogwarts, Harry told Neville, not really enjoying this either.

Shortly after they sat, Susan Bones came over and sat in a chair. Susan looked disgruntled when she was able to finally join them at a table in the corner. Harry had to admit she looked cute with her red hair up and the frilly dress. Harry saw Neville looking at her. "If either of you make fun of me looking like a doll I'll throw off the train on our way back to Hogwarts," she grumbled.

Harry smiled. Your to grumpy to be a doll, Harry signed to her.

She eyed him for a moment before a small smile broke on her face. Prat she signed back.

The biggest, Neville agreed.

Harry pushed his cousin, who laughed.

Parvati and Padma sat next before Hannah joined them. He was enjoying all his friends as they talked about how their few days at home had been. He found it interesting that the few boys they knew from school didn't come near them. A waiter came by with deserts and butterbeer a few times. It was an enjoyable evening. Madame Longbottom nodded at them in an approving way when she came to the table. Susan was the only one left, as the others were claimed by their parents not long before.

"Ms. Bones, I trust these two have been the perfect gentlemen," she asked.

Susan and Neville had stood, so Harry did as well.

"Yes, Madam Longbottom. Harry and Neville are always polite," the redhead responded.

The woman looked pleased. "Good. Are you two ready to go home," she asked.

Please he signed.

He didn't hear what Neville said, but his Gran nodded. "If you don't mind me taking them, Ms. Bones."

"Not at all. I'll see you on the Express," she said to him, trying to sign it. Lady Longbottom raised an eye at the girl.

Harry smiled at her. Yes, Su. Happy Christmas.

She smiled back and they walked out. As they walked out, Harry made sure to have Neville and Madam Longbottom on his side. She looked at him for a moment as they walked down the stairs. "You two are friends with Susan and the other girls I saw you with."

"Yes, Gran," Neville said. "Them. Hermione. A few others."

She looked satisfied. "Good. Maybe you should invite Ms. Bones and Ms. Abbot over."

What about Hermione? Harry wanted to see her more.

We already have plans. Gran won't break them.

"What are you talking about," she asked.

"Harry was talking about when Hermione was coming over," Neville told her.

She nodded. "Yes. Has she accepted the invitation to the New Years Ball?"

Yes. Harry found he missed her. He had never had a friend before he could miss like this.

Madam Longbottom nodded.

-oOo-

December 28, 1995

East Dulwich, England

Harry quickly decided he liked the Knight bus even less than than apparating. At least apparating only lasted a second. They had spent almost fifteen minutes on the crazy thing. Neville looked equally as uncomfortable. Madam Longbottom had decided to take the Knight Bus so that Neville and him could do this in the future if she was comfortable with the Grangers, or to have Hermione visit them.

When they stepped out, Harry found them in an upper scale neighborhood on the outskirts of London. Looking at the house, Harry liked it better than the huge manor he found himself in now.

Madam Longbottom didn't wait for Neville or Harry, instead just checking the number on the house matched number in the letter. Neville nudged him as he looked at the other houses. Come on.

Harry nodded and walked up to the door. It was cold, misty day so when the door opened and they were ushered in, Harry was happy to step inside. Hermione had met them with her mother and they hung their winter cloaks on hooks inside the door. Mrs. Granger looked at them and then the vulture on the hat of Madame Longbottom. Luckily Neville and him had been allowed to dress like Muggles today. Neville had on a nice knit jumper and slacks while Harry wore a Gryffindor jumper with jeans.

Hermione was in a nice long sleeve dress with white stockings. He liked how here hair was pulled back. The second their cloaks were off, she hugged Neville and then him. "I am so glad you came. Mum and I have tea and biscuits in the kitchen. I don't know how long you are staying, but we can play some games after or watch a movie. If you stay for dinner, mum said she would have dad bring home pizza. I also have some pictures from skiing in France..."

She was signing as she talked, going just about as fast as Harry could now.

Her mum put a hand on her arm. "Hermione, calm down." Mrs. Granger looked to Madam Longbottom. "I think that a good idea. Why don't you show them around and then do what you want."

Hermione's smile was ear to ear. "Thank you, Madam Longbottom." Hermione took both their hands and dragged them up the stairs. Something about seeing her room first.

He had never seen Hermione so bouncy or excited. The first floor had her parents room, her room, a guest room a study, an extra bathroom and a closet. Down stairs was a large sitting room, a dining room and the kitchen.

The two woman were talking but stopped as they entered. "Why don't you get Harry and Neville something to drink and eat and then do something in the sitting room," Mrs. Granger offered. She was doing at Hermione and Neville usually did and signed as she talked. It was slow and she made some mistakes, but she was better than she had been when they met at Kings Cross Station. He was sure Hermione had helped her mother over the last week.

How was France? Harry finally asked as they settled around a coffee table and set up a game. Neville looked at it very interestedly, especially since it was not enchanted.

It was really nice. We went skiing for four days and then just explored around the chateau the other few days. I was able to add a few more snow globes to my collection and for Christmas mum and dad gave me some draft notes from Gringotts to go shopping in Diagon Alley tomorrow, Hermione replied.

"How was your Christmas?"

"Brilliant. Gran got me a few plants from the Congo I asked for and she gave me my parents wands so I could keep them safe," Neville told her, blushing a little at the end.

"I'm glad to hear that, Neville. And you, Harry?"

Harry couldn't keep the smile off his face. I got a Nimbus 2000 broom, some nice clothes and an owl when we went to Diagon Alley on boxing day.

Neville laughed. "It's a really nice snowy owl. Gran bought it for him when she followed Harry out of the store. She said a wizard and a bird shouldn't be split if they have a bond."

She also said she wished she could find another vulture, Harry added.

Neville cringed and Hermione giggled at them. "What is her name?"

Hedwig, Harry said with pride. I will send a letter to you if you want. Just watch your fingers. She likes to nip if she feels ignored.

Thank you for the warning, Hermione replied.

As the afternoon went on, the three friends joked easily with each other. Neville beat them at Life and Parchessi before Hermione gave up and they showed Neville what a tellie was and put on VHS tape. About half way through the first game, Madam Longbottom left and told them she would be back about seven to pick them up.

Neville's eyes were glued to the TV as they watched Willow and Mr. Granger walked in with some pizza. For Harry, having real pizza parlor pizza was a treat. The pizza in the group homes was not this good. Neville had never had any before and ate five pieces to his and Hermione's three.

When they finally said their goodbyes, Harry was sad to be leaving her. "I'll have her ready for seven," Mrs. Granger was telling Madam Longbottom.

"Thank you, Jane. I will make sure she is back by ten-thirty. All the younger ones are home by eleven that night," Madam Longbottom responded.

Harry looked to Neville. Gran says I can't stay up to midnight until I am thirteen. Two more years.

Harry nodded and hugged Hermione. She gave him one of her bear hugs. "I'll see you in a few days."

When he backed away, he signed, I'll send Hedwig tomorrow. Thank you for having us over.

She stood on the front step as the Knight Bus pulled up and Harry watched her until the bus popped away. Harry had never had friends like this before and found it odd to miss Hermione after only a few seconds.

Neville knocked his leg. He signed as he talked. "That was brilliant today."

Harry nodded with a large smile, unable to reply as he held onto the rail and seat before them as the bus popped and lurched.

-oOo-

December 31, 1991

East Dulwich, England

Harry had had fun the last few days. Madam Longbottom was a strict witch, and had high expectations, but over the ten days he had been there, she seemed to have backed off of Neville and him.

They had both buckled down and gotten their work done in the first few days before Christmas. Neville had shown him all around. After the tour, Harry was to be found as much in the Longbottom's Library as he was the greenhouses or the grounds.

A shivering and laughing Neville and wildly grinning Harry had stopped dead in their tracks trying to enter the house by the kitchens. They were both dripping wet after falling into a stream while trying to hop rocks.

They both thought they would be in so much trouble by the way Madam Longbottom was looking at them. She stared them down for a moment before telling them to go get dry and their elves brought them steaming cups of hot chocolate.

It was with these high spirits that Jules popped him to the Granger's house on New Year's Eve. Madam Longbottom had allowed him to go just with Jules so Hermione's parents could meet the house elf and know who would be taking them to the Bones' house tonight.

They were to be taken to the main atrium at five minutes before eight, and then meet with his great aunt. If they were to get there before them, Harry and Hermione were to look for Professor McGonagall.

At about twenty of eight, Jules popped them to the back door of the Granger's so they would not be seen. When Hermione opened the door, Harry gave her a huge smile. She was in a nice forest green dress that flared at her waist into a sparkling skirt. Her usually wild hair was pulled back and held with a ribbon that matched her dress. Hello, Hermione. You look nice tonight, he signed to her.

She returned a huge smile and then noticed Jules.

"Oh... you?" she blurted out.

The elf stepped forward. "Evening, Missy Granger. Jules, the House Elf of Scion Potter, at your service," the elf said loud and clearly so Harry could hear. Jules was always considerate that way when he didn't sign.

She looked really curious and then bowed back. "It is very nice to meet you, Jules. I have never heard of a house elf before."

Jules kept an easy expression. "House elves are house elves, miss. We do as wizards need."

Can we come in?, Harry asked.

Of course, Hermione responded, moving out of the way.

"Hermione... her...?" Harry didn't hear everything.

"Harry is here, mum," Hermione called back, and signing at the same time. She did all the time when he was around. He turned his head to listen.

"Harry? He's in the kitchen?"

"He showed up at the back door," Hermione answered.

Mrs. Granger came in. Hello, Harry. Happy New Year.

Mrs. Granger's eyes went wide to see Jules. It was a quick pause before she seemed to take it in stride. And who is this?

"Jules. He's a house elf," Hermione told her mum.

Jules will be taking us tonight and will be the one to take Hermione home later, Harry informed them.

"It is nice to meet you. Hermione, go get your cloak and you two should get going. Jules, how are you going to be taking my daughter and her friend?" Jane was trying to talk in sign as well. Harry was liking this house more and more.

"Jules will apparate Master Harry and Miss Hermione, Misses Granger," Jules replied.

There was a look of confusion. "What is apparate?"

Jules just snaps his fingers and we just travel to where we are going. I'm not sure it really takes any time at all, Harry told her smiling. It was a little uncomfortable, but he liked it more than the Knight Bus.

A few minutes later, Harry and Hermione were standing at the side of a huge hall. It was already busy with dozens of milling couples, families and singles. They were just able to get their bearings when a blonde girl was suddenly before. "You came! Where is Neville and Madam Longbottom," a happy and bouncy Hannah exclaimed stopping just as her mum called out her name.

Hannah pulled up short of hugging either of them. Harry took in a yellow dress that was close to the color of her honey hair. Hello Hannah.

Hello Harry. Hi Hermione. "You look cute tonight."

"Thank you. You look like very pretty."

Hannah smiled and her parents came up. Harry wasn't expecting it without his great aunt. The man did a semi-bow. "Nice to see you, Scion Potter. Is this Miss Granger?"

"Yes, sir," Hermione replied, signing and returning the bow. Hannah giggled and said something to Hermione, which made her blush. Harry didn't usually see Hermione flustered like that.

"It is quite alright, Ms. Granger. I must admit we do a poor job of educating muggleborn or raised in our customs. I am sure Hannah can help you with that." Hermione nodded and the man turned. Harry turned to see Madam Longbottom and Neville walking up them.

She said something to Mr. Abbot... wait, Lord Abbot, before turning to him. "Back straight, shoulders back, Harry. Ms. Granger, it is very pleasant to see you again."

Harry straightened out.

"Ms. Granger, you are a guest of Scion Potter tonight. You will be accompanying us as we do our introductions. You can either walk besides Harry or take his arm," the old woman ordered them with efficiency.

The golden hair woman, Lady Abbot, chuckled. "It's like your running a boot camp, Augusta. You know this is only a semi-formal affair."

"It is an event that Neville, Harry and their friends can use for practice. It is better for them to make a faux pas this evening than at the annual Equinox Ball around Easter at the Greengrasses, or the summer solstice at the Parkinsons." Neville was signing for him because he only took in about half of it with her not talking directly towards him.

Lady Abbot inclined her head. "I can not argue with that logic. Would Neville like to escort Hannah then, for practice?"

Hannah had stood tall, a little colour on her cheeks. Neville was rigid and looked unsure. Madam Longbottom turned to him and quickly replied to something he didn't hear. "Yes, Gran. Ms. Abbot, would you do me the honor? The Longbottoms will vouch for your honor tonight."

Harry was looking back and forth, just like Hermione. Hannah had a regal looking expression, so unlike their more bubbly friend. "It would be an honor, Scion Longbottom. The Abbots recognize your voucher."

Harry looked to them as Neville held out his arm and Hannah moved to slip her arm in. It was as though this was something both had practiced for years. Harry looked questioningly to Neville, who nodded to his arm.

Harry blinked for a moment before turning to Hermione. Ms. Granger, would you...ah... do me the honor?, he asked, trying to copy Neville. Hermione had some colour to her cheeks like Hannah. He didn't know why.

"It would be a pleasure," she commented before taking his arm like Hannah. The Abbotts and his great aunt nodded with appreciation. Some large doors opened and they were led in. With Hermione's arm on his, and Neville the same, about all he could do was watch what most people did, with Hermione trying to whisper loud enough for him to hear.

He bowed when Neville did. Tried to copy Neville as he held Hannah's hand while their arms were up as she moved a half step forward and curtsied. Hermione was just as lost as him, trying to copying Hannah and Neville.

"Lord and Lady Chang," Hermione whispered as they met a Asian looking couple with a very nice looking girl a year above them. "Their daughter is Cho."

"Lord and Lady Corner."

It was a godsend to have Hermione with him. As they went through, she would let go of his arm and let him know what was going on. Many still seemed surprised at his face and even more so when they realized he really was so incapacitated. If she hadn't been there, he doubt he would have gotten only half the names. Diggory. Waters. Bernard. Mason. Blighe. A dozen others. By the time they made it to the host of the night, Susan's smile was looking just as pleasant as always, but her eyes said she wanted to run. She was in a very nice white dress with her red hair in a stylish bun.

Good evening, Susan, Harry greeted.

Her auntie was next to her so Susan curtsies. Good evening, Scion Potter. Not that most can tell, but you should call me Heiress Bones when we meet at formal functions.

He nodded before the rounds of greetings ended and they were told they could run off.

"Thank Merlin," Susan gripped. He only heard her because she had moved in. The five of them made a close circle.

Hannah giggled. "It is isn't that bad getting dolled up."

Susan stuck her tongue out at her friend. "You are usually complaining too."

Hannah shrugged. "It's not all bad."

The look Susan gave Hannah had the girl blushing. "If you want t o find a table, we can get some drinks of something," Neville put to them.

"Please," Susan quipped, grabbing Hannah's hand and pulling them towards a corner with an empty table. "Hermione, you look really nice tonight."

"Thank you," Hermione replied. Harry followed along. He was already ready to leave.

When they sat, a house elf took them some deserts and drinks. They were soon laughing and a deck of cards came from somewhere. About ten, Mrs. Diggory came by the table.

He turned to look at her smiling face. "I thought I would just stop by to see how you are doing tonight?"

Great. Can I introduce you to my friends? he signed with a smile, Hermione translating for him. He had gotten her something nice for Christmas, but he might need to get her something else soon.

The woman's smile grew. "It would be a delight," she responded. Harry not thinking that Mrs. Diggory probably met them all earlier. He proudly introduced everyone at the table.

She left a little bit later, saying that she would be by Longbottom Manor on January second as a checkup. He shrugged. It was just like the Muggle agents. When she left, he turned to Hermione.

Thank you.

She gave him a broad smile. Any time, Harry.

When Jules brought them back to her house about eleven, she pulled him in very tight for a long hug. "Thank you for taking me. I had fun tonight."

He backed up, wishing he could tell her the same. I did too. I'll see you on the train Saturday?

Yes. I will see you there, she replied.

After another quick hug, Jules brought him back to his room. Harry fell onto his bed smiling. He was starting to see it as his bed. He preyed and hoped that Madam Longbottom wouldn't send him back, and a small part of him knew he had finally found a home. He had friends. More importantly he had a best friend. Two actually. It was all and more than he ever wanted.

As nineteen-ninety-two rang in, Harry yawned and for once dreamed the dreams of a more normal child. He dreamt of possibly playing on the quidditch team and what it might be like to ski. Not once, in days, did he have the old nightmares. For once, Harry was a normal boy. Well, as close to one he could be...

-oOo-

-oOo-

Chapter 05

February 24, 1992

Hogwarts, Scotland

Harry sat in his worst and most frustrating class. He was finally able to turn his matchstick into a good needle but that was about it. Without being able to say much of anything, even with the new potions Madam Pomfrey was tying, he just couldn't seem to find enough focus to make the spells work.

The rest of the class was working on making birds, he was still on trying to get his needle back to a match. Even the dunderhead Weasley was on the current material.

"You will get it," Hermione encouraged.

Harry tried to concentrate more. He was now able to get most of the spells in charms and DADA. Even the simple cutting or identification work in Herbology. Transfiguration... he slammed his hand on the table, his frustration unable to be controlled as the needle melted into a puddle of metal.

I CAN'T GET THIS, he signed furiously before swiping the box of matches off the desk.

"Harry, calm..." Hermione started to tell him as he grabbed his notes and quill and jammed them into his bag.

Ron snorted. "Squib."

His anger spiked. They were only three quarters of the way through the first half of this double period and he had had enough. Hermione grabbed his arm and Neville just looked up at him dumbfounded.

"Harry, just calm down," she tried to soothe.

"Potter, sit down this instance," McGonagall called out.

I'm done. I'm going to the library, Harry told is friends, pulling his arm fully away from Hermione and walking around Neville. He heard some commotion behind him, but he didn't care. He was done with Transfiguration. He could spend the time on other work. Like the tricky Mending charm they were doing in Charms.

He stormed off to the Library. His mind already made up to skip History of Magic. That was another useless class. Except for the details of the Goblin Rebellions and wars, he learned more from the book than he did the professor.

It wasn't hard to find a deserted corner this time of the day. When he took out his books and parchments, he berated himself for the dicta-quill that had been snapped in half. He had three others, but they were four galleons and seventeen sickles each.

His anger didn't abate when he made it to lunch and before he could even say anything to an upset looking Hermione and concerned Neville, McGonagall was on to him.

She took his shoulder. Harry, shocked by it, rolled his shoulder, hit the hand away with his forearm and took up an attack stance. He blanched to see the surprised and then angry face of his Head of House and Transfiguration professor.

He dropped his hands to his side. After a moment, she said, "I understand you do not like to be touched like that, so I will let it go this time. We need to have a talk, Potter."

As much as he knew it would get him in trouble, he shook his head and grabbed his pad. I will not attend Transfiguration.

Her eyes narrowed and people around the table were starting to look at them.

"Come with me and we shall talk about it," she told him, clearly speaking into his right ear.

He held his defiant glare. Someone tapped him on the arm. He turned to see Hermione. You should go. Do you want me to come?

He shook his head. Grabbing his bag, he started to march out of the Great Hall, oblivious to the calls for him to follow his professor. He didn't care if she was following him or not.

After a moment, even his bad hearing picked up on the clack of boots that were chasing after him. He walked at just under a jog, his feet pounding heavily on the floor.

"Potter!" McGonagall must have screamed his name.

He didn't stop until he burst in the Infirmary. Madam Pomfrey was taking care of two students that had ugly around welts on their arms. Harry didn't wait for her, starting to move his hands and arms the second she caught sight of him.

I refuse to do anymore Transfiguration classes or History of Magic, he told her furiously.

She blinked at him, gently putting the arm down as the doors behind him slammed open. Madam Pomfrey looked at the most likely angry woman behind him. I am not sure what this is about, but would wait in my office while I finish with these two?

Harry nodded, spun around and stalked past Professor McGonagall.

Sitting in a chair, he sat with his ear to the wall. Professor McGonagall stepped into the office. He pretended he couldn't hear her. It was only a few minutes before Madam Pomfrey came in. She had a talk with McGonagall before she turned to him.

She didn't look totally impressed with him.

Harry didn't let go of his ire down about today and the whole year.

Harry, is it true you walked out in the middle of class and then ignored Professor McGonagall?

He took a moment to reply. McGonagall has refused to let me drop transfiguration! It is February and I have only managed two spells in her class. I can just barely make a needle and switch things, while everyone else is making birds! I refuse to be mocked and ridiculed for it anymore, he moved his hands angrily.

Pomfrey's eyes narrowed. Who is making fun of you?

Does it matter! I can't do it and I refuse to for now on! He hit his hands on her desk, causing them both to jump a little.

"What is he so angry about? Should I be the angry one in all this! He walks out of my class! Refuses to acknowledge me and now I can't understand what he is saying with how fast his hands are moving," McGonagall said angrily.

Madam Pomfrey sighed. "He is upset about his troubles in Transfiguration and he says some are mocking him for it. He wants to drop the class and is upset you will not let him."

McGonagall pursed her lips. "Letting him drop the class is not my prerogative. It is a requirement from the Ministry until they take their O.W.L.'s. I have explained this to him."

I will not go anymore. I can't do it!

Madam Pomfrey frowned. Harry, are you sure it is that you just don't need more time and practice?

TIME! If I can't get the spells, than I will fail and will have to repeat it next year. Transfiguration is harming my grades and I just can't get it! Harry told her. He wanted to scream but knew the pain would not be worth it.

"Mr. Potter, I am not sure what you two are fully talking about, but there is no choice in this," McGongall told him, not looking pleased with her own words.

He grabbed for his pad and pen and wrote furiously. I will not go to anymore classes. If you want fail me or expel me, fine!

He took the pad and jammed it towards McGonagall.

"Expulsion, no. Detention, yes." McGonagall looked even more displeased.

He shook his head. I won't go. Not for that class.

Pomfrey held up her hand to stop McGonagall. Harry, I think you need to calm down. Did you eat lunch?

He shook his head.

Go eat some lunch and I will have talk with Professor McGonagall, Madam Pomfrey told him.

I am sending a letter to Madam Longbottom, he signed.

She nodded. I understand.

"Minerva, I am sending Potter to get some lunch. We need to talk and I am going to be contacting Augusta later," Pomfrey told McGonagall. Harry escaped as fast as he could.

He managed some food with a quiet Hermione and Neville before they descended into the dungeons.

-oOo-