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Chapter Text

Igor wasn't surprised to be invited to Hogwarts. He hadn't been surprised when Dumbledore presented the idea. He had expected Dumbledore to come up with a way to get him at Hogwarts for whatever reason. He couldn't believe it was this soon. He had expected it to occur when Potter would have been in his seventh year. The Welcoming Feast wasn't very impressive as far as he was concerned and he was sure the Halloween feast wouldn't be much better.

Igor Karkaroff was watching, he knew something was going to happen. He had been paying a lot of attention to Hogwarts and knew somehow Dumbledore would get Potter into the tournament even if he didn't do it himself. He glanced at Viktor Krum, he already handled that aspect. Now, he needed to speak to Potter.

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"Mr. Potter, may I have a few minutes of your time?" Igor ignored the two idiots he was standing with. He had been watching the boy and realized the boy was hiding a lot.

"What do you want?" Ronald Weasley snarled. "He's not going anywhere with you."

Harry sighed as Ron was going to start his usual rant about the dark and evil. Hermione seemed to be just as defensive. "Headmaster, is there a problem?" Harry had wondered what the Headmaster could want.

"No, no, Mr. Potter, I just wish to discuss something important. It won't take much of your time. Your friends can wait here for you." Igor pointed to a classroom. "We can speak in there." He didn't need to alert Dumbledore he was talking to Potter. He didn't want the two to run to the man in panic.

"Harry, you can't. You know why." Hermione put her hand on Harry's arm.

Harry wanted to know why his two friends were so bigoted. "I will be in there, you will be out here, if anything happens, you can get Dumbledore."

"Professor Dumbledore, Harry, honestly, after all this-"

"Hermione, really?" Harry shook his head and headed for the classroom. "Give us thirty minutes before you panic." Harry wasn't sure why he was still friends with the two idiots.

Igor wanted to smirk. Maybe the boy wasn't so trusting of Dumbledore after all. He headed into the classroom. He pulled out his wand and went to cast some privacy spells.

"I already did them in Parseltongue so no one but me can remove them. It will prevent either of us from speaking about what we going to discuss." Harry sat down in one of the chairs.

"Very good. Now, I am aware of your misfortunes over the last few years as well as your fame." Igor put his hand up. "I have already had Mr. Krum sign an agreement not to enter the tournament because of his fame. I would like to present the same agreement to you. It would prevent anyone from forcing you to enter if someone else adds your name."

"I would want to read it first as I do believe you are correct." Harry was very sure his name would be entered and Dumbledore wouldn't do anything to remove him from the tournament. Dumbledore provided too many hints for the past events while disappearing when he was needed.

Igor smirked. "You have been hiding."

Harry grinned. "Of course, I do not trust Dumbledore and haven't since I saw his name on my Hogwarts letter." He watched the smile appear on the Headmaster's face. Harry wasn't surprised. He had a feeling that man didn't trust Dumbledore either.

"Good. It's a simple contract." Igor pulled out the contract. "I left no room for loopholes."

Harry began to read the contract.

I, Harry James Potter, do hereby agree to keep myself out of the 1994 – 1995 School year Triwizard Tournament.

I will not add my name to the Goblet of Fire.
I will not have anyone else add my name to the Goblet of Fire
I will not work my way around the age restriction line
I will not put myself in any danger by participating in the Triwizard Tournament
I will not use my fame to have myself included in the Triwizard Tournament. My fame can also not be used to force me into participating in any event.
I will not permit any adult to force me to enter the Triwizard Tournament. I will not be subjected to coercion.
I will not be forced into attending any events relating to the Triwizard Tournament. Any event that occurs during the year, I will attend if, and only if, it doesn't have anything to do with the challenges.
If my name does get drawn, I will use this agreement to remove myself. I will accept that if my name gets withdrawn, I will be classified as an adult by magic, as only legal-age students were permitted to enter.

Harry looked up. "You think someone will enter my name?"

"Yes, I do. Since I am sure they will, I believe your magical guardian will permit you to enter. If you are entered you will be declared an adult it will also prevent you from being subjected to his care."

Harry grinned. There was a bit of hope. It would be a positive for him if he did get entered. He continued reading the contract.

If my name does get drawn or if it doesn't, I will be aware of the fact some may still try and force my participation in the Triwizard Tournament.
I will follow the rules of attending as a spectator any event that I wish to attend
I will not engage in any event, willingly or forcibly. Be it one of the challenges or tournament events for any of the wizarding world populous
I, Harry James Potter, hereby sign this agreement without any coercion.

"Do I need to sign it with a Blood Quill?"

"It would be best if you did." Igor produced one. He watched as Harry signed his name. "If your friends ask, which I know they will, you can inform them that I was a former Death Eater and wished to express my sincere apologies for the deaths of your parents which I do. I am sure Miss Granger will research my trial." They watched the contract shudder for a minute, split into two, and one disappeared. "Gringotts has a copy."

"She will. Any way you can keep her busy?"

"I already have someone working on that." Igor found himself liking Harry Potter.

"You turned traitor, yet, you are helping me. Why?"

"Because, Mr. Potter, it is part of the plan." Igor watched the boy's face.

"Thought so. I knew it was a lie. All the stuff Dumbledore has told me while also keeping so much a secret. Snape?"

"Ah, Severus. I am sure after the 31st, he will see the light."

Harry pondered that for a few seconds but accepted the answer. "We best go before they go screaming to Dumbledore."

"Yes, they like to keep you on a short leash."

Harry smirked. "Too bad for them that they are missing the collar."

Igor grinned. "Mr. Potter, I will bring this with me for the drawing."

Chapter Text

Halloween:

Harry blinked. Did he honestly hear his name come out of that cup? He glanced at Igor and was thankful the man already planned for this. He could hear the voices, whispering about him, again.

"Harry, go on. Harry for goodness sake." Hermione pushed Harry.

Harry glanced at her but slowly walked toward the Headmaster. Dumbledore handed him the paper, he looked at it. It was his writing. He looked at the Goblet. The voices were getting louder and someone in the crowd shouted out. "He's a cheat!"

"He's not even seventeen yet." Another yelled.

"Harry, please go follow Professor Snape." Dumbledore retrieved the piece of paper from Harry as Severus walked toward Harry.

Severus knew the boy didn't enter his name. The boy's look alone confirmed that. He wondered who did it. Why? He put his hand on Harry's shoulder, noticing the flinching. He removed his hand when Harry glared at him. "Potter, come." Severus had been watching the boy for years and knew Harry didn't like people touching him. He warned Dumbledore about abuse but as normal, Dumbledore ignored him.

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Harry entered the room to hear "You French tart." Mad-Eye was glaring at the French woman in the middle of a rant.

"Everything is a conspiracy theory!" Igor was telling Mad-Eye. "I am surprised you haven't accused us of poisoning your flask."

"Quiet! l can't think!" Harry wasn't sure who that other person was. He looked like someone the Ministry sent over.

"l protest." Madame Maxime and Fleur announced. Fleur, Cedric, and someone named Niklos were the three champions. Cedric and Niklos were in a corner, and like him, they were ignoring everything happening around them.

Harry was staring at the wall, ignoring the other champions. He knew Igor was holding the contract. He wasn't sure what exactly was going on. Dumbledore grabbed him, shaking him a bit. "Harry! Did you put your name in the Goblet of Fire?"

"No, sir." Harry hoped Dumbledore believed him. He didn't want to give away his naive Gryffindor act. Igor agreed that the contract would only appear if Harry was forced into the tournament. He saw out of the corner of his eye Igor touching his robe pocket. Dumbledore, however, didn't seem to believe him. Harry wasn't surprised by that. The man was an idiot.

"Did you ask one of the older students to do it for you?" Dumbledore finally released him.

"No, sir."

"You're absolutely sure?"

Harry wanted to say something like, sure I love to have myself entered into a deadly contest. Let's have one again next year. "Yes, sir."

"Well, of course, he is lying." Harry cringed at that giant. She was louder than Hagrid and his uncle. Madame Maxine may run a girls' school but she must have taken lessons from Molly Weasley.

"The hell he is. The Goblet of Fire is an exceptionally powerful magical object, only an exceptionally powerful conjurer could have hoodwinked it. Magic way beyond the talents of a fourth-year, Madame." Harry was a bit surprised by Mad-Eye defending him. He thought the man was crazy.

"You seem to have given this a fair bit of thought Mad-Eye." Igor was looking at Mad-Eye. Harry knew it had to Mad-Eye who did it. He was the DADA professor this year and Harry knew he had the worst luck with DADA professors.

"It was once my job to think as Dark Wizards do, Karkaroff, perhaps you remember?" Harry watched the tongue come out. Harry wondered if it was a nervous tick. He also wondered about the flask the man carried. Why was the staff allowing a professor to openly drink around students?

"That doesn't help Alastor. I leave this to you, Barty." Dumbledore passing the responsibility of getting him out of the tournament didn't surprise Harry. Anyone who knew Dumbledore would know how the man operated.

"The rules are absolute, the Goblet of Fire constitutes a binding magical contract. Mr. Potter has no choice, he is as of tonight... a tri-wizard champion." Barty Crouch, Sr. didn't even bother to open up the rule book. Harry glared. How could a magical contract exist if he wasn't an adult? He didn't add his name. This made no sense but before he could spout off about that idiotic idea he saw Igor shake his head no.

Igor stepped forward. He pulled out the contract. "I am afraid that Mr. Potter won't be competing. He signed a contract with me." Harry pulled out his wand, flicked it, and sparks came out. "Since he still has his magic he didn't enter. Someone else entered his name. You need to find them."

Harry smirked as he watched Dumbledore, Barty, Mad-Eye, and Severus read the contract that Igor produced. "It's a valid contract, signed in blood. The contract states he wouldn't enter. He has his magic, he didn't enter." Barty Crouch Sr. finally announced.

Harry refrained from saying I told you so. He could see Severus was assessing him. He arched an eyebrow at the man, who wasn't expecting it. Severus tipped his head in acknowledgment. It seemed Severus finally realized Harry wasn't a dunderhead. Everyone slowly left until it was just Harry, Severus, Dumbledore, Mad-Eye, and Minerva. "This can't be good." McGonagall looked at the group who were still baffled by the contract that Igor produced. "His name was entered for a reason. This can't go on, Albus. First the dark mark. Now, this?"

"What do you suggest Minerva?" Dumbledore was looking at him. Harry knew that Dumbledore was trying to find a way to get him back into the competition. Dumbledore was his magical guardian. Harry would have needed a magical guardian's permission to enter into it. So by that right, Dumbledore could have kept him out of it but he didn't. Something fishy was going on.

"Put an end to it. Don't let anyone compete." McGonagall sighed. Harry could tell she didn't want this to happen. He bet if she was his magical guardian she wouldn't have allowed him to enter. "Something is very wrong."

"You heard Barty the rules are clear. Once started it must be allowed to be finished."

"And since when did you accommodate the Ministry?" McGonagall countered. Harry had to agree with her. Dumbledore did what he wanted. His placement was proof of that. His being sent back each year showed him how little Dumbledore cared about anything else but his plans.

"Headmaster, l, too, find it difficult to believe this mere coincidence. However, if we are to truly discover the meaning of these events." Harry was a bit surprised by Severus. He thought the man would be accusing him of entering to be like his father and Black.

"You want to do nothing?" McGonagall asked. Harry wanted to laugh. No one had done anything to aid him in the last three years until he was in danger. McGonagall was just as guilty as Dumbledore was in that aspect. He had gone to her numerous times and nothing helped. The only time she spoke to her house was if someone was in trouble.

"We will keep an eye on everyone. We will need to find out who entered Harry's name, find out what it means for them." Dumbledore ordered. Harry knew the man knew who did it.

"Can I go to my dorm?" Harry felt something appear in his robe pocket and knew it was a note from Igor. Harry was now an adult. They would need to find a way to get him to Gringotts to find out how that changed things for him.

"Yes, Harry. I will speak to you tomorrow." Dumbledore's eyes started twinkling and Harry knew the man was going to try and guilt him into doing the competition.

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Harry quietly made his way to his dorm. He was a bit surprised that no one was in the common room to grill him. He would be grilled by Granger and Weasley. He was almost to his bed when he heard: "How did you do it? Never mind. Doesn't matter. Might've let your best friend know, though."

Harry turned and saw Weasley sitting on his bed, the curtains opened, and the boy was glaring at him. "Let you know what?"

"You know bloody well what."

Weasley was going to go that route. Dumbledore must have given Weasley and Granger their orders already. "I didn't ask for this to happen, Ron. Okay?" When he got no response, he added: "You're being stupid."

"Yeah, that's me. Ron Weasley, Harry Potter's stupid friend."

"l didn't put my name in that cup. You will find out the truth about that tomorrow. l don't want eternal glory. Can anyone, outside of Hermione, name a champion? l also didn't call you stupid, I said you were being stupid, two different meanings." Harry reigned in his anger. "Look, l don't know what happened tonight. I don't know why. lt just did. Okay?"

"Piss off." Weasley's curtain zoomed closed. Harry shook his head. He realized it was going to be like his second year all over again. Weasley was going to pout until Dumbledore made him go to him and apologize. He needed to find true friends. He looked over his shoulder and saw Neville was watching him.

"He's an idiot." Neville closed his curtains.

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News spread quickly that Harry didn't enter the tournament and even had a magical contract that prevented him from entering. Most of the school was asking different kinds of questions but they weren't questions about Harry's character. They were questions about Dumbledore and how could Harry's name be entered. Granger had tried to grill him when he made his appearance in the common room but Neville stopped her by quickly snagging Harry's arm and forcing him out the door. "I'm so hungry, I could eat a griffen." Once they were in the hall, Neville released Harry. "Ron's got the whole house worked up last night."

"He is going to feel like a huge fool today." Harry quietly explained what happened last night.

"I can't wait to see their faces when it's announced. Hermione, Ginny, and Ron were on a tirade last night, going on and on about cheating."

"You know it's funny, Hermione is fine breaking the rules when it suits her but if anyone else does." Harry didn't need to finish the sentence as he saw Neville agreed.

"Does the contract come with extra benefits?" Neville thought the contract was the smartest thing Harry had ever done.

"Not sure. I need to go to Gringotts to find out."

"Good. If you need assistance, let me know. I can see if my Gran will help."

"Thank you, Neville. We better find some good seats. I am hoping Rita will make a big deal in the paper."

"You know she will."

Chapter Text

Neville, Dean, Seamus, and surprisingly Draco kept most of the people who wanted to ask questions away. Draco appeared at the breakfast table and smirked. "Well, Potty, it appears you have a brain." He left before anyone could respond. Draco sat down at his table.

Harry glanced at the Slytherin students. They were smirking at him. Everyone was sharing the news. Gryffindors were spreading to their dormmates. "I think the Slytherins won't be bothering me."

"No, I don't think they will. However, Granger and the two Weasleys are heading over here and they looked furious." Dean and Seamus moved closer to Harry while Neville moved to sit directly across from Harry. Lavender sat on Neville's right while the Cleevey brothers sat on his left.

"Pudge over, I want to talk to Harry." Granger ordered.

"How does it feel to want?" Lavender didn't move aside as she spoke.

"Harry, we need to speak to you. You shouldn't have entered into this tournament." Ginny whined from behind Lavender.

"I didn't. I told Ron last night he just selected not to believe me."

"Well, no one else could have added you. He just wanted to know why you didn't tell him. Not that he should have tried to enter it, either." Granger had her hands on her hips and her voice was carrying. The trio hadn't realized that no one was speaking. Everyone wanted to hear what was being said. Most had arrived earlier than normal and hardly any of the staff was there. They could see Filius Flitwick quietly speaking to Pomona Spout and no one could hear them because they had privacy spell up.

"Yeah, you should have told me but that's right, you think I'm stupid."

"I didn't say you were stupid, I said you were being stupid. If the three of you had asked, I would have informed you that I didn't enter my name. I don't know who did. I'm not competing."

"Now you're going to back out after making a show of entering. You just love your fame so much. You need your name in the paper." Ron started yelling. "Poor Potter, my relatives abuse me, my relatives starve me, give me lots of attention. I saved you from your relatives and this is the thanks I get. You don't tell me you entered. What was all that I was not entering the common room just for show? Oh, I don't want my name in the paper, I hate my fame."

Harry's temper flared and everyone could feel the magic flooding the room as his anger rose. "It's cheating Harry. You know no one under 17 was to enter. You cheated to get into the tournament." Granger's tone was taking on the lecturing tone she used. "I'm sure if you admitted you cheated to get in, they can find a way to get you out of it." Glasses started to break, the walls started to quake. "Honestly, Harry, what are we to do with you? You even left this morning before speaking to us. We need to figure out-" She was cut off as Professor McGonagall cast a Silencio on her.

"Severus, please see to Potter while I have three lions to inform of the truth."

Severus was already behind Harry and had spelled a calming draught into him. He didn't want the glass ceiling to break on top of them. "Potter."

Harry didn't move, his focus was solely on Granger. This wasn't good. He quickly cast a stunner on him. Dean caught him as Harry started to fall. "Thomas, Longbottom, Finnigan, bring Potter and follow me." He had a few questions he wanted to have answered especially about what Ron Weasley mentioned.

"Yes, sir." The three answered.

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Once in his quarters, Severus guided them to his guest bedroom. "Put him on the bed. I'm going to spell a minor sleep potion into him. We have to talk."

"Yes, sir." They weren't sure what the man wanted but they weren't going to argue with him. They followed him back into his living area.

"Explain what Weasley meant about the abuse, starving."

Neville swallowed as he glanced at Dean and Seamus. "During our first year, I went to the washroom and I saw Harry getting dressed. He is covered in scars. He thought we had already headed down to the Great Hall for breakfast. It's why Harry is always early for breakfast or late, depending on Ron."

"Ron and Hermione control everything about Harry. No matter how hard he tries to get them to leave him alone. At first, we knew it was because they were his first friends. Harry mentioned to us how Ron was his first friend. Ron declared that he was Harry's mate and the rest of us to stay clear of Harry. Ron's the reason Harry knows nothing about our world. Hermione and Ron control everything. If Harry starts asking questions, Hermione and Ron will jump in and stop it. Ever since we returned this year, Ginny has been clinging to him. She followed him for the last few years but Harry can't escape her. We have been helping him." Dean took over the telling.

"Aye, Harry didn't even get any of the muggle-born books. We looked at his letter. He showed it to us to see what he was missing. He didn't get the last two pages. He also didn't get the full clothing list. Mrs. Weasley buys what she feels he needs and he is stuck with his fat cousin's hand-me-downs." Seamus added. "My mum has tried to send Harry things. We have to hide them from Ron and Hermione. Harry has been trying to learn about this world and has a lot of questions."

"You have been helping him?" Severus was trying to process what he was hearing. If Harry was abused it would explain his lack of trust in adults. He also wondered why Harry was denied knowledge of their world. He smelled Dumbledore's hand in that aspect.

"Yes, sir. We saw his envelope when he gave us the list. It was addressed to the cupboard under the stairs. It was his room until his relatives got afraid and gave him his cousin's second bedroom. There are four bedrooms. One for his aunt and uncle, two for his cousin, one for his uncle's sister when she visits twice a year, and he had the cupboard. It was a boot cupboard." Neville looked ready to cry as he informed Severus about this.

"Sir, there is something you should know about those adventures. Something we haven't told Harry about. You see the first year, he went to Professor McGonagall about what was happening, she ignored what she was told. He arrived back with Hermione and Ron. They forced him to go. I heard them and tried to stop them but Hermione stunned me. Harry thinks he went willingly but I saw Hermione cast a spell on him. It got me to wonder about Harry's glasses being repaired by Hermione on the train." Neville was a bit surprised that he was able to speak normally.

"Harry told us how smart she was. He told us how she fixed his glasses. We wondered how muggle-born who isn't allowed to cast spells outside of Hogwarts would know that spell and also get it correct the first time." Dean added.

Neville nodded his agreement. He had been a bit surprised when he learned about the fixing of the eyeglasses. It was a spell when he asked his grandmother, she explained that it was usually only people who specialized in that field or the medical field would normally use. "We know she had Professor McGonagall visit her while Harry had Hagrid. No offense against Hagrid but Harry didn't even know his parents were magical. He was told they died in a car crash, his father was drunk and his mother, well, sir, she was a prostitute."

"I see. Sit down. I have a feeling there is more you three to inform me about." Severus was going to kill a certain old man.

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Several hours later:

Harry woke up. The room was dark. He wasn't in his bed as his bed was a bit uncomfortable. He was warm and comfortable compared to where he normally slept at his relatives. He heard a knock. "Enter."

He was a bit surprised when Severus walked into the room. "How do you feel?"

"Tired. I feel like I fought one of Hagrid's pets and lost." He watched Severus cast a quick spell to light the candles in the room.

"It was the strain of keeping hold of your magic. You did an admirable job despite it leaking out. Most wouldn't have been able to keep control once they started losing control." Severus summoned a chair and sat down next to the bed.

"Thank you, sir."

"We have a few things to speak about."

Harry inhaled. "How many detentions am I serving?"

"For what?"

"I don't know but you usually give them to me."

"Yes, I do. I learned some interesting information from your three dorm mates while Granger and the two Weasleys were being spoken to by Professor McGonagall."

Harry closed his eyes. "You know?" Severus Snape didn't care about him. It was going to be ammo form to be taunted within the class.

"Yes. I did a full medical scan after they left. You will be remaining here for a few days while I fix some of your bones including your ribs. I will be adding a few potions to your diet."

"It won't matter. I will have to go back to my relatives at the end of the year. Dumbledore knows and still makes me go back despite me asking to live anywhere else." Harry refused to open his eyes. The one professor who hated him was the only one who wanted to heal him but it wouldn't matter. His uncle would just break his ribs again and who knew what else.

"You will not be returning. I spoke to Igor. We're going to be taking a late-night visit to Gringotts. There are a few other issues we need to discuss."

"You mean the three pawns and part of the Weasley family that have been trying to control my life? Sirius is a nut case, Lupin is a wimp who won't stand up to Dumbledore, and I know he has smelled blood and heard the beatings."

"Potter, I am honestly surprised. I thought you were a Gryffindor Golden Boy."

"Please, that just keeps me alive. I knew the minute I heard how great Gryffindor was, how amazing Dumbledore was, how evil Slytherin was. I got the hint and pleaded with the hat to place me there. If I went to Slytherin as the hat wanted, I would be dead."

"Why do I feel like you used your three dorm mates to learn more?"

"It started that way. I like them. However, I knew something was off when I heard Molly Weasley rather loudly speaking about muggles and the platform after I asked one of the conductors about the platform. The man gave me a strange look and stated there wasn't such a platform. Added to the fact that she had older children who went to Hogwarts, I knew why was she asking. The next thing, I knew one of them was asking to sit with me. Ron told me the train was full I could see the compartment across from us was empty. It didn't take much to figure out a set-up. Another tip-off was Hermione. While I was impressed she fixed my glasses, I thought about what she said, what I was told, and it didn't add up."

"Solid reasoning. A good Slytherin move too."

"Yes, it was. I didn't want them to find out about the abuse or anything. It was an accident but it worked out well. They have been helping me realize what I was missing. I can't even go to the library without Hermione trying to steal what I'm reading. Ron breaks into my trunk. The three of them steal any letters or notes I get, in some cases while I'm reading them. It's why Dean, Seamus, Neville, and I sneak away. We say we have detentions or even a study group. I say I have detention with you. They never question it because when Hermione does, Ron will start whining about how you hate Gryffindor, and me, especially. The biggest part is listening to her whine about breaking the rules. Which she has no problem doing."

"I'm aware. Neville explained who stole my ingredients."

"Yes, that is what I mean. She does the deeds and I get into trouble, she blames me for getting into trouble and breaking the rules. Do you think it was a bit strange that Hermione made it across the field to set your robes on fire in less than two minutes?"

"She set my robes on fire?" Severus was going to find the worst detention possible and give it to her. Not that she and the other two didn't just earn his wrath.

Harry swallowed. "Yes, I am innocent. I was getting tossed around on my broom."

"I'm aware. Yes, I also find it strange. The same with her receiving a time turner. No other student has been able to do that and it's strictly forbidden." The three boys had explained that Harry had kept them informed of everything. The boys confirmed Harry's fears and Lady Longbottom had tried to get custody of Harry, not that Harry knew, but it was denied.

"I knew it. I knew he had to set up a way to get Black freed. Don't you find it amazing he plans these yearly events and yet is never around when they occur, forcing me to be dragged into them?"

"Indeed I do. I do believe Potter, this year is going to be a surprise for him." The third-year events also became clearer. Lupin never missed his dose yet that one time he did. Black just happened to stay away from the dementors all year.

"He was already surprised I wasn't in the tournament. I never had him grab him before that. He knows how to act the concerned Headmaster."

"I do agree. As the Headmaster, he would know if someone was using strong enough magic to get around the age line." Severus saw Harry yawn. "I will have a house-elf bring you dinner. Eat it, take the potion, and go to sleep. I have already informed Professor McGonagall you will be remaining here. I had Poppy back it up."

"Tomorrow night?"

"Yes, tomorrow night we will go to Gringotts."

Chapter Text

Harry was getting very annoyed. Neville, Dean, and Seamus had been helping him keep away from the trio of idiots. It worked for the most part but it didn't save him in the halls or other areas where they could just surround Harry. Meals were spent with him counting to ten, a lot, to keep control. He was looking forward to Gringotts.

"Harry, are you listening to me?"

Harry had been trying to ignore her since she cornered him in the library. "No, frankly, I haven't. You spent yesterday lecturing me about entering a tournament I didn't enter. Calling me a cheater and a liar. Ron aired my business and called me a fame-monger amongst other things. Ginny, did the combination of things. The three of you were supposed to be my best friends yet it is the three of you who didn't believe me while everyone else did. What does that say about our friendship? I will tell you what it tells me, it tells me that you are so focused on being friends with Harry Potter the brand name, not Harry Potter the person. So consider this notice, we aren't friends any longer. It goes for Ron and Ginny, too."

"How could you? You know we care about you. I only want the best for you. I don't deserve this."

Harry gathered up his belongings. "You three are the first to abandon me when stuff happens. I will grant you stuck around during my second year when I discovered I was a parselmouth but you think it's evil. It's not. Do you know in India it's considered a blessing? It's considered a great honor in China. There are a ton of countries that don't have any type of feelings regarding it. Yet my so-called friends make it shameful. I don't need friends like that." Before Granger could respond, Harry headed to Mrs. Pince to check out his books.

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Harry, under his invisibility cloak, walked to Severus' quarters. He had seen on the map that Igor was already there. He avoided Finch and Mrs. Norris by talking about the secret passages he had found since only a parselmouth could open them. They had to be from Salazar Slytherin. He finally got to Severus' quarters. "Sorry, I'm late. Granger and Weasley were in the common room talking." Harry removed the cloak as he laid the open map on Severus' desk. "They were talking about how to get me back into their clutches. Granger was going to be speaking to Dumbledore about my attitude and how rude I had been. Weasley plans on writing his mother so I will be getting a howler this week from Mrs. Weasley."

"Is there a way we can hear what they are saying now?" Severus was looking at the details of the map. He understood why the Marauders always found him. "Look, there. Barty Crouch and Mad-Eye are in the same room but Mad-Eye isn't moving while Crouch is. When did Crouch arrive?"

"I think we need to expand that area. We can deal with Granger and Weasley later." Igor looked closely at the map.

"It can be expanded. We can also listen." Harry used his wand and touched the room. "Engorgio." They watched the room enlarge. "Audi."

"-need to get him in it. Master isn't going to be happy. How? How?" Barty was pacing they could see. "Master, going to be very unhappy."

"That sounds like Jr, not Sr. Can you expand the name?" Severus looked at the map, the Jr or Sr were missing from the name as the name was off the map. They could only see Crou.

"I'm not sure. Let's try it." Harry put his wand on the name. "Engorgio." They watched the name expand and saw Jr. at the end of the name. "You know who it is?"

"Yes. I know who has been stealing my potion ingredients this year. That is Barty Jr. He is thought to be deceased. He died in Azkaban." Severus was going to find a way to make the man pay for stealing from him.

"We know who put Harry's name in the Goblet. We know he is doing something for the Dark Lord. We need to get Barty under control. If he brings him back now the man will be insane like he was before." Igor didn't need an insane Dark Lord running around.

"I do agree. It's related to getting Harry into the tournament. He must have something planned for the last task. The Dark Lord is very fixed on doing things at the same time each year since he lost his sanity."

"The man is insane?" Harry didn't know that much about the man.

"Yes. I have been researching and looking at a variety of memories. I believe I know how we can fix him and how we can get him back to what he originally was. However, we can deal with that issue later. Let's get to Gringotts." Igor knew Harry and Severus were a bit leery about what he had planned but once he showed them the truth they would understand.

"I would like to see those memories." Severus wasn't about to let an insane Dark Lord return. While he believed what the Dark Lord originally stood for, he didn't like the changes an insane one made.

"I planned on it. We are going to need your assistance if we want a sane Dark Lord."

"We have a few months to plan. Let's go to Gringotts before Dumbledore finds a way to prevent me from leaving here or forcing me into the tournament." Harry wanted to get away from Dumbledore and anything to do with him.

"Agreed. I have arranged to meet with my account manager." Severus pulled down the jar with floo powder in it. "Harry, stay under your cloak and travel with me. It won't register you that way."

"I should warn you I always fall."

"The secret to the floo is to wait two seconds and then walk normally and you will exit standing up." Igor took the floo powder.

"No one ever told me."

___________________________________________Gringotts_________________________

Igor, Severus, and Harry were seated in front of Spear, Severus' account manager. Spear was looking through Harry's files and from the grunting and mumbling in Gobblygook. It wasn't looking good. "I would suggest a full purge, an Inheritance Test, and a Magical Abilities test."

"Why do I need a purge?" Harry was a bit confused. He never heard of a purge. He also realized there was a lot he didn't know about the magical world that Dumbledore wanted him to defend.

Spear handed the paperwork to Severus as he answered Harry. "Based on what we have seen in your account filing, Mr. Dumbledore brought you here on 1 November 1981 and against the Healer's advice placed numerous blocks and suppressors on your magical core. Normally, a small block is placed on babies by the parents to help control a child's magic until they reach about five. Your blocks have never been removed. Since you still have the magical blocks and suppressors, your core would have failed by the time you would have hit your magical majority because your core would try to fight the blocks as it was releasing, creating a backlash in your body."

Harry's eyes went big. Severus glanced at Igor. Igor had heard about the yearly confrontations and knew why they happened. "It explains why he wants the yearly confrontations. He knows and wants you to kill the Dark Lord before it happens." Igor always thought Dumbledore was evil but this was a new low for the man. He purposefully blocked a child's core.

"Indeed. Based on these blocks it explains your poor performance in school. He has a block on your retention of material, a block on your ability to process information." Severus stopped as he looked at Harry's pale face. "They will be removed. I will also be assigning you a lot of detentions to help you relearn all you need."

"Put copies of everything in our vaults." Igor saw Spear nod his agreement. "May we get a purge done tonight?"

"Yes, it will be a long process but we can do it tonight. We can do the Inheritance Test also. While he is getting the purge, I will pull the Potter Wills. Based on the fact that he was entered into the Goblet of Fire and its acceptance I believe we can use it to get him freed from Mr. Dumbledore and his relatives. James never took his titles. He did leave a Will as did Mrs. Potter."

"Never took his titles?" Severus was a bit confused. Why didn't Potter take his titles?

"According to what I'm reading, his father refused to allow it. He believed James was in the thrall of Albus Dumbledore and left Harry as the heir with the seats being left unused until Harry became of age or passed on."

Severus and Igor realized exactly at the same time what was going to happen, what Dumbledore had planned. Dumbledore planned on Harry killing the Dark Lord, followed by Harry's death. When that happened, Dumbledore as the magical guardian would have gained access to the seats and vaults. "Dumbledore doesn't have access to any vault?"

"Only a small one that is for Mr. Potter's care. However, based on your findings, we can return all the funds that were given to the Dursley family, Mr. Dumbledore, Mrs. Weasley, Mr. Remus Lupin, Mr. Ronald Weasley, Miss Hermione Granger, and Miss Ginerva Weasley."

"What funds? My relatives said they weren't getting any money to care for me. I was a burden. Why is anyone else getting money? I didn't even know them four years ago. I certainly don't have the youngest taking care of me. Mrs. Weasley uses my key to take funds out for -" Harry broke down crying. He knew his friends weren't great friends like Dean, Seamus, and Neville were but to find out his first friends were being paid was heartbreaking. Remus was also being paid.

"Harry, drink this." Severus handed Harry a calming draught. He slammed his own shields down over his emotions. He felt sickened by what he heard. He thought they cared about Harry. "Get all the funds and any items that have been removed."

"Let's get this purge done so we can get everything finished before anyone notices we are missing." Harry calmly stated. "That was strong."

"Strongest one I make."

_____________________________________________________________________________

Severus and Igor watched the purge and were surprised at how much magic was released. "He will need help stabilizing his magic. We will have to find a way to cover the instability." Igor watched as another wave of magic surged outward.

"I think we will be having a lot of some much-needed lessons until he can adapt to the new levels of magic. May some of your students assist?" Dueling would allow Harry to get used to his new levels of magic and how to cast. How to gauge his strength and not hold back. Severus always felt Harry held back using his magic.

"They would love it."

______________________________________________________________________

Spear pulled out the necessary tools for an Inheritance Test. "This test will show what titles you might have inherited either by blood or someone willing them to you. I have also combined the Magical Inheritance Test. I just need three drops of your blood, Mr. Potter."

Harry took the silver knife and cut his finger. He let his blood fall into the bowl. He watched the potion in the marble bowl start to bubble. Harry looked at it. "It's bubbling because of my blood interacting with the elderberries, right?"

"Correct." Spear waited a few more minutes until the berries had absorbed the liquid. He dumped the berries on the parchment and using the silver knife that Harry cut himself with, spread the berries over the parchment. "We need to wait for three minutes." Once the time was up, Spear used the knife to scrape the remaining berries into a bowl that he set on fire, the only residue was in the bowl.

Arcturus Harrison James Potter-Black

Father: James Charles Potter
Father: Regulus Arcturus Black
Mother: Lily Rosemary Potter nee Evans

Father: Sirius Orion Black (blood adoption 1 September 1980)

Titles:

Slytherin -Conquest
Gryffindor - Blood (Evans line)
Peverell - Blood (Black, Potter, Evans line)
Black - (Blood)
Potter - (Blood)
Gaunt (Conquest)

Possible:
McHenry
Tilson
Blithers
Olson

Magical abilities:
Animagi transformation
Metamorphmagi
Parseltongue
Legilimency
Occlumency
Magical resistance

Severus and Igor exchanged a quick look. The boxes of rings appeared on the desk, along with vault keys. "Spear, no one is using these seats?"

"Currently, the Gryffindor, Slytherin, Black, and Gaunt seats are being used by Mr. Dumbledore. Normally, there would be an illegal usage mark on the voting but since he is Chief Warlock it hasn't been noticed."

"Why not?" Harry wasn't sure how the Wizenagmot worked. So far he found it confusing.

"As Chief Warlock, he reviews the records before they are released so he is removing the mark."

"How do we get the seats back? Get the records admitted and some of those laws removed. We also need to protect Harry, keep him from being returned to his relatives, and Dumbledore as his guardian." Severus hoped they could get it done. "The returned funds will alert Dumbledore something happened."

"First, in the Wills, it states he was never to go the muggles. The ones listed with the exception of you and Narcissa Malfoy are unable to take guardianship. If Mr. Poter takes his titles tonight we can revoke the laws and he will be an emancipated minor. I do believe if he was declared one, Mr. Dumbledore would find a way to get him back under his control. So my idea is this. Take your titles, also try for the others, the more power you have the better way to protect you."

"How do I know if I can take them?"

"The rings will reject you. It won't hurt because you are a possible heir and you aren't trying to steal the Lordship." Spear explained. "Start with the guaranteed one first."

Harry put the ring on and watched them merge. "You can show which house by either putting your wand on the ring and thinking of the crest you wish to be shown or you can hide them all by using your wand." Severus showed Harry his Lordship ring and how it worked.

"Good. They have accepted you. You can pick an official title when you sit for the first time in the Wizengamot." Spear closed all the ring boxes. "Now, to protect you since you are officially an adult but still underage my suggestion is to pick a guardian who Dumbledore can't control."

"Narcissa Malfoy is listed. Lucius Malfoy isn't afraid of Dumbledore. May I have Professor Snape as a temporary one until we speak to Lord Malfoy?"

"I can hide it for a few weeks with the filing. We can explain away the returned funds by citing the use of the Goblet of Fire. Since the Potter account manager hasn't seen you he would honestly state he hasn't processed any transactions on your account." Spear had already spoken to Ironclaw, the Potter Account Manager, and he agreed to do it.

"Misfile the guardianship papers and Harry's titles. It will buy us more time." Severus would talk to Lucius before the weekend ended. "Since it's early Saturday morning, I might be able to set up a meeting with Lucius for tomorrow."

"It sounds like a plan. He will also be able to help us with the Barty problem." Igor knew Lucius would be able to assist.

"I will send him a letter when we get back to Hogwarts. Harry, you will sleep in my quarters today. I will inform everyone you had a bad reaction to the nutrient potion I gave you. It will allow you to spend the weekend in my guest room. I will send a message to Poppy saying I found you after curfew and am dealing with the reaction. I will give you detention."

"Dumbledore will believe it." Harry smirked.

"We need to return to Hogwarts we have been away longer than I expected." Igor didn't want their plan to blow up in their face.

"We will also discuss your abilities and you will be seeing a lot of us until we can be sure your magic is stable."

"A lot of detentions which isn't new and Granger and Weasley will fall for it."

"Exactly." Severus was going to be giving Harry's fake friends a lot of detentions with Finch and finding the most smelly, disgusting potion ingredients he could find for the ones he would assign to them.

Chapter Text

Harry was sitting next to Neville when the first trial started. They were doing whatever they could to avoid the Bratty Trio. So far things had been going smoothly, no one but Neville, Draco, Severus, and Igor knew that Lucius gladly became Harry's guardian. The last few weeks had been very busy. Severus wasn't able to get away during that first weekend due to Dumbledore. Dumbledore was trying to figure out how to get around the magical contract. Dumbledore kept calling Severus to his office to try and find out how Harry was recovering as well as ruining Severus' plans to get away to speak to Lucius and Narcissa. Severus adjusted potions for Harry to improve his health, height, and eyesight. Severus and Igor worked out a schedule to help teach Harry the stuff he was missing and a dueling schedule to help stabilize Harry's magic.

Neville, Dean, and Seamus earned detention with Severus on Sunday night so they could talk to Harry. It was more of a Bratty Trio latest rants session during the first hour or two but soon the four boys had Severus checking their assignments. The rest of the week Harry had detention which enabled him to avoid the Trio in the common room. At meals everyone surrounded him preventing the Trio from sitting near him. It didn't save him from listening to them rant when they got a chance but he was learning to block them out. The few weeks passed quickly especially after Severus was able to meet with Lucius.

_________________________

"Dragons?" Harry looked at Neville. "I would have been a snack for one."

"Dumbledore was expecting a fourth-year to go against a dragon?" Draco was sitting behind Harry. They couldn't talk in public, yet. Harry didn't want to listen to Weasley and Granger. He also wanted to avoid a trip to Dumbledore's office. Draco also wanted to avoid the Golden Trio of Idiots. Dumbledore wouldn't summon Draco to his office but that didn't mean he wouldn't attempt to grill Severus regarding Draco and Lucius' plans regarding Harry.

"Crackers is what he is." Vincent muttered.

"I'm so thankful I signed that contract." Harry couldn't believe how much his life changed in less than a month.

"Harry, I think Dumbledore knows." Dean nudged Harry.

Harry looked down to where Dumbledore was standing. He was with Fudge and Lucius. Lucius didn't look happy, he was staring at Fudge. Dumbledore was searching the stands until he found Harry. "He knows." Fudge must have let the cat out of the bag.

_______________________________________________________

At the end of the dragon trial Harry and Draco made their way to Lucius. As they arrived Dumbledore was suddenly next to Harry. "My boy, we need to speak." Harry was surprised at how fast the old fool could move when he wanted something. Dumbledore loved to present himself as a harmless old man.

"No, Albus, he doesn't need to speak to you. He only has to speak to you regarding school and I will be in attendance. If I discover you have met with my ward without my presence I will file a complaint and see about removing Harry from Hogwarts. I saw his complete health report." Lucius leaned in a bit close to Dumbledore. "The only reason I'm not filing charges against the muggles is that Harry doesn't want that. It's not because he loves them. It's not because he doesn't wish for them to be punished. It's because he doesn't want to deal with the wizarding world knowing you allowed him to return to an abusive home." Harry had to like how Lucius phrased that. Harry didn't care what happened to his relatives. He didn't want to deal with the wizarding world turning his life into a three-ring circus either. Lucius looked around. "I will also not mention how you kept Harry from his closest magical relative by blood by sealing the Potter's Wills. Do you understand me?"

Dumbledore was furious. "Yes, perfectly. Have a pleasant day." Dumbledore strode away. Anyone who watched Dumbledore was aware that man was furious. If you weren't a Dumbledore watcher it would appear he was walking back to Hogwarts.

"He won't let it go that easy." Harry watched the man meet the Weasley family as they joined him. Harry wasn't surprised to see Hermione was among them. As much as he valued Hermione as a friend despite her being paid he was very aware that the girl would never believe authority figures were in the wrong. Hermione would believe whatever excuse Dumbledore provided for stealing from Harry's vaults.

"No, which is why I have these for you and Draco." Lucius pulled out two rings from his robe pocket. The rings were silver with an onyx stone in the center. They were on a silver chain. "The ring and chain are charmed so only someone in the Malfoy family, an adult, can remove them. They are port-keys to the Manor if anything happens. The passcode is I want to go home."

"Easy to slip into a conversation without anyone knowing you activated a port key. Nice."

Severus joined their little group. Igor and Severus had been keeping apart from each other as they didn't want to give Dumbledore any idea that they were working together. "He seems a tad upset. Lucius, when you have time preferably tonight, we should talk." Severus tilted his head toward Mad-Eye who was joining Dumbledore and the Weasleys. The Dumbledore click was going to have a meeting regarding Harry it would appear.

"I shall be available."

______________________________________

Harry started talking to Viktor about some new spells that Viktor had him read about last night when the Bratty Trio appeared in his line of sight. "How could you do that?" Granger stomped her foot, her arms were crossed in front of her chest.

"Do what? Eat?" Harry was only halfway through his plate of food. It was the normal dinner time he wasn't sure what Granger was upset about. He had been too engaged in his conversation with Viktor. "Viktor was telling me about-"

"You know what. Having a Malfoy as your guardian. You're a traitor." Weasley almost screamed as spit came out of his mouth.

"I have him as my guardian because no one you would consider acceptable did a thing about getting me away from my relatives. It's over and done with, I would like to continue my conversation with Viktor."

"Harry James Potter, Lucius Malfoy isn't an acceptable guardian and you know it." Granger stomped her foot.

The Bratty Trio was about to expose his business in the Great Hall. "It's none of your business. You three aren't my friends, you three have no voice in what I decide." Harry stood up. "Viktor, it appears we won't be able to continue. I'll talk to you later. Since Snape just left the hall perhaps he will let me start my detention early."

Harry ignored the protests of the Bratty Trio as they followed him to the dungeons. As they entered the dungeons Harry heard Petrificus Totalus. Harry dodged the spell and instead of engaging the three of them, he started to run to Severus' office. He was almost there when he heard Petrificus Totalus again. Harry dodged it but slammed into Severus' office door. As he slid to the ground he, again, heard Petrificus Totalus. Before the Bratty Trio could cast a levitation spell Severus had his office door opened, his wand out. He took in the scene. "You three, detention for the next week with Mr. Filch, 50 points each from Gryffindor for attacking a fellow Gryffindor."

"What? That isn't fair." Weasley whined. "We were just trying to talk to Harry."

"You're right, 75 each and two weeks." Severus removed the bind. "Potter didn't even have his wand out. I will discuss this with Lord Malfoy and see how he feels about it."

Harry stood up. "You chased me down the hall and cast the spell three times. I told you I didn't want to speak to you. You followed me trying to get me to talk. I don't want to talk to the three of you."

"Leave before I remove points for being stupid."

Harry glared at the three as they left. "I didn't want to use my magic, in case-" Harry said once they were in Severus' offices.

"Wise decision. We don't need Dumbledore knowing that your binds are removed. He wants to see about getting your guardianship back. However, you don't have to worry, Lucius has all the correct paperwork and will prevent it."

"What if he doses me with a potion or uses a compulsion?" Harry pulled out his wand as Severus set up a few items on the table. Harry began to work on transfiguration.

"You will be examined before any changes are made. Dumbledore doesn't know that so he might try it." Severus watched Harry. "Don't hold back. If you hold back, you will never adjust."

"I think I might need a new wand. This one is fighting me a bit and it also feels like my magic is congested." Harry wondered if his wand was the reason for the binds. Fawkes only gave two feathers and those feathers were in his and Voldemort's wand. There had to be a reason.

"The binding could have affected the affinity of your wand. We will have to make a trip to Ollivanders over the holidays." Another item to mention to Lucius. Harry needed a new wand.

"He will try something to get me to either remain here or go to my relatives." Harry knew things weren't going to go smoothly. It would be a mess with his type of luck. He wondered if the Potter family was cursed with bad luck.

"We will be ready. He believes Igor and I don't like each other. He believes that Lucius and I are only associates to enable me to be a spy. I need to leave soon to meet with Lucius. I will walk you to the Slytherin common room to prevent anyone from seeing you enter. I believe Neville is already hiding in there." Severus was going to use every advantage they had to protect Harry and keep him out of Dumbledore's hands.

Harry smirked. It was where Neville, Dean, Seamus, and a few others hid away from the Bratty Trio. There were also some Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs. The Ravenclaws would help the younger years with their assignments if the Slytherins had time. Slytherin House had opened their common room for anyone who wanted to escape Dumbledore. Harry thought their new group showed that the houses could get along if people like Dumbledore and Weasley stopped seeing things in absolutes. "Granger was trying to check my work again. They aren't taking we aren't friends for an answer."

"Dumbledore has been pushing them to reconnect with you. Molly is making you a new sweater and baking for you."

"I guess I know what I won't be wearing or eating."

Severus arched his brow. Harry was turning into a Slytherin.

Chapter Text

Harry glared at Granger as she began to lecture Harry about staying at Hogwarts for the Yule holiday. "It's for the greater good."

"Yeah, Harry, we are staying." Weaslette tried to sit down next to him but Neville wouldn't move so and pushed her off of his lap.

It took every fiber of Harry's being not to respond: "That is why I'm leaving."

"It will be fun, mate. We can find something fun to do."

"I've got detention with Snape." Harry got up and nodded to his true friends. They would be heading to Slytherin common room soon.

"Again? Why can't you stay out of trouble." Granger huffed.

"It's Snape, he hates Gryffindor and especially Harry." Weasley commented.

Harry was aware of what they were doing. They were trying to become friends with Harry by ignoring everything they had done to him and what he had told them. They were counting on Harry not wanting to lose their friendship. He knew they were following him, again, as he made his way to Severus' office.

"Followed?" Severus didn't even look up from the essay he was correcting.

"Yes. They have been pressuring me to stay at Hogwarts. Harlot sat on Neville."

Severus truly wondered about Gryffindors. It seemed to him that whatever they didn't like that they would ignore it and act like it didn't exist or didn't happen. "I arranged for us to go looking for potion ingredients. Igor and his students, along with some Slytherins, will meet us at his boat. Lucius has arranged for you to get a new wand but not use Ollivander during the Yule holiday."

"Good. I don't think this wand can take much more. I had to stop in DADA because the wand was getting hot."

"I want to see about working on wandless." Severus thought Harry could do it. "Also, Igor is going to show us the memories over the Yule holiday. Igor is going to inform Dumbledore that he needs to return home for a few days. Lucius has arranged for a wandmaker to arrive after Yule."

Harry pulled out his map. Severus and he began to check the area around the dungeons for the trio. They could see small groups heading out of Hogwarts.

_____________________________________________________________________

"Harry, I want to speak to you in my office." It was the day before they were to leave for the Yule holiday.

"I'll let Lucius know. When do you want to meet, sir?" Harry lowered the book he had been reading.

"I was hoping we could talk. There is no need to involve Lucius."

"Sorry, sir, but I'm not going to meet with anyone without someone to represent me."

"Harry, you know the Headmaster has only your best interest at heart." Granger magically appeared behind Harry.

"Granger, it doesn't concern you." Harry got up. "Sorry, sir, but I don't appreciate being ambushed like this. I'm not meeting with you without Lucius as any other student is entitled to."

"I don't know why you don't trust me. Harry, I would never hurt you."

Harry looked at Dumbledore. His face reflected the shock he felt. He finally recovered when Granger said, "Honestly Harry, you're making a big deal out of nothing. The Headmaster only wants the very best for you and we care about you."

"NOTHING! He let me be abused." Every single student in the Hall turned toward them. "I asked countless times not to be returned and he sent me back every time. You honestly expect me to believe that he wants the best for me? How much is he paying you now that he isn't able to gain access to my vaults? Well, Granger, how much? You, Weasley, Weaslette, and their mother certainly were making a killing. How much did he bribe you with?"

"Harry, this isn't the time or place." Dumbledore wasn't sure how Harry found out. This wasn't good news and he certainly didn't want it announced in the Great Hall. Yes, he had the notices but he had been trying to regain control and thought the goblins hadn't told Harry.

"Oh, yeah that is right, we are missing the rest of your thieves. Where are they? Waiting up in your office? More potions and compulsions? YOU BOUND MY MAGIC!" The ground started shaking, the windows were rattling, breaking glass could be heard. Severus didn't waste any time when he arrived and stunned Harry. Draco had run to him. Draco had informed him that Dumbledore and Granger were double-teaming Harry. Severus had ordered Draco to floo his father. Severus cast a quick cushioning spell as Harry started to fall.

"What is going on?" Lucius stood in the doorway of the Great Hall.

"A slight misunderstanding with young Harry losing control of his magic." Dumbledore wasn't happy about what he heard or seeing Lucius in the doorway.

"I'll take Potter to my quarters. I will give him a calming draught." Severus cast a quick levitated spell and together the three Slytherins left the Great Hall with a floating Harry behind them.

Once outside in the hallway, Severus stopped. "Draco, see if you can get one of our mutual friends to come to my quarters."

"Yes, Uncle Severus." Draco knew where he would find Neville, Dean, and Seamus. They would be hiding in the library until he could sneak them into Slytherin.

Lucius and Severus didn't speak. They finally got to Severus' quarters. "How bad?" It had to be bad if Draco got him.

Severus guided Harry over to the couch. "Bad, everything was shaking, some windows broke. I think if I hadn't stunned him the ceiling would have broken. I don't know what happened exactly but Draco did say Dumbledore and Granger tried to pull him into a meeting and gave him a bit of trouble when he mentioned you. That is when he left to get me and you." He started to get Harry under some blankets. "He is going to be exhausted. He has been controlling his emotions, despite how much he has been pushed by them."

"I'll get the boys' memories. Let's remove the stunner but get a calming draught into him first. I will take him home tonight." Lucius had been speaking to Igor and knew that Barty was still trying to figure out what to do. Igor mentioned that during the first trial that Barty had been close to the contestants and he believed that Barty might have used something on the Hufflepuff. He wasn't sure, however.

"I'll tell Dumbledore you insisted. I expect Molly Weasley will be sending him a sweater loaded with compulsions and potions." Harry was looking at them with a dazed expression and glassy eyes. "Harry, stay on the couch for a few more minutes. Lucius is going to take you home."

"I am aware. I will be giving it to Amelia." Lucius had gotten a letter from Harry about it. Harry had sent it with Draco's letter.

Draco arrived with Neville, Dean, Seamus, the Patil Twins, and Susan Bones. "They wanted to check on Harry."

"Also to give you our memories." Susan added. "I'll be speaking to my Aunt when I get home tomorrow night.

"Me too. My Gram already wrote and said she supported Harry."

Lucius gave a slight smile. You couldn't buy this type of support. "I'm taking Harry home tonight, Longbottom, Thomas, and Finnigan can you gather his stuff."

"Harry had it already packed. I had Dobby get it for us." Neville pulled out Harry's shrunken trunk. "Figured it was better than taking a chance that Ron would do anything to it."

"Yeah, he hasn't been subtle in his dislike of Harry's not being his friend." Dean had seen Ron do some incredibly cruel and mean things to people. "He has been pleasant to Harry's face but when Harry isn't around he is picking on anyone he believes is weaker than he is."

"Granger and Weaslette aren't much better with their talk about getting Harry fixed." Neville rolled his eyes.

"Let me get Harry home and I will write to Amelia and Augusta tonight."

__________________________________________________

Harry was sitting at the breakfast table when a howler arrived. Lucius and Narcissa disabled the howler part and it turned into a letter. "It has to be from Molly Weasley." Harry poked it with his knife.

"Don't spoil your breakfast. It can wait to be read."

"I know what it's going to say. It's going to be exactly what her son has been saying. How my parents would be so ashamed of me. How I'm letting Sirius, Dumbledore, and the rest of them down. Her demand for me to either remain at Hogwarts or go to my relatives."

"How many have you gotten?" Narcissa was a bit surprised.

"Every Wednesday since I was entered into the tournament. When they learned about my being Lucius' ward it went to Monday and Friday. I wrote the dates down in one of my notebooks. I expect, however, that one is going to address me calling them thieves."

"It's the truth. I do believe we will need to speak to Amelia and Ironclaw about the thefts and seats. Dumbledore, I'm sure, will make his way to Gringotts to see how much you know."

"I thought so. Well, I guess we can get those laws revoked."

"There is a positive spin on it." Narcissa gave him a smile. "Igor will be here tomorrow. We can speak to Amelia once we get that Weasley sweater."

"You think they will still send it?" Harry wasn't sure if they would. Dumbledore might stop it because of his outburst last night.

"Yes, I do. He won't expect us to check it. He will expect you to open it." Lucius gave him a slightly reassuring smile. "Harry, he can't do anything. He won't make a bold move because he is fearful of his use of your seats and the thefts will get out. It is why he will use Molly Weasley, potions, or compulsions."

"True. However, he really does think he is above the law. He thinks he is Merlin."

"He is a lot like a Slytherin but his Gryffindor side rules." Lucius thought that summed up Dumbledore. "Give me the dates of the letters and we will submit that information to Amelia too."

Harry handed the letter to Lucius. Lucius opened it.

Harry James Potter, I'm so disappointed in you. Calling us thieves, disrespecting the Headmaster like that. You should be ashamed of yourself. The way you are treating your adopted family with so much ungratefulness is amazing. Your parents were dedicated Order members and to have their son throw their values back in our faces is sickening.

You will return to Sirius' house and apologize for your disgraceful and disgusting behavior. I expect to see you on the platform tonight to take you to Sirius' house. After your apology, you will return to your relatives for the remainder of the holiday.

Mrs. Weasley

"Lucius, I know Sirius is my godfather but how much trouble would Dumbledore be for hiding him? Also, the three Aurors who also know where he is?"

"Oh, Harry, I do like that idea." Narcissa faced her husband. "I do believe Dumbledore won't be able to get out of that by saying it's a slight misunderstanding."

"Indeed. Is he protected?"

"Yes, under Black wards at a Black house and a Fidelius. I read all the information I could find regarding a Fidelius Charm and since I claimed the Black Lordship, I can evict them all. If I give Madam Bones the rough address and kick them out when they are there she can arrest them."

"I will make the arrangements."

Chapter Text

Lucius warned Severus not to spend the night at Order Headquarters, not the man usually did. However, he did do some potion work in the basement and they didn't want Severus to get caught. Severus had already informed Lucius that there was going to be an Order meeting that night since Harry left Hogwarts. Dumbledore had made arrangements to spend the night as he wanted to be able to get Sirius to Gringotts in an attempt to regain control over Harry. Dumbledore didn't want to take a chance of Sirius doing something stupid which Severus fully understood as he thought Sirius' name should be changed to Moron.

**************Flashback*******************

Severus went to dinner in the Great Hall. Lucius had left with Harry two hours ago. Poppy signed off on releasing Harry to Lucius' care. He watched the three idiots make their way to the Gryffindor table, no one made room for them so they ended up sitting at the end of the table by themselves. Severus took his seat. Dumbledore was already present which wasn't surprising.

"Severus, why didn't Harry come to dinner with you?"

"Well, it would be senseless for him to return from Malfoy Manor for dinner to return to Malfoy Manor afterward." Severus enjoyed rubbing that in the man's face.

"He didn't have permission to go. Lucius had no right to take him."

Dumbledore was about to get up when Poppy spoke. "I permitted him. After the calming draught, his emotional and magical outburst, Potter was not going to be up for attending the Leaving Feast tonight nor the train tomorrow."

"I also agreed." Minerva raised an eyebrow as if daring Dumbledore to try and do anything about it. "What you and Granger did was uncalled for Albus and you know it."

Severus didn't comment but watched Dumbledore give his usual line of "it's a slight misunderstanding. I'm sure once Harry returns, we can work it out." Severus wanted to laugh. Harry wasn't the Golden Boy Dumbledore was expecting him to be. No, Harry was proving to be a much more interesting version of a Slytherin Potter. Severus spent the dinner time listening to the gossip. Everyone was talking about what they heard and what they had confirmed by friends. Those friends just happened to be Neville, Dean, Seamus, most of Igor's students, and the rest of Harry's true friends.

************End flashback*************

Lucius, Narcissa, and Harry arrived at Grimmauld Place. Amelia with her team of Aurors and ward breakers were waiting. It was three in the morning but everyone was awake and eager to do this.

"Hello, Harry. Do you know what you need to do?" Amelia was standing with one of the goblin ward breakers.

"No, I just know that I'm Lord Black and that is my house they're using. Dumbledore never asked permission nor did he seek it after Sirius Black invited them to use it. Sirius Black never asked me either."

"Are you sure Sirius Black is in there?"

"Yes, Dumbledore has been making him stay hidden there." Harry wasn't sure if Sirius would get a trial now. He was sick of the man not listening to him when he did speak to him. He also was tired of Sirius trying to turn him into James Potter. Remus wasn't much better. They knew he was being abused and said just keep your head down or it won't be for long. Harry's personal favorite was Dumbledore knows what is best, we need to listen to him.

"Lord Potter-Black, it's simple. When the time is right you will call on magic. I will guide you through the steps while they set up everything."

Harry could see ward breakers and Aurors were spreading around the street. Lucius guided them to roughly where the house was while Narcissa took another group around to the back of where the house would be. Harry read what the goblin showed him and together they went over the words and how Harry needed to phrase it and what he needed to do. "So, what happens if I mess it up?"

"Nothing. It will just change how the ward reacts to you. Nothing dangerous can happen with this ritual since you are calling on strangers to be evicted from your house. If it wasn't your house then there would be issues."

Harry smiled. "Thanks, Grinder."

"You are most welcomed. I will inform Madam Bones we are ready when she is."

Harry remained where he was as he watched everyone moving around, getting ready. He wasn't worried about anyone inside the Black house hearing anything as the wards prevented that. He knew no one would be awake either.

"You ready, Harry?"

Harry jumped a bit as he didn't hear Lucius come up behind him. "Yes, sorry, I was thinking."

"You don't have to do this." Lucius looked at him. "I don't want you to if you are having any doubts."

"No, not that kind of thinking. I was thinking about how they don't care about me, the real Harry, I mean. It's about Harry Potter. How I need to be like my father, you know things like that." Harry leaned in closer. "Not to mention their stealing."

Lucius smirked. "Very true."

"We're ready. Harry, I'm going to have you behind a shield. I don't want Dumbledore or anyone to see you here."

"Yes, let me take the blame." Lucius knew Harry had to return to Hogwarts and didn't want him to have to deal with a hostile Dumbledore.

"He can see through things like that." Harry warned. "Mad-Eye can too."

"Not this type. It's made of metal, not magic." Amelia pointed to where a goblin was standing holding up a shield. "They are aware of Dumbledore's glasses." Amelia was looking forward to arresting Dumbledore. She knew those glasses were dark magic and illegal. She also couldn't wait to have him arrested for aiding and abetting a criminal.

Grinder waved Harry over. "Now, you say the spell and hide behind here right after it."

Lucius was standing next to Amelia with some Aurors. Narcissa joined Harry. Harry began. "I, Lord Arcturus Harrison James Potter-Black, son of James Charles Potter and Regulus Arcturus Black, call upon my birthright in reclaiming my house. I have granted no entry to all including those of my blood. I call upon Lady Magic to evict the interlopers. So mote it be."

"Perfect." Narcissa moved next to Grinder as Harry hid behind the shield. Nothing happened for a few seconds then suddenly there were people being tossed out of the chimneys and onto the streets. Everyone started screaming but the Aurors stunned them as they were trying to get up. Dumbledore and a few others didn't move as they didn't want to be stunned.

Dumbledore started demanding what was going on as Aurors brought Sirius Black around from the back of the house. "All of you are under arrest for harboring a dangerous criminal, aiding and abetting in his continue escape from Azkaban, and failure to report his whereabouts. Tonks, Jones, Kingsley, Mad-Eye, you are also under arrest. Do not for a minute believe you will have your jobs if you manage to get out of this."

"Sirius is innocent." Weasley started screaming as one of the Aurors went to cuff him. "Pettigrew is alive. He didn't betray the Potters."

"He is. You can't arrest us. Sirius was never even given a trial." Granger so helpfully added.

Dumbledore closed his eyes as Amelia turned her full fury on Dumbledore. "Albus, if I find out that you knew he wasn't given a trial and you withheld this information, kept him hidden, I will press every single charge I can think of against you." She looked over her shoulder. "I want them checked for port-keys, additional wands. I want anything and everything checked. Check his glasses too."

"Amelia, I'm sure we can work this slight misunderstanding out." Dumbledore tried to give her his twinkling eyes but since it was dark out it wasn't working that well.

"No, Albus, we can't. You are under arrest. Cuff them all with magical suppressors." Amelia looked at the people she was arresting. The Weasley family, four of her Aurors, Minerva McGonagall, Dumbledore, Mrs. Figg, wait what was that squib doing here? Dung? She had a lot of questions she was going to be asking.

Dumbledore noticed Lucius. "Where is Harry? What did you do to him? This is your fault. You had to do something to Harry. Amelia, he removed Harry from Hogwarts last night without my consent."

"I'm aware. Madam Pomfrey gave her consent as well as Professor McGonagall. Potter is safe."

"You must check Harry. He has done something to him." Dumbledore struggled in the cuffs trying to prevent being dragged away.

"Take him away." Amelia's grin turned feral as she looked at Lucius. "I want everything on my desk by the end of the day tomorrow. You know he is going to try everything. I want the accounting and anything else I can nail him with."

"I will have it delivered today. I will be including the letters, the dates, and accounting."

"Good. I've waited for years for this." Amelia was a very fair person but had watched for years how Dumbledore would make excuses for those he felt were light and would find ways to get them off of their charges or those he felt he could use later. Dumbledore had no problem having those he thought were dark, poor, or of no use being sent to either Azkaban for life or be Kissed.

"He is already planning on claiming Black is innocent of framing the Potters. Harry told you about their third year, Pettigrew, and the time turners."

"Yes. I can nail him with that information. He could have submitted the memories as evidence at any time. He also could have arranged a trial by simply showing that Black didn't have one. He is Chief Warlock and has been for over a decade. I want to find out why Black wasn't given a trial."

"Sirius wasn't given one so that he couldn't claim custody of me." Harry spoke from behind them. "Sirius is my uncle and godfather. Lily wasn't my mother. Regulus was. Dumbledore did it to keep me away from our world, from Sirius, and from anyone who would want to find out what truly happened that night."

"I believe Harry is speaking the truth. Even if he knew Lily wasn't Harry's mother, James' mother was a Black. Harry had some magical family. Dumbledore just didn't want to give custody to what he considers dark." Lucius had tried to get custody by Dumbledore and the Wizenagamot was sending almost anyone they could to Azkaban.

"I will speak to the Goblins. I know the Potter Will was sealed. I checked earlier today. Something Dumbledore said about the muggles made me wonder." Amelia was going to be arresting the muggles later in the week. She didn't want to do it to earlier as she didn't want Dumbledore to be aware of what was going on.

"It's a bit nippy out here to keep chatting. Why don't we all head home and speak later in the afternoon." Narcissa suggested as everyone was finishing cleaning up the bed linens and anything else that came out of the house with their owners.

Harry yawned. "Thank you, Madam Bones. Tell Susan I said hi and Happy Christmas."

"I will inform her. I shall see you soon, Lucius. Happy Christmas."

Chapter Text

Lucius was sitting in Wizengamot waiting for Dumbledore to be brought in. He had spent the morning with Madam Bones, along with some Aurors, and DoM personnel. The Wizengamot had decided on the course of action they would be taking regarding Harry Potter and Sirius Black. They had been reviewing everything concerning Sirius Black’s lack of a trial and the Potter estate. Harry Potter would remain under the guardianship of Lucius Malfoy. Madam Bones had spoken to Harry with a few members of Social Services present. Harry had already told them how much better his life was. Harry was aware of Lucius’ background. Harry explained war had two sides and each side had their views. The winners were the ones who declared how the history books recorded the events. The Social Services agents were happy with Harry’s attitude and care.

The Wizengamot agreed to clear Sirius Black after learning the truth. They reviewed the memories of the night of the Potters’ death and the events in the cave, where they saw Peter Pettigrew was alive. Once Black was cleared, he was shipped to the Janus Thackery Unit for help at the Ministry’s expense. The Ministry and Wizengamot worked out a settlement agreement between the Ministry and Lucius Malfoy acting on behalf of Sirius Black. Black wasn’t even close to being sane but he would get help. The Ministry would pay 13 years of back pay, reinstate Black’s pension, and 1,000 galleons for each year Black served in Azkaban, plus another 1,000 for the Dementors' damage. Once the man was declared sane and able to handle working, he would be offered a position in the Auror Corp based on his abilities.

Lucius arranged for Black to have a private mind healer. He wasn’t sure where the man would stand once he knew the truth. Lucius agreed with Harry that Black deserved a chance to know the truth and decided for himself. Lucius believed that Black was always going to support Dumbledore regardless of what they showed the man. He hoped that Black would see his nephew and godson first, not Harry Potter, not James Potter, and he hoped that Sirius would see the truth about Dumbledore.

Lucius wasn’t worried about Black trying to gain custody of Harry. Harry had made sure to have any change of guardianship tested before it could happen. Lucius added extra protection to Harry’s vaults, including blood testing to remove anything more than 100 galleons a month. The testing had to be done in Gringotts and it would include a test for any outside influences.

Dumbledore had spent the night in the holding cells along with the rest of the Order. Many were surprised at who Madam Bones had arrested. Everyone knew Mad-Eye was Dumbledore’s number one nut case but they weren’t expecting to see Kingsley Shacklebolt, Nymphadora Tonks, Professor McGonagall, and the Weasley family, except for the twins, Bill, Charlie, and Percy.

Charlie was in Romania. Bill had been working at Gringotts. Percy had started to distance himself from the family so he had remained at the Burrow when the family was at the Black Family house. The twins had also remained at the Burrow that night. The twins had been researching some of their pranks so they remained at home where their mother wouldn’t be able to prevent them from experimenting.

Last night or early this morning depending on who you asked, Dumbledore had started to make demands as soon as he had arrived at the Ministry. He demanded to be released along with everyone in the Order. He started to demand how Lucius was able to find the Black Family house. He refused to believe that Lucius didn’t do something to Harry. He started to demand that Lucius produce Harry. Dumbledore refused to accept that he was under arrest and demanded to see the Minister after they were released for their cuffs.

Molly Weasley wasn’t quiet either. She was screaming about how Lucius was a Death Eater. She was screaming about Death Eaters and that Lucius had to have killed Harry. If Harry wasn’t dead then Lucius must have put him in some dungeon and tortured him. Her two children back her up as well as Granger. Madam Bones had arrived with the rest of the Aurors before anyone in the Ministry could obey. Since most of the ones who remained behind in the Auror Corps were trainees, they weren’t sure of what to do. They had been having a small debate when Madam Bones and the Aurors arrived.

Madam Bones had personally escorted Dumbledore into his holding cell. Lucius arrived as she closed the door and put up the protective wards. Dumbledore had been claiming it was a setup by Lucius to ruin their names despite the fact he was caught in a Black family house. Dumbledore was demanding that they find Harry. Dumbledore wouldn’t shut up until they put up a silencing spelling around his holding cell. They did it with all the Order members’ cells. Molly Weasley’s voice was giving everyone a headache.

Lucius, Madam Bones, and Minister Fudge knew they wouldn’t be able to do much to Dumbledore as he would rely on his image. An image that Dumbledore had spent over fifty years of building. It started before he even defeated Grindelwald. They had already heard from numerous Lords and Ladies who sat on the Wizengamot about how much Dumbledore had done over the years. They knew they couldn’t do much in the way of charges to Dumbledore but they were going to destroy the Order.

The Aurors opened the doors and the prisoners were escorted in. Dumbledore was leading the way. Dumbledore was looking around for Harry and Black. Lucius saw the man smile a bit thinking that Black and Harry had to be together. He couldn’t wait for Dumbledore to learn the truth. Lucius knew that Dumbledore had worked hard on trying to create a bond between Harry and Black. However, Harry didn’t have a bond with the man because he never got to spend any time with Black. Dumbledore had kept them apart for Harry’s safety when he returned Harry to the Dursleys for the summer.

Dumbledore and the rest of the Order were escorted to the front of the Wizengamot. All of them were forced to sit on a wooden bench that had been brought into the room for this session. The Order members had their hands chained and still wore magical suppressor cuffs. They had been given robes to wear. All the robes were basic formal black robes.

Minister Fudge rose. “Before we hear from you, we have reached a few decisions that you must be aware of. Black has been admitted to the Janus Thackery Unit where he will remain until he is cleared by three Mind Healers who are not involved in his healing process or in any way involved in the Order of Phoenix. Auror Kingsley Shacklebolt, Nymphadora Tonks, and Hester Jones have been terminated from the Auror Corps. Arthur Weasley has been terminated from his position in the Ministry; it will not affect his son, Percival Weasley. We have spoken to the members of the Board, many of whom are on the Wizengamot. Professor Albus Dumbledore and Professor Minerva McGonagall, pending our decision here today, will be on suspension for six months and when they return to Hogwarts, probation for ten years. The details will be given to you before you leave here today.”

“Are we to have no one to defend us? We aren’t allowed to have a defense?” Dumbledore asked as the Order members mentioned looked resigned. Someone had put a silencing charm on Molly and Ron Weasley who were trying to scream but their mouths were only moving. “We haven’t even been aware of what we are being charged with.”

“This is your chance to keep yourselves out of Azkaban. We have reviewed the memories submitted of the events last night, along with the accounting history of Harry Potter. Gringotts representatives were here this morning demanding that we turn over you, Dumbledore as well as Mrs. Weasley, Ron Weasley, Ginevra Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Remus Lupin.” Madam Bones knew that Dumbledore wasn’t expecting her to reveal that information. She was willing to be that Dumbledore wasn’t even aware that Harry had been to Gringotts and knew the truth.

Harry had already explained he didn’t want Dumbledore to be aware of his knowledge. He thought it would be safer if Dumbledore believed that Lucius arranged all the events. Lucius agreed with Harry as Harry explained about his years at Hogwarts. Madam Bones and Minister Fudge, after learning the information, agreed and decided they would work with Lucius on slowly bringing Dumbledore up on charges.

“It’s a slight misunderstanding.” Dumbledore smiled. “I’m sure once I speak to Harry it will all be resolved.”

“Dumbledore, as of now, you’re forbidden from speaking to Mr. Potter without his legal guardian present. This restriction includes if you can return to Hogwarts.” Madam Bones handed the paperwork to Percy Weasley to file. “His muggle relatives will be arrested today for child abuse. Their arrest has been placed under secrecy wards with a gag order in place for anyone present here today. The wards also affect all of you as you entered here. The news might break in the muggle world but since you refrained from releasing the family’s name we believe no one will associate it with Mr. Potter.”

“Harry wasn’t abused. It’s all a slight misunderstanding. His relatives love him. He needs to return there for his protection and theirs.” Dumbledore gave his best grandfather’s face. “His mother’s protection must be renewed each year. We can’t allow Lily Potter’s sacrifice to be ignored. It has kept Harry safe from Death Eaters and will protect him from Voldemort.”

Everyone did the normal flinching when Dumbledore mentioned the Dark Lord’s name. Dumbledore believed no one said the name because they were afraid of it. However, no one said the name because anyone who knew Black Magic knew a name was a powerful thing. Dumbledore just didn’t want to admit it. Dumbledore had spent so much time blocking magic that many of the younger ones weren’t even aware of how much damage Dumbledore was doing.

Madam Bones and others wanted to bring magic back. Some magic needed to be carefully watched and monitored but not all magic was Black Magic nor was it dangerous. Dumbledore had placed their world so far behind in magical world standings. The DoM had been keeping track of the magic being lost to the younger generation.

“Dumbledore, it has already been proven. We have the medical records from Gringotts and Hogwarts as well as memories and funds that went to the family. The money they spent on their child while abusing Harry.” Madam Bones knew Dumbledore was surprised when the man looked at his usual supporters who were now glaring at the man. Why they didn’t think the Order or Dumbledore was dangerous, everyone believed that abuse was a very serious offense. “Now, we have summoned you here to discuss the dissolution of the Order of the Phoenix.”

“The Order’s goal is to defend us against Voldemort and the Death Eaters. We are working to create safety for our world, to keep everyone safe from wizards to muggle-born.” Dumbledore’s voice was laced with self-righteousness. The man had been using the same attitude for over twenty years when it came to Death Eaters and the Dark Lord. It was a voice he had developed to show he wasn’t afraid to stand up for what he felt was dark or even wrong. He used it to get people to support the bills or ideas he put before the Wizengamot.

Madam Bones resisted the urge to smile. “You-Know-Who has been gone for 13 years. There hasn’t been any Death Eater activity yet you have allowed a child of two magical beings to be abused. You have kept him away from his magical family by sealing his parents’ will, unaware of his heritage, and his duties to his house. We have heard the wills that stated his parents didn’t want their son to go to the muggles. You have removed funds from his trust account that went into the vaults of Molly, Ronald, and Ginevra Weasley, Remus Lupin, and your vault, how is that protection?” She handed the files to Percy, who placed the evidence in front of Dumbledore. She had already filed the reports with the muggles. The goblins had agreed to follow their lead as they also believed Dumbledore still had too much power.

Dumbledore smiled. “James allowed me access to the vaults. He permitted me. I placed Harry with his muggle relatives for his protection. It was a time of confusion and I didn’t want Harry to be in danger because of revenge for Voldemort’s defeat. The Longbottoms felt the result of the Death Eaters.”

“The ones responsible for those actions were arrested and have been serving their sentence in Azkaban. The attack also happened three days after the deaths of the Potters, which gave you plenty of time to retrieve Harry Potter and place him with the correct guardians that the wills listed.” Lady Marchbanks was the head of Child Services and had interviewed Harry earlier about his years at the Dursleys. She wasn’t very happy as she had spent several years trying to find out where Harry was. Dumbledore had denied her access.

“According to Gringotts, James never had control over the Potter vaults nor was he declared Lord Potter.” Madam Bones wanted to dance. She had been waiting for years for this. She knew Dumbledore was the reason her brother and his wife were killed. They ignored her advice and instead followed Dumbledore’s advice about how they were safe in the muggle house. Dumbledore had removed the Potters from Potter Manor to Dumbledore’s house in Godric’s Hollow. “Lord Potter also stated in his will that his grandson was to control his seats and that they would remain empty until his grandson was able to take control of them.”

Dumbledore looked a bit surprised. He finally noticed Lucius who was now sitting in the Chief Warlock position. He glared at the man. “I do believe Lucius Malfoy has been using his influence on his new ward in some pathetic attempt to gain control over our government for his master, Voldemort. The Potter seats were assigned to me by James Potter after his father’s passing.”

“James Potter never had permission to use those seats.” Madam Bones knew that Dumbledore was going to play the innocent act. While he wouldn’t be charged, it was a step in the right direction of getting rid of the man. “However, we had Mr. Potter tested earlier today, by Gringotts; he was clean of potions, compulsions, and spells.” She enjoyed watching Dumbledore looking surprised that she had him tested.

Lucius remained quiet. He wasn’t going to voice his opinion of Dumbledore’s antics. Dumbledore would expect him to be the one to voice any dirt on Dumbledore. Most of the Wizengamot still supported Dumbledore even if they didn’t like this newest information. All of Dumbledore’s supporters believed that Dumbledore was doing everything for the greater good. It was going to take time and patience to destroy the hold the man had over people. Most of the British Magical World either went to school with Dumbledore or had been a student of the man. Granted as a Headmaster, Dumbledore didn’t associate often with Slytherins but he still influenced a lot of the lives of the students who attended Hogwarts in the last seventy to eighty years.

“How about the yearly events you have allowed three students to endure? We saw the memories where you claimed Professor Quirrell was the possessed form of You-Know-Who yet you nothing during that year to stop the possession. The wards would have alerted you to the fact a professor was possessed. Professor Quirrell was killed in June of 1991. You reported to the Board that the man disappeared.”

Dumbledore looked surprised for the first time. “He was burned to death by the power of Lily Potter’s love. It’s the power that keeps Harry safe. It is the same power that refreshed each year when he spends his summers at his relatives’ house.”

Madam Bones had been expecting that answer. Harry had warned her that Dumbledore would use that excuse. She ignored his response. “There are memories of you knowing about a Basilisk that was the reason for the petrified forms of students yet you allowed the students to be endangered. We have the memories of Mr. Potter fighting the Basilisk combined with the medical report supporting that Mr. Potter was bitten by the Basilisk and that Fawkes healed Mr. Potter. There are also the memories of three students being protected by Remus Lupin as they faced off against Sirius Black, who you were aware didn’t get a trial. The three students and Professor Snape were almost bitten by Mr. Lupin when the man forgot to take his potion. None of these experiences were reported to the Board. Now, we would like to know how someone was able to enter Mr. Potter’s name into the Goblet of Fire. We have received a copy of the contract showing that Mr. Potter did not know his name being submitted.” Madam Bones handed a copy of the contract to Percy to make copies for the Wizengamot to read.

“We haven’t figured that aspect out. We have been researching how anyone could have accessed the Goblet.” Dumbledore smiled at the Wizengamot. “The contract was presented and Harry was able to safely be withdrawn from the tournament.”

“Yes by signing something he shouldn’t have had to worry about.” A member whispered to a friend but since no one was speaking it was heard.

Madam Bones held up a time turner. “I’m sure you are aware of this? It was given to a third-year student by you and Professor McGonagall.”

“Yes, a student signed up for all of the electives. I obtained permission from the Ministry.” They had found the permission and it was signed by Fudge but Fudge and Umbridge didn’t remember seeing the form. They certainly would have never approved it if they were aware of it. “I couldn’t deny the brightest witch of her generation her desire to learn.”

Madam Bones sighed; she knew she couldn’t push what they learned today. They needed to build a stronger case. “What we have mentioned here is what has led to your suspension and probation. You will obey the guidelines the Board will provide you with. Besides, the funds will be returned and the restriction regarding Harry Potter will remain.”

“Surely Arthur and the rest can return to their jobs. Since Sirius was innocent they didn’t do anything wrong.”

“They are fired. All of you were aware of Sirius Black’s innocence. Anyone of them could have come forward, including you, and rectified the situation. We have not placed any restrictions on any future jobs they can obtain in the private sector but none of them will be eligible to work in the Ministry, the Wizengamot, or for Hogwarts.” Madam Bones had already drawn up the forms. She waved her wand and everyone’s chains disappeared. “The younger Weasleys and Miss Granger will serve community service during their holidays. They will owe 500 hours for their involvement in this case. Your Order is also not to reform nor is its members to join another organization with the same goals as the Order of the Phoenix has. ” She nodded her head and Percy stepped toward each of the newly released criminals.

“Mr. Weasley is handing each of you the guidelines for whatever action has been assigned to you.” Fudge announced. “If at any time while you are under the guidelines you break the law we will revoke the suspension of your sentences and we will punish you to the full extent of the law.”

“Aurors, remove the silencing charms.” Madam Bones could see the Aurors didn’t want to but they obeyed. “If any of you object, we will rethink the sentences and it won’t be so nice.”

“Amelia, surely we can discuss this.” Dumbledore looked at the members of the Wizengamot.

“It was already decided before you entered the Wizengamot. You might be thankful that we decided against sending all of you to Azkaban. Aiding an escaped criminal is illegal as well as hiding one and so is covering up abuse.” Madam Bones’ voice was filled with steel. “I’m sure the goblins would love to discuss the vault situation.”

When Molly went to speak, Arthur yanked her close to him. “Molly, this isn’t the time.” He warned as he faced the Wizengamot. He knew they all could have been tossed into Azkaban. “We thank you for allowing us so many leniencies.”

“Dad, you’ve been fired.” Weasley whined.

“Yes but we could have been sentenced to Azkaban. Be thankful we haven’t been.” Arthur glared at his son. “It’s time to head home.”

The Order members left without speaking. They recognized they were getting off very easily. None of them wanted to risk being sent to Azkaban. Dumbledore was pulled away by Minerva before he could speak again. They could hear Minerva warning Dumbledore about how easy they got off.

______________________________________________

Lucius waited until everyone was gone before he rose from his seat. He felt proud they had accomplished so much already. Harry was protected and Dumbledore was somewhat neutralized. Madam Bones had done what she could without revealing everything they had on Dumbledore. While she did make Dumbledore aware of some of the information, Dumbledore was going to believe he got away with his crimes. They would be able to use the information against him later when his reputation was soiled a bit more.

Lucius walked out of the Wizengamot and headed for the lifts. He would be home in time for dinner. Severus was going to bring Igor. They needed to work out how to handle Barty and what was needed for a sane Dark Lord. Things were progressing rather nicely.

Chapter Text

Lucius finished informing Severus and Igor about his successful day in the Wizengamot. Six months without Dumbledore or Minerva at Hogwarts. Lucius explained that Severus would be in charge while they were suspended with Filius acting as the Deputy. Filius had his goblin obligations to uphold.

"We will have to work fast to get stuff reinstated." Severus knew Dumbledore would blow a gasket when he returned to find the classes returned but they needed to be brought back to Hogwarts.

"Agreed. Most of the Board has wanted them returned so that won't be an issue. Our big issue is what are we going to do about the Dark Lord? The ritual the Dark Lord was going to use was easy to figure out. The problem arose in that Harry isn't an enemy."

"The other problem is a crazy Barty and an insane Dark Lord. They needed to find the correct ritual to bring the man back but as a sane person." Lucius had been researching for a ritual while Severus researched a cure for either man, if possible. Igor was sneaking in any ingredients or items needed by Lucius or Severus.

Lucius had the books opened on the table in his study. He had found three rituals that would work. "I am not sure which one is best without knowing his mental and physical condition."

"I ran into the same issues. I found a rather lengthy list to use on Barty depending on his actions outside of him pretending to be Mad-Eye. The Dark Lord, I'm unsure." Severus placed a thick stack of parchment on the table.

"I believe we need to find a way to get Barty away from Hogwarts and discuss the situation with him. Perhaps bring him to my boat?"

"We would have to arrange it while Dumbledore won't be around. He is going to poking his nose into others' business since he won't have anything to do official. I do expect him to reform the Order." Severus was looking to attend any Order meeting Dumbledore would create. He thought they were all a bunch of idiotic sheep. He wondered how they would like to spend a day or two as a sheep.

"I couldn't get him completely out of Hogwarts. Many still think he is the new Merlin." Lucius didn't push the issue. He was actually delighted to discover that Madam Bones didn't care for the Dumbledore and was willing to work on removing him. "Any idea why Amelia doesn't hold Dumbledore in high regard?"

"I think it has to do with her brother and his wife. They had gone to Dumbledore and wanted to get a Fidelius Charm placed on their home after they heard about the Potter and Longbottoms. Dumbledore claimed there was no reason for it." Severus remembered how Edgar pleaded for Dumbledore to cast the spell. He had already arranged for a secret keeper. "Dumbledore believed that because the Bones family was Hufflepuffs and not in the Order they would be safe."

"The man is an idiot. Edgar and Amelia were just out of Auror training." Lucius knew the Dark Lord didn't target the family because they were a threat. Edgar had taken a minor supporter and his family to Azkaban. The Death Eaters wanted revenge and the Dark Lord agreed. It was a war.

"Amelia has made a career out of being fair. When she nails Dumbledore using our evidence, no one will blame anyone but Dumbledore." Igor was still very angry at Dumbledore for forcing him to provide the names of Death Eaters. Sadly, for Dumbledore at least, Igor only gave him minor supporters who were already known to the Ministry, along with Severus.

"Back to the subject on hand. This weekend would be good. Barty will need to discuss the situation with the Dark Lord and we will have to research." Severus knew Dumbledore was going to try and get involved with Hogwarts since the man would still be residing there. He hoped he would be present when the gargoyle would reject Dumbledore from the Headmaster's office.

"We have plenty of time as I believe based off of Harry's information nothing will happen to the end of the year. Madam Bones is investigating those yearly events. She was very interested in the second-year event. It turns out that the basilisk is why Hagrid's wand was snapped."

"He might be able to get a wand now?" Severus wasn't sure if that was a good idea or not. While Hagrid wasn't a bad sort, he wasn't trained.

"She is also looking into why he was hired as a professor with his lack of being able to use magic. I expect it's going to lead to all of his hirings." Lucius was going to make sure all the staff was vetted. "I do expect Dumbledore will try and convince Harry to remain at the Weasleys during the summer. He is also going to try and get Harry to be friends with the three idiots." Lucius had discussed the issue with Harry when he had arrived home from the Wizengamot. Draco and Harry actually got along rather well now that Harry wasn't following Dumbledore's plan.

Draco had even suggested having a few of Harry's friends over. Lucius was a bit surprised when he learned one of them was Neville Longbottom. When Harry agreed, they went off after dinner to set up a time and day for everyone to arrive. Lucius knew that Harry's friends supported him but to have them to willingly come to his house meant Draco was accepted into the group as well as many of the other Slytherins. He had never thought the house lines would be crossed.

"Dumbledore will also put pressure on Harry to forgive his friends and to forget about the funds, the binding, and anything else he can think of. I will expect him to use guilt and expect Harry to bend to his will." Severus fell for the ploy for years. Dumbledore would guilt him into doing things and he would do it.

"I am aware. It's why I made sure to have it officially documented that Dumbledore can't meet with Harry without me being present."

"The more evidence we have the more will believe us. Harry standing up to Dumbledore in the Great Hall is already creating a divide in the school." Igor had listened to his students and compared the attitude of Gryffindor before and after the Goblet of Fire. Sadly, it wasn't looking promising for Gryffindor house.

"Dumbledore has worked hard for over a decade to his keep his name linked with the Potters. When the Daily Prophet runs their story on today's session plus the students' rumor mill, it will create a big divide and people will want answers." Severus knew Dumbledore had relied on Harry obeying him.

"I will create a list of rituals and spells for Barty to review. Barty should be willing to listen to us." Lucius knew Barty was a loyal follower of the Dark Lord but he was a caring person.

"It would provide some leverage for Barty if he had a list ahead of time. Since we don't know the mental status of the Dark Lord, it would be best. I do believe that the rat, Pettigrew, is with him." Severus wanted a few hours alone with the rodent.

"We can have Barty give us his memories and judge what potions." Lucius was thankful it was Yule. They had a lot of things to get done before Harry went back to Hogwarts. Most of it was making sure Harry was protected. "I'm going to take Harry to Gringotts to get some protection jewelry out as well as an emergency port-key besides the one that will take him to here."

"Excellent idea. His rings will only do some much." Severus didn't trust Dumbledore to not arrange a kidnapping of Harry. "I would have Harry do one in Parseltongue that no one else can remove. Dumbledore might use some of his Order members to kidnap him."

"I have that on the list. Narcissa suggested it earlier at dinner."

"We should head back. We don't want Dumbledore to wonder where we are."

"I agree. He might check your boat if he doesn't find you. I will message you if I notice Dumbledore leaving at set times."

"Barty usually heads out every other Sunday to go someplace so we just have to grab him when Dumbledore isn't around." Igor was glad he made Harry sign that contract.

"Sounds like a plan." Lucius bid his two fellow Death Eaters good night.

Chapter Text

Severus and Igor waited in the Forbidden Forest for Barty to make his way out of Hogwarts wards. They didn't want to delay the man too long as they weren't fully aware of the man's mental clarity and didn't want to get Barty cursed. They know the man would be heading out between lunch and dinner time since no one would miss him since it was the weekend. They saw the man pass Hagrid's hut. They could see Hagrid watching Barty as Mad-Eye head into the forest. They didn't move and waited until Hagrid returned to his garden. As soon as Barty got close, Igor and Severus stepped onto the path. "We have to talk." Severus gave Barty a hard stare as Igor spoke.

"I don't have time to talk to any Death Eaters."

Severus pulled out his wand and wove a secrecy spell around the three of them. "What Igor was trying to say, Barty, is we need to speak to you before you visit the Dark Lord."

They watched Mad-Eye change his face to a more relaxed face as a smile appeared. You could see the real Barty in Mad-Eye's face. "I see."

"Yes, we are aware he is attempting to return. We want to aid in the recovery process. However, we need to share a few things between us, including Lucius." Severus held out a few vials. "These are our memories, some of them are Harry's. Have our Lord view them. We can meet during the week at Malfoy Manor."

Barty took the vials. He looked over his shoulder. He looked at the vials. He could see Potter's name on some of them. "You have Potter's?"

"Yes, he is willing to aid our cause. His memories of his childhood and his years at Hogwarts are in those vials. Harry wanted Lucius as his guardian." Igor held out the paperwork for Barty to review. He knew this was a big game-changer for the Dark Lord and his plans.

Barty quickly scanned the paperwork. He handed them back to Igor. "I will inform the Dark Lord."

"It is all we ask. You can send us messages using Harry when school restarts." Severus knew Dumbledore wouldn't think anything of seeing Harry and Mad-Eye speaking. If anything, Dumbledore would encourage it. "We don't want to delay you too long."

"Thank you. I will inform you of his decision." Barty left the secrecy bubble and headed a bit further into the ways and apparated away.

Severus looked at Igor. "I hope that will change the man's mind."

"I believe it will. You can't use that ritual when you don't have an enemy." Igor smiled a bit. "I believe he will also be impressed by what Lucius was able to accomplish."

They cast a quick invisibility spell and headed back to Hogwarts. They didn't want Hagrid to see them and report their activity to Dumbledore. Dumbledore was roaming around Hogwarts and Severus had caught him a few times staring at the gargoyle, who refused to admit Dumbledore. When Dumbledore saw Severus, he usually wished him a good day and walked away.

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Lucius was watching Harry and Draco play a short game of Quidditch. He smiled as he saw Blaise show Neville how to handle his broom better. The Weasley twins were laughing at some joke one of the Patel twins was telling them. He hadn't expected the Weasley twins to arrive at his house. The Weasley twins had informed their mother they were going to visit Neville as they wanted some help with their herbology lessons. Once at Neville's, they came to Malfoy Manor. Harry had been thrilled when they proclaimed they were his friends and Harry couldn't get rid of them that easily.

"It's nice to see them all getting along." Narcissa sat down next to her husband. Lucius was sitting on one of the softly padded garden benches. They were in the glass sunroom. "I have hot chocolate ready for them when they are finished. I believe it will be soon as the warming charms will be wearing off."

"It is nice. I know Dumbledore won't want to see it. He has pushed that Slytherins are all dark." Lucius wasn't sure how the Dark Lord was going to view their memories and kept his concerns to himself. He had a feeling that his wife shared those same concerns as well as Severus and Igor. They all remembered how crazy and demented their Lord was before he attacked the Potters. Harry's first year also didn't present a good impression of the man's sanity.

"It will work out. I believe Lady Magic on our side." Narcissa gave Lucius' hand a small squeeze of reassurance. "I believe we can fix our Lord. We just have to protect Harry from Dumbledore."

"I plan on visiting Gringotts tomorrow. I will also be getting protection gear for Draco. Grandfather had a few necklaces that would work." Lucius didn't believe that Dumbledore would go after his son but desperate men will do desperate things. He didn't believe Dumbledore was desperate but as the year progressed it would get worse for Dumbledore and he didn't want to tempt fate.

"Excellent." Narcissa picked up her book.

They just enjoyed watching the kids from numerous families having fun. Some were half-bloods, some muggle-born, and some pure-blood. Narcissa wondered how Dumbledore would react to that type of photo emerging from Malfoy Manor. It couldn't be done now as Dumbledore and the Weasley family wouldn't react in a good way as well as some of the crazier Death Eaters. They were hoping once the Dark Lord's sanity issue was resolved they could work on fixing the others. At the top of Narcissa's list was her sister, Bellatrix.

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Harry and Draco were dreading arriving at King's Cross. They weren't worried about anyone seeing them together. They were more concerned with the potential scene that they felt Molly, Ron, and Ginny Weasley with Granger might create. They wouldn't escape a visit from the annoying trio once they were on the train.

Draco and Harry were wearing one necklace but two charms were on them. One was an emergency port-key and the other had all the latest protection charms. Severus, Igor, and Lucius helped Harry translate a lot of the protection charms into Parseltongue as well as a notice-me-not charm. Lucius added some blood protection to the necklace to prevent anyone from being able to remove the necklaces from the boys.

Draco and Harry landed at the apparition point in King's Cross and moved out of the way. He had asked Lucius if all magical families arrived that way. Lucius explained that they usually did because if all the wizarding families the platform entrance the muggles would surely notice the vast numbers disappearing into the wall. While most were pure-bloods or even half-bloods that used the apparition point, he pointed out that muggle-borns could get floo access. Harry wondered why the Weasleys still used the platform entrance but stopped that train of thought as he recognized it as another way for Dumbledore to control his life.

Everyone heard the Weasley family as they arrived via the floo access. The twins had informed Harry that their father had found a great job he loved working in a wizarding factory that he was being trained to work with muggles that bought their products. Their father was happier then he had been when he worked for the Ministry. They did warn Harry that Ron and their mother had been so irrational about Harry that no one in the family dared mention Harry's name for fear of setting them off which would get Ginny and Granger started. They hadn't heard anything from Lupin but Dumbledore had been over a few times. Dumbledore was still discussing Voldemort with their parents but they were obeying the new decrees as far as the twins knew.

Harry saw the twins roll their eyes in the direction of their mother. Harry tensed a bit, hoping she and her two youngest wouldn't make a scene. His hopes died as he watched Granger spotting him and started storming her way over to him. The rest of them followed. He felt Lucius put his hand on Harry's shoulder and Draco moved to stand next to Harry, with his mother behind him. Harry felt like it was going to be the face-off of the decade. Granger froze as she realized Harry had the three Malfoys standing there ready to support Harry. Molly Weasley almost walked into the back of Granger. Molly stepped around Granger and kept moving. Her two youngest trailing in her wake.

"Harry, don't say a word. Let their actions speak for them." Lucius cautioned.

Many were watching the developing seen including Lady Longbottom, who moved to stand next to Lucius, shocking Lucius. Molly grabbed Harry and yanked him to her. Harry cried out in pain. "You ought to be ashamed of yourself, young man. How could you do that to the Headmaster after all he has done for you?"

"Mrs. Weasley, let my ward go." Lucius couldn't believe the woman dared to lay a hand on Harry.

"How could you have allowed yourself to be corrupted by such filth as Lucius Malfoy and his ilk." Molly was shaking Harry, causing many to wonder if the woman had lost her grip on reality. "You are nothing but an ungrateful, little brat. You got my husband fired from his job. The Headmaster and Minerva are suspended because of you. Sirius, we don't even know where he is. He could be getting tortured by Death Eaters because of you. As if anyone in their right mind would believe Sirius would prevent the Headmaster from visiting."

Lucius wanted to curse the woman as he witnessed Harry being treated like a ragdoll. He couldn't because Dumbledore would turn it into something else, even using the Malfoy/Weasley family feud. He was about to respond when John Dawlish made his appearance. "Release the boy, Mrs. Weasley." John had his wand pointed at Mrs. Weasley. "You were warned about this. You are under arrest for assault on a minor." He nodded his head to his partner, who forcibly removed Mrs. Weasley's hands off of Harry and cuffed the woman as she started screaming about Lucius, Death Eaters, and corrupting Harry Potter.

The two youngest went to defend their mother but the twins had put a silencing spell on the pair while Percy had done it to Granger. "I believe it's time to get on the train." Percy looked at his siblings and Granger. "Now." Once the annoying trio started for the train, Percy faced Lucius. "I apologize for my mother's actions. I wasn't aware she would attempt anything like that. Harry, I'm sorry. I wish it I could have stopped it from happening."

"Accepted, thank you, Weasley." Lucius gave a slight tip of his head.

"Thank you, Percy." Harry gave him a slight smile. Percy started for the train. Harry had a feeling the Weasley family was going to become very divided because of their mother.

Narcissa pulled out her wand and ran a scan. The crowd was busy gossiping as they got their children onto the train. "Lucius, I want to take the boys home. We can use the floo to get them to Hogwarts."

"I agree. Severus will want to run his own scans."

They escorted the boys back to the apparition point. They knew Rita was going to write about this, especially after she read the arrest reports.

Chapter Text

"After you are finished eating, you can fly for about an hour." Narcissa had run a scan on Harry and healed the bruising that Molly Weasley had left behind on Harry. She left the kitchen and headed to Lucius' study. She found him speaking via the floo to Madam Bones. "I have the results."

"Amelia, Narcissa ran a health scan on Harry when we got back. She has the results."

Narcissa walked closer to the floo. "Amelia, she left some bruises and Severus will have to give him some ligament potions to restrengthen the ligaments and bones that he had spent the last few months building up the strength in. I will be sending Poppy and Severus the results so they can monitor the required potions that will be needed." Harry was a strong boy but years of malnutrition had destroyed so much of the body's natural bone and muscle development.

"I will send a message to Severus and alert him to the issue regarding Molly Weasley. I'm sure he will be able to open his floo access once you alert him that Harry and Draco are with you and why."

"We will speak to Severus next." Lucius wasn't about to take a chance that Dumbledore would use them not informing Severus about the changes and attempting to use it has a way to get off of his suspension. If anyone could think of finding a way to use what happened at the platform as a way to get off of his suspension Dumbledore would.

"I will file everything. Narcissa, please send me the scan when you can."

"I will send it today via our owl." Narcissa was going to use Lucius' owl as the owl was vicious and wouldn't allow anyone to interfere with delivering any item he was charged with delivering.

"I will stop by your office before tomorrow's Wizenagmot session and sign the reports." Lucius wanted everything to be official and he was also going to see if Madam Bones would speak to Sirius Black about everything. He knew Harry wanted his godfather in his life but was also willing to cut the man out if he followed Dumbledore's idea of him returning to the muggles. He was hoping that Black would listen to Madam Bones.

"Thank you, I will see you tomorrow. I have a meeting with the Minister. I will also mention-"

"Madam Bones, there is a situation in Knockturn Alley." A voice spoke out of sight.

"I have to go." The connection was broken before Lucius or Narcissa could respond.

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Harry and Draco were walking with Lucius and Narcissa toward Hogwarts. They were going to use the floo but Severus wasn't in his office or quarters when they attempted to reach him. Draco was talking to Harry about getting a project done that they wanted to do for Charms. "How about if we-".

Lucius groaned as he moved. He opened his eyes and saw Narcissa was face down on the ground near him. Draco was a little bit away from him but Harry was gone. Lucius sat up slowly. He looked around and still didn't see any sign of Harry. He got up and sent off a Patronus to Severus and one to Madam Bones. He woke Narcissa up. Narcissa ran to check on Draco. Severus arrived as Draco was waking up.

"What happened?"

"I am not sure. We were talking and next thing I know we are face-down on the ground and Harry is missing." Narcissa watched Draco and Lucius as they were looking around. "We didn't see anyone."

Severus cursed a bit under his breath. Madam Bones arrived with three Aurors. "Lucius? Narcissa? What happened?"

"We aren't sure. We were walking and the next thing I knew we were face down on the ground and Harry was gone when we woke up. Severus just got here a few seconds before you did." Narcissa hadn't cleaned the grass and dirt off of their clothing.

"There are no footprints or anything." Lucius added as Draco joined him. "We didn't see anyone."

"Run a magical residue scan as well as pull the ward reports for Hogwarts and see if any unauthorized entrance." Madam Bones ordered. Two of the three Aurors started doing their assignments while the third was taking notes.

As they were talking Mad-Eye apparated just outside of the wards. He hobbled over. "What did the Death Eater do, Amelia?"

Severus and Lucius looked at Barty. The man had to know what happened but he couldn't break from his role. "Harry Potter was kidnapped."

"You mean by the Death Eaters standing in front of us. What did they do with the boy? Where is he now? You can never trust a Death Eater." Mad-Eye looked at them. He gave them a slight half-smile that no one but Lucius and Severus could see.

"They didn't do anything, Mad-Eye. They were knocked unconscious and Harry was taken." Madam Bones rolled her eyes. "Why don't you escort the Malfoy family and Severus into Hogwarts while we work the crime scene? We will speak after we get our results."

Once they were walking, Lucius looked at his wife and tilted his head at their son. Narcissa nodded her agreement. "Draco, how about we go and get some tea ready in Severus' quarters? I'm sure you know where the biscuits are."

"Yes, Mother." Draco understood that the adults wanted to talk. Normally, he would have protested a bit but he felt it was about Harry and he wanted Harry to return more than fighting to be involved in what was about to be discussed.

Once Narcissa and Draco were far enough away, Mad-Eye sighed. "I tried to warn Severus but I didn't have enough time. Dumbledore planned the kidnapping. He set up a trip ward that released a knock out spell. He and Molly arranged it all while he had me set up the location for Harry. He has him at an isolated summer home in Darnick. It's a village near Melrose. I don't know who owns the cottage but I do know it's not Dumbledore's."

"Will Harry be able to use the port-key to get away?"

"He should once he wakes up. Dumbledore has Molly brewing some potions for him." Mad-Eye looked at Lucius. "He wanted Molly to find a way to keep Harry from getting on the train. He said he would keep Severus busy so that you would be forced to apparate to Hogsmeade and walk to Hogwarts."

"He hasn't given him any potions as of yet?"

"No. They came up with this half-baked plan two days ago. I left enough of his magical residue on the house, the port-key that they used, and on the rocks that they used to set the trip ward. They returned with them so that once anyone does any magical testing on Dumbledore it will be linked to him."

"Is there a way to alert the Aurors without revealing you're not Mad-Eye?" Severus was going to kill Dumbledore as slowly and painfully as possible.

Mad-Eye looked over his shoulder to where the Aurors were working. Madam Bones was reading some parchment. "I might be able to." He reached into his pocket. The three men turned and headed back to Madam Bones. Mad-Eye hobbled over to the stones that the Aurors were searching. Severus noticed some stones were down in an area that didn't have any stones. "I see dark magic over here."

Three Aurors and Madam Bones were in the area investigating. One was running some scans on the area. "It's a trip ward."

"Gather up all the stones and give them to the DoM to run magical residue scans and see if they can link it to any we have on file." Madam Bones ordered. "Anywhere else, Mad-Eye?"

Mad-Eye looked around the area. "Something by the bridge." Dumbledore and Molly had hidden by the bridge. "On each side. Come, I'll show you."

Lucius and Severus remained with Madam Bones. "Dumbledore?" Lucius asked.

"I hope not but honestly, wouldn't be surprised. He is so set on having Harry Potter under his guardianship. He was in my office daily trying to find a way to get you and Narcissa removed as Harry's guardianship. He even filed paperwork signed by Sirius. It was denied since Sirius still hasn't been cleared by a mind healer. I'm not even sure who allowed Dumbledore access to Sirius but given that most of our world has been students at Hogwarts and had him as their headmaster, it will be hard to discover who did allow him access to Sirius."

"Yes, it would. He would have made sure they would feel they were doing everything for the greater good." Lucius was aware of how Dumbledore operated. He had watched the man work the employees in the Ministry for over a decade.

"I can speak with Minerva and see if she is aware of properties that Dumbledore might have access to." Severus was going to provide the location to Minerva if he had to. He hoped that Dumbledore didn't move Harry once Harry woke up. Dumbledore preferred to use homes that he had control of the wards. He began to make a list of places he knew that Dumbledore might move Harry to. It wasn't a long list but if he put the house under a Fidelius Charm it would be almost impossible to find out the location.

"We need to speak to her so we might as well make our way into Hogwarts." Madam Bones had all her paperwork in her hand. "Finish up and I will see you at the Ministry. Mad-Eye, are you going to join us?"

"Yes, Amelia, I am." Mad-Eye started walking toward the group leaving the few Aurors behind him who were looking for any evidence they could find. They didn't want to be held responsible for anything that might be missed in such a high profile case of the kidnapping of Harry Potter. They could earn a sanction in their files or worse, fired from their jobs.

Chapter Text

Igor and Severus met outside Severus' office. Igor waited until Severus weaved a privacy charm. "Lucius and Narcissa went to their Manor hoping that Harry will be able to use the port-key. Draco is up resting with Poppy. I gave Minerva enough hints on where Dumbledore might have taken Harry. She went off to the Ministry to speak to Amelia."

"No chance of Dumbledore slipping Harry any potions?"

"No, Barty said it was a hasty plan and not enough time to craft any potions. If he did, I'm sure Lucius will get him purged."

"Yes, after a visit to the DMLE." Igor was hoping Dumbledore tried to give Harry a potion just to watch the man squirm attempting to explain how Harry was given potions as well as the kidnapping.

"I hope they find him quickly. The longer he is away the easier it will be to give Harry potions and get him completely twisted around. It would also give him time to get Harry to Gringotts and rescind the guardianship from Lucius. Dumbledore would use the time and potions to get Harry back to how he wants the boy to be and then allowing the potions to wear off and bring him to Gringotts before Harry could realize the truth. He might keep Harry unconscious until the potions are ready."

"Let's hope Harry uses the port-key before things get out of hand."

Severus had a feeling Harry was going to do something unexpected.

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Harry groaned a bit as he woke up. His head was killing him. He opened his eyes but didn't recognize where he was. The room was dark and no one was present. He got off of the bed and crept toward the windows to see if he could see anything familiar. He knew the chances were slim since he rarely traveled anywhere with his relatives nor anyone in the magical world. It was dark outside, no lights could be seen. He wasn't sure if he was still in the magical world or not. He couldn't see any houses. He put his hand up to his neck and felt the necklace.

Harry wasn't sure who kidnapped him but he had a very good feeling that it was Dumbledore. He also realized rather quickly that Dumbledore had to be using one of his properties. Properties that he had taken control of but the goblins hadn't informed Dumbledore that he had taken control. Dumbledore would believe that Lucius controlled them and that Lucius wouldn't be aware of all the properties, only the Potter and Black properties.

Harry wasn't sure of the time but figured he had a few hours before Dumbledore and most likely Molly Weasley would check on him. He began to search the room before finding the bedroom door open. The rest of the house was also dark and empty. He felt to see if he could feel any wards. He smiled as he realized he had control over the family wards. There were a few that would prevent him from using magic or even apparating out of the house. Time to make it interesting Dumbledore. Harry began his work.

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Lucius smiled. "Harry just arrived." He was thankful Narcissa insisted on getting the port-key out of the vaults and give them to Draco and Harry.

"Excellent. Shall we?"

Lucius held out his elbow for his wife to take after he stood up. They found Harry in the foyer removing his boots which were covered in mud. "Sorry, but I had to walk through some bogs before I could use the port-key." He didn't move from where he was sitting as his trousers were covered in mud too.

"We are just happy you are safe and you could use the port-key. The Aurors have been looking for you." Lucius saw Narcissa clean Harry's clothes with a cleaning charm. "Did you see who did this?"

"I didn't see anyone. I didn't see any cottages or anything else either." Harry stood up. "What did they use on us? I have had a slight headache and a bad taste in my mouth since I woke up."

"We haven't heard an answer on that as of yet. Come, let's get you some food."

"May I have some chicken? I have been craving it all day."

"Certainly." Narcissa smiled. Once settled in one of the sitting rooms with a tea tray for Harry, Narcissa did a quick medical scan of Harry. "No potions, no compulsions, a slight concussion which is why you have the headache. The bad taste is from the knockout potion they used with the trip ward."

"We can use that. How do you feel about staying here a few days making Dumbledore sweat it out?" Lucius wanted Dumbledore to wonder what happened to Harry.

Harry grinned. "Excellent idea especially after what I left them to discover when Dumbledore returns to the house." Harry put some mustard on the chicken sandwich on his plate.

"They left you alone in the house?" Lucius was a bit surprised. "We have confirmation it was Dumbledore and Molly Weasley from Barty but nothing we can legally use as of yet."

"Interesting. Yes, when I woke up the house was completely dark. I decided to ransack the house before leaving it. When I got outside, I realized there were some more wards installed and had to walk for a while to get out of the wards. I believe he was hoping no one would notice the cottage or it's occupation since it was so isolated. There were wards were there just to keep me from leaving the house but it was my house so I was able to leave."

They were making plans when they heard the floo activate. Severus appeared in the flames. "Lucius?"

"We are here, Severus, step through."

Severus disappeared and soon the man was in the room. "Harry?"

"Hi."

"How long have you been here?" Severus looked at Lucius and Narcissa. He was relieved. He wasn't sure where Dumbledore might have taken him and wasn't sure if Harry would be able to leave. He had lost a lot of faith in Dumbledore and was still wondering what else the man might have done to keep control.

"About five minutes. I was in a cottage out in a very rural area with huge bog and apparition wards. It took me some time to get to an area where I could use the port-key."

"Tea, Severus?" Narcissa offered.

"Please." Severus took a seat as Narcissa prepared his tea. "Tell me what happened." Harry explained what happened once he woke up including ransacking the house. "Dumbledore is going to go crazy wondering what happened and where you are. He won't be able to call in Aurors since he is wanted for questioning in your kidnapping. Did you see anything that would indicate that Dumbledore or Molly would return there or had been there?" Severus glanced at Lucius. The man didn't ask Harry what Harry might have discovered in the house. Severus learned Harry had to have ransacked the house for more than one reason.

Harry smiled as he pulled out an expandable pouch and held out the pouch for Severus to take. "What did you find? Why did you not mention it earlier?" Lucius wondered what Harry discovered.

Harry laughed. "You still think I'm a Gryffindor."

"He's not a Gryffindor. He had to have more than one reason to ransack the house." Severus opened the pouch. He saw a variety of scrolls and parchment.

"How long can you remain?" Narcissa wondered if she needed to get Severus' room ready.

"Not for much longer. I expect Dumbledore will want to call an Order meeting. We can review what you discovered tomorrow. I'm sure be is going to want me searching for Harry."
_______________________________________________________________

Severus wasn't surprised when he returned to Hogwarts to find Minerva waiting for him by the front doors. "Albus returned about an hour ago. Amelia just left and she isn't happy. We have a meeting with the old crowd in an hour."

"What happened?" Severus could have sworn he heard Minerva growl. When he left Hogwarts earlier, some of the Aurors were still searching the area around the bridge.

"He actually is claiming that he doesn't know where Harry."

"Evidence?" Dumbledore didn't technically lie. Harry did disappear on Dumbledore. Severus had a thought and would mention it tomorrow to Lucius. There might be a way to get Dumbledore into trouble for all of it. Since Harry didn't see who kidnapped him, there wasn't much evidence against Dumbledore or Molly.

"Plenty of it from what Amelia stated but nothing that linked the kidnapping to anyone so far. According to Albus, the dark magic residue seeped into the magical signature and they can't match it to anyone without having a dark magic signature to compare it too. It appears that due to the fact that dark magic corrupts a magical signature."

Severus wondered where that theory stemmed from as it wasn't even close to the truth. Dark magic was just magic but the signature would be different on one layer due to it being a different branch of magic.

"Amelia is going to turn the signature over to the DoM. She didn't buy Albus' excuse for lack of locating a signature. It's total hogwash and he knows it. It's why I know he is responsible."

"What do you believe happened?"

"He used either Mad-Eye or Molly or both of them to get it done." Minerva sighed. "This is not going to be good. I just hope nothing happened to Harry as Albus doesn't know where Harry is."

"The Aurors?"

"Amelia mentioned they would be getting a list of houses from Gringotts that Harry or his family owns as a way to clearing some people. Albus doesn't know about that aspect. Amelia informed me of that earlier when Harry's kidnapping was discovered."

"The students?"

"I fear it is the worst kept secret in Hogwarts' history."

Severus was going to speak to Draco to make sure he spread the information they wanted to spread to the students. "Indeed."

"Ron, Hermione, and Ginny haven't helped the issue either. The three of them have been fighting since they returned here. Ron is spouting off that Harry ran away from the evil Malfoy family or kidnapped by Death Eaters and could be dead already. Hermione and Ginny have been that Harry's relatives have him and are getting even for the false abuse charges."

Severus wasn't even sure how the muggles would have been able to pull it off but he was willing to bet that Dumbledore was going to find a way to blame the muggles or the Death Eaters. "Shall we?"

"I'm getting too old for this."

Chapter Text

Harry finished his shower and was dressed in nice clean clothes. Narcissa did a medical scan while Lucius had done a magical scan of everything Harry was wearing as well as Harry himself to make sure there were no tracking charms or anything on Harry's clothes or his person. They did find a few tracking charms on some of Harry's possessions, things like Harry's glasses and the clothes that Harry had been wearing. Lucius kept the clothes and Harry's glasses with the tracking charms to give to Madam Bones. Narcissa made arrangements for new glasses which would arrive tomorrow for Harry to use. She also wanted Harry to see a specialist so they could find a way to fix Harry's eyes. Harry was putting on his new shoes when he heard a knock on his door. "Enter."

The door opened and Lucius entered. "I wanted to update you on everything." Lucius was impressed by how neat Harry had kept the room. Draco generally threw all of his clothes on his bed before finally deciding on what to wear which left his room and walk-in closet looking like a war zone. Harry's room still looked as if Harry didn't even use the room. Lucius understood why and wanted to kill the muggles. Harry wasn't used to having his own room and it showed. The only reason why Dumbledore didn't get all of Harry's possession was that Lucius had Harry's trunk in his expandable pouch. They had bought Harry a bigger trunk to hold his increased library and clothes.

"I was going to head down to the sitting room after I finished putting my shoes on." Harry found himself relaxed around the Malfoy family. They were very different in private. They had their public personalities that were dictated by pure-blood society and their place in it. Harry was learning his political position in the magical world and Draco helped him with it. Harry was a bit surprised to find that he liked Draco.

"Narcissa is getting some tea ready." Lucius looked around the room again. He was going to speak to Narcissa and Draco and see what they could do about getting things for Harry to add to his room for him to realize it was room. "Severus hasn't called or written, neither has Amelia but Igor did call. He didn't have much information except that Dumbledore left Hogwarts again. Dumbledore is already a suspect as we know but it's not just us, some of those at Hogwarts and those who saw Molly Weasley's display at the train platform have been speaking about it and the kidnapping."

Harry was a bit surprised. He was aware he was always the subject of gossip but he didn't think anyone would believe anything bad about Dumbledore and the Order. He had only heard those who were Slytherins saying anything negative about Dumbledore. "Are we still going to make him sweat for a bit?"

"Yes." Lucius didn't want to keep Harry hidden for too long because he didn't want to be charged with a crime. "Just for a day or two depending on what Severus discovers."

"I just don't want to miss any classes. I have a feeling if I do, Dumbledore will make a big deal out of it." Harry was fearful that Dumbledore would regain guardianship over him and return him to his muggle relatives. He didn't want to see his muggle relatives ever again.

"You won't miss any classes. Now, let's head down to tea, Narcissa wants to make sure you are eating enough." Lucius saw the small smile appear on Harry's face as well as a slight redding of his face. Harry wasn't used to anyone caring about him and was slowly getting used to it.

_____________________Meanwhile__________________________________

Severus and Minerva headed to the Order meeting. Severus wondered how Dumbledore was going to explain Harry's disappearance. Minerva still looked slightly mad as they were walking toward the Burrow. They could see Dumbledore was in the yard speaking to Kingsley and Mad-Eye. Tonks was standing in the kitchen doorway. "It appears we will be hearing what the Aurors know."

"Indeed." Kingsley didn't look very happy. Kingsley's arms were waving as if he was frustrated and annoyed at having to explain something over and over and it was being ignored. Mad-Eye was off a bit to the side and Severus thought he looked a bit amused by the display. Dumbledore was running his hands down his beard so Severus knew the man was doing his pacifying routine. Dumbledore had been using the greater good and Harry Potter for over a decade to get his own way and now his world was crashing down because of Harry Potter and Dumbledore's hasty plan of kidnapping the boy.

Dumbledore saw them as they approached and stopped speaking. "Severus, Minerva, excellent timing. We can move this inside and start the meeting now."

"Albus, this isn't something you can ignore." Kingsley looked at Severus and Minerva as if to say do something.

"It's all a slight misunderstanding. Let's move this inside." Dumbledore didn't give them time to respond as he turned and headed into the kitchen of the Burrow.

Kingsley sighed. "He's in a lot of trouble. The rumors aren't helping either."

"We better head in and listen to what he has planned and see if we can get him to work on a practical solution and find Harry at the same time." Minerva wasn't sure what Dumbledore was hoping to accomplish by kidnapping Harry.

Severus and Mad-Eye lingered a bit as Kingsley and Minerva headed inside, Tonks entered after Kingsley. Mad-Eye put a hand on Severus' arm, stopping Severus from moving forward. "They found magical signatures by the bridge. They were looking for matches when Kingsley left for the meeting and after the scene on the train platform, it's not looking good for Molly. She is the prime suspect." Severus arched a brow. "He wants to hide her as he did with Sirius."

"Interesting." They headed into the meeting.

Everyone was sitting around the Weasley kitchen table. Molly looked pale, her eyes were a bit red as was her nose. She was destroying the handkerchief in her hands. Dumbledore was sitting at the head of the table with everyone sitting around the table waiting for him to start the meeting. Severus stood by the door, Minerva moved to sit down in the chair that Bill Weasley stood up to give her. It was between Dumbledore and his father. Mad-Eye moved to the fireplace and stood there. "Thank you for coming everyone. I'm not sure if you heard the rumors or not but Harry was kidnapped earlier today on his way to Hogwarts."

"I bet it was the Malfoys. They would want to keep Harry and turn him against us." Elphias Doge slammed his fist down on the table. "You should have prevented that Death Eater from having guardianship over the boy."

"It wasn't the Malfoys. They were attacked and unconscious at the scene." Kingsley glared at Dumbledore wondering if he was going to admit the truth. He couldn't say anything about the crime that wasn't going to be in the public report as it was a crime that was still under investigation. While he didn't have any evidence, he believed the Dumbledore was behind the kidnapping of Harry. The fact that the Malfoys were also attacked was public knowledge due to all the people seeing the Aurors at Hogwarts. Mad-Eye made a grunting sound but didn't say anything.

"Kingsley is correct. The Malfoys were not responsible." Dumbledore ran his hand down his beard. "We must find Harry and get him protected. Any rumors must be checked out as well as anything anyone might be important."

"Albus, you aren't his guardian. If we find him we have to return him to his guardians." Minerva wasn't about to get arrested for kidnapping a child. She wasn't sure what Dumbledore was attempting to do when he tried to kidnap Harry then proceeded to lose Harry afterward. Dumbledore hadn't been able to figure out where Harry was or what happened. All he knew was that the cottage was a message and it looked like Harry had been kidnapped again by someone else. They knew it wasn't the Malfoys since at the time they were still with the Aurors at Hogwarts.

"We can't turn him over to those Death Eaters." Molly had a tear in the corner of her eye. "He has to be protected. His parents would expect us to protect him. He must be so afraid."

Severus resisted the urge to start clapping at Molly's performance. He looked at Mad-Eye. Mad-Eye was staring at the Order as if they were nuts and he had to agree with him. He wondered Minerva, Kingsley, and Arthur, as well as a few of the others, remained with the Order. He was willing to be if they knew the full truth they wouldn't. He was looking forward to seeing their reactions when the truth was revealed. "It will be fine, Molly, just stay calm." Arthur patted his wife's arm. "We will find him." Molly wiped her eyes and nodded her acceptance.

Dumbledore's eyes started twinkling. "Yes, we will find him. As you are aware, Harry's name was entered into the Goblet of Fire and it had to be for a reason. I believe it is the same reason that he has been kidnapped. Harry could be in grave danger and it is vital we find him quickly."

"How did he get kidnapped from Hogwarts? I thought it was the safest place." Arabella Figg wondered how that could have happened.

Everyone turned their eyes to Dumbledore wanting to have an answer to that question including Molly and those who knew the answer already. The ones who knew the truth wanted to see if Dumbledore would admit the truth. Dumbledore lost his eye twinkle for a few seconds before his grandfather act was back in place. "It was a mishap on a plan to protect Harry."

"What does that mean?" Bill looked around the table. Everyone was slowly realizing some people knew the truth while some didn't. He glanced at his mother. "No, you didn't? Tell me you didn't?" Molly started to wail as her oldest demanded answers. "What did you do? Where is Harry, now?"

"We don't know!" Molly almost screamed the answer before she stood up and ran from the room.

Everyone watched her leave the room before turning their glaze to Dumbledore. "You better tell everyone the truth, Albus." Minerva wasn't about to let this go. She was tired of Dumbledore's games.

Dumbledore ran his hands down his beard. "It was for the greater good." Dumbledore straightened up a bit and seemed to take on a more defensive position by squaring his shoulders, raising his chin, and folding his hands on the table in front of him. "Molly and I were the ones to remove Harry from Hogwarts. We had him safe and secure at a cottage. However, when we went to check on him later, the cottage was ransacked and Harry was missing. The cottage had wards on it preventing Harry from being able to leave so it had to be someone or a group who took down my wards and removed Harry. Harry put up a fight as many things were destroyed. There was no magical residue or signatures left behind." Severus was a bit impressed by Harry. He was aware that Harry didn't use magic to destroy the house but Harry had left the house in such a shape that Dumbledore believed Harry was kidnapped by another group because of it. "The wards were removed and Harry doesn't have the skills to remove the wards, remove the magical signatures, or the residue."

"He is too young to even be aware of that aspect of magic. It's not taught at Hogwarts." Minerva was a bit concerned about who could have Harry.

Severus was going to speak to Harry. Harry must have removed the wards without being aware of it since Harry owned the property. He was going to review the memories to see exactly what Harry did and perhaps Harry was more advanced than even Harry believed and wasn't aware of it. Harry had been so used to hiding his skills and magic that perhaps Harry's magic developed in a way to accomplish things without Harry being aware of it. It was a rare skill but it was known to happen. Children usually had the skill and the magical world called it accidental magic because it was based on wants. Harry's past with his relatives would have made Harry want to keep his magic hidden but he still would have had outbursts. He never heard Dumbledore mention anything about magical outbursts regarding Harry and Dumbledore should have. Yes, he was going to have to speak to Harry. Harry might be more powerful than they believed. "You have no idea who might have taken Harry?"

"No, I was going to ask you and Mad-Eye to come with me afterward to review everything at the cottage." Dumbledore was hoping Mad-Eye or Severus might find something. If there was dark magic involved, they would be able to detect it and hopefully, it would provide them with a lead.

"You kidnapped Harry and lost him?" Arabella turned to Kingsley not even giving Dumbledore time to answer. The normally quiet and demur older woman wasn't happy with the news. "Is Albus or Molly going to be arrested?"

"I'm not sure. They discovered some magical signatures but they don't know who they belong to as of yet or even how long the signatures have been there. Hogwarts has a lot of magical signatures." Kingsley didn't want to panic anyone with the idea that Dumbledore might be arrested for kidnapping the Savior.

"Do you have any idea of how long he has been missing? Who might have taken him? Any information at all?" Bill hoped they found Harry soon. He didn't want to visit his mother in Azkaban. "Perhaps I can take a look at the wards."

"No, we have no information and certainly, your expertise would be welcomed." Dumbledore looked excited at the idea of Bill looking at the wards. Dumbledore spent the next thirty minutes basically answering the same questions that were just asked but in different formats. Severus was about ready to kill someone if they asked one more time if Dumbledore or Molly were going to be arrested when Dumbledore finally ended the meeting.

_______________________________________________

Severus was not impressed by where they were. Harry wasn't kidding when he said it was a bog. He now understood why Harry had been so filthy when he finally arrived at Malfoy Manor. The cottage was in the middle of an isolated bog in the middle of Scotland without a neighbor in sight. They hadn't entered the property as of yet because Bill and Mad-Eye were running scans of the wards. Severus picked up a few things he found for potions while he was waiting for Bill and Mad-Eye to get finished with whatever they were doing. He was listening to Mad-Eye's rants about Death Eaters and Dark Arts. Barty really had Mad-Eye down.

"Nothing." Bill announced.

"Same here, nothing." Mad-Eye hobbled back to Dumbledore. "There aren't even any tracks."

Dumbledore sighed deeply. "I was hoping you might discover something. Let's see if perhaps you might find something on the inside of the cottage."

Severus looked at the cottage and found it was a modest cottage considering who owned the property. It looked like an average size two or three-bedroom cottage. It had a thatched roof and an overgrown garden. Dumbledore opened the front door and Severus followed Dumbledore in as Mad-Eye was looking around the garden area for tracks and Bill was running more scans. The inside was a mess. There was broken glass everywhere as well as overturned furniture. "You left Potter here by himself?"

"He was unconscious and we had a few hours before he was due to wake up. When I put him in the bedroom, he was still under the effects of the knockout spell and he was the main target. The Malfoys weren't hit with the knockout spell, we used a simple sleep spell on them."

"I see." Severus pulled out his wand and began to cast some detection spells around the cottage. He ran a few that Dumbledore wouldn't have thought to use and he wasn't going to show the results to Dumbledore. He was running the third in his series of spells when Bill and Mad-Eye entered the cottage and reported they discovered nothing. Mad-Eye looked around the cottage as Bill ran more ward scans. Dumbledore was sorting through the mess around the cottage. "I have discovered nothing."

"I haven't found anything either." Bill announced.

"Me either. It's like no one has been here for decades." Mad-Eye hobbled back to the main area of the cottage where Dumbledore was sitting in the only chair that wasn't turned over. It had been originally but he had flipped it over to sit down.

Severus and Bill joined them in the main area. "Albus, we have no leads. Do you have any idea if you were or Molly were followed? Did someone hear you discussing this plan?" Severus had a role to play and he was going to play it well.

"We weren't. We didn't even have a plan until an hour before we did it and we only discussed it at Hogwarts." Dumbledore was confused. "No one was even aware of this property. It's not even listed on any inventory as the deed has been lost for over a century. James and Sirius used to come here when they needed to protect a witness."

Severus was aware the property belonged to Harry so, therefore, the property was listed somewhere. It must not have been listed on the property reports that Dumbledore reviewed but James or the Mutt must have informed Dumbledore about the property. "We better head back to Hogwarts."

"Yes, Severus, you are correct. I should check with Amelia also." Dumbledore ushered them all out of the cottage and off of the property before everyone apparated away.

Chapter Text

"Are you ready?" Narcissa looked at Harry, her eyes taking in his form from top to bottom. Harry was dressed in almost the same outfit she had purchased for Draco just two weeks ago. It was just in a slightly darker shade for green for the dress robes but the black trousers and white shirt that was worn by all the Hogwarts' boys. Harry wasn't wearing glasses. They had fixed his eyesight yesterday with a simple potion that the ophthalmologist had on hand.

"Yes. Do you think anyone will notice?" Harry loved not wearing glasses and had spent most of yesterday and last night exploring his new world of sight. He couldn't believe how far he could see when he was outside. Everything was so clear and crisp. He could even read without moving the book around to find the perfect spot where the letters weren't blurry.

"I believe the ones who will notice will be those who expect you to be James Potter." Lucius had already discussed with his wife the fact that while Harry was confident in so many areas, there were still a lot of areas they would need to work on. One of the strongest was getting people to see that Harry wasn't James and that Harry didn't need to be James.

Harry's face turned a bit red at the reminder. He fiddled around with the vest, pulling it down a bit. "Harry, everything fits wonderfully." Narcissa had Harry's old clothes turned into dust rags.

"We need to leave. Amelia will be waiting for us." Lucius had visited the Ministry yesterday to discuss anything regarding the missing Harry Potter. Amelia had the facts correct regarding the kidnapping but she had no proof. The mystery of where and how Harry left the house was the only thing no one had figured out. "You have how you left?"

"Yes. They are going to love it." Harry was back to his Hogwarts' persona minus the Gryffindor attitude.

__________________________________________________________

Amelia Bones wanted to kill Albus to many freaking names Dumbledore. She knew he was responsible for the kidnapping but there was no proof and no one would believe her unless she had 100% absolute proof. She was aware of the lies regarding the magical signature. The magical signature would normally be enough to get a conviction but this was Dumbledore, the beloved (laugh) Hogwarts' Headmaster, Chief Warlock, etc. She wanted to burn the man's beard if he tried to run his hands down it again as a way to calm her down.

"Amelia?" Amelia looked up and saw Lucius and Narcissa with Harry Potter. "Harry found his way home."

Amelia let out a sigh of relief. "Do come in. Mr. Potter, nice to meet you." She rose from her desk.

"Harry Potter and the pleasure is mine." Harry took her hand and gave it a firm shake. "Lucius felt it would be better if we came directly here before I returned to Hogwarts."

"Tea before we begin?" She hoped Harry Potter handed her Dumbledore on a silver tray, ready for her to carve him into pieces.

"Please." Lucius escorted Narcissa to the sitting area in her office as she summoned an elf for tea. She gathered what she would need before moving to join them. Harry had followed the Malfoys and sat down next to Lucius. She witnessed a very rare display of public affection when she saw Lucius give Harry's shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

"Harry, I don't want you to stress about anything you tell me. I want you to take your time and not to worry about every detail. If I have a question or concern regarding whatever you tell me, I will voice it." Amelia sat down in her favorite office chair as the tea tray appeared. After she prepared tea for everyone, she set up the dictaquill. "I will be taking notes as the quill records our conversation. Tell me what happened in your own words."

"I don't know how I got to the cottage. I was walking with the Malfoys and next thing I was waking up in this place where it looked like no one had lived in decades. My head hurt, I had a funny taste in my mouth, and no one was around. I got up and started to explore the house to figure out where I was. I saw I was on some bog and well, I got a bit afraid. I mean there was no food, no clothes, no nothing to indicate that someone would be coming for me. I tried to call for an elf but nothing. So, I opened the only door and left. I walked along the bog hoping I was going in the right direction until I found a town. Once I did, I asked an adult to call a taxi. I took the taxi to Malfoy Manor."

Amelia looked at Harry. "You just opened the door and walked out?"

"Yes. It was my home. I did see the Potter crest on the fireplace mantle. I figured I couldn't call an elf to me, so maybe the Potter family didn't have any. I decided I needed to go home to the Malfoys. They cleaned me up, feed me, and Narcissa took care of my headache. I never had anyone do that for me before."

Amelia was a bit surprised. She didn't believe Dumbledore's version of Harry's life but she didn't think it was that bad. Perhaps she needed to investigate the family more. She made a note of it. "Did you see or hear anything to indicate who could have been responsible?"

"No, I'm sorry. I know Mrs. Weasley mentioned that I needed to be forcibly removed from the Malfoy family. Ron, her youngest son, mentioned how she has potions in her pantry and is very good at making them. He also said it was why the twins are so great with their potion-making skills. They learned them from their mother. I know she and the Headmaster have been trying to get me to stay with the Weasley family or return to my muggle relatives."

Amelia had numerous witness statements regarding the encounter on the train platform as well as other rumors, stories, and even memories regarding Ronald Weasley and his attitude. She had memories regarding Dumbledore but not a one from a source that would be creditable. "How long did it take you to return to Malfoy Manor?"

"I am not sure. I was afraid to use magic outside of Hogwarts. I do know I walked for what seemed like days and I fell asleep in the taxi."

"Narcissa, did you do a health scan on Harry?"

"Yes. I have it here." Narcissa reached into her purse and pulled out two scrolls. "I did one just this morning too."

"I will have them reviewed but I would suggest before you return to Hogwarts, having a visit at Gringotts and get a certified exam completed. It will aid in your case if another custody issue arises." Amelia was aware that Dumbledore was going to use this event to start another investigation and attempt to regain custody of Harry Potter.

"We already had an appointment for this morning." Lucius handed over a confirmation letter regarding the appointment. "For your files."

"Excellent. Harry, just a few minor details I need to clarify. When you were on the bridge, did you hear, see, or smell anything?"

Harry looked thoughtful for several seconds. "I smelled bread, like fresh-baked bread. I didn't see or hear anything."

Amelia made a note regarding the smell and remembered that Molly's alibi had been she had been home baking bread at the time. "Excellent, thank you. Now, in the house, was there anything unusual? A smell, sound, feeling?"

"When I woke up the house was dark, creepy almost. I didn't hear anything. I did find a candy wrapper so I had hoped to find some food but I didn't find anything. The wrapper was just a plain, clear, wrapper. Nothing special, so it could have been there for a while but it was so out of place. The place was neat but dusty so that is why the wrapper stood out. I sneezed a lot because of the dust. My aunt didn't like dust so I always did the dusting and sneezed every time I did. There were no candles, no warmth in the place so I don't think a fire was used."

Amelia wondered who made the cottage a mess. If it wasn't Harry, perhaps it was Molly or Albus looking for what happened to Harry. Perhaps it was members of the Order of his in the hopes of discovering what happened to Harry or where the boy had disappeared to. Perhaps it was a way to throw her off of Dumbledore and Molly's trail. "It was neat?"

"Yes, just the dust was the only thing that gave away that it had been empty until I looked in the cabinets and pantry for food."

Amelia was hoping for something that would help her build a solid case against Albus I Get Away with Everything Dumbledore. "I believe we are finished. If I have any more questions, I will speak to Lucius regarding meeting with you to discuss the situation or any questions I might have."

"Good because the Headmaster likes to read my mail. Is there a way to stop him from being too involved in my life?"

Amelia wanted to dance. She wanted to shout out in joy. She wanted to sing from the top of a mountain. "Yes, there is. You can get a restraining order based on his interference in the past and have it restricted in that he can only speak or meet with you regarding Hogwarts' business, things like your grades, detentions, or conflicts. However, since you have guardians, he will have to inform Lucius and Narcissa and they will be present. You will never meet with him alone."

"I want one of those. I don't want him to keep trying to force me to back to my relatives or the Weasley."

"Let me do the paperwork and I can have it approved by the time you are finished with Gringotts and sent right over. We do have to have a formal issuing of the order but it won't take long." Amelia was going to handle it personally, including delivering it just to watch Dumbeldore's face when she did. "I do believe that is all that is required for now." She stood up. "It was a pleasure meeting you Harry."

"Thank you for helping and I can't wait to tell Susan I got to meet you."

"Thank you, Amelia." Lucius smiled as he rose.

"I am sure Susan will write and let me know all about it." Amelia was sure her niece would provide a lot of details as she always did. Susan provided her with all the interesting gossip Hogwarts had.

Chapter Text

"They are going to be annoying about this." Harry could see Dumbledore, the Annoying Trio, Severus, and most of the school were coming out to greet them. Harry wasn't looking forward to dealing with Dumbledore of his fan club. He wanted to finish his education but wasn't sure if remaining at Hogwarts was worth it. He wasn't sure if he would survive mentally from the experience.

Lucius and Narcissa wondered why everyone was coming out to see them. Severus seemed resigned to the show that Dumbledore was going to be present. Minerva didn't look impressed either. "Dumbledore is leading everyone out. Severus looks annoyed as does Minerva. Does he own a mirror?" Narcissa wasn't used to dealing with Dumbledore.

"I do not believe so, my dear." Lucius was wondering what Dumbledore was planning with this latest stunt.

"I thought he was colorblind." Harry didn't understand why a grown man would wear any clothing that looked it was made from children's fabric.

"It would explain his clothes." Narcissa was thankful that Lucius had great taste in clothing. So many didn't, Dumbledore was one of the worst cases of a fashion impairment. "Lucius will need to teach you how to select the appropriate clothing."

"Draco has already started." Harry wasn't even aware there were that many different styles of shirts until Draco started listing them off and when they were required and with what robes to wear them with. When Draco started on the different robes, Harry had to leave the room. Harry let out a grunt as Granger hugged him. "Let me go!"

"Oh, my boy, where have you been?" Dumbledore was trying to figure out why Harry was with Lucius. Lucius would have never have located the cottage he used.

"Granger, let go of me." Harry tried to remove the girl from him but she was latched on tight.

"Harry, we have been so worried about you. Everyone knows it was Death Eater that did it." Granger released him, Ginny replaced her.

"Let go of me. Why are you hugging me?" Harry moved away. He looked at Dumbledore. "It wasn't Death Eaters since it was my property I was taken too. I walked out of the house, traveled through the bog to a town, and took a taxi to Malfoy Manor." Ginny linked her arm around Harry's arm. Harry pushed her arm away. "Why are you touching me?" He could see a lot of the students were wondering why the girl was doing it too. Harry had spent a lot of time since the night of his entry socializing with other students.

"Well, you are my boyfriend and I want to make sure you are alright." Ginny leaned a bit closer to Harry.

Harry removed her arm from his. "I am not your boyfriend. We have never gone on a date, I never asked you out. I am not interested." Harry shook his head as her brother was about to open his mouth. "Shut it, Weasley, I do not want to hear you go on one of your I must be evil routines. I am not evil, I am just sick of your crap." Harry turned to Granger and Ginny. "Do not touch me ever again. I am not your friend, I do not want to be your friend. I have had enough of your double standards. I am sick of you thinking you are in charge of my life and making decisions regarding my life. I am sick of you enforcing the rules but having no problem with breaking them if you feel it is important enough or Dumbledore suggests something."

"Headmaster Dumbledore." Granger automatically corrected. "He is the headmaster and deserves our respect."

"You are a bully! For someone who claims she was bullied, you never cease to stop bullying. Ron and you are the worst types of friends anyone could have." Harry didn't give anyone a chance to respond before he apparated off of the grounds.

Severus and Lucius exchanged a knowing look. Yes, their theory was correct. Harry was used to hiding everything, his magic worked in other ways. No one should have been able to apparate off of Hogwarts' grounds. Lucius sighed. "Thank you for making a scene. I will go and see if he is back at the Manor. Albus, he has already spoken to Amelia and been to Gringotts for a complete medical exam. You will not interfere in any way. You shouldn't have come out. You are suspended, remember?"

"I was concerned about Harry. However, we will have to discuss what just happened." Dumbledore was almost gloating as he was going to use this to get Harry alone. He would have plenty of time to work the boy back into what he wanted and desired. He would be the Harry Potter he desires.

"No, what he did is none of your concern. My wife and I will return with Harry in the morning. Severus, if we have an issue, I will alert you as the acting headmaster."

"I can open the floo for him to return." Severus wasn't about to give Dumbledore a second chance at Harry. He was going to have a find a way to get the memory of Dumbledore admitting he did the kidnapping to someone without it looking like he did. Lucius and Narcissa left after saying goodbye.

"Did you hear him? He is going to get it from me when he gets back." Granger was furious and she was going to make sure Harry was very aware of it. "

"Do cease talking Granger. Everyone get back inside." Severus wasn't surprised when the students obeyed him. The whispering was starting about what Harry did. Granger looked shocked that someone would tell her to shut up.

"Come along, I am sure everything will work out fine once Harry returns." Dumbledore started to walk back to Hogwarts with the Annoying Trio following behind.

"You know he is going to attempt something, again." Minerva glanced over her shoulder to where Harry was kidnapped. "We need to find a way to alert people it was him without giving ourselves away."

"Minerva, turning into a snake?" Severus had a bit of a grin on his face. He did like it when Minerva was against the old fart.

"In this case, yes. Honestly, what was with Granger and Ginny? Hanging onto Harry like that after how distant they been. I believe that is Molly's handiwork. She spent the last decade teaching that girl about Harry. Her arm hooking was a Molly move when she attended." Minerva saw her three lions were talking with Dumbledore as they returned to Hogwarts. "I bet it was also his idea for them to pretend that nothing happened and act like Harry was still their friend."

"I believe he was hoping that Harry would accept it as he has done in the past. Their second year comes to mind."

"Yes, indeed, their second year." Minerva stopped walking as she put her hand out. Severus stopped walking. "If you ever mention this, I will deny it. However, I do believe it is time to get a new headmaster and without political aspirations such as Dumbledore has and a bit saner. Some good taste in clothing would be beneficial. If his robes get any brighter, we won't need to buy candles again."

______________________________________________________________________

Harry wasn't sure where he was. The place was a dump. It was dirty, cobwebs everywhere, and smelled awful, He should have thought of a place before he did whatever he did. He just wanted to be gone and thought of someplace safe. He didn't even know where here was and it didn't look safe enough to walk around in. He slowly made his way out of the room he was in. He wasn't sure where the entrance was but he figured it he went slow, he should be fine. He looked around a small hallway and saw some stairs. He headed toward the stairs. Harry froze as he heard hissing. He moved toward the hissing.

*-should kill the rodent. He is trouble. Don't trust him.*

*We don't have anyone else here at present. Barty is still at Hogwarts.*

*What are you going to do now? The boy isn't the answer for you but is the answer to getting rid of the old idiot.*

*I am sure they are researching solutions. Barty did mention that they were.*

*Still need to kill the rat, don't trust him.*

*You shouldn't.* Harry entered the room. *I was seeking someplace safe and I landed here.*

The weird form of Voldemort turned in the chair as Nagini slithered up to Harry. Harry wasn't sure what the form was but it reminded him the time he saw his aunt holding a baby. Voldemort had short, squarish with tiny arms and legs that seemed useless. Voldemort looked like he has plop into the chair and forgotten just like his aunt did with the baby. He had no hair and his eyes were glowing. *Pettigrew is a traitor. He will rat you out to Dumbledore if he hasn't already. How do you think he was able to escape the dementors? Dumbledore.* Harry petted Nagini. *You didn't know he escaped from the Dementors that were at Hogwarts last year."

*No, I didn't know.*

*Yeah, and you are getting angrier, can you turn it down. I always know when you are in an extreme mood because it causes my head to hurt.* Harry rubbed his head.

*I told you it made me hurt, see I am not the only one.*

Voldemort's eyes went to Harry's scar. Harry was still rubbing this head and didn't notice. *Yeah, and lay off the killing until we figure out what is going on and get your body back. I might join you in on some of the Order members when it's time.* Voldemort was still staring at Harry. Harry was getting very uncomfortable. *I know you have seen humans before so why are you staring at me?*

*I will discuss that issue with you later. What occurred to cause you to think of me as being your safety?*

Harry looked at Voldemort. *Honestly, have no idea. I know Dumbledore doesn't care if I am safe. However, I think it has something to do with when I was little.*

"Oh?*

*Yes, I got a purge done as I am sure Barty informed you.* Harry sat down on the dirty floor so he could pet Nagini was turning into a lap dog. *Yes, I had some binds on me, well, a lot of binds. One thing I had forgotten about after a visit from Dumbledore was a small voice always in the back of my head. I called him Tom. He was the one who healed me, kept me alive despite the relatives' best attempts with the pathic abilities to kill me. Dumbledore showed up one day after I sent a few adders after my relatives. He bound the piece, the purge removed the bounds.*

Chapter Text

*This voice permitted you to call him Tom?* Voldemort was finding this conversation very enlightening. He had been interested in discovering more information regarding Harry Potter. Barty had been assigned the task and he had found what Barty provided him with very interesting regarding the boy. The boy wasn't what he was expecting from a Potter. He wondered how much of his fractured soul influenced the boy growing up. Dumbledore put a block on the boy for a reason. Dumbledore wanted a perfect Gryffindor but Harry Potter was a Slytherin.

*Yes, but it was because I could never get his preferred name correct. I haven't heard the voice lately.* Harry was still trying to figure out how he ended up here. He got it had to be accidental magic but he hadn't thought of Voldemort as someone to go to for safety. He wasn't sure if it was because of the voice that used to tell me over and over that his name wasn't Milo. Harry wasn't sure how he arrived at the name of Milo.

*I sent you, you were getting too stressed out and I used your accidental magic to send you here. You couldn't say Marvolo.* A voice was inside his head. Harry's face showed the shock at hearing the voice. *I haven't had to add anything you have been doing. You have been very Slytherin as I taught you until the old fool interfered. I also didn't trust the old fool to be doing a scan and discover that I am free again.* Marvolo had been teaching Harry as long as Harry could comprehend his presence and the muggles first hit the boy. Yes, he had been a bit rash with encouraging Harry to send the adders after the fat male muggle but he didn't regret scaring the man.

*The voice is back. He said I couldn't say Marvolo.* Harry looked down at Nagini and back up to the thing called Voldemort. *You know why and so does she. He didn't want to take a chance because of Dumbledore's scans to speak to me before now.* Harry wasn't about to inform anyone else that he had a voice in his head. He didn't want to see a mind healer.

*Yes, I am aware of how and why. It is not a discussion to have until later when I am sure you can protect your mind.* Voldemort was going to be speaking to Barty. Barty, Severus, Igor, and Lucius will be protecting Harry Potter. He was now going to have to discover a new ritual to discover how to get his body back. He couldn't do anything until he had a body. He had been debating with himself regarding using the boy but it was decided as of now, he needed a new ritual. If Dumbledore discovered him in this form, Dumbledore would banish him.

*How am I going to get back to Hogwarts?* Harry had no idea where he was and he couldn't apparate without having the Ministry or Dumbledore wonder how he was able to use magic without getting a notice. He also didn't have his apparition license and didn't want to be charged with a crime and have Dumbledore use it to gain control over him. He could use the Malfoy port-key but he didn't want to take a chance that Dumbledore might be at Malfoy Manor and use his disappearance as a way to remove him from the Malfoys. Accidental magic was the best solution.

*I can't summon anyone. If Dumbledore is doing what he normally does, I expect he is with Lucius, Severus, Barty, and Igor.* Voldemort was enjoying have a conversation in parseltongue that didn't involve rats or Nagini's desire to hunt. He wondered how the fractured part of him called Marvolo affected the boy. He was aware of how Harry had grown up. Barty had shown him the memories provided. He was going to see if he could get a copy of the Inheritance Test.

*Most likely. The man just won't leave me alone. He has been interfering in my life since before I was even born.* Harry wished he had more knowledge of his parents beyond them being in the Order and his father being an Auror. What he learned from Sirius didn't make him like his father very much. The man was a bully as was Sirius. He didn't like bullies.

Voldemort understood what Harry meant. Dumbledore had been interfering with his life since the man walked into the orphanage. He used to wonder why the man was so invested in his life but before the start of the first war, he gave up wondering and made the decision that Dumbledore had to do. Dumbledore had his goals and ignored the greater good for the magical world. Dumbledore cared more for muggles. Dumbledore's goals were costing people their lives. *Has he ever told you why?*

*No, he just loves to hint. He never likes to give the full answer. He loves to drop hints, clues, and act as if he is guiding you down his desired path." Harry hated when Dumbledore did that to him. Dumbledore and his games. Dumbledore loved to act as if he was some beneficial grandfather and worked on getting everyone to love him while he hid his deeds behind his lemon drops, the greater good, and something he hasn't fully informed Harry regarding his parents' death. *I used to wonder why during my first year but after my second year, I realized he wouldn't tell me until he was ready. I expect if he could get away with it he wouldn't have told me what he has so far.* Harry hated how Dumbledore tried to manage him and his life.

*Yes, I have experienced it often.*

*I will eat him.* Nagini didn't even lift her head up. She was loving the attention. She had another speaker and couldn't wait to brag to the other snakes in the area. She was also going to see about getting one or two to head to Hogwarts and protect the youngest speaker.

*You can't eat him, yet.* Harry scratched the snake's head.

Voldemort was impressed. He wasn't expecting Harry Potter to be willing to feed Dumbledore to Nagini. What the memories and Barty had informed him was truthful. He had doubted it believing it might be a ploy from Dumbledore but was willing to wait and see especially if it got him what he wanted. He could always deal with any issues later. *I do believe I have a way for you to return to Hogwarts without alerting Dumbledore to my presence. We can't have him becoming aware of where I am and if you use the Knight Bus, he will ask the driver where he picked you up. The port-key you are wearing will deliver you to Malfoy Manor and I do agree, Dumbledore might be there. However, there is a muggle bus system that should be able to cover your tracks. Especially if you use glamour spell.*

*Wouldn't it be a long trip given how remote Hogwarts is?* Harry wasn't sure how to get to Diagon Alley from anywhere. He had only been to Diagon Alley via magical means. *Hogwarts isn't an easy place to walk too, either.* He had only ever used the train to get to Hogwarts. *Does the train run?*

*Yes it does and you will need to get to King's Cross. It will be a long trip since we are in England. It will take a few days to travel, giving them plenty of time to wind Dumbledore up while you get a few days of respite from Dumbledore. If you arrived by magical means he would trace everything. The less he is aware of the better it is for everyone involved.*

*He speaks the truth.* Marvolo's voice didn't fill Harry's head. It was a quiet presence that provided some ease. *A bit of payback now and we can get more later.*

Harry liked that idea. He loved getting a bit of petty revenge. He did it with his relatives before Dumbledore interfered. As he thought of that, he realized just how much inferring the old fart had done in his life. He wondered how many others' lives Dumbledore had ruined. *Interfering old fart.* Nagini hated the old fart. *Always hurting the hatchlings. Always ignoring what the muggles do to them.*

Voldemort looked at the ruined dresser in the corner. *Barty put some muggle money in the top drawer. Take it all, you will need it for food, transportation, and some places to sleep while waiting for the transportation switches. You might want to check for youth hostels, they will be cheap places to get a meal, a shower as well as a bed. I will find a way to alert Barty that you are safe and to pass the message on to Severus and Lucius.*

Harry stood up. Nagini wasn't happy about it but she watched the boy obey her hatchling. Harry opened the drawer and saw the stack of bills in the drawer. There were more funds than he had ever seen. *I don't think I will need everything.*

*Take it all. It is better to be safe than sorry. Dumbledore won't expect you to have funds. He will rely on playing your savior.*

Harry snorted at the idea of Dumbledore saving him but he did agree with Voldemort, Dumbledore would rely on playing the savior. Dumbledore wanted to be linked to Harry and to keep his fame. *Where do I need to go to get a bus?*

"Follow Nagini. She can take you to the graveyard. There is a bus stop there.*

Nagini puffed up a bit with pride at being able to assist. She was already planning on finding some snakes to go with Harry and now she could make sure they did and Harry would be safe. *I get you some protection too.*

Harry didn't complain. He hoped a snake would flip Dumbledore out some. Dumbledore hated that he could speak to snakes. *I want to get on the bus before it gets too late. I don't want to stand outside waiting for a bus in the dark.*

Chapter Text

Nagini guided Harry to the bus stop. Harry noticed a church close by. He looked down at Nagini. *I have the perfect way to say I felt safe.* He pointed to the church. *A church is a good safe spot.*

Nagini lifted herself and looked at where Harry was pointing. *Excellent idea. I will tell my Tommy.*

Harry crossed the street and entered the church. Nagini watched from afar. Harry looked around the church and finally found the pastor. He asked the man for directions on how to get to London. The pastor wrote out the directions for Harry but since he wasn't sure of exactly which muggle transportation to take, he provided Harry with the main hubs for transportation switches. Harry looked around the church before leaving. He had a great memory to show if anyone wanted to see the start of his journey. Before he left the pastor stopped him on the way out. He handed Harry a small sack of sandwiches. "To help you on your way."

Harry thanked the man and headed to the bus stop. Nagini left once Harry was on the bus. Harry chatted with some of the people on the bus getting different places to get off and on at as well as the closest youth hostels. Harry got off at different stops, getting lost on purpose a few times. He eventually found the right bus to take him to King's Cross. He had enjoyed the journey. It had taken him almost four days. He looked around King's Cross and entered the platform area heading to platform 9 3/4. Once he was through the barrier, he found one of the people who worked at the station. "Hi, I'm Harry Potter and I just found my way back to here. Do I need to buy a ticket? Also, is there a way to inform Professor Snape I will be on the train since he is the acting Headmaster?"

The ticket agent looked stunned. She was an older witch who had been reading a magazine. The platform wasn't very busy unless it for the days to transport students. "Oh, my dear boy, do you have any idea how everyone has been looking for you. Rita Skeeter made sure to detail what happened."

"I see. I am sorry, I had no idea where I was and it took me a bit to figure out how to use the muggle buses to get here." Harry gave her an innocent smile. "I apparated to a church. I am not sure how I did it."

"Well, I am glad you are safe. Come inside." She stood up and opened her door. "I will put the kettle on while we send Professor Snape a letter and he can open the floo to help you get back to Hogwarts. The train has already left for the day and won't be heading back to Hogwarts until tomorrow."

"Oh, I don't want to be a bother, I can stay at a hostel, they provide me with a bed, food, and a shower for under five pounds." Harry smiled at her. He had enjoyed seeing so much of England. He had never seen much of the world besides Surrey, Diagon Alley, or the Burrow.

"Merlin, no, we will get you sorted before you know it." The ticket agent headed to the shelf that had an electric kettle. She put the kettle on. She got some parchment, ink, and a quill. She wrote a short letter. "Anything you want to add?"

Harry read the letter. "Add that I am fine, we don't want them to think I am hurt and I will sign too so they know it's me." Harry signed his name once it was finished. The ticket agent sent it off with her owl. "What is your name?"

"Demura Whitten."

"Pleasure to meet your Ms. Whitten. Thank you for your help, I appreciate it." Harry enjoyed the time with Ms. Whitten. She was pleasant and full of information including informing Harry it was her who called the Aurors on Molly Weasley. About an hour later, the floo came to life and Severus' face appeared in the flames.

"Ms. Whitten, thank you for your assistance." Severus looked at Harry who was relaxed. "Potter, say goodbye and step through."

"Thank you, Ms. Whitten. I appreciate your help. I hope to see you soon." Harry waved before stepping into the floo. Harry stepped out into the Headmaster's office. Lucius was with Severus. "Hi."

"You had us scared out of our wits." Lucius hoped Harry caught onto what he was saying. "Narcissa has been beside herself with worry. We will have to find a way to keep a port key on you."

Harry looked puzzled for a second. "Sorry, I was in a muggle church and I had no idea where I was. I didn't want to use magic for fear of getting into trouble since I wasn't in any danger. I had to ask for directions on how to get to King's Cross. I got lost a few times. I had no idea where I was and the only magical area I know is Diagon Alley."

"Finally using your brain for a change." Severus indicated for Harry to sit down. "Madam Bones will be coming through the floo any minute now. She will want a statement. She has already collected statements regarding the event leading to your newest disappearance."

Harry understood now. The floo connection was still opened and anyone could be listening since it was an open connection. Harry had a lot to speak to Lucius and Severus about but it was nothing vital. Severus summoned some tea. Harry passed but did eat a biscuit why they waited. Finally, Madam Bones stepped through with Auror Dawlish. "Harry, I am happy to see you safe and sound."

"Sorry, I had no way to alerting anyone without using magic and I was afraid I would get into trouble. I wasn't even sure where I appeared. I just wanted someplace safe. I was at a church." Harry pulled out the church pamphlet he had picked up. "The pastor even gave me some sandwiches for my trip," Harry answered a few more questions.

"We might need your memory of the trip." Madam Bones was fed up with Dumbledore's daily visits demanding that she raid Malfoy Manor has he must have Harry and return Harry to his custody.

"Sure. I have no problem with it." Dawlish stepped forward but Harry stopped him. "Sorry, the only person I am willing to trust with my mind is Snape."

Severus was a bit surprised but flipped his wrist so his wand slid into his hand. "I am unsure why but if you have no objections, Amelia?"

"No, I don't. Harry just think about your trip and we will provide the necessary vials for your memories." Madam Bones pulled out a set of vials. They were sealed and she showed them the seal before breaking it. "Severus, Lucius, you will need to sign the paperwork as well as Harry when we are finished."

_______________________________While Harry was missing_______________________

"What? What do you mean he isn't at Malfoy Manor?" Dumbledore looked furious. He was standing in the DMLE department demanding to find out what they were doing about locating Harry. "He has been missing for several hours. Lucius must have him locked in the Manor."

"Headmaster, we have already visited the Manor. Harry Potter was not present in the Manor." The Auror department had been dispatched to Malfoy Manor to satisfy the Headmaster already.

"He has to be." Dumbledore wasn't going to permit that Death Eater to corrupt his weapon. He needed the boy to regain control, to get the funds returned, well, the list seemed endless. The boy was key to everything. He wanted to curse Igor and his contract. His plans were ruined for now. He had to get the blasted boy back, keep Molly from ruining his plans with her mouth, and get her to rein in her youngest as well as Granger. The two girls' antics had made the evening edition of the paper.

"He isn't." The Auror looked annoyed.

"He has to be or on one of their other properties." Dumbledore looked around to see if anyone in the department was someone he could control. He was aware that Kingsley and Mad-Eye had used their connections to gain information but they weren't welcomed at the Ministry.

"He isn't. If you have any ideas, I am sure Madam Bones would be willing to hear about them." The Auror turned away and went back to his desk.

Dumbledore glared before he turned and headed for Madam Bones' office. Madam Bones was just as useless as her department in locating Harry Potter. She wouldn't do anything beyond informing him that they had searched Malfoy Manor already and warned him it was his fault that Harry disappeared again and she wouldn't appreciate it happening again.

Dumbledore headed back to Hogwarts. He couldn't enter his office to check on the devices he had tied to Harry. He was still trying to figure out who placed Harry's name in the Goblet. He had Mad-Eye stay close to the dragon area hoping he would spot who was close to the area. He sighed. He was going to curse Igor and whoever entered Harry's name into the Goblet. His plans were ruined. The Order was dissolved despite their still meeting.

"Severus, have you heard anything regarding Harry?" Dumbledore was desperate.

"No, I haven't." Severus had spent the morning handling all the things Dumbledore had ignored. He had been surprised at how far behind the man let everything get. "I will inform you if I do."

"He must be at Malfoy Manor."

"He isn't. Lucius and Narcissa are just as worried as him as you are." Severus had been too but he wasn't going to admit that bit of information. He had received news from Barty last night that Harry had apparated to the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord had given the boy some muggle money and had his snake guide him to a muggle bus stop where Harry had entered the church across the road to gain information on how to return to London. He did like the plan. It would stress Dumbledore out while making the man look foolish for his instance it had to be Lucius who had him as a prisoner. "Might I suggest when he does return, you keep your three Gryffindors away from Potter so this time he actually enters Hogwarts."

Dumbledore's eyes weren't twinkling as he walked away. He headed to his quarters. He had to figure out what to do. He needed to revamp so many of his plans.

Chapter Text

Severus alerted Lucius and Narcissa once Madam Bones and the Aurors left. Lucius and Narcissa used the floo to arrive. Harry was a bit surprised to see the concern on their faces as he had never had anyone truly care for him. He found he liked the feeling. He got a hug from Narcissa which he wasn't expecting but welcomed. Narcissa had her wand out and did a scan of Harry. "He is fine, thank Merlin. I will return home as I feel you have some things to discuss. I am sure Lucius will provide me with what I need to know."

Lucius smiled at his wife. Plausible deniability was a great asset. Narcissa's only concern was Harry's safety and since he was safe and unhurt, she was returning home after extracting a promise from Harry to write. "I will return home shortly, I am sure." Narcissa left.

Severus summoned an elf. He ordered a sandwich for Harry as well as tea. He guided them to a small area in the back left corner of the office. It was a small sitting area with two red chairs and a gold couch. The throw pillows were purple and yellow. The table was painted red with gold trim and had a bright orange candy dishes on it. Harry gagged as he saw it. "I swear the man is colorblind."

Lucius and Severus sat down in the chairs, Harry sat down on the couch. The tea tray appeared with a sandwich and some soup for Harry. Severus erected some privacy wards. He was only the temporary headmaster and Dumbledore still felt he could enter the office as he pleased despite the warnings from the Ministry regarding his entrance. "The truth, if you please." Severus had resisted the urge to check Harry for spells, potions, or injuries.

"I am not sure how much you want to know since I did tell the truth but not exactly the full truth." Harry took a quick bite of his sandwich before he continued. "Sorry, starving. I was afraid I would run out of funds so I didn't eat as much as I should have." Harry had gotten used to eating full meals away from Hogwarts thanks to the Malfoys. "Anyway, I wished I was at a safe place. I think Tom used it to bring me to Marvolo, err, the Dark Lord." Harry glanced at their arms. He didn't want to cause them any pain.

"Who is Tom?" Lucius was confused. How would Harry know how to get to the Dark Lord. He glanced at Severus. Severus exchanged a slightly wondering look with him.

"OK, let me start at the beginning and explain everything." Harry took another bite of his sandwich a had a few sips of his soup before he started the tale. He explained about Dumbledore's visit to the Dursleys, the snakes, and how he lost Tom who was his protector. Neither man was happy to learn that Dumbledore had been aware of the abuse or that he had visited Harry and added more blocks.

"Wait, so you are saying, Tom is connected to the Dark Lord and he was protecting you at the muggles?" Severus was going to be slowly poisoning Dumbledore if Lucius and Narcissa didn't kill him first.

"Hmm, I think it's how he stayed alive. Nagini and he were discussing something about us being similar. I am not sure what they were speaking about but I can tell you the Dark Lord is a lot saner than he was in my first year. Tom hasn't been speaking as much but he did say the binds that Dumbledore used caused him to reserve his energy since he was using a lot to keep him alive at the muggles since he had to fight the bind as well."

*Just tell them since they want to fix us.* Tom's voice filled Harry's head.

*Are you sure?*

*Yes, they will need to know in order to help me return. I will tell you what to say.*

"Tom wants me to tell you and he is going to inform me what to say since I have no idea. So forgive the delays since we will also be chatting too."

"We understand. Should we bring Igor into it since he is assisting as well? I believe Barty will be able to convey everything to the Dark Lord." Lucius wasn't sure how much information Harry or Tom would convey. The Dark Lord might already have a plan in place as well.

"I am not sure. I mean, I know Igor is the reason we are aware of the previous issue and his assistance in keeping me protected has been great but perhaps I should -"

*Oh, do cease your worry. I am here. I felt the tug.* Voldemort's voice joined Tom.

"Great, I have both of them in my head. It's going to be crowded up there." Harry tried to make it into a joke but his concern was heard in his words.

*Relax, I won't remain. Let me explain about Horcruxes. They will need to be informed as well as Igor. I believe Igor might be aware but Barty isn't. You will need to get a Vow of Secrecy from them before we begin and I will use Barty to relay messages in the future. This method is tiring as I am not at full strength.*

"Edited version. He has Horcruxes. He believes Igor is aware but Barty isn't to be informed as of yet. He will do it, I think if it is needed. He wants a Vow of Secrecy from you before we begin and Barty is message boy."

Lucius and Severus made their vows. Harry began to pass the information Voldemort wanted. Lucius paled a bit when the diary was mentioned. Harry had to hold his head as the anger-filled Voldemort expressed his displeasure. *Knock it off, it's my head too and you are hurting me and Harry.* Tom smacked the mental version of Voldemort. *Did it ever occur to you that you are saner because of the diary being returned? Nooooo, I bet you didn't.*

Harry was holding his head as Severus passed him a pain potion. Harry groaned as it took it but the anger from Voldemort disappeared. *You think so?*

*Yes!* Harry and Tom voiced their agreement.

Voldemort was quiet. Harry looked at Lucius. "The destruction of the diary might be why he is saner."

"It would make sense. You can't destroy a soul and it would want to return to the host." Severus crossed the diary off of the list

diary
Gaunt's Ring-Shack --Voldemort will retrieve
Salazar Slytherin's Locket--Cave
Helga Hufflepuff's Cup--Bellatrix
Rowena Ravenclaw's Diadem--Hogwarts

Harry pointed to the Diadem. "What is that?"

Severus stood up and went to the bookcases on the other side of the Fawkes' perch. He searched for a few seconds before returning with a book. He flipped through a few pages and showed Harry the picture. "A diadem is a jeweled crown or headband worn as a symbol of sovereignty."

"Wait, I have seen it. It's in the Come and Go Room."

*Yes, it is. I was going to have you retrieve it as I believe you will be the only one able to touch any of them without being affected.* Voldemort had been thinking about his sanity. He was going to have to check the book he had on Horcruxes that Slughorn gave him. He was wondering if perhaps Dumbledore had a hand in this mess. It just screamed Dumbledore to him.

"Update, I am the only one who can touch them without being affected. Does that mean I have to find the rest?"

*Yes and no. You will be the only one able to enter Bellatrix's vault since you are Lord Black and she has it in the private vault that she had from the Black family. Lucius or Severus should be able to retrieve the locket from the cave. I will give them directions on what to do. Severus will recognize the potion and have the solution also.*

"Good news, I can get the cup since Bellatrix put it in the Black vault from when she was single. For the one in the cave, he said that Severus will know the potion and the cure for it. You will be able to retrieve it without me."

"Good, we don't want Dumbledore to wonder why you have left Hogwarts. He is going to be watching you closely. He wasn't happy with you distancing yourself from his pets." Severus and Minerva had heard an earful about it from Dumbledore later the day. The old fool felt Harry would forgive them if they kept pushing him to do so.

"I figured he would. He has always been too interested in me. Granted, I now know why but it's still creepy." Harry shuddered at the thought of Dumbledore watching him more closely. "Restrain order?"

Lucius and Severus smirked. "Sadly, it wouldn't work since he is the Headmaster and resides here. Minerva will be leaving at the end of the week to spend her time with her family now that she has everything caught up. She has expressed her displeasure but there isn't much she can do. Barty, as Mad-Eye will keep teaching. Dumbledore was warned again about reforming the Order after Molly let it slip that they had a meeting regarding your disappearance from the cottage."

"She truly has no filter on her mouth, I see now where her youngest two get it from." Harry rolled his eyes at the idea of forgiving the idiots and Dumbledore's plans. "How soon do you think it will be before he realizes I have returned?"

"I do not believe we have much time. The news will spread. He has a lot of spies at the Ministry." Lucius was very aware of how many people at the Ministry as well as the magical community believed Dumbledore was the greatest wizard and felt they owed him.

*I will retire.* Voldemort faded out.

"He's gone." Harry stretched a bit. "We have to damage his name more."

"I fear so." Severus sent the tea tray back to the kitchen. Severus happened to notice out of the corner of his eye one of the portraits waving his arms at him. Severus removed the privacy spell.

"He is on his way. He just learned of Potter's return from an Auror." The former Headmaster warned.

Lucius and Harry were seated in the two chairs in front of Dumbledore's desk while Severus was behind it when Dumbledore waltzed into the office. "I am so happy to see your return to Hogwarts, Harry. Everyone was very worried about you. Where did you go? We must inform the Ministry since you are back now."

"Professor, I already spoke to Madam Bones. Professor Snape summoned her and Lucius as soon as I returned."

"We were discussing his missed assignments." Severus didn't stand up when Dumbledore stood next to him. Dumbledore was expecting him to relinquish his seat so he could play the Headmaster of Hogwarts and Severus wasn't about to give the man the satisfaction of doing so.

"I am sure Hermione has been keeping track and will provide you with everything you need as well as aid you in catching up." Dumbledore's eyes were twinkling.

Harry resisted the urge to tell Dumbledore what he could do with that piece of information. He simply stood up. "I better head to my dorm. I want to shower and change to get the days of traveling off of me."

"Very good, Potter but do not expect special treatment because of this, you are aware I expect your assignments to be completed."

"Yes, sir." Harry headed out of the door as Dumbledore began to lecture Severus on being patient and understanding. Harry wanted to gag. His next chore was dealing with the Bratty Trio. He passed the gargoyle. "You know, Atticus, I think I will see if I can use the showers in Slytherin."

"I would." Atticus the Gargoyle stretched his wings. "Anything to avoid Gryffindor."

Harry smiled.

___The next day____

Harry groaned at the amount of missed assignments, reading, and essays he had to write as he read the list he had created. He had enjoyed the slow return to Hogwarts but if he had been thinking practically, he would have realized how many classes he was missing. Neville and Draco as well as most of Slytherin provided him with copies of their notes for him. He was avoiding the Bratty Trio but he wasn't expecting it to last long as there was only so much distraction his friends could provide.

"They're looking for you and heading here," Dean warned as he dropped some books on the table in the library as he sat down. "Seamus and Neville are getting some books to take the other two seats. They are panting in the stacks as we ran here. Weasley was panting on the stairs."

Harry wasn't surprised. "I so don't need a lecture from them."

Seamus and Neville sat down. "They have been in rare form since you disappeared. Granger was furious about you telling her off. They have been pranked almost hourly since you left."

"McGonagall being gone has helped. Snape has assigned Professor Vector as our new head. She caught them breaking curfew on the first night. They blame you for it by the way." Neville started opening his book. "I am not sure what they were planning on doing."

The Bratty Trio entered the library only to be stopped by Mrs. Pince. "You three will not cause any problems here. I mean it."

"We won't. We just want to speak to Harry." Granger smiled reassuringly at the librarian.

"No, he is at a full table. You can find a table away from him or leave."

"Please leave, please leave," Harry muttered.

The Bratty Trio sat down at a table close to him but not too close. Harry had a feeling he was going to have them pass by him making comments as they pretended to retrieve books. He wasn't wrong. After they made their fifth comment, Mrs. Pince threw them out of the library.

Chapter Text

Severus was ready to poison Dumbledore. Every time he entered the headmaster's office, Dumbledore was sitting at the desk. Dumbledore was reading the mail and sorting through things on the desk. "Albus, you are not permitted to be in here. You are still suspended. You shouldn't even be at Hogwarts."

Dumbledore dismissed his words "Severus, you can't barter with Morris. He provides me with important information and this is how I pay him with the higher prices."

"Which is illegal." Severus snatched the invoice out of Dumbledore's hands. "It is illegal to use Hogwarts' funds for your informants as well as many other issues I have discovered in the accounts including Binn's salary going into a scholarship fund to pay for the Weasleys to attend. You are aware that the goblins are auditing the accounts."

Dumbledore dismissed his concerns. "You need to write to Verna, she needs to get her funds monthly or she won't provide me with the information in Knockturn Alley regarding the Death Eaters visiting the different shops."

Severus cleared the desk. "Albus, listen to me carefully. The Hogwarts funds are not your personal accounts. You can't pay for information or funnel funds so that the Weasleys may attend Hogwarts. The goblins are already itching to get their hands on you." At Dumbledore's dismissal, Severus threw his hands up. "I am sure your head will make an excellent addition to the halls in Gringotts."

"It's for the greater good." Dumbledore pointed to the chair. "Sit, tell me what you learned regarding Lucius and his plans for Harry."

Severus walked behind Dumbledore and leaned down. "Listen to me carefully, you have been suspended. You need to leave Hogwarts and remain away. Now, get up and exit this office."

"Severus, there is much to do. There is a reason why Harry's name was entered into the Goblet. There is a reason why the cottage was ransacked. There is a reason why Lucius is determined to get me removed from Hogwarts and keep control over Harry. We have to protect Harry. Sirius will be able to claim him after I am reinstated and he is cleared to leave St. Mungos. We must be ready to move quickly. Who knows what they might have done to Harry? They could use the darkest of dark magic on the boy."

"GET UP!" Severus snarled. Severus almost laughed at the look of shock on the old fool's face. Dumbledore looked at him before he stood up. Dumbledore walked around the desk and Severus sat down. "Albus, you are shooting yourself in the foot as the saying goes with your determination to alienate Harry."

"We must do something. Harry won't speak to Hermione, Ronald, or Ginny. He has turned his back on their friendship and I saw him with Draco. They were laughing as they walked to Charms."

Severus wanted to roll his eyes at the dramatic voice Dumbledore was using. "Albus, since you have been removed, the house rivalry has decreased. Longbottom, Thomas, and Finnigan have also been friendly with Draco as well as several other of my snakes. Harry has made many friends in other houses as well. Your three pets have alienated most of the school with their antics and the bigotry."

Dumbledore ignored Severus as he continued with his idea of how to protect Harry. Severus was going to submit the memory to Madam Bones and see about getting the man declared mentally unstable.

_____________________________________________________

Sirius Black was pacing in his room at St. Mungos. Memories had been coming back each day. Memories that he had believed were fake until his primary healer recommend a purge. Sirius had spent the last week with the suppressed memories conflicting with the memories he had before he arrived at St. Mungos. One of the harshest memories was the fact that Lily wasn't married to James. Regulus was married to James and Harry was their child. Lily had carried Harry but she didn't have anything to do with the creation of Harry.

Other memories were surfacing regarding the war. Painful memories. Memories that showed James, Regulus, and him were going to speak to the Dark Lord. They had already made arrangements until Dumbledore arrived the day before the meeting claiming there was a prophecy. A prophecy that he refused to provide to them. Peter had been with Dumbledore. Peter stunned Regulus while Dumbledore stunned James. He had tried to duel Dumbledore but Peter got him before he could recover from his shock.

The next memory he had was of Lily and James living in Godric's Hollow. He had no idea where Regulus disappeared to. He was agreeing with Dumbledore about using Peter as the secret keeper for the Fidelius Charm to protect James, Lily, and Harry. He fell onto his bed, his heart breaking as the memories flooded his brain. Memories that didn't match what he thought was the truth for the last eleven years. Memories that Dumbledore wasn't aware of had returned. He wiped his eyes as a plan began to form. Dumbledore was going to learn why he was a Black and why Blacks were dangerous to cross. He needed to get healthy. He needed to continue acting as if the memory charms hadn't failed until he could get to Lucius and Narcissa. He needed to protect his nephew and godson. Dumbledore was going to learn why his mother was dangerous and what she had taught her sons.

_______________________________________________________

Voldemort was listening to Barty as he described the different rituals that they might be able to use to get his body back. He honestly needed to find a way to speak to Lucius and Severus. Severus had the potion experience and Lucius had the ritual experience he needed. Barty was a Ravenclaw but his specialty was Charms and Transfiguration. Voldemort caught sight of the rat as he wove in and out of the room. "My Lord, perhaps this ritual. It wouldn't require much but I am not sure if we would have the time and number of people required for the ritual without alerting the Ministry to powerful magic being cast."

Voldemort thought for several seconds. "I believe we will be doing the original ritual. I have the enemy in mind." Voldemort saw Nagini lift her head. Nagini and Voldemort had been thinking a lot about what Harry Potter had told them. The boy was correct. Peter showed up shortly after the Potters disappeared. Peter showed up too many times at just the right time. "Barty, give me a quill. I need to write a note to Severus."

"My lord?" Barty obeyed as he watched Voldemort. His Lord's eyes were tracking the rat. Ah, the enemy was there. It made sense especially after his Lord conveyed what the boy had shared with him. The Dementors should have killed the rat especially given they were on Hogwarts and Peter ran toward the Dementors. It reeked of Dumbledore just like the timely arrival of the rat regarding the Potters.

*Nagini, keep an eye on the rat. I believe he will be useful in the ritual for my return.*

*I can't eat him?* The snake had been ready to kill the rat since the boy had arrived.

*After the ritual.* Voldemort promised. "Barty, this will need to go to the boy. He will be the only one able to read it. Just make sure no one sees him with it."

"Yes, my lord." Barty placed the parchment down on the table and handed a quill to Voldemort. Voldemort used every bit of energy he had in his body to write the letter.

___________________________________________________________

Mad-Eye kept Harry after class. He handed Potter the note his Lord had written. Harry opened the letter and Barty tried to see what it said but it was just squiggles. Harry raised a brow before grinning. "Potter?"

"Is there a way we can meet without Dumbledore knowing? I mean Lucius, Severus, Igor, you and me?"

"I am not sure. I will mention it to Severus. The way the Annoying Trio has been watching you, it might be hard unless we arrange a detention but Dumbledore might interfere. He has been in the headmaster's office daily and going through the mail. Severus has had to throw him out a few times. Dumbledore wanted me to search the office while he kept Severus busy. He is hoping to discover what Lucius is planning on doing while he is on suspension. Dumbledore has been trying to stop the changes Severus and Lucius are making."

"Figures. Let me know. We have time but we do need to work on this. Perhaps the day of the second event. It is coming up and Dumbledore will want to be seen during the event." Harry frowned. "He would also notice us missing and I am sure my shadows will report me missing."

"Exactly. Let me speak to them and let you know. As you said, we have some time." Mad-Eye suddenly slammed his hand down on the desk. "CONSTANT VIGILANCE!"

Harry jumped a bit. Dumbledore had to be near. He almost snarled. "Yes, professor. Thank you for your assistance." Harry kept his voice calm and meek. Dumbledore must have hoped to catch him in the hall.

"Come, let's head to the Great Hall. I have some interesting tales to tell you about your father." Mad-Eye glanced at Dumbledore as they left the classroom. Harry kept his head down. Dumbledore gave Mad-Eye a slight smile as he hid in the corner under and invisibility spell. He would have to get the boy another time.

"Creepy." Harry didn't turn around but he was aware that Barty heard him.

"Understatement."

Chapter Text

Dumbledore was pacing his temporary chambers in Hogwarts as he had been for several days. The chambers were on the third floor and there wasn't another person who resided on the floor. He had tried to stay in his old quarters but he was refused entrance. He had been asked to leave Hogwarts but they couldn't force him as they did Minerva. After all, he was the Headmaster. He had duties to the school and he wasn't about to leave his students alone. Granted, that aspect was ignored as they informed him he had no duties. They finally agreed to permit him to remain due to the fact he had been residing there for so long. However, his quarters were removed to the third floor and he wasn't permitted access to any of Hogwarts' reports.

The chamber was much smaller than the Headmaster's Chambers. It was a simple guest chamber with a bedroom, bathroom, and sitting room with a breakfast area set up along one wall in the sitting room. There was a desk, a desk chair, a couch, a recliner, and a small bookcase in the sitting room. The furniture was old and didn't match. The bedroom had a single bed and a wardrobe. There were no luxury items in the room. The elves weren't happy with the headmaster and while obeying their orders they weren't above expressing their displeasure with the old fool.

As the days moved closer to the second task, Dumbledore was getting desperate. He needed Harry to be seen with his three pawns. Dumbledore didn't like the changes he had witnessed in the students or the staff since he was suspended. He needed to get Harry back under his control so he could keep his image up. He needed to have a visible emeny and the Slytherins were the perfect emenies. He needed the staff to obey him, unquestionably. He needed to get those classes removed because he was sure Lucius was forcing others to pass through the board. He was sure Lucius had to be using Harry's name as well as blackmail to get the classes returned. Everything hinged on him controlling Potter.

Dumbledore was still thinking of making ways for Severus to pay for keeping him out of his office. His informants weren't happy with not getting paid. They weren't going to provide information for free and Dumbledore had to pay them for the last few weeks of information. He didn't believe the goblins would do anything to him regarding the funds going to the Weasleys or his informants as he was the Great, Amazing, Magically Gift, Superior Wizard, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Grand Sorcerer decorated with the Order of Merlin, First Class, Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards, and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. He dismissed the idea of his suspended titles. He would get everything back once he had Harry under his control.

His mind flashed to the money situation as he thought about the funds for Molly, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, and Remus. He wasn't concerned about paying the Dursleys as of yet. He could get the funds from the Potter Vaults but until then he still had to pay his people. He also needed to get more of his precious candies. He wanted to curse Severus for stopping his payment method. He could have funneled some of the Hogwarts' funds to Molly. She would have been able to make sure her kids and Hermione got the money. Remus wasn't aware he was on the payroll but what the wolf didn't know wouldn't hurt him. He needed Remus to rely on the Wolfsbane potion as well as the keep the wolf seeing him as his Alpha.

Money was his biggest issue. He couldn't get information, he couldn't plan without information, and he couldn't get control over Harry without finding a way to get Molly her potion ingredients. He also needed to be able to bribe people. He hadn't been able to get access to Sirius because he wasn't about to dip into his funds. His mind reminded him that his funds could pay for stuff but he dismissed that idea as stupid. His funds were his. His mind added as well as the Potter and Hogwarts funds. He chuckled a bit. Yes, those funds were his and he would gain access to those funds again.

Dumbledore frowned as he thought about the money problem. He couldn't gain access to Sirius which was stopping him from planning on how to get Sirius to gain control over his godson. He ignored the fact that Sirius was truly the boy's uncle. He did briefly have some concern about Sirius getting a purge and the memory charms breaking but that had been dismissed after he had visited Sirius when he bribed the janitor to let him into Sirius' room. Sirius had a magical health scan but since it was a basic one nothing was shown on the scan. Dumbledore was able to get Sirius to see the dangers of Lucius keeping Harry. He left with a smile on his face and quickly stopped by the file area and copied Sirius' chart. He read it and was pleased to see that just a simple magical health scan had been done so his compulsions and memory charms remained. He destroyed the copy of the chart since the Aurors had already been at Hogwarts a few different times searching for things to use against him.

Dumbledore was going to make the Ministry pay for removing him as well as making sure Madam Bones would learn what it meant to displease him. Fudge would need to be replaced. He needed a Minister who had a backbone but would bow down to him. Someone who wouldn't be so easy to bribe by the likes of Lucius Malfoy. Malfoy would also be sent to Azkaban as soon as he regain custody of Harry Potter even if he had to create a fake medical report regarding the boy's time with the Malfoy family.

Dumbledore needed to get his three pawns to befriend Harry again. It was a true struggle. It had been easier before but it appeared as if the students and staff were determined to work against his plans. They would feel his displeasure as well when he was in power. Severus would have to be put in his place as well. However, his focus needed to be on getting Harry friends with his pawns. He smiled. He knew exactly how to get Ginny to be seen with Harry again. After all, he was Harry's magical guardian and he could backdate a bonding contract. He would have to make sure Lucius didn't see the contract but he was sure he could corner the boy and a few suggestive compulsions would make the brat sign the contract while ignoring the date on the contract.

Dumbledore missed the figure in the landscape portrait in his temporary room. A figure that had been listening to the old fool's muttering and planning. The figure headed up to the Headmaster's office. Severus would be interested in hearing what he learned. The ghosts would watch for when the old fool left his chambers.

Lucius POV:

Lucius was sitting in Amelia Bones' office. They were reviewing everything. "There is so much evidence but since it is Dumbledore, it will be harder to prove. There is nothing that directly ties him to any crime and he will be able to explain any theft from the Potter Vaults as expenses for the care of a child. He will claim he was ignorant of the abuse."

Amelia sighed. "I am aware. The goblins have some interesting information regarding the audit they finished. They were able to trace the funds to people who submitted the bills and paying informants isn't illegal even if the funds came from Hogwarts. Granted, stealing the funds from Hogwarts to pay informants would be something he would explain as preparing for-"

"Yes, he would. He would also explain away the scholarship funds as well. If it was anyone else, they would be in trouble. Honestly, Amelia, his name is more hype than actual deeds. He hasn't done anything for the magical world since the defeat of Grindelwald. He loves to claim victory in the war but he was in charge of the Order. The war only ended because of Potter. Dumbledore had nothing to do with it and loves to use the boy to keep his name associated with it. It is why he signs everything with every single title he has."

"I agree. I have been trying to get evidence on him for years. He has turned a blind eye to a lot of crimes because the person responsible was a Gryffindor. I had one of the retired Aurors review the records from Hogwarts and DMLE. It was an interesting report." Madam Bones pulled out her wand and removed several spells she had placed on one of the lower drawers in her file cabinet behind her. She pulled out the thick report. "Read it. Dumbledore doesn't realize that Hogwarts records every event, every detention, the results of the detention, and what the founders had placed as punishment for the infraction."

Lucius took the thick book. "We need to get a copy of the original charter as well as having the goblins review the wards. I don't like what Harry has endured at that school things that shouldn't have happened."

"It is already been started. Severus didn't like how the wards looked when he took over. Filius was very distressed about the state of the wards and has arranged for some of his relatives to review them. Dumbledore isn't aware of it. Severus and Filius have also been reviewing every letter and invoice. They discovered several contracts that the goblins are reviewing. I will get the report by the end of the week according to Griphook. The goblins have a copy of the original charter but are searching Hogwarts for the original. Severus placed Dumbledore on the third floor to keep track of him since no one else is on that floor. The ghosts are also tracking his movements."

Lucius sighed. "We have to find something to keep him from returning as headmaster."

"Agreed."

Lucius was going to speak to his wife about her cousin, Sirius. Sirius might be key to discovering evidence that might get Dumbledore convicted of something. "I better go. I promised my wife I would be home before dinner."

Madam Bones looked at the work on her desk. "I wish I could say the same thing. I believe it will be dinner at my desk."

"Dumbledore?"

"In a way. I have to hire a lot of Aurors. The Ministry is going to have to hire a lot of employees as well. There have been too many that feel they can provide Dumbledore with whatever he wants."

Lucius bid the woman a good night and headed to his manor.

VOLDEMORT POV:

Voldemort was staring at Pettigrew as the rat was reading the information for the fake ritual he was sure Dumbledore would hear about. Nagini was curled up by the fire watching Pettigrew as well. *When?*

*Soon. As soon as I am sure he informs Dumbledore what ritual I have selected. I expect he will run to him soon.* Voldemort was certain Barty would chase off Pettigrew when he arrived. Pettigrew would attempt to listen to their discussion but Nagini would chase the rat off. Pettigrew would run to Dumbledore and inform him of the fake ritual.

At the last meeting, Barty had informed him that Potter had collected two of his Horcruxes. Severus and Lucius had attempted to get the Horcrux from the cave but discovered that it had been stolen by RAB. Voldemort thought it had been Regulus but Regulus wouldn't have betrayed them. It made him question who truly stole it and where it was. The question is what happened to Regulus after Dumbledore did whatever he did to James and Lily to think they were married. He was hoping Narcissa might get some answers from Sirius.

SIRIUS POV:

Sirius was getting a headache as he sorted through what were his memories versus the fake memories from Dumbledore. Narcissa had been to visit him and he had talked to her for a long time. Narcissa agreed it was time to speak to Sirius' mother. The woman would know how to make Dumbledore pay as well as maybe provide some insight into what happened during the time that Sirius was in Azkaban.

Sirius began to plot how to make Dumbledore pay for what he did to him, his nephew, and his mate. It would soon be time to teach the old fool what it meant to mess with the Black family.