Chapter 2: Return to Privet Drive

Tonks escorted Harry back to Privet Drive quietly. Ever since Harry had come out of his meeting with Ragnot, his eyes were clouded over and his demeanor was that of an older person. Everyone had told her that when Harry got in one of his moods, it was best not to try and force things out of him. So, she walked next to him quietly, stealing glances at him every few moments. Harry walked resolutely towards the front door of Privet Drive. Tonks was under the invisibility cloak, so Harry couldn't see what she was doing. But Harry knew where she was. He couldn't explain exactly why he knew where she was, but nonetheless, he knew that Tonks was one pace behind and to the left of him.

"BOY! IT'S ABOUT TIME YOU GOT YOUR LAZY ARSE HOME! GET IN HERE AND GET YOUR CHORES DONE!" Vernon roared as he opened the door quickly.

"Is he always like that?" Tonks whispered.

"Yeah. But stick around. You're going to learn something, and you can take it back to Dumbledore. Stay invisible, and don't interfere. You'll understand why I don't like coming here." Harry said.

"What do you mean, don't interfere? Harry, you're not going to…"

"Don't worry, Tonks. I'm going to let you in on a couple of things I learned, once I deal with my whale of an uncle." Harry said, grinning wide.

"Harry, don't do anything you'd regret. Remember what happened last summer with your Aunt." Tonks said reprovingly. "Mafalda Hopkirk was very lenient with you."

"I don't have to worry about her anymore." Harry said cryptically. "Well, I do, but I don't."

"BOY I SAID GET IN HERE!" Vernon roared as he grabbed the scruff of Harry's neck and threw him in the house. Tonks slipped in quickly before Vernon shut the door. Harry was getting back up from where he fell against the stair rail. "WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS SHOWING UP TWO HOURS LATE. YOU HAVE DINNER TO MAKE, THE KITCHEN FLOOR NEEDS TO BE SCRUBBED, THE GARDEN NEEDS TO BE WEEDED…"

"Then why not get your son off his lazy fat ass and tell him to do something, Vernon?" Harry said. "I mean, damn, he needs to lose about ten stone." Harry smirked as he watched his Uncle approach. Harry quickly pulled out his wand.

"You know you can't do that freak shit outside of school. I'm going to beat it out of you." Vernon said, raising his fist. Tonks was about to intervene when Harry cast a quick Petrificus Totalus! Immediately, Vernon froze and fell over. Tonks gasped as she moved closer to Harry. Petunia, who had heard the yelling, came running into the foyer.

"What have you done to him?" Petunia shrieked.

"Nothing more than he deserved. Now, any moment now, I should receive a letter from the Ministry, stating that I have violated the underage wizard law…blah blah blah. So I might as well make it worth the notice. Stupify!" Harry said, as a bolt of red light flew at Petunia. Harry moved over to where his Uncle was staring at him, completely in shock and unable to move. "Now see here, you lard ass piece of shit. I'm not taking your shit anymore. I've talked to the people at Gringotts, and they are no longer giving you 2,000 pounds a month. I wouldn't be surprised if they come after you for everything you were given to care for me, since very little of it was spent on me. Now, I'm taking my trunk, and I'm leaving."

Tonks whipped off her invisibility cloak and stared at Harry. "Harry, you know you can't do magic outside of school! And you know you're safer here than anywhere else!"

"Tonks, have you been paying attention? Remember my second year, when I got the letter for the hover charm that a house elf performed? I got a letter almost immediately. Do you see any letters here for use of underage magic?" Tonks looked around for any owls, but finding none. "I don't think you'll find any. That's the reason I stopped at Gringotts. I am now an emancipated wizard. I have taken control of my family vaults, and the Black family vaults. Since Sirius is an escaped convict, and made me his heir in 1981, I control both the Potter Family and the Black family."

"So, if you'll excuse me, I'll be leaving now." And before Tonks could stop him, Harry held his finger to his Potter family ring and said mentally, 'Potter Manor!' Tonks stood there, her mouth agape as she watched the young black-haired teen disappear in front of her eyes.

Potter Manor sat upon a large grassy knoll, on 100 acres of lush green land. Trees lined the property, almost as tall as the mountains that hide Hogwarts. The front yard was beautifully landscaped, with many kinds of flowers lining the pathway to the front doors. To the right of the manor itself was scattered glass buildings, which most herbologists would know as greenhouses. To the left side of the manor were stables which kept the Potter Family stallions, and any other pets that the Potter family housed. To the rear of the house sat the quidditch pitch, along with forty acres of woodlands.

Harry landed in the middle of the entrance hall, completely surprised. He looked around at the marvelous sight before him. In front of him was a grand entrance hall, larger than the one at Hogwarts. He stepped forward into the open doors and looked around. Portraits lined the walls, which Harry assumed was his family, even though none of them moved. They were not like the portraits he saw at Hogwarts. Harry strolled through the entrance hall, enthralled by its beauty. It was decorated in muted reds and golds, the colors of the Gryffindor house. Of course, Harry knew it was mainly his ancestral colors, since he was the heir of Gryffindor. As Harry approached a second set of doors, he heard two faint pops.

"Master Harry has returned! He is early though…" a small elf said.

"Hello…" Harry said awkwardly. "I'm assuming since you two are here, you are Potter House elves." Harry said.

"That is correct, Master Potter. I am Dasher, and this is Devine." The taller of the two house elves said. "We are the head house elves for all of the Potter properties. We welcome you back to Potter Manor."

"You are well spoken for house elves. The ones at Hogwarts are not as…"

"Yes, Master Potter. Unlike most house elves, we are educated. Master Harold, your grandfather, made sure that each house elf that is employed by the Potter family are well educated in grammer and child rearing." Devine said. "May we show you around, or would you like to eat first?"

"I think I would like to eat first. I was just informed of all the properties I own, so I would like to discuss everything with you then. As you're my house elves… I think you would know the properties inside and out. So, would you join me for lunch?"

"Master Potter, it is not proper for we house elves to dine with our masters. We have explained that to Master Harold, and Master James." Dasher responded.

"I insist that you join me. I don't believe in this 'master/slave' concept. I treat all house elves as if they are a person, and of equal status." Harry said. "So you will address me as Harry when we are alone, or with friends and family. If we are with official company, then you may address me as Sir or Master." Harry said, thinking about how Hermione would react. Hermione. Merlin, she's my sister… I have to owl her. "But before we continue, who is allowed access to this house?"

"Now that you have become master of the house, no one can access it without your permission. There is a floo list and ward list, but now that you have taken control of the properties, they are all restricted. Currently, the floo list is Master Dumbledore, Master Sirius Black, Master Remus Lupin, Master Peter Pettigrew, and Mistress McGonagall. The same goes for the wards." Devine said.

"I will be placing a fidelus charm on this property, and all of my properties. Can house elves perform this type of charm?"

"Normally, no, Harry. But as I have stated, we are well educated. Master James has given us permission to read the main library books, and we have excelled in learning. Only myself and Devine have the authority to cast the Fidelus. However, Potter Manor is too large to cast under one fidelus."

"Can you two cast multiple fidelus charms?" Harry asked.

"We can, Harry. " Devine replied. "if we combine all Potter house elf magic. We will be weakened for a period of two weeks after completing the charms on all properties. Who will be your seceret keeper?"

"I will." Harry replied immediately. "I would like to get started immediately. I also want to remove everyone off the wards and floo lists. Only myself, Sirius Black, and Remus Lupin are to remain on them. I will add more, but that's all I want for now."

"What of your sister, Mistress Rose?" Dasher asked.

"She does not go by Rose. Can you find her?" Harry asked.

"Yes, we can find her because she is of Potter blood." Dasher responded.

"Would you please take her a letter then? Or have one of the other elves take one? I wish for them to remain with her until she responds. If she agrees to accompany them, take her to a secure room and come find me." Harry said as he scribbled a quick note to his 'sister'.

To whom it may concern;

This elf belongs to my family. He is here to retrieve you, and bring you to a safe place. You will not be gone long, so if you would please, allow the elf to take you to where I am. There is a lot to discuss, and I wish to do so in person. I can not explain more in case this letter is not for whom I believe it to be. You will be free to go once we have talked, and you may bring with you any weapon of your choice if you feel your safety is at risk. The elf is ordered not to hurt you In any way.

Sincerely,

A Friend.

"Please take this to my sister. If she agrees to come, take her to a secure room. Do not allow her to move about freely in the house. Then come find me." Harry replied.

"Yes, Harry. Blitz will take it." Dasher responded. Immediately, another elf appeared and bowed to Harry, taking the note and disappearing again.

Hermione Granger lay on her bed crying. In the matter of three hours, she had done the worst thing she could imagine. She had betrayed one of her best friends, and caused him more pain than a cruciatus curse. She knew she had to do the right thing, but upon reflection, she didn't know if it was the right thing to do. It would cost her the best friend she ever had, and the boy who had saved her life in first year. What was worse, was that she owed the boy a life-debt, and in the magical world, that would lead to something worse.

Why did I have to go to McGonagall and tell her about Harry's plans? The look he gave me when he left Kings' Cross was… pure loathing. How could I be so stupid? I'm supposed to be the smartest witch at Hogwarts…

Hermione's thoughts were interrupted as she heard a soft pop. She sat up quickly, wiping her tears as she faced off a small house elf.

"Hello, Miss. I am Blitz. I have a message here from my master. He wishes to speak with you." Blitz said, bowing low.

"Who is your master?" Hermione asked, thinking back to the story Harry told them at the beginning of second year. Harry had told her and Ron that a demented house elf named Dobby had tried to keep him from going to Hogwarts.

"I cannot tell you who my master is, Miss. But he has asked me to bring you this message, and wishes to see you immediately." Blitz said. "You will not be harmed, as it has been ordered, and we house elves cannot directly harm a witch or wizard."

"You… you're well spoken for a house elf." Hermione inquired, her curiousity peaked. With what she learned about magical creatures, it didn't seem like these elves should be this literate.

"Our family allows us to be educated, Miss. Now, please read the note, and we can be off." Blitz said. He handed Hermione the note, which did not explain much. Hermione nodded, and the elf and Hermione disappeared.

"Master Harry, your guest is in the second floor bedroom. It has been sealed, and only you can open the door." Blitz said, bowing low. "Shall I escort you?"

"That would be fine, Blitz. And please, just call me Harry. All the elves here will call me Harry." Harry replied. Harry followed the small elf to the second floor bedroom. Harry was slightly panicking, because he didn't know if it was genuinely Hermione who was his sister, or if it was just a coincidence. He didn't know exactly how he was going to explain to the bookworm, but he knew he had to. Dumbledore knew of it, and her trust in Dumbledore was absolute. This would be a problem. Harry walked in to the bedroom and immediately his heart plummeted.

"HARRY!" Hermione squealed, running towards him. She stopped suddenly at the look on his face. "What's going on here, Harry? Why am I here? Who is that elf? Why did he bring me here? What…"

"Hermione, sit down and shut up." Harry said, a bit coldly. "We're going to get a few things out of the way first, before I tell you anything." Hermione looked at Harry questioningly, but sat anyway. She looked affronted at the tone of Harry's voice, but she couldn't blame him for being angry with her. After all, she only did what she thought was best.

"Harry… what are you doing here?"

"This is my home, Hermione. This is what Dumbledore has been hiding from me for the past three years. Hell, even longer than that. That's not the only thing he's been hiding, and I'm sick of it."

"Well, Dumbledore does know best, Harry." Hermione immediately said.

"You think so?" Harry quieried. "Do you really think so, Hermione? Tell me… what is it that you wanted most from your family?"

"You know very well I wanted a brother or sister, Harry. What's this got to do with what's going on?" Hermione snapped. She instantly froze when she saw Harry pull out a silver dagger and approached her.

"Give me your hand." Harry ordered. Hermione looked at Harry, who was looking ready to kill. In his other hand was a blank parchment. Curiously, she held out her hand. Harry pricked her finger with the dagger and placed a drop of blood on the parchment.

"What are you doing, Harry?" Hermione asked.

"You'll see in a moment." Harry snapped, as he watched the words spider across the paper.

Rose Lilly Potter; Half-Blood

Born: 31 July 1980 to James and Lily Potter

Adopted by: Jonathan and Jane Granger, 3 Aug 1980

Family: Harry James Potter – Elder Brother; Petunia Leah (Evans) Dursley – Maternal Aunt

Blood heir of: Potter, Gryffindor

Harry looked at the parchment in awe. He had found his sister. Silently he reread the parchment before speaking. "Tell me something, Hermione. You trust Dumbledore to tell us everything that pertains to us, do you not?"

"He's the headmaster. It's his choice whether to tell us things or not, Harry. What's this all about?" Hermione asked.

"Just answer my questions right now, Hermione, and I will answer yours when I'm done." Harry snapped. "I really should put you under veritiserum. Right now, I don't know if I can trust you. After all, you just had to go to a teacher and tell them my plans for after leaving the station didn't you?"

"Harry… I had to. I only wanted you to be safe. You're my best friend…"

"Best friends don't betray each other's trust, Hermione. No matter the circumstances. Of course, you're no longer my best friend." Harry replied. Hermione's face began to tear up at these harsh words, but Harry continued. "Listen Hermione, I don't like that you betrayed me. But then again, that's what siblings do."

"Siblings? Harry James Potter, what in Merlin are you talking about?" Hermione asked. Harry handed over the parchment and Hermione took it and read it over three times. "No fucking way. This can't be! Harry, what kind of joke is this?"

"It's not a joke, Hermione. The parchment is an Identification parchment from Gringotts. When I went there to find out about my family vault and stuff, they allowed me to read my parents will. You are my sister, and the identification parchment proves it. That's why I used your blood. You were born four minutes after me. We are twins. The only people that knew were Sirius, Remus, Dumbledore, and our parents. Dumbledore took you away from our parents and placed you with the Grangers. From what I can gather, it was for 'our safety'. There is a prophecy stating that only I can defeat Voldemort. Neither can live while the other survives.' Apparently, Dumbledore told my parents that either I or Neville will be the boy of the prophecy, which is why they went into hiding. Voldemort marked me as his equal. Mum's interpretation of the prophecy, which I tend to believe, is that only he can kill me, and only I can kill him. "

"Harry… are you telling me that Dumbledore knew all of this?" Hermione asked.

"Not only that, Hermione. He knew Peter was the secret keeper. He was the one who performed the fidelus charm." Harry replied. Immediately, Hermione's face fell and tears fell from her eyes.

"Why didn't my parents tell me I was adopted? Don't they think I have the right to know that? How could they not?"

"I would think that Dumbledore told them not to. I have lost all my trust and faith in Dumbledore. I have plans for this summer, and the rest of my education. Now… I can't trust you anymore as my best friend. But as my sister…"

"Oh Harry… I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything. If you hadn't found out about your vault… we would have never known that we were brother and sister." Hermione cried. Harry pulled her into a hug, tears falling down his face too. "I'm so sorry."

"It's forgiven, Hermione. Or should I call you Rose?" Harry smiled. Hermione shook her head. "Well… this is what we're going to do. Fuck Dumbledore and his ideals. I'm done with him. Now that I'm an adult, he can't say anything."

"What do you mean you're an adult?" Hermione immediately asked.

"I have taken control of the Potter Family, The Black Family, The Gryffindor Family, and of course, Hogwarts. I am the heir to the founders, and the Black Family. It means I have been emancipated. And as head of the Potter family, it means I can legally do whatever I want magic-wise. You, however, have not accepted the Potter name, therefore…"

"Harry… you're my brother. I'm your sister. Why can't I be emancipated?"

"Because you are not the head of the family, and you have to magically accept your birthright. Even if you do accept your birthright, I would have to legally emancipate you, but the problem with that is, no female can inherit from the family line unless there is no male heir."

"So I can't get anything from the Potter family?" Hermione asked.

"No. Not unless I give it to you. But as I said, you'd have to accept the Family name. To do that, you have to declare it like an oath. That doesn't mean I would emancipate you anyway."

"So our parents left you everything… and I get nothing?" Hermione asked.

"That is the way of the wizarding world, Hermione. It's unfair. Now, I didn't say you didn't get anything. Our parents said it was up to me. But not until you choose one way or another. Currently, I have many properties, and they wanted you to have a specific one. Right now, I'm not inclined to do anything except invite you to live here with me. We're currently in Potter Manor. Until you choose to accept the Family name…" Harry said, but was interrupted when Hermione raised her wand and spoke.

"I, Hermione Jane Granger, hereby accept my family of Harry James Potter, and to be henceforth known as Rose Lilly Potter." Hermione said quickly. A blue light flashed from Hermione's wand, and enveloped her. Immediately, her hair darkened, and her teeth shrank a bit, and her eyes turned to a hazel color. Harry stood there and gawked at the new Hermione…Rose. "What are you staring at Harry?"

"Go look in the mirror, sis." Harry said. Rose stood up and went over to the mirror.

"Bloody hell, Harry, we are twins. What happened?" Rose asked. "Was it some kind of transfiguration?"

"I don't know sis. DASHER! DEVINE! BLITZ!" Harry called. Immediately, three house elves appeared. "Blitz, please take Hermione… I mean Rose back to her parents house so she can pack her trunk. Blitz, you are hereby delegated to be Rose's personal elf. Rose… you are not to free her. The Potter elves work for us by choice. They are well educated, and very smart."

"Harry, you have three house elves!" Rose squealed.

"No, Mistress. Master Potter has thirty seven Potter House Elves, ten Black House Elves, and three hundred and four Hogwarts House Elves." Devine corrected.

"Harry… what did she mean when she said Hogwarts House Elves?" Rose asked.

"I am heir to all four founders, therefore I own Hogwarts. As such, the castle answers to me now. As an heir to Gryffindor, you have earned that place too, but you cannot override me. The Portraits, the gargoyle, all will allow you access. When I placed the Hogwarts ring on, I learned a lot. Each founder had a separate office. Sytherin's was in the dungeons, and can only be accessed by a parslemouth. Gryffindor's is where the Headmaster currently resides. Ravenclaw's is under Ravenclaw Tower, and Hufflepuff's is near the kitchen. I have access to all four. I'll be taking Hufflepuff's office, and once I clear out Ravenclaw's of anything I want, I'll allow you to have Ravenclaw's. "

"Really Harry?" Rose asked.

"Of course sis. There are some books I want from Ravenclaw's library, but there are thousands more. Now, with this ring…I learned a lot. Including all the secrets of the founders. It also taught me occlumency. It's a branch of magic that prevents people from reading your mind through legillimancy. You will need to learn it. That way Dumbledore and Snape can't read your thoughts."

"If Harry wishes, there is a book on Occlumency in the main library." Dasher said.

"Well, looks like we know where Rose will be heading once she finishes packing." Harry smirked.

"The other library, which can only be accessed by Potter Male Heirs, is on the third floor next to the master suite, which is Master Harry's." Devine said. "There is another bedroom on the third floor if you wish, Mistress."

"I like this bedroom, Devine." Rose said. "Would it be okay to have this room Harry?"

"I don't mind at all." Harry responded. "Blitz will help you settle in. Then we'll have lunch or something, and you can get to work on learning occlumency. You have to perfect it by the beginning of term. We won't be going out much, because Dumbledore will probably be looking for me. So I'm going to send an owl to Mrs. Weasley, so she doesn't worry. I suggest you write something too, so Hedwig can deliver it."

"Begging Harry's pardon, but we do have a secure floo. It would be easier and more secure than sending post." Dasher said.

"By the way, Rose. Harry Potter lives at Potter Manor in Scotland." Harry said.

"Fidelus charm?" Rose asked.

"Yes. Only I can give out this location, and that's how I want it to be. You can't tell anyone, which is good. You have a nasty habit of telling people things I don't want them to know." Harry smirked. "I may bring Ron and Ginny here sometime, or the other Weasleys. But not until I know where their loyalties are."

"Harry, you have a fully stocked potions lab in the basement. We also have holding cells behind the property, which is warded better than Azkaban." Dasher said. "Your potions lab has many potions within it, stocked with refilling charms. You will never run out of ingredients. Your greenhouses keep the potions stock. The potions are elf made, and there are many of the well known potions. We keep a stock of Dreamless Sleep Potions, Blood Replenishment potions, truth serums, healing potions, Cruciatus After-effect potions, and restorative potions."

"Why does he have truth serums and Cruciatus After-effect potions?" Rose asked.

"Miss Rose, your father was an auror. He kept those potions on hand in case he needed them. The cells behind the property were mainly used for prisoners that the Ministry would not hold. Those accused of being death-eaters that your ministry released."

"Can you brew specific potions?" Rose asked.

"Yes, Miss Rose. All you have to do is request a potion." Dasher responded.

"Harry, would you mind if I…"

"No Miss Rose. You cannot use the potions lab. The lab is for the elves only. You may practice your potions in the secondary lab. It is a floor above the basement." Devine said, interrupting Rose.

"Why…" Rose began.

"It's their lab, Rose." Harry said. "I would assume no one is permitted in there because of the potions in there. Of course, you won't stop me from going in there, will you, Dasher?"

"Of course not, Sir. It was by your grandfather's order that only male heirs can have all access to the manor. But Sir should not go in there. It is a most dangerous place. There are plenty of supplies in the student lab above the main lab. It has what is stocked for your seven years at Hogwarts." Dasher replied.

"Then I see no need for any of us to go in there unless absolutely necessary." Harry said as Rose crossed her arms and pouted. "Listen, Rose. You're welcome to any place in the manor, except those deemed off limits by the house or the elves. You are also not to enter my bedroom without my permission. You won't be able to enter the Potter Family Library, only the library on the main floor. You can't even go into the vaults without me. That's how the Wizarding world is, I'm sorry to say. I will have a vault opened for you and have some galleons, sickles and knuts placed there for you. You also have your own house, but you can't have it until you're seventeen. That's the house at Godric's Hallow."

"But Harry… our parents… they died there." Rose cried.

"Yes, I know that. But that's the house Dad wanted you to have. He told me it was up to me to give it to you or not. I'm not going to leave you penniless, sis. You can do whatever you want to that house, even turn it into a big library. I don't really care. I have the manor, the castle, and Gryffindor Manor. "

"That's not fair!" Rose spouted.

"No, it's not. Be happy you got something, Rose. Hell, you have a lot more than you realize! We just found out we're related, I just found out I'm the richest wizard in the world, and you still want more! What is it with you?"

"I'm sorry Harry. It's not your fault the Wizarding world is a bigoted lot. I should get back to…the Grangers and get my stuff. I do want to find out why they didn't tell me…" Rose began.

"Go right ahead. Blitz will take you. The Floo call is 'Potter Manor in Scotland.' You can floo back, or Blitz will bring you." Harry said. With that, Blitz and Rose disappeared. "Devine, is there a study or someplace where I can write letters?"

"Of course, Harry. You have a private study in the main entrance hall. Miss Rose has one too, which was your mothers. The one you have is your father's, and can only be accessed by you. It has some of the Potter books, but not all."

"Alright. Will you take me there? And please make sure my owl Hedwig is cared for. I'm sure she doesn't like being stuck in her cage."

"Miss Hedwig is already in the owlery, Harry, along with your other owls and animals." Devine replied.

"Other… nevermind. I don't think I want to know right now." Harry said resignedly. "I need to write a few letters, and we'll wait for Hermione…errr Rose to return." Harry sat down at the large desk in front of him, where his father once sat. This was my dad's study. He didn't get to use it much. He went into hiding before I was born, and look where it got him thanks to that rat Pettigrew. I guess I should write Sirius first. Harry pulled a piece of parchment close to him, dipped his quill in ink, and began writing.

Dear Padfoot,

Don't worry, I'm safe and sound. I know you are probably going spare because I didn't arrive at Privet Drive, but there are no worries. I'm much safer where I am now than anywhere else. There is a lot I have to tell you, but I can't do it through a letter. There are too many people interested in my current location than just you.

I don't know how to explain where I am, without directly giving it away. So what I'm going to do is tell you to meet me at the park near Privet Drive. Don't worry, I will get there safely, and return to where I am safely, without anyone to tail me. I will meet Snuffles there tomorrow at noon.

Hoping you are well,

Harry

Dear Ginny

It's a reality. I'm safely away from Privet Drive. I gave Tonks the slip at Privet Drive. To her, it seemed like I disappeared into thin air, but in reality, I did. I'm not going to tell you where I am in a letter. That would be stupid. I'm sure I'll be able to tell you soon. There is so much to tell you, and I really think we should do it face to face. Something's changed, and it's a big thing too. I hope you understand the need for secrecy right now. I will floo you tomorrow sometime, so be prepared.

Love,

Harry

Ron

Hey Mate- It all worked out great. I'm free from those blasted muggles. I can't tell you where I am in a letter, in case it goes astray. I'm much happier than ever. I will try and get ahold of you soon. I promise.

Harry

Harry looked over his three letters and sighed. He hated to keep his friends in the dark, but for now he had to. Until he can get them on their own and tell them individually where he was, there was no way he could know for sure if it was safe. He had to get these letters sent out quickly, and before anyone started to really panic. Not that he really cared if Dumbledore spent all his time looking for him. It didn't matter to him anymore. Dumbledore had betrayed him worse than anyone could imagine. He withheld the fact that he had a sister, he lied about not knowing Pettigrew was the secret keeper, and he led everyone to believe that Sirius was guilty. This could not go on anymore.

"HARRY? WHERE ARE YOU?" a voice yelled from outside the door. Harry got up from his desk with the three letters and headed towards the door of the office. He opened the door to find Hermione looking around in the entrance hall.

"Hey sis. I'm here. I was in my office." Harry said.

"I can't get used to that… my parents and I got into it. I wasn't supposed to know I was adopted until I turned seventeen. Dumbledore promised them I wouldn't find out."

"Yeah, there's a lot that Dumbledore has to answer for. He's not going to get any answers now that I know everything. He knew Sirius was innocent. I can't forgive that." Harry said. "I take it you're all packed and ready to move in?"

"I never unpacked. I had just gotten home when Blitz came for me. I was about to, but he was insistent that I accompany him." Rose said.

"Blimey, I can't get used to calling you Rose. I keep thinking you as Hermione, but…"

"I know. It's okay Harry, you can still call me Hermione. I actually like that name… but I have to get used to being called Rose too. After all, it is really my name." Rose replied. "Can we get some tea or something? This day has gotten worse and worse."

"DEVINE!" Harry called. The female house elf appeared in front of the duo. "I think we're ready for tea. Then we'll let Rose settle in, and get her letters out." He turned to Rose. "There's an owlery, apparently. Hedwig is there, and I'm guessing there are many more, considering it's an owlery." Harry looked at the small elf who was serving them tea.

"Yes, Harry. You have fourteen owls, a few ravens, three kneazles, and a phoenix." Devine replied. "In the forest on the grounds, there is a pack of werewolves which your family has been given sanctuary for the last fifteen years, a herd of centaurs, thestrals, hippogriffs, and normal animals."

"I have a phoenix?" Harry asked.

"No, Harry. The phoenix has you. One cannot own a phoenix. Her name is Ariel. Call her, and if she comes to you, she will bond to you." Devine said. Harry looked at the small elf questioningly, but said nothing to her. Instead, he called for Ariel. In a burst of fire, a pure white phoenix appeared on Harry's shoulder and trilled a long musical note.

"Well, hello there beautiful girl." Harry said, stroking the white plumage. Without warning, the phoenix took to the air, divebombing Harry and nicking him on the shoulder. Blood flowed freely from the newly created wound, and Harry ducked as Ariel swooped down to land on his hurt shoulder. Harry turned to the bird, thinking she was crazy. She bent her head down and cried a few tears, immediately healing the wound she caused.

"What the bloody hell was that about?" Harry asked.

"Don't you see, Harry? That's how a phoenix bonds to their masters…err" Rose began but stopped at the harsh look from the phoenix. "bonds to their companions."

"Did it have to hurt so much?" Harry said, rubbing his now healed shoulder. Ariel trilled a long, sorrowful note as she perched on Harry's shoulder. Harry swore he could hear 'I'm sorry, youngling' in the music. Harry turned to the phoenix and stroked her again. "It's okay girl. I didn't mean to be so harsh. It was just unexpected. Would you be willing to take a few messages for me?" Ariel nodded, as if she understood Harry, and he pulled out the parchment for Sirius. "Please take this to Sirius Black. He may be in his animagus form, a big, black, ugly dog. If you've been with the family for a while, then he'll know you." Ariel trilled another soft note and flashed out of the room. Harry finished his tea and Dasher led him to the owlery to find his faithful friend. "HEDWIG?"

The beautiful snowy owl fluttered down and landed on his shoulder, nipping his ear affectionately. "I take it you like this place?" Harry said, looking around at all the company Hedwig had. There were trays and trays of food and water and treats, and there were rows and rows of food and water near the floor for the kneazles and other animals. Harry looked at his owl. "Are you willing to take a letter or two girl? One goes to Ron, and the other to Ginny. Make sure you go to Ginny first." Hedwig gave a soft hoot and allowed Harry to tie the letters to her talon. A moment later, she was off into the evening sky.

Harry entered the house and headed straight to his room on the third floor. Exploring the manor would have to wait, as sleep was needed. He had a long day today, and it was time to get some rest. Harry knew that tomorrow was going to be a long day too. Just another day in the life of Harry Potter. Harry thought as he fell into bed and drifted off to sleep.