The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 7

Order of the Phoenix

Harry awoke to a gray overcast day. The air was thick and humid, without even a breeze to stir the leaves that were hanging limply from their branches on the trees. There was no movement and not even the birds were singing. It was as if a pall of gloom hung over Ottery St. Catchpole and everything was holding its breath waiting for whatever dire consequences were to come. As if to confirm this feeling, a church bell tolled in the distance, calling the mourners to a funeral.

Trying to shake off her feelings of foreboding, Harry got out of bed, noting that Phaedra had already gone downstairs. Glancing at the clock on her night table, she saw that it was past nine, and she had slept well into the morning. Grabbing a set of robes to wear, she went and took a fast shower and headed downstairs.

Reaching the first floor, Harry heard voices coming from the parlor, and popped her head inside to see who was there. She was surprised to see Professor McGonagall sitting with Sirius and Severus, watching Phaedra and Remus as they played a game of Wizard Monopoly. Harry knew Circe had long since left for work at the Ministry, and assumed Tiberius Snape was probably busy elsewhere in the house, or doing some work for either the Order or his import export business.

"Good morning sleepy head," Sirius greeted her warmly.

"Good morning," she replied glancing around the room. "I can't believe I slept so late."

"Mummy said not to wake you up. She said you needed your beauty sleep since you are having a special day today at the Order. Can I come to the Order too? Mummy said they were going to have a party before the meeting."

"I'm afraid not, Phaedra," Snape answered his niece, "you will have to stay home tonight with the house elves. The meetings are only for members and you are far too young to attend."

"Oh...I never get to have any fun," she pouted.

"Phaedra, you would be bored. It is just a group of adults talking about different things going on in the wizarding world," Professor McGonagall smiled at the little girl.

"What about the party?"

"It is just a small celebration to make the new members welcome. I am sure Harry will smuggle you out a piece of cake," McGonagall smiled. She was apparently aware of Phaedra's penchant for sweets.

"Will you Miss Harry?"

"Yes, I will bring you home a piece," Harry chuckled. "It is good to see you again Professor," she said turning her attention to the older witch, taking her hands in greeting.

"I'm glad to see you looking so well," McGonagall smiled, "and there is no need to stand on formality. You have finished school and we are going to be colleagues, so please call me Minerva."

"I'll be happy to." Harry flushed as the three men snickered at her obvious discomfiture at using her instructor's first name.

"Harry is still getting used to addressing Dumbledore by his first name, Minerva," Lupin remarked. "Ah, you owe me 10 Knuts rent, Phaedra," he turned his attention to the little girl, "you landed on my floo network in the Three Broomsticks."

"I'm sure she will adjust quite well, Remus." McGonagall responded, watching as Phaedra counted out the Knuts carefully. "Harry, Professor Dumbledore asked me to deliver these robes to you," she said, indicating a large box. "They are your formal robes for the Order. I have already dropped off Mr. Weasley's and Miss Granger's at the Burrow."

"Thank you, Pro...Uh...Minerva. Can I offer you a cup of tea?"

"No thank you dear. I have to be getting on my way. I will be sending you the outlines for your lesson plans by the end of the month for the upcoming school year. We have all your medical records and vital information on file, so there is no need for me to have you send that. From what I understand you are going to be one of our best teachers," the old witch replied smiling, rising from the sofa, "and Albus also said to remind you to wear your medallion. He has not yet activated them."

"Don't worry, I won't forget," Harry said, pretending to understand what she had meant. Obviously, there was more to these medallions than being a pretty trinket to identify the members.

"I'll be going then," she nodded. "I still have two more sets of robes to deliver," McGonagall stated as Harry followed her to the door. "I will see you this evening, Harry." Hugging Harry goodbye she walked to the gate and apparated.

Turning to go back inside, Harry was met by Sirius and Severus in the hallway.

"Are you hungry, Honey?"

"Starving, but it is rather late. Maybe I will just have some brunch," she answered moving into the kitchen.

"I believe Dobby kept some of the breakfast dishes ready for you," Snape informed her checking the covered dishes on the counter. "It seems there are some eggs, bacon, and fried potatoes."

"Umm...Smells good." Harry wrinkled her nose as he made her a plate.

"Would you like some tea, Honey?"

"No. I think I'll have some juice if there is any."

"We have apple, orange, and pumpkin juice," Sirius replied as Severus put the plate of food on the table.

"Orange juice will be fine," Harry smiled. "I just love watching the two of you try to butter me up. I take it you would like to be separated?"

"Harry, we are not doing this to butter you up. We merely want to make sure you eat something. You really will have a busy day today."

"Sirius did you know that those gorgeous brown eyes of yours laugh when you are up to something?"

"Honey, I am not up to anything. I am only happy to see you looking so well and happy today," he said, cupping her chin.

"Ahem..." Severus cleared his throat. "Harry, Sirius and I have been doing our best to get along and get to know one another better as individuals. We were hoping you would trust us enough by now to release us from one another, and let us continue on, without having to feel like we are being forced to do so."

"Do you both believe that you will be able to form some kind of bond in friendship, aside from your being my protectors?"

"Yes, Harry, we do. I hate to admit it but you were right. Severus and I do have quite a few things in common, including how we feel about you."

"How do you feel, Severus? Do you think you and Sirius can actually become friends, in view of how badly he used to treat you?"

"We were children then, Harry, and both of us were angry arrogant young men. It has taken its toll on us both, but yes, I believe Sirius and I will eventually become friends."

"Then face each other and shake hands, as you apologize to one another."

"You won't be satisfied until you see us apologize for yourself," Sirius rolled his eyes tussling her hair playfully.

"No, I won't, and if you want to be separated you will have to do so."

"Very well," Snape agreed, "Sirius Black I apologize for any problems I may have caused you in the past and for the way I treated you."

"Me too," Sirius said looking at Harry.

"Sirius, you know that is not good enough." Harry folded her arms over her chest trying to look stern. She knew how hard it was for her godfather to apologize to Severus.

"All right, Honey," he sighed taking Severus hand, "Severus Snape, I was a real bastard to you when we were in school, and continued to treat you with contempt when we became adults. I never really took the trouble to get to know you as a person, and I'm sorry."

As soon as Sirius apologized the rope binding their wrists began to glow and suddenly vanished. They were both free once again.

"You both had the power to free yourselves the entire time. All you had to do was apologize and mean what you said to one another and it would have dissolved the binding charm," Harry smiled at the two men, who looked at her astonished.

"I have the feeling we've been had," Sirius grinned looking at Snape.

"Indeed and how did you come up with the idea for this little charm?" Snape asked looking at her down his nose.

"Professor Dumbledore suggested it. He said it reminded him of when Dorothy clicked her ruby slippers together at the end of the Wizard of Oz. She had the ability to go home all along so we wanted to give you the chance to free yourselves," Harry giggled.

"What wizard are you talking about and where is this place called Oz?" Sirius queried confused.

"I believe it is a Muggle fairy tale," Snape replied shaking his head. "It sounds like something Albus would devise."

"I thought it was kind of clever myself," Harry laughed hugging the two of them before she sat down at the table to eat. "Would either of you mind if I went over to the Burrow today? I would like to see Ron and Hermione before the meeting tonight."

"I don't see why not. Maybe Phaedra would like to go with you too. She loves to see the twins," Sirius reflected.

"I believe the twins are in London at the joke shop today. They perfected the beard colors for Albus, and are going to bring him some samples tonight. It looks like we will be sporting house colored beards on Halloween," Snape frowned with distaste.

"What are you complaining about? You already have a beard, or are you going to shave it off?" Harry asked curiously.

"Harry, I know you like me in a short beard and mustache, but I have decided to shave it off. I prefer to be clean shaven."

"I think you look nice in it, but if you are more comfortable the other way, then go ahead."

"They can be a nuisance at times, Honey, and require a good deal of work to keep them nice. I don't blame Severus for preferring to shave. I had a beard in Azkaban and was more than happy when I escaped and was able to shave."

"You probably had lice too, which would have made it even worse," Harry grimaced, which elicited a chuckle from Sirius.

"In any event, I want you both to be happy, so I won't dictate about your facial hair, or lack of it."

"Does this mean I can grow my goatee back?" Remus asked coming into the kitchen with Phaedra. "Ah...I see you two are separate entities again," he mocked playfully.

"No thanks to you," Sirius smirked.

"Why would you want to grow a goat, Mr. Remus? Can't you just conjure one?" Phaedra interrupted their playful banter.

"No, Phaedra," Remus laughed, "not a goat, a goatee. It is a short beard on the bottom of your chin."

"Oh, I thought you were going to get a pet goat," Phaedra replied growing red.

"It's okay, Phaedra, you needn't feel embarrassed. He is not going to grow it back anyway," Harry replied firmly.

"You didn't complain about Severus shaving his beard and mustache off. Why can't I grow my goatee?"

"I never really liked it, Moony. I think you are adorable just the way you are. Don't you agree Sirius?" Harry asked, swallowing the last mouthful of eggs.

"I think you're right, Honey," he looked covertly at Remus, " but don't you think Remus should be given the same options as Severus?"

"No."

"No!" Remus and Sirius exclaimed together.

"Why not, Princess?"

"Because I don't like goatees. I would let you grow a mustache though. You would look nice with one, I think."

"Hmm...A mustache huh? I think I will grow one then and see how it looks. I can always shave it off if I don't like it."

"Fair enough," Harry agreed. "Now that I have finished my brunch I'll go and check to see if Hermione and Ron are at the Burrow. I don't know if Ron has Auror training today, but I'm sure Hermione should be arriving there before the meeting later. I really am looking forward to a nice visit with them. Phaedra would you like to come with me?"

"Aren't we going to do some potions today? You said if I passed the quiz you gave me I could mix one."

"I will help you with your potions today, Phaedra," Severus smiled at his niece, "assuming you passed Harry's quiz about safety with a good grade."

"He just wants to know how you did because I wouldn't tell him before I told you." Harry winked at her.

"Then we should show him my paper," Phaedra replied contritely. Running from the kitchen, she dashed upstairs, to get the test from their room.

"How did she do, Harry?" Sirius questioned with interest.

"Oh, about as good as any member of the Snape family does when it comes to potions," she said as Phaedra came back into the kitchen, almost knocking the glass of juice from Harry's hand.

"Whoa, slow down!" Remus exclaimed, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Remus. I just wanted to show everybody my test. I got only one wrong. I said it was all right to sharpen my own knife if one of the adults was there."

"Do you understand why you can't use the sharpener by yourself?" Snape asked studying his niece.

"Yes, Uncle Severus. I am too little to nipulate the sharpener properly."

"That is manipulate, Phaedra, and you are quite correct. I never even let the students use it at Hogwarts until their seventh year," Snape replied.

"Can I mix a potion today?"

"I will teach you a simple potion today, and we can surprise Miss Harry and your mother."

"Yea," Phaedra beamed hugging Severus. "What will we make?"

"If I tell you now, Miss Harry will know and it won't be a surprise."

"Can we go and do it now?"

"We will start as soon as Harry leaves."

"Then let me go and see if Hermione or Ron is available so I can be on my way."

"One minute, Harry. You are still in danger and can't go alone," Sirius reminded her.

"Will you come with me?"

"I was hoping you would ask."

"He just wants some of Molly's cookies," Remus teased, "she always bakes some for the meetings."

"I do not," Sirius said attempting not to smile.

"You have guilt written all over your face, and you can't hide that grin, Sirius Black," Harry taunted him, "but I can't blame you. Molly's cookies are yummy," she agreed, placing her plate in the sink and washing it off by hand. She still had to wait to do even the simplest magic until after graduation in two weeks. The only exception was a life-threatening situation, or when she was training with Sirius and Moody.

Leaving the kitchen, she went into the parlor, and using the fireplace, contacted Mrs. Weasley. Ron had the day off and Hermione had arrived a few minutes earlier. They were both looking forward to seeing her, but Harry said she would walk over with Sirius rather than floo, so Ron and Hermione could have some time alone. She also wanted to spend some quiet time with Sirius now that he and Severus were separated.

Before leaving for the Burrow with Sirius, Harry put her new robes for the Order in the attic room she shared with Phaedra. She then put the gold Phoenix medallion around her neck. Sirius met her at the bottom of the stairs. Phaedra and Severus had adjourned to the basement potions lab and Remus had gone into his room to prepare his report for the meeting.

"Are you sure you want to walk over to the Burrow, Harry? You know Molly will be happy to open her floo for us."

"I need the exercise, besides you and I haven't had any time together since we got here."

"Now whose fault was that?" he teased.

"Not mine," she quipped, "you were both being naughty little boys so Papa Albus stepped in so I would be happy."

"I think you're going daft," Sirius snickered, as they headed out the front door. "I hope it doesn't start to rain before we get there."

"I think the rain will hold off for a while yet. Everything seems like it's just waiting."

"I know what you mean," Sirius replied putting his arm around her waist, "it's almost as if nature is holding its breath."

"I had this awful feeling when I woke up today," Harry remarked carefully, trying to sound casual.

"What kind of feeling?"

"Just anxiety, I can't pinpoint anything specific."

"You didn't have any nightmares last night did you?"

"No, nothing like that. Maybe it is just from this gloomy weather coupled with the meeting tonight."

"Probably," Sirius smiled down at her, but Harry noted that his eyes were troubled.

They continued walking on in silence for a few minutes when Harry looked up at him questioningly, "Sirius, is there something going on that you aren't telling me about?"

"Umm...What makes you think that?"

"I can tell you're worried. I feel it, and Professor McGonagall said it was good to see me looking so well. I could sense her concern, plus there is the fact that I am still not able to go anywhere alone."

"Harry there has already been one attack by the Deatheaters on all of us. The only other thing I can tell you is that their activities continue. We will know more after tonight's meeting. Dumbledore makes sure not to let us in on anything until the meetings. He feels it could compromise the Order members if one of us is captured."

"Is that why everyone does different things?"

"Yes. Dumbledore will assign you to what ever he feels you will be able to do without creating suspicion."

"I see. It just seems odd that the remaining Deatheaters aren't trying to melt back into the woodwork and blend back into society to escape capture. I mean, Voldemort is dead and most of the original members of the inner circle have either been killed or are in Azkaban."

"I know, but until the meeting tonight we will just have to be patient, and wait for answers."

"So you really don't know what is going on? You all seem concerned that I might be having nightmares again."

"Honey, I don't know any more than you do about what may be happening. As for you having nightmares, we are all just concerned about the after effects of that final encounter you had with Voldemort," he said turning her to face him, placing his hands on her shoulders. "You were almost raped by that evil bastard and we know what you went through. Your safety comes first. I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you."

"Sirius, promise me something?"

"What, Harry?"

"Promise me that you won't go off half cocked and get yourself killed. I almost lost you once and it bloody near killed me," she told him quietly. 'Damn, he's so handsome, even more so when he's worried,' Harry thought losing herself in his warm brown eyes. 'A part of me wants to tell him how much I love him, and yet, I'm afraid to. What if we aren't meant to be together? Sirius is my heart, yet he is Remus' soul mate."

"How about if I promise to be careful?" he pleaded interrupting her thoughts. "I will do whatever it takes to protect you, even if it means putting myself in harms way."

"Sirius, please..."

"Sh..." Sirius put two fingers on her lips, stifling her protests. "Harry, you're special. I intend to see that you have a long and happy life," he whispered, eyes locked with hers. 'James, if I'm not the one she chooses I promise to make sure she's well taken care of and happy,' Sirius mentally vowed to his former friend as he slowly bent his head seeking Harry's lips.

Harry's arms circled his neck, heart hammering against her ribs, with the sound of the blood rushing in her ears, as their lips met. Her tongue sought his as she was swept into his embrace.

Slowly releasing Harry, Sirius took a deep breath, stroking her thick black hair as she rested her head on his chest. Neither one spoke right away, continuing to drink in the other's presence. Sirius finally broke the silence.

"They'll be expecting us at the Burrow. If we don't get moving and show up over there soon Remus and Severus will come looking for us."

"I know." She looked up at him, feeling suddenly shy. "You know Ron and Hermione will make sure they both know if we don't arrive within a reasonable amount of time."

"I guess we had better get going then," Sirius replied, gently steering her back into the direction of the Weasley residence.

"Sirius, I didn't mean to be so forward," Harry remarked uncomfortably.

"Harry, you weren't being overly forward, I was. I shouldn't push you right now. Your birthday is still a little more than a fortnight away and I know how you feel about all of us. I don't want you to feel pressured when it comes to our relationship. If we are meant to be together it will happen."

"And if we aren't? I don't want to see you hurt."

"If we aren't then I want you to understand that your happiness is my happiness, too. I will always be your godfather and protector. We are bound to one another, and always will be. No matter what happens I will always be a part of your life," he hugged her reassuringly.

"I'm glad," she said, hugging him back. "I just love big shaggy black dogs."

"Do you now?" he grinned wickedly. Transforming, he began running around her in circles, trying to get her to chase him.

"Naughty, Padfoot," Harry laughed, "bad doggy! You come back here!"

"Woof!" he barked, and Harry could tell he was smiling as she transformed and flew after him the rest of the way to the Burrow. She knew she shouldn't be doing the magic, but transformation was not something the Ministry could track. Since she was with Sirius, she could say that they were practicing, should she need to do rapid transformations for security reasons, when working for Moody or the Order.

Ron and Hermione came running out of the house as they approached the front gate, and transformed back into their human selves.

"It still amazes me to watch you do that, Harry," Ron grinned.

"He's just jealous," Hermione remarked poking Ron in the ribs, "Professor McGonagall tested him on transformation since he wanted to see if he had the ability to become an animagus, but he doesn't."

"It's not fair," Ron pouted; "she tested you too, and said you showed promise."

"Don't fret, Ron. You're a very good wizard. You don't excel in one thing in particular, but are capable in all phases of magic. That in itself is a rare thing," Sirius explained.

"What do you mean?"

"Most wizards can do all kinds of magic, but have areas that they are especially good at," Hermione explained. "Take Harry and me for instance. She can transform, and is exceptional in Defense Against the Dark Arts and is a natural flyer. I specialize in Charms, Spells, and am a natural with Potions."

"So I'm not really good at anything," Ron sighed.

"Wrong! You are good at them all, but are not exceptional in any one of them," Sirius responded. "It is one of the things Alastor Moody likes about you. He will be able to use you in almost any situation since you are skilled in all the disciplines."

"I still wish I could transform. Hermione is going to try and learn with McGonagall's help."

"We could always ask Remus to give you a little nip," Harry joked wickedly, "and then you could transform and run with the other canines during the full moon."

"I don't think so, "Ron laughed, "besides which, Professor Lupin is too nice of a werewolf to infect anyone willingly."

"This is true, and if he knew I was making jokes about his doing so, he would be quite angry with me," Harry agreed as they walked into the house.

"Ah..." Sirius inhaled deeply, "it smells like your Mum is baking something."

"I hear you Sirius Black," Molly Weasley said wiping her hands on her apron, coming to greet them. "I had a feeling you would come with Harry, since there is a meeting tonight, and you know I always bake on meeting nights."

"Now Molly, I would never presume to come to see you just for your delicious cookies," Sirius flirted unabashedly, "you are a very special woman, and I really admire you and your lovely family."

"Mum, he is definitely hungry," Ron smirked, "unless he has gone daft."

"Ronald Weasley, are you inferring that your mother is not a woman to be respected and admired?" Hermione demanded.

"She's my Mum," Ron muttered confused, "what are you talking about?"

"Honestly, Ron, sometimes you are so dense."

"It's all right, Hermione. Ron loves his Mum. He just never really thought about her abilities as a witch. To him she's just Mum," Harry grinned, "and that is how it should be."

"Harry, you never cease to amaze me," Molly hugged her, "and as for you, Sirius Black, I made us all a nice lunch and then there may be some extra cookies."

"See Ron, didn't I say your mother was a woman to be admired?" Sirius winked, following Molly as she led them all to the kitchen.

"Mrs. Weasley, where's Ginny?" Harry asked.

"She is visiting Luna Lovegood, but will be home before we have to leave for the meeting. She has agreed to stay with Phaedra tonight to keep her company. I believe Albus wants them to come to the meeting site, but they will have to stay upstairs," Molly informed her, setting a plate of sandwiches on the table.

"I see, and where is this meeting going to happen?"

"Have a sandwich, dear, you are far too thin," Molly Weasley said ignoring her question, placing a tuna sandwich in front of her. Harry took it dutifully even though she had just finished eating a short time before.

"Forget it, Harry. I have been trying to find out where it is we are going all week, but Mum is more tightly lipped than a sphinx."

"Sirius, my lovable, handsome, sweet..."

"Not a prayer, Harry," Sirius chuckled taking a bite of his sandwich, "new members are not privy to the meeting site in advance."

"You would think the two of you would just be patient. It will only be a few more hours," Hermione shook her head.

"Actually it never occurred to me to ask before this. After our memories were altered I forgot about Grimmauld Place, and since it was compromised..." Harry shrugged.

"Harry dear, you know that Albus did that memory charm for your own good," Molly expressed with concern. "You were all having such a dark time," she clucked over the three friends like a mother hen, "it just seemed like the right thing to do."

"If it makes you feel better Mrs. Weasley, I am not angry about it at all. At the time, it was the best thing that could have happened. I still don't like to talk about that awful year. If it weren't for my friends...well..." Harry flushed, smiling at Ron and Hermione affectionately.

"There, there, dear, all that is behind you now and the Prophecies have been fulfilled. Once the rest of the Deatheaters are apprehended you will be able to look forward to a happy healthy life."

"Harry, did you know that Mum voted in the poll to guess who will be the love of your life?" Ron asked to brighten the subject.

"No!" Harry laughed. "Who did you vote for?"

"That is none of your business!" Molly Weasley blushed.

"She voted for George, of course," Ron replied, ducking as his mother went to cuff his ears.

"I kind of thought she would."

"Well I think the whole thing is silly," Hermione said, crossing her arms over her chest, "imagine everyone trying to fix Harry up with someone. It is down right ridiculous. Harry will decide for herself."

"You're right, I will, but I think it is kind of cute, everyone trying to guess who the love of my life will be. By the way, Hermione, Fred said you voted in the poll too," Harry remarked brazenly, "who did you pick?"

"I...ah..."

"I think this is one of the few times she's at a loss for words Harry," Ron smiled, hugging Hermione.

"Oh you two are positively impossible!"

"So Ron, are you and Hermione going to get married?" Harry questioned, ignoring Hermione.

"Well, I haven't asked her yet. I figure we're not quite up to that stage, and I want to get some money in the bank first," Ron replied, as Hermione flushed almost purple with embarrassment, unable to find the words to silence them.

"I hope when you do I will be in the wedding."

"Harry, you're my best mate, of course you will stand up with me."

"Ronald Weasley," Hermione finally burst out, "Harry is my best friend too, so if and when I do marry you she should be my Maid of Honor. You have brothers who could be your Best Man!"

"I had hoped to do both," Harry giggled, enjoying the situation.

"Honey, how will you accomplish that?" Sirius asked merrily.

"Easy, I will get Ron to the wedding on time and see that he is all squared away, and then meet Hermione and do the Maid of Honor thing up the aisle. I can stand by them both while they take their vows, and make sure they have their rings," Harry laughed, curling her lip thoughtfully. "We can create a new title, maybe Person of Honor?"

"Mr. Black, I must be going as daft as they are," Hermione groaned, "since Harry's idea actually makes sense to me."

"Well it should, she loves you both and would never want to disappoint either one of you on your wedding day."

"Since the two of you haven't even gotten engaged yet, you will all have plenty of time to think about it," Molly Weasley informed them, hands on her hips. "Of course George could always be your best man with Harry as Maid of Honor," she suggested, trying to play matchmaker.

"Mrs.Weasley may I have one of your yummy cookies?" Harry asked changing the subject. She didn't have the heart to tell her George was not the love of her life.

"Certainly, dear. Take two, I know how much you love them," she smiled, pouring her a glass of milk to go with them. "Sirius, I know I don't have to ask you if you want any. I can see the hungry look in those gorgeous brown eyes of yours."

"Mum! You're a married woman!"

"Oh Ron, really!" Hermione laughed. "Your Mum may be married, but she isn't blind. A woman would have to be not to notice Mr. Black's good looks."

"I think we should all go upstairs and have a good visit," Harry interceded, noting Ron's scowl, "besides I am dying to hear about Hermione's trip to Greece. I never get to go anywhere, let alone out of the country."

"Don't feel bad, Harry," Ron comforted. "I'm sure once everything is settled you will be able to do some real traveling."

"Sure you will," Hermione agreed. "You really don't think your protectors would keep you locked up do you?"

"It really wouldn't surprise me if they did," Harry muttered, following them out of the kitchen and up the stairs, unaware Sirius had overheard her...

"Molly, did Harry ever say anything to you about feeling trapped or wanting to travel?"

"No, Sirius, but she is a young woman now, and her friends are all going places and doing the things she has never gotten to do. She probably feels like she is being treated like a child."

"We only want to keep her safe. All she has to do is ask. Any one of us would be happy to take her on a trip somewhere."

"Have any of you ever suggested a trip to her?"

"No," Sirius confessed, "but maybe we should take her on a trip for her birthday. It would be a nice surprise. I don't think Albus would mind, so long as the three of us went with her."

"It might actually be good for her to get away. All these Deatheater problems and the trials coming up, not to mention the pressure of having to start her job at Hogwarts in September. I'm sure a vacation would help her to relax and ease her transition into the adult world."

"You know, Molly, I think you may be right. She has always had to deal with so much darkness that she needs to see the brighter side of our world. I will talk to Albus tonight and let the others know. If we leave right after graduation we could be back in time for the trials and she might feel less anxious about testifying."

"Have you any idea about where to take her?"

"None what so ever. Has she ever expressed any kind of desire to see anything in particular?"

"I know that when Hermione and her family went to America she devoured every word about it."

"Hmm...I don't think Albus would want us to go there right now, in view of the situation, but I could ask."

"Well if not America, you could take her to the French Riviera," Molly Weasley remarked thoughtfully, "Arthur and I went there on our honeymoon, and Bill and Charlie sent us back for our anniversary the year after Charlie graduated from Hogwarts. I think Harry would like relaxing on the beach."

"I will talk to the others when we get back. It would be a wonderful graduation present for her, and we could celebrate her birthday away from all the distractions. I don't believe the moon will be full then, so it won't be a problem for Remus either."

"Then I suggest you get started planning, as it may be a problem booking a place on short notice."

"I will look into it, and find out. If we go to France, there shouldn't be a problem since my family has a small chateau there. I haven't been there in years, but I know my grandmother still uses it. She sent me an owl from there after Harry healed her following the Ceremony of Protection."

"I think that would be ideal. Harry could get to see a different country, and you could all get away and enjoy yourselves. She will also be less uncomfortable since her face is not as well known in France. If she conceals her scar she should be able to go about quite naturally without the commotion which usually accompanies her."

"You know Molly," Sirius grinned, "if you weren't a married woman I would kiss you for suggesting this. Harry will be delighted...."

Harry flopped down on Ron's bed as he and Hermione curled up on the floor together facing her. Ron had decided to keep his room in the attic after his brothers moved out, and every part was crammed with objects from pictures of friends and family to memorabilia from the Quidditch World Cup. Posters of his favorite team, The Chudley Cannons, decorated the walls. He had also taken an old poster of Viktor Krum, and transformed it into a dartboard, much to Hermione's chagrin. There were also old school books, and an open box of chocolate frogs stood on his night table, beside a picture of Hermione. Another picture of the three of them taken just after Voldemort's defeat and their last days at Hogwarts stood on his dresser. Harry had always loved Ron's room and felt it reflected his personality; friendly, outgoing, loyal, and a bit sloppy. She was glad he was her best friend and knew he would be happy married to Hermione. She guessed she would be godmother to at least one of their children, and it pleased her to know they really would live happily ever after.

"Okay, so what do you think about becoming members of the Order?" Ron asked her with enthusiasm.

"I think it was inevitable, but I am glad Dumbledore is letting us in now rather than waiting till we are all eighteen. Who else besides the three of us and Draco are being inducted?"

"Wait a minute...who said Draco was being admitted into the Order and how do you know that there is someone else?" Ron questioned, stunned, as Hermione looked up sharply.

"You two didn't know?" Harry demanded. "Dumbledore told me about Draco, and McGonagall had two sets of robes to deliver after mine. She had already been here with yours, so I knew one set was for Draco, but I don't know who the other one was for. Have you any idea?"

"No," Hermione replied, "but I have been away. Ron you're Draco's partner at Auror training, didn't he say anything to you?"

"No, but Dumbledore told me not to say anything about it to anyone."

"Me too," Hermione remarked thoughtfully, "how about you Harry?"

"Not really, but then I don't really go anywhere unless one of the Protectors is with me. He may not have felt it was necessary. It could be Draco was told not to say anything either."

"It would make sense. Dumbledore wouldn't want it known that we were becoming members of the Order. It would jeopardize our safety and the safety of the other members that we do know about," Hermione agreed.

"I can't believe that Dumbledore would let that bloody pain in the ass, Malfoy, into the Order! He has always gone out of his way to cause trouble between us. I still don't trust him, even though he cleaned up his act after his dad murdered his mum, then tried to kill him," Ron responded heatedly, curling his lower lip in exasperation.

"Ron, you had better work on your relationship with him, especially since he is going to be your partner when you become an Auror," Harry stated matter of factly. "I mean, I'm not crazy about him either, but I think he has the makings of an exceptional wizard. It isn't his fault his family was so screwed up."

"I know it, but he can be a nasty bastard, and he's one arrogant son of a bitch."

"I think you have a tendency to say the same thing about Professor Snape," Harry sniggered playfully.

"Snape was a spy! I know he's your protector Harry, but he will always have the stigma of having been a Deatheater!"

"Ron, you really shouldn't criticize Professor Snape. Dumbledore always trusted him, and I heard how bravely he fought in that battle against Voldemort. It is common knowledge how he defeated Lucius Malfoy when they dueled," Hermione reminded him. She had not been at Hogwarts for the battle, but had been given the task of getting the younger students to safety, escaping through the Chamber of Secrets, accompanied by Ginny Weasley.

"I know, and before you say anything else, Harry, I am fully aware you have grown quite fond of the man. It's just that he made us all believe he was heartless and cold, not to mention how he always favored the Slytherins."

"Ron, his attitude was the best way to get us all to toughen up and be able to face what was coming. He really does favor his own house, but you can't blame him. They do get a bad rap; most of them are good honest wizards. Look at Blaize Zabini, and Millicent Bulstrode, they both turned out okay."

"Harry's right, Ron, you need to be more considerate. If you start acting like you are better than they are, you will just prove you are in their league."

"Hermione, I would never pass judgment or discriminate against someone just because they are Muggle born. You of all people know that. You are more talented than most Pure Bloods, and I would love you even if you weren't," Ron replied planting a kiss on Hermione's lips."

"Ah...true love..."Harry teased them, as they both blushed.

"Does this mean I have to like Malfoy?" Ron looked from one to the other of them.

"It means you need to try and get him to see your point of view," Hermione tweaked his chin.

"I think that is an excellent suggestion," Harry concurred.

"Merlin help me, the way the two of you are acting it's as if he's going to be one of the family," Ron sighed, noting the look between the two girls. "Wait a minute, what aren't you two telling me?"

"Nothing," Harry feigned innocence. She knew that Ginny had been secretly dating the handsome blond Slytherin for several weeks, and so did Hermione. They had no desire to break a confidence.

"I know you well enough to know when you are keeping secrets, Harry Potter, and you, Hermione...you're my girlfriend for Merlin's sake. What is going on?"

"Ron," Harry patiently chided, "Hermione and I are not keeping anything from you. We are merely keeping the confidence of another friend. I would do the same for you and Hermione, and she would do the same for us."

"Yes, Ron, it wouldn't be right if we said anything."

"You don't have to...it's Ginny, isn't it?" he scowled. "I should have guessed from the way she has been acting when I talk about him after class. It's as if he can do no wrong! Wait till Mum hears, she'll set Ginny straight about the likes of that bloke. Traipsing around with the Malfoys, the whole family was nothing but dark wizards."

"Ron, I might remind you that Draco is Sirius second cousin, and is now living with the Tonks family, and that Mr. Tonks is a Muggle born who is married to Sirius cousin Andromeda."

"I know, but the thought of Ginny with Malfoy...Mum will..."

"Ron, your mother knows," Harry said quietly.

"What? That's not possible."

"She figured it out Ron," Hermione gently put her hand on his arm, "and confronted Ginny. She is willing to give Draco a chance, and you should too."

"How do you know?"

"She wrote and told me. She figured it out the night the Deatheaters attacked after you came home from school. Ginny knew Harry sensed what was going on and told her too."

"But she's my sister, for Merlin's sake. Why wouldn't she tell me?"

"Because she knew you would react just like this," Harry explained. "Ron, give them a chance. You wouldn't like it if Hermione's family didn't want her to go out with you simply because your family is able to do magic."

"But that's different!"

"No, Ron it isn't!" Hermione protested hotly. "How do they know you aren't doing dark magic? The wizarding world is alien to them, and while they accept it exists, they are still uncomfortable with it."

"Your family...they don't want us to be together?" he asked incredulous.

"Ron, my family likes you very much, but they are not comfortable with all the magic. They need time to accept the fact that I will marry a wizard and their grandchildren will also be magical."

"I guess so. I suppose this means you both think Draco has really changed. What about his feelings towards Muggles? I will never forgive him for calling Hermione a Mudblood!"

"Ron, let it go. Severus called my mother a Mudblood when they went to Hogwarts too. He learned the hard way, just like Draco," Harry counseled him. "Don't come down on Ginny. If she and Draco are meant to be together, it will happen despite how you feel. Besides, she may just be the best thing that ever happened to him. If anyone can help him change, your family can."

"All right, I'll do as you both ask, but if I find out he is using her, or if they are shagging I can't guarantee I won't hex him!"

"Oh, Ron, that's all we're asking. If they love one another as much as we do then there will be nothing for you to worry about," Hermione beamed hugging him.

"Good, now that we have settled this, I would love to hear about Hermione's trip to Greece," Harry looked from one to the other.

"I had a great time, and I have a present for you," Hermione laughed getting up and going into the room she shared with Ginny. Returning a minute later, she gave Harry a small box, tied with a yellow ribbon.

"Oh, Hermione, it's beautiful," Harry thanked her happily, holding up the blue coral necklace her friend had bought for her. "Here, help me to put it on."

"Sure," Hermione smiled putting the necklace around her neck and hooking the clasp. "Harry what is this chain you have on?"

"Oh, it is my medallion for the Order. I put it on so I don't forget later. McGonagall said Dumbledore hadn't activated them yet," she remarked pulling the gold phoenix from beneath her robes.

"Harry, your medallion...it's gold," Hermione said exchanging glances with Ron.

"So...is there a problem?"

"It's just that only Dumbledore has a gold medallion. The older wizards all have silver and as inductees we all have bronze," Hermione explained.

"How do you know this?"

"Mum told me the night I got mine," Ron explained.

"Then why is mine gold?"

"Because Harry, Dumbledore has chosen you as his successor," Hermione answered softly, "he has picked you to lead the Order when he is either no longer able to do so, or passes on."

"But...I don't want this...it's almost like asking for trouble. I don't want Dumbledore to die. He still has at least another hundred years to live if not more."

"Of course he does, Harry," Ron agreed, "but he wants to make sure the rest of us know he has made his decision."

"Dumbledore loves you, Harry. He knows your powers are as strong as his; you just haven't perfected them yet. You're special, Harry, and he is placing the safety of the Wizarding world with the one person he knows will be able to carry out his wishes when the time comes," Hermione praised her friend, comforting her with a hug. "I'm sure Dumbledore will be around for a long time yet. Now let me tell you all about Greece. I had a wonderful time, except for the fact that I missed you and Ron terribly..."

Harry visited with her friends for the better part of the afternoon, and enjoyed their company, but could not shake her feelings of anxiety, made even more acute by the news regarding her medallion. What if Dumbledore were ill and keeping it from her? She knew he also had some healing powers, but why hide an illness. She could use her skills to cure him if he was ill. Maybe Hermione and Ron were right, and he was just thinking about the future. She hoped so, but deep inside she knew something was going on. She could sense it with all the Deatheater activity that was still happening through out the countryside since the death of Lord Voldemort. This was not a good thing.

Her thoughts were interrupted when Sirius called her from the bottom of the stairs. It was past four and they still had to get ready for the meeting. There would be food served following the initiation ceremony, and once everyone had dined, the actual meeting would begin. Bidding her friends farewell, she went downstairs, and kissed Molly Weasley goodbye. Molly had opened her floo system, and Remus had opened the one on the other side, so she and Sirius were able to get home quickly. Sirius did not wish to apparate as the rain had started, and he preferred not to risk disapparating during a thunderstorm.

"Welcome home, Princess," Remus greeted her as she came out from the hearth, "did you have a good time?"

"Uh huh," she nodded moving into the parlor as Sirius stepped from the hearth behind her, "it was good to visit with Ron and Hermione. She had a good time in Greece and brought me back this necklace," Harry informed them taking the coral necklace from beneath her robes.

"It was nice of her to think of you," Sirius smiled.

"It would be nice if other people would think of me occasionally. I have to spend time with my friends to find out you were all keeping secrets from me again," Harry remarked, through gritted her teeth. Flouncing out of the room, she raced upstairs to her room.

"Sirius, what happened? Did we do something?"

"I have no idea. She seemed fine a little while ago. Something must have happened with Ron and Hermione."

"I think we should get Severus and go and talk with her. He and Phaedra finished up about half an hour ago. Circe is back from the Ministry and is giving her a bath before we have to get ready for the meeting."

"Where is Severus now?"

"I am right here," Snape's oily voice remarked as he entered the parlor, "what is the matter with Harry? She didn't even say hello when I passed her on the stairs."

"We aren't sure," Sirius confessed. "Something had to have happened at the Weasley's."

"Did she get into an argument with her friends?"

"I don't think so, she seemed happy enough when she said goodbye," Sirius mused, "something else must be going on."

"Then I suggest we all go upstairs and ask her," Remus replied sensibly. "She has an important night tonight, and we need to get to the bottom of what ever is upsetting her,"he stated, moving off in the direction of the stairs, the others following.

"Harry, may we come in?" Remus asked, knocking gently on the door to the attic.

"Go away; I want to be alone right now. I need to think."

"Honey, talk to us. What is troubling you? Maybe we can help."

"I said, go away. I don't want to talk about it."

"Harry Potter," Snape sneered using his most acid tone, "you are acting like a child. As a young woman and a soon to be faculty member at Hogwarts I expect you to act accordingly. Now open this door and tell us what the problem is."

"Why don't you go and ask the Headmaster? I'm sure he could figure it out!"

"Very well..."

"That will not be necessary, Severus, I am already here," Dumbledore's patient voice came from behind them. "Harry's friends spoke with me as soon as she left. It seems Miss Granger saw Harry's medallion and was concerned that she was upset by its significance."

"Oh for Merlin's sake, the girl should be proud, not holed up like a hermit sulking," Snape scowled.

"Albus I knew we should have told her from the beginning, now she probably feels she can't trust us again," Sirius sighed with concern.

"Sirius is right, she is still very sensitive about not being privy to what is going on," Remus nodded.

"Relax, gentlemen," Dumbledore waved his hand for silence, "I will deal with Harry. I did not mean for her to become upset, now go and get ready for the meeting. Harry and I will be down in a little while." The three younger men all filed down the stairs, and then Dumbledore knocked on her door. "Harry, I know you are upset with me, but I would like the opportunity to explain."

"The door is not locked."

"I am glad you are at least willing to hear what I have to say," Dumbledore's features appeared weary as he entered the attic room, but his blue eyes were happy and alert. "You should be getting ready for the meeting."

"I'm not feeling well."

"Harry," he began, seating himself on the bed beside her, "we both know you are not ill. I gave you the gold medallion because I care for you and respect your abilities. You are very powerful, and I consider you my protégé."

"Why didn't you tell me you wanted me to take over the Order? Are you ill?"

"No, Child, and you won't be taking over for a long time yet. At least I hope not. I merely want you to be prepared for the day when you do have to take my place. I also need you to act in my stead if the need arises. Due to the nature of my other duties with the Wizengamot, and the International Confederation of Wizards, not to mention my responsibility to Hogwarts and the Ministry there may come a time when it will be necessary to hold emergency meetings which I may be unable to attend. True, Voldemort is dead," he held up his hand to stop her from interrupting, "but there are still dark times in front of us and I do not feel it would be wise to disband the Order."

"Why couldn't you just ask me? This is a lot of responsibility and I don't know if I'm ready for it."

"Ah...my Little Phoenix," he contemplated choosing his words carefully, "I was merely keeping to the necessary secrecy which comes with being a member of the Order. I know you are worried about the Deatheater attacks. There are those who would like nothing better than to infiltrate the Order, so I did not wish anyone other than your three Protectors to know. I felt your safety came first."

"But Arthur Weasley and Mad Eye Moody also know. They were there when you gave me the Medallion," she reminded him hotly.

"I see you have passed my little test," he laughed, eyes twinkling.

"I don't understand."

"I wanted to see if you would connect the two of them with my giving you this honor and not telling you. Your memory skills are a credit to you. You have always been observant, and yes, I did tell them ahead of time. Moody will be pleased that you equated our meeting with their knowledge of the significance of the medallion. He says he still wants you for a full time Auror, but I told him your heart lies in Hogwarts."

"It does too," she managed to smile up at him, "but you promised you would not keep things from me any more."

"I promised to tell you what I felt you need to know," he winked, "and right now I need you to know that you will be amongst the finest group of witches and wizards I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Your parents were included in that group, along with the others who lost their lives in the fight for what is good and right."

"I don't deserve to be your successor. I will never have the skills you have with people or be able to project an aura of greatness like you can, so why would anyone ever want to follow me?"

"You're wrong. You do it now, without even realizing it. People will follow you because you are strong and good. Your friends followed you to the Ministry when you thought Sirius was in trouble and look how you led the other students when the school was attacked. You are the Phoenix," he beamed at her. Fawkes appeared out of nowhere, and landed on Dumbledore's shoulder, trilled happily at her. "Now do me the honor of accepting the privilege I am granting to you, and come to the meeting."

"I will if you will answer me one question."

"Very well, what is the question?"

"Where will the Order be meeting tonight?"

"Why would you wish to know?"

"If you really want me as your successor I want you to prove to me that you trust me with the knowledge of the meeting site."

"I see..."he studied her shrewdly, "did anyone ever tell you that you would have done well in Slytherin?"

"That sorting hat is never going to let me live down the fact that I overrode his desire to put me into the viper's nest," Harry quipped as Dumbledore laughed.

"Come here," he motioned her to lean over, whispering the answer in her ear.

"Are you kidding me?"

"No, now go and get ready. I happen to know of three young men who are most anxious about your feelings on the matter, and they are waiting to escort you to the meeting.

"I will be ready in a little while. I just need a fast shower and to fix my hair."

"Then I shall see you shortly," he smiled happily. "By the way, I saw Phaedra with her mother before I came up. She wanted me to give you this," he remarked, pulling a small bottle from his robes. "I believe it is a bottle of perfume."

"I think you're right," Harry said opening the bottle, sniffing the contents. "It is lovely. I think I will wear some."

"She will like that. In the meantime my Little Phoenix, I will see you later," Dumbledore said rising, and left her alone to get ready.

Harry ran down to the second floor and showered, then returned to her room. Her robes were white, as were Dumbledore's and a Phoenix was emblazoned on the back, wings outstretched. Harry knew from the meetings at Grimmauld Place that the other members' robes were scarlet and the Phoenix was monogrammed on the right front. Pulling the medallion out of her robes, she displayed it proudly, albeit with some trepidation. Putting her hair up in a chignon, and sweeping it off her face so that her scar was visible, she donned her contact lenses and applied some makeup to highlight her eyes. Spraying on some of the perfume Phaedra had made, she went downstairs. She did not have far to go far the meeting, since the site Dumbledore had selected for this evening's meeting was her own home.

Severus nodded with approval when she came down, and Sirius and Remus both came over and kissed her on the cheeks. She could sense their pleasure at her acquiescence to her new status, and looked around curiously. Ginny had just come in with the rest of the Weasley's and Molly was shooing her upstairs with Phaedra in tow. They were told to go to Harry and Phaedra's room. The house elves would see that they got dinner.

Ron and Hermione whisked Harry away into the designated chairs in the parlor, and found that Draco was already there. The other new initiate was Neville Longbottom, and Harry was pleased to see him. She noted that his parents were sitting in the rear of the parlor talking with Mundungus Fletcher. His grandmother was also there. Harry recognized many of the other witches and wizards present from when she attended the meeting to convince them about her protectors, and was glad to see Professor McGonagall, accompanied by Dr. McBride. Apparently, he had decided to formalize his alliance with the Order, since he was wearing a silver medallion along with his scarlet robes. Professor Sprout was there too, talking with Arabella Figg. Harry was glad to see that her status a squib was no reason to keep her out of the Order. However, what really surprised her was to see the centaur, Firenze. He had positioned himself in a corner by the front of the room, a silver medallion around his neck, and a scarlet blanket on his back in lieu of a robe. He was talking with Hagrid, who smiled and waved at Harry and her friends.

Everyone was waiting for Dumbledore to appear so the initiation could begin and all were looking forward to enjoying the food prior to the meeting. Harry knew Dumbledore was in the house and just wanted to make an entrance, so she waited quietly, talking with her friends. She had no idea how important this meeting was to become to both her future, and the security of the wizarding world.

19