Chapter 2
Holly Meets Harry
Author's Note: Due to the overwhelming unexpected response to my story (thank you all!), I decided to give you this chapter early.
As stated at the end of the previous chapter, Lily will now be referred to as Holly Evans. She will tell some people her real identity but she will still wish to be known as Holly.
Also, a few reviewers are concerned about Holly's revelation to Harry about who she is. I know there are some who want me to wait a while for her to tell him who she is, but I can't do that. As you'll find in this and the next chapter, they're both technically 'orphans', and by the end of the first day's events (which won't get done till probably chapter 4 or 5!), they'll probably be living together. Plus, Harry, as you'll see in this chapter becomes WAY too curious about who Holly is. So, yes, she will reveal to him who she is... but his reaction is a bit unexpected. But that won't come till probably chapter 5.
Also, there are a couple of reviewers concerned about the Occlumency stuff. Holly has a plan for that, I assure you. Let's just say this, Lily was a master at Charms, yes? So she could be quite the inventor if she had to be!
Holly Evans – once known as Lily Marie Evans Potter - once again found herself laying on her back, though this time when she woke up, the light in the room was not blinding. Also, she was laying on something quite comfortable instead of hard cement.
She instantly remembered what had happened before she came into this predicament. She had found herself in the afterlife, and then had a very long conversation with a being known as Death. She could remember every word of the conversation. Which was good, Holly thought, since it was very important. The last thing she remembered, she walked through a strange portal into a blinding flash of light, then woke up here.
She sat up and looked at herself; and found that she was wearing clothes, which she was quite relieved about. However, she could already tell her appearance was quite different! She looked at her surroundings and found that she was in one of the rooms at the Leaky Cauldron, just like Death had said. She was currently sitting on the bed, which explained the comfort.
She stood up from the bed and walked over to a vanity table, complete with mirror. She looked at her reflection and found that she was, indeed, an eleven year old girl. She thought she would look like eleven-year old Lily Evans, and while she did resemble the Evans girls, there were distinct differences. She had the 'Evans eyes' – a beautiful emerald green. While her hair was still red, it was a much darker red than she was used to. Lily Evans' hair had been short and straight, ending up at her shoulders. Holly Evans' hair was long and wavy, ending up just below her shoulder blades, though she knew it could be longer. Her face was heart-shaped, her nose a little smaller than she was used to, and her lips were a little puffier.
Well, at least I don't resemble a horse like Tunie. Thank goodness for small miracles!
She sighed as she looked down at her flat chest. She very much hoped her body would mature better and faster this go around. While Lily Evans could be seen as having a beautiful figure, none of it was seen in her chest area until around the end of her fifth year at Hogwarts. She had the smallest breasts in her entire year, and even some of the girls one and two years younger were bigger! For Merlin's sake, she thought she would have what she referred to as 'bee stings' by now! Perhaps she was a late bloomer...
Holly did have to admit that the rest of her body looked okay. She was skinny, but not in an unhealthy
way, and her hips were okay in her opinion. She figured she was average height when it came to eleven-year old girls.
She was currently wearing a nondescript white tee and jeans, as well as sneakers. Muggle clothing. Mostly boring and plain. She would have to change that soon enough.
Well, hopefully nobody who knew Lily will see more than a passing family resemblance, Holly thought.
She looked down on the vanity and found an envelope sitting there. She recognized it as those usually seen at Hogwarts. She picked it up and read the cover: Ms. Holly Marie Evans, Room 7, The Leaky Cauldron, London. She frowned. Death told her that the room was supposed to be vacant. He also said that Holly was supposed to be an orphan, so why wasn't the letter addressed to the orphanage? Holly shrugged, deciding it wasn't important, and opened the letter. She took out two pieces of parchment, The first was the familiar invitation to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The second was the booklist. Holly was amused to see that a few of the books were the same title as when Lily was in her first year just over two decades ago.
Holly stuffed the parchment back in the envelope and placed it into a back pocket of her jeans. She looked up at the clock on the wall and saw that it was nearly nine-o-clock.
Hopefully Hagrid and Harry haven't arrived yet, Holly thought, then realized she was being stupid. Nonsense, this is what Death sent me back here for, isn't it? To meet Harry, be his friend, and guide him to his proper destiny which does not end in sacrifice! I can't begin that if I don't meet him now!
She shook her head, laughing at how silly she was, and left the room. She then made her way down to the bottom floor. For being early in the morning, the bar was filled with patrons. As she walked around looking for an empty table, she heard some random conversation.
"Did you know today is Harry Potter's eleventh birthday!" a large blonde-haired woman said.
"Yes!" a skinny red-haired woman in her forties said, "Do you think he is going to Hogwarts? Oh, if only I was eleven again! You know what they say about a Potter. Can't resist a red-head."
Holly scoffed. Loudly. She ignored the glares coming from the two women. She couldn't believe this! She understood her son was famous, but to be gossiped about like such by a couple of ladies who were nearly as ugly as hags, and old enough to be – well, even if Lily was around, they would still be much older than her!
If this was what it was like with the older generation, how would the students at Hogwarts react, especially those around Harry's age, and a little older? No, Holly would not let that happen. There was a month until she and Harry would go to Hogwarts. She would prepare him and make sure he was ready. And perhaps she would help him make some good friends before then. Especially if her plans went how she thought they would.
As she found an empty table, her eyes caught the front door of the Leaky Cauldron open at that moment. A large man walked into the pub, and Holly instantly recognized him as Rubeus Hagrid.
Then she saw who she had been waiting for.
Harry! My little boy!
And he was. Little, that is. He was a lot smaller than she thought he would be. She remembered James at eleven years old. He was at least six inches taller than Harry was now. Heck, Holly was taller than Harry was, and she regarded herself as average, which was smaller than most boys her age!
Oh, Harry, what did Tunie and that walrus of a man do to you?
As the light shone in on Harry, Holly could see that he was wearing a shirt and pants that looked way too big for him. Second-hand clothing. Holly's disgust toward a woman who was once her sister continued to grow by the minute. How could the woman treat her own nephew like this?
"Ah, Hagrid!" a man said, and even now Holly recognized the voice of Tom the barman and owner of the Leaky Cauldron, "The usual I presume."
Damn it, Hagrid can't keep secrets, he's going to tell the whole pub about Harry!
She concentrated and pointed a finger at Hagrid, focusing on wandless silent magic.
Confundus! Rubeus Hagrid, you are here to take Harry and myself school shopping. You will not announce either of our names! You will come and sit down at my table, and buy us breakfast and then we will go to Gringotts!
Holly watched as Hagrid blinked in confusion, as the spell hit him.
"Can't, Tom," he said, a moment later, "I'm on official Hogwarts business. Taking a couple of students in for their school shopping. Was supposed to meet someone here." He looked toward Holly. "There she is!"
Hagrid pushed Harry forward, without making one mention of his name, nor putting too much attention his way. He and Harry arrived at the vacant table. Hagrid took one full side of the table up by himself, so Harry sat next to Holly. Holly waved her hand underneath the table, casting a notice-me-not charm on around them, so nobody but Tom would bother them. Holly smiled at Harry, taking in his appearance. She could see the scar on his forehead.
So that is where the bastard hit my son with that damnable curse. That is where the Horcrux lies. Don't worry, Harry, it will be gone soon.
She realized she was staring, when Harry brushed his fringe down to cover the scar. He blushed, a cute pink color, covering his cheeks.
Damn, either he's embarrassed or angry that I saw his scar. Or perhaps he's embarrassed he's sitting next to a cute girl?
As Holly contemplated this, Tom walked up to the table.
"I guess I will take the usual, Tom," Hagrid chortled. "And two breakfast specials with pumpkin juice for these two youngsters. My treat! It is the lad's birthday after all."
Holly caught Tom looking toward Harry's scar. His eyes widened, and Holly cast a Confundus so he wouldn't think the young boy was Harry, nor would he say it out loud.
"Coming up in a few minutes!" Tom said, then smiled and walked away.
Holly cast a Muffliato Charm she had learned from Severus Snape. She didn't want anyone to hear their conversation.
"I guess this is a good enough time for introductions," Holly said. "I'm Holly Evans, a Muggleborn."
Harry raised a questioning eyebrow and looked toward Hagrid.
"Means her parents are Muggles, like yer relatives," Hagrid explained.
"So... like me?" Harry asked.
"Nope." Hagrid said, with a smile, "Yer Mum was a Muggleborn. Your father was pureblood. So yer half-blood. But that don' matter one bit, you two 'ear me? Yer blood's the same as everyone else's. There are some wizards out there who believe that blood does matter, that it makes purebloods better because of it. But yer father was not one o' them, Harry. Not one bit. He was a great man, he was. And yer mother, one o' the best n' brightest witches around. Glad ter have called 'em friends."
Holly did her best not to blush at the compliment.
"Enough of me rantin'," Hagrid said, "Nice ter meet ya, Miss Evans, I am Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds of Hogwarts. Call me Hagrid."
"Harry," Harry said, shyly, "Harry Potter.'
"Very nice to meet the both of you," Holly said. "Is it your birthday, Harry?"
Harry nodded.
"Well, Happy Birthday then," Holly said with a smile.
Harry lowered his head, and Holly saw a tinge of pink in his cheeks as he muttered 'thanks'.
"Evans, huh?" Hagrid said, to Holly, "you wouldn't be related to –?"
"I'm an orphan, Hagrid," Holly said before he could mention Lily's name, "My parents died when I was very young."
Harry's eyebrows raised, and he mouthed words. Holly was sure he said 'like me'.
"Oh," Hagrid said, with a frown, "Well, that's sad, that is. Sorry."
"It is okay," Holly said, "Don't remember much about 'em."
She hated lying to Hagrid, but she couldn't say anything to Harry yet. Hagrid would raise a fuss if she even mentioned the word 'cousin'.
In fact, by the time we get to the bank, Holly thought, I'm going to have to wipe your memory of meeting me, and you will best be on your way. Perhaps you'll need to get a bit drunk to make the excuse you can't remember much. Sorry, old friend. Harry needs me.
"So... you're a witch?" Harry asked.
"Yep," Holly said, then decided to come up with a story to tell about her fictional life, "I grew up in an orphanage a few miles away from here, and a few years back I turned Miss Nail's hair pink when I got angry at her. She was a mean old lady, she was the one who was watching over all of us orphans. I knew it was me who turned her hair pink, though I didn't know why at first. Three days later, while in her office, I got angry at her again. Everything on her desk flew off of it. I knew it couldn't be a coincidence, that I was doing whatever it was that was happening. So I came up with the best excuse, that the orphanage was haunted by a ghost! She resigned the very next day!"
Hagrid chortled rather loudly, and Harry chuckled a little.
"Anyway, the summer after my tenth birthday," Holly said, "I was walking down Charing Cross road, when I noticed this very restaurant we're all sitting in. Not very many people were even looking at this building, and it was as if they couldn't see it! That got me curious. So I came in here, and eventually, I followed a witch and wizard back into Diagon Alley, which you'll see soon Harry. It was wonderful! I spent at least two or three days every week coming here. Ended up reading a bunch of books – I love to read, by the way – and learned a lot about the wizarding world. It was then that I realized what I had been doing all those years. Magic! I had learned I was a witch! So if I seem smarter than your average Muggleborn, you know why."
Holly took a deep breath, happy for thinking of such a tale. She would have to remember that for those who couldn't know who she really was.
"Isn't that something?" Hagrid said, "If yer so familiar with the place, why did ya request a chaperone today?"
"I was hoping you might bring in a fellow student," Holly said, "Figured I might meet a new friend."
She looked at Harry and smiled. Harry blushed pink again.
"I'd like that," Harry said, "I never had a friend."
"So, new friend," Holly said, "Have you done anything strange when you were little?"
Harry went pinker when she called him 'new friend'. "I turned my teacher's hair blue once. And once I was running away from some mean kids, and ended up on the roof of the school kitchens."
Holly grinned. Accidental Apparation as a child! To think, what power he must have, especially when they were able to remove the bindings from his core!
"What you did was called Apparation, Harry," Holly said, "We'll probably learn it the proper way a few years from now. We're too young for it at the moment."
Harry nodded, then grinned. "You really do sound smart! Er – I mean –"
"I know what you mean," Holly said, "Thank you for such a compliment."
Harry looked away to hide his blushing face. At that moment, Tom walked back to the table and Holly temporarily lowered the Muffliato charm. Tom placed the three trays in front of them, and Hagrid paid with Galleons, Sickles and Knuts, while teaching Harry what each one was. Tom then left, and Holly reset the charms.
There wasn't much conversation as the three occupants of the table feasted on their meal. At times, Holly watched Harry as he ate. In fact, he ate as if he hadn't eaten in many days.
Malnutrition, Holly realized, That is why he looks so small and skinny. Petunia, you bitch! You better hope I never lay my eyes on you or your husband! Oh, Harry, I promise, you will eat three full meals a day from now on and more if you want!
When the meals were finished, Hagrid lead Holly and Harry out to the alleyway behind the Leaky Cauldron. He instructed Harry on which bricks to tap in order to open the entryway. Harry watched, pure wonder and joy on his face, as the bricks melted into an archway, revealing the magnificent Diagon Alley beyond the secret entrance.
"Welcome, Harry," Holly said, "to Diagon Alley!"
"Wow!" Harry exclaimed.
Holly giggled. "Basically my reaction the first time I saw it."
"Come on, kids," Hagrid said, "We need to start at Gringotts bank."
Holly watched the expressions on Harry's face as he looked around at the various shops. His eyes were looking around at everything, and Holly feared he would injure his neck the way he was turning it so often.
"We'll go wherever you wish, Harry," Holly whispered to him, "I promise."
Harry smiled at Holly and nodded. Soon they reached the entrance of Gringotts. Holly saw Harry look at the Goblin poem – written in English – on one of the large decorative doors.
"Like I said earlier, Harry," Hagrid said, "Ye be mad ter even think o' robbing the bank. No place safer, 'cept perhaps Hogwarts."
Holly followed Hagrid and Harry into the bank's large Atrium. Then Holly knew what she needed to do. She concentrated on Hagrid, and hit him with another Confundus Charm, making him fear the bank carts.
"Ugh," Hagrid said, "Harry, Holly, I think I'm just going to stay right here. Those contraptions that go to the vault give me the willies."
"We might be a while, Hagrid," Holly said, "Perhaps we can meet somewhere. I could take Harry shopping. I know where we're going."
Holly pointed her finger at him again.
Hagrid grinned and nodded his large head. "That sounds like a fine idea, young lady."
"Are you sure, Hagrid?" Harry asked.
"Holly knows her way around, I trust," Hagrid said, "You'll be just fine. I'll see you later. Oh! Almost fergot. Ya need your bank key, Harry. Got it here somewhere." He rummaged around his large coat pockets. "Ah, here's the little devil!"
Holly frowned as she watched Hagrid give the key to Harry. She knew Dumbledore must have had it before.
Used it to steal from Harry! Well, not anymore!
"Oh, well, alright," Harry said, as he looked at the key. "I guess I'll see you later then, Hagrid."
"This isn't goodbye," Hagrid said, "I'll see ya soon."
Hagrid smiled, waved at Holly and Harry, then walked out of the bank. Harry frowned then looked toward Holly.
"We're not going to see him again today, are we?" he asked.
Holly was surprised. "Why do you say that?"
"I saw you waving your fingers toward him," Harry said, "You did magic on him. Hagrid didn't say anything about meeting another student today. Who are you?"
Holly sighed. "I promise to tell you everything before the end of the day, Harry. You can trust me. I could make a magical vow of honor if you want."
Harry frowned. "No, you don't need to. Is your name really Holly?"
"Yes, but it is complicated," Holly said, "Look, if everything goes right today, you will never have to go back to your relatives again."
Harry's eyes brightened as he looked at Holly. "Really?"
"Never again," Holly said, "Look Harry, the Potters are an old family. One of the oldest, though they didn't start as Potters. Soon, you will find you probably have more money than you know what to do with. Your children and grandchildren will grow up and not worry about money."
Harry raised his eyebrows. "I'm – I'm rich? Holly, I can't be. Look at me, if I had money -"
"Would your relatives even spend it on you?" Holly asked.
Harry frowned. "I guess not."
"Harry, if I am right, you are going to learn a lot of stuff today," Holly said, "You might even find out you own some houses you can live in instead of at your relatives! Listen, just do as I say and by the end of the day I will explain everything. Okay?"
"You're my very first friend, Holly," Harry said, "If you're lying to me at all – I – I don't know what I'll do."
"By the end of the day, I will tell you exactly who I am," Holly said, "In fact, you'll find out more about yourself as well. If it turns out you hate me, I'll go away. If you want to know more, I'll tell you. It will be your choice."
Holly felt a pang in her chest. She could almost see Harry's heart break. She could see the hope in his eyes that she would still be his friend. But there was also fear. Was it fear that she wouldn't be his friend, or fear that he may find he wouldn't want her as one anymore?
"Okay," he said, though his emerald eyes still held the same emotions.
Holly smiled, but internally she was doing a mixture of sighing in relief and screaming. She hated seeing Harry like this. She only hoped things went well.
"Okay," Holly said, "This is what we need to do..."
Holly instructed Harry on exactly what bank business he needed to do. He looked shocked, and a bit scared, when she mentioned inheritances and possible Wills his parents might have had. She then instructed him how to act around Goblins, and to be on his best behavior, and show respect.
"Harry, forgive me for saying this, but I think you should have a Healer – or doctor – look you over," Holly said; Harry's eyes widened, and he looked scared again, "I know there are things you might want to hide from everyone including me. But I promise you, you won't regret it. They might even fix your eyesight and get rid of your scar."
Harry's timid, scared look changed a little, and he smiled slightly. "Really?"
"Really," Holly said, "I hear the Goblin Healers are the best."
Harry sighed and nodded. "Alright."
"Good," Holly said, "After we do some bank business, we'll talk to them about Healers. Let's go."
Holly walked deeper into the Atrium, and looked around at the nameplates of the Goblins. She soon found the name Ragnok on one, which had no queue in front of it. She lead Harry toward it. When they arrived, the goblin looked up at the two children and raised his eyebrows. Holly wondered if he recognized Harry.
"Yes?" Ragnok asked.
"Greetings, Keeper Ragnok," Holly said, "May your gold and the blood of your enemies continue to flow."
Ragnok's eyebrows raised at the respect and tradition toward the Goblins shown to him.
"Greetings, young Miss," he said, "May your treasures be bountiful, and your battles quick, bloody and victorious."
"My name is Holly Evans," Holly said, "I understand you are the Keeper of my Vault, sir?"
The goblin stared at Holly for a moment, his eyebrows narrowed. "Hmm. Yes, I believe that is so. By coincidence I am also the Keeper of your Vault, Mr. Potter."
Harry's eyes widened. "How do you know me... er... sir?"
"You look very much like your father, young Lord," Ragnok said.
"I see," Harry said; he looked at Holly, who nodded, then looked back at the Goblin. "I wish to speak to you, Keeper Ragnok, about my inheritance, possible Wills from my parents, and any other business I may have with my Vaults. I apologize for not meeting you sooner. I just discovered the wizarding world today."
Ragnok harrumphed, making Harry jump. Holly frowned; Harry was scared of the creature. This was not a good way to start what would be an important meeting.
"Apologies for frightening you, Lord Potter," Ragnok said, "If your fate was different, we would have been introduced around the time of your seventh birthday, as is tradition of your family."
"Oh," Harry said, "Er... sorry."
"Apology accepted, but unnecessary," Ragnok said, "We should take this discussion somewhere private. Something tells me that the two of you would not object to being present together for each other's discussion."
Holly looked at Harry, who exchanged a glance.
"Yes, sir," Holly said.
"If that is alright with you, sir," Harry asked, with a timid voice.
"Something tells me this was meant to happen," Ragnok said; as he looked at Holly.
Holly shivered unconsciously. From the way the Goblin was looking at her, something told her she was about to expect one of Death's surprises very shortly.
"Follow me," Ragnok barked out.
Holly took Harry's hand; while it made him blush pink again, it also made him calm down, so Holly decided she was successful. She lead him toward a door that Ragnok was heading to. When they arrived, Ragnok opened the door, and lead both of them inside. When they entered, they found a small room with a simple wooden table and chairs. Holly shivered again; the room reminded her of the interrogation rooms in the Auror Department of the Ministry of Magic. Though the room did seem much warmer than the interrogation rooms. Ragnok sat down on one side of the table, while Holly and Harry sat on the other side.
"Who will go first?" Ragnok asked.
"Harry," Holly said.
Harry shrugged and nodded.
"Very well," Ragnok said.
He snapped his bony fingers, and large metal box appeared on the table with a sharp clang! The unexpected appearance made Holly and Harry both jump. Ragnok ran a single long finger down the center of the box's lid, then removed the lid. The box was filled with creme-colored folders.
Ragnok removed one of the folders then opened it. His eyes moved back and forth as he looked at what Holly guessed was a piece of parchment.
"Hmm," Ragnok said, "This states that during a meeting like this, Lord Potter, you should be accompanied by your magical guardian."
Holly looked at Harry and nodded. This was one of the things she had instructed him about.
"Did my parents leave an official Will, Keeper Ragnok?" Harry asked.
Ragnok rummaged through the box, and took out what looked like two large metal contraptions that looked like rolling pins. Holly knew these were where Wills at Gringotts were held.
"It is very curious, Lord Potter," Ragnok said. "A few years ago, Albus Dumbledore – the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where you will be attending come September – came here and asked me if he could see your parents' Wills. I explained to him that only two people were allowed to open the Wills. One is you, Lord Potter, the other would be your magical guardian."
Ragnok's eyes narrowed and he went silent for a moment.
"Dumbledore said he was your magical guardian," he continued, "but when I asked him to go through the process of opening your Wills, he then told me that he was the witness of the Will. I repeated my statement, and he immediately declined and said he would do so at a later date. I understand failure to be recognized as one who has permission to open an official Will can be quite painful. It is curious, because he has not returned for such a meeting. Ever since then, I've had my doubts about whether the man is truly your official magical guardian, though I never had any proof. I wish I did. There are some questionable actions by the man. I have a feeling we will find some answers today."
"I hope so, sir," Harry said. "I have a feeling I'm not going to like what we discover."
"Well, time is money, Lord Potter, and neither is something you should waste," Ragnok said; he placed both containers in front of Harry. "Place one finger on one of the containers, then the other. You will feel a light pinprick. I assure you it is not dangerous. It will remove a dollop of your blood, then you will be healed straight away."
Harry shivered slightly, hesitated for a moment, then pressed a finger on one container. He winced lightly, then pressed the same finger on the other, though he did not wince again. The containers made a metallic grinding noise as they rolled backward toward Ragnok. The containers formed into scrolls of parchment, which rolled flat onto the table. Ragnok cleared his throat and stated:
"I, Ragnok, the Vault Keeper of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter. am witness to the Reading of the Last Wills and Testaments of James Charlus Potter and Lily Marie Potter nee Evans. Lord Potter, as the last heir of the Ancient Line, so proven by your blood, make your choice. Do you wish the Reading to be by voice or by your own eyes?"
"Do I have permission to allow Holly to read them as well, sir?" Harry asked.
Ragnok stared at Holly deeply for a moment, then sighed, making a gargling sound. "I'll allow it."
"I wish to read by my own eyes, sir," Harry said, "I allow Holly to read them as well."
Ragnok relaxed in his chair, and motioned for Harry to read the Wills. They started with James' Will. Holly knew what the Will said, having been there when James had made it. But she read it over to make sure it was the very same Will.
I, James Charlus Potter, of able body and mind, claim this, my Final Will and Testament.
If I am no longer of this Earth, and my wife, Lily Marie Potter nee Evans, survives me, I leave the contents of this Will to her until my son, Harry James Potter, reaches his age of majority.
If Lily Marie Potter is no longer of this Earth, at the time of this Reading, I leave these various items to the following:
Holly had spoken to Harry about what might be in the Wills. If there was anyone besides Harry in the Will who was named, Harry or Gringotts could contact these people later. She looked through the names quickly to make sure they were still correct, and the items and money given was correct. Various names of their closest friends and allies of the family were named. Holly then eyed the name Peter Pettigrew. It was crossed out, which meant his portion of the will was void. Here was legal, magical proof of the true betrayer of the Potters. Goblin magic which focused on Wills would only cross out names if the person had betrayed whom the Will was made by.
Holly then saw Harry's name. Under a number which indicated the obscene amount of Galleons Harry owned, as well as the various specific items, most of which were in the Potter Family Vault, was named, there were more interesting pieces of information.
When Harry reaches the age of eleven, I officially name him Lord Potter, the Head of the Ancient and Noble House of Potter. I also request an official Inheritance Test for Harry so he may discover any and all titles to his name. At this time, if Lily Potter is no longer of this Earth, I officially ask that my son becomes Emancipated with everything this entails.
If Lily Potter is no longer of this Earth, I name these individuals below Harry's Official and Magical Guardians.
(In order of preference – if individual is no longer of this Earth, the next name in line becomes Guardian)
Sirius Black – Godfather by right of 'The Godfather Ritual'. Best friend.
Alice Longbottom, and her husband, Frank – Godmother by right of 'The Godmother Ritual'. Family friends and allies.
Amelia Susan Bones – family friend and ally.
Pandora Lovegood and her husband, Xenophilius – family friends
Minerva McGonagall – James Potter's godmother.
By no means, should Harry Potter be raised by Petunia Dursley nee Evans and her husband Vernon.
Property Ownership to be given to Harry James Potter on day of majority or Emancipation:
Potter Manor – Northampton, England
Potter Cottage – Godric's Hollow, England
Beach Vacation House – La Rochelle, France
Chateau Potter – Nice, France
There were also various other locations, which were mostly businesses, some of which were in Diagon Alley, Knockturn Alley, and Hogsmeade. The most interesting was that Harry now owned forty-five percent of the Daily Prophet, and their side-businesses, Witch Weekly and Teen Witch Weekly. He was also a quarter owner of the Lovegood owned newspaper, The Quibbler. Holly smiled as she eyed the particular information. That may very well come in handy in the future. She figured from the total of the buildings, at least two million Galleons were coming into the Potter Family Vault each year.
Holly continued to read:
My son, Harry,
If you are reading this alone, then myself and your mother are no longer part of this Earth. This does not mean that we no longer love you. Death could not take our love from you, my son. I hope that you have found a good family to grow up with and love. They have probably told you that they cannot replace your parents, but if they are the guardians my Will has allowed, then I am sure they love you just as much as your mother and I do. I hope that one day you will find someone who you love, and loves you just as much as I love your mother. It gives me no greater pride than to call you my son. I will forever be proud of your accomplishments as long you are proud of them.
I love you son, and I always will. I have faith we will see each other at one point or another, though I hope for you it is not for many, many years.
By signing this Final Will and Testament, I vow that everything said here is true and honest,
James Charlus Potter
Witness: Lily Marie Evans
Witness: Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Gringotts Official Witness: Ragnok, Potter Family Vault Keeper
Holly watched as Harry read her Will. There wasn't much more than what was shown in his father's will. The main differences were the fact that her best friend, Pandora, was higher on the list of Guardians, and that she had her own goodbye letter for Harry. She had almost given money to Petunia, but now she was glad she didn't. Then something else caught her eye. Something she had forgotten, even as she had put it in her will. There was one more residence Harry now owned:
#4 Privet Drive, Surrey, England
From the look on Harry's face, she knew he had seen it too. Then he started laughing.
"Are you okay, Harry?" Holly asked.
"The Dursleys always called me a freeloader in their house," Harry said, "Apparently, I own the house they live in. Oh, and nearly half of the business my Uncle works for. I could – well, I could ruin them if I wanted to."
"Do you want to?" Holly asked.
"I'll think about it later," Harry said, shrugging.
"Er... before we continue, Keeper Ragnok," Holly said, "A name on Harry's father's Will surprised me. Sirius Black. Forgive me, but some of the recent history books I read, it says he was the Potter's Secret Keeper, and that he betrayed Harry's parents. It also says he was sent to Azkaban."
Harry narrowed his eyes as he looked from Holly to Ragnok.
"That is indeed what your history books say," Ragnok said; Holly noticed that he did not mention that it was what really happened.
"Well," Holly said, "It also says Sirius Black participated in the Godfather Ritual. I read about that as well. If Sirius betrayed Harry, and in essence his parents, wouldn't the ritual have struck him dead?"
Ragnok raised his eyebrows. "Indeed, it does mean that."
"So... does that mean my Godfather is innocent, Keeper Ragnok?" Harry asked; his expression had softened from the look of rage he had felt at the mention of betrayal.
"Technically it does mean that, yes, Lord Potter," Ragnok said, "However, the Ministry of Magic does not seem aware that the ritual was made. Unfortunately the Ministry of Magic tends to dislike working with Gringotts. I will attempt to bring this up to the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. By coincidence, their Department Head, Amelia Bones, was supposed to be a possible guardian of yours, Lord Potter."
"Yes, it appears she was friendly with my parents," Harry said. "Please contact her and tell her I wish to speak to her soon. If she wishes to meet here or elsewhere, she can contact me."
Holly smiled. She had not instructed Harry to say any of that. It seems his confidence was growing. And then she found out why.
"Also, one of the reasons Sirius was sent to Azkaban," Holly said, "was for the murder of Peter Pettigrew. Pettigrew's name is on the Will, but it is crossed out. Is it because he is dead?"
Ragnok sighed deeply. "No. Death does not cross names out of a Will. Any gift, that of money or item, named for a deceased, would either be given to direct family of the person the Will was written for, or to certain charities. Crossing out of names means that they have betrayed the person the Will was written for."
"So... Peter Pettigrew betrayed my parents," Harry said, "Not my godfather."
"It seems so," Ragnok said, "This, too, shall be discussed with Madam Bones."
"Okay," Harry said, "Sir? According to both of my parents, it appears that I was never meant to be sent to the Dursleys at all. I have spent the last – well – nearly ten years there."
"We will get down to the bottom of all investigations that are sparked from this meeting, Lord Potter," Ragnok said, "That I assure you. I have a feeling this is only the tip of the beanpole. However, as requested in your Will, at the age of eleven, you will reach majority through Emancipation. You will no longer be required to return to your relatives. If I recall, today is your eleventh birthday?"
"Yes, sir," Harry said.
"A very Happy Birthday to you, Lord Potter," Ragnok said. "We will soon begin the Emancipation process as requested by your father. What is next on the agenda?"
"My father's Will says something about Inheritance, which is something I wanted to do," Harry said, "So I guess that is next. Also, I wish to put an audit on my vaults."
"I was going to suggest the latter, Lord Potter," Ragnok said, "I am pleased you have brought it up. It appears that one Albus Dumbledore was never given permission to be your Magical Guardian. Funny enough, it seems when we met, he was so very sure about such a title. I have a feeling we have a matter of criminal behavior to investigate. If I may request, Lord Potter, can we take a short break? Drinks and snacks will appear soon, and you may use our human facilities if – as the humans say – nature has called."
"Er... yes, sir," Harry said, blushing, "I do need to go to the bathroom. I was embarrassed to ask."
"No need for embarrassment," Ragnok said, "I will let you in on a rarely known Goblin secret. Not even Goblins can control their bladder for long periods of time."
Ragnok chuckled and Harry and Holly gave a chuckle as well, careful not to show their teeth, as that was an insult to Goblins.
"Yes," Ragnok said, "A short break then we will continue business! If Miss Evans, you do not need our facilities, you may remain here until we continue."
Holly nodded. She had a feeling Ragnok wanted to speak to her.
"I'll stay here," she said.
"Very well," Ragnok said, "Lord Potter, during our break, I will talk to my assistant as well as a couple of colleagues of mine to investigate your audit request and other criminal behavior surrounding your family, and your vaults. It should not take very long, we Goblins tend to work very fast. When we return, we will perform the Inheritance test where you will claim all titles to your name, and your Emancipation will be official."
"Alright," Harry said, "I'll be back shortly then. By your leave."
Ragnok nodded, and Harry jumped up out of his chair and walked out of the room. When Harry was out of the room, Ragnok cleared his throat and looked at Holly.
"You've done very well to hide your emotions through all of this," he said. "I take it Lord Potter does not know his new friend is actually his mother?"
Cliffhanger! Uh-oh! Ragnok knows! But how?! That answer, and more, coming next chapter!
As you may have noticed, due to Holly's charms, Hagrid did not retrieve the Stone. This isn't a mistake, there will be more about that in a couple of chapters, probably two or three. Let's just say Dumbledore will not be happy and that is the least of his problems! He will have to retrieve it himself... in a place where he may no longer be welcomed! (Yes, I can already see some of those gears in readers' minds rolling. Quirrel is supposed to steal the stone on this day. I have a way around this, I assure you.)
This is the very first time I've ever written the contents of a Will. So forgive me for not displaying the entire contents. I only showed the most important. Next chapter, a discussion about Light and Dark. Also, we will see Harry's inheritance, as well as Holly's inheritance. And, Holly receives and reads Death's letter which gives some more gifts of information, as well as cryptic clues for events of the following year.
Hope you liked this chapter! More to come soon! This is not an update hostage message. Let's just say I was surprised and shocked at the awesome response to the first chapter of the story. If I can get a response like that for this chapter, I might just upload the next chapter in the next few days. Either way it will be uploaded in a week or less!