Changing the Balance of Power Chapter 1, a harry potter fanfic

Changing the Balance of Power

Summary

Time spent exploring in the Chamber of Secrets gives Harry ideas about his path in life.

Ships – Age appropriate harmony all the way.

Book compliance – The story begins during June of 1993, the evening after rescuing Ginny.

Detailed story summary. The day after killing the snake, Harry returns to the Chamber of Secrets and finds something. Later, Harry sits in as Emma and Andromeda discuss how the wizarding world could be made better. He takes it as a lifelong challenge. Each of his careers in life improve the world around him.

Political and economic power have a strong link. Over time, Harry provides higher paying jobs than his friends or classmates were likely to get on their own.

Please note - There are time skips in this tale. There are date listings at the beginning of each chapter. I didn't want to rewrite 75 pages for each of the first few years when there are only a handful of significant events. If you get lost in the first three chapters, you might want to reread them. The story takes place over several decades.

Disclaimer - JKR's sandbox, not mine. We had a blast pushing some of the piles around a bit and rearranging them. We're beyond grateful that anyone would spend their time reading our twisted thoughts.

Wizarding etiquette – This and most fanfiction stories are written strictly on a hobby basis. Tom and I make no claim that these chapters are error free. If you enjoy our little stories and are willing to accept the quality level, please read on and leave a review every few chapters. If you don't care for the story concept, pairings, story arcs, content, or style, just walk away. I don't want to hear that you don't like the way that I write my stories. We're volunteering our time for your enjoyment. Leave a note every once in a while.

Barchoke is RobSt's character. He's borrowed with permission and he occasionally receives jerkey treats.

… - ...

Part One – The Archer

Chapter One
The Mosaic

Friday June 18, 1993

As Harry watched the diary image dissolve, it occurred to him that the Chamber of Secrets must have been built with more in mind than simply being home to a snake. He collected Ginny, Ron and Lockhart, then Fawkes flashed them into Dumbledore's office where he was consoling Molly and Arthur Weasley. After sending off Lockhart and the Weasleys and eventually Lucius Malfoy, Dumbledore wanted to talk more with Harry but the teen walked off to the Hospital Wing, still carrying the fabled sword. On the way, he ran across Lucius Malfoy, who looked murderous. Dobby stopped him mid curse. A moment later, Lucius was on the ground, with the still bloody tip of Griffindor's sword an inch away from his throat. Harry said, "You caused all of this by purposely putting your master's diary in Ginny's cauldron. It will cost you."

"What do you want?"

"Release Dobby."

"Gladly. He's worthless. Take him."

"Do you know what that diary was?"

Malfoy admitted, "No."

Harry replied, "Your worst nightmare. I killed it. Go. We're even." He did; as fast as any glimpse of decorum would allow.

After Malfoy had left, Dobby hugged Harry and said, "Thank you, Master Harry. Harry Potter Sir is the bravest wizard ever. Dobby is a very lucky elf."

Harry replied, "Dobby Potter. You meant to say Dobby Potter. We're family now."

… - …

Ten minutes later, Madam Pomfrey had Harry getting out of the shower, to clean the muck and Basilisk blood off of him. She examined his arm and was satisfied with the healing done by the phoenix. She had a grim look on her face then she did a blood examination and found strong traces of basilisk and phoenix in his blood. "Into bed, Potter. No arguments."

"I'm fine," he pleaded.

"I'll check in on you in the morning."

Fortunately, he was in the bed next to Hermione. He spent the next two hours having what he thought was a one-sided conversation with Hermione; telling her what had happened, how much she meant to him and the like. Though she couldn't respond, she could hear every word. His words were warming her heart with every minute that he talked to her.

… - ...

Saturday June 19

The next day, Harry was begrudgingly released. He walked back to the Gryffindor common room and quietly opened the portrait door unnoticed. Ron was by the fireplace holding court, telling of their adventure – except he'd completely reversed the roles and was just getting to the part where he'd cast a couple of spells and beheaded the snake.

As the crowd listened with rapt attention, Harry quietly walked out and closed the door. He'd intended to invite Ron back to look at the snake and explore a bit. Instead he walked down the stairway in disgust.

When he reached the second floor girls' bathroom, he looked around twice before walking in. He called out, "Hello, Myrtle."

"Hello, Harry."

He told her about killing the snake and the 16 year-old memory of Tom Riddle. She asked, "It's not coming back?"

"No. Would you like to see the snake that I killed?"

"No but thank you. I think I can move on now."

"Myrtle, do your parents know what happened to you?"

"No. They died...right after... I did. Thank you for asking. Can I hug you before I go?"

He nodded. It felt cold but somehow, he knew that it had been the right thing to do. As she faded away, he said, "Good luck, Myrtle." A moment later, she was gone.

He hissed "Open."

A moment later, the opening appeared. He looked down the chute and realized that Tom Riddle wouldn't have had Fawkes the phoenix to carry him back and forth. Using parseltongue, he called for stairs and lights. When he had both, he descended down the stairs, counting 200 before he reached the bottom. The first area just looked like a rough-hewed cave with crunchy rat bones littering the floor as he walked along. After 100 feet, he came to the shed skin. It felt like leather and was 30 feet long and wider than a fully grown oak tree in diameter.

Using the levitation charm, Harry easily cleared the fallen rocks that had resulted from Lockhart's attempted use of Ron's broken wand. After continuing on, Harry approached the six-foot diameter magic metal door and hissed, "Open." As the pieces folded in on themselves to allow Harry entrance, Harry stepped through, then hissed, "Lights and breeze."

This side of the door was finished. There was a real floor and the walls had been hewed straighter. They were far smoother than the cave section. The ceiling was a huge mosaic. As Harry studied it, he saw that it depicted a smaller basilisk doing battle with a hoard of attackers, with the staff and older students helping in the defense. Upon closer examination, he noticed that they all appeared to be wearing workman clothing; there wasn't a robe in sight. The defenders were either using staffs, which they depicted as casting spells with, or were using short bows or crossbows. Looking at the quantity of attackers depicted as dead, or wounded from arrows, Harry surmised that the defense must have been highly successful.

As Harry further examined the huge artwork, he noted that the attackers were being fired upon both from the front and also from behind. As such, he thought to himself, There must be other exits from this chamber – first for the snake to have gotten out to find food and drink; also for people. He walked along for five minutes until he noted that the ground was sloping upwards. He walked further until he found an entrance. Opening it, he stepped outside a bit and noticed that he was on the far side of the quidditch pitch. He concluded that the current pitch occupied the same space as the killing field depicted in the mosaic.

He went back in and examined the snake. It was 62 feet long; probably three times the size of the beast that had helped defend the castle in Slytherin's day. He found the broken fang that he'd been bitten with. It was more of a tooth than the saber-length fangs. He put it in his bag and noticed the spot where the snake had come from. Without thinking, he spoke the words, "Speak to me Slytherin." Moments after he had done so, it occurred to him that there could easily be a family of the deadly basilisks living behind the opening. He hissed, "Snakes, are you in there? Can you hear me?"

Fortunately, there was only silence. Upon further examination, Harry noticed that while not a ladder, there were indents in the side of the statue that would allow a person to easily climb up to the opening. Harry did and found living quarters, clothing, several books and a solid study table similar to the ones that were still in use in the library.

When he left the chamber, having closed all of the doors, he decided not to speak of what he'd seen inside; at least not yet.

… - …

The summer before his third year started badly; the Dursleys treated him horribly. One day, after yet another ugly confrontation at breakfast, he walked out the front door, carrying his shrunken trunk in his bag and left. He took the tube to the area near Diagon Alley and found Charing Cross Road. It didn't take him long to find the record store that was next to the building with the sign that read, The Leaky Cauldron.

Upon entering, Harry said, "Hello," to Tom the proprietor, then went through the back door, were he tapped the bricks to open the entrance to the alley. Harry knew that Tom had some rooms to rent and decided to go to Gringotts to get some money. He nodded at the guards when he climbed the marble stairs to the front door, which another guard held open for him. Harry nodded again and said, "Thank you."

The guard replied, "You're welcome, young sir. May your business be profitable."

He walked to the teller line, where he was told, "Step aside and wait on that bench."

A moment later, one of the goblin runners said, "Good morning, Mr. Potter. I will escort you to your Account Manager." They walked down a hallway that Harry hadn't noticed before and passed several polished oak doors along the way. When they reached the last door in the hallway, the runner stopped and knocked on the door; rap, rap-rap, rap. He opened the door and said, "Senior Account Manager Barckoke, this is Mr. Harry Potter."

"Welcome," said the tall (for a goblin) goblin, wearing a slate gray pinstriped wool suit. Knowing his client's customs, Barchoke held out his hand.

Harry reached out to shake it and said, "I'm honored to meet you, Mr. Barchoke, sir. How can I help you?"

Pleased by the way that the young wizard carried himself but equally disappointed by the boy's ill-fitting clothing Barchoke replied, "Please sit, Mr. Potter and tell me about yourself. Where do you live?"

"I live with my Aunt Petunia along with my Uncle Vernon Dursley at their home in Little Whinging in Surrey County. I went to school there until I was handed my Hogwarts letter by my friend, Hagrid. He showed me around Diagon Alley and gave me my vault key. I met a cart driver named Griphook. That was the day that Tom Riddle, disguised as Professor Quirrell, attempted to steal the Flamel's philosopher stone from one of the vaults here, but Hagrid had picked it up for Professor Dumbledore when I was in the cart with Griphook."

Barchoke asked, "How do you know this?"

"I fought him twice a year ago and once again last week."

Barchoke took three intricately engraved cubes out of one of his desk drawers and said, "One at a time hold the cube up to your forehead and think about the event that you want to show me."

Harry did that three times. Then Barchoke said, "You originally came here with a request of your own. How may I help you?"

Harry replied, "I have several requests. I need to get some coins from my vault. I need a place to stay and I want to get a proper medical checkup."

"All good reasons. To the first, here is a bag with 500 galleons. If that's enough, I'll simply have your vault balance adjusted. To your second request, I'd recommend getting a room at the Leaky Cauldron for a few nights." He saw the poor shape of the child's clothing and handed him £1,000 of 20 pound notes, then said, "Across the street and three doors down on the left from the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron is a young man's clothing store. You can make some purchases there. I'd recommend not purchasing more than one outfit a day as you're still growing." Noticing that the boy didn't have a watch, he opened his top right drawer and took out a stainless steel portkey watch. He adjusted the back for a minute and said, "If you ever need to return to the lobby, either for business, or in the event of an emergency, hold the face of your watch and say Activate Gringotts. That said, please come back tomorrow morning at ten and we'll talk further."

Harry understood that he was being dismissed for the day. He stood and replied, "Thank you for seeing me today. I'll be back tomorrow morning at ten."

Barchoke opened the door and told the Runner, "Please escort Mr. Potter to the lobby and ensure that he eventually gets a room at the Leaky Cauldron." As he closed the door, he pressed a rune on his desk that alerted Ragnok, the Director of the London branch that they needed to speak. A few minutes later, the rune glowed. Barchoke went to Ragnok's office and was shown in.

Ragnok observed, "So young Mr. Potter finally made an unescorted appearance. What were the circumstances?"

"He came in wanting to make a withdrawal and was looking for a place to stay. I gave him a half bag of galleons and some non-magical currency, then suggested the Leaky Cauldron. Chiptooth is accompanying him for the afternoon."

Still curious, Ragnok asked, "How did you find the boy to be? What is he like?"

"Sincere, polite and direct for someone his age. He's smaller than I would have expected. He spoke of several encounters with Tom Riddle and gave me the memories."

The first was from the Forbidden Forest. They immediately concluded that Riddle's spirit had somehow possessed the inept young professor. Ragnok stated, "Something is holding him to this plane of existence."

They examined the second one. As young Harry found Quirrell looking at the Mirror of Erised and faced Riddle, they were fascinated by the lad's force of will and determination to survive. When Quirrellmort tore at Harry's trouser pocket and a stone fell to the floor, Ragnok paused the memory. He stated, "The stone is a clever fake; Flamel's real stone is much larger."

Barchoke replied, "That implies that they didn't trust Dumbledore to protect it. He risked the lives of 400 children based upon a ruse."

"Yes. Also that Dumbledore has never seen the real stone."

"Potter also stated that it was Quirrell who broke into the vault last July." They watched the rest of the memory, which ended with Dumbledore avoiding telling Harry why Riddle originally came after him.

Ragnok summarized, "So far we've learned that Riddle's not dead, Dumbledore knew it to be the case and he believes that the prophecy is still active. Also, based upon the physical state of the boy, Potter must have spent his childhood years in a poor living situation."

Barchoke added, "Poor, neglectful, or abusive. Time will tell."

They watched the third memory twice. The diary book was clearly a horcrux, delivered by Lucius Malfoy to the Weasley girl. Ragnok called one of his runners to go check their Hall of Prophecies and validate that it was still active. He pointed out, "Harry pulled Godric's sword out of the old hat. He slew the basilisk with a lucky strike but he held his ground."

Barchoke admitted, "I'm not certain that I would do as well; let alone at his age. What of the snake?"

Ragnok replied, "It belongs to the young warrior and holds great value. Give him one of my portkey watches. Also give him a portkey to move it with, as well as one to the castle. We'll process it and offer to sell it on his behalf. Set up another vault for him that Dumbledore is unaware of; he's been funding his schemes with Potter funds for twenty years. Have Harry officially call for a request for a return of all Potter-owned items."

The runner came back with the expected news; the prophecy was still active. Ragnok called for five Security Goblins. He told them, "Check the vaults of Tom Riddle and his branded followers for cursed items. Bring back a list of the items and any coin balances in the vaults where you find any cursed items." After they left, Ragnok finished the meeting saying, "Notify me after you've concluded your business tomorrow. Send him to Windsong for a complete examination and treatment. He's worthy of our assistance."

… - …

In the meanwhile, Harry was enjoying the afternoon. Fortescue's ice cream, several T-shirts, new shoes and a pair of summertime shorts were the first things that he purchased. Next to the record store was a camera store. Harry walked in and told the man that he wanted to take photos of a large artwork and make enlargements. The man explained a bit about resolution and the need to get a clear, properly lit image to begin with. Harry realized that he lacked the funds to purchase what he wanted but could be back the next day.

The next shop sold bows and arrows. Ten minutes of polite conversation gave Harry a basic understanding of different arrow types, bow types, draw strengths and the like. He was certain that he could find a safe place to practice and it looked like fun. He added them to his wish list.

Finally he went to the Leaky Cauldron and agreed on a price with Tom for a room for a week. He requested a simple dinner and Tom placed him in a corner where he was less likely to be noticed. Harry drew up a list of requests to go over with Barchoke – checkup, archery information and money for a good camera.

… - …

The next day, Harry enjoyed a breakfast while he visited with Tom and his assistant, Nobb a bit. At 9:50 he walked to the bank, nodded at the guards and saw Chiptooth waiting for him. Harry greeted the young Goblin and they walked to Barchoke's office. Chiptooth gave his rap, rap-rap, rap and opened the door.

Barchoke greeted Harry, "Good morning, Mr. Potter. Please be seated. Windsong, our Master Healer made time to see you this morning. Let us go now; we can talk more when she is done poking and prodding you. Please follow me." Barchoke led him down another corridor that he hadn't noticed before. He introduced them and took his leave.

When Windsong had completed her examination, she clearly wasn't happy with her findings. Potter was too short, too weak, had weak bones, badly repaired bones, blocks on his magic, damaged eyesight and a leech in his forehead. She asked, "Where do you live, Mr. Potter?"

Harry replied, "I'm staying at the Leaky Cauldron."

"I meant where were you living before you began school?"

"My Aunt and Uncle; they're not magical."

She asked, "Were you treated poorly?"

He admitted, "Yes."

She handed him five memory cubes and asked, "Can you give me some examples?"

While Harry was filling the memory cubes, Windsong reviewed her notes again. She announced, "We can treat all of these conditions. Most of them can be treated with potions taken before you sleep. Can you come to the lobby after dinner each evening and collect a potion to take before bed?"

"Yes."

"Do I have your permission to share these results with Barchoke and Ragnok?"

"Yes."

"Very good. Chiptooth will meet you each evening at six. You should meet with Barchoke tomorrow morning at ten. I'll give him a treatment schedule to give you tomorrow."

"Thank you for helping me."

… - ...

That evening. The two goblin leaders met to discuss Windsong's findings. Barchoke said, "I've asked Chiptooth to collect his potion each afternoon before six and hand it to Potter. Within a month, he'll be healthy enough to remove the leech."

Ragnok asked, "It's not a horcrux?"

"No. It probably accidentally detached when Potter was an infant."

"What were the findings from the vault searches?"

Barchoke replied, "The Security Team found a horcrux in the Lestrange woman's vault. It is possible to measure the comparative size of the one in the cup to the piece in Harry's head to calculate and estimate of the number that he made in between. They might also be used to help locate any additional pieces."

"Excellent."

Barchoke said, "He showed me an interesting memory." They looked at it together. Barchoke added, "He expressed interest in getting a picture of the mosaic."

Ragnok pointed out, "It would be too small to appreciate the detail. Have the Artisans create a 2.5 by 6 foot reproduction. Actually, have them make three. We'll give one to Harry for his birthday. I'd like one placed in the corridor outside my office and one for the Hall of History."

… - ...

Barchoke re-examined the Bank's copy of the Potter Wills. The results were disappointing but not surprising. Dumbledore had completely disregarded James and Lily's documented wishes. The copy stated that they were in hiding under a fidelius charm that had been cast by Dumbledore with Pettigrew as the Secret Keeper. Harry's designated guardians, in order of preference were – Sirius Black, Alice Longbottom, Andromeda Tonks, Minerva McGonagall and Amelia Bones. Lily's Will contained a handwritten addendum stating that Harry was to have no contact with her sister, Petunia. Dumbledore and Alice Longbottom had acted as witnesses. He handed the copies to Ragnok to review.

Ragnok handed the copies back and commented, "At the time of the attack, he dispatched Hagrid to go collect Harry. He either knew one of the Potters to be dead, or that Riddle breached the wards; more likely the latter. He didn't go and render assistance, though he could have been there in ten seconds. He didn't allow Black to take the little boy, as was his documented right. Even if he suspected Black, he didn't send them to the Longbottoms, who wouldn't be attacked for another week. He ignored Andromeda Tonks, Minerva McGonagall and Amelia Bones; all reputable people.

"He examined the toddler, misidentified the leech as an active horcrux and acted as Emperor, circumventing the child welfare department of the ministry. Then he invented the blood-ward story.

"He will not have the opportunity to return Harry to that situation. The ministry is so fond of using the gas explosion excuse. Send in the Security Team to make it so."

… - …

Tragically, Sirius Black was close enough to the home at the time of the explosion that he was knocked unconscious. He was found and had just been administered the dementors' kiss when Dumbledore arrived on the scene. His first words were, "Where's Harry?"

Amelia, who actually was in charge, and was completely annoyed at having her authority ignored twice in ten minutes replied, "There were eight people killed that we're aware of. They're in those black plastic bags over there. There's no evidence of any spell activity and the property was very poorly warded. I do hope you plan on taking full credit for illegally setting them, Professor." As Fudge was standing there, thinking the same thing, Albus couldn't simply ignore her. Instead, he did his smartest act of the evening and apparated back to the castle.

… - …

Naturally, Harry knew none of this. His potions all had mild sleeping agents. Before retiring for the evening, he always ordered a light snack or an apple from Tom.

As such, he had an iron-clad alibi.

… - …

Back at Hogwarts, Dumbledore's trinkets had exploded, setting fire to his office and living quarters. Since he always locked it when he left, the fire had destroyed anything that was flammable, as no one was able to reach the fire before it burned itself out. Among the items destroyed were his wooden file cabinet, his desk which contained his documents relating to Sirius Black and his attempt at sealing the Potter Will.

Worse still, the fire burned through his living quarters where he kept his ridiculously large collection of robes and garish attire in a space-expanded wardrobe. What wasn't burned smelled of smoke for years.

… - …

Later that night, Barchoke, who had heard of Black's unfortunate demise, carefully examined the Black Family Trust documents as well as the Wills. An hour later, Ragnok came by and asked, "What did you find?"

"Black was Lord of the family; that fact is indisputable. Contrary to anything reported by Walburga, he was never stricken from the family by Arcturus Black. Walburga's saying so, meant nothing.

"There is no documentation, either in our possession, the Malfoy vaults, or filed anywhere in the ministry to support Lucius's anticipated claim that he's been acting as the authorized Steward of the Black family, or that his son, Draco is a named Heir, or that he has had authorization to sit in the Black seat at the Wizangamot. He's been doing so illegally as Fudge has allowed it.

"Harry Potter can assume the Lordship at any time of his choice without an age restriction.

"Let us act quickly on two points. First, have Chiptooth go collect him early tomorrow morning. Have him take up the ring and file the documents. Second, have the Black Trust purchase at least a controlling majority in the Daily Prophet; preferably all of the stock. Inform Potter of the facts that he should know.

"Contact Ted Tonks tomorrow afternoon and let them know that they were in line to take in Harry. Be certain that they are still willing. Harry needs a wizard and witch to act as legitimate advocates.

"When the proper documentation and transactions are completed, ask Ted to visit with the Editor at the Daily Prophet and remind him that the role of the newspaper is to provide unbiased, factual information. Their role is not to serve as a free mouthpiece for Dumbledore, Malfoy, or the Ministry.

"Tell him that he is to perform proper due diligence before printing a story and that the supporting documentation will be reviewed on a regular basis if he is to retain his position as Editor."

Barchoke asked, "How long shall we stall for the Will Reading?"

"Schedule it for the first Saturday after school starts. Additionally, I want you to..."

… - …

A week later, the physical changes in Harry were beginning to become visible. His bones had been strengthened and replaced as needed. The strengthening potion had removed the sickly waif look that he'd lived with for too much of his life. The nutrition potions scheduled for the next week would increase his size and weight from his being at the very bottom of the range for his age to well above the mid-point. He'd never be mistaken for Vince Crabbe but he'd never be mistaken for a first or second year student again either.

… - …

On July 31, Harry was looking through the stack of books at Flourish and Blotts when he was grabbed from behind.

"Harry!"

He turned around and received a very warm hug from Hermione, as an attractive woman who looked like Hermione's older sister looked on in amusement.

"Where have you been? You've grown. I heard a rumor that you'd died. You're looking great. What are you doing in a bookstore? Are you here by yourself? Why didn't you write?"

"Breathe, my dear," said a woman Hermione didn't recognize. Let's invite your friend and her mother for lunch. Harry, if you happen to remember any of her questions, you can answer them there. I'm Andromeda Tonks."

Hermione said, "I'm sorry, I just got excited. I'm Hermione Granger. This is my mother, Dr. Emma Granger.

Andromeda greeted the two and said, "We'll have much in common." She told the clerk, "Please charge the books to my vault." She shrank the foot high stack and placed them in two candy bag sized sacks that were on the counter. Hermione had never noticed them before. Andromeda led them to Merlin Way and they stopped at the second door on the right. The sign read, The Raven's Perch. They were immediately seated at a private booth. After water had been served and their beverage order taken, the Server let them be, then Andromeda cast a privacy charm and said, "Ask away – one question at a time. Harry reserves the right to not answer, or ask an equal number of questions of his own."

Hermione started out with a statement, "I've missed you."

He smiled and replied, "Me too."

"Where have you been all summer?"

"My Aunt and Uncle decided that they'd be happier if I found someplace else to live. They signed a note to that effect. I used the shrinking trunk charm that Professor Flitwick showed us in May before we left Hogwarts and never resized my trunk when I got to Little Whinging. I took the tube from Paddington Station to Charing Cross. I met with the people who watch my accounts at Gringotts. They suggested that I stay at the Leaky Cauldron. Their Healer has been helping with my long-term health issues and here I am." He thought he'd mentally checked off several of her questions.

She was about to ask another when her mum reminded her, "Harry's turn."

He said, "I missed you too, by the way. I don't have your telephone number and Hedwig was staying with you. Why were you worried about me?"

"Your Aunt, Uncle, Cousin and one of his friends were in their house when there was a gas explosion. It was in The Times."

Harry responded, "My Godfather was also in the neighborhood, probably looking for me and died the same night. Fudge had him kissed on the spot."

"Dementors?"

Harry nodded.

She said, "He was that mass murderer. It was on the news that he'd escaped prison."

Harry replied, "If you say so. He was originally tossed in prison on a 30-day holding order and never was given a trial, or was convicted of anything. Dumbledore and Barty Crouch signed the order in early November, 1981. It was Dumbledore's job to schedule a trial. He never did. A few weeks later, the I was under the Imperius Curse Spell defense became popular and a lot of gold exchanged hands."

Emma asked, "How do you know?"

Andromeda responded, "You're a Dentist, I'm a magical Healer, my husband's a magical Solicitor. Every profession has its office gossip. In this case, the bank records substantiate the rumors."

"But that's not right," declared the idealistic teen.

Andromeda admitted, "No, it's not, but for the most part, the people who are wealthy or politically powerful are happy with the results."

Emma, who still carried a bit of it herself observed, "Just because it's real doesn't make it right." Harry never forgot that conversation.

Andromeda replied, "On that point, the four of us are in complete agreement." After the server brought their beverages and took their food orders, she pointed out, "We've gotten completely off track. Hermione, your question."

"How do you look so much healthier?"

Emma and Andromeda cringed. Patient privacy laws had no chance against an overly inquisitive teen. Harry replied, "I was diagnosed with long-term childhood malnutrition, badly set broken bones, being seriously small and underweight. There were two bindings on my magic, along with several unresolved issues relating from the attempted murder when I was a toddler. Seven of my bones were removed and regrown. I've been given strengthening and nutrition potions, so I'll be the size of my classmates when we start school." With a smirk, he observed, "It appears that you've grown too."

Before she could turn tomato red, he asked, "What classes did you sign up for?"

She hesitated before admitting, "All of them."

Andromeda replied, "That is a well-intentioned, horrible idea that's attempted about once a decade and never ends well. Consistent use of a time-turner causes health issues in adolescents, particularly girls. As possibly the only magical healer that you've spoken with, I highly recommend that you reconsider. Beyond that, Muggle Studies is a joke of a class, as is Divination. You really should be signing up for two electives; three is pushing it." Looking to Emma, she asked, "Did Hermione actually talk this over with you, or simply fob off a piece of paper like my daughter used to do, and mention, This needs to be signed, as I was walking out the door?"

"Emma replied, "The latter." She added, "In plain words, what are the electives and their long-term benefits?"

Andromeda replied, "There's the Study of Non-magical People. It's a magazine article depth look at the lives of non-magical people. It would be a bit interesting for children with a long-standing background of magic, if the class itself wasn't 120 years out of date. In plain words, it's worse than worthless.

"Divination is the study of methods used to predict the future. It would have merit, except, like being able to wield magic, it's an attribute that you're either born with, or not. Emma, you reading a charms book and borrowing Hermione's wand isn't going to allow you to float your husband from the sofa to his bed when he falls asleep at 8 pm."

The two women laughed at the universal truth of the statement. Andromeda continued, "On average, there is one student gifted with the ability to look into a crystal ball and see various futures every five years. At best, Sybill Trelawney should be hired by a student or two as a private tutor. Rumor has it that Dumbledore is keeping her in the castle as a form of protection."

Harry said, "She is. Before I was born, she spoke what some believe is a true prophecy regarding me. I've heard it."

Andromeda said, "We're well off track now. The other electives are, The Care of Magical Creatures; perhaps the only plainly titled class offering of the bunch.

"Next, there's Runes, which is a non-wanded means of performing magic, such as making a light switch. It's actually quite useful.

"Finally, there's Arithmancy, which can be used in spell creation. To save you a question, Harry and I talked it over and decided on Runes and Magical Creatures."

Harry asked, "Since you brought it up, what's your telephone number? Here's mine." They exchanged numbers much to Andy's and Emma's amusement.

Emma asked, "Can either of you tell me why we didn't hear from Hermione for six weeks?"

Harry replied, "There was a snake in the castle that petrified people."

Emma cut in, "Yes, I finally got the what out of Hermione. I'm trying to get my arms around the rationale behind Dumbledore's decision to not inform a parent that their child had been injured and would miss six weeks of school while some plant that could be purchased was grown instead."

Andromeda gasped, "He didn't? That slippery goat... He tried to keep a lid on the fact that he had no idea what was harming the students and was too cheap to personally pay for the mandrake leaves because the Board of School Governors didn't want to spend the money to treat students of nonmagical heritage."

Harry said. "Ragnok told me something interesting about Professor Dumbledore."

Emma asked, "What's that?"

"He's not your enemy but he's not your friend either, nor does he hold any legal authority over you."

Andy observed, "His fans admit that he has what you would think of as a 50,000 foot view/perspective of life, meaning that his focus is always on the forest without any regard to the rights of the individual trees.

"His detractors consider him a lying person who isn't likely to give a straight answer if someone asked, What day is it?"

Emma asked, "Are there witches and wizards in other countries?"

"Certainly."

"The States?"

"Of course."

"Australia?"

"Yes. The world-wide distribution is about one magical in every 2,000 people."

Emma asked, "What my question is, if Dumbledore's such a failure as a Headmaster, why is anyone attending his school? What's to prevent every student from transferring to the magical school in Spain, or France, or the like?"

Andy replied, "Legally nothing. Socially there are biases against foreign educated students when it comes to careers."

Emma observed, "So you're politely saying that there are elements of the British magical society, which are already biased against Hermione because her parents or great-grandparents didn't have an eleven inch unicorn hair wand, and they'd somehow become even further biased if she went to the school at... I don't know... Salem Massachusetts and learned healing there?"

Andy admitted, "Some would, yes. As for your point about Hermione's Great-grandfather, it's fairly likely that he did have a wand. Skipping a generation or two is fairly common in magic; especially on an Island, like Britain."

Emma caught the implication and laughed, "Oh for the love of God. Are you referring to third cousins, or siblings?"

Andromeda replied, "Let's be fair; except for recent immigrants, there aren't many people in Britain with six degrees of separation with the other magicals." They both laughed.

Harry said, "To your earlier question, Hermione, my parents named Andromeda and her husband to take care of me in their Will. They agreed, did a bit of paperwork, and here I am."

… - …

As Harry and Hermione made doe eyes at each other to the amusement of the two parental figures, Dumbledore sat in yet another ICW planning meeting, debating a point on a topic that he honestly had no interest in.

He'd hurried back from Geneva to Hogwarts on the second day of the two-week summer meeting session because of the gas explosion and still had three days to go.

… - …

Barchoke delighted when he'd read the report. The Black Trust now had complete ownership of the Daily Prophet. In exchange for ongoing employment, Cuffe had quickly agreed to Ted's demand of fair and unbiased reporting, along with the explicit understanding that he did not take work direction from anyone with the names, Malfoy, Dumbledore, or any of the ministry employees.

Barchoke sent a note to Ragnok, informing him of the development.

… - …

Living at the Tonks household was far more hectic than having a room at Tom's. Nymphadora was still living there; eating there was probably more accurate. Her mother had given her strict instructions not to mention Harry's presence there to anyone – not Dumbledore, her supervisor, Amelia, Fudge, co-workers – anyone.

Harry was still going to Gringotts every evening, though the time had been moved up to 5 pm to better accommodate their dinner schedule.

… - ...

Ted Tonks went to visit Amelia Bones. While the meeting was cordial, he presented a certified copy of the Potter Wills. She looked at the section that listed guardians and saw her name on the list. She read the section regarding Peter Pettigrew and immediately had a sinking feeling in her heart that Fudge had executed the wrong man.

She commented, "The whole thing is terrible. Black was imprisoned on flimsy evidence to begin with; Dumbledore knew full well that only Pettigrew could have given the secret away."

Ted remarked, "I don't blame you; I blame Fudge. I totally blame Dumbledore. That said, when we publish the Wills in the Prophet next week and post copies in the Gringotts lobby, it would be fair to expect a lot of fallout from the public.

Amelia replied, "No doubt he'll send Dolores over to the Prophet, demanding a complete retraction."

Ted looked her in the eye, smiled and replied, "The ownership of the paper has materially changed. There won't be any retractions."

She replied, "I see. In that case, I thank you for the heads up."

… - …

Minerva knocked on the door at the Granger residence. Dan answered the door. He wasn't intimidated by her in the least. He greeted her and added, "I wasn't aware that we had an appointment. Instead, I would have expected a follow-up visit from the healer to check on how my daughter was doing after having been petrified for six and a half weeks."

McGonagall didn't have a comeback; she was in an indefensible position. They hadn't notified them or made any real effort to expedite a cure. She asked, "Is Miss Granger home? I have news for her."

Dan held his ground and replied, "You're welcome to tell me; I'm capable of relaying a message."

McGonagall was caught in a lie. She didn't have any news; she'd been sent, looking for information. She said, "I'm looking for the Potter boy."

Dan cut her off and replied, "I've never met the lad. If he's run off, shouldn't the police be looking for him rather than one of his school teachers? Or was there something else? He didn't do anything inappropriate with my daughter, did he?"

"No, not that I'm aware of. He's an honorable lad."

"Well, then I'll let you be in your way, Ms. McGonagall. Perhaps next time, you should call before coming unannounced. It's an accepted practice in our culture." He concluded, "Good day," and closed the door."

… - …

She returned to the castle, found Dumbledore at the Staff Table and in a voice loud enough for everyone to hear, stated, "Next time you can go do your own dirty work. They had nothing to say."

He replied with his old standby, "I'm his magical guardian. I need to know where he is; I have questions for him."

She replied, "Three points – First, no, you're not. Second, you never were. Third, you have nothing related to his schooling to discuss with him."

Dumbledore had been knocked back on his heels. She added, "Gringotts. Copies of the Potter Wills are on display in the Lobby. You signed the documents. You knew Pettigrew was the Secret Keeper. You lied and lied and lied to anyone who would listen. I was in line to take the boy. Sirius was. The Longbottoms were, as well as others. You had no authority; you kidnapped the boy and..."

"Silence!" I shall not be spoken to like a child. It was my decision..."

"No! It was your desire. You had no authority to withhold little Harry from Black. The Longbottoms hadn't been attacked yet, nor had Amelia Bones. I personally hope when you're sued for everything that you have for wrongful imprisonment, that you spend the rest of your days wearing a transfigured barrel."

He lashed out, "I'll expect your resignation by morning."

Flitwick and the other instructors there not named Snape stood and said, "That will be all of us. If we all leave, you'll be sacked by the Board of Governors by dinner time tomorrow. Perhaps your next words should be, "I'm not well. I don't know what came over me. I apologize; I have an unhealthy obsession with green-eyed boys. I'll get professional help."

For a long minute, the situation resembled a standoff. He fingered his wand but knew that the half goblin would have completed his second spell before he'd finished drawing his wand. Unfortunately for Dumbledore, the entire staff including Filch, Poppy, and Hagrid were there.

Dumbledore looked at everyone. There was no doubt in his mind as to the sincerity of Flitwick's and McGonagall's words. He replied, "With the benefit of a decade of hindsight, it is evident that the other paths would have been better for Mr. Potter. I initially acted in what I thought was in the boy's best interest. I will initiate no direct or indirect contact with the boy. I also accept that you're correct in your prediction of pending litigation regarding Sirius."

None of the others had personally seen the copy of the Potter Wills posted on the wall at Gringotts. Dumbledore certainly had no desire to enter the bank anytime soon. Had Flitwick carefully examined the copy, he'd have noticed that a goblin Notice-Me-Not charm had been carefully placed over Andromeda Tonks name before the document had been posted.

Dumbledore went back to his task of cleaning up his office and living area.

… - …

A/Ns

The conversation between Andromeda and Emma spotlighted one of the troubling aspects of Her world. I doubt that Harry will let that stand. If anyone missed it, she had been named his guardian via his parents' Will by the time Hermione finds him in the bookstore.

Sirius needed to be gone in this story. The circumstances of his death directly play into the later chapters.

Some of the information that Harry acquired from Barchoke over the summer will come into play in future chapters.

The tale has several planned time jumps. Please keep the chapter date stamps in mind.

Elves will play a significant role in this tale.

I fully admit, I'm zooming through the first four chapters. I wanted to get Harry through a certain point by the end of chapter 5 and I don't want to spend 200 pages doing so.

Enjoy the ride.

Cheers.

Short OMAKE

Dumbledore lashed out, "I'll expect your resignation by morning."

Snape stood and began, "The one with the power..."

Flitwick cut him off, "Everyone who matters has already heard the entire message. So have Potter and Director Bones. Expect to be charged any day now."

… - …