The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 21

A Perfectly Abnormally Normal Evening

As Harry waited patiently for Sirius, Remus and her parents to meet her by the front doors of the castle she allowed her mind to wander back to the previous evening's events. Voldemort had done the unthinkable, yet she had accepted the fact that she couldn't change what had happened. It was her solemn duty now to rectify the situation and see that it could never happen again. She would do all in her power to see that the Potters were safe and secure until the day came for her final confrontation with Lord Voldemort.

Arthur Weasley had told his wife what had occurred and Molly had come directly to Harry's rooms as soon as they arrived at Hogwarts. Harry had completely broken down when she saw her, crying so hard that Molly was afraid her 'poor Harry' was on the verge of a total breakdown. Molly's mothering instincts took over allowing Harry her grief, cradling her while she rocked gently back and forth until Harry's tears were spent. Molly understood Harry's despair better than anyone did. All her life Harry had wanted nothing more than to know her mother's love and comfort, which had been denied because of Lord Voldemort. Now he had come full circle and taunted the poor girl by putting them just beyond her reach. Molly fully understood Harry's dilemma. If she allowed her parents into her heart, Harry believed she would ultimately fail to destroy the Dark Lord. In her mind, she equated the act of destroying Voldemort with killing her parents. Molly felt it was her duty to convince her otherwise. Once Harry had calmed down sufficiently Molly had spoken to her as she did her own children.

"Harry dear, you know I love you as one of my own. When the time comes I will be there for you, as will your protectors and the rest of the Order."

"But Mrs. Weasley, how will I ever live with myself? My parents gave their lives to save me. Now I have to kill them all over again only this time I will be the one committing the act."

"Harry," she replied slowly, "your parents would not want you to feel that any of this is your fault. Try to look at it from their point of view. They are being given a chance to know the child they fought and died for; all you will be doing is returning them to a better place. You said yourself that they told you they were always with you. Give them the chance to know how much you care and let them show you what they are really like. You have only known them through the eyes of others. Let them go back knowing that their time here, no matter how evil the Dark Lord's intent was in bringing them back, was actually a gift from Heaven. As a mother, I can tell you that Lily's heart will break if you deny her. I am sure she ached as much for you as you did for her. Let them get to know you and not the child they had to watch from afar. I'm sure they are as confused as you are. Yet they will be there for you even knowing that in the end they can't stay. It will be their love that will guide you to do the right thing."

"What about Sirius and Remus. They will only end up hating me. They lost them before and now that they're all together, I will have to take that away. I can't bear the thought of how they will look at me. Sirius was so happy to see my dad..." Harry's voice trailed off.

"Harry, they won't hate you. If anything, they will love you all the more. You have given them the chance to say good-bye. They didn't have that before. Your act of love will bring all of you the closure which was denied for so long."

"And Severus, what about him?"

"He will have the opportunity to resolve his anger and pain. Did you ever think that maybe he needs to rid himself of the ghosts of his past so he can get on with his life? You have already brought him partially out of his shell. Your parents' presence may open old wounds but now he will have to deal with them as an adult. He needs to face the truths of what caused his animosity in the first place. Severus has already come to terms with your godfather now he can finally clear the slate with your father."

"He'll probably be happy when they're gone," Harry muttered.

"No Harry, he won't. He has come to love you as much as Sirius and Remus. He will not want to see you in pain."

"Oh, Molly, you make it sound so easy but what if I can't do it? What if..."

"Hush! I won't have you talking about failure. You are too brave and loving to fail and your powers are stronger than even I can imagine. It is my belief that the Dark Lord has made a grievous error in judgment by resurrecting your parents."

"I don't understand. What sort of error?"

"I believe that it will be their presence that will give you the impetus to succeed. Their love will help you to right this grievous wrong. You will give them peace knowing that you did what was right just as they would have done. Now go and wash you face or we will be late for the meeting."

Harry stared at Molly for a moment then did as she was told. Molly had given her a lot to think about and Harry trusted her. When she returned to the sitting room, Molly was waiting.

"Okay, I'm ready to go," she sniffed.

"Just one minute. Let me look at you," Molly said coming over and studying her face. "It's just as I thought. Your eyes are red and swollen from crying. This will never do." She waved her wand over Harry's face with a quick healing spell, nodding in satisfaction. "Now that's better," she stated smugly. It had the desired effect. Harry smiled up at her affectionately and they headed off to the meeting.

When they arrived at the Room of Requirement, most of the other members had already gathered with the exception of her parents and Sirius. Remus was sitting with Severus and Circe. They were talking quietly among themselves. Ron was present with Hermione and they were sitting with the most of the Weasley clan. Draco, Tonks, and Kingsley were not present and Harry knew that they were on duty. Ron would fill them in following the meeting. Minerva was sitting with Arabella Figg and Mundungus Fletcher, who was having an argument with Professor Sprout. Neville was also present. He was sitting with his parents. Mad Eye Moody was beside Tiberius near the front of the room. The room went silent when Harry and Molly entered. Harry knew word must have spread about the Potters resurrection. Professor Dumbledore was seated at the front of the room facing everyone with Mr. Chang on his left. He motioned for Harry to come and sit in the vacant seat to his right while Molly went to sit with her family.

"Ah...Our Lung Huang has arrived." Mr. Chang greeted her warmly, rising to bow gracefully.

"Good evening Mr. Chang," she bowed back, "it is nice to see you again. Unfortunately I have no idea what Lung Huang means."

The old Chinese gentleman laughed softly, his smile causing the corners of his eyes to wrinkle. He stroked his white beard thoughtfully as he studied Harry.

"Then today you will learn some Chinese." His dark eyes twinkled almost as brightly as Dumbledore's. "Lung is the Chinese word for dragon and Huang is a female phoenix."

"I'm a phoenix dragon?" Harry questioned, frowning, wondering just how much Dumbledore had told his contemporary.

"I meant no insult," he remarked. "I did not mean to distress you. It was meant as a compliment to your abilities. The phoenix and the serpent have very powerful magic in my culture."

"No insult was taken." Harry smiled ruefully. "It's just that sometimes I wonder how much you are able to discern on your own and how much Professor Dumbledore tells you." Harry eyed Dumbledore suspiciously.

"There is no need to fear that Albus has betrayed your abilities to me. He is aware that Chinese magic has its own means of foretelling the outcomes of certain events." He glanced at Dumbledore with a mysterious smile and both men seemed to share some kind of message. Harry wondered if Mr. Chang were a Legilimens.

"I see...and what will be the outcome of my current situation with a certain Dark Lord?" Harry was aware that Dumbledore was listening despite appearing to be reading a parchment sitting in front of him on the table.

"That which has been prophesized will come to pass in its own good time. Your path has been set and even my humble means of divination have not yet been able to lift the veil on the final outcome," Mr. Chang answered. "But I can tell you that in fire you will find darkness and in darkness you will find salvation."

Harry's stomach lurched and she was about to question the old man further but at that moment the door opened and Sirius entered with her parents. Sirius looked at Harry, giving her an encouraging wink then ushered her parents over to sit beside Mad Eye Moody and Tiberius.

Harry had thought her mother beautiful before but seeing her now took her breath away. Her mother had changed into a set of pale blue robes and her red hair glinted in the firelight. Her creamy complexion was flawless, while her emerald eyes were like two jewels beckoning to be plucked from the earth. It was no wonder her father had fallen so hard for her. Harry's father had also showered changed. His black robes accentuated his tall frame. Behind his glasses, hazel eyes were looking at everyone with open curiosity. He wore a crooked smile and his hair was untamable. He was also handsomer then Harry remembered from their last encounter back in time though not quite as good looking as Sirius.

Opening herself up, Harry decided it would not be wrong to use her empathy to discover how they really felt about being back. She also wanted to know how the others felt. Unfortunately, she was not given the chance to find out. Just as she was about to scan the room a burst of agonizing pain shot through her scar and she could hear Voldemort's crazed laughter. He was happy. Something else had just happened, but before she could determine what, he became aware of her presence. She heard a scream of agony from somewhere in the room and realized that it was her own voice as the pain welled up inside of her. The last thing she saw before passing out were two red eyes blazing with delight.

She awoke several hours later to find herself in her own bed. 'Well at least I'm not in the infirmary for once,' she thought looking around. Her three protectors were scattered about the room. Sirius and Remus were asleep and Severus was sitting in the wing chair by the fire, reading a book. She could hear soft muted voices coming from her sitting room. Severus looked over at the sound of her movement as she sat up slowly.

"How are you feeling?"

"Okay, I guess. I have a headache."

"I should imagine so. You screamed and grabbed your scar before you passed out," he remarked quietly. The voices from the other room stopped. Looking towards the door, Harry's face registered surprise upon seeing her parents standing there.

"Harry, are you all right? What happened?" Her mother came over to her and instinctively tried to put her arms around Harry's shoulders but she pulled away.

"Just Voldemort touching my mind, it happens from time to time." She didn't want to tell them she had opened her mind to feel the emotions of the people around her and had inadvertently felt those of the Dark Lord. Snape looked at her suspiciously but kept silent.

"You frightened your mother and me half to death. We knew you were linked but didn't realize how bad these attacks actually were," James Potter told his daughter, coming over to sit on her bed. "I see your protectors are doing a fine job," he grinned looking over at the sleeping forms of his two friends.

"Severus is awake. They tend to sleep in shifts when I need them here," Harry shrugged. "Besides, it has been a rather stressful day for all of us."

"You're right." Her mother smiled. "You should try and get some rest. I understand that we will be moving tomorrow evening to our temporary quarters after dinner but Albus didn't say where. He said we should ask you."

"Did he tell anyone where I suggested you be lodged?" Harry questioned looking at Severus.

"No," Snape answered. "I believe he wants as few people to know as possible. He wouldn't even tell the three of us. He merely said that it was your idea and that he would have Lupin and Black accompany all of you."

"Why aren't you coming too?"

"I did not wish to intrude on your parents and their friends. Besides, I have to prepare the mid year exams for my OWL and NEWT level classes. I prefer to get them done early to avoid rushing before the Christmas recess."

"What's all the noise about?" Sirius sleepy voice interrupted. He looked around in confusion, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "Harry, are you all right?" He jumped up, tripping over Remus' outstretched feet, landing on the floor. Remus immediately came awake, drawing his wand. Getting up swiftly he lost his footing and tumbled on top of Sirius.

"What the hell is going on? Sirius are you all right?"

"I will be Moony as soon as you get off of me." Sirius tried to sound mad, but failed miserably. Both men struggled to their feet, grinning at one another sheepishly.

"Princess, how are you feeling?"

"Never better," Harry laughed. "I see you two are the perfect protectors for a young woman in distress. That is, if she is on the floor."

"My sentiments exactly," James chuckled.

"Are you two finished clowning around or do I have to send a hex your way to make sure you take your obligation to my daughter seriously," Lily chided trying not to smile.

"You can't hex them. You don't have a wand," Harry stated firmly.

"Albus returned my wand at the meeting tonight and your father's as well."

"He had them both? I thought the Ministry had yours?"

"Arthur secured mine and gave it to Albus. Artemis brought your father's to Albus. It had been buried with him. Apparently the Deatheaters who retrieved his body missed it," Lily responded with an involuntary shudder.

"It's okay, Lils, try not to think about it." James comforted his wife.

"Um..." Harry faltered, uncomfortable calling her mother Mum but not wanting to call her Lily either. Covering her discomfiture, she hurried on. "You are aware of the reason the Ministry had your wand?"

"You used it to pierce Voldemort's heart." She looked at her daughter evenly. "You were very brave."

"Of course, she's a Potter." James smirked arrogantly.

Harry noted Severus scowl and immediately changed the subject.

"Severus are you sure you don't want to come with us tomorrow? I think you would find it interesting."

"I'm sorry, Harry, but I do need to get some work done. Where are you planning on taking them?"

"That my dear Severus is a secret. I will however let you and only you in on it," she smirked, meeting his eyes. He understood and looked into her mind. A moment later, he arched his brow in amusement. "Now I know why you should have been in Slytherin."

"Yes, it is a rather devious idea," she winked.

"Harry, did the hat really want to put you in Slytherin?" James asked curiously. "I've heard you say so before but I thought you were just joking."

"The Sorting Hat felt that I would do very well in Slytherin. It said I had a strong desire to prove myself with plenty of courage along with a pretty good mind. The hat felt I could be great and that Slytherin would help me on the way but I refused to go there. So I became a Gryffindor," she explained glancing smugly at Severus.

"Humph, just as well the way you go running of to rescue everyone without thinking," Snape responded evenly.

"I think Harry should get some rest now," Lily interceded seeing the warning glare in her husband's eyes.

"I agree," Remus nodded. "Do you want us to stay awhile longer, Princess?"

"No, not really, I can call you if I need you. Severus, ordinarily I wouldn't ask you this but would you mind if we did our Potions tutoring on Saturday morning? It will make it easier for me rather than having to rush back after escorting my parents."

"I understand. I'm sure you will like to see them settled in to their new surroundings personally." His eyes glittered as a slight smile crossed his lips. "I will expect you directly after breakfast on Saturday and be prepared to spend the entire morning."

"What will we be doing?"

"I want you to mix the Draught of Living Death from memory. Do you think you are prepared to do so?"

"We'll find out on Saturday."

"Then I shall bid you good night." He rose from his seat. Going over to her bed, he kissed her gently on the lips. James Potter scowled but refrained from commenting as Lily directed a stern look in his direction.

"You're sure you don't want Padfoot tonight?" Sirius asked transforming and hopping up onto the bottom of her bed.

"No Padfoot. I will be fine. No go home to your own room and go to bed!"

Sirius gave a low whine and turned his sad puppy eyes on her. Harry just laughed and pointed.

"Ah well...you can't blame a dog for trying," Sirius grinned after changing back. Lily rolled her eyes and James laughed.

"Now what's your excuse?" she asked Remus.

"Who me, I'm innocent."

"Wolf in sheep's clothing is more like it."

"Good night, Princess."

"Good night! Now let me get some sleep!" Harry exclaimed pursing her lips.

"We'll see you tomorrow, Little Girl," James smiled as he and Lily moved to follow them from the room. They were half way out when Harry realized she hadn't told them about Voldemort.

"Wait! There's something I forgot to tell you."

"What's wrong?" Lily dashed back to her daughter's side.

"Before I passed out...Voldemort...he was...laughing. Something else happened tonight besides..." she looked at her parents unable to complete the sentence. "We need to tell Dumbledore."

The small group shifted uncomfortably looking from one to the other unable to meet Harry's eyes. Sirius finally broke the awkward silence.

"Harry...you're right. Something did happen. Dumbledore was informed by owl just after you passed out."

"Tell me...what...happened. Was anyone...killed?"

"Yes, Harry. The Deatheaters attacked two Wizarding families tonight. Did you notice that Bill and Charlie Weasley weren't at the meeting tonight?"

"Please tell me they aren't dead," Harry cried in dismay.

"No, they managed to escape, but Bill is in St. Mungo's. They were attacked on their way here."

"You said two families, who else?"

Sirius shifted uneasily.

"Harry you have to understand that it is not your fault," Lily spoke calmly. "No one is safe with Voldemort back."

"I said who else!" she yelled shrilly.

"The Diggory's," Severus replied quietly. "They were tortured and killed along with some of their Muggle neighbors."

"Damn! The Order had no way of finding out ahead of time. If only we had someone who could infiltrate the Deatheaters. He did this deliberately to get to me because of Cedric." Harry's voice caught, but she refused to let them see her cry.

"Well...Uh...we do, Princess," Remus' soft voice muttered.

"What! Who?" she sputtered. "Why weren't we warned?"

"Our spy was not there. He was injured during your parent's resurrection and did not answer the summons," Snape explained. "He gave a full account of the events of the battle between the elves and the Dark Lord at tonight's meeting."

"Who is this spy that he would let this happen to my parents? Why didn't he try and stop Voldemort?" Harry demanded angrily.

"He worked with the Watcher Elves to try and stop it, and in return they protected his cover."

"Who is it Severus? Why won't you tell me?"

"Harry, you have to understand that he did everything he could," James counseled her calmly. "What happened to your mother and me was nobody's fault."

"I asked a question and I would like an answer."

"It is my uncle, Tiberius," Snape told her steadily looking in her eyes.

Harry didn't say anything for a moment as she digested this information.

"I saw him afterwards. He said he was on his way back to the castle."

"He had actually been stunned by Artemis and was in the trees at the edge of the clearing. She knew he was Albus spy. He did his best to only stun the elves to make it look as though he was helping the Dark Lord's cause," Severus explained.

"Harry you are not responsible for anything that happened tonight. You should not feel guilty," Sirius stated forcefully. "You need to keep your focus on stopping this monster. Don't let him play with your emotions."

"Sirius is right," James agreed. "I for one welcome the opportunity to aid in the fight against him. Our lives were cut short during the first war but so were many other people's. Don't let him win, Little Girl, and above all don't feel guilty about our being here."

"Listen to your father, Harry. We were in a good place and our only sadness was not being able to be here with you. Albus likes to say things happen for a reason. Maybe our being here will help you to win this fight so that other children won't have to grow up without their parents," Lily added adamantly, tossing her head.

Harry studied her parents soberly. She was thinking about what Molly had told her earlier. She wanted to hug her mother but resisted the urge and simply nodded.

"I need to get some sleep. Maybe things won't seem so bleak in the morning." They bid her good night once again and left her quarters. Harry tuned over, closing here eyes. Nevertheless, it had been a long time before she finally fell asleep. For the first time in a long while, her dreams were once again filled with her mother's screams and a flash of green light....

"We're all ready Love," Sirius jovial voice interrupted her reverie as he levitated a large trunk down the stairs to the main entrance.

"Thank you for securing some more clothes for us from Hogsmeade, Harry." Lily smiled affectionately as she followed Sirius down the last of the stairs.

"Yeah, fortunately Sirius was able to lend me some robes last night and your mother got some from that Aztec witch...what's her name again?"

"Arsinoe," Remus answered from behind him. "She is helping Harry to become an animagus multiplico."

"I though she was translating the spells to reverse Voldemort's Necromancy?" James questioned.

"She is," Harry answered. "My friend Hermione is helping her. She is a whiz at ancient runes and charms. She's also a real bookworm. I think she's read every book in the school library."

"Just like your Mum," James smirked.

"She's the new school librarian isn't she?" Lily inquired ignoring her husband's comment.

"Yes, she's the smartest witch of our generation."

"You should read more often, Harry. I always thought you neglected your studies in favor of Quidditch."

"What's wrong with Quidditch?" James looked at his wife askance.

"Nothing, Dear, I'm just saying that Harry could have taken more of an interest in school when she was a student."

"Humph, if I neglected my studies so much I certainly wouldn't have survived this long. Hermione may be book smart but she doesn't know how to deal well with people, let alone Lord Voldemort."

"Honey, I didn't mean to offend you," Lily remarked with dismay.

"Just forget it," she shrugged, "we need to be going. "It would be best if you shrunk your trunk as we will be going by portkey."

"I'll do it," Remus said pointing his wand at the trunk. James then pocketed it.

"So, Miss Wings, where are we going?" Sirius questioned

"Miss Wings?" James interrupted. "Why do you call her that?"

"Have you forgotten already that my animagus form is a Phoenix?"

"Right," James grinned, "it's your nickname."

"Given in true Marauder's tradition, I might add." Sirius laughed clapping James on his back. "And you should see her on the Quidditch pitch. She's even better than you and she's a Seeker."

"I know she's a Seeker, Padfoot! As to whether she's better than I am...well...that remains to be seen."

"Are you challenging me?" Harry demanded rising to his baiting.

"When ever you're ready. Do you think you could make up a team?"

"It shouldn't be too difficult," she grinned, warming towards her father.

"Then whenever you're ready, just let me know."

"I'll speak with the Headmaster and see if we can't do it as a special treat for the students." Harry's eyes were sparkling with anticipation and Sirius looked ecstatic.

"Remus, will you please tell my husband and daughter that Quidditch isn't everything!"

"Sorry, Lily, but I do not want to end up hexed," Remus chuckled. "I think you will enjoy seeing them play. I know I will."

"Thank you, Moony," James remarked giving Lily a smug look. "Now let's be off."

"The Portkey is voice activated," Harry told them pulling an old work glove from her pocket. "Is everyone ready?"

"Whenever you are, Princess," Remus responded as they all took hold of the glove.

"In that case, four, three two, one..." Harry felt the familiar tug behind her navel as they vanished from the Great Hall. They appeared a few moments later standing in front of Arabella Figg's house. "We will go the rest of the way on foot."

Sirius looked around and immediately started laughing, while Remus smiled and shook his head.

"What is so funny, Padfoot?"

"Don't you see where we are James?"

"Isn't that Arabella's house? Is this where we are staying?"

"No, I think Harry had a much better idea, and I for one can't wait to see what will happen next."

"Now Sirius, I would never do anything mean to my relatives."

"Harry, just where we are going," Lily asked looking at Harry evenly as she began walking down the street.

"We are going visiting. I thought you might like to stay at our new headquarters. Unfortunately, the present occupants will be there for another two weeks. However the mortgage has already been paid by the Order so they have no choice but to allow us the use of their home."

"And whose home might that belong to young lady?" Lily's tone was that of a mother who had just caught her child sneaking a treat before dinner.

"I thought you might like to pay a visit to your sister and her husband. You have also never seen your nephew. It's time you got to know him."

James began laughing uproariously while his wife gave him a dirty look. She had no idea how Petunia would react to her presence and suspected Harry did this deliberately to annoy her aunt and uncle. At the same time, she wanted to give Petunia a piece of her mind for the way she had treated Harry. Her expression must have conveyed her feelings because James put his arm around her shoulder and gave her a big squeeze.

"Lils don't be angry with Harry. I think this was a wonderful idea. After all it is the new headquarters for the Order."

"Harry, do your aunt and uncle know we are coming?"

"Not unless Dumbledore told them and I don't think he did. Put up the hoods on your cloaks. I will need to break them in gently," Harry sneered.

Sirius was still laughing quietly, tears streaming down his face as Remus rolled his eyes.

"Harry, this is worthy of any Marauder prank and them some," her godfather panted. "No wonder Albus suggested Moony and I accompany you."

"It will be very interesting to see their reactions but I will try and forewarn them." Harry pretended to sound serious but the look in her eyes betrayed her anticipation of the reactions of her aunt and uncle. Going up the front walk, she saw the kitchen curtain move and knew her aunt was watching. Harry assumed she was doing the dinner dishes. Ringing the bell she waited patiently but no one came to the door.

"Looks like they aren't going to answer," Remus speculated.

"Let's give them one more shot shall we?" Harry pressed the bell again ringing it insistently. A moment later, she heard the disgruntled voice of her uncle yelling at Dudley to get upstairs and for her aunt to come into the hall. The door opened a crack and a moment later Vernon Dursley's face appeared with her aunt's slim form behind him.

"What are you doing here girl? We haven't left for New Zealand yet."

"You are both aware that the mortgage has been paid. It was explained to you that we may need to use the premises prior to your leaving in the event of an emergency," Harry told her uncle stiffly. "So unless you want the neighbors to see something odd happen on your front lawn then I suggest you let us in."

"Do as she says Vernon," Petunia hissed from behind him. "We don't want anyone to see her kind around here."

Vernon Dursley swung open the door and the group walked in. Harry directed them into the kitchen and her aunt and uncle moved to go upstairs.

"Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia, I need you both to stay. This is a matter of great importance. I think Dudley should be here as well."

"What business of your kind could possibly concern us you freaks," Vernon growled.

"Just do as she says, Vernon," Petunia advised, "or she may give us trouble."

"I assure you aunt that there will be no trouble unless you start it. Now call Dudley and meet us in the kitchen. I will put on the tea."

Harry disappeared into the kitchen and motioned for her parents to keep their faces hidden while she put on the kettle and conjured four more chairs. She could sense the disgust in her father. Her mother's emotions ranged from pain to fury. Her aunt, uncle and cousin entered quietly and took their seats.

"Where did these chairs come from, girl? You know I will not permit magic in my house!" Vernon grumbled as he sat down.

"Unless you want to bring some from the dining room I would not complain," Harry shot back annoyed.

"Harry what is going on?" Petunia asked coldly. "Why are these people here and why are their faces hidden?"

"No manners that's why, the stupid freaks!"

Harry's father started to stand but Lily placed a restraining hand on his arm and he sat back down. She was fascinated watching her sister and brother-in-law yet sickened by their behavior.

"I'll get right to the point," Harry began. "You were told that we might need to use the house before you left and it has become necessary to do so. It will also be of benefit to your family as it will help to reinforce the wards."

"Humph, more of your bullshit spells."

"Uncle Vernon, these people may just be what save you from Lord Voldemort."

"Nonsense, girl, you really don't believe that rubbish that Lord Thingy came back from the dead. Such things are not possible."

"I told you before he used Necromancy and some very ancient spells. Whether you believe he is back is your business. Suffice it to say he is alive and well. The blood magic will help to protect you and this house will act as a safe haven for these two people for the next two weeks until other quarters are made available."

"Harry, does this mean you will be staying here? I absolutely forbid it. You will only bring more problems down on us!" Petunia Dursley glared.

"I will be going back to Hogwarts tonight. So will Remus and Sirius," Harry added nodding in the direction of the two men. "I told you only the other two would be staying."

"And where are we supposed to put them?" Petunia asked haughtily.

"I think Dudley's king size bed will do nicely. He can use my old room unless you want to put him in the cupboard under the stairs."

"That will be enough, girl! They can sleep on the roll out in the living room," Vernon spat.

"Uncle, I would appreciate it if you would stop calling me girl. You are well aware of my name," Harry stated coldly, putting a hand on her mother's arm. She could feel her anger getting ready to burst. Sirius and Remus just looked at one another.

"Mr. Dursley, forgive my asking but would you put your friends or relatives on the roll out?" Sirius questioned. His eyes were shining with mirth and Remus pretended to be studying something on the ceiling.

Vernon never got the chance to answer since at that moment the kettle began to whistle.

"I'll get the tea," Petunia said getting up hastily. The room was quiet while she poured the tea.

"Uncle you didn't answer Sirius question. How come Aunt Marge never was put on the roll out in the living room?" Harry asked feigning innocence.

"I would never put my sister on the couch! She's a good woman and I will not have you making snide remarks about her."

"Made a good balloon too," Sirius muttered just loud enough to be heard.

Vernon was starting to turn purple but Aunt Petunia pursed her lips and Dudley snickered under his breath.'

"I'll not have your kind saying things about my sister!"

"What about your niece? You called her a freak. I don't think that was very nice," Harry's father spoke slowly and distinctly. Harry could see a look of intense concentration on her aunt's face.

"Excuse me, but I don't believe you should be talking about my niece. She is an ungrateful wretch and we took her in out of the goodness of our hearts."

"I don't think this is getting us anywhere," Remus cut in to diffuse the situation. "Harry, would you tell your aunt and uncle why it is necessary for the two of them to be here."

"I have been trying to but it seems my relatives have ideas of their own."

"I say we should just show them," Sirius grinned wickedly.

"I'll be more than happy to," James laughed evilly, so long as Harry agrees.

"No, I promised Dumbledore I would explain the situation," she said stopping him from removing his cloak. She noticed her aunt looking at her father oddly.

"What's the matter, Aunt Petunia? You have a funny look on your face."

"That voice is familiar, but I can't place it. I know I've heard it somewhere before."

"Yes, you have, but not for a very long time." Harry smiled casting a wicked look in her parents' direction.

"What do you mean?" Petunia questioned, only to be interrupted by Dudley.

"Mum can't we just throw them all out? I want to go and watch the telly. This is boring."

"Dudley shut up," Harry snapped, "unless you would like to be turned into a slug."

"That's enough, girl. You have no business threatening your cousin like that."

"Oh, I don't know," James' thoughtful voice responded, "He's certainly caused Harry enough problems over the years. Wouldn't you say so Hon?"

"Definitely," Lily's soft voice purred. Her anger with Petunia was growing but it was nothing compared with what she felt for Vernon.

"Then get this over with and tell us why we need to keep them here. I know I have met him somewhere before and there is something very familiar about the woman too," Petunia stated trying to see her better.

"It has to do with Voldemort," Remus interjected. "He is back from the dead and what's worse he is entirely capable of bringing back others to suit his needs."

"I still say you are all talking nonsense," Vernon huffed.

"Then why don't we ask Aunt Petunia? Aunt, will you tell Uncle Vernon who these two people are?" Harry asked smiling at her aunt.

"How should I know if I can't see their faces," Petunia frowned.

"Then maybe they should refresh your memory," Sirius gloated as Harry nodded to them to lower their cowls.

As Lily and James Potter lowered their hoods to expose their faces, Petunia Dursley's face turned the color of chalk, her mouth open in a silent scream before she fainted. Vernon's chair toppled over as he moved to keep his wife from falling. He turned the darkest shade of purple Harry had ever seen. She thought he would have a stroke any minute. Harry knew he must also recognize her parents. Dudley just looked on in confusion at the spectacle unfolding before him and started yelling at Harry.

"Cousin, you freaking bitch what did you do to my Mum?"

"I simply brought my parents here so they would be safe and comfortable. It's not my fault Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon have a guilty conscience," Harry replied sweetly, green eyes flashing with delight. Harry knew she shouldn't be feeling happy about her aunt's reaction but she couldn't help it.

"Vernon I think you should get Petunia into the living room and put her on the couch," Lily instructed calmly. "Once we revive her sufficiently I think we will have a lot to talk about."

"What kind of joke is this? Lily's sister and her husband died nineteen years ago," he spat slapping Petunia in the face trying revive her.

"Move out of the way, Dursley, and let us get her into the other room," James told him forcefully as he pointed his wand at his sister-in law.

Vernon backed off in terror and Dudley fled the kitchen. Harry could hear him pounding up the stairs to his room. A minute later, his door slammed. She had the feeling he was trying to hide under his bed.

Sirius was still finding the whole thing extremely funny and Remus face was set in a wolfish mask. Nevertheless, Harry caught his eyes shining with pleasure as her father levitated Petunia into the living room and gently lowered her onto the couch. Lily followed behind him and quickly conjured a glass of water then pointed her wand at the prostate form.

"Enervate!" she exclaimed.

Petunia slowly opened her eyes and looked around. As soon as she spotted Lily, she began to quiver all over.

"It's all right Lambkin," Vernon soothed. "This is obviously some kind of a vicious joke that freak is playing on us."

"Sorry, Dursley," Sirius grinned, "but this is reality. Voldemort raised Lily and James from the dead last night. Believe what you want but your wife knows her sister better than you."

"It's not possible to bring back the dead!" Vernon bellowed banging his fist on the coffee table.

"Vernon," Petunia began, sitting up slowly, "you don't know what those people are capable of. If you're really Lily and James then answer me a question to prove it."

"What would you like to know?" Lily asked coolly.

"What color was your room when we were kids?"

"I shared a room with you and it had rose flowered wall paper with pink curtains made by our mother."

"Humph you could have learned that from some of my old friends."

"Then why don't you ask me something?" James questioned amused.

Petunia's brow furrowed in concentration as she considered what to ask. She finally smirked. An unattractive chuckle erupted from her lips as she posed her next question.

"What happened behind the garden wall the night before your wedding?"

"You caught me and Lily shagging and threatened to tell your parents. Lily was furious so she transfigured you into a shrew until the next day," James laughed.

"You never told me that," Sirius erupted with his barking laugh.

"I promised Lily I would never mention it."

"Why do I think I shouldn't be hearing about my parent's prenuptial escapades?" Harry muttered to no one in particular.

"Is he right Mrs. Dursley?" Remus asked looking at James and trying not to grin.

"Yes...but that doesn't prove anything."

"Oh, Petunia, don't be such a stubborn twit. I kept you in a shoebox all night and didn't turn you back until an hour before the wedding. Mum and dad were furious because you weren't ready to go to the ceremony. They thought you had gotten drunk after the rehearsal and had slept if off somewhere since you were still in the same clothes. Mum had to lend you some clean clothes to wear to the church."

"Lily?" Petunia looked at her sister and Harry was shocked to see tears in her eyes. "Is...it...really...you?" Her aunt was shaking with combined fear and disbelief. A myriad of emotions passing over her thin face.

Harry's empathic abilities allowed her to feel what was reflected on her aunt's features, fear, disbelief, love, regret, anger, loathing, worry, and amazement. However before she could say anything Vernon interrupted her thoughts.

"Petunia do you expect me to believe that your sister and her dead beat husband have come back from the dead? This whole thing is absolutely preposterous!" he shouted, mustache twitching angrily. "This is just some ploy of that old man Dummydore to get us to take the girl back."

"Who are you calling a dead beat?" Sirius demanded pointing his wand at Vernon, "and the old man's name is Dumbledore."

"Ah..." Vernon sputtered backing off in fear.

"My dad was an Auror," Harry yelled defending her father, "Which is like the wizard police. They go after dark wizards who would like nothing better than to make you into stuffed pork."

"Mr. Dursley," Remus interjected, "calm yourself. Whether you choose to believe it or not, Voldemort, is back. He was raised from the dead using a very dark form of magic known as Necromancy. Harry has already explained this to you. What you may not know is that he has also raised one of his staunchest supporters, Lucius Malfoy."

"So now you're trying to tell me that these people are his supporters too? I might have known my freakish niece's parents were up to no good."

"NO! He raised them to get to me!" Harry's green eyes flashed. "In order to send him back I have to send them back too." She could feel her magic beginning to get out of control and was struggling to keep it in check.

"Princess, why don't you go upstairs and find your cousin and bring him down?" Remus asked in an effort to distract her so that she wouldn't do any unintentional magic.

"Remus is right, Harry. You need to get away from this situation for awhile," Lily told her daughter gently. She could feel the power emanating from her child and while she was secretly pleased, she realized what she might be capable of doing to her unsuspecting uncle. Not that Lily had anything nice to say about her brother-in-law. She simply wanted to keep Harry from getting into trouble with the Ministry.

"You're sure you will be alright?"

"Harry your mum and dad are more than capable of taking care of themselves. Besides, Remus and I are here too." Sirius winked reassuringly.

"Heaven help them then," Harry mumbled going to do as she was told....

"Now Vernon, I expect you to apologize to my husband and myself for your rude behavior. We are here and you have been told nothing but the truth. The magic protecting you and Petunia as well as your son will be strengthened during our stay."

"Freaks," he mumbled angrily.

"Vernon dear, please don't get them any angrier than they are. I know my sister and I can tell she is holding back."

"Humph, I have taken in their child out of the goodness of my heart and now they are threatening me? I'll be damned if I apologize! What right did they have to go off and get themselves killed saddling us with their little brat?"

"Vernon, think about what you're saying!" Petunia gasped. She had seen the look on Lily's face and the obnoxious gleam in James' eyes but before either of them could react, Sirius looked at her husband threateningly.

"Did you just call my goddaughter a brat? As I understand it she spent the first ten years of her life in that damned cupboard beneath your stairs," he whispered, eyes glinting dangerously.

"Not my fault she had no manners and was a sniveling little bitch."

"Vernon..." Petunia never finished her sentence as a jet of blue light shot out from Sirius wand...

Harry reached the upstairs landing and quickly made her way to Dudley's room, knocking sharply on the door. There was no answer so she knocked second time.

"Dudley, come on out. They want you to come downstairs." She could hear him shuffling around inside.

"No, I have the door locked and I'm not coming down till everyone leaves."

"Don't be ridiculous. Come on out."

"No, I won't."

"Then I'll have to come in and get you."

"Hah! You can't I've locked the door."

"Oh, bother," she sighed rolling her eyes. 'When will the stupid ass ever learn?' she thought in annoyance. "Dudley this is your last chance to open the door otherwise I will come in and get you!"

"Just try it!" he yelled nervously.

"If you say so, I will," she said pulling out her wand. "Alohomora!" The lock clicked and Harry walked into Dudley's room. He immediately ran and hid in the closet, locking the door behind him. Harry just smirked, shaking her head, going over to the closet door. Performing the unlocking spell once again, she found her cousin sitting on the floor quivering in fear.

"Leave me alone. You're going to turn me into a frog or something."

"Tempting as that thought may be," she sneered crossing her arms, glaring in imitation of Snape, "I am simply going to bring you down stairs to the living room. I think you should greet my parents properly."

"Are they really your mum and dad? Did that Voldimert really come back?"

"It's Voldemort, and yes, he did. Everything that you heard is true. Now come on before I really do decide to turn you into a frog." Harry grinned in spite of herself. 'Actually, he would make a great hippo with that fat round body and big mouth,' she considered silently.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Dudley questioned fearfully.

"Oh nothing. I was just considering what you said. Now get downstairs," she said poking him in his gut with her wand.

Dudley didn't have to be told twice. He crawled from the closet and slowly backed towards the door. Once out in the hall he kept glancing over at Harry to make sure she wasn't going to do anything before they started down the stairs...

Sirius had had enough of Vernon Dursley's arrogant and stubborn attitude and let his temper get the better of him. Without giving it a second though he decided that Vernon needed a dose of his own medicine. Pointing his wand in Vernon's direction the spell was out of his mouth before James could stop him.

"Infans Magnitudo," he hollered furiously. Vernon Dursley was immediately shrunk in size to that of a ten-year-old child.

"What have you done to me?" Vernon cried in terror. The pitch of his voice sounding like a garden gnome.

"Turn him back immediately you beast!" Petunia gasped.

"Uh oh, now they've really done it," James smirked looking at Lily while Sirius pointed his wand towards the cupboard that Harry had occupied, opening the door.

"You're right I am a beast." Sirius grin widened as he transformed. Vernon backed up in horror as he was confronted with the huge black dog. Sirius snapped at him playfully, and James knew he was still grinning.

"James, do something," Lily pleaded.

"Lils you know what Padfoot is like when he's pissed off, and right now I would say he's pretty pissed off."

Sirius continued to growl and snap at Vernon, as Petunia looked on too afraid to do anything but shriek. He was clearly enjoying himself as the now child sized Mr. Dursley started backing away. Sirius advanced slowly, stalking his prey. Vernon saw the big dog was not going to back down. Panicking, he felt his bladder let go, wetting his trousers. Looking for a way to escape he ran towards the hallway tripping over a footstool in his haste to get away from Padfoot. Seeing an opportunity not to be missed, Padfoot grabbed Vernon and nipped him in the ass. Dragging him by the seat of his pants, he pulled Vernon to the closet. Shrieking, Vernon was pushed inside and the door banged the door shut behind him. Padfoot sat down guarding the door, tongue lolling out in amusement.

"Let me out, you brute!" Vernon panted, pounding on the door of the cupboard. "I can't breathe."

Remus calmly walked over to the cupboard, petting Padfoot's great head, giving him a sly smile before he spoke.

"Mr. Dursley, you are in no danger and I would advise you to calm down. Once you are sufficiently under control I'm sure Sirius will allow you back out. Until that time I suggest you just sit quietly," he informed the frightened and furious child sized man. Maybe it was the calm firmness in Remus' voice but for once Vernon Dursley did as he was told. Remus then rejoined the others in the living room leaving Padfoot to guard the cupboard. 'It's about time that nasty buffoon got what's coming to him,' Remus thought seriously. 'It's a good thing there is no full moon tonight or he would have had to deal with me, the odious bastard.'

"Petunia, shut up!" Lily snapped at her sister as Remus entered. "Sirius didn't hurt him but I may have. You have quite a bit of explaining to do."

"I for one am all ears," James agreed plopping down in Vernon's favorite easy chair.

"What...do...you mean?" Petunia shuddered from her place on the couch.

"Tell me, sister dear, why you treated Harry like she was a piece of shit? Surely your jealousy of me did not extend itself onto Harry?"

"I think I'll go and get us some more tea. It's going to be a long night," Remus stated going back into the hall.

"Thanks, Moony," James nodded. 'The hell with tea, I could go for a shot of firewhisky right about now,' he mused. 'Lils is going to let Petunia have it good for this. Not that I blame her.' He smiled to himself.

"Now answer my question." Lily stared at her sister in silent fury.

"I...ah...It's all his fault," Petunia stammered pointing towards James.

"And just how it your treatment of Harry my fault?" James inquired sarcastically.

"If you and Lily hadn't got married then she would have still been alive. She left us to go and live with your kind!" Petunia was starting to feel brave.

"What kind is that?" James queried evenly, his hazel eyes eyeing his sister-in-law with disgust.

"Uh..." Petunia thought hastily. She didn't want to find herself on the wrong end of his wand. "Magic people," she finished lamely.

"It might surprise you Petunia, but there are a good number of so called 'magic people' living through out the world. Some may even be your neighbors."

"My...neighbors?" she questioned weakly. James merely sneered.

"What has my marrying James got to do with Harry?" Lily demanded impatiently.

"He got you killed, Lil. It's true I was jealous and thought you were strange with all the things you could do. But if you hadn't gone to the stupid school...."

"Enough! My going to Hogwarts was the second best thing that ever happened to me. The first was marrying James and giving birth to Harry." Lily flashed a smile in James direction. "He didn't get me killed. He died trying to save me and Harry."

"But if you hadn't tried to save Harry maybe that evil wizard, what's his name, would have left you alone. Why couldn't you just give her to him?" Petunia sobbed.

"Pet, would you have given up your son?" Lily was trying to control her anger. She was shocked that her sister could suggest such a thing.

"What...no...of course...not. Oh...Lily I didn't mean to be so mean to her," Petunia began to sob hysterically, "but every time I looked at her I saw James Potter...except...except...for her...eyes. I couldn't...stand...to see...them. It hurt...too...much. Vernon...he...hates anything...abnormal...or different. He...didn't want to...keep her. I told him...we...had to or...the old man...he would come...and...well...you know. We did...as we were...told...and pretended she...was a boy. Vernon, he wouldn't let me...buy her anything. It was...his idea...to keep the...baby...in the cupboard," Petunia hiccoughed in tears. "I couldn't go...against...my husband. So I...just kept her...away from me too." Petunia was hanging her head in shame. "Did she tell you everything?"

"Harry never had to tell us anything," James stated coldly. "We were watching."

"What...do you mean?" Petunia's eyes were wide with fright.

"This may surprise you Pet, but there is an after life. We saw most of what you put our daughter through. So did Mum and Dad as well as James' family. You will have a lot to atone for," Lily told her sister with revulsion.

"It might be a good idea if you started now," James commented. "You have a lot of souls that would like to get hold of you and heaven be damned!"

Petunia nodded in shame, her eyes worried. Her lip was twitching in fear as Remus came back into the living room. He set the tea tray on the coffee table as the sound of footsteps could be heard coming down the stairs.

"I think Harry has convinced Dudley to come down," Remus remarked casually, pouring the tea....

When Harry reached the bottom of the stirs she was surprised to see Padfoot sitting in front of her old cupboard.

"Woof," he wagged his tail in greeting.

"Cool!" Dudley exclaimed. "Where did this neat dog come from?" He pet Padfoot on the head and Harry could see him smiling with amusement.

"Dudley, this is Padfoot."

"You mean you got another dog? I know about Snuffles from when you brought her home that time. When did you get this one and where was he when you came in?"

"Dudley...um...this may come as a shock to you but Padfoot isn't a dog."

"Of course he's a dog, cousin. Have you gone daft?" He asked turning to look at his cousin.

"Dudley, Padfoot came in with the rest of us. He isn't really a dog. He's a wizard. It is my godfather, Sirius. He's an animagus."

"An ani what?"

"Animagus," Sirius soft voice responded with amusement.

Dudley spun around to face Sirius. His expression registered his shock at finding a man sitting on the floor and not a dog.

"How...how did you do that?"

"Magic," Sirius laughed. "Harry can do it too. So can your uncle James."

"Can...Can all...of you...do it?"

"No, it is a very special talent. Want to see?" he queried amused.

Dudley nodded nervously. Before Sirius could transform they was interrupted by a knocking coming from behind the cupboard door.

"Dudley, let me out. I'm trapped in here and it's hard to breathe," Vernon Dursley's gnome like voice called. Dudley's mouth dropped open and he stood gaping. "Dudders do you hear me? This is your father speaking! Do as I say now."

"Uh...Daddy?" Dudley looked at the door suspiciously.

"Yes, let me out. That freak dog man locked me in here. Now do as I say and open this door immediately."

Dudley's frightened eyes looked up at Sirius as he gave a low growl, giving Dudley a silent warning.

"Uncle Vernon, why did Sirius lock you in the cupboard?"

"Shut up you little freak! When I get my hands on you there will be hell to pay!"

"Now, now, Mr. Dursley, you really shouldn't threaten my goddaughter like that. I'm sure a few hours without food or water will change your mind. After all, it worked wonders for Harry," Sirius' sneered sarcastically. "Look at what nice a young woman she has become. I wonder why you never put your son in here too." Sirius was looking oddly at Dudley and Harry could see his mind working.

"How dare you compare that little freak with my Dudley? He's a good normal boy," Vernon screeched. Dudley unlock this door immediately."

Dudley looked from the cupboard door to Sirius and then at Harry. His eyes were like saucers and he was shaking all over.

Harry could tell that Sirius was enjoying himself but was also reminded of the incident with Severus she had seen in the pensive. She had no love for her uncle but was worried about her parents staying in this house. She had wanted the Dursley's punished for the way she had been treated but wasn't sure if this was right or not. Sirius saw the look of distress coming into her eyes and put a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"I won't hurt him, Honey, but he needs to be taught a lesson. His treatment of you was intolerable and inhumane. I know I did some bad things in school but this is different. He needs to learn that his behavior was abusive and neglectful. Now go on back to the living room. The others are waiting for you and Dudley."

"Dudley don't you listen to that freak! Open this door so I can get those abnormal freaks out of our house."

"Dudley, I wouldn't try anything if I were you," Sirius warned with an evil grin. "I seem to remember that Hagrid once gave you a tail. Perhaps you would like the rest of the body to go with a new one?"

"So...sor...sorry, Daddy, but I can't let you out. I...uh...have to go...and uh...see what...Mummy wants," Dudley babbled looking towards the living room where his mother was sitting crying on the couch.

Sirius grinned at him and then transformed back into Padfoot. Dudley let out a frightened squeal and fled into the living room dropping down onto the couch beside his mother.

Harry looked at Padfoot for a moment then shook her head with a sigh. She knew that when Sirius was determined to do something there was no changing his mind and followed Dudley into the living room. Her aunt was sobbing and begging her mother to forgive her for treating Harry so badly. Her father rose from Uncle Vernon's favorite chair as she entered giving her a wink.

"Hello, Dudley, I'm your Uncle James," he said approaching her cousin with an outstretched hand, "we weren't properly introduced in the kitchen."

Dudley took the proffered hand reluctantly, palms sweating, fear reflected on his face. "Hello...Sir," he answered hesitantly.

"Hello Dudley, I'm your aunt Lily, your mother's younger sister and Harry's mother." Lily Evans smiled pleasantly but her green eyes showed her displeasure with her nephew.

"Ni...nice...to...meet you Aunt Lily," he stammered moving closer to his mother.

"We will be staying her for the next two weeks," James continued, "and we really would like to get to know you better. In fact I think you and I should have a little talk soon."

"A...talk...Sir?"

"Yes, I would be very interested in discussing my daughter. I understand you and she did not get along very well?" The intimation was clear in James Potter's voice. "I really would have thought you would have looked out for your cousin better, Dudley, instead of making her your personal punching bag when she was little."

"But...Daddy..."

"No buts, Dudley..."James smooth voice interrupted..."and what was this I heard about you trying to watch her in the shower awhile back?"

Dudley yelped with fright, and Petunia turned to her son, aghast. Harry had never told her about the incident but Petunia knew that even if she had she would have ignored her. However, she saw her opportunity to try to start making amends with her sister.

"Dudley! How could you? Whatever were you thinking?"

"Mummy, that's when she put that spell on me and made me sick!"

"Humph, you see, Lily..."

"Petunia, Harry did not use magic on Dudley. She knew you wouldn't believe her if she said anything," James informed her coldly. "She simply punished him by putting a laxative in his brownies." James glanced at Harry and she could see the laughter in his eyes. Flushing she lowered her head.

Petunia swallowed hard, but offered no reply. She knew that her sister and brother-in-law were not to be argued with and were most likely right.

"Now, I think it's time Padfoot let Vernon out of the cupboard and we all have a little family chat, don't you?" Lily asked.

Petunia simply nodded weakly, too afraid of her sister's implied threat to respond.

"Woof," Padfoot barked from the hallway.

Harry could hear the bolt being slid and a moment later a child sized Vernon Dursley appeared, seething with rage, in the living room. Harry had all she could do not to start giggling uncontrollably. To make matters worse, Padfoot came up behind him, further insulting him by sniffing him in the ass much as any dog would greet another. Vernon glared and backed up to the sofa. Padfoot sat down beside Moony all the while growling softly and eyeing her uncle dangerously. Moony smiled at Harry and reaching over gave Padfoot a biscuit off the tea tray. He ate hungrily making sure to drop crumbs all over her aunt's clean floor.

"Well, since we'll be staying until it is time for you to leave for New Zealand in two weeks I think it is time we laid down a few ground rules," James began pleasantly as Vernon glared up at him. "First of all I would like to thank Dudley for giving up his room for us to stay in. It was very gracious of you young man despite your treatment of our daughter." Dudley opened his mouth as if he were about to protest, but James silenced him with a wave of his hand. "I am also sure you wouldn't mind if I gave you some advice on doing the household chores either. I know it can get rough sometimes, what with wanting to hang out with your friends and all," James grinned maliciously but continued, "but they say hard work is good for the soul, not to mention the waist line. I am sure Lily will like to get to know your neighbors Petunia. As for me I would like to get to see how things are going on over at Grunnings, Vernon. I invested heavily in some of its stock when I married Lily to help give the company a boost. It seems our Harry will be coming into about a forty-nine percent share shortly, and I need to make certain that part of her inheritance is secure."

Vernon blanched, Petunia's mouth dropped and Dudley looked confused. Harry's head shot up at this announcement. She was a major stockholder in her uncle's company and never knew it. What's more, her aunt and uncle hadn't either. She could get her uncle fired, or at the very least demoted. Things were looking up nicely.

"I totally agree." Lily smiled at Harry, their green eyes locking and for the first time Harry smiled at her mother. "Now as it is getting rather late and I know my daughter has a busy schedule tomorrow I will ask Remus to escort her back to Hogwarts while the rest of us finish our little conversation."

"But I..."

"No, Harry," James interceded, cutting her off, "I know you have an important lesson tomorrow. Your mother, Padfoot, and I can finish up here and we will be in touch by the floo network. Dumbledore has put the Dursley's fireplace on a secure link between here and his office."

"Your father is right, Harry. You have to work with Severus in the morning and you know how he gets if you keep him waiting," Remus remarked rising. "Now let's get going. I'm sure Ron and Hermione will be anxious for news."

"All right," she agreed reluctantly, wanting to see what more would happen but realizing it would do no good to argue." She stood up and her parents came over giving her a hug. She stiffened at her mother's touch but did not resist. Remus then ushered her out of the living room and up the hall to the front door. Once they were outside Remus put his arm around her affectionately.

"Don't worry, Princess, they won't hurt them. Your mother and father may be angry at the way you were treated but Petunia is still Lily's sister and the blood tie helped to protect you for most of your life. They just want to be sure that any dealings you may choose to have with them in the future do not subject you to their bigotry and callous behavior any longer."

"Hey, if what my dad says if true I can always get Uncle Vernon in trouble at his job."

"I'm sure that if James says he invested in your uncle's company than he did just that. Many wizards often make investments in the Muggle world. Even though you are of age your parents had not wanted you to come into your full inheritance until after you turned twenty-one. They felt with everything you would have to deal with if anything happened to them it would at least make things a little easier."

"How do you know this?"

"Sirius told me when you turned eighteen and you found out all about your ancestry."

"Why didn't he tell me?"

"James swore him to secrecy about your financial status. All you were allowed to know is that you are an heiress. I don't even know the full extent of your holdings. So don't be angry with Sirius. I have probably told you too much already."

"Then this will be our little secret." Harry smiled up at the werewolf as they apparated back to Hogwarts. Her head was whirling with the evening's events and she eager to tell her friends what happened.

21