Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter

Harry Potter: Shadow Sorcerer

Chapter 06: Revelation

Harry James Potter was currently enjoying a hearty breakfast after an enjoyable run around Potter Manor. The food was extra special since it was his birthday. He was now 11 years old and awaiting his acceptance letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Godric was kind enough to give him a day off from training so Harry planned to spend all of it relaxing, maybe read a book or two, explore Potter Manor a bit since there were plenty of hidden rooms that Philip showed him that he didn't have the time to check, or even have a picnic behind the manor with a splendid view of 'Dragon Hill' as it was now being called by the residents due to the species of magical creatures living there.

In the end, Harry decided to go with the picnic.

It was half-past 9 when Harry exited Potter Manor with Hedwig on his shoulder and Aria floating beside him as they walked towards their intended picnic ground. Of course, Harry brought a book along just in case he got bored in sightseeing. He didn't plan on spending the whole day inside the manor though he might do so later just to keep the day interesting. He might even take a walk in the forest or visit the greenhouses later if the mood strikes his fancy. The latter was preferred since he really wanted to meet the elusive runespoor of Potter Manor.

The elusiveness of the runespoor forced Harry to give it its own moniker - She-Who-Does-Not-Want-To-Be-Found since the Philip assured him that the snake was a female.

They arrived at their intended destination which offered a breathtaking view of Dragon Hill. They were lucky since a male and female Hungarian Horntail were sunning at the top of the hill, resulting in an amazing view that Harry fell in love with. Harry didn't know why but there was something about dragons that called to him.

Harry transfigured a rock into a picnic chair and another into a large umbrella that he promptly stuck on the ground that resulted in a favorable shade beneath it. Despite being a rare sunny day in this part of Britain, the wind was somewhat cold which was quite refreshing for him.

He called for Flippy who immediately appeared and deposited a picnic basket the ground. Harry conjured a small table for the food and drinks. The elf placed a bottle of Butterbeer beside Harry much to the boys pleasure - he really loved the drink and couldn't get enough of it, a box of frozen fruits for Hedwig, and a tray of cakes and biscuits. Flippy joined them since he was Harry's personal elf, conjuring a small version of Harry's picnic chair for his own much to the young Potter's amusement.

Harry spent most of his time reading a book on Enchanting while stopping now and then to look at the dragons as they released flames into the air. Harry knew that the dragons saw him and was putting on a show to keep him interested.

What young Potter Lord didn't know was that the dragon already saw him as a nest mate though they prefer to stay away from him but opted to just observe him from far away or protect the place just in case. There was something about the human that called to them but they ignored it for now. They didn't want to scare the two-legged being who graciously provided them a place to call home.

As Harry lounged around, Hedwig was enjoying a great fly, sometimes dive-bombing some small critters on the ground scaring them back to their hidey-hole. Aria, as usual, was silent despite her ability of speech though she did float away from time to time around the grounds because of something that interested her. Harry just let her be since he could easily call her to his side if anything happened.

It was after lunch that Harry's attention was caught by a loud screech coming from an owl heading his way.

Raising an eyebrow, he sent a mental question to Hedwig who replied that it was an owl carrying his Hogwarts letter. Grinning, Harry placed the book on the table beside him and waited for the owl to arrive. It didn't take long for a large Brown Screech owl to land on the table offering a letter tied to its leg. Harry scratched the owl on the chest before offering some of the biscuits and cakes to tide her over for the journey back to school.

The own gave Harry a happy hoot before enjoying the offered treats.

Harry flipped the letter and saw his name on the front.

Lord Harry James Potter

Potter Manor

Alnick,

Northumberland

Harry no longer cared seeing the proper address since he accepted his station in Wizarding Society. He might be young but he was a Lord of three Most Ancient and Noble Houses. He needed to accept his station if he wanted to blend well in the magical world. Attention be damned.

He easily broke the seal and opened the envelope, revealing two pieces of parchments. The first being his acceptance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the second letter containing a list of supplies needed for his first year.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

Headmaster: ALBUS DUMBLEDORE

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,

Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Lord Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than August 5.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Harry smiled after reading the letter. He was finally going to Hogwarts. He couldn't wait.

Grinning, Harry turned to the second parchment, checking out the supplies he needed to buy in Diagon Alley.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

UNIFORM

First-year students will require:

1. Three sets of plain work robes (black)

2. One plain pointed hat (black) for day wear

3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)

4. One winter cloak (black, with silver fastenings)

Please note that all pupil's clothes should carry name tags.

COURSE BOOKS

All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore

Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 wand

1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)

1 set glass or crystal phials

1 telescope

1 set brass scales

Students may also bring, if they desire, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS

ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICK

Yours sincerely,

Lucinda Thomsonicle-Pocus

Chief Attendant of Witchcraft Provisions

Harry frowned after he finished the letter. He had no problems getting the supplies needed but there were some concerns that needed to be addressed.

One, he didn't need a wand. It just wouldn't work, not to mention that his wand was already incorporated into his staff.

Two, he had Hedwig, a phoenix, so he might need to see if she is allowed at Hogwarts though nothing was stopping his familiar from going there anyway. Hedwig was as stubborn as he was.

Three, he knew that the telescope in Diagon Alley were ancient. Muggle telescopes were better.

He needed to write a letter to Minerva McGonagall regarding his concerns since he planned to visit Diagon Alley tomorrow. He summoned a piece of parchment, quill, and ink from his office before starting the letter.

Dear Professor McGonagall,

Thank you for sending my acceptance letter and I wholeheartedly accept the place you set aside for me in your institution.

However, I do have some concerns regarding the supplies list, as well as the pet that I could bring.

First, I don't need a wand since I already have a staff. I bought a wand at Ollivanders and it didn't work well for me so we ended up making a staff instead.

Second, the telescopes in Diagon Alley are seriously outdated and the muggle ones are far superior. Is it possible to bring the latter instead of the former?

Lastly, I have a phoenix familiar by the name of Hedwig. She's the one who delivered this letter.

It would be greatly appreciated if you can answer these questions. If you require a meeting, please send a reply with Hedwig on her return for a time and date. You can either Apparate into the grounds if you know where Potter Manor is, floo, or have Hedwig pick you up. Your choice. I will clear you with the wards to avoid accidents upon your appearance in my home.

Sincerely yours,

Lord Harry James Potter

Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter

Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Gryffindor

Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Ravenclaw

He reread the letter and nodded. He called to Hedwig who appeared on his shoulder in a burst of flame.

"Can you deliver this letter to Minerva McGonagall at Hogwart and wait for her reply?" Harry asked his beloved familiar.

Hedwig nodded before picking up the letter with her beak and launched herself to the air before flame traveling to Hogwarts.

Harry decided to relax while waiting for the Professor's reply. The dragons were having a playful romp so he opted to be a spectator instead of going back to his book.

Minerva McGonagall was startled out of her thoughts when a burst of flame appeared in front of her in the form of a rare white phoenix. The beautiful avian trilled a song before flapping over to the back of her chair to perch but not before dropping a letter on the table.

Shocked at the sudden appearance of a 'supposedly' rare breed of magical creature, Minerva snapped out of her thoughts to thank a clearly amused phoenix before turning to the letter. It was addressed to her in a beautiful script that could only come from a pureblood.

She didn't know any family in the Wizarding Britain who owned a rare white phoenix so she was very curious.

She opened the letter and started to read, her eyes growing wide as she progressed further into the missive. After finishing the letter, she took a deep breath before turning to the phoenix.

"Hedwig, I need to consult the headmaster in regards to your master's queries. Since Mr. Potter asked for a reply, will you accompany me to get this sorted out?" Minerva asked the beautiful familiar of the young Potter Lord.

Hedwig bobbed her head in affirmative before jumping off her perch to land on McGonagall's shoulder.

Without wasting any time, the Deputy Headmistress left her office and walked at a brisk pace to confront an aged Headmaster with a piece of her mind.

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore was penning a speech for the next meeting of the ICW when a chime sounded in his office signifying that someone just gave the password to enter his office. From the magical signature coming his way, his visitor was none other than Minerva McGonagall, his Deputy.

A knock came from the door.

"Come in Minerva." said Albus while setting aside the parchment he was writing on.

Albus was surprised when his Deputy entered the office with a pursed lip, meaning that her temper was currently out of whack. This didn't surprise him. What did, however, was the presence of a white phoenix on her shoulder who immediately let out a happy thrill before launching to the air and landed on Fawkes, his phoenix's, perch and happy chirping with the other bird.

"I see that you have company?" asked Albus in amusement, looking at the two phoenixes in his office. He was confused, however, as to why Minerva was giving him a glare…a glare that he was so familiar with. A glare that promised headache later on. Maybe he should ask a house elf to get him a Headache Relief potion early instead of going to Poppy later.

"Albus, could you please explain this to me?" Minerva asked in a cold voice before throwing a letter on the table before sitting down on the couch facing the headmaster who noticed the glare his Deputy was giving him increasing in intensity.

The aged Headmaster took the letter and read its content, shock was clearly plastered on his face.

"It seems that our wayward Mr. Potter has finally made his presence known." Albus mused while straightening his beard.

"Wayward Albus? I thought that Harry was under the care of Petunia Dursley. How in the world did he come into his inheritance at a young age?" asked a clearly irate Minerva. She trusted the Headmaster's decision regarding the placement of Harry Potter in the hands of the Dursley despite her misgivings with the family. She thought that Harry was still with them but the letter disabused that assumption.

Albus sighed before leaning back on his chair.

"Harry is no longer in the care of the Dursleys." he started much to the surprise of his Deputy. "Five months ago, the monitor of the wards on the Dursley home was broken meaning that the protection I set using Lily's sacrifice was no longer active. Of course, I immediately went to check on Harry but found the Dursley preparing to leave for another home. Petunia wasn't forthcoming with the information as to why young Harry wasn't with them so I used Legilimency to find out what really happened."

The Headmaster shoulder drooped as if age was wearing down on him.

"I discovered that Harry already knew about magic and had been practicing for years considering how much control he had over it. Hedwig was with him during the confrontation. It seems that the parting of ways between Harry and Petunia was of mutual consent, causing the wards to drop, unable to be restored no matter what action we take."

"I tried looking for Harry but it seems that the trail had grown cold and I don't know where to pick it up. I looked in all angle, even checking up with the old crowd to see if they heard anything, but alas, nothing came up. My only hope was for the acceptance letter to reach Harry so we could find out where he's staying."

Minerva pursed her lips, digesting what her long-time friend was saying. Deciding to humor the Headmaster, she drew a wand from the folds of her robe and waved it on the desk causing a large leather-bound book to appear. She tapped her wand on the book causing it to open and flip a few pages before stopping. Both Minerva and Albus peered into the book and found what they were looking for.

"Albus, it says here that Harry is in Potter Manor. I thought the place disappeared when Charles and Dorea was killed." asked Minerva thinking that Harry was living in an abandoned Manor without a single soul for company, the phoenix didn't count.

"I doubt that Minerva. The property was automatically placed on lockdown thanks to the extensive wards that could even rival Hogwarts if it was in full power. At least we know that Harry is safe since Potter Manor is quite secure considering the defenses there." explained the Headmaster though a frown appeared on his face.

"I don't think it's all that safe, Albus. If you remember, someone got into the Manor to kill Charles and Dorea. It is not as full-proof as one might think." argued the Deputy Headmistress, worry etched on her face.

"Yes, that is true, but what the public didn't know is that they were murdered by a close friend of theirs who was killed during the war. It was quite possible for Charles to give the killer access to the property since it was the only way to do so, thus giving Voldemort an avenue to dispose of the Potter Lord and Lady. However, Harry is safe since the wards there will make sure that no one can enter without his express permission. If young Harry is cunning enough to dupe the Dursleys regarding his knowledge of magic, we can safely say that he doesn't know anyone in the Wizarding World to even invite into the protection of Potter Manor. I daresay, his first social experience will be on the train upon entering Hogwarts."

Minerva nodded, accepting the explanation since it was sound thinking.

"What do you want to do with the letter? I could easily send a reply but…" Minerva trailed off.

Albus gave her a shrewd look.

"But you think it would be best for one or the both of us to go and find out the current status of young Potter, is that what you're thinking Minerva?" interjected Albus with his blue eyes twinkling merrily.

"Agreed…are you free tomorrow?"

The Headmaster and Deputy started discussing what to do with Harry Potter. Both didn't notice Hedwig perched on Fawkes stand watching and listening to the both of them intently.

Harry was currently pacing in the foyer waiting for his guests to arrive. Professor McGonagall sent a reply yesterday with Hedwig telling him that a meeting was preferable to better explain everything, as well as inquire about other things concerning him. The letter she sent would have been vague, much less cryptic, but thanks to his connection with Hedwig, he was able to see and hear the conversation between the Headmaster and his Deputy, preparing him for the meeting and the topic that might be discussed.

Harry decided right there and then to confront the Headmaster regarding his placement at the Dursleys and get the truth out of him at any cost.

Since they were going to meet at 9 in the morning, Harry woke up around 7 thanks to Flippy and prepared for their arrival. He decided to go full nobility on them, wearing an expensive blue and gold robe with the Potter, Gryffindor, and Ravenclaw crest visible to impress upon them his stature in the Wizarding Hierarchy.

The message was quite clear that he wasn't to be trifled with. He just hoped that they take the hint and not treat him like a lost child.

It was exactly 9 when Godric's voice informed him that his guest just arrived at the gate. Harry made sure to set the wards so that the gate will be the only method of entry into Potter Manor. He also instructed Godric to place the manor on semi-lockdown, making sure that any magical travels from the manor to the outside are restricted. He wanted them to stay inside the manor until ALL his questions were answered.

Also, kidnapping might happen considering the unhealty interest the Headmaster had on him so a semi-lockdown was a good idea to prevent such things from happening.

Taking a deep breath, Harry summoned Aria from his room before waltzing out of the large oaken door of Potter Manor towards the gate. His guests, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Deputy Headmistress Minerva McGonagall, were standing outside the gate waiting for him.

Harry opened the gates with a wave of his staff, catching the two by surprise.

"Greetings and welcome to Potter Manor professors." Harry greeted them politely with a small bow. Despite his lordship, the station of his two guests demands respect considering his age.

"My name is Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Beside me is Deputy Headmistress and Transfiguration Professor Minerva McGonagall." said Albus with a formal bow followed by a nod from McGonagall. Albus would have settled for a simple nod but he caught a glimpse of three Lord Rings on Harry's fingers so he needed to respect him as his station is due. A Potter Lord demanded nothing less.

Harry let go of Aria who just floated beside him before offering a hand to Albus who shook it before offering the same to McGonagall.

"I'm Lord Harry James Potter, Lord of houses Potter, Gryffindor, and Ravenclaw, and owner of Potter Manor. Please, let us adjourn to a more comfortable setting to discuss some concerns regarding my schooling as well as some others that I'm sure you're dying to ask me regarding my…current situation." Harry said and beckoning for them to follow before turning on his heels and walked his way towards the manor guiding his guest.

Of course, the young Lord didn't notice that flabbergasted faces of Albus and Minerva as they followed him inside, unable to say anything at the regal way they were addressed.

It would be safe to say that this wasn't the child they were expecting.

Harry led his guests to the library which was the perfect place as any for their discussion. He beckoned for them to take a seat in one of the large sofas while he took the one opposite from them.

"Before we start with the conversation, can I interest the both of you for some drinks?" asked Harry as he called for Flippy.

"Tea for me thank you." said Albus

"Same but with a dollop of milk if you please." said Minverva.

Albus smiled at his Deputy's love of anything dairy.

Harry nodded and relayed the order to Flippy who just snapped his fingers causing their respective orders to appear on the table though Harry's was a Butterbeer. Harry saw the amused looks the professors were giving him. He gave them a sheepish smile.

"Sorry, one of my weaknesses. I just LOVE Butterbeer." Harry admitted guiltily.

Albus chuckled and took a sip of his tea. He noted that the blend was pretty good. Minerva also did the same but she let out a quiet sigh as the tea and milk tickled her taste buds.

"Now that the pleasantries are out of the way, can we start with your concerns you stated in your letters, Mr. Potter?" asked Albus, firing the opening salvo to get the conversation started.

"Please, professor, call me Harry." Harry offered since he didn't want to be too formal with his soon-to-be professors.

Albus nodded.

"Now, let's start off with your first concern in regards to your wand. Can you explain to me as to why you are using a staff?" the Headmaster asked in curiosity. He knew all about staves, especially when it comes to Magical Rank. If his hunch was correct then the young Potter was more than what he looked.

"Actually, the decision in regards to the staff is due to the advice from Griphook, the Potter Family Accounts Manager in Gringotts. Considering the results of the Abilities Test, a staff would be more conducive to my level." Harry explained before taking a sip of his Butterbeer.

"Level?" Minerva asked in a curious tone. Unlike Albus, Minerva isn't exposed to Magical Ranks.

Harry smiled at her and snapped his fingers. A folder, which he prepared beforehand after a quick letter to Griphook, appeared on the table much to the surprise of the Hogwarts professors. Harry gestured for them to take a look. While sipping more of his Butterbeer, Harry noted their expressions as they read the result of his test.

Albus was one of surprise, shock, and elation. The last part confused Harry a bit.

Minerva displayed on shock at what she was reading. Harry could somewhat understand the reason of her reaction. Heck, that was his reaction too when he found out about his abilities.

"As you can see from the results of the Abilities Test, a wand would be useless for me since I am a Wandless Sorcerer with an affinity towards the Shadow element." said Harry with a smile. Enjoying the flabbergasted looks his soon-to-be professors were sporting.

Albus was the first to reign in his shock at the discovery, if only barely.

"Interesting…would it be safe to say that you had Ollivander create the staff for you?" asked a very intrigued Albus Dumbledore. Staff users were rare in the magical world and the foci are restricted to Sorcerers and Mages. He himself tried to use a staff but wasn't able to find the right ingredients for one, much to his dismay.

"Yes sir. I was there during the process and to be quite frank, I found the whole thing very interesting." Harry replied with a grin.

"So, Mr. Potter, if I may be so bold to ask, judging from your proficiency in wandless magic, I would assume that you made use of this wonderful library to further improve your…talents?" Minerva asked with a raised eyebrow while gesturing to the many books surrounding them.

Harry gave her a sheepish grin.

"Yes, professor. I think this discussion would be best AFTER we tackled my concerns regarding Hogwarts. Would that be alright with you?"

Minerva nodded with a smile.

"Indeed, Mr. Potter. It would be safe to say that it is not necessary for you to use a wand as long as you can keep up with the syllabus. Don't you agree, Albus?"

Albus chuckled.

"Indeed. Though from what Harry here has shown us, I can say that it would be an interesting set of classes this year for you and the rest of the professors." the Headmaster predicted, already envisioning the reaction of the different teachers at Hogwarts when Harry demonstrates his unique control over his magic.

"Regarding the rule on pets, it doesn't apply to you since Hedwig is your familiar. Hogwarts rule states that any witch or wizard may bring their familiar or familiars to school as long as they don't harm the students or cause distraction during classes." stated Minerva as if quoting directly from the book. She looked around as if she was looking for something. "Where is Hedwig anyway?"

Harry chuckled before shaking his head.

"When you get to know Hedwig, professor, you will notice that she isn't much of an early riser and a very deep sleeper. She prefers to sleep until after lunch unless of course something is amiss that she deems important to forgo waking up late."

"Indeed." Minerva chuckled. She knew that Fawkes was pretty much the same. It seems that being lazy was a creature trait if the two phoenixes was something to go by. "Be that as it may, Mr. Potter. You may bring Hedwig with you as long as you comply with the rules. I trust that you will let her understand her limitations?"

Harry nodded.

"Thank you professor. To be honest, I'm quite relieved to get permission for Hedwig since she can easily appear anywhere I'm at." said Harry in relief.

"Of course, Mr. Potter. Now, in regards to your request for a muggle telescope, I daresay that you are allowed. Merlin knows that the Wizarding World is clearly backwards in regards to tools in Astronomy. You may bring a muggle telescope if you wish." said Minerva in exasperation. Unlike popular beliefs, she was a fan of Astronomy though she prefered to use muggle methods since she could easily see farther with their inventions.

"Also, Harry, I suggest that you bring one that doesn't require electricity to work. The ambient magic of Hogwarts will counter any form of energy other than magic so electronic devices has always been a problem when magic is around." warned Albus. He spent almost a decade trying to determine why electronics are fried when magic is used around them. Unfortunately, he hadn't found any solution to the problem.

"Thank you for your advice, Professor Dumbledore. I'll keep that in mind when I shop around for one." said Harry gratefully. Too bad he had to forgo the state-of-the-art telescopes he saw on the telly while he was still at the Dursleys but the non-electronic ones work a lot better than its magical counterpart.

"Now that we're done with school matters, why don't we discuss some concerns in regards to your current position, Mr. Potter." asked Minerva, wanting to get this topic out of the open.

Harry nodded before taking a deep breath, preparing himself to what he was about to say.

"If you insist then let's begin. You may ask me any question then I'll answer them to the best of my abilities. However, once you're done, I'll ask some questions of my own that I would like to be answered. Agreed?" Harry said coldly shocking the two with the sudden change in attitude. Gone was the happy soon-to-be student to be replaced by a cold and calculating Lord of a Most Ancient and Noble House.

"Harry, there are some questions that are too sensitive for you to know and you're too young to know about them." Albus said in a condescending tone as if speaking to a child.

Harry didn't like that one bit. It was time to make them realize as to WHO they were talking to.

"Is that so, professor? Or maybe you're just afraid of answering these questions in fear of implicating yourself?" Harry returned the jab with increasing coldness. Harry eventually felt a Legilimency probe trying to enter his mind. Harry wouldn't have any of it so he grabbed the probe and slammed it back to its source.

Dumbledore rubbed his temple as if he was suffering from a headache.

"Mr. Potter, that is no way for you to address the Headmaster." Minerva rebuked the young Lord, oblivious to the mental battle that just took place.

"Is that so, Professor McGonagall? What if I show you why I am quite hostile to the Headmaster?" said Harry as he snapped his finger. A rolled-up parchment appeared floating in front of Minerva with her looking it with trepidation. "Please, read that and tell me if I am still being disrespectful to the Headmaster without probable cause."

Albus saw the floating parchment and paled when he recognized what it was. The Potter Seal was quite visible on the rolled up parchment. He wasn't able to do anything to stop this since Minerva took it and began to read, paling at first when she realized what it was then turned red in anger when she read the last part. She turned to Albus immediately.

"Albus Dumbledore! What is the meaning of this?" roared McGonagall in rage.

Harry butted in before the Headmaster could come up with an excuse.

"I take it you discovered where I was supposed to be placed?" Harry asked in a frigid tone which Minerva just nodded not breaking her steely gaze from the object of her ire. Harry turned to a pale Dumbledore. "It is time to come clean, Professor Dumbledore. I'll give you the benefit of a doubt and let you explain WHY I ended up with the Dursleys when there were plenty of potential candidates that could take me in to raise and protect me."

Albus sighed and nodded in defeat. There was nothing he could do since the proof was there in the hands of his Deputy. The only thing to do now is to let the both of them understand his decision.

"Indeed. It seems that I have underestimated your maturity Lord Potter." Harry didn't notice the sudden change in honorifics; clearly Dumbledore was taking him seriously now. "But before I explain my actions, I ask that you hold your questions until the end. Is that agreeable?"

He got a nod from Harry which was mimicked by Minerva who was clearly trying to put down her raging temper.

"Since both of you already know what happened before Voldemort's defeat," Minerva winced but Albus ignored it. "I will skip that part and proceed with what happened next. As both of you know, I am the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot presiding over the trials of the Death Eaters who was captured after the fall of the Dark Lord. Despite the power I hold in the judicial system, I am still powerless to stop some of the Death Eaters from being persecuted by the law. It was during this trial that I had an epiphany."

He paused taking a sip of his tea before continuing.

"What if the followers of the Dark Lord search out the cause of his defeat? I am sure that all those listed in the Will are capable in their own right to protect young Harry but with the people still recovering from a major war, it was quite possible for guards to be at an all time low and it would only take a single wand to kill you."

"So with this decision in mind, I sent Minerva here to watch over the Dursleys as I took advantage of the reprieve to do some research regarding the defeat of the Dark Lord and your survival from the Killing Curse which was an impossibility to begin with. I'm sure you're not aware Harry but you were taken to Hogwarts the night Voldemort was defeated. Poppy was quite adamant in giving you a checkup at that time."

He added the last part with a chuckle while getting a huff from Minerva. She clearly remembered how frantic Poppy Pomfrey was when Harry arrived tucked in the arms of the gigantic Gamekeeper with a bloodied scar on his forehead.

"Now, my reasons for putting you with the Dursleys are two-fold. One, your mother's lingering protection requires a blood relative to anchor it in order to effectively power the wards that will keep you safe from Voldemort and his followers. And two, you will be protected away from the eyes of the Wizarding World who would most surely try to get to you either out of good or for ill."

"I'm sure that you've read the letter I sent to Petunia when I dropped you off under their care?" he got a nod from Harry, getting a positive that he read the aforementioned missive. "I clearly stated there what is needed to power the wards. A happy home equals love that is needed for the wards to be at full power. However, it seems that I underestimated Petunia's hate for Lily which resulted in her treatment of you."

"Keep in mind that I weighed the alternatives. The first was Sirius Black but he betrayed the Potters by revealing the secret of their location to the Dark Lord." this got a growl from Harry which Albus noted to ask the young Lord later. "The next in line to take you in was Remus Lupin but his condition will surely bring down the ire of the Ministry."

Harry nodded when he remembered the name from his parents' diary.

"Yes, I know that he is a werewolf. But please continue with the explanation since I can almost see where you are going but lack the facts to back it up. I will explain later how I know about Remus' condition and what I know of Sirius Black." said Harry graciously.

"Thank you Lord Potter…"

"Please call me Harry."

"Thank you, Harry. Now the next was Amelia Bones, which was James's superior in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. However, I didn't leave you with her since she just lost her husband, Edgar Bones, as well as the rest of her family except for young Susan which is your age. Also, she was a target at that time since she played a major role in the war and it's like painting a huge target with both of you together under the same roof."

"Last, but not the least, was Professor McGonagall here. The reason I hid this from her is two-fold as well. One is her role in the war; and two, she just lost her family to that same war. Also, with her position in Hogwarts, she is unable to keep an eye on you especially when school is in session."

"I could have brought him to Hogwarts, Albus. He is well-protected there." argued Minerva as her anger cooled from hearing the explanations.

Albus shook his head, raising a hand to stop his Deputy from another rant.

"Yes, he is well protected in Hogwarts from outside interference but what of the threat from within? Let's face it, Minerva, we can never deny the fact that some of the students at that time are sympathetic to Voldemort's cause. What if they discovered Harry's location within the school? As I said before, it only takes one wand to kill him as defenseless as he is. Sure, Lily's protection is present within him but it may not be enough to protect Harry and I don't want to take that chance to experiment using the life of a baby."

Albus turned to Harry who was clearly deep in thought.

"With no other options, I chose Petunia. It was also a bonus that the lingering protection you got from your mother would anchor well with a blood relative." Albus finished his explanation before lapsing into silence and taking another sip of the excellent tea.

Harry was silent as he processed what Professor Dumbledore said. He could never deny the fact that all he said was true. If he stayed in the Wizarding World, he was a huge target to the dregs of Voldemort's forces who would surely take out their anger on him. He was defenseless there.

"However, why didn't you check up on me while I was at the Dursleys? I'm sure you could take the time to do so, professor, since you're the one who placed me there." asked Harry with a little bite in his voice. This was ONE question he really wanted to ask.

Albus nodded with a sad look on his face. Harry noted that it wasn't a good expression on the Headmaster's face.

"Yes I could have but there is a reason for that as well. I was Voldemort's worst enemy during that time so all eyes were on me before and after his defeat. Even when the call of war died down, I was subjected to a few assassination attempts." he said with a chuckle, amused at the ways the assassins went through just to get rid of him. "The Death Eaters who escaped Azkaban were keeping an eye on my every move. What if I visited you and one of them was trailing me or tracking me in some way, it would reveal your location. Despite the protection in place, anything is possible. Any determined witch or wizard would take care of that especially when the come en masse. Also, I placed Arabella Figg…"

"The crazy cat lady?" asked Harry in an incredulous voice. He remembered Mrs. Figg since she took care of him before he discovered his powers while the Dursleys were away. He had fun at her house playing with her cats though he didn't like the smell of cabbage that the house seems to have.

Albus chuckled.

"I doubt she is crazy but she does like her cats. She is a squib, Harry, and I tasked her to keep an eye out on you while you're there. No one will question the presence of a squib in a muggle neighborhood. I get periodic reports from her regarding your life at the Dursleys. She told me that you weren't treated well but you were in no way abused or caused undue harm that threatened your life. That is a small price to pay to make sure you don't end up dead in the hands of a witch or a wizard."

Harry nodded. Now he understood where Dumbledore was coming from and couldn't refute his reasons. Considering that he was the leader of the Light Wizards opposing Voldemort, he had to make the necessary choice to do what's right and not what's easy. His respect for the aged Headmaster rose.

"So, any questions, Harry? I will strive my utmost to answer them to your satisfaction." said Dumbledore as he sipped his tea. He looked old, very old after the revelation.

"None, professor." said Harry as he gave the Headmaster a smile. "I might not like your decisions regarding my placement BUT I can easily say that you made the right choice. You did what was right instead of what's easy. I can easily understand and respect that."

"Thank you Harry." said Albus as he smiled for the first time after the revelation; he looked relieved as if a great weight had been taken off his shoulders. "Now I have a few questions if it is alright for me to ask?"

"Sure, professor. Since we are being open here, it is only right that I contribute to the discussion." said Harry with a chuckle.

"Indeed. Can you explain to me how you discovered magic and how you were able to use it so well?" asked Albus, his curiosity peaked at Harry's control over magic.

"If we go over that, professor, then we will be talking for a very long time. Why don't I just show you?" offered Harry.

"Show? Do you have a pensieve, Mr. Potter?" asked Minerva curiously. Such devises were rare and very expensive. She knew Albus have one currently in his office but he didn't know if the young Lord have one at his disposal.

Harry shook his head.

"I don't but I can easily use my abilities as a Sorcerer to show you how it happened. All I ask is for you to trust me."

Albus immediately nodded but it took a few seconds for Minerva to do so.

Harry concentrated for a bit, gathering the memories he wanted to relay to the two professors. He reached out towards their minds knocked on their Occlumency shields to allow him entry. When they didn't open, he tried another approach.

"Please, professors. I am not going to read your thoughts. Instead, I am sending you my memories. I swear on my magic that I will not invade your secrets." Harry mentally called out to the two. After a few moments, he felt their shields going down. Giving a mental nod, he projected the memories to their conscious mind detailing his experiences in magic. He didn't bother to keep secrets since these were two people that his parents trusted as given evidence to their Will.

It took two hours for them to finish going through the memories and they were amazed at what they saw.

Harry looked at the flabbergasted faces of the Headmaster and his Deputy with slight amusement. Considering the revelation, it is only natural for them to act this way. To give them time to relax, he invited the both of them to lunch which they gratefully accepted with a promise to continue the conversation afterwards.

Lunch was a happy affair for the trio. Flippy prepared a scrumptious meal that all three of them enjoyed. Conversation was light, more on magical theories instead of the revelations Harry shared with them earlier.

After lunch, they retired back to the library but Professor McGonagall asked to reschedule a talk with Harry in the future since she has an appoint with two muggleborns today to explain the letters and Hogwarts.

In the end, only Albus and Harry were in the library and both were silent as they sorted their thoughts for the coming discussion. Inevitably, it was Harry who decided to break the silence.

"Professor, I think you noticed my reaction when you mentioned Sirius Black?" Albus nodded and indicated for Harry to continue. "Sirius is innocent, Professor. My godfather is currently in Azkaban being punished for a crime he didn't commit."

This revelation shocked the Chief Warlock. Sirius was innocent? How?

"I'm not sure if you're correct, Harry. I was the one who cast the Fidelius Charm considering how complicated it is. Sirius was the secret-keeper of the Potters. I was the one who bound the secret to him." explained Albus.

Harry shook his head. He translocated his father's diary to his hand and opened it to the entry where the switch took place. He handed the diary to Albus who took it with shaking hands. As the aged wizard read the entry, his face paled. Harry was telling the truth. Sirius was innocent.

"My question, professor, is how Sirius was incarcerated in Azkaban since he was clearly innocent. I read from one of the books in my possession that a trial in the Magical World is often done with the use of Veritaserum to reveal the truth."

Albus closed the diary, along with his eyes, trying to remember every single detail of the trial.

"If I remember the trial correctly, it was Bartemius Crouch who presided over the captured Death Eaters that time under the Ministerial Powers of Minister Bagnold. Martial Law was declared and control over the trial was solely placed in the hand of Crouch. The Wizengamot was temporarily defunct with him acting as the Chief Warlock and interrogator of the accused. To put it simply, under the Minister's orders, Crouch's word was law. If it was a normal trial then Veritaserum SHOULD have been used but now I am not sure as to what Crouch did at that time." explained Albus as his mind was already working on how to get an innocent out of the Dementor-infested prison.

"Is there a way to get Sirius out, professor? I would like my godfather to be around me since he is the only one I have left." Harry pleaded to the aged wizard who held a lot of power in the Wizengamot.

"I can try, Harry, but I am quite sure that a lot of people in the Ministry will try to block everything to keep their garbage from leaking out." Albus said sadly but there was a glint of determination in his blue eyes. "However, our first step is to determine whether Sirius has succumbed to the effects of the Dementors or not. Once we have determined that, we can help sustain Sirius until such time I can get the right people to set up a trial for him."

"How long would it take? To set a trial I mean." asked Harry, mind already brimming with ideas on how to get in touch with Sirius in Azkaban. He knew of a way but he needed to clear it up with the Headmaster first to see if it was plausible.

"That I am not sure. We could easily use your rank as Lord of three Most Ancient and Noble Houses but that is not possible since you are not of age to take your seats in the Wizengamot despite your emancipation. The Wizarding Charter would demand no less. Unless…?

"Unless what sir?"

"If you are willing, we can give your seats to already ordained members and let them act as temporary proxy for your votes until you reach the age of 17 when you take your seats in the Wizengamot. Considering you hold three seats, I would say that a majority of the votes would be on our end to call for a trial. The only potential problem is Minister Fudge who is deeply in the pockets of well-known Death Eaters who escaped by pleading Imperius." explained Albus with a calculating gleam in his eyes.

"I think we can study on that further before we make a move, professor. I have an idea on how we can get in touch with Sirius but I need to run it by you if it would work." said Harry with a little hesitation in his voice.

"Any idea to help poor Sirius is a welcome one, Harry."

Harry nodded.

"As you know, I am a Shadow Mage. According to the book I've read, a Shadow Mage can exert control over creatures belonging to the shadows, like Dementors. What if there is a way for us to get into Azkaban, or possibly Shadow Walking us there, and give an order to the Dementors to ease their torment of Sirius. Would this work?"

Albus pondered the suggestion before answering.

"Hmmmm…yes. I have read about Shadow Mages during my youth and they do have the power to control Dementors. I am not sure, however, if you're power and will is strong enough to overcome their minds but it is quite possible. However, there is a slight problem. Can you use your brand of travel to go to a place that you haven't been to?" asked Albus in curiosity.

"I haven't tried." Harry admitted. "The first time I accidentally tapped into the ability, I ended up on the roof of the school which I am familiar with. Same thing happened when I tried it again, but this time in an area of the playground where I usually frequent during breaks. I think the ability picks up on my thoughts instead of coming up with a location at random. Is it possible to use a phoenix to send something to him?"

"Yes it is possible since a phoenix can go anywhere without being hindered by wards. What do you have in mind?"

"I think we can send Hedwig over to Sirius and explain the situation to him. If he is still sane, we can send him care packages to get him back into shape while we come up with a way to safely get into Azkaban and test my theory as to whether I can control the Dementors or not." Harry mused while tapping his chin.

"An excellent idea my boy." Albus said with a smile, blue eyes twinkling behind his half-moon glasses. "While you do that, I can come up with a legal way to get into Azkaban and determine Sirius' exact location so we can use your unique travel to get there."

"It's a plan then." said a very determined Harry who held his hand out to Dumbledore who took it and gave a single shake, making an unspoken deal to work together in getting his godfather out of Azkaban.

Edited by Corruptmonk

May 25, 2012