The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 10

The Actions will Determine the Outcomes

Harry was happily playing a Muggle guessing game with Phaedra while she awaited their turn to enter the long distance Floo System, connecting Britain with the mainland, to return home to England. The two weeks they had all spent in France had been fabulous, and Harry had gotten to learn more about the history of the Wizarding world. Brocelainde had been beautiful, and she had been awed by the presence she felt surrounding Merlin's grave when she and Sirius had gone to visit the places she had only heard about in legends or at Hogwarts.

She had also enjoyed a day at the beach, much to her godfather's dismay at the lovely little bikini Circe had gotten for her. The sly looks she had received from her three protectors had not gone unnoticed, and Harry had rather enjoyed it when she and Phaedra went for a long walk on the beach. Sirius and Severus had both followed them, at a discreet distance, or so the two men had believed. She and Phaedra had been collecting shells in a bucket, and Harry decided to sneak up behind the two men. Besides, the bucket was getting heavy, and since there were quite a few Muggles present, she was not able to levitate it. Whispering to Phaedra, they disappeared into a large group of people watching a volleyball game, and circled up behind the two men, who were growing concerned that the two girls were no longer within sight.

"Black, do you see where they have gotten off to?"

"No, damn it, I don't. If anything happens to either of them I will personally..."

"Not before I do," Snape cut Sirius off.

"I wish Harry had on something more substantial. What was your sister thinking to get her such a revealing swimsuit?"

"I noticed you didn't complain when Circe wore a similar bikini," Snape sneered scanning the beach for the two girls.

"Circe is of an age where she can take care of herself," Sirius snorted, "Harry is only just eighteen years old and has been sheltered more than most girls."

"Oh, I don't know, I seem to do all right. It isn't anyone who could defeat the darkest wizard of the century," Harry's amused voice came from behind them, accompanied by Phaedra's high-pitched giggles.

"Harry thank Merlin you're safe," Sirius hugged her with relief.

"Yes..." Severus sneered. "It is amazing how she just happened to find us in this crowd," he said, voice dripping with sarcasm.

"You set us up," Sirius eyed her suspiciously, trying not to laugh.

"Well, for an ex spy and a former Auror, I think you are both in need of a little refresher work. Honestly, you can't even keep track of two girls," Harry laughed. Sirius shifted uncomfortably, and Severus naturally pale features turned a faint crimson. "I have been aware that you were both following us for the past twenty minutes, and what is this business about revealing swim wear?" Harry asked, looking the two men up and down in their Speedo's and t-shirts. "Remus seems to be the only one of the three of you who is rather modest, and chose to wear loose trunks."

"Harry, I don't think we need to be discussing this in front of Phaedra," Snape replied sternly.

"I hate to admit it, but I agree with you."

"Miss Harry, what do bathing suits have to do with carrying home this heavy bucket of shells?"

"Well, Phaedra, my godfather and your uncle don't particularly like my bikini, for reasons you are too young to understand. So, since I think it is quite nice, we shall make them apologize by having them carry home the bucket," Harry grinned wickedly at the two men.

"I like your bikini," Phaedra replied smartly, "when will I be able to wear one?" she questioned. Her mother had gotten her a one piece with attached skirt, popular with little girls.

"Not for quite some time," Snape replied sternly, taking the bucket from her.

"Come on Phaedra, let's race Sirius back to our blanket," she laughed mischievously, grabbing the little girl and breaking into a run. Sirius dashed ahead of them, and made it back easily since he ran into the water and disappeared beneath the waves, only to reemerge as Padfoot. He then took off up the beach, and repeated the process just before reaching their blanket, transforming back to his human form.

"No fair," Phaedra scolded. "Miss Harry can't transform in the water. You cheated!" she panted dropping onto the blanket beside her mother.

"So did your uncle. He found a quiet place and apparated," Sirius laughed, indicating Severus, who was casually relaxing in a beach chair, the bucket of shells beside him."

"Sev, how did you manage with all the Muggles on the beach?" Harry asked.

"I'm a former spy, remember?" he sneered arching his brow in amusement, but did not reveal how he had managed to apparate on a beach crowded with Muggles.

The rest of the day had been spent swimming and relaxing in the sun until it came time to return to Sirius' family estate. Harry had found it very different from his boyhood home at Grimmauld Place. This house was sunny and cheerful. The serpent motif was still present through out, but the grim feeling of decaying evil did not pervade her senses. Harry had learned that the house had belonged to his grandmother, Andromeda Snape Black's side of the family. She did a double take when hearing Andromeda's maiden name. Severus arched his brow, while Sirius chuckled at the look on her face.

"We told you all pureblood families have a connection," Severus gloated.

"Severus and I just pretend our grandparents were not second cousins," Sirius explained with a scowl. "Grandmum was ostracized like me for not being a good little Slytherin. She wanted no part of the so-called Pureblood ideals, let alone Voldemort. The raving about separation of the bloodlines sickened her. Unfortunately, her marriage to my grandfather was arranged, and if she did not go through with it, her family would have disowned her. She would have been penniless with nowhere to go. So you see, we are both related to Severus, but on opposite sides of the family.

"This is just too complicated," Harry frowned, shaking her head. "You could make a game show out of it for the telly. I could just see it now," she said, getting up to imitate the announcer, pretending her wand was a microphone, "Welcome to Guess the Bloodlines, the show where all good wizards and witches try to decipher their family tree and win a trip to the magical paradise of their choice."

"Uncle, Sev, I think Miss Harry has one daft. Why is she talking into her wand like that?" Phaedra had asked confused, while the others had looked on in amusement.

"She is playing a game, Phaedra," Severus explained. "She is pretending to be the host of a game show on the telly. Muggles use what they call a microphone to magnify their voices, so she is pretending the wand is the microphone."

"Oh...Can we get a television so I can play too? You said we could if Mr. Sirius wanted to."

"I do not think your mother approves," Sirius replied, "but I will see what I can do." He winked at Circe, who was shaking her head in disapproval.

"Miss Harry, Mr. Sirius is so nice, and he is handsome too," Phaedra had beamed, ignoring her mother, who had nudged Sirius in the ribs disapprovingly.

Harry had just laughed, and joked at her godfather, "I don't know what I am going to do with you...Haven't you stolen enough hearts already?"

"I am making up for the time I lost in Azkaban," he had bantered good-naturedly.

Harry just shook her head, rolling her eyes heavenward, as Remus had looked on grinning.

Remus had also seemed to have a good time, and he wasn't looking so worn and tired. Of course, he always did best following the full moon, and now that the new moon was coming, the wolf would be at its weakest. She was glad, since he had obviously needed the rest, and it had given her some much enjoyable time with him. He had taken her to the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower while they were in Paris, and insisted she go shopping for some new clothes at his expense. She naturally refused to let him spend the money. However, she did let him help her pick out a few things for her upcoming teaching job at Hogwarts.

Severus had taken her to the Potions Lecture at the Sorbonne, in Paris. Oddly enough, she found out that the original founder, Robert de Sorbon, had been a wizard. He had started the school in 1257, but due to its theology, was suppressed in 1792. The Muggles believed it had ceased to exist in 1850, but like Hogwarts, it was now securely hidden amongst the rest of the University of Paris.

Harry had found the lecture quite enthralling, since it had to do with creating a potion that might one day be able to reverse the effects of the Dementor's Kiss. Many people had started to feel that this form of execution was unacceptable as it kept the soul from whatever judgment would have been passed upon it. There was also the question of when the innocent lost their souls, either by a wrong conviction or in a Dementor attack. The potion was merely theoretical at present, but many of the Masters of their craft felt it was entirely possible, and had started to develop various ideas of what mixtures to start with and how it could be administered. Severus himself had seemed quite interested in the idea, and Harry knew the reason, although his son was dead.

"Sev, if it were possible to reverse the kiss, what would happen to the souls?" Harry asked cautiously. "Would they go on to the afterlife or could they go back into the person's body?"

He studied her thoughtfully, before answering, "Perhaps both. If the body was still alive, and some are, it may be possible to reintroduce the soul, although I don't know how. The others, well..." his voice trailed off, and Harry could sense his pain.

She looked up at him, and took his hand, letting him know she understood. "Let's go and get some ice cream," she smiled changing the subject to brighten his mood. "I think we could both use a treat after sitting in that stuffy lecture hall all afternoon."

"Very well," he agreed. He had taken her to a sidewalk cafe, and they had both enjoyed a view of the Seine, while relaxing with their treats. Harry had a chocolate parfait, while Severus enjoyed a cup of coffee and an éclair. They had then returned to the Black estate.

The whole two weeks had just flown by, and now that it was time to go home, Harry almost wished shedidn't have to. She did not want to testify at the trials, and hoped there would be some way she could get out of it. She made up her mind to speak with Dumbledore as soon as possible, when they got back to England.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Phaedra, who was growing impatient waiting for Harry to answer her.

"Miss Harry I asked if it was the blue sky!" she demanded

"What? Oh, yes...yes it is the sky. Now it is your turn."

"Okay...hmm... I see a color and the color is green!"

"My eyes?" Harry answered playfully.

"Oh pooh! You got it too fast!"

"Now it's my turn...lets see...ah...I see a color and the color is black."

"Uncle Severus, robes?"

"No, try again."

"Mr. Remus boots?"

"Wrong!"

"Mr. Sirius hair?"

"No, but you're on the right track."

"Mummy's hair?" she asked, noting her mother was waiting beside Sirius.

"Yes! Now it's your turn."

"I see a color and the color is gray," Phaedra announced smugly.

Harry glanced around and smiled, "The streaks in Mr. Remus hair."

"Miss Harry, that's no fair. You always get it right!"

"That is because I watch you as you look around. You have to pick something after you have looked at it while you are looking at something else."

"I thought you were doing some magic, like Uncle Severus can. I heard him call it Legumes."
"No Phaedra, it's called Legilimens," Harry laughed, "legumes is French for vegetables."

"Then what is le-Jil-i- menz?" Phaedra asked pronouncing each syllable.

"It means I can read minds," Snape replied obviously annoyed at the two girls.

"I can do that too, what is the big deal?"

"No, Phaedra, you are a telepath. It is somewhat different. You can only know what someone is thinking when it is happening," Harry explained. "A person who can practice Legilimency is able to look into someone's mind and find what they want to know. It works best with eye contact."

"I don't think Phaedra needs to know this at the moment," Snape hissed in Harry's ear.

"Why, she is too young to even try, let alone understand the procedures involved to use it," Harry retorted. "Don't go and spoil a nice trip with your arrogant attitude."

"Legilimency is an art, young lady, and it should not be discussed as if it were a simple parlor trick!"

"Remind me not to let you teach me then. I will ask Dumbledore instead. At least he is pleasant to work with," Harry remarked annoyed by his haughty demeanor.

Snape was about to reply when the Floo Master at the departure point called out, "Black, party of six to depart for the Leaky Cauldron, London England!"

"Come on, Phaedra, that's us," Harry remarked, taking the little girl by the hand and moving over towards Remus, who would depart first, followed by Harry. Sirius, Phaedra, and then Circe would follow with Severus going last for security purposes.

"Everything okay, Princess? You look a bit flustered."

"I'm okay. I just don't like the floo system. It gets me dizzy," she lied, not wanting to tell him about Severus.

"Me too," he said, winking. He then disappeared into the hearth with a burst of green flames.

Harry then followed him, emerging from the hearth at the Leaky Cauldron. Looking about, she was surprised to see Professor Dumbledore waiting, along with Tiberius Snape. She was immediately concerned as he moved over to greet her.

"Professor is anything wrong?" she queried, looking from one man to the other.

"Patience, Harry, I will tell you as soon as the others have all arrived." Dumbledore gave her a reassuring smile, but his blue eyes reflected his true concern.

"Albus will fill you in over lunch, while I take Phaedra out shopping on Diagon Alley. Some things should not be discussed in front of the child," Tiberius remarked, leading Harry to a secluded table towards the rear of the room.

Remus was already seated, studying the lunch menu. Long experience with the Order had taught him not to ask questions. Dumbledore would fill them in when he was ready.

"I see you didn't miss the proper grate," he teased.

"I only did that once, and I was twelve then," she retorted, cheeks red.

"The floo system can be disorienting for those who are not accustomed to it from a young age," Tiberius remarked casually, as he sat down with them. "Did you enjoy your holiday?"

"Yes, I did. You would have really liked the Potions lecture. Severus brought you back some of the literature."

"Regrettably, I had some other affairs to attend to. However, once I review the literature I will be happy to give you both my opinion."

"I would like that," Harry smiled. In the time she had been working with Tiberius Snape, she had found that she really liked him. He was easier going than Severus was, but that was simply because of the way Sev had to live for the past number of years. She also realized that in time, Severus' manner would calm down, and the kindness and humor she knew he was capable of would come back.

"Ah, now that we are all here, we can have a nice meal, and you can tell us all about your holiday," Dumbledore's pleasant voice stated, as the rest of their party seated themselves.

"Headmaster, Mr. Dumbledore, we had a real good time," Phaedra bubbled. "Miss Harry and I collected shells on the beach, and Uncle Sev and Mr. Sirius didn't like her bikini, but they liked Mummy's."

"Did they now," Dumbledore laughed, blue eyes twinkling as he eyed the two men. "How did you like Harry's bikini, Remus?"

"Hmm...I thought she looked absolutely ravishing," he replied with a grin, hazel eyes bright with amusement at Sirius' scowl and Snape's glare.

"Thank you Remus. At least some one around here besides Circe is able to recognize the fact that I am a young woman now, and not a child!"

"My dear Harry, I never insinuated that you were a child," Snape answered coolly; "I merely wish that you hadn't been so exposed."

"Why? Your sister's bikini was even more revealing than mine," Harry told him pointedly.

"My sister is a mature woman over forty who has every right to show off her figure if she chooses."

"I beg your pardon, little brother. Did you say I was a mature woman? Do you really believe I am that old?"

"I was not inferring you are old, Circe. I only wanted to stress to Harry that she should be a bit more discreet at her age. You are a seasoned witch and..."

"A seasoned witch!" Circe snapped. "I would consider Minerva McGonagall a seasoned witch. Just because I am a few years older than you...," she sputtered.

"You've really done it now, Severus," Harry interrupted, "implying that Circe is getting old."

"I never said such a thing!"

"No, little brother, you didn't have to. I am not so seasoned that I need to show off my figure to draw attention to myself."

"Ahem..." Dumbledore cleared his throat. "Circe, I think Severus meant it as a compliment. He merely wanted Harry to know that at her age the young men are not necessarily looking at her in a polite manner and...."

"Not you too! Albus I will have you know that many a man both older and younger than me have ogled my feminine charms. I see nothing wrong with either mine or Harry's bathing attire."

"Mummy, how come I couldn't have a bikini and why are you and Uncle Sev fighting?" Phaedra asked, perplexed by the commotion her mother was causing, and upset that Severus had gotten her angry.

"Oh, Baby," Circe began, flustered, "Uncle Sev and I aren't fighting. We are merely expressing a difference of opinion."
"Then why didn't I get a bikini?"

"I bought you what all the little girls were wearing this year. Don't you like it?"

"Are all the grown up ladies wearing bikinis?"

"Most of them."

"Then why are you and Uncle Sev getting mad? I think you are both daft. You should be happy we all had a good time!"

"Out of the mouths of babes..." Dumbledore's blue eyes twinkled over his half moon spectacles.

"She's right, Circe, I didn't mean to get you upset. I only wanted you to know that you are an extremely attractive woman and that Sirius and I were concerned that Harry was unaware of how provocative she can be."

"I understand, Sev, and apologize for jumping to conclusions. I hate it when we argue."

"Me too," Severus flashed his sister a quick smile. "Harry do you understand why your godfather and I were so concerned about your swim wear?"

Harry pursed her lips, trying not to smile, but the creeping blush on her cheeks gave her thoughts away.

"Severus, need I remind both you and Sirius that for sixteen years I had to dress and try to act like a boy. I was more than aware of what the opposite sex thought about my skimpy swimwear. For that matter, sometimes being an empath does have its little attributes, since I was also aware of how you and Sirius both felt. Shall we say it was not just concern for my virtue?" Harry gloated grinning at the two men, as Remus erupted into a rare fit of laughter. "And I don't have a clue why you are laughing so hard, Moony. The beast in you could have used a little music to soothe him too."

"It seems Miss Wings; you have us all dead to rights." Sirius hugged her. "Do you forgive us for our male protectiveness?"

"More like desires," she whispered, causing him to chuckle deep in his throat, and look at the ceiling. "Now if no one minds I for one would like to order lunch. I'm starving."

"Excellent idea, Child. So am I. An old man needs to keep up his strength you know," Dumbledore remarked with a wink.

Tom came over and took their orders, and the food appeared on the table. Harry and Phaedra were both having a nice juicy burger and fries. Each also had a milkshake. Harry's was chocolate and Phaedra chose her favorite, strawberry. Sirius chose to have a cheeseburger and a Butterbeer while Remus preferred a hot open-faced roast beef sandwich. Severus decided on a turkey club, while his sister and uncle both chose tuna salad. Professor Dumbledore opted for chicken salad and a small bowl of soup. They were all hungry and the conversation turned to more mundane matters while they ate.

Dumbledore was pleased to hear all about their trip to France and glad they all had taken the time to relax. He was happy that Harry had taken such a keen interest in her wizarding history and laughed when she suggested that Professor Binns, Hogwarts History of Magic instructor, and only teacher ghost, should take a trip to liven up his curriculum.

Tiberius Snape was most interested in the literature from the Potions Lecture, and promised Severus he would review the speaker's suggestions and comments before making any kind of decision as to whether a person's soul could be restored after the Dementor's Kiss.

As their meal wound to a close, Harry noticed that Mr. Chang was coming towards them. Dumbledore immediately rose from his seat to greet his friend.

"Albus please forgive my interruption," the old Chinese wizard bowed, "I have only recently returned form the lands of my ancestors where I was needed by my sister's family owing to the death of her husband."

"I understand completely, Chin, you need not apologize."

"I would express my sorrow at having missed the rise of our new Phoenix," Mr. Chang bowed again, looking at Harry with a smile.

"Thank you, Mr. Chang. I am honored that my elders have seen fit to bestow me with such an awesome responsibility."

"You are a giver of light and truth as is my old friend Dumbledore. I have consulted the oracle of the I Ching and studied your destiny in the stars. Your name will be revered and remembered, as are those of Merlin and Confucius, the great Chinese wizard and philosopher. You will be the slayer of darkness, and the deliverer of justice, for to you will go the power of the ancients. Look for she who will come from the west, who will teach and guide you on your way. She who shifts with the night of the wolf. Remember what I say, Little Phoenix, for you are soon to face your greatest trials. Do not fear your other self, for that is where you get your courage." Mr. Chang then bowed, and looked at Dumbledore, who was studying him intently. "Albus if you would join me for tea on Saturday, I would be honored."

"I am afraid that I will need to be at Hogwarts as we are getting ready for the fall term which will start in a just over a fortnight, but if you would wish to come and lunch with me I would be glad of the diversion," Dumbledore smiled at his old friend.

"It will be my honor. My youngest great grandson will be starting his first year and is more than a little excited."

"Ah, yes, Lee Chang. I am looking forward to having him with us. Harry will have him as one of her first year students."

"Then I am doubly privileged," Mr. Chang said, smiling at Harry. "Now if you will all excuse me, I must be getting back to the restaurant. Little One," he addressed, Phaedra, " I know you will be going shopping with your uncle shortly. It you wish to stop by the restaurant for some tea and almond cookies as my guests I will be happy to read your tea leaves."

"Can we Uncle Tiberius? Please?" Phaedra begged.

"I think it could be arranged. We will pick up some things for you to bring to school and then stop for tea with Mr. Chang before it is time to bring you back."

"Goody!" Phaedra bounced with delight as Mr. Chang bowed and withdrew. "Will Mummy be coming with us?"

"No dear, I need to be here for a little while. I need to review a few things with Dumbledore."

"Uncle, how do you know what to buy me? Did you get my list from the school?"

"Yes, Phaedra, I have a school list. When we get home your mother will also need to speak with you about a few things."

"Am I in trouble? I didn't touch anything that day I snuck into the Potions lab, honest I didn't."

"The Potions Lab? I was referring to your return to school," Tiberius remarked taken back by the child's admission.

"Phaedra, when did you sneak into the Potions Lab?" Severus looked at her sharply.

"Just before we left on holiday, Uncle Severus. I was looking for you, and the door was open, but you weren't there. I just looked around and studied the jars...honest. I would never touch anything..."

"We shall discuss this later," Severus interrupted her sternly.

"Indeed we shall," Tiberius agreed.

"Yes, Uncles," Phaedra replied cowed.

"Phaedra, if you did nothing wrong, then there is no reason to be upset." Harry hugged her. "You leave your uncle Severus to me," she whispered, "but promise me you will never go in alone again?"

"I promise," she choked back softly.

"Come along then, Phaedra, we have quite a few stops to make. If you are a good girl we will stop at Fortescue's for some ice cream before we go to Madam Malkin's for some new robes."

"Mr. Snape, could you do me a favor while you are out shopping?"

"Of course, Harry. Is there something you require?"

"Would you stop in the children's store run by Miss Flitwick? I promised Phaedra a new pink dress." Harry winked at the little girl, whose face brightened.

"I will be happy to do so."

"Just have Miss Flitwick charge it to my account at Gringott's."

"Very well. Let's get going Phaedra so that we will have the time to get your tea leaves read by Mr. Chang," Tiberius said, taking the child by her hand. Bidding them good afternoon, he led her towards the hidden entrance to Diagon Alley.

Harry waited quietly as they exited the room, having been careful to hide her anxiety from Phaedra, but when Mr. Chang had been speaking she had instinctively taken hold of Sirius hand under the table, dropping it only when she had hugged Phaedra. Harry was more than aware that the old Chinese gentleman had said almost the same thing as Artemis, and she was becoming unnerved. Dumbledore was studying her, blue eyes intense.

"Anyone for a lemon drop?" he asked popping one into his mouth.

They all declined, except for Harry who held out her hand in acceptance as she met the old wizard's sparkling blue eyes. 'I know you are using your Legilimency on me. It is obvious that you think I would hide my thoughts from you otherwise,' she considered, maintaining her eye contact. Albus Dumbledore merely smiled, so Harry tried another tactic. 'Have you decided whether to marry me yet? I think your beard is sexy!' Dumbledore laughed aloud, still maintaining his eye contact. 'Will you teach me how to do Legilimency? I could chase you out of my head, you know. Sev said I am getting quite good with the Occlumency.' Dumbledore maintained his eye contact, blue eyes amused as Harry started to clear her mind, closing one door at a time, until her mind was blank.

"Very good, Harry. I am pleased with your progress," Dumbledore laughed, breaking his eye contact. "Are you more relaxed now?"

"Umm..." she nodded, a slight flush creeping up her cheeks.

"Good, because I do not want you to become distressed by the news I have to tell you. I am afraid it is not good."

"Albus, did something happen while we were on holiday?" Circe asked concernedly.

"Yes, I am afraid so. The three Deatheaters who were to go on trial this week have been found dead in their cells."

"Could it not have been from the Dementors?" Snape queried.

"No. They were not being held in Azkaban."

"Then where were they being kept?" Sirius asked quietly. He knew from experience that there were temporary holding cells in the basement of the Ministry.

"In the holding cells at the Ministry. They were transferred there three days ago. Nymphadora found them dead in their cells yesterday when she went to relieve Sidney Greystone for guard duty."

"What about Greystone?" Remus asked softly.

"He too was killed. It is believed there is a spy within the Ministry, since most people are unaware that there are holding cells in the basement."

"How were they killed?" Harry questioned nervously.

"It is believed they were victims of the Avadra Kedavra. There were no marks on them. Arthur has kept it from the papers so far. He stated that the trials have been postponed since the three men have been having difficulty finding legal council to represent them. All members of the Ministry who have access to the area have been questioned, and all have been cleared of any involvement."

"Then it had to be someone who used to work at the Ministry," Harry remarked.

"Not necessarily, Honey. The Deatheaters could have gained the information through torture. Then all they had to do was send in their spy who could be anyone from a member of the Board of Governors to a simple secretary," Sirius explained patiently.

"But why were they murdered?" Circe looked at Dumbledore.

"It could be for any number of reasons. Perhaps they were going to incriminate someone high up in the Ministry, or maybe they were aware of the reasons for the disappearance of Voldemort's body."

"Headmaster, it is very possible they had information about the legend and Voldemort's plans in the event of his death," Snape remarked shrewdly, dark eyes unfathomable.

"I agree. It is for that reason I am going to have you all report to Hogwarts now rather than return to Severus' London town home, as we had originally planned. Circe, you Tiberius and Phaedra will be staying at the castle also. You will be acting as my private secretary and Tiberius will be teaching the NEWT and OWL level Defense Against the Dark Arts," Dumbledore explained, holding up his hand before Severus could protest. "Severus, I will need you to teach NEWT and OWL level Potions and the younger students in Defense Against the Dark Arts. Harry you will be teaching the first through third year students in Potions and Transfiguration. Minerva will be assisting me, as I will have to spend a good deal of time at the Ministry again. In addition I have asked her to teach the NEWT and OWL Level Transfiguration classes."

"Albus, what about Phaedra? She needs to get to school." Circe inquired nervously.

"I have made arrangements for her to go to the school in Hogsmeade. She will have a bodyguard at all times. She will be escorted to school daily by Hagrid. When the weather is too inclement, she will be able to floo from my office. Remus, I am going to ask you if you would mind taking over teaching the Care of Magical Creatures rather than Charms since Hagrid will be spending the day in Hogsmeade while Phaedra is in class. Sirius, if you would take over Charms, I would appreciate it since Minerva and Harry will be sharing the Transfiguration classes.

"I will enjoy teaching the Care of Magical Creatures, Albus. You know it is my other specialty, being as how I am a werewolf," Remus replied.

"I have no objection to teaching Charms, especially since Moony already made up his lesson plans," Sirius grinned, and they all laughed.

"Albus, don't you think this is a bit presumptuous?" Circe questioned. "You don't really believe that we are in that much danger yet, do you?"

"I would rather be accused of overkill than have something happen we were not prepared for."

"Harry, you're awfully quiet. What's wrong, Princess?"

"Remus, if anyone can come back from the dead, Voldemort will find a way. I have been warned by both Artemis, and Mr. Chang that I will be facing some kind of crisis, and in case you haven't noticed, I have been wearing the ruby dragon ring I got last year for my birthday. I put it on for graduation, but what I didn't tell any of you is that it has locked itself. I can't take it off."

"Harry, why didn't you tell us this immediately?" Sirius asked sharply, brow furrowed with concern.

"I didn't want to worry you needlessly. What ever is going to happen has already begun. All we can do is wait and watch."

"Child, Sirius is right. You should have told us immediately. I'm relieved that I have taken these precautions."

"Headmaster, if I had told you about the ring would you have prevented us from going on holiday?"

"Perhaps, but I knew how much you all needed the rest. I know it did you all good to be away from the situation for even such a short time."

"Then I'm glad I didn't say anything," Harry smirked. "I actually slept the night through for a change with no nightmares."

"Then I am glad you went, Child. You needed to relax, as did your family," Dumbledore beamed at them all. "Now let's have some dessert. Tom has some wonderful home made Pumpkin Cheese Cake, and I would like to discuss this years lesson plans with you all, and explain Circe's duties to her."

The next two hours were spent in a leisurely fashion talking about the upcoming school year and what would be required from each instructor. Harry promised she would talk with Minerva about forming a lesson plan with her when she got to Hogwarts. It seemed Professor McGonagall was already there since she was there getting ready for the first years and was in charge of organizing this year's welcoming feast. Harry learned that all the special functions the school had put on over the years had been organized by the staff, and each took a role. This year there was going to be a Yule Ball, and Harry was to be on the committee along with Remus, Professor Sprout, and Neville Longbottom, as part of his apprenticeship.

"I have... to... organize the... Yule Ball?" Harry sputtered, choking on a glass of pumpkin juice.

"Relax, Princess, it will be fun. You can help to plan the decorations and arrange for the band. I'll help and so will Pomona Sprout."

"With Longbottom on the committee you will need all the help you can get," Snape sneered, amused.

"Now, Severus, you needn't be so negative towards the young man. You yourself admitted he has blossomed into quite a capable wizard," Dumbledore admonished.

"I apologize, Albus. He has made a good deal of progress," Severus replied contritely.

"I am glad you think so. Now there will also be a Valentines Day Dance and I'm putting you and Sirius in charge. I will want an afternoon party for the younger students and a formal dance in the evening for the fourth through seventh year students."

"Headmaster, I would prefer not..."

"No arguments, Severus. You have gotten out of these committees for the past few years as your spying duties and Harry's Protectorship prohibited you from making the time. Harry is a member of the staff now, so you should be able to manage it quite nicely."

"Um...Professor Dumbledore," Harry began uncertainly... "could you put Severus on the Yule committee and me on the Valentine's Day Dance. I think it would work out a bit better."

"No, Harry. Severus and Sirius will do quite well together. They have quite a bit in common as you have pointed out to me on more than one occasion."

"Yes, Sir," she pouted. Harry would have liked the opportunity to work with her godfather. "Who is handling the leaving feast?"

"Professor Vector and our new instructor in Ancient Egyptian and Native American Mysticism, Arsinoe Darkmoon. The class will be for the upper grades, and is being given for advanced students only. Miss Darkmoon's grandfather and I are old friends. Her mother is of Egyptian ancestry so she is also versed in the magic of the ancient priests. We also have a new librarian, who will be assisting them."

"Wait a minute!" Harry looked at Dumbledore suspiciously. "This new teacher suddenly arrives here to teach about ancient magic when we are being faced with a possible corruption of an ancient spell that absolutely no one believes will work! Headmaster I am not a fool. You obviously brought her here for a reason, and I for one would like to hear it."

"She is just as I said. The granddaughter of my old friend Ichtaca, which means secret in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec's. We met many years ago, when I was traveling in the America's for the Ministry. He worked in the Department of Magical Antiquities and Mysteries, and is one of the foremost archeologists in his field."

"I've heard of him," Remus said excitedly. " He is one of the shamans in charge of finding the missing Crystal Skulls and retrieving the ones in the hands of the Muggles. Isn't there one in the British Museum?"

"Yes, there is. Our Ministry of Magic over sees its keeping and handles the Muggles when they claim to have visions when looking into it. Our governments have been collectively studying the ancient skulls, more of which have been discovered in Mexico and Central America. It is also believed that the Aboriginal Shaman of Australia have one in their possession," Dumbledore explained. "But I am getting side tracked. Harry is quite correct. Arsinoe has come to help, should the need arise. Her grandfather would have come himself, but he has been unwell."

"So she will be working as a teacher unless something happens?" Sirius questioned.

"Yes and no. She will be able to read the hieroglyphs should the spell in question be the one associated with ancient Egypt, and she also can translate Aztec and Mayan."

"I thought the spell could only be done by a Parsel Mouth?" Harry asked confused.

"No, Child, the spell must be spoken in Parsel Tongue or it will not work but since there is no written version of the snake language it would have been saved in whatever human tongue was spoken at the time. According to my friend, that was how the secret was kept from being misused. Legend says that the spell of life and death was given to the priests by the serpent gods who carried it on the wind and imbued the priests with the ability to speak the words."

"Did your friend say why the priests were given this knowledge?" Severus inquired with interest.

"There is no definitive answer but many scholars believe it was to be used only when times of great strife were at hand. Some think it was supposed to be able to wake the elders who would be able to help solve the problems that plagued the lands. Other theories are that it was to be used in times of war to keep the warriors from being lost forever. Whatever the real reasons we may never know," Dumbledore shrugged, "for they were lost in antiquity."

"Well I for one hope that if the Deatheaters have found the spells that they don't work," Circe sighed nervously. "My family has studied the Dark Arts for generations, but something like this is just too bloody gruesome."

"Studying the Dark Arts is one thing, performing them is quite another," Dumbledore reassured her.

"It seems to me that I heard somewhere that to attain the title of Sorcerer one has to be versed in the Dark Arts," Harry stated, eyeing Dumbledore.

"You are correct, Little Phoenix. I am quite versed in the subject; however I have never put them into practice."

"Uncle Tiberius has also attained the title of Sorcerer," Snape replied proudly.

"Why doesn't that surprise me," Sirius smirked.

"All right you two, don't start," Harry chided "Headmaster, you told us there is also a new Librarian. Who is she and what happened to Miss Pince?"

"Irma decided to retire. It seems a distant uncle died and left her quite a sum of money. Fortunately I was able to secure another Librarian, who is absolutely delighted to be with us at Hogwarts."

"Who is it?" Remus questioned.

"A good friend of Harry's; a young lady by the name of Hermione Granger," Dumbledore laughed, blue eyes twinkling.

"Hermione!" Harry gasped. "What happened to her job at the Ministry in Muggle Relations?"

"She started it, but found that all she was doing was filing reports on Muggles who had their memories altered after coming into contact with various wizarding artifacts. She had been hoping to act as one of liaisons between our two governments, but that position was given to an older witch who transferred from within the Ministry."

"Probably a pureblood with no real knowledge of the Muggle world," Harry muttered.

Dumbledore pursed his lips amused, while Snape snorted his disapproval at her remark and looked at her down his aquiline nose, but refrained from commenting, as the Headmaster continued.

"Anyway, she was frustrated and I just happened to mention to Arthur that Irma had suddenly decided to retire. Ron had told him about Hermione, who was too proud to tell her future father in law how miserable she really was, so he asked me if I thought she would be interested in the position."

"I will assume she was absolutely delighted. She probably knows every book in the school library as well as Irma Pince ever did," Harry grinned. "Now all we need are Ron and Draco to show up."

"Didn't I tell you that they will be among the Aurors assigned to the school as part of their training?" Dumbledore remarked mischievously, blue eyes dancing with mirth. In addition, we will have Tonks, and Kingsley Shaklebolt, as well as Stan Ghostly and Susan Lookinglass The six Aurors will rotate shifts over the twenty-four hour period. They will be living at the school. Moody also asked me to tell you and Sirius that he may also require your services."

"Did he say in what capacity?" Sirius brown eyes were dancing with excitement.

"Spying in Hogsmeade in your animagus forms."

"That might work for him, but a big red bird isn't exactly unobtrusive."

"Ah...but you can hide overhead where you won't be seen and listen in on conversations. Aberforth has a rafter all picked out for you at the Hogshead," Dumbledore teased, referring to his brother's inn. "Now, it is getting late, and I see that Tiberius and Phaedra have returned so we should be getting back to Hogwarts."

"Albus do we need to close up the house in Ottery St. Catchpole?"

"No, Remus, Tiberius and the house elves have already done so since you were originally to stay here in London. The dogs are at Hagrid's."

The small group rose as Phaedra bounced over excitedly, and hugged her mother and then Harry.

"Mummy, wait till you see my new pink dress that Miss Harry had Uncle Tiberius buy for me. It is beau...ti...ful!" she exclaimed drawing out the word to express her delight. "Wait till my friend Althea sees it. She will be so jealous," Phaedra gloated.

"Phaedra, it is not nice to brag and I didn't hear you thank Harry for the dress yet," Circe admonished her, "and I also have something very important to talk to you about."

"What is it Mummy? Is Uncle Severus really mad about me going into the Potions Lab?"

"This has nothing to do with your going into the lab without permission. Now thank Harry and then we will tell you on our way," she said taking Phaedra by the hand, while Severus and Tiberius took the packages and reduced them for easy transport.

"Thank you for the pretty dress, Miss Harry. I really love it."

"You're welcome. I hope you will put it on when we get home so I can see how pretty you look in it."

"Can I Mummy?"

"Yes, dear, I think we would all like to see it on you." Circe smiled. "Albus will we be apparating or using the floo system?"

"Apparating will be faster. Do you want me to take Phaedra?"

"You're coming home with us?" Phaedra asked excitedly.

"Actually you are coming home with me. Dumbledore's blue eyes twinkled.

"We're going to Hogwarts? Whoopee...Can I see the squid again?"

"I think it can be arranged, but you must be careful," Dumbledore answered smiling.

"How long will we be staying at Hogwarts? Is there another party?"

"Phaedra, we will be living at Hogwarts for a few months," Circe told her soberly. "You will be going to school in Hogsmeade."

"What about my friends?" Phaedra looked at the adults anxiously. "I won't know anybody at the school in Hogsmeade."

"Phaedra, you will make new friends and I will let you use my owl to write to your friend Althea. Would you like that?" Harry questioned in an effort to calm the worried child.

"You will let me use Hedwig?"

"Yes, and you can tell your old friends what it will be like when they come to Hogwarts. Did you know that when I went to Hogwarts for the first time I didn't know anybody and neither did my friend Hermione?" Harry questioned, and Phaedra shook her head. "So you see, going to a new school can be a little scary but it can also be a lot of fun. I bet when you do finally come to Hogwarts there will be a lot of people you meet who don't know anyone, especially if they are Muggle born."

"But I'm not going to be going to school at Hogwarts," Phaedra protested.

"No, but you will be living at the school, so you will know all the tricks long before the others do, that way when you do finally come as a student you will be able to show everyone around."

"Hmm...And you will really let me send letters to my friends?"

"I promise." Harry hugged Phaedra gently.

"Okay, Mummy we can live at Hogwarts. Besides, Uncle Severus will be there with Miss Harry, and everybody else, but what about Uncle Tiberius? Can he come too? Otherwise he will be left all alone."

"I am coming, Phaedra. I will be teaching the older students in Defense Against the Dark Arts to get them ready for their exams," Tiberius explained patiently.

"Then why are we just standing here? I want to go and get Hannibal. He can come too, can't he?"

"Your puppy is already there, Little One," Dumbledore laughed. "Now would you like to apparate with me or one of your uncles?"

"Headmaster Mr. Dumbledore, why can't I go with Miss Harry?"

"I'm afraid Harry still needs more practice before she can apparate another person along with herself."

"Then can I go with Mr. Sirius? He has a motorcycle that flies!"

"Sorry, Phaedra, but I don't have my motorcycle here," Sirius chuckled. "In fact it should be at Hogwarts since I stored it there before we left for our holiday."

"Then why don't you apparate to Hogwarts and get it? Then you could come back for me?" Phaedra asked with a devious little smile.

"How about if everyone apparates and I give you a ride this evening after dinner?"

"Hmm...Can Mummy have one too?"

"If she wants one," Sirius replied winking at Circe.

"What about me?" Harry asked feeling a pang of jealousy. 'Why didn't he think to ask me to go for a ride with him too? He knows how much I enjoy it,' Harry reflected.

"No, Miss Harry, I think Mr. Sirius should take Mummy out for a ride. She never gets to have any fun. She works too much."

"Well then, Miss Phaedra, I will be happy to give your Mum a ride on my motorcycle so she can have some fun," Sirius said giving Phaedra his best smile, "but right now we need to be going."

"Can I apparate with you and Mummy? That would be fun."

"Mr. Sirius does not usually apparate with someone," Harry remarked pouting.

"I don't think it will be a problem, Honey. Circe and I are quite capable of taking Phaedra."

"But you always said..."

"It will be fine, Harry," Sirius stated firmly. "Circe are you ready?" he questioned taking Phaedra by the hand.

"When ever you are," she answered with a smile, taking her daughter's other hand.

"Then we'll go on the count of three." Sirius grinned holding his wand in his free hand. "One...Two...Three...,"he counted slowly as they raised their wands and called, "Hogwarts!" disapparating.

Severus and Remus had both been watching Harry closely, each considering her expression.

'Interesting...She's angry with my sister, and even more so with Black. My little green-eyed Gryffindor is a victim of the Green Eyed Monster; she's jealous. This could really work to my advantage...' Severus contemplated the situation with typical Slytherin craftiness.

'Harry's upset. Sirius didn't see that he just hurt her, the bloody fool! I wonder if he realizes how possessive she is when it comes to him,' Remus mused. Yet, how much of it is really love? I think maybe their closeness may be more like the camaraderie he had with James. They were close like that too. One was always there for the other. I know Sirius cares for her very deeply, but maybe...'

"Remus," Dumbledore nudged him, "I asked if you were ready? We need to be getting back to the school."

"I'm sorry, Albus, my mind was elsewhere. Harry would you like to apparate with me?"

"Sure, why not?" she replied flatly, while Dumbledore and Tiberius exchanged glances. Her behavior hadn't been unnoticed by the two older men either.

"Let's all go together," Dumbledore remarked raising his wand, waiting while the others followed suit.

He then nodded, and they all called out, "Hogwarts," as a group, and disapparated. They appeared on the path to the school, where Phaedra was waiting with Sirius and Circe.

Harry was angry with Sirius, and became even more upset when she saw that he and Circe were laughing and having a good time while they had been waiting. Glaring at her godfather, her first inclination was to transform and fly off to the castle. Nevertheless, she realized she would be running away again if she did so, and walked quietly back with the others. Her sullen expression was not lost on Dumbledore, who put a comforting hand on her shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

'Ah my Little Phoenix,' he thought. 'Sometimes love can be painful, and for an empath it is doubly so. Time will tell if you and he will be lovers, but for now, you need to try to control your feelings. If what I fear is about to happen all of our lives may depend on your innate capacity to love. I will do my best to help you keep your trust in all that is good, for you may not be the child of my loins, but you are the child of my heart.'

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