Lightning Lord
**OO**
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful Beta, LtsHrIt4ThBoyz.
AU story, no ownership of Harry Potter or anyone else. If you are looking for canon, I suggest one of Rowling's first few books. I'd skip books five, six and seven though. Harry/Ginny will never happen in any of my stories unless Hermione or Luna is having a nightmare.
Sorry Molly.
**OO**
Welcome to the fireside.
**OO**
Chapter 4: First Year Continues
**OO**
Gilderoy Lockhart wasn't reported missing until something of his was found. A mysterious wand was discovered at a magical creature reserve. Apparently, one of their class XXXXX beasts had eaten a professor from Hogwarts, and the DMLE wanted to find evidence to close the missing persons case.
Finding the wand was confusing, as it was presumed to be Quirrell's. Ollivander however remembered every wand he sold. The wand actually belonging to Gilderoy was confusing, but Quirrell had been heard talking about several recent adventures. And Professor Quirrell had been the only one reported missing.
Defying all logic known to muggles, the story was Frankensteined together that Gilderoy was in disguise, teaching the next generation of witches and wizards as he clearly didn't want his celebrity interfering with his good works.
Rita jumped on the story, especially since Lockhart had clearly died in the protection of Harry Potter himself. This on the anniversary of his parents' deaths.
The interview was done with Harry Potter (age eleven), Mary Ketteridge, Sally Perky, and Harry's best friend, Roonald Malfoy (clearly an illegitimate child of the late Lucius Malfoy. An exhaustive search could not reveal more about this mystery child.) The article was full of the adventures these children had already been on in the castle. No mention of James or Lily Potter was made on the anniversary of their deaths.
It would only be later, when Dumbledore was pleading to the Wizengamot to return Harry's custody to him –and bring him back from Australia– that anyone knew anything was wrong.
The call for Lockhart to posthumously receive the upgraded Order of Merlin, First Class was quickly approved.
As soon as they could locate the third class paperwork. That file seemed to have gone missing.
**OO**
Saturday, November 2, Wimborne
Professor Vaughn, helping with the new intake questions, looked at Blaise and Millicent with a stern look in her eyes. "Have either of you ever seen a computer? I mean, before coming here?"
Millicent looked down, but Blaise was his father's son. The swarthy and handsome young boy lifted his chin, "No ma'am. But I know how to read, I have been tutored in Arithmancy since I was seven, and am interested to learn. I will try my best in the class."
Millicent took courage, but felt awkward next to her friend. "Me too, ma'am. I'm interested in Astronomy, and the muggles are developing telescopes that rely on the…software to track the night sky. It's fascinating! I want to be a part of this!"
The professor looked both of them in the eyes, and then focused on Miss Granger.
"And what is your interest in this class?" the professor asked firmly, but not unkindly.
"Um, my parents are dentists. What if there were ways of using computers to do things to, I don't know…design better braces? Help somehow. I don't know how to program yet, but I have my own computer at home."
"Well, there's nothing wrong with not knowing something. But if you want to be in this class, a desire to learn is all you need. I agree with your counselors. You might have to repeat this class, starting as late as you are. But I'm willing to help y'all because I know what it's like to be seen as 'less than' just because of something you have no control over whatsoever."
The four magicals shared handshakes and were sent on to the medical center.
**OO**
Hermione was sitting by herself at her first lunch at Wimborne. 'The Gang', as Milli had called the group of ex-Hogwarts alum, were off getting their first set of muggle inoculations; leaving Hermione feeling bereft of all companionship on her first day.
Luna, who had Seen how she would have fared at Hogwarts, sat down next to her, putting her lunch down. "Your friends will be alright. They just have to quarantine for a bit."
Millicent and Blaise hadn't had the same muggle vaccinations that Hermione already had, and had been being treated over the weekend. They were actually in a separate private clinic, just in case they had a bad reaction. They were missed.
"I'm Hermione, and you're…Luna?" She asked briefly. The girl had greeted her warmly with a hug, and said nonsense things. But she wasn't mean or bullying.
"Luna Lovegood. Oh, here's Harry. I'll introduce you to my friends." Luna waved over Harry and Baljeet, who was on his heels, and Lisa wasn't far behind.
The blonde girl had shared that comment about friends like someone who had a great treasure they were proud of.
"Nice to meet you, Hermione." Harry blushed. He sat down with his lunch to join Luna.
It was also explained to the newcomers that they had gone to school with the adventurer 'Harry Potter', and this was the future computer wizard 'Harry Potter'. Twins of a sort.
Hermione hadn't interacted much with the Potter boy before, but he'd never been mean to her. Now, she was curious to get to know the real person.
When Hermione arrived at school for the very first time, Luna had blurted "At last! We can begin our trio adventure anon, and together as one we will be forevermore!"
Harry had blushed, but Hermione got the sense that something more was going on here. This group was willing to accept her and her friends from Hogwarts.
It was time to start a new chapter to her life; one hopefully without trolls, bullies and bigots.
Harry and Baljeet made sure she knew where the theatre was for the Sunday Night movie night, and offered to get her snacks.
New friends, singing along to a favorite musical. So very different from the 'yer House is yer family' speech. Some family!
This was so much better, even if she wisely chose the non-sugary drinks and snacks. Just in case.
**OO**
Harry and Baljeet had clicked from the first day, and Luna had been added to their 'inner circle' very quickly. When Lisa came, she too was added to their pod and friendship circle.
Luna was a very special person for Harry. Whereas before Harry got away from the Dursleys, any physical touch meant pain for him, she was teaching him that he was not only worthy of love, but completely lovable. And hugged him every day.
But when Hermione showed up after the troll attack at Hogwarts, Harry's world tilted. He just knew that this girl, no, this witch, was important to him. And then she started asking questions about the computers they were using, showing that she had a solid foundation to start. And, like him, was interested in learning more.
Baljeet had rolled his eyes. "Another witch? In my country, harems are acceptable. I have never seen one yet in London."
Kird let his opinion be known. "One wife, one mate. There is no reason to be untrue. Even if one is responsible for two Houses. It's just not right to have two mates."
Luna just looked at him. "Your king has three. His first mate, and then two unmarried females who reached fifty without finding their bond-mate. So even the goblins are flexible, under the right circumstances. You just don't like me because I'm not vicious enough."
Kird shook his head, "I don't dislike you, witch. My sponsor reminded me that you are who you are, and I should learn to be nice about it. I'm just saying I don't think you should marry Harry if he finds someone else."
Harry shook his head, trying to get away from that discussion, "I'm eleven, right? I'm just glad Hermione's safe. She fought a troll. Remember?"
The goblin boy nodded, admiration on his face. And the warrior-witch planned to join them for defense lessons.
Kird would occasionally give Luna hostile looks after that night, but did nothing else.
The half-goblin had gotten the story through others in Gringotts, and he learned that the young Hermione had faced a troll with no other weapon than a wand and survived. In his mind, she was a far better potential mate than someone who liked sunshine and daisies and wouldn't come to defense practice with BloodRage or try to use any sort of weapon. Hermione, on the other hand, got involved with everything. And she was vicious!
Harry, for the most part, just ignored both Baljeet's and Kird's opinion on the matter. After Hermione arrived, instead of walking around the school after dinner, talking about anything and everything with Luna for an hour, it became Luna, Harry and Hermione. And everyone in the pod knew to give them their space.
**OO**
The Grangers were thrilled with the change of schools and schedules. And had sent Auror Tonks a nice box of chocolates in thanks for her timely rescue of their only child. And then asked what more they could do for her. Hermione was going to be going home most weekends, but staying there at Wimborne during the school week.
It was all very extraordinary, and the three adults, Tonks and the Grangers, quickly became quite close friends as well.
**OO**
Another extraordinary thing happened after Halloween. Harry started getting letters from Remus Lupin, along with pictures of his parents.
Remus had written, 'The headmaster of Hogwarts wrote to me recently. He implied that you were being abused by your new guardians, having taken you away from that great bastion of education.
'I happen to disagree. I know Thorfinn Rowle is a Death Eater. One who pled he was imperiused to serve the dark one. But I fought him back in the day, as did your parents. No! He had been there of his own free will.
'Our commander of our private militia wanted us to stun these people. It was Dumbledore who gave them the idea they had been imperiused. Well, I want nothing more to do with the man, especially after finding out about Peter being alive, and Sirius never even having a trial.
'If I ever meet this Tonks witch, I might just have to kiss her soundly in thanks.'
Harry eww'd mentally at Tonks kissing any boy. If she was seeing anyone, she hadn't said.
'Sirius loves writing to you, but is terribly afraid that you are in fact angry at him. I have told him that you were both imprisoned, most unfairly, by Dumbledore's actions. I beg you not to hold a grudge. Sirius can be moody, and a bit cruel at times. But he loved James like a brother, and would have done anything for your parents.
'I beg you to forgive him for not being there for you. I also beg you to forgive me. I've sent you cards and letters before, but recently discovered, they were diverted. I tried to visit you after being told no, but the wards were set against me personally. Don't worry, I wasn't seriously hurt. A couple of days of rest and some potions took care of it.'
That made Harry really angry. Of course he could forgive both of these men for not being in Harry's life before now. He already had completely forgiven Sirius.
Dumbledore! His worst enemy had caused this.
'Sirius wants to invite you, Tonks, and her parents for a holiday. I suggest someplace public, at least at first, so you don't feel trapped. I have included some suggestions for you and them to decide.
'If you ever need help, please know that I will do anything for you. If you decide in future you want nothing to do with any of us, please write to me. I don't think Sirius could handle that rejection right now. I do hope that you'll continue to write as you have. This way, we can get to know one another, and fill in what we should have had all along.'
'Your humble servant,'
'Remus Lupin.'
Harry immediately wrote two letters. He included pictures of himself, ones of him with Hermione and Luna, and some with his friends playing baggit and football. There was nothing to identify the school if anyone saw the pictures either. He had shared a few with Sirius before of just himself, but now that Tonks was out of Hogwarts, he could share more.
An uncle who truly cared. Or was that two?
Harry asked his secretary Druella to immediately forward such mail as she could find that had come from Remus in the past.
Dumbledore had much to answer for someday. But right now, Harry was forging new bonds of family with the wizards that had been close with his parents.
Tears had been on the first letters from Sirius Black. Of course, Harry's own might have had one or two himself.
**OO**
Albus Dumbledore looked at the review of the financial projections. This was not good. If Lucius was still a governor, he'd be casting the cruciatus curse on poor Thorfinn.
No one understood Albus, or his methods. It wasn't safe for muggleborns in their world. Getting a bit of reality here was better than being burnt to death inside their homes as adults! Professor Rowle was there to dispense the truth of the dangers of muggles to the purebloods, and the dangers of the purebloods to those from the non-magical world.
Most quit quickly, or the few that were exceptionally bright, as well as stubborn, like Miss Granger, needed harsher lessons.
Percy was to be commended for his goals, misplaced as they were; to bring equality to the muggleborns. To give them access to better jobs, better homes in their community. Equality under the law. However, until Voldemort was completely eradicated, all muggleborn students were at risk.
He sighed. The financial implications though. Muggleborn tuition was anywhere from two to fifteen times higher than what most purebloods paid depending on the families' wealth. And some purebloods, like Arthur's boys, had wealthy sponsors who paid for them.
Miss Perks was one of the only muggleborn students left. She was being sponsored by an anonymous donor. Albus wondered if her birth father was still alive after all, and if he had been a wizard.
But he had no time for mysteries of unimportant people. She hadn't quit yet, which meant her homelife was even more miserable than school for her. A shame, but he had to figure out how to spin the disaster of so much lost tuition for the next term to the Board of Governors.
At least Thorfinn had no interest in the Defense course. Albus still needed to find a solution for the missing Quirrell. He might not be dead, but was doing important things for the world. A lack of defense lessons was nothing compared to that.
Amelia was annoyed with Albus for being released from her clutches, but she had no choice. She won with Sirius Black, and Albus had successfully argued with Fudge that she was seeking revenge against him for her emotional damage.
His cheek still hurt when thinking of how she hit him, but his ploy had worked. He'd just have to keep a lower profile for a time.
And keep an eye on the remaining muggleborns at school. He'd have to keep them safe. For now.
**OO**
"How are you doing, Sally-Anne?" Neville asked. He had heard from his Gran. The woman was formidable, and more than once had frightened him. But she was on the board of Governors. After what happened to Lisa, he knew there was a push to deal with the bullying at school.
Now? With Harry Potter gone? There was a huge push regarding safety measures. And bullying. Dumbledore was back, with a promise to be 'more diligent' about such. He was reputed to have docked Malfoy points for using the 'M' word.
"Better now. With Hermione gone, I was worried that Lavender and Parvati would pick on me. But they actually seem a bit sad over how they treated her. They've not said anything mean at all. How about you?"
"I thought Ron was going to have a breakdown when Harry's owl Tuvok arrived that next morning. The note read that Harry'd be very busy, and far away. They were packing to leave the country. My gran is very upset about that, but can't blame his guardians. If I'd been anywhere near the troll, I think she'd wallop Dumbledore with her handbag."
"Not the Handbag of Doom! He's really old. That could kill him!" Sally-Anne's eyes were laughing.
Ron started to sit next to them, looking very wobegon. Seeing Sally-Anne laughing set him off.
"Go ahead and mock me! Stupid troll didn't break you two up. Maybe I should write to your parents and let them know what is really going on here. My best friend has abandoned me!" Ron started to move away.
Neville added a parting shot. "Please do send that letter, Mr Weasley. They won't be listened to by the governors, but it will be another voice for change. If you can't see why Harry was pulled out of Hogwarts, I feel sorry for you."
Ron scoffed. "Trolls? As if that could take out Harry Potter."
Sally-Anne just shook her head, "Someone could have been killed, and all you think of is yourself, Weasley. I just wish I had someone magical who cared about me as much."
Ron balanced a plate on one hand to make a rude gesture before moving off.
He never heard Neville's reply to the young witch, "But you do. Have a magical friend who cares for you, that is."
"Thank you." Her smile let him know she was touched by his declaration. "I just hope that Hermione and Harry are happy wherever they wind up."
**OO**
Luna was sitting on the blanket, a basket next to her. She rose gracefully when Harry and Hermione joined her. It was a lovely Friday afternoon before Hermione left for home.
"We're close enough to the school that any magic will be considered monitored, but warming charms shouldn't alarm anyone in the DMLE." Luna stated. They had all learned the trace was on areas rather than individual wands. As such, they had underage magic permits, just in case.
Harry cast the charms on all three of them before sitting down.
"I saw a small colony of fairies nearby, and wanted to share. If we just sit here and eat, they might join us. Or, if not, we can still enjoy the sunshine."
They were on a grassy part of a larger pasture, but there was a nice stand of trees nearby.
Harry smiled at Luna as they watched for woodland creatures, and ate an alfresco tea.
Hermione had never known such peace. Neither had Harry. Luna smiled at them both.
They returned to their projects, refreshed.
Hermione wasn't behind on the magical classes as she had read and worked ahead in all of the first year books. Her parents had even given in to her request to purchase the Runes and Arithmancy texts; knowing their brainy daughter needed the stimulation.
They had no idea that she was also learning to appreciate nature now as well.
**OO**
The poster was similar to others that had been hung in the hallway to their dorm rooms. 'Spend some time powering battery runes. Fifty pounds or one galleon per each one. See Professor Turing, Advanced Runic Conservatory.'
Baljeet scowled. Justin, who normally day-tripped, still had a room assigned to him as a quiet place to study, or even take a nap if he ever needed. Many of their classes were exhausting.
"Sure. Power up a magical battery. Who can do that? Who has magical energy to spare?" Another boy complained.
Kird said nothing. He was going the wandless route, trying to prove himself unlike his wizarding half that relied upon a stick to do anything important. He made a great deal of gold powering runic crystals. It wasn't uncommon seeing him with one in his hand in class.
Harry, who was there on scholarship, said nothing. He thought this was a way to give back to the school that had given him a chance to be both away from the Dursleys and safe from whatever Dumbledore had planned.
He started going everyday to the Advanced Runic Conservatory called the 'Arc' to the people at school. There, they had pure gems and crystals that were used to power different magical devices. Every finished crystal, he was given another galleon on account. He never took a draw on this account, but within a year, he would have earned enough money for tuition if he had needed it.
One of the other apprentices had made a mistake once, in coming across Professor Turing showing Harry how to charge a particularly difficult medium and said, "You are a freak of nature!"
His tone was admiring; it was clear that he meant it as a compliment, but the instructor saw the power level spike, nearly destroying the stone Harry was charging.
"Mike! Don't talk like that. Please apologize." but there was no need.
The apprentice had seen actual miniature lightning bolts appear on Potter's hands for a moment. The older boy took it as accidental magic for the term he shouldn't have said, and quickly apologized.
But the professor had seen too and waited for a moment when everyone was away before whispering to Harry, "You are an amazing young man. I don't know how we are going to find you a proper mentor, but I have been working on it. Your gift should be nourished. And it will only help you to charge these crystals and things. It will help you develop your relationship with your magic."
"A mentor? In…electricity? I thought Professor Franklin was dead." Harry asked.
"Sadly yes, he died serving in the Pacific during World War II I think." Turing offered, "But I have heard rumors of a Japanese mage who might be a Lightning Lord. Or perhaps a weather mage of some sort? I'm not sure. Only if you choose to become a hit wizard, do you have to register your gift with the ICW. Only I, the headmistress, and the school's healer know." Professor Turing explained.
"Healer Marius? He can keep a secret." Harry shared.
"Indeed he can. And there was another who had that power that I heard of. Too bad that that Arminian-born American wizard was killed trying to take out a German stronghold. I have my suspicions on that score, but will not share them here.
"Professor Tesla. Amazing man. Absolute genius. He just had a hard time keeping his secrets safe, and he had a lot of people steal ideas from him. He was trying to help society in general. Americans are more closely integrated with the real world. He wanted to bring free power to the people. Harry, whatever you do, unless you want to become a huge target, don't do that. Make a second identity for when you're asked to save the world from a monster. Better yet, stay with computer programming. Much safer." Professor Turing advised.
Harry nodded. This man had had to fake his death a couple of times for being targeted. His tongue-in-cheek humor went over the boy's head right now, but he did help his students succeed, and not just in their careers. But also gave them some historical perspective in Britain.
From that time on, Healer Marius Greengrass added measuring Harry's Merlin index to his weekly health check.
Harry didn't know that Marius drank an extra strong calming draught beforehand, and afterwards would sometimes share a firewhiskey or two in Professor Turing's office. Once, accidentally seeing the results himself, the professor sloshed them doubles.
**OO**
Sirius was not taking the news well. "Tonks faced a troll? What if that had been my godson? What would have happened?"
Remus was recovering from the full moon and couldn't agree more. "That is some witch there. Hogwarts should be paying her a huge bonus."
Padfoot nodded and started another letter to Goldrub, his account manager. "The entire vault isn't enough for what she did, so I'll make it a smaller amount. Suggest she and Harry have some fun on the town."
"Are you going to be alright, Pads?" Moony asked worriedly.
"Of course. I do think that I should let Narcissa know about the troll in Hogwarts sometime. Preferably when Dumbledore is around."
Lupin, who had seen the health scans after Harry had been rescued, was no longer a member of the Dumbledore fan club. His response was, "Sounds fair to me."
"This never should have happened. What was wrong with the wards?" Sirius asked. "Well, I'm glad Harry isn't there. Good for Tonks. I hope she sends us pictures."
**OO**
When Tonks brought Harry back, after their weekend together, she came in and enjoyed the Sunday night movie with Harry and his friends.
Kird could do nothing but bow in homage to this warrior witch and later asked Harry if she was already contracted.
Heir Potter did not mock his friend over his crush. After all, he had had one on the witch when she first rescued him.
There might be some gentle teasing later, but only when the two were alone. For now, Harry was happy she was safe.
If he had to deal with a troll with just a wand, all he could think of was trying to cast through its nose directly into the brain. And how would he do that and live?
**OO**
"Come on, Hermione! The stadium is covered, and it isn't that cold." Harry begged. There was time for some pick up games of baggit before the varsity team played.
It turned out that Hogwarts wasn't the only magical school around. Just the oldest. Baggit was more popular than quidditch for most of these schools as it was much safer. Schools from Ireland, Spain, France and Belgium were part of the league. And the game was spreading.
"No thank you. I don't like flying." Hermione stated. "But I have a good book, and am happy to go with everyone. In fact, I can be in charge of refreshments."
Justin just scoffed, "The Right Honorable Hermione playing house-elf for us? Please! You're just afraid because you had terrible brooms at Hogwarts."
Hermione kept her mouth closed. That Sally-Anne could fall that far without hurting herself badly was a testament of magical power.
Harry had an idea. "Why don't we just fly a bit, then play catch? Let Milli, Blaise and Hermione get a feel for these better brooms?"
Blaise had his own Italian broomstick at home, thinking they were banned for first years here. But Milli had never flown before Hogwarts. She piped up, "I think that's a great idea. Can we go really slow?"
No one made fun of her in the least, and the trip turned out to be a good one. Justin and Blaise focused on helping Milli while Luna and Harry helped Hermione.
Hedwig had been spotted by the bright girl, and asked "Whose owl is joining us for flying lessons?"
Luna smiled brightly, "That's Miss Hedwig who is very devoted to her owner."
Hermione thought it odd that Luna would speak of herself in the third person, but later saw Harry with the bird riding on his shoulder as he fed her treats. He had two owls?
By the time the team was suiting up for their game, their group had extended to most of their pod playing catch with three of the balls. Hermione sat down with hot chocolate and rosy cheeks, smiling at her accomplishment.
"Looking forward to the game?" Luna asked from Harry's opposite side. They planned on watching for at least the first half.
"Yes. Maybe next time, we can play an actual game." Hermione sipped and smiled.
Harry's answering smile was warm and genuine. "I'd like that very much as well."
Milli too looked much more confident flying by the end compared to when she started, and Blaise found out from some of the older students he could have his own broomstick here.
Excellent!
**OO**
Neville was surprised that his pureblood grandmother would support him being friends with a non-pureblood, but his gran did. She even made a point to meet Sally-Anne one weekend, and have tea with the pair. The look she gave Neville afterwards was astonishing.
And then she asked if she could be Sally-Anne's magical guardian. She quickly accepted, as Professor McGonagall was a very busy woman.
"If you two are still friends after fourth year, we'll discuss a contract. Until then, please know that you've made a foolish old woman very happy, my dears. Very happy."
She had taken her leave, but Sally-Anne had questions. "Contract?"
Neville blushed, "My Gran is all about families and has noticed that more and more pureblood families are having only one magical child. Too many squibs are being born. The families, other than the Weasleys have 'non-traditional' partners."
Neville took a breath, trying to control his embarrassment over saying that.
He continued, "She is also concerned that our world has gotten too out of sync with the muggle one; That the rate of change going on leaves us further and further behind. Gran's been pushing a moderate agenda in the Wizengamot since forever. She's saying that she approves of you as a potential daughter-in-law. If we are still close friends, then after we are fifteen, she'll see if we want to become betrothed."
"Oh. OH!" The young witch's face pinked cutely.
Neville continued, "She'd never force it. She had an arranged marriage, but it was offered. She could have said no to Gerard Longbottom. It's usually handled by a third party so no one's feelings are hurt, you see. Like my parents had."
Sally-Anne sparkled at Neville. Not only did she have a really nice boy who liked her, his family liked her too.
Little gifts started coming her way; a scarf and warm hat here, a nice bracelet for her birthday there.
Never had she had such things before. Not from scared parents who thought she was evil. Not from a teacher or fellow student. Not even her dance instructor, the only person who had ever really liked her.
This was different. And very nice.
**OO**
To stay under the radar, and keep the Ministry's pittance of an allowance, Lucius kept going to the squib integration school. At night, he was pouring through book after book of dark rituals. His wife's note from that horrible day was a single candle in the darkness.
'I must pretend to be uncaring of you, my beloved. I must be seen to distance myself from all dark magic. But I will send you copies of the darkest tomes. Help me, my love. Help me find a cure for you. I don't care if I have to sacrifice a hundred mudbloods, I would do so for you. You are my everything. We will be together again, one day. Yours always.'
He wanted his magic back. And if a few dozen muggleborn witches had to die for it? All the better!
Even though it had been proven that the veela witch in Diagon hadn't cast at him, he still blamed her for the loss of his magic. She'd be the first one on the list to go.
In the meantime, he was converting gold to muggle money to all sorts of things useful to wizards; fabrics, foodstuffs, even wrecked cars for underlings at the Ministry to restore to perfection.
Quirrell was using that business to disguise his gold; paying a pittance of taxes on such. He was also focused on keeping away from Dumbledore. So far, no complaints had been sworn out on him. Dumbledore had lost his ICW position for his mistakes at Hogwarts. Something that made no sense to the parents concerned for their children. Shouldn't he have lost the position of headmaster instead?
Others were set on improving Hogwarts, and saw removing Dumbledore as a step towards that process.
**OO**
Dumbledore left the DMLE in a very bad mood. They wouldn't tell him what country Harry Potter had moved to, nor let him see the file of just who had taken custody.
He was one of the few that knew that Sirius Black had been exonerated. The news was being suppressed for the moment, but how long could Albus keep it out of the papers? Likely by summer, it would be everywhere.
Upon his return to his office in the castle, he summoned the elf responsible for correspondence.
"Bring me all of Harry's mail for the last month or so. Maybe there's a hint there."
The elf popped away, and returned with an empty basket.
"Did you lose it on the way here? There's nothing!" The headmaster shouted, his magic flaring in his overwhelming despair of the situation.
"Livy's job is making sure mail be sorted and stored. If Head Whiskers no happy with Livy, free me from your binds. Let me find Master Harry."
The man scowled and conjured a willow stick, very thin. All of his anger and frustration was put into the beating. Three lashes and the elf was weeping on the floor. "I told you to stay away from the boy. Do your job! Don't forget this! Now get out!"
Livy was a very smart elf. Being abused by someone not her master helped weaken the binds on her for the castle. As she left the office, a phoenix appeared to her, and he popped her to where Sirius was recuperating. His friend Moony was there to help.
The distance was enough to snap the last of the binds on the elf. The bird released his passenger, and the elf collapsed to her knees. From the ground, she struggled to bow to the magnificent bird in thanks.
The phoenix enfolded her in his wings in an embrace for a moment, crooning, giving her strength to regain her feet. The phoenix then felt his own bonds being tugged, and unhappily returned to his prison.
"Livy? What are you doing here?" The animagus asked. "You're hurt! Let me get you a potion."
Remus smelled the blood, and saw the fresh whip marks. "Did Dumbledore do this to you?"
Livy took the offered potion and nodded. "Hims very angry that Master Harry escaped. Master Siri? Livy confused. Master Harry never at castle, or Livy be free from hims earlier."
Before Dumbledore could reclaim the Potter elf, Sirius stepped forward. For a moment, in his casual day robe, his power swirled around him as a mage of old. He'd been claimed by Charlus Potter as a son of the House. He had the right, no, the duty, to save this little elf.
He laid his hands upon her head, and renewed the bonds of family.
The wounds closed, and Livy looked around. "How cans Livy serve Master Sirius and Master Remus?"
**OO**
Maleficent Selwyn was appointed to the empty Governor's seat left vacant by Lucius Malfoy. She'd been wanting to be on the Board for a long time. And since none of the rest of the board wanted the responsibilities of being the leader, she was quickly voted Head. They had to interact with Dumbledore too much.
She'd get changes made to the school that would force her husband to make sure their youngest two children would be attending Hogwarts! And her youngest child, Turchyn, would be attending as Heir Selwyn. She had six years; that should be enough time to get rid of Rowle and any other Death Eaters lurking around the school. And Binns. And Peeves.
She'd get rid of Binns and Peeves if she had to study Necromancy herself!
But one day, Maleficent would have her revenge for her daughter. The clothing cost might have been repaid, and Lisa even sent a bit of weregild from Edgecombe. Dumbledore though had ignored such tradition and done nothing! Nothing! Well, the so-called Leader of the Light would soon be gone from the castle - forevermore.
**OO**
The group of friends were certainly a mix of cultures and families. But one thing was for certain. They might tease gently with one another, but they never bullied Milli for her lack of magical strength, or Blaise for the gossip in the papers about his parents. None of which was true anyway.
They supported Harry though none of them thought he was the Harry Potter from the history books. He couldn't be, as he'd been there at Wimborne since the start of school. But he was clearly James' son. Did he have an unknown twin who'd done these things? Harry gave up trying to explain.
Computer logic was clearly a different sort of logic than pureblood and wizard-raised magicals used.
And now, it was nearly Christmas for some, Yule for others, giving all a chance to spend time with their families. Harry was looking forward to being with Tonks.
**OO**
Hermione was spending the first weekend of December at school. She had a project due the following Monday. Even with her magical exemption, she really didn't want to do magic at home. She was afraid of being dragged back to Hogwarts.
She was in the corner of the pod's project room. It was otherwise deserted. Most were watching the movie being shown in their school theater.
"Whatcha doing?" Harry asked, tucking a stray strand of hair back for the girl.
Harry loved Hermione's hair. It was so alive, like it had a life and mind of its own.
"I was given a simpler project since I'm catching up." Hermione shared.
"Which you finished, and got a good grade on." Harry nodded.
"Now, I'm trying a harder one. Harry, Hogwarts went so slowly! Here, we can go at our own pace. I love this! Resources, up-to-date books in the library! It's magnificent. I just want to prove myself…"
Harry took her hand, and looked into her eyes. "I want you to listen to me for a minute. It's something that my counselor said. It's impossible to win the affirmation of the world. So we only have to win our own. Set our own codes and conditions for success. Make them achievable goals. Write them down. And practice every day to make sure that we are stepping towards those goals.
"Hermione? If you want to do this advanced project to prove to yourself that you can, great! But don't do it to try to impress the instructors. Nor your parents. You are my friend. If you fail at this, do you think that it will change our friendship? Will it?"
The young witch huffed, "No, but I have to…"
"Hermione? I've watched you since you came here. You seem to be running away from something. I don't want to report you to Prefect Sally or any of the other prefects, but please? Will you talk to one of the counselors? It's a Friday night. You didn't come to watch the movie with us, so I came to find you. I thought you said you'd come."
"I planned to, then I got an idea for this." the girl shared.
"What's really going on?" Harry asked.
"I don't know what you mean." Hermione looked away, but Harry saw tears in her eyes.
He kept looking, and finally, she added, "I just want my parents to let me stay here. Not pull me out of a magical school completely."
Harry kissed her cheek. "Did you write down your ideas? Jot some notes? Enough to get a start on it tomorrow?"
She nodded.
"Good. Let's go. The previews are almost over."
"But you said…"
"Can we not talk about Luna's abilities? I'm a logical guy, computer logic. Luna logic does not compute for me so well."
The bushy-haired girl laughed, took his hand, and abandoned her project on her desk there. No one would bother with it, and it would still be there in the morning.
Now was a time for friendship. And the popcorn he'd promised.
**OO**
Just before the Yule holiday, where several students were going home, a signup sheet for the holiday trip was going around.
"What about you Luna? Tonks said you would be welcome to stay with us." Harry offered.
"Saint Mungos is trying a new medication. Daddy has to check in each day, and I'll have an emergency portkey. He's only trying treatment since I made it clear that I wouldn't come home to live with him unless things changed."
It had taken all term for her counselor to get Luna to see that it wasn't Luna's fault that her mother had died, or that her father had spun himself into a web of depression over it. She was important; she was worth taking care of.
Harry got angry at that statement as he didn't like her being in a vulnerable situation. They did have plans to meet for a private family party but no one said anything. Most of their group were going home. Then he had an idea.
"Winky? Can you please come here?" Harry asked.
A quick consult, and Luna and her father were added to Winky's list of people to care for. And she was instructed to pop Luna away if she was ever in danger. Luna tried to protest that her father wasn't violent, but understood that Harry was being protective of her.
In the meantime, Blaise was looking at the signup sheet.
"Part of me wants to give my mother and father a chance. It is the holidays. But part of me wants to avoid the whole mess."
Milli had to go home, but Harry could tell she would be happier when school started up again. He made sure she knew she could call on them if needed, and asked Jam to listen for her if she was ever in need.
None of them had what Harry called a 'normal' home. Hermione herself was far too much of an overachiever to feel that her family life was perfect. But hers was the best environment of them all.
**OO**
The group had decided to share little gifts by choosing names. Harry got Lisa, and had given her a subscription to a new computer magazine coming out called 'Wired' that had several older students excited. She promised to let him know if he should get it himself.
Millicent got Hermione's name and gave her a basket of toiletries, including a bottle of Sleek-easy. "Yes, I know I could have just given Harry a galleon, but I wanted the gift basket."
"I have no idea of what you speak." Harry stated in confusion.
"The potion? For hair? It's just one of the reasons why the Potter family has a fortune." Blaise poked Harry's arm, as though he was playing dumb. But Harry wasn't.
"Really? I think all of you know more about me than I do!" Harry declared.
All of the wizard-raised students would share stories with Harry about his early life, and family, that he never knew about.
In return, Harry, Justin and Hermione would tell the others stories about the real world.
It was an interesting time for them all.
**OO**
Harry was invited over to Hermione's home for Christmas Eve dinner as was Luna, who had declined. Harry had been very nervous about getting the right personal gift for both girls, and decided on a snow globe. One had a delicate deer and other forest creatures in a snowy woodland setting. The other was a miniature horse-drawn sleigh that circled the orb. Both had a music box that was wind-up, and had soft lights.
It was a perfect nightlight for Luna.
"Harry! Welcome! I'm Emma and this is Dan." Emma offered her hand. This was their first time meeting Harry in person. Tonks had been here before.
"Nice to meet you, Mrs Granger. This is Tonks, who you know." Harry shook hands happily, smiling.
"Of course we know Tonks! You of course are welcome to stay. I didn't know you were related to Harry or I would have included you in the invitation." Emma blathered.
"I told you so." Harry remarked, "She didn't want me to say anything."
The Grangers had gotten her a very nice Victrola music box as a thank you gift for helping save Hermione's life and helping their daughter change schools.
Tonks accepted the gift with thanks but tried to leave, "I didn't want to impose. My mum and dad don't really do Christmas Eve, so I was a bit curious to see. And I thank you."
A man approached the door just then. He had soft brown hair, and a scarred face, but his look was gentle. He had been going to knock, but there were people in the open door who'd seen him coming.
"Moony?" The Potter boy asked.
"You must be Harry. I'm here on Sirius's behalf. His healers wouldn't let him come, but I brought you a bit of Christmas from him. I was hoping to get to meet you and your friends as well."
Harry and he exchanged hugs before the lad introduced him all around. "He and my parents were friends. My mum and he were Prefects together."
That made Hermione smile.
Emma finally coaxed Remus in. The Grangers had a buffet set up, and were happy to include the unexpected guests.
Remus brought out a shrunken chest. "For the New Year, for you and your friends. Harry, your letters have done Sirius so much good. He can't wait to meet you at the summer. Now." Remus snapped his fingers.
Three house-elves popped in unexpectedly. All had a small bag of gifts, with Winky carrying a box.
"You is all doing goodly!" Jam squeaked before all three disappeared.
Hermione laughed and clapped her hands while Harry was unsure what to think. He hadn't done this!
"Hey! I wasn't the one trying to explain muggle Christmas traditions to the rest of the family." Tonks defended.
"Well, it smells to me like there is something to eat in this box. What do you say, Harry? Aren't you curious?" Dan asked.
The elves' food offerings were added to what the Grangers already had, the gifts being set aside for the time being. Everyone helped themselves, and then sat comfortably at the dining room table that was longer than it had been that morning.
Dan held up a glass of sparkling cider in a toast, "To friends and family; truly what Christmas is all about."
Harry and Tonks shared sweet looks of caring, as did Hermione and her parents.
The Tonks family had just had Yule together with Harry, and they were planning on spending some more time with Tonks' parents soon.
Remus did kiss Tonks cheek on the way out in thanks for her capturing Wormtail, though he didn't say too much in front of others about it. Tonks nodded, then gave him a look that stated it all.
She was willing to be nice, be friends, family even with him and Harry, but she was not interested in anything more from him.
**OO**
January, 1992
The search for Harry Potter occupied much of the headmaster's time, and unlike other years, his absence was being tracked. After two weeks with no letters, no notification of what he was doing, the Board of Governors approved Madam Selwyn's plan of withholding Albus' salary from him and giving it to the witch who'd been doing too many jobs all at the same time.
In fact, Governor Selwyn hired the first muggleborn to work at Hogwarts in many a year. Roberta Smith would be teaching the younger years transfiguration. Then another young wizard was hired to be Head of House Gryffindor. Angus Moody was a great-nephew of the Master Auror, and had his look about him.
When the Slytherin Head of House saw him for the first time, he looked ready to wet his robes.
"I dinnae like yer manner in regards to Gryffindor students. I have 'em completing complaints against ye with memories. It will be twice punishment if they are just makin' up trouble. But ye and yours hurt any of mine? I'll be calling in aurors. I'm done with wee firsties being sent to the hospital wing. Students leaving this school 'cause of Death Eaters? I won't stand for it." The young Moody glared, putting the fear of Mad-eye in the chief snake.
Rowle said nothing in response, but slithered away. After that, the Slytherins were more cautious about their attacks. A new Moody was in the castle, and was a mite younger than the already terrifying one.
Well, terrifying if you were dark.
When Dumbledore returned, he tried to undo some of the new hires, but couldn't. He was given the option to teach History in a different room, as Maleficent promised that Binns would be removed just as soon as possible.
Albus kicked up a furor over that, as Binns was a tradition at Hogwarts.
Dumbledore was angry that no one seemed to understand him. He'd seen Minerva and Maleficent chatting like old friends, occasionally joined by Griselda. Even young Roberta joined them, along with some of the other professors. Now that was a coven of witches that needed to be stopped!
Who knew what they would do to his lovely school? He needed to stop them now!
**OO**
May 1992
The rest of the term was happy for Harry. He was home for the weekend so he and Tonks could meet with her parents to make a nice holiday plan for when school got out in a few weeks. Hogwarts was just out. Snape's shop was doing well. Severus had another apprentice, a seventh year muggleborn Ravenclaw, Ralph Zane, that he'd tagged early in his studies.
The young wizard was shocked that Snape kept his promise of teaching him when he was done at Hogwarts. Ralph had spied Harry Potter on the stairs of the flat after they'd gone shopping. But like the others in the shop below, had not told anyone of who lived there.
Ralph was just surprised since everyone 'knew' that Harry Potter was now in Australia! Harry was pleased to meet the young man, and showed Severus his final potions project of the year. He reserved a small vial for the man.
"Antidote to Uncommon Poisons? This is a third year brew!" The man sniffed it and held it up to the light. "Lily would be very proud of you, Potter…Harry."
Harry smiled, Severus' unexpected compliment warming his heart. "Thank you, sir. Have a pleasant day, all."
Severus was so happy to be away from the castle. He was unsure if it was his imprisonment there, the gloomy atmosphere or something more active, but his entire demeanor had changed. No longer was he ready to snip and snipe at the smallest provocation.
In fact, he found himself using the same verbal cues that Lily had when they, as older students, had been assigned to tutor younger ones.
"Precisely, Ralph! That is the way…"
**OO**
At the beginning of the first term, Harry had begun a regular if short correspondence with several people. He was starting to realize that he was indeed not a freak, not destined to be anyone's punching bag. As the first summer holiday started, he was quite looking forward to it rather than wanting to stay at school.
That was very, very different for the boy. Plans were made, and the flights booked. They were traveling muggle to the far west side of the United States. Just because Ted Tonks had always wanted to go. It was a new adventure for Harry.
He shared sweet goodbyes with all of his friends, and wished there was enough room for them all to come. Harry had given Hermione a hug. Like him, she was headed for a holiday with her parents. Only they were going to France. It was going to be a long time apart for the previously lonely young witch.
"I'm going to miss you two. So much." Hermione shared, now hugging Luna.
"Me three." Luna shared, tears in her eyes.
Baljeet was heading home to help his family. Justin was planning on some excursions in town with his, and going to some royal do that he'd muttered about. Hermione was missing that one, but attending one in August.
"We'll see each other soon." Harry promised. "And according to Padfoot, there's a lot of seashells where I'm going. I'll bring some back if I find any."
Luna pounced on him for another hug, and then everyone was escorted out by security to the portkey pad.
This school took security very seriously. And Sabuto Shacklebolt, former auror, watched over his charges carefully.
**OO**
Malfoy Manor
While Tonks and Harry learned how to surf in sunny California, Draco was led to his father's study.
The quest for her husband's healing wasn't going well. This led Narcissa to this desperate plan.
"Once you are fourteen, you can take up the Lord's ring. When you are seventeen, you can vote the Malfoy seat." Narcissa shared softly, "I don't know how old you have to be in order to study the Malfoy Grimoire, and I wouldn't try before you are at least fourteen. But here is the ward book. Please. Cross off Dumbledore's name. I tried, but I wasn't allowed to."
Her left hand still had the scabs; it was healing well though.
The old wizard had been invited to every soiree held at Malfoy Manor. It would be like him to show up now, when she didn't want him there.
"Mother? What happened to my father's dark artifacts? I thought he had…"
Interrupting him, Narcissa explained, "The Ministry has been conducting raids recently, my son. I acted in your best interest. I called in Mad-eye Moody himself. I swore on my magic that I didn't set any traps, and would be grateful if the department would remove anything dark. Not healthy for a child to be around them. I told him he could confiscate any dark artifacts from here that he wanted."
"But Mother! How could you do that? Do you know how much gold we are talking about?" Draco demanded. "You could have sold them to Borgin!"
Lady Dowager Malfoy smiled most evilly. "No, they are watching that store. Too dangerous. My son, the one thing I kept back was from the Dark Lord himself. If all goes well, and we can provide our Master's rebirth? Do you not think he would restore your father to us? Restore his magic?"
"Do you love Father, then?" Draco asked.
"Of course I love your father, so very much. Enough that I have done everything I can to protect his life from my family. And those who would kill him just for being a squib."
"Like Great Aunt Walberga?" Draco asked.
The woman nodded. Her recent death was considered due to 'natural causes'; no one had accused her of anything. There was gossip in the ministry that Sirius Black was no longer in prison. That his escape was being kept quiet for the good of society. But Narcissa knew the truth. He'd been removed from Azkaban in early September. Pettigrew's trial might have been in closed chambers, but Sirius was declared innocent then and there. Still no public word had been made, but it would likely be soon. Her cousin was finishing up treatment to reverse the effects of a decade in that horrible place. When it was done, there would likely be a media circus.
Here was another reason to act instead of wait. Sirius had just written to tell her that Harry Potter was the heir for House Black. That the only way that she and Draco could remain members of the House was to decide for themselves that muggleborn magicals should have the same rights as purebloods. That killing muggles was wrong. A demand that she renounce Voldemort for all time with a magical oath.
She shared that news with Draco and wasn't surprised he had the same reaction she had: No, just no. They would never join the muggle-lovers. They would stand up for their beliefs, and still somehow wrest control of House Black from the blood traitor.
Narcissa opened a cold-forged iron box which only held a cursed dagger as a test when Auror Moody was there. The real treasure had been hidden at Gringotts itself for a time. And the box had worked to fool the magical-eyed man.
Now, it held a different treasure.
"This, my son, is supposed to be key in helping the Dark Lord return. But even your grandfather doesn't know how it works. He was told to give it to a blood-traitor's child if the Dark Lord was gone for more than a decade. You'll give this to whoever you choose." Narcissa instructed before running her hand lovingly over the book. "Such dark magic."
Draco too ran his hand over the book, "Ooo. Why can't I keep this?"
He started to reach for the book, but his mother was too fast, and locked the box tight.
"Draco! Do you want to lose your own life? That is not our way. We sacrifice the blood of others for what we want. Never ourselves, my darling boy."
Nodding, still confused, Draco acceded quickly. No one in the family wanted a Black witch mad at him. That was neither clever nor cunning, and Draco wanted to prove to his mother he was both.
"A blood traitor? That Weasley prat would be good." Draco suggested.
Narcissa ran her long, perfectly manicured hand through his perfect hair.
"That is a very clever idea. Why don't we confer with the family?" Narcissa took his hand and promised him a snack after checking with the Malfoy family portraits.
**OO**
Lucius knew better than to steal any of the gold that he was making. He was sure at times he could feel his magic returning, but his great-grandfather's wand, that had been a good match for him as a child, refused so much as one red spark.
"Your wife is well I hope?" Quirrell asked, most obsequiously. Unlike the few other magicals he had interacted with, this man knew to keep his place. He was still a magical Lord, if a broken one.
"Yes, and most grateful for your generosity. My son has a new broom to show off next year." It wasn't the set of brooms he'd planned to buy to get his son on the team. But it was still a very good broom.
"You and your family deserve it. No one suspects anything. You are doing very well. In fact, I had an idea. I thought we could buy an old mine, and openly sell gold as its production. The Malfoy name on it would spite those who have spit upon you." Quirrell handed over the deed in Draco's name. It was to a South American mine, quite old, that was indeed tapped out.
Lucius bowed his head, "This is most appreciated."
"Please see that your lady wife registers this for her son. Then when she takes raw gold to Gringotts to see if they want it, she'll have goblins nibbling from her hands."
"Yes, they won't dare rebel, not when we bring back the Dark Lord." Lucius rubbed his hands as Quirrell rubbed his arm.
**OO**
Quirinus had been young and stupid when he took the mark. Like Snape, he'd been placed in Hogwarts to watch Dumbledore. Monitor his reactions to the new bloods; Make sure they made no gains in the magical world; maintain the status quo.
If Lucius' plan succeeded, the Dark Lord would have gold and more to secure his place. But there was a part of himself, deep down, that really didn't care.
Most of the gold made was hidden in Malfoy Manor itself. Going into a secret trunk in the formal parlor, where Quirrell brought Lady Malfoy her monthly deposits. While she put away her share, he stored his there. And why not? Goblins couldn't seize it, the magic was subtle, and his treasure box wouldn't be noticed. And if it was, where was the crime?
And monthly, he brought her sweet gifts of finest chocolates, jewels, and newly commissioned ornate jewelry. Suitable for a queen.
He had no idea that the small parlor he was received in was reserved for dealing with tradesmen and the like. That while he was giving her treasure to live as a pureblood princess should, he was being snubbed; treated as nothing more than a shopkeeper.
As he left, Narcissa warned him to keep an eye open for Black. The building that Lucius lived in was warded, but she feared he might take revenge on her husband for past wrongs.
"Surely, the DMLE will be seeking him?" Quirrell asked gently.
"Why would they do that for a free man? One who will be released from hospital all too soon?" The lady shivered and the man bowed to leave.
Black on the loose? What would this mean to their operation?
**OO**
The 'outing' of Sirius Black was indeed the feeding frenzy, as expected. There was a proud Minister Fudge, acting as though he personally was responsible for detecting and reversing this miscarriage of justice. And there was Dumbledore, a glamour hiding his blackening eye.
Albus had insisted that until Black showed up in person, his vindication would be kept quiet. Dumbledore didn't get anything he wanted so far. He certainly didn't order the knuckle sandwich Sirius served while Albus was demanding to see Harry.
Pictures were taken of the three men, and the papers would be full of the news that Sirius Black was innocent.
People were asking Lord Black, begging him to bring Harry Potter back from Australia. Sirius took his biggest revenge right then.
"While Hogwarts has Albus Dumbledore as headmaster, I will not allow my godson to attend there. Why? It's too dangerous. He had a special gauntlet planned for Harry there at Hogwarts. If you want to know more, ask the parents of the students scared by a Cerberus this year. Or ask how a troll got into the school. No, Harry has not once had his life threatened at his new school. I only returned to Britain as I was blackmailed to do so. I have come, and answered your questions. Now, speaking of Harry, I have a portkey waiting for me. Our holiday awaits."
Dumbledore's reaction to the speech would grace the pages of the newspaper for weeks.
He was clearly expecting Harry Potter to be there. Being told the only way Harry would return to Hogwarts was if Dumbledore left had him alternating between rage and embarrassment.
But he only thought he was angry. It was when not a few people there wondered aloud when Dumbledore was stepping down, that the mage truly became enraged.
**OO**
The fiery inferno of Albus' temper was sparked even more when later following the subtle tracking charm he'd casually tossed onto Black's dress robes.
A gentleman's club? He had to enter a place with that sort of witch?
His reputation was further in tatters as Rita of course had followed him. And got a rather spicy picture printed in the Prophet placed under the 'no one under 17' wards.
Worse, Black had never even been there!
**OO**
A/N: Stories recommended from James Marx. He writes: 'All of these stories are great, complete, and all of them are Harry Potter related' these are the stories: Armoured Mage by mjimeyg (HP/Avengers xover). Harry's Little Army of Psychos by RuneWitchSakura(one-shot). Make A Wish by Rorschach's Blot(The Hunt For Harry Potter companion fic)
s/13825877/1/Armoured-Mage
s/4951074/1/Harry-s-Little-Army-of-Psychos
s/2318355/1/Make-A-Wish
A/N: Your story recommendation here -
**OO**
Omake for the Phineas and Ferb fans:
Hedwig didn't know what to make of the hat that Luna had brought her. The chick with gold hair was associated with her boy. So she would tolerate her. For now.
But a fedora? Someone might think she was a member of a secret team of crime fighters.
Hedwig would keep it to make the witch-chick happy, but she was not going to be wearing it anywhere anyone could see.
Hey, where's Harry?
**OO**
Baggit - flying lacross