Chapter 64: "Emancipation"

After finishing his OWL exams, Harry felt quite sure he'd pass with top marks, so there wasn't much worry in the air. Sirius then began the process to have Harry emancipated, which, to Harry's surprise, resembled the muggle world's bureaucracy more than he had anticipated. Just like in the non-magical world, there was a heap of paperwork to sort through before the emancipation could be officially filed and approved. This process was entirely devoid of any magical shortcuts, requiring each step to be completed with the same meticulous attention to detail as any muggle legal procedure.

About a month after the exams, the results arrived via an official Ministry owl. As expected, Harry achieved an Outstanding grade in all three subjects he had chosen to take. This excellent outcome was no shock to Harry or his family, but it still provided a good excuse to throw a small celebration. Harry, particularly, was keen on having this gathering, knowing that such moments of togetherness would become less frequent once he started attending Hogwarts.

Following the celebration of his OWL results, Sirius shifted into high gear to finalize Harry's emancipation paperwork. This last phase involved filling out the final form and gathering the necessary signatures to expedite the process.

Thankfully, the process unfolded smoothly, and they managed to keep the entire operation under wraps, away from the prying eyes of the Potters and Dumbledore.

Frank Longbottom was more than willing to lend his signature to the application. He didn't pry into the details, understanding from Harry's noticeable absence from the Potter family events and now the move towards emancipation, that things were far from harmonious between Harry and his biological parents. Frank's own dissatisfaction with James Potter's recent behavior made him all the more supportive of Harry's desire for independence. His only request was for an opportunity to personally thank Harry for the lifesaving warning Harry had provided on that critical night.

Sirius readily agreed, suggesting they arrange this meeting once Harry's emancipation was complete, and he was legally considered an adult in the wizarding community. This would allow Harry to engage more openly with others, free from the oversight of his legal guardians.

Soon Harry found himself at the final stages of his journey towards emancipation, a process he had to navigate by himself.

His first stop was the office of Madam Griselda Marchbanks, the head of the Wizarding Examinations Authority. She had Harry show her some basic spells to ensure he could perform magic safely. Satisfied with Harry's proficiency and control over magic, she officially approved his OWL results with a formal stamp.

Next on his agenda was a visit to the Improper Use of Magic Office within the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Here, Harry was briefed on a series of rules and regulations that he was expected to adhere to as a magic user in the wizarding world.

He learned about the appropriate contexts for magic use, the actions to take if a Muggle witnessed magical activity, and the severe consequences for violating the Statute of Secrecy.

The officials made it clear to Harry that once emancipated, any legal transgressions he might commit would see him tried and punished as an adult, with no allowances made for his age.

With these critical steps completed, Amelia stepped in to finalize Harry's application. Her expertise and efficiency wrapped up the process within an hour, and with that, Harry was officially recognized as an adult in the wizarding community.

One of the last formalities involved the Department of Magical Law Enforcement recording Harry's magical signature in their records. This was an unusual step, necessitated by Harry's unique situation of being emancipated at such a young age. With his magical signature now in the system, Harry was reminded of the importance of exercising caution when performing magic in Muggle areas. However, outside of Hogwarts, he was now free to use magic without the imposition of the Trace, giving him a new level of freedom and responsibility.

Harry's journey to becoming a legally emancipated wizard was a momentous occasion, marking a significant turning point in his life. This newfound status didn't just allow him the liberty to wield magic with greater freedom; it also bestowed upon him the responsibility to adhere to the laws and regulations that govern the adult wizarding community.

In celebration of this pivotal achievement, a grand party was held at the Black Castle. The event was particularly meaningful as it represented the culmination of concerted efforts by everyone involved to guide Harry safely through his education up to the OWL level and help him break free from the ties of parents who had left him behind.

During the festivities, Harry took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude to each individual who played a vital role in his journey toward emancipation. He thanked Arcturus for his meticulous and safe instruction in the magical arts, Cordelia for her vigilant care over his well-being, Emma for imparting her extensive knowledge of potions, Amelia for her invaluable assistance with the Ministry, and Sirius for his strategic oversight of the entire process.

Surrounded by these caring figures, Harry felt a deep sense of happiness and belonging. Unlike the solitary protagonists often found in web novels, Harry was fortunate to have a supportive circle of adults dedicated to his welfare and success.

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While Harry was enjoying a wonderful time with his family at the Black Castle, celebrating his newly found freedom, two important letters were dispatched from the Ministry of Magic, each bound for a significant destination.

The first letter was on its way to Hogwarts, intended for the desk of Headmaster or Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot Albus Dumbledore. This letter carried news that would undoubtedly catch the attention of the aged wizard.

Meanwhile, another owl embarked on a lengthy flight toward a secluded spot nestled in the hills of Ireland, far removed from the hustle and bustle of wizarding society. 

This remote location was home to a quaint little house, standing alone amid a sprawling yard. The yard boasted an improvised Quidditch pitch, complete with homemade hoops for practicing the beloved wizarding sport, and a modest flower garden that added a touch of color and life to the serene landscape.

As this second owl crossed into the property's boundary, it experienced a brief ripple of magical energy—a protective enchantment designed to screen incoming visitors. However, since the owl bore no threat, merely a letter, it passed through the magical barrier unscathed and continued its approach toward the house.

Approaching a closed window, the owl persistently tapped its beak against the glass, signaling its arrival with a message to be delivered.

Inside, the cozy scene of a family enjoying their evening meal unfolded. The family consisted of a young couple, both 29 years old and their 8-year-old son, gathered around the dinner table. They were none other than James Potter, Lily Potter (née Evans), and their son, Charles Potter, known to the world as the Boy Who Lived.

Charles, eager for some mischief, asked, "Dad, when will you teach me that hair color-changing prank? I want to try it on my friends."

Lily immediately responded, "Charley, you can't use spells on your friends. And don't brag about having a training wand when they don't. That wand is for learning, not for playing pranks."

James tried to soften the conversation, "Lily you are right here but don't blame pranks, pranks are harmless. However, Charley, you should listen to your mom. Be careful not to show off your wand in public. If someone complains, the ministry could take it away. Plus, you're not quite ready to learn that spell. Focus on your training."

Charles complained, "But training is so boring. Pranks are way more fun, and I don't want to just read books while Ron has a great time playing Quidditch with his brothers."

Lily emphasized, "Training is crucial, Charley. You wouldn't want to let Professor Dumbledore down, would you?"

Charles pulled a face but agreed.

Just then, James heard a knock on the window. An owl was there with a letter. After giving the letter to Lily, he went to release the owl back into the night.

Lily started reading the letter, murmuring, "Why would the ministry send us a letter now? It's not about another event... Let's see..." As she read on, her complexion turned white.

Returning to the room, James noticed Lily's distress and asked, "What's wrong, Lily?" Seeing her unable to respond, he quickly took the letter from her and began reading.

As James read the letter, his expression mirrored Lily's shock. The room fell silent, with young Charles looking at his parents, puzzled and worried about what had upset them so much.