Chapter 3

Decisions, Decisions

Albus Dumbledore sat in his study thinking about recent events that led him to where he was at now. The idea that Harry would abandoned them and let Voldemort rule was unthinkable. It was partial Albus fault in the first place. Trying to ignore the warning signs and play it off as Harry was too young was not acceptable. Now his plans sat in ruins if he does not comply with what Harry was asking of him. His first thoughts were how Harry got to Diagon Alley without being seen. Albus would have to take steps to try and get Harry back. If the public found out that Harry Potter was trying to leave the Wizarding World, all blame would fall to him and the Ministry would look closer at is running of Hogwarts, something that he did not want to happen. Dumbledore kept all complaints about Snape and never followed up, he did not know that in doing that he alienate himself against the school and the fallout would bring him down in the coming months. Dumbledore sat at his desk writing a letter in hoping he can track Harry Potter. A Knock at his door brought him out of his thoughts "Come in" said Dumbledore.

In came Severus Snape, he look troubled and had something on his mind. "The Dark Lord has been quiet lately, he mostly keeps himself in his room researching something. The only person he talks to are Rockwood and Bellatrix." Said Snape

"Do you have any idea what they do talk about? This is a bit puzzling, I wonder what the Dark Lord is researching. Can you ask around to get an idea on what it is that Voldemort is looking for?" Said Albus.

"I would but that can backfire on me, rumor has it that the Dark Lord made those two take an oath of secrecy and also there is another rumor. A false trail to sort out a spy or any traitors. So as you can see I am stuck in a hard position. But I know that Rockwood worked in the Department of Mysteries, so I can say that it may have to do with somethings in there." Said Snape

"This is most troubling, I will think on this and give you an answer on it tomorrow." Said Dumbledore.

With that said Snape left and Dumbledore sat there contemplating on the next step. His spy in Voldemort forces could be in trouble, how are they to fight if they can't get any information on Voldemort. It decided that Snape should do nothing and just let the situation play out to see what the outcome would be.

While Dumbledore sat and thought about his plans and future plans for the Order, Voldemort was indeed researching something what was to be a myth. Something that the Department of Mysteries does not want anyone to know about. Right now Rockwood was making his way back to Voldemort with some information while Bella was stuck at a dead end. Bella sat in the Malfoy library research and looking through tomes and scripts. That is where Narcissa found her.

"What are you search for dear sister?" asked Narcissa.

"Something for the Dark Lord, but I can't say because of the oath but I can say this, it's ancient and could be of use to the Dark Lord. So I was using Lucius's library as he have books that are illegal and old." Said Bellatrix.

While both Black sisters were talking and discussing about their master's plan. Rockwood was making his way back to the throne room. What he had to report was somewhat better then Bellatrix but he was confident that his master will see it this way.

"My Lord I have return with some news, on my research. It's not much information but the Department of Mysteries have little to go on. The Unspeakable that was working on this left no notes and destroyed almost everything." Said Rockwood

"What is it that you have to say on your report?" said Voldemort.

"Well after using my contacts in the department, which got me nowhere. I ended up going in and searching around the old archives and reports. I was able to get a report that was written by the Unspeakable that was appointed this project, it was a potion for resurrecting pharaohs. This potion was first created by the Ancient Egyptians for their Pharaohs to rule the land for years to come." Said Rockwood.

"Can you get the recipe and also what is the name of the Unspeakable, and bring them here so I can personally question them" said Voldemort.

Not sure what to tell their Dark Lord, Rockwood thought for a moment and gather his thoughts about what he should and should not say. Deciding he rather tell all about his findings "after looking through the report I asked and search around for the name of the Unspeakable that wrote it. The code name that came up with this report was Morgana Le Fay." Said Rockwood.

Dark Lord Voldemort thought on this for a couple minutes and then said this "I want the real name of this person and have he or she brought her for me. I want all information about this project and anything of value brought to my attention. Wormtail stay behind I have a special mission for you." Said Voldemort.

"My Lord you called for me." Replied Wormtail.

"Yes, I want you to watch Severus Snape carefully. He has been in Dumbledore's pocket and right now I am unsure if I can trusted him. So I would like you to report anything he does out of order. If he has a meeting with Dumbledore I want to know about it. Got it" asked Voldemort.

"Yes My Lord" replied Wormtail and left.

With that said Wormtail left for Hogwarts, being a part of the Marauders made him what he was today. A sneaky rat that can spy on any one. Pettigrew hope that watching over Snape, he can get some juicy information about him and Dumbledore.

In the Meantime….

Harry was hard at work, discovering what his mother and hidden away. He learnt everything he could about his Hogwarts education and will be taking his OWLs later this month as he would not be returning. Until Riddle has been dealt with Harry saw no option, where would attending classes, learning charms, potions and doing homework help him. Dumbledore refuse to tell him anything, only stating that you're too young and not ready. Well Riddle would not wait until he is ready for when he thinks that Dumbledore felt that Harry was ready.

Hermione Granger was in pain and sweating and she like it a lot. After coming home from Gringotts and reading up on the Ravenwood family, discover their love of runes and elemental spells. She wanted to learn everything in the Ravenwoods family book of magic. After reading up on some spells, Hermione decided to go to the local gym and trained. There she was at now, running on the treadmill and then later practicing on the punching bag. Thinking about the past years behind her, thinking that it was always Harry that was in trouble and ended up saving the day. While she was helpless doing nothing, that was going to change. She will no longer be helpless and now a force to be reckoned with. She had received some letters from both Ron, Harry and also Ginny. That one confused her normally, Hermione would have a normal friendship with Ginny not like that she have with Harry. But, Ginny suddenly writing her was confusing. She never wrote before so Hermione will take this one step at a time. Harry wrote her early during the week and said he might be out of touch for a couple days and will response when he gets back. He also warned her about the Weasleys especially Ron. Harry did not give any reason but said that he will meet with her and discuss his findings.

Dear Hermione,

I know that we have not written each other, but I feel I should write and warn you about somethings. My mother has been acting really strange lately, I went downstairs quietly to get a drink of water and Dumbledore was there, he was talking about you and Harry. They are talking about give both of you potions and having them keyed to us. For, Harry they wanted him keyed to me and next year I would have his baby. Also Dumbledore has arrange for him to be killed by Tom so both Mom and Dumbledore would take over the Potter fortune. I tried to writing Harry and the letter come back unopen. If, you can contact him and let him know.

Be safe.

Ginny.

Was this what Harry was trying to warned her about? Hermione will have to wait until Harry replies to his letters, because they need to talk face to face. Until then she would carry on with her training. Hermione was also thinking about Dumbledore, while she respects authority figures. But, to her Dumbledore has too much political power and does nothing with it. He claims that he fights for muggleborns, but Hogwarts proves different. He allows bullying and teachers to abuse students verbally, also his constant reason to have Harry Potter kept in the dark about his family. So for those reason Hermione have decide to follow Harry Potter because he was her first friend and she owes her life to him. So she will be there for him when and where he needed her.

Right now Harry was need a lot, because there was plots against him coming from all directions. One from the Ministry, Second was from the Dark Lord Voldemort and the third was from Dumbledore and his Order. Speaking of Harry Potter, he was just finishing up his time in the chamber. When he was alerted by Hedwig of mail. Removing the letters from Hedwig and feed her some owl treats and fruits. Harry proceed to look at the letters. Some from Hermione and Ron, one from Dumbledore and the others were from Sirius.

Dear Harry

Thank you for your letters, I am fine and so is Buckbeak. We are currently hiding out and will be traveling north soon. I can't say much but we will speak in person. I have found Remus and we are both traveling together at Dumbledore orders.

Be safe

Sirius

Dear Harry,

Thank you for setting up wards for my parents, you didn't have to do that. I read about all the wards that you put up, now I can practice magic in the house without the Ministry knowing. My parents were thrill with what I was learning and helping them around the house with basic spells. How did you know about the inheritance test? I have been doing some training muggle style. I have join a local gym and my dad is teaching me to shoot a gun. I think that this was something that he wanted to share if he had a son. But, I was glad that my dad though me, we have boned again. I have finished all my homework and got some replies from Ron. Speaking of Ron, you warned me about the Weasleys, why what is wrong with them? I strange letter from Ginny, I think that we need to meet and talk in person. Let me know when and where.

Love Hermione.

Dear Harry

I have read your letter, while I agree with some parts. I think that we need to discuss somethings in person. What troubles me is that you are not returning to Hogwarts this year? What I can tell you that you have to return to Hogwarts, for the reason that you have not taken your OWLS. Only those whom have taken their OWLs can decided if they would like to return. But, until that time you are required to attend Hogwarts. I know that is not want you would like to hear, but I assure you that I do have your best interest at heart. Please meet me at The Leaky Cauldron tomorrow at noon, and I will explain some things to you.

Albus Dumbledore.

Harry read over the letter, it was check first for any portkeys or spells. Otherwise it would not be able to get through. First Harry though that he would need to get back to his relatives, so that no one can suspect anything that he will be doing. After getting dress Harry saw his new looks in the mirror, gone was the scrawny little boy, now he was a fit 6'1 man. His hair was shoulder length and was somewhat messy, but that can be easily fix. First thing Harry needs to do was get rid of this glasses, a trip to Muggleborn Alley.

Packing up his things, know that he will be returning in about two weeks, Harry instructed his house elves to keep up with the house and if anything call him. With all his belongs shrunk Harry portkey to Muggleborn Alley to get his eyes fixed first then prepare for Dumbledore.

Walking through the Alley and taken in some of the stores that he should visit, Harry found the one store that he was looking for, Magical Optometrist.

"Hello good morning young man, my name is Leo how may I be assist you today." Said Leo

"Hello sir I was wonder if I can get my eyes checked." Asked Harry

"Certainly just step this way and sit on the chair." Said Leo

Harry followed Leo to his office and sat on the chair while Leo went to the cabinet and grab some vials and return to him.

"Ok, I'm just going to put some solution in your eyes, it may sting for a while. This just to clean your eyes while I get the next step ready. Are you going for glasses or contacts." Asked Leo.

Harry thought for a minute on what he would like and then asked with this.

"Contacts but can you place some charms on them sir." Asked Harry.

"Certainly Mr. Potter what kind of charms would you like." Replied Leo

"I would like the basic charms along with what most Aurors have. For example, the ability to see through invisibly cloaks and also see wards." Asked Harry

"I can do that a put everything I got available on these contacts for you ." said Leo

With an agreement Leo went ahead and prepared the contacts for Harry. While Harry sat there, he thought about his up and coming meeting with Dumbledore. First he needed to go to Privet Drive and settle in for a couple days before finally leaving. Harry thought about Hermione and how she was getting on. She stated that she was training in her letters. Hermione was the one person that he can count on, she never left him and will always be at his side.

When Harry was done at the Optometrist he took the Knight Bus to Number 4 and greeted his relatives. "Hello Aunt Petunia, I will only be here for a couple days and after that I will be gone for good" Harry said.

Petunia Dursley acknowledge her nephew presence and went back to her cooking. Harry went up to his small room. Changes his clothes and went back down to talk to his aunt.

"Aunt Petunia, I just wanted you to know that I forgive you for all that you and Uncle Vernon has done to me. I also wanted to thank you for letting me stay here. You didn't have to but you did and I thank you" Harry said.

"You were just a little boy, but when you open your eyes it reminded me of Lily. I expected you hear the a lot, but have her eyes. She was a beautiful girl when we were kids, I would always look out for her because I was the oldest and my parents wanted me too. But, when she started to show signs of magic and I did not I was jealous. Jealous because she was special and I was not. Who would look out for her now that she will be going to a magic school? Then she met that boy, Severus Snape and everything change." Said Petunia.

"My mother knew Snape" asked Harry.

"Yes, he was always spying on us and watching us. When we were kids, we lived at Spinner's End. There Lily met Snape and that was when I lost my sister to the world of magic. After her first year she wanted nothing to do with us anymore. Only study magic and learn everything she can with Snape. I was tossed aside and forgotten about, that's when we had an argument and I left for Vernon's place. After our parents died, I blame her for not doing anything to help them. If she had magic couldn't she save them, all she would say was that she was sorry that she couldn't save them. Then the next time I heard from her was that she was getting married and I was invited. I choose not to go because of Vernon. His parents were killed by wizards and he never like them since. So for that reason I choose to forsake my sister when she need me the most, I know that I hurt her a couple times." Said Aunt Petunia.

"What happen after did you still yet in touch with my mother." Asked Harry.

"It was war time in the wizarding world so her letters we less and less until they stop coming. I thought the worst after that. I would pay attention to the news to listen for any unexplained murders. Then one day out of the blue, Lily arrived and was knocking on my door. Lucky Vernon was not home. I immediately let her in and hug her. I wanted to know what is going on and why did she stop replying to my letters. Lily explained that there is a civil war going on and there is an evil wizard who wants to rule the wizarding world. He did not like Lily's kind and wanted them gone. I asked her what did she meant by that. She explain there were muggleborns and purebloods. After she explained I begged her to leave the wizarding world and come back home to me. Lily told me she couldn't do that, her husband was fighting against the Dark Lord and she wanted to be at his side. She said he was fight for her son Harry, which was when she showed me a picture of you as a baby." Said Aunt Petunia

"What happen after?" asked Harry

"That was the last time I saw Lily alive. Then a couple days later I saw you at the front door with a letter stating that my sister was dead and you were my responsibility now. I could not grief for my sister I was not able to go to her funeral and I was not able to say my good-byes to her. That is why I dislike the wizarding world, they took my sister away from me" said Petunia.

Petunia then started to cry thinking about those moments brought back memories.

"I am sorry I did not know that, if you would like I can tell you where her grave is, I have not been there myself but I have asked some of my professors where was my parents buried. Also I would suggest taking a leave of absence from Privet Drive, because things might start back up again and I know my mother would not like for you to get hurt. I would suggest leaving England and go somewhere and don't me. I will be gone in a couple days after I leave the wards will no longer work" said Harry.

"Thank you, I am sorry for the way we threated you, I know that I don't have any right to ask for forgiveness. But, I was afraid the same thing would happen to you that happen to my sister. My family, no our family has suffered much I did not want to lose the last connection I have with my sister. But I knew that a day would come and you will be a part of that world that took her from me. A world that shows that I do not belong and what my sister fought for and died for. So I tried to not get to attach to you because of that. I hope that you take care of yourself and when you finish your fighting I would like for both of us to go to their graves and pay our respects. I will leave you to your work" said Aunt Petunia.

With that conversation Harry found a new respect for his aunt. He thought that he always know about her. But she has been carrying this grief for so long. A part of him understand the grief his aunt was talking about. He haven't been told where his parent were buried or even their graves. But, his aunt lost a sister to the wizarding world. With that said Harry went into the bathroom and change his clothes and dress to meet Dumbledore later.

HOGWARTS, HEADMASTER OFFICE

Albus was going over papers, wondering where he went wrong. Severus Snape entered to his office. "You called for me" asked Snape.

"Yes, any word on what Voldemort is searching for?" asked Albus.

"None only Rockwood and Bellatrix knows and those two are nothing saying anything to anybody" replied Snape.

"I want you to accompany me to a meeting with Harry Potter" said Dumbledore.

"Why are we meeting Potter, what did Potter demand of you now?" asked Snape.

"Well Harry has decided that he no longer needs the wizarding world and will be leaving. I told him that until he takes the OWLs he will be unable to leave. That gives us a little over a year to get things under control. I want you to accompany me and read him, see if you can find out that he has been doing over the summer" said Dumbledore.

While Dumbledore and Snape try planning for Harry's meeting, they did not know that the same was going on with Harry. He was at the Leaky Cauldron putting up some spells and wards that he had found from his mother's journal. One particular spell was to stop magic from anyone with a Dark Mark. His mother had found a way to bind the magic from anyone with a Dark Mark. Also it looks like she did some modification with it too. She had also made it impossible to cast magic inside the ward except for the castor whom put the wards up.

After some time later, both Dumbledore and Snape arrived. But, Snape was under an invisibility cloak. But what he did not know what that the wards were put making his cloak useless. Dumbledore sat down and waited for Harry Potter to arrive not knowing that he was already they and watching.

"You were told to come alone, but I as you can see this is why I don't trust you" said Harry

"I did come alone, Harry" said Dumbledore.

"Oh, really, then perhaps you can explain to me why is Snape in the corner under a cloth" asked Harry. Pointing to where Snape was and doing a terrible of hiding.

Dumbledore looked to his right and saw that it was indeed Severus Snape trying to hide under a cloak. But doing a bad job of it, for some reason Harry has suppress all magic.

"So, this is why I don't trust you right now, I have an owl on its way to the Prophet to delivered the news that I will be leaving the wizarding world and the reason why. After the people read what I have to say, how long do you thing you can keep Snape out of trouble" said Harry.

"That would not be necessary Harry, I will tell you whatever it is that you would like to know" said Dumbledore.

"Ok, we will start with something simple, why did you put in with the Dursleys when my parents wills stated not to. You ignored their last wishes and then seal the wills, what purpose does that serve. Also, I had no knowledge of the wizarding world, the muggleborns had a better understanding then myself. Care to explain that?" said Harry.

"All I can say is that I'm sorry, I had hope that Petunia would love you like her son. But it seems that she did not. What I was grateful for, was that she took you in and by doing that she seal the wards that allow you to be safe. Safe from those that wish you harm, although Voldemort was defeated his followers was not. Some was looking for a way to return him to his power right after he was defeated. I would hope that you trust my judgement and know that I was looking out for you." Said Dumbledore.

"Then perhaps you can explain why there are several inquiries with my vaults statements and why I was never receiving them. Why is Riddle after me or my family that night he attacked? Also you can explain why it is you trust Snape?" asked Harry.

"Well I was made your magical guardian per your parents will and those withdraws where for school and for the Dursley's as payment for your upbringing. They had one child and as your magical guardian I give them some money. As for why Riddle wanted you I'm afraid that you should enjoy your childhood and when the time is right I will tell you that and why I trust Snape. You will have to trust me on this Harry, I want what best for you" said Dumbledore.

"You want to know why I requested this meeting here Professor, it was to distract you while the Goblins reclaim all the Potter's assets that you have removed from the vault without my permission and also reclaim all moneys that was not spent on myself without my knowledge. Also I have told them that I haven't been receiving any statements. You know what they found that all my mail was directed to you so because you interfered with Gringotts related business they froze your vaults and seize almost everything that you owned. They are going through everything to make sure that you didn't take anything from other vaults or any other families. Because you just lied to me Professor I will say that you are worst then Voldemort for this community" said Harry.

"I'm sorry that you feel that way Harry but it was for the greater good and in time you will see it. So to why Voldemort was after your family, I'm afraid that you are too young to know that Harry. I want you to enjoy your childhood." said Dumbledore.

"What childhood would that be? It can't be mines because that was destroyed by Voldemort and the Dursley. So will ask again and please note that I can tell when you're lying to me. So why Voldemort was after my family and what does Snape have to do with this?" asked Harry.

"I'm sorry Harry but it was for the best. As for Voldemort, I hope that you can trust me when I say that there was a prophecy about you and Voldemort. As for Snape, I trust him so there for you can trust me" said Dumbledore.

"That's a reason why I stop trusting you and would not follow you anymore. It's because you say that you trust Snape but would not tell anyone. Well guess what a lot of people don't trust Snape who is still a Death Eater. So therefor I don't trust you anymore." Said Harry.

As he went to draw the elder wand and wipe Harry memories. Something happen, the elder wand would not work for him. In that time Harry grab the elder wand and punch Dumbledore in the face knocking him down and then stunning Snape who was in the corner dumbfounded, by what just happen. The feeing of the elder wand was strong, it was talking to him and giving him images.

"This is a Potter family heirloom, you have no right to take it." Said Harry.

Harry stepped over Snape and walk towards the exit but turn back and gave Dumbledore one last warning.

"I know your secret Dumbledore and soon the whole wizarding world will know, but I want you to be surprise Obliviate" said Harry. Wiping Dumbledore's memories of what had just transpire moments ago. Harry walk out of the Leaky Cauldron and left both Snape and Dumbledore laying on the floor wondering what had just transpire.

After walking into Diagon Alley, Harry turn around making sure that no one was there.

"Did you get all that Rita?" asked Harry.

Rita Skeeter transform from her beetle form that was hidden in Harry's robs.

"So what did you think got enough for a story about Snape and Dumbledore delaying the Auror force because the lack of potion grades. Also maybe you can mention that Dumbledore has taken over Wizarding world. Let me ask you a question. Who lives in a castle sits on a throne and have all the power?" asked Harry.

"Sure can do Harry, but your answer to your question I would say it's a King who lives in a castle and have all the power." Said Rita.

"Exactly, Dumbledore proclaim himself the King of the Wizarding world and the people and government did nothing. He is the Chief Warlock Wizengamot and Supreme Mugwump of the ICW. Both of those are full time positions and have the power to do anything."

Rita was stump about what she had just learn, but look over everything she knew that Harry Potter was right. Now what shall she do with this information.

"What do you want me to do with this Harry?" asked Rita.

"I want you to write about it let everyone know what Dumbledore is and then I after you written that, I might have something that can change your life and make you famous." Said Harry.

"Ok will do, I will try to get the story out by tomorrow morning" said Rita.

With that said Rita departed and Harry left for Diagon Alley. Before going to the Alley Harry hid himself under a cloak. Not wanting to be recognize, he also used his talents to disguise himself.

As he was walking around Diagon Alley Harry spotted the Malfoys. Harry knows that with the Malfoys here trouble is certainly nearby, and he is willing to bet that the Malfoys will trying to play the innocent card.

Following the Malfoys into Knockturn Alley the blonde hair family made their way to Borgin and Burkes.

"Ah, Lucius my friend what can I do for you today?" asked Mr. Borgin.

"I was in the neighborhood and wanted to know if you had any luck with in location the item and book we talked about." Asked Lucius.

"Ah yes the pharaoh's flower, which is hard to get. It's said that it only blooms once a millennium. My contacts I spoke with said that it was discover and pick back in 1980 and would not bloom for another millennium." Said .

With that said Lucius was angry, how was he to be the favorite of the Dark Lord when he can't produce something. But what Lucius did not know was the both Rockwood and Bellatrix were making their way on finding out more information on their tasks.

"What can you tell me about the flower and do you know who has it?" asked Lucius

Well I do know what it was taken by a woman with red hair and green eyes." Said Mr. Borgin.

"Potter's mother, took the flower." Said Lucius.