Chapter 14: Let's Take A Visit To The Other Side

August, 2006 – Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Professor Dumbledore was sitting silently at the desk in his office doing some paperwork before the new term started when Professor McGonagall came bursting in in a frenzy.

"Albus, we have an emergency! The worst has happened!"

Dumbledore looked up from his desk – he has been dreading this day for a long time, but he didn't expect for it to come so soon, "He has returned, hasn't he?"

Minerva paused for a second to register the Headmaster's words, "I... didn't even consider Voldemort… but it's possible he is responsible what happened to Mr. Potter!"

At this point, Dumbledore got up from behind his desk to go comfort his friend. "Minerva, take a breather and tell me what you can." She did just that as she held onto the back of the nearby chair and did her best to tell the headmaster what the problem was.

"It's Harry Potter's guardians, sir. We got word from our agents in the Ministry after a Muggle newspaper reported that their house burned down. Sir… they all died."

Shock finally registered on Dumbledore's face, "Then Harry…"

"They don't know. The wizards haven't been able to inspect the site yet for traces of magic due to the muggle investigators."

"What investigators?"

Minerva sniffled before continuing, "They only found three burned up corpses in the living room, but based on the reports, it seems like they were… tortured. But that's not the worst of it!"

"There's worse?"

"Yes… while the house did burn away most of the structure and their belongings, the cupboard under the stairs was undamaged. Sir, the room was a torture chamber… and they found proof someone actually lived in it."

Dumbledore was speechless. He didn't even realize that he fell into the opposing chair next to Minerva. "Was it…"

Minerva shook her head, "His aunt never let him out of the house nor register him as a ward. As far as the Muggles are concerned, they either kept their own son in there or some missing child as a… 'plaything.' They have begun to investigate the family, and evidence points to the later."

Dumbledore was paralyzed by this revelation. But… how… the Blood Ward should have alerted me if Harry was in danger… I've looked into them when he was younger…What went wrong?... "How can you be so sure?"

"The Muggles have figured out how to trace someone lineage through their blood – like goblins do, but without magic. They found someone's blood in the cupboard, and they managed to link it to Petunia's side of the family."

Dumbledore looked confused, "I don't see how that relates to…"

"Sir, Harry was born in Godric's Hollow - his birth was never registered by the Muggle government. And while James and Lily's deaths were reported and covered up, it still took effort to convince them that James Potter was an actual person by their standards (1). Now they find blood of someone who is related to Lily's sister living in a cupboard with his aunt… Sir, the papers are reporting that Petunia killed her sister out of jealousy with her husband's help, and have been systematically torturing the child that was in the car at the time of car accident."

Dumbledore couldn't say anything. He never, never expected it to go this way. He wanted Harry to be raised by Muggle parents so that the fame didn't go to his head and corrupt him, especially since Lily's protection could only work in a family member's home but…

Wait… the scar… the Blood Ward…could they have actually interfered with each other?...

"But did they find Harry's body?"

Minerva shook her head as she cried, "Sir, the leaving room where they found the Dursley's was the least damaged room left – everything else was in cinders. If Harry was left in the house…"

"Then his bones would be ashes… We need to send an Auror or two to confirm that Harry died in that house, if at all. We also need to make sure that the fire and torture occurred by magical means through Voldemort's supporter's…"

Minerva got up, "Why do we even need to check? Who else could have gotten to the boy?"

Dumbledore grimly looked up his oldest friend, "Minerva… if Harry's body wasn't in the house and he has been tortured for years by his aunt, her husband, and their son…"

If something as powerful and ancient was susceptible to the… whatever it was in his scar… then how could he not been affected?

Dumbledore paused to phrase his next words carefully, "It doesn't take much to kill a Muggle – no matter how large – with a surprise tactic and a decent knife. The fire could have been made to burn away the evidence."

Minerva's hands went up to her mouth in shock as she fell back into her chair, "You can't mean…"

"Minerva, we have seen the horrors that the Muggles can bring upon themselves– remember what happened in Germany during the Second World War."

Both adults hung their head in shame, "We have to remind the Aurors to speak with Ms. Figg – she must have seen what has been happening in that house all these years." Unless she was also affected by whatever corrupted Harry's home…

Minerva nodded, "But… what if it was all an accident? What if the fire started off in the kitchen where Harry happened to be? What if…"

Dumbledore held up his hand to pause her, "If indeed Harry Potter died in that fire, then the Wizarding World has lost the last of the Potters and a hero. We can't ignore what happened to Harry in that home, but we must bury this information to the best of our abilities. We will keep it quiet the best we can for now until more evidence surfaces, but more likely than not, the Ministry will become involved one way or another. It does, however, narrow down our picks of perpetrators if Harry wasn't responsible for the fire. "

Anger finally arose on Minerva's face, "LUCIUS."

Dumbledore nodded, "As a governor with a lot of pull in the Ministry and as an 'Imperiused Death Eater,' he would have gained access to such knowledge one way or another. It is more than likely that he managed to convince one of his close 'friends' to deal with the child while he was still young."

"But didn't Snape say that Lucius believed that Harry himself was a possible Dark Wizard, seeing as how he managed to defeat Voldemort at such a young age?"

Dumbledore shook his head, "Snape did admit that, but only two people actually know how Voldemort actually died, and we are both rather good at Occlumency. We can only thank our fortunes that no other Death Eater was as adept at Legilimens as Voldemort. But in any case, you are correct. If anything, Lucius would have waited instead for the child to admitted to Hogwarts so that he might get a second chance of world domination if Harry Potter grew up to become another, and greater, pure-blood champion."

"Albus, you can't possibly think…"

"You have to admit, Minerva, even if Voldemort's heritage was a closely guarded secret, the symmetry is evident. It is the reason why we believe that he targeted the half-blood Potter – like himself – rather than the full-blood Longbottom."

Minerva thought about the implications for a second, "Then... does that mean… if Harry Potter is actually dead… does the prophecy now apply to Neville?"

By Merlin's beard, I hope not…Albus hung his head in shame, "I haven't checked the Book of Admittance yet, but from what I hear from the Longbottom Matriarch, he has yet to show signs of magic."

Minerva was shocked by this, "But his parents…"

"Do not fear, Minerva. While most wizarding folks aren't as accepting of Muggle knowledge or works, some of my former students have revealed their suspicions that magic relies on some sort of inheritance. Some have even presented enough evidence to convince me."

Minerva tilted her head, "What are you saying?"

"I am saying that based on what my former students have gathered, it is impossible for a child of two – and forgive my phrasing – purebloods to be anything else but a wizard. Now, if one of his parents were half-blood, there would be a small chance, but Frank's and Alice's don't remove Muggles and Squibs from their family trees like the Blacks, so it's easy to check if they have any in the family." (2)

Minerva finally understood his implications, "So Neville is a wizard just… a late-bloomer as it were."

"If that is the case – and only if we don't find evidence of Potter – we have to shift our priorities to Neville."

"How so Albus?"

Albus shook his head, "Let us not make any assumptions yet, Minerva. A child has just died, and we are discussing him as he was nothing more than a pawn." Never children… I don't use children as pawns…

"I am sorry Albus, that isn't what I was trying to imply, it's just…"

"I know you were against leaving Harry with his Muggle relatives, but even I believed he would be safer there. If he lived in the Wizard World, he would have become…"

Now Minerva paused the headmaster, "Albus, you don't have to explain yourself. I can understand your justifications: if he lived with wizards, he could have been corrupted by pure-blood supremacist ideology early on. Plus, a celebrity lifestyle is never right for a child – I learned more than enough from seeing the Muggle tabloids…"

Seems she came to the same conclusion as I did, thought the headmaster

"…but it was for the greater good in the end."

Minerva slowly got up, "I am sorry Albus, but if worst comes to pass, we must make preparations for a private funeral. I believe that a plot of land has already been reserved next to his parents?"

Albus nodded, "I never thought we would actually use it so soon…"

A few days later – Gringotts Wizarding Bank

"What do you mean we don't have access to the Potter Vault?" screamed Lucius.

When Dumbledore got word that Harry's inheritance was going to be claimed by Malfoy, he dropped everything and got to the bank as fast as he could.

However, it seemed like Griphook had it – and Minister Cornelius Oswald Fudge – under control.

"I concur with Mr. Malfoy, Mr. Griphook. The Wizarding Bylaws state that in the event of the death of the last member of a noble and ancient family, all belongings and funds are transferred to the closest living relative. As evident by both the Potter and Black Family Registry, Narcissa Black – now Narcissa Malfoy – is the closest living relative that Harry Potter has. As such, your establishment – Gringotts Wizarding Bank – must let her have access to the Potter Family vaults."

Dumbledore pushed himself through the Ministry officials – who actually parted for him, but that's not here or there – before looking at the files presented to Griphook.

"I am noticing that Sirius Black and Andromeda Tonks aren't listed here, but Bellatrix Lestrange is. Tell me, Lucius, how did you manage to skip these two other Blacks?"

Before Lucius had a chance to speak his mind, Griphook's loud cough caught everyone's attention.

"Now that I have your focus, we can proceed. First of all, thank you for coming so quickly, Headmaster."

Dumbledore nodded, "I only wish that I received this message sooner, old friend."

Griphook nodded in kind, "Don't worry yourself, Headmaster. The Minister and his associated circumvented the head authority of Gringott's and just expected us goblins to hand over all of their… new funds."

Griphook gave the two a glare that no one missed. While goblins are considered to be inferior by many wizards, most are aware of the fact that much of their financial holdings – and wizard specialists - are located in the goblin institution. As the only wizarding bank in Great Britain, it stands to reason that the goblins would have a tremendous amount of power over the wizarding economy, as goblins are also the force behind minting the wizarding currency, Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts. If it weren't for the goblins policies against liars and thieves – as well as other closely guarded values that no one could never find out – wizards would have been more hostile to them.

Well, more hostile then they already are.

"As I was saying before I was interrupted. Due to the… rushed nature… of this claim, I shall be speaking on behalf of Gringotts Head Goblin, as he is currently unviable at the moment, something the Minister should have been aware of."

The implication didn't go unnoticed by the many ministry bureaucrats present at the bank, some of which were Lucius's 'close friends.'

"Now, as Albus Dumbledore has correctly pointed out, the removal of Sirius Black from the personal family tree in the Black household holds no legal ground in the Ministry Family Registry – no matter how much the remaining Blacks disagree," Griphook was looking at Narcissa as he said that. "Unless it was done by the head of the Black family before his or her passing, then whatever the family claims isn't verifiable. As such, under these circumstances, all of the Potter Holdings…"

"Now wait just a minute," interrupted Fudge, "Mr. Black is currently in Azkaban for the murder of twelve Muggles by egregiously improper use of magic. He has no rights to the claim."

Griphook looked up at the man, "As no official investigation or trial has ever taken place regarding the crime that Sirius Black has committed, the heads of Gringotts see Sirius merely in the custody of the Ministry (3). Until an official hearing is made and paperwork is presented to justify the claim, the Potter Vault would go to Sirius Black, since he is the closest relative to the Potter family via Dorea Potter née Black, wife of Charlus Potter, mother of James Potter. And do not attempt to claim that you were under Marshal Law and that a trial wasn't required – a trial is a trial, despite whatever you may argue."

Narcissa was about to interject when Griphook beat her to it, "Before you argue against it, the removal of Dorea Black from the House of Black, it holds no merit here: blood is blood, regardless of family politics. Furthermore, Cygnus Black, husband of Druella Rosier and father of Narcissa, was the younger brother of Walburga Black, wife of Orion Black, mother or Regulus and Sirius Black. Ergo, by virtue of being born to the older sibling, Sirius will inherit the House of Potter Vaults. If, and ONLY IF Sirius dies, then does the order of inheritance follows the given order: Bellatrix Lestrange née Black, Andromeda Tonks née Black, Narcissa Malfoy née Black, and finally, if everyone else is dead or ineligible, Arthur Weasley, via his mother, Cedrella Weasley née Black. If all of the as of mention recipients are dead, then their children inherit in the order of the specified individuals. Since Bellatrix has no children, the first in line would be Nymphadora Tonks. Hopefully, this will alleviate whatever… misconceptions you may have had regarding who inherits the House of Potter fortune." (4)

As the Minister – and everyone present - was flabbergasted by what he just heard, the goblin added one more thing, "We may be bound by Ministry laws, but as you should be aware, Gringotts is a separate jurisdiction in the matters of inheritance, belongings, and funds. If you wish for Narcissa Black to inherit the Potter Vaults, just present the evidence gathered regarding the incident that Sirius Black caused in a trial, and we shall respond appropriately. However, all that will do is cause the inheritance to transfer to Bellatrix. Unfortunately, since she actually had a trial and is therefore legally ineligible for the inheritance, it will go by default to Andromeda Tonks. "

Dumbledore did his best to hide a smile so no one would notice. He never believed that Griphook would show that much of backbone – to the Minister and Lucius, no less!

At least Harry's family fortune remains untouched. Plus, Andromeda is a Light supporter who holds no blood-supremacist. Plus, if anything does happen or Lucius makes his move against her, she has enough knowledge of the Muggle world to successfully escape to it thanks to Ted. I just hope Narcissa doesn't convince Lucius to go down that route… we have lost too many wizards as it is…

It wasn't a secret that the Ministry rushed Sirius's imprisonment into Azkaban. As a member of the House of Black who favored the Light side as well as a member Order of the Phoenix, he was a prime target for removal; it didn't take long for Lucius to force his imprisonment without a trial. Seeing as how all evidence has been removed – including the breaking of Sirius's wand as well as the 'disappearance' of Pettigrew's – the ministry would have no choice but give Sirius Veritaserum to get the whole story which Lucius would never allow it. As the fallback from such a situation arising would be disastrous for the Ministry, the Malfoy's were in a legal bind – a 'Catch-22' as a famous student of his like to put.

"Besides, the issue is a moot point since the Blacks don't have the claim to the Potter Vaults."

This caught everyone off-guard into silence. Even Dumbledore was shocked. Griphook, what are you talking about?

Mr. Fudge was first to breach the subject, "Forgive me, but as I understand, it is no secret that the Muggle guardians have been found dead and branded as 'monsters' post-mortem by their press. It is also no secret that Dark Magic was detected at the house by no more than half a dozen credited and trained Aurors. While no evidence of Harry Potter remains have yet to be found, it is more than likely that he too died in the fire and that his ashes scattered to the winds."

Griphook nodded, "In most cases that would be enough to justify transferring his inheritance. However, since Harry is part of the Noble and Ancient House of Potter, due to their vast amassed wealth and holdings, certain measures and precautions have been placed into their vaults and holdings like for other families of high standing. While I am not legally allowed to disclose them as they are part of goblin magic and are protected under your wizarding laws, many of them include blood safeguards. One them monitors whether or not members of the Potter House are still alive, which is updated every time a birth and marriage occurs. The system can even track down long-lost decedents the moment they open a new account and deposit blood for identity – but I digress. Due to the Potter's careful and stringent monitoring of their family's members – as well as never banishing or removing any of them – the family tree is as accurate as can be. In saying so, as of the last check that occurred an hour ago, the safeguard still says that Harry Potter lives."

An audible shock went through the crowd as the revelation was told. While no reporter or investigator was present, it wouldn't take long for the news outlets to catch wind of this story.

"Before anyone inquiries further, we at Gringotts have no spell to actually track down Mr. Potter, nor are we at liberty to show this system or give you wizards any access to it. Any attempts to break into Gringotts or legally acquire access to this safeguard for verification will be dealt with severe persecution and action under goblin – not wizard – law."

Good, now Lucius has no way to change the outcome unless he actually tracks down Potter and kills him himself, though Dumbledore. Thank god the child still lives.

"We at Gringotts are also under no obligation to report to the Ministry or any other establishment or institution when or how Harry Potter gains access to his vaults in the future - one way or another - unless we freely choose to do so to anyone. If Mr. Potter inquiries about his family in the future, however, we will point him to the appropriate avenue and administrators in the Ministry."

Now the Ministry's mistreatment of the goblins will come back to haunt them. Thankfully, he did say they wouldn't tell 'any establishment.' They left a loophole for individuals, not institutions.

"We at Gringotts can reveal that while Harry Potter has come close to dying many times in the last six years, our inquiries and messages to both the Ministry of Magic and the Department of Magical Law Enforcement have gone unanswered."

Dumbledore's smile faltered. Wait, why didn't Griphook inform me?

During the confusion, Dumbledore caught the look Griphook gave him. Ahh, now I understand… I really should have read those bylaws that restrict goblin actions and activities.

Madam Amelia Susan Bones, Head of said department and indirect supporter of the Order of Phoenix, was first to speak out, "This is the first time I hear of such messages even being made! I only found about Harry Potter's mistreatment by his guardians when their deaths were investigated."

Griphook looked – confusion evident in his – to Susan Bones, "In that case, I would suggest inspecting your messaging network and office for rats and bugs who eat your mail," stated Griphook nonchalantly, "Maybe they gained a liking to the type of materials we use."

This, like the goblins earlier comment, didn't fall on deaf ears. If it wasn't evident that someone was involved in making sure that Harry's mistreatment and death were never reported, then the corruption in the Ministry went deeper than either Bones or Dumbledore expected.

Wait, is there actual corruption within the Ministry that blocked the messages or did whatever that corrupted Harry's home and family have something to do with it? No, that can't be… goblin magic works differently then wizard magic. But they still send messages… didn't they? But who sends the goblin messages to the Ministry?

"We at Gringotts can also reveal that while Harry Potter is currently alive, he did temporarily die for a few moments a few days back. We confirmed it since his safeguard activated soon after we believed he died and were preparing to message the Ministry."

Lucius jumped at the chance, "If the boy died and the safeguard registered it, doesn't that mean that your spell has been tampered with in some manner to show he is still alive?"

"Mr. Malfoy, be careful in your lies, for if it is revealed that you are spreading derogatory and harmful accusation regarding goblin business, establishments, and workers, you will be fined… significantly. Let us not remind you that much of your fortune lays within these walls."

As Lucius backed away from such allegation, Griphook continued speaking to the audience, "Such notions have been accounted for when the safeguard was devised. Since an individual can be resuscitated given enough time, the safeguard has measures in place. Also, a goblin would never work under the orders of a wizard ever again, less you be reminded of your history and war with us."

That's a little too close to the chest, Griphook.

"In any case, until the boy does die, all information, wealth, and holdings of the Potter House will be held under the control of Gringotts. Until such time in the future that Harry Potter finds his way to us on his own, or we are forced to search for him when he becomes a legal adult at seventeen. As such, any possible artifacts, spellbooks, lore, or even possible Marriage Contract located in the Potter Vaults is now officially sealed away from all wizards but Harry Potter. Until further notice, we at Gringotts will be working under James Potter's last command regarding the fortune, which is and I quote, 'make it grow.'"

Marriage Contract? Well, that's possible, but James and Lily were vehemently against the notion.

Dumbledore wasn't the only one to catch the twitch that appeared on Malfoy's face at that revelation. It wasn't an open secret that goblins are superb at making money through legal investments, be it on the wizard or Muggle side of the world. While the Potter House never had as much political pull as the Malfoy or other Houses, their long time accumulated land and wealth through the generations did make them one of the wealthiest if not the richest wizarding family in Britain. With Gringotts given full rein of the Potter accounts, there is no telling how rich Harry will be in the future.

"With all of this revealed and the options presented to you all, we at Gringotts hope this will be the last time we hear from the Ministry regarding this manner. If and when, however, the Ministry chooses to let Sirius Black have access to the Potter Vault, we will do so."

Lucius didn't even have time to make a grin before the goblin added, "We would like to remind you that we goblins have ways to determine if an individual is not who they claim to be or under someone else's control. Anyone who tries to gain access to any vault other than their own - through methods such as the Polyjuice Potion or certain spells - will be killed immediately without trial or hearing. Now, have a good day everyone, and we at Gringotts hope to see you again for continued business."

Same day – Hogwarts Headmaster Office

"I honestly didn't expect the investigation to go the way it did."

"Indeed Albus. Lucius's avenue to the Potter fortune has been caught off at both ends."

Albus looked from behind his desk at Snape, standing at the window, "How so?"

"The Ministry will never admit they made a mistake in persecuting Sirius, no matter how much Lucius tries to make them. Any spell or potion Lucius uses on Sirius to get access to Potter's Vault will be dealt with accordingly by the goblins. Even if Sirius and Bellatrix die of natural causes in Azkaban – however loosely that is defined in that place – Narcissa still won't have access to the fortune until Harry dies, making the death of the later too unnecessary. As such, as Griphook put it, only Harry and Harry alone has access to the vaults – until of course, he dies."

Dumbledore nodded, "And since the Ministry doesn't want to lose face, Sirius's trial can never be held – his arrest was too public and would raise too many questions."

Snape thought about it for a second, "Unless new evidence comes up after all these years, there is no legal loophole the Ministry – or Lucius - can use to remove Sirius from Azkaban. Even the use of Veritaserum on him would have to be recorded, which could fall into the hands of reporters or the uncorrupted officials in the Ministry, raising inquiries as to why Sirius would be interrogated so late in his imprisonment. It will also most likely cause him to reveal the identities of any Death Eater he is aware, Lucius being the prime candidate for the first name that comes out of his mouth."

"Unless of course, they found out through other methods who the secret-keeper was to prove his inocence."

Snape looked back at the pondering professor, "What do you mean Albus?"

"Many in the order – myself and Remus included – were kept in the dark regarding who was James and Lily's secret keeper. Even the ritual for the Fidelius Charm – which I helped set up – was finalized by Lily and whoever was there with her. However, when Sirius confronted Pettigrew in the street, in was widely reported by the survivors that Pettigrew screamed that Black was the Potter secret-keeper. He was either lying about that…"

"…Or he knew that Sirius was there when the spell was cast." deduced Snape.

"That or Black told him, which is unlikely. As such, if Lucius or his cronies want to release Sirius without a trial, they would either have to find Pettigrew alive in hiding or find some sort of evidence to prove that Sirius wasn't the secret-keeper."

Snape nodded, "Again, unlikely, as that would still require the use of Veritaserum on Sirius since Pettigrew is dead."

Dumbledore pulled his beard, "I wouldn't be so sure of that. Pettigrew was a Marauder - he could have had something up his sleeve in such a circumstance. They did only find a finger at the blast site and nothing else."

"Possible but unlikely. In any case, should we send someone to search for the boy?"

"I politely inquired Griphook to inform me the next time Harry Potter comes close to dying this time around. Bones has already begun sending out search squads for Harry, starting from his town and spreading outwards. If they don't find him in Britain, they will spread out further until proper governments and nations are asked for assistance."

Snape looked at the headmaster in surprise, "You actually think he will go to another continent?"

"I don't know what to think anymore Severus. I'm not sure if the boy is in hiding or if he has been kidnapped – I simply don't have the facts to work with."

Snape paused for a second, "I could make… inquiries… to see if any of Lucius's associates were responsible for what happened to Harry."

"No need – Lucius would have found the fools and disposed of them by now. I would, however, prefer if you made inquiries in the Wizard Underground."

Now Snape was flummoxed, "May I ask why?"

"If Harry is as damaged as I believe, he wouldn't trust any adult or someone his age. If he goes into hiding, he will most likely go underground. One way or another, he will find his way to the wizarding world – with his magic, it is very possible."

Snape nodded, "I'll make contact with my associates, but don't expect much if Harry is still with the Muggles."

"I don't think that will be an issue," said Professor McGonagall as she entered the office, "If my inquiries are correct, we have to get the word out to Amelia Bones as soon as possible."

Dumbledore got up from his desk, "What's wrong Minerva?'

"After you told me what Griphook said about their safeguards, I decided to check the Book of Admittance for Harry's location, since it tells me where to send the acceptance letters. Unfortunately, when I attempted to locate Harry's name, I couldn't find it."

Snape quickly interrupted, "Could it be that he hasn't been recorded in the book yet?"

"No," said Dumbledore, "I checked it right after Voldemort died at his hands – he was in there. Secret-Keepers may be able to hide the location of a future student but not their names."

As Minerva and Snape observed the pacing headmaster, Professor McGonagall was first to ask, "Do you have some sort of theory, Albus?"

"It possible that the book erased his name if Harry Potter… didn't consider himself to be 'Harry Potter'"

"Please elaborate headmaster," approached Snape. "The book can find anyone – obliviated or under a false name."

"That's is because the person's being knows it is their name. A name is special – it magically binds us to what we are, to distinguish us from others. Its repetition ingrains it into out being, distinguishing us from those who have similar names. But if a person isn't exposed to their name enough times…"

"Then their being would have no ties to it… You think that his guardians never used his name in all these years?"

"It is more likely that Harry himself has shunned away from his name or forgotten it with time. His blood apparently still remembers – as evident by Gringotts – but he doesn't. There is, however, a much more frightening alternative."

Minerva sat down in one of the chairs before asking, "What is it?"

"It is possible – however small – that Harry's magical essence has been changed."

Snape quickly turned, "I thought that was impossible."

Dumbledore quickly pointed at Snape, "For an adult it is, but children are still very malleable and not set in their ways. The dark magic present at the Dursley's house may have something to do with, but until someone finds out otherwise, something has altered Harry's fundamental being but not his blood."

"This will make finding him even harder if your theory is correct – Amelia Bones is using tracking spells specifically from what little magic they located concentrated in his cupboard. Unless we know what the contagion is, we will have no magical way to search for him even with the blood we do have."

"Indeed Severus. I shall inform Misses Bones immediately. Now, until something new arises, please return to teaching your classes until further notice."

As Minerva and Snape were leaving, Dumbledore grabbed hold of the Potions teacher as Professor McGonagall left, "Severus, I know you don't have fond memories of James, and he was indirectly responsible for Lily's death... Please don't hold Harry responsible."

"Albus…"

"I know you, Severus, better than you may think. The child will most likely look like his father but with his mother's eyes. Do you really think that despite everything that was revealed about the boy, that you could look at his face and not recall your hate for his father?"

Snape paused at that, calming thinking about it for a long time, "I wish that I could say that I wouldn't treat him harshly Albus, but I know myself too well. I play too many roles for the side of Dark to show any favoritism to anyone outside their families. You have already seen the hate I receive from the students because of the act I put on before them… But I know of his importance to the prophecy, so I will subdue my disdain for his father and only remind myself that he is Lily's son."

Dumbledore frowned at Snape reveal, but it was expected, "May you have fortune in finding the child."

As Snape left the headmaster's office, Dumbledore was left alone with no one but the Sorting Hat and Fawkes, his phoenix. Dumbledore went back to his desk to prepare his letter to Amelia Bones but paused before considering a thought that dragged its claws through his mind.

"Tell me, Fawkes," asked Dumbledore of his bird, "should I restructure my plans with the Longbottom child or should I have hope for Harry Potter?"

July, 2011 – Hogwarts

Dumbledore stared out the window of his office, observing the sun setting.

It has been a difficult few years, to say the least. The press had gotten wind of what occurred with Harry Potter, and the public was outraged. While the constant inquiry to Gringotts confirmed that the child was still alive, some felt that what occurred was the work Death Eaters in hiding rather than the act of Harry's guardians. When news broke out – despite Lucius's efforts – that his wife in all essence demanded to inherit the Potter fortune, the theory gained significant ground. To this day, despite the efforts of Lucius and the like, banning Muggle-born wizards from entering Hogwarts based on Harry's case fell on deaf ears. If anything, Fudge's effort to try to appease the people that Harry was safe somewhere made it worse.

It was even fair to say that people were more aware of the corruption in Ministry then anytime in the past. When Rita Skeeter caught the order of inheritance regarding the House of Black, she made inquiries. When the Daily Prophet wouldn't print her expose regarding Sirius having no trial nor any kind of investigation done in all the years due to the Ministry's request, The Quibbler was more than happy to publish it free-of-charge. While some did push as to why this matter wasn't looked into, the Ministry simply tried to deflect the attention to some other issues. In any case, the Death Eaters that managed to elude justice by claiming the Imperius Curse had been used on them and that worked in the Ministry were kept under careful watch by Amelia Bones agents in secret – as far as Dumbledore was aware.

The Quibbler also gained a reputation of writing whatever the Daily Prophet wouldn't publish, which was basically anything the Ministry didn't want the public to know. In essence, The Quibbler became the default paper for whistleblowers everywhere (5). The constant threat of being exposed made the corrupted officials much more scrupulous and careful in their everyday dealings, but a small minority still managed to get caught. Over time, honest members of the Ministry managed to get promoted to somewhat beneficial positions. Dumbledore always remembered fondly when Arthur Weasley was promoted to head of the Office for the Detection and Confiscation of Counterfeit Defensive Spells and Protective Objects when it was revealed that his supervisor was using his position to hide the magical holdings of certain individuals – one, in particular, being Lucius Malfoy. The raid that Arthur led and the subsequent removal of said items put a dent in the Malfoy fortune via fines. On the plus side, the Weasley's were no longer as poor as everyone made them out to be, what with Arthur's promotion and bonus for his good work. The reveal that he was also a Black to the wizarding masses was also a small boost in his social standings. (6)

While Amelia Bones did put up a decent effort and managed to convince most magical governments to aid in Britain's search for Harry, nothing came up in all these years. Eventually, she had no choice but to declare it a cold case and send the files to the goblins if they ever decide to search for the boy when he turned seventeen. Based on what Dumbledore could gather from Griphook, that earned her some respect in the goblin community for her concern for the child. Say what you will about goblins, but they adore children regardless of race and will defend them with their lives.

Speaking of goblins, there was no improvement in the relationship between them and wizards. Due to Lucius numerous cases and proceedings to gain access to Potter's Vault despite the clear and evident hurdles, Gringotts had closed all but minimum communications with the wizarding community. While they still employed wizards in their institutions – such a curse breakers and ward makers – and maintained their bank's services, no communications or messages were sent to and from the goblins. Only Dumbledore and select few still had some ways to talk with the higher echelons of goblin society, but even he had trouble getting Griphook to talk at times.

In the end, no matter how much Albus Dumbledore wanted to deny and never mention out loud, Harry Potter's 'death' has done more good for the Wizarding World of Great Britain than he could ever anticipate. With many former Death Eaters under constant watch and some removed from their post in the Ministry, the corruption has slowly begun to subside. It was still there, but Albus had to note that the likes of Lucius have started to become more patient in their actions. Also, if his math was correct, the last remaining children of Death Eaters and Voldemort supporters would be admitted this year to Hogwarts. Granted, they will all most likely go to Slytherin and make the next seven years rather difficult for the staff. However, at the current rates of admission for Muggle-born and half-blood students, pure-blood wizard children will soon become a very small minority of the population. This is not what Dumbledore expected to be the new norm – he had such dreams for the Wizarding World – but if it was the price of peace, then he will learn to deal with it. Thankfully, Dumbledore's current working theory was that eventually, when the children of Death Eater's graduated, the House would return to its original qualities of resourcefulness, cunning, and ambition, so acceptance would increase. By that logic, when any future blood purists arrive again, they would be the minority rather than the majority of the House. While the parents always had the option of sending their children to Durmstrang Institute in Scandinavia, anyone who did so from Hogwarts or Britain would be admitting that they were blood purists and possible future Death Eaters.

Looking back at everything that had occurred, there were days that Albus though that Harry's disappearance was more than just an accident. A theory posted by The Quibbler a while ago speculated that Harry was removed from his house by some special squad of Aurors who then destroyed the family who was guarding him, leaving enough evidence to place blame on Death Eaters who escaped persecution. They used the fact that Harry was still alive somewhere - in hiding - and of the recent reveals in the Ministry regarding its corruption. While Dumbledore had to agree that the theory held merit, a simple conversation with Amelia Bones revealed that she has already looked into it with a decent use of Veritaserum and interrogation. She did note that it would explain how Harry managed to stay hidden for so long, even with the possible magical contamination Dumbledore proposed. As a joke, she told Dumbledore to ask the Unspeakables if they had anything to do it.

He was yet to hear back from them which worried him nonstop. Damn that Unspeakable Algie Longbottom! If it weren't for the fact that he 'dropped' Neville from the second story window of the Longbottom Manor to his 'death,' the boy would still not have access to his magic. Results notwithstanding, Augusta still hates the man despite his results and various gifts to Neville afterward as a sign for forgiveness.

Dumbledore's train of thought was interrupted when Minerva entered his office, "All the letters have been replied to, Albus."

"Was his name among them? He would be eleven soon."

Minerva shook her head, "I am afraid not."

Dumbledore was about to turn around again when Snape entered the office, "I wouldn't be so sure Minerva. One letter caught my attention."

Now Dumbledore was interested, "How so, Severus?"

"It was delivered by owl from America – from Massachusetts, to be precise."

Now the teachers were stumped. While it is not unheard of for people of British blood to be accepted from across the pond, it was rare enough to be counted on one hand since they usually went to Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The fact that the individual was in the state where the school was located made it even more confusing. "What's the child's story?"

Snape shook his head, "That's just it – there is no story. While I don't know the exact location of the recipient, my inquiries with MACUSA regarding any individual named Harry MacLeod in Massachusetts have brought up nothing."

Minerva quickly turned to the dark haired teacher, "Harry MacLeod?"

Snape nodded, "Yes, the name did catch my attention as well."

Dumbledore thought about it, "It's possible… Harry may have not known his family name all those years ago but still… He has been hiding all this time in a place literally an Apparition away from the center of magical learning. How has no wizard seen him yet? Furthermore, how was he even snuck into the country without any possible paperwork or magic use?"

"They could be hiding him themselves." added Professor McGonagall.

"Don't jump on The Quibbler theory, Minerva."

Albus gave Snape a glare, "Severus, please. I know that The Quibbler isn't your favorite paper, but it has done good work in recent times."

"Forgive me, Albus, that came out worse than I expected. In any case, the name could just be a coincidence – he was probably named after the actions of Mr. Potter made news across the sea. Maybe he is a son who was born in Britain and moved to Massachusetts in the last decade. Maybe he is a Muggle-born who has strong British ties."

"All valid arguments. Until we learn more of the boy or actually see him, let us hold our theories until a later point in time. For now, I have to raise an issue that made bring us some trouble in the coming year. Do you remember my friend Nicolas Flamel?"

July 31st, 2011

Hagrid never enjoyed traveling through London. The Muggles always gave him such odd looks. He just assumed because it was because of his height. This was partially correct, it was more of an issue regarding how he looked rather than his girth.

In any case, Hagrid tried to bring as little attention to himself as possible on his way to the Leaky Cauldron and then Diagon Alley. He was given strict instruction by Dumbledore to head to Gringotts Vault 713 for the Stone, and he wasn't to be followed. After he had retrieved the Stone, he was to return at his earliest convenience.

"Always get lost around here. Where is that damn pub now?" Hagrid spoke to himself out loud. He didn't however, expect a response.

"If you are looking for the Leaky Cauldron, I'll take you to it."

Hagrid had to look around for whoever spoke. Took him a moment to look down at an unusually dressed lad looking up at him.

"Sorry, you stand out too much to be a Muggle and my inquiries revealed that the only way to Diagon Alley for my school supplies are through the Leaky Cauldron. Are you going there as well?"

Rubeus Hagrid took a moment to study the child in front of him, who by his admission revealed that he was around eleven years old and just accepted to Hogwarts. He noted that he was a bit tall for his age, a little too wide in the shoulders – not enough to stand out, but enough that the Quidditch Captains would keep an eye on him in the future.

His appearance was a different story.

Hagrid couldn't help but think that the boy did everything in his power to be remembered. He may have not known much about Muggle fashion, but he knew enough from students that what the boy was wearing was odd. He wore black combat boots, green jeans, a red hoodie, strange black gloves that covered his hands, and had what looked like a pair of blue-white headphones that newly entering Muggle-raised students used for music before they stop working at Hogwarts. The child had no skin - or any part of his body - revealed except for his face.

Hagrid to agree that the female student body would find his looks rather flattering with time – not that he would actually know. His dark black hair was combed over, both ears were pierced with some oddly marked jewelry, and his eyes – as the half-giant realized – were the same color as his pants: dark green. His teeth, based on the wide smile he was giving, were white and perfect, and his face was free of imperfections, save for a scar that seemed to have healed some time ago over his right eye. He noticed that it was even present on his eyelid when the child blinked.

"I umm… yes, I am looking for the Leaky Cauldron. Surprised a first-year lad knows his way to it, though."

The child laughed at Hagrid as he started leading the way, "I came from America after I received my acceptance letter, so I had to ask around before I figured it out. A Professor McGonagall wrote me the name of the pub after I requested it, but I declined to have someone guide me there."

"Oh, so you are Muggle-born then. Wonder why the letter went to America though?"

"Well I was born here and adopted before I moved to America, but I can see how that can be confusing."

Hagrid got a little flustered at that reveal, "Oh, um… sorry about that comment, I didn't mean to… you know…"

Harry raised his hand to stop the man, "Don't worry about it. I never knew my birth parents, and I am happy with the people who adopted me."

Hagrid realized something, "So, you don't know your heritage then?"

The child looked up, "Is that a big deal in Britain?"

"I try not to pay attention to it, but Hogwarts accept everyone: pure-blood, half-blood, and Muggle-born. I myself am half-blood, so I don't think anyone will make a big deal out of it. Some pure-bloods may give you some trouble, since… you know… they care about family history and such."

The child gave Hagrid a feral smile as they approached the pub, "Don't worry sir, 'trouble' is my middle name."

Hagrid realized that he never introduced himself, "Oh, I am sorry, where are my matters? My name is Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds of Hogwarts. What's your name lad?"

The child raised his hand to shake the giant's, "Harry. Harry MacLeod. A pleasure to meet you."