A Different Path

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or its characters, nor do I own Twilight or its characters. I do not make any profit from these writings.
Rating: PG-13
A/N: Here is another chapter, I hope you all enjoy! Please review!!

Chapter 4: Getting to Know You-Part 1

“Don’t freak out… everything will be alright…” Harry told himself as he aparated into his home. It was times like these when he really missed his friends, especially Draco. Draco would have laughed, call Harry a drama queen and told him to suck it up. Harry could really use a speech like that right now.

Standing in his living room, he began to pace back and forth, trying to figure out what he should do. It wasn’t so much that they were vampires and he was afraid, it was more that he had built up this imagine in his head about this perfect family for him and now it was all crumbling. He was a wizard, if he was honest and didn’t deny the truth, he could admit he was a very powerful wizard. It wasn’t like he couldn’t defend himself, but was he couldn’t just allow them to bleed defenseless humans dry and kill them! He didn’t want to think of them that way, as killers, but how could he not, they were vampires! They were supposed to be his family, his haven, one his mate and now everything was turned upside down.

After wearing down the carpet with his pacing, Harry decided there was nothing more he could do until he spoke with Illyantia. She would have the answers.

“Er… Illyantia, um, can I talk to you?” Harry spoke to the room at large, waiting for her to appear or talk to him, something.

It seemed like he waited forever, but really it was only a minute or two. Then, with a familiar flash of silver light, Illyantia appeared. Dressed very similar to when he last saw her, Illyantia wore another long flowly white dress that drape down her tall willowy figure. Illyantia’s white blonde hair swayed in the non-existent breeze around her. The color of her hair painfully reminded Harry of Draco and then of everyone back home and he tried to quell the rising loneliness creeping into him.

“Hello, Harry, how are you?” Illyantia asked her voice had a softly tranquil quality to it that eased Harry’s troubled mind for a bit.

“Having a mild panic attack, and you?” Harry said facetiously.

Laughing, Illyantia walked towards him, then grabbing his hand and led him to sit on the coach. “What troubles you Harry?”

“I think I met my family and their vampires!” Harry blurted out, then pressing his lips together to keep from bothering her anymore with his troubles. He had said the most important issue, the one she could help him with anyway. “How can I become a part of a family of vampires?! They would likely kill and suck me dry more than invite me into their family!”

Illyantia gave Harry a reassuring smile and lightly cradled his hand in hers. She could feel Harry’s tumultuous emotions as the Guardian of Lost Souls. Harry’s soul had long called to her, the pain and suffering he had thrust upon him his entire life had seen to it. From such a young age he had more harm done to him, both physically and mentally, than she had seen in a long time. To have his parents taken from him in such a way, his mother in front of his eyes and then to have the same evil creature try to kill him, had left an imprint of his soul. He had been marked for a life filled with hurt and betrayal since that day.

Illyantia had felt his call, but had been unable to go to him. Even though his soul had called to her, his pain nearly over powering her senses, it hadn’t been until that moment a few days ago when his soul had cried out with complete all consuming pain that she had been able to answer. It was only when he was faced with death, yet again; from a life filled with disappointment and burdens too heavy for one so young that she had come. He had lived his life, let down by so many who had professed to love him, to care for him, or those who should have loved him and then to be struck down at young age before he had truly lived any sort of real life.

It was in that moment, that she had answered his call and began to give him back what was taken so carelessly from him; a family and a mate for him to love and be loved by. Now, as she looked at this boy, who had been through so much she knew he did not know everything she did. He wasn’t aware of the good in the Cullen family, what they could offer him that he so deserved.

If Harry were not in such a state she would have found the situation humorous, the irony of it. He thought that they were soulless vampires, killing mercilessly and leaving bodies in their wake. This assumption was not wholly unjustified, as he had never heard of vampires such as them. Most were just that, soulless killers who reveled in the pain and terror they inflicted in their victims. However, the Cullen’s as self appointed “vegetarians” were unique. There were very few who lived that life, only surviving on the blood of animals killed to sustain them. They were creatures made to live on the blood of other living beings, but they curtailed their baser instincts, keeping their lust for the blood of humans from taking over.

Illyantia knew that once Harry realized this he would be one step closer to finding peace and happiness in his life. With the help of his new family, Harry would soon be ready to face what was to come.

“Harry, do you know that there are a subspecies of vampire, though rare, that live on the blood of animals?” She asked. When Harry shook of his head no, she continued. “Yes, there are very few of them, most are exactly as you have been taught, dark creatures that delight in the hunt of humans like you. However, your new family are those rare vampires, they live on animal blood and only that. You can tell this by the color of their eyes. They have amber eyes and when they are hungry they turn to black. Those that live on the blood of humans have crimson eyes.”

Harry sat there letting his mind absorb the news. He felt an easing of the warring emotions in him, the hope of belonging to a family, of a mate to ease the loneliness inside him had made him hopeful for the first time in a long time. Then, to have it so roughly taken away from him had nearly crippled him. Illyantia’s words helped with this, they allowed the chance that maybe his new family was not lost to him. He still wasn’t sure how he felt about vampires as a whole, but from what he had seen of Edward, Jasper and Alice, maybe they were not all bad. They had been nice to him, helpful and seem to take being around humans fairly well. Maybe he had blown this out of proportion?

“I didn’t know there were vampires like that; everything I have been told and read in books didn’t mention anything like that.” Harry stated.

“I believe they are so rare that most are completely unaware they even exist.”

“Wow!” Harry said. “That is great to hear; I thought that maybe it all wasn’t real and that I wasn’t going to get a new family. It was nice having that hope, you know; of a family. I love Sirius and Remus, but they are my godfathers and I just always wanted to have a real mum and dad. I never really knew my parents and so it was great to think that maybe I would have some after so long. Then to have a mate also, someone to call my own… I want that so much…”

“Of course, every little boy wants the same thing, to be loved and cared for. To be watched over and tended to when their in need; and you still can have that. You need only accept what they have to offer you. They may not be what you expected, but they are what you need.” Illyantia promised Harry. She then gave him a sharp stare and said, “Now, is there anything else you needed help with?”

Harry was about to say no, he didn’t want to burden her with his problems, but a raised eyebrow and a knowing look quelled that response. “Um, I just miss everyone, Sirus and Remus, Draco, Neville and Luna… I just wanted to make sure they are alright. I left so suddenly and there was still a battle going on, there were more Death Eaters not far off.”

“Ah, yes, that is to be expected. I have just the thing for you!” Illyantia said excitedly.

She snapped her fingers and there in her palm appeared a small silver orb. The glowing orb reminded Harry of Illyantia’s swirling silver eyes and he wondered what it was. Then as if she read his mind, she spoke.

“This is a Zulian Orb; you can use it to view space and time. However, because you are not supposed to see you future, I have made it to seek out you friends and family in the present time. You may use it at any time and for however long you like, but you will not be able to communicate with them, nor they you. Also, it will show you specific things you need to know to help you in your journey.”

She handed the orb to Harry and he looked at it in wonder. It was a brilliant thing and he couldn’t wait to use it! “How do you use it? I’ve never seen anything like this before.”

“It will read your thoughts and show you what you need to see.” She replied. “This orb is from a race of beings like me who watch over those like yourself. We live in a plain of existence that does not usually cross your own. However, from time to time we answer the call of those in need and we use orbs like that to do so.”

“What are you?”

“Oh, you would be unable to pronounce our name in any of earth’s languages. Though for lack of the actual name, we are The Guardians.” Illyantia answered and then she stood to leave. “I will leave you now, make good use of the orb and if you need me, just call.”

With that she was gone in a flash of light and Harry then yelled, “Thank you!”

He heard quiet laughter and then, “Your welcome, little one.”

Harry sat there for some time just staring at the orb in disbelief that something so small could do so much. After a few minutes, he thought of Sirius and Remus, hoping they were alright. Then he felt a tug and found himself pulled into the orb and deposited in Grimmald Place. Shaking his head, he stood up from the spot he had fallen to and smiled. The orb was similar to a pensieve where it drew you into the the memory, or like this, a place half way across the world.

Looking around he saw that he was in the entryway of the ancient house. He walked towards the center of the house and heard voices coming from the kitchen below. In an instant he found himself in said kitchen, where Remus and Sirius were sitting with none other than Severus Snape. Harry recoiled in alarm, wondering why the greasy git was there; his godfathers and he had a notorious hatred of one another.

“Has there been any news?” asked Remus quietly as he threaded his fingers through the hair at Sirius’ nape absently. Sirius looked withdrawn and had dark circles under his eyes. Harry wished he could talk to them and let them know he was alright.

Sirius over the last few years had slowly begun to improve, after spending twelve years in Azkaban. He had gained needed weight and color had returned to his skin. Remus’ influence had done wonders for Sirius and Harry had been thankful. The two marauders had begun a relationship that had been in the waiting since they were children and both were the better for it. Now, with Harry leaving, Sirius looked close to the way he had shortly after escaping prison.

“The Dark Lord has had no substantial leads on Potter’s whereabouts. He is most displeased at this turn of events.” Snape answered, a strained look on his face, no doubt restraining himself from leaving in swish of his black robes dramatically. The displeasure of being in the company of a werewolf and a mutt, as he often called Harry’s godfathers, was apparent on his face.

Harry was amazed; they were actually being civil to each other. He had never thought that this day would come!

“We shouldn’t have just let him go… he could be anywhere! He could be dead and none of us would ever know!” Sirius stated quietly.

“Padfoot, you know as well as I do, we wouldn’t have been able to do anything even if we tried. That shield didn’t let us in or Harry out and it blocked the spell sent at it. There was nothing we could do.” Remus reassured him, holding him close and kissing his mate’s temple. “Wherever he is, he is supposed to be there. Larger forces are at work than just us, apparently.”

“I know it is just frustrating to not have any power to help him right now!” Sirius exclaimed.

It took everything in him not to scream and shout trying to tell them he was okay. He hated that they were hurting because of him.

“He will be back, rest assured Potter’s hero complex will insure he returns. He is incapable of ignoring such attention as he would have as The-Boy-Who-Defeated-The-Dark-Lord!” Snape said sharply. Strangely enough it seemed to relieve a little worry in his godfathers’ eyes.

Harry felt another pull and found himself back on the couch in his living room again. The feeling of loneliness did not leave altogether, but at least now he knew his godfathers were okay, even if a little down.

Next, he decided to see what his friends were up to at Hogwarts. Draco was probably feeling the worst from Harry’s absence. After the events last year, Draco had been basically shunned by his own house and the other houses were no better. He and Harry had been near friendless, save Neville and Luna. He hoped Draco was holding up. He knew that he would show to the outside world the famous Malfoy coldness, but inside he felt his emotions keenly.

Looking at the orb again, Harry pictured Draco in his mind and felt the tug pulling him into the orb again. He landed better this time; he was on his feet at least. Looking around his realized he had to be in the Room of Requirement. The four of them had taken to spending most of their free time in the safe haven. They were not welcome in the common rooms of their houses and when they were about the school, often there was whispered gossip and taunting remarks thrown at them. So they created a sort of fifth house, one for the outcasts in the school.

A ways away he saw Draco, Neville and Luna sitting around the roaring fireplace. Luna sat in a big comfy chair near the fire, while Draco and Neville sat together on the plump couch. All were busy with homework and a companionable silence filled the room. Harry smiled at his friends and just stared, he missed them so much. It was strange that just more than a year and a half ago, Draco had been Harry’s enemy while Neville and Luna were his friends, but not near as close as they were now. The four had bonded almost seamlessly, their different personalities strangely fit together perfectly.

Harry sat down in an empty chair opposite the fireplace from Luna and just watched them for a while. After about ten minutes Neville spoke.

“Where do you suppose Harry is?”

Draco and Luna looked up from their work at Neville.

“Maybe he is with the Marplats.” Luna said dreamily. “They are creatures that slip from one dimension to another. They are very hard to see, but they are everywhere.”

Draco and Neville, used to Luna’s strange comments, nodded without comment and Draco spoke. “Well wherever he is he’s finally getting a real family. He’s always wanted that.”

“I hope he comes back soon, I don’t like not knowing if he is safe or not.” Neville said.

“Harry will be fine, he smart, brave and besides, Illyantia was nice, she was very pretty. He will be safe with her.” Luna stated in a serene voice.

The three went back to the homework and before long Luna stood and began gathering her things. “See you boys tomorrow, Ravenclaw has a house meeting tonight. Bye Draco, Neville… Harry.”

The blonde smiled sweetly at them and then left the room; Draco, Harry and Neville staring at the closed door. The odd way she said goodbye to Draco and Neville as well as Harry, made all three cock an eyebrow in question.

“She says strange things, but sometimes I almost believe her…” Neville stated.

Draco nodded still looking at the door. The girl from the start had been oddity to him. He never could find a balance of what to take as truth and what to take as her strange imagining.

“I miss him, Draco.” Neville said quietly.

Draco put down his book and took Neville’s from him and pulled the Gryffindor towards him. Neville leaned back against Draco’s chest and signed. Draco laid his arms on top of Neville’s shoulders, resting his hands palms down against his chest while he pressed his face into the Gryffindor’s neck. They laid there quietly for a while and Harry watched on in happy shock.

Over the summer, it seemed like the two had grown closer. They had been more comfortable with every passing day. Harry had seen a possibility of the two getting together, but last he knew it hadn’t happened yet.

“I know, he’ll be back. Just like Luna said he’s smart, brave and beside the woman was pretty. You can’t fault her logic.” Draco said with a small chuckle.

Neville smiled and laid his hands on top Draco’s rubbing lightly. “Hopefully it’s soon.”

Draco started kissing Neville’s neck and rubbing his chest lovingly. It was as Neville moaned softly and angled his head away to give the Slytherin more room that Harry decided it was time to go. It was a private moment, besides Harry loved his friends, but this was a little more than he wanted to see. With one last smile he felt the tug and came back to his quiet living room.

Smiling, he couldn’t help, but be happy for his two friends. The state of the wizarding world as it was, he couldn’t fault anyone for being blessed to find someone who they could find a little to love.

Now that he was reassured his friends were okay, his mind wandered to the issue of his new family and mate. A happy fluttery feeling was starting to form in his stomach and Harry grinned. Even if they were vampires, Illyantia had said they were the non-human killing variety, which he liked. Tomorrow, he would try and repair any damage he had done to the bond he was forming with them.

o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o

Later that night, as the moon rose over the dark forest, Edward sat watching his mate sleep. After the odd behavior and hearing Harry’s broken thoughts Edward had to fight against his instinct to go to his mate and be with him.

Harry, from the little Edward had gathered, had realized they were vampires and fled. He imagined that Harry hadn’t met or heard of vampires like Edward and his family, as their kind were few and far between. Jasper had said that Harry’s emotions were mixed with a little fear, trepidation and disappointment. Alice had looked into the future and saw his mind was not made up, but there was still the possibility of him leaving. Edward had paced his bedroom and waited until night when he knew his mate would most likely be in bed and then he had come to be near his mate to reassure himself that Harry was still there.

When he found his mate’s bedroom window open he had been both happy he could come in and be closer to Harry, but also worried that his mate had left the window open when he was most vulnerable. Now, as Edward sat in a reading chair bedside the bed, he was able to look at his mate without worry of being caught. Harry was truly beautiful and Edward felt lucky to have been given such a mate. His bravery and kind heart made Edward happy to be the one to protect and love Harry.

He hoped that Harry stayed in Forks, not that Edward wouldn’t follow him to the ends of the earth, but it would be easier for the two of them to get know each other here in a controlled environment.

From the bed, Harry groaned softly and mumbled “Ginny, I’m sorry… comeback…”

Edward sat up and leaned closer to his mate. Harry was twisting in his bedding, his eyes moving swiftly behind their lids, the nightmare taking over.

“Please, I didn’t mean for you to die… comeback!” Harry pleaded. “Ron… Hermione… please don’t leave me… I’m sorry…”

The pain laced throughout Harry’s words, the words pained Edward and he wished he could take it away from his mate. He didn’t know what was happening in the dream, but he could imagine. He knew that Ginny had died and Harry felt guilt for her death. Ron and Hermione, maybe they were friends of Harry’s? Did they die too? Or maybe desert him after Ginny’s death? Edward wished he knew more, but only time would allow him to find out these things.

“I’m sorry… please, don’t blame me… I tried to save her…” Harry had tears cascading down his face now; his hand griped the sheets in a desperate attempt to get away from the nightmare gripping him. “No… please… NOOOOOO!!!”

The scream and the resulting wakening of his mate sent Edward leaping out of the window to the tree nearby to keep Harry from finding Edward in his room.

Harry sat up in bed looking around his bedroom, his tears still falling as his breath came in deep pants. He sat there for a while, his breath slowly returning to normal and Edward listened into his thoughts.

‘I’m sorry… forgive me Ginny…’

‘Stupid dreams… never rest… too many nightmares… so many dead… need to win… soon’

‘prophesy… need to… Edward…’

Finally, Harry lay back down in the bed and after a while, sleep took him again, hopefully this time without nightmares.

Edward waited until he heard even breaths and then entered the room again, walking to the bed. Wet tears cover his cheeks and Edward lightly wiped them away from the stunning pale skin beneath his fingers. Harry in sleep recognized his mate’s touch and nuzzled his faced into Edward’s hand. Smiling, Edward sat down on the edge of the bed and watched over his mate, guarding against even the dreams that plagued the young wizard.

o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o

The next morning Harry woke up feeling brilliant. He wasn’t sure why, but he felt inexplicably… loved! Harry laughed at himself and waved the feeling off, whatever it was he felt good.

After a quick shower and change, Harry poured himself a bowl of cereal. Sitting quietly in his kitchen, he tried to decide how best to develop his relationship with the Cullen’s. He knew he may have damaged the newly formed bond between them and was eager to fix it again. Edward was the best place to start, as he was Harry’s mate. He could feel a giddy sort of feeling overtake him and large grin formed on his face. His mate. That sounded perfect, blissful. Someone just for him…

With the grin still on his face, he grabbed his book bag and aparated to the same spot he had the day before. With a look to make sure everything was clear, Harry left the secluded tree line and walked towards the school. He saw that most of the school’s population seemed to hang around the parking lot until class began. He was treated to the same staring he had the day before, some waving and saying hello.

“Hi, Harry” greeted Angela from the day before. Harry waved to her with a nod and kept walking. The girl had been one of the nicer people he had met yesterday. She hadn’t been overtly catty or intrusive about Harry’s life.

He was about twenty feet front the school’s entrance when, Harry saw the Cullen’s silver Volvo pull into a parking space near him. The five siblings exited the vehicle as Harry tried to think of how to best start a conversation with them. Of course, this was not needed, as Alice as soon as she exited the car slipped over to Harry and linked their arms together.

“Hi, Harry. How are you this morning?” She said excitedly as they waited for her other siblings to come.

“Um, fine.” Harry replied, ever the conversationalist.

Edward, Jasper, Rosalie and Emmett made their way over to the other two and Edward spoke. “Harry, these are my other brother and sister, Emmett and Rosalie.”

Emmett gave a large grin to Harry and took Harry’s hand in his massive one, shaking it enthusiastically. “How ya’ doing Harry?”

“Hello.” Harry greeted and then turned to Rosalie. The blonde gave a sniff with her nose up in the air disdainfully, but gave a begrudging slight nod of her head in greeting. “Nice to meet you both.”

Edward, who happened to take the spot on Harry other side, spoke again. “My father and mother would like to know if you would like to come over after school, they would love to meet you.”

Due to the way he had brushed off the invitation yesterday, Harry was surprised by the second invitation to meet Edward’s family. He was happy nonetheless.

“I’d love to.” Harry answered.

Edward gave Harry a heart stopping smile just as the school bell rang. The six slowly made their way into the school and began to separate, each heading towards their first period class. Edward, still smiling, said, “I will see you at lunch, Harry.”

Nodding, Harry smiled and blushed unconsciously at the welcome attention from his mate. Edward walked away down the hallway as Alice, still having her arm linked through Harry’s spoke. “I can’t wait for you to come over; neither can Esme, my mother. She heard Edward and I talking about you and insisted you come over today so she could meet you. I would prepare for some serious mothering, Esme loves to heap attention on people and she is going to love you!”

With that, the pixie-like vampire, waved and skipped off to her class, whistling as she did so. Harry chuckled in amusement; Alice was very much like Luna. Head in the clouds, bubbly personality, childlike innocence, Harry could already tell that he and Alice would get along famously.

The day went by quickly, Harry eagerly counting the minutes until he saw Edward and the rest of the Cullen’s again. He had already begun getting to know Edward and Alice, but was also impatient to learn more about the rest of the family.

Emmett had seemed like a fairly easy going guy, the large grin and enthusiastic welcome from the gigantic vampire had made Harry feel comfortable immediately. Jasper had been reserved both times Harry had been around him and he wondered what hid behind that stoic expression. Rosalie on the other hand, had been civil, but nothing more. Harry had likened her to Draco. She seemed a bit of a pampered princess, stuck in her own world really and Harry was anxious to see if that was a projected demeanor or if there was more beneath the surface.

The elder Cullen’s, that Harry had yet to meet, were a mystery. Alice had said that Esme was a motherly sort, giving in her attention and love. Harry was not too embarrassed to say that that appealed to the little orphan boy inside of him. Dr. Cullen on the other hand, Harry knew nothing about, save that he was a doctor.

A family sounded nice; Harry hoped that they all liked him.

o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0o

When lunch time finally arrived, Harry was filled with barely contained energy. He could only think of one thing.

Edward.

If he didn’t know the vampire was his mate, Harry might have been worried. The gorgeous vampire had plagued Harry thoughts since early morning. The young wizard walked into the cafeteria a little more confidently than the day before and quickly filled a tray with food. Turning around he heard Mike Newton say, “Hey Harry, over here.”

Harry reluctant to go; he wanted to sit with the Cullen’s, but was hesitant to just plop down at their table uninvited.

“Harry, why don’t you sit with us today?” asked a familiar melodic voice from behind Harry.

Turning around, Harry smiled up at Edward and said, “I’d love to.”

The two made their way over to the Cullen’s table and Harry sent an apologetic look to Mike and his friends. Sitting down, he felt Edward sit right beside him, their bodies pressed together from shoulder to knee. Harry gave an involuntary shiver and his face blushed crimson again. Edward mouth turned up in a crooked smile at the shover, though Harry missed it as he was looking elsewhere.

From his view point, Harry could see most of the students looking at them and frowned. “Why are they staring at us?”

“Because we tend to keep to ourselves and they are wondering why you are sitting with us.” Said Edward beside him.

“Oh.”

Harry began eating his salad with determination. Since he had matured a bit, he had found he needed to care from his body better than he had done so in the past. Years of malnourishment had taken its toll on Harry’s body. He was far shorter than most boys his age and even though he had gained muscle and definition of the last few years, he still was thin and underdeveloped in areas.

So now, instead of eating small quantities of unhealthy foods, he ate normal sized meals with healthy variety. This at times made Harry annoyed, as vegetables were never his favorite, but he persisted.

“Why do you guys bother with lunches?” Harry asked deciding honesty was better in the long run. He had noticed that the vampires had lunches, but never ate them. They sat mostly untouched and were thrown away before going onto the next class.

The five other occupants at the table turned to him and stared. Harry smiled coyly and said, “Well you’re vampires after all, so you don’t need that kind of food and it’s kind of obvious you don’t eat them anyways.”

“How do you know were vampires?” Emmett asked cautiously.

“Well, I have met one before and I have also read about vampires in school.” Harry replied, taking a bite of his food.

“You’ve met other vampires?” This was spoken by Jasper, the first time Harry had heard him speak.

“Yes, last year. A vampire by the name Sanguini.” Harry answered. “To be honest he gave me the creeps and wasn’t like you all, he fed on humans.”

They stared at Harry wondering how he knew so much about them, well except for Alice. She seemed to have a knowing smile on her face.

“How did you know that?” Edward asked.

“My friend, Illyantia told me. I realized yesterday what you all were and was a little on edge.” Harry said and then from their uncomfortable expressions, he continued on. “But, she set me straight. Told me about how there were vampires that lived on animal blood and you could tell by the eyes. Amber means that you live on animal blood, crimson on human blood.”

“Who is Illyantia?” asked Edward.

“She is… I’m not sure exactly what she is really, but she said she was The Guardian of Lost Souls. Her people live in another plain of existence and kind of watch over us from afar.”

Everyone had baffled looks on their faces and Harry laughed. “I know, completely barmy, but it’s true. She saved me during the battle and brought me here.”

“Battle?” Jasper perked up at the word in interest.

“Yeah, I guess I should tell you a little about myself, huh?”

They nodded their heads in agreement and Harry spoke. “Well, I am a wizard, I can perform magic… not pulling a bunny of out a hat kind of magic, but spells, potions, curses, that sort.”

“Really? Awesome!” exclaimed Emmett.

Harry grinned and opened his mouth to speak again when the bell rang. Reluctantly, they began gathering their things and headed towards their next class. They said goodbye and Harry and Edward walked to the Biology class.

“I guess its good the bell rang, I wouldn’t want to have to tell the whole story again once I meet your parents.” Harry stated as they entered the class.

“Probably.” Agreed Edward as he took his seat.

The class went by quickly, Harry and Edward having little chance to talk as the teacher commanded their attention most of the class. They sat beside each other and each often found the other staring at them. Harry would blush, while Edward would grin unashamedly. Before long, they were heading to the gym for their last class.

In gym, Harry found that some of the kids didn’t like Harry paying so much attention to the Cullen’s or vice versa. Jessica was frowning in annoyance; the fact that the two guys she liked and that paid absolutely no attention to her were friends was not sitting well with her. Mike Newton seemed to be annoyed that his popularity was in question and tried to use the physical sports as a way to show his masculine appeal.

Harry found it all hilarious. He was never one to strive for popularity or attention in the first place, he was glad he had chosen the right friends.

Finally, the class ended and Harry left the gym, anxious to go and meet Dr. and Mrs. Cullen.

“Ready Harry?” Edward asked as he walked up beside Harry and began to lead him towards the parking lot. Edward had placed his hand on the small of Harry’s back and Harry smiled at the sensation that travelled up his spine.

“Yeah.”

They walked out to the car and he saw that no one else was near it. “Where is everyone else?”

“They already left. They will be meeting us at home.”

Nodding, Harry walked to the passenger side and found Edward there opening the door for him. “Thanks.”

Edward walked around the car and got in. The car maneuvered out of the space and was soon on the freeway heading towards the outskirts of the small town.

Harry, on impulse, grabbed Edward’s hand that was on the middle divider, threading his fingers through Edward’s. Edward turned, smiling at Harry, and placed their intertwined hand on Edward’s thigh. He laid Harry’s hand palm down on the thigh and caressed Harry’s hand absently. Their bond as mates was growing, a natural affection and pull, was forming quickly in the two people.

They sat in a comfortable silence during the ride to the Cullen home. Harry loved the beauty of the forest that surrounded Forks. The tall evergreens, that seemed to sprout up everywhere, gave a stunning timeless quality to the surrounding area. Before long, Edward turned onto a long gravel road. It went on for about a half of a mile and then the surround forest seemed to give way to a clearing that housed the most beautiful house Harry had ever seen. The old mansion looked like a small castle, with many different stories. The stone structure reminded him of Hogwarts in its beauty and Harry felt instantly at home.

The house was surrounded by a wild garden and the forest beyond. Flowers and trees abounded and Harry smiled.

“Edward, it’s so beautiful!” Harry breathed in awe.

Edward laughed; glad to see his mate happy. Parking his car in front of the house, he quickly exited the car, he rounded it and pulled open Harry’s door for him.

“You know, you don’t have to open the door for me. I am a guy.” Harry said slightly annoyed. It was nice to have someone that cared enough to take care of him like that, but he was able to open and close his own doors, thank you very much.

“Sorry.” Edward said. The urge to take care of his mate was hard to ignore, even in the smallest of things.

Harry stepped out of the Volvo and saw that the Cullen family had come out to meet him at the car.

A tall blonde man that looked like he was in his late twenties stepped forward and held out his hand. “Hello, Harry. I am Carlisle Cullen; it is a pleasure to meet you.”

Shaking his hand Harry said, “Hello, nice to meet you, Dr. Cullen.”

“Please, call me Carlisle.” He replied with a smile, turning he gestured behind him. “This is my wife, Esme Cullen.”

A beautiful woman in her early twenties stepped away from the rest of the group and enveloped Harry in a hug. “Hello, dear. I am so glad to meet you!”

The woman had long caramel color hair, pale skin and amber eyes that were so warm and welcoming. Her smile was so comforting and loving, that Harry felt instantly at ease. Harry briefly closed his eyes as she hugged him, enjoying the rare hug. Harry had always been a little awkward with physical affection. Years of nothing, but slaps, punches and shoves from the Dursley’s had taken the simple pleasure of a hug away from him. He felt peaceful and serene in the hug and was loath to end it. Finally he stepped back and said, “Thank you. I am happy to meet you to, Mrs. Cullen.”

“Oh, call me Esme, please.”

“Thank you, Esme.” Harry said.

“I believe you know the rest of my family; Emmett Cullen and Rosalie Hale, Jasper Hale and Alice Cullen, and of course, Edward.” Carlisle said.

Harry smiled at the younger Cullen’s in greeting.

“Why don’t we all go inside and get comfortable.” Carlisle said and lead the way into the house.

As soon as they entered, Esme asked, “Are you hungry, Harry?”

“Oh, no that’s alright, I don’t want you to go to any trouble.” Harry answered.

“It’s not any trouble, I love to cook. I will just go and fix something real quick. Is there anything you want specifically?” She asked.

“No, I will pretty much eat anything you put in front of me.” Harry said with a smile.

“Okay, well have a seat and I will be right out.”

She hurried off to kitchen, humming as she went. Esme had the same motherly concern stitched into her being as Mrs. Weasley had. Harry smiled sadly at the loss of the affection she had showered on Harry. Though the end of his relationship with the Weasley’s had been hell, they had always been kind to him up until the end. Then, it seemed as if they had grown all new personalities overnight and the replacements were none to kind to Harry.

The sadness coming off of Harry did not go unnoticed by the Cullen’s and they all frowned.

“Why don’t we go into the living room?” Carlisle encouraged and headed into the living room, gesturing for Harry to take a seat on the couch.

Harry sat down and Edward did so beside him, laying an arm along the couch just above Harry’s shoulders.

“How have you found Forks so far, Harry?” Carlisle asked after everyone had sat.

“It’s nice. It reminds me of home; the rainy weather and the forest around.”

Esme came into the living room and placed a plate filled with food and a glass of ice tea on the coffee table in front of him. The plate had several sandwiches and fruit and cheese. There was way more than he could possibly eat in one sitting.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, it’s not much, but I will go out tomorrow and stock up on more food for when you are here!” Esme said kindly and sat down beside her husband.

“You really don’t need to do that. It would be a waste as most of it wouldn’t be eaten.” Harry tried to persuade her.

“It is no trouble, I like to be a good hostess and food is a big part of that. Now that we will have someone visiting that does eat I will keep the kitchen stocked.” Esme said in a soft, but matter of fact voice.

Harry smiled and began eating, as he did so he realized he was hungrier than he had thought.

“So what brings you to Forks?” Carlisle asked.

Harry, in the middle of chewing a bite of his sandwich, started at the question and choked for a second. Harry coughed and took a sip to ease the food down. He wasn’t sure how to answer the question. The only reason he was there in Forks was for them… how do you explain that?

“Um, well, it’s a little complicated.” Harry replied.

“I didn’t mean to pry, if you don’t want to answer that is fine.” Carlisle stated.

“No, it’s not that I don’t want to tell you, completely the opposite, I am just not sure how to go about it?” Harry knew the story of his life was the only way to fully explained everything about why he was there.

“I have always found starting at the beginning helps.” Carlisle said.

“Okay.” Harry said as he sat back and got comfortable. “I will just give you the shortened version, because we would be here for days otherwise, even still it will take a few hours…”

The Cullen’s smiled and waited for Harry to begin.

“I was born to James and Lily Potter and for the first year and a half of my life everything was perfect. Well nearly. There was a truly evil dark wizard during that time who felt that only those pure of blood should be able to wield magic. By that, he meant wizards and witches that were born to parents that came from magical families. He felt that half-blood’s, like myself, muggleborn’s(those that were born to completely non-magical families) and magical creatures, shouldn’t be allowed to use magic. He had followers, called Death Eaters, that were fanatical and were intent on riding the world of those they felt were inferior then them. They killed and terrorized all across the U.K. and they were gaining in force.”

“However, about a year after I was born a Seer made a prophesy about the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, and someone who would have the power to defeat him.”

Harry closed his eyes and recited the version of the prophesy he was told in the beginning.

“The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches ... Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies ... And the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not ... And either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives ... The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies.”

The Cullen family sat astonished at what Harry was telling them.

“So you were the one to defeat him?” asked Jasper.

“Well, actually it could have been me or my friend Neville. We both fit the prophesy, but for whatever reason, Voldemort chose me. At the time, my parents were in hiding, trying to keep me safe from him. But, they were betrayed by a friend and on October 31st, 1981 he came to kill me. My father stayed behind to keep Voldemort busy and told my mum to run and get me to safety. Voldemort quickly killed my father and went after us next. He told my mum that if she just left me, she could live, but she wouldn’t do it. She put herself in front of me and he killed her. But, what he didn’t know is that when she gave her life for mine, because she loved me so much, she unknowingly cast a powerful blood magic protection spell on me. So when he cast the Avada Kevadra, the killing curse, on me the curse backfired and ripped his soul from his body, killing the body and his soul drifted away. The curse, though stopped, left a scar, marking me as the one to defeat him.”

Harry lifted his bangs and showed them his lightning bolt shaped scar on his forehead and continued.

“The blood magic from my mum protected me, as long as I a blood relative gave me a home. Dumbledore, a powerful light wizard had me rescued from my parents destroyed home and had me sent to my only living relatives. The Dursleys. My mum’s sister, Petunia Dursley hated magic as my mother was the only one in the family who could do it. She and her husband and their son spent the next ten years making sure I knew how much they hated freaks like me who could do magic.”

Harry heard growling and looked up and found all of the Cullen’s on edge, even Rosalie. They could hear how much they had mistreated him. Edward had wrapped his arm around Harry, rubbing his lower back, trying to comfort Harry. Esme had her hand covering her mouth in horror; the thought of anyone treating a child in such a way was unthinkable to her.

“They lied to me and told me my father had been drunk and crashed our family car, killing my mum and dad and giving me the scar on my forehead. I was never told the truth or that I was a wizard. They made me live in a small cupboard under the stairs, hardly feeding me and treating me like a parasite on their good nature. I was made to clean, cook and garden from the age of five on, I was never addressed as anything other than Boy or Freak. But, then shortly before I turned eleven, a letter came. It was addressed to ‘Mr. H. Potter, The Cupboard Under the Stairs, 4 Privet Drive, Little Whinging, Surrey.’ It was an acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardy. The Dursleys of course, didn’t want anything to do with it, so my uncle ignored the letter. However, each day more came and with it more owls. You see in the wizarding world, we send post by owls. So every day more and more would come, he was so mad he even nailed the mail slot closed to keep the mail out.”

Harry laughed as he remembered how angry his uncle got and the letters still came.

“Finally, he packed us all up and had us go to a deserted island off of the coast to hide away from the letters. It was the night of my eleventh birthday and as usual they ignored it. I was up late as I always waited until 12:01 to wish happy birthday to myself. But, as the clock struck midnight a great big boom hit the door to the cabin we were in. Everyone woke up and came running in. Then the door flew open, falling to the ground and their stood this tall half-giant by the name of Ruebeus Hadgrid. He was over ten feet tall and had a great big booming voice, but was the first friend I ever made. In both the wizarding world and the muggle. He was kind and gentle, and he took me away from the Dursleys and introduced me to the wizarding world.”

Harry smiled, remembering that first day with Hadgrid.

“Was he really that big? I’ve never heard of giants before.” Asked Emmett. The awe in his voice made Harry laugh.

“Yes, his mother was a full blooded giant, his father a wizard.” Harry answered. “So he took me to Diagon Alley, it was basically a shopping outlet for magical people, but it had been around for hundreds of years. It was guarded by magic, so the muggle world doesn’t know it’s there. He showed me all around and bought me my first gift, a snowy white owl named Hedwig. He took me to the wizarding bank where the goblins showed me the inheritance I received from my parents. While I was there I met a boy who was everything I never wanted to be; a spoiled rich prat who thought he was better than everyone else because he was a pureblood. His name was Draco Malfoy and his father, Lucius Malfoy was a Death Eater, one of Voldemort’s most trusted followers. Draco was offered me friendship, making it seem as if he was offering me the world, he was a pureblood after all and I was a nobody. I chose to not take his friendship and in doing so created a feud that lasted six and a half years. When, the day was over Hagrid had to take me back to the Dursley’s, but promised he would be back to take me to the train to Hogwarts on the day school started. After that day, I couldn’t wait to leave; it was another month until he took me to Kings Cross Station in London. I met a wizarding family by the name of Weasley and they showed me how to get to the Platform 9 and ¾. It was a magically guarded place again, so I had to be told how to get to it. They were nice and I made friends with their youngest son, Ron Weasley who was just starting at Hogwarts too. Later I met Hermione Granger, the two of them would end up being my best friends the first five years of my time in the wizarding world.”

“While the train took us to Hogwarts which was in Scotland, Ron told me about the Wizarding world. It seemed I was somewhat of a celebrity as the only person ever to survive the killing curse. I was dubbed, The-Boy-Who-Lived or the savior of the wizarding world some said. Ron was star struck by me, Harry Potter, the one who killed the greatest dark lord there had ever been. I hated the attention; it made me uncomfortable how much everyone seemed to look up to me. That was how most of my first year went; I was made a celebrity because of something I really had no control over. Through the year, strange things were happening Unicorns were being killed-”

“Unicorns? No way!” Emmett exclaimed, everyone laughed and Harry spoke again.

“Yes, there are a lot of magical creatures; like unicorns, dragon, centaurs, merpeople, vampires like your selves. The magical community keeps everything hidden because of fear of what muggles would do if they found out about us all.”

“That is all truly amazing… I never imagined in all my years knew such a world existed beyond mine!” Said Carlisle, the rest nodding in agreement.

“I felt just like all of you when I first found out.” Harry agreed. “Anyways, during my first year something was killing the Unicorns in the Forbidden Forest near the school and drinking their blood. It is a crime against nature to do so, as they are a pure and innocent creature. Their blood will keep you from death as long as you drink it, but that life will be a half-life, a cursed life. As it turned out, it was the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Quirell. He was also after the Philosopher’s Stone, it is a stone that makes the Elixir of Life, granting immortality to those who drink it. Near the end of the year, Ron, Hermione and I realized what was happening and tried to stop him from getting the stone. At the end, it was just me against Quirell. What I didn’t know was that Voldemort’s soul had possessed the professor and he was trying to come back. We fought and during it I touched the professor, and in doing so, Voldemort as well. The protection my mum gave me was pure love and Voldemort, a truly evil being, couldn’t bear my touch. It burned him alive, reducing him to ash, but again, his soul was released from the body, floating away to bother me again sometime soon.”

“Wow, you have a truly remarkable life…” Carlisle said softly.

“And that was only my first year!” Harry said with a laugh.


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A/N: I hope to have the second part to this chapter up soon… I have a writing bug that seems to have infected me and I can’t stop writing. Good for you guys, I guess!!