Harry Potter and the Story That Should Have Been

Harry Potter and the Story That Should Have Been

Disclaimer: I do not own the world of Harry Potter. J.K Rowling owns everything that belongs to this franchise.

Chapter Summary: Albus, James and Lily discuss the aftermath of there attack. They learn and discover the fame which Harry now has due to what happened. Sit down and work out there future plans as to where they'll live.

A/N: I would like to thank Killer Queen for taking the time to beta my work for me. I very much appreciate you for taking the time to do this for me.

Sorry for the delay with posting this chapter. This was due to my nephews staying for an extra couple of days. Now that they're gone I am relatively free to type more chapters a little quicker.

Chapter Two: Harry becomes The Boy Who Lived

It was around eight o'clock the morning after the attack that Albus Dumbledore returned to the hospital wing so that he could check and see how the Potter family was coping. He was made aware of the attack hours earlier, when a house-elf appeared in his chamber to summon him to his office to attend to an urgent matter. Hearing this, Albus silently got up from his couch and quickly headed out the door.

As it turned out, the matter had become even more serious. When he had returned to his office, he learned more details and nre he had to go back and see the Potters. Albus quickly grabbed something to eat, had a shower, and thought about what he could do about the situation, as well as how he was going to have to inform the Potters. Since it wasn't going to be an easy task, Albus just mustered up his courage and headed straight to the hospital to deliver the news.

Upon entering the hospital wing, Albus was delighted to see that James and Lily were sitting up in bed. James was happily playing with Harry while Lily was still finishing up her breakfast since she fed Harry his.

At this sight, Albus said, “You don't know how happy it makes me to see that you're all awake and well again. I trust that everything has gone well and that Poppy is happy with your progress?”

“Yes she is happy with our recovery,” responded Lily. “In fact, Poppy is allowing us to be discharged so that we can return home.”

“This indeed is wonderful news and I am pleased to hear it.” Albus exclaimed. “Well since you have gotten the clearance to leave here, why don't you use the facilities in one of the guest quarters to get freshened up. Once you have done that, could you please come up to my office because we have several things to discuss and I am sure that you would rather do it there instead of in here? Shall we say in half an hour?”

“That sounds reasonable to us and we'll see you in thirty minutes,” answered James.

“Excellent! I am looking forward to it,” said Albus. “You should also find suitable clothes laid out for you in the guest quarters as well.”

“Thank you Albus and we really appreciate your kindness.” Lily stated gratefully.

“Think nothing of it. Oh well, I'd best be off so I can allow you two to get ready.” With that, Albus departed the hospital wing so that the Potter family could get cleaned up.

After Albus left, James asked, “Lils, do you have any idea what Albus wants to discuss with us?”

“My guess is that he may want to discuss what happened last night. Apart from that I have no idea James, but the sooner we get ready, the quicker we'll find out. Come on, I want to take a long hot soak.”

Hearing this, James replied in a kind of seductive voice. “In that case, my dear, may I escort you to the guest quarters and help you with that bath?”

Seeing what James was up to, Lily replied, “That tone won't get you anywhere with me right now, James. Since you have time to flirt, you have just volunteered to bathe your son. Now, let's get going because I want to wash up and put on some clean clothes. We don't want to keep Albus waiting any longer than necessary.”

Realizing that his attempt had backfired in his face, James just simply nodded in agreement and quickly followed Lily out of the hospital wing before he could get into anymore trouble.

Forty minutes later, Lily and James, who had Harry safely ticked in his arms, were making their way towards the office of Albus Dumbledore. As they walked through the corridors of the school, many happy memories came to mind - the fun times they had as Hogwarts , the pranks they pulled on the students, arguments they had, and most of all, the moments they spent together once they became a couple. However, before they could truly reflect on those past events, they had reached the gargoyle that protected the entrance of the Headmaster's office.

Upon reaching it, James asked, “Do you have any idea as to what the password could possibly be?”

Lily, who had an excellent memory and sharp mind, replied, “Well, knowing Albus and his love for sweets - the password is probably the name of some sort of confectionary. I suggest that we simply rattle of the names of all the lollies that we can think of, and with any luck, we're bound to come across the correct one.”

“If that is what we have to do, then let's start by trying Acid Pops.” James suggested.

The gargoyle didn't budge signalling that the password was incorrect. Lily tried her luck by calling out “Chocolate Frogs”.

Again, nothing happened. From there they tried several of the following sweet names: Pumpkin Pasties, lemon drops, Sugar Quills, only to fail.

It wasn't until James said, “How about Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans?” that the gargoyle came to life and immediately started to rotate upwards, revealing a staircase as it moved.

Seeing the stairs, James continued on. “Well, how about that. Good old Bertie Bott's is the password. Wouldn't you agree…”

Before James could finish that statement, Lily interrupted. “Yes it's a good choice for a password, but if you don't mind I would like to get a move on because we have a lot that needs to be discussed.”

With that, Lily headed up the stairs while James quickly followed behind her. Once they reached the office door, Lily was about to grasp the Griffon knocker to knock on the door when a voice called out: “There's no need to knock on my door Lily, because I know that you and your family have arrived. Please come in and make yourselves comfortable.”

The Potter family quickly entered the office and made a beeline to the seats that Albus had indicated for them to take as they crossed the threshold. Once they had been seated in the comfortable chairs, Albus began by saying, “The reason that I have asked you up here is because we need to discuss what happened last night and what your future plans are. Before we begin, I think that the both of you should read this morning's Daily Prophet. While you're reading the article, I'll hold the little person whom I consider to be my grandson.”

With that Albus got up and handed the morning edition of the paper to Lily. He took Harry from James and kept him occupied for the next few moments. Holding the paper, Lily quickly opened it and moved closer to James so that it would be easier for him to read. What they were reading made their eyes bulge.

Harry Potter: the Boy Who Lived

In the early hours of the morning, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was destroyed by the hands of fifteen month-old Harry James Potter.

From what we can gather, You-Know-Who discovered the location where the Potter family were living in hiding. Armed with this information, he set out to destroy James, Lily, and baby Harry. During the attack, it seems that You-Know-Who decided to spare the lives of James and Lily and aimed to attack baby Harry since it was the really the infant that was his intended target.

As a result of this attack, little Harry was somehow able to survive the killing curse. While we do not know how this magnificent and wonderful event transpired, I can safely say that Harry James Potter is the very first person in history to live through and experience something like this. Therefore, in light of this momentous occasion, it is my pleasure to reveal that the editors at The Daily Prophet have named Harry Potter `The Boy Who Lived!'

Word has reached us that wizards and witches all over the Wizarding World have been celebrating all night and that they have been drinking and making toasts to `The Boy Who Lived!'

Since this is a such a wonderful event, allow me to raise my own goblet…

At this point, James had read enough of the article so Lily grabbed the paper, carefully folded it, and replaced it back on the desk.

James turned to face Lily. “What do you think that we should do now? Whatever we decide to do, we need to consider what's best for Harry. Thanks to the Prophet our son has become an instant celebrity.”

“I completely agree with you, James,” responded Lily. “Before we rush and make any hasty decisions, I would like to hear what Albus has to say about this matter.”

Lily and James turned to face their former headmaster to seek his guidance, only to find Harry playing with Dumbledore's long beard and to discover that Harry had made several golden snitches appear in the hair.

James couldn't help but laugh at the sight. Although Lily wanted to scold her son for what he had done, she couldn't help the smile that appeared on her face.

Knowing what Lily was thinking, Albus quickly advised, “Please do not get mad or upset about what Harry has done - he was just playing and there was no harm done. Instead, enjoy this moment and embrace it with open arms. Harry is already growing to be a powerful wizard.”

Lily could only nod in agreement because a couple of happy tears began to run down her face. She remembered how close she was to losing Harry the night before and was so thankful that they were all alive. A couple of moments later, after everyone had composed themselves, Albus returned to the business at hand.

“The time has come for us to talk about the events from the attack and to decide what the best course of action to take considering what has just transpired. But before we continue, I would like your permission to see your memories of the attack so I can have the full picture. Will you both allow me to watch your memories in my pensieve?”

James and Lily turned to look at each other to see what the other thought. After coming to a wordless agreement, Lily nodded at Albus.

“Albus, we trust your judgement and know that you would not make this request unless you felt it was terribly important. Therefore, you have my permission to see my memory of what took place and I am sure that James will provide you his recollection as well.”

Having gained their consent, Albus gently returned Harry to his mother and he went over to a nearby cupboard to remove a white stone artefact from the shelf. He carefully placed the pensieve on his desk.

He turned to the Potters and instructed, “If you can place your memories into my pensieve, then I shall quickly watch them and we can move on with our discussion. James, if you please?”

James quickly got up and made his way over to the desk. Upon reaching it, he thought of the memory. Once the memory was secured, he held his wand to his temple, carefully removed the silvery memory thread, and placed in the bowl. He then returned to his seat to take Harry from Lily's lap so that she could add her own memory.

“While you're waiting for me, please feel free to help yourself to some refreshment,” offered Albus. With a wave of his hand, a tea tray appeared on his desk that had all of the necessary things to make a cuppa along with some biscuits, slices of cake, and other things to eat.

“Thank you Albus,” said Lily gratefully. “I am quite certain that all three of us will enjoy it.”

“In that case, I'll rejoin you in a little while.” With that said, Albus placed his hands on the edge of the pensieve and he entered it.

James, Lily, and Harry quietly enjoyed the refreshments that were provided for them while they patiently waiting for Dumbledore to return. After about fifteen minutes, Albus had discovered some of the answers that he had been seeking, withdrew from the pensieve, and returned to his desk.

After getting himself comfortable he began to explain what he had learned. “From what I have just seen, there is no doubt in my mind that Voldemort has indeed marked Harry, as his equal. Harry now has a scar on his forehead from the attack. Lily was successful in calling up the ancient magic to protect Harry so when Tom attacked, he unintentionally transferred some of his power to Harry without realizing it. Although Tom is destroyed, he is not dead.”

Hearing this being said about Harry, Lily just had to ask, “Albus, does this mean that Harry is the only one who can fulfill that prophecy and by doing so, kill Voldemort?”

“I am afraid that is what it's going to come down to in the end. Tom will not rest until he successfully kills Harry, because knowing him as I do, once he has set something into motion, he'll not rest until it has been completed. However, to lighten the mood I have a distinct feeling that for the next few years all of us are going to enjoy a brighter and peaceful time.”

“We now need to discuss what your next steps will be because whatever you decide will impact Harry's life. James, Lily, in light of the recent attack on your home in Godric's Hollow, where do you now plan to live and what plans do you have for Harry, taking into consideration that from now on he will have all of the fame and attention for being the Boy Who Lived?”

Lily replied, “Albus, James and I had hoped above all hopes that we would be able to raise Harry in Godric's Hollow. When we first bought that two-story cottage it was the perfect home to suit our needs. We were in a muggle village that had some magical residents where our family could embrace the best of both worlds, considering that James is a Pureblood and I am Muggle-Born. Our home had a Quidditch Pitch where James could teach Harry how to fly and to play the sport, while I could teach our son all about the muggle world. Now that our home has been completely and utterly destroyed, I'm not entirely sure as to where we would go, but I know that James and I have options.”

Upon hearing Lily's words, one of the ideas that Dumbledore has already set into motion was proving to be the best solution.

“What would you say if I told you that I can make it possible for all of you keep living in Godric's Hollow?” Albus asked.

Lily gasped while James looked Albus directly in the eye and said,

“Is that really possible? The house was obliterated and the location is no longer a secret. Can you do that?”

Albus just smiled and replied, “Yes James, I can do exactly that. My idea may be your best option because it will guarantee that Harry will be well-protected, especially from Voldemort and his followers.”

Lily suddenly had a fair idea as to where Dumbledore was going with this. “I think I know where this is headed, Albus, and if it is what I am guessing, it's an excellent plan. But if you don't mind, would you explain it to us so that we know exactly what you're thinking?”

Albus chuckled and responded. “I see you remain as bright as ever, Lily. Very well, the plan is basically this: The house in Godric's Hollow can be repaired so that you can remain living there. You both love it there, and have dreamed of raising Harry there. It will also save you the problems that are associated with finding and organising a new home. Most of all, if you decide to return to Godric's Hollow, an ancient protection will be invoked that will guarantee protection and safety to all of you until Harry reaches the age of seventeen.”

James perked up at the idea of a protection that will keep Harry safe until adulthood. “What exactly is this protection and what will it entail?”

Knowing that his answer would likely determine the outcome of their decision, Albus took a deep breath and explained.

“James, while you were trying to distract Voldemort, Lily was up in Harry's room, and in a desperate attempt to save her son from the utmost evil, she cast an ancient charm, powered with her love for Harry. Her willingness to sacrifice her life for her son would guarantee Harry's protection. This is a piece of very old magic, and from what I witnessed, Tom was completely unprepared for it. As a result, he was destroyed by it. In order for this magic to become a protection that will shield you all, all three of you are going to have to live on the site of what used to be your home. Voldemort has already tried to kill Harry there and with the sacrifice of Lily's love, which now flows freely in Harry's heart and skin, Voldemort can no touch him because Voldemort has attempted to take Lily's life. Because of the ancient love magic and the attack which activated the charm, Voldemort will not even dare to try to harm any of you while you are there because if he does, the protections will severely injure him. It is for these reasons that I strongly urge you to return to your home in Godric's Hollow and live as you have planned to. And to give you a sense of ease, the magic will give a protection that will cover the entire village. So if you want to go shopping, visit with neighbours, or go outside to play Quidditch, any fears that you may have will be laid to rest. Does everything I have just explained to you assuaged any of your doubts?”

Lily had been listening with enthusiasm throughout Dumbledore's explanation. “Oh Albus, what you have told James and I have indeed made some of the worry wash away. While I am thrilled and delighted at the prospect of living and returning to our home in Godric's Hollow, it wouldn't be fair of me to make this decision without my husbands' approval.”

At this Lily turned to face James and asked, “Sweetie, what are your thoughts with regards to Albus' idea?”

James was trying to take everything in. As he sat there, he began weighing the pros and cons of returning to the Hollow as opposed to moving into the ancestral Potter Manor - a place that could also offer a modicum of protection now that the Hollow was no longer under the Fidelius charm. However, once he has heard about the ancient charm that his brilliant and beautiful wife cast to protect their son and all of the benefits of this ancient magic, he knew that this was something that the Manor couldn't offer. There was no other choice - James gently grasped one of Lily's hands.

“Love, before Albus, explained everything to us, I was going to suggest that we move and live in Potter manor now that we have been exposed. However after hearing and taking into consideration everything, I think its best that we return to our home in Godric's Hollow and their, the three of us can live as a family just like we planned to.” Hearing this Lily who developed tears in her eyes said

“Do you really mean that?”

“Yes I do and with all the love that I have for you, want to make your desire to come true.” at this Lily got up and rushed over to James so that she could embrace him.

James struggled to return the hug because he was also holding Harry. Seeing his difficulty Albus gently took Harry so James could return the embrace. For the next couple of moments Albus kept Harry occupied while James and Lily battled to see who would win the competition of snogging each others tonsils out. As it turned out James had to pull away because he was in dire need of oxygen. Discovering that she had won this round Lily laughed and said

“That's another round for me Potter, and if I am not mistaken, you're who now has to change all of Harry's dirty nappies due to the bet that we made. Am I not right?” not liking the prospect of losing the bet and having to change the dirty nappies, James could only say

“Yes love.” Hearing the banter than went on between them Albus could only laugh at James' poor dilemma.

Enjoying the moment that was before him, Dumbledore quickly sobered up because he wanted to wrap things up as quickly as he could so that he can return the Potter family to their home. With this thought Albus returned Harry to his father since he had lost the bet and after he had done this he was about to move on but before he could an owl entered his office and flew straight towards him. Noticing the owl Dumbledore didn't know what to think and acting as he did whenever a letter arrived; he took it, opened it and read to see what the contents about. Unfortunately for Albus by the time that he had finished reading it, he knew that he had to be the one who had to break more sad news to this family that sat before him. Knowing that the news would be upsetting to them all especially to James. Before Albus could address what needed to be said, Lily noticed that whatever was in that letter must have made her former headmaster sad because the look of sadness was present in his blue eyes. Knowing that something indeed had happened Lily gently placed a hand on his arm and softly said

“Albus, what has happened that has made you become upset? Does it have anything to do with that letter you just received?” knowing the loving and caring heart that Lily had, Albus could only say

“The news that I have just received from the Ministry of Magic is that Sirius Black, has just been arrested for killing Peter Pettigrew and thirteen other muggles.” At the mere sound of hearing this James immediately shouted out

“NO! THERE IS NO POSSIBLE WAY THAT THIS COULD HAVE HAPPENED. HERE GIVE ME THAT LETTER!” with that rage James roughly handed Harry over to Lily and leapt out of his chair and made a mad dash towards Dumbledore so that he could attempt to snatch the letter out of his hand.

Seeing what was about to happen, Albus quickly withdrew his wand and quickly cast a Petrificus Totalus and instantly James' body snapped together and he fell forwards. Before he crashed into the desk and with another flick of his wand and after silently saying Mobilicorpus, Dumbledore gently placed laid him on the floor beside his chair. Before he released him from the spell, Albus said in a non pleasant kind of voice

“James, I know that you're mad and angry at the prospect of Sirius being arrested, but your attitude is not helping matters. Also not to mention that during your outburst you nearly injured Harry. Luckily for him Lily had been able to scoop him up before something serious had happened.” At the mention of Harry being nearly injured, James felt a pain of guilt in his stomach that was so strong that it made him want to throw up. Sensing this Albus quickly continued with “It seems to me that the message has sunk through to. Now I am going to release you from the jinx that I have you under and I am sure that you'll control yourself because I am sure that you don't want to feel your wife's wrath. Am I right to say my assumption is indeed correct?” after these words had been said Albus released James by softly saying “Finite.” Realising that he could now move around, James got up from of the floor and turned to look at his family. Seeing that Harry seemed to be ok, James was about to pick up his son but before he could do this Lily shouted out

“RESUME YOUR SEAT JAMES AND IF YOU BEHAVE YOURSELF I MAY ALLOW YOU TO NURSE HARRY. DUMBLEDORE MAY HAVE FORGIVEN YOU BUT AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED YOU HAVE A LONG WAY TO GET BACK INTO MY GOOD BOOKS. AS IT IS I AM SERIOUSLY CONTEMPLATING THE LENGTH OF TIME THAT YOU'LL BE SLEEPING ON THE COUCH FOR WHAT YOU NEARLY DID!” hearing the prospect of sleeping on the couch James flinched because this is the one thing that he hated the most in the world. Noticing that her statement had successfully done its job, Lily turned her attention back towards Albus and softly said

“Can you please explain to all of us how Sirius ended up in this predicament?”

“From what I can gather and with the detail in this letter, it appears that Peter Pettigrew cornered Sirius, in a Muggle neighbourhood and in that place an altercation occurred between the two. According to the witnesses who were Obliviated once there statements were taken say that Peter yelled out for all to hear that Sirius had betrayed you all to Voldemort. After this it is said that Sirius withdrew his wand and was preparing to attack Peter when all of a sudden a loud explosion that caused panic and fear among the common people. Once the dust had settled and the scene had been brought under control, Aurors who had arrived at this point saw that your friend was holding his wand in his hand and that he was laughing his head of. It didn't take them very long to put the pieces together as to what happened considering that the only thing that remained of Peter is a small finger. Once they had all the facts or good enough evidence, they quickly rounded up Sirius and took him away. The letter also says that at this very moment he is being sent to Azkaban where he is to await and stand trial for his crimes.” Hearing this explanation James quickly said

“Albus, we just can't sit by and allow this to happen. You know the truth about who our Secret-Keeper was. Surely you can stop the Ministry from doing this. Can't you use your powers as the chief Warlock of the Wizengamot and order them to release him immediately or at least have him transferred back to the ministry holding cells until he can stand trial.”

“Yes it is true that I can advise the ministry to do exactly as you just suggested but I am afraid that my hands are tied at the present time. I think for the moment that the most important thing that needs to be done right now is to return you to your home in the Hollow and get the magic put into place. Once this has been done I give you my word that I'll do everything in my power to rescue Sirius. For now I think the time has arrived for me to escort you personally to your home. If you'll just quickly grasp Fawkes by one of his feathers he will be more than delighted to fire flash us to Godric's Hollow. Fawkes if you please.”

Hearing his name being called, Fawkes who was Dumbledore's pet Phoenix, rose up from his golden perch and flew around for a second before he hovered just above his master's desk where everyone could hold onto a tail for transport. Everyone quickly grabbed hold of a feather and with Harry gently wrapped in the loving arms of Lily disappeared in a bright flash of fire.

A mere couple of moments later and in a flash of fire Albus, James, Lily and baby Harry appeared near the front door step of the newly repaired, reconstructed and renovated Potter home. It took them a couple of moments to get there bearings from the travelling and once they had done so, James and Lily were shocked beyond belief at their home had been repaired so quickly. Took a couple of moments to get over the shock and once they had recovered from it they both turned to face Albus and it was Lily said

“Albus, how on earth did our home get repaired so quickly and who is responsible for doing it?”

“Well truth be told Lily, I had a distinct feeling that you and James, would like to return here no matter what. With this feeling and the thought of the ancient magic which has already commenced, I along with the help of the Hogwarts of house-elves got together last night and worked around the clock so that your home would be finished on time so that you can move back in. To make things as simple as possible, we rebuilt it exactly as it was and if you don't like anything, you're more than free to change it to suit your needs.” By now they were both shocked for words and the only thing that could be said and it was James who spoke it

“The only thing that we can say and give is a big thank you for what you have just done for us.” Hearing these words of praise being spoken Albus' reply was

“Think nothing of it my friends. As a matter of interest consider it my pleasure for doing it. Besides I can't allow anyone to hurt or harm my little Harry to whom he is my adopted grandson. May I hold him again?” Lily could only laugh at this and as she gave Harry over to Albus she said

“Albus Dumbledore, you rouge and little joker. You don't have to ask permission every time so that you can nurse him. Feel free to do so whenever you come and visit us. With regards to visiting us here I expect you to be here for Harry's birthday and for Christmas Day. I know that you're kept busy with what you have to do but I am sure that you can spare at least a couple of hours to pop by and say hello and more than happy and welcomed to come any other time as well.” With the open invitation being given, Albus welcomed it with great delight and he happily said

“My dear, when the time permits me to visit, I will endeavour to do my best to come to all the times that you have requested of me. It is with an open heart, I whole heartily accept your kind and gracious invitation. Now before I take my leave there are a couple of things that you need to know. First thing is that your address has now been changed. Instead of being 21 Godric's Lane, Godric's Hollow, your new postal address is 86 Ottery Ave, Godric's Hollow. The purpose of doing this is that the Fidelius charm that had been placed here can no longer work. If anyone ever tried to use it the only thing that they'll find is a one way ticket to the holding cells in the Ministry. Second for the next couple of days it would be in your best interest to hang around the house. Purpose for this is that while the magic has already started it still needs two full days to become fully effective. After this time frame you're more than able to venture out. If you have any further problems or anything that you would like to know than please either owl me or just floo to my office and I'll more than welcomed to sort through whatever the problem is. For now I must depart and return to Hogwarts because once again I have things to do and also I need to get the ball rolling with regards to situation that concerns Sirius.” After saying this Albus returned Harry to his mother. As Lily took him she said

“Thanks again for everything and we'll make sure that you follow your advice especially for the next day or so.”

“It's no trouble at all and I am just pleased that I could render any and all assistance. Now I really must be of.” No sooner had Albus spoke those words, everyone quickly said there goodbyes to each other and once they were finished doing it, Albus grasped his familiar and disappeared in a bright flash while James, Lily and Harry entered there newly repaired home and began the next chapter of their lives as a family.

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