Summary: Hadrian James Potter is saved from the Dursley's and learns that he is a druid. Hadrian learns what it means to be a druid and how powerful they can be. Learning from the only portrait of his ancestor's in his family home, they make him promise to make friends with as many people as he can. That is the beginning of the course that will turn the magical world on its head.

This will be AU though the major milestones will, for the most part, be there.

Minor Spoilers: I don't like Ron so he won't be part of the group and he will be a prat (minor bashing) but I will try to make it as realistic as possible, so it won't happen right away. Also, not a fan of Molly though she won't be a complete bitch, but she will be annoying. I do love Dumbledore's personality in the books, but I wanted to make a strong Harry and for that he needs strong enemies, otherwise the story is boring. Sorry, Dumbles is not going to be a good guy.

I love the Lovegoods so they will get a lot more screen time although they won't be as crazy as the books make them out to be, though they are still eccentric because it's part of their charm. I also love Dobby, so I hope you enjoy what happens in that regard though Dobby isn't going to be quite as obsessed as others have made him.

Also, because I want certain friendships, ages will be a little skewed in this so don't hold to the canon age except for Hadrian's class.

Ships: There will be ships but not until 4th year, though feelings will develop before that, so hang in there. I am a big fan of unique ships though they will still be plausible (I hate yaoi ships though, sorry). I will tell you it won't be Hermione (I love her, but she is used too often) or Ginny (I don't like her for a relationship with Hadrian because she is just a fan girl).

Author's Notes: Because I hate reading about general knowledge that is known to anyone who has read even just the Sorcerer's Stone, I am going to try my best to work around it and get Hadrian spun up on general knowledge so we can progress to the story instead of focusing on filler and background information.

Also, I like Hadrian more than Harry, so it's going to be Hadrian.

Disclaimer: The rating is M because there will be some language, violence, sexual innuendo/theme (no lemon/lime) and because I don't want to have to curb anything I might think to write. That said, I do not own Harry Potter in any way, contrary to how awesome that would be.

A Druid in the Making
Chapter 1: Saved by a Twinkle

June 1988

Hadrian James Potter was lying in his "room" in the cupboard under the stairs, lamenting over his short 8 years of life. A year ago, he came to the conclusion that he could use magic and it had taken an entire year before he was finally able to find that magic within himself and use it again. Only this time, he was caught by his uncle while levitating items in what he thought was an empty house and his uncle had been furious. Normally, when he upset his uncle, he would get a quick hit or his uncle would leave him with a simple cut to serve as a reminder to obey. This time though was different and his uncle didn't just hit him, but beat him mercilessly with fist and foot until he felt pain throughout his entire body.

Hadrian knew that it was risky to try using magic, but he thought he was alone and safe. Even so, he hadn't expected quite the reaction he got, nor did he expect to be on the brink of death. Staring up at the stairs that made up the ceiling of his cupboard, he began wishing for one last time to see the stars, the beautiful balls of light that always looked so free. Hadrian could feel his consciousness slipping away.

"What I wouldn't give to see just one more little twinkle before I go." Hadrian heard a small pop followed by a gasp before the blackness took him.

-A DRUID IN THE MAKING-

Hadrian woke up in what he could only imagine a cloud would feel like. That was when he started thinking about where he was and what he last remembered. He didn't seem to be in any pain, though he felt stiff, and the light was very bright in his eyes when he opened them. Hadrian looked around at the unfamiliar room and gaped at how large the room and especially the bed were. The bed was almost as big as Dudley's second bedroom that had all of his toys.

That was when the door opened and the strangest creature came in wearing a dress. The creature looked extremely short, with a small body, large head, and bigger eyes with pointy ears. Hadrian didn't get a chance to notice anything else before the creature looked at him with a squeak and running at him.

"Master Hadrian is finally awake. Thank goodness you is bein' alright Master Hadrian. Twinkle and the others be worrying very much over the poor Master. But now that Master Hadrian has called for Twinkle, Master can be taken care of."

Though the creature was smiling widely and Hadrian did not feel threatened, it was all a bit overwhelming and it took a moment before words came out.

"Um, let's say that I don't know who or what you are or how I got here and go from there."

"Of course Master Hadrian. I is being Twinkle and you is here because you called for Twinkle and Twinkle saw how hurt Master Hadrian was. So Twinkle is being a good house elf and brought Master Hadrian back home to be healed."

"Right, but where is here? Where is home for you?"

The creature, Twinkle, looked at him a little confused before starting again, "This is being home. Potter Retreat is being the Potter home for centuries. It be your home now too Master Hadrian."

"This place belongs to the Potter's? My family? And why do you keep calling me Master?"

"I is calling you Master because that is what you is being. You is Master Hadrian." The small creature told him confusedly before continuing, "And this home has been belonging to the Potter's since before the founding of Hogwarts."

"I still don't understand what is going on here. How did you get me here and what are you exactly?"

"Twinkle is being a good house elf. Twinkle take you on a tour of the house then take you to the study for lunch. Master Ambrose and Mistress Acacia speak to Master Hadrian there and answer all his questions."

Hadrian could only nod his head dumbly at everything that he was hearing. This home belonged to his family.

Twinkle led him out of the bedroom into what looked like a large study where she told him they would be returning when they were done with the tour.

Twinkle showed him a huge house with 7 large bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, not including the master suite that he had come from. Twinkle also took him through a large kitchen, dinning room, sitting room and a massive basement that had a library which Twinkle informed him contained over 2000 books. Twinkle also showed him a dueling room and potions room, whatever those were, before returning to the study and telling him that she would bring him lunch.

There was a large desk in the middle of the room with a large fireplace behind the desk. To the left of the desk was a long workbench that Twinkle told him was the Master's private potions workbench. Off to the right were the double doors that led to the master bedroom with what looked like a liquor cabinet just to the left of the doors. Above the liquor cabinet was a large painting of a middle-aged man and woman.

Hadrian sat down heavily in the chair looking around at the room, "I really need to wake up before I start getting my hopes up about this all being real."

That was when the feminine voice spoke, "Don't worry dear, this isn't a dream. Though you can always go back to sleep if that is what you wish"

Hadrian whirled around searching for the voice but found no one in the room with him. That was when he saw the painting move and the man inside it pinch his nose while shaking his head. Hadrian couldn't understand what he was muttering before the woman spoke up again.

"I suppose that you are a tad surprised to find an ancestral painting in your family home, are you dear?"

Hadrian just stared at the painting in shock when the man spoke up this time.

"Either the boy is a mute or he hasn't been told anything about the magical world. Which do you think it is Acacia? Personally, I'm leaning towards him being mute."

The woman, Acacia, then glared at him a moment before responding.

"And you suppose that you would have looked much better if at 8 years old, you were suddenly thrust into the magical world for the first time only to be confronted by a talking painting. You think you would do more than gape, the same as the boy?"

After sighing a moment, the man turned back to Hadrian before saying, "Greetings my boy. I am Ambrose Potter and you have already met my dear wife, Acacia Potter nee Ambrosius. We are your ancestors from centuries ago. It was actually Acacia and I who picked out this spot of land and cultivated it for our family. Now, I understand that you have come from the non-magical world, so why don't you pull up a seat. We have a great many things for us to discuss."

Just then, Twinkle brought him some food before leaving. Then the discussion began.

It turns out that it was early morning and Twinkle had brought him to Potter Retreat 3 nights ago to be healed. Ambrose and Acacia explained that the magical world was hidden from the muggle, or non-magical, world. The magical world was filled with witches, wizards, werewolves, vampires, goblins, dragon, unicorns, and all kinds of other magical races and creatures. Witches and wizards used wands to cast spells to do just about anything anyone could think of. When a witch or wizard turns 11, they go to Hogwart's School of Witchcraft of Wizardry where they spend 7 years learning all about magic before finding a job and making their way in the magical community.

He also learned that Twinkle was a house elf. Apparently, house elves are a race of beings that live to serve. No one knows how they came about, and no one really cares enough to find out. Hadrian learned that house elves have magic and use it to serve the family they are bonded to. It is that bond that keeps them alive, without which they will wither and die.

Hadrian took lunch and dinner in the study, spending the entire day talking to Ambrose and Acacia learning everything about the magical world and some about his family.

By the time he laid down in his new bed in the master suite, Hadrian contemplated all the many things he learned from Ambrose and Acacia. Acacia Potter nee Ambrosius was apparently the daughter of THE Merlin Ambrosius, reputedly the most powerful wizard of all time. Turns out that Merlin, Ambrose and Acacia were actually all druids, not just wizards. While druids are magical, the same as wizards, druids use their magic differently, especially in the sense that they use nature magic and don't require a wand like most wizards do.

Hadrian was overwhelmed with everything he had learned about magicals and muggles and especially the different branches of magic. Because of how many terms they were using, Hadrian was really hoping to find a book he could read to help him learn about the magical world but he was told that magicals don't really care about writing books that would only help muggleborns, so would likely not find anything like what he wants. So, Hadrian decided that if no one wanted to help them, then he would and he would write the book himself. It shouldn't be difficult if he was going to be learning all the information anyway to just compile it all into a book.

Hopping out of bed, Hadrian got some parchment and a quill (because apparently they never heard of pens) and began taking notes of some of the things that he learned and writing down a lot of words they used that he didn't understand. It would take a long time, but he would write a book that anyone entering the magical world will be able to read his book and understand everything they need to know to talk about it without feeling as stupid as he did when Ambrose and Acacia were talking to him.

2 hours later, he got back in bed and immediately fell asleep.

-A DRUID IN THE MAKING-

Hadrian woke up in what felt like the most comfortable bed in the world. That was when his eyes shot open and he sat up to look around. It took a moment, but Hadrian could remember everything that had happened yesterday and everything he was told from the painting of his ancestors, Ambrose and Acacia.

Hadrian is a wizard, though Acacia suspects he might be a druid given that he was able to find his source of magic at such a young age and control it, which is unheard of for most wizards. Hadrian got out of bed and made his way to the study to speak with his ancestors again when he walked in and heard a feminine voice speak out.

"Good morning Hadrian. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes, I did. Thank you. Did you? Erm, I mean, well… do paintings sleep?"

Acacia giggled a little while Ambrose just stared at him, before Acacia responded, "Paintings can sleep, though we don't need to. Our sleep is more of a form of stasis so that we don't get too bored waiting around in an empty room. So we "sleep" until we are needed. Otherwise it would be an extremely dull existence living in this house for the past 20 odd years without any company except the elves. Luckily, time flows differently for us, so while you may have had a full nights sleep, it hasn't felt little longer than an hour to us. It's best not to dwell on that just yet dear, until you understand magic a little better. You will just give yourself a headache.

"Now, why don't you call for Tipsy and she can bring you food while we talk some more and we can go over what it is we can teach you."

"Tipsy? Don't you mean Twinkle?"

"No dear. Twinkle was the one to bring you here but Tipsy is the best cook out of the elves and tends to do all the cooking while Twinkle cleans inside and Dap will take care of the grounds."

"Oh. I didn't know there were more house elves than just Twinkle here. How many house elves do families usually have?"

"Families usually only ever have just one house elf because they are so productive that families rarely need more, but some families have more because of their status or because it is faster to clean their property. We have 4 house elves. Twinkle and Tipsy stay here to clean the Retreat. Your grandfather from some hundred years ago didn't want to have one house elf here to clean by itself, so bought a second so they could be friends. Something that was practically unheard of to do, even to this day. Dap was the personal elf to your grandparents and Dobby was the personal house elf to your father. Dap came here when your grandparents died, but I have no idea what happened to Dobby. The other elves have been unable to find him though they can still sense his bond to the family, so he must be hidden for some reason."

"Wow. Ok... So, what did you ask me to do again?"

This time it was a slightly exasperated Ambrose that spoke up. "She said to summon Tipsy so that she can bring you food while we start talking to you about your training. Now hop to, we still have much to discuss."

Once Hadrian greeted the house elf, she brought him a delicious spread of food that Hadrian was happy to dig into while listening to Ambrose and Acacia, though Ambrose did most of the talking now.

"Alright Hadrian. I'm sorry for the treatment you received while with your aunt and uncle. But that's over and done with now, so you need to let it go and move past it. Remember it, because everything that happens to you shapes who you are, but don't let it control you. Acacia and I have had nothing to do for over 20 years, so we are going to make sure that you know everything you need to in order to survive and if you put in the effort, excel in the wizarding world."

"Yes sir. I love learning! I love learning about all kinds of things and I have never been more excited than I am now to learn about magic. I will work extra hard if you are willing to teach me all about magic." This elicited a small chuckle from Ambrose.

"You sound just like Acacia. She had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and she liked to spend much of her time either communing with animals or writing books on this topic or another."

"What is communing sir?"

Smiling at his eagerness, Ambrose answered, "First off, we are family, but I don't want you calling me great great whatever. So, you will address me as Ambrose."

"And you will address me, as Acacia. Ok?"

"Yes ma'am. Uh … I mean, Acacia. I think that will take some getting used to."

"That's alright dear. Now, communing is when a druid lets their magic flow not only through them, but also through whatever animal or creature they choose. It is the method druids use to help gain an understanding and a kinship with creatures. It is also called attuning and is something I was particularly gifted with, while Ambrose over here was much better with nature and ley line magic."

"That sounds really cool. I love animals! They are so much better company than people are. But what are ley lines?" This time Ambrose answered his question.

"Ley lines are the natural veins of magic that flow throughout the world. Did you know that there are rivers of water that flow throughout the world underneath the ground?"

"Yes. I really enjoyed reading and would spend a lot of time at the library reading and talking to the librarian there about lots of different things. She told me that there are rivers underground that are just like rivers we see every day. It is through those underground rivers that places like deserts survive. But what does that have to do with ley lines?"

"Ley lines are a lot like those underground rivers, but instead of water, it is rivers of magic. Those rivers of magic differ in size. Most are considered minor ley lines but there are also a lot of major ley lines. The larger the river, the more magic at your disposal. You see, druids were considered to be so powerful because of their natural abilities to use ley lines.

"Part of those ley lines are what we call convergences. Convergences are when multiple ley lines meet in one location. There are a multitude of such occurrences between 2 minor ley lines, a minor and major ley line and only a few where 2 major ley lines meet. Magicals are frequently drawn to these sites though most don't know why and only feel that they are in a good place. Druids understand that it is a person's magic calling them to a convergence because of the nature of ley line magic, which is to say natural magic. Magic calls to magic, which is why you will always find that convergences usually have more creatures or even larger cities there.

"Many family manors are built upon these minor/major convergences, that is to say a convergence with a minor and a major ley line, to take advantage of that power, and some of the oldest families in Britain have manors on major/major convergences. Potter Retreat, for example, is built upon a major/major convergence though there is a minor/major convergence nearby on the property several miles away. That is the reason we chose this location. It has many different terrains, and because of the convergences, has more power and creatures available than just about anywhere in Britain. It is for this reason that Potter Retreat is not treated as a home. It is treated as a location for training and short vacations, thus the name 'Retreat'.

"We do not want to make this location a target. That is why your grandparents and parents lived elsewhere. Do you understand everything I have said thus far?"

"I think so. There are rivers of magic flowing everywhere underground. Some big, some small. But there are pools all throughout the world which druids call convergences. Magicals are frequently drawn to these pools and some are big like Potter Retreat, but some are smaller. Most magicals can't feel it but druids can. Is that about it?"

"That's exactly right. There's hope for you yet kid. I think I might even enjoy having you as my little protégé." This brought a big smile to his face before thinking again.

"Ok. But I'm curious. You said druids can use that magic where other magicals can't. Is it possible for that magic to get all dried up somewhere or is it an unlimited pool of magic that we can pull from?"

"Good questions. You will make a wonderful druid. First a quick clarification. Other magicals can still use magic from ley lines and convergences, it is just very difficult and dangerous for them at first. But with the right training, a witch or wizard of the above average caliber has a chance to safely use a minor ley line and possibly a convergence. Trying to work up to a convergence might leave them bedridden for several days or weeks if they tried though, even if they trained for it. It is still possible though. However, a druid's body and magic are tailor made to use ley line and nature magic so with training, a novice druid would be able to easily handle a convergence that above average wizards would have a hard time with.

"Now to your question about it drying up. Convergences, or pools as you have called them, are almost akin to a magical being. Don't mistake me, they are not intelligent, but their magic acts the same. Convergences have a set amount of magic in them, the same as all magical beings. If you use that magic, it takes away from it, but after a 'rest', it will eventually replenish. Bear in mind that convergences, even minor/minor ones, usually have significantly more magic than even above average wizards do. Does that answer your question?"

"Yes. Other magicals can do what druids do, but not as well and with a lot more difficulty and a lot more training." Seeing Ambrose smiling and nodding his head, Hadrian continued, "And the convergences only give a certain amount of magic before it needs to replenish its magic. I assume that each convergence is different and that the larger the convergence, the quicker it will recover but will still take longer to fully recover?"

"That's exactly right! Look at it like a bucket. You have one bucket that is 3 times as big as the one next to it. The large bucket has a steady stream of water flowing into it while the small bucket has only a trickle. Empty out the buckets and the large bucket will get more water faster, but the small bucket will likely fill up before the large bucket fills up. So, a minor/minor convergence will be at full before a major/major convergence will, but it won't have as much magic even after the same amount of time."

Hadrian begins nodding his head in understanding when Acacia speaks up.

"Ok, that is enough about ley lines. You will learn more about them later. Right now we need to determine the most important things to teach you. Since you have already found your magic, we will continue helping you find it and teach you how to properly meditate while holding it, this is called attuning to your magic. That will help you with almost everything you do with your magic in the future. Other than that, we need to give you a good grounding in the basics before moving on.

"We will teach you more about the magical world in general, critical thinking, philosophy, ethics, and most importantly, Occlumency."

"Ok, but what is occlumency and why is all of that important?"

"Occlumency is the defense of one's mind. It is also a great method to help one organize one's mind, control your emotions, and helps with meditation, something druids do often. As for the other topics. Ethics is one of the most important things you will need because your magic has the ability to easily kill or maim others. You will learn when to use your magic and when it is ok to use certain aspects of magic before we teach you how to actually use your magic. That is not up for discussion!

"Critical thinking and philosophy are both equally important. They will both help you to learn how to think and how best to apply yourself. They will help you when we start getting into the more advanced branches of magic and you will need to understand, in-depth, the different aspects and rules that govern magic. Wisdom is one of the most important things any magical can have, especially druids. Typically, wisdom comes with age, but critical thinking and philosophy go a long way to helping with that.

"Besides, until you have learned occlumency to a certain degree, we won't move on. And it is much better for the brain to switch gears rather than just spend hours upon hours on one subject at a time. Do that, and your thinking becomes circular and stagnant."

"What do you mean by 'your thinking becomes circular and stagnant'?"

"When you spend so long on one topic, you start thinking the same things over and over again. Circular. Your brain starts repeating itself by coming to the same conclusion over and over again. When you learn nothing new, or nothing new is introduced, then your thinking becomes stagnant and you stop progressing. If you want to move forward, and progress, then your brain needs to take breaks, especially when you are so young and you need to introduce more information. Spending too much time on just occlumency will plateau your learning.

"Now when I say plateau, I mean that you will progress, but once you hit a certain point, you won't learn anything else or make much progress. You will reach a point where you are going through the motions without getting anything out of it. It's why you will spend some time every day on each of the topics I just mentioned. That will help you to grow much faster than were we to focus on just one or two topics at a time. Understand?"

"I understand. So, we start with occlumency?"

-A DRUID IN THE MAKING-

"It's been two months since we started our lessons Hadrian. You have made tremendous progress. And that's not even including the amount of effort you have put into your book. Have you finally decided on a name for it?" Ambrose said from his portrait on the wall.

"I have, actually. It is going to be The Magical Encyclopedia for the Non-Magical Family."

"That's quite a mouthful kid. Couldn't come up with anything shorter? And are you sure you want to adopt that American terminology for the book?"

"I like the title. It says exactly what the book is about. And I love the American terminology. Muggle and muggleborn sound like insults especially with the way you tell me purebloods say it. Non-magical and first-gen is much better. Sure it doesn't roll off the tongue, but that's not the point. It's about doing something to curb the bigotry that you have told me has been growing for the past several decades. It's not much, but it's something. I'll keep making baby steps, especially at Hogwarts. Hogwarts is the root of where everyone picks up these habits anyway. Control Hogwarts and you control the upbringing of the next generation of magicals. That's what you taught me, right?"

"Yes, that's right. We just don't want to see you becoming vilified by everyone just because you want to stick up for the little guy."

"I will do what I think is best, no matter what. I will speak my mind and say the truth no matter if it isn't politically correct. I understand that I will make a lot of enemies that way, but I have to."

"Yes, you have told us that on numerous occasions, but you have never told us why! You love learning the why and how behind everything we teach you. It's your turn now kid. Why is this so important to you?"

Hadrian just sighed and looked down at his hands thinking for a minute before finally answering without looking up, "Because there was a short period of time I did what my cousin and his friends wanted, trying to fit in with them so they would stop picking on me. They always picked on me and hurt me and I just wanted it to stop, so I did what they did. I helped them bully another little kid. It felt so good to finally be on the other side and not be the one to be picked on. But then they wanted me to hit him.

"It took a moment, but I eventually listened to them… and I hit him." Hadrian's voice cracked a little before he was able to continue, "It wasn't hard at first, but they all noticed and eventually I hit him as hard as I could in frustration. The kid had a bruised eye, broken nose, and a ton of bruises. I got back home and after Dudley went inside, I threw up in the garden outside. I was shaking when Petunia found me and saw my sick. She told Vernon and him and Dudley beat me again before they cut me. That night, I was so ashamed of myself that I cannot imagine ever feeling more shame in my life than I did then."

Still looking at his hands, a few tears made their way down his face, "I promised right then and there that no matter what, no matter the bully, no matter the pain, no matter the sacrifice … I was going to do what I felt was right. I am going to be someone I can look in the mirror and be proud of. I am not going to lie to myself anymore and I refuse to allow myself to do anything for any reason other than I choose to.

"After that happened, I tried to apologize to the kid but he ran away screaming. It tore out my heart to see the fear in his eyes that Dudley gave to me. So, I promised myself that I would never do anything just to fit in, no matter what. I will stand up to all bully's if I feel it is the right thing to do so I don't ever have to feel that sense of betrayal again.

"I was 7 when that happened, and I started standing up to Dudley more. They beat me more and more. It was a few weeks later when I was running from them that I apparated onto the roof of my school and guessed that I had magic. My quest to reach my magic was instrumental in helping me to push through the pain of Dudley's beatings."

Tears were flowing down his face when he finished and he looked up to see compassion from Acacia and what looked like respect from Ambrose. It was Ambrose that spoke first.

"You are a good kid Hadrian. I don't care what Acacia says about you when you aren't around, I like you."

This got a chuckle out of Hadrian, a glare from Acacia and a smack on the back of the head from his wife before she scolded him, "That's enough lies out of you! Keep it up and I won't let you teach Hadrian how to tap into ley lines. Besides, you didn't even like him when he first got here. You were always rude to him."

"I'm sorry dear. I'll behave. And I can't help if I was a little rude. I mean how could I like him when I didn't know him at all, huh? Now that I know him and know how similar he is to my wonderful wife, how can I not like him?"

Hadrian couldn't help but chuckle at the big grin on his face as he tried to talk his way out of trouble again.

"Darn right you'll behave, but don't go thinking that your flattery will get you out of trouble with me mister." But Hadrian could see her fighting the smile and they all knew that she wasn't irritated with him anymore. "Now why don't you go through your occlumency one more time Hadrian. Dap should be returning any minute with the books and information on what has happened in the past 2 decades."

It was another hour before Dap finally returned, bowing deeply to Hadrian, "Deepest apologies Master Hadrian. Dap was forced to speak with other house elves to clarify some information that Dap had found. The Dark Wizard, Lord Voldemort, was vanquished on October 31st, 1981 … by Master Hadrian."

"WHAT?!"

"That is why Dap be taking so long. Lord Voldemort entered Master James and Mistress Lily house where they was killed by him. When Lord Voldemort tried to kill Master Hadrian, Lord Voldemort be the one killed instead. They is calling Master Hadrian, Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, because he survived the killing curse. Master Hadrian is being called the one who vanquished the Dark Lord Voldemort."

"Let me get this straight. Lord Voldemort, the dark lord that wreaked havoc across Britain and had the entire country shaking in its knickers, is believed to have been defeated by an infant? People actually believe that tripe? Where did my parents live Dap?"

"Yes Master Hadrian. It is widely believed that you defeated Lord Voldemort. But people is being too afraid of him to speak him name to this day Master. Peoples is either calling him You-Know-Who or He-who-must-not-be-named. Master James and Mistress Lily moved to Godric's Hollow when they knew Voldemort was after them."

"That's stupid! They are afraid to even say his name? Are you serious?"

"Yes Master Hadrian. It is being because of the taboo. Voldemort put a taboo on his name so that anyone speaking it would be found and could be punished or killed. Peoples is still being too afraid to say it."

"Whatever. I want to see my parents' house. I want to see if they left anything behind."

Before Dap could speak though, Ambrose spoke up, "That's a bad idea right now Hadrian. You are still a child and not well versed in your magic yet. It is too risky right now. In a few years when you have progressed, you can go see it. For now, if you would like the possessions, then send Dap. He can retrieve anything there and repair any damages.

"I know that you think Dap can just take you, but it isn't safe yet. If you are believed to be the one to kill Voldemort, then his followers will likely kill you on sight if they see you alone as you are. And if they are actively looking for you, then you can bet anything that they will have all kinds of detections to learn if you visit the house or your parents' graves. I'm sorry kid, but going to Godric's Hollow will have to wait. It is too dangerous for right now."

"I suppose that is the smart thing to do." After thinking for a moment, "Alright. Is there anything else you found out Dap?"

"Um, yes Master Hadrian. When Dap be looking for books for Master Hadrian, Dap found a new series of books."

Ambrose spoke up, "They are about Hadrian aren't they?"

"Yes, Master Ambrose. There is being several books about Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, and his adventures in fighting off banshees, dragons, and even one of him saving a vampire princess."

"Vampire Princess? Well that one actually sounds interesting. Who wouldn't want to read about a 7 year old rescuing a vampire princess and falling in love?" Hadrian just glared at him before speaking.

"How are these books seen? Do people see them as fiction or do they actually think that I am doing these things?"

"Dap thinks that peoples be seeing them as real Master Hadrian. The publishers have led the public to believe that you are telling the publishers directly about these adventures."

"Well then kid, it sounds like you have a perfect financial opportunity in front of you."

Hadrian looked at him confusedly, "What do you mean Ambrose?"

"Well, these companies are using your name to make money without your permission and without giving you any compensation. If you were to speak to a solicitor, they would be able to put together a case so that you could ask for reparations. For example, you could ask for 60% of profits from everything Harry Potter related sold thus far and ask for 40% for anything else sold in the future with the stipulation that they not write any more books. They do that, and you won't slander their name in the papers about abusing your name and lying to the people. If those are as popular as I think they are, then you will receive a nice shiny knut for all of those."

"Ok. But didn't you just say that I shouldn't be leaving here?"

"I don't mean go do that right now. You can speak to a solicitor in 2 years. You will be older and much stronger. That will also leave plenty of time for you to receive compensation before school rolls around and you can spend some of it before Hogwarts begins."

"That sounds like a really good plan."

"And that is why we do all of those critical thinking exercises. Acacia and I won't always be around and you will need to start following your own advice. If there is nothing else Dap, would you please go to Godric's Hollow and retrieve anything of value. Once you return it, please go back and repair Godric's Hollow then clean it up. Take Twinkle with you."

"Yes Master Ambrose. There is nothing else to add. I will return shortly with any possessions Master Hadrian."

With a small pop, Dap disappeared, "Alright Ambrose. What's next while we wait for Dap to return then? Occlumency, critical thinking, or are we attuning my magic more?"

"Let's move on to attuning your magic. Why don't you walk me through it one more time before you start?"

"Ok. Druids are different from wizards because they don't need a wand. Some of the very powerful wizards are able to use wandless magic but they are few and often can't do more than a few small spells. Druids however perform all of their magic without the need for a wand.

"This is because they are attuned to their magic. Meaning, they understand their magic intimately and can feel it inside them easier and can control it easier than wizards. Because of this, druids don't need wands. Wands are used to help witches and wizards call forth their magic to direct it. Druids don't need help calling forth their magic.

"Where wizards use incantations and wand movements, druids use intent and will. Something that is much more difficult initially, but also allows druids to do more with their magic than most wizards because we aren't constrained in our way of thinking. Anything is possible with magic, it is just a matter of finding out how to do it.

"All of this stems from attuning to your magic. When a druid is fully attuned to their magic, it can be called upon the way a wizard does using a wand. Attuning to your magic grants an intimate understand between a druid and their magic. This attunement also brings a druid closer to nature because druidic magic is at its essence very closely tied to ley line and nature magic.

"Did I leave anything out?"

"You said everything just right. Tell me though, can a druid use a wand or anything else?"

"Yes. A druid can use a wand, though more often than not, it won't work well. Wands work by helping a witch or wizard to draw out their magic because it is difficult to do without one, which is wandless magic. Wands help to "pull" their magic out of them and giving them an outlet to direct that magic. Because a druid is so attuned to their magic, the wand core will butt heads and conflict with a druid's natural magic making the magic weaker than if a druid were to go without a wand.

"Druids do have the option of using a staff though. Staffs do not use a core but use wood and a mineral which are used to help a druid to control nature and ley line magic, something that is core to a druids magic. I will have to request a staff when I go to Ollivander's as there are no longer any stores catered purely to staffs anymore."

"That's exactly right! Now I want you to begin your meditation. Search for that magic within yourself. Once you find it, I want you to hold it firmly and yet gently. Once you have a good grasp on it, I want you to push out with your magic until it fills every crevice of your body. Push your magic until you can feel it flowing throughout your entire being. Do not push your magic to flow faster or slower, just let it flow naturally, filling your very being.

"Let your magic fill you and flood your very soul. Once you feel your magic flowing everywhere, you will feel it. Once you do, hold it and just let it flow. Let your body and your magic become acquainted with another… Very good. Don't stop but right now, you are doing it exactly right. I know, because I can now see your magical aura. When you fill your entire being with your magic, it creates an aura of magic around you that radiates... That is perfect Hadrian. Now just hold it there and remember the feeling and the flow of your magic."

Hadrian didn't know how long he stayed like that but it was a very wonderful feeling. Tiring, but definitely wonderful and something he looks forward to doing in the future.

"That's enough for now Hadrian. Dap has something for you. You did very well. I wasn't expecting you to be able to hold it that long."

"What do you mean? How long was I doing that?"

"It has been close to 2 hours, I believe, since Dap left. That will happen when you attune to your magic properly. Especially when you do it well enough that your magical aura is visible. I wasn't expecting to see your aura for several months yet."

"2 hours!? But it barely felt like 1 hour. And you mentioned my magical aura. What do you mean by that?"

"Your magical aura is just that, the aura that is a visible representation of your magic. Your body had so much of your magic throughout your body that it surrounded you and became visible. Most witches and wizards won't ever see it. Druids naturally will because of how in-tune they are to the magic around them, but only powerful witches or wizards or those that have some form of inner eye will be able to see it.

"Others might feel a sense of power radiating from you if you were to push enough magic throughout your body, but many still wouldn't see it. You would have to push an extraordinary amount of magic throughout your body for the average witch or wizard to see it. It is not a common thing for a druid to be that strong and while I think you have it in you, it will be many years yet before you are able.

"This happens when a druid, or even a powerful witch or wizard, are so in-tune with their magic. There are very few witches or wizards that are powerful enough to attune to their magic. It isn't even an easy thing for druids. You are a remarkable young man to have accomplished that so young.

"Now, don't you want to see what Dap has brought you?"

Hadrian had been so wrapped up in attuning his magic that he completely forgot what he was waiting for, so he rushed over to the desk where the elf had set one trunk.

"You were only able to find one trunk's worth of stuff?" Hadrian was slightly disappointed since he had been hoping for a lot more than just one small trunk. But he shouldn't get too upset since he hadn't even expected this to happen.

"Apologies Master Hadrian, but this be a enchanted trunk. It belonged to Mistress Lily when she was an unspeakable at the Department of Mysteries."

"My mum was an unspeakable? That's so cool!"

"Yes Master Hadrian. That is all Dap knows about Mistress Lily. Master Hadrian would have to ask Dobby to learn more about Mistress Lily. But Dap do be knowing how to open Mistress Lily's trunk."

Dap then opened the trunk and pulled out what looked like a matchbox. Dap then set it on the ground and with a wave of his hand, it changed into a trunk similar in size to his mum's but not nearly as nice and much more worn.

"This be Master James' trunk. Dap suggests going through this trunk first."

Hadrian could only nod his head before opening his father's trunk. Inside he saw several picture frames that looked like they used to hang on the walls of their home. Hadrian saw many that had his father and mother. There were a few with his parents and 3 others. One was a ruggedly handsome man with black hair and a smile that looked as though he just did or said something funny. Another had graying hair though he didn't look any older than the others but he had a kind face and a sharp eye though he wore what looked like very old robes. The last unknown man was a short, rotund little man with longer, dirty blonde hair that was so thin, you could almost see his scalp underneath, but what really drew the eye was how unsure of himself he seemed, like he would rather be anywhere else in the world.

Hadrian saw another picture of his parents with his mum holding him next to another beautiful woman with long, pale blonde hair and sharp electric blue eyes, also holding a baby. Both mothers had their husbands on the outside with an arm on their shoulder. Everyone looked so happy. What really drew Hadrian's eye though was that both the babies were close enough to hold hands, and they were indeed holding hands.

There was another picture that had 3 young attractive women in it with what Hadrian assumed were Hogwart's robes. It had his mother in her Gryffindor robes and the same blonde woman with long, pale blonde hair in Ravenclaw robes. There was also a woman with shorter brown hair and what looked like a friendly but stern demeanor wearing Hufflepuff robes.

There were a few other pictures with other couples, some with kids, but most without, and a lot of pictures of what looked like his parents and their friends before Hadrian was born.

Underneath the pictures Hadrian found 2 journals. Dap explained that most purebloods have 2 journals like that. One is the journal of their life so the descendants of the family will be able to follow their life as it happened to understand their ancestors better. The other is used as a sort of spellbook. Accomplished witches or wizards will write down their thoughts or experiences with magic and any magic that they experiment with or, more likely, magic they excel at and had thoughts that differed from conventional teaching. His father's spellbook was focused on transfiguration, conjuration, and their uses in dueling.

Hadrian also found a Library Tome. Dap explained that the Potters use an enchantment on their library allowing it to become anything that was linked to it. Through the use or wards and charms, the Library Tome could be any of over 2000 books. The Library Tome would default to a list of books that can be selected, but when one is selected, it would then for all intents and purposes transform into that book until it was cleared again, reverting back to the index of the 2000 books available. The index even had a search function that allowed you to look for key words and sort the titles by branch of magic. It was Hadrian's second favorite thing about the Retreat right behind the painting of Ambrose and Acacia.

Dap also told Hadrian about the Master Tome which had all of the books from the Library Tome but it also had all of the books that are hidden away in the Potter Private Library which is in the Potter Vault in Gringotts, the wizarding bank. Ambrose explained that was done to keep the most dangerous or precious books out of the hands of anyone who may have been able to infiltrate the Retreat and to separate the majority of their library from the most important books of their family

Hadrian opened the Library Tome and noted that it was about advanced conjuration, likely something his father was ready if his spellbook was anything to go by. Setting it down, Hadrian found some clothes, a golden snitch used in quidditch, and a handheld mirror that had a few runes on the back.

Once he finished going through his father's trunk, he turned back to Dap. Dap then explained how his mum's enchanted trunk works. It is made from graphorn hide, which is tougher than dragon hide though not as magic resistant. Something that is necessary because it holds the weightless and shrinking charms better that way. Dap explained that it has 3 compartments in it.

The first compartment was surrounded by mokeskin on the inside so that she would be able to pack significantly more than normal in it. The first compartment had two mokeskin money bags, one that was a bit larger than the other and could easily fit two adult sized fists inside while the other could barely fit one adult sized hand in it. After finding only money in them, Ambrose suggested Hadrian move all of the money to the smaller of the two and the vault keys into the small pouch on the outside of the bag and keep the larger mokeskin pouch around his neck in case he needed it.

Hadrian also found a mokeskin messenger bag that he imagined his mum used to carry her things to work. The bag was empty, but since Ambrose told him that they went into hiding, it is not surprising that it hadn't been used recently. The last items really caught his attention. They were 2 wrist wand holsters and they each looked to have a wand in them. The bulkier of the two had a spot for a wand on the underside of the wrist right next to it, another small slot for what looked like a vial with a clear liquid in it, and on the what would be the outside of the forearm, a small slot for something the size of a matchbox, though that was empty.

Dap explained that the bulkier wrist wand holster belonged to his mum and the matchbox sized slot was for the trunk when it is shrunken. It fits there perfectly so that unspeakables would always have everything that they need with them and would never be caught unprepared for something.

His father's wand holster was much simpler and only had a small pocket for a wand. Hadrian was surprised by how small the wand was since it looked to only be about 3 inches but when he pulled on the handle, he was holding an 11 inch wand. 'Of course. An expansion charm to take up as little room as possible. Very clever.' Hadrian put the wand back deciding that he should look into getting something to display both of the wand holsters.

That was when Dap showed him how to open the second compartment by closing the lid and unlocking the second lock.

Hadrian was flabbergasted to see a small staircase leading into what looked like a room larger than the master suite. It was segregated into two sections. The much smaller section had a potions bench longer than in his study, with a large cabinet for storing completed potions and a larger cabinet that had a plethora of ingredients. Dap explained that the rest of the room was set aside as a dueling room to help with either experimenting with new spells or training. Before leaving, Hadrian noticed 2 journals on the potions bench and picked them up finding that one was his mum's journal and the other her experiments from being an unspeakable, he assumed.

Dap opened the last compartment and Hadrian was excited when this one showed another small staircase leading to what looked like a very quaint apartment with no windows. The compartment had 2 bedrooms, each with one queen sized bed and its own bathroom. There was a nice kitchen, a dining area, and a large sitting area with desks. It was all in all, a very nice little living quarter, something Dap explained unspeakables sometimes needed to store any of their experiments or to just get away to a quiet area to work or recover.

Hadrian returned to the study only to have Ambrose speak up, "Alright Hadrian. I understand that this is important to you, so we will take a small break from your training. You will continue your occlumency and attuning, but we will put everything else on hold for a week. You can use that time to read the journals from your parents. I suggest that you read what happened in the year leading up to the last entry so you can get a better picture about why they went into hiding. Once the week is up, I expect you to go back to the full workload and you will have to read the journals on your downtime. Fair?"

"Yes Ambrose. Thank you! May I go read it now, or are we starting that tomorrow?"

"Well, you technically already did occlumency and attuning today, so I guess that means you are done today. Go read."

Hadrian smiled and immediately took off for the bedroom to read on his bed when he heard his voice continue, "But if you forget to keep taking care of yourself and to eat, then I will have Tipsy tie you to this chair and spoon feed you!"

Chuckling, Hadrian yelled back "Ok!" before opening his mum's journal and reading.

-A DRUID IN THE MAKING-

"Are you going to tell us what was in your parents' journals now? It's been nearly 4 months since you got them!"

Acacia had been very impatient to learn what was in the journals. So much so that Hadrian was very glad she was only a portrait or she might have resorted to hexing him. It amused Ambrose to no end that she was so curious about what was said that she couldn't wait. Hadrian had wanted to read everything first so he could try to work through any questions he had first before bringing them to Ambrose and Acacia. And his desire to try working everything out on his own was the only thing that kept Acacia somewhat happy about waiting.

His mum's journal had been a goldmine of information on what to include in his book and he took copious notes to help him sort through what to add and how to best phrase everything.

"Yes, I am finally finished and will share with you everything that I have learned about my parents."

"Well it's about time. Ambrose has told you on several occasions that I have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, so stop keeping us in suspense. What have you learned?"

"Well first off, my mum was a brilliant witch! One that came around once a generation and she was going to do so many great things!"

Hadrian explained to them how he survived the killing curse that apparently backfired and killed Voldemort. Lily had been studying the killing curse and found a protection ritual that she altered. Because the killing curse is a form of soul magic, Lily altered the ritual to protect Hadrian from all forms of soul magic. The problem was that the protection from soul magic, required a soul to provide the power.

Acacia looked thoughtful but nodded reminding him that anything is possible with magic, it is just a matter of finding a way and whether or not you are willing to pay the price.

Hadrian explained that Lily was confident the ritual would work but obviously couldn't test it. Hadrian also explained that he learned his mum had many friends. Her first friend was actually a boy that told her she was a witch and was her best friend until he made friends with the pureblood crowd and he called her a mudblood in their 5th year. Her best friends were Pandora Moon and Amelia Bones who were all from different houses.

Hadrian also mentioned that his mum couldn't stand his father for the longest time and that it almost sounded like she hated him because he was an arrogant bully. But after his grandparents died in their 5th year, James changed and Lily gave him a chance their 7th year when they had to work together as Head Boy/Girl.

Hadrian told them that his mum sounded as curious as Acacia and excelled in potions and especially charms. She wanted to join the Department of Mysteries because she wanted to spend all of her time studying magic and learning as much as she could and because she thoroughly enjoyed coming up with her own spells, something the DoM encouraged. Through her journal, Hadrian also learned about a prophecy that Albus Dumbledore told them would make Voldemort come after Hadrian.

They went into hiding under the Fidelius Charm but after a few months, and one bad incident in which Sirius was captured and tortured before being rescued, Sirius asked them to change the secret keeper to Peter Pettigrew. Sirius told them that he was afraid that if he was captured again, that he might tell them. He wanted to continue being the decoy to keep the death eaters away from Peter, but that it would be safer if he weren't the secret keeper anymore.

Hadrian learned that Albus Dumbledore performed the charm. Something that upset him dearly since he learned from Dap that Sirius is believed to have been the one to betray his parents. The wizarding world thought that Sirius was his parents' secret keeper and betrayed them to Voldemort before going after Pettigrew and killing him alongside a dozen muggles. Sirius has been in Azkaban, the wizarding prison, ever since. If Dumbledore knew Sirius was innocent, then why didn't he say anything? Hadrian had been close to leaving for the Ministry at that point. It was only thanks to Ambrose that he didn't. It took some time but Ambrose eventually got through to Hadrian, reminding him that a journal couldn't be considered evidence, telling him that something is very wrong with that story and they need to tread carefully or Hadrian could end up right back with his aunt and uncle or worse. Ambrose convinces him to study harder and when he gets his Hogwarts letter, they will approach the Ministry and try opening a case for Sirius.

After taking a moment to meditate and attune his magic, something Hadrian was finding very comforting, he told them about his father. Hadrian was much less enamored with his father once he learned that his father really did seem like an arrogant bully. Hadrian told them that his father became an Animagus in his 5th year with his friends, something Hadrian very badly wants to learn. Ambrose convinces Hadrian to finish talking about his dad before talking about Animagus.

Hadrian tells them about his father being an excellent chaser and worthy enough to get several offers to play professionally while still at Hogwarts; because of the war with Voldemort, he chose to become an auror so that he could help protect his friends and hopeful family, something Hadrian couldn't help but respect about him. Hadrian also learned that though he was an arrogant bully, he was extremely smart and a great student excluding the numerous pranks that him and his friends, the marauders, caused, often landing them in detention.

After reading the journals, he couldn't help but feel sorry for Severus Snape, who his father picked on purely because he was best friends with his love interest and was in a different house. It was uncomfortably close to something Dudley would do. Shaking himself from those thoughts, Hadrian turned back to Ambrose and Acacia, asking about becoming an Animagus.

Acacia spoke up, "Druids are different from your typical wizard when it comes to being an Animagus. Witches and wizards believe they can only change into one animal. I am willing to bet that isn't true and that someone just hasn't found the answer yet. But regardless, druids do not become Animagus like most magicals do. Druids commune with an animal in order to become like that animal. Once a druid has communed with an animal to the point of intimate understanding, the druid is then able to shift into that animal.

"There is no limit to the number of animals a druid can become. All it takes is a little bit of time. There are many druids who spend most of their time in their animal form and live, eat, and sleep with their animal brethren. Most will commune with an animal or two and will spend time with that animal on occasion but remaining human."

"That's so cool! That means that I could also become a magical creature then right? If it's just a matter of intimate understanding then druids need only commune with an animal to become familiar with it, and there is nothing stopping me from becoming a dragon, for example."

"While that is technically true, I need you to listen to me very carefully! There has never been a known case of a druid who has ever become human again after shifting into a magical creature. It is absolutely possible for a druid to become a magical creature, that isn't the problem. The problem is that, no matter what magical creature, the druid loses the will to become human every again. One of my best friends was determined to try and she lived out the rest of her days as a unicorn. It is possible, but I pray you won't try it because I don't want to see you stuck as a magical creature. Ok?"

Hadrian couldn't help but smile at her, "If it hasn't been done then it just means that someone hasn't found a way, right? I can't promise that I won't ever try. But I will promise that I won't try for many, many years. Probably not until my kids have kids."

Acacia just sighed, shaking her head with a sad smile, "I suppose that is all I can ask for huh? But don't go getting any ideas yet. You still have a bit of training left to do before we start on communing with animals. You have done extremely well with your occlumency and your other studies. Even your attuning is to the point to where I can see your aura almost every time. An accomplishment you should be very proud of. It is the sign of a very powerful druid.

"After you have progressed in your magical studies a bit, then we can address shifting." Seeing the question on Hadrian's face, she explains, "Shifting is the term that druids use when they become an animal. Now, why don't you spend the rest of the morning attuning your magic and we will finish off the day with occlumency. Tomorrow your magical studies will begin."

Hadrian let out a whoop of excitement, punching the air, before sitting down and attuning his magic. After so long of this exercise, it barely takes Hadrian 3 seconds before his magical aura is surrounding him. Something he can do for an entire day and not get tired doing now. Hadrian instead passes the time by speeding up the flow of magic within his body and slowing it, continuously adjusting it. Something that Ambrose said is a good exercise to build your magical core and your control.

Once he was done, Hadrian continued his meditation but entered his mindscape and began focusing his mind. Occlumency had been extremely difficult, but very rewarding. Hadrian found that he was much more relaxed, could remember everything he learned much more clearly, and generally felt more at peace with everything. It had taken a long time and hours of meditation before he found his mindscape, but he found it. It took longer still before he was able to start erecting barriers.

His mindscape resembled the Potter Retreat because it is where he feels the most comfortable and all of his memories are locked in the basement hiding inside different books behind as many different defense as he could think of, mostly surrounding plant life and magical creatures.

Ambrose explained that there were many ways to practice occlumency. The most common was entering your mindscape and organizing your mind, and erecting barriers like he did. The most powerful and easily the most difficult is to clear your mind of everything. If you are able to clear your mind of everything then no one will ever be able to harm your mind. That is often something that witches or wizards cannot accomplish because of how difficult it is to truly empty your mind of all thoughts.

That doesn't help if you aren't ready for it though. Which is another reason most choose to enter their mindscape and erect defenses there. Once Hadrian had ensured that everything was bolstered with his magic and organized, he withdrew from his mind, said goodnight, and prepared for the next day. Tomorrow he begins learning the practical use of magic and will get to actually use his magic again.

-A DRUID IN THE MAKING-

Hopefully you all found this to be an enjoyable start to my story. I will try to keep all of my chapters close to 10k words, so, fair warning, I have no idea how long this will be. I am going to write the best I can and it will stop when Hadrian wins … or he dies (MUAHAHAHA). Spoiler: He won't die because that would be really shitty.

That said, I have not found anyone willing to beta yet, so if you are interested, hit me up. Because of that, I will be writing the next few chapters rather slowly (probably about 1-2 a month), so please bear with me for the next update.