Title: Return to Sender

Summary: The Dursleys cannot accept Harry’s magic and return the 3 year old to Dumbledore. How will this change Harry’s life and the future for the wizarding world? Eventual “Snape adopts Harry” fic!

Disclaimer: All characters involved belong to J.K. Rowling!

Note: I was originally inspired to write a similar story years ago but ran out of plot ideas. Now I’m back with new ideas and hopefully not a “cookie cutter” plot. Also, I’d like to give a very special thanks to my beta reader, Blueowl. You’re amazing and keep me going with new ideas!

Chapter 1: Halloween, 1981

The sun was just setting below the horizon and the wind rattled the windows of the Potter’s safe house in Godric’s Hallow. Winter would be there soon as the leaves continued to fall from the trees. Lily couldn’t help but sigh quietly as she sat in the rocking chair, watching the last children run down the street, candy filled bags swinging from their hands. Their lives had changed so much since their school days at Hogwarts. War, marriage, a son, and now hiding.

“Is he asleep?” James whispered, walking into the living room from the study. He had been spending quite a bit of time lately in there, researching different defense techniques to “be prepared” as he put it. Lily couldn’t help but smile at the book. There was a time when James wouldn’t have willingly studied anything outside of assigned work. How times changed.

“Finally. Harry seemed agitated tonight. I think he’s been feeling our stress lately.” Lily spoke quietly, her hand caressing the cheek of her sleeping angel. His black hair was coming in fuller now and his closed eyes hid the most brilliant green that she’d ever seen.

“Lily, we’re safe here. No one can find us under the Fidelius. Albus promised this would be the safest plan for us.” James sighed, knowing that Lily was barely sleeping lately. She had taken to sitting besides Harry’s crib, just watching him. He studied her face now and saw the circles under her eyes had grown darker. It was no use though. Until Voldemort was defeated, they would be in danger. All because of a prophecy. . . .

It was late in the evening. James was in the study, pouring over some new books that Albus had lent him. He was a husband and father on a mission to protect his family, no matter what it took. “Too bad Sirius hasn’t been around to practice with,” James thought to himself as he leaned back in the wooden, antique chair and stretched. He felt his back pop and groaned. He had been there for much too long, that’s for sure.

Walking into the living room, Lily was where he left her, in the rocking chair by the window. Harry was still sound asleep in her arms, his tiny fist gripped around the emergency portkey around her neck. It was a lily pendant on a silver chain, given to her by her mother on her 18th birthday. James quietly walked over, happy that his wife was finally getting some rest. Grabbing the afghan from the couch, he draped it over the mother and child. A cold draft from the window made James shiver and he turned to stoke up the fire in the fireplace. But suddenly, an unmistakable cracking sound from outside froze him in mid wand movement. He tried to calm himself, convince himself it was nothing to be concerned about. Perhaps it was just some late night kids making trouble in the neighborhood.

Crossing to the window to peer outside, a loud ringing pulsed throughout the house. The wards had fallen!

Instinctively, Lily shot up from the chairs, clutching Harry so tightly he began to cry.

“James?”

The young couple stared at each other in shock. Something must have happened to Peter if the Fidelius had been breeched!

On instinct, they both tried to apparate. Lily’s eyes widened as their attempts failed.

“He has anti-apparition wards up,” Lily gasped. Her hand quickly went to her throat. Quickly, she unclasped the portkey from her neck. Lily held onto Harry while James wrapped his arms around her.

“Hogwarts,” James yelled, expecting the pull at his navel. Nothing happened.

“What?” Lily gasped in panic.

“The bastard must have anti-portkey wards as well.”

“Is there such a thing?”

A blast from outside never allowed James to answer. Voldemort was giving up on the warded door and windows. Instead he was blasting the side of the house. The entire foundation was shaking!

James was overcome with nausea. This was really it. Another blast nearly threw James and Lily off of their feet. It was enough force to shake James from his panic. His eyes, no longer filled with fear but determination, took a long, last look at his beautiful wife and child.

 “Lily, take Harry and go! It’s him! Go! Run! I’ll hold him off," James yelled.

With a strangled cry, Lily bolted upstairs. She knew that Albus would have sensed the wards fall. Praying that James would hold Voldemort off long enough for Albus to reach them, she closed the door to Harry’s room. Placing her crying son into the crib, she started putting up wards on the door. She didn’t think they’d hold forever but any delay would help.

In the living room below, James glared at the dark wizard before him.

“So, Potter, you think you’re really capable of defeating me?” Voldemort laughed coldly, his wand out.  “You’re a pathetic excuse for a wizard.”

James didn’t even bother responding to his taunt. His mind was focused on his wife and son hidden upstairs. He knew he had one chance to rid the world of this monster and save his family. Gathering up every bit of hate he could manage, James set his steely gaze at the wizard before him. “Avada Kedavra!” he yelled, aiming his wand.

Voldemort’s reflexes were almost supernaturally fast. He quickly dodged to the right, the curse blowing apart the wall behind him. He laughed cruelly at the man before him. He snarled and cast the Cruciatius. As James dodge the curse, it hit the couch and blew it to smithereens, pieces of wood flying everywhere.

“Enough of these games, Potter. I will be rid of you… NOW!” Voldemort bellowed.

Before James could prepare to dodge the flash of green light headed at him, he was distracted by a familiar rat hiding just behind the monster before him.

“Goodbye, Potter,” Voldemort grinned, noticing the distraction. The green light was the last thing James ever saw.

Upstairs, Lily could feel the house coming to pieces from the battle downstairs. Blast after blast shook the walls and sent dust falling from the ceiling. Lily kept trying to activate the portkey but whatever magic Voldemort was doing to block it was strong. Lily pushed the crib as far from the door as possible, readying herself for whatever battle lay ahead. If James failed then it would be up to her to protect their son. Standing at the crib, running her hands through her son’s hair. She was ready to do whatever it took to save her precious child. Love like she never felt before filled her heart as tears ran down her face. This could be the end. Harry stared up at her, reaching to be held.

Footsteps sounded on the stairs and the door suddenly blasted away, revealing Voldemort with his wand raised right at her. He laughed as he saw Lily standing, ready to face him.

“Voldemort,” Lily growled. She felt like a cornered lioness, trying to protect her cub.

“Move aside, mudblood. I’m not here for you.”

Lily stared into the evil, red eyes as they glared at her. If she could hold him off long enough, the Order should arrive in time.

“Confrigro!” Lily yelled, aiming at the wall above the doorframe. The strong blast collapsed the wall on Voldemort, covering him completely. Before the dust could settle, an explosion shot the rocks and debris off of the wizard and pelted the woman before she could get a shield up.

Using her charm skills, Lily quickly bewitched the stones to repeatedly pummel the monster before her.

“ENOUGH!” Voldemort bellowed as he dissolved the stones into fine sand. With a quick movement of his wand, Lily found herself completely unarmed.

“Stupefy!”

Before the red beam could hit Lily, a white light shot over her shoulder and deflected the curse. Both dark wizard and mother turned toward the baby in shock. The baby was standing in his crib with his little, chubby hands gripping onto the railing. Tears were streaming as Harry’s faceturned red from screaming. Little did the adults know that the small child sensed the magic being aimed to harm his mother and it frightened him.

Voldemort recovered first, now even more determined to destroy the child before him. He threw the woman to the side to get to the boy.

Lily quickly recovered and launched herself at the man hell bent on destroying her son.

"Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!" Lilly pleaded. She couldn’t let him harm her son.

Voldemort’s patience was wearing thin. "Stand aside you silly girl . . . stand aside now."

Lily threw herself in front of the crib, not knowing what else to do. She was exhausted, physically and emotionally. "Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead ----- "

Voldemort glared down at the sobbing woman. His time was running out. Soon the Order would arrive.

Lily pleaded again, blood running down her face from the duel. Knowing what was about to come, every ounce of love she had in her for her son poured from her center. Crying out one more time, "Not Harry! Please … have mercy … have mercy… "

“Avada Kedavra,” Voldemort growled, striking her at pointblank range.

Lily slumped to the ground, tears still wet on her cheeks.

The baby screamed from the crib. Voldemort sneered at the wailing child. This one who would supposedly defeat him. With this child gone, he would be invincible! He leveled his wand at the child and without a second thought cast the killing curse for the third time that evening.

Green light abounded.

Voldemort immediately knew something was wrong. The boy was alive but . . . glowing. A bright, golden light surrounded him with green at it’s core. He was frozen, staring as the light grew brighter. Suddenly, a beam of green light shot out of the child and straight into him. It was agony! Voldemort screamed as he felt his body burn and his soul rip free.

The light had filled the entire house and as the scream ended, everything went dark.

Earlier that day on Privet Drive…

Petunia pushed the stroller, smiling happily. Her beautiful boy was dressed in his adorable pumpkin costume, gripping sweets in both hands. The neighbors smiled as she walked by. The afternoon was quickly turning into evening and she still had dinner to prepare before Vernon returned home from work. She looked at her house as she walked up the driveway, perfect as always.

‘And that’s how it’s supposed to be. Perfect and normal,’ she thought happily to herself. Life was indeed perfect in Petunia’s eyes. If only she knew what tomorrow would bring.

12:45 am- 4 Privet Drive…

Albus Dumbledore looked down at the sleeping child, now marked with the curse scar r12; the only evidence on the boy that anything remarkable had happened. He had been there just a day after Harry was born. James, the happiest father he had ever seen, had placed the newborn into his arms. Dumbledore had a lot of love for this child ever since that moment.

“Albus, do you really think it’s safe leaving him with these people? I’ve watched them all day. They’re the worse sort of muggles imaginable. They really arer12;” Professor Minerva McGonagall hissed in anxiousness. Although she trusted the Headmaster completely, she didn’t agree with this decision.

“They’re the only family Harry has left,” Dumbledore cut off Minerva’s scolding. Was this his ideal placement? No. Not at all. However, it seemed for the best. With the blood wards he would place, Harry would be safe from Death Eaters seeking revenge. And although Lily had never spoken much of her sister, he prayed with all his heart that they would take him into their family as another son. Surely they understood the blessing of a child, right?

“This boy will be famous. There won’t be a child in our world that doesn’t know his name,” Minerva whispered as they approached the door. The reality of what Harry had accomplished was finally hitting her. Voldemort was truly gone. All because of this small child. How was it even possible?

“Exactly. He’s far better of growing up away from all of that. Until he is ready.”

Minerva wanted to ask “ready for what?” but stopped herself as Dumbledore put the baby on the doorstep. Hagrid’s sniffles were becoming louder and louder.

He stepped away from the child after placing the note with him in the basket. The Headmaster paused, taking in the green eyes staring back at them. The color of his eyes struck Dumbledore, not remembering them being such a vivid green before that evening. Before he could ponder on it more, Harry gave a big yawn and closed his eyes, falling almost instantly to sleep.

 “Good luck, Harry Potter,” Dumbledore said softly as the trio walked back down the street, disappearing into the night.

Chapter 2: Morning Surprises

Petunia sipped her tea as she looked out the kitchen window. The neighborhood was quiet, all the children still asleep after their long, sweet filled day yesterday. She sighed happily, thankful for her normal life. Petunia had worked hard to make sure that her home and family were the epitome of normal and was determined that nothing would change that. Not even that freakish sister of hers. Thankfully, no one but Vernon knew of her secret. Her sister was a witch. They hadn’t talked in years. That was her doing of course. It wasn’t that her younger sister didn’t try. Several times a year, letters would come. And she would return them, unopened. Petunia didn’t want anything to do with that freak world and preferred to ignore the fact it even existed, thus ignoring the existence of her sister as well.

Looking at the clock, she realized that Vernon would be awake soon and wanting breakfast. Her precious Dudley usually slept late which gave her time to prepare breakfast each morning before seeing to her child.

Getting up from the table, Petunia went to the front door to get the morning paper. Vernon always insisted on reading the news with his breakfast.

Petunia opened the door and took a step and froze. She couldn’t stop the shrill scream from passing her lips. A loud thump followed by heavy footsteps came tromping down the stairs.

“Pet!” Vernon gasped, out of breath. He froze at the sight of the bundle outside the door.

Petunia recovered from her shock and shoved the basket inside with her foot. She had a feeling that her normal life just crumbled before her eyes.

Vernon picked up the basket and they quickly moved into the sitting room. Putting the now crying child on the floor, Petunia picked up the note.

Dear Mrs. Petunia Dursley,

It is with my great and sincere condolences to inform you that last night your sister, Lily Potter, and her husband, James Potter, were murdered by a dark wizard that our world has been at war with. I am truly sorry for your loss and grieve with you as I loved them as if they were my own family.

Their son, Harry James Potter, survived the brutal attack and even managed to defeat the dark wizard in some unknown bout of magic. We may never truly know or understand what has happened this past evening. However, as his only living relatives, I beseech you to take young Harry into your home and raise him as your own. I trust that the love you held for you sister will pour over to your nephew. He is truly safest in your care.

Should you have any questions or need to contact me in anyway, simply write on the blank parchment enclosed. The letter will immediately be transferred to a charmed parchment I have here.

Graciously Yours,

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore

Headmaster

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry

Petunia gasped and Vernon snatched the letter from her trembling hand. Her sister had been killed? Immediately grief welled up within her. Lily was gone! Before her regret could take a hold, Vernon’s angry growl snapped her out of her inward grief.

“How dare they, Pet? Just assume we’d want to take in a freak of theirs,” he growled. Petunia quickly shoved aside any former feelings of grief and closed them off. Of course her husband was right. They were freaks. Killed by a freak. And of course their son would also be a freak.

“What do we do with him?” Petunia asked, staring into the child’s green eyes that were identical to her sister’s.

“We’ll just keep him quiet. We don’t need to tell everyone that the brat is here. You said that they don’t really start doing all of the freakish stuff until they’re older, right?”

“Well, there were signs before with Lily. They don’t go to the school until they’re eleven though.”

The husband and wife made a plan to keep Harry Potter as much of a secret as possible from the neighborhood. Not willing to take anything from their own son, Petunia shoved a mattress in the cupboard under the stairs. It would do. The anger and bitterness she held for her sister was being passed onto the child but she would give him the necessities of life to prevent any more freaks from showing up at the door.

At first, everything was going smoothly. As far as Petunia and Vernon could tell, Harry was a normal toddler who actually took quickly to the cupboard. There was almost a collective sigh of relief at the fact there Harry was showing no signs of magic.

“Perhaps we were wrong, Vernon.” Petunia said over dinner, glancing at young Harry sitting in the corner, with a bottle of milk.

“Wrong about what?” Vernon asked, following her gaze to the young boy.

“He’s shown no signs of that freakishness that my sister and her husband had. Maybe he’s normal.”

“Hmm” was all the response she got as Vernon studied the boy. He still didn’t trust that this boy wasn’t going to ruin his life.

It didn’t take long for the Durlseys’ worst fears to come to light. Their normal life was rocked with the presence of a young wizard in the house. The magic events started out small. Petunia would sometimes find Harry’s bottle refilled after not filling it for a day or so. She didn’t want the freak to take away from her precious son and would only give milk, ignoring that fact that Harry was old enough to be on solid food.

As Harry grew over the next two years, so did his magic. The accidental magic outbursts, fairly common in a wizarding home, made Vernon and Petunia extra cautious about letting anyone see Harry. They never knew exactly what he would do next. One afternoon, Dudley had a friend, Piers, over for a playdate. While she was in the kitchen preparing lunch, the boys were playing with their toys in the sitting room. Harry had been locked in the cupboard, or so she had thought.

Harry was 3 years old now and had been playing quietly in the cupboard when he heard the noises of another child in the sitting room. He had already figured out by now that he was different from Dudley. Harry didn’t quite understand why he wasn’t allowed to play with toys or even other children. However, the sounds of laughter from the boys playing was too tempting. Harry really wanted to join them. So much so that he heard the lock slide on the outside of the cupboard and the door fall open. Not even thinking twice about the event, Harry squealed with joy and ran into the sitting room. Dudley, already being trained by his father to hate his cousin, threw a plastic dinosaur at the freak.

“No! You don’t play with us!” Dudley yelled, his face turning purple as he entered into a tantrum. Piers, thinking this was a new game, started throwing other toys at the smaller boy. Harry’s joy quickly dissipated as he threw his arms up to protect his face from the hard objects.

The noise from the sitting room brought Petunia running to see what the ruckus was about. “Boy! What are you doing? You little, brat!” She grabbed Harry by his arm and dragged him back, tossing him into the cupboard.

Harry stared at the closed door and couldn’t stop the tears from falling down his face. He knew better than to let his sobs be heard. He always got whacked when he made too much noise. There was no mistaking it, even at 2 years old, Harry knew he was different. A freak.

Chapter 3: The Final Straw

Harry could hear the doorbell ring from inside his cupboard. He wasn’t allowed out today. It was Dudley’s birthday party. Harry wasn’t sure when his birthday was; he’d never had a party. He just knew that he and his cousin were the same age. Dudley was turning 4 today and his aunt and uncle had planned a huge birthday party with all of the kids from the neighborhood. Harry really wanted to join in on the fun. However, he wasn’t allowed to be out of his cupboard when people were over. He did strange things that upset his aunt and uncle. It wouldn’t be good if other people saw.

The laughter from the kids running past his door woke Harry from his nap. With a giant yawn, he sat up on the dingy mattress. Shouts for cake rang out from the kitchen and made Harry’s stomach rumble. However, his full bladder overrode any huger pains the small boy was feeling. Hearing the heavy footsteps of his aunt walk by, he knocked quietly on the door.

Petunia sighed in agitation at the knocking sound from the cupboard. “What, boy?” she hissed quietly so that no one else would hear.

“Auntie ‘Tunia, I need the loo,” came a quiet voice from behind the small door.

With a quick look to the kitchen, she unbolted the door and dragged the small boy out.

“Quickly and then right back in where you belong.”

Harry scurried up the stairs, careful not to be seen by the rest of the children. He had been potty trained last year after his aunt complained about having to change two sets of diapers. Dudley was still wearing diapers at night because he usually wet the bed. Harry was secretly proud to not have had any accidents for months now. Not that the smacks he got when he did wasn’t motivation enough to wait for the loo.

After finishing up quickly in the bathroom, Harry headed back down the stairs, slowly this time. He could hear his aunt and uncle in the kitchen with the rest of the children, eating birthday cake. Dudley was throwing a fit for a third slice of cake.

Walking through the sitting room, Harry stopped to look at all of the toys strewn about the floor. Dudley had gotten several presents for his birthday. Even knowing that he wasn’t allowed to touch anything, Harry couldn’t help but pick up a shiny red fire engine. Entranced by the moving parts and the ladder that went up and down, he didn’t notice the kids piling back into the room.

“Hey! Who’s that?” one of the kids asked, looking curiously at Harry.

Harry’s face went white as he dropped the toy. The ladder snapped off the truck as it bounced at his feet.

Dudley pushed past the kids to see what they were looking at. He saw his cousin standing over his new fire truck, now broken.

“Mommy!” the boy screamed and started throwing a fit. The adults ran quickly into the room to see what had upset their precious birthday boy.

It only took a second for Vernon to react to his freak of a nephew standing over the broken toy.

“You little freak!” he bellowed. “How dare you ruin Dudley’s birthday!”

The large man stomped over to the boy, intending to teach him a lesson.

Harry was so scared, knowing that he had never seen his uncle this mad before. He could practically feel the anger coming at him in waves.

He was really in for it this time. His whole body started trembling as large tears rolled down his face. Squeezing his eyes closed, Harry never saw the white light burst from him and throw his Uncle across the room, into the wall.

There was a loud crash as Vernon slumped down to the ground, dazed at what had just happened. Everyone was silent in fear as they looked at the little, dark haired boy.

Harry had snapped his eyes open at the sound of the crash. He didn’t know how his uncle had gotten across the room but he wasn’t waiting around to find out. Harry ran past the scared children and his now screaming aunt. He flung himself into the cupboard, the door slamming shut behind him. He couldn’t stop the sobs that shook his small body and he pressed his face into the mattress. What had he done?

Petunia raced to her husband’s side and helped him sit up the best she could. Her hands were trembling as she searched for any injuries. Thankfully, there were none. Vernon had just had the wind knocked out of him. By the time he had collected himself, Vernon was shaking in rage.

“Get it together, Vernon. We still have guests.” Petunia hissed in his ear as she stomped away to distract the group of children.

“Come now. Why don’t we have some more ice cream?” she asked, guiding the children back into the kitchen. There were tons of questions over the dessert over what had happened. Petunia covered up the freakishness of her nephew by simply explaining that Vernon had slipped on the broken toy. Being trusting 4 year olds, they took that explanation without question and eagerly set off on the next birthday game in the back garden.

Petunia watched the children from the window as Vernon came to stand next to her.

“I will not stand to have him in this house any longer, Petunia.” Vernon growled, his back aching from hitting the wall.

“We have no choice, Vernon,” Petunia hissed quietly, in case someone would overhear their conversation.

“I don’t care what we do, but he leaves tonight.”

“To where?”

“Let it be an orphanage for all I care. That freak will not stay one more night in this house!” Vernon bellowed before Petunia could slap her hand over his mouth.

“Quiet! Someone will hear you!” she hissed angrily. Her son’s birthday was completely ruined; she didn’t need the freak to ruin her entire life. “Fine, he’ll go. I’ll contact that man who left him as soon as everyone leaves. He can have him back,” Petunia relented.

Later, that evening at Hogwarts. . .

It was the middle of the summer holidays at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry. Most of the staff were either at their summer homes or visiting family. Those that remained at the school were either finishing up paperwork from the previous term or simply enjoying the quiet halls of the school.

Headmaster Dumbledore was at his desk, sorting through several correspondences that had arrived earlier that day. Many of the letters were from concerned parents regarding their child’s grades from the term. Others were from various ministry officials, as well as the school board.

With a tired sigh, Dumbledore pushed the letters aside. Deciding it was time for tea, he summoned a platter from the kitchens. Sitting back in his chair, he sipped the hot brew and contemplated all that had happened that year. Thankfully, it was a quiet term. Just your normal pranks and a few troublesome students. The years had been quiet since Voldemort’s defeat, even though the headmaster suspected it was only temporary. There had been no body to determine whether or not the dark wizard had been completely destroyed. Only time would tell.

Several Death Eaters had been arrested and sentenced to life in Azkaban following that horrific event. Even one of his most trusted staff had suffered for 3 months before Albus could defend him in court. Severus Snape, Potions Master and professor, had been Dumbledore’s trusted spy and had actually helped the Order capture several of the death eaters now in custody. Of course, some had gotten away with their crimes due to their contacts within the ministry, such as Lucius Malfoy. The Order was keeping tabs on the wizard, but he seemed to be laying low for the time being. “Smart man,” Dumbledore mused to himself.

His inner reflections were interrupted for a chime from the locked drawer in his desk. His eyebrows arched as he removed the locking charms. There was a parchment glowing red, signaling that a message had been sent.

“Get here now! ~Petunia Dursley” was all it read.

“Oh dear!” Dumbledore murmured to himself. Activating the floo, he notified a startled Minerva McGonagall of his urgent appointment. However, he didn’t give her details to exactly where he was going. She would watch over the school while he was off the grounds.

Hurrying to the school gates, Albus Dumbledore apparated to 4 Privet Drive, Surrey.

Chapter 4: The Freak Show

The birthday party had ended a while ago and the sun was beginning to set. Dudley had been sent upstairs to his room to play with his new toys, and Harry could hear from his cupboard that Aunt Petunia was franticly cleaning around the house. Someone was coming and even as young as Harry was, he knew something was about to happen.

Vernon sat on the overstuffed couch, trying to focus on the newspaper. Honestly, he was feeling a bit anxious. Anything to do with more of these freaks, much less an adult freak, made him anxious. They were completely unnatural, some sort of abnormal mutation. Thankfully, their lives were going to be back to normal very soon. Without the ungrateful brat! Vernon was serious that the boy would not stay one more night in his house, and if these aberrations were unwilling to take him back, well, St. Daniel’s Orphanage would be receiving a visit that night.

Petunia glanced at the clock. Whoever it was that she had written to should be arriving any moment. It was time to bring the boy out of the cupboard. No one needed to know that’s where the boy slept, even if it was one of her sister’s kind.

Harry heard his aunt’s footsteps coming down the hall and stop outside his door. If it was even possible, he curled more into himself, clutching his ratty blanket.

“Get out here now!” Petunia demanded. Without even waiting for her nephew to move, she hurried back into the sitting room.

Harry, knowing what would happen if he dawdled, scurried down the hall after his aunt. Yes, something was definitely going on.

Quietly entering the sitting room, Harry stayed against the far wall, eyeing his uncle who was glaring at him from the couch.

“Boy, I’ve had enough of you.” Vernon chewed out. “I will not stand for you any longer in this house. You’re leaving tonight.”

The almost 4 year old stared at the large man, not quite understanding. Why would he be leaving? This was his home, wasn’t it?

“Sir?” Harry asked in a hushed whisper.

“Understand me, boy. This. Is. Not. Your. Home.” Vernon spat each word in distaste. “I’m sending you to where all the rest of the freaks are.”

Harry’s face, already pale in color, went stark white. He remembered where the freaks were. It wasn’t long ago that the Dursleys had taken a trip to the circus. Harry was allowed to go for once and couldn’t contain his excitement. What he hadn’t realized was that the Dursleys had tried to pawn him off on any available babysitter. However, when you spread rumors that your nephew was a terror, finding a babysitter was near impossible. Their usual sitter, Mrs. Figg, was out of town that weekend. Harry was forced to come along.

As they had walked toward the main circus tent, Harry’s uncle had grabbed him tightly by the arm and hissed in his ear. “See that small tent, boy? That’s where all the freaks live. Freaks like you. If you as much as let a peep out today, I’ll make sure you won’t be coming home with us.” Harry had glanced into the small tent as they walked by and saw scary people with swords, snakes, and even a large bearded man in a dress. He didn’t say a word all day in fear of being left with the scary people.

Now that fear had returned to Harry. He was being sent away to those scary people. Tears fell down his face, but before his uncle could make any more scathing remarks, the doorbell rang.

Petunia hurried to the door and quickly let the strangely dressed man in. Harry backed into the corner as he watched this man through his tears. He was tall and thin, with a long white beard and long hair. Harry had never seen anyone like him before. His clothes were a patchwork jacket and pants, and seemed to have every color in Dudley’s crayon box. The old man reminded Harry of the clowns at the circus. He really was being sent to those scary people!

Albus Dumbledore looked around the house, noticing the extreme cleanliness, despite the fact that two small boys lived there. The sitting room was pleasantly decorated and filled with family photos. It didn’t escape his attention that Harry wasn’t in a single one of them. Odd…

As his old eyes took in the room, Albus saw young Harry cowering in the corner. Not wanting to think the worst, he hoped that the small child was just shy. However, the sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach told him it was a lot more. Much, much more.

Taking a seat in the armchair across from the couch, Albus smiled at the couple in front of him. However, before he could open his mouth to even compliment them on the loveliness of their home, Vernon launched into the conversation.

“I don’t know who you think you are, dropping this boy on our doorstep without even taking our lives into consideration, but we’ve had it,” Vernon belted out, glaring down at the strangely dressed man.

“Oh dear. I’m quite terribly sorry for not introducing myself properly.” Dumbledore replied, his twinkling, blue eyes studying the couple in front of him. “My name is Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, and I am the Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I do believe you know of it, Mrs. Dursley, from when your sister, Lily, attended.”

Petunia merely huffed at the old man’s attachment to her sister. She had put off any association with Lily since she was accepted into that school of freaks.

“Personally, we don’t care who you are, sir,” Vernon interrupted before Petunia could answer. “You’re taking that boy back and we never want to see him or any of your kind again.” Vernon sat back with a sick smile on his face. There was no way this crazy old man was leaving without the boy.

“I see,” Albus replied quietly. “I’m very sorry to hear that. If I may ask, what is it that is proving difficult with young Harry? If the monies being allotted to you each month are not enough, then we can arrange to increase the amount to whatever would be sufficient.”

The idea of receiving more money for keeping their nephew made Vernon and Petunia pause. They were already receiving an ample sum, and with an increase, they would be more then comfortable. Both looked at their nephew, still sitting in the corner, knees drawn up to his chest. His green eyes peered at them anxiously, still wondering what was going to happen to him. However, Vernon remembered the incident from earlier in the day. No, he had to go.

“I’m afraid not,” Vernon replied, standing firm. “The boy will leave with you tonight or will be taken to an orphanage.”

Albus’ face furrowed in concern. “That seems a bit extreme, Mr. Durlsey. What, pray tell, is exactly causing your anxiety over the boy?”

“That boy is a freak and menace to society!” Vernon nearly bellowed, getting worked up. “He’s completely unnatural and endangers everyone around him.”

Dumbledore’s suspicions were confirmed in that statement. Harry’s accidental magic must have awakened, and it was obvisious that the muggle family wasn’t adjusting well.

“Mrs. Dursley, surely you remember the magic your sister once performed, even from an early age. There are families who have absolutely no experience with magic but who have no troubles raising their child that’s been gifted with the ability. Perhaps we can arrange for a visit from a counselor who can help you adjust more to understanding more about our world.”

Petunia’s face seemed to pucker more with each passing word. “Yes, I remember my sister and the freakish things she would do. Look where it got her. Dead! That brat threw my husband across the room today. We will not keep him in our home any longer. He is a danger to us and our son.”

Dumbledore’s eyes settled on the small, trembling boy in the corner. It seemed there was no way to settle this argument. At least not in that evening. The fact that they had not called their nephew by his name even once, instead calling him “boy” and “freak”, had not gone unnoticed by him either. Perhaps this really wasn’t the best place for young Harry to grow up.

“I understand,” Albus Dumbledore said slowly, the twinkle missing from his blue eyes. “I’m truly sorry you both feel this way and am honestly abhorred at how you regard your nephew. I will take him as you requested. As of right now, he is no longer under your care.”

Dumbledore drew out his wand and raised an eyebrow at the flinch the two muggles gave. It was the worst case of fear of magic he’d ever seen.

With a wave, custody papers appeared on the coffee table before them. Within seconds, Vernon and Petunia Dursleys had released all guardianship rights and responsibilities of Harry James Potter. For now he would be a ward of Albus Dumbledore, until a proper home could be found. For now, Albus just wanted to get the terrorized child away from these crazed muggles.

“His belongings?” Albus asked, standing.

Petunia left the sitting room, to Harry’s room, Albus guessed, but instead, it was to the cupboard under the stairs. She returned with a few pieces of clothing. Harry was already clutching a ratty blanket.

“That’s all of it,” she said, tossing the things at the man. Albus sighed sadly, shrunk the items, and put them into his pocket.

“Indeed. Then I do believe we’ll be off now. I doubt we’ll meet again, Mr. and Mrs. Dursley.”

They didn’t offer their hands to shake in farewell, but hurried to open the front door. Albus walked to the corner and knelt down in front of the small boy.

“Harry, my name is Headmaster Dumbledore. I was a good friend of your parents. You’re going to come with me now to someplace safe alright?”

Harry looked up at the old man with the long white beard. “Are we going to the circus?” he asked quietly, still afraid.

“The circus?” Dumbledore asked curiously.

“Where the freaks go to live,” Harry said in an even softer voice that Dumbledore almost missed.

His blue eyes softened and filled with tears at the young boy’s words. “No, Harry. We’re going home.”

Albus swung the child into his arms and leveled a glare at the impatient couple. Without even a goodbye, he strode out to the street, clutched Harry tightly to him, and apparated to Hogwarts.

Chapter 5: The Arrival

With a crack, Albus Dumbledore arrived outside the gates of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, his arms filled with a young, scared boy, who was holding onto him for dear life. Harry was trembling in the old man’s arms. He had never felt something like that before. It felt like he was being squeezed tightly and then suddenly released.

“Sorry about that, my boy. I know that apparating can be quite scary for the first time. However, we’re home.” Dumbledore spoke softly to Harry, who had yet to look around at where they were.

Harry looked around him and finally noticed that they were no longer at Privet Drive. He looked around frantically, trying to figure out exactly where he’d been taken.

Picking up the pace, Albus hurried on down the path leading to the large, main doors of the castle. He noticed Harry had finally looked up and was gaping at the large school. It wasn’t quite dark yet so the building could still be clearly seen.

“Welcome to Hogwarts, Harry. This is a school for young boys and girls to learn to use the magic they’ve been gifted with.”

Harry didn’t respond. He was still surprised that the man was even addressing him, much less touching him. Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia rarely acknowledged him, much less tried to hold a conversation, and they never ever held him r12; picked him up, yes, but only to swiftly ‘move’ him so he was ‘out of the way.’ Thus, Harry was rigid in Albus’ arms, not sure what to do. There was a deep longing to relax in the embrace, but he just couldn’t. Every part of him was telling him he should be on his feet, hurriedly trailing after the man, not in his arms.

With a quiet sigh, Dumbledore walked up the steps and entered into the main hall, the doors opening automatically for him. The castle was eerily quiet, with it still being the summer holidays. Most of the professors had gone home to their families. Those remaining called Hogwarts their home and preferred the castle to anywhere else in the world. The headmaster was one of them.

Soon enough, Albus and Harry had arrived in his office. Harry, still silent, looked around the room in awe. The pictures moved and talked! He’d never seen anything like it in his short life. It seemed like something straight out of the fairy tale book that Aunt Petunia would read to Dudley at night. Her voice would carry through the vents and he’d listen to the stories from his cupboard.

“Harry, why don’t you wait here for a moment? I have to notify a few of the professors of our arrival.”

Harry watched as the old man stuck his head into green flames from the fireplace. He couldn’t contain his gasp as he expected the man to catch on fire! He slapped his hand over his mouth, remembering one of the most basic rules: freaks should never be heard.

As he heard the headmaster speaking to someone through the fire, Harry took in his surroundings. The pictures were staring at him and whispering to each other. The attention made him blush. He never liked to stand out. It usually meant he was in trouble. Harry turned his attention to the large, red bird sitting on a perch by the desk. It was preening itself, paying no mind to the young boy staring at it. Harry had never seen anything so beautiful! As if hearing the boy’s thoughts, the red bird puffed itself up and looked at the boy.

“His name is Fawkes, Harry. He’s a phoenix, a magical bird and a very dear friend of mine.”

Harry nodded silently, his gaze averting to the floor. He didn’t know what he should say to the stranger, or even if he was allowed to speak. It was all too overwhelming for the 3 year old, and tears again started welling up in his eyes. What did he do wrong that his family would send him to the circus?

A rush of flames from the fireplace made Harry jump in fright. Suddenly, two people were standing in the office, brushing soot from their robes. He watched the strict looking woman as her eyes swept across the office and landed on Harry. Her gaze softened as she took in the small child but steeled again when she turned her attention to the headmaster. “Albus, I want the full story.”

The dark man beside her scared Harry. His glittering, black eyes froze him on the spot. Harry immediately guessed that this man must be able to read minds, not knowing how right he was.

“Yes, yes, of course, Minerva. Please, both of you have a seat.”

Harry kept quiet as he listened to the headmaster share about being summoned to the Dursley household and their objections to their nephew.

“I’ve never known someone so averse to magic before. I’m quite surprised really with Petunia Dursley. Surely with her sister’s magic she would have been supportive of her nephew.”

Severus Snape gave a “humph” at that comment.

“You’re not surprised then, Severus?” Albus asked, studying the younger man’s face.

“I’ve known the Evans family since childhood, Albus. Petunia has always been against Lily’s magic. Her animosity towards it is what had driven them so far apart.” Harry’s face turned toward the dark man in surprise. This man knew his mum? A quick sneer from the man sent Harry’s attention back to the floor. He knew that this was not a man he wanted to make cross with him.

“Indeed. It is quite unfortunate, especially concerning young Harry. They would hear of nothing else but removing the boy from their care. They even threatened of abandoning him at an orphanage,” Dumbledore related sadly.

There was a loud crash as a tea cup dropped to the floor. “Abandoning the boy?” Minerva yelled. “They would just leave their nephew at an orphanage!” The chair that she was sitting on crashed to the floor as she stood. Harry could feel a strange heat ebbing from her, much stronger than what he had ever felt from the Dursleys, and backed against the wall in fear. Burying his head in his knees, Harry tried to go unnoticed, hoping he wasn’t about to be punished.

Minerva continued to rant on about how she had warned Albus about the Dursleys being the “worst sort of muggles.” However, she stopped as Albus put up his hand to silence her. Harry didn’t notice as the conversation stopped, all attention turning to him.

“Oh, Harry,” Minerva cried out, hurrying over to the child.

“I’m so sorry, my bairn.” The deputy headmistress knelt down beside Harry and ran her fingers through his hair.

Harry jumped in fear from the touch. The woman had seemed so angry before; he could only assume that he’d done something wrong. He was always doing things wrong at the Dursleys and they usually yelled at him for it.

However, the heat Harry had been feeling radiating from the professor had stopped. Instead now there was a gentle warmth, which confused him. He’d never felt it before.

“Are you okay, Harry?” Albus asked in concern.

“Yes, sir,” was the quiet answer he gave. It was the first time he had spoken since leaving the Dursleys. No one shouted at him however, so Harry figured he had done the right thing in answering.

“What is your plan with the brat?” Severus asked, causing Minerva to level an icy glare at him. He ignored his fellow professor’s open irritation with him.

“Now, now, Severus. I trust you’ll find young Harry to be vastly different from his father. I think young Harry will have more of his mother’s traits than we can even imagine.” The twinkling blue eyes watched Harry as he spoke.

“James Potter was nothing more than a merciless bully. There is no reason for me to expect anything less of his son.”

Harry’s eyes narrowed at the dark man’s words. His father had been a bully? Just like Dudley?

“Severus, I’m asking you to forget the past. Do not hold his father’s sins over him. Remember, Harry is also Lily’s son.”

“Yes, well. We’ll see about that,” Snape grumbled. “If you’ll excuse me, I have potions to attend to.”

Harry watched the dark man disappear into the green flames. That man knew his parents. He wasn’t sure about the words spoken of his father’s actions but Harry was determined to never act like his cousin Dudley. A fierce determination woke within the young child as he set his mind on making sure that that scary man saw that he was no bully!

Harry’s ears perked up as he heard his name being mentioned again.

“What is your plan for Harry, Albus?” Minerva asked, her temper now reigned in.

“I do believe that the safest place for young Harry is within these walls. With death eaters still searching for his location, I believe that the school’s wards will be the only ones strong enough to keep Harry safe.”

“He needs a home, Albus! A family! Not a bunch of grumpy, overworked professors,” Minerva argued, knowing how busy the school year would be.

“It’s the best place for him, Minerva. Leaving this up to the Ministry. . . . Besides, I believe one of us will be able to become an excellent guardian for the boy. We all have enough experience with children, after all,” he said, his eyes twinkling at her. 

Minerva sighed, knowing that Albus already expected her to take on the role. The piles of paperwork waiting on her desk instantly came to mind.

“I will try it for a few days, Albus. Although I fear my responsibilities are too great to give Harry the focus and attention he needs.”

Albus smiled at his deputy. “All I ask is that you try, Minerva. If it doesn’t succeed, I’m sure one of the other professors won’t object to taking on the responsibility.”

Chapter 6: Changes

The office was quiet as the two adults watched the array of emotions cross Harry’s face. They had just explained to him that he wouldn’t be returning to the Dursley’s house.

“You’ll have a new home and family here at Hogwarts, Harry.” Albus tried to console the overcome child. Tears glistened in the emerald green eyes.

“Harry, the way your aunt and uncle treated you was wrong,” Minerva explained. “You deserve to be loved because you’re a good boy.”

Harry was confused at what these adults were saying. He was a good boy? If he was a good boy then why did his aunt and uncle send him away?

“What did I do wrong then?” Harry asked weakly.

“Nothing, Harry. You’ve done nothing wrong.”

Harry remained quiet after that, not sure if he could trust what he was being told. It was obvious that this strange place was where he was supposed to live now, but it was all too much for him to take in.

“Harry,” Minerva began, getting the boy’s attention again. “You’re going to stay with me for a time before your permenant home is settled.” Harry didn’t respond with anything more then a nod. He was still uneasy around the older woman who looked like she might be even stricter then Aunt Petunia.

It was nearly suppertime but Minerva had wanted to get Harry settled in her quarters before heading to the Great Hall. Dumbledore’s request for the professors was that, even during the summer, the staff would at least take the evening meal together. There weren’t many of them usually at the castle during the holidays but having supper together was pleasant enough.

Minerva paused in the hallway and waited for Harry to catch up. He was trailing behind her slowly, still being very quiet. His face, however, expressed his curiosity as he took in the suits of armor and moving portraits, many which shouted greetings to the young child. Minerva sighed audibly. He resembled his parents so much. Lily had been the same way as a student at Hogwarts, curious about everything having to do with the magical world. They would have been so proud of their son.

“Come, Mr. Potter,” Minerva beckoned him. Harry hurried to catch up to the professor. They continued down the hall before they stopped in front of a portrait of a man in a kilt, playing bagpipes.

“All you need to do is say the password, Harry, and the door will open,” Minerva explained. “Loch Lomond.”

The portrait swung open, revealing Minerva’s personal chambers. They were warmly decorated with the sofa and chair cushions covered in her family’s green tartan pattern. The floor was stone and the large windows overlooked the lake. Beyond the sitting area were three doors. Minerva ushered Harry, who was lingering in the doorway, through the sitting area.

“This first door is my bedroom,” she said, opening up the door to the tidy room. The bed had a scarlet red duvet and a wardrobe of cherry wood was set in the corner. Across from the wardrobe was a large bookcase that was full of old leather bound books. “You may wake me if you need me during the night. Otherwise, I ask that you don’t play in here.”

Harry nodded that he understood, but he kept his mouth closed. Minerva’s lips pursed together at his refusal to talk. Worst sort of muggles indeed!

Opening up the next door, she showed Harry the bathroom, equipped with a large tub, toilet, sink, and mirror. Quickly moving on the last room, Harry found himself in the guest bedroom.

“My sister stays here when she comes to visit. I daresay you’ll meet her soon enough. However, you may stay here for the time being,” Minerva explained, leading the boy into the room. It was pleasantly decorated, although one could tell it was furnished to suit a woman’s taste. The duvet was a soft lilac with matching window treatments. Harry’s eyes were huge as he took in his surroundings. Minerva couldn’t imagine what would cause the boy to be so openly astonished about a simple bedroom.

“It’s time for supper, Mr. Potter. Let’s hurry now, otherwise we’ll be late!”

Minerva’s quarters were just one floor above the Great Hall. She picked Harry up, in order to walk quickly through the halls, and found that they were just a few minutes late for the meal. Minerva was a strict woman and always kept to a timely schedule. Shrugging off the bit of annoyance she felt at being late, Minerva set Harry on the floor and they walked to the table.

“I trust you’ve gotten young Harry sorted, Minerva?” Dumbledore greeted from his seat, his blue eyes twinkling at the child.

“Yes. I set him up in my guest chamber for now. If this placement becomes permanent then I will see to adding another room.”

“Good, good,” Dumbledore responded as Minerva took a seat next to him. Harry stood uncertainly, staring at the remaining open seat. Catching his hesitation, Minerva gestured for him to sit. “Come, child. Eat your supper.”

Harry hurried over to the chair and scrambled on it. Kneeling in order to see everything properly, he was overcome by all of the food laid out before them. It was the most he’d ever seen. First a bedroom and now a feast!

A slight cough turned his attention to the man sitting next to him. It was the scary man from the office! The dark eyes narrowed at him, studying him as before. Remembering his vow to prove to this man that he wasn’t a bully, Harry turned his gaze down to his plate and kept his hands folded. Just like Aunt Petunia had taught him.

A soft huff brought his attention to Professor Minerva r12; as she had told him to call her. She was serving food onto his plate. There was a piece of chicken, peas, potatoes, and a bread roll. Harry’s eyes widened in confusion. Surely all this food couldn’t be for him? He was used to the glass of water, stale bread, and cheese r12; that was his normal meal at home.

“Eat, Mr. Potter,” Minerva barked and caused Harry to jump. Snatching the bread roll, he took a small bite. It was the best roll he’d ever tasted! It didn’t crumble or dry out his mouth at all. The softness of the bread almost seemed to melt in his mouth.

“It seems our young celebrity is choosing to ignore his plate. Perhaps the fare isn’t up to his liking?” The dark man growled.

Harry’s brow furrowed in confusion. The food really was his? The dark man really wanted him to eat all of it? Joy burst forth from the child and he dug into the food with great exuberance. He didn’t even notice the chuckle coming from the headmaster.

“Why, Severus, you convinced the boy to eat. I don’t think we’ll need to be worried for meals, will we Minerva?”

“Indeed,” Minerva responded flatly. She didn’t trust the potions master and definitely didn’t approve of his snarky tone directed at the child.

Snape ignored both of them, returning to his meal and remaining silent for the duration.

------

Harry placed the toothbrush into the holder on the sink. Leaning forward, balancing on the stepping stool, he looked into the mirror. According to the scary man, he looked like his father. His father, the bully. Harry frowned at that thought. He didn’t like bullies. They were mean, usually to him.

Going out to the sitting room, Harry found the professor sitting on the couch with a wooden box next to her. She looked up at him and gave a small smile. It was much nicer then her usual stern look.

“Come here, Mr. Potter.” She beckoned. Harry hesitantly walked over to the couch and peered down into the box. It was filled with moving photos.

“These are photos I’ve collected over the years of the students here at Hogwarts. I believe I have several of your parents. Would you care to have a look?”

Harry suddenly felt even more nervous then he’d been since arriving at the school. He was finally going to see what his parents looked like! Harry noticed that the professor seemed to be waiting for him to answer.

“Yes, madam.” He said quietly and watched as she began sorting through the piles of photos. He was astonished at seeing them move, it seemed every type of photo in the school moved!

“Ahh, here we go. I do believe this was your father’s first quidditch match in his 3rd year. Against Ravenclaw, if I remember correctly. James was a very good chaser and was even captain in his 7th year.” Minerva reminisced, a proud look on her face.

Harry looked at the photo in her hand, not wanting to touch it. He wasn’t allowed to touch valuable things and these seemed very valuable. There in the photo was a boy with dark, messy hair riding on a broomstick. Some sort of ball was in his arms and a look of determination on his face. So this was his father! He didn’t look like a bully but it would be hard to tell from just a photo.

“What’s a drunk?” Harry blurted out, his face instantly becoming red. The shocked look on the professor’s face made him look away, thinking he had asked a silly question.

“And where did you hear of that, Mr. Potter?” Minerva asked, her lips pursed thin.

“Auntie Petunia said my dad was a drunk. That’s why they got killed in the car crash.” Harry admitted quietly.

Minerva gasped sharply, wanting to curse those muggles into oblivion. “You’re parents were not drunk nor did they die in a car crash, Harry.” His confused look pressed her to explain further.

“There was a very bad man who was hurting a lot of people. Your mum and dad fought against him, Harry. They were very brave. However, he found you all where you were hiding. Your parents died protecting you, my boy. Somehow when he went to hurt you, he died. We don’t know what really happened but you lived, harry.”

“Oh.” Harry responded, overwhelmed at the information. It was a bit much for a small child to take in.

Seeing that the time was growing late, Minerva put away the photos and settled Harry into bed.

----

Several hours later, Minerva’s quarters were silent. It was long passed when Harry was put to bed, and the deputy headmistress had retired just a few hours after him. It had been a long, exhausting day for both of them.

Harry stirred from his sleep, his belly aching a bit from all of the food he forced into it. He rolled onto his side, trying to change positions to ease the cramps. His body wasn’t used to that much food at once. Eventually, the pain subsided but Harry couldn’t get comfortable on the bed. The entire room seemed too strange. The bed was too soft and the space was too open. Harry was missing home and missing his cupboard. His cupboard was his place of safety. Dudley’s taunts and kicks couldn’t get him there. Here, he felt exposed.

Crawling off the bed, Harry looked around the darkened room. There was a bit of space between the wardrobe and the wall, just enough space for a small 3, almost 4, year old. Grabbing a pillow, Harry padded over to the corner and stuffed the pillow in before lying down on top. That felt better! With a big yawn, Harry stretched and fell fast asleep.

------

The sun was just rising when Harry awoke. It was strange to not hear the sharp rap against the cupboard door first thing in the morning. His aunt would always wake him up each morning to help her set the table for breakfast. Harry thought that he must have been rather smart to have such a big boy job. It didn’t even bother him much that Dudley never had to do anything to help Aunt Petunia.

While thinking about his family back at Privet Drive, and wondering if they were missing him at all, Harry climbed out of the corner and returned the pillow back to the bed, straightening the covers as best as a small child could.

Harry didn’t have to wait long before Minerva tapped lightly on the door and peeked in.

“Oh, good. You’re already up, Harry. I’ve ordered us some breakfast out here in the sitting room. Let’s get you washed up.”

Once clean, Harry found another plate piled high with food in front of him for breakfast. His stomach still felt sore from last night’s cramps! However, after only taking a few small bites, Minerva’s pointed look had Harry eating a full portion of eggs and toast. It seemed that one of her rules, even though she didn’t specifically say them, was that he had to clear his plate. Harry didn’t want to disappoint the professor, even if he was still unsure about her.

As he ate, Harry watched the stern woman sitting across from him. She was quietly sipping her tea and reading the paper. Harry could see from there that the pictures moved on the paper, just like they did on the portraits in the hallway. The 3 year old started thinking about all that had happened since yesterday. He wasn’t sure how long he was going to stay at this strange place. Surely Uncle Vernon didn’t mean to send him away forever, did he? Families didn’t really do that. Maybe he was just supposed to learn about how to act here. His uncle said that these people were freaks like him. So if he made sure not to act like them then maybe he’d be good enough to go home.

“Harry?”

The soft voice called him from his thoughts. The professor had been speaking to him and he hadn’t paid attention.

“Sorry, madam,” Harry murmured.

“It’s alright, child. I was just saying that I needed to do some work this morning. I have some books you might like to look through to keep you busy.”

Harry nodded and was soon set on the couch with books about strange animals. He was much too young to read but the pictures were interesting. He’d never seen anything like these animals, not even at the circus.

Hours passed and it wasn’t until hunger pains started in Minerva’s stomach that she realized how fast the time had gone.

“Harry!” she gasped, berating herself for not checking on the boy. Coming in from her office, she saw he was right where she left him, although looking like he had just woken from a nap.

“I’m so sorry, Harry. I lost track of the time with all of my work. I daresay it’s long past time for lunch. Let’s summon a quick bite, shall we?”

The two ate in the usual silence. Minerva studied the small child. He wasn’t opening up to her at all, not that her workload really helped. It was just as she feared. If she was too busy for the boy now, how much worse would it be during the school year? Perhaps she should talk to Albus about having someone else take in the boy.

Chapter 7: Over Exposure

“Albus, I just don’t think this is benefiting Harry. It’s been days and he hasn’t opened up. He sits quietly by himself, which isn’t normal for one his age.”

Albus studied his deputy headmistress. It was obvious that the woman was concerned but there was also an underlying sense of guilt in her words. Harry had been staying with her for almost a week and was the same reclusive boy that he had met back in Surrey.

“Indeed, Minerva. I have noticed.” His eyes glanced over to the alcove that the said boy was currently playing in. Just some parchment and crayons kept him entertained for the entire day.

“I feel as if I’ve failed him,” Minerva said softly in a defeated tone, following his gaze to the boy.

Albus turned sharply, surprised at her admission. “Failed him, my dear?”

“I don’t have time to give him the attention he needs or deserves. I spend most of the day pouring over paperwork while he sits and colors. He needs more then I can give him, Albus.” Minerva seemed to almost plead with the headmaster. Albus knew that it wasn’t that she didn’t want the child, but it was true that the older woman did have a lot of responsibilities.

“You haven’t failed him, my dear. It is I who left him with those muggles. That has been the ultimate failure,” Albus admitted with his shoulders slumped. He hadn’t slept well since meeting the Dursley family. A touch on his hand caused his gaze to look up and meet his deputy’s.

“Albus, we will find the best home for Harry,” Minerva promised.

A short time later…

Harry found himself in the presence of a very excited, and very small, man.  Honestly, it was an odd placement, and one that Minerva hadn’t been very convinced was the best. However, Professor Flitwick was determined to not let his size nullify his consideration for being Harry Potter’s guardian. Unfortunately, Harry’s placement there wouldn’t even last the day.

It was well after lunch when the Charms professor’s child rearing skills were put to the test. Excited to introduce Harry to the wizarding world, Flitwick had brought them to his classroom to demonstrate some simple charms, believing it would please the boy and entice him to open up a bit more.

“Your mother, Lily, was my best pupil, Harry,” Flitwick shared as he set out several different objects. “She had even started creating her own charms by the time she finished here at Hogwarts.”

Harry couldn’t help but give the professor a small smile. Despite being so far from home, he enjoyed hearing more about his parents. Harry looked around the room in curiosity. There were rows of desks where the students would sit. At the front was a tall stack of pillows that the professor was now climbing upon. Harry swallowed a giggle at the small man’s compensation for his height. The professor wasn’t any taller than he was!

“See here, Harry,” the Professor called out, gaining the young boy’s attention. Harry’s eyes widened as his stomach did a flip. The man had a wand out. It had been explained to him earlier that they performed magic that way. Magic still frightened Harry, believing that any sort of “freakiness” would demand a punishment.

“Why don’t I show you the first charm you’ll learn here at Hogwarts, hmm?”

Harry felt his stomach keep rolling as his new guardian raised his wand, uttered some words, and caused a feather to rise into the air. Spots started dancing before Harry’s eyes; he hadn’t noticed that he stopped breathing. His whole body started trembling as he backed himself into a corner, curling into himself. He couldn’t do those things!

But I can, a tiny part of him whispered. And I did. I did just what that short man has done. But I shouldn’t have.

In his mind, Harry was back at Privet Drive. He was a year younger, but not much smaller in size. Both he and Dudley were sitting at the kitchen table while Aunt Petunia served cookies. He wasn’t allowed to eat them and was forced to watch his cousin inhale the plate of double cookie chip goodness. Suddenly, a small glass of lukewarm milk was plopped in front of him. Still eyeing the cookies, he took a small sip. He really, really wanted some. The greedy boy across from him cleared the plate quickly, but there was still an entire pan on the stove. The delicious smell made Harry’s mouth water. Taking another small sip of milk, a shrill scream made both boys start. Aunt Petunia’s face was stark white as she watched the tray of cookies float across the kitchen and land in front of Harry. Magic! Before Harry could even snatch up one of the delicious morsels, his arm was gripped tightly and nearly pulled out of socket as his aunt dragged him and threw him into the cupboard.

“That’s where freaks like you belong!” she hissed. He had been locked in there for days with nothing more than some crusts of bread and a glass of water for food. He’d deserved it. He was a freak.

Harry groaned as he stretched. There was no knock yet on the cupboard door so he knew that he still had some time before he’d be forced to get up. He burrowed down into his pillow and pulled his blanket tighter.

However, something wasn’t. . . .

It didn’t take long for even a nearly 4 year old to realize this wasn’t his cupboard. He didn’t have a pillow and the mattress wasn’t nearly this soft. His green eyes shot open and he looked around. The room was well lit and beds lined the walls. Where was he?

“Good to see you’re awake, Mr. Potter,” a woman greeted, coming from a side door. She was dressed in a starched white uniform.

“Where am I?” Harry asked quietly.

“Hospital wing. You gave us all quite a fright, young man. Poor Filius needed a calming draught by the time he brought you here.”

Harry stayed silent, trying to remember what had happened. He didn’t pay much attention as the nurse prattled on. In fact, he was so engrossed in his thoughts that he didn’t even notice the headmaster walk into the room and conjure a chair next to his bed r12; which was probably a very good thing.

“Harry?”

Harry looked up, startled from his thoughts. There was a comforting look in those twinkling blue eyes. It didn’t take all of Harry’s anxiety away but it helped settle the storm brewing in his thoughts.

“Are you okay, my boy? You gave me quite a scare.”

“Yes, sir. I’m fine,” Harry mumbled, overcome with embarrassment at all of the attention.

The headmaster seemed to study him for a long moment, as if searching for some hidden secret. “Wonderful. I do think it will be best for us to introduce you to magic in smaller doses, hmm?”

Harry’s widened at the thought. More magic? However, any further panic was prevented by his attention focusing on the nurse speaking to him.

“While I have you here, Mr. Potter, I want to examine on you. Make sure you’re well and healthy.” Harry eyed her wand with caution. The headmaster seemed to notice his nervousness.

“Harry, magic is a wonderful tool and can be used to help many people. Madam Pomfrey here uses it to make sick and hurt people better.” Harry listened to the headmaster, not taking his eyes off of the wand in the nurse’s hand.

“Now, Mr. Potter. This is a simple spell to see if everything is healthy in your body. You’ll probably just feel a bit of a tickle but that’s it.”

Harry gulped and balled up the blanket in his fists.

“We’ll only do it with your permission, Harry. I promise you that everything will be fine.”

Harry looked into the old man’s blue eyes and gave a small nod. At least it wasn’t him performing magic this time. He couldn’t possibly get punished for it, right?

Harry tightly scrunched his eyes closed and heard the rustle of Madam Pomfrey’s clothing as her wand ran over him. There was a slight tickle in his body like he’d been warmed and, despite his nerves, he couldn’t keep in the small giggle when it reached his ribcage.

“All done, Mr. Potter,” the nurse said. “Why don’t you get changed back into your clothes while the headmaster and I discuss some matters.”

Just noticing that he was dressed in a hospital gown, Harry crawled down from the bed and reached for his clothing that was folded on the bedside table. He couldn’t help but overhear the adults talking just outside of the privacy screen.

“He’s definitely malnourished, Albus. The boy is anemic and I fear that his immune system has weakened.”

“Any signs of physical abuse, Poppy?”

“Not extensive. Some history of bumps and bruises. No breaks. It seems that they stuck to neglecting him in regard to proper meals.”

“And love, Poppy. Possibly the worst neglect of all.”

The curtain moved to the side and Harry hurried to pull the shirt over his head. He knew they had been talking about him but it didn’t make much sense, not knowing what anemic or immune system meant.

“Harry, you’re going to have to take some pot- I mean medicines for a few months. They’re going to help you grow big and strong, okay?”

Harry nodded.

“There’s a good boy. You’ll take them at breakfast and dinner, so twice a day,” Poppy explained.

“I’ll have Severus brew a large batch of the iron supplement as well as a nutrient potion. Those with balanced meals should help with the deficiencies. He will most likely always be small for his age. If you do see any signs that Harry is coming down with an illness, he can take a Pepper Up potion. He’ll be more susceptible to illnesses until his iron and nutrition levels improve,” Poppy told the headmaster.

“I’ll take care of him, Poppy. You don’t need to look so worried,” Albus teased. It had been decided that the headmaster would now look after Harry for the time being.

“I’m sure you’ll be spoiling him with sweets in no time,” the nurse huffed before going back into her office to continue her inventory.

“Come, Harry. You’ll be staying with me now for a while. I do believe it’s about time for some tea and cakes,” Albus said happily, leading Harry out from the hospital wing.

Chapter 8: Why

Albus sipped his tea silently, enjoying the sweet taste as he watched his young charge nibbling at the cake in front of him. He’d never seen a child eat a sweet so slowly.

“Are you enjoying your tea, Harry?”

Green eyes met blue as the shy child nodded. Albus could almost feel nervousness rolling off the boy in waves.

“Come now, Harry. Surely you’re not still scared of an old man like me?” Albus joked lightly, trying to ease the boy’s tension. He could almost see the boy gather courage as his stance in the chair changed. He sat slightly taller, no longer slumped over.

“No, sir.”

Albus collected the empty teacup and plate and set them aside, cautious not to banish them, as he normally would have. He didn’t want to give Harry another panic attack.

“I’m sure you have many questions about everything that has happened over the past few days.” A small nod from the boy confirmed his statement.

“Please feel free to ask anything on your mind, child. You will not be punished here for asking questions.”

The internal battle played openly on the boy’s face as he debated with himself if he was truly safe to ask questions.

After a long bout of silence, Harry finally asked his question. “Can I go home now?”

Albus could only sigh at the innocent question. He had hoped that Harry had understood the situation when it had been explained to him on his first night at the castle. Granted, it was a lot for a 3 year old to truly understand.

“Harry, Hogwarts is your new home. I, as well as all of the professors here, want to be your new family.”

“But I have a family, sir,” he whispered, confusion thick in his soft voice. Albus felt his heart wretch as the boy tried to understand what everything really meant.

“I’m sorry, my boy, but you can’t go back to your aunt and uncle. You most likely won’t understand all of the reason why until you’re older, but I need you to trust me. You deserve to be happy, Harry. Every little boy does. Do you understand?”

~~~

Harry studied the gold swirls in the patterned carpet. The headmaster’s words echoed in his ears. Not going back? New family? He felt defeated. What had he done wrong? Why hadn’t he been good enough? Harry wasn’t dumb. He knew that his aunt and uncle loved Dudley more than him. How he yearned for his aunt to look at him with love in her eyes like she looked at her son. He had tried so hard to prove himself and to behave like a good boy. But despite everything he had tried, he had failed.

“I’m never gonna be a good boy,” Harry whispered to himself. He didn’t notice horrified shock cross the old man’s face. Harry didn’t even notice as the man went around the desk to come closer.

~~~

“Oh, Harry, you are a good boy. You’re a very good boy. In fact, I’ve never met a boy as good as you are,” Albus consoled, lifting Harry’s chin gently until he had the boy’s attention.

“Then why do they hate me?” The headmaster felt his heart rip in two at those tearful words. For once Albus Dumbledore seemed at a loss of words. How do you explain to a child that the reason why his family gave him away was because they were the most abominable, offensive, fiendish, monsters of human beings that ever existed?

“No matter their feelings, Harry, you deserve to be loved.”

~~~

A trill from Fawkes broke the sullen mood, filling it instead with a burst of joy. Harry stared at the red and gold bird in fascination.

“Fawkes is my oldest friend. And, if you can even believe it, he’s even older then I am,” Albus said, his eyes twinkling at the astonished boy.

Harry allowed himself to be led closer to the phoenix. Climbing up onto the chair at the headmaster’s insistence, he peered closely at the large bird.

“You’re pretty, Fawkes,” Harry said softly, not wanting to frighten him.

“Go ahead a pet him, Harry. Just be gentle,” Albus urged.

Harry reached out his hand but hesitated just out of reach. What if he hurt the bird? Before he could decide, Fawkes pushed his head into Harry’s hand, showing the boy that he trusted him.

Harry’s eye lit up in glee as his hand slid down the bird’s neck and onto his back. He’d never felt something so soft! A soft trill from the phoenix made Harry giggle. ‘Maybe Fawkes will be my first friend?’ Harry thought to himself.

~~~

Albus let Harry pet his familiar for a few more minutes. His heart had leapt for joy at the sound of Harry’s laughter. All was not lost. They would be able to push past the last 2 years and give Harry the childhood he deserved.

“Come, Harry,” Albus said, picking up the boy and setting him back on the floor. “I remember a game from my childhood that I enjoyed very much. Would you let an old man teach it to you?”

The hopeful look in the green eyes made Albus’ smile grow even larger. Yes, all was not lost.

Albus led Harry through the door behind his desk that opened into the sitting room of his personal chambers. The room was decorated in shades of blues and purples. There was a blue striped, upholstered couch in front of the fireplace, and a purple polka-dotted sitting chair angled at its side. A fire was lit in the stone fireplace, but kept low due to the summer months. It was just enough to keep out the slight draft that one would find in any castle, no matter what the time of the year.

Albus crossed the room and started rummaging in an old tin box that was set in the bookshelf in the corner.

“Aha! Here they are!” he exclaimed, holding up a battered box of playing cards.

“These, Harry, kept me amused for hours in my youth. Snap Dragon was the most exciting card game in my day. I do believe that children today prefer Exploding Snap but hopefully you’ll enjoy this.”

~~~

Harry could help but be amused at the headmaster’s excitement for the game. He’d never really played a game before. Well, except for the ones he made up in his head while lying in the cupboard. Dudley had always been allowed to play games. Now it was finally his turn.

He sat down on the edge of the polka dotted chair as the headmaster set the cards down on the table in front of them.

“I don’t know how to play.” Harry said quietly, still uncertain about how much he could speak in front of the adult.

“No fear, Harry. It’s simple enough. It’s a matching game. Each card has a picture of a dragon. You start with fives cards and draw a new one each turn. When you have a match, you place them down on the table. Now, this is the fun part, Harry. When you set the match down, they disappear in a puff of smoke. The first to finish all of their cards wins.”

Harry’s breath hitched as soon as the headmaster described the cards disappearing. Magic! I can’t do magic! Thankfully, he was quickly drawn out of his thoughts as he felt the older man grab his hand.

“Calm down, Harry. Take a deep breath.”

Harry did as the man instructed and felt his heart slow down to a normal beat.

“If you don’t want them to disappear then they don’t have to. They don’t disappear forever, Harry. Once the game is over, they reappear back in the box. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

The soothing voice almost convinced Harry to agree to allow the cards to disappear. A part of him really wanted to see it, it’d be as if a real dragon had eaten the cards. However, fear of what would happen should his aunt and uncle ever found out overruled his curiosity.

“Please, sir. No smoke or disappearing.”

The blue eyes studied him for a minute before nodding.

“No harm, Harry. No smoke or disappearing, I promise.”

----

The rest of the evening had passed quietly with completing 4 rounds of Snap Dragon. It wasn’t until Harry nearly fell asleep in the pile of cards on the table that Albus realized just how late the evening had gotten.

“Come, my boy. It’s passed your bedtime and nearly mine as well.”

The headmaster scooped Harry up in his arms and headed for the spare room in his quarters. It was small but adequate and decorated in scarlet red and gold r12; Gryffindor colors, of course. Albus laid Harry down on the bed, noticing that the boy was already fast asleep. With a wave of his wand, the boy’s clothing was changed into pajamas with printed snitches on them. He spelled them to not move in order to prevent Harry from panicking when he awoke. We need to do something to help him get over his anxiety concerning magic, he thought to himself as he tucked Harry into the bed for the night.

It wasn’t long before the headmaster himself set off to sleep, despite his thoughts being filled with concern for the youngest resident of the castle.

----

Albus looked up from his pile of papers as Harry walked into his office. He had left the door to his chambers open so that the boy would easily be able to find him.

“Good morning, Harry. You’re up early!” Albus smiled at the small child who stood nervously in the doorway.

“Good morning, sir,” came the quiet reply.

“Why don’t you wash up while I summon us some breakfast from the kitchens, hmm?”

Harry quickly disappeared back into the chambers while the headmaster summoned a house elf from the kitchens.

“What can Daisy do for the headmaster, sir?” The house elf squeaked in joy. She was dressed in a white tea towel, embroidered with the Hogwarts’ crest.

“Good morning, Daisy. Please bring breakfast for Harry and myself. We’ll be dining in my office this morning.”

“Of course, sir,” Daisy squeaked and disappeared with a pop. It only took a few minutes for the platters to appear on the side table between two chairs. There were two plates containing a full English breakfast for them, as well as a pot of tea to share.

Just as Albus was pouring the tea, Harry walked back into the room, freshly washed and dressed in one of the new outfits that Professor McGonagall had purchased for him.

The two ate in silence as the headmaster finished perusing some of the mail he’d been reading before breakfast. Setting his fork down on the empty plate, he noticed that the boy hadn’t finished even half of his food yet.

“While you’re finishing your breakfast, Harry, there are a few things I’d like to talk to you about.” Albus paused to make sure he had the child’s attention before continuing.

“I just want to go over some of the rules of the castle since this is now your home. First of all, all of the professors here are charged with looking out for your best interest. That means you must listen to them when they tell you something and always talk to them respectfully.”

Harry remained silent but nodded that he understood.

“Second of all, you are allowed to play in the castle and on the grounds, Harry. However, I do ask that you tell myself and any other professor around where you’re going. You should never go outside by yourself, though. If you’d like to play outside, please let me know and either myself or someone else will go with you. There’s plenty to do here at Hogwarts and much to explore that I think even by the time you graduate as a student you won’t know everything in this castle. I daresay I’m still discovering rooms within these halls. Just the other day I found a room full of clocks of every kind. Each one was set to a different hour. However, when I went back to examine them more carefully, the room was gone.”

A small smile grew on Harry’s face as he listened to the strange story.

 Albus patted him on the head as he continued.

“Now you must never go into the forest, Harry. That is strictly forbidden as there are many different types of animals there and it’s also quite easy to get lost. We don’t want anything to happen to you, my boy.”

Albus could see that the boy was processing the rules, and though none of them were very strict or unreasonable for his age, Harry looked confused. Albus couldn’t help but wonder what was causing the boy difficulty.

“Sir?”

“Yes, Harry?”

“What are my chores?”

“Chores? Well, I suppose just keeping your room tidy.”

“No, sir. My chores. Aunty always said I needed to always do my chores so I’m not a bother to them. I have to help fold the laundry and put it away nicely. I also sweep the kitchen and help clear and wash the dishes.  I need to do these so I’m not a burden.”

Albus’ eyes narrowed at remembering how the Dursleys spoke concerning their nephew.

“Harry, you are no one’s burden and little boys like you don’t do those sort of chores. You run, play, and have fun.”

Harry’s face was puzzled as he listened to the headmaster but he remained quiet.

“Now that that’s settled, my boy, I have time for another game of Snap Dragon this morning before my meeting at the Ministry. Hagrid will be watching you this afternoon while I’m away from the castle.”

Harry smiled, excited for another chance to play the game that the headmaster had taught him last night. He hadn’t been allowed to play games ever and it was even better to not have to do chores. If only Dudley could see him now!

Better not get used to it, though, he told himself. Aunty won’t like it if I don’t do my chores when I go home.

----

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Chapter 9: Forbidden Forest

Harry was distracted by his surroundings as he followed the headmaster across the school grounds. He’d never seen so much space and silently wished to explore. Movement in the lake to his right made him stop. He squinted into the sun, trying to see what it was.

“It’s the giant squid, Harry. He lives in the lake and is harmless, although I suspect that you wouldn’t want to get too close to him,” the headmaster explained, noticing where Harry’s attention had been drawn.

There’s a monster in the lake, Harry thought to himself and hurried after the headmaster, keeping close in case something else was lurking around the property.

Just as Harry started feeling tired from the quick pace of their walk, they arrived at a small hut on the edge of the grounds. Before Albus could knock, the door flew open and something larger then Harry came bounding out and knocked him to the ground. However, Harry didn’t stay scared for long as he felt a wet tongue licking his face.

“Get off, Fang!” a loud voice boomed and the creature backed off. Harry looked up and saw a large puppy wagging his tail and looking like he was ready to pounce again.

“Hagrid, you got a new dog. Wonderful!” Albus exclaimed, bending down to pet the boarhound puppy.

“Yeah. Got ‘im from a friend of mine a few days ago. Good dog, too.” The large man said fondly.

Harry stood and brushed himself off, wiping the slobber from his face. He didn’t pay much attention to the rest of the adults’ conversation as he petted the puppy, who seemed to love to have the spot right behind his ears scratched. They didn’t have a dog at home and the only dog he ever met were the ones that Aunt Marge brought with her when she visited. They were big and mean. This one didn’t chase him or try to bite him at all!

“Harry,” the headmaster called, gaining his attention. “You’re going to stay with Hagrid and Fang today while I attend some meetings in London. Please behave and listen to Hagrid.”

Harry nodded and stared up at the huge man. Normally he would have been scared of a giant but there was something familiar about him.

The headmaster ruffled his hair and walked back toward the castle gates.

“Why don’t we have some tea and my special cakes, Harry? Then I suppose I could show you some of the creatures we have here at Hogwarts.”

Harry followed the large man into the small hut and soon found himself sipping on sweetened tea and nibbling a very hard, crusty cake. It was even harder than the crusty bread that he’d nick from the back of the breadbox when cleaning.

Hagrid seemed nice to the young boy, even with his overwhelming size. Harry couldn’t help but smile at the man’s excited explanations of the animals he was currently tending.

“Have yeh met our giant squid yet, ‘Arry?” Hagrid asked as he finished his tea.

Harry glanced through the window at the still waters of the lake and shook his head. He’d seen glimpses of the squid but wasn’t about to get close to any monster!

“Well, then I’ll introduce yuh. It’s about time I fed him anyhow.”

Not wanting to offend the large man’s enthusiasm, Harry quietly followed Hagrid out of the hut and across the grounds to the lake. 

Harry hung back as Hagrid walked to the edge of the lake, the water lapping at his boots. The surface of the lake was calm and smooth, but even the warm sun couldn’t tempt Harry any closer to the cool water. Who would ever go swimming with a monster in the lake!

Hagrid let up a shrill whistle and immediately the water started churning. Harry watched in horrified fascination as tentacles surfaced and waved in the air, almost as if greeting the giant man.

“Come ‘ere, ‘Arry. Yeh can feed ‘im if yeh like,” Hagrid called, looking behind him at the shy boy.

“No thanks, sir. I can just watch,” Harry said quietly, never taking his eyes off of the squid.

Hagrid shrugged to himself and began tossing fish heads to the tentacles. They never hit the water, instead, the tentacles lashed out, catching each one and bring it under to feed. Harry inched a bit closer to watch, trying his very best to be brave. Soon the bucket was empty and the squid disappeared back under the water.

Harry followed Hagrid around for the rest of the afternoon as the giant completed his rounds. He watched as the man left feed out for some invisible animal called a thestral and listened to story after story about the creatures within the forbidden forest.

As the trio, for Fang had joined them on their journey, neared Hagrid’s hut, they found a young centaur waiting for them.

“Orion!” Hagrid bellowed as a greeting. Harry couldn’t help but notice that the half horse, half man creature seemed skittish and kept looking back at the forest.

“Hagrid. My father sends me with a message. A pack of auguery’s were found within the forest injured. Not sure what from but they’re in need of your care.”

“Auguerys, yeh say? Aye, I’ll get right off then.”

Harry didn’t pay much attention as they continued talking, Orion giving Hagrid directions to where the injured creatures were. He was too preoccupied by the centaur. He’d never seen a creature like him before!

“Hagrid, be warned. An erkling was found within the forest. It’s not safe for young Mr. Potter,” the centaur warned.

“He’ll be safe with me, Orion. No worries there.”

Hagrid dashed, well, dashed as much as a giant could, into the hut and quickly emerged with a large bag. “Got all the supplies we’ll need here,” Hagrid said, patting the bag. “Stay close, ‘Arry. And keep quiet.”

Harry’s faced paled as they headed into the forest. The headmaster had specifically told him he wasn’t allowed here. However, Harry wasn’t about to argue with a giant. Hopefully his punishment wouldn’t be too bad. Maybe he’d just go without food for a few days.

Harry stuck close to Hagrid as they ventured farther into the forest. He couldn’t help but pat Fang on his head as the puppy whimpered, voicing his own fear of the dark, strange place.

They walked silently for about twenty minutes before entering a small clearing. There they found a group of five augerys, lying still underneath a small shrub.

“There they are!” Hagrid exclaimed. “Stay back here, ‘Arry. I don’t want yeh to get too close now. Not sure how they’ll react being so scared from the attack.”

Harry sat himself on a rock and watched the man slowly approach the creatures. It seemed like all was going well because Hagrid knelt down and started pulling cloths and containers out of the bag. Harry assumed the containers held some sort of medicine.

“Harry,” a soft voice whispered.

The young boy’s head snapped around as he looked for the source of the voice. Fang, having had lain down beside Harry’s rock, whimpered.

“Harry. Come, Harry,” the voice beckoned softly. Harry pushed off the rock and took a few steps toward the sound of the voice. Who’s calling me?

“Come play, Harry,” the voice beckoned again. Harry, gripped by an unforeseen desire, walked back into the trees, unnoticed by the distracted giant. The force kept pulling at Harry, drawing him nearer to the source. The forest was particularly dark here and no other creature made a noise. The ground was muddy in this area, as if it had just rained. Ahead was a shimmering blue light. That must be it! As Harry drew closer, he felt a change in the air. There was a sudden pressure in the air that settled within his chest. It felt a bit similar to the feeling he got right before Uncle Vernon flew across the room. Something was wrong here!

“Harry, come play with me,” the soft voice beckoned. However, Harry stopped moving.

“Who are you?” he called out, his voice quivering. He wanted to run back to Hagrid but his feet seemed glued to the ground.

“Your friend, Harry. Come play.”

Harry took another step closer, even though he did not wish to, and saw a strange creature at the base of a giant tree. It was small and resembled some sort of elf, although nothing that Harry had ever seen before, even in Dudley’s storybooks. Its nose was long and pointy, and its yellow, protruding eyes seemed to glow in the dim light. Harry stood frozen as the creature approached.

“Let’s be friends, Harry.”

Harry remained silent, feeling the pressure in his chest grow as the creature grew near. He willed his legs to run but it was like his entire body turned to jelly. He couldn’t move!

The creature was now only a few feet away. Harry watched in horror as it bared sharp, tiny teeth and launched itself at him. “NO!” Harry yelled, throwing his arms up in front of his face. The pressure in his chest exploded and white light shot out, blasting towards the strange creature.

Before Harry could move, black robes swirled around him as strong arms gathered him up, before bolting back toward the castle. As he was being taken away, Harry got a glimpse of a small pile of dust and a smoldering tree. Did I do that? was his only thought before darkness overtook him.

Chapter 10: The Last Resort

Sanctuary. That’s what the dungeons were to Severus Tobias Snape. None of the other staff frequented his corridors, and the students avoided him outside of class while school was in session. In the few short years that Snape had been teaching, his reputation for being the harshest and “meanest git” the students had ever known was already established. Severus Snape might only be 24 years old, but the years of being a spy against Voldemort had taken its toll. He was a snarky man, with a tongue that could even cut down a 7th year student to tears.

The young professor sighed as he dropped into his chair, setting a pile of parchment in front of him. Despite the tedious job of keeping inventory on the potion supplies, Severus Snape was a meticulous man and determined to keep the supplies well stocked, prepared for any potion that needed to be brewed. His journal was open to the side with pages filled with notes for his current project: an improved polyjuice potion. The improved draught would not only extend the length of time for the user, but also effect non-physical traits, such as handwriting and voice. After months of research, the potions master was finally able to start brewing. However, two of the ingredients needed for the experiment were low on stock: doxy eggs and knotgrass.

Not being known for his patience, Snape snatched his robes from the hook and set out from his office. One could easily owl order the ingredients but the time delay was too much of an annoyance for the professor. A quick exploration of the forbidden forest would solve the problem, and freshly harvested ingredients were preferred anyway.

Severus stalked across the grounds, his black robes billowing out behind him, and headed toward the forest. The sun wasn’t far from setting, which only served to increase the professor’s pace. Even a former death eater knew better than to be alone in the forest after dark.

The brush was thick this time of year and stray branches pulled at the professor’s robes. Not far into the forest, Severus found the needed patch of knotgrass. The sprouts were deep green, one of the healthiest patches Severus had seen in a long time. Perfect.

Taking a small blade from his pocket, Snape bent down and started cutting the knotgrass and placing them into a small, leather pouch hanging on his belt. It was charmed to keep the grass moist and cool in order to preserve them as potion ingredients. As he finished collecting the needed amount, a soft noise caught Severus’ attention. His head jerked up and his hand stilled. Silence.

Standing, the potions master closed the pouch and tucked away the blade. A soft noise stilled the man yet again. This time he heard a voice coming from further in the forest. Who would be out here this time of day?

Walking further into the brush, the voice became clearer, as did its identity. An erkling was loose in the forest. There hadn’t been one for years as far as Severus knew. It was much too dangerous to let them roam with students nearby. Pulling his wand from its holster on his forearm, Snape quietly stalked through the bush, intent on catching the creature.

“Harry,” he heard the erkling call. Harry? In the forest? I knew that troublemaker was just like his father!

Severus ground his teeth as his anger swelled. How dare that child disobey the headmaster’s rules! Potter probably thinks that as the Boy-Who-Lived, the standard rules wouldn’t apply to him. Insolent brat!

Severus’ anger disappeared as quickly as it had built up as he entered the small clearing. Across the way, he could see the creature crouched beneath a large elm tree, half hidden in shadows. Its eyes were glowing yellow and solely fixed on the young boy, who was slowly edging closer. Severus’ attention didn’t remain on the erkling long; what he saw before him had him completely astounded. Harry Potter was glowing white! The child didn’t even seem to notice the luminescence surrounding him as it seemed, from the boy’s rigid posture, he was fighting the trance that the erkling had put him in.

Before Severus could even attempt to lift his wand, the light pulsed twice and then exploded, knocking him off his feet. What the bloody hell was that?!

It was several moments before Severus pulled himself up from the ground. He hurried over to the collapsed child and gathered him into his arms. Harry’s face was pale and his entire body was trembling. Lily’s green eyes peered up at him for a moment before the boy lost consciousness.

Severus took in the smoldering trees and brush surrounding him. He’d bet his entire potions mastery that that wasn’t any typical accidental magic that he’d just witnessed. There was no trace of the erkling as it had taken the full impact of the white magic. It had been obliterated.

Snape ran a quick diagnostic spell over the child and cursed. His magical core was nearly depleted. He gathered the child into his arms and set off for the castle. Rushing through the brush, thorns tore through Severus’ clothing, leaving small cuts on his skin. However, time was of the essence. Harry needed a core stabilizer draught to prevent any permanent damage. The magic that was released was too much for one so young. He’d have to learn to control this magic in order to prevent any further damage to himself. If left without, Harry could end up a squib before the year was over.

The doors to the infirmary blasted open as Severus barged in. The mediwitch nearly dropped the potion vials she was stocking in the cabinet.

“Severus Snape, what is the- Oh sweet, Merlin!” she gasped as she took in the sight of the unconscious child in Snape’s arms.

Ignoring the mediwitch for the moment, Severus laid Harry on the nearest bed. The nurse was quickly at his side running scans as Severus summoned the needed draught. “His core is severely drained, Severus,” Poppy exclaimed.

“I found the child in the forest. He expended a great deal of magic defending himself against an erkling,” Severus growled as he gently lifted the unconscious child’s head and tipped the potion down the side of his throat. His hand cradled the back of the boy’s head, making Severus realize how small the child was. With a few soft strokes to his throat, the potions master was satisfied that the entire draught was swallowed.

“In the forest? Alone?!” Poppy asked in shock as she ran more scans over the child. “Harry has had enough to put up with. Defending himself in the forest, and against an erkling, no less!”

Severus looked over her shoulder at the results on the charmed parchment on the bedside table. His eyes narrowed at the results. Iron levels were low and extreme fatigue was present. Severus had known about the nutrition deficiencies r12; being the one in charge of brewing the needed potions. However, it was different seeing the results in person. Severus studied the unconscious boy lying before him as if he was seeing him for the first time. ‘He’s Lily’s son too, Severus,’ the Headmaster’s voice rang in his mind. Lily’s son.

Snapping himself out of his thoughts, he saw Poppy tucking the child into bed. Knowing the mediwitch would see to any other needs, it was time to call on the Headmaster.

Severus stalked over to the fireplace in the infirmary. Taking a deep breath to prepare himself, he grabbed a handful of the floo power and threw it into the flames.

“Headmaster’s Office,” he snapped and stepped into the floo.

Albus Dumbledore had just stepped into his office when his floo roared to life. Severus Snape stalked gracefully from the fireplace and placed his hands on the desk sitting in front of the aged wizard.

“Severus, my boy. Have a lemon drop?” Albus asked, seemingly unsurprised at the potion master’s sudden appearance.

“Albus, do you know where your charge is at this very moment?” Severus growled out, ignoring the proffered sweet.

“I was just about to summon Hagrid to bring him back to the castle. I suppose Harry must be exhausted from his day with our gamekeeper.”

“That insufferable brat is currently laid up in the infirmary, no thanks to that incompetent, half-beast.” Now, Severus never had any hard feelings against Hagrid in the past but his annoyance at the half-giant’s lack of care for a young child overrode his usual good (or at least neutral) opinion of the man.

The shock in the headmaster’s eyes was evident as Severus’ words sunk in.

“Infirmary? What happened?” Albus asked, nearly leaping to his feet.

“Your babysitter took a young, defenseless child into the forbidden forest and proceeded to be so inattentive that Potter was lured away by an erkling!” By the end, Severus was nearly bellowing in anger. He pushed away from the desk and started pacing in front of the fireplace, trying to get back in control of his emotions.

“I do not think-“

“No, Albus, you didn’t think. You didn’t think at all. How do you trust Hagrid with a 3 year old child? For an entire day!”

“Now, Severus, Hagrid is very trustworthy. You know this as much as I do.” Severus could feel those blue eyes watching him as he stalked back and forth across the office.

“My boy, please take a seat. You’re making an old man tired with all that pacing.”

Severus narrowed his black eyes at his mentor before settling down in the plush red chair perched in front of the desk.

“Now please, tell me everything that happened.”

Severus sighed and seemed to slump into himself for a moment. Straightening up, he looked the headmaster in the eye and recounted the events over the last hour.

The headmaster’s eyebrows creased in worry as he listened to Snape. “White magic, you say? Very interesting. I have heard of similar accounts but nothing since the 10th Century or so...” Albus trailed off, lost in his thoughts. “I can say that I do believe young Harry Potter will surprise all of us.”

“As long as you can keep him alive, Albus. That brat is as much of a troublemaker as his father was. And you! You’ll probably spoil the child with sweets and games of snap dragon! The boy needs discipline and rules that will be enforced. I daresay your history with rule breakers doesn’t stand in your favor.”

Severus Snape sat in silence, feeling the scrutiny of the headmaster. He had overstepped his limits by harshly criticizing the man who had saved him from Azkaban. He truly had no right to critique the man’s parenting skills, even if he didn’t agree with them.

“Severus Snape, you do surprise me,” the headmaster finally spoke. “You claim you have no interest in young Harry, and here you are showing more interest in his well being and care than any other professor in Hogwarts.”

“I do not care, Albus. How you want to raise the saviour of the wizarding world is your business. Not mine. Just know I won’t always be there to patch him up.”

“Need I remind you of your promise, Severus? Have you already forgotten it? It’s only been a few years.”

~~~

31st, October 1989

Severus couldn’t breathe. His chest was so constricted in anguish as he threw open the door to the headmaster’s office. He’d apparated to the school as soon as he had seen the destruction at Godric’s Hallow. After he had held Lily’s body in his arms.

“You said you would keep her safe!” Severus cried out as soon he saw the headmaster. Albus had turned away from the window, tears in his eyes.

“Lily and James put their faith in the wrong person, Severus. Rather like you. The boy survives.” Albus crossed the office, in an attempt to console the young man.

Severus backed away, drowning in his own grief and wanting no affection from the headmaster. It was obvious that their secret keeper had turned on them. How else would Voldemort have known where the Potters were hiding? Severus didn’t want to think about the baby. All he could think about was that his Lily was gone. Gone forever.

“He doesn't need protection, the Dark Lord is gone.”

“The Dark Lord will return. And when he does, the boy will be in terrible danger.” Albus paused for a moment, studying the man in front of him. The man before him was so overwhelmed with his grief. “He has her eyes, Severus. If you truly loved her.”

Severus’ head shot up. Lily’s eyes. Lily’s child. If there was any way to make up for even a small amount for causing her death then perhaps this would.

“No one can know.”

Dumbledore’s looked at Severus sadly. His heart was breaking for the man. ”That I should never reveal the best of your service.”

“Your word!” Snape demanded.

“When you risk your life every day to protect the boy,” Albus said quietly but nodded his assent.

~~~

“You gave me your word, Albus. No one would know of that promise,” Severus hissed, still in pain over that night.

“I did against my own better judgment, Severus. However, things have changed. Harry needs you.”

“I will protect him as I see fit.”

“In the shadows, Severus? Harry needs you now more than ever, but not hidden at a distance. You owe this to Lily.”

“There are better people, Albus. Ones who can give Potter a family. Ones who aren’t damaged by bitterness. I am not a nice man!”

“There is no one better for Harry than you, Severus. Even Lily would have agreed. You are the best option.”

Severus was silent for a few minutes as he struggled with Albus’ words. “No, Albus. I’m just the last resort.”

With that, Severus Snape stalked from the headmaster’s office knowing that he had agreed to the one thing he had sworn against from the beginning.

Chapter 11: Fears & Failures

Stalking down the corridors didn’t seem as effective without the students present, but Severus didn’t relent in his agitated pace.

Me? Guardian of Harry Bloody Potter?! Damn old man and his ‘greater good’ schemes!

Aggravated by his newest responsibility, as if being a spy wasn’t enough, Severus nearly slammed open the infirmary doors. He stalked across the quiet room, meeting the glare of the resident mediwitch.

“I’ll not have you disturbing my patient, Severus Snape, just because you’re in a foul disposition,” Madame Pomfrey hissed, looking over to make sure Harry was still sound asleep. He was.

Severus followed her gaze to his new ward, his black eyes studying Harry for any sign of change. “Any improvement?” he asked, ignoring the chastisement from the older woman.

Madame Pomfrey instantly snapped back into clinical mode. “I just rescanned him before you arrived. His core is improving, although slowly. It’ll be a few weeks before his magic is completely restored.”

Severus’ only response was a nod in acknowledgment of the diagnosis. It truly had been a close call for the boy. Had any more magic been exerted, his core would have been permanently damaged.

“Please notify me when he awakes. It seems that the headmaster has transferred his responsibility for Potter’s welfare to my own shoulders.”

Severus ignored the shocked look on Pomfrey’s face as he turned and strode out of the infirmary, intent on reaching his quarters, as he felt the need for a glass or two of firewhiskey.

Severus’ personal chambers were well hidden, deep in the dungeons where students rarely ventured. The isolated location offered Severus the privacy that he coveted; privacy that would never exist again after this night. His feet seemed to be on autopilot as his thoughts took all of his attention. He was sure James Potter was rolling in his grave at that very moment. The idea almost made the surly man smirk for a moment, but it was chased away by the reality of the situation. What do I know about raising and caring for the troublemaker? Before he knew it, he had already reached his chambers. Growling out the password, “Lilium,” to the portrait of Salazar Slytherin, Severus stalked into his sitting room and headed immediately for the small liquor cabinet. Downing a glass of firewhiskey in one go, Snape couldn’t help by grimace at the burn trailing down to his stomach. It was almost like using rubbing alcohol on the wound, a needed hurt that soothed in the end. Pouring his second, he capped the bottle and settled in his favorite black, leather armchair and watched the flames in the fireplace.

Who was he to be a father to the child? It wasn’t as if he had any decent role model to take after! His own father had been a lazy, drunk abuser. Severus couldn’t even deny that he shared the same temperament as that god-forsaken man. No, this was certainly the worst idea that Albus Dumbledore had ever come up with. Severus would rather grovel at the Dark Lord’s feet than raise Potter as his ward.

With a deep sigh, the Potions Master, hung his head. He really didn’t have a choice. Not only did he owe Albus his life, but he had also sworn to protect Lily’s son with his life. And so, though it was true he felt no affection for the child and would likely never be his ‘daddy’, he had debts to pay and a conscience to appease. 

~~~

“Boy, get down here,” a tall man with brown, stringy hair bellowed. His clothes were rumpled and dirty, and the man seemed to be barely able to stand. Scurrying footsteps sounded from upstairs and a small boy appeared at the top of the staircase, quietly studying the man. “I said get down here, you worthless piece of trash.” Wide-eyed and trembling, the boy hurried down to his father, ducking the fist as it clumsily swung at him. “What did I say about taking what’s not yours?”

Young Severus’ face paled as he realized that he’d been caught. Out of desperation, he had snuck money from his father’s wallet to buy groceries for the house. They had been out of food, but his father had refused to give them the needed cash for the supplies. Every dollar the man made was wasted on alcohol and gambling. Not even bothering to defend himself, he ducked the next swing. His father looked about to pass out from his latest binge, but the real punishment would begin once the man sobered up. Severus watched the man he called father sink onto the couch and made his way back to his room, knowing that hiding from the man would just delay the inevitable.

~~~

The glass of whiskey exploded as it hit the flames. Excessive drinking had been the downfall of Tobias Jonathan Snape, but it wouldn’t be for him. Severus knew that he had inherited the man’s sharp tongue, but he refused to become the reincarnation of that devil.

Hours later…

This must be what it’s like to sleep on a cloud, Harry thought to himself as he stretched in the bed. He had burrowed himself into the large fluffy pillows and soft blanket, enjoying his dream of flying through the sky. It was heaven! And he did not want to wake up; however, voices talking around him stirred the young child and his green eyes slowly opened, squinting in the bright light.

“Welcome back to the land of the living, Harry,” the headmaster chuckled. Harry stared at him and realized he was back where the nurse witch worked.

“Sir?” the boy questioned, confusion evident on his face. The headmaster looked tired to Harry and he could sense that something bad at happened. They’re going to send me home now.

“You gave us quite a fright, little one. Do you remember going into the forest with Hagrid?”

Harry’s face scrunched up as he thought hard. The forest…. Yes! Hagrid had taken him and the puppy to go check on a hurt animal. Then Harry remembered the voice. He had wandered off to find the child that had been calling him to come and play. Oh no! Harry’s shoulders sagged. He had wandered off when Hagrid told him to stay on the rock. He was in trouble now for sure.

“Harry, it wasn’t your fault.” Green eyes snapped up to meet blue. “It wasn’t a child calling you. It was a creature called an erkling. They pretend to sound like children to pull little ones like you away.”

Harry remained silent as he listened to this. There had been something else, a white light and a big boom. “I hurt the trees,” Harry whispered, his face going pale at the memory. He’d done freaky stuff again.

Tears filled the blue eyes, which confused Harry even more. “Harry, your magic saved you. You’re not in trouble, little one. What you did was a good thing because, if you had not, you would have gotten seriously hurt or worse.”

Harry didn’t know what to believe but he simply reached out and patted Mr. Dumbledore’s hand. He didn’t mean to make the elder man cry. The larger, wrinkled hand grasped his small one and the headmaster chuckled.

“Forgive me, my child. I didn’t mean to upset you.”

At that moment, the doors to the infirmary slammed open and the professor in black robes stormed in. Harry cringed back as the man stared at him.

“Finally awake then,” the man growled.

“Now, Severus.” The two men studied each other for a moment in silence as Harry hung his head. He remembered the professor finding him in the forest.

The dark eyed man came closer to Harry and grasped the back of his head. Harry attempted to duck from the touch but the larger hands held him still. Harry’s stomach was in knots as the man felt his forehead, traveling down the sides of his throat, and down his back and then chest.

“His temperature is back to normal. Poppy said it would be a few days before his core finished regenerating itself.”

“Yes, I did say so, Severus.” The mediwitch huffed, walking into the infirmary in time to see the potions master double-checking her prognosis.

The adult’s conversation meant nothing to Harry. All he could figure out was that he was sick somehow and it might be because of his freaky stuff.

“I’m sowry, sir,” Harry nearly whispered, his head hanging low. He could feel the professor’s glare on him and he didn’t dare look up.

“As you should be, Potter. However, your babysitter,” the man spat, “is the one truly responsible for your indiscretion. One can only expect a child, no matter a Potter, to find trouble. Hagrid should have known better.”

The professor’s response was over Harry’s head for sure, but the fact that the man was talking to him, and not shouting like Uncle Vernon usually did, seemed to ease the knots in his stomach.

“Harry, I have some news,” The headmaster started, running his hands over the boy’s dark mop of hair. Harry unconsciously leaned into the touch, remembering how Aunt Petunia would do the same to Dudley whenever he was sick. It felt nice!

“I know that we’ve had fun the last few days together,” the man continued, “but Severus here has offered you a home with him here in the castle.”

Harry sat up startled at what he was being told. He doesn’t want me anymore.

“It’ll be best for you, Harry. I’m an old man and Severus here has much more energy than I do to look after you better. Besides, I’m going to be gone from the castle quite a bit so I wouldn’t be able to look after you properly.”

Harry’s eyes were downcast. He knew eventually they’d be sending him home to his aunt and uncle so he shouldn’t be so surprised at another change. “Okay.”

“Don’t worry, Harry. Whenever I’m here, we’ll spend time together playing Snap Dragon. I promise.”

A smile lit Harry’s face. Maybe it’d be okay with the professor for a while. And the headmaster said they’d still play together.

“Now that that’s covered, let me do one final check and you can all be off,” Poppy announced, breaking the awkward silence that had settled in. Harry felt a tingle run through his body as the witch waved her wand over him. The sensation was still unnerving to the little boy, but this time he managed to stop himself from flinching.

“Severus, make sure he rests for the rest of the week. He’ll also need to keep taking the nutrition potion you’ve been brewing for him for at least the next couple months or so. The boy still needs to add at least a half stone to be considered a healthy weight.”

“I will see to it, Poppy.”

The mediwitch helped Harry hop down from the bed and he started after the professor who was already at the doors waiting for him. With a huff of annoyance at the boy’s slow pace, he swung Harry into his arms and took off down the hall towards the dungeons.

Harry buried his face into the robes, recognizing the smell of the man from the forest. I’m glad he doesn’t smell like Uncle Vernon.

Chapter 12: The Beginning of Trust

The portrait swung open, admitting the unlikely pair into the sitting room. The potion master had gone to great lengths to transform his quarters to resemble anything but the damp, dark dungeons that they were in. The walls were still the castle stone, but the beige carpet and cherry wood furniture helped to warm the feel of the room a great deal. It was his home, the only place in the world he felt he could relax. Thankfully, the walk down to the dungeons had served to calm the majority of Severus’ agitation at the child.

Setting Harry down on the couch, he stepped back and entered his ‘professor’ mode, determined to instill proper manners into the child to preserve the sanctity of his domain. His eyes narrowed at the boy as if expecting him to already get into mischief.

“As the Headmaster explained to you, Potter, you will now be residing with me here in my quarters. You will not find me to be as tolerant of misbehavior as your previous guardians here at Hogwarts. You will have rules that I expect you to abide. Failure to adhere to them will result in dire consequences. Understood?” Severus stopped his rant and turned his attention to the small child, perched on the leather couch. Wide, green eyes met his narrowed gaze and, before the child looked away from him, Severus noted his confused expression. The Potions professor sighed inwardly, realizing that his normal speeches that he reserved for the most dunderheaded first years would be too complex for a small child.

“Let me try this again, Potter,” Severus relented. “Whilst living with me, I expect you to follow the rules that I give you. Should you break a rule then you will be punished. Understand?”

Severus watched as Potter gave him a small nod, but he still did not meet his eyes. Where was the insolent, spoiled child he was expecting? This quiet, nervous child could not be the offspring of James Potter!

Shaking himself from his thoughts, Severus sat in the leather chair, adjacent to the couch.

“Now, Potter, the rules are simple. First of all, my room and the potions lab are completely off limits,” Severus said, finally satisfied to see the child looking at him again as he pointed out to the two closed doors from their seats. “Should you need me when I am in either room, you will knock and wait for me to open the door. Second, your room will be kept clean and I will not tolerate toys being strewn about my home. Lastly, as my ward I expect you to listen to my direction at all times. There will be no questioning my judgment or disobeying my direct order. Clear?”

A quiet “yes, sir” was all Harry said in response and Severus tried his best to ignore the twinge of guilt at the boy’s continued quiet, sometimes silent, responses. Perhaps he was being too harsh on one so young, but his few years of teaching had already taught him that if you gave a child an inch, he’d take a mile.

Standing, the potions professor beckoned his ward to follow him down the hall. “We share this loo. I expect you to bathe every night before bed, Potter.” Severus narrowed his eyes at the child as if studying him. “You do know how to bathe yourself, correct?” The nod of affirmation almost made the older man sigh in relief. It was one thing to take on the care of a child, but he wasn’t about to bathe a child. Thank Merlin Potter was long out of nappies!

Continuing down the hall, Severus opened the last door on the left. “This shall be your room, Potter. Do keep it clean.” The door swung open to reveal and pleasantly furnished room. Even Severus had to admit that the house elves had done a fine job in transforming his spare storeroom into a child’s bedroom. The walls were a pleasant blue, with charmed quidditch players zooming around all of the room. The twin-sized bed was covered in a patchwork quilt over navy blue sheets. There was a small desk in one corner, an oak wardrobe in another, and a large toy chest at the foot of the bed.

Severus strode into the room and opened the wardrobe. He was quickly disappointed to find it barely half full with clothing for the boy; it contained the bare necessities. Albus had mentioned to him in passing that they had been using transfigured clothing until there was a time to take the boy shopping for necessary clothing. It now seemed that the duty would fall to him.

Opening the toy chest revealed where the headmaster’s focus had been. He’s been spoiling the boy rotten! The chest was crammed full of every toy imaginable. There was a large, stuffed teddy bear, building blocks, coloring books, and even an entire quidditch field complete with animated figures. Severus sighed and shook his head as he shut the chest and turned to find Potter still standing in the doorway.

Summoning a pair of pajamas from the wardrobe, Snape laid them out on the bed. “I know it’s early but you’re still in need of rest. Change into these,” he indicated to the clothing, “and you can choose one toy from the chest. You will have to remain in bed but can play quietly until bedtime.” Severus couldn’t help but feel a bit satisfied at the small smile that crossed the boys face. It was a much more pleasant feeling than the guilt he felt earlier for being so strict when explaining the rules.

----

The gate creaked closed behind them as the potions master and his charge left the school grounds. That morning, Severus had explained to Harry that they would be walking to the village and mentioned something about refilling his stocks, which meant nothing to the 3 year old boy. What Harry did understand was that he was getting new clothes. Harry’s excitement overpowered the small voice in his head saying that burdens like him didn’t deserve new clothes. This was the first time he’d ever been allowed to go shopping!

A baseball cap was pushed low over Harry’s brow. The professor had told him he had to keep his scar hidden. He didn’t understand why but knew that if he didn’t, it would mean trouble.

The street was deserted when they reached Hogsmeade, and sleepy looking shopkeepers were just opening for business. The young boy, clasping the much larger hand, hurried to keep up with his guardian’s brisk pace. Harry’s green eyes were wide as he took in his surroundings. He’d never been to such a place! Sure, Hogwarts couldn’t exactly be considered normal but never had shops looked so… magical.

“Keep up, Potter,” his guardian barked when Harry stalled for just a moment. He had been distracted by a broomstick display with a poster of someone flying on one. He’d only seen brooms used for cleaning!  Harry followed the tug on his hand as they continued their journey down the cobblestone path.

“Here we are,” Severus announced, drawing Harry’s attention to a small shop displaying clothing on moving mannequins in the windows. This was it; he was finally going to get real clothes! All his own!

The door chimed as they entered the small shop. To the side of the tall counter were racks of robes. Harry couldn’t help but smile at the idea of wearing the dresses that all of the professors wore. Maybe even a black one like his guardian!

An old man stepped forward from the back room and barely glanced down at the child. Harry pushed his hat down further, wanting to make sure that his scar was covered. He didn’t want to get in trouble and ruin the entire day in the village.

“The boy needs a full wardrobe,” his professor informed the old man. The old man grunted in reply, seemingly annoyed at the potion masters brash tone.

“Come on then,” the old man beckoned to Harry. The boy glanced nervously at the professor but obeyed as he was gently pushed forward to the back room.

“Stand there, young one.”

Harry climbed on the low bench and stood in front of a large wall of mirrors. His eyes went wide as a tape measure started flying around him. Clenching his eyes tight, Harry took deep breathes as he felt the tape wind around different parts of his body.

“Nothing to fret about, child. It’s over now. That tape measure wasn’t gonna hurt yeh,” the old man chuckled, having watched Harry’s scared reaction. Harry opened his eyes and gave a small smile. That wasn’t so bad. He met the obsidian eyes of his professor in the reflection of the mirror and nearly burst with happiness as the man gave a small nod of approval.

Soon Harry watched as a stack of clothing grew on the small table next to his stool. There were different trousers, jeans, shirts, and underpants. He’d never owned so much clothing. Sure, Uncle Albus, as he’d been instructed to call the headmaster, had brought him a few different outfits, but this pile was nearly as big as him. There were even teddy bear pajamas!

---

Severus barely acknowledged the amount the clothing cost as he handed over the amount of gallons to settle the bill. Really! Who showers the child with toys before first seeing to the basic needs?

Shrinking the parcel and placing it in his pocket, he grabbed Harry’s hand and led them from Gladrags to the apothecary. His order that he had sent the week prior should have been filled and ready to be picked up.

“Don’t touch anything,” Severus warned Harry as they entered the small shop. The shelves were filled with different potions ingredients contained in very breakable jars. A normal jar could be charmed unbreakable but the residual magic tended to decrease the shelf life of the potion ingredients.

“Ah, Professor Snape. Here to pick up your order?” A young man greeted him. Severus recognized him as a former student that graduated in his first year as the potions professor.

“Indeed, Mr. Knightly. I trust everything has arrived?”

As Severus waited for the requested supplies to be put together, his eyes racked the store, landing on a shelf behind the counter.

Knightly must have followed his gaze as he suddenly spoke up. “Just got those in yesterday. Latest potions kit for little tykes. Not real ingredients, just simple combinations that cause the cauldron to smoke, bubble, and turn colors. Been a popular seller in Diagon Alley so we thought we’d try them out here.”

Severus glanced down at Harry who was busy studying the ingredients behind the glass case in front of him. Severus tightened his grip on the boy’s hand to make sure he didn’t get too close.

“I’ll just take my order, Knightly,” Severus responded, turning his attention back to the young man. Surely a Potter wouldn’t be interested in a potions kit?

Exiting the store, Severus started down the path heading back to the school. They had finished their errands and Severus was in a hurry to get back to the safety of the castle. However, even with him holding the boy’s hand, Harry kept lagging behind. Finally getting impatient, Severus turned to scold the boy but stopped as soon as he saw the big yawn coming from his ward. Poppy had said his energy would be low and, he admitted to himself, it had been quite a morning r12; especially for a less than healthy 3 year old.

“Come here, Potter,” Severus huffed in annoyance. He gathered the small child in his arms and took off down the path. If anyone saw their feared potions master now his reputation would be ruined! It was only a few minutes before Severus realized that Harry was sound asleep in his arms, his face burrowed into his shoulder. Unable to restrain himself, Severus’ hand reached up and cradled Harry’s head, as if protecting him from some unseen harm. He couldn’t even prevent the warmth that flowed through his chest as the boy sighed and tried to burrow deeper into his guardian’s shoulder. This boy, who trusted no one, seemed to trust him of all people. Perhaps you are more like Lily than I thought.

Shaking his head of the sappy thoughts, Severus steeled himself once again and continued down the road back to the castle.

Chapter 13: Adjustments

It was late afternoon when Severus arrived back in their quarters. The child had fallen asleep in his arms just moments after crossing the entrance gate onto the school grounds. Hoping that his charge would sleep for a few hours, Severus settled Harry into bed to continue his nap.

Rushing out of the room and into his potions lab, with barely a glance back, the dark haired man started pulling ingredients off of the shelves. Jars and vials quickly lined the workbench as Severus worked on autopilot. As soon as a fire was lit below his favorite cauldron, the potion master’s thoughts assaulted him. Taking the mortar and pestle, he set to crushing the dried lavender leaves, the sweet smell quickly filling the lab.

There was no doubt about it. Severus’ life had been drastically altered since being forced to take the boy. A mere two days with the child was causing a colossal paradigm shift in his worldview. No longer could he even consider Potter a brat, much less a spoiled prince. The boy had proved to be the exact opposite. His face alone displaced any previous notions when he saw the clothing purchased for himself. The lot hadn’t even been an extravagant purchase, which revealed the truth of the matter. Harry had never had such things purchased for him before. The headmaster had expressed such concerns to the staff upon the child’s arrival in the castle but it was one thing to see the effects the neglect in person.

Severus’ own upbringing had been far from perfect. His father, abusive and a drunk, never left much money for his mother to keep groceries stocked in the kitchen, much less enough for other necessities. Severus had been taunted for his threadbare clothing. However, the difference between him and Potter was that his family had had more than enough financially to provide for the young boy. Even the potions master had to admit that taking Potter from that muggle home was a wise decision. No child should be raised unloved if there was another option.

And the best option is you? Severus thought bitterly to himself as he stirred the finely crushed lavender into the boiling mixture. Shaking his head in frustration, Severus pushed all thoughts aside and continued with the potion, no longer allowing himself to dwell on the boy sleeping in the next room.

-----

*** “Back already, boy? I knew you would be too abnormal even for those freaks,” Vernon growled as Harry stared at him from the front door. The rain was pouring down, soaking the small, shivering child.

“I’m sowry,” Harry whimpered, praying to be let in. He’d known he’d eventually go back to his aunt and uncle. They had been telling him for as long as he could remember that he was unwanted by everyone.

“You’ll never be let back in here, boy,” Aunt Petunia spat. Dudley peered out from behind her skirt, laughing at his pitiful cousin. “Freaks don’t deserve families.”

Suddenly Harry was no longer standing on the front step of 4 Privet Drive. Instead he was back in the forbidden forest with the creature calling out to him. “No one else wants you, Harry. Only me.”***

“No,” Harry cried out, jarring himself awake. His eyes shot open and he looked around the room he was in. It was the room the professor had shown him. His room. Was that real? Wiping the tears from his face, Harry crawled out of bed. He didn’t remember falling asleep on the walk back but didn’t dwell on that. Not wanting to be by himself, Harry quietly poked his head outside of his room. It was quiet, which made the small child uneasy. Maybe the professor forgot him? His aunt and uncle had forgotten him once when they left for a weekend on a short holiday. They’d never said anything when they came home.

Moving quietly down the hall, Harry tiptoed into the sitting room. The fireplace seemed cold, not even an ember glowed from the pile of ashes. Just before Harry started to panic, a quiet clinking of glass from the closed door across from him alerted Harry to the location of his new guardian. Not forgotten.

Harry stood in front of the dark wooden door, studying it. He didn’t want to be alone but it was the room that the professor had said he wasn’t allowed. There was a small crack in the door, as it hadn’t been closed completely. Easing the door open a bit wider, Harry settled himself onto the floor, just outside the door. He hadn’t gone into the lab, thus obeying the rules, but this way he felt a little less alone.

Harry watched with interest as the dark haired man sliced up what looked like a giant worm. It kinda looked like when Aunt Petunia would prepare dinner, only he hoped that the worm wasn’t going to be in tonight’s supper. Yuck! Once he’d asked his aunt if he could help in the kitchen as cooking always seemed interesting to him. However, all he got in return to his request was a swift swat on his backside with a wooden spoon and a claim that he’d likely poison her precious son. Harry hadn’t ever asked again but the desire to learn to cook never really went away. Content with just watching the professor, he settled back into a more comfortable position on the floor and never made a sound.

----

Unaware of his audience, Severus continued on with the final steps of the calming draught. Just ten more stirs counter clockwise. Counting aloud softly, the steady movements of the crystal stirring rod finished and left a lavender colored liquid glistening from the cauldron. Quickly extinguishing the flame, Severus summoned the set of empty vials and bottled the potion. Half would go into his personal stores, and the rest would be brought to the hospital wing for the upcoming school year.

Levitating the cauldron to take it to the sink, Severus spotted his young charge sitting outside the now open door. The child’s eyes were wide as he gaped at the floating cauldron.

“Potter!” Severus exclaimed, startled by the unexpected appearance of the child. Honestly, he had been so engrossed in finishing his brewing that he’d almost completely forgotten about the additional presence in his chambers.

The loss of concentration sent the cauldron crashing onto the workbench, shattering several empty vials left from the ingredients he’d used for the potion.

“Fool!” Severus hissed at himself for allowing such a small distraction to loose his hold on the spell. Knowing Potter’s aversion to magic, Severus ignored the glass and walked cautiously, studying the now standing child.

“I didn’t mean to do it,” came a soft whisper from the boy.

“You didn’t cause the cauldron to float, Potter,” Severus said softly, “I did.” Green eyes met black as his charge looked at him in surprise.

“It wasn’t your magic this time but mine. And it was my fault that it fell. Not yours, understand?”

A small nod was all his answer but Severus could see that Potter didn’t believe him. However, the potions master was determined to finally make Harry understand the value of magic. Picking the boy up, he walked Harry into the lab and set him on a tall stool next to the workbench.

“It’s time for you to get over this aversion to magic, Potter. Whatever lies you were fed, doing magic is perfectly normal for people like us.”

“Freaks?” came the confused reply. Gritting his teeth, Severus reined in his temper.

“That word is officially banned from your lips. Don’t ever use it again. Should I hear it once more, Potter, you’ll be sitting with your nose in the corner for an hour!”

Wide green eyes stared up at him and the boy’s lips pursed together as if he was trying to lock them tight, should they betray him.

“Watch closely, Potter. Magic is nothing to be feared.” Severus turned to the shattered vials and waved his wand. A quick “Reparo” sent the pieces of glass back together into their original form.

“See?” Severus asked, turning back to his charge. The boy’s face was no longer pale and even a small smile graced his face.

“Cool,” came the soft reply.

--------

Severus sat across from his charge at their small dining table studying his young charge. The boy had taken his nutrition potion without complaint and was eating small bites of his chicken and vegetables. The boy was quiet; no attempts to even start a conversation with the surly potions master. Severus knew that most children Potter’s age jabbered on about things that most adults didn’t even understand. Not this child though. Attributing      the ‘unusual’ behavior to the muggles, he decided to try and get to know the boy.

“Potter,” Severus started. His charge looked up at him, seemingly startled at being addressed. “Why were you watching me work in the lab this afternoon?”

Severus watched the boy drag his fork through the remaining food on his plate as he thought. “Well, you see,” Harry began explaining. “You see, I watch Aunt Petunia but she no let me help.”

Severus quickly realized that Harry was confusing brewing with cooking, an easy and common mistake for a nearly four year old to make. “I see,” Severus responded, “but you want to help?”

“Yes.”

“Perhaps for now you can watch as long as you sit quietly like today. When you’re a bit bigger then I can teach you.”

Even though Severus hadn’t been too thrilled about opening up his private lab to his young charge, the smile that beamed on the boy’s face settled any qualms he had for it. Nevertheless, I’ll probably regret it.

“Come, Harry, let’s get you in the bath and then it’s bedtime,” Severus said, ignoring the fact that he used the boy’s proper name. With a wave of his wand, the leftover food disappeared. He couldn’t help but notice the slight pause in the boy’s movements as he studied the table. However, Harry seemed to decide for himself that it was okay for the food to disappear and followed his guardian to the bathroom. Victory!

Chapter 14: Birthdays

Severus knew what to expect today. It had become clear throughout the week that Harry had never celebrated his birthday. Any hints of presents or parties were met with a confused look. His negligent relatives seemed to have never acknowledged what should be every child’s favorite day of the year.

With the small hand clasped in his, Severus made his best attempt to stalk down the corridors. Keeping a slower pace than normal, he couldn’t help but glance down at his charge. Harry, still awed by the signs of magic everywhere, had adjusted greatly to his new surroundings. He no longer shied away from everything magical, although he still wasn’t quick to embrace it.

A tug on his hand brought the man to a halt.

“Look, Sev’us,” Harry squealed as he watched a knight being chased by a dragon in one of the portraits on the wall.

Yes, he has come a long way. Severus allowed the interruption for a while longer as Harry continued to watch the knight and the dragon battle in the scene.

“Come, Harry,” Severus said, tugging the boy away from his entertainment. The Great Hall was just around the corner and the birthday boy had a room full of people waiting on him.

How Severus let the Headmaster convince him to have a party thrown for Harry was beyond him. Granted, it would just be the Hogwarts staff, but even a small social gathering was something the potions master typically avoided.

Pausing for a moment before the closed doors, Severus took another quick glance at the boy. The things I do for you, Potter.

“SURPRISE!” came a great shout as the doors swung open.

Snape scowled at the, in his opinion, garish decorations adorning the Great Hall. Red and gold seemed to be the theme for the party and he strongly suspected that Minerva had been the head of the decorating committee.

Snape’s scowl lessened a bit when he looked down at the face of the young boy, who was still gripping his hand. Harry was frozen in place, his jaw dropped and eyes were wide. Tugging on the boy’s hand, Severus led Harry slowly into the room.

“Happy Birthday, Harry,” Dumbledore greeted from the head of the table. At the opposite end saw a large pile of presents in wrapping paper of all different colors. All of the professors currently in the castle were in attendance and had grins extending from ear to ear watching the joy light up on Harry’s face.

“This is for me?” Harry asked in nearly a whisper, he eyes following white doves flying overhead with red and gold streamers in their mouths.

“Yes, it does seem a bit extravagant for a 4 year old’s birthday party. However, seeing as the sign says ‘Happy Birthday, Harry’ and you are indeed the only Harry present, it’s safe to say this is for you,” Severus said dryly. The sarcasm may have been lost on the young boy but at the words “this is for you,” Harry’s face lit up in rapture.

“Come sit, Harry,” Dumbledore called over, indicating to the two empty seats at his right. “First, we’ll have our lunch before you dive into those presents.”

Severus rolled his eyes as he prodded the birthday boy past the gifts. The pile wasn’t exceptionally large, and had Harry been the type of child he once imagined then he’d have expected a tantrum at the amount. However, his ward wasn’t a spoiled child. In fact, even the surly potions master had to admit that the boy deserved a bit of spoiling… only now and then, of course.

Severus grabbed the plate in front of Harry and served a portion of grilled chicken, creamed spinach, and a bread roll. A quick wave of his wand had the chicken cut into small pieces. After making sure that his ward was eating properly, Severus laid a glare on the amused female staff. They had been watching their co-worker, hiding their laughter behind goblets of pumpkin juice. Harry wasn’t the only one who had changed.

“Enough,” Severus growled and focused on his own meal, ignoring the burst of laughter coming from further down the table. Women!

The meal proceeded with the normal idle conversation amongst the staff while Dumbledore entertained Harry with stories from his youth.

“I remember one of my birthdays when I was much younger, Harry. We were having a picnic by the small lake in our garden. I was sitting on the edge of the shore, talking with Mr. Gills.”

“Who Mr. Gills?”

“Why, Harry, Mr. Gills was my best fish friend. So there I was, having a lovely conversation with Mr. Gills,” Dumbledore continued before being interrupted by a burst of giggles from the child.

“But fishes don’t talk!” Harry exclaimed in giggles. His laughter drew the attention of the entire table, unable to keep smiles off their own faces.

“Now, Harry, whoever said that fish couldn’t speak?” Albus chuckled at Harry’s face as he tried to understand how someone could speak to a fish.

Severus cleared his throat, drawing the attention from the farfetched tale that the Headmaster was sharing with his ward. With my luck, Harry will run straight to the lake the next time we’re outside the castle to try and talk to a fish.

“I do believe that it would an appropriate time for presents to be opened now,” Severus drawled as the dishes before them disappeared back to the kitchens.

There was a sudden ruckus as everyone started passing presents from the far end of the table to the birthday boy.

Harry only had to look to Severus once for permission to proceed. At his nod, the young child slowly peeled the paper back from the box set in front of him. His small hands pulled a leather bound book from the wrappings. Severus leaned over and opened up the front cover revealing pages of photos. There on the opening page was a photo of Lily Potter holding a newborn Harry. Her hand caressed the baby’s face but she never looked up from her child. She was captivated.

“Who’s dat?” Harry asked looking down at the photo.

“Your mother, Harry. That’s you she’s holding,” Albus said softly, meeting Severus’ eyes over the child. They shared a look of apprehension to what the reaction of the child would be.

“She loved me,” Harry stated before looking up at his guardian.

“She did. Very much,” Severus said softly and looked toward Hagrid. The half-giant had large tears running down his face. “Just thought he’d want to know what his family looked like. There’s plenty of room to keep adding photos as he grows. Might want some of his new family in there.”

“Very kind of you, Hagrid. Very kind indeed,” The headmaster said softly.

They proceeded with the gift opening and Harry received a book of fairy tales from the headmaster, a charmed music box from Professor Flitwick, a night blooming potted plant from Professor Sprout, and a child sized broom from Professor McGonagall. The broom had caused a bit of a stir, for both the potions master as well as the child.

Harry had stared in confusion down at the broom laying on the table. Severus, however, was nearly ready to lock the blasted toy up in his warded storage cupboards. Who gives a 4 year old a broom?!

Before Severus could get started on a rant, his young charge’s voiced piped up. “T’ank you, Auntie Min. It’s small like me! Not big like Aunt Petunia’s. That one was too big for me.”

Professor McGonagall’s face turned pale as she realized what Harry had thought she had given him. “No, Harry. This broom isn’t for cleaning. It’s for flying. You can fly on it but only when Professor Snape is with you.”

“Fly?” Harry asked in confusion, looking to his guardian for confirmation.

“Yes, child. Wizards use brooms to fly on.”

“O-kay.” Harry responded slowly, as if trying to understand just how one would fly on a broom. “T’anks.”

It wasn’t the first time, nor would it be the last, when every staff member shared the same thought. Oh how I’d like to curse those blasted muggles.

“I believe a few presents remain in that pile, Harry. Why don’t you finish opening them,” Dumbledore said encouragingly, breaking everyone out of their internal rants against the Dursleys.

Severus watched with closed off emotions as his present was placed in front of the boy. He didn’t really expect that Harry would like the gift but he deemed it practical.

“What is it?” the curious boy asked as he studied the contents of the box. The box contained a small, black pewter cauldron, a metal stirring rod, and several containers of different colored powders. Severus had made sure that none of the ingredients supplied would be harmful to the boy. They weren’t even real ingredients. Just charmed powder that would react in water to fizz and smoke.

“Why, Harry,” Flitwick squeaked, “you have your own potions kit.”

“Potions?” Harry asked, his eyes lighting up. “I can brew too?”

Severus couldn’t lie and say that he wasn’t pleased with Harry’s reaction. The boy had been quite content to simply sit and watch as Snape brewed in his lab. It only made sense to buy Harry his own supplies.

“I’m sure, Harry, that Professor Snape will let you brew with him now in his lab,” Dumbledore said warmly, smiling at both of his boys.

“Wow. T’anks, Sev’rus. T’anks so much.” Harry gushed and threw his arms around his guardian.

Severus cleared his throat, his discomfort very apparent. “Yes, well, it only makes sense that if you’re staying with me that any failure in potions would be unacceptable.”

There were a few more presents remaining. What Harry never knew was that several members of the wizarding world would send presents to him every year on his birthday. However, the Dursley’s house was blocked from owl post, set to lift upon receiving his letter on his 11th birthday. The presents had automatically been returned to their sender, and many had stopped making the attempt. However, this year a few presents arrived at Hogwarts and Albus decided to pass them on to the child in an attempt to make up for the years without any gifts at all. They were of course scanned for potential curses and hexes set to harm the child.

Harry tore into his last present, no longer taking his time with the wrapping paper. Bits and pieces of colorful paper now lay scattered around the table and floor. Shining up from the small box was a gold pendant in the shape of a shield. On the shield was a roaring lion with the phrase “virtuti fortuna comes”.

Severus stared down at the Potter family crest, which had quickly lost the attention of the 4 year old. Picking up a scroll that had come attached to the box, Severus’ face narrowed in anger as he read.

Dear Mr. Potter,

This pendant has been in my family’s possession for several years as I am a distant relative to your late father. I do trust that you will keep it well and those responsible for your care will keep it until you are of age.

Should you ever be in need of family, Mr. Potter, know that you can call on myself, and my family, for any needs. Should you ever need a home in our world, please know our home is always open to family. I look forward to the day we can be reunited as bloodlines are of the upmost importance in our society. They are the ties that bind us and those bonds cannot be broken.

Yours,

Narcissa Black Malfoy

“Albus,” Severus growled, flinging the scroll at the headmaster. “This has Lucius Malfoy written all over it.”

The table was silent as everyone watched the Headmaster read through the letter.

“It seems you are correct, Severus,” his blue eyes looking up from the letter. “Come to my office when young Harry is down for his afternoon nap. I believe we’ll have much to discuss.”

Chapter 15: Summons

When Severus finally arrived at the headmaster’s office, he found the aged wizard pouring over a mountain of scrolls. His square frame eyeglasses were perched on his long and crooked nose as his blue eyes rapidly scanned over a large chart.

“Come in, Severus,” Albus beckoned, his words the only acknowledgment that the man had entered his office.

“Tell me you knew of this.”

Albus looked up at the potions master. “Indeed, Severus. I was well aware of the relation.”

The headmaster opened one of the scrolls currently littering his desk. “Narcissa’s relationship to the Potters is a distant one, though not without it’s significance."

Severus bent over the desk and studied the names in front of him. Narcissa’s was easy to find, near the bottom. His eyes worked their way up the charts to an obscure marriage between a Dorea Black and Charlus Potter. Their son was James Potter.

“And you’ve known this the entire time?” Severus questioned, a tad displeased by the headmaster’s secrets. Granted, many assumed that Severus had been close with the Malfoy family while spying on the Dark Lord. However, there was a certain animosity between the men, and neither had kept their pseudo-friendship since his release from Azkaban.

As a student, and even during the years after, Severus had never met the parents of James Potter, nor had ever been interested enough to study the lineage. His own interest had been reserved for the Prince line, of which held no relation to the Potter, nor Black, family.

“Indeed. It was early in my teaching career that both Charlus Potter and Dorea Black wandered these halls as students. In fact, I even attended their wedding. A momentous occasion, if I recall correctly. They had the most splendid table of puddings.” Albus trailed off, recollecting the wedding reception from years ago.

“If I could possibly interrupt your recollection of past sweet indulgences…” Severus drawled, becoming even more annoyed. Harry was asleep back in his quarters and Severus knew he was on borrowed time until the child woke. The stubborn child wouldn’t even agree to lie down until I promised that we would brew together when he awoke.

“My apologies, Severus,” Albus acquiesced, turning back to the issue at hand.  “Narcissa is only Harry’s second cousin, estranged as it is.”

Severus backed away from the desk as Albus cleared the paper with a wave of his wand. Placing it in front of the fireplace, Severus mulled over the news silently for a moment.

“And what legal claim do they have to the boy?”

“Now, Severus, have a seat. Harry will not be leaving us, I assure you.” Albus sat opposite of the potions master in front of the fireplace, a tea tray appearing on the small table before them.

“The Ministry of Magic has several laws where a child’s custody is assigned. The most distant relation that the ministry has control over is a grandparent. Possibly even a great aunt or uncle,” Albus explained as he poured two cups of black tea.  

“Of which, Harry has none still alive.”

“Correct. The Ministry of Magic has no grounds to dispute Harry’s current guardians.”

“And legally who are they? Those blasted muggles?”

Albus sighed as he recalled the day he took Harry from the home of his relatives. “No. The Dursleys signed over custody of Harry to myself, cutting themselves off from any rights to the child.”

“Can this be disputed by the Malfoys or the Ministry?” Severus questioned.

“Not with any merit. They could try to make the custody issue a difficulty but in the end it wouldn’t stand in court.”

“I wouldn’t put it past them,” Severus growled, knowing just how much Lucius would try to disrupt the life of the Boy-Who-Lived.

“Severus, we do need to adjust some of Harry’s custody paperwork,” Albus said as he set his teacup down. “As of right now, I have been granted sole custody of the child. I think it’s imperative that Harry remains with you. It has not escaped anyone’s notice that he is doing very well under your care and I believe he will continue to do so.”

“Albus, no one will give full custody of the savior of the wizarding world to a former death eater.”

“Not full custody, no. I had more of a joint custody agreement in mind.”

Severus narrowed his black eyes at the headmaster. And just what schemes are you concocting now, you old coot?

“We can have the legal documents drawn up to give you primary physical custody of Harry and we can share a joint legal custody agreement. This way no one can raise an argument against your care for the child.”

“No, Albus, but they can question your sanity,” Severus drawled.

“Nothing in your current circumstances would change, Severus. No matter what the legal situation, I am in need of your care for our young charge.”

“Indeed, Headmaster. I have gone from paying off my debts by spying to now wiping snotty noses,” Severus spat, annoyed that the arrangement was turning permanent. Harry hadn’t been as much hassle as he had expected but the young potions master had hoped a better option would be coming along. Especially with the school term starting in just a few weeks.

“Harry needs you, Severus.”

“Just draw up the infernal papers. I’ll sign them,” Severus sighed, defeated. The boy is starting to grow on me anyways.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

As he walked back into his quarters, his thoughts still focused on the meeting just completed, a cry from the bedroom alerted Severus to the current state of his charge.

Tossing his robes over the edge of the couch, Severus rushed into the child’s bedroom. Harry was thrashing on the bed, caught up in a nightmare. It isn’t unusual for a child, especially one that has gone through as much as Harry had, to be plagued with nightmares. Severus had already experienced the child’s night terrors since having charge of him. This experience was different however. The same white light was building around the child. The same light was preventing Severus was entering into the room. Unable to reach the child to wake him, Severus could do nothing but stand at the door and watch. He had not seen any more evidence of this wild magic since the incident with the erkling.

“NO!” Harry wailed, finally coming out the dream. The white light flashed in the room and then disappeared completely. Severus had almost expected the room to be damaged from the magic but everything remained intact. When the erkling had been hit, it had been completely annihilated. Filing away the event for further contemplation, Severus hurried to the bed and soon had an armful of a crying child.

“Calm yourself, Harry,” Severus tried in his best soothing manner. He was still used to barking at children, not being a comforter.

“I don’t wanna play with him,” Harry sobbed as he clung onto his guardian with all the strength the small boy possessed.

“Play with whom?”

“The kid in the forest. He scares me.”

The erkling. Severus was wondering when that incident was going to make it into Harry’s night terrors. The previous ones had been about the Dursleys.

Pushing Harry back, Severus summoned a handkerchief and wiped the tears from the boy’s face. “Harry, it was only a dream. You’re safe here.”

Harry hiccupped and nodded, the dream slowly fading from his mind as he fully woke up. 

“Harry, just before you woke up, how did you feel?”

“Scared,” came the timid answer.

“Anything else?”

“It felt like something was heavy here,” Harry indicated to his chest. “Like Fang was sitting on me.”

Severus nodded. He figured the tight feeling that Harry experienced was his magic building. It seemed connected to fear, but one thing confused the potions master. Why was there no damage to the room unlike the forest?

xxxxxxxxxxxxx

“It’s happened again, Headmaster,” Severus sighed, sinking into the chair. It was late in the evening and he was exhausted from the day. Once Harry had calmed down from the nightmare, the two had spent the afternoon brewing in his lab. Harry had been captivated with his new potions kit and kept himself entertained for the day, allowing Severus to focus on his own project. He was actually rather impressed with the kit and was secretly coming up with his own ideas for improving the concept, as Harry would eventually grow bored with the simple concoctions that the provided ingredients would make.

“Harry’s nightmares are continuing?” Albus questioned, summoning tea for the two of them.

“This one was different from his usual ones. It was his experience with the erkling. His magic even flared this time, the same white power as in the forest.”

“Indeed,” Albus murmured, watching the flames in deep thought. He spoke again after a moment. “I’ve continued my research. What do you know about empaths?”

“Just that they sense the emotions of those around them.”

“There are variations of the ability, one being particularly rare, in fact. It’s a combination of empathy and a strong, protective magical core. It’s only been documented a few times, and none within the last century.”

“So this gifting is what Potter has?”

“I suspect so, although we won’t be positive until he gets older and his magic continues to develop. His accidental magic is stronger then most children his age. The average magical child will display basic signs of magic. They can do things like summon a bottle when hungry and the like. Harry’s magic is showing atypical signs that lead me to believe that he does indeed have this unique gift. I believe he senses when something or someone is set on harming him. His magic then naturally reacts to the threat.”

“And how do we control this?” Severus asked.

“For now, we keep him safe. As he gets older we can train him. I believe that once he can understand the concept, training in wandless magic will help a great deal.”

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Since Harry’s birthday, the entire staff had started gathering for meals in the Great Hall. Each day, more of the staff seemed to be arriving. The professors always purposed to arrive at the castle several weeks before the term began. The classrooms needed to be prepped, the lesson plans prepared, and any adjusting to school policies and curriculums made.

Nearly a week since the custody paperwork was filed, two large barn owls swooped down, landing at both the Headmaster’s and the Potions Master’s breakfast plate. Harry, enthralled by the large owls, reached to try to pet it, but the haughty bird tried to take a nip at the small boys fingers, it’s feathers ruffling in annoyance.

The black eyes met blue as the two men glanced at each other, taking the letters from the birds.

Dear Severus Snape,

You are personally summoned to the Department of Family Affairs on the 17th August at promptly 10:00 am for a custody hearing regarding the application for joint custody of Harold James Potter with Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore. Harold Potter is also expected to be in attendance.

Sincerely,

Mavis Pompernell

Head of Family Affairs

Ministry of Magic

Severus slowly folded the summons and put it back into the envelope. As much as it wasn’t wanted, it truly wasn’t unexpected.

“Is it safe to assume your letter states the same, Headmaster?” Severus asked as he watched Albus set the parchment aside.

“Indeed, Severus.” The rest of the staff looked on with curiosity as the owls flew off. Severus watched as Harry glared at the owl as it disappeared out of the window. The boy had been offended by its rude behavior. He had gotten used to the school owls that loved his affection whenever Harry accompanied his guardian to send off a correspondence.

As Albus explained to the staff about the summons, Severus tuned out the chatter over the pending meeting. He was willing to bet that Lucius’s contacts within the ministry had alerted him to the custody change. It would be a long, exhausting meeting for sure, but Severus was confident in the Headmaster.

As the Potions Master glanced down at the happily eating child next to him, he couldn’t help but think about how much his life had changed in a month. His exterior hadn’t changed. Even the staff commented on how he seemed as cynical as ever. However, his regard for his ward had shifted. Yes, he is worth the inconvenience after all.

Disclaimer: All characters involved belong to J.K. Rowling!

Authors's Note: Thank you all for the amazing reviews. Yes, I'm still writing and will be posting more often. Thanks to BlueOwl who has kept motivating and encouraging me to continue.

Chapter 16: The Hearing

“Let’s go, Harry,” Severus sighed as he pulled on his nicest, black robes. Albus had told him to have Harry, as well as himself, dressed in their best today. The Malfoys may not have legal ties to the boy but it was still imperative to give a good first impression, which also included being on time.

Harry ignored his guardian as he sat, trying to tie his shoes. Severus mentally groaned. The child had been determined to tie his own shoes lately, which had led to many arguments between the two of them.

“Harry, we need to leave. Let me help you,” Severus said, kneeling down next to the boy, who continued to ignore him.

“NO!” Harry yelled and pulled away as Severus reached out for his foot.

“Harry Potter, you will let me do it,” Severus growled, glancing at the clock. The portkey was set to activate in less then 5 minutes from the Headmaster’s office.

“No, I can do it,” Harry said, a quieter but no less stubborn. Severus, however, was beyond impatient and gave a quick wave of his wand. The shoelaces snapped up and tied themselves in neat bows.

Harry stared down at them in shock before he pouted, staring at Severus’ wand.

“Let’s go, Harry,” Severus said, grabbing Harry’s hand and pulling them through the floo.

They two stepped into Dumbledore’s office just in time, as Dumbledore thrust the portkey into their hands. “Quickly, now,” Albus directed. “Keep a hold to Harry, Severus.”

There was scarcely a moment to spare as the portkey pulled them from the castle and deposited them into the arrivals area of the Ministry of Magic.

Severus barely sighed in relief before Harry started screaming. Severus set the red-faced child down, cringing at all of the attention being drawn to them. The quiet, polite boy that he had taken in had disappeared over the last few days. Albus and Minerva had both assured him that Harry was just testing his boundaries, typical behavior for a 4 year old. Severus felt like pulling his hair out.

“Potter, you will desist this behavior immediately,” Severus snapped, grabbing the boy by this chin and forcing eye contact. Severus could see the defiance flash in those green eyes. Their eyes remained locked until Harry finally gave in, looking away.

“Yes, sir,” Harry murmured and sniffled. 

Albus chuckled lightly, ruffling the child’s hair as they moved into the main atrium. Severus gripped Harry’s hand and pulled the boy along. It astounded Severus how quickly Harry’s mood could change. One minute he was throwing a tantrum and now he was completely captivated with everything around him.

xxxxxxxx

Harry gripped his guardian’s hand as they walked towards a big desk. All around him were people dressed in different colors of robes and funny hats. Harry giggled at one lady who had a stuffed bird perched on her brim. He caught her eye and giggled more as she sniffed and hurried past. Severus had told him they were going to a meeting to talk to some lady about him staying with Papa Albus and his Sev’rus forever. No more Dursleys! It was like living in the best dream ever!

After getting a tag that Papa Albus explained said his name, they entered an elevator where pieces of paper were flying around. Harry jumped up to try and catch one but his guardian glowered down at him.

“Behave, Harry.”

Harry pouted a bit as the lift stopped to let more people in. He felt crammed as he shifted closer to his guardians and gripped onto the larger hand even tighter. He didn’t like cramped spaces and the larger people barely glanced at him as everyone seemed to jostle each other for more space. Just before Harry couldn’t take it anymore, the doors opened and Severus pulled Harry into the open corridor. Several of the paper memos followed them out and zoomed down the hall. Pausing to watch them go, Harry felt another tug on his hand as they continued toward a closed door farther down.

The door they entered led into a woman’s office. Harry stared at the shelves of books and files behind the woman’s desk. The office was small and files flew magically from the shelves and out a slot in the wall. At his questioning gaze, Albus whispered to Harry, “They’re being summoned by other offices.”

Harry gave a small smile at the headmaster and kept quiet as they sat on the chairs. Two of the chairs remained empty, but before Harry could ask about them, the door to the office swung open.

xxxxxx

Severus narrowed his dark eyes at the blonde couple entering into the office. Acting as if they own the entire world. They were dressed in expensive dress robes, obviously trying to use their wealth as a strength in the custody case. Albus, sitting to his right, cleared his throat, effectively jarring Severus from his critical analysis of the Malfoys.

“Hello, Severus. Headmaster,” Lucius Malfoy drawled as they entered. Narcissa remained silent but her eyes were trained on Harry.

Severus ignored the greeting but pulled Harry’s chair in closer between himself and Albus. He didn’t need the boy exposed to any more of the Malfoys' influence or manipulations then were necessary.

The door swung open again and a frazzled woman rushed through the door. Severus’ eyes narrowed at her as she froze, caught by surprise by her waiting guests.

“Oh um… dear me. Terribly sorry for the delay,” she muttered to herself before seating herself behind her desk and rummaging through the piles of folders.

“This would be the…” she muttered to herself.

“The hearing over guardianship of Harry Potter, madam,” Albus answered.

“Oh my, yes,” the woman exclaimed, pulled a large folder from the top of the pile. Severus watched as she settled into the chair and adapted a more professional demeanor. He internally scoffed at this ill excuse for a ministry official.

“Now I do believe the legalities of the joint guardianship of young Mr. Potter have been questioned by the Malfoy family, correct?”

“Harry deserves to be with family,” Lucius said, “We are the closest remaining relatives that the boy has.”

“According to this file, the boy has a muggle aunt.”

“Who has signed over guardianship to myself, which is of course her right to do so,” Albus shared.

“Indeed, Headmaster,” the woman said as she flipped through her file.

“Mrs. Malfoy, you are related to Mr. Potter through an indirect relation?”

“My great aunt was Harry’s grandmother. The woman was very dear to me,” Narcissa crooned, dabbing at fake tears in her eyes.

“However close you remained with your great aunt, Mrs. Potter’s sister had the completely authority to give guardianship to the Headmaster and Professor Snape.”

A voice cleared and Severus watched as Lucius leveled a warning glare at the ministry official. The fact that he had been cleared of his charges as a death eater a few years prior did not negate the man’s influence within the ministry, and it was only growing.

“Yes, well family is indeed important,” the woman choked, adverting his gaze back to her file.

Seveus’ eyes narrowed. This wasn’t going well. As much as he trusted Albus, he could see that the Malfoys were heavily influencing the social worker. A quick glance at the Headmaster showed that the man was trusting in the judicial system of the ministry. Severus, on the other hand, held no respect for the wizarding government. It had failed him too many times.

“Perhaps a compromise,” Severus spoke up.

All eyes turned to him; the headmaster’s showing a bit of surprise. Honestly, Severus was surprised himself. Looking down at Harry, who was sitting quietly, flipping through a book that Albus had thought to bring along, he would have expected to jump at the chance to be rid of this particular responsibility. However, he couldn’t help but look out for the boy with his best intentions.

“The Malfoys have a son about Harry’s age. As distant of cousins as the two boys might be, family is family. Perhaps arranging supervised engagement between the two on a monthly basis. At Hogwarts, of course.”

The headmaster’s eye started twinkling and the woman sat up with a smile on her face.

“A great compromise indeed, Professor! I do believe that that arrangement is just what is best for both parties, and providing young Mr. Potter with a boy his age to grow up with,” the woman gushed and moved to make marks in her file.

“I do believe, however,” Lucius interrupted, “that perhaps a better location would be Malfoy Manor. Cissa would be more adept at watching the two boys, freeing up both of the professors time.”

“A Saturday visit would be of no harm, Lucius,” Albus answered smiling. “We may revisit the idea of Harry visiting your home at a later time. However, I do believe for now it is best that the boys meet at the castle.”

There was a drawn out tension in the silence that filled the room. Finally, Lucius sat back and gave a curt nod of his head.

“Very well then. I do believe that this case is closed for now. Thank you all for coming,” the woman chirped, her relief very apparent at having the meeting closed.

As they all filed out of the room, Harry tugged on Severus’ hand.

“What happened?”

“You’re getting a new friend, Potter,” Severus sighed, wondering just what he had gotten himself into.

Disclaimer: I still don't own anything in the HP world.

Note: Thanks again to all of you who have reviewed. I love all of your comments!

A thousand thanks to the best beta reader in the world, Blueowl!

Chapter 17: The Opening Feast

Albus set his quill down and glanced over the parchment in front of him. It was a press release to The Daily Prophet concerning Harry’s change in guardianship. They had delayed the release in order to give the boy a chance to adjust before the media attempted storming the castle. Sealing the parchment and setting it aside, the headmaster looked over at his charge, who was currently napping on the settee.

Albus couldn’t help but wonder about how the boy would turn out being raised in the magical world. He had hoped his muggle relatives would not only keep Harry safe but also allow him a proper childhood. Albus nearly cringed at the reminder of the conversation he had with the Dursleys before he brought their nephew to Hogwarts. It was always his goal to find the good in people but even he found it difficult when faced with the Dursleys.

The floo flared for a moment before the potions master came through.

“I trust the boy was no problem.”

“The day that Harry becomes a problem, Severus, is the day I stop eating lemon drops.”

Albus watched as Snape settled himself into a chair and summoned a tea tray from the kitchens.

“Need I remind you that Potter blood runs in that child’s veins?” the potions master snapped.

Albus leveled his eyes at the professor in front of him, causing the man to give in with a sigh.

“My apologies, Headmaster,” Severus sighed and forced himself to relax in the chair. He was always on edge at the start of term and this year was proving to be worse. Not only was he preparing for a year of exploding cauldrons and classrooms full of dunderheads, he had Harry to watch after as well.

The headmaster simply nodded as he served the tea, used to the clipped tones that the young professor spoke in during term.

“And what arrangements have you planned for our young ward?” the headmaster inquired.

Severus glanced over at the sleeping child. “There are only a few classes that conflict between our schedules. I suppose a house-elf can sit with him during those times.”

The headmaster nodded in agreement. It wasn’t the best situation, but they would manage.

“And when will young Mr. Malfoy be visiting us here?”

Severus pulled a letter from one of the pockets in his robe. “Lucius wrote and set the date for the third Saturday of the month. He will be assigning one of his house elves to accompany Draco.”

“Not entirely unexpected. It would be safe to assume that the elf will be making a full report to Lucius of the day, and that the focus won’t be Draco’s behavior.”

“Indeed.”

Severus set his empty teacup down on the tray and started to stand.

“Before you leave, Severus. I have one more point of interest to discuss with you.”

Severus settled back down in the chair and took the paper being handed to him from the headmaster. Scanning the document, he glanced up at the older man.

“Very crafty, Albus,” Severus said as he handed the press release back.

“Yes, I’d prefer we explain Harry’s change of guardianship under our terms and not through rumors that would surely circulate through the students.”

Severus shared his agreement, stood, and scooped Harry in his arms, the boy stirring a bit at the movement.

“Tonight then, Headmaster.”

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“Harry, sit still,” Severus hissed to the fidgeting boy sitting at his right, between him and the headmaster. They were seated in the Great Hall and at any moment the students would be stampeding into the school as if they were a herd of wildebeest in the middle of the migration on the Serengeti plains. Severus was determined that despite the recent changes in his life, his growing reputation as the bat of the dungeons wouldn’t be ruined.

“Sev!” Harry whined and tried to pull away as his guardian tried for the millionth time to get his hair to lay flat. It was a lost cause.

The hands stilled as a rumble started. Suddenly, the doors flew open and the students streamed into the hall, separating to their designated tables.

Severus glanced down at Harry and watched as the boy’s eyes grew wide as he took in the students.

Harry looked up at him with a small smile on his face. Severus had explained to him earlier about how life was going to change around the castle. How there would be other children around, but older than him. Severus suspected that Harry was nervous about the change. The only child he’d ever been around was his cousin, Dudley, who he suspected didn’t provide many positive experiences.

Eventually the first years entered and were sorted. Albus had even chuckled aloud when Harry stood on his chair and gasped when the sorting hat began to speak. “The hat’s talking!” he had exclaimed in a mix of fright and awe. Severus had settled him quickly back into his seat and quietly explained that the hat was magic.

Finally, after they had all eaten, it was time for Albus to make his welcome speech and school announcements. The headmaster stood and waited until the students had quieted down.

“Greetings and welcome to another year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. First years should note, and our returning students would be best to remember, that the Forbidden Forest is indeed forbidden.”

A few chuckles came from the older students as the Headmaster met eyes with more than a few sheepish grins.

“I’m pleased to introduce you to two new residents of our castle. First is our new Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor, Professor Archibald Dankworth. I trust that every single one of our students here at Hogwarts will treat the professor with as much respect as he is entitled.”

The portly man sitting at the end of the head table stood and gave a small bow to the students, who clapped respectfully. He was a last minute hire as the position was rumored to be cursed. The previous professor had ended the previous term with a nervous breakdown.

“Now I am very happy to introduce you all to the newest and youngest member of the Hogwarts family. He has recently been under the care and guardianship of both Professor Snape and myself. I trust that you will all make young Mister Potter feel very much at home here within our school.”

Severus tightened the scowl on his face as the cries of surprise sounded across the student body. Harry, who had been kneeling in his seat to watch the students in front of him, turned and buried his head into Severus’ robes.

“Potter?! Harry Potter is here at Hogwarts?” the students whispered to each other.

The Headmaster raised his hands for silence. “Indeed, Harry Potter is now a permanent resident here at our school for reasons I won't discuss. Now then, let us retire for the evening as we have a very busy school years that starts in the morning.” With a wave of his hands, the food suddenly disappeared from the tables. The students, stuffed with food and turning drowsy, started exiting the hall for their respective houses, but chatter about the young savior of the wizarding world could still be heard.

Severus stood from his seat, intent on getting Harry settled into bed before his opening meeting with Slytherin House. The boy was clearly exhausted, rubbing his eyes and yawning frequently. Seeing no other choice, he swung the child into his arms where Harry quickly rested his head against the Potion Master’s shoulder.

And there goes my reputation as the dungeon bat.

“Interesting,” a voice to his side drawled. Severus met the beady eyes of the new DADA professors.

“And what, pray tell, is so interesting?” Snape snapped, irritated at a delay in getting back to the dungeons.

“That the ministry would allow the very Savior of the Wizarding World to be raised in such an unsuitable home.”

Snape’s glare didn’t even seem to faze Professor Dankworth as he continued.

“I understand that this is indeed a boarding school but for a child to be raised within these halls would not be the ideal home. Then there’s the question of security. Who knows what ties these students have with their families. There’s truly no way to tell where true loyalties lie, is there, Snape?”

“Well, I suppose it’s a good thing that you are not the head of Family Affairs,” Snape stated before turning in a flurry of robes and disappeared out the side door, leaving a disgruntled DADA professor behind.

Harry was asleep in Severus’ arms by the time they reached their quarters. Quickly changing him into his pajamas with a flick of his wand, he had the boy tucked into bed and was out the door in a matter of minutes.

Setting a monitoring charm on his quarters in case Harry awoke, Severus quickened his steps to the Slytherin common room. Schooling his features into his sternest look, he stalked into the room with robes billowing in a manner that shut even the 7th years up that were lounging on the couches.

Snape studied the students in front of him. Here before him were the youth of the war, old enough to still remember and understand what it meant when Voldemort was vanquished. The loyalties varied, as it did within each house. However, any family who once sided with the Dark Lord now kept their heads down. Severus didn’t expect any major trouble from his house regarding his recent co-guardianship.

“Welcome to Slytherin,” Severus drawled, studying the faces of his new first years. Twelve in total and all looking at him with wide eyes.

“I am Professor Snape, Potions Master and Head of Slytherin House.  There shall be no tolerance for rule breaking. Slytherins may have a poor reputation amongst the other houses, but know this: We are family here and we stick together, no matter what. I expect the best out of my snakes and will hold each of you to the highest of standards. Failure to comply will result in dire consequences.”

Severus paused in his speech as he met each student’s terrified gaze. I still have it!

“Curfew is at 10:00 on school nights, and 11:00 on weekends. Any student out after curfew will live to regret it. Questions?”

None of the students were brave enough to raise their hands. Severus had almost expected to be assaulted with questions regarding Harry Potter, but was pleased to see that he still caused some terror in those in front of him.

With a curt nod of his head, he turned and exited the common room in the same flourish as he had entered. A small part of him still took pride in the fine tuned ways he developed in carrying himself.

Once Severus reentered his quarters, he allowed himself to finally relax. To be honest, the feast didn’t go as bad as he had feared. No one, aside from Dankworth, made much fuss over the announcement of Harry’s change of residence.

Severus threw his robes over the end of the couch and started down the hall, loosening the buttons on his sleeves as he walked. Easing open Harry’s door, he checked to see if the boy was still asleep. Stepping farther into the room, he saw Harry curled around a stuffed bear, sound asleep. It looked like Severus would get his full night’s rest. Harry still suffered from the occasional nightmare, which Albus assured was normal for young children. However, it looked like tonight would be peaceful for both of them. After adjusting the covers over the child, Severus edged out of the room and left the door cracked open in case he was needed during the night.

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