(AN: I'm on a roll with this story, at least so far. Hope my muse keeps at this one. Two chapters in one day! Anyway, Anna is now with the officials of the magic world, but will she be safe from the Stone family? Where will she go? On with the story!)

...***...

Anna hated apperating. It felt like she had been stretched out and squeezed through a straw, then suddenly spit out. She looked around to find herself in a cavernous hallway, with fireplaces all along the two walls. The fires in them flashed green every few minutes, a witch or wizard stepping out and hurrying onwards. Anna looked around, trying to take it all in.

Madam Goodman tugged at her hand, urging her to follow. They strode past several people, eventually coming to a halt at a large desk. The thin woman behind the desk looked coolly at them. "Good evening, Ms. Goodman. Is this the Stone girl you were sent to examine?" She looked down her nose at Anna. "Surely not. Mr. and Mrs. Stone are fine members of society. They would never send their daughter to the Ministry looking like she lost a fight with a thorn bush." Anna decided she did not like this woman at all.

"This is, supposedly, their niece, who stays with them when her parents are travelling," replied Ms. Goodman. "I have reason to believe she is the source of the odd readings we had. I'm taking her to the Department of Child Welfare." The unpleasant skinny woman nodded and waved them on. A while of walking later, she led Anna to a door that had a plaque declaring it to be the Department of Child Care and Protection. She entered and went to the man behind the desk. "Evening, John. I have a new case for you that is rather urgent."

"Give me a break, Goodman," he complained. "I've had a long day of listening to brats whine that their parents don't give them enough allowance, they don't get enough dessert, why should they have to clean their own room when they have house elves to do it, and the list goes on. Though it looks like this one managed to at least look like she has a rough time."

Anna grit her teeth. Was everyone in the Ministry arrogant and rude? Ms. Goodman tightened her grip a little. "I assure you, this one is certainly no spoiled brat. While I was speaking with the parents and listening to an entitled little girl sing her own praises, this child was kept well out of sight. I only found her because the Stones' daughter shoved her down the bare wood stairs. Little Anna here ran at her first opportunity, and I found her in the middle of nowhere after she clearly ran through the woods to escape."

The man frowned and really looked at Anna for the first time. "I see," he finally said, then sighed. "Sorry, Goodman. It's been one of those days. We received eighteen reports of possible abuse today, and this girl is the only one that is anything other than thinking being grounded from their brooms is abuse and neglect. I'll make sure she is well looked after." He stood and came around the desk to kneel in front of Anna. "I'm sorry, Anna. It has been a long day for me, but I should not have acted like that. Will you come with me so we can get you checked out?" He held his hand out to her.

Anna looked at him carefully. She could see the worry lines in his face, and felt he usually liked his job, liked helping children. He just didn't like the spoiled ones who called him in over simple discipline. "I accept your apology, sir," she said softly, taking his hand.

"Alright, let's get you to the clinic and make sure you're not hurt, then Ms. Goodman will use a spell to read your magical core, okay?" he said, a gentle smile on his face.

Anna nodded. "I found out just before I left that I am not related to that family at all. Is there a way to find my real parents?"

John's light brown eyes looked sad for a moment, then he nodded. "Once the medi-witch gets you healed, we will take a few drops of blood to trace. Meanwhile, we'll find someone to watch over you."

...***...

The Medi-witch was a kind, gray-haired woman with a warm smile and dark brown eyes. She had fussed over Anna the moment she was brought in, scolding the other two for not bringing the child straight to her. Anna was directed to change into an examination gown and lie on a fairly comfortable bed. The witch waved her wand, and a scroll appeared. Anna could see the old woman's eyes growing wider and sadder by the moment.

She turned to the other two. "If this girl has someone she trusts, let her stay with them," she said. "No random family will be half as good. She has been through a great deal already. I've healed the injuries, but her mind will be a bit fragile. She will not trust easily."

Ms. Goodman stepped forward. "Anna, this spell will allow us to know how strong and stable your magical core is right now. I need you try and relax for me." She waved her wand in a complicated pattern, chanting. An image appeared above Anna's chest, starting as a small spark, then growing into a brilliant orange and red inferno. In fact, it made Anna think of flames. A tongue would flash off in the shape of some animal or flower. Finally, the light and fire drew into the vague shape of some sort of feline. Suddenly, the image vanished. Ms. Goodman looked worried and shaken.

Anna looked at her warily. "What was that?" she asked.

"A spell to manifest your magic," answered the woman. "Your core is one of the strongest I have ever seen, and very wild. I'm putting your name in as an early starter to magic school. I'll send out these readings first thing in the morning. Looks like you are going to school, Anna."

The Medi-witch stepped forward again. "She can stay here for tonight," she said. "John, you official assign an official to her, I'll make sure she is comfortable for the night. It's late, and this child needs sleep." The other two nodded and hurried off. The Medi-witch turned to Anna. "Let's get you settled for the night, dear. Oh, silly me. You may call me Nurse Johnson. There are a few private rooms this way. I wild stay with you until one of the Aurors arrives to stand guard. And before we forget, could you hold out your right hand?" Anna looked at her warily. "I need to draw some blood from you to trace your lineage. I swear on my magic it will go to nothing else." Anna nodded and held her hand out, not wincing when a spell pricked her finger.

"Nurse Johnson?" she asked. "Do you know anyone who can make an emergency Portkey?" At the curious look she explained as best she could. "I have a few friends who helped me escape. The Stones were using me to blackmail my father into sending them gold. The ones that helped me have no interest in my money. If all else fails, I want to stay with them, even if the Ministry won't like it."

Nurse Johnson looked up from where she was tidying the bed. She glanced around and motioned the girl close, shutting the door and casting a quick Muffliato Charm. "From both a medical standpoint, and for your own safety, I need you to tell me more about these ones that helped you. As your healer, I am legally obligated to keep all your secrets. I will tell no one."

Anna took a breath. "They are centaurs," she said. "Three of them, brothers. They care for me, but think I should stay with a magical family. They would be great guardians, if they need to be, and they would always protect me. I want the Portkey to take me to them, no matter where they are."

Nurse Johnson looked at her carefully, then smiled. "Child, I told you no one would hear anything you tell me. Do you have a tattoo or marking on you somewhere?" Anna bit her lip and nodded. "I see. Don't show me, or anyone from the Ministry. It sounds like it is a mark that only appears on very specially gifted witches and wizards. They are often referred to as a Mage or Druid. The Ministry has been known to seize such ones and train them for their own purposes. I, and others, believe the Druids are gifts born of the harmony of Nature and the deepest magic, not to be used in politics or power plays.

"Now, you stay right here and get settled, child. I'll need to go and get one of my old friends. Auror McIntire will watch you tonight, and he is, coincidentally, permitted to make any Portkey he wishes. I will be right back." She swept out the door, then closed and locked the door. Anna calmed an instant later when she felt the various protection and alerting charms go up in and around the room. She changed into the nightgown that was on the bed and climbed in, keeping her pack close at hand. Curious, she pulled out the thick leather bag of money and opened it. There must have been and expansion charm and featherweight charm on it, because the inside was bigger than the outside. Mostly it was filled with gold Galleons, but a few cut gemstones glittered in the warm light of the room.

A few minutes later, the door opened, and Nurse Johnson hurried in with a tall man. His hair looked like it had once been a tawny color, but time had dusted it with gray, giving it a frosty look. His hazel eyes were sharp, but kind, and Anna was glad to see laugh lines in his face. A scar trailed down beside his right eye, a testament to his profession.

"Good evening, young miss," he said. "I understand from my old schoolmate you have a special request." Anna nodded and explained what she wanted. "Well, what do we have to work with? I need to bind the spell to an object, something that won't be obvious, but you can keep with you at all times."

Anna tugged out the neckband made of the braided tail hairs. "They made this for me," she said. "Will it work?" The Auror carefully fingered the slender band. He looked at it closely.

"It should work fine," he said. "The fact that one of your friends made for you will help boost the spell. Perhaps, as a precaution, we'll add a pendant after you are accepted to a school. We can add a Portkey to the necessary location for you to get to the school. For now, hold still." He drew out his wand and began to chant. A moment later, he sat back. "All done. Your activation word is Equus. That will take you to the one that actually wove the band. The more feeling you put into it, the stronger it will be. From what I hear, you could use it almost anywhere. Now, I think it's time for a cute little girl to get some sleep." Anna smiled and lay down on the bed, enjoying the comfortable mattress and soft sheets. She was soon asleep, her dreams untroubled.

...***...

The next day was a flurry of activity for Anna. It began calmly enough. She woke up early, as she was accustomed to doing at the Stones' house. She dressed in some of her nicer clothes, but the pretty green dress was a loss. She combed her hair and braided it, keeping it neatly back from her face. By the time Auror McIntire opened the door, she was dressed and ready for the day. He smiled warmly at her and brought her a plate with eggs, sausage, and toast. Anna's mouth watered at the sight, and she soon put away most of the food.

"Ms. Goodman sent out your magical reading results an hour ago," said Auror McIntire. "Some of the schools are in different time zones from us, but they should respond soon. If any of them accept you, you may choose which one you wish to attend, and we will go and get everything you need for your classes. Just to let you know, most magic schools have a scholarship program for students who show promise, but cannot afford the tuition. We'll make sure you have what you need for classes."

Anna looked at him. "I should tell you this," she said. "I overheard the Stones talking when I ran. I hid in a tree until they were away. They said they had kidnapped me and were using me to blackmail my parents into giving them money. I was able to get the most recent payment before I ran. It has a lot of Galleons in it, and a few jewels. So I have some money, but it's all I will have until I can find my family."

The Auror looked at her, his hazel eyes wide in a mix of shock, horror, and amazement. Finally, he found his voice. "How much was in there?" he asked.

"I haven't counted it, but I was thinking of having this neckband treated so it would be more durable, and have one of the jewels made into a pendant for it," she answered.

"Good idea," he said. "We'll go to Diagon Alley in London to get most of your things. That's where some of the best shops are. I know a fine jeweler who can help you. Though I think you should only use a little of that gold. Use it to get a pet you can take with you. The Ministry will ensure you have any uniforms and school supplies you need." He stood up. "Well, can't sit here all day. Come on, child. I need to go to the Auror Offices, and you get to come with me. Don't forget that sack, I'll make you a belt to carry it."

Anna walked alongside the tall, lean man, her eyes wide as she looked around at all the people. She pressed a little closer, not liking the crowds. They went upstairs and down in elevators until Anna was completely confused. They stepped into a room filled with desks. At each desk was a witch or wizard wearing red robes like Auror McIntire. As they passed, a few would call out a greeting. They stopped at an empty desk, and McIntire settled in the chair there.

They were only there an hour or so, while the Auror checked the various messages he had received and replied to the ones that needed it. Then they went to meet with his team leader to report. While there, a small paper airplane flew up and landed in Anna's hand. She looked at her Auror, who nodded for her to open it. It was a note from a Mr. Gallatin requesting her presence right away.

And they were off again, Anna clinging to the Auror's hand. It took almost twenty minutes before they stopped in front of an office door. Auror McIntire knocked, and opened the door when a gruff voice ordered them to enter. Inside was a cluttered office. Well, it seemed cluttered, but that was simply because of all the filing cabinets and shelves full of neat stacks of paper and folders.

"Took you long enough," groused a balding man behind a desk. "Well? Don't stand there staring, get in here. I'm a busy man, and I don't have time to sit around all day like others." He cast a sharp glance at Auror McIntire. Anna firmly decided not to trust this new man. She moved forward and stood in front of the desk. "You must be Anna Stone."

"That is what I was told," answered Anna. The plump, balding man looked at her with watery gray eyes.

"No call for such cheek," he snapped. "Youngsters always trying to be smart. The lot of them just need a bit of discipline. Take a switch to their hides and there would be less trouble from them."

Anna waited for him to finish muttering. "Sir? Is there any way you can tell me what my name is? It would appear I was lied to concerning my name."

The man looked at her in dismay. "You mean your name is not Anna Stone? Then you should have said so in the first place. That means I have to redo all the paperwork. Now tell me your name. Well, out with it, girl!" he yelled when she remained silent.

"I do not remember," she said. "I don't know my name, or my family's names. I was kidnapped as a small child."

"Whatever," grumbled Mr. Gallatin. "We have letters from both Hogwarts in Scotland and Beaubatons in France. Both are apparently impressed with you and are willing to let begin this year. I also have a small leaflet on each school. You may read over them if you like, but they need a response no later than tomorrow."

Anna was quiet for a moment. "I choose Hogwarts. At least I won't need to learn a new language on top of everything else."

Mr. Gallatin thrust a folded piece of parchment at her. "Here, your letter."

She took it and opened it. The writing inside was in an elegant, though easily read script, in lovely green ink. Miss Stone, we are most pleased to invite you to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, beginning this coming term. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

"Could I have some parchment and a quill with ink?" she asked softly. "I need to write my acceptance and send it off today."

Auror McIntire smiled at her. "Of course," he said. He was interrupted by more grumbling from Mr. Gallatin.

"Acceptance letter, hpmh. Acts like she's getting an Order of Merlin or something."

Apparently Auror McIntire had had enough. "Is there something wrong with a child being intelligent and well-spoken, Mr. Gallatin?" he said sternly. "Or with being polite and formal with an adult they have only just me, regardless of a very poor first impression?"

The balding man sputtered a bit. "Now see here…"

"No, you see here," snapped McIntire. "We took time getting here because I had to report to the Head Auror concerning the situation of this child. According to her testimony, she was abducted at a very young age and held for continual ransom for years while being treated as a house elf. Her hands are covered in callouses from chopping wood. A ten-year-old girl, chopping wood! It's a miracle she didn't cut off her foot! Then she finally fled in fear, seeking refuge at the Department, and she has to stand here and be belittled by a prejudiced fool that thinks every problem with a child can be solved with a beating like the ones that left scars all over her!"

Anna looked at him in wonder. The air around him had changed. It was bright, and looked like a caged fire. She narrowed her eyes a little, watching the swirling colors. They seemed to be in the shape of a large bird, like an eagle. It was rather pretty.

"Now," continued McIntire. "I'm going to take this girl back to her room, where she will write her letter to Hogwarts, then I'm taking her to Diagon Alley to make the needed purchases. We will return in a few hours once everything is in order. I am also invoking my right as her assigned protector to approve any guardian chosen for her. Should you not find an acceptable one before she begins school, I shall consider my claim as magical guardian undisputed. So I say, so mote it be." A sort of shiver went through the room at the last few words.

"You fool!" cried Mr. Gallatin. "Do you realize what you've done?"

"I've ensured this poor girl's future safety and care. My words have been recorded. My oath is sealed. Deal with it." He turned sharply and ushered Anna out the door without a word.

...***...

A half hour later, her letter was written and sent off, and McIntire was leading her to the Apparition point in the main hall. "Now remember to hold on tight to me," he said. "Our landing may disorient you a bit, but that's normal." He held her close and Anna felt that strange feeling of being squeezed through a very small space then tossed out the other side.

As soon as her feet touched the ground, she stumbled. She gripped McIntire's red robes tightly, trying to regain her senses. "Can we go back for a moment?" she asked. "I left something behind."

"What's that?" asked McIntire.

She looked at him with a rueful smile. "My stomach." The Auror threw his head back and laughed.

"Oh, you're priceless, child," he said. "Let's go. You did very well for such a long trip. You have your list?" she nodded. "And your gold?" She patted the pocket of her cloak. "Good girl. Now, first stop will be my jeweler friend. We'll see what he can do about your necklace, and we'll handle some of the other shopping while he works. We'll get the wand last."

And off they went to a small, unassuming shop. Anna had to force herself to pay attention to McIntire, but the wonder of all the shops kept pulling her attention. Once inside, she took a breath. Though small and plain from the outside, the shop was filled with beautiful pieces of jewelry. Metals and gems of all shapes, colors and sheens were everywhere. McIntire led her straight to the counter at the back.

An old man stepped from the back room, his back a bit stooped and his white hair a bit wild. He had a pair of glasses with various lenses that lifted and lowered, and he looked a bit funny. His clothes, though simple, were clean. "McIntire!" the man called in a warmly accented voice. "It has been a while since you stopped by. How may I assist you?"

"Good to see you, too, Andre. I'm afraid I don't have much time today. I'm escorting a student to purchase her things." He motioned to Anna. "She needs a few things to help her along, items that need to be at hand, but not seen."

Andre's pale eyes widened in understanding. "I see. Well, what do you have for me to work with, and what exactly do we need?" he waved his hand, and Anna felt various privacy spells activate around the shop.

"The band around her neck is very precious to her, but perhaps you can modify it a bit. She will be attending Hogwarts, and I fear the band might be a bit unfashionable. Also, a nice pendant would be a good idea. I intend for both the chain and the pendant to be Portkeys, one that will take her to the train platform for Hogwarts, and one that will take her to persons that have will have no agenda with her."

Andre looked up at that. "A ransom child?"

"Indeed."

"I see. Depending on who her parents are, the Ministry will try to interfere. Best that she have trusted ones outside all such ties to care for in time of need. And the Portkey to get her to the school is brilliant. No one will know where she stays or who cares for her. Very cunning, McIntire."

McIntire smiled, but it looked but wicked and playful. "My father was in Slytherin."

"What's Slytherin?" asked Anna.

"Ah, I forgot," said McIntire. Anna handed over an emerald she had found in the leather sack, a deep green one the size of a Knut, and Andre was examining it to determine the best way to set it in a necklace. "When you get to Hogwarts, you will go through a Sorting Ceremony. Don't ask how it's done, tradition states we cannot tell. You will be sorted into one of four houses, based on your personality, values, and particular skills. That house will become like your family during your years at the school.

"The four houses are Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw, named after the four founders of the school. Gryffindor tends to value courage and honor, though recently they focus a great deal on the courage. Hufflepuff is known for loyalty and nurturing, and they produce a very high number of healers and herbologists. Ravenclaw values intelligence and wisdom, but they tend to take that to mean book knowledge is better than all else. And the house of Slytherin for the cunning and wily minds, gifted in power. They get a bad reputation, as many who come from that house are considered dark. And lately they have been rather obsessed with pure-blood status."

"That's not fair," said Anna. At the surprised looks, she explained. "Courage is all well and good, but if you lack the wisdom to see that you are no match for your opponent, you are only asking for trouble. And if you constantly seek out trouble to prove your courage, then all you are counting on is luck. Knowledge is a wonderful thing, but what good is it if you only seek more but never apply any in your life? Loyalty is beautiful, but one needs the courage to stand against those who are wrong, even if they are your friends. Cunning and strategy are great, but sometimes you need to have the courage to take a risk, or you may lose all."

McIntire smiled widely. "You are going to end up turning that school on its ear. And it's about time. Each house, especially Gryffindor, has become too set in their thinking."