Chapter 1
The Hogwarts grounds sprawled beneath the starlit sky, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. The ancient castle looming majestically, its towering spires piercing the night and amidst the tranquillity of the night Professor Minerva McGonagall strode purposefully through the corridors, her emerald robes trailing behind her. Though outwardly composed her mind buzzed with unease. As she passed by Dumbledore's office, McGonagall caught snippets of conversation drifting through the cracked door. Curiosity piqued, she paused, listening intently as Dumbledore and Snape discussed the fate of the young Harry Potter. "The boy will be safe with the Dursleys," Dumbledore's voice echoed softly, but McGonagall's heart clenched at the words. Recalling her memories of Lily's tales and shuddering at the thought of the poor boy being left with such a vile family. Determined to act, McGonagall pushed open the door, her steely gaze meeting Dumbledore's calm blue eyes. "Albus," she began, her voice firm with resolve. "Surely there must be another solution for the boy." Dumbledore regarded her with a mixture of surprise and understanding, recognizing the fire in McGonagall's eyes. After a moment's hesitation, he looked down solemnly, "I'm afraid it would be best, Minerva."
The atmosphere inside Dumbledore's office felt heavy with tension as McGonagall stood her ground, her jaw set in determination. She couldn't fathom the idea of Harry, the last remnants of Lily and James Potter, being subjected to the neglect and cruelty of the Dursleys. "Best for whom, Albus?" McGonagall's voice was sharp, cutting through the air like a blade. "For Harry to grow up in an environment devoid of love and kindness? Surely there must be another option." Dumbledore's expression softened, his gaze meeting McGonagall's with a mixture of respect and sorrow. "I understand your concern, Minerva, truly I do," he said gently. "But the protection Lily left behind—the blood wards—will keep Harry safe as long as he resides with Petunia and her family." McGonagall's heart sank at Dumbledore's words, knowing the truth behind them but unable to accept it. She couldn't shake the feeling that there had to be a better solution, a way to ensure Harry's safety without sacrificing his happiness.
As the months passed and McGonagall's plan took shape, she found herself consumed by anticipation, awaiting the day when she could finally bring Harry into her care. It was a restless time, filled with uncertainty and anxiety, but also with a fierce determination to do what was right for the young orphan. Finally, the day arrived—the day when McGonagall would rescue Harry from the confines of the Dursleys' home and bring him into the warmth and safety of her own. With a sense of purpose burning in her chest, McGonagall set out for Privet Drive, her steps quickening with each passing moment. Arriving at the familiar street, McGonagall surveyed the neat rows of houses with a critical eye, her heart pounding with nervous excitement. She located number four, Privet Drive, and made her way to the front door, her resolve unwavering. Petunia Dursley answered the door, her expression one of thinly veiled surprise as she beheld McGonagall standing on her doorstep. "Can I help you?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion. "I'm here for Harry Potter," McGonagall replied, her tone firm and unwavering. Petunia's eyes widened in alarm, and for a moment, McGonagall thought she saw a flicker of fear in the woman's gaze. But Petunia quickly composed herself, her features hardening with determination. "Harry Potter is not here," Petunia said tersely, attempting to close the door. But McGonagall was not so easily deterred. With a swift motion, she raised her wand and muttered a few incantations, causing the door to swing open with a loud creak. Ignoring Petunia's protests, McGonagall stepped inside, her gaze sweeping the room in search of the young boy she had come to rescue. And there, huddled in a corner of the room, was Harry Potter—a small, fragile figure with messy black hair and bright green eyes that shone with a mixture of fear and curiosity. McGonagall's heart clenched at the sight of him, her maternal instincts kicking into overdrive as she crossed the room in quick strides. "Harry," she said gently, her voice soft and soothing. "It's time to come with me." With a flick of her wand, McGonagall conjured a small trunk and began to pack Harry's belongings, ignoring the Dursleys' continued protests. As she lifted Harry into her arms, she felt his small body trembling against hers, but she held him close, offering him the comfort and security he so desperately needed. And as McGonagall Apparated away from Privet Drive, leaving behind the chaos and cruelty of the Dursleys' home, she knew in her heart that she had made the right decision—for Harry, for Lily and James, and for the future of the wizarding world.