Chapter 3 Family
Director Bones ate her breakfast quietly, trying hard to organize her thoughts as she regarded the problems that would arise when she began an investigation into the situation that Harry found himself in.
It came as a complete shock to her to find out that James and Lily's will had been sealed by the Headmaster in his role of Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. As far as she could tell, there was no real reason for him to have done such. The Potters' were a distinguished family in magical Britain, Peers of the Realm, and not a family over which the Chief Warlock had any say in whatsoever. She'd have to get a hold of that will somehow, and dreaded the thought of having to approach the goblins of Gringotts with any sort of request. They weren't exactly known as being cooperative.
"Amelia?" she heard someone ask, the voice coming from the fireplace.
"Madam Longbottom? Please, come through, I'm just finishing up breakfast. Would you care for a cup of tea?"
"No thank you, Ami" said the elderly witch that stepped through the floo. "I've not even had a minute of sleep since you called me last night."
"I'm sorry about that…"
Augusta waved a hand, dismissing the apology. "Never mind that, the only important thing is that we get Lord Potter the care and protection that he deserves. Can you imagine what Lily would do if she were still alive and found out that her Harry had been mistreated as he had? Can you imagine what James would do? No, our first priority is ensuring that Harry is protected. Shall we head to Hogwarts?"
"Of course, Augusta, after you; I've already spoken to Madam Pomfrey. She's expecting us." Amelia and Augusta grabbed a handful of the floo powder, and with a toss into the fireplace, both witches made their way to Hogwarts.
"Madam Pomfrey?" called out Amelia as she dusted herself off after stepping out of the floo.
"Director Bones, it is good to see you again. I only wish the circumstances of your visit were more pleasant. Greetings, Dame Longbottom, it is a pleasure to see you again." said Poppy as she welcomed her distinguished guests.
"Poppy, please, we've not got time for pleasantries. I want to know what is going on with Lord Potter. Is what you told Amelia true, has Harry been mistreated?"
With a sad look in her eyes, the nurse nodded her head. "It is true; it seems that Lord Potter has been abused for many years."
"Tell us."
"Harry was brought to me yesterday by his Madam Sprout, his Head of House. She indicated to me that the boy had signs of abuse, most notably bruising on his face. During the course of my examination I discovered that the lad had far more damage to his body than merely some bruising. I found evidence of a broken arm, which probably occurred when he was five or six. Multiple healed broken ribs. There are also indications that he was whipped, probably with a belt, which have left scarring on his back and buttocks. And there is also that famous scar of his…"
"The scar, the one left on him when he was but a babe?" asked Augusta.
"I will have to examine it more in depth, but from what I can ascertain so far, the scar is cursed. It bears a tinge of dark magic the likes of which I've never seen before. I may have to involve some acquaintances from St. Mungo's to help me better understand what I've discovered."
"Is it harming Harry in any way?" asked Amelia with concern.
"It seems to be leeching from his magical core. Whatever is in there is living off of Harry's magic. I will have to find a way to expel the curse."
"Is it draining his core?"
"Not as far as I can tell. It's more like that thing has bound Harry's magic, not allowing it to grow like it normally would. I didn't think at the time to get a reading on his level of magical power. That's something else I will have to do the next time I see him."
"You've documented everything?" asked Amelia.
"Most certainly; I have a copy here for you." responded Poppy.
"Keep that secure." Amelia turned to the floo. "Tonks, you in the office yet?"
"Boss?" asked the young witch that appeared at the other end of the call.
"I'm sending through some documents regarding the physical abuse suffered by a student here at Hogwarts. I want you to make a number of copies of them and keep them secure in several locations. Only you and I will know where they are being held, okay?"
"What's going on, Boss?"
"The student in question is none other than Harry Potter. Do you understand what I'm asking you to do?"
"Will do, boss. Merlin, Harry Potter being abused. If the press ever found out…"
"I know, Tonks. There would be at the very least a lynching of the people involved. It's one of the reasons I want this kept hushed up for now."
"I'll take care of. Will you be coming in to the office today?"
"Later, perhaps, I believe that I will be here at Hogwarts for most of the day. Inform Auror Shacklebot to stand in for me if any problems arise that need attention."
"Got it, I'll tell Shack as soon as he gets in. Make sure to call if you need anything." said the witch as she disconnected the call.
"Was that Nymphadora?" asked Augusta.
"Tonks? Yeah, she's a recent graduate of the Academy. She's showing a lot of promise. You know her?"
"Her family. She's a Black, or at least she was before her mother was kicked out of the family for marrying a muggle-born. I never understood their reasoning for that; Ted Tonks is a very fine man. A barrister, if I remember correctly. So, what are we going to do about Lord Potter?"
"I want to take him away from that home of his. I want to place somewhere he will be safe. Will you take him, Augusta?" asked Amelia.
"Of course I will! I have been looking for Harry ever since that Halloween night. One thing is for sure though; Albus Dumbledore will be getting an earful of my anger this morning. I never believed him when he assured me that Harry was safe, I even went so far as to hire muggle private detectives to search for him. They were, unfortunately, unable to find him." said Augusta with a sigh.
"I say we head down to Hufflepuff then, let's go meet Harry. I'm rather looking forward to seeing Susan again too. Poppy, would you be so kind as to set up an appointment with Dumbledore sometime after lunch? I believe the three of us should get some answers out of that man. I'll be sure to inform Pomona as well, she seems to care about Harry and his wellbeing."
"I'll see to it Amelia. I'll see you both in the Headmaster's office."
ooOOooOOoo
Harry was trying with all the willpower he could muster to contain his anger. He had heard that the Potions professor was a right bastard, but had taken that information with a grain of salt. There were horrible teachers everywhere, but Snape was in a class all of his own. Added to that, they shared the class with the Slytherins, who all had amused looks on their faces.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Potter, was my question unclear? Just as self-centered as your father and just as useless." sneered the professor.
Harry stood, both hands clenching and unclenching in suppressed rage. Susan had tried to get him to sit, but had so far been unable to do so. Neville was also barely able to contain his anger, but Hannah was holding his arm in a death grip.
"That is Lord Potter to you, Professor Snape. You will address me as such!" he said furiously.
"Why you arrogant little…"
"Neville, do I have any recourse to the mistreatment I am receiving from this supposed professor?"
Neville smiled briefly, before standing and responding to Harry. "As a Lord of an Ancient and Noble House, you are entitled to call the Aurors to arrest anyone who threatens you."
"Would you say that what I've been subjected to in this class so far would constitute a threat?"
"I would, Lord Potter. Shall I make a floo-call to the Ministries Law Enforcement Division?"
"I believe you should. Susan, would you mind accompanying Neville and having your Aunt come pay us a visit?" he asked looking at the frightened witch at his side.
"Right away Harry, come on Neville. We'll use the floo in Madam Sprouts' office." she said as she stood and left with Neville in tow. As the two headed out, Neville turned and grabbed Hannah's hand and dragged her along with Susan.
Harry stood proudly before the greasy bastard that had denigrated his father's name. It was then that he noticed a look of fear in the man's eyes.
"Mr. Potter…"
"Lord Potter!" he said with force.
"Lord Potter, you will kindly sit and be quiet. I have had enough of you disrupting my class. Twenty points from Hufflepuff for your rudeness and you will serve detention with Mr. Filch for the rest of the week!"
"Rudeness? Rudeness? Are you freaking kidding me?" he yelled.
"Fifty points from Hufflepuff and an additional week of detention." Snape yelled back.
"Take all the points away from me that you want, Professor," he replied. "You've done nothing but insult me and my father since I walked into your classroom!"
The look Harry directed at him was not one he'd ever thought he'd see again. Those green eyes, so clearly Lily, held all the anger and disgust that she'd directed toward him all those years ago. Severus actually took a step back, a little frightened at the power that was emanating from the boy.
"Mr. Potter, back away! Professor Snape, you will take your hands of your wand if you know what's good for you." roared Amelia as she came running into the potions classroom. "Harry, what's going on here?"
"Madam Bones, Professor Snape here has been verbally attacking me since I walked into his classroom. At first I was a little surprised by that, as he doesn't know me at all. But as the class kept going, it became apparent that this man has some sort of hatred toward my father. When the insults got too be too much, I thought I should stand up for myself."
Amelia turned toward the students in the classroom, taking in the looks of fright that most of them sported. "Children, please leave the class and head to your common rooms. Mr. Potter, Professor, you will please remain."
Harry turned toward Amelia, and nodded to her in gratitude. It was also then that he noticed the elderly witch that stood at the doorway. The look of pride on her face was something that he was unused to seeing, especially directed at him.
"Lord Potter," said Neville as he approached, "allow me to introduce you to Dame Augusta Longbottom. Dame Longbottom, Lord Harry Potter."
"I have wanted to meet you for a very long time, Lord Potter. I wish the circumstances were a little bit better than this, though." she said with a smile.
"I have been eager to meet you as well, Dame Longbottom. Neville has spoken very highly of you."
"He better have, if he knows what's good for him!" she said with a chuckle.
"Gran…" moaned Neville.
"Oh, relax Neville, there's no need for formalities with family. Don't you think so, Harry?"
"Family?" he asked quietly.
"Of course; we are family Harry, and don't you forget it. Now, can you tell me what seems to be the problem here? And why does Professor Snape look like he's swallowed a wasp?"
Harry sniggered, "Well, he started attacking me pretty much as soon as I set foot in his classroom. I'm sure he knows that I am muggle raised. I'm also pretty sure he knows that I know very little about this world or magic. I've never even heard of potions before, so why is he asking me questions that I'm pretty sure he knew I would have no answers to?"
"It's a reasonable question, Severus." said Augusta as she focused on the potions professor.
"This sorry excuse of a student has been disrupting my classroom since it started. His ego and arrogance in full display for all to see."
"And what, exactly, was he being arrogant about, Professor. He didn't utter a sound the entire time we were in class!" yelled Neville in anger. "The only disruption was yours!"
"Twenty points from Hufflepuff and a week's detention, Longbottom!" roared Snape.
"I don't think so, Professor." stated Augusta in a cool voice.
"Excuse me?"
"No, I don't believe I will. You've been a blight on Hogwarts since the day you were hired. And now you've really messed up; you verbally attacked a Lord in full view of witnesses. Not even Dumbledore will be able to save you now."
ooOOooOOoo
Five people sat in the Headmasters office later that morning, Dumbledore himself sat behind his massive desk, a look of mild annoyance on his face. Professor Snape stood behind him, eyes downcast, looking like a schoolboy who'd been caught red-handed attempting to pull one over on the adults. Amelia and Augusta both stood, stern and with angered faces, flanking Harry who sat on a large wingback chair that was too large for him.
"Harry…" began Dumbledore.
"How many time must I remind you to address him as Lord Potter, Headmaster?" asked Augusta in exasperation.
"Forgive me, Lord Potter, I take it you find the teaching style of Professor Snape to be less than commendable?"
Harry looked up from his seat and cast a glance at both Amelia and Augusta. Amelia smiled, and nodded her head. Augusta looked at him, "It's okay, Harry, no one here will harm you. Speak the truth."
"Headmaster, the only way I can describe that man's attitude towards me is one of hate. He hated me the minute I walked into his office. In his eyes, which even now have that look, I am nothing more than a way for him to get back at my father. Why is that? I never knew my father, and he's been dead for over ten years now, why would you hate me so much, sir?" he asked with a catch in his voice.
"Has no one ever told you that you look just like your father did at this age, Harry? Because you do, you know. You're the spitting image of a young James. That's it, isn't it Professor Snape? Harry walked into your class and all you could see was James Potter." asked Amelia as she placed a hand on Harry's shoulder.
"You know nothing!" hissed Severus.
"Severus…" pleaded Dumbledore.
"You know what, it doesn't matter. Professor Snape berated and intimidated Mr. Potter here in full view of thirty students. Even if his Slytherins lie and support him, that still leaves half of those thirty kids as witnesses to the verbal assault. I will be taking this matter up with the school board come Monday morning. If I have any say in this matter, Dumbledore, this despicable excuse for a teacher has taught his final lesson." The already pale Snape paled even more.
"Now, Augusta…please, let's not be hasty. Surely a reprimand could be issued, a stern warning that any further occurrence will result in dismissal? We must learn to forgive, after all."
That was a bit much for Amelia who finally spoke up, "A reprimand, are you kidding me? He verbally assaulted a Peer of the Realm in full view of witnesses. You know the law better than anyone, Chief Warlock, what is the punishment for such a transgression?"
Dumbledore sighed, "Five years, minimum, in Azkaban."
"Stop." whispered Harry.
"Harry?" asked Augusta.
"Please, just stop." Harry stood and approached the potions professor. "You see my father when you look at me, sir. I don't know the cause of your hatred of him, but if it makes you feel any better I am sorry for whatever it was he did to you. As I've said, I know nothing about him. I forgive you for my treatment of me in class, but I will not allow that to happen again. I will request a tutor for potions, something I believe that I'm entitled to, Headmaster?"
"Indeed, Lord Potter."
"Madam Bones, I will not press charges against Professor Snape. Dame Longbottom, I believe that a final chance should be given to Professor Snape to become a better teacher. I hope that because I am asking, you will make sure he is given that chance. Headmaster, I ask that you allow my friends to join me in my potions class. I would feel much better having friends with me."
"I take it that means Neville, Hannah, and Susan?" asked Dumbledore. "Very well, Lord Potter, very well. I will make inquiries for you regarding the hiring of a potions instructor."
"Thank you Headmaster. Was there anything else? It has been a already been a long day for me, and it isn't even lunch t time."
"I don't believe there is. I thank you for your kindness towards Professor Snape."
"Come on, Harry, let's get you back to the 'Puff common room. I'm sure your friends are going mental wondering how you are." said Amelia as she made towards the door. "And Professor Snape, remember this the next time you feel like venting your spleen at someone. Harry here has just saved you from spending any time in Azkaban, something you would do well to consider."
"I agree with Amelia, Snape. I will still be speaking to the board of governors, and you will most likely get by with merely a reprimand. Harry has saved your career. But this is your last chance. I better see improvement from you, or I will see you cast from Hogwarts quicker than you can say bezoar." Augusta grabbed Harry by the shoulder and led him out of the office.
"Lord Potter…" said a cold voice.
Harry stopped and glanced back toward the man that had berated him that morning. "Sir?"
"You may look like your father, but I've only just noticed that you have your mothers' eyes." he said with a bit more warmth.
"I do?" asked Harry.
"Yes, indeed you do."
"Thank you, sir. Thank you for telling me that." said Harry as he and Augusta left the Headmasters office.
ooOOooOOoo
"Harry, what did I tell you about calling for me if you needed anything or if you got into any trouble?" asked Madam Sprout with more than a little anger in her voice.
"Uhm, that I should send for you?" he asked meekly.
"Exactly, so why then did you not call for me, why did I have to find out about what happened in potions class from a group of frightened first years?"
"Pomona, in Harry's defense, Amelia and I both forgot to call for his Head of House as you should have been. For that I am sorry."
"Harry, ladies, it is me who should be sorry. I was just shocked by what I heard and was desperate to get to one of my badgers. Being excluded with your meeting with Dumbledore hurt more than I care to admit."
"You're a credit to your kids, Pomona." said Augusta in praise.
Pomona turned to look at Harry, noticing that he was beginning to look a little worn out after the events of the day. "Harry, why don't you go and find Susan and your friends. They've been worried sick about you, and you look like you could use a good lunch. Run along now, I'll catch up with you later. Don't forget that today is your first Herbology class, and I expect you to be there ready for class. And transfiguration is later on, remember to pay attention to Professor McGonagall, she's an excellent teacher."
"Yes, ma'am, and thank you; I'll see you later. Madam Bones, Dame Longbottom, thank you both for your help today. It meant more to me than I could ever express. Thank you." Harry bowed his head, and left his Head of Houses office.
"That boy is going to be the death of me…" sighed Pomona dramatically.
Augusta chuckled, "Well, he is his father's son after all."
"Too true." agreed Amelia. "But I see a lot of Lily in him. He's well spoken for someone so young, he's courteous and bright. Full of the curiosity that we all found so endearing in his mother."
"You know, the Friar has already invited him to one of his history circles. He'll learn a lot about our world from him, and from Nicholas and Helena too."
"Well, that is a good thing. Sir Nicholas will be very beneficial to Harry. I'll have to speak to him privately, make sure he tutors Harry in our world's customs and such."
"He'll be a good tutor to Harry, Augusta, but you should come yourself to handle the more modern version of this world. I've got a feeling that he looks up to you already, and better someone he knows rather than someone he hires. I take it you'll be getting him down to Gringotts as soon as possible." asked Amelia.
"Without question, our young Lord Potter needs to meet with the goblins. I find it amazing that he had no idea who he was. The Potter fortune, along with its investments, should have been overseen by someone. I'd like to know who that person is. And why in the world has no one at Gringotts contacted Harry. He turned eleven almost two months ago." wondered Augusta.
"Augusta, I have to ask: why was Harry not placed with you? I know Sirius Black was his guardian should anything happen to James and Lily, and may he rot in hell for that, but weren't your son and daughter-in-law his guardians as well?"
"On that horrible night and its aftermath, with Sirius being incarcerated, Dumbledore took Harry from Godric's Hollow and hid him away with Lily's sister. Frank and Alice were both getting ready to file a motion in the Wizengamot to have Harry placed with them, but unfortunately they were attacked and injured before any of that could happen. When I tried, I found that the will that Harry's parents had left had been sealed by the Wizengamot for some reason. I've always wondered why they did that, in any case, without the will I had no legal recourse to let me be able to get custody of Harry. I was not even allowed to see him, or visit him…" she said as a lone tear tracked down her cheek.
"So what happens now? Obviously Harry cannot stay with those people, and you've said you'd take him in Augusta. We'll have to keep everything above board when it comes to the-boy-who-lived. Gringotts should be able to provide us with a copy of the will at the very least, and Harry would be able allowed to go into his families vault. Pomona, what are classes like for Harry on Friday, would he be missing too much if I took him out of school for the day?"
"Not at all, Friday is rather light for the 'Puff first years. Potions in the morning, Charms in the afternoon, Harry should have no problem catching up in Charms. And as we have yet to see to Harry's needs with regards to potions, he missing the class is neither here nor there." replied Pomona.
"Very well, I'll come get Harry this Friday morning and accompany him to Gringotts. Amelia, would you care to join us? I'm sure you'll have as many questions as I have regarding what has been happening to him these past years."
"Thank you, yes, I would very much like to be there."
"Well, I would very like to spend some time with my grandson and my…dear me, what do I even call him?" she asked.
"I don't think that young man would be very upset if you call him your grandson as well, Augusta. You're his family after all." grinned Amelia, noting the proud look on the aged witches' features.
"Two grandsons, how amazing; Frank and Alice would be very happy about that, I should think. Come on Ami, let's go see if our kids are still at lunch; I'd like to join them." The smiling pair left after a warm goodbye from the 'Puff Head of House.
ooOOooOOoo
"Time and again I have told you to let go of this hatred, Severus. I don't think Madams Longbottom or Bones were joking when they said you were on your last legs here at school." said Albus sternly.
"Albus, it was…I don't even know how to describe it to you. I see Mr. Potter walking into the classroom, and all I could see was James." he spat angrily. "I couldn't, for the life of me, separate James and Harry in my mind. It was as if I had been transported back in time to a place where I was the target of the elder Potters' bullying. All I saw, all I see still, is the face of James Potter staring back at me. I think it is a good thing that he will be tutored, I don't think I'd be able to control myself if I had to see that face all the time. But then…"
"Yes, Severus?"
"But then he looked at me with those vivid green eyes of his, and all I could think about was how disappointed Lily would be. How displeased she would be at my behavior towards her son. His eyes conveyed all the hurt I had seen in her eyes all those years ago when I fractured our friendship beyond repair. I am once again faced with the shame, without a clue how to forgive myself for my actions. Albus, I accosted an eleven year old! I was this close to drawing my wand on him, a child, what the hell kind of person does that make me?"
"A human one, Severus; we all make mistakes, but we are also all given the ability to learn from them and attempt to do better. Can you do that? Can you learn from this and do better? You know Minerva and Pomona wanted you fired, and not just for this thing with Mr. Potter either. Potions in Britain have become a joke under your instruction. We haven't had a decent potioneer come from our school since you graduated. And don't bring your Slytherins into this discussion, because you know that you are biased in your grading and treatment of them."
"Albus…"
"No Severus, it has become abundantly clear, even to me, that you either need to reform or you need to stop teaching. I have had blinders on when it comes to you, and for that I will have to face my own shame. You know the danger we face in the coming years, and you know that Harry is instrumental in helping us overcome that approaching darkness."
"Will he be able to save us?" asked the now worried Snape.
"I don't know, I really don't know. But I would rather be by his side, guiding and advising, instead of being relegated to the role of bystander. And you know that is exactly what will happen if Augusta and Amelia have any say in the matter."
"You have given me much to ponder, Headmaster. I will take the time to consider my future. As you said, I think I would also much prefer being by Mr. Potter's side than not. Although after today, I don't see how I might ingratiate myself to him."
"You do have a way in, Severus." smiled Albus.
"I do?"
"Lily. You knew her for a very long time. I'm sure Harry would enjoy anything you could tell him about her. Just, for the love of Merlin, don't bring up James. Let Minerva handle those stories."
Severus chuckled softly, "Yeah, probably a good bit of advice, that."
ooOOooOOoo
"Dame Longbottom…"
"Harry, what have I told you?"
"I'm sorry," Harry said with a blush, "Gran, why are we headed to Gringotts? I already got some money from my vault when I came with Hagrid."
"I know that you know little about the Potter's, Harry. There are things about your family that you should be aware of, not the least of which is understanding the wealth that your family has accumulated over the centuries. Also, I am very curious to know why you were never been made aware of all of this information. The goblins should have kept you aware of everything concerning your family."
"Are you saying that they ignored me?"
"I honestly don't know the answer to that, one of the reasons Amelia and I are accompanying you today."
"Harry, when we leave Gringotts I would very much like to take you to Madam Malkins and get you some new clothing. What you're wearing is…well, not something I wish you to be in come tomorrow." added Amelia. "Susan would kill me if she knew that I took you shopping without her, though."
"She kind of would, wouldn't she? It's okay, we'll just get a few things to tide me over until we have time to bring her with us." he said grinning at Amelia.
"You're a wise one, Harry." laughed Amelia.
"Now Harry, once we get to Gringotts I don't want you to be scared. The goblins can be a little bit intimidating, just remember that Amelia and I will be there for you. Be yourself, Goblins respect honesty." interjected Augusta.
"Yes, Gran, I will."
The trio climbed the large staircase, Harry looking in awe at the magnificently marbled bank. The goblin guards that flanked the huge double doors positively bristled with bladed weapons. Their toothy grins only added to their menacing look. The doors opened as if of their own volition, allowing the three to walk into the reception area.
An imposing goblin walked towards them, his proud face looking at them with curiosity. "Madam Bones, Madam Longbottom, if you will follow me I will take you to my office where we can discuss," he said looking at Harry, "certain subjects in private."
"Thank you, Account Manager…?"
"Oh, forgive me, Account Manager Griphook. I am he who has been tasked with the Potter accounts." he said. Amelia noted a hint of anger in the statement, and was curious as to the reason.
The three, following behind the goblin, were led towards the back of the bank and into an elegant and comfortable looking office. The goblin took a seat behind the large desk, and signaled for the three to sit. "Might if offer you something to drink? I fear we have much to discuss, not something that we may do hastily."
"Tea for me, please, Account Manager Griphook." Amelia shook her head, as did Harry.
"Just, Griphook is fine, Madam Longbottom. Now, to begin, I see that you've brought Lord Potter with you this morning. I hope that it is his intention to apologize for his behavior towards us these last few years?"
Harry raised his eyebrows in surprise, and seeing the same look of surprise on Amelia and Augusta's faces, decided to keep quiet for the moment.
"Forgive me if I misunderstood you, Griphook, but what possible reason could you have for demanding an apology from Harry?" asked a stunned Amelia.
"Our correspondence has been ignored for a number of years now, not something that I am at accustomed to. If your intent was to insult me, Lord Potter, I must say that you've succeeded magnificently."
"But sir…" started Harry before he was silenced by a hand on his shoulder from Augusta.
"What correspondence are we talking about here, Griphook?"
"Bank statements, investment opportunities, land and property maintenance, taxes…the list is long, Madam Longbottom. You know we goblins don't take insults lying down, and it is only Lord Potter's presence here today that has forestalled me from levying fines against his account. So once again, why have we been ignored, Lord Potter?"
"Griphook, if I may?" asked Amelia, who waited for a nod from the goblin before turning to Harry. "Harry, have you ever received any correspondence from Gringotts?"
"No, ma'am, never." Griphook's bushy eyebrows raised in surprise at that statement.
"And what do you know of Gringotts?" she continued.
"Nothing, really; I came here for the first time a week or so ago with Hagrid. He took me to my families vault to get some money to pay for my school supplies. Aside from that, and some information from Susan and Neville, I have never heard of Gringotts before." he said sincerely.
"Lord Potter, do you believe the vault you visited was you families vault?" asked Griphook.
"Yes, sir, Hagrid told me that it was the money my parents left me after they died."
Griphook sat back in his chair, astonished by that declaration from the young man before him. "Lord Potter, the vault that Hagrid took you to was merely your school vault. It was set up by your parents a few weeks after you were born. All the money in there is intended for your education."
"But…but there was a mountain of gold in there; is going to Hogwarts really that expensive?" asked Harry. "I hope I have enough in there to cover all seven years."
Griphook snorted, which made Amelia and Augusta smile.
"If I may ask, Griphook, how much is in there?" asked Augusta.
"Nearly five hundred thousand galleons." replied the goblin.
"Oh, well then, there you have it. Harry, I don't think you have to worry about having enough money in there. That amount of money is more than enough to see you get through Hogwarts with no problem."
"Is that a lot? I don't understand wizarding money all that well yet."
"Lord Potter, five hundred thousand galleons is nearly two and a half million pounds." said Griphook.
Harry sat back in his chair, and Augusta felt the boy stiffen in shock. "Relax, Harry." she said. "I told you your family was very wealthy."
"Yeah, but…seriously?"
"Griphook, would you mind having someone escort Harry to his family's main vault? I believe you and Madam Bones and I have much to discuss regarding Harry. Harry, what do you think, would you like to see your parents vault?"
"Can I please?" he asked.
Griphook nodded to the trio, and pushed a button on the top of his desk. Minutes later, a goblin entered the office and bowed to Griphook. "You sent for me, sir?"
"I did indeed, Gowr. I would like it if you'd take Lord Potter here to his family vault." Griphook reached into a drawer into his desk and pulled out a large and ancient looking key. "Here is the key; it is for vault number seven. Take your time down there, Lord Potter, no one has been in there since your parents came into the bank a few weeks before…well, it's been a long time since anyone has been down there."
"Thank you, sir. And please, could you please call me Harry. I'm still not very comfortable with the whole 'lord' thing."
"I understand, Harry, and will do as you ask. Go with Gowr, he will see that you are taken care of while you are down there."
"Go on, Harry, Amelia and I will be here when you get back. And grab a handful of galleons while you're down there, we've some shopping to do after all." Harry nodded at Augusta, and turned to leave as he followed Gowr.
Augusta waited until the door had closed behind Harry before she whipped her head toward Griphook. "I expect a better explanation regarding your treatment of Harry. He is Lord Potter! Why was he left in the care of those despicable muggles?"
"Muggles, what muggles?" asked Griphook.
"Are you really going to tell me that you had no idea that Harry had been placed in the home of Lily's sister?"
"What?" yelled Griphook as he stood in obvious anger.
"You didn't know either…" sighed Augusta. "Harry, after the night of his parents' murder, was taken away by Headmaster Dumbledore and placed into the care of his family."
"But that's not possible…" he said. "According to the Potter will, Harry should have been placed with you, Madam Longbottom. Or in your home, Madam Bones; it was a clear stipulation of the will that he never set foot in that family's home. Lily had no confidence in her sister's ability to raise Harry properly."
"So why did Harry end up with them? Why?"
Griphook thought for a moment, before realization struck him. "Dumbledore."
"What do you mean? I understand why he took him away from Sirius Black, but why would he take him away from me or Amelia?"
"That, unfortunately, is something I have no answer to. However, that is something else we should discuss at some point, Madam Bones, the fact that Lord Black is incarcerated."
"Lord Black? How could he be Lord Black if he's in Azkaban? He was found guilty of the Potter's murder." asked an incredulous Amelia.
"Was he?" asked Griphook seriously.
"I don't understand your meaning, and I'd rather not play word games with you. Please, just come out with it."
"In magical terms, Lord Black could not have been guilty of the crimes he was accused of. If he had indeed been guilty, the mantle of Lord Black would have been taken up by another. But as the family magic chose to remain with Sirius…"
"Oh, Merlin, if he's not guilty…he's been imprisoned for a decade for something he had no hand in?"
"Indeed, Madam Bones; Sirius Black is innocent of those crimes."
"Amelia, I don't understand, I thought Sirius was found guilty at his trial?"
"He never had a trial, Augusta. Minster Bagnold, along with Barty Crouch, just had him tossed into Azkaban. We'd all assumed that they wanted to spare everyone the torture of bringing up that tragic night. Having betrayed the Potter's, being found surrounded by dead muggles, finding that piece of Peter Pettigrew in the mess caused by the explosion, I can kind of understand their reasoning at just tossing Sirius into a cell and throwing away the key."
"Enough, please, we've plenty of time to discuss Sirius. I am still worried about Harry; he is my only concern at the moment. Griphook, could we have access to the Potter will?" asked Augusta.
"Unfortunately, no; Harry could probably retrieve a copy if one exists in his vault. Dumbledore had the will sealed, and with the Wizengamot approving the measure, no one will have access to the will until such time that Harry reaches seventeen or the Wizengamot reverses its decision."
"Well, let's hope Harry does find one down there. We asked him before we came to keep an eye out for one. With luck, he'll find it."
"Did Lily and James have a solicitor? I'm asking because I would like to reach out to him and ask his help in getting out of the house of those muggles. It will be over my dead body that that boy ever returns to that house."
"Hmm, yes, actually, and I believe you know him actually. Ted Tonks was, and probably still is, the Potter family solicitor. He's really good, and given what we know about how Harry was treated, you couldn't find a better person to handle anything that could help Harry."
"I will contact him immediately. Amelia, let's go find Harry. I find myself needing to hug that boy until he begs me to stop!"
Amelia laughed, "I agree, I think I could do the same. Shall we?" she said standing.
"Thank you, Griphook, for everything. I am sure that we'll be seeing a lot of each other over the coming months. Lord Potter is back, and will need loyal people by his side, I hope we can count on you?" said Augusta as she also rose.
"Count me a member of Team Potter, Madam Longbottom." said Griphook with a bow as he also stood. "Madam Bones, before you leave…"
"Yes, Griphook?" asked a curious Amelia.
"Well, I am a bit surprised that you've not mentioned your niece in this meeting."
"Susan, what does she have to do with any of this?"
"You don't know?" asked Griphook, once again astonished.
"Know what?"
"Madam Bones, you brother and sister-in-law set up a betrothal contract…"
"What?" yelled Amelia. "Why was I never told of this? Surely I should have known, especially since I am Susan's guardian?"
"Oh, my…Griphook, I take it you mentioning this now is somehow relevant?" asked Augusta. Griphook looked toward her, grinning toothily.
"I don't understand, what are you saying Augusta?"
"Well, we're here discussing Harry, and Griphook brings up the subject of Susan and a betrothal contract…"
"Susan and Harry? Harry and Susan!?" she said as she sat back down in disbelief.
"As I understand it, the Potter's and the Bone's spent a lot of time together after the birth of their respective children. You were aware that Harry and Susan spent a lot of time together as toddlers?"
"Yes, but…betrothed? I can't imagine Lily was overly happy about that. I don't think she'd ever let James do that to her son."
"It was she who got James and your brother to write out the contract." said Griphook.
"But why? It's not something a muggle born witch like Lily would ever be comfortable with."
"I unfortunately do not know the answer to that question. Perhaps, within the contract itself you will find some sort of explanation. Did you now run across it in your brother's vault?"
"No, but I really haven't looked through it much. Being back there brings back too many memories of happier times. I tend to avoid it, but I suppose I'm going to have to go down there at some point and take a better look. My brother was nothing if not organized. If he signed his name to it, there is bound to be a copy down there somewhere."
A cough from Augusta had Amelia looking over toward the elderly witch. Amelia realized that Augusta was not actually coughing, but trying really hard not to laugh.
"Augusta!" reprimanded Amelia.
Seeing the stern look on Amelia's face made Augusta burst out in peals of laughter. Seeing Augusta laugh like that made some of the anger she'd been holding slip away. And when she began to chuckle, she could also could not hold it in as that chuckle grew into rib-wrenching laughter.
"Augusta, I'm lost here, please? Do I tell them? They're so young, and Harry shouldn't be burdened by even more."
"Amelia, you heard what Pomona said, didn't you? Those two have been inseparable since they met on the Express. I think that they'd end up married, despite the contract. If I had to guess, knowing about the contract would make them happy. However, you are right about adding to Harry's burden. Give them a couple of years.
They were both surprised to hear Griphook chuckling to himself. "Griphook?"
"I'm sorry ladies, just a memory of Lord James that came to mind. He said it was a blessing, or likely luck, that the men in the Potter family all seemed to find their lifemates at a relatively young age. It seems to me that Harry is just continuing a happy family tradition."
The ladies could only nod in agreement.
"I don't know about you, Amelia, but I think being in Harry's company is going to be a lot of fun!" laughed Augusta.
ooOOooOOoo
Susan was happy to once more be back in Harry's company. At the moment, the two were occupying themselves by putting away some of the clothing that Harry had bought down in Diagon Alley that morning.
"So, how did it go at Gringotts?" she asked casually.
"I don't think I have an answer to that just yet. It was incredibly sad, being in my parent's vault, someplace I'm sure they'd both been in. It's hard to describe that feeling, but just knowing that I was standing someplace they'd been to before was somehow comforting, you know? I do wish that you'd been there with me."
"Really?" she whispered.
"Yeah, having you there would probably have made it easier, you know?"
"Auntie and Madam Longbottom looked out for you okay?"
"Yes, Gran and your Aunt made sure to look out for me. That Griphook, well, he's really intimidating. And he was angry at me, something I have no wish to see again. I'd take Snape looking at me like that over the Griphook glare any day of the week!"
Susan giggled, "Having met a goblin or two, I can totally understand that. Although I think I'd prefer a Griphook glare over an Amelia Bones glare. She's scary sometimes, my Auntie is!"
"Did you catch the looks that she and Gran were giving us when we were having dinner? I thought for sure we'd done something wrong. Except they were both smiling, so I don't know what to make of that."
"I didn't notice," she said with a slight blush. "I was just glad that you'd made it back to school."
A knock at the door interrupted their conversation, "Hey guys, is this a private party or can anyone join in?" asked Hannah, poking her head through the door.
"Hannah, please come in, Nev with you?" asked Harry.
"Right here, Harry. How was Gringotts? We didn't talk about it much after you and Gran got back."
"Fine, I think. I got to go down into my parent's vault and look around. I gave Amelia a copy of the will that I found lying on what I think was my father's desk. Hopefully, that will help in getting me out of the Dursley's for good."
"It will, mate, it will. And even if it doesn't, there is no way in hell that Gran will let you go back to those people!"
"How was Potions? I'm sorry that the Headmaster hasn't found anyone to take up tutoring us yet. Hopefully it won't be much longer before he finds one." asked Harry.
"Actually, it wasn't too bad. I think Professor Snape took what Madam Bones and Gran said to heart. He actually taught us, like, really taught us. No disparaging remarks, no put downs, he just calmly went about the lesson. Even helped me out a bit when I was having a hard time with the stirring; he said to pay more attention, as I almost caused an explosion. That would not have been fun at all!"
"Alright there you four, it's almost time for lights out. Say your goodnights and head up to your rooms. It's Saturday tomorrow, so you'll all have the whole weekend to spend time together. Harry, Madam Hooch has set up a special class for you since you missed your first flying lesson today. It won't take long, as she just wanted to assess your flying capabilities and go over the safety protocols before next Friday's class. She said she'd meet you at the quidditch pitch at ten tomorrow morning." said Madam Sprout.
"I'll have to thank her for that when I see her tomorrow. You guys want to come watch me make a fool of myself on a broom?" asked Harry.
"Not going to happen, Harry. Your family has been great fliers for generations; you'll probably make it look easy." said Neville.
"I guess we'll see, won't we. Night, guys." Neville and Hannah made their way out of his room, following Madam Sprout.
"Susan, can I show you something before you head off to bed?"
"Of course, Harry. What is it?"
"Well, I found this photo album down in my parent's vault. As I was going through it I found a picture that I thought you'd like to see." Harry reached for the album that was sitting on his bed. He opened it and motioned to Susan to over and look.
"Is that you as a baby? How cute is that? Who's the other baby?" she asked. The magical picture showed two babies smiling to each other as they crawled around.
Harry grabbed the picture and handed it to her with a big smile on his face. "Turn it over."
She smiled at Harry as she took the picture from him and looked at the two happy babies. She did as asked though, and flipped the picture over, and found handwriting on the back.
'Harry and Susan. January 4th, 1981.' it read.
"Is that you and me?" she asked in wonder.
"I think so; kind of cool, don't you think?"
Susan had tears in her eyes as she looked once again at the picture.
"Susan?" asked Harry in concern.
"Oh, it's nothing Harry. These are happy tears." she responded.
"Happy tears?"
"Yes, Harry, happy tears; this picture shows you and me playing together. We were friends when we were babies, is it any wonder that we are friends now?"
"No, I guess not. I am a little bit angry though." he said.
"Why angry, Harry?"
"Because I knew you a long time ago, and if my parents and yours hadn't been killed, we probably would have grown up knowing each other. I'm angry that our friendship lost so much time."
"Oh." she said as she grabbed his hand. "But you're my friend now. And Harry, all this means is that we have a lot of time to make up for, and I for one don't have a problem with that."
"Neither do I, Sue. Breakfast?"
"You know it! Sleep in though, please, you need the rest and I haven't had the chance to sleep in until now. I aim to take advantage of that!" she giggled.
"Okay, I get it. Go, before Madam Sprout comes in to yell at us. I'll be in here when you want to head down, just come get me."
"I will, Harry." she said as she hugged him and left his room.
ooOOooOOoo
"Pomona, that kid is…that kid is…you have got to find a way for him to get on the 'Puff quidditch squad!" pleaded Madam Hooch as she ran up to a startled Madam Sprout.
"What are you on about, Rolanda?" asked Pomona.
"Harry Potter is what I'm on about! That child is the most natural flyer I have ever seen. Not even his father was a good as Harry at this age, heck, I don't think James was ever as good as Harry was even when he was older."
"You're kidding me, right?"
"He was doing things on that broom that had me questioning my sanity." she raved on.
"Will you do me a favor and start from the beginning, please?"
"So, there I was, standing in the middle of the quidditch pitch when Harry shows up with his friends. Mr. Longbottom, Ms. Abbott, and Ms. Bones all wished him luck and then went to sit up in the stands. Harry was standing before, looking at me curiously. I went in to my spiel about broom safety and then asked him to summon his broom. He looked at me like I was crazy, but summoned his broom, which shot up to his hand like it was a pet. He mounted the broom, looking so like his father that I almost started crying. I told him to glide to the end of the pitch and back, telling him to go slowly and to not rise above five feet. He did as I asked, well, sort of. He went slowly towards the far end of the pitch and executed a corkscrew turn that even professionals would have had a hard time pulling off. Being curious, I told him to go up a bit higher, and then told him to go a bit faster. He did the same thing, end of the pitch and back. But, Pomona, he did it faster than I've ever seen a first year fly in my life! Hell, I couldn't have pulled that off, and I've been flying for decades."
"Okay…" said Pomona.
"By now, his friends were going crazy with the cheering. He'd even managed to attract some onlookers, as some of the students walking around the campus were curious about the hooting and hollering coming from the stands. So, now I'm really starting to get curious. I tell Harry to do whatever he wants. He smiled at me, and shot straight up into the air going at speeds that would be considered ridiculous. And then something happened that never, in all my life of flying, have I ever seen before: Harry's owl joined him in his flying. Pomona, it was the most amazing thing I have ever seen! Harry followed his owl, all the while laughing his head off. It's like they were playing tag fifty feet up in the air! Flying through the hoops at breakneck speed, diving toward the ground with an amazing display of broom control, it was just unbelievable."
"So he's a good flyer then?"
"Are you even listening to me? I'm telling you he's the best flyer ever. Ever!"
"Okay, okay, I got it. Harry can fly. But you know the rules; I can't get him on the quidditch team until next year."
"Talk to the Headmaster. Seriously, with Harry on your team, Hufflepuff will be invincible for seven years."
"He's that good?"
"Better!" said Rolanda.
"Well then, I guess I'll have to talk to Harry about it and then talk to the Headmaster."
"That's what I'm talking about!" roared Madam Hooch.
A/N
Thanks for reading, everyone. I seem to be jumping back and forth between this and my other story. For those of your reading "Fifth House" don't despair, I'm almost done with the next chapter. I'm having fun, and as my niece and nephew are enjoying the story, rest assured that I will keep writing.
Cheers!