Found Family - 2 (Patreon)

The chaos in the Alley due to the surge of school shoppers reached the Ministry. Senior staff were out with their kids or had scheduled time off this week. It made getting paperwork finalized by being patient and polite to the overworked clerks. Harry was able to get the entire Lordship and adoption in a couple of hours after he made a fresh pot of tea for the workers. The middle-to-lower staff didn't care about details when they were swamped in a flood of paperwork.

Iris kept her hair in front of her scar and stuck beside Harry. It was amazing how no one looked twice as she was just another kid out with their dad. A couple people had commented she could pass for Iris Potter if she were taller or something else along those lines. They shared a smile once they left.

The Potters Will was scheduled to be read the next week. There were a few schedules they had to arrange as an audience.

Iris ended the day dosing off in Harry's arms as they left the Ministry. She had put up a valiant effort, but she had started drooping in the last stretch of paperwork. It was nice to take their new home. The room rental had a bedroom for each. He carefully set her onto the bed then took a step back. A bit of wand-work gently removed her glasses and shoes then covered her with a sheet. He left her door open a little to allow a small amount of light into the room. That way she would be able to see if she woke up.

Harry propped himself up on the couch in the central room. He took off his glasses and shoes then settled into the cushions. It was a bad habit he had picked up in the last few years. People broke into the bedroom when they wanted to kill him. No one thought to check the couch. He was suddenly struck with a brick of relief. There wouldn't be anyone coming after the wand. No one knew where it was, or they weren't going to put resources on following a rumor. The Hallows had been one of those stories that most people outgrow. His troubles with the Elder Wand only began once details of the final battle were common knowledge.

He would have to get back in the habit of sleeping in a bed. His eyes drooped and he drifted into slumber. An unknown amount of time later he woke to the sound of feet shuffling on wood. He opened one eye just wide enough to get a look at the area when he recognized the form of Iris. She scooted forward, paused to check he was asleep, and then scooted forward again. He had to hold in his laughter as she poked at him to make sure he was asleep. Once she was sure, she climbed onto him and curled up like a cat.

It struck him how small she actually was. Harry had thought he had moved on from the issues he had with the Dursleys. That sudden realization proved him wrong. He had the sudden, burning rage directed at her aunt and uncle. It was only the fact that Iris was asleep that stopped him from dealing with them. He had thought it over countless times over the years. Plans to destroy them. Killing them wasn't an option. That was the one limit he wouldn't cross. At least not directly. They hadn't killed him so he would respect that. He wouldn't kill them. At least not directly. Dismantling their perfectly normal life and watch them strike the match to burn it all would be so much more satisfying.

He may have given a little more thought into his daydreams than he thought. Maybe he would have time once dealt with Voldemort. He silently chided himself. His attention had been solely on Iris since his arrival. He hadn't spent any significant amount of time arranging what he was going to do.

It would have been easy if he had been in his own timeline, dimension, or whatever the difference it was. He doubted the ritual protection from his mother would work here. There was also the chance that it had completed its purpose and was no longer active. Simply shaking Quirrell's hand wouldn't work. It was lucky he had some experience dealing with aggressive witches and wizards.

Harry drifted off as he ran through various half-formed plans. The added warmth of Iris on his chest knocked him out before he could get something solid.

He woke up a few hours later as Iris slipped off his chest. She snuck back into her new room clearly hoping to escape before he was up. He had to admit that she was pretty good at being quiet. Her footsteps were light, she avoided patches of bare floor to prevent the boards from creaking, and she moved in measured bursts.

Harry smiled as she made it to her room. He wasn't going to spoil her stealthy adventure. His eyes drooped once she made it through the door.

He snapped awake at the sound of movement in the kitchen. Harry stumbled into the room on instinct. He didn't register the little witch seamlessly working with him. His thought process finally caught up to his body once he had some bacon cooking.

"Good morning," Harry said with a tired smile. "How long have you been awake?"

Iris blushed at his attention, "A little bit."

"Thank you for making breakfast," Harry said. "We work well together. Wake me up next time so we can do this again."

The tension in her shoulders eased at his words. He wasn't mad, pitying her, or trying to talk her out of it. Harry remembered how horrible it felt when someone looked at him like that. Iris quietly noted how he adjusted the portions. Cooking was one of the few times he had a semblance of peace at the Dursley's. Vernon and Dudley couldn't hide the fact that they preferred his cooking over Petunia. He heard the appreciative noises all three made as they ate. It was one of the reasons he had been excited about Potions.

Harry paused for a brief moment. Snape was still alive. He had been working under the assumption that this world had the same history as his own. His planned trip to Hogwarts today would answer a lot of questions.

They settled into the meal without speaking. He didn't comment on the small size of her portions. Harry put the leftover food under stasis. There was a lot left even after adjusting the amount that they had cooked.

"Let's get dressed and then we're off to Hogwarts," Harry said after they cleared the plates.

Iris perked up, "We're going to Hogwarts?"

"Today, yes," He nodded. "We're not going through the new student process. That isn't something you should miss. This time we're just going to use the front door."

"Oh," Iris shrugged. "Ok."

They got dressed, both sticking with more Muggle style while made with magical materials. He had made sure that they both had plenty of protective enchantments.

Iris came out in a cute, black dress that could easily pass in muggle and magical neighborhood. Her cheeks were bright red as she stepped out of her room. It was probably the first time she wore a dress that actually fitted her. Harry clapped politely turning her shy look into a toothless glare.

"Should I keep the hair?" He asked.

Iris shook her head, "I like it, but the black…"

Harry nodded understanding what she meant. He closed his eyes and ran a hand through his hair. It returned to his natural black. She stared at him in wonder as he opened his eyes once again. He didn't know if she had seen pictures of her parents yet. The many, many dreams of being rescued by his, not actually dead, parents. He wasn't sure if it was magic or some lingering memory, but his parents had always looked the same.

Her eyes flashed in wonder fast enough for others to miss it.

"Ready?" Harry held his hand out to her.

She took it and they made their way outside. The alley wasn't as packed today. It would have some extra traffic for the shops for the next few days. Walking around like this would yesterday would have caused chaos.

Iris flashed a confused look at him as they made it to the Apparation point.

"Now," Harry said as they came to a stop. "There are a few versions of magical travel. This is called Apparation, it's kind of like teleporting. The best way to handle it is to take a deep breath and let it all out before we go. Your first instinct when we land will be to breath in."

Iris nodded.

"There will be a sensation of pressure all over your body," Harry continued. "The first time is the worst. I'll teach you how to do it if you're interested. There are a couple tricks that make it easier."

He paused.

"Deep breath," He said.  

She did.

"Let it out," He continued.

Harry waited until she was probably done before they popped away. He reached out and caught her before she could fall.

"That was horrible," Iris groaned.

Harry nodded, "And that's the gentle version."

"Are they all like that?" She asked as her legs stopped shaking.

He chuckled, "Magical transportation? This one is the worst. Port Keys are easy if you know how to land. I never got the hang of Floo Travel. The best options are broom, carpet, and the Knight Bus."

"What's the Knight Bus?" Iris asked.

Harry chuckled, "We can take it back to the Alley."

Iris got her feet underneath her. Her jaw dropped as she took in the town around her. Hogsmeade had a Victorian style with glimpses of classic magical tossed in for flavor. Even then the buildings looked to be inspired by Doctor Sues. It helped that the materials used in construction weren't always traditional. Buildings made of brick and mortar stood next to ones that were a mixture of marble and solid sod.

"Welcome to Hogsmeade," Harry waved a hand to display to village. "They claim it's the only fully magical town in the country."

"Claim?" Iris asked.

Harry winked at her, "There are at least four others with the same claim."

Iris smiled. Harry led her to the main road. They found a carriage to hire waiting for fares. The seats were cushioned nicely making the ride smooth.

"Hogwarts Gates," The driver announced.

Harry tossed the guy a sickle, "Come back in an hour if you want another fare."

"No worries, it's a slow day for fares," The driver nodded.

Iris waited until they were out of earshot, "Why don't they use cars?"

"Tradition mostly," Harry replied. "There are a lot of magical folk that do not like the idea of integrating Muggle technology."

They stopped at the gate. It didn't take long for Hagrid to appear.

"Hagrid!" Iris waved at him. "I thought you would be busy."

"Too busy to see you?" Hagrid scoffed. "Not if I can help it."

Iris beamed up at the half-giant. Harry waited for Hagrid to open the gates. There was a fun little enchantment that held them closed unless opened from the inside when the school term was over. Most of the staff didn't stick around over the summer, which meant it was the perfect time to attempt sneak in. Voldemort proved that they could be overpowered by someone strong enough.

"Mister Hagrid," Harry didn't want to be overly casual with the man. "May I ask you a few questions while we walk?"

Hagrid hummed, "Don't need to call me Mister. Just Hagrid is fine. Should save your questions for Dumbledore."

"I understand, but I have a few questions regarding the staff," Harry clarified. "I doubt Dumbledore would say anything against his choice of professors."

Hagrid narrowed his eyes for a moment, "Go ahead."

"Severus Snape," Harry said. "He is the potions professor, correct?"

Hagrid sighed, "Yes."

"I take it he's the same sort here," Harry shook his head. "Is the Defense post still cursed?"

Hagrid cocked his head to the side to stare at Harry, "How'd you know about that?"

"It was when I was a student," He replied. "Please tell me Madam Hooch is teaching flying."

"Of course," Hagrid said with pride. "Best in the country."

He leaned down to whisper to Iris, "Remind me to get her autograph."

"Why?" She replied in a whisper as well.

"She's an absolute genius when it comes to brooms," Harry answered. "She's a retired Quidditch star. A bludger smashed her rotator cuff. It's an injury that needs slow treatment. Part of her recovery was learning how to fly again. The process annoyed her so much she started teaching others."

"What's Quidditch?" Iris asked.

"It's a sport that witches and wizards are crazy about," Harry smiled fondly. "Played on brooms. Each house has a team; you can watch the games during the school year."

Iris nodded. Her thoughts of Quidditch were soon replaced by wonder as the school came fully into view. It was still wonderous when approached via that road. Not nearly as magical, pun intended, as riding the boats over the lake, but still impressive.

"Just this way," Hagrid said directing them to a side entrance rather than the Great Hall.

They took a lesser used route to Dumbledore's office. Hagrid had once told him that it was a technique he had learned as a student. His size made it difficult to walk in a crowd of students even when he was younger. The best option was to find side-passages that he could travel alone rather than potentially hurting someone. It also had the benefit of making it look like Hagrid would suddenly appear places in the castle.

Hagrid led them to Dumbledore's office. They came to a stop in front of the gargoyle that guarded the staircase. No one noticed the complete lack of ghostly activity as they moved through the castle other than Harry. It was amusing how the undead avoided him ever since he acquired the Hallows.

"Lemon Sherbet," Hagrid told the gargoyle.

Iris jumped back behind Harry as the wall opened to reveal the staircase.

"It's ok," Harry offered her his hand, which she took. "There are dozens of secret passages around the school like this."

"Really?" The statement distracted her enough for him to lead her up the stairs.

"Hogwarts is a magical castle," He explained. "There are hundreds of years of ambient magic that have seeped into the stones."

"Wow," She whispered.

Harry nodded, "Treat her well."

"Well said," A familiar voice said from the top of the stairs. "Thank you, Hagrid. I'll call you if something changes."

Harry's breath caught for a moment as he saw the man once more. His sharp eyes catalogued minor signs to get a handle on Dumbledore. He didn't idolize, or demonize, the old man anymore. There were theories of the Headmaster being a puppet master, overtaken by dementia, or being a dark lord himself. Harry was too close to things to make a proper judgement. He now had the chance to find out for himself.

"Professor," Harry smiled at the man.

Dumbledore was much healthier than in his memories. This one didn't have a curse eating away at his health or facing a looming threat he wouldn't live to resolve. His robes were bright blue with animated fireworks of different colors.

The Sorting Hat rested on the corner of the desk. Fawkes perched near his familiar. Yes, Dumbledore was the familiar. It was the only way to get a phoenix to willingly bond with a witch or wizard.

"The resemblance is uncanny," Dumbledore said. "Apologies. Mister Potter, Miss Potter. Please, take a seat. Lemon drop?"

Harry had never taken the offer before. It wasn't about trust. He just didn't care for the flavor. Some people swore they were drugged with truth serum or potions of loyalty.

"Thank you, no," Harry replied. "I'm not a fan of lemon."

Dumbledore sighed, but nodded, "Understood. Miss?"

Iris shook her head.

"Please allow me to introduce myself," Dumbledore gave his best grandfatherly smile. "My name is Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts, Supreme Mugwump, and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot."

Iris blinked in shock at the titles.

"The pleasure is mine," Harry replied. "Harry Potter, Lord Potter, Displaced Lord Black, and guardian of Iris Potter."

Dumbledore stilled, "Pardon?" The sparkle in his eyes vanished. It was replaced with a critical glare. "That is quite the claim."

Harry raised his hand to display the Potter Lord ring as well as the combined Potter and Black ring on the finger next to it.

"Curious," Dumbledore whispered to himself.

Harry nodded, "Quite. We have some things to talk about."

"I can arrange for Miss Potter to have a tour of the ground while we speak," Dumbledore offered.

Iris was about to say something when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

"No need," Harry countered. "Iris should be here for this."

Dumbledore looked like he was about to argue. He sighed when he saw the matching expression of certainty on their faces.

"You are her guardian," Dumbledore sighed.

"Exactly," Harry said with a firm nod. "I am her guardian, and she will be staying with me. Even if the Blood Wards were working, which they aren't, I wouldn't force her to return to those people."

Dumbledore examined him for a moment, "You claim the wards weren't working? This isn't your world."

"Things seem to be close enough," Harry replied. "Brace yourself."

The older man scrunched his brow in a rare moment of confusion.

"Your theory is correct, Riddle created several horcrux," He continued. "Seven in total, including the accidental one."

Dumbledore's eyes went wide.

"You first heard the prophecy in an interview with Sybill Trelawney," He went on before the headmaster could interrupt. "It was overheard by a certain Death Eater with poor hygiene and a burning hatred for our father."

"Please stop," Dumbledore snapped. "This isn't proper conversation for a child to hear."

"Am I correct so far?" Harry ignored the statement.

Dumbledore took off his glasses and cleaned them, "Yes."

"And what about you, Albus?" Harry asked.

"Pardon?" Dumbledore replied with his own question.

"Who are you in this?" Harry asked. "What part have you played? Did you truly believe story the Stone here was a good idea."

"How did you…" Albus studied the two for a long moment. "May I look into your memories?"

Harry chuckled as he took off his glasses, "Be careful. It is not a nice place to linger."

They locked eyes. Harry could feel the touch on his mind. It was subtle, almost delicate compared to other times he had experienced such things. Dumbledore truly was a master in the mental arts. Unfortunately for him, Harry was as well. He guided Dumbledore through the important memories while avoiding his life after Hogwarts. Any mention of the Hallows were completely blocked off by years of minutia piled atop.

"Oh my," Dumbledore whispered.

"What did you find?" Harry asked.

"Nothing yet," The professor replied. "Your mental protections are unlike any I've seen in recent years. An unskilled hand has caused scarring that is extensive. It wouldn't slow down a concentrated effort, but it does block out a casual scan. What happened to you, my boy?"

"You had Snape give me lessons," Harry stated flatly.

"Who is Snape?" Iris asked. "You said that name before."

Harry tried to keep his voice even, "A walking pile of trash in human form."

"Mister Potter," Dumbledore cautioned. "Please do not speak of my staff in such manner."

Harry raised one eyebrow in a silent challenge, "Take a look if you doubt me."

"I will begin once more," Dumbledore looked into his eyes again.

Dumbledore pulled back after a long moment, "You were right to caution me."

Harry waited for him to continue.

"You are indeed from the future," Dumbledore said. "A future, not this one. Your world has the same historical events. The only change seems to be Miss Potter." He took a shuddering breath. "Seeing my own death was rather alarming as well."

"You get used to it," Harry chuckled darkly.

"You died?!" Iris yelled.

Harry shrugged, "A couple of times."

Iris stared at him in wonder. She turned her attention to Dumbledore to find the old man looked just as confused. Well, at least she wasn't the only one.

"I have to ask," Harry said before any more questions could pop up. "Why did you think that keeping the Stone here was a good idea?"

"The Stone isn't at Hogwarts," Dumbledore repeated. "It was a trap. Had the thief  managed to steal the stone any serum created from it would cause him to fall into a dreamless sleep. I hadn't suspected Quirrell, or the fact that Voldemort had possessed him. If the plan had succeeded it would have resulted in the same outcome. Quirrell would die from the possession, and Voldemort would be sent into the world as a shade."

"The school wards didn't pick up a teacher possessed by a dark lord?" Harry asked.

Dumbledore's expression hardened, "The School Board has made certain decisions that I cannot alter regarding the Wards, funding, and curriculum. It is also why we had to wait for the mandrakes to mature. They aren't a common potions ingredient. On top of that, certain members of the board were actively working against efforts to find available options."

"Malfoy," Harry spat the name out.

Dumbledore corrected him, "It may surprise you, but he isn't the only one working to their own goals."

"I know too well," Harry pinched the bridge of his nose. "I'm going to get to work dismantling his powerbase before he can return. Then I'm going to destroy the horcrux." He turned to look at Iris. "Starting with that one."

Iris pulled her hair out of the way to show her scar, "This?"

"Yes," Harry replied. "I can remove it, but it will hurt." He shifted his gaze to Dumbledore. "I would like to ask Poppy for help if she's available."

"How do you intend to remove the horcrux?" Albus asked. "The only way I have discovered requires the vessel to be destroyed."

Harry gave a cryptic smile, "I've had a lot of experience with soul magic."