The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 8

Ancient Legends

As Harry waited for her first meeting to begin, she noticed that some of the members were missing, most of whom were Aurors, Mad Eye Moody, Shacklebolt, and Tonks among them. She also realized that Circe was there, sitting with her brother, but Tiberius Snape had not yet appeared. Harry had a gnawing feeling of worry. Her empathic senses were on full alert, and even though she was controlling them, she could still feel the emotions of those around her. The room was charged with static electricity, and she was engulfed with dread. Scanning the room, Harry was suddenly startled out of her reverie by someone blowing into her ear. Spinning around in her chair, she was facing the mischievous features of George Weasley.

"Hello, beautiful," he greeted her with a big smile, "welcome to the Order of the Phoenix."

"George, behave yourself," she flushed, "you will get us both into trouble with your wicked ideas."

"Oh, my love, if you only knew how wicked they really are," he laughed going down on one knee. "I have a very important question to ask you."

"George, get up, people are starting to stare. I can practically hear Sirius and Remus growling, and Snape is dripping icicles."

"But, Harry, my dear, I may never ask this of you again," he pleaded loudly, as more and more of the room stopped to watch. Harry was horrified that he was going to propose. How could she turn him down in front of all these people?

"Well then, hurry up and ask her for Merlin's sake," Fred gleefully egged him on, giving him a shove in the back, "we all want to hear her answer."

"These things take time, big brother," he replied over his shoulder, "the fair maiden should be treated with dignity and respect."

"George get up, please! This is not the time or place..."

"Oh, but it is. I shall be forever grateful if you would do me the honor of...

"George, you can't do this, not now," she begged, interrupting him, looking at Ron and Hermione for support, but they were both watching George with rapt attention, as he ignored Harry and continued his speech.

"Please Harry, let me finish. I only ask that you do me the honor of attending the Grand Reopening of Weasley's Wizard Wheezes Joke Shoppe in Diagon Alley on Tuesday," he grinned wickedly. "Have a chocolate frog?" George asked innocently, holding out the package of candy, as the whole room erupted in laughter.

Harry was humiliated and embarrassed. George could not have played his prank at a worse time.

Dumbledore had quietly come into the room and she could sense him watching her. She knew her reactions would be crucial. He had bestowed a serious and awesome responsibility upon her, and she knew she had to live up to his expectations. For one brief instant, she considered transforming George into a jackass.

"What's the matter, Potter, can't take a joke? What did you think, he was going to propose?" Draco's harsh laughter rang in her ears.

Harry glared at Draco, but kept her voice even and level as she mastered her anger and humiliation.

"Thanks, George, I'd love a chocolate frog, but I'm not sure if I can make it on Tuesday," she pursed her lips accepting the candy, before turning her attention to Malfoy. "Draco, remind me to tell you about a joke my father and godfather once played on Professor Snape. I think you will find it quite interesting," she answered sweetly, green eyes flashing, picturing him upside down and stripped naked. The rest of the room looked on in admiration, pleased with her control, unaware of her true feelings, as she glanced over at Snape. 'Severus, you didn't deserve what my father did to you, but Draco does. I shall quite enjoy taking him down a peg or so,' she gloated mentally, sending a message to her Slytherin Protector. 'Please don't be too angry with me for doing so, since I can feel you enjoyed my humiliation too. I thought we were passed that,' she seethed inside, allowing him to feel her pain from his reaction.

"Good evening, and welcome everyone," Dumbledore's voice addressed the room, calling the meeting to Order, blue eyes on Harry. "Please be seated and we shall begin," he said coming to the front of the parlor, which had been magically made bigger to accommodate the crowd, motioning Professor McGonagall to accompany him. "Fred if you will put a silencing spell on the room so that Ginny will not be able to hear with the extendable ears, I would greatly appreciate it," the old man's blue eye twinkled.

"Of course, Professor," Fred answered, red faced, as he cast the charm.

"Tonight we will bring some of our finest young people into our ranks. They have already proven their merit and I am pleased to see that they have all grown into members of the wizarding community to be proud of. Each has showed their bravery and dedication during these times of strife, and each has made sacrifices that should not have been necessary in their young lives. As Minerva McGonagall calls your names, you will come up to the front of the room and I shall activate the medallions you wear about your neck. They will enable you to communicate with the more senior members and one another, should you ever need to ask for aide, or need to check on the whereabouts of each other. All you will need to do is touch the Phoenix and call the name of the person you wish to speak with. Their image will appear in the center. There is only one exception and that is for Harry Potter. Her medallion will enable her to speak with all members and summon them at a moment's notice. She will also be able to contact me, and summon Fawkes for assistance should you need it. In time, she will become my successor and lead the Order in times of trouble," Dumbledore smiled down at Harry as the members of the Order looked on in approval. "Minerva, if you are ready?"

"Of course, Albus," she nodded, and Harry was reminded of the sorting ceremony each year at Hogwarts. "Draco Malfoy," she called, and he came to the front of the room. "Do you understand that as a member of the Order of the Phoenix you are responsible for the safety and security of its members and will protect them without thought for your own life?"

"I do," Draco replied nervously."

"Then place your right hand on your medallion and repeat after me, swearing your fealty in front of this company," McGonagall instructed him. Malfoy did as she requested, and she continued, with Draco repeating the sworn oath after her. "I hereby swear to this company in the presence of its members, and the leader and protector of the light, Albus Dumbledore, that I will follow and obey all of our laws and principals protecting our members without a thought for my own safety or well being. I shall not divulge the names of its members or their whereabouts if captured by the dark side, even if it means my own death will result from such action."

Dumbledore then raised his wand and pointed it at Draco's medallion. The Phoenix began to glow, and the wings on the bird, which had previously been folded, spread open.

Hermione was summoned next, followed by Neville Longbottom, whose parents looked on with pride as he took the oath. Harry could tell how much they cared, and knew that Neville's powers had improved considerably since their return. She also noted his grandmother blotting a tear from her eyes, trying to pretend it was merely an eyelash. Following Neville, Ron was summoned. He too, took the oath, but Dumbledore also reiterated his role as Guardian of the Goblet, reminding him that he had the Right of Vision.

"Ronald Weasley, you have been granted these powers as per our ancient laws. Are you prepared not only to act as a member of this Order but to sanction these special duties along with it. Should the holder of the gold phoenix need you in times of strife, only you will have the ability to see through her eyes; you are the one who will know where to send those that would keep her safe, yet must guard against those who would use your vision to their own ends. Do you accept this responsibility?" Dumbledore questioned.

"Yes, I will protect the Order, and Harry, through my Right of Vision, should the goblet flame. She is my friend and ally and will continue to remain so for the rest of our lives," Ron answered proudly.

"Harry please come up here," Dumbledore summoned her, and remove the copper medallion from around Ron's neck, replacing it with this one," he smiled conjuring a silver medallion as she came up to them. Now take your wand and point it at the phoenix, and activate the medallion.

Harry had no clue how to get the phoenix to spread its wings, and surmised this was some kind of test. She surmised that Dumbledore had also cleared her to use her wand tonight, so there would be no interference from the Ministry. Pointing the wand at the medallion, she concentrated on Fawkes, thinking to herself at the same time. 'Oh mighty bird of light, grant Ronald Weasley the power to protect those he loves, the members of the Order, and all those who would be harmed by dark magic, so that hope and love may rise from the ashes of pain and loss as you rise from the ashes of the fire.' The wings on the silver medallion spread, and Fawkes mysteriously appeared, trilling his approval, as he settled himself on her shoulder.

Ron then went to stand with the others who were waiting off to the left, following their swearing in. Dumbledore then turned his attention to Harry.

"Harry Potter you are as the Phoenix who now sits on your right shoulder. Your loyalty has been proven, and your sense of justice and righteousness remains pure. Swear now before this audience your allegiance, and promise to see that the purpose for which this Order was founded shall remain untainted from the darkness that would seek to destroy and corrupt it."

"I Harry Potter shall protect the Order and all its members without fail maintaining my silence in the event of capture, even if it will result in my own death at the hands of those who would try to destroy that for which it stands. When called upon to do so I shall act in your stead without fail, and seek the counsel of those who will continue to protect me; my strength, my courage, and my endurance, in my efforts to guard and maintain all that is good and right."

Fawkes then dropped a tear on Harry's Medallion, and the wings of the Phoenix outstretched, the eyes turning to emeralds. It was then that Harry noticed Dumbledore's medallion had sapphires for its eyes.

"The initiation is now completed, so let us honor our new members with a feast, while we await word from our comrades in the field; then we will start our meeting," Dumbledore beamed.

The older members clapped and cheered in honor of the new recruits, but Harry could sense an underlying tone of concern amongst them for the members who had yet to arrive.

Ron's family had gathered around him, and was hugging both Ron and Hermione. Severus had gone to Draco, and Harry watched amid feelings of jealousy, the pain she had felt at his enjoyment of her embarrassment growing deeper. 'What ever is the matter with me? I know Severus still has moments where he sees my dad in me, but why do I let it annoy me so much?' she considered while watching from a far corner of the room. 'I seem to be the only one standing alone, too. Sirius and Remus are talking with the Longbottoms and Dumbledore. Why haven't they at least come over to give me a hug? I have not felt so alone in a long time...' Harry thought, slipping out of the door and into the hall. Climbing up the stairs, she sat alone on the landing, hot tears stinging her eyes...

"Sirius...Sirius! Where's Harry?" Remus asked, hazel eyes searching the room for her.

"Isn't she over there in the corner by the book case?" Sirius asked turning to look around the room.

"No, I haven't seen her since the initiation was finished. I thought she would have come over to us right away."

"Severus, have you seen Harry?" Sirius asked going over to where he was chatting with Draco.

"No, not since she took her oath. I believe she was standing over by the book case."

"Well she's not now. She's gone," Sirius replied, looking over at the occupants of the room again.

"Perhaps she needed to use the lavatory," Snape remarked, but a knot was starting to form in his stomach. He knew Harry had been humiliated by Draco, and that she had sensed his enjoyment of it, yet he didn't think she would pull one of her disappearing acts. 'Blast, the girl is far too sensitive at times. I hope I didn't drive her to do something stupid,' he sighed to himself. 'If she only knew I am doing it so that I won't feel so hurt when she marries Black...'

"Let's go and look for her," Remus suggested, breaking into his thoughts. "We are probably just jumping to conclusions. You know how Harry gets embarrassed by too much attention."

"I think it is more than that," Sirius remarked over his shoulder. "She was really embarrassed by the joke George Weasley played on her, and Draco should have known better than to rub it in."

"The boy was just having some harmless fun," Severus defended him. "Draco actually admires her, but is too proud to admit it."

"Yeah, well instead of defending him you should be concerned about how she feels. If I hadn't had to speak with Albus about the surprise for Harry I would have gone directly over to her."

"I'm sorry I was so engaged in conversation with Frank Longbottom," Remus added, "but I thought it would be rude not to ask how he has been doing, or I would have done the same. I realized she was missing when Neville asked how she had been. He wanted to let her know he was selected to do an advanced fellowship with Professor Sprout in Herbology, and will be apprenticing at Hogwarts this year. He didn't get a chance to speak with her before the ceremony."

"Longbottom is coming back to Hogwarts to work with Pomona Sprout?" Snape sneered with contempt.

"Severus, you have no call to be so harsh with the young man," Remus chided, "he may not have been a terrific student, but his skills have improved immensely, and he fought bravely during the battle to save Hogwarts."

"You are, as usual correct in your observations, Lupin," Snape answered contritely. "I am merely surprised that young Longbottom is so good at Herbology and was absolutely dismal in Potions. After all, the plants he grows are almost all used in various potions and remedies," Severus said as they entered the hallway.

"And maybe it was because you took such pleasure in intimidating him," Harry's soft voice responded from where she was sitting on the landing."

"Harry, you had us worried. What are you doing out here? You should be enjoying the party before the meeting," Sirius beamed racing up the stairs, stopping short at the sight of her tear stained face. "Honey what's wrong? You've been crying."

"Well let's see...first George Weasley embarrasses the shit out of me, then Draco rubs it in humiliating me in front of a room full of people, then my supposed protector relished every minute of it, and finally, not one of you came up and offered me your congratulations following the whole initiation thing. I was just left standing there all by myself."

"Potter, you sound worse than Moaning Myrtle," Severus replied with disgust.

"It seems to me, Severus, she just said something about your enjoying her discomfiture at your godson's and my cousin's cruel remarks. I personally think he needs to be given a good kick in the ass."

"I wouldn't be too worried about it, Black, since she has other plans for the boy," Snape glared.

"He deserves it. You didn't."

"What do you mean, Princess?"

"Remus when I picked up on Severus' feelings I sent him a mental message. Remember what my Dad and Sirius did to him in front of the school one fine spring day following the O.W.L.'s?"

"Honey you aren't insinuating that you are planning to flip and strip Draco, are you?" Sirius asked, eyes glittering with mirth.

"So that is what that remark about a joke was all about," Remus shook his head. "Princess, you shouldn't let it bother you so much. Draco has had it pretty rough..."

"Oh, and I haven't?" Harry asked her voice cracking, shocked that Remus would take Draco's side.

"Princess, we all know you have. It is just that Draco doesn't have the support you do."

"Sure he does. In fact, Severus has been looking out for him since his first day at Hogwarts. He just loved letting him goad me so he could take house points from Gryffindor at my expense. Now he just enjoys seeing the humiliation," Harry looked up at him, voice shaking with rage.

"Harry, I will continue to do so until you learn to deal with ridicule. It is a weakness in you, and I merely want to make sure that you can hold your head up when people are hurtful." Severus explained calmly.

"Severus, take me as I am, or not at all. I have never tried to change you..."

"Harry," he smiled giving one of his rare laughs, "did I not just endure a week tied by the wrist to my worst rival, Sirius Black?"

"Severus is right, Honey, although I disagree with his methods of trying to toughen you up."

"Don't any of you understand? Every time one of you says or does something that is painful to me, it is worse than for an ordinary person. It will not get better, all I can hope for is self-control and I think I have exhibited it quite well. What really hurt is seeing everyone else with their families, and I was just left standing...all...alone," Harry sobbed, burying her head in Sirius shoulder.

"Princess, we didn't mean to leave you alone. The Longbottoms cornered me, and Sirius needed a private word with Albus. Severus just automatically went to Draco since his aunt and uncle are not members of the Order and Tonks has not arrived yet. He knew you had the two of us, so as Draco's godfather he wanted him to feel welcome."

"So, he couldn't have taken both of us under his wing?"

"Had I done so, you may have cursed the boy," Severus sneered.

"I have no intention of cursing him!"

"No, you merely want to do to him what your father and godfather did to me."

"Actually, that was an afterthought. Originally I was going to transfigure him into a jackass," she admitted slyly, as the three men tried not to laugh.

"Harry, Draco actually does admire and even like you. He just does not want to show his feelings. He was brought up in a dark family and fears to show any sign of weakness. His father was a cruel man, and tormented Narcissa unmercifully. Draco's biggest fear is that he will be just like him."

"I am not worried about that. I happen to know his girl friend is quite talented, and not the type to take any kind of abuse. She is also a very kind and loving person."

"And just who is this young woman?" Severus asked with interest.

"She is a seventh year at Hogwarts," Harry raised her eyes to the second floor so they would understand without her uttering Ginny's name, "and I think she will be quite good for him."

"What do her brothers think of this relationship?" Severus asked with interest.

"I don't know if they all know. I know Ron does, and will give him a chance because Hermione and I both asked him to. Mrs. Weasley knows too, but I don't know about her father. I think Molly would have told him though."

"I think Harry may be right, Severus," Remus remarked mulling the idea of Malfoy and Ginny over in his mind. They will offset one another quite well. If anyone can change his mind on muggle borns it is the Weasley's."

"Perhaps, but it will take time."

"I like the idea, myself, Sev. Ginny is a good girl and it could be a good match. It will be interesting to watch," Sirius added, considering the possibilities. "Now as for you Miss Wings, I want you to know that I love you very much, as do Remus and Severus, for all his moody eccentricities. We are very proud of you and while I don't know about them, I was holding by breath when Albus asked you to activate Ron's medallion."

"I was more than a little proud," Severus agreed, "since Albus is the only one of us who has ever been able to do so."

"I don't know how you did it, Princess, but whatever you and Albus share, it is a wonderful thing."

"I don't suppose you will let us in on the secret?" Sirius grinned giving her a hug.

"Even if I could, I don't think it would work for you. Dumbledore would say it comes from your very soul."

"Child, you are absolutely correct. Now come on down and have something to eat. Everyone is asking for you," Dumbledore beamed up at her from the bottom of the stairs, blue eyes twinkling over his half moon spectacles.

"How long have you been in the hall?'

"I just got here," he replied amused. "Don't you know I am notorious for knowing everything that goes on?"

"Do I get to learn that trick too?" Harry questioned, as Sirius helped her to her feet.

"When I think you're ready, but not for some time yet," he teased, as she reached the bottom of the stairs. Now go and wash that pretty face. It will do you no good to be looking sad. I need you to be alert and pay attention when the meeting begins. The others should be here soon."

"You're worried...they're very late...Albus what is going on?" Harry asked as she moved up the hall to the bathroom to wash her face.

"I am not certain yet, Child, and I don't want you to worry needlessly. You do not have to jump into your duties that quickly. I want you to take your time and listen and watch. We will all be there to help you," Dumbledore assured her.

"Then you can all go back in with me. Just give me a second," Harry told them as she quickly rinsed her tear stained cheeks. "I'm glad Hermione showed me all about waterproof makeup."

"I can't believe you ever passed as a boy," Remus smiled warmly.

"You should have seen the close calls in the boys' dorm!"

"What close calls were those?" Sirius questioned protectively.

"Let's just say I was considered one of the more modest boys. It wasn't easy when I had to use the bathroom. I either snuck into the girls bathrooms, or let the guys think I didn't just have to pee so I could use the stall. Then there was the nightmare of bathing. I used to have to shower either very early in the morning or late at night."

"Albus, were you aware of this?" Remus asked, as Sirius looked down at his goddaughter and noted she was grinning up at him.

"I kept my eye on the situation quite closely. Her hidden identify was almost a problem during the water portion of the Triwizard tournament, especially during the underwater event."

"Hmm...Miss Wings," Sirius teased, "and what kinds of things did you see in the boys' dorm?"

"Just a lot of half naked guys, nothing special," Harry laughed looking up at the ceiling, cheeks burning. "I was moved before things got too out of hand, "she laughed as they returned to the parlor.

"Thank Merlin for that," Snape muttered, dark eyes glittering with amusement.

"We may just discuss this some more later," Sirius remarked pretending to set his jaw gravely.

"You're just jealous," Harry whispered, and he winked playfully.

"Come on, Miss Wings, lets eat. I'm starved."

"Sirius, you're always starved," Severus sighed with a smirk.

"I could use a good bite to eat myself," Remus added heaping his plate with food, as Harry just looked on lovingly at the three of them....

Harry enjoyed herself just watching the interactions of the members, and realized they were like one huge family. It was good to see Hagrid again, and she spent a good deal of time talking with Neville. She was glad they would both be returning to Hogwarts, and liked speaking with Frank and Alice Longbottom. Alice remembered Harry's parents fondly, and was still getting over the shock that Harry had actually been a girl. Frank merely laughed, stating it was just the kind of thing James would do. They were both glad that Harry had befriended Neville, and that she had helped to bolster his confidence. His magic continued to improve and his parents both felt that his earlier ineptness was directly related to his having seen them tortured. Harry was looking for a way move through the crowd and over to Ron, when Molly Weasley wandered over.

"Alice, I am so glad to see you. I understand you and Frank are going to help with the Auror training for Alastor," Molly beamed. Hugging her old friend, she steered her towards Frank and Arthur. "I also brought my new recipe for Forbidden Forest Surprise Cake," her voice trailed off as they moved through the crowd.

Harry was glad to make her escape, she wanted to spend some time with Ron, and weaving her way through the crowd, she managed to find him towards the back of the room. He had been talking quietly with Draco, and judging by the scowl on Draco's face, she got the distinct impression they had been discussing Ginny.

"All right you two, call a truce, or you will find out the hard way how Severus and Sirius felt for the past week while they were bound at the wrists."

"We were just having a friendly conversation about Weasley's sister," Draco sneered.

"Draco, I am going to warn you now. Ginny is my friend, so you had better treat her right, or you will answer to me. I don't want to see her hurt, and I personally think you are good for one another," Harry informed him. Folding her arms across her chest, in a posture that told him she meant every word, Ron scowled back at her. "As for you, Ronald Weasley, I expect you to mind your own business. Draco is dating Ginny, and I am sure he will conduct himself as a gentleman."

"He had better, or he won't know which hex hit him," Ron glared. "Don't forget, she still has four other brothers besides me."

"I'm sure Draco will act with the utmost dignity and thoughtfulness where Miss Weasley is concerned," Snape's oily voice interrupted the exchange from behind them.

"Of course I will Severus," Draco nodded. "Now if you have a moment, you promised to explain that laughing potion to me."

"I will be happy to," Snape replied, leading Draco away from them.

"Harry, I wish the stupid git was not going with my sister. If he so much as..."

"Ron, he won't, at least not unless Ginny agrees," Harry snickered.

"Harry, that's my baby sister we're talking about!"

"Ron, in case nobody has told you Ginny is a young woman now, and what she and Draco do with one another is their business. I'm sure they will be discreet, as well as careful."

"Just the same, I will kill him if I find out he is shagging with her," Ron answered smugly.

"Does that mean I can kill you if I find out you and Hermione..."

"Harry! I would never do anything with Hermione if she didn't want me to."

"Shh...She's coming this way," Harry warned him, green eyes alight with mirth.

"Harry, I thought you would never get back to us," Hermione said joining the two of them. "Here, Ron, I got you a strawberry tart. There is no more chocolate mousse," she explained, handing him the dessert.

"Waiting on him already, Hermione?" Harry teased.

"No, I simply wanted to say hello to Professor McGonagall. I knew Ron wanted some more dessert, so I stopped to bring him back one." Hermione defended herself.

"Then why are you blushing?"

"I am not blushing! It is just quite warm in here this evening."

"You and Ron could always go for a walk in the garden," Harry grinned, watching Hermione's face grow even redder.

"That is not a bad idea," Ron agreed, swallowing the last piece of his tart.

"You could get in a bit of snogging and Hermione would have the added bonus of the strawberry jam stuck on your upper lip," she snickered, giving Ron a pat on the back.

"Harry!" he laughed, quickly licking the jam from his mouth.

"Oh Ron, you might have used a napkin!" Hermione scolded rolling her eyes, unable to hide her smile. She knew Ron's penchant for sweets.

"So, Hermione, how about we go for that walk in the garden?"

"I don't think we really have the time," she frowned looking around the room," I'm sure the meeting will be starting soon."

"I suppose you're right, love, but maybe if there is time afterwards? If not here, we might get a bit of time in back at the Burrow."

"It would be kind of nice," she agreed, just so long as your Mum doesn't say anything.

"I think Ginny will cover for us."

"I just love seeing my two best friends so happy," Harry smiled. "As for Ginny, just tell her you will hex Draco if she opens her mouth."

"I rather like that idea!" Ron said with approval. "By the way, Harry, why didn't you tell me I was going to be given a silver medallion?"

"I didn't know."

"You mean you did that activation spell on your own?" Hermione questioned with awe.

"Yeah, I just thought about what to do and it came to me. It was weird."

"What did you say?" Ron asked astonished.

"You might say I spoke from my soul, and asked for help from a higher authority. As for the actual words, it all happened so fast, I can't really remember," Harry lied, knowing that for Ron to try such a spell would be dangerous. 'Dumbledore had spoken the truth,' she thought, 'the power does come from my very soul. I truly have been granted a wonderful gift. I will have to be very careful, for now I understand why Tom Riddle was corrupted. This much power can be dangerous. He used it to satisfy his own desires, and that is the path into darkness.' Harry was mulling this over in her mind when she was startled by a commotion at the door.

"Albus help," Tonks gasped, entering the room with Tiberius Snape.

They were supporting Shaklebolt in between them. He was unconscious, and Tonks was bleeding from a large gash on her left arm. Moody followed behind them, forever vigilant, but Harry noticed he too had been injured. His face was all bruised, and his nose had been broken again. The only one who appeared unharmed was Tiberius, but she knew otherwise. There had been other Aurors with them, and she could see them all scrambling about, as Moody barked orders to secure the premises.

"Dr. McBride, your services are needed," Dumbledore called, levitating the unconscious man over to a sofa.

Harry immediately ran over to help. Looking down at McBride, she saw that Shaklebolt had a dark bruise on his forehead, and was bleeding from his ears and nose.

"I will need to get him to St. Mungo's as soon as possible," McBride said quietly, running his hands over the unconscious man's body, "he is critically injured. Harry, I know you are a natural healer. If Albus agrees I would appreciate it if you would treat the others while we apparate to the hospital."

"Harry is more than competent, and since this is an emergency situation she is allowed to use her magic," Dumbledore said as he and McBride prepared to apparate.

"I will go and see to Tonks and Professor Moody immediately," Harry replied, as they levitated Shaklebolt and headed towards the door.

"You, Weasley, and you too, Malfoy, go with Burns and Sotheby to St. Mungo's with them," Moody ordered, " and then I want the two of you to write up a report about his condition for me."

"Yes, Sir," they chorused in unison following the group outside.

"Professor Moody, sit down and let me see to your injuries before I have to put a spell on you to keep you quiet," Harry warned, pushing him down into a chair beside Tonks, preventing him from following the others outside.

"Aye, Lass, you sure you know how to fix me up? There is really nothing a good swig from my flask won't cure." Moody grinned, taking a swig of whiskey from the flask he usually kept in his pocket.

"You let me be the judge of that!" Harry exclaimed as she ran her hands over his injuries. She had been correct in her assumptions that his nose had been broken, and he had obviously been in a fight with someone. Quickly healing his bruises, she went to work on his nose, and smiled in satisfaction when she was done. "There, now you have a nose of distinction."

"I thought I already had one lass? How many men do ya know that have a crooked nose with a bite out of it too?"

"Only one," she winked, turning her attention to Tonks. "What the hell happened to you guys tonight?" Harry inquired, cleaning the blood from her arm.

"We had a run in with the Deatheaters," Tonks grinned cheerfully, "it's all in a night's work."

"Aye, that we did, lass, and you will hear all about it as soon as Dumbledore gets back. We will give our reports then."

"I see." Harry arched her brow, knowing Moody would not divulge anything further. "Then you and the rest of the Aurors should get some food into your stomachs, as it may be awhile until Dumbledore gets back."

"I can help with that, Harry," Hermione said, coming up to them.

"Thanks, Hermione, and make sure the Aurors surrounding the house come in to get some food too. They can come in two at a time. I think I saw at least eight of them."

"You are very observant lass. We were originally twelve with Shaklebolt, but he's gone to hospital, and I'm afraid his partner didn't make it," Moody responded soberly. "Tiberius came along in time to help us during the attack, or it would have been worse."

"Speaking of Tiberius, I need to see to his injuries, too. You two get something to eat."

"Don't worry, Honey, Remus and I will make sure they eat while Hermione sees to the group surrounding the house," Sirius informed her, coming over to make certain his cousin was all right.

"Princess, you did a very nice job on the two of them," Remus smiled.

"Thanks, but I really have to see to Mr. Snape. He is hiding the fact that he has been hit with a number of Cruciatus curses, and I can feel his pain."

"Just like a Snape." Sirius shook his head disdainfully. "Go on, and take care of him, Honey."

"I'll see you all in a few minutes," Harry told them, moving off across the room to where the Snapes were all sitting.

Tiberius was sitting quietly with his nephew, while Circe poured him a glass of firewhisky. He drank the shot down swiftly, before looking up at Harry.

"Ah...Miss Potter, I see you have been inducted into the Order, congratulations," he sneered.

"Thank you, Mr. Snape. Did you know that if it weren't for the fact that your eyes are blue and you are graying, you could pass for Severus?"

"I am aware of the resemblance between my nephew and myself."

"Did you know that you both tend to behave in exactly the same manner?"

"Indeed?"

"Yes, now open your shirt so that I can see how much damage was done by those Cruciatus curses you were hit with."

"I did not mention anything about being injured by any curses, Cruciatus or otherwise," Snape remarked, arching his brow.

"You didn't have to. Your lips are set in a thin line and you are holding your body even more erect than usual. Your nephew does the same thing when he is in pain. You also have your left hand resting on your stomach, which is always a good place to hit one with that particular curse. The pain form the soft tissue damage can be excruciating. Now, will you open your shirt, or will I have to do it for you?" Harry asked staring him in the eyes and holding her arms over her chest, an action that any Snape could be proud of.

Snape casually poured himself another shot of whiskey as he maintained eye contact with Harry. Harry never moved an inch.

"Do you honestly believe you could get my shirt off?" he asked amused.

"Do you honestly believe I can't?"

"It would be interesting to find out," he remarked, eyes boring into hers.

"In any other instance, I would accept your challenge to do so, but I really don't wish to make a spectacle of either one of us. Not tonight, anyway," she smiled, breaking eye contact.

"You are quite right," Tiberius said, moving slowly to open his shirt, while Severus poured him another shot of whisky.

"Uncle, I'm going to go and check up on Phaedra and Ginny Weasley. I know they are both concerned and wondering what it happening. Phaedra is a bit frightened, and is calling me in her mind."

"By all means, Circe, Phaedra will feel better if you go up to her. Why not take Molly with you too. I am sure Ginny will be asking all kinds of questions."

That thought crossed my mind too," she smiled at her uncle.

"I know," he smiled, "I heard it."

"Circe, give Phaedra a kiss goodnight for me?"

"Of course, she will be happy to know you are wearing her perfume too," Circe said, moving off towards the hall.

"Severus, your uncle is as stubborn as you are," Harry remarked. Running her hands over the elder Snape's mid section, a soft blue energy field emanated from her fingertips. "You are very lucky, Mr. Snape, if you had been hit again you would have sustained some severe liver damage."

"I will see that he rests after the meeting," Severus remarked, knowing his uncle was in pain.

"Severus, I am more than capable of seeing to my own needs," Tiberius glared at his nephew. "I have been doing so for nigh on seventy-five years."

"Uncle," Severus began slowly, "I am aware that you are more than able to care for yourself. I merely wish to make certain you are comfortable, and get a good night's rest. We both know the after affects of the Cruciatus curse can take several days to wear off. I have some of the Lionfish Pain Potion mixed for just such emergencies. It will help you to relax tonight so that you may resume your work with the Order in the morning."

"I prefer the Essence of Snake Venom Potion, mixed with the Belladonna Sleep Potion. It is far more effective when dealing with multiple Cruciatus curses in those over fifty years of age."

"Uncle, this is no time for games. I am fully aware that you are allergic to the Belladonna Potion. I do have some of the Porcupine Sleeping Syrup, which goes quite nicely with the Lionfish Potion."

"Ah, Severus, you are as astute as ever. It pleases me to see your abilities are being put to such good use by the Order. Your skill with Potions is among the best in the wizarding world. I hope Albus realizes what a prize he has on his side," Tiberius complemented his nephew.

Harry sensed that Tiberius did not often voice his approval, and knew that Severus was pleased, despite the neutral expressions on both their faces.

"We are more than appreciative of Severus skills," Dumbledore's quiet voice came from behind her.

"Headmaster," she said looking up as she completed her task, "I was unaware you had returned."

"I have only just gotten here, Child," he smiled, but his eyes were serious.

"How is Shaklebolt? I know his injuries were critical."

"Dr. McBride was able to stabilize him at the hospital, but he is still in serious condition. He is expected to make a full recovery, however, and we have Tiberius to thank for saving his life."

"It was nothing, Albus. I merely did what anyone else would have done under the same circumstances."

"That is not what Alastor and Nymphadora Tonks have told me. They both said you ran out into the middle of the foray so they could pull him to safety. I understand you were hit with a number of curses yourself. We are lucky you managed to dodge the Avadra Kedavra."

"I would prefer not to discuss it, Albus," Tiberius said, uncomfortable at all the attention.

"I think it was a very brave thing to do," Harry smiled, "are you sure you weren't in Gryffindor?"

"Positive," Tiberius chuckled. "I am as Slytherin as they come, my dear."

"In any event I am sure Shaklebolt's family will be forever grateful," Dumbledore remarked. "Now we should bring the meeting to order. It is time we discussed what I fear may be happening," he explained, raising his hands to signal the members to take their seats.

Ron and Draco had returned with Dumbledore and had given their report to Moody before taking seats with Harry, Hermione, and Neville. Dumbledore conjured a chair in the front of the room. Harry noted that Tonks and Moody had seated themselves with her three protectors, and the other Hogwarts teachers were all sitting together. The room had grown quiet while everyone waited for Dumbledore to begin.

"Something big is going down with the Deatheaters," Ron whispered. "Moody is worried, and the attack tonight has made him more paranoid that usual."

"Draco, have you got any notion about what the Deatheaters are up to?" Harry whispered.

"No, but I did overhear Voldemort talking with my father and Nott while I was still at the Riddle mansion. I couldn't catch all of it, but it had something to do with Nagini and some very old magic. I told Moody and Dumbledore about it when they questioned me, after Harry saved my life."

"Whatever it is, it can't be good..." Hermione started, when Dumbledore looked down at the four young persons in the front row.

"Sh...The Headmaster is about to begin and you'll get us into trouble," Neville whispered forcefully.

"Good evening, and welcome to our newest members," Dumbledore addressed the crowded room, nodding to the four young people. "I will be brief, and ask Remus Lupin and Tiberius Snape to give their reports, then I shall ask Alastor Moody to fill you all in on what happened this evening. Remus, if you and Tiberius will come forward?"

Remus and Tiberius Snape moved to the front of the room. Remus began his report first.

"I have been shadowing a number of known Deatheaters in an effort to find out where their new headquarters are located. They are no longer using Grimmauld Place, since Voldemort's death. They are aware that the Order and the Ministry know they had taken over the premises after the Order stopped using it. They also continue to recruit new members, and their activities are increasing. I have yet to find the exact location, but it is definitely on the outskirts of London. Harry continues to be a prime target as is the Weasley family, and Severus Snape. The Deatheaters know he was a spy in their ranks, and are seeking revenge. That is all I have been able to discover at this time."

"Thank you, Remus," Dumbledore nodded. "Tiberius, you may begin as soon as you are ready."

Tiberius Snape rose and stood silently, his very aura commanding the attention of the assembled Order. His demeanor was even more formidable than that of his nephew, Severus, when he would face the students in class. He waited until the room was totally quiet, and then began his report.

"I have been talking with some of my contacts in the export business and the Deatheaters have been sending out emissaries to various countries. They seem to be very interested in ancient artifacts dealing with serpent gods and priests. They have sent people to Egypt, the Middle East, and through out Europe. They have also gone to Central and South America. We believe that they are acting on instructions left by Voldemort in the event of his death. One of the Dark Lord's ambitions was to become immortal. I got a lead tonight that Voldemort's people were going to attempt to steal his pet snake from the London Zoo. She has been housed there since the raid on the Riddle Mansion. I believed they wanted to use her in some kind of ritual. When I arrived at the zoo, the snake was gone. The Muggle authorities were searching the grounds, and the zoo's guard was unconscious. I immediately did a memory spell so they would not remember seeing me, and apparated to where Moody's team was guarding the crypt where Voldemort's remains had been interred. The location was known only to members of the Ministry and those of us in the Order who were on a need to know basis in an effort to guard the site from either desecration or attempts by Voldemort's followers to steal the body. I arrived in the middle of a battle with the Deatheaters, and realized that someone in the Ministry must have leaked the location to them. I could see the crypt had been opened and Madison was dead. Shaklebolt way lying unconscious nearby but Alastor's team was pinned down, unable to get to him. I joined the battle, and helped to create a diversion, while Moody and Tonks got Shaklebolt to safety," Tiberius concluded, silently resuming his seat.

"Alastor, do you have anything you wish to add?" Dumbledore queried gravely.

"Aye, there be more, Albus," Moody answered, taking a long draught from his flask as he stood to address the Order. "The Deatheaters were able to retrieve Voldemort's remains before we could stop them. Shaklebolt and Madison surprised 'em opening the crypt, but were outnumbered. Madison was hit with the killing curse, but Shaklebolt was stunned and tortured with the Cruciatus. His condition is serious, but he is expected to survive, thanks to Tiberius quick actions, and Dr. McBride's healing skills. Madison's family was killed in the war, so I will be handling his funeral arrangements should anyone here wish to attend."

"Thank you, Alastor. If you will send me the dates and time for the viewing and funeral I will see that our members are notified."

"Aye, I will owl you tomorrow with the information."

Dumbledore nodded his assent, and leaning back in his chair, closed his eyes. To the uninitiated, it would appear as if he had fallen asleep, but the members of the Order knew better. Albus Dumbledore was deep in thought.

Harry studied him intently, attempting to use her empathic abilities to sense his emotions. Nevertheless, he had anticipated her. Opening his eyes, he met her intent gaze with one of his own. She knew he was troubled, and for the first time since she had met the old man, she sensed he was afraid. She knew something dreadful was forming in his mind, and wished she were a telepath. Breaking her eye contact, she shifted uncomfortably in her chair, a knot forming in her stomach.

"What I am about to tell you, is merely legend. But like all legends, it is based on fact, and is such old magic that it is no longer believed," Dumbledore said quietly, choosing his words carefully. "It is an ancient legend, common through out the world. The first known record of it appears in Egypt. It was then found in Babylon, and in ancient Greece. In Europe, the Celtic peoples spoke of it in hushed tones. We believe it is the real reason you will find no snakes in Ireland. This legend was also known in the Americas and surfaces among the native tribes of both Central and South America. This is the reason Bill Weasley in on assignment there for us. He has already given us his reports from Egypt and his brother Charlie was able to use his time in Romania to unearth more of the information using his study of Dragons as a cover. It is among the darkest forms of Necromancy, and is such a sacrilege that our ancient ancestors feared to use it. Even now, we tell ourselves that it is magic so dark, that it would be impossible to work. Hence, it has been placed into the category of myth. Yet it is my belief that Lord Voldemort may have left instructions on how it may be accomplished," Dumbledore paused looking directly at Harry. "The spell can only be performed by a selected few, and only those persons with the ability to do it, are able to reverse it. It is called the spell of the Serpent's Tongue."

Harry stared at Dumbledore, and a shiver passed through her, making her feel as if someone had just walked over her grave. Hermione shifted in the seat next to her while Ron held tightly to her hand. Draco Malfoy was staring at Harry, while Neville looked nervous.

"Why is it called the Serpent's Tongue?" Harry asked softly, but the room was so quiet she felt as if she had shouted.

"Because it can only be performed or reversed by a Parsel Mouth. It is one of the reasons Parsel Tongue is associated with dark magic," Dumbledore replied, blue eyes locked with her green ones.

"Professor, just what is this spell? You said it was so sacrilegious that the ancient wizards feared to use it," Hermione inquired logically.

"It is the spell to raise the dead," Dumbledore said, looking over the witches and wizards in the room.

"That's not possible. No one can raise the dead...can they?" Draco asked in confusion.

"No one has ever tried," Dumbledore confirmed, "not since ancient times, anyway. The spell was lost in antiquity, but it is my belief that Lord Voldemort found it, and has set his Deatheaters the task to bring him back."

"How could such a thing happen, Albus? You said yourself that it would have to be performed by a Parsel Mouth, and we know Harry won't do it," Professor McGonagall's crisp brogue came from the back of the room.

"Nagini," Severus answered from where he was seated with his uncle. "The Dark Lord's snake understands human speech. All the Deatheaters need to do it recite the spell in English and have the snake repeat what they are saying."

"But they would have to know the spell first. It isn't written in English," Tonks remarked.

"Are there any Archeologists among the Deatheaters, or at least someone who can read hieroglyphics?" Frank Longbottom asked from the back of the room.

"Yes, one of my contacts believes that Justin Blackdrake is one of the Dark Lord's followers. He is a rather mediocre archeologist, but is more than capable of reading ancient languages, including Egyptian and Babylonian. He also knows something of Mayan and Aztec," Tiberius Snape informed the members of the Order. "He also did some recent work in both Egypt and South America."

"Professor, if someone could be brought back from the dead, would they be mortal again? You said something about reversing the spell too," Neville Longbottom questioned.

"According to the information that has been given to me by Bill and Charlie Weasley, they can only be stopped by the reversal spell. Ordinary means of destruction will be ineffective," Dumbledore responded, watching Harry closely.

"Can they be injured? Would they feel pain?" Ron demanded amazed.

"I do not know," Dumbledore sighed. "What we need to do is to study the information we are receiving and keep our eyes open."

"Professor Dumbledore, if this spell works, what is to prevent Voldemort from resurrecting someone else? He could bring back his whole army," Harry said, voicing everyone's worst fear.

"That is why we are taking steps to make sure all the deceased Deatheaters bodies are being cremated. Unfortunately, one of them is unaccounted for."

"Which one?" Draco asked sharply.

"Your father," Dumbledore replied studying the young wizard.

"But he was placed into the family vault. I know. I was there when the vault was opened. So was Tonks! She thought I should go since he was my father, even if he did try to kill me!" Draco shouted frantically.

"No one is accusing you, Son," Moody's gravelly voice reassured him. "We only just found out about an hour before we were attacked. It's obvious that Voldemort wanted his lost followers back too."

"Draco, calm down," Harry said forcefully. "There is no proof such a spell will work even if they try it, and you are in a safe place. If anything, we would all be in danger should Voldemort be able to accomplish his task, and I personally think it is all nonsense."

"Then why is my cousin Sirius sitting here?"

"He was never dead to begin with. He merely fell through the veil, and whatever really happened he just apparated back to Grimmauld Place. He was confused from his injuries," Harry told him, but inside she knew it was only a partial truth. Sirius should not be there with her, except that her father had been able to stop his fall before he passed completely into the afterlife.

"Harry is right, Draco," Sirius voice rang through the room, "there is no need to panic."

"I agree," Dumbledore nodded, "and I feel that we should adjourn the meeting now, and digest this information. Harry, you are not to go anywhere alone, and Draco, you are to continue training with your cousin Tonks, and Ron. You too, should not be alone. While even I do not believe it is possible to resurrect the dead, I do not want anyone to make it look as if it has been done either. That would create a mass panic and people are finally starting to believe that Voldemort is gone for good," Dumbledore addressed the room.

The members all rose, and began talking amongst themselves, lines of worry etched on many of their faces. Harry knew that if Voldemort should return, she would have to be the one to stop him. As far as she knew, she and Voldemort had been the only two Parsel Mouths in the Wizarding world right now, and if he resurrected Lucius Malfoy, then Draco was in almost as much danger as she was. Bidding the members good night at the door, she was glad to find that Dumbledore stayed behind.

"Albus, is it really possible to raise the dead?" Remus inquired thoughtfully, brow furrowed with worry.

"I don't know. Our ancient ancestors knew things that have been lost through the ages by war, famine, disease, and Muggle destruction from ignorance and fear."

"More importantly, have we found a counter spell?" Harry looked at Dumbledore with a steady gaze. "Unless you know of someone else who would be able to perform it? Somehow I don't think Nagini would be too helpful."

"Bill Weasley believes he has uncovered it while he was in Egypt, and also has a partial inscription done by the Mayans. The spells seem to be identical, but he is not certain. I have a friend at the British Museum who will help us to find out."

"So...in other words, I will have the power of life and death? It is no wonder the ancients stopped using it. When you get that much power you believe yourself to be a god."

"Yes, Harry, you are quite right. That is why there are so many gods in the form of serpents, for they were the bearers of the Serpent's Tongue."

"Padfoot, I think I could use some puppy love tonight, or I may never fall asleep," Harry looked over at Sirius, knowing he understood that she wanted him to transform and stay with her for a while.

"Of course," he hugged her. "I think you have had enough excitement for one night."

"Would you like a sleeping draught?" Severus asked with concern.

"Just a mild one," Harry agreed. "Will you be spending the night, Headmaster?"

"Yes, I want to discuss some things with Tiberius, and I am happy to see you have released Sirius and Severus."

"For the time being. I know Remus is happy with the full moon so close now. Maybe the two puppies can go out for a run together," Harry teased, trying to lighten the somber mood.

"Ah, if only we could," Remus smiled, "but unfortunately it wouldn't be a good idea. Even with the Wolfbane Potion, there may be too many people about. I would not want to risk it. Maybe when we go back to Hogwarts. A nice run in the forbidden forest would be great."

"I'll second that," Sirius grinned.

"Well, it is passed ten, and it has been a long and stressful day, so I am going to bed."

"I will bring you up the sleeping draught in a few minutes."

"Thanks, Severus. Padfoot, give me ten minutes to change, and then come on up. Just try and be quiet so Phaedra doesn't wake up."

"Please do, she was quite upset earlier. It took me quite a while to calm her down," Circe remarked, stifling a yawn. "Good night, Harry."

"Good night, everyone," Harry nodded, climbing the stairs slowly. She was exhausted physically, but her mind was racing. If Voldemort really could come back what would happen then? 'God, this is the worst thing that could ever happen. The ancients were right to fear it. What happens to a person's soul? Does it come back with them, or are they just some kind of soulless monster?' The thought terrified her, and she climbed into bed grateful that Severus had offered her the potion. Tonight she didn't care what the others were going to discuss. She just wanted to sleep.

Severus and Sirius came up together, and after she drank the potion, she lay down and Sirius transformed and curled up beside her. She was glad of his comforting presence, and fell asleep gently scratching him behind the ears, as he nuzzled her neck with his soft nose.

18