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Chapter Text

Brit looked at the letter the crazy owl dropped into his lap. The letter felt weird. He used the skills he learned from his two snakes to check the letter out. He usually did so anyway but this one felt weird. He got rid of all the little charms on the letter and crossed out the name Harry Potter. He wrote Britannicus Peverell above Harry Potter. Brit followed the instruction he had been given. He had another letter sitting on the desk but this was the one he had been warned about. He turned the letter over and saw the seal.

~It arrived?~

~Yes, Tom, it did. Nagini was looking for you.~

~I saw her. Did it say Harry Potter?~

~Yes, I already fixed it and removed the charms. I was about to open it.~ Brit opened the letter as Tom slithered up his leg and settled around his neck to read the letter.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., CHF. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Mr. Potter,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress

Brit turned to the second page:

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

UNIFORM:

First-year students will require:

1. Three sets of plain work robes (black)

2. One plain pointed hat (black) for day wear

3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)

4. One winter cloak (black, with silver fastenings)

Please note that all pupil's clothes should carry name tags.

COURSE BOOKS:

All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1)
by Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic
by Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory
by Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration
by Emeric Switch

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi
by Phyllida Spore

Magical Drafts and Potions
by Arsenius Jigger

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
by Newt Scamander

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection
by Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT:

1 wand

1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)

1 set glass or crystal phials

1 telescope

1 set brass scales

Students may also bring if they desire, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICK

Yours sincerely,

Lucinda Thomsonicle-Pocus
Chief Attendant of Witchcraft Provisions

~Interesting, they removed snakes. Lousy book list too.~ Tom hissed. ~You read those two or three years ago.~

~Wonder how it got addressed to Harry Potter?~

~He might have had it handwritten out. It shouldn't have.~

They heard the floo sound. A few minutes later, Severus stepped into the room. He bowed. "My Prince, I see you got the letter."

"Yes, it was even addressed to Harry Potter." Brit handed the letter to Severus. ~Tom, go and smack him for me.~

~You know why he does it.~

~I know, so formal.~

"Dumbledore has been sitting in Minerva's office for days. Since no one can see the addresses of the envelopes and the elves deliver them, he has been waiting for an answer from Potter. When none came, he sent a few directly to your former relatives' house. When that didn't work he just sent a generic address one." Severus ignored the hissing. Brit most likely told his Lord to smack him for his formality. He hid his enjoyment of seeing his friend's son's annoyance.

"The envelope was covered in spells. I removed them as I was taught."

"Good. Did you eat your lunch?"

"Yes. Severus, do you think he will know?"

Brit had been worried about Dumbledore getting his hands on him. It had taken a few years to get the boy enough confidence in himself. Tom and Nagini had found Harry Potter at the Dursley home so beaten that if Tom hadn't been able to summon Severus the boy would have died. "No, you don't look like Potter. The scar is gone. Dumbledore won't suspect a thing. You have been in Diagon Alley and no one recognized you."

"True. I just don't trust him." Brit sighed. It would be a long seven years unless he could test out early but that would only knock off two years.

"I don't either." Tom and Nagini would protect Brit. "Go and get your assignments, I want to review them." Tom slithered over to Severus. "My Lord, I do believe it's time to get you a body." Tom nodded yes. "I will speak to Lucius. He invited Brit to stay at Malfoy Manor overnight on the 31st so that he could take the boys to the station."

Chapter Text

Brit and Draco were sitting in their compartment waiting for the train to pull out of the station. Severus, Lucius, and Narcissa had settled the boys in the compartment before leaving. Lucius had already made sure that Tom and Nagini were safely at his home. They were researching how to get the Dark Lord his body back. The platform was slowly emptying of parents, reflecting that the Hogwarts Express was leaving soon. They chatted with a variety of friends, laughing and joking. Brit and Draco were sitting quietly in between the influx of visitors when their door was slammed open. "Oops, sorry." A red-haired boy was standing there, his face slightly red.

"No damage was done." Brit recognized the boy as a member of the Weasley family. He had been warned by Severus about the family. Dumbledore's followers and rabid fanatics.

"I am trying to avoid my twin brothers."

Draco was about to respond when the boy sat down next to him. He was a bit surprised. He never experienced someone with no manners. "Draco Malfoy." He introduced himself.

"Britannicus Peverell." He looked at Draco who was as confused as he was. Why was a Weasley sitting with a Malfoy?

"Ron Weasley. Sorry, I was a bit nervous about my brothers seeing me. They love to prank."

They started chatting as Ron was holding his rat. "This is Scabbers by the way. Pathetic isn't he?"

Draco made a face as the rat was eating food on Ron's lap. "He is eating out of the container. Couldn't you do something?"

"Fred gave me a spell to turn him yellow. He is one of my twin brothers. Want to see?"

"Anything to stop it from eating." Draco looked at the mangy thing.

"Ahem... Sunshine..." Ron was in the middle of showing them this new spell his brothers taught him when their compartment door was opened again. There stood a girl with messy brown hair, in her uniform already.

"Has anyone seen a toad? A boy named Neville has lost one." She looked around the compartment.

"No." The three of them dutiful replied.

Brit frowned a bit. "You do realize opening the doors gives the toad more places to hide?"

The girl ignored him as she noticed Ron's wand was out and pointed at the rat in his lap. "Oh, are you doing magic? Let's see it then." The three boys bristled at the commanding tone but Ron moved Scabbers into a better position.

"Ahem. Sunshine Daisies Butter Mellow, turn this stupid fat rat yellow." Nothing happened. Ron shrugged his shoulders. Brit and Draco realized the twins had tried another prank on Ron.

"Are you sure that's a real spell? Well, it's not very good, is it? Of course, I've only tried a few simple ones myself but they've worked for me. For example." The bossy girl pulled out her wand and aimed it at Ron. "Tergeo. That's better, isn't it?"

Ron started screaming. "What did you do?" Draco quickly pulled the prefect cord for help. Brit pulled out his handkerchief and placed it on the bleeding face of Ron Weasley.

"It was a simple cleaning spell. He had dirt on his nose."

"You do realize using magic outside of Hogwarts for minors is illegal." Draco couldn't believe the girl.

"No, according to Hogwarts: A History, we are allowed to practice our spells." Hermione defended herself.

Brit shook his head as two prefects arrived. "What happened?" Prefects Terence Higgs and Percy Weasley arrived.

"She-" Draco pointed to Hermione "-decided she is allowed to use magic whenever she feels like it and cast a Tergeo on Ron's face."

Percy stepped into the compartment. "Ron, I need you to let me see."

"Percy, it hurts." Ron was crying.

"I know. It's not to be used on flesh. It's for household cleaning." Percy explained while Higgs summoned some clean bandages. "Higgs, can you let Madam Pomfrey know?"

"Will do. You take him back to the Prefect area. Gemma might know some healing spells."

Percy guided a crying Ron out of the compartment. Brit was glaring at Hermione. "I need you to start at the beginning so I can inform the Professors before we arrive." Higgs was going to visit the conductor after he got the information. The conductor would be able to send the information and alert Madam Pomfrey.

Draco and Brit told what happened while Hermione was trying to justify herself. "It says in Hogwarts: A History that we are allowed to practice our spells. As long as we don't do it in front of muggles. My parents are muggles but they're aware of magic. I didn't do anything illegal."

"You realize that Hogwarts: A History doesn't mention our laws, our traditions, or our customs. It's called Hogwarts: A History because it's a history book about Hogwarts, not the magical world."

Higgs stopped Brit from continuing. "Granger, if you listened to the professor who informed you of our world, I know, they instructed that you can't do magic outside of school. I know they also instructed that you can't do magic in front of any muggles. I know they also instructed that you are forbidden from using your wand until you arrive at Hogwarts."

Hermione shifted a bit. "Yes, but it says we can practice."

"Yes, movements. Yes, how to say the spells. You know you were forbidden from casting."

"Well said, Higgs." Severus Snape was standing in the doorway. "Weasley has been healed. He is currently sleeping. He wanted me to inform you, Peverell, Malfoy that he will speak to you later. Granger, do come with me."

"Thank you, Professor Snape." The boys replied. Brit and Draco returned to their seats after Higgs left with Severus and Hermione. Brit knew Severus had been close by. He was willing to bet his allowance that no one had realized the potion master was on the train.

"Wasn't that bit interesting." Brit looked out the window. "Why would a Gryffindor willingly seeks solace in Slytherin territory?"

"I was wondering that myself. Granger is going to be an issue." The Malfoy and Weasley family had a long history of bitterness between them. It stemmed from the Weasleys breaking a few magical contracts with the Malfoys. Ronald Weasley had to know he was a Malfoy even before he entered the compartment.

"I do agree. She is careless and a know-it-all. Severus hates people like that. It should be interesting if she is in our class with him." Brit believed the girl was a Ravenclaw. He also saw a bit of the Gryffindor bravado and self-righteous in the girl.

"Weasley?" Draco wanted nothing to do with a Weasley. However, but if used right, it might be worth it.

"I'm not sure. He kept looking at my forehead. I believe he was looking for Harry Potter." Brit didn't have the scar any longer. He hadn't had it for years.

"I had wondered why you were nice to him."

"He will be a Gryffindor and start on how Slytherins are evil. I am wondering if we might be able to use him."

Draco smirked. The Dark Lord taught his son well. Dumbledore wasn't going to know what hit him.

Chapter Text

~Tom, why are we here?~ Tom was hiding under a bush next to Nagini. Their heads were peaking out.

~I'm not sure. Can you feel it?~

~I do. We are also near potential food. Look at the size of that one.~ They had been watching the huge boy playing something that made beeping noises. He would feed them for a week or so.

~I smell blood.~ Tom inched forward a bit. ~It's coming from inside.~

~A lot of blood.~ Nagini raised her head. ~Window is over there.~

The snakes slithered closer to the house. They could hear yelling. "Lazy, good for nothing freak. I will teach you to do better than Dudley in school." They heard a scream of pain. It was a boy as they heard "please, uncle."

~Tom, we have to do something.~ Nagini wanted to kill the muggle who was hitting the boy.

Tom was trying to reign in his magic. As a snake, he couldn't transform. He had tried it a few times since the conflict with the Potters and it always failed. He had tried resting and not using his magic, thinking he needed to build his reserves. He had tried even using a wand but nothing worked. ~The boy is a wizard.~

~Tom, over here, an opened window.~ Nagini was already working the screen off by sinking her fangs into the mesh and pulling. Once in, Nagini wrapped herself around the huge male muggle who started screaming. "Snake!!!!" ~He's bright.~ Nagini hissed as Tom was circling the boy who was barely conscious and was whimpering on the floor.

~I need Severus here. Nagini, knock him out and assist me in the summoning.~

They heard a loud smack as Nagini used her tail and hit the muggle over the head. She released her coils and the muggle crashed to the floor. ~The other fat one?~

~We will deal with him if need be. Come closer. Touch the boy and me, I will use him as the summoning point.~ Once Nagini was in place Tom started to focus his magic. He used the power of the dark mark to summon Severus to him. It wasn't the normal type of summoning for his Death Eaters. Tom put everything into bringing Severus to him.

Severus landed with a thud. He recognized Nagini and saw a lot of blood. He glanced at the huge male on the floor. He needed answers but they could wait as he started to heal the bloody child protected by Nagini and another snake. Once he got the boy stable. He pulled his wand. He started to do a minor scan for any wards that would go off if he used magic. He found nothing but warning spells and alerts. He wasn't sure if he triggered one or not. "He's stabilized. I don't know what happened but I do know we need to leave. I will deal with the muggle."

Nagini tugged on Severus and led him to the opened window they had used. Severus peeked out and saw a fat boy and a broken screen. "I'll start with the boy and the screen. If the muggle wakes while I'm doing this make sure he remains awake."

Nagini went back to where Tom was as Severus fixed the screen. He checked that the boy hadn't heard a thing based on the noise coming from the toy he was holding and the music he could hear from whatever was on his head. When he went back inside he saw the two snakes were curled protectively around the boy. He revived the muggle. "Freaks, I don't want any more freaks in my house. Get out and take the boy with you. You tell that old man no more."

"Legilimens." Severus entered the muggle's mind. He searched for what happened. He wasn't surprised as it wasn't the first time muggles had abused a magical child. He started to search for what he meant by the old man. He saw the letter, a visit by Dumbledore detailing how he wanted Harry to be raised after someone voiced concern about the child. He froze a bit when he realized who the child was. "Obliviate."

The two snakes were still curled around the boy. "I need to pick him up when I do, I need you to wrap yourselves around my legs. I apparate us to Prince Manor causing the wards will crash and Dumbledore to arrive." Severus removed any tracking charms from the boy. He did a quick check of the boot cupboard for anything special. He found an old baby blanket. He picked up Harry and once the snakes were wrapped around his legs, he apparated.

______________________________________________________

Harry woke up a bit confused. He was in a big bed in a huge room. He sat up but didn't feel any pain.

~He's awake. We need to get Severus here to speak to him. Let him know we won't hurt him.~ Tom picked his head up from the blankets.

Nagini slithered closer to Harry. ~Hatchling doesn't smell of fear.~

~I know, snakes never have hurt me.~ Harry missed the startled looks on the snakes as he was looking at his new surroundings. He jumped a bit when he heard a knock and the door opened. A tall man in a black dress entered.

"Potter, glad to see you are awake."

~Where am I?~ He was looking at the snakes.

Severus was a bit surprised at the boy speaking in the snake language. "English, please. I'm afraid I don't speak the elegant language of snakes." Severus summoned a chair.

Harry's eyes went big. "You're a freak too." He was staring at the chair. "You moved it. I got into trouble for turning my teacher's hair blue."

"No, I'm a wizard, and so are you. You turning your teacher's hair blue would be called accidental magic." Seeing the confused look on the boy's face, Severus had more to explain. He had believed the muggles told Harry he was a wizard. "I have a bit of explaining to do. Also, I will need you to translate what the snakes tell you."

"Where are my relatives?" Harry didn't care if he ever saw them again.

"You will not be returning to them. It will be one of the issues we will be discussing." Severus began to explain everything he knew. Once in a while, the snakes would start hissing and Harry would translate and ask their questions.

Chapter Text

Weasley arrived in the Great Hall in time for the sorting. "How are you?" Brit wondered why the boy was standing next to them.

"Better. I can't believe that -"

"Witch?" Draco suggested.

"Yeah. I have to go back and spend the night in the infirmary as Madam Pomfrey wants to monitor me." Weasley leaned against the wall. "What happened to her?"

"We don't know. Professor Snape is handling it."

Draco and Brit saw the gleam in Weasley's eyes. Brit gave a slight nod to Draco, perhaps there was another Weasley that wasn't a Gryffindor. Two years ago, the Weasley twins had created chaos by being sorted into Slytherin. Their mother had sent howlers every day for two weeks demanding for them to be resorted. She kept telling them what a disgrace they were. It only ended when the parents of the other students wrote and complained to the Board. The Weasley twins petitioned the Ministry for a new guardian. They were the Greengrass twins.

The sorting went exactly as was expected with a few exceptions. Those who were aware of the train situation were a bit surprised to see Granger walking to the Sorting Hat. They were shocked when the girl went into Gryffindor. She wasn't a lion, most believed her to be an idiot. Brit and Draco went to Slytherin. The hat didn't even sit on their hats before shouting out Slytherin. The biggest surprise to most was when Ron Weasley sat down and the hat didn't get to touch his head before it shouted "Slytherin." Everyone knew what was coming as the Greengrass twins and Daphne started to clap.

_______________________________________________________

Severus was in a bit of shock, another Weasley in his house. He could see that Dumbledore wasn't happy about it despite the man's smile. Normally, Dumbledore liked to spend ten minutes greeting the new students. Instead, he said three words that made no sense. Severus glanced down at his snakes and saw Weasley was sitting opposite Draco, his back to the Gryffindors. Percy Weasley looked furious while the previously known duo of Weasley Twins was making their brother feel welcomed into the snake pit.

Severus could see Minerva and Dumbledore were having a very heated discussion. Minerva wanted to suspend Granger. Dumbledore kept insisting she needed to remain at Hogwarts. He kept referencing how Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger would be great friends for Harry Potter once they discovered where the boy was. Severus had already assigned the girl detention for the year. He wanted her expelled and pushed for it. Dumbledore had been bragging about the girl since he did her home visit. Severus looked at Brit before glancing at Granger. Granger seemed to be looking for someone. Dumbledore didn't know Brit was Harry.

The Dark Lord was curled around Severus' wrist but the snake was awake and listening. Nagini was under the table, listening to Dumbledore and Minerva speaking. Dumbledore never realized that silencing spells should be an area effect spell instead of just putting a small open-ended bubble up around who he was speaking to. It allowed Severus to learn a lot of information that way but using a vast number of snakes.

Dumbledore had tried to stop Severus from having snakes in Hogwarts. Poppy had shown how many different potions needed ingredients from different types of snakes leaving Dumbledore no choice but to stop objecting. Severus and the Dark Lord had a spying army of snakes with Brit acting as the translator. Dumbledore never suspected because the only known speaker was the Dark Lord.

He watched Granger lecture her fellow lions about Hogwarts and rules. She was trying to explain she didn't do anything wrong. He would have felt bad for the lions but they were used to Percy Weasley. Granger and Weasley were going to drive the lions nuts.

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"Ron, what happened?" The Twins sat on either side of their brother. Bill, Charlie, and Ron were the only ones who still talked to them. Bill and Charlie a bit more often since they didn't live at home. Ron had to sneak out any letters he wrote.

"Granger used some spell to clean my face. Percy said it was used for cleaning a house, not a person. The girl even tried to argue about using magic outside of school." Ron had heard Dumbledore push for the girl to get off. "Dumbledore stopped Snape from expelling her. Snape gave her detention for the school year. Dumbledore didn't want to punish her at all."

"Figures." A few Slytherins muttered. They had already told their fellow snakes what happened.

"He kept saying I wouldn't want a fellow lion to be expelled. He didn't even ask me. I certainly wasn't going to be a lion after listening to that girl rant about being one while we had to wait for Dumbledore to arrive." Severus used a port-key to get bring Granger and Ron to Hogwarts. Weasley had spent a few hours before the students arrived in the Infirmary listening to Granger. "She thinks Dumbledore is the next Merlin."

"Bonkers is what she is." Fred glanced over his shoulder.

"I agree, Forge." They were going to be using Granger for testing their products out.

Brit had been watching Dumbledore and Granger. "I think she is his little pawn for Harry Potter." The older Slytherins already figured out and were a bit surprised a first year would have. "I do believe she is going to be a problem."

"Going to be? She is." Ron Weasley looked at Percy. "So, Daphne, how do you feel about having another brother?"

"I already planned on writing to my parents. I'm sure Fred and George already have their letter written."

_____________________________________

The Dark Lord slithered into Brit's dorm and up onto the bed. The only boy who didn't scream was Draco. "Marvolo is Brit's pet. He won't hurt anyone unless you try to hurt Brit."

"I thought he was staying with Severus." Brit picked up Marvolo. ~Does Severus want to talk to me?~

Everyone froze but Brit and Draco. Draco started laughing. "You should see your faces." Blaise, Theo, and Ron relaxed.

"It's dark." Ron whispered.

"It's only considered dark because of Dumbledore. In India and China, it's considered a great blessing by Lady Magic. In South America, India, and China it's used in healing. Some of the best healing spells are in parselmagic." Brit put Marvolo down after Marvolo hissed no. Brit opened his trunk, sorted through his books. "Here are some history books on the different skills we in the magical world can be gifted with. They also have animal speak and other similar abilities that Dumbledore has stopped from being developed in Hogwarts. Did you know at one time basic warding classes were taught? Dance? Foreign languages? Dumbledore has banned them."

Ron took one of the books while Blaise and Theo picked up another one. The next hour and most of the weekend was spent talking about the magic that Hogwarts didn't teach. Ron did get a few howlers. No one took them seriously except for Dumbledore and Percy Weasley. Ron had arrived back in the snake pit Saturday afternoon looked a bit haggard. "Don't worry my future brother, it won't be much longer." Daphne sat down next to Ron. "Father is already on the situation."

Brit decided it was time to speak to Severus. As the former Weasleys decided on a pickup game of Quidditch for the snakes.

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Severus was in his private lab when he felt the wards alert him to Brit's arrival. He didn't look up from his cauldron. "Cut up the spleens for me, my Prince."

Brit hissed at Nagini who smacked Severus' gently on the leg. Brit started cutting and Marvolo and Nagini curled up by his feet. "It has been an interesting weekend so far. Marvolo heard Dumbledore telling McGonagall that Weasley needed to be in Gryffindor for Harry Potter."

"He seems determined to have Weasley and Granger linked to Harry Potter. It's why the girl wasn't expelled. Despite each of the four heads agreeing she needed to be at least suspended." Severus dropped some mustard seeds into the cauldron he was currently working on. "Molly and Ron had a screaming match this morning in Dumbledore's office. We had a separate meeting after the Weasleys departed. He believes that the Dark Lord is here or will be here to confront Harry Potter. He isn't sure how the Dark Lord will react once he realizes Harry Potter isn't here. For some reason, he also believes that Harry Potter needs to be friends with Granger to guide his studies while Weasley can help Harry relax."

"That doesn't make any sense."

"I agree. He is working on a separate agenda with Granger and Weasley. He wants Potter, Granger, and Weasley to be seen as a trio. He is counting on Molly to mother Potter. She has been making a jersey for him. She mentioned baked goods to Minerva and Dumbledore before she departed Hogwarts." Severus put his cauldron on simmer. "He is still expecting to find Potter and turn him into an icon. However, I believe an icon he plans on having killed." The two snakes started hissing.

"Why?" Brit wondered what Dumbledore's goals were.

"Just the way he has said a few things. I will confirm my theory with Lucius later. Now, in regards to returning Marvolo to his human form, we have found a few different rituals. Lucius is researching some more." They had decided to use the name Marvolo for fear that if Dumbledore heard of a snake called Tom he might connect the two. While Marvolo was Tom's middle name, it was a pureblood name and not unheard of.

"Daphne mentioned her father is going to try to gain custody of Ron Weasley. The twins also wrote to him."

"It will make an interesting article in the paper. Dumbledore will try to block it from being printed. I'm sure Lucius and Rita will make sure it makes the paper."

"Granger?"

"Watch her. While I believe she isn't aware of what Dumbledore is doing, she trusts too much in authority figures and books. She honestly believes that Dumbledore is up there with Merlin. We might be able to show her the light with the right books. I'm not sure if she will ever believe anything bad about Dumbledore."

Brit looked into the cauldron. "More mint."

"Yes, just a leaf." Severus watched Brit add the mint.

"Time will tell with her. She seems determined to always be right. She didn't like everyone telling her she was wrong on the train. The rumors have been saying she hasn't let it go either. She feels her punishment was unfair. There is a rumor she wrote to her parents and the Board."

"I will inform Lucius."

Chapter Text

It had been a rough month. Severus couldn't even count the number of meetings they had regarding the officially declared missing Harry Potter. Fine, he could count, fifty-three meetings regarding Potter. Fourteen staff meetings about Hermoine Granger. For the record, Severus was currently at 1,286 ways to alter Dumbledore's lemon drops.

Severus was listening to Minerva complain about Granger causing problems in the girls' dorm, the common room, and the halls. "Albus, she doesn't listen. She believes she is correct and hits others when they tell her she is wrong."

Severus had warned them. They didn't want to listen. "If you suspended her, she might have learned a lesson. She still insists that she did nothing wrong when I have her in detention. She informed me that she was going to speak to you, Albus, about getting the rest of her detention removed." He heard the Dark Lord hissing his agreement to Severus' statement as several of the staff members agreed.

"Her hand raising and yelling out the answers if not called isn't helpful, either. Students don't even bother coming to class prepared any longer. They look at Granger as soon as I ask a question." Filius never complained about anyone. Severus hoped Dumbledore realized how serious the issue was since the normally happy, easy-going Filius was expressing concerns.

Dumbledore sighed. "We also have a protest from her parents. Apparently, she wrote home and they wrote to the Board. There will be a meeting regarding the incident on the train."

Severus and Lucius had already discussed the issue. The girl wasn't going to give up. She had been harassing Ron Weasley about how she was in the right but she didn't mean to hurt him and he needed to forgive her. Weasley's response was always simple, he told her when she apologized he would.

His snakes had made sure to let the girl know how they felt about her, especially the Greengrass twins. Dumbledore still called them the Weasley twins. "She has been to see me three times since yesterday. Albus, you need to rein the girl in. She's not doing herself any favors with her running her mouth about how she is the brightest witch of her generation nor her lack of realizing she doesn't know everything."

"Yes, she told one of the prefects she was wrong when she removed points from Granger for her uniform not being correct. She quoted Hogwarts: A History, telling her that there is nothing in there that prohibits her from wearing muggle trousers with her uniform shirt and cloak." Pomona sighed. "She stormed into my class and gave me that excuse."

Severus watched Dumbledore. The man was at a loss as to what to do. One potential pet went to Slytherin. The other was making herself seen in a very unflattering light and already had a Board inquiry. "I will speak to her. The inquiry is on Friday, Weasley, Peverell, and Malfoy will need to attend. Severus, if you could inform their parents? I will arrange a port key for us."

"I will inform them." Lucius had already gathered memories and statements. Minerva sent him the detention reports on Granger. The biggest factor was the memories of the girl not being sorry for what she had done. Severus and Ron Weasley had submitted their memory of Dumbledore's denial of the girl being suspended. Lucius had pulled the expulsion records, Dumbledore was going to be in for a surprise.

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"Here she comes." Ron warned. They were in the library researching for their potion assignment.

"She is getting annoying. She has been gloating about something. Earlier today she kept staring at Ron with a smug look on her face." Draco handed one of the books to Brit.

Brit didn't say anything. He was aware of what was going on. After all, he acted as the translator between the Dark Lord, Severus, and Lucius.

"We will find out who is right on Friday." Granger held out a letter. "We have an appointment in front of the Board."

Draco laughed. "You're going to earn the title of the brightest witch of our generation." Sarcasm laced his voice.

Brit looked at the letter. "Granger, you do realize what will happen if this goes to the Board and you are found at fault?"

"I'm not. Yes, I didn't mean to hurt Ron. However, I didn't do anything wrong with practicing my spells before school started." Granger pulled out her copy of Hogwarts: A History.

"Your funeral." Ron ignored Granger as she shoved the book at him.

"Granger, you do realize you are telling three people who grew up in this world our laws? We have been taught from birth that you don't do magic outside of school unless you are being taught by someone who is of age, like your parents or tutor." Brit resisted the urge to roll his eyes.

"It's because you're pure-bloods. You think you have the right to do whatever you want and if a muggle-born does it, it's against the law."

"Granger, you were informed not to do magic outside of school. It has nothing to do with class. If we went into the muggle world, which Draco and I have, we are expected to obey those laws. Why do you feel you can break the Ministry's laws?"

"Very good point, Peverell. Granger before you start gloating, you should remember that you haven't won yet." Severus appeared next to Brit. "Peverell, it's time."

Brit wasn't sure what was going on but figured Severus needed him for something. Draco and Ron realized that it wasn't anything bad. It was just a way to keep Granger out of any Slytherins' business. "Draco, I need that book after you so if you check it out let me know."

"Will do." Draco knew Brit would tell him what Severus needed to speak to Brit about if it was important. Severus would also inform him if it was something that could affect him or his family.

Severus and Brit didn't speak until they got to Severus' quarters and he put up the privacy wards. "I heard her tell you."

"Yes, how did it get this far?" Brit was a bit surprised.

"Dumbledore tried to keep it from happening. Mr. and Mrs. Granger believe their daughter and feel that she can't do anything wrong. They were informed about the train incident but I guess the biggest issue is they agree with her, based on their daughter's word."

"They don't care that she broke the law? Lucius must be ready to bury them and Dumbledore."

*He better. Dumbledore should have suspended her as Severus wanted.* The Dark Lord hissed. Brit translated what the Dark Lord hissed.

"I believe he is regretting it." Severus filled them on what happened in the staff meeting. The Dark Lord had been staying with Brit since Granger liked to hit people and he didn't trust Dumbledore.

"Why do we need to be there? We gave the memories." Brit didn't want to deal with Granger if he didn't have to.

"I am aware. It's Dumbledore who requested everyone to be present. Lucius tried to prevent it. Dumbledore pulled in a few favors after Lucius suggested they could press charges. I think he is planning on trying to say no harm no foul." They ignored the hissing from the Dark Lord as Brit didn't translate. Severus was aware that the Dark Lord was thinking of different ways to kill Dumbledore.

"Is he sane?" Brit asked with the seriousness an eleven-year-old could muster. "This move makes no sense."

"I believe he is hoping to have Granger presented as a confused, misguided muggle. He isn't aware that Lucius has pulled her detention report nor will present the memories."

Brit smirked. "Gryffindors."

"Exactly."

Chapter Text

Brit was sitting between Draco and Severus facing the members of the Board. Ron was sitting next to Draco. They were on one side of the aisle and on the other side was Dumbledore with the Grangers. Poppy was sitting behind Severus with Minerva next to her. Severus wasn't very happy to be attending the meeting and neither was the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord was hanging around Brit's neck but hidden.

Hermione had taken great pleasure in introducing her parents to everyone who worked at Hogwarts as the Board members were arriving. Dumbledore had made the rounds speaking to everyone he deemed important before he finally sat down and spoke to the Grangers. Dumbledore was smiling as he spoke softly in reassurance that everything would turn out just fine.

Lucius was sitting in the middle seat of the chair that lined the long conference table. Lucius was talking quietly with Lady Longbottom. She was sitting on his right. When everyone was in their seats Lucius called the Board meeting to order. "This is a special session regarding the misuse of magic by Hermione Granger. The event I am referencing is where Miss Granger injured Mr. Ronald Weasley on the first of September of this year on the Hogwarts train. Miss Granger feels she has been unjustly punished for her using magic outside of Hogwarts."

"I thought this issue was resolved?" Ted Tonks looked at the report. "I see a copy of the incident and the punishment issued."

"It was resolved. However, Miss Granger believes that she was unfairly punished as she believes as a muggle-born she was entitled to use magic outside of school. She does understand that she hurt Mr. Weasley. She has never apologized for hurting him as she doesn't believe she did anything wrong." Lucius glanced at Granger. "Do I have it correct, Miss Granger?"

"Yes, but part of the issue is it says in Hogwarts: A History that I'm allowed to practice my magic. I got fined for doing so. I don't think it's fair that pure-bloods can use magic outside of Hogwarts. I only did magic in front of my parents."

Lady Longbottom laid her hands on the table. "Miss Granger, no child is allowed to use magic outside of Hogwarts unless they are studying with a tutor. All children display accidental magic. All children need guidance and to learn control. Practicing outside of Hogwarts without any guidance could have killed you and your parents. Did you have protection wards up? Did your parents have spell protection gear on? St. Mungos has a unit for miscast spells and accidental magic that has caused damage. Perhaps some time volunteering at such a unit would show what could have happened. As it was, Mr. Weasley paid the price. I see you have never even apologized for hurting him. You have been to focus on showing you are correct to realize what you did was wrong."

"Excuse me, can you expand on your explanation. My wife and I were informed she wasn't allowed to use magic outside of Hogwarts. However, my daughter showed in Hogwarts: A History that she could practice her spells." Mr. Granger had the same unruly curly hair that his daughter had. He was a tall, thin man with glasses and slightly darker skin tone than his daughter.

"Hogwarts: A History is correct, you are allowed to practice. Practice doesn't mean casting a spell. She could practice her wand movements, how the words are spoken, she can even hire a tutor. No one is allowed to cast a spell if they are underage unless they have a tutor or at Hogwarts." Lady Longbottom calmly explained. "My grandson has never been allowed to use magic without supervision."

The Board stated their agreement. "See, Father, I told you they would stick together. All the pureblood do."

"Miss Granger, I am a muggle-born. As well as Lady Rosewood." Ted Tonks had been writing on some parchment.

"I and Lord March are half-bloods." Agnes Taylor was surprised at the girl's attitude. "I am not sure why you have brought this to the Board. You should be thankful you weren't expelled from Hogwarts and your wand snapped. Mr. Weasley could have been permanently disfigured. It was only because Professor Snape was in attendance that he wasn't. Mr. and Mrs. Granger, why have you allowed this to proceed?"

Mrs. Granger rose. She was a petite thing. She had dirty blond hair that was done in a pixie cut. She wore a navy blue business suit with matching shoes. Her face was perfectly done. Her white teeth gleamed against her dull red lipstick. "I believe this was a slight misunderstanding on the part of our daughter. We were informed she couldn't practice magic outside of Hogwarts or in front of muggles. However, we believed due to Hogwarts: A History that she could practice in our home. We weren't aware of the dangers. We also believed that she was being discriminated against since she wrote to us about the incident. In her letter, she stated that she was being punished for only doing what purebloods were allowed to do. We see the error and we will be speaking to our daughter about this before she returns to Hogwarts. Please forgive us for creating more of an issue." Mrs. Granger gave her daughter a very stern look.

"Mrs. Granger, your daughter was aware of the fact that if she filed the complaint with the Board and lost her grievance she would face the punishment that was originally going to be assigned." Lucius looked at Dumbledore. "It was only because of Headmaster Dumbledore that she wasn't expelled or her wand snap. It wasn't the original punishment. The Heads of Houses wanted her to be suspended. They understand the eagerness she was displaying and want to keep her eager to learn magic. So, therefore, she will be suspended for two weeks." Lucius took the parchment that Ted Tonks just handed him. He quickly read it. He nodded his agreement. "We can't force this but we are requesting that for the next two years, during her summer holidays, that Miss Granger volunteer at St. Mungos. I believe Lady Longbottom's suggestion was an excellent one."

The Board members voiced their agreement as Mr. and Mrs. Granger had a quick softly spoken talk. Mr. Granger faced the Board members. "My wife and I agree. We would also like to offer our services as doctors to aid you. I'm aware your medicine in some ways is more advanced but I'm sure a mutual exchange of cures and treatments would aid each of our worlds."

"We can speak after the meeting." Head Healer Mallard spoke before anyone could comment. "Headmaster Dumbledore, while I agree with your idea of keeping her eager to learn magic. I do object to the blatant and careless regard in which you dismissed your staff's concerns about Miss Granger using magic outside of Hogwarts. You are very aware of the damage that miscast spells and potion mishaps can cause."

"I believed it was a slight misunderstanding and didn't want to see a talented witch have her wand snapped."

The Board members looked down at the parchments in front of them. "None of the notes here even suggested that was even mentioned. I do see that they did request her to be suspended. I believe the members of the Board agree with me that is a suitable punishment." Lucius glanced up and down the table. The members agreed with his assessment. "I would also request a formal apology by Miss Granger. It must be completed by the time she returns to Hogwarts. If it's not completed she will be able to return to Hogwarts but privileges will be suspended, including the library, until one is issued."

"We will make sure one is issued. I'm sure Headmaster Dumbledore can provide us with what needs to be done." Mrs. Granger gave her daughter a light smack on her shoulder. "You should have apologized before now."

Granger opened her mouth but seemed to think better of what she was going to say and closed her mouth. Her parents gave her a stern look. "We will make sure she complies." Mr. Granger looked very disappointed in his daughter. "We will be speaking about this at home. May I request a copy of the information?"

"Certainly. Mr. Tonks will be able to provide you with a copy of the reports, the minutes of the meetings, and a copy of the law regarding underage usage of magic." Lucius saw Ted Tonks start to copy everything.

Dumbledore looked pleased as he had expected Lucius to push for Granger to be expelled but the Dark Lord wanted to have Granger close. The Dark Lord explained that Granger was going to get magical training one way or another by Dumbledore. This way they knew what she was learning.

Chapter Text

The next few months passed slowly. Granger did apologize but it was grudgingly. She made sure to inform anyone who would listen that her parents made her do it. Dumbledore had tried to speak to the girl but his talks only lasted for a few days before she was back to her normal self. Halloween came and went. Severus was summoned to another staff (really an Order meeting) meeting after nothing happened. The Dark Lord was wrapped around Severus' wrist and was able to attend. Dumbledore was trying to figure out where the Dark Lord was as well as trying to find any way to locate Harry Potter.

The Auror Corp was having no luck in locating Harry. They enlisted a few Unspeakables from the DoM to aid in their search. The Unspeakables handed in their conclusions to Undersecretary to the Minister. They concluded that Harry Potter was deceased. Rita had a field day with the article which was in the morning paper. Bold headlines.

HARRY POTTER DECEASED

By Rita Skeeter

Yesterday afternoon a surprising conclusion arrived on the Minister's desk. The Department of Mysteries had been working with the Aurors to discover the location of Harry Potter. They have spent the last two weeks, since Halloween, looking for Harry Potter. The head of the DoM submitted their findings. They concluded that Harry Potter was deceased.

Many are demanding answers as to why Albus Dumbledore wasn't keeping a closer eye on our Savior. Headmaster Dumbledore has been the only one with knowledge of the location since that dreadful night. We were given reassurance that Mr. Potter was fine and being trained in our ways. I ask you, my readers, how much of that was the truth?

Headmaster Dumbledore has been looking for Mr. Potter since the 31st of July. Why didn't the man know where the boy was? Why did he wait so long to involve the Aurors? Why didn't he alert the Ministry as soon as it was discovered? What is he hoping to hide? Fear not, my readers, I will work as diligently as ever to discover the answers and report them to you.

Brit folded the paper. He looked up at the Head Table and saw Severus was discreetly watching Dumbledore.

"Brit?"

"Hmm?" Brit forced his attention back to Ron and Draco. "Sorry, I was thinking."

"Do you think it's true?" Ron looked a bit pale.

"It's Rita. So who knows? She must have read the report but I am wondering if perhaps he is in another country." Draco laid the paper down on the table. The three boys followed the rest of the Slytherin and watched the other houses and staff.

_______________________________________________

The Dark Lord slithered into Brit's room and onto the bed. *So?* Brit picked up the Dark Lord and started petting his head.

*I am wondering what Dumbledore will do. He won't like the idea of you being dead.* The Dark Lord could see the other boys were ignoring their conversation. They were used to Parseltongue.

*Do you think it will create problems later?* Brit wasn't sure about the legal issues of having his alter-self declared deceased. He wasn't even sure if he was officially declared deceased.

*No, as everything has been in place for years. Lucius already handled the vaults. Nagini and I want to talk to Severus and Lucius. I need you to set up a day and time for Lucius to be here.*

*I will. I'll talk to Severus after dinner.*

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Brit carried the Dark Lord to Severus' quarters. The portrait opened the door automatically. Brit wasn't surprised to find Severus was sitting in his favorite chair with tea ready for the two of them. Severus served tea and enjoyed the silence. Severus watched the Dark Lord eat a biscuit as he knocked one onto the floor for Nagini. Nagini was a big snake and could have gotten her own but she liked to sneak them. So the Dark Lord would just knock them off of the table for her. Severus appreciated it as he didn't like having to buy new dishware. Severus wasn't sure if biscuits were healthy for snakes but he wasn't going to object. "I'm assuming we are discussing your recent demise?"

"Yes. Will it affect me? I mean my inheritance."

"No, it won't. You officially had a change of name. The goblins have a record of it and they won't release the information. Lucius also did the blood adoption using the Dark Lord's blood. Therefore, you ceased being Harry Potter years ago. It's why the Unspeakables weren't able to locate you. They were using the wrong name. Though I do believe that Dumbledore believes your full name is Harry James Potter."

*So even if you wanted to use your real birth name, it wouldn't matter. They searched using the wrong name.*

Brit automatically translated what was said. "He wants to meet with you and Lucius too."

"I'll arrange it. Lucius has selected a few rituals that we might be able to use over Yule to return the Dark Lord to his body, my Lord."

*Excellent. We have about six weeks to prepare and get everything ready.*

Brit automatically translated. "I will review the lunar cycle, my Lord." Severus always had a few Wolfbanes Potions on hand. The potion took a month to make and he always started a fresh batch on the first of the month.

*I want Lucius to have a new identity ready for me. The goblins have the required paperwork on file. I had it filed with them over a decade ago. The information will need to be updated and perhaps a new name." The Dark Lord looked at Brit. *Link it to the Peverell line.*

"I will, my Lord."

Nagini smacked Severus, lightly. Brit smirked. "You know it was coming."

"I'm aware. Now, regarding you. How has it been going? I noticed Granger seems determined to be your friend and Weasley's."

"Yes, she does. She keeps hitting us. She got weepy and spent the rest of the day in the girls' room, according to the rumors. She got a detention for not being at the Halloween Feast and missing curfew."

"Interesting."

*Dumbledore has had Granger up in his office. He wants her to try harder. He believed on Halloween something was going to happen and that the real Savior or whoever was Harry Potter would save her from whatever dangerous thing that was to happen.* Nagini laid her head on Severus' lap. *The man is confusing. He wants something to happen and puts students in danger in hopes of finding Harry Potter yet claims Hogwarts is safe.* She flicked her tongue into the cool tea that Severus had set aside for tea.

*You are so spoiled.* The Dark Lord hissed at Nagini. *Next you are going to tell him to add more sugar.*

*It does need more sugar.*

Brit translated and the two humans were trying not to laugh as the two snakes argued about how tea should be brewed.

_________________________________________________________

Brit yawned as he sat on the couch. Lucius was sitting opposite him with the Dark Lord draped over his shoulder. *Tom, give the man a break. Let him at least lay the books down on the table.*

The Dark Lord lifted his head. *I can't turn the pages by myself.*

*I will do it.* Brit picked up the snake and put him on the table. "Lay the book down, Lucius. I will turn the pages for him. These three are the best ones?"

"Yes, I reviewed a few others but they required a willing death or something equally uncalled for. The ones I have selected are a bit more complex but they're stronger and stabler spells."

"It won't take me long to make the required potions, either. Most of the stuff is fairly common and won't sound alarms when I buy it." Severus was creating his shopping list. "I have some of the items in stock here and at Malfoy Manor. Dumbledore won't even question me ordering more of the ingredients."

Brit turned the page when the Dark Lord hissed. The Dark Lord read the ritual three times. Brit watched the snake as he thought about the ritual. *That one?*

*Not sure. It's complex but easy enough to get the right ingredients. Also, doesn't have many side effects. Give me the other book.*

Brit turned the pages as Lucius and Severus created the lists they would need for whatever ritual the Dark Lord preferred to use. The three rituals had a few elements in common which made it easier. Brit started to fall asleep as the Dark Lord was deciding which one to use. The snake kept looking at the different books. *Brit!*

Brit woke up. *Tom?*

*I want to use the Ritual of Renewal. It's stronger and I should get my own body back.*

Brit translated what the Dark Lord said and handed Lucius the correct book. *Tell him that no lunar cycle is required so we can do it over the Yule holiday.* Brit translated.

"Very good, my Lord. I will gather what is needed." Lucius rose. "I need to get back to the Manor in time for breakfast. Narcissa invited the Parkinson over last night and they remained for the night. We are filing paper for the adoption of Ronald Weasley on Monday." Lucius was a barrister and most of the Dark Lord's followers used him as their barrister. The Parkinson's wanted Ron and the Greengrass family didn't mind as they were related by marriage and saw each other a lot.

"Rita, I'm sure, will be present to present the facts." Severus was looking forward to watching Dumbledore's reaction to losing another Weasley. Dumbledore only had Molly and Arthur willing to follow him. The oldest two had left the country as soon as they were old enough.

"I'm sure she will." Lucius bowed and left via the floo system.

"My Prince, breakfast isn't for another hour, perhaps a nap on the couch?" Severus wasn't even sure why he was asking. Brit was already stretched out and half asleep. He got a yawn in response. Nagini curled up on the hearth while the Dark Lord settled on the blanket that Brit pulled over him. Severus went to his desk and began to review the potions he would need for the ritual.

Chapter Text

The Dark Lord stretched. It felt so good to be a human, again. He rolled his shoulders and flexed his arms and legs. *See if you can speak like a human* Nagini was curled up by the fireplace.

The Dark Lord looked at Nagini. *I will certainly be able to speak like a human.*

*Prove it.* Nagini could see the rest of the humans were still in the sitting room. She stayed with the Dark Lord after the ritual was finished. The magic finally settled about ten minutes ago.

The Dark Lord glanced at his smug snake as she laid her head down. *Where is Brit?*

*Doing the smart thing. He's sleeping like any normal mammal would be doing.*

The Dark Lord had expected Brit to refuse to sleep and had a feeling the boy had aid in being asleep. He walked to the closet. He had ordered a lot of clothes for his return. *We will need to find a replacement snake so that Dumbledore won't wonder why Severus is missing a snake.* He began to pull out clothes.

*Already handled.* Nagini lifted her head.

The Dark Lord looked over his shoulder to the open door. Lucius, Narcissa, and Severus were waiting for him in the sitting room. Normally, he wouldn't have cared but ten years as a snake and having them around changed his views. He glanced at the clothes he was holding and the ritual robe. He put the clothes down and went into the sitting room. *Thank you for your assistance.*

Nagini started laughing. "My Lord?" Lucius' voice held a bit of confusion.

*Nagini, this isn't funny.* The Dark Lord ignored his snake as she kept laughing.

"I believe we need Brit." Narcissa stood up. "It's late and I slipped him some Dreamless Sleep into his pudding. May this wait to morning?" Nagini was still laughing as the Dark Lord resorted to shaking his head in agreement.

______________________________________________

Brit was laughing as Nagini filled him on what happened the night before. *It's not funny.* The Dark Lord had tried to speak English but couldn't. He was standing by the fireplace as he was a bit cold. He wondered if it was another side effect of being a snake for so long.

*You should have seen him screaming at them that he was speaking English.* Nagini rose until she was about the same height as Tom. *Nagini, this isn't funny. I can't keep hissing.* Brit had tears in his eyes. *Nagini, stop it, I said stop it.* Nagini imitated the Dark Lord perfectly. *Nagini, this is important. I can't have Brit translating everything for me.*

*You would make a perfect pair of boots.* The Dark Lord wished he had his wand. *I do need a good pair of snakeskin pants, too.*

*Oh, I'm scared.* Nagini stuck her tongue out and waved it up and down. *Big, bad, Tom.*

Brit knew the snake would have rolled her eyes if she could have. *Marvolo, it is fixable. We still have two weeks of the Yule holiday left.*

The Dark Lord huffed. Severus, Narcissa, and Lucius just watched the interaction between the three. Over the years they had relaxed around the Dark Lord but the man was still their Lord. This discussion had been going on since breakfast. Breakfast was a bit different than normal. In the past, the Dark Lord was usually curled up around Brit or Severus. Today, he was sitting between Lucius and Brit opposite where Draco normally sat. They usually had informal meals. *We will start now.*

*Marvolo, we will need to see if this happened before and research it. I'm sure Lucius, Narcissa, and Severus might have an idea of where to start.*

*Fine.* The Dark Lord sat down.

"He is fine with researching it. He just doesn't want to keep hissing." Brit rolled his eyes.

*You make it sound like I'm a child having a temper tantrum.*

*You are acting like one.* Nagini smacked the Dark Lord's leg with her tail. *Go and research. It will make you feel better. You love to research.*

The Dark Lord didn't respond. He glanced at Brit. *Am I?*

*Yes, you would have given me a long lecture if I acted like that.*

The Dark Lord didn't pout. *Let's go research.* He stood up.

"He wants to research now." Brit rose. The Dark Lord was still by the fireplace. "He is a bit worried about not being able to communicate when I return to Hogwarts."

"Understandable." Narcissa rose. "Draco is over at Theo's and is planning on spending the night."

"We have a lot of the books already pulled. I had the elves look through all of the libraries." Lucius knew the elves would find the books faster than if they tried to gather them from the different libraries of their families. "I had them put them in the library."

______________________________________________________________

The Dark Lord hadn't stopped talking since they found a simple cure. He would read the newspaper and any book out loud. He even sang. The cure was a simple spell that they discovered when one of Salazar Slytherin's great-grandson accidentally transformed into a snake and it took them over a year to teach him to change back. It was a translation spell that worked as a permanent link between the two languages. He did slip into parseltongue if he looked at a snake. He also made another decision that the rest were a bit wary of. "I can return in my snake form."

"Marvolo, you can't come to Hogwarts as a snake. Dumbledore has been expecting you to appear." Brit didn't want to have the Dark Lord in danger. He was returning to Hogwarts tomorrow. Draco and Brit had spent many days visiting their friends.

"He's right, my Lord." Severus knew the Dark Lord was interested in protecting Brit but he didn't want Dumbledore to learn the Dark Lord was back. "Dumbledore has his focus on his numerous issues. He has been attempting to stop the adoption of Ron Weasley and get the blood adoption of the twins voided. He hasn't been happy with the articles about the Weasley family. He is trying to find Potter to show he isn't dead and keep himself out of trouble. He is focused on finding you and Harry to prove he was correct. His name has been taking a beating. Many are questioning his ability to run Hogwarts and his sanity." Ron had been staying with the Parkinson family. He had been over with Pansy and the rest of the Parkinson family for celebrating Yule and the New Year's Ball.

"My Lord, the only reason he hasn't been at the Ministry is that the offices have been closed for Yule. He even tried to the Unspeakables to redo their previous work. He claimed he wanted it verified. Fudge was able to stop it before I got involved so he couldn't blame me." Lucius had kept himself away from the bad press Dumbledore was enduring. While his firm was handling the legal aspect of the adoptions and now were the in process of proving that Dumbledore and Arthur Weasley had no cause to void the adoptions. "Dumbledore had been attempting to use the disappearance of Potter to prove you have returned."

"You also need to get your new identity and set up things." Brit added. "You know you want to work out getting rid of Dumbledore."

The Dark Lord glared at Brit. "I am aware." He had been researching the family lines to select which name would be best.

*No taking your mood out on him.* Nagini hissed from her favorite spot on the hearth. *They just want to keep you safe.*

The Dark Lord sighed. "Please forgive me. I am aware this is about protecting me."

Narcissa smiled. "If I may be so bold, my Lord, it's because we are family and care about you."

"Thank you." The Dark Lord recognized a lot of his feelings were based on protecting Brit as he had done since he and Nagini found him. They had never been apart for any length of time. "I do apologize." He looked at them. "Please call me Marvolo. I'm not the same person I was during the war."

*I will be with Brit. I won't let anything hurt him. You know that.*

*Yes, I'm aware.*

Brit sighed. "Great, she is going to be in hyper-protective mode."

Chapter Text

Brit had been sitting quietly reading in the library when he saw Draco storm past the doors heading toward the converted sitting room that the Dark Lord was using as his office. Brit had been wondering when the showdown was going to happen. As much as he liked Draco, Brit wasn't unaware of the boy's flaws. Draco hated strangers in his house and hated change. The Dark Lord covered both of those flaws in Draco's eyes. Brit wasn't blind to his flaws, either.

Lucius and Narcissa were out for the night at some Yule Ball the Ministry was holding. Severus was also at the ball as well as most of the wizarding world. Brit figured he better prevent the Dark Lord or Draco from doing something stupid. They had the same temper when it came to things. Neither was willing to listen but wanted their way. Nagini curled up by the fire and wasn't planning on moving any time soon since the night was one of the coldest they had so far this year.

Draco had only been home about an hour before his parents left for the ball. They hadn't had a chance to speak to their son. Draco hadn't officially met the Dark Lord since his return to human form. They had believed that Draco was going to return tomorrow not an hour before they had to leave. "You revamped the sitting room. Who gave you permission?" Draco's voice with his snotty superior tone.

The Dark Lord arched a brow. "Who gave me permission? I do not answer to little boys." Brit hadn't heard the beginning of the conversation but it didn't start off on a good based on the raised eyebrow of the Dark Lord.

"Draco, meet Marvolo, a relative of our families including Severus." Brit figured it would cover everything and he hadn't lied. All magical families were related one way or another.

Draco whirled around and faced Brit. "You knew he was here?"

"Yes, I did. He arrived yesterday. Your parents were going to inform you when you arrived home tomorrow." Brit stared at the Dark Lord. When he saw the Dark Lord open his mouth, he shook his head no.

"What aren't you telling me? I saw you shake your head no."

"I shook my head no because I don't want either of you to fight or do something that the rest of us who live here will regret." Brit folded his arms across his chest. "Draco, he is here to stay, get over it. Marvolo, Draco has issues with strangers being in his home. Neither of you like change and have tempers, so you two need to deal with those facts without starting a war."

"Brit, I'm not that bad." Marvolo ignored Draco's sound of outrage.

"No, you're worse." Brit turned and looked at Draco. "Draco, how about we finish wrapping some presents?"

"Brit, we don't know him. How can we trust a stranger in our house?"

"He's not a stranger, Draco." Brit moved closer to Draco. "He has been protecting me and will continue to protect me, you, your parents, and Severus." The Dark Lord frowned a bit. He didn't want Draco to know who he was. "He has been in the background of my life for as long as I can remember."

Draco looked doubtful as he searched Brit's face. He stared into Brit's eyes before lowing his defenses. Draco turned and faced the Dark Lord. "I trust Brit, so I will take his word regarding you. However, if you hurt anyone that is part of my family, I will find a way to kill you."

The Dark Lord kept a straight face. "I believe you would." The Dark Lord when he was in his snake form had seen how protective Draco was of those he believed part of his family.

"I'm going to get something to eat but we can wrap the gifts after I get a sandwich. Do you want one?"

"No, I'm fine. Thank you for asking." Brit watched Draco leave. He didn't turn to face the Dark Lord. "Marvolo, you could have played nice." The Dark Lord didn't reply. "Be nice to Draco. He has been there for each of us."

The Dark Lord was aware of Draco's protective nature of Brit, of him when he was a snake, and of his family. "I agree. He has been. I am just not used to being human."

Brit turned and faced the Dark Lord. "It will take time. I'm sure Nagini will help you keep your temper in check just as she did when you were a snake."

The Dark Lord smiled. "Yes, I expect she will." Nagini was a mother hen when it came to the Dark Lord and Brit. She was protective of Draco, Severus, Lucius, and Narcissa but she would kill anyone who might even think of hurting Brit or the Dark Lord.

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Severus was watching Brit pretending to read. Lucius and Narcissa were out with Draco attending a New Year's Day celebration. The Dark Lord was walking up and down the bookshelves pretending to search for books. The man had made five different attempts to find a subject he wanted to research. Hogwarts was due to start in three days and as it got closer to the restart of the day the more nervous the Dark Lord and Brit were getting.

It didn't help that the Weasley family was still working on getting their three sons back. The Parkinsons and Greengrass families weren't giving up that easy and had the law on their side as well as the three boys saying they wanted to remain with their three adoptive families. Dumbledore was throwing what he could at the Ministry when it reopened for a few days between Yule and New Year's Day. The articles in the paper weren't helping Dumbledore's cause as trying to void two blood adoptions voided and stopping another adoption. Many people heard from their children about the howlers that Molly had sent the twins and Ron regarding their sorting into Slytherin.

Severus watched the Dark Lord walk back to the table he was using for his research. He knew the reason and wondered if the two were going to continue to ignore their concerns about Brit's adoption if Dumbledore did manage to get the twins' blood adoption voided. The Dark Lord had provided the blood for Brit's blood adoption when they first removed Harry from the Dursleys. Brit's concern was that if the blood adoption was voided would that mean that Dumbledore would be able to locate him? Severus put the magazine he had thought he would be able to read tonight. "Dumbledore won't be able to get the adoptions voided. He won't discover that Brit is Harry, and Nagini and the new snake will make sure that Brit is covered."

"I'm not worried." The two exchanged looks before repeating the same words again.

"Indeed." Severus saw Nagini shaking her head at him and didn't continue it any further. When he stared at her for several more seconds, she nodded her head as if to say she would be handling it. He knew the mothering snake would handle it. "Do you want me to review your assignments?"

"Yes, Draco and I reviewed each other's but I wouldn't mind having you review them." Brit didn't wait for a response before he was up and heading to get his assignments.

"He's worried about us being apart, also."

"It would be the first time since he could remember. It has been the two of you for a long time. Yes, we were around and he spent a lot of time here. It's been a lot of changes in a few short months for him and you."

The Dark Lord put down the quill he was holding. "It's been a bit tougher than I imagined for me to give up the idea of attending Hogwarts with him. I have many of the same fears he has. Dumbledore is crafty and knows a lot more magic than he likes the rest of us to believe."

"True. Dumbledore won't do much in the power move department until he has Harry Potter and confirms you have returned. I am wondering when the Wizenagamot sessions return if he will connect your titles to you being the Dark Lord."

"I don't believe he will. I won't be using the Gaunt or Slytherin title, I will be using the Peverell title. I don't believe he will go after Brit since he is in Slytherin."

"No, he won't. He will expect me to watch him and Draco. He believes pure-bloods will just automatically follow you and won't question anything." Severus never understood Dumbledore's belief that anyone who was in Slytherin was a supporter of the Dark Lord. The last war had Death Eaters from each house but the ones with power in the government were in Slytherin.

"It did make it easier to recruit the others since they were aware of his policies." The Dark Lord still had a lot of supporters from the other houses as well as followers. Some were in positions of power. While Dumbledore stuck to children and those in Gryffindor the Dark Lord wasn't so limiting on who he accepted. He hadn't summoned any of his followers and wouldn't until it was the time to get rid of Dumbledore permanently. "He will believe you to be his spy."

"He did. Losing Harry Potter has changed his agenda a great deal. He is focusing on returning the Weasleys to being the beacons of the light while seeing if he can use his connections to get the Unspeakables to work on locating Harry Potter." Severus listened to see if he could hear Brit returning. "It is what Brit is worried about despite us explaining it shouldn't be possible."

The Dark Lord sighed. "It is understandable. There are a lot of different forms and types of magic. I have been crafting some protection jewelry for us to use in the future but I have some special pieces for Brit and two for you. One will be a port key that you will be able to use in Hogwarts. The other piece is one that protects you and Brit from memory charms and compulsions. I discovered it in a parseltongue book."

"I would like to see the spell if you can get it translated." Severus had read many parseltongue books that Brit, with the aid of the Dark Lord, had translated for him. They spent the next several minutes discussing spells when Draco and Brit returned with their assignments.

Chapter Text

"You want to talk about it?" The Dark Lord didn't look at the smug snake curled up by the fireplace. The Malfoy family was over at the Greengrass' home to discuss with the Greengrass and Parkinson family the strategy they wanted to use against Dumbledore concerning the blood adoptions of the twins and the future one for Ronald. The conversation he just started wasn't a conversation they ever had when anyone was around. Neither of them was very open about their emotions.

"No." Brit had been attempting to read the same paragraph for over an hour. He had been trying to process things. Nagini had tried to reassure him but the snake wasn't as good as the Dark Lord since she wasn't human and saw things in simpler terms at times, especially when it came to complex human emotions. He had a stack of books he had attempted to read during the Yule holiday and hadn't read most of them. He was on the couch in Dark Lord's office just enjoying the time as he did before he went to Hogwarts.

"There are some things I wish you didn't learn from me." The Dark Lord ignored the snort from Nagini. "Brit, I am also worried but not about any blood adoptions being voided as I know if Dumbledore manages to do it, we will leave this country before he even attempts to get his hands on you. I won't let it happen. You are my son and no matter what, you will remain my son. I believe that every member of our society will have some strong objections to him voiding any blood adoptions. I am worried about you to Hogwarts returning without me, I am worried about not being able to protect you while you are at Hogwarts. I do not believe you are in any danger. Dumbledore watches you and Draco as he does any other pure-blood with a name that has a title attached. I am worried because it's just been the three of us for a long time with Severus and the Malfoy family being there for us."

Brit closed the book he had been attempting to read. "I wasn't worried about the blood adoption. I figured no one is going to buy his reasoning." Brit looked up. "I am worried about not being with you. You and Nagini removed me from that house, something that no one else even tried. You and Nagini have always been there. No one cared about me before you rescued me. No one cared if I was hungry, hurt, tired, or even cold." Brit chewed his lower lip.

"Something I am familiar with as no one but Nagini cared about before I met you. I don't want you to go to Hogwarts without me but it's also about growing up too. You won't want me around when you decide to have some fun, get a girlfriend or boyfriend, or even the first time Severus gives you detention for something." The Dark Lord would make sure whoever his son became interested in was worth his son.

Brit looked down. "I also feel bad about something else. I feel like we are lying to Draco, especially after your return. I understand why we never told him when I was younger but surely by now he is old enough to be trusted." The Dark Lord leaned back against the couch cushion. No one had thought about that aspect. "Draco would also be very hurt we never told him. The longer we wait to tell him, the harder and harder it will be to tell him the truth and not take a chance of me losing him as my best friend."

"Yes, he is going to be upset but I don't think now is the time to tell him. I don't think he will be upset enough to say anything to anyone but it will make people wonder if you two are at odds. Perhaps over the summer would be a better time to discuss it. I will explain it was my decision." The Dark Lord was aware of how Draco could act when he was upset but the boy would never do anything like report Brit to Dumbledore or anything similar. However, Draco was a bit petty and would make life harder for Brit until Draco felt like forgiving Brit. Brit would accept the treatment believing he deserved it for not informing Draco. "Draco isn't as mature as you are."

"In other words, you are afraid of what he will do to get even for not telling him and how he will take it out on me?" Brit looked at the Dark Lord. "I am aware of how petty Draco can get. I have stopped him from doing things to others before but yes, I do agree, he would be mad enough at me to do things to get even. He can be crafty when he wants to be." It wasn't often as Draco had a habit of letting his own anxiousness get the better of him. The Dursleys did teach one good thing to Harry. It was that revenge can be slow and drawn out even if it involved waiting to get even. "He will be mad at Severus too."

"Yes, he will be."

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

Severus arrived back at Prince Manor. Dumbledore had panicked when the wards crashed at the Dursley house and summoned him to figure out what happened. He was tired but still had a little boy upstairs to take care of as well as two snakes who were staring at him as he removed his cloak and boots. "Is he sleeping?" The snakes shook their heads no. "He is up waiting for me?" He got a yes. "Very well, I can also examine him at the same time while I answer your questions."

Severus wasn't even finished speaking before the two anxious snakes headed up the stairs to the bedroom that Harry Potter was in. He couldn't believe he had Lily's son in his home. The fact that he had to heal the boy as well as remove him from Petunia's house. He wanted to kill the woman. He always knew that Petunia was cruel but he would have never believed she would abuse a child.

"Yes, I will ask him. He barely got home and isn't even in the room as of yet."

Severus had to smile as that was something Lily would have said. Severus entered the room. It had been the room he used when he visited his grandfather before his father had a fight with his grandfather and forbade his mother and him from visiting the man again. It didn't stop the visits but it did stop the extended stays. "It is fine. I wanted to examine you to see how you are recovering."

"They wanted to know how it went with the old fart." Harry frowned. "Who is the old fart? Why do they call him that? They won't tell me."

"I see." Severus remembered they had explained how Harry had arrived here, magic, and other minor things but Harry was also tired and yawned a bit when they were explaining about magic and they never completed the whole story of how was placed at the muggles or why Harry was important to their world. Harry had fallen asleep by the time they said for him to take a nap and got up to leave. Severus began to run his scans.

*We didn't want to explain things when we don't have all of the answers. Severus had to leave shortly after you fell asleep.*

"They didn't explain since they don't have all the answers they said." Harry sat up a bit.

"Yes, it's a bit of a disjointed story." Severus wasn't sure of some things himself since only Dumbledore had that information. Information regarding how Harry ended up at the muggles, to begin with, was one of the big questions that needed answers since Severus knew that Lily didn't want anything to do with her sister. "Let me finish these scans. I'm sure one of the elves will be bringing us some tea." No sooner than Severus finished speaking before two elves appeared. One had a tray full of food for humans and snakes and the other had the tea. "Thank you, Mitzy and Fitzy."

Harry waved at them. "They gave me some orange juice earlier."

"Is that what you ate today?" Severus was a bit worried about the lack of Harry eating but as he reviewed the scans again. He felt the rage at Petunia rise again. She starved the boy. "We will need to work on you increasing your appetite." There were some things he would need to discuss only with the Dark Lord and Harry's health was going to be a big one.

*See told you that you needed to eat more.* The Dark Lord and Nagini watched Severus pour the tea as well as pouring the snakes some tea too but it needed to cool down a bit before either snake would drink it. He put half a sandwich on a plate for Harry and a whole one for him on another plate.

*I wasn't hungry.* Harry looked at Severus. "Sorry, they wanted me to eat more." He took the plate from Severus as a glass of orange juice appeared on the table next to the bed he was in.

"No reason to apologize. We will increase your appetite." Severus summoned a chair and sat down. He would create a full regime for Harry's recovery in the morning. "Now, the old fart is Headmaster Dumbledore. He is the one who is responsible for you residing at your aunt's house. No one was aware of where you were or why you were placed with the muggles. I do know your parents would not have wanted you there." He took a sip of his tea.

"Oh." Harry frowned for a second. "What does that mean for me? Do I have to go back? Have I been kidnapped according to this Dumbledore and my relatives?"

Severus was a bit surprised. Harry was a lot smarter than he expected and a bit of a Slytherin. "Dumbledore covered up the fact you are missing. No one in our world is aware of your disappearance except for Dumbledore and me at present. I am not sure how he or what he will claim later when it is discovered. I'm sure he will claim he wasn't aware of anything but he will be quietly looking for you until that time. He replaced the wards at the house." Severus looked at the two snakes. "He also memory charmed the muggles."

*Does the old fart believe he will find Harry soon?* The Dark Lord hissed as Nagini slithered closer to Harry in a bit of a protective position as if someone was going to take Harry. Harry only took a bite out of his half sandwich. It was sitting on the plate on the table next to the orange juice.

"He wants to know if Dumbledore believes he will find me soon?"

"Yes, he believes that Harry ran away. He didn't bother to review their memories or even see if anyone tampered with their memories. He didn't even do a magical residue scan. He believes the wards crashed because Harry must have said something to nullify the protection. I will need to return there tomorrow night to scan the wards to see what ones he used as he cast while I was running a search of the muggle area."

*You will need to get in touch with Lucius. We will need to Gringotts and find a way to make sure Harry is protected. He will need a new identity and we need to do a blood adoption. He also needs to disappear before he can use any type of tracking spell that will locate him in the magical world.*

Harry looked at the snake. *How about you go a bit slower so I can understand what you are saying?*

*Translate it. Severus will know what I am saying. He can also explain it.*

*Tom, don't be mean. The boy is asking you to slow down. Remember what we spoke about earlier? The hatchling is new to this world.* Nagini glared at the Dark Lord.

If a snake could make a dramatic sigh and look as if to say can you believe what I have to put up with, the Dark Lord was certainly looking like that currently. *Yes, yes, Nagini.*

*He is a bit grouchy. It's been a few years since a human could understand us and he isn't used to dealing with humans.* Nagini returned her head to Harry's lap. *Behind my ears is a good spot.*

Harry hadn't realized he had been scratching the snake but returned to doing it. "This is a bit long and confusing but he said to get Lusic, take me to Gingots, make sure I'm protected, new identity, and have a blood adoption so I can disappear before he can use any type of tracking spell to find me in the magical world. I think I got that correct."

*Close enough.* The Dark Lord and Nagini hissed.

"I will write to Lucius before I go to bed. Gringotts is always opened but the account managers are better for what we need and they arrive for work at six AM. I am sure we can find a way to protect you. Gringotts will be able to get you a new identity based on an Inheritance Test. A blood adoption might be a bit harder since the Dark Lord is currently a snake."

*I have blood in my vault.*

Harry made a face. "He has blood in his vault."

Severus understood the face. He would have made it too at Harry's age if someone told him they had their blood in a vault but in the magical world, blood was valuable. He wasn't surprised that the Dark Lord would have his blood in a vault. "Blood is very important in our world. I will explain more about that during your lessons."

"I learned a bit tonight while we were waiting for you. I didn't cast anything but they were teaching me more about magical theory as well as why it couldn't be used with electronics."

"We can discuss that in the morning."

*Ask him if the old fart is going to have him searching for you.* The Dark Lord was going to worry until they got Harry safe.

"He wants to know if Dumbledore is going to have you search for me."

"He believes I am currently doing exactly that right now. He headed to bed and tomorrow he has a full day of meetings so we have time before he decides to use any tracking spells himself. He won't want to take a chance that Minerva will catch him if he does it in his office and his quarters don't have the same protection that he had in his office from the portraits and ghosts." Dumbledore had never bothered to remove any portraits from his quarters so anyone could appear in those portraits and any ghost could float into his rooms.

The Dark Lord relaxed a bit and slithered onto the bed. *Told you that Severus knew what he was doing.*

*I was aware of that fact. It was you who were worried, not me.*

*I wasn't worried. I trust my followers. I just don't trust Dumbledore.*

"They are arguing again." Harry rolled his eyes but started to pet the Dark Lord. He figured out that the Dark Lord liked to be scratched and petted just as much as Nagini did. "Will I be going to the same school as Dudley still?"

"No, you won't be going to any muggle school. I will be teaching you as well as the Dark Lord, I am sure." Severus couldn't see the Dark Lord wanted to take a chance that Dumbledore finding Harry at a muggle school. "There isn't a school for younger years in our world."

"Oh, well, I only started school this year so it's not like I was there for long and Dudley made sure I didn't have any friends." Harry wasn't worried about hiding things from them. They were very aware of what his relatives had done to him. They were the ones who took care of the injuries his Uncle did during the last beating. "They said there is a library here."

"Yes, as well as many other interesting things like a potion lab, a greenhouse, a training room, and a weapons room."

"WOW! Really?"

"Yes, I will give you the tour tomorrow. How about you have another bite of your sandwich?" Severus had already eaten two sandwiches. He knew the elves provided a lot of food to get Harry to eat. "After that, you do need to get some sleep. We are going to have a busy day tomorrow."

*******End Flashback******************

Severus woke up to find a message from the Dark Lord had arrived during the night. He hoped nothing was wrong. He opened it and read it. The Dark Lord didn't explain everything but he had to agree with the decision. Draco would be very upset with Brit and him. Draco was also one to make his feelings very well known and wasn't above being a brat or petty. Severus understood why Draco might be hurt but Draco also believed that he was more mature than he was. He loved his godson but not telling Draco before the summer holiday was a good decision. He, however, was a bit worried about Brit. Brit might start distancing himself from Draco as they got nearer to the summer holiday as a way to protect himself from Draco rejecting him and not forgiving them.

Severus read the message again. Brit was very protective of his feelings and family. Brit would protect him and the Dark Lord over Draco. Draco was his friend but Severus and the Dark Lord were the ones who saved him from those muggles. He was going to have to make sure that Draco and Brit remained friends. Perhaps if he started to prepare Draco for the news? He could do it without revealing anything about Brit or the Dark Lord. There were enough secrets at Hogwarts. Yes, Draco would be hurt by not being informed but hopefully, he could keep the boys from breaking apart their friendship. Perhaps Ronald Weasley would be a good one to assist in that aspect. Severus picked up his quill and wrote back to the Dark Lord.

Chapter Text

Severus was getting a bit concerned. Since they had returned to Hogwarts, he noticed that Brit was keeping Draco and Ron away from him. He was keeping everyone away including him. Severus was a bit concerned since Brit was becoming very quiet and wasn't acting like himself. Brit would arrive a bit late for meals so that he would end up at the last seat away from his friends. Draco looked down the table at Brit before looking at him. He would be getting a visit from Draco tonight.

Severus had already written a letter to the Dark Lord to inform him of the changes and was hoping for a reply back tonight or tomorrow morning. He believed the man would respond tonight as it was Brit. He wondered if being away from the Dark Lord was affecting Brit in another way. One they might not have thought of. The Dark Lord and he were certainly not known for showing their emotions. Nagini was more affectionate with Brit than they were. Lucius and Narcissa were better at it but Brit spent most of his time with the Dark Lord as a snake. There was no hugging or even comfort from another human in Brit's life until Lucius and Narcissa became involved. Severus was doubtful that counted much in raising a child. He would wait for the letter and see what was best.

(time skip)

Severus finished his nightly check on his snakes. He made sure no one needed his assistance with their assignments. Assignments that needed to be completed by tomorrow were finished as well as any major assignments were at least reviewed by his snakes. He was heading out of the common room when Draco stopped him. "Uncle Severus, may we speak, it's important?"

"Yes, Draco, follow me to my quarters." Severus had hoped to have an answer before Draco came to him with his concerns. He wasn't going to dismiss Draco or his concerns as Draco would believe that something was very wrong if he did. They didn't speak as they walked. Severus provided the password to the guardian watching his door. "Curfew is approaching or I would offer you something to drink." Severus indicated the chair next to his couch for Draco to sit in.

"It won't take long, I hope." Draco sat down. The couch was lumpy and Severus reserved it for people he didn't like. "I am worried about Brit. He has been avoiding me and everyone else."

"I am aware and I am working on a solution." Severus wanted to begin the foundation of what might happen this summer and prevent Draco from reacting in a way that could harm the friendship between Brit and Draco forever. "Brit is going through some things. As you are aware there have been things that we haven't been able to discuss in the past. Brit is having some issues with things in his past."

"It is that guy, Marvolo, isn't it?" Draco still didn't trust him.

"No, Marvolo has protected Brit for a long time without anyone being aware but for myself, your parents, and Brit. I did write to him regarding the situation but he is a positive force in Brit's life as well as ours. You do remember us informing you when you were younger that Brit has a rough beginning in this world."

Draco thought for several seconds. "It's because Brit is Harry Potter, isn't it?"

Severus was shocked. He honestly did not think that Draco would have connected the dots and arrive at Harry Potter. "How do you know that information?"

"Simple, a few years ago, I got scared and went downstairs to find my parents. I heard them discussing how my father needed to file the blood adoption paperwork for Harry-" Draco's eyes went big. "Oh, Merlin, I -parseltongue-oh, Merlin, I -"

"Yes. however, he understood and isn't upset with you. Now, we have to get Brit to understand that you are aware of the situation and I do believe this Saturday might be a good time for us to meet with your parents and Marvolo." Severus was always amazed at how easily children could discover the biggest secrets.

"Should I talk to Brit about it beforehand?"

Severus thought for a few seconds. "I believe it would be best to wait for the weekend. The walls have ears in the common room that I can't ward as I do my quarters. Draco, you do understand that no one can ever know who Brit was?"

"Yes, I understand." Draco looked at Severus. "I am going to be asked to take a vow or something aren't I?"

"I can not answer that but I would not be surprised. It is vital information that can not be discovered." Severus was sure the Dark Lord would demand one but Lucius might be able to get a secrecy spell used instead. A vow was very dangerous if one did not understand the consequences of breaking a vow. He hoped Draco wouldn't be expected to take one. "I want you to research vows, Draco. I want you to understand and any alternative method to prevent secrets from being revealed."

"Yes, Uncle Severus."

"It is almost time for curfew. Try to give Brit some encouragement this week. There is a lot more that I can't share with you but he does need your friendship. I will tell you the only reason why he has been distancing himself was that he didn't want to see you hurt by the discovery of who he was."

Draco chewed on the inside of his cheek as he thought about what Severus said. "I get it. It's not like we have a lot of true friends and I know I was a bit hurt this week by his actions but I understand why."

"Very good, Draco. I am proud of you." Severus watched Draco stand up a bit straighter when he mentioned being proud of him. He was. He didn't think Draco would have been as grown up as he was acting currently. Draco and Brit were growing up faster than he realized. Dumbledore created a world where those who were Slytherin or pure-bloods had to be on guard because of the bias Dumbledore created. Severus wrote a letter once Draco left for the night.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Severus hadn't seen Dumbledore at Hogwart as often since they returned from the holidays. Dumbledore was at lunch but he wasn't eating. He was scanning the students. Severus realized the man was attempting to scan the thoughts of the students, probing them to see if any of them might be Harry Potter. He watched, carefully, Dumbledore was looking at any male students except for those in Slytherin.

Severus was aware that if Dumbledore was attempting to locate using Harry Potter via Legilimency that Dumbledore must be desperate to locate Harry Potter. He had noticed Granger was attempting to befriend Longbottom. He hoped he wasn't going to use Longbottom as a replacement. Longbottom was great with plants but hopeless at most everything else thanks to his grandmother and great uncle. The pair of them gave the boy no confidence and a wand that wasn't appropriate for Longbottom. Longbottom wasn't his father and he hoped someday Augusta Longbottom and her brother-in-law would realize that.

Severus hoped the man wasn't going to hold a meeting regarding his lack of success but he felt it was in vain. There would be a meeting that would drag on and on and never solve a thing like all Order meetings. All they did was sit around and suggest things and Dumbledore would ignore them and go with what he wanted originally. He saw a note appear in front of him. Yes, there was going to be a meeting. Minerva didn't look happy about the idea either.

______________________________________________________

Severus wondered what he did in a previous life to be stuck listening to Dumbledore since he was eleven in one form or another. He was attempting to ignore Molly Weasley's list of concerns regarding where Harry Potter might be and what could happen to him. "You don't think a Death Eater has him, do you?"

"No, I do not. I am beginning to think he is in our world but I am not sure who he is. I believe he is one of the muggle-born students or maybe one of the half-bloods we currently have. He might even be attending another wizarding school if he was adopted by a family with one magical parent and they changed his name and decided on another school. We do get some that prefer Salem." Dumbledore ran his hand down his beard. "I have been reviewing the Book of Names to see who might be missing but if Harry was accepted at another school, the book would just remove the name completely. I believe I might have to keep searching in the archives at the Ministry for adoptions and birth records." Dumbledore sighed a bit. "Those records are a mess and it might take a long time since I have to locate each male I am unsure of and see if they are Harry."

Severus was thankful that the goblins suggested never filing the birth certificate with the Ministry until it was necessary given Dumbledore's desire to have Harry Potter under his control. They were also concerned with the number of people who worked at the Ministry that felt the Headmaster was a kind old man who was their favorite Headmaster. The sentiment was shared by most who worked at the Ministry since most of them were Gryffindors. Dumbledore made sure to fill the Ministry with Gryffindors except for in positions of power. However, if anyone thought about it, who does most of the work at the Ministry? It's the ones who don't have any power and they are the ones who know all the secrets of those who do have the power. "Albus, there can't be that many wizards who are eleven that you don't know."

"They might not be aware of his age. He was young when the wards crashed. The muggles were unsure of anything regarding Harry."

Severus wanted to grunt his displeasure. He remembered being summoned back to Hogwarts while Harry was upstairs at his home. Dumbledore was aware of exactly when the wards crashed and that the muggles were obligated. Dumbledore never informed anyone of that detail. He also never informed them of the signs of abuse that were present in the house. The one bed in one bedroom was the fat child's room. The only evidence of Harry Potter residing in that home was the little closet that Dumbledore never looked in. Severus wasn't about to inform him of the closet. He wanted the man to be confused and stumped about what happened and he was.

Minerva had begged him during the years to look for Harry but Dumbledore assured her and everyone else that Harry would be at Hogwarts for his first year. He never told the Ministry that Harry was missing and Severus wondered how Dumbledore wasn't being investigated regarding the matter. He needed to mention that to Lucius. Lucius would love to go after Dumbledore and he was sure the Dark Lord would enjoy some revenge.

"We should have been looking since the day we knew he was missing." Minerva glared at Dumbledore.

"Remus is looking for him and around the area where the muggles lived. We might get lucky." Severus had an evil idea and he was going to see if Lucius and the Dark Lord were up for some fun with the werewolf.

Chapter Text

Severus was sitting in the Headmaster's office with Dumbledore and Minerva when Lupin came running into the office without knocking. "Albus, Albus, we have a problem."

Severus made sure to keep his face free of any emotion. "Problem, Remus? What could be wrong?" Dumbledore popped a lemon drop into his mouth.

Minerva handed Lupin a glass of water that she had summoned. "Here, drink this." She guided Lupin to the chair next to Severus. She sat down on the chair she summoned from across the room. "What is the problem, Remus?"

"Werewolves are looking for Harry Potter, too. They are two theories they are hoping to try depending on who catches. One is they are hoping he will bring a positive view for werewolves and ease the situation for them. The second theory is that if Harry is with them, they might have political power and get a say in government. If either doesn't work out, they will be willing to use him as a sacrifice for their cause and have him turned by Fenrir."

"Are you sure?" Dumbledore looked a bit pale.

"Yes, I was in Surrey when I saw several werewolves down the road from the Dursley home. They were at the park and we got to discussing the situation. Fenrir figures they stand a better chance of discovering Harry before anyone else does. They had one of the werewolves remove something that didn't smell like one of the Dursleys. I didn't get to scent it so I do not know if it has Harry's scent or not. However, given there is no one else-"

"It has to be Harry's." Dumbledore looked shaken. "Remus, you must prevent him from being turned. You must get him away if they catch him." Dumbledore opened his top drawer on the left and pulled out a ball that had been removed from the Greengrass twins because of a prank. "I will craft you an emergency port key."

Severus wondered how many magical children from orphanages they could locate that needed forever homes caught in a port key. He would have to make sure he and Minerva were there as well as Poppy. There were plenty of parents who wanted children in the magical world but Dumbledore prevented any magical being from being aware there were abandoned children wanting homes. "You might want to make sure Poppy and I are present at the time in case there is an issue."

"True, true. I will set an alert on the port key for when it is used." Dumbledore looked pleased by the idea.

Severus remained quiet as the three discussed the different outcomes if Harry Potter was discovered if he was alive, if he was a werewolf, if he was a political pawn used by Fenrir, or worse, turned dark and dangerous because of Fenrir's influence.

____________________

Brit was sitting in Severus' quarters with Draco. They were waiting for Lucius and Marvolo. Severus was still getting used to the idea of the Dark Lord not being a snake and wanting to be called Marvolo. Severus had tea ready for everyone with vanilla and almost biscuits for people to snack on. Lucius and the Dark Lord arrived via floo and Severus added some privacy wards to his quarters once they arrived. "Before we begin, I had Draco research some protective charms for secrets."

"I did. I am aware that Brit is Harry Potter. I heard it being discussed when I was a lot younger." Draco glanced around. "I didn't ask as I didn't care. Brit is my friend and that was the only thing that mattered to me. I didn't care who he was before."

"I am impressed, Draco." Lucius was very proud of his son. "Have you decided on what oath you wish to use to keep Brit's secret as well as what we will be discussing?"

"Yes, I was thinking a wand oath. It would protect me and Brit as well as whatever we will discuss. It can't be broken like a Fidelius if someone discovers the information. A wand oath will alert everyone involved if I am in danger of someone attempting to force the information from me." A wand oath would keep Draco from revealing any information but like every secret, there were ways around it if you found the right spell or potion.

"Excellent choice, Draco." Severus had been fearful of Dumbledore forcing the information but with a wand oath, they would be alerted and be able to protect him. Severus poured tea for everyone. Everyone was tense and you could feel the tension in the air.

"Let's begin as I don't think anyone will relax until we feel Brit is protected as well as Draco." The Dark Lord pulled out his wand as did everyone else. They had the points touching. "Severus will be the oath holder since he is able to be here when we can't."

"Agreed." Lucius looked at his son with a reassuring smile. "I believe no one would question Severus in regards to anything we discuss either."

"True." Brit was aware he had been closed off. He didn't want to lose his friends but he felt safer with the Dark Lord and Severus. Nagini he wasn't worried about. She would also protect him but humans, well, only two humans had ever shown they would protect him. The Malfoys had always been supportive but he relied on the Dark Lord and Severus.

"Any information discussed from this point forward will be bound by our word and wands. Those in agreement speak now." Severus voiced his agreement as did everyone else. Magic sparked between the wand tips. They released their wands leaving them connected at the points.

The Dark Lord transformed into his snake form. Draco's eyes went big. He looked at his father. Marvolo was the Dark Lord. He swallowed his fear as the Dark Lord transformed back. He was glad he listened to Brit and Severus regarding the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord was famous for his punishments and he could have been given his father was a follower. "We wanted to inform you over the summer holiday but we were a bit concerned about Brit's distancing." The Dark Lord was going to be discussing the situation with his son later.

"He was doing it because of you being the Dark Lord and being Harry Potter?" Draco looked at Brit. He could see the fear in his friend's eyes. "Brit, I don't care who you are. You're one of the few people I know who could care less I am a Malfoy. You don't care when I act like a jerk in public, you back me up yet you call me on it when I do in private. I like you for you. I know I can count on you to be a real friend to me, not seeking something from me."

"I know you do. I just -" Brit wasn't sure why he pulled away from Draco and his friends but he felt it was needed. He looked quickly at the Dark Lord and saw the concern in his eyes. He gave a small smile. He glanced at Severus. Severus gave him a quick nod of acceptance.

"Wasn't sure I wouldn't react like an idiot and throw a fit? I am a bit famous for them." Draco's attempts at humor brought a smile to everyone's face. "Blaise and Theo pointed out to me over the week that I do not react well to change and can be a bit of a brat about it."

"They are aware of who Brit is?" The Dark Lord didn't want any more people to become aware of who his son was. The more people who were aware of it the higher percentage of the information being discovered.

"No, they were concerned about Brit backing away. They had thought I had a fit and done something to upset Brit." Draco didn't like the realization of his personality as a brat or putz and promised himself he would work on it. "I got a long lecture about my temper and Pansy also had a few words regarding my temper too."

"Finally." Lucius patted his son on his shoulder. "I am very proud of you."

"I promised I would work on it." Draco faced Brit. "So, how about we do it together as friends? I need you to remind me to not be an idiot."

Brit smiled. "I think I can manage it and I will work on not pulling away from people."

"It would be a good idea." Severus was impressed. "Draco, no one can get a hint that Marvolo is the Dark Lord. No one but us is aware he is not dead and we need to keep it that way. Dumbledore is determined to discover any information regarding Brit and Marvolo."

"Is it why he wants to get the blood adoptions voided? He wants to do it so if he finds Brit he can take control?" Draco looked at the adults before his friend. "Another reason you backed away?"

Brit gave a slight nod. "It is why this information must not go beyond us and your mother, Draco. Dumbledore will do whatever is necessary to get his hands on Brit. He wouldn't care who he hurt in the process. You must not trust Dumbledore and never go to his office alone. I want you to find me or get someone to tell me if he attempts to pull you into his office." Severus didn't trust Dumbledore. "The same thing goes for you Brit. I don't want any snake pulled into this office alone."

Brit felt a bit relieved. He was going to be stressed a bit until he got to leave Hogwarts since Dumbledore was so focused on locating him. "The man is determined."

"Yes, he is. Well, this went a bit better and was easier than I expected. Draco, I am impressed by your maturity. I believe we have covered everything." Severus looked at each one who agreed. "The secret is sealed as we break the magical connection. More can be added to the wand oath if each of us agrees with it. You may take your wands." Severus removed his wand first, breaking the magical connection. "Blessed be our magic."

"Blessed be our magic." The magic settled.

Lucius and Marvolo bid their sons goodbye. "I have some potions that need your assistance if the two of you wish to assist." Severus sent the teacups and plates to the kitchenette. He gave each of the boys one last biscuit before he sent the rest to the kitchen. He wasn't surprised when the pair headed for his private lab.

"You get to cut up the gross stuff." Draco nudged Brit. "It's your turn."

"No, it's your turn. I did it last time." Brit nudged Draco.

Severus didn't comment as it seemed they were back to being themselves. He was glad that neither boy held grudges unlike him. "I have a lot of ingredients to be cut up. You will each get plenty of gross stuff as you call it."

Chapter Text

Severus was tired. It had been a long month and he was tired of Dumbledore and the Order. Lupin had been rescuing so many children that the Ministry was dealing with the problem of why suddenly there were so many children needing new homes and Dumbledore was being asked to account for it. The Department of Child Protective Services didn't have an issue with aiding the children in finding new families but they were wondering what changed Dumbledore's policy since the man never wanted to remove children from their homes. It had opened a can of worms that Dumbledore had been a bit blindsided by.

Severus had been enjoying the variety of articles Rita Skeeter had provided as to what might be the reason for the sudden change of heart in Dumbledore. The leading theory was Dumbledore was forced to take a childcare class and might be facing charges regarding the death of Harry Potter. Many witches and wizards were wondering if and when Dumbledore might or would be charged for the death of Harry Potter. Many wanted Dumbledore to be held accountable as well as the muggles.

Rita had brought up a very interesting point via Lucius' comment. Rita brought up the fact that Dumbledore had placed Harry Potter with the muggles and had blocked everything and everyone from discovering where Harry was or even checking on him. Dumbledore had spent years informing everyone how well cared for Harry was, how he was being instructed, and training. Dumbledore was having a lot of trouble answering the questions. Now, the people wanted answers and Dumbledore was the only one with them.

Dumbledore had brought each child to Gringotts to get them tested to see if they were Harry Potter. Dumbledore was originally expecting Severus to brew the potions and have Poppy do the medical scans. The change of policy was after the first kid bit Lupin, kicked Dumbledore in the shin and ran into Hogsmeade screaming about being kidnapped. The villagers were the ones to call the Aurors. After over an hour of listing to Lupin and Dumbledore defend their actions, the Aurors took the child to Gringotts for a medical exam as well as an Inheritance Test. After that incident, Lupin would cast a sleep spell and they would transport the child to Gringotts.

The Order meeting was accomplishing nothing. The Order was divided on Dumbledore's plan for kidnapping children but happy they were safe. Lupin had werewolves after him, well, he believed they were after him. The werewolves had been active in stealing abused magical children and Lupin was so clueless at times that they had to stage a threat for him to take the children. Dumbledore was more concerned about locating Harry that he didn't mind breaking what he considered minor laws for the greater good. So the darker faction took advantage of it.

Another major issue was Dumbledore's attempts to void the blood adoption of the former Weasley twins and prevent the adoption of Ron. Molly was very vocal about how she would demand a resorting of the three boys as no Weasley would be in Slytherin. Arthur was against the voiding of the adoptions because of what it would mean for anyone who was adopted. Arthur never wanted to lose his children but Molly was the one who pushed the issue. Arthur had spoken to the three boys and he supported their decision to remain away from their mother. Molly had yelled so much when she discovered that Arthur had spoken to the three and then demanded the three boys agree with Dumbledore. Severus handed out headache potions to everyone.

"Albus, why are we even meeting? You are ignoring everything and just doing what you want." Minerva looked at Molly. "You can't have it both ways. Your boys were sorted into Slytherin and will not be resorted. You will not get the blood adoption voided and those howlers you sent have done nothing to endear you to anyone."

"Molly, enough. You are the reason they left the family. You were going to kick them out. I should have stood up to you and Albus regarding this issue. Shame on me for not standing up to each of you but what is done is done. I am not going to destroy their lives." Arthur was tired. He had been working long hours because of the problems Lupin was causing with muggles seeing magical beings. "Albus, you were the one to encourage this and wanted us to distance ourselves from the twins and now you want us to take them back in. I am sorry but I am not doing it. They are happy and if they wish to have a relationship with us, I will encourage it."

"They are our boys, I want them back! We can't have them become evil!"

"Do shut up, Molly. They are not evil and won't be evil because they are in Slytherin. In case you have forgotten, Death Eaters came from each house. Slytherin had the least number of Death Eaters." Minerva rolled her eyes.

Severus closed his eyes as chaos broke out. Minerva tapped his arm after several minutes. He just handed her a headache potion as he opened his eyes. She nodded her thanks. They watched the Order fall apart around their ears. Molly and Arthur were arguing about their sons, correction their former sons, while Dumbledore was trying to defend his actions to the few Aurors who wanted to know why Dumbledore never checked on Harry and the increase in abused children. "I warned him."

"As did I. I told him they were the worst muggles." Minerva had already had a visit by DMLE and CPS regarding Harry. They had a lot of questions that she hadn't been able to answer but the one biggest was why would she allow Dumbledore to leave a child on a doorstep? She felt guilty for permitting herself to listen to Dumbledore regarding child abuse and leaving Harry on a step. "What I want to know is why no one had thought that Harry might have just wandered off. He had been walking by his first birthday. Lily was so proud of his walking."

"I believe that is why the Ministry is willing to permit the children to be tested at Gringotts. They are hoping he might have wandered off and I believe they do not want to admit that Harry was killed by the muggles because of lack of care from Albus." Severus had wondered for years about what might or could have happened to Harry if the Dark Lord and Nagini didn't discover Harry. The shape the boy was in when they located him didn't provide a long life for Harry.

Dumbledore shot a firework into the air. "Cease, it is done. Molly, I can do nothing to get the blood adoption revoked. As far as Ronald is concerned, he wants the adoption." Dumbledore held up his hand. "Ronald showed his caseworker the howlers you sent to him as well as the letters. They are backing the adoption. Ronald has requested to remain in contact with his brothers, sister, and Arthur. You will only be permitted to see or talk to Ronald under supervision until such a time you can accept that he is in Slytherin."

Molly's mouth started flapping but Arthur held up his wand. "No, Molly. It's done. Your actions have caused our family to be divided for too long. I will not permit it any longer." Arthur looked at Dumbledore. "You are just as guilty with pushing how anyone who is in Slytherin is evil or dark. I will remain part of the Order because I believe in what we are fighting for but I do not like what you have done to my family, the abused magical children, Harry, and my pushing the Slytherin is evil attitude. If you do not adjust that attitude, I will be withdrawing my support."

"As will I." Several members agreed. Minerva was one of those who agreed. Dumbledore looked a bit surprised.

"Albus, it's the truth. You haven't even followed up on what you promised in the last war regarding creature rights or even getting medical attention." Lupin had faced criminal charges for kidnapping until Dumbledore pulled some strings and got them dismissed. Dumbledore claimed Lupin was rescuing an abused child and how we should encourage that aspect in the wizarding world. Rita had a field day using Dumbledore's words against him in several articles where she did reprinting of previous articles that had a different Dumbledore view.

"Perhaps we should wrap this up. I believe emotions are running high." Kingsley looked around the kitchen. The Burrow was barely able to hold everyone but it was the only place big enough for everyone to meet. "I am sure Molly and Arthur had a lot to discuss and we do not need to be present for their conversation. I am also sure Albus has a few pressing things he needs to attend to given tomorrow he is required at the Ministry regarding the number of children who have been discovered."

Severus thought Kingsley was very polite about it. Severus would have called it kidnapping as it was kidnapping. "I do agree. It's been a long month." Minerva had questions she wanted to have answered and it was time to get them. "Albus, how about we walk to the apparition point together?" She stood up and walked to Dumbledore, giving him no chance to deny her request.

Severus wished he could be part of the conversation but had a feeling he would curse the old fool. He also had to stop at Malfoy Manor and give Lucius and the Dark Lord an update. "We have one issue we need to discuss." Severus could have sworn he heard everyone groan.

"What?" Minerva stared at Dumbledore.

"Well, we need to find out who has control over Harry's vaults since he has been declared deceased. If the power falls into the wrong hands, we could lose control over everything."

Severus' brain started working overtime. Brit had the power but he was still underage and if Dumbledore discovered who had the power and tried to remove him from the Dark Lord, it might be a bit messy. Granted, the Dark Lord was the proxy holder since Brit was underage but anyone who became Brit's guardian would have the power. The blood adoption couldn't be voided but if Dumbledore claimed child abuse or something else, it might be harder to defend against. He would have to alert Lucius and the Dark Lord. He remembered them filing the correct forms and not filing the adoption form. However, given the anti-abuse frenzy, Dumbledore might use it and push for Brit to be removed from the Dark Lord. It would only take a healer and caseworker who supported Dumbledore. Sadly, many felt they owed the old fart. Even if they ran, the power might still be able to shift to Dumbledore.

Dumbledore lived to make his life miserable. He was sure the man should have been a Slytherin. "Albus, how about we handle what we can do right now? It will be a long time to locate or discover who has the Potter titles and power since Harry was the last of his line. They will have to research the family history and trace to see who has the closest connections. It will have to be done at Gringotts. The goblins will guarantee that the correct family is informed. Now, no more stalling, escort me back to Hogwart."

"I do have several potions I need to finish." Severus stood up as Minerva moved to the door. Dumbledore rose and reluctantly walked to the door. "Albus, a warning, just because you might not like a political faction, do not attempt to separate a family for power."

"I would do--"

Dumbledore looked shocked by the warning but Severus could tell he wasn't truly shocked. "Good, because you might not like the results."

"Severus, do you know who might have control over Harry's seats?" Dumbledore's eyes were thinking.

"No, but remember the Potters were part of the Sacred 28. The Potters came from the Peverell line as did the Gaunt and Black family. Magical families are connected in many ways." Severus opened the door after giving a quick nod to Minerva and headed out into the night. He hoped the old fool listened to him. The Dark Lord would kill Dumbledore if Dumbledore did anything to Brit. The only way the Dark Lord would reach Dumbledore first would be if Narcissa held back Severus and Lucius while she went to get some untraceable wands to use to kill the old fool.

Chapter Text

Ron and the twins were getting a lecture from Percy about family. It was oddly similar to the screaming rants that Molly Weasley loved to deliver. "Do you ever stop lecturing?" Ron stood up. "In case you haven't heard, your mother had no control over my life."

"Or ours." The twins rose as one. Percy stepped back a bit. No one saw any of the former Weasleys use a wand but Percy was dressed in a neon pink mini skirt, purple tube top, fishnet stockings, and green thigh-high boots. His hair was piled high on his head and tied with a yellow ribbon. His skin was deep green.

"Weasley, detention." Severus stepped out of the shadows. "Five points for being out of uniform."

Percy didn't bother answering as he tried to turn on his heel and walk away but since he was wearing high heels and ended up falling on his arse. He scrambled a bit before regaining his footing and was able to remain upright. Ron and the twins didn't laugh until they were back in the dungeons. "Be careful. Dumbledore doesn't like that Arthur is supporting you and wants you back in the Weasley family."

"We know. Dad wrote to us." Ron wished he had listened to his older brothers. Severus left and Ron looked at the twins. "We have to write to our brothers. I am worried about Ginny. You know the tales she has been telling her since we were little."

"Trust us, little brother-" Fred understood the concern. They were worried about Ginny and the stories she had been told about Harry Potter.

"we are aware-" George wished Percy would have listened to their older brothers.

"-and so are our brothers." The twins spoke together. "They will speak to our former father." Dumbledore wouldn't give up easily and the older Weasley brothers were working on helping get their father to understand what their mother had done.

The Dark Lord:

The Dark Lord was reviewing the bills, the accounts, and the Ministry reports. Dumbledore had made a mess out of everything. There were so many laws that had been built up upon each other with clearing loopholes for Dumbledore to permit those he selected to be able to escape the law. Dumbledore had used so many of the loopholes to permit those he wanted in Azkaban to remain (Sirius Black had had yet to be given a trial) or those to escape from being charged (Sirius Black for the attempted murder of Severus Snape).

Lucius was sitting on the other side of the room reviewing the minutes from different meetings. "We might be able to get so many of the laws revoked. There are a massive number of them passed without a full session and based on Dumbledore's words. There are several that didn't even have a vote or were presented at a session."

"There are many with glaring loopholes that he has used to create his desired results." The Dark Lord sent Lucius the information regarding Sirius Black as well as scrolls. "There are many more I believe you are innocent in Azkaban or facing severe penalties for the same crimes that Dumbledore supports. Take a look at the list of thefts, the criminals, and their houses. It is the scroll with the red ribbon on it."

Lucius opened the scroll and started to read down the list. He arched a brow. "This will be very beneficial. I am sure Rita will be able to use it effectively."

"I was thinking the same thing. Severus wrote to express Dumbledore's desire to discover who has the Potter seats. Severus did mention Dumbledore's determination to keep the Weasley family together. He was a bit concerned about the abuse situation and Dumbledore using it to get control over who has those seats." The Dark Lord had read Severus' letter twice. He had been concerned about his son being at Hogwarts but he was hoping soon he would be able to get rid of Dumbledore.

"Interesting. The goblins won't allow Dumbledore to gain access to the information or permit him to split families up. They have already started offering muggle-borns and half-bloods Inheritance Tests are a reduced rate. They have already matched several dark families with their missing ancestors' children. The children are being offered acceptance and blood adoption potions. I expect it will change the make-up of the Wizenagamot, Hogwarts, and the Board." Lucius had enjoyed the articles by Rita. "The DoM has been researching the lines. Rookwood was assigned the project."

"Rookwood?" The Dark Lord raised a brow. He searched his desk. He had seen several letters from Rookwood. He hadn't had time to read them as of yet. "He did write. I will need to review them."

"Fudge wants to hold off on presenting the evidence until after the child abuse issue is settled. I believe it might be the right course of action. If we were to go after Dumbledore with this information, he will claim he was unaware despite the goblins informing the public otherwise. There are too many who would believe it is a campaign to ruin him if we release everything at once."

"I agree." The Dark Lord wanted a solid plan. He didn't want Dumbledore to sweep everything under the rug. "The laws need to be fixed but we have to do it without scaring the public. The information could be released later but if we release it beforehand we might have chaos on our hands. No one will want to believe Dumbledore did anything wrong. He will claim items were slipped into bills. If we used the lack of formal sessions, he will use the last war and how chaotic it was, a time of unrest, and the desire to get everyone settled into a normal and safe life." The Dark Lord never understood why anyone didn't see how dangerous the man was as he rose to power. Why didn't anyone question the duel? Why didn't anyone question how one man held the three most powerful titles in their world?

Brit:

Brit was attempting to read the history book in front of him. Granger stood in front of him. Brit looked up. "I want that book."

"I am reading it." Brit had hoped the girl had changed after the Yule holiday but she didn't. She was still arrogant and entitled. "There are other books available."

Granger huffed. "I need that one."

Brit closed the book, rose, and headed to Mrs. Pince's desk. "I need to check this book out."

Mrs. Pince raised an eyebrow as she looked at a very annoyed Granger. Granger was glaring at Brit. "It will need to be renewed in two weeks if you wish to use it longer."

Brit smiled. "I appreciate the information." He didn't need the book but Granger had been annoying everyone at Hogwarts since she returned to Hogwarts. Brit left the library. He was almost to the dungeon stairs when Granger grabbed his arm.

"I need that book."

Brit raised an eyebrow. He looked down at her hand on his arm. "Unhand me."

"I need that book. You should have let me have it. You didn't need it. You are just being mean because of what happened on the train." Granger removed her hand as she finished speaking. "I apologized."

"I don't even think of you. I have no idea why you believe you are entitled enough to believe that everyone should hand you everything you want when you want. I do not understand why you believe you are above the rules or even above everyone student here." Brit was tired of the girl and her attitude.

"I do not." Granger huffed.

"Sure, sure, sure." Brit gave a light laugh. "If you don't, why do you run to Dumbledore each time you get detention? Why do you believe that you don't have to serve your detentions? Why do you seem to believe that just because you heard some stuff about Slytherins or Gryffindor, you know everything there is to know about the houses? You claim you read Hogwarts: A History but I truly wonder if you did. The houses weren't separated until your favorite headmaster took charge. Think about that next time you decide he is the next Merlin." Brit didn't give her time to reply before he started down the stairs.

Draco and Ron gave him a light clap. "We are truly impressed." The Twins put an arm around Brit's shoulders.

"What book did she want?" Draco looked at the book in Brit's hands.

"It's a history book on the creating of the bank and the first ten kings." Brit handed the book over. "It won't be returned in two weeks since the project isn't due until next month. She wasn't even assigned goblins."

"No, Longbottom was if I remember correctly," Ron muttered. Brit and Draco exchanged a concerned glance. "Sounds as if Dumbledore is looking for a way to get Granger connected to Longbottom."

The twins smirked. "Our Chessmaster sees."

"I do believe Longbottom is going to need our assistance." Draco arched a brow at Brit.

"Indeed." Brit sounded a lot like Severus as he spoke.