DIVERGENCE

A/N: This is my first story. Let me know what you guys think. English is not my first language. This chapter is not beta-ed. Feel free to point out any grammatical mistakes. Next chapters will be longer. Your reviews are appreciated.

Disclaimer : Not mine

Summary : What if Lily never had a sister; what would happen to the Chosen one, when there was no blood protection... Maybe it leads Dumbledore to make another grave mistake. AU

Prologue

Preconception is a dangerous thing. It leads one to perilous one way path.

He knew that future of wizarding world rested upon his decision. If what he suspected was true, then he must tread carefully.

Albus Dumbledore had a great dilemma. It would have been perfect if Lily had any living relative. Alas ! He could not use that perfect chance to protect little Harry. He always knew that he had to take some tough decisions for greater good... Maybe this was just another one.

' Yes, this must be done', Dumbledore thought.

Baby Harry kept sleeping serenely, unknown future waiting for him.

1. Glimpse

He was again on this step after that night...so many years. He felt too old.

Déjà vu...yes that must be the feeling Albus felt as he stared at looming building. There was no point regretting past, he couldn't have saved the one who was born evil.

He knocked on door. One young lady greeted him and led him to meet the matron. Mrs. Crook was nice lady. He had taken great care to find this orphanage. Repetition of past was unacceptable. If he could, he would have given Harry comfortable new home but Boy who lived ought to be grown in muggle world. Humbleness is a great quality.

When Mrs. Crook gushed about Harry, Albus felt relieved. Great gamble had paid off. Of course his acquaintance, Mrs. Figg, kept an eye on the child... still confirmation was good thing. Mild legilimency showed that poor woman didn't even suspect Harry for his few accidental magic incidents...harmless incidents.

She led him to Harry's room. As door opened, he saw mini copy of James with that bright green, intelligent eyes.

"Harry dear ", Mrs. Crook said fondly, " This is Prof. Dumbledore. He like to speak with you about your new school."

" Hello Professor " , Harry greeted politely.

'Ah such a good little boy' he thought.

After he introduced himself, he told Harry about their amazing world, dreadful war, his hero status and his brave parents. Harry was taking the news just as he expected, that wonder showing in his eyes, asking questions here and there.

Now he should start with that delicate topic. The boy shouldn't resent him for his upbringing.

" My boy, surely you now understand why we sent you here in this orphanage. With such war and remaining Death eaters hunting for you, muggle world was the safest place. Here your identity is safe."

"Of course Sir, I understands.", Harry assured him.

Just like Mrs. Crook said, Harry was polite, intelligent child. Albus liked him immediately.

"Harry, I'll send someone tomorrow to accompany you for your school shopping."

"Thank you very much, Professor. I will look forward to it.", Harry smiled.

"Welcome to our world, my boy! "

As Dumbledore left to speak with Mrs. Crook, Harry kept staring at his retreating back.

' I already know I am special, professor.'

R & R