Harry Potter and What Should Have Been

What Should Have Been: Philosopher's Stone

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter. J.K Rowling owns the world of Harry Potter.

Story Summary: James, Lily and Harry make a trip to Diagon Alley so that they can purchase Harry's school supplies.

A/N: I would like to thank J P McMurphy for taking the time to beta my work for me.

Chapter Five: Diagon Alley

“Harry, James, if you two are ready, it's time to go.”

“On my way, Mum.”

“Be down in a minute, love.”

Today was going to be a very busy day for the Potters; they were all heading into Diagon Alley to purchase Harry's school supplies for the upcoming school year. Since Harry would need to buy a whole lot of things, Lily wanted to make an early

she knew that it was going to be a very long day. Once James and Harry had finally managed to make their way downstairs Lily spoke:

“Now that you two slow pokes are here, we can now go. Before we go though, I'd like to discuss what kind of reception we might expect today, or should I say the reception that Harry will be receiving.”

“Lily, I don't think that we have to worry about that. Harry knows that he may have to deal with the public and if anyone tries anything I am sure that we can handle the situation. Now, if you are ready then we should be going.”

“Really, James, are you going to rush out into Diagon Alley and show the world that `Harry Potter' has returned?”

“I have no intention of doing what you just said and the last thing that I would ever do is place Harry in danger.”

“Alright, if you don't think that Harry needs to be warned then that is fine by me but if we have any trouble at all than I can guarantee that you shall be sleeping on the couch, is that clear?”

“Don't worry, Lily; I'll make sure that Harry has no trouble with the public.”

“See that you do, James. Now, Harry, if you will grasp my hand than I shall Apparate the two of us to Diagon Alley.” With that said, Harry, took his mother's hand and the two of them Apparated away with James following close behind.

With a sound of a soft pop and a car backfiring, Lily, Harry, and James appeared in Charing Cross Road near that famous pub, the Leaky Cauldron. The moment that James, Lily, and Harry, they quickly headed in the direction of the pub.

It didn't take them long to reach the Leaky Cauldron because James and Lily were able to appear a few doors down from the entrance. Approaching the entrance to the pub, Harry could see a sign that had a lady stirring something in what appeared to be a cauldron and below the picture Harry could make out the words `THE LEAKY CAULDRON'.

Before Harry could comment on what he was seeing, James said, “Ah, it has been a while since I've been to this place. Lily, do you remember the last time we were here?”

“I believe that our last visit here was just before we had to go into hiding. If you don't mind, James, I would rather go inside than stand here talking on the footpath. Wouldn't you agree?”

“Sorry, Lily, and yes you are right. If you please, ladies and Harry, first.”

“Alright, you don't need to go over board. Stay close to me, Harry.”

“Don't worry, Mum, I'm right behind you,” Harry assured her as Lily led the way into the pub.

Upon entering the Leaky Cauldron, from what Harry could see, the pub was dark and shabby. The first thing that Harry noticed once he was able to get a good look at the place was that there was a bar, tables, chairs and at the tables there were heaps of people who seemed to be either drinking, having a chat, or reading the Daily Prophet.

Since no one was paying any attention at all to the Potter family, they quickly made their way toward the back door so that they could head into Diagon Alley. However, before they could reach the back entrance, the proprietor of the Leaky Cauldron, Tom, noticed James, Lily, and Harry.

Seeing that he had missed some customers, Tom said, “Sir, would you and your family like to have a drink before you head into Diagon Alley?”

“No thanks, Tom, but if you will excuse me, Lily, Harry, and I have got a lot of things to purchase since Harry will be starting school come September.”

“In that case, don't let me detain you! If you have time later, do drop by and I'll be happy to serve you.” Tom headed back to the bar while the Potters headed to the door. No sooner had Tom turned away from the customers than he quickly spun around and said, “James, Lily, it is so good to see you after all these years and bless my soul, it's Harry Potter. Look everyone, the Potter family has returned.”

At the sound of those words, everyone in the pub instantly stopped what they were doing and turned to see where Tom and the Potters were standing. The moment that the patrons of the pub could see for themselves that James, Lily, and Harry, were indeed in the Leaky Cauldron, they quickly got up and rushed toward them, excitedly welcoming them back.

However, before the crowd could reach them, James pulled out his wand and said, “If you all can't control yourselves in a suitable fashion, then I shall be forced to jinx you and trust me, you don't want to experience what I am capable of doing.”

Hearing of the prospect of being jinxed, everyone started to get a grip on themselves because the last thing that they wanted to do was to upset the Potters. Once everything had calmed down, James continued.

“Now that you have settled down, we would be more than happy to greet some of you. Before I even allow you to approach Harry, I want you to know that he doesn't like being famous, but he understands that he has to deal with it. So please don't rush forward, and please keep in mind what I have just said.”

“Don't worry, James, if any of my patrons tries to harm Harry, then he or she will be thrown out of my pub and shall be banned for a period of time. Since I am the proprietor of the pub, I shall be the first one to greet Harry.” With that said, Tom stepped forward and greeted Harry.

Following after Tom, several other patrons of the bar approached Harry so that they could greet and shake his hand. Among those who greeted Harry were Doris Crockford and Dedalus Diggle. Harry heard phrases like, “It's a pleasure to meet you at last, Mr, Potter,” and “I am honored and delighted to meet you, Harry.”

After allowing everyone a couple of moments to meet their son, James and Lily decided that it was time for them to be moving on. Lily addressed the crowd, “Everyone, I am afraid that it is time that we moved on; we have a lot to do today.”

At hearing this, Tom said, “Lily, I am sure that everyone understands and as part of welcoming you back to the wizarding world, the next round is on the house.” The patrons cheered and rushed toward the bar and while they were distracted, James, Lily, and Harry crept out the back door so that they could finally enter Diagon Alley.

The Potters stopped in front of a brick wall behind the Leaky Cauldron. At the sight of the wall, Harry didn't have a foggy clue as to why it would be there. However, Harry's question was soon to be answered.

Lily said, “Harry, pay close attention to what I am about to do because one day you may need to this yourself.”

“What do you mean by that, Mum?”

“Just watch what your mother is doing, Harry, because you are in for quite a surprise.”

Lily promptly tapped a brick with her wand. Harry watched in awe as the brick wall formed into an archway. No sooner had the bricks finished moving aside than Harry could see that behind the wall was busy alley with shops. Harry quickly turned to face his parents, the expression on his face asking the question for him.

James explained, “Harry, this is Diagon Alley, where you can purchase all of your school supplies. What do you think of it?”

“I think that this place will be a great place to shop. So what shop will we be going to first?”

“Well, since we are going to need money to purchase all of your school supplies, Harry, our first destination is Gringotts, the wizard bank,” Lily answered.

“In that case, Mum, let's get going!” James and Lily exchanged an amused look at Harry's enthusiasm, and then quickly led the way to Gringotts.

Walking down the main street of Diagon Alley was an exciting experience for Harry. From what he could see, there were heaps of shops that lined each side of the street. Since Harry didn't have any idea as to where the bank was, he simply stuck by his parents' sides so that he wouldn't get lost. Not before too long, all three Potters were standing outside of Gringotts.

As they entered the bank, Harry could see that there were hundreds of creatures, all working and managing the bank. At the sight of these strange but fascinating creatures Harry asked his parents, “Mum, Dad, what kind of person runs the bank?”

Lily replied, “These are goblins, Harry. While they can be friendly, it is best to not upset them. Just stick close to your father and me and you'll be fine.”

During this conversation, they walked down the aisle so that they could find an empty counter. After finding one, James, approached the counter and said, “James, Lily, and Harry Potter, would like to make a withdrawal from the Potter family vault and show Harry his trust account.”

“Do you have the keys to the vaults, sir?” At this, James removed two keys from his pocket so that he could show the goblin. After taking a quick look at the keys, the goblin continued, “They seem to be in order. Griphook, please escort the Potter family down to their family and trust vaults.”

At the sound of his name, Griphook stepped forward and said, “If you will follow me, I shall be delighted to escort you to your vaults.” Since they didn't want to upset Griphook, James, Lily and Harry, quickly followed after their escort.

Before too long, Harry and James were happily enjoying the cart ride that the goblins used to escort people to their respective bank vaults. The cart ride was very similar to the roller coaster rides at an amusement park. Unfortunately for Harry and James, the cart stopped before they could really enjoy the ride.

Griphook announced, “Vault number 86, the Potter family vault.” Griphook quickly got out of the cart as did the Potters.

Once everyone was standing in front of the vault door, James handed the vault key over to Griphook so that he could unlock the door. At the sound of the lock being unlocked, Griphook took a step back, allowing James to open the door. As the door swung open, Harry, for the first time in his life, couldn't believe how much money was inside of the vault.

Seeing the look on his son's face, James said, “As you can see, Harry, the Potter family is indeed pretty well set up with money. Just so that you know, Harry, you could easily live off this and not have to work if you wanted to.”

“James, I think that you have flabbergasted Harry with all of this, so why don't we withdraw and continue on; we have got a lot of things that need to be purchased,” Lily pressed.

James didn't need to be told twice, so he withdrew from his pocket several money bags and quickly filled them up with Galleons, Sickles and Knuts. After ensuring that they had more than enough money, the Potters returned to the cart while Griphook waved his hand and the vault door slammed shut. Griphook removed the key and resumed his seat in the cart before they began the breakneck ride to the trust vault.

At the trust vault, James and Lily explained to Harry that this was his own personal vault. While there wasn't as much money in the trust vault compared to what was in the family one, Harry was told that he could spend it on whatever he liked but he had to be careful that he didn't waste it on anything. After asking his parents how much money he should withdraw, Harry, made a small withdrawal so that he could have money to spend whenever he wanted to. Once the transactions were completed, James, Lily, Harry, and Griphook got back into the cart one final time and they returned to the lobby of the bank.

Exiting from the bank, James led his family toward all the shops that they needed to visit. The first shop was a place where people could purchase trunks, since Harry would need a trunk for Hogwarts.

In the trunk shop, Harry could see that there was a wide range of trunks to choose from. Since the trunk was mainly for Hogwarts, he decided on getting a three compartment trunk. As he looked at each of the trunks, Harry's eye caught the colour of a red and orange one. Harry immediately said, “Mum, Dad, if it's alright with you, may I please have that red and gold coloured trunk?” At this, James and Lily went to have a look at the trunk that their son was indicating.

The trunk that Harry wanted was a three compartment that would be more than suitable for his needs. As for the compartments, the first one was suitable for storing books and school supplies. The second was used for clothes and the third was an area adequate to store personal items. Apart from the three compartments, the trunk came with a book bag, an overnight bag, and it also had a few locking curses on it so no one would be able force entry.

James said, “Harry, you have indeed chosen wisely and I must say that I love your choice of having a red and gold trunk.” James picked up the trunk that and headed toward the counter to could pay for it. Once the transaction was completed, they left the shop and headed for their next destination: Madam Malkin's Robes For All Occasions.

Entering the robe shop, James, Lily, and Harry discovered that the ladies of the shop were extremely busy dealing with customers. Seeing how busy the shop really was, Lily was considering leaving and returning later when the owner of the shop said, “How may I serve you today?”

“Harry is about to start his first year at Hogwarts and he is in need of a couple of sets of robes.”

“Well if it's just school robes that you need, please follow me and I'll see what I can do. While I am seeing to your son, you are more than welcome to browse the store.”

“Thank you, I am sure that James and I will appreciate the opportunity to look at new robes.” James and Lily, went off to browse through the shop while Harry went with the lady to be measured for his robes. As Harry's measurements were being taken, he found himself standing beside a blonde haired boy.

The moment that the blonde haired boy saw Harry he said, “Are you going to Hogwarts too?”

“Yes, I am and I must say that I'm looking forward to going there.”

“What house do you think that you will be in? I know that I'm going to be in Slytherin.”

“If I had to make a choice, I would choose Gryffindor. Both of my parents were in Gryffindor and if I am like my parents, I don't think that I would have any difficulty getting into that house.”

“Are your parents pureblood, or are they Muggle-born? My father thinks that they shouldn't let the rift raft into Hogwarts.” By now, Harry, was starting to dislike the blonde haired boy. After only a few minutes of conversation, he found him to be rude, arrogant, and most of all he seemed to be a bully. A few more words from the boy proved that he was indeed a bully.

“I think that it's very rude of someone to ask another person who their parents are. Just so that you know, my parents are a witch and wizard.”

“Do you play Quidditch, own your own broomstick, and what team do you support? I think that's it unfair for first years to not take their own brooms to school. I might bully Father into allowing me to take my own broom.”

“My dad has taught me how to ride a broom and I must say that I am a natural. As part of my birthday present my parents are going to be buying me a brand new broom and the Quidditch team that I support is Puddlemere United.”

“What kind of broom are you going to buy?”

Before Harry could respond to that question, Madam Malkin returned and said, “Here are your Hogwarts robes.”

“Thank you, ma'am, and I appreciate that you made them as quickly as you possibily could.”

“Why thank you, young man, and I must say that you are very sweet.” With that, Madam Malkin handed the neatly wrapped robes to Harry. As soon as Harry had the robes in his hands he headed back to his parents while Malkin returned her attention to the blonde haired boy.

Harry found both of his parents sitting in seats while they were waiting for him to return. James and Lily spent a little time looking at the robes that Malkin had for sale but they decided that they would return to the shop to purchase a new wardrobe after sending Harry off to Hogwarts. Seeing their son approaching them with his robes in his hands, they got up from their seats.

No sooner had Harry reached his parents than Lily spoke, “Have you finished getting your new robes, Harry?”

“Yes Mum, I am finished and they have been neatly wrapped up by Madam Milkin herself.”

“Well in that case, why don't you place them into your trunk so that they won't get crushed and once you have done that our next stop is Flourish and Blotts.”

As James carefully placed Harry's robes inside of his trunk he said, “I thought that Quality Quidditch Supplies was next on our list? We did agree that however long we stayed in Quality, we had to spend the exact same time in Flourish. Am I right, Harry?” James turned to look at Harry so that he could verify the agreement.

“Yes Dad, it is true that Mum did agree to what you just said, but if you don't mind I would rather go to Flourish and Blotts first. We already know what we are getting at the Quidditch store, but it may take a little longer to find all my school text books. Besides, don't you want to spend some quality time looking up either prank books or magazines that deal with Puddlemere United.”

At the mention of these two ideas, James instantly said, “Harry, I believe that you have hit the mark. If you and your mother are ready, then we shall now head off to Flourish and Blotts.” James first shrunk Harry's trunk before hurriedly leading the way to the book store so that he could see what kind of things that he could get up to without getting into Lily's bad books.

In the book store, it took quite a while for Harry to find all of his school textbooks: Flourish and Blotts placed the books under several sections. Since, Harry, had to browse through all the sections of the book store, it took some time to find all of the books that he would need for his first year.

Once Harry had finally found of the books that he needed, he set about finding some books that he might be interested in reading. During his own private search, Harry chose the latest edition of Hogwarts A History which was no surprise to him considering that he had read that kids' version to death. One of the books that Harry bought for himself was Curses and Counter-Curses by Vindictus Viridian. Harry had just taken that book from the shelf when he heard his father say,

“Harry is there a reason as to why you are buying that book?”

“Dad, the reason that I want this book…” Harry began and then told his dad all about that blonde haired boy he met in Madam Malkin's.

By the time that Harry had finished his story James said, “By the sounds of things, Harry, this boy is nothing but a spoiled pureblood who thinks that he can have everything his own way. If he causes you trouble, please use one of these curses to hex him with and make sure that you send me a letter to tell me what happened. While I'm at it, you had better give me that book to look after because if your mother sees you buying that book I can guarantee that she won't be happy with you at all.”

“That's alright, Dad, and I am sure that you can return it to me before I go to Hogwarts,” Harry said as he handed the book to his dad for safekeeping.

Following on from the Flourish and Blotts, the next couple of stores that the Potters visited were the Stationary, Apothecary and Cauldron Shop where they could purchase Harry's quills, ink, sheets of parchment, potions supplies, and a cauldron and tools to brew Potions. Still continuing on, they paid a short visit to Quality Quidditch Supplies so that they could purchase Harry's Nimbus 2000 that James and Lily were going to give Harry for his birthday.

In the Quidditch shop, the sales person couldn't believe the order that James asked for. “Good morning, how may I be of assistance to you?”

“I was wondering if I could purchase that Nimbus 2000 that you have in your window for my son, Harry.”

At the sound of hearing that James wanted the Nimbus, the sales person said, “Are you sure that you want to purchase a Nimbus 2000? They are very expensive.”

“Yes, I am sure that I want to buy that broom and don't worry about the price because money isn't an issue for me.”

“Well in that case, give me a couple of moments to collect the broom from the window and I shall wrap it up for you.”

As the sales clerk approached the window to collect the Nimbus 2000, she saw that there were a number of people gazing in and looking at the broom. The moment that the broom was lifted up from the stand, the crowd of people standing outside couldn't believe that the broom was being taken away. Seeing what was happening in the shop, the crowd started to disburse because it was no good standing around to look at the newest broom considering it had just been brought.

Returning to the counter with the broom, the clerk quickly wrapped it up in brown paper so that it wouldn't be damaged. Once this was done she handed the broom over to Harry while James gave her the price that was on the tag.

However, before Harry could get too excited with his new broom Lily said, “I think that I had better shrink it down and place it into your trunk until we get home.”

At this, Harry tried to protest but after a quick stern look from his mother, Harry quickly said, “Alright, Mum, and I guess that you are right.”

With a quick wave with her wand, Lily, shrunk the broom and it was carefully placed into Harry's trunk with the rest of his purchases. Once the broom was safely placed away the Potters continued on with only a couple of shops left to visit.

The next shop that James and Lily decided to visit was Eeylops Owl Emporium. As they headed toward the shop, James and Lily could see in the distance a very familiar figure that they hadn't seen for a very long time. Before either James or Lily could even send a word of greeting to their friend, the man stopped looking at the owls and spotted James and Lily.

The tall figure spoke, “James, Lily, good ter see you again.”

At hearing their friends' voice James replied, “It's good to see you as well, Hagrid.” James, Lily, and Harry, quickly made their way over to where Hagrid was standing. The moment that James and Lily reached Hagrid, Hagrid pulled his two friends into a hug.

Before Hagrid could squeeze all of the air out of their lungs Lily said, “If you don't mind, Hagrid, James and I would like to breath if it's alright.”

Instantly Hagrid pulled back and said, “Sorry about that, Lily, but I'm just happy to see you two again.”

“That's alright, the feelings are mutual. What are you doing here in Diagon Alley?”

“Professor Dumbledore has sent me here on official Hogwarts business but he also instructed me to help choose an owl that would be suitable for Harry.”

“Have you found an owl that you think that Harry would like, Hagrid?”

“I think that I have, Lily, but if you don't me, asking where is Harry?” Lily, who had completely forgot all about Harry, quickly brought him forward so that she could introduce him to Hagrid.

The moment that Hagrid could see Harry, Lily said, “Hagrid, this is our son, Harry. Harry, this is Hagrid.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Hagrid.”

“Thank you, Harry. I'm looking forward to seeing you at Hogwarts.”

“Do you live at Hogwarts, Hagrid?”

“Actually, Harry, I am the Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts, and yes I live at Hogwarts. Once you have settled into Hogwarts I'll invite you down to my hut so that we can have a spot of tea and while we're at it, a chat as well. D'you like the sound of that, Harry?”

“Yes, Hagrid, I look forward to it.”

“Good, now that's settled let me show you the owl that I think that you will really like.” With that, Hagrid led James, Lily, and Harry into the shop.

A couple of moments later, Hagrid was showing to Harry an owl that was snowy white. The instant that Harry looked into the eyes of the owl a bond suddenly formed between them.

Before anyone knew what was happening Harry said, “Hedwig. The name for my snowy white owl shall be Hedwig.” Instantly Hedwig hooted in agreement with the name that Harry said.

Hearing the hoot, Lily said, “I think that Hedwig is the perfect name for your owl, Harry, considering that she is a girl.”

Harry turned to face his Mum and asked, “Mum, how do you know that Hedwig is a female owl?”

“Harry, let's just say it's a mother's guess but if you want to, why don't you ask Hedwig herself?”

Harry quickly returned his attention to Hedwig and said, “Are you a girl owl, Hedwig?” For the second time Hedwig happily hooted in response.

This time it was James who spoke. “It looks like your mother was correct, Harry, and I must say that with Hagrid's help you have chosen a very special bird.”

“Couldn't've said it better meself, James, but if you'll excuse me, I must be returning to Hogwarts; Professor Dumbledore will want to see me.”

“In that case, Hagrid, don't let us detain you because if you have something important, you had better get going. I trust that the owl has been paid for, Hagrid?”

“I've paid for the bill on Professor Dumbledore's instructions. All you had to do was to choose the owl and she's all yours. See you at Hogwarts, Harry.”

“Thanks for everything, Hagrid.” Hagrid and the Potters said a quick goodbye and Hagrid made his departure so that he could return to Hogwarts.

Once Hagrid was gone, James said, “The only thing that you now need, Harry, is your wand and the only place to purchase your wand is Ollivander's wand shop.” James led the way down to Ollivander's.

Standing outside of Ollivander's wand shop, Harry noticed that the sign that was once painted in gold was now very hard to read, but if a person looked hard enough you could still read what it said. Luckily for Harry, his eyesight was sharp like his mother's and because of that, he didn't need to wear glasses like his father. Since they had come here to purchase Harry's wand, they entered the shop.

Walking through the front door, Harry could see that the floor to the ceiling of the shop was lined with wands. Seeing the number of wands that were for sale, Harry, said, “How on earth do you know which wand belongs to you?”

“The answer to that question, young man, is that the wand chooses the wizard,” Ollivander said as he appeared from behind a row of wands. The moment that he noticed the famous lightening-shaped scar on Harry's forehead, Ollivander smiled and continued, “I was wondering when you would be coming to visit my shop, Mr. Potter.

“Lily Evans Potter, your wand is ten and a quarter inches in length, swishy and made from willow, quite useful for charm work. I trust that it is still in good condition?”

“Yes, it is and I must say that I have taken very good care of it.”

“Splendid, that is what I like to hear. Now, James Potter, eleven inches, made of mahogany wood, pliable, little bit more power and excellent for transfiguration work, correct?”

“Your memory is as sharp as always, that is correct.”

“Good, now let's return our attention to young master Harry.” Ollivander gathered a tape measure so that he could take a few measurements. While he was doing this he spoke to Harry.

“Now, Master Potter, since you are after your own wand, allow me to explain a few things to you. Each of my wands are made with a core of magical substance, like dragon heartstrings or hairs of a unicorn, and they are made from a wide range of wood. While it is possible to use another person's wand to perform magic I highly recommend that you use your own to gain the results that you require. With that said, let's find your wand.”

Ollivander quickly disappeared behind the rows of shelves and began his search for Harry's wand. A couple of moments later he returned with a couple of boxes. Placing them on the counter, he took the first wand and said, “Beechwood, dragon heartstring and nice and flexible. Give it and wave to see if it's this one.”

Harry, took the wand and gave it a wave. Seeing that nothing happened, Ollivander, took it back and said, “Try this one, maple and phoenix feather.” For the second time, Harry, took the wand and the result was exactly the same as the first. Following that, Harry tried wand after wand but for every test the result not a successful match.

After trying a wand that was ebony and unicorn hair, Ollivander, placed a hand on his chin and said, “Ah a tricky customer, no matter, we shall find the right wand. I wonder…”

Before Harry could say a word he saw the wandmaker dash again behind the rows of wands to only return yet again with a wand in a case. This time, Ollivander had the feeling that this was Harry's destined wand.

He said, “Alright, Mr Potter, try this wand. Eleven inches, made of holly wood and contains a feather of a phoenix.” He held it out for Harry to grasp.

The moment that Harry's hand grasped the wand a sudden bright light emitted out of the wand. Seeing what was happening, James and Lily were both applauding while, Ollivander said curious over and over.

Hearing that he was repeating the exact same word over and over again Harry asked, “Excuse me, Mr Ollivander, I don't mean to be rude but why are you saying curious so many times?” James and Lily, turned their attention toward Ollivander so that they could hear his response.

“I remember every wand that I have ever sold, Master Potter. It just so happens that the phoenix feather which resides in your wand gave another feather. Mind you, just one other feather.”

“Who is the owner of that other wand?”

“The owner of that wand, I am afraid, is the one who gave you that scar on your forehead. If I had any idea that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named would have done those terrible great things I would never have given him that powerful wand, but one thing is clear: we can expect many great things from you, Mr. Potter. That shall be seven galleons for the wand, please.” James quickly handed the money over.

As he took the money from, James, the wandmaker said one final thing, “Good luck, Harry Potter, and I shall be looking forward to hearing all about the great things that you shall accomplish in life.” Ollivander escorted James, Lily, and Harry to his front door. After the Potters exited his shop, Ollivander quickly returned to his counter and wrote a quick note to his old friend informing him that the second phoenix wand feather had just been purchased.

Upon leaving Ollivander's wand store, James turned to his family and said, “Is there anywhere else that we need to go, or do we have everything that we came for?”

“I think that we have everything, and I think it's time we were getting home; it has been a very long day. Harry, if you will grasp my hand, I'll take the two of us home.” Harry didn't need to be told twice because he too was starting to feel exhausted as well. So once again with a grasp of Harry's hand, Lily and Harry returned to their home while James soon followed shortly behind them with Harry's school trunk that had his things and of course Hedwig with her cage.

The sun was just starting to set over the horizon. From up in his office at Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore could witness a nice sunset every evening, and this evening was no exception. On this particular evening, Albus was waiting in his office for another professor. At the sound of a knock on his office door, Albus said, “Come in, Severus, and please take a seat.”

Hearing that he had been summoned by the headmaster, a man with long, greasy black hair and attired in black robes strode into the office. Once this man was seated, he said, “You requested my presence, Headmaster?”

Yes, I have, Severus, and I want to thank you for coming so promptly. The reason that I asked you to come here is that I wanted to be the one to inform you that, come the first of September, Harry Potter will be attending Hogwarts.”

“Headmaster, just how exactly am I to deal with Lily's son? I don't want to mention his resemblance to his father, but my main problem is that every time I will look at him, I shall see those emerald green coloured eyes...”

“Severus, I know all about the past friendship that you and Lily shared before you took the path that divided the two of you. While I can't be the one to solve this particular problem for you, I may be able to give you advice that may bring reconciliation between you and Lily.”

“Headmaster, I am willing to listen to whatever you have to say.”

“The first thing that you need to do, Severus, is that you mustn't treat Harry in the same manner that you treat the other houses. I would strongly recommend that you treat Harry as if he is in your own house. You shall also find that Harry will be an accomplished maker of potions. You don't have to award points to Harry but if you deign to compliment Harry about his work, then I am sure through Harry, and with time, you shall receive the final result that you are seeking. So, what do you think of my advice, Severus?”

“Albus, what you have just suggested is a very difficult thing for me to do. Have you forgotten that I am supposed to be a Death Eater, here on the Dark Lord's orders?"

“Yes, I am well aware of this fact, Severus, but you shouldn't have to worry about Tom; the longer he goes without a body to reside in, the longer it shall take for him to return.”

“Albus, since you are pretty confident with regards to the Dark Lord, I am willing to give this idea a go, but if I find out, or discover that he breaks school rules, I have to hand out punishment. Now, is there anything else that you want to discuss, Headmaster?”

“Severus, I have this feeling that something is off with Professor Quirrell. I was wondering if you could keep a close eye on him for me?”

Of course, Headmaster, but why don't you simply dismiss him and give me the D.A.D.A job?”

“I have my reasons for not giving you that job, Severus, but a time will come when you shall have that post. Be happy and content with what you have. Now, if you shall excuse me, I have a number of urgent things that I need to attend to.” Albus situated himself at his desk and took his quill to parchment.

"Also, if you wouldn't mind, please hand this to Madam Pomfrey on your way back to your classroom." His eyes took on a bright sheen and twinkled. "You're not the only one who needs to know that a new Potter is about to be in residence." Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, took a lemon drop out of a dish on his desk, and popped it into his mouth. "In fact, I'm sure she'll see more of him than all of us."

With a final glance at the headmaster, Snape shook his head and left his employer's chambers quietly. His safe, and quiet, world would never be the same.

-->