Harry Potter and the Search for the Elementum Guardians

Prologue

A vision to save a life

Darkness... an all-encompassing black pressed in around her. So totally was the darkness that it hurt for her to have her eyes open. She knew however, that the Oracles would present her with what she needed to know.

Much to her dismay a dimly lit room came into view, with rough stonewalls, benches rose up from the stone floo, and an archway with velvet curtains surrounding the edges stood in the middle. She watched two people duel in front of the archway, noticed that many other such duels were going on all around the large room. However, her eyes stayed with the two fighting before the archway. Minutes passed before she finally recognized him. For the years had not been kind to Sirius Black. His body had become terribly thin, his hair long and greasy. However, when he turned and she had a chance to look into his face that is when she received the biggest shock. For now, his face was gaunt with dark circles under his eyes, at least two weeks worth of growth upon his cheeks and chin. His eyes were what haunted her the most for they were hollow, almost lifeless, when they once were full of life and fire. She became distracted when a red jet of light came flying pass, striking the ground not two feet from her. She turned slightly and faced someone whom she wouldn't want to face even on a good day.

Her body, much like Sirius' had become, emaciated, her face was gaunt and skull like. Yet, her eyes still held the same malevolence that they always had. She knew the woman all to well, for there had been a time when she to had too hunt, Bellatrix Lestrange. She briefly turned back to Sirius to see him laughing, she however found nothing funny about his situation. She turned back to Bellatrix just as another jet of red light emanated from her wand. She knew whom the target was, she just wished that she could warn him. However, she knew that the Oracles did this, after all the events in the vision hadn't happened yet. She watched in horrified fascination as the spell hit Sirius in the chest sending him backwards towards the velvet curtains. She had no idea what the archway represented, or why the curtains moved without any wind to guide them. She only knew that the archway held an eerie feeling to them, as if something wasn't quite right. She watched as Sirius fell through the archway sending the curtains flying upward, only to fall back into place. For the rest of her life Celeste would remember two things from this vision. The first was the look on Sirius' face as he fell, a look of pain, fear, and sadness. The second would be the look on Bellatrix's face of delight and smugness. The sight discussed her to the point she wanted to vomit. For she couldn't fathom why Bellatrix would be so delighted at the death of her cousin, her own family.

Sound returned to her, as the battle progressed around the room. She heard a boy scream Sirius' name. Then a voice she hadn't heard in fourteen years spoke so clearly, as if he stood not but a foot away from her. She turned to watch a new scene unfold.

As Harry reached the ground and sprinted towards the dais, Lupin grabbed him around the chest holding him back.

"There's nothing you can do, Harry---"

"Get him, save him, he's only just gone through!"

"It's too late, Harry---"

"We can still reach him---"

Harry struggled hard and viciously, but Lupin would not let go...

"There's nothing you can do, Harry... nothing... He's gone."

"SIRIUS!"

She saw the misery in Harry's eyes and her heart went out to the boy she had only known as a baby. Yet, recognized because he looked so much like his father, with the eyes of his mother.

Things changed then, everything faded back to the blackness again, as a baritone voice spoke. "The boy cannot know that his Godfather lives, for Sirius Black will help in the downfall of the Evil one. Not until the young boy learns to control his thoughts and feelings will he be able to know the truth. Then and only then can the world know the truth for he who was wrongfully accused will be set free."

Darkness faded and the darkness of night returned to her. She could hear the rain patter on the roof, splattering the windows, streaking the pane blurring the images from outside. She could smell dinner from downstairs as her stomach gave a mighty lurch in hunger and heard the others in the house. However, none of this helped to quell the knot of fear that settled in her stomach. She knew what came next, even as she pulled a fresh sheet of parchment from the top draw of her desk and started to pen a message, she knew this time things were going to be different. Once finished she sent out a telepathic message, ensuring everyone got the enormity of the situation.

We've got major trouble! Study now!

She made her way downstairs to the kitchen where she tied the note to the house owl, Orion. Performed a few spells to keep the rain off him and the message before sending him out into the downpour. She turned with a sigh and made for the study to tell everyone the not so pleasant news.

*********************************************

Morning dawned dreary, with rain still pouring down from the pervious night's storm. As everyone started to come down for breakfast, the mood was less then happy. The silence encompassed all, as no one knew what to say. Quiet broke when a sharp tap at the kitchen window sounded making everyone turn. Beth looked up from making eggs to see Orion flapping his wings against the harsh wind. She quickly dropped the spoon and opened the window, letting the owl in and getting wet all in one. Orion flew around the kitchen a few times before settling on the back of an empty chair. Michael pulled the parchment off, then went to the counter and grabbed a few owl treats, which he gave the tired owl. The owl gratefully took the treats and departed for his perch in the corner of the room.

Michael quickly tore the letter open and scanned it. He raised his jade green eyes to meet the dark brown eyes of Celeste who had just entered the room.

"What Michael?" Celeste questioned a frown creasing her face. "Has something happened?"

"No nothing happened!" Michael answered passing the note to Thomas. "Dumbledore just says that he'll be here by nine tonight. He has orders and to discuss your vision."

Celeste nodded and walked over to the coffee and poured a cup. However, the warm brew nor the knowledge of Dumbledore's arrival did nothing to help quell the knot of fear that had settled in her stomach the night before. She took her coffee and sat by the large sliding glass door, just staring out into the rain, which matched her mood perfectly. She ignored everyone else in the room, as they got ready for work. She even ignored Thomas's attempts to get her to eat something. Her focus stayed with the vision, for it lays to heavily on her mind. She kept seeing his face every time she closed her eyes, every time she stopped focusing on the things around her. She wondered why! No other vision had ever affected her this way. She figured the reason must be because she knew him, she had gone to school with him. Her best friend had been best friends with him. The thought still didn't ease the feeling that darkness still pressed in around her. The rest of the day stayed just as dreary as it had started.

*********************************

True to his word, Albus Dumbledore appeared in the lounge of Lyntal Manor, dressed in dark purple robes. Glad that the identification spell still recognised him after so many years. He surveyed the room, noted that nothing had changed since last he stood in the room. They still had the same comfortable couches and chairs. However, an old world feel still clung to the house with its wood floors and dark coloured walls. He noticed the old china hutch hadn't moved from the corner of the room, or that one of the sitting areas of the massive room still occupied the space by the bay window. Bookcases still lined three of the four walls, and lighted sconces broke up the cases giving the room a cosy feeling especially with the roaring fire.

Minutes passed before anyone entered the lounge and Dumbledore had long since taken a seat in one of the over-stuffed royal blue armchairs by the fire. He watched as everyone filed in, taking up seats around the area close to the fire. He noticed the fatigue in Celeste's walk as she passed by him, he figured that something must have really been troubling her.

Dumbledore's blue eyes surveyed the group in front of him, noticing the fatigue they all seemed to hold within them. He remembered how they were at Hogwarts and it saddens him to think that he had lost contact with them since that time. However, he understood that the seven of them were very private that they kept to themselves most of the time and with good cause. He figured that with the coming war, everyone was on edge and that fatigue had started to settle in with many. In spite of this, he saw a different kind of weariness with them, something that went even deeper, and he had a good guess as to what it may be.

A weary sigh escaped him before he spoke. "I'm glad to see that all of you are well, since some time has passed since we last met."

In truth, they had only stayed in contact by a few owls and that had only started a bit over a year ago when he had asked them to join the Order of the Phoenix. They hadn't been in the original Order because of duty to family and other commitments. However, their involvement with the secret organization remained secret even from those who were very close to Dumbledore, only he knew that they had agreed to join.

"Would you like something to drink or maybe something to eat?" Beth asked, wanting to make sure that he was comfortable.

"No thank you my dear, I'm fine." Dumbledore replied as silence encompassed the room.

No one knew were to begin and in a way the silence became a bit uncomfortable.

When Dumbledore started to speak a few were a bit startled out of there own thoughts. "Before we discuss your vision Celeste, there is something I need to ask of you all."

Everyone nodded. However, before anyone could speak Dumbledore held up his hand.

"Before you agree to what I'm going to ask hear me out, you may think differently once I am finished." Dumbledore explained glancing at everyone.

Again, they nodded and waited for Dumbledore to continue.

He started to explain, "I and a few others have reason to believe that there may be a spy at the Ministry of Magic, maybe more then one. The mission is simple but difficult as it may be dangerous and no one can know. Not even the other Order members will know. It's imperative that all your questions be as discrete as possible, so that as you track him or her no one knows. We need hard evidence against them before we can prove anything."

"Do you have any idea who it might be?" Michael asked.

"We have some ideas, but I don't want to say, so it doesn't cloud your judgement. I need all of you to be as impartial as possible. Those are your orders for now." Dumbledore paused and took his spectacles off to rub his eyes before putting them back on. "Now about the last meeting, nothing specific came up, only that Minster Fudge has given the task of finding the escaped Death Eaters to his most loyal Aurors. Thankfully, he trusts Kingsley enough to put him on the case as well. This helps us stay informed without Fudge knowing."

"A damn shame that he won't put us on the case." Alex exclaimed hotly. "Instead he's got us pushing paper work and following cold cases. The stupid git should have more Aurors on the case than he does. God only knows why he won't add more. Merely having five Aurors on the case won't get him anywhere."

Dumbledore ignored Alex's outburst and turned to Celeste. "Now Celeste on to your vision." Dumbledore stated turning his blue glaze towards her. "What has you so troubled that you would need my help?"

"It's different this time, Professor!" Celeste said worry seeping into her voice. "This time the Oracles have chosen to involve Harry and Sirius."

When she finished retelling the vision, Celeste slumped back into the over stuffed armchair. Once again, Dumbledore took off his spectacles this time looking wearier than ever.

"Then my greatest fear will come to pass." Dumbledore stated mysteriously.

"What fear would that be, Professor?" Thomas asked a frown creasing his brow.

They had never seen Professor Dumbledore look so worried in all the years that they had known him, through their years at Hogwarts, through the first war with Lord Voldemort, up until now. He had always been the rock that everyone leaned on in the times of trouble. The one everyone went to for guidance.

Dumbledore started to explain; he figured that they should know what had been going on with Harry. "For all most a year Harry has been able to see into Lord Voldemort's mind and feel what he is feeling while in that dream. He's been able to see things that Lord Voldemort may not know he has seen. My fear is that it could work both ways. Lord Voldemort may have seen into Harry's dreams, or maybe even been planting things into his mind."

"Is there something we can do, maybe go to Hogwarts to watch over Harry?" Krystal suggested worry seeping into her voice. "I know we're not to intervene but there are ways we can keep him safe without him knowing."

Wearily, Dumbledore replaced his spectacles before speaking. "Thank you all, but you know your presence at Hogwarts would not be wanted since I am no longer Headmaster of the school. I'm not sure what will happen to Harry or Sirius."

Silence settled over the group as everyone took to their own thoughts.

"Then what do we do?" Beth questioned, frustrated. "Is there no hope for Sirius?"

Sighing heavily Kristina spoke, "We're his last hope!"

"But how?" Michael asked exasperated with the situation. "We have very little to go on, and what we do have isn't much as it is."

Frowning slightly Thomas said, "We've gone on less then this before Michael you know that."

Curiously, almost conversationally, Krystal asked, "Professor, you said Harry has been seeing into Lord Voldemort's mind? What has he been seeing, do you know?"

Before he started to explain Dumbledore asked, "I think I'll take that cup of tea now if you please, Beth."

She nodded and left, returning a few minutes later with a serving tray.

After taking a sip, Dumbledore began to explain. "He hasn't confided in me as to what he's been seeing. I do know that if it hadn't been for Harry, Arthur Weasley would not be alive. He saw that attack through the eyes of Lord Voldemort's pet snake, Nagini. Professor Snape also told me that Harry has been dreaming of the door to the Department of Mysteries, which Harry managed to get through to the inner room before the lessons came to a halt."

His own curiosity peeked Alex asked, "How did Snape find out about this, and what lessons are you referring to."

"Serverus had been giving Harry Occlumency lessons for the past five months." Dumbledore answered gravely. "However, Harry and Serverus have never gotten along, not from the moment they first met. Therefore, Harry didn't take kindly to having Serverus give him lessons alone and Serverus ended them on not so good terms."

Kristina spoke up voicing a question that no one had thought of, "Is it to my understanding that Harry can see into Lord Voldemort's mind and feel his emotions?"

"Yes that is correct!" Dumbledore answered sadly.

Sighing, Celeste spoke for the first time since she retold the vision, having thought of something. "Could it be that Lord Voldemort is using, Harry? Maybe leading him thought the doors wanting him to retrieve something he, himself cannot."

"But, why?" Beth asked not understanding what she was asking. "This might be a stupid question, but what purpose would Voldemort have for luring Harry to the Ministry?"

A soft voice answered and to the surprise of everyone, it belonged to Dumbledore as he said, "Because of the prophecy!"

All were silent after the soft declaration from Dumbledore. No one could think of what to say too follow that.

Finally, Michael broke the silence, "So he knows about the prophecy? Does he know the whole truth? For that matter does Harry know?"

"No, Lord Voldemort doesn't know the whole prophecy. He only heard a little bit, just the part about the one who would be born as the seventh month dies, the one who has a power that he knows not. That is why he went after Lily, James and Harry thinking that with them dead no one would defy him. And as for Harry, he doesn't know either." Dumbledore answered bowing his head.

With anger in her voice Kristina said, "What do you mean Harry doesn't know? You were supposed to tell him."

With sorrowful eyes, Dumbledore looked up at Kristina. She saw the tiredness in his eyes and felt that he was in as much turmoil as she over this new revelation. A wash of anger at herself for being so self-righteous accosted her. She turned her eyes from the deep blues before she learned too much of the emotions that Albus Dumbledore was feeling.

"I know that Kristina! I just never found the right time to tell him. I didn't want to destroy his childhood with news that an evil dark lord was after him before he was even born. I didn't want to lay that kind of burden on his shoulders, not when he had so much to learn and experience. I wanted to be sure that he was ready for that kind of revelation." Dumbledore explained sorrow escaping in his voice. "I had planned to tell him at the first of this year. With Lord Voldemorts return, I figured he needed to know. However, when Harry returned to the school I saw a change in him. He was angry at everyone, most of all he seemed more angry with me than anyone else."

"The right time will be here soon, Professor Dumbledore!" Celeste said, her voice lacking emotion. "After Sirius is killed, you will have to explain things to Harry. The way it looks, we have to watch the Department of Mysteries that's the key to the things. Voldemort wants the sphere with the prophecy in it and since he can't go himself, he will send Harry to do his work for him."

"So he'll use Sirius and Harry's relationship as bait to trap two fish." Thomas commented crudely.

"It seems that there is no other suggestion. The only other question is..." Michael paused for a moment almost as if he was waiting for something before saying, "who will betray Sirius, and tell Lord Voldemort about their relationship? Who's in the position to betray Sirius and give Lord Voldemort a way to capture him and Harry?"

Alex frowned slightly saying, "That's one thing that we'll have to wait and see about."

"We'll have to stick closer together until this whole thing is resolved. We'll also have to set up shifts at the Ministry to watch the corridor." Thomas said, his mind already working out the basics.

"Then things are settled and agreed upon?" Dumbledore asked rising from the chair. Everyone nodded, as Dumbledore spoke again, "Then I will take my leave and wish you all luck and health. In a few weeks time I will send you a post as to where the rendezvous point will be."

Kristina rose first and stepped in front of the aged wizard. "Professor before you go, I wanted to apologize for my behaviour. I didn't mean to imply that you don't care about, Harry. I know you do! It's just, well we miss him, James, and Lily something awful. However, I shouldn't have been angry with you for something that's out of your hands."

"Apology accepted my dear. I know that you didn't mean to be rude. An old man like myself makes many mistakes in his life, I just happen to make bigger mistakes than most when it comes to the people I care about the most." Dumbledore answered, then turned and with a crack, he was gone.

Silence followed, no one moved or spoke as they absorbed everything that had happened.

Beth broke the silence first asking, "Who's going to take first watch?"

When no one answered, Kristina turned and left the room. Only to return ten minutes later with her clothes changed to a pair of fitted black trouser, a black t-shirt, and her dark brown hair pulled back into a high ponytail. As she passed the lounge on her way towards the study, she noticed that Alex was still up. As she entered, she studied his slightly tanned, oval shaped face, noticing that his light green eyes were closed and no emotion played on his features. However, she could sense that something troubled him.

"Is something troubling you dear brother?" Kristina asked, as she entered and took a seat next to his.

Alex slowly opened his eyes and focused onto his sister's round face, studying her light brown eyes as she sat next to him, with her invisibility cloak slung over one shoulder.

"The question is Kristina, is something troubling you?" Alex asked concern now lacing his voice as he stood from the over stuffed armchair. "You were a bit quiet tonight, something that is normally like you."

Shaking her head, she rose and stood before Alex, while saying, "I would hardly call my outburst quiet, Alex. I was rude to Professor Dumbledore when all he was doing was helping us."

Alex pressed on, "Still you barely said anything and when Beth asked what would happen to Sirius you seem worried for his well-fair."

Kristina frowned at her brother as she started to pace the room. She thought she had masked her emotions better than she had. However, she should have known better, Alex and Krystal both could always read her better than anyone could.

"So you caught me! I am worried but not about him. I'm more worried about Harry and what this will do to him more than anything." Kristina answered hoping that it would appease her brother.

"It's not just Harry your worried about, there's something else that's brothering you. You've been quiet ever since..." Alex stopped knowing at last what the trouble was. "It's him isn't it? Ever since Celeste mentioned Sirius' name you've been quiet. What gives?"

Kristina started to grow tired of her brother's needling. All she wanted was to get to the Ministry and think. The mention of Sirius had rattled her thoughts and now that Alex had broached the subject, all she wanted to do was get somewhere quiet and alone to think. For a brief moment, she entertained the thought of throwing her cloak on and Disapparating. However, she knew that Alex would only be here when she got back and this time he would get Krystal involved.

"Nothing gives, Alexander! I was just a bit surprised to hear Sirius' name like everyone else. Now if you'll excuse me I have work to do." Kristina said, a bit harsher than she intended.

She slung her invisibility cloak around her shoulders and Disapparated, hoping that he got the message to let it drop. Yet she knew that the subject would come up again, it always did.

Alex just shook his head. He figured Kristina had gotten over what happened. But, then again, she could always hold a grudge better then anyone.

Let's just hope she can forgive and forget once the mission starts. Alex thought as he left the lounge.

*************************************

The weeks that followed were quiet, as no word from either Dumbledore and no appearance from Harry came. Still they watched and waited. A week before the end of June a brown barn owl tapped its beak to the study window. The post, a message from Dumbledore on what too do with Sirius once the mission was complete. He also had suggested that the house elf of Black manor might have been serving two masters for a while, though he couldn't confirm his suspicions.

Two days after receiving his message and while Thomas was on guard, he heard someone or something coming his way. He knew that no one came down these corridors unless they were Unspeakables, or the Minister. Turning slightly to his left Thomas caught site of six teenagers hurrying his way. The last, a round faced boy almost tripped over Thomas's feet while rusting by. Once they had disappeared behind the door, Thomas pulled out his wand, and whispered, "Amhlaidh Se Tosaigh" as smoke in the shape of an eagle came out the end and soared up towards the ceiling. Not long after Thomas could hear the sound of eight pops all around him. They knew what would come next. To many times they had found themselves in the same predicament.

You all know what to do. This time is no different from the last. Even though Sirius and Harry are involved, we still need to keep our minds on the mission. Keep your eyes open, stay out of the way and by no means, use magic, unless it is required. We wait until the Death Eaters show up before moving in. Until then we wait." Celeste, explained (though not in words).

Oh, the virtues of being a telepath!

She received the answers required, and they waited. Of course, the wait wouldn't be long as multiply figures in long black robes passed by. They waited until the door closed behind the last, before slowly they to disappeared into the Department of Mysteries. Minutes stretched until it felt like they had been walking for hours instead of just five minutes. Soon they heard a crash as several teenagers came running. Slowly, they made their way around passing different fights as they went. It disturbed them not to help. However, they knew what the cost would be if they interfered with something that needed to happen. It was something they had learned long ago on a mission that had cost the life of someone they all were close too. Finally, Celeste found the room and with out making a sound she signalled for everyone to follow her in. They stationed themselves along the far wall, hiding in the shadows and waited for when the time would be right to complete their mission.

They watched as Harry came dashing into the room, falling down the steep stone steps, bouncing on every tier until finally crashing to a halt that seemed to have knocked the breath out of him. He landed back first in the sunken pit, where the stone archway from Celeste's vision stood. They saw the darkening shadows of five Death Eaters in front of him, and just as many coming from other directions. They watched everything unfold and all of them wanted to go down and fight. However, the words of Albus Dumbledore about how best to help Harry were clear to everyone.

Stay in the shadows. There is a reason why Sirius is to be saved. What it is, I do not know. No matter what you see or hear, stay in the shadows. Even though this will be the hardest mission, you all have ever had to face.

However, it became hard for Celeste to refrain from running to attack Lucius Malfoy, after he had pulled off his mask. Kristina and Krystal who were closest to her, had to hold her back from her fathers murderer. They watched as Neville came running in his nose bleeding down the front of his robes, trying in vain to help his friend - to be brave. They watched as one of the larger Death Eaters grabbed Neville as the others laughed at him. They listened as Bellatrix and Malfoy taunt him, and watched as she put the Cruciatus Curse on him, watched as he screamed and drew his legs up to his chest.

Seconds later two doors up above flew open and the rest of the Order came running in. Their spells rained down as the seven crouched down to stay out of the way of any misfired spells. They watched with anxiety as individual duels raged all over the cavernous room. Celeste kept her eyes on the duel between Sirius and Bellatrix. Within minutes, everything started to unfold before her as it had done in her vision. She summoned for Michael with her mind, then touched his arm and relayed the image of Sirius falling though the veiled archway. She then told Michael to wait and when she gives the word, he should send the images to everyone in the room, except them. She then motioned to Thomas and Beth, who were ready and waiting for the right time. Only a short time later everything started to happen just as she had foreseen. They watched as the fatal spell hit Sirius, sending him falling backwards, towards the veiled archway. Time started to slow, then stop all together. Thomas and Beth rushed forward knowing that the alteration of time wouldn't last. They pushed back the hood of their cloaks, as they approached Sirius who hung all most in mid air, conscious but motionless.

Draping the spare invisibility cloak over him and then making sure, their own cloaks covered them, each grasped him by a shoulder and started to pull him to safety. Time started to return slowly to normal as Celeste sent word to Michael who made quick work of the illusion. Once Beth and Thomas were safely with the others they all turned to see Harry struggle against Remus Lupin, who was restraining him from trying to get too his godfather. They saw the misery fill his eyes and angry with what had happened. Anyone with any feelings would have been heartbroken to see him. The fighting continued, which gave them a sufficient diversion so Alex could switch positions with Beth and get out before anyone could see them.

They arrived at the prearranged rendezvous of Twelve Grimmauld Place. They kept as quiet as possible, which was almost impossible to do with an unconscious man to carry. Celeste unlocked the door as the letter suggested and pushed open the heavy oak door. Automatically, everyone that could, lit his or her wand casting an eerie glow over the hallway. Everything was quiet - too quiet for their liking. Yet, they knew no one, apart from the house elf, was there. Stepping lightly through the front door, Thomas and Alex made for the stairs just as they had planned. They intended to lay Sirius somewhere a bit more comfortable, as everyone else started to look around for a place to sit and talk. However, before any of them could move the house elf came walking along the hallway. It wore only a loincloth, covering the lower half of its body. It looked up at them, surprised to see anyone there, and then he saw, Sirius. He blanched more than anyone could have imagined possible.

"What is you doing here? Why does master have to be carried? Have you done something to him?" asked the elf, bowing his head. In an undertone, he muttered, "Master is dead, Kreacher hopes. Oh, that would be a happy thing! To live without filthy blood traitors and Mudbloods everywhere, too finally be alone with Mistress again."

"We have come to bring Sirius home. He's unconscious but fine. Thomas, Alex take him upstairs and make sure he's comfortable as possible." Celeste ordered wanting to get Sirius somewhere he could rest.

"You can throw master out a window, it would be better it would!" exclaimed the elf barely keeping his voice low.

"What do we do with him?" Krystal asked, her brown eyes sweeping the area around them.

"There's nothing we can do. He won't obey any orders we give him." Beth said glancing at the elf in question.

"She's right!" Michael exclaimed. "But, there must be something we can do too stop him from leaving and warning the others."

Kristina walked forward, grabbed Kreacher and started to half drag, half walk him behind her, while saying, "I have the prefect idea!"

She continued to walk the hallway, passing the parlour on the right, the lounge on the left, and the stairs before finally coming to what they hoped was the kitchen door. Wands still lit, they followed Kristina down a narrow flight of stone steps, though another door into what looked like the kitchen. Cavernous room, with rough stonewalls, a large hearth with a feeble fire burning within, tables, chairs and counter space with a sink in the middle. Kristina let Kreacher go with a shove. He tried to balance himself but it was too late, and he landed with a thud on the floor.

"You give me one good reason why I shouldn't kill you, you miserable piece of rubbish. It would be no more than you deserve, for betraying Sirius." Kristina said, giving the elf a baleful look.

Since, Dumbledore's letter they suspected that Kreacher had been the one to sell his master out. He was the only one close enough to Sirius to be able to tell Voldemorts servants about the relationship he had with Harry and if there was one thing they all hated it was a traitor.

"You wou... wouldn't kill Kreacher!" choked the elf. "Yous need Kreacher, to keep the house up. No... no you wouldn't hurt, Kreacher!"

However, he could plainly see that the witch in front of him would indeed send him to his death.

Krystal stepped in front of her sister, and set her hands upon her shoulders. "Kristina, clam down! Dumbledore said nothing about killing Kreacher. We're here to watch over Sirius until the rest of the Order returns, nothing more."

"Yes, I know that!" Kristina raged, barely able to contain her fury, "if it wasn't for him we wouldn't have been needed in the first place."

"We know this, Kristina! But, none of this will help Sirius. That's what we're here for nothing more." Michael, said standing up next to Kristina.

Kristina looked up at both Krystal and Michael. She then backed away from Kreacher, who cowered in the corner, trying with all his might to get away from them all. She turned, but not before sending another ominous glare at the elf, then walked out of the kitchen and back up stairs.

"We still have the problem of the elf." Celeste reminded everyone.

"Kreacher will go to his room. Yous can lock him in there. Kreacher won't leave!" he bowed to them all. "Nasty Mudbloods, the first chance Kreacher gets, Kreacher will leave."

"Of course, you will, you filthy elf. We would expect no less from you." Michael growled, his face twisting into a look of disgust.

Seeing that they would get nowhere fast, Celeste magically summoned chains and then advanced on Kreacher, who tried to sidestep her. However, Krystal impeded his movement, and finally after five minutes they managed to chain up Kreacher in a corner, providing him with a blanket and pillow. A little later, Alex and Thomas returned yawning, as they took seats around the long table. A blazing fire now lit the grate, spreading warmth and light. Both Beth and Krystal were busying themselves with making tea with the things left.

"Did either of you see where Kristina has gotten to?" Krystal asked tuning from the hearth. "She stormed out of here in a huff!"

"Yeah, she's watching, Sirius!" Alex answered yawning. "She thinks it may be a good idea to keep an eye on him just in case he wakes up."

Krystal nodded. However, she worried about her sister and wondered how the events of tonight's mission would affect her. Hours passed, and slowly the kitchen emptied out, all except for, Kreacher, everyone else retired for the night.

*************************

Morning sunlight filtered though the grimy window, piercing Kristina's eyes as she woke up from the brief sleep she had managed to grab, sometime around five in the morning. At first, she didn't remember where she was, but then the memories of that night came back to her.

After the episode in the kitchen, she had stomped off to find her brother and Thomas. Who had found Sirius' bedroom, after managing to half-drag, half carry him up the stairs. They had been in the middle of putting Sirius in his bed when she walked in. A sound of rustling feathers alerted them to the Hippogriff lying by the cold hearth. Thankfully, Kristina always loved the beautiful creatures and knew how to approach them without trouble. Once they had bowed and the danger passed, she approached and started to stroke its feathers. When she found the wound, she examined it making sure no infection had set in and made a mental note to talk with Krystal in the morning. Her attention stayed with the Hippogriff while Alex and Thomas made Sirius comfortable. After they finished she turned and informed them that she would be staying there, in case Sirius woke. Alex wasn't fooled a bit, but left none the less. Once the door closed, Kristina moved towards the hearth, lit a fire, then grabbed the high backed brown chair and sat it in front of the bed, and sat down.

As her thoughts drifted back to the present, she lifted her head, and then felt the heavy weight in her lap. Looking down, she was surprised to see that the Hippogriff had came to rest its massive head in her lap, folded its wings behind him and fell asleep. She stroked his feathers waking the creature slightly and then raised her head to glance up the bed. To her great surprise, a pair of hooded grey eyes was stared at her, out of a gaunt, pale face. His black hair fell just passed his shoulders concealing most of his features. She managed to hide her surprise at his attention, for he stared at her as if she was a ghost. She noticed that the years in Azkaban had not been kind to him and wished for the first time in years that she could have done something to stop him from going to that God-awful place.

She was broken out of her reverie when he spoke, "Kristina is that you?"

Surprise, was an under statement. He had figured that he would never see her again. Yet, here she was sitting not but a foot away from him. He noticed that she looked tried, as her tall frame was currently slouched down in a chair. He noticed that she was absentmindedly scratching Buckbeck's head. He wondered what had brought her to this place, why had she come after so long with no word. Then, the events of last night came speeding back, and all he wanted to do was run. Harry needed him! There was no question about that, and he wouldn't let anything get in his way.

"Harry's fine! There's no need to worry!" Kristina said, her voice betraying nothing.

The surprise showed on his face as he asked, "How... how did you know?"

A small crack of a smile crossed her face as she said, "You're easy to read, you always have been."

Silence descended upon the two, nether knowing what to say.

Then a whisper of a voice said, "Why?"

Sirius looked up not sure if Kristina had really said something. "Excuse me?"

"Why?" Kristina asked, looking up and strait into Sirius's eyes.

"Why, what?" Sirius answered puzzled by her question.

Kristina sighed then answered, "Why did you leave with out telling me."

She thought about what she had said then closed her eyes, rose from the seat, and started to move away. "Once you've showered come down stairs there are a few things that need to be discussed." and with that she turned and walked away.

She couldn't believe that she had opened herself up like that. She knew better. Yet she had and the worst part about it was she didn't know why. One look at him and the memories of the past came flooding back and in a way she knew she felt a bit betrayed by Sirius for not telling her what was going on.

To say Sirius was puzzled would be an understatement.

"She was the one thing I could never figure out." Sirius said as he rose out of bed, "and that will change this time."

He'd be fooling himself if said he hadn't missed her and that the very sight of her had brought back so many memories. However, now was not to time to dwell on the past, for many things were still left undone.

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Meanwhile, Kristina had stopped just outside of Sirius's door. She wondered what had possessed her to ask that question to let her mask slip just that little bit. Banishing those thoughts - she had other things to worry about now - and continued down the stairs, passed the moth-eaten velvet curtains. As she passed, she received a sense of animosity so strong that it made her pause a moment. However, she dismissed it and continued on to the kitchen. Upon entering the kitchen, things looked a lot different in the light of day - more homely - Krystal and Beth had cleaned some of the mess up and started to make brunch, the smells of bacon, eggs, toast, and porridge filled the massive room, sending the smells up though the house, making Kristina's stomach growl with hunger.

"Have a nice sleep?" asked Krystal in a cheerful voice, when she turned.

"Not really! Those chairs aren't very comfortable. By the way, what time is it?" Kristina replied, taking a seat. "Thanks!" she said, while taking the offered cup of tea from Beth.

Looking at his watch, Alex answered, "It's five to ten."

"What now?" Michael asked, taking a seat, "Our mission is complete what should we do with Sirius now?"

"Not much we can do except wait." Celeste answered scanning the faces before her. "Dumbledore didn't say much in his letter, just that we should wait and explain everything to Sirius."

With brunch in front of everyone, they all lost themselves in their own thoughts, as silence reigned. Moments later the sound of the front door opening, then slamming shut came to their ears.

Then an ear splitting, scream reverberated around the house. "BLOOD TRATIORS, MUDBLOODS IN MY HOUSE! BEGONE YOU ABOMINATIONS! I SAY BEGONE NOW!"

A deep growling voice responded with, "Shut it you bitch! This house no longer belongs to you!"

Their looked at each other and smiled, for they all knew that voice. Krystal rose from her seat to start making another place for brunch. The silence broke by the thud of something heavy hitting the floor above them. The top door opened and the thudding grew louder and before anyone knew it, the bottom door flew open. In stepped a man with long grizzly grey hair, and mismatched eyes, one of which was small, dark, and beady, while the other was large, round, and electric blue. His clothes, which were highly travel worn, consisting if a black cloak that covered a pair of black trousers and shirt. The man behind him surprised them even more. He was slightly taller, and looked younger yet his light brown hair was streaked with grey, his hazel eyes looked tired and he wore patched cloaks that ccovered his lean frame.

"Alastor Moody, I thought I heard your growling voice." Alex said, his voice betraying his joy at seeing his old teacher. "What's an old man like you doing here?"

"I could ask the same of you, Alexander. I wouldn't have thought a young upstart as you would be caught dead in a place like this." Moody responded, a ghost of a smile crossing his face.

Alex blushed scarlet. He had always hated people using his full first name.

When Moody moved out of his line of sight, Remus received quite a shock, when he saw just who was sitting at the kitchen table. He had thought he would never see any of them again. His shock retuned when she turned around.

She was surprised as well. However, she wasn't so surprised that she couldn't say, "Hello Remus, how are you?"

Everybody in the room could tell that something had happened between the two of them, just by the way they were looking at each other. For the longest time, they just stood there staring at one another. She looked him over with her dark brown eyes, and wondered if she was seeing things. The last time she had seen him was the night Lily and James Potter were murdered, and that had been fourteen years ago. That night Remus had came to her and professed his love and she had returned the sentiment and for the whole night, they had made love. However, Remus had left as the light of dawn broke over the horizon, without saying goodbye or even telling her where he was going. All she was left with was a warm bed, a letter saying that the Potters were dead and that Harry would be living with the Dursleys.

She saw what the last fourteen, almost fifteen, years had done to him. She noticed the faded, baggy clothes that were patched in more places than she could count. She could also tell that he hadn't had a decent meal in weeks, and that his once light brown hair was now sprinkled with grey. However, none of this made a difference to her. She still thought he was the most handsome man alive.

He too was surveying her. To him she still looked the same, only a few minor changes had taken place since he had last seen her. Her dark brown hair was shorter, yet her face still looked young though there were some signs of worry, and grief. He could tell that her body had filled out a bit more. She held herself differently, more confided. However, her eyes still held that familiar look of trust. They were the one thing he couldn't draw his eyes away from, for they said so much that words could not.

Finally, Remus found his voice, "Krystal, but... but I don't understand, what's going on? Why are you here?"

"All questions will be answered soon. We're waiting on someone." Krystal answered cryptically.

Remus knew she was hiding something, even as he tore his eyes away from hers. Both, Moody and Lupin took seats, handed plates of food, and steaming cups of coffee, grateful for the warmth the hot liquid provided. Silence took over them as everyone lost themselves in their own thoughts. The silence was a bit awkward for no one knew how to start a conversation.

"What have you been doing with yourselves?" Moody asked, putting his coffee down.

Before anyone could answer the door at the top of the stairs opened and someone could be heard rushing down. The door flew open for the second time that morning. However, this time a tall thin man stood there his black hair wet from a shower, trousers and a black shirt covered Sirius' frame.

"Here we go!" Thomas whispered from beside Celeste.

Remus stood first, shock evident on his face, "Si... Sirius? But your suppose to be... what in Merlin's name is going on here?"

"I'm supposed to be what, Remus?" Sirius asked, staring at his best friend.

"Dead!" was all he could say, before drawing his wand.

"Woo! There's no need for wands here." Alex exclaimed jumping up from his chair.

"Like hell there isn't!" Moody growled rising his own wand.

"Will someone please tell me what the hell is going on here?" Sirius shouted, moving farther into the room, surveying everyone, yet keeping an eye on the two wands pointed at him.

Remus, agreed, "Yes I think an explanation would be best."

"If you both would lower your wands we would explain everything." Celeste answered calmly.

"Like hell I will." Moody snarled, "we don't know who he is. For all we know he could be a spy sent by Voldemort using the Polyjuice potion."

"And you would be an expert on that one wouldn't you Moody." Sirius scoffed, and then turned his attention towards Remus. "Moony you know it's me, you've got to believe me."

Remus sighed, and then ran his fingered though his greying brown hair. "Alastor is right how can we know that you're really Sirius and not some impostor?"

"Damn it Remus what do I have to do too get you to believe me?" Sirius asked aggravated.

"Tell me something no one else would know." Remus challenged.

"All right but I wont say it in front of everyone, I promised you that I wouldn't." Sirius answered, motioning for him to come forward.

Moody raised his wand pointing it start at Sirius chest, "Be careful Lupin remember it could be just a trick."

As Remus moved forward, Celeste inched her way toward Moody. "I can tell you for certain that he truly is, Sirius Black."

Moody turned to her and just stared for a moment then understanding dawned on him. "You mean to tell me that he was one of your missions?"

All Celeste did was nod.

When Remus was close enough Sirius whispered, "The secret you asked me to keep is from our fifth year. Remember it was the year you fell in love with your potions partner. Who just happens to be stand not two feet away from you."

Remus turned and saw Krystal standing close by, and he knew that Sirius was telling the truth. For only two others knew, one was dead and the other was just as good as dead. He caught Moody's eye and nodded.

He turned back to Sirius and clasped his shoulder looking the other man in the eye. "It's good to know that you're not dead too. However, I don't understand how you can be standing here in the flesh, when we saw you fall though the veiled archway in the Department of Mysteries?"

"I don't know what happened either, Remus," Sirius said, glancing around the room, "the last thing I remember was duelling with Bellatrix. Then I woke up here in my bed with Kristina sitting in a chair opposite me."

"It's a long and complicated story ..." Michael began.

"Try to explain it then. Because the Wizarding World thinks he's dead." Moody interrupted a bit confused.

"That's what they have to think, in order for all to go right." Beth said, stepping forward with a plate of food in her hands.

She handed the plate to Sirius, who took it grateful for the chance to fill his stomach. Beth wiped her hands on a dishtowel, looking around, trying to come up with what to say next.

"What do you mean 'in order for all to go right'?" Remus asked a puzzled frown on his face.

"Sirius is to remain dead to the Wizarding World until such time that his life wouldn't be in danger." Krystal answered.

"It still doesn't explain how you managed to get him out without anyone seeing or the fact that we all saw him fall through the veiled archway." Remus pressed.

"Magic!" Alex answered simply. "We found spells for the illusion of Sirius falling though the veiled archway and we have special invisibility cloaks that help us go undetected and in our line of work it helps greatly."

"But how did you know about tonight?" Sirius asked as he stopped eating.

Everyone grew silent for a moment. They were unsure of how to go on.

"Some things are not meant for everyone to know." Kristina stated cryptically.

Sirius turned towards her, his eyes hard. "What things are we not meant to know?"

"My question - though it may sound rude - is why Sirius?" Moody asked for the first time since they all set down.

The seven looked at each other, and then very faintly Celeste nodded.

Thomas sighed, "We were sent to save Sirius that was our mission. We don't know why yet."

"By whom and why didn't you get involved?" Sirius asked his voice low, a slight warning in his tone.

"You were our main reason for being there." Michael said, staring hard at Sirius and Remus, "we knew that no one else would get hurt, that wasn't foreseen." It wasn't that he distrusted the men in front of him, it was just the fact that they kept questioning them was starting to get on his nerves.

"Foreseen?" Remus asked puzzled once more. "No one could have foreseen anything of what happened last night. Not unless one of you is a seer, other wise it would've been impossible to know what would happen."

For some time no one answered, the seven were reluctant to say anything about what they truly were. So many had shunned them for being different, and it made them all a little wary to answer questions, like that.

Celeste finally spoke when she realized, no one else was going to, they were all trying to protect her.

"I am a seer, Remus!" Celeste said, down casting her eyes. "Not the kind of seer that Professor Trelawney is but one who sees visions instead of prophecies. I see the death of the one who needs to be saved, like in your case, Sirius. Most of the time they give hints as to when the event will happen that was the one thing that changed with you. The other thing that changed was the fact that the world is supposed to think that your dead until Harry can close his mind off from Voldemort."

Both Remus and Sirius looked stunned. They didn't know what would be right to say. They both had known them for years and never realized that Celeste was a Seer. Only Alastor seemed unaffected by this news.

Of course, not! Why would she mention something like that? Everyone has secrets, Remus thought knowing that he had his own.

Remus turned to Moody, with mild curiosity in his voice he asked, "Did you know this when you trained them, Alastor?"

"Course I did, Lupin." Moody answered with pride in his voice.

In a sorrowful voice, Sirius asked, "I know this may be the wrong question to ask, but did you see James and Lily's death?"

Celeste bowed her head, shaking it as if to say "No!" Thomas put a comforting arm around his wife, knowing that it was a difficult subject to approach.

"It's the one thing that she regrets about being a Seer that she couldn't even save one of her best friends, especially when she knew nothing of it until it happened." Thomas said sombrely.

Silence seems to settle over the group, as sadness envelops everyone. That quite was broken when the front door opened and soft footsteps could be heard approaching. The upper door opened and someone started to descend the stairs. Everyone held their breath wondering who it could be. The question was answered when the kitchen door opened and in the threshold stood Albus Dumbledore, dressed in midnight blues robes. His expression was calm. Yet, in his eyes, you could tell that something troubled him greatly.

"Is everything all right, Professor?" Krystal asked rising from her seat, "Is Harry all right?"

"As good as he can be my dear." Dumbledore said, before conjuring up an over stuffed armchair. "Harry now knows about the prophecy. He is quiet angry with me and himself over what happened at the Ministry though he is alright, no lasting physical injures."

"That can't be helped Albus, he's going to have too deal with it. Besides Black's alive. Potter will be angry that he was tricked but will come out of this all the better." Moody said, gesturing towards Sirius.

"Harry can't know that he's alive, not yet anyway." Michael exclaimed sadly.

Moody looked up from his coffee, "And why can't he?"

Krystal turned around from gathering a plate of food for Dumbledore to say, "Because he has yet to close his mind off from, Voldemort. As we said before there is a reason Sirius lived, what it is we don't know."

"Then what do we do?" Remus asked, glancing down the table at Dumbledore.

"Well since the term ends in a few weeks there's not much you can do." Dumbledore said, taking the plate of food gratefully. "We keep a low profile for now. Especially with, the whole Wizarding World knowing the truth about Lord Voldemort's return. People are going to be wondering whom to turn too in this time."

"The Ministry will not be of much help unless things start to change." Alex stated a bit harshly. "That means a new Minister for Magic!"

"This is true." Dumbledore began, "That is why we need to keep our guard up and our eyes open for anything. Lord Voldemort will undoubtedly be laying low for a time until the shock wears off. In that time, we need to regroup and come up with plans. The first would be that we can no longer use this house for Order meetings that is one thing that needs to be rectified soon."

Sirius looked up from pushing his leftover breakfast around, to say, "What am I to do? Since no one is supposed to know that I'm alive."

The simple question was met with silence.

Then Dumbledore's quiet voice spoke, "For now you will have to remain here, until things can be thought though. The only problem I foresee is Kreacher."

Sirius turned to the cowering elf, which even though was trembling visibly. Sirius could tell that he was really listening to everything that was being planned. He rose and approached the elf.

"Kreacher!" Sirius said watching as the elf raised its head and looked at his face. "I order you not to leave this house. You are not to speak to anyone about anything to hear or see. You are not to follow anyone else's orders but mine. Is that clear?"

Kreacher stayed silence for a moment then finally spoke, "Yes master, Kreacher understands. Kreacher will obey what master has wished." The elf bowed slightly then turned from Sirius.

Celeste merely glanced at the chains binding Kreacher and they disappeared. Kreacher slowly left the kitchen his head bowed slightly.

"I have one more favour to ask of all of you." Dumbledore said.

"You know all you have to do is asked Professor and we'll do what we can." Thomas answered glancing at his friends yet not at Remus or Sirius.

Before Dumbledore spoke, he looked at his former students. They shouldn't have to go though this again. "First off I would ask those of you who were once Aurors to rejoin the rank until Lord Voldemort has been dealt with. That goes for you as well, Remus."

Remus looked strait at Dumbledore a bit startled, "I can't rejoin the Aurors, Professor. Minister Fudge would not allow that to happen."

"Minister Fudge will not be the Minister for long, Remus. Above all, you were the best researcher and right now, the Aurors need you." Dumbledore explained.

All Remus could do was nod he didn't understand what Dumbledore needed from him.

"Second I need for Krystal and Remus to go too Privet Drive and watch over Harry. Arabella can't watch him alone and Mundungus will be away on Order business. Give it a week, let him settle in with the Dursleys then with an appropriate cover let him know that your there for him. Answer his questions if he should have any and let him know what's going on, keep him informed but not too informed."

"Again I ask; what am I to do? I can't stay in this house much longer without going mad." Sirius, questioned his eyes beseeching Dumbledore.

Dumbledore bowed his head. He had no answer for the younger man that would end his exile. "I have no answer for you Sirius, not yet anyway."

Sirius lowered his eyes he didn't know what he would do. His exile here would be even harder than the last. For now, no one would come to see him. He would truly be alone this time.

"What about food and someone to stay here with him? Therefore, he won't be alone in this house with the miserable old elf and nothing to do." Remus questioned worried for his friend.

"Remus is right!" Krystal said, "this place just feels bad. He needs human contact."

They knew what she meant even as Alex spoke, they knew that he would be their charge now. They would have to take care of him weather he liked it or not, at least until everything was figured out.

"We can provide him with food and company until things are figured out. Kristina, Michael and I have no open cases right now we'll come by as much as we can." Alex said, offering their help.

"And I can stay here with Sirius, until it's time to go too Little Whinging." Remus said, glancing at his friend.

"That is very kind of you all. With any luck everything will be resolved within a few weeks." Dumbledore said, glad to see that friends still stuck together.

Relief flowed though Sirius, at least he wouldn't be alone.

Dumbledore rose from his chair, "For now that at least is finished. However, I am sorry that you have to stay here Sirius, maybe some good will come out of this in the end. Now I must go the children are awaiting my return and I can't keep them waiting. Until next we meet stay well." and with that Dumbledore left the room, his chair vanished just as the door closed behind him.

Nine Days Later

Twilight had settled over England. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry lay silent. Only ghosts and a few teachers remained behind for the summer.

Albus Dumbledore was taking his nightly walk, when a swirl of colours appeared in front of him. He lifted his arm to shield his eyes from the blinding light. In a matter of seconds the light disappeared to leave a young woman barely fifteen, standing before, Dumbledore.

"Good evening young lady, and what may I ask is the reason for this mysterious visit?"

The girl looked up from the stone floor, hazel eyes staring wide at Dumbledore almost as if she was seeing a ghost. She then promptly fainted.

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