Harry Potter One Shots

Raising Harry: A Legacy of Love at Potter Manor

In a cosy corner of the English countryside stood Potter Manor, an ancient, sprawling estate surrounded by rolling green hills, enchanted woods, and a lake that shimmered in the light of the setting sun. It was a warm home, filled with magic and memories, where three wizards were dedicated to raising a young boy in the absence of his mother.

Lily Potter had passed away when Harry was only a year old, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth. Cancer-a muggle illness, something none of them could cure despite their magic-had taken her from them far too soon. In her last days, she had made a plea to her husband, James, and their closest friends, Sirius Black and Remus Lupin: to raise Harry with all the love and protection they could muster.

And so, the three men had come together to become Harry's family. Each played a unique role in his upbringing, each infusing the boy's life with their own special brand of magic.

James, his father, was the heart of the home, filling it with laughter, adventure, and love. Every morning, he would whisk Harry from his bed with a tickling charm or a little magic trick that left Harry giggling uncontrollably. Together, they explored every nook and cranny of Potter Manor, playing hide-and-seek or pretending to be dragons and knights defending their castle.

But beyond the fun, James was fiercely protective. He always reminded Harry of his mother's bravery and kindness, instilling in him a deep sense of compassion. He would show Harry Lily's old belongings-a music box she loved, letters they had written to each other, photographs-and tell him stories of her that painted her as vividly as if she were right there with them.

If James was the heart of the home, Sirius, his godfather, was its spark. He was always up to something mischievous, teaching Harry how to ride his first broom, sneaking him sweets before dinner, and telling him stories of the Marauders' school days. Sirius encouraged Harry's boldness, his sense of adventure, and his curiosity.

"Harry," Sirius would often say, "you're a Potter and a Marauder. That means you've got a knack for getting into and out of trouble." He taught Harry how to be clever, how to think on his feet, and how to stand up for himself and for others.

Sirius also made sure that Harry knew he was never alone. "You've got us, kid," he'd remind him during quiet moments, "and you always will."

Remus, his uncle and the last man raising the young boy, brought a sense of calm and wisdom to Harry's life. With his kind, steady demeanour, he taught Harry about the world, about right and wrong, and about the importance of empathy. Remus had a way of turning even the simplest events into lessons, whether it was showing Harry how to care for magical creatures in the Manor's garden or teaching him how to identify constellations in the night sky.

During full moons, Harry knew to be especially gentle with Remus, a small ritual of brewing wolfsbane potion together becoming part of their bond. From Remus, Harry learned patience and resilience. Remus helped him understand that there were times when things would be tough, but with love and determination, he could overcome anything.

Their days at Potter Manor were filled with laughter, lessons, and love. Harry grew up with the warmth of three parental figures, each of whom adored him and contributed something unique to his life. Together, they celebrated every birthday, every holiday, and even the little victories, like when Harry successfully performed his first Lumos charm at age six.

One evening, as they all gathered around the large stone fireplace in the manor's cosy sitting room, Sirius handed Harry an old, leather-bound book. It was a photo album filled with pictures of his mother. Harry ran his fingers over the pages, eyes wide with wonder as James pointed to a picture of Lily laughing in the garden, her red hair catching the sunlight.

"That's your mum, Harry," James said softly. "She was the best of us."

"Lily would be so proud of you," Remus added, placing a gentle hand on Harry's shoulder. "And she'd be so glad to see how well you're growing up."

Sirius leaned back, his usual smirk softened. "With us around, Harry, you'll never lack for family."

Years passed, and Harry thrived under their care. By the time he received his Hogwarts letter, he was brave, kind, and incredibly resourceful-a young man ready to carry on his parents' legacy and make his family proud. As he boarded the Hogwarts Express, he looked back to see James, Sirius, and Remus waving, three figures as familiar as the manor he called home.

In that moment, Harry knew he was never alone and that wherever he went, the love of his family would go with him, guiding him like the stars Remus had taught him to find in the night sky.