Albus learns the truth:

After Fred, George and Ron brought Harry home and explained to their mother about Harry's situation, they got the boy settled into Ron's room. Molly waited until all the children were asleep before sealing and silencing her bedroom.

'I know the boys will lie to get out of trouble, but I saw how terrible Harry looked, so I believe they were telling the truth.'

'The truth about what dear?'

'Those horrible muggles he lives with, they put locks on his door and put bars on the window, even poor Hedwig had a padlock on her cage. Arthur, Ron said Harry hadn't eaten in four days, the last thing he ate was a can of cold soup that he shared with his owl. If the muggles are mistreating him then something has to be done. For all we know they could be hurting him.'

'Yes, something drastic must be done. But we cannot let the ministry know, they will take control and could place Harry with one of those families that supported you-know-who. If that happened, they could kill the boy.'

'Couldn't you speak with Albus, discreetly and see if there is anything he can do? We could take him but I'm not sure they would allow us too.'

'I will go see Albus in the morning, before work. Try to find out more if you can, even if you asked the boys what they have noticed about Harry. I just hope there hasn't been any physical abuse.'

'Yes, I am concerned about that as well. Harry seems small for his age, but he's also very quiet and watchful. He seemed so unsure when he arrived, especially with me.'

'If they mistreated him Molly, then I'm sure he wary of all adults. Let's get some sleep, he's safe now and I'll speak with Albus tomorrow.'

Harry, who had trouble falling asleep kept wondering if something would happen. The Weasley's all seemed nice but for all he knew it could be an act. He knew Fred, George, Ron and Percy were friendly enough, he just didn't know what their parents were like. They seemed kind and friendly, but Harry wasn't going to trust that, not until he saw for himself if they were nice or not.

The following morning Albus received a floo call from Arthur Weasley, that he needed to speak with him and it was urgent. Albus was curious if something was wrong with one of the children. They had all seemed fine when they left, unless it was to do with the two older boys, both had very dangerous jobs.

It was an hour later that Albus sat in stunned silence while he listened to Arthur talk about what had taken place with three of his sons and Harry Potter.

'I spoke with Arabella two weeks ago, she said she never saw Harry, now I know why. But she never mentioned anything about trouble in the house. Naturally she did tell me they treated Harry differently to how they treat their son. I knew they would not treat Harry as family but I did not believe they would ever hurt the boy.'

'He is small Albus, a lot smaller than my boys were at the same age, but he is about the same size as Ginny. I came to you mainly because I knew the ministry could not learn of this or they would place Harry with someone that may hurt him, if not worse.'

'Yes, they would, there were a lot of petitions to take Harry, mostly from the families we know to be dark. No, I must work on a way to keep Harry away from those people but also somewhere he will be safe during the summer holidays.'

'Something occurred to me last night after Molly explained. Even though we would love to keep him I would not like to try as it might get out that he was mistreated. Now you know my love of muggles, one thing that some muggles schools do is have a summer program. It is usually so those students who are struggling can catch up before the start of the new year. Is there a way you could implement such a program but have it opened to all students?'

'That is a very good idea Arthur, I would need to speak with the governors to see if they would approve. Maybe if the staff and I work on which classes and schedule then we would have a year to get it set up. Harry can remain with you for the summer, if anyone asks then you, Molly and Ron invited Harry to spend the holidays at your home. Lots of children will spend some time with their friends during the school break.'

'He's welcome any time Albus. But I had another thought about this program. Molly is always telling the children that they should learn to cook and learn household charms as one day they will leave home. Naturally she would love them to stay but we all know they will leave.'

'A cooking class and a class that teaches house hold charms is a good idea. I will speak with my staff, see if they are willing, if not or some aren't willing to give up their holidays, I may be able to get permission to bring in others to teach. Like Molly, she could teach cooking since she is a fabulous cook. Don't mention that to your wife for now, I will see what the staff thinks before we decide anything.'

'I know Molly will, but I will keep that quiet, I best get to work.'

'I will keep you informed Arthur and thank you for bringing this to me,' Albus waited until Arthur left before he wrote a letter. He made four copies before having a house elf take them to the owlery.

His thoughts remained on the boy, why did Arabella not notice something was wrong. Maybe it's time he spoke with the woman and maybe it was time to do some investigating. He decided to wait until he spoke with Minerva, Filius, Pomona and Severus before heading to Little Whinging.

That evening Albus sat behind his desk as he four teachers took seats, 'I received a visit from Arthur Weasley this morning, with disturbing news. It seems that every time one of the Weasley boys wrote to Harry the owls returned with their letters unopened. Finally, Fred, George and Ron took Arthur's car, one that has a flying charm on it and flew to Surrey. What they found was disturbing. They found Harry locked in a small bedroom, there were bars on the window, locks on the door and the owl was also padlocked in her cage. They used the car to pull the bars off the window, while Ron helped Harry gather the few items in his room, the twins went downstairs. It seems the Dursley's locked up Harry's trunk.

'There is more though, it seemed they had not fed Harry for four days. The last thing he ate was a can of cold soup he shared with his owl. Arthur and Molly are going to find out if there was any physical abuse, but they have noticed like I have that Harry is very quiet and he is a very private boy. Arthur and Molly are also going to keep Harry at the Burrow for the summer. But we have a dilemma, we cannot allow the boy to continue to be mistreated yet we have to keep this information from the ministry. The reason I left Harry with his aunt is the blood wards which stopped any of Voldemort's supporters being able to find him. But I was able to use the argument that Harry would be with his family. If the ministry found out that the-boy-who-lived had been mistreated, they would take Harry and could place him with a dark family.'

'I told you those muggles were the worst kind Albus.'

'Yes, and I know they would never accept Harry as part of the family, but at the time it was the safest place for the boy. So many of his supporters escaped punishment, they would dearly love to kill Harry. I plan to go to speak with Arabella very soon, I am also going to…well, let's say investigate the Dursley's in the hope it will give me the information on how they have treated Harry since I placed him there.'

'He is small Albus, smaller than all the other children his age, he's also very shy and quiet,' Pomona said.

'I noticed he flinched a few times when someone raised their voice. I also noticed he went to put his hands over his head, like he was protecting himself. I figured he might have had a run in with another student, now I'm not so sure,' Minerva said.

'That is why I wish for Severus to join me later to find out if they may have hurt the boy. Now though, Arthur gave me an idea on how we can make sure the ministry do not interfere with Harry but it will need your cooperation, at least some cooperation,' Albus wondered if his staff would help, he did know they enjoyed their holidays and they needed it. But if they were willing to even give up two weeks then between all of them then their would be enough to cover most if not the entire holidays.

Albus knew leaving Harry with his aunt would mean he had a difficult life, he just never believed family would hurt another. He had seen Minerva's "I told you so" face but what he didn't expect was the look of rage on Severus' face. He knew Severus believed Harry was like his father, that he was spoilt, now it seems his potions master finally knew the truth and he didn't like what he was hearing.

It did not take long for Albus and Severus to find out just how mistreated Harry Potter really was by his aunt, uncle and cousin. Severus had been so enraged when he found out that Lily's son had been kept in a cupboard from the time he was left there until he turned eleven years old. He instantly cursed the three Dursley's, who had been cowering against the wall. When Albus asked what curses he used, Severus replied with a vicious smirk that the three Dursley's will feel what Harry felt during his time with them. Everything he felt, whether it was verbal or physical they will now feel. The second curse he used was so that the Dursley's would never taste good food again, everything they ate or drank would taste disgusting, like dirt or mud, even grass. Since they were legal spells and not dark in any way, Albus decided that those people deserved to be cursed. Albus got the forms signed from the Dursley's that would allow Harry stay with the Weasley's, but he also had another form signed, for Harry to attend extra classes during the summer holidays. This will give Harry some time with his friends then spend the rest of the time having extra studies.

The following day Albus, Severus, Minerva, Filius, Pomona, Molly and Arthur were sitting together in the headmaster's office.

'What did you find out Albus?' Minerva asked anxiously.

'More than I would like,' Albus sighed, 'They kept him in a cupboard until Hagrid turned up with his letter. That was his room from the time I left him there until he turned eleven. It was also kept locked. He was made to do all the work around the house and garden, including cooking for them, yet he was only allowed to eat once a day. There were times when he was not given any food, for up to a week at times. That is not the worst of it, Vernon Dursley would use his belt on Harry, he was harsh, he would make the boy strip off then beat him. Petunia would mainly insult him or his parents and neither has ever used his name, they call him freak. The cousin, Dudley Dursley would often beat Harry until he was unconscious. We did find out that they used multiple muggle hospitals when they had no choice but to take the boy to see a doctor, which was when they broke a bone. They would make up an excuse that Harry would fight with the local children from the neighbourhood.'

'They wanted to beat the magic out of him,' Severus snarled.

'Yes, they did not want to take the chance that he would curse them, in some way. I contacted Gringotts, had them cancel the payments they got for looking after Harry. But they also going to make sure that the money that had been paid over the last eleven years will be returned. They never once bought Harry any clothes, shoes, toys, books, nothing at all. The clothes and shoes he was forced to wear belonged to the cousin and already worn out, not to mention five times to big for him. Arthur, I want you and Molly to take Harry to his vault then make sure he gets some new clothes and shoes. It might be nice if he can buy himself a few games, like chess or gobstones. But being muggle raised, he may like to buy some muggle games, I heard that are quite entertaining.'

'Ron and Harry already asked if I would take him shopping. Ron explained that Harry never wanted to buy anything before because he thought they would destroy it.'

'Yes, they would have, he had been given the odd things when he went to primary school, the cousin or the uncle would always take it from him. They would make sure he watched while they destroyed it.'

'I'll make sure he gets what he needs Albus.'

'Thank you, now to this idea of summer school. All I would need is two weeks from all of you, if you wish to volunteer more time I would be grateful.'

'I will do a month Albus, it's not like I do much outside of Hogwarts and I could continue to look after the greenhouses instead of Hagrid.' Pomona said.

'Thank you Pomona.'

The other three teachers all said they would volunteer three to four weeks as well. Now it was time to speak with the rest of the staff. He would not be telling them about Harry, he just had to convince them that these summer programs would benefit the students. Some like orphans, some for when parents spent time away and the child might be left with house elves. It could also help those who wish to work. Albus just hoped he could convince the governors, it was not like they would need any additional funds. They teachers already got paid, the classes would just be some extra that would help the students when they left.

After Arthur and Molly left, the next hour the headmaster and the four heads of house discussed what subjects could benefit the students who may wish to spend their school holidays at Hogwarts. They did all agree that household charms was a good idea along with cooking. Filius mentioned more along the lines of music, not just the choir but learning to play an instrument. Pomona thought art lessons might be a good idea. Severus surprised everyone when he suggested a class on basic healing, they all did like the idea and it would help if the students could fix small problems themselves and not have to head to the hospital wing. Minerva went further, she suggested some might like to learn more about some jobs that might interest them, so giving them some classes on what curse breakers or warding wizards did could be beneficial. She also thought some might learn another language. Albus also suggested politics and maybe some that may want to go into law.

They wrote down all their ideas, and they all hoped the governors would agree. They all helped work on a proposal they could present to the governors and the minister. They stressed they it would not require any funds and the people helping where willing to give up some of their free time.

Albus visited every other member of staff, including his new defence against the dark arts teacher. Remus was furious but the Black dog that was with him growled menacingly. Finally Remus explained the truth about the dog and Sirius Black. So Albus believed that Remus could keep the dog with him at Hogwarts and hoped Albus could get Sirius Black's name cleared then Harry would have his godfather to take care of him.

Harry had cautiously walked downstairs, he peered around the wall to see the two eldest Weasley's sitting at the table along with Percy.

'You can join us Harry, we don't bite,' Arthur smiled up at him.

Harry slowly walked the rest of the way into the kitchen then sat where Mr. Weasley indicated.

'Ron and the rest of my children prefer to sleep in, it's very difficult to get them out of bed before eleven during the holidays.'

'Ron's like that at school, I usually have to hit him with my pillow, or pull his blanket's off. The twins did suggest using a chilling charm on his feet.'

Arthur and Molly chuckled, 'Yes, he has to be the worst of all our kids. It seems you prefer to rise early.'

'I'm just used to it.'

'Here Harry dear, would you like tea, juice, or the dreaded…coffee?'

'Um, tea, thank you Mrs. Weasley.'

'So I thought we could go to Diagon alley Harry, maybe you could get yourself some clothes. We noticed you have some holes in those and in your shoe.'

'I try to be careful with money Mr. Weasley, it has to last right through Hogwarts until I get a job.'

'Oh Harry, no, the vault you go to is a trust vault, it's meant for your years at Hogwarts until you turn seventeen. When you become of age, you will be given the key's to your other vaults. The Potters are an old pure-blood family, very wealthy. From what I know of your family, your great, great grandfather used to invest and ended up doubling his money in the first few months, then he just kept getting lucky. Also, one of your ancestors invented sleek easy, for hair, so again, that made the Potter's quite a lot of money. So how about it, would you like to get some new clothes?'

'Yes, I would, thank you Mr. Weasley. Could I see about new glasses? My aunt got these out of thrift shop. They aren't my right prescription so I get a lot of headaches.'

'Then we will have your eyes tested as well. Maybe when you do have new glasses you will be able to do your school work easier.'

Harry smiled, 'My work always looks like chicken scratches, I just can't get the hang of quills, been using pencils and pens all my life.'

'Maybe that is something the governors might look into, giving children who are raised in the muggle world lessons on how to use quills. They might even allow them to use muggle pens until they get used to quills.'

'My work would be neater if I used a pen. My teachers at my old school said I was very neat.'

'You know Harry, maybe we might have to use the chilling charm on Ron so we can get out, that or a tickling charm.'

'The tickling charm would keep him in a better mood. This was wonderful Mrs. Weasley, you are a great cook.'

'Oh thank you dear, it's not very often I get complimented on my cooking.'

'Sorry mum.'

'It's fine Percy, you are just used to my cooking,' Molly kissed her son's head then very slowly and cautiously brushed her hand down Harry's hair before going back to the stove. Arthur was pleased to see that even though Harry did flinch he ended up smiling as Molly walked away. That told Arthur that Harry wanted affection, yet he never had it before. Of course he knew now what type of life the young boy had, hopefully the Weasley family can show Harry that not all people are like the Dursley's.

Harry was cautious when he was looking for clothes, Arthur ended up helping Harry pick out enough to last him, at least for the year. When Harry started to eat regularly then he would end up having a few growth spurts so there was no use spending money on clothes that he might only get the wear once. But he listened to Mr. Weasley and bought wizards clothes which would be charmed to increase in size, two or three times, depending on how much of a growth spurt he had. Harry wanted to buy something for Ron and the twins for rescuing him. At first Ron was going to say no, but seeing his father nod made him agree, but Ron would ask his father why later when they were alone.

Harry had his eyes checked by a magical oculist, who was able to offer Harry a potion to correct his eyesight before it got worse. It did cost a lot but as Mr. Weasley said, the money he could access now was just until he was seventeen. So Harry took the potion, they had to wait half an hour for it to work. Then all Harry could do was grin as he stared around at everything and everyone, which made Arthur feel even more for the young boy. Ron kept laughing as Harry stared around, the oculist had seen this many times before so she just smiled at the young boy who could finally see perfectly for the first time.

'Um, I heard my father wore glasses, why did he when he could have had this potion?' Harry asked nervously.

'This potion is a recent development Mr. Potter, it was invented seven years ago. But it will only work on the young, before your eyes become worse. So someone like Albus Dumbledore could not take this potion. The woman who invented this does hope she can improve it so it will work on everyone no matter the age, but it will take time.'

'Oh, thanks,' Harry gave her a shy smiled before he looked up at Mr. Weasley.

'Let's go, we can get home have some lunch then you boys can have a fly down in the orchard.'

Harry and Ron followed Ron's father to the Leaky Cauldron where they paid to floo to the Burrow.

'I decided to change a few things around. Since you boys are sharing a room I figured you should have one a bit larger so you are now in Bill and Charlie's old room,' Molly smiled.

'Thanks mum, that will give us plenty of room, come on Harry, let's go put your things away.'

Arthur and Molly watched as Harry walked quietly up the stairs while Ron ran up making as much noise as possible.

'He wasn't sure what to buy then it was just one or two things. I finally had to explain that there are charms to increase the size if he has a growth spurt. He finally got enough underwear and socks, with three new jumpers, a thick jacket, a lightweight jacket, the trousers and shirts along with a thick winter cloak. He bought Ron, Fred and George a new jacket each as well, for rescuing him.'

'And he had that new potion I heard about.'

'Yes, even though Harry was a little wary of spending so much money. When I explained that he will never have to repair glasses again or have trouble when it rains, he began to think it might be worth it. It was when I said he will do better in class that's when he agreed to paying for the potion. He still seems scared about spending money and I noticed he kept a bit of distance from everyone, except Ron.'

'He has never felt affection or anyone being kind to him, it will take time. I best finish lunch so they can eat, I'm sure they will be heading down to the orchard very soon.'

'Yes, Ron wants a ride of Harry's nimbus, I'm sure the twins will want to as well.'

Albus Dumbledore listened to everything that Remus and Sirius had to say about Peter Pettigrew and their time at Hogwarts.

'I cannot believe you three were able to do that without me finding out.'

'Apart from the cloak, we also had the map, it allowed us to see where you were at all times. It gave us the chance to sneak around here or sneak into the shrieking shack,' Sirius said.

'Is there any way to find out where that map is, it might be helpful if Peter tries to come after Harry?' Remus asked.

'I believe I know where your map ended up. Why don't the two of us with Padfoot go visit the Weasley's?'

'Fred and George,' Remus said.

'Two boys who could easily fit in with the Marauders. The first year they started out being caught, by the second half of the year they didn't. I believe one of their detentions by Mr. Filch is what led them to escape detection.'

'He did confiscate it from us yet it wasn't open so he would not know the password or have a wand to activate it,' Remus said, 'but how did the twins figure it out, not just that was more than just a piece of parchment but the password?'

'That question will need to be asked to them. So Sirius, if you would resume your other persona, we will go see the Weasley's.'

The moment Sirius changed to Padfoot the three of them left Hogwarts, heading for the Burrow.

'I hope we're not interrupting Molly.'

'Oh Albus, of course not, come in, please,' Molly was flushed as she let Albus Dumbledore into her home with a man she did not know but had heard about, Remus Lupin, along with a big black dog.

'The dog is harmless Molly, his name is Padfoot and belongs to Remus.'

'Sit down, I will get your some tea, I was just about to call the family down for lunch. Would you care to join us?'

'That would be nice Molly, thank you.'

'I'll get the kids,' Arthur smiled as he headed upstairs.

'So how is Harry settling in Molly?'

'He is very shy, quiet, but I did get a smile out of him when I brush his hair back. I admit he flinched at first. When he realised I was not going to hurt him, he relaxed.'

'It will take time Molly, but I'm sure being here with you and your family will show young Harry just what a loving family is like.'

'And a noisy one,' Molly smiled at the sounds of running feet.

Percy entered the kitchen first then suddenly stop at the sight of the guests, 'Professor Dumbledore.'

'Hello Mr. Weasley, how is your holiday?'

'Fine, thank you sir.'

'Wow, it's the headmaster,' Ron said.

'Are we in trouble?' Fred and George said together.

'No, you are not, we are just here for a visit. Like you, the holidays is time to spend time with friends or family. And here is young Ginevra Weasley.'

Arthur's hand was on his daughter's shoulder, 'I always wanted a girl and it turns out she's a tomboy.'

'Dad,' Ginny blurted out as she blushed making everyone laugh.

'Ah Harry, how are you?'

'Fine sir,' Harry said shyly as he stood behind Ron.

'Harry had the potion to correct his eyesight,' Arthur smiled at the boy.

'You can really see your mother's eyes now Harry, everyone commented on how green lily's eyes were,' Albus sighed as he realised how wary the boy was, 'This man beside me is Remus Lupin, he will be your new defence teacher next year. The thing is Harry, he was friends with your parent's, good friends. He has been overseas for years, I asked if he would return to take the post of defence teacher. Now you may be wondering why he never wrote to you or visited. Petunia and Vernon Dursley agreed to take you into their home as long as none of our kind ever turned up. Remus did write many times, it seems they intercepted your mail.'

'My very first letter was the Hogwarts one, they kept destroying them until Hagrid gave it to me.'

'Yes, I wish you would have explained your treatment to me Harry, I would have investigated.'

'Uncle Vernon threatened me, he said he would bury me in the garden.'

Everyone glanced as the black dog growled, but what surprised everyone was Harry. He walked towards the dog and knelt down.

'Padfoot,' Harry whispered.

'Yes, this is Padfoot Harry,' Remus said, 'Come outside with me and Padfoot for a minute, I'm sure your friends won't mind while you get reacquainted.'

Harry looked up at Mr. Weasley who nodded, so he followed the dog and man outside.

'So Harry knew the dog, it must be old,' Ron said.

'Yes, very, now before we enjoy Molly's wonderful food, I was hoping for a private word with Fred and George. No you are not in trouble, you may be able to help me with something.'

'Wow,' Fred and George said together but followed the headmaster into the living room.

'I need to borrow something that I believe you two have in your possession. Now first let me explain this. There was a group of boys that called themselves the Marauders. They are or were, Remus Lupin, James Potter, Peter Pettigrew and Sirius Black. I assume you know who they are or more precisely, what they were?'

'Yeah, pranksters,' Fred said, 'But isn't Sirius Black dead?'

'No, he is in Azkaban, for a crime he did not commit, this is why I need your help. The map boys, which you will get back, but it's very important that I borrow it.'

'So Lupin told you about the map?' George asked but he glanced at his brother who seemed to be staring back. They knew the headmaster was honest and if he knew they had they map he never bothered to confiscate it before which told them he would return it to them.

'So we'll get it back?'

'Yes, even though technically it belongs to Harry, I'm sure he would not mind you using is if you allowed him to borrow it, on occasion. But I also need your help with a situation and your word that you will not repeat anything about this conversation, you can mention the map only,' the twins nodded, 'Ron's rat Scabbers, do you know where he is at the moment?'

'In Ron's room, he's been looking a bit sick so Ron put him in the cage with bedding and lots of food.'

'I wish one of you to bring me the rat and the other to bring me the map. Do not allow anyone to see the rat, then I will explain.'

'Okay,' the twins said, they had no idea what was going on but if Albus Dumbledore wanted a rat they would get the rat.

'I'm sorry Arthur, Molly, my business with the twins will be finished shortly,' Albus smiled but he saw Harry sitting beside Remus with Padfoot's head on his lap, 'It seems padfoot remembers you Harry.'

Harry looked up and smiled, 'He does sir.'

The twins ran down the stairs and straight into the living room with Remus following. The door closed before Fred held out the map, George held out a struggling rat.

'That's him Albus, look at his paw, his missing a toe.'

'I wish I could explain what is going on boys, but you will know very soon. Just remember to never tell anyone that I have Scabbers. If you are asked, I'm sure you could…lie convincingly.'

'Okay,' Fred and George said before they turned to Remus, 'Moony.'

Remus smiled, 'Yes, I'm Moony, very soon we will get together and I will explain how we came to invent the Marauders map. But I would like to know why you took a piece of parchment from Mr. Filch?'

'It had magic emanating from it,' George said.

'We felt it, so I had George keep watch while I nicked the map. It took us two months to work out how to open it,' Fred said.

'And how did you work out the password?'

'We asked it,' Fred and George said grinning hugely.

'The words appeared, I solemnly swear I am up to no good, then mischief managed,' Fred said.

Remus shook his head in amusement, 'I would say James added a safeguard, mainly for Peter who used to forget the password to Gryffindor tower. I will make sure it is returned to you very soon.'

'Return to your lunch, just remember you can mention the map but not the rat.'

'Yes sir,' the twins left with big grins on their faces.

Albus stunned the rat then had the rat change into Peter Pettigrew, 'Let's hope Amelia Bones will do her duty and not try to be influenced by Cornelius,' Albus changed Peter back to Scabbers then charmed him so he stayed asleep, 'I will meet you back at Hogwarts later, hopefully with Amelia and some aurors.'

'We'll be ready Albus, now hopefully Harry can finally have a loving family to live with. We still like the idea of summer school, yet now it might not be for the full holidays.'

'Yes, it is a good idea and will help a lot of children. We could work it for three or four weeks.' Albus put Scabbers in a pocket of his robes, charmed the pocket closed so only he could open it, then the two men joined the Weasley family for lunch.

When it was time for Remus to leave, Harry looked up at Mr. Weasley, 'Can they visit again sir?'

'Of course they can Harry, Remus and Padfoot are welcome at the Burrow,' Arthur smiled.

'Thank you,' Harry smiled then turned to Remus.

'Very soon, I have a few things to do at Hogwarts. So how about on the weekend?'

'Yes, sir, I'd like that,' Harry smiled then knelt in front of Padfoot who he knew now was Sirius Black, his godfather, but he could not tell anyone. He put his arms around the dog, 'I'll see you soon Paddy.'

Padfoot barked happily as he licked Harry's face then trotted after Remus. Harry went back to his seat.

'So you knew the dog, do you remember Remus Lupin?' Arthur asked.

'He seems familiar, but Remus said he didn't see me as much as he liked and Padfoot was left at the house a lot, that's why I remember him. Paddy used to sleep in my room, until I feel asleep. I would be staring down at him until I fell asleep.'

'Then you will see him again on the weekend. Since you are all now finished eating, why don't you go for a fly?' Molly said.

'I can help clean up Mrs. Weasley.'

'No thank you Harry, with a flick of my wand it will be done very quickly. Go an enjoy yourselves.'

'Come on Harry, let's get your broom?' Ron said making the twins, Molly and Arthur chuckle.

'If you want to get it then you can fly it first.'

'Are you sure? The brooms we have here are really old and jerky.'

'I don't mind,' Harry gave Ron a smile then laughed as he dashed up the stairs.

'So can you two tell us what the headmaster wanted?' Arthur asked.

'Um, well, he knew we had something in our possession,' Fred said.

'We found it when we were first years,' George said.

'He asked to borrow it but he'll give it back when he's done,' Fred said.

George and Fred looked over at Harry, 'I didn't do anything.'

'No, it's what we have Harry. See it's a map, a map of Hogwarts that was invented by some students years ago,' Fred said.

'Professor Lupin was one of them, the other was your dad. Professor Dumbledore said he will return it to us but technically, it belongs to you. So maybe you'll allow us to borrow it occasionally,' George said.

'Um, yeah, sure, but if it's just a map then I don't see what it's so important, even though I could have used one at the start of last year.'

'It's more than a normal map,' Fred said.

'Apart from showing the entire castle and grounds,' George said.

'It shows every person inside the castle, including you when you're under the cloak,' Fred said.

'We saw your name a few times but we couldn't see you,' George said.

'It even shows the ghosts,' Fred said.

'It took us a while to work out the passwords for it though.'

'Did Albus say why he wanted the map?' Arthur asked.

The twins shook their head as Ron ran back down the stairs, 'Just that he needed it for a while,' Fred said.

'Since it's the holidays, it's not like we can use it right now, but he gave his word he would return it,' George said.

'I got the broom,' Ron yelled.

'Then go have a fly, enjoy yourselves,' Molly said.

Ron, Harry, Fred, George and Ginny hurried outside, Percy headed back upstairs to his room.

'Do you think this map will help with the situation that was discovered?' Molly asked cautiously.

'I would say it's a possibility. If the staff missed such obvious signs of…well, then this may help with others. Ron did say Harry liked to spend time by himself and when asked where he went, he usually said outside or in an unused classroom. After what Albus told us, I would say he was very overwhelmed with the amount of people he had to encounter. It would have been ten times worse for him than other children since he never got to interact like normal children.'

'Then let's hope this map helps. Even if it took three of our boys to discover Harry's situation, I know he looked quite small when I saw him last year. I just never imagined that people could do that to a child.'

'They feared what he could do with his magic, muggles are a strange bunch of people. How about we go outside and watch the children?'

'Don't you think that could make Harry wary of us?'

'Not if we stay by my shed Molly, he will not see us.'

Molly dried her hands then joined her husband, they stood by the shed watching as their sons all took turns on Harry's broom. They smiled when Harry even offered Ginny a go, which she accepted eagerly even if she did blush. They heard Harry laugh a few times, it seems to Molly and Arthur that he felt safe with their boys so he could finally relax and enjoy himself.

Albus spoke with Minerva after sending a message to Amelia bones, he explained what Remus told him then showed him the rat. Then he showed her the map which clearly stated that where the rat was, the name said Peter Pettigrew. She never wanted to believe Sirius would betray James, but all she heard was that he kept saying it was his fault. Maybe someone should have questioned him once the shock wore off.

Minerva stood when the fire flared, Amelia bones and two aurors stepped out, all brushing down their robes. Everyone was ready for a serious and tense meeting, two in the hope that an innocent man was finally given his freedom.

'So you see Madam Bones, there seems to be an injustice done. I did some checking, as chief warlock. He was not given a trial. But I do have proof which is what you will need. First, if you would look at this parchment on my desk, tell me what you see and what names you read.'

Amelia stood, 'I see Severus Snape's name, he is in his private quarters. Pomona Sprout is in her greenhouses. I see the names of all of us in this office, the name given to my young auror here is her true name and not the one she uses to introduce herself. Where did you get this miraculous map?'

'It was invented by James Potter, Remus Lupin and their two friends, they were known as the Marauders. Now it was confiscated during their last year, but it was closed and needed a password to activate it. Mr. Filch did not know what he had in his office. Two boys with red hair got into trouble with Mr. Filch, they informed me they felt the magic on the parchment, so as one kept a look out the other stole it. I figured out the Weasley twins had the map when they were able to pull their pranks but not get caught. I asked if I could borrow the map for this demonstration. Now if you look again you will see Severus' name is moving.'

Amelia watched as the name of the potions master was indeed moving, when she saw him approach the office they were in she turned just as he stepped into the room. She turned back to see his name had joined all of theirs.

'Again, this is a wonderful piece of charm work. But I do not see what this map has to do with the story you told me.'

'Severus, if you will.'

Severus nodded, 'As you know I was a death eater, I renounced my loyalty to the dark lord and gave my oath and loyalty to Albus to be his spy. Most of the death eaters that lied their way out of Azkaban would still cause problems if they could. During my years in his service, I never once saw Black, nor did I hear any other talk about Sirius Black. You may not have heard this Madam but James Potter and Sirius Black were arrogant bullies when they were students, I was the one that ended up humiliated with their pranks. We were enemies, we despised each other and I admit I still do not like either of them, even if Potter is dead. Lily and I grew up together, we were best friends, until we had a fallen out at the end of our fifth year. As you can imagine, I was hurt when she began to date Potter, my enemy. I am ashamed to admit that I believed young Harry potter was like his father, he wasn't and I plan to make amends when he returns to school. The main thing that this is about Madam is that Sirius Black was not a death eater. So even though I hate the man, he does not deserve to be persecuted for a crime he did not commit.'

'The why did he kill peter?'

'Peter is alive,' Albus flicked his wand unveiling the cage with the man inside, 'He is an unregistered animagus. He cut off his finger after blowing up those muggles. He then changed into his rat form where he escaped into the sewers leaving Sirius to take the blame. I checked his arm madam, he has the dark mark. I have not questioned him, as that is your job, but I would appreciate hearing what he has to say.'

'You all believed there was a spy, yet Peter's name was never mentioned.'

'Yes, Lily and James paid the price of our mistake.'

'I will question him here then I will have him placed in a secure location until I can organise a trial. Once it is known that he was the secret keeper for the Potters and killed those muggles, then I can work on a trial for Sirius Black. I suppose you know where he is hiding?'

'I do, he is wary that Cornelius will have him kissed before he is even asked a question.'

'He would, many of us are beginning to doubt our minister. You would know who he takes advice from, that advice is not doing our world any good. In fact it could destroy our world when all the muggleborns and half bloods leave. If I can get enough support, I would like to call a vote of no confidence, first I will need more evidence that he is breaking the law,' Amelia glanced down at the map, 'This is truly remarkable, so the friends created this when they were students. Was it just to cause trouble with their pranks?'

'No, Remus Lupin is a werewolf, they friends learned to become animagi so they could keep him company on the wolf nights. Peter was the smallest so he was able to still the branches on the whomping willow. James Potter became a stag, a rather large stag, Sirius Black became a dog, again it was quite large. Those two could keep the wolf in line during those nights.'

'You know parent's will not like the idea of a werewolf teaching their children.'

'Severus is supplying the wolfsbane potion, Remus will be safe. We have organised a roster for the classes during those times. Right now he is a man that knows the subject and is willing to take the cursed job. I know Severus wants the job, which I would give him if there wasn't a curse. Remus being a werewolf may just be able to break the curse due to his lycanthropy. He is wonderful with children, Lily and James would often leave Harry with Remus when he visited the house.'

'I have nothing against werewolves unless they wish to kill or turn someone. Remus Lupin was an academic, how did he end up friends with James Potter and Sirius Black?'

'They worked out his little problem, when he realised that his two friends were not going to turn their backs on him, he began to get closer to them. I have never known boys that were as close at the Marauders, apart from Peter when he betrayed them. Madam, I have another serious situation that could be resolved if you can get Sirius cleared of those charges. I am unsure if you know this but Sirius Black is Harry Potter's godfather. When Voldemort disappeared that night, I knew many of the death eaters would have killed Harry if they got the chance. I took it upon myself to place Harry with his mother's sister, then created blood wards to protect him. I feel ashamed that I never checked on the boy.'

'We all feel ashamed we never picked up on his situation,' Minerva said.

'Harry is right now with his friend, Ronald Weasley at the Burrow. Ron, Fred and George wrote to Harry often, all the letters returned unopened which made the boys worry. I hope you will keep this information to yourself Madam, if you don't, Cornelius might just give Harry to someone like Lucius Malfoy.'

'You have my oath Albus. That boy saved all of us, we owe him. Now what happened to him?'

'It seems Petunia and Vernon Dursley's, his aunt and uncle agreed to take him but they did not care for him. From what we found out he was basically their slave and their sons punching bag. He was put in a cupboard, which was his bedroom until Hagrid took him his Hogwarts letter. They gave him their son's second bedroom but this year they placed locks on the outside of the door, bars on the window and even put a lock on the cage where Harry's owl sat. When the Weasley boys took their father's car, they did not know what to expect. They found Harry locked in that room and he had not had any food for four days. The last thing he was given was a can of cold soup which he shared with his owl. Severus and I went to find out exactly what those people did. I allowed Severus to keep the curse on them, which was legal, it will just give them a taste of what they put young Harry through for the last eleven years. If you can give Sirius a trial, Harry will finally have a happy home, a loving if not immature parental figure. He is very quiet, shy and flinches whenever someone raises their voice, he also doesn't like to be too close to any adult, for fear they will hurt him. Minerva said they were not right to raise the boy, I should have listened to her, but I was fearful for the boy so I did not listen.'

'This information will not leave this office. I will make sure Sirius is cleared, it just might take a while. It would be best to get Fudge out of office first, yet I am unsure if I can get enough support.'

'I will supporter you, as you know I was named guardian of Harry if Sirius or his godmother could not fulfil their duty, which means I vote for the Potters. I'm sure Sirius will give me voting rights to the Blacks, or maybe I can talk him into allowing Arthur Weasley to take his votes. Everyone knows Arthur serves the light.'

'The Potters and Blacks are very old names in the magical world. If you vote on their behalf then I do not see a problem. It would be best if we could get some others on our side.'

'I would suggest Augusta Longbottom. She is not fond of our minister, or his staff.'

'Then set up a meeting with Augusta.'

'If I may ma'am?'

'Of course auror Tonks.'

'Professor Dumbledore, as chief warlock you are already given the rights to vote in the wizengamot, and you will be taking Harry Potter's vote. I feel that another should take the Black vote, but would a family member be better than someone else?'

'Yes, of course it would, but we cannot give Narcissa Malfoy that vote.'

'I'm talking about my mother sir, she is a Black by birth and she is the oldest of the Black sisters. I know most people believed Andromeda Tonks died during the first war, she didn't. My parent's decided to disappear, at least legally. They knew Bellatrix would kill them if they were found.'

'Andromeda did not follow her family's beliefs,' Albus stared at the young auror, 'I will discuss it with Sirius, but I believe you make a good point. It would not be questioned if your mother took the Black vote, which is her right until Sirius is cleared. Why did they not tell people the truth when Voldemort first disappeared?'

'Fear, Narcissa is still free along with her husband, who is close to the minister.'

'Yes, and we do know Lucius committed murder and torture during the first war.'

'Let's get to these questions, then I can begin working on the trials,' Amelia said.

It was only a month after Ron, Fred and George rescued Harry from the Dursley's that Cornelius Fudge was voted out of office. The new minister, Amos Diggory worked with Amelia and Albus for Peter Pettigrew to have a trial in front of the whole Wizengamot, with Andromeda Tonks taking the voting rights for the Black family and Albus taking the voting rights for the Potter's. Once it was proven that Peter was the one to betray the Potter's and kill the muggles, Sirius Black was instantly declared innocent. That news went out over the wizarding wireless network.

Albus and Remus instantly explained about Sirius and how they knew he was innocent. Once Molly, Arthur and the rest of the Weasley's heard the truth, Padfoot instantly changed back into his human form. He opened his arms as he looked at his godson, who ran straight to his godfather.

'The only reason we kept this quiet was so no one could let it slip in front of the wrong person. We knew we had a spy in the order, yet none of us every looked at Peter. You just never know who could be a spy or dark. We knew you are not ,yet for all we know, you could have spoken to a friend, who was.'

'We understand Albus. We know how many spies there were or are still around,' Arthur said.

'Yes, Fabian and Gideon were always watching, sadly, it did not help them.'

'Yes, Peter was again the one who passed on the information on where your brothers were going to be.'

'He is now in Azkaban,' Sirius said as he smiled down at Harry, 'I have to find us a new home, so if it's alright with the Weasley's, you could remain here. From the next lot of holidays, you'll be able to have a real home with me.'

'I'd like that,' Harry said in a whisper.

'Harry's fine here Sirius, so take your time,' Arthur said, 'Are you still going to work on the summer school Albus?'

'Yes, but we are only doing it now for two weeks, next summer holidays. All the staff have said they would give their time and they all have different knowledge. Sirius has even agreed to help with some of the old traditions and laws in case anyone wishes to know more. With Amos as minister, we're hoping that many of the old prejudice laws will be removed but that will take time.'

'Did he get rid of Fudge's undersecretary?' Arthur asked.

'Yes, she was also questioned. It was discovered that she killed the last undersecretary and was trying to bring in new laws against muggleborns ,half bloods, half creatures like Filius and Hagrid. They also found out that she killed many werewolf children. She was given life in Azkaban. Amos is working with Amelia to question every person who works at the ministry with veritaserum, especially those who said they were under the imperius curse. It's still going to take some time but hopefully, we will never have dark witches and wizards in the positions of authority, like the Wizengamot. We are also going to bring in magical oaths for all people who work at the ministry, the Wizengamot and the governors. The staff of Hogwarts will also be giving oaths. All this should have been done when Voldemort was destroyed. Now we have a chance to help our world.'

Even though the adults all had the same thoughts, this all came about due to Harry Potter being abused. They would never voice those thoughts. They might get a better world but none of them would condone child abuse.

The end: