Chapter 3 Hadrian Cross
July 28, 1990
"chocolate frog" Tom said with as much dignity as one can say such a thing .
The Gargoyle moved quickly out of his way and Tom began walking immediately up the stairs.
He was pretty sure he knew why he was being called to the Headmasters office his magic flared in annoyance if Albus would give him the list all at once he wouldn't have to see the bastard so many times during the summer.
The door swung open as soon as he reached the top of the stairs.
"Good morning Tom " He heard Albus greet him before the door fully opened .
Seriously who did he take him for a first year why knowing who is at the door would be impressive to children every professor has the same spell on their door.
Like him the other professors did not feel it was needed to pretend that it was some great magic.
Tom kept his face carefully blank being sure to hide all signs of his earlier annoyance .
"You wanted to see me Albus ?"
"Yes Tom, there seems to be another child in need of your help." Albus's eyes where twinkling as he handed Tom the letter.
He took the letter with out even looking down.
"you know as well as I do they could have used my help a long time before now" Tom was unable to control all of his anger.
" oh my boy not this again. As I said when you were trying to pass this law we are a school Tom not a social service agency . The book was not created by the founders to be used in such away."
Tom went to interrupt
"No Tom I am not going to fight with you again .You are able to "rescue" them one whole year before they turn eleven and you have your little announcement at the beginning of each school year if you feel this is not fair maybe you will have more luck when you bring it up at the Wizengamot again this year." Albus said loosing his twinkle a little .
" I would have more luck if you would not actively protest against me each year" tom snarled .
"Tom my boy when will you realize not everyone who grows up around muggles is treated the same way you were"
Toms magic flared how dare he bring up his childhood "Good day headmaster " Tom marched quickly out of the room before he lost his temper and/or his job.
Tom apparated outside Saint Angus Orphanage.
He never been to this particular orphanage but it looked as run down and as uncared for as all the rest.
He really hated being the one to "rescue" the children but the ends justified the means.
These children will always remember him as there savior a couple of annoying hours and he had a loyal follower for life.
It was not the reason he started this program but one he quickly utilized after his first couple visits.
An old unpleasant lady opened the door before he could knock
"Hello " Tom said with his most charming smile " I am here to adopt one of your orphans"
A look of surprise passed over her face "oh come right in sir."
A half an hour later some confundus charms and a couple obliviates Tom was finally being shown to the boy's room.
"Are you sure you want him? We have some very nice boys that you probably will be happier with?
Tom just looked at the lady. "I have only come for Hadrian".
She hesitated "He's definitely got a place with you, you say?" Tom just nodded "And nothing I say can change that?"
She squinted at him as though deciding whether or not to trust him. Apparently she decided she could, because she said in a sudden rush, "He scares the other children."
"You mean he is a bully?" Tom drawled in an almost bored voice.
"I think he must be," she said, frowning slightly, "but it's very hard to catch him at it. There have been incidents... nasty things ..."
Tom had enough he has had this same conversation almost every time he has collected one of his orphans. this is why magical children should not be raised with filthy muggles.
"Which room is his madam?" Tom interrupted barely hiding his impatience.