The next few days were hectic for Harry. Minerva showed Harry how to use the different features of his library trunk. She showed him how to find a specific book as well as access the entire collection at once and everything in between. Minerva said.
"Harry, I know you would like to take this to Hogwarts but I must ask you not to."
"How come?" Harry asked.
"It isn't against the rules to have your own library but some people may want to take advantage of you because of it. You may take some of the books with you; I'll help you choose an excellent selection but the bulk of them should stay here. I'm not trying to keep them from you but there are some very valuable tomes inside; I know that the scrolls you have are priceless."
"I understand. May I take my family grimoire?" Harry asked.
"Of course, in fact I insist. You are the only person who can even touch that book so it is very safe. I do have a small request. May I have access to your mother's personal spell book? She was working on something and I just want to be certain it is safe then I'll return it to you." Minerva asked.
"You can borrow it for as long as you want. You can borrow anything I have whenever you want." Harry exclaimed as he handed her the book.
"Thank you. You are most generous. Most people are reluctant to share their wealth of knowledge with others. Your scrolls are centuries old and the knowledge they contain has probably been forgotten for ages."
"Why do I have other family grimoires?" Harry asked.
"You are the last blood relative of all those families. This world has its fair share of problems and they usually are solved by war. I dislike talking about such things with students but it is a fact of life in our world." Minerva said solemnly.
"The muggle world has wars all the time. It's hard to read a newspaper without reading about one country fighting another for whatever reason." Harry responded.
"Enough of this war talk. Let's look through your collection and get you sorted out. If you think your library is impressive, just wait until you see the Hogwart's library." Minerva said.
"Can we go flying afterwards?" Harry asked blushing.
"Absolutely!" Minerva said grinning.
They spent the next few hours choosing a wide variety of books for Harry. In the end, he had about fifty books that covered every subject at Hogwarts and then some. They flew on their brooms until Mipsy called them for dinner. That night, Harry added a few books that caught his eye. Nothing dangerous but not Minerva approved. He also packed his invisibility cloak.
The next morning, Harry and Minerva went to Diagon Alley for the Muggle-Borne Orientation at the Leaky Cauldron. There were a few families in attendance and all were both excited and concerned. Minerva began the meeting.
"Welcome everyone, my name is Minerva McGonagall. I am Deputy Headmistress, as well as your Transfiguration teacher and head of Gryffindor House. Today I will answer any final questions you may have and then show you how to board the train in September. Does anyone have any questions?"
"Yes, what type of jobs will Hogwarts prepare our children for?" A well dressed man asked.
"Hogwarts will prepare your children for a wide variety of occupations. Law enforcement, medical, teaching, business management, government and so forth. We do not have advance educational services as universities but we do have apprenticeships for most subjects. If you are concerned with your children continuing their education, we do have programs to assist them in attending Muggle University." Minerva answered.
"What types of extracurricular activities are available?" Another asked.
"We have sports teams for each house and a wide variety of clubs the students can join. The Charms and Herbology clubs are the most popular. We also have art, music and culture clubs; all of which are run by older students. We encourage students to form their own clubs, with staff approval, if they have an interest in something that isn't currently offered. I will provide you with a complete list before we are finished today." Minerva answered.
"I've read that the portraits around Hogwarts talk. Do they serve any other purpose?" A bushy haired girl asked.
"The portraits are there to assist you if you become lost. I must warn you that some of them can be quite surly at times so be polite. One of the most difficult aspects of starting Hogwarts is learning your way around."
"Can we get a map or something to help us?" Harry asked.
"We do have maps available upon request Mr. Potter." Minerva said with a grin.
"You're Harry Potter; I've read all about you." The bushy haired girl exclaimed.
"Hermione behave, you're embarrassing him." Her mother scolded.
"Sorry, it's just that I . . ."
"It's okay. I've read some of those books myself. I just wish they would have talked to me first, they messed up the facts pretty badly." Harry said.
"But the books said." Hermione exclaimed.
"Now are there any more questions?" Minerva asked in a stern voice regaining control.
There were a few minor questions from the other parents and Minerva answered them. She continued to explain the differences between the muggle and magical worlds and why the separation was necessary. The meeting continued with a brief discussion on how to properly enter the barrier at King's Cross Station and ended with a practice run through the actual barrier. The parents were informed that several people would be on hand to assist them if needed.
The meeting ended and most of the attendees ate lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. Minerva was chatting with several families about personal concerns so Harry decided to find a table and eat. He was just getting settled when the bushy haired girl approached him and said.
"May we join you?"
"Of course." Harry said. He stood up and pulled the chair next to him out for the young girl. She blushed at Harry's thoughtfulness and took her seat. Her father was about to take his seat when his wife cleared her throat and he pulled her chair out for her. He felt a bit embarrassed being shown up by an eleven year old. The young girl spoke.
"My name is Hermione Granger, These are my parents Rupert and Evanna; they're dentists."
"It's nice to meet you, I'm Harry Potter."
"It's nice to meet you too. I'm surprised to see you here; I would have thought that someone would have informed you of everything personally, considering who you are." Hermione said.
"I only found out that I'm a wizard this summer. The only person who has explained anything to me has been . . . Um Professor McGonagall." Harry said sheepishly.
"What did you mean the books were mistaken? If they were wrong they would not have printed them." Hermione asked strongly.
"I've never been interviewed for any books. One of them said I like building sand castles but I've never even been to the beach. I'm not sure why they printed such things." Harry said.
"But if they printed lies, can't you sue them?" Evanna asked.
"I don't know. I know that the laws are different here then in the muggle world so I'm not certain what I can do, but what would be the point. I don't want to cause any trouble." Harry said.
"I suppose you're right but people should know the truth about you." Hermione said.
"If they want to know the truth about me, they can just ask. I'm not some stuck up celebrity, I'm just Harry."
"Well then just Harry, what do you like to do?" Hermione asked in a superior tone.
"I like to read and learn new languages. I'm a pretty good cook. I can play the Recorder fairly well and I just learned how to fly a broom and I'm pretty good at that." Harry said
"What languages do you speak?" Rupert asked.
"I speak Latin, Spanish, Italian and French. Latin was really hard but helped me with the others. I'm not that good yet but I know the basics. I'd like to learn Japanese. " Harry proclaimed.
"Impressive, I'm learning French myself. We go to France on holiday often so I wanted to learn; although Japanese sounds intriguing; they have a very ancient and interesting culture. I can play the Recorder as well." Hermione said proudly.
"Maybe once I buy my own we can practice together. What else do you like to do?" Harry asked curiously.
"I like to read and I'm practicing creative writing; I want to write books some day. I like to swim and I'm learning how to ski however I'm not very good yet. Who taught you how to fly? The books said you lived in the muggle world." Hermione asked sternly.
"Um . . . Please don't tell anyone but Professor McGonagall is my new guardian and she taught me how to fly; she's wicked on a broom herself. She took custody of me at the start of summer and taught me some things about this world, she's really great." Harry said smiling.
"I won't tell. What are friends for? I mean if you want to be." Hermione said sheepishly.
"I'd like that." Harry said smiling.
Hermione broke out into a huge smile, having made her first friend. Her parents shared a look and smiled at the changes in their daughter and shared the same thought that the magical world wasn't so bad after all. The four chatted about other things; Evanna insisted Harry come to their dental practice at the first opportunity, since he has never been before. This exchange did not go unnoticed by his aunt who smiled at the happiness he brought his new friend.
Harry took the time and met several other students that attended the meeting. Dean Thomas and Justin Finch-Fletchley were nice enough but he didn't get to know them well. Sally-Anne Perks was an excitable girl although quite nice. Everyone departed then Harry was left alone with Minerva then they returned home. Upon arrival, Minerva asked.
"Did you make a new friend?"
"Yes, Hermione is real nice. I told her about you being my guardian though. I hope I didn't cause any problems; she said she wouldn't say anything." Harry said mournfully.
"You don't have to be so secretive about us. My guardianship of you is public record; just don't think you can take advantage of that young man." Minerva reminded.
"I won't. It was hard not to call you Aunt Minerva; I hope I don't mess up at school."
"We'll deal with that if it happens, but try not to worry yourself. Next week I have to return to Hogwarts for the final preparation for the start of term. If there is anything you need you have to let me know before then." Minerva said.
"I think I have everything I need but I wouldn't mind buying a Recorder if it isn't much trouble. I can play fairly well and Hermione plays also." Harry answered.
"I know just the place but we have to return to Raven's Cove." Minerva teased.
Harry grinned widely; Raven's Cove was a wonderful place. Since it was still early, the two apparated to their favorite place and went to the music store. Harry purchased a new Recorder and Minerva bought him a selection of sheet music to practice. They returned home then separated; each had last minute preparations to attend to.
The last week at McGonagall Cottage went too quickly for Harry. It was the last time he would see his Aunt Minerva everyday until school started and he was feeling down. He triple checked to be certain he had everything packed. He added a few more titles to his personal collection brining the grand total to nearly a hundred. He shrank his trunk with its built in resizing charm and told Hedwig to meet him at the Bones'. He gave Mipsy a warm hug goodbye, which she returned tearfully. She was going to miss her young master. Madam Umbridge arrived earlier to give Harry a few books on government to read at school that he graciously accepted. He gave Dolores a polite kiss on her hand and she gave him a warm hug in return, she would miss her favorite student as well.
Minerva and Harry apparated to Bones Manor and were met by a dignified house elf named Vito. He lead them inside to the sitting room when Harry thought to himself, I've been here before but I can't remember when. The pair were met by Amelia and Susan who showed Harry to his room. After resizing his trunk, he returned to the sitting room and said his goodbye to Minerva. The dignified witch tried fiercely to hide her tears but knew they would be reunited shortly.
After Minerva had departed, Susan took Harry on a tour of Bones Manor. It was a large mansion, but not as large as others Susan had heard about. It had five floors and a basement, which was off limits. The top floor was the best because it held the owlery, Hedwig had arrived while they were there, and had a grand view of the property. The other floors held many unused bedrooms as well as a room specifically for the Bones Family tree. The library was on the second floor, where Harry's and Susan's rooms were as well. The tour ended and the pair exited to the garden where they sat on a bench near a fountain. Susan spoke.
"What do you think?"
"I think its wonderful but a bit large for my tastes. Do you like living here?" Harry asked.
"Its okay I guess. You're right, it is large and it gets lonely sometimes." Susan said sadly.
"Why would you be lonely?"
"I don't have many friends, just you and Luna. This house is so empty and quiet it can be scary sometimes. When Aunt Amelia has dinner parties I usually stay in my room, not because I'm unwelcome but I just don't feel comfortable around her friends. Besides, I have to act like a proper lady around them." Susan said solemnly.
"What do mean by a proper lady? This is your home you should be able to act any way you want."
"True but during those parties her guests are usually from the Ministry of Magic; she is Director of Magical Law Enforcement. The way I act around them reflects on her. When we're alone its different and I can act normal but most of the time I can't."
"How do you usually act? What do you like to do when your not being a proper lady?" Harry teased.
"I'll show you." Susan said grinning.
She took Harry and lead him to a large pond on the property. She removed her shoes and socks; Harry did the same and rolled up his pants legs. They waded out a bit and Susan showed Harry the best places to catch frogs and tadpoles. The two spent about an hour laughing and catching frogs then releasing them. Vito retrieved the wayward children and brought them inside for tea and biscuits. The two sat in the garden having, enjoying the weather, chatting about Hogwarts and what's to come. Harry spoke.
"That was fun. I've never did that before. What else do you like to do?"
"I enjoy drawing and listening to music; The Weird Sisters are my favorite band. I'm learning how to play the violin but I want to play the saxophone. I read a lot but that's just because I really don't have anything else to do. The rest of the time I just catch frogs or just sit around; my aunt is so busy all the time we really don't go anywhere. We have gone on holiday to Spain and Austria but other than that I'm here." Susan finished sadly.
"The only places I've been were Raven's Cove and a Scottish festival and that was this summer. I'd like to travel when I get older. I want to see all those places I've only read about." Harry said.
"That would be wicked. Many people take time off after Hogwarts to travel before starting their career."
"I'm going to travel every year until I've seen it all." Harry proclaimed proudly.
"Want some company?" Susan said with a blush.
"Wouldn't be any fun without you." Harry teased.
The two laughed and enjoyed the rest of the day talking and just enjoying each other's company.
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Meanwhile at Hogwarts:
Preparations for the start of term were well underway. Everyone was busy getting the school in order for the upcoming year. The special requirements on the third floor were being put into place, much to Minerva's dislike. Many of the professors involved were reluctant about having such an item in the school filled with students but kept their opinions to themselves. The one that was having the most difficult time was the Headmaster, Albus Dumbledore.
The ancient wizard sat in his office mulling over the seemingly endless stream of parchment work that needed to be completed but he was currently distracted. This was the year Harry Potter started Hogwarts and he was distressed. He pondered to himself; All of my initial plans are useless because of Minerva. I knew Petunia would keep Harry from receiving his letter then Hagrid would have been sent to retrieve him, to begin his training. What am I to do? Harry needs to be properly molded if he is to face his destiny. If Fudge hadn't acted as he did, this would not have happened. How do I salvage this without causing more problems? There is too much at stake to fail. The elderly mage breathed a heavy sigh then continued with his thankless task wondering what to do about his prize pupil.
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The month of August seemed to fly by. Harry and Susan became good friends, each learning about the muggle and magical worlds. His letters to and from Luna were a joy to read and kept his spirits high. He wrote to Hermione twice and she was ecstatic; she and Susan became quill pals and couldn't wait to meet each other. Before they knew it, September first had arrived. Amelia, Susan and Harry took a car supplied by the Ministry to the train station. Hedwig flew on her own to meet them there. They met the Granger family outside the barrier and Harry made the introductions. Since muggles couldn't enter the magical platform, Amelia went with the children and helped them find a compartment then departed to assist other students.
The train ride was uneventful at the start. Harry, Susan and Hermione were enjoying the ride talking. Hermione said.
"We should change into our robes so we do not have to worry about it later."
"Good idea. I'll wait outside so no one bothers you." Harry said.
The two girls thanked him for his kindness then Harry waited patiently outside their compartment. In the hall, Harry was approached by a tall red haired boy wearing a Prefect's badge. He said in a stern voice.
"You should not be loitering in the hall. Return to your compartment."
"I'm not loitering. The girls I'm sharing a compartment are changing and I didn't want anyone walking in on them." Harry answered politely.
"Very commendable; carry on then." The prefect said in a superior tone.
He began to walk away when he was approached by a pudgy, blond by looking lost. The prefect dismissed the boy saying he had other more important things to attend to. Harry spoke to the boy.
"Are you alright?"
"No, I've lost my toad. Have you seen him?" The boy said nervously.
"I'm sorry I haven't, but I know of a spell that could help. My name's Harry." He said extending his hand.
"Neville Longbottom. Are you Harry Potter?" He said in a cracked voice taking Harry's proffered hand.
"Yes but I'm nothing special. I'm just Harry."
"Do you really know a spell that can help me find Trevor?" Neville asked hopefully.
"Sure do but I have to check the book it's in and we have to wait for the girls in there to finish changing." Harry said pointing at his compartment.
The two boys chatted for a short while when the door opened revealing Susan and Hermione fully changed. Harry teased his friends.
"Well ladies you are looking quite witchy."
"Well thank you kind sir." Susan replied with a curtsy.
Hermione smiled and shook her head at her friends' antics. Harry said.
"This is Neville Longbottom. These are Susan Bones and Hermione Granger."
As the three were introduced, Harry retrieved his trunk from the luggage rack and opened the book compartment, as he called it. Hermione's eyes went wide with delight as Harry retrieved the book he needed. He quickly found the spell he needed and asked.
"Your toad's name is Trevor?"
"Yes." Neville answered.
Harry drew his wand and began a tight clockwise motion and said aloud, "INVENIRE-TREVOR THE TOAD."
A grayish mist appeared and words began to form. Trevor the toad is located in the second section, girl's lavatory, Hogwart's Express. The mist faded a few moments later then Harry said.
"Well we had better rescue Trevor. Susan, Hermione would you help us please?"
"I'd be happy to." Susan said proudly.
"I'll help to." Hermione said happily.
"Thank you. I hope he's alright." Neville said.
"Hedwig will you watch our things please." Harry asked.
Hedwig barked her acknowledgement and the four friends set off on their rescue mission. They quickly made their way to their destination when Hermione and Susan entered and retrieved the wayward toad. Neville couldn't thank his new friends enough and accepted their offer to join them in their compartment.
As the four friends and Trevor made their way back to their compartment, they stopped to retrieve Neville's trunk and continued. Upon arrival, they saw Hedwig attacking a blond boy who was shouting obscenities. Harry called off Hedwig just as several prefects arrived. One of the prefects said with authority.
"What is going on here?"
"That foul beast attacked me. When my father hears of this, it will be destroyed." The blond boy said with a smirk.
"What were you doing in our compartment in the first place? She wouldn't have attacked if you hadn't provoked her." Harry said forcefully.
"Who do you think you are speaking to me in such a manner? I am Draco Malfoy and you should respect your betters."
"I'm Lord Harry Potter, last scion of House Potter and you should take your own advice. Now why were you in our compartment uninvited?" He said with authority.
Everyone was shocked, most of all Draco, at Harry's proclamation. Draco was trying to befriend Harry but made a horrid first impression. One of the prefects said.
"Lord Potter I'm certain there has been a misunderstanding. Mr. Malfoy must have mistakenly entered your compartment. I'm certain he meant no ill intentions. Is that correct Mr. Malfoy?" The prefect said in a silky smooth tone to advert the volatile situation.
"Yes, I was mistaken. I apologize for intruding." Draco said in a forced manner.
Harry accepted the apology then the gathering dispersed. Harry quickly praised Hedwig on her actions and checked her for injuries. Hermione said in a fearful tone.
"You're a Lord? I didn't know, please forgive me."
"Hermione relax, I only said that because Malfoy was acting superior. I'm only a Lord when I need to be, I'm still just Harry to my friends. Besides, he shouldn't have been here in the first place. Well done Hedwig." He said.
Hedwig barked her elation as Harry gave her several owl treats for her actions; she trained her human well. After a few tense moments Hermione said.
"Harry were did you get all those books?"
"They're from my family library. I wanted to bring the whole thing but was talked out of it. I wanted a good selection though."
"May I take a look?" Hermione asked sheepishly.
"Of course." Harry said opening the book compartment. He handed her the book he used earlier and said, "This book series is really useful."
"Thank you." Hermione said accepting the offered tome. She placed the book next to her and began browsing Harry's collection. While she was busy, Susan, Harry and Neville were getting to know one another. Hermione completed her initial survey and had been completely impressed. She was quietly reading the book Harry had handed her when a woman with a snack cart arrived. Harry purchased a few chocolate frogs and a bottle of pumpkin juice. Neville and Susan purchased a few items while Hermione bought some pumpkin juice as well. While enjoying their repast, Hermione asked.
"Harry why didn't you just use the summoning charm Accio to retrieve Trevor?"
"Well, he was behind several doors and would have been smashed. Also, um I can't do that one yet." He finished sheepishly.
Hermione smiled at his admittance and continued reading. She read the theory and drew her wand and said, "Accio owl treats," then the bag of owl treats Harry had beside him flew towards her but stopped short of her hand. Harry looked at her and said.
"You got a better reaction than I did."
"Thanks, it's harder than it looks." Hermione said with a blush.
"Tell me about it." Harry replied smiling.
The rest of the train ride was, for the most part, uneventful. Several people came by the compartment to meet The-Boy-Who-Lived but Harry kept calm and polite even though he was annoyed. While eating his chocolate frog, he received the card for Albus Dumbledore. While reading the card, it glowed blue for a moment then returned to normal; this went unnoticed by his friends. The announcement that the train would arrive shortly and the four friends repacked their belongings. Harry set the security features on his trunk then waited patiently.
The train arrived at the station and the first years were directed to the dock where Harry saw the largest man he had ever seen. The four friends shared a boat and were off. While going under an outcropping of trees, Harry felt a tingling sensation that his friends did not. They rounded a corner and received their first look at Hogwarts and wondered what adventures await them inside.
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Disclaimer: I own nothing pertaining to Harry Potter.
Invenire: find
A/N: It always irked me when people have Harry summon Trevor in time travel stories. Doors do not open if you summon something.