The Mathias Prophecy Book III

The Mathias Prophecy Book III

Tea Leaves and Trances

The weeks passed quickly, and Harry was spending all her weekends at Professor Snape's town home, as promised. She was also going out on Wednesdays during the day, usually with Remus, and had been helping Snape every Sunday with the potion making. Her birthday was only ten days away, and she would finally be leaving the home of her aunt and uncle for good.

Voldemort had been making raids on Muggle and Wizard homes, and the Aurors were being kept quite busy. It was believed that they were trying to find the Weasley's, but thus far had failed. Harry had been getting weekly letters from Draco, and had been passing on the information to Dumbledore. He was concerned about where she was acquiring her knowledge, but she had thus far refused to divulge her source. Once she had made certain that Draco Malfoy was trustworthy, she dared not say anything, or else he might be put in further jeopardy. This particular day, she had been picked up by Dumbledore, and decided she needed to confide in him.

Draco wanted to escape from Voldemort, but he needed help. If the Aurors caught him, he would be sent to Azkaban Prison, since Harry was the only one who knew he was not a traitor. She had gotten a letter that morning, delivered to her room by Dobby the house elf, who had used his magic to get into the Dursley's just as he had five years earlier when Harry had met him. The note was terse and to the point. It had stated that both she, and the Weasley's, were in grave danger and that Voldemort was going to try something within the next few days. He wasn't sure, but thought that the Dark Lord may have gotten a clue as to the whereabouts of the Weasley's. He was also concerned that he was possibly being watched, and if Voldemort found out he was a traitor his life was forfeit. He was to be on the next raid, and if the Aurors knew he wasn't really one of them, maybe they could take him prisoner to help him get to safety.

As Harry came downstairs to the living room in the Dursley's house, she found Dumbledore sitting comfortably on the divan, sipping a cup of tea. Aunt Petunia was catering to him, as if he was an old friend.

"Albus, it is so nice to see you again, you came so seldom in the past; we were worried you weren't well. You know Lily always said you took on too much. She really worried about you."

"I made sure Harry was safe and you were taking care of her," the old man smiled, but his blue eyes were icy. "She has turned into a lovely young woman, Petunia. Lily and James would be very proud of her. Don't you agree Vernon?"

Uncle Vernon just grunted his agreement from his chair, and her cousin was keeping to the kitchen. He kept peering out at Dumbledore, and eyeing the tray of pastries her aunt had placed in front of him. Harry couldn't resist making him a little jealous.

"Professor Dumbledore," she beamed, "this is a wonderful surprise. I expected to see Remus Lupin."

"He has gone to see your godfather on business, and I didn't want you to be disappointed, so I came in his stead."

"I am so glad. I need to speak to you about something."

"Oh, is anything the matter, Child?"

"I'll tell you when we get outside. Aunt Petunia, may I have a pastry?"

"Certainly, Harry, help yourself," Petunia answered, smiling sweetly, but her eyes were glaring at Harry. Harry deliberately took the large chocolate éclair, knowing it was Dudley's favorite, and poured a glass of milk to go with it.

"Petunia, I'm sure you're going to miss Harry, once she leaves. I will see to it that she stays in touch and continues to visit. Not that I will have to tell her to do so," Dumbledore's blue eyes twinkled over his spectacles.

"I really will miss having her here; she and Dudley are so close."

'Yeah,' Harry thought, 'I was his punching bag and teasing toy for the past sixteen years.' "Don't worry, Aunt," she said aloud, "I will send Hedwig with all the news and you can send back a reply. She will sit quite nicely; just give her an owl treat," Harry smiled wickedly, knowing her aunt was deathly afraid of Hedwig.

"Are you ready to go, Harry? I believe Circe wants to take you and Phaedra shopping for some new clothes."

"Cool. I could use an afternoon out shopping. Are we planning anything this year where I will need formal attire at school? I could purchase it now."

"That hasn't been completely decided yet. You will find out when the list of supplies is sent out by the end of next month. Petunia, thank you for being so gracious while I waited for Harry. Vernon, it has been nice to see you again. It's a pity that Dudley is so shy, I would have liked to talk with him."

Uncle Vernon stood, and shook Dumbledore's hand, withdrawing it a bit too quickly. Dudley moved further back into the kitchen. Harry and Dumbledore showed themselves out, but knew her aunt and uncle were watching covertly through the living room curtains.

"How are we traveling?" she asked curiously.

"You said you wanted to talk, so we will go for a short walk. Have the Dursley's been giving you a hard time?"

"Are you kidding? They're too scared of you, and are terrified that I am telling Sirius everything they do."

"Then what is wrong?"

"Two things, but we can relate one to the other. I am concerned for a former Hogwarts student."

"Who might this student be? One of the Weasley boys?"

"No, I know you are taking every precaution with all of them."

"Then you obviously have been keeping something from me. I know you have been receiving letters from Dobby. Are you ready to confide in me?"

"I didn't deliberately try to deceive you. I just needed some time to be certain I could trust the person who has been sending me the letters. Now I believe he may be in grave danger from Lord Voldemort." Dumbledore did not say anything, merely raised his eyebrow and nodded for her to go on. "It is Draco Malfoy. He helped me to escape from Lord Voldemort last spring. He does not want to be a part of Voldemort's Deatheaters. He's scared to death."

"I take it he has been sending you the information about the raids?"

"Yes, I told him to that day at the Riddle Mansion. We set up a system where the owls would be sent to Dobby under the name of Jamie Evans. He then would deliver them to me. I do not send any reply so that Draco will not be implicated. Unfortunately, he feels he is being watched, and they keep taking him on raids. So far he has just been made to watch."

"What does he say about his father?"

"He said he constantly likes to practice Cruciatus curses on him and his mother. His father is a madman, blinded by prejudice and hate."

"You believe Draco is telling you the truth?"

"Yes, he was terrified of Voldemort. I scanned him that day before he helped me to escape."

"How did he aid you in your escape?"

"Voldemort had him guard me, but while he was gone Draco asked me to help him. That's when we agreed that he would keep me posted of anything happening. Once I was certain he was telling me the truth, and the information was good, I would see what I could do to help him. Here, these are all the letters he has sent me," Harry pulled out a small stack of envelopes held together with a rubber band, and gave them to Dumbledore. "He's scared to death that he will be caught and sent to Azkaban."

"You should not have kept this information from me, Child."

"I passed on everything he told me. I just didn't want Voldemort to find out he was a traitor, but he is getting suspicious. Headmaster, we need to get Draco to safety. He will let himself be captured if you can alert the Aurors he is on our side."

"They will still want to question him under the influence of Veritaserum."

"He knows that, and is willing so long as you are there. I think Snape should be there too. Draco always liked him, and they do have something in common now, don't they?"

"To some degree, yes. I will see what I can do to help the boy."

"Thank you," she hugged the old man.

"Is there anything else you wish to tell me?"

"I am worried. Draco says Voldemort is up to something concerning the Weasley's and myself. I'm used to his trying to get to me and feel safe, but I am scared for Mr. and Mrs. Weasley."

"What about Sirius?"

"You know I'm worried about him too. If something should happen..." Harry couldn't finish the thought, and Dumbledore put a comforting arm around her shoulder.

"Every precaution is being taken to keep them all safe. You know that."

"Not every precaution," she looked up into his blue eyes, her green ones reflecting her worry, "I have decided to let you have Severus hypnotize me. I have done some reading for the past few weeks, and it seems to be okay; but I want you and Remus to be there with me. The thought of someone playing with my head scares me."

"Child, I would be surprised if it didn't. Of course, I will be there with you. Would you be willing to allow him to do so this evening?"

"This evening?" she questioned alarmed. "Do you think we need to do it so soon? I thought perhaps this Friday when I would be staying."

"I can arrange for you to stay tonight. I'm sure Circe will find you something to sleep in. I understand your anxiety, but if things are as imminent as Draco has told you we need to gather as much information as possible as quickly as we can."

"I understand, Headmaster," Harry responded nervously.

"Now, hold onto me. We will apparate to Severus town home."

Harry put her arms around Dumbledore, and they quickly vanished, reappearing outside of the Potion Master's London residence. Harry had learned that many wizards lived in the area, and worked for the Ministry. Circe met them at the door with Phaedra in tow.

"I was getting worried. You are late returning, Albus."

"Harry and I took a little walk. She needed to discuss a few things with me. Harry will be spending the night tonight, Circe. I would appreciate it if you would go and get Severus and meet me in the parlor. I need to speak with both of you. Harry will you keep an eye on Phaedra while I speak with her mother and uncle?"

"Of course, come on Phaedra, we can go and find out what Dobby is up to."

"The house elf? Mummy says you should not disturb them when they are working."

"Well Dobby is a personal friend of mine. He is a free house elf and gets paid by Dumbledore," Harry explained leading the way into the house. "Which way is the kitchen?"

"Over this way." She replied leading the way.

They entered the kitchen, which was large and bright. The elves were scurrying about making sandwiches for lunch and setting up for the evening meal. Dobby was sitting at a long table chopping carrots. He had looked up when they entered and his face broke into a huge grin.

"Harry Potter," he beamed, "what can Dobby do for you?"

"You can put that knife down and tell me if you have had any other news."

"No, Miss Harry. I brought you the letter that came yesterday. Have you heard from Master Ron or Miss Hermione?"

"Yes, Ron is having a blast and so is his sister Ginny. They are really learning a lot about dragons. Ginny is also interested in some boy she met in Romania, but with two brothers keeping a close watch it isn't easy to date," Harry grinned with understanding. "Miss Hermione is in New York, and went to the Museum of Natural History."

"Miss Harry, are they your friends?" Phaedra asked curiously.

"Yes, honey, my best friends. We all met on the Hogwarts Express almost seven years ago."

"Miss Phaedra, forgive my bad manners," Dobby jumped up from the table, "can I get you some cookies or juice?"

"Can I have a cookie, Miss Harry? Mummy doesn't usually let me eat so close to lunch time."

"I don't think one cookie will hurt. I will tell your mum I let you have it," Harry said as Dobby gave Phaedra a big oatmeal cookie.

"Thank you Dobby."

"Dobby is Phaedra doing a good job helping with Snuffles?"

"Yes, yes ,yes...she feeds her with me every night and makes sure she gets water. She also plays with her every day before her nap," Dobby replied jumping up and down with excitement.

"Good, now I think maybe we had better go back upstairs and let the elves finish their work."

Harry took Phaedra by the hand and returned to the hall. Snape, Circe, and Dumbledore were just emerging from the parlor.

"Phaedra, I see you have a cookie. You know you aren't supposed to eat this close to lunch."

"I let her have it Circe. I didn't know how long you would be. I didn't think one cookie would hurt," Harry explained calmly.

"That's all right, Harry. I understand. Are you both ready for some shopping? I need to buy Phaedra some new clothes. She's growing like a weed. I also want to get you some things, Harry, my treat."

"Thank you, Circe, but I can't accept."

"Nonsense, I have something in mind that I think you will enjoy. I know Phaedra and I do."

"You'll like it Miss Harry. Can I tell her mummy? Please?"

"No, Phaedra it will be our surprise. Harry has a lot on her mind just now, and this will help her to feel better and relax."

"Oh...all right," The little girl pouted at her mother.

"Harry we are going to Diagon Alley, so you will need some floo powder. It is in the can over here by the hearth. Come on Phaedra, you will go with me and Harry will follow," Circe said taking her daughter by the hand. "Diagon Alley," she stated, entering the hearth, and throwing the powder disappeared.

"God, I hate floo powder. You really should teach me to apparate," Harry grinned at Dumbledore and Snape who were both shaking their heads negatively. "Diagon Alley," she threw the floo powder and felt herself moving rapidly through the floo system. Harry appeared in a little shop just at the beginning of the street.

"Welcome, Miss Potter," a plump little witch, no bigger than Professor Flitwick greeted her, as Circe and Phaedra looked on. "I am Agatha Flitwick. I believe my brother is one of your teachers at Hogwarts."

"Yes, he is, and a very good one at that," Harry replied, and the little witch beamed back at her.

Glancing about the shop, Harry realized they were in children's clothing shop. The clothes were all expensive looking and tailor made. Phaedra was looking at some pretty dresses, and Circe motioned for Harry to follow her. They went over to the little girl who was picking out what she wanted.

"Can I have this pretty blue one, Mummy?"

"Let's try it on first. Miss Flitwick will help you," she told her daughter as the other woman led her to the dressing room.

"I have been wanting to get you alone, Harry. I need to talk to you about Severus."

A knot formed in Harry's stomach, "Is something the matter?"

"No, you are actually starting to bring him out of his shell. Nevertheless, I must warn you. He has suffered a great deal. I know that as an empath you can feel his pain. I love my little brother very much, and I don't want to see him hurt again."

"Look mummy, see how pretty I look!" Phaedra skipped from the dressing room.

"You look absolutely adorable," Circe smiled, "now go and try on the green one."

"Yes, mummy," Phaedra ran back to where Agatha Flitwick was waiting.

Circe turned her attention back to Harry. "He suffered a great loss when his wife and son were killed. It caused him to become bitter and withdrawn. The only good that came out of it was that he realized he had been wrong to follow the Dark Lord. All he wanted was revenge. Do you know how they died, Harry?"

Harry just shook her head, unable to speak. She had not expected Circe to address her in this fashion.

"My brother did not want to kill Muggles. He saw no point to hurting innocent people just for the sport of killing. He told Voldemort that he could use his talents to better purposes and that he would no longer go on raids that would not help to further their cause. He believed the Muggles posed no threat to our world and told the Dark Lord he should use his powers to improve the wizarding world. He didn't understand then that Voldemort was a mad man. All Voldemort wanted was to eradicate the Muggles from the world completely. He was nothing more than a tyrant, no better than some of the Muggle dictators through out history. Instead of a witch hunter he was a Muggle hunter."

"Mummy I don't like this one," Phaedra interrupted coming out of the dressing room.

"Hmm...Turn around and let me see the back," Circe instructed her.

Phaedra modeled the back and Circe frowned. "Agatha do you have something similar but with a lower waist?" Circe asked the shopkeeper.

"I most certainly do," she pulled out another dress. "Come along Phaedra, let's see it this one looks any better." Phaedra followed her back to the dressing room.

"So what happened?" Harry asked timidly as soon as they were out of earshot.

"Voldemort was furious. He sent Severus out on another raid, but he refused to participate in the torture. When he got back, Voldemort was smiling at him, and sent him home. When he got there the dark mark was hanging over his house. He couldn't believe it, and rushed inside. Camilla was in the living room, hanging upside down. She had been raped and tortured, and then her throat was cut. He found baby Marcus up in his crib. At first he thought he had been spared, but when he got close...he saw..." Circe stopped to control her emotions, and Harry could feel the pain and anguish. "He was lying there; just staring...he had been given the Dementors Kiss. Severus had to...to...perform the Avadra Kedavra curse on his soulless little body."

"Mummy, look at me now! Don't I look pretty?" Phaedra had come from the dressing room.

"That's more like it. What do you think, Harry?"

"I think Phaedra looks pretty no matter what she has on," Harry smiled at the little girl, but inside her mind was swirling. Snape had been forced to stop his child from living as a soulless shell. His wife was tortured to death and all because he stood up to Voldemort. 'God how many families has this evil wizard torn apart?'

"Miss Harry! You aren't listening to me!" Phaedra said sharply, distressed by Harry's distraction.

"I'm sorry honey; I had something else on my mind. I didn't mean to ignore you."

"I said which one do you like better?"

"I like them both. How about trying on a pink one?"

"Mummy said only two dresses today. She wants to buy me some other things too."

"Try on the pink one anyway. If it looks good I will buy it for you. All little girls should have at least one pink dress," Harry said adamantly and Circe eyed her with curiosity.

"Did you have a pink dress?" Phaedra asked curiously.

"No, Phaedra, I had to dress like a boy. So I will buy you the pink dress I never got to have," she smiled, her eyes moist. "Miss Flitwick, could you help Phaedra find a pretty pink dress. Something like a princess might wear?"

"Of course, Miss Potter, I will be delighted to do so." Agatha Flitwick led Phaedra back to the dresses while Harry and Circe finished their conversation.

"Circe, what happened after..." Harry couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence.

"Severus was on the verge of collapse. He called me and I sent for Dumbledore for him. He was like a broken doll. He had married young, like your parents, and now it was all gone. All he could think about was avenging his family. He went to work for Dumbledore as a spy. He didn't care what happened to him anymore. When Voldemort disappeared and you were spared he knew he had to look out for you. We all knew the Dark Lord would come back, it was just a matter of time."

"He hated me you know. At least now I know why," Harry could not look at Circe. She was as confused by her feelings for Severus Snape as she was for Sirius. 'Damn, why is this happening to me? Why can't I just be attracted to someone closer to my own age?'

"It doesn't always work that way, Harry," Circe was looking at her oddly, and Harry jumped, realizing that Circe was as much a telepath as Harry was an empath. "I apologize. I had to be sure you weren't playing adolescent games with my brother's affections," Circe hugged Harry, realizing that she was confused and worried. She whispered softly into her ear, "You are right. He was angry that James Potter's son was allowed to live, while his was not. He knew he was also bound to fulfill his obligation to that child since James had saved his life."

"You know what happened?"

"With the werewolf, yes, I know all about it. I also know you care a good deal for Lupin too."

"Well James Potter's son turned out to be a girl and threw a monkey wrench into the whole thing," Harry said trying to smile at the memory of Snape's expression when he found out.

"He stopped hating you long before that. He wanted everyone to believe he had it in for you. It was safer for you that way."

"I know, it hasn't been easy for any of us. How can one man be so evil?"

"I wish I could answer that question. Now here comes Phaedra, and she looks absolutely precious."

"Do I really look like a princess, Miss Harry?"

"Your Highness," Harry teased, "you will be the belle of the ball."

Phaedra giggled with delight and curtseyed to Harry.

"Do you have the other items I requested, Agatha?" Circe asked the shopkeeper.

"Oh my, yes, I have all the knew outfits and under things all ready. Do you want the dresses?"

"We'll take all three."

"No, I insist on paying for the pink one myself," Harry told her stubbornly, "it's the pink dress my mother never got to put on me, so I will see that it goes to Phaedra."

"Very well, but you are spoiling my daughter," Circe grinned, "first cookies and now clothes."

"She's like my little sister," Harry looked at Phaedra with affection.

They paid for their purchases and left the shop. Phaedra couldn't help stopping to look in all the windows. She was fascinated when they passed Ollivander's and saw a young wizard buying a wand. Mr. Ollivander nodded to them from the shop and came over to the door. He gave Phaedra a lollipop and spoke briefly with Harry and Circe.

"When can I get a wand, mummy?"

"When you are old enough to go to Hogwarts," Circe informed her.

"How old is that?"

"Eleven," Circe and Harry said in unison smiling.

"Am I old enough for a broom?"

"Not yet. It would be better if you wait to learn to fly when you go off to Hogwarts."

"How come I can't do anything."

"You have to learn how to control the magic, otherwise someone might get hurt."

"Don't worry, Phaedra, you will learn very fast when the time comes," Harry comforted her, as Circe checked the time.

"Oh, my goodness, it's time for lunch. Come on Harry, we will go to The Golden Dragon for lunch."

"Sounds like a Chinese restaurant."

"It is the only one on Diagon Alley. They make the best sweet and sour chicken this side of London."

"Can we have our tea leaves read mummy?'

"Naturally, it is part of the atmosphere."

Circe led the way up the block and into the restaurant. It was crowded and they had to wait a few minutes for a table. Harry was interested in this part of Diagon Alley since she was unfamiliar with it and kept looking out the window at the different shops. There were two other restaurants, a haberdasher with a variety of witches and wizards hats displayed in the window, and a beauty shop. Harry assumed it was a unisex shop as both wizards and witches were coming and going.

"How many please?" a familiar voice asked, and Harry whirled around,

"Cho!" she smiled with delight at seeing an old school friend. Cho Chang

had been a year ahead of her in school and had completed her wizard's training this past year.

"Harry, how have you been? Are you having a good summer?"

"Better than usual, what are you doing here?"

"I work as the hostess. My family own the Golden Dragon."

"I never knew, if I had I would have come in sooner," Harry laughed in response. "Cho this is Professor Snape's sister, and her daughter."

"I know, Miss Snape and Phaedra come here all the time Is it just the three of you for lunch?"

"Yes, Cho," Circe replied smiling at the two young witches.

They followed Cho to a secluded booth near the rear of the restaurant. Harry noticed that an old Chinese wizard was sitting in a little alcove, drinking tea. He was wearing red and gold robes embroidered with Chinese dragons. The old man looked up as Harry sat down. She had the distinct impression that he had been waiting for her.

"That is my great grandfather, Chin Chang," Cho whispered to Harry, "he is good friends with Dumbledore, though not as old. You seem to have caught his interest."

"Is that a good thing?" Harry asked uneasily.

"It generally means he has been waiting for you. He will want to read your tea leaves," Cho explained as the old man smiled and nodded towards Harry, "just go over when you have finished your meal. Phaedra will take you, she loves having her tea leaves read," Cho winked. "The waitress will be here in a minute. Would you like something to drink?"

"Can I have some soda, mummy?"

"You can have some lemon soda," Phaedra. "What would you like to eat?"

"I want some noodles, you know the kind mummy."

"Lo Mien," Circe commented, "as soon as the waitress comes, I will order it for you."

"Harry would you like something to drink?" Cho inquired.

"I'll have an iced tea with lemon."

"Make that two," Circe nodded and Cho disappeared with a smile.

"I should have realized you would know Cho. It was silly of me not to."

"Not really, she was a year ahead of me and in Hufflepuff. We aren't close friends, but share our love of Quidditch."

"Do you have many friends, Harry?"

"No, not really. I have two best friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. I'm really friends with all the other Weasley's too. I'm also friends with Neville Longbottom, and a few of the others in my house. Mostly the boys in my year, since I was with them for so long. I'm considered one of the guys. Ginny Weasley and Hermione are my two closest girl friends."

"How about amongst the Muggles. Have you any friends there?"

"No, I was picked on in school because of my clothes. I was made to wear my cousin's hand me downs, which were too big for me. I kept to myself a lot because my cousin was such a bully. He would intimidate anyone who tried to be friendly with me."

"Your mother's family do not sound very friendly."

"Dumbledore says they're afraid of the magic," Harry said trying to excuse them.

"Humph...that is no excuse, especially since your mother was a witch. Your aunt should have been used to it. Seems more like she is jealous."

"Don't feel bad, Miss Harry. Me and mummy are your friends and so is Uncle Severus. Mr. Remus and Headmaster Mr. Dumbledore are too."

"Phaedra, I'm going to tell you a secret. It isn't how many friends you have, but the kind of friends you have that's important. I would rather have a few good close friends than a whole lot of friends who don't really care about me."

The waitress appeared then, and took their orders. Circe ordered Lo Mien for Phaedra as promised, and sweet and sour chicken for herself. Harry had decided on shrimp with lobster sauce.

The food was delicious, and Harry and Circe got to know each other better. Circe was surprised when Harry asked her about the jewelry Snape had given his sister for Christmas. She had been delighted with the present, and wondered why her brother had changed his usual selection of just earrings.

"So, you were last years Christmas detention student?" she had laughed with delight. "You have such good taste I'll just have to tell my little brother to make sure he gives you detention again this year."

"No thanks, but I will offer to help him pick you something anyway," she laughed.

"Uncle Severus sent me a pretty dolly from Santa," Phaedra chimed in, "she cries and everything."

"Can I see her sometime; I never had a doll of my own."

"You never had dolls?" Phaedra wondered wide-eyed.

"No, I was pretending to be a boy. I did have an old stuffed animal; I believe it was a dog, but my aunt threw it away," Harry's face darkened at the memory.

It had come with her as a baby, and she had carried it with her everywhere. Her aunt had thrown it out when she was four. Harry could still remember crying as the trash was picked up. Dudley was laughing. She suddenly became aware of Circe watching her and knew the older witch was using her telepathy.

"I apologize, Harry," Circe lowered her eyes.

"Mummy can I share my dollies with Miss Harry?"

"Of course dear," she smiled lovingly at her daughter, placing one of her hands on Harry's shoulder to comfort the painful memory.

Following their meal, Circe ordered dessert for all of them consisting of Chinese pastries, cakes, and a pot of tea, along with a glass of milk for Phaedra. The Chinese tea was stronger than the English tea Harry was used to drinking, and she found it to her liking. She sat relaxing as Phaedra stuffed a cookie into her mouth.

Looking up, she had the distinct impression that she was being watched and saw Cho's great grandfather staring at her. He smiled and bowed his head, motioning to Cho. They spoke to each other in Chinese and then Cho came over to their table.

"Great grandfather has asked me to tell you that there will be no charge for your meal. He is honored that someone as renowned as Harry Potter has seen fit to dine in our humble restaurant. He hopes you have enjoyed your meal," Cho related graciously, amused at Harry's discomfiture.

"Tell your grandfather he is most welcome," Circe nodded smiling in the old man's direction as Harry opened her mouth to protest.

"Harry, my great grandfather would be insulted if you refused," Cho informed her knowingly. "He would also like to meet you. I told you he would like to read your tea leaves."

"Can I have my tea leaves read too?" Phaedra begged.

"Of course, Little One," a soft voice spoke from behind Harry, "don't I always have time for you?"

Harry turned around and saw Mr. Chang standing there smiling. Harry had not seen him move from the alcove.

"Mr. Chang, you did not have to get up. I would have sent Harry over to you," Circe nodded. "We are honored to have you at our table."

The old man bowed and Cho pulled over a chair for him to sit on before returning to her duty as hostess.

"I am honored to have the Phoenix come into my humble establishment," he looked calmly at Harry, his dark eyes warm. Harry was immediately put at ease.

"I am fortunate then to have someone as wise as you to help guide me on my journey." Harry had no idea why she had made this reply, but it had seemed to make sense.

"Why do you call Miss Harry a phoenix? What is it?"

"Hush Phaedra, do not interrupt Mr. Chang," Circe scolded gently.

"There was no dishonor intended Circe; the little one is just curious. A phoenix is a magical bird. It is native to my country, China. Harry Potter possesses its virtues," the old man explained. "She is like the phoenix."

"Is it a pretty bird?"

"Phaedra, have you ever seen Dumbledore's bird?" Harry questioned.

"The pretty red one?"

"Yes, he is red and gold. His name is Fawkes, and he is a phoenix."

"I've seen him. He cried on my boo boo when I fell and cut my knee. He made it all better. Can you do that too?"

"Yes, Phaedra, I can," Harry winked with a chuckle.

"You are most remarkable, Miss Potter," Chin Chang smiled broadly. "It is most unusual to find one with the heart of the lion, cunning of the serpent, and power of the phoenix. The fates have seen fit to bless you. Your destiny is to be one of greatness, but your way has not always been easy, and there is still much strife ahead," he studied her intently frowning at her tealeaves. "You have suffered much pain and there is great darkness and evil which is yet to be overcome. You must remember that fear will be your greatest enemy; love your staunchest ally. When you speak to the one who knows your soul you will be speaking to yourself. Look for her before the final battle. To conquer the evil you must first conquer your fear, and then the love will see you through. Trust in the power of the three, for they are your courage, your strength, and your endurance, as you will be theirs. This has been written in the stars. The love of your mother will guide your hand, and the one who is like a brother will be there when you need him."

Harry stared at the old man, who smiled and bowed his head. She knew her tea leaves had told him of the prophecy, yet there were things he had told her that had not been mentioned. She was confused and worried. What was he talking about when he said she would talk to herself? Then there was the fear. How did he know she was still very much afraid that she may be going to die fighting Lord Voldemort. How would the love see her through? Finally, he too had mentioned Ron, just as the watcher elf. Artemis had done. What role was her dearest friend going to play in the final battle? It was all too much for her to digest. The old man simply patted her hand with understanding, and like Dumbledore filled her with warmth.

"Will you read mine now?" Phaedra asked confused by the look on Harry's face, as Circe shifted uncomfortably.

"Ah...Little One. It will be my honor," the old man beamed at Phaedra. He studied her tea leaves, and scowled, his frown deepening. "Little One, a time is coming when you will need to be very brave. You will be afraid but someone will come and help you. You will take a journey with the Phoenix who will bring you to a place of safety."

He then looked solemnly at Circe, studying her leaves too. "You will do your best to protect the Little One, but it will fall to the Phoenix to bring her safely back to you. There will be many hours of great heartache, but the three whose destiny lie with the Phoenix will be there to offer comfort and support. Trust in them and the guardian of them all."

The old man then stood, bowed, and walked back to his alcove. Circe was visibly shaken, and Harry was unnerved by his reading. The only one who seemed unaffected was Phaedra, who was babbling about going on a trip with the Phoenix. Circe collected their packages and hurried them all from the restaurant. They followed her up the street and Phaedra was becoming aware that something was wrong with her mother.

"Mummy are you sick? You look like I did when my tummy hurt."

"What? Oh no, I was just thinking," she told her daughter with a forced smile. "It's time for us to give Harry her surprise. Do you think she will like it?"

"I know she will," Phaedra laughed excitedly. "Will we see Miss Amanda?"

"Yes, we will be seeing Miss Amanda, and then we will make one other stop."

"Where are we going?" Harry asked curiously.

"You'll see," Circe chuckled, her mood brightening as Phaedra skipped along side of them.

Harry followed Circe through the myriad twists and turns of Diagon Alley. She had no idea that it was actually as long as this. They turned off onto another street after a few minutes and she found herself on Pentacle Alley. She looked around amazed. Up to now, she had only been on Diagon Alley, and had a brief and unpleasant experience on Knockturn Alley just prior to her second year at Hogwarts. This street was full of shops, and other businesses, which catered to an elite clientele. Circe noticed Harry's nervousness, and winked at her playfully.

"I know what you're thinking, and you don't have to worry. This is mine and Phaedra's treat."

"I know you are not in my head, so I can only assume you noticed my body language?"

"Naturally, so don't you worry. I will not invade your privacy again without your permission. Like you, I can block out others," Circe reassured her. "Ah...here we are," she stopped in front of Amanda's beauty salon, "we are going to have our nails and hair done. My dear you need a little pampering and feminizing. Mrs. Weasley has agreed with me. The men and women at Hogwarts along with your girl friends have done a remarkable job, but you need some polishing. A new hair style and manicure will work wonders. It also helps to perk one up when they are worried or feeling depressed."

"You spoke with Molly Weasley?"

"Certainly, I work for the Ministry, didn't you know?"

Harry just shook her head and followed Circe and Phaedra into the beauty salon. Her nostrils were immediately assaulted with the smell of ammonia, hair spray, and nail polish remover. She had never been in a beauty parlor, let alone one for witches. Apparently, they used many of the same techniques as the Muggle women. A young witch of perhaps thirty, came over to meet them.

"Circe I see you are right on time. It's good to see you again, and how are you doing Phaedra?" she smiled at the little girl.

"I'm fine, Miss Amanda. We're having a day of beauty."

"I know, your mum told me. Is this the young woman you said you would be bringing along?" she asked turning to face Harry. "Oh my gosh...you're..."

"Harry Potter," Harry finished for her. It was just another case of Harry Potter shock syndrome. "I'm very pleased to meet you Miss...Er..."

"Amanda Whitehead. It is such an honor to meet you Miss Potter. I didn't know you knew the Snape family."

"Circe's brother teaches at Hogwarts. He is the Potion Master."

"I didn't go to Hogwarts myself, I went to school in France, Beaubaxtons. You must have heard of it. I believe they were in the last Tri Wizard Tournament a few years back."

"Yes, we competed against them; Hogwarts won."

"That's right! I had forgotten you were in the tournament."

"Amanda, I don't think Harry wants to talk about herself. She is a very modest person," Circe informed the beautician. "I brought her here so you could work some of your magic on her. She is so pretty, but needs a little finishing off."

"You're absolutely right. I know her history. They made her pretend to be a boy. I have heard of the Prophecy of Mathias. We actually studied it while I was in school. It was dismissed when He Who Must Not Be Named disappeared," Amanda babbled as she led Harry over to have her hair washed. She then seated Circe and Phaedra.

Once they were all shampooed, she curled Phaedra's long blond hair, and pulled it off her face with a blue ribbon. She looked absolutely adorable, and Harry knew that she was going to be a beautiful woman. Next, she turned to Circe, who preferred to keep her black locks fairly short. She had Amanda style her hair in layers, and while not a beautiful woman, she was quite handsome. Harry had the feeling that her brother would look more like his sister if he put on some weight and did something with his hair. Unfortunately, they both had the same nose. She supposed it was a family trait.

"Now, Miss Potter, it's your turn. How would you like your hair?"

"I have no idea. Now that it has gotten fairly long, I have just been braiding it. I do want some sort of bang though to cover my scar."

"Your hair is very thick, I think you should have it layered and styled to frame your face. It can be left long.. This way you can still wear a French braid or put it up."

"I think that is a wonderful idea," Circe agreed, "let's see how it looks, and go from there."

Harry watched nervously as the beautician cut her hair. She had taken great pains to let it finally get long, and now they were going to cut it. She had no idea how to work with her hair other than what Professor McGonagall had shown her. She was just praying it would come out okay. Amanda finally finished and turned Harry to face the mirror.

"Miss Harry, you look beautiful," Phaedra said happily.

Harry stared at the image in front of her and smiled. For the first time in her life, she felt pretty, and was stunned at the difference the new style made. She had thought of herself as plain, but she was anything but.

"Now, lets get her a manicure and trim her brows. Then we will make our next stop," Circe announced pleased with the results.

Harry suffered through another half hour of nerves, not to mention the discomfort of having her eyebrows waxed. Her nails had been painted and neatly manicured, and she was finally finished. She left the shop grinning happily.

"Where are we going now?" she asked Circe as they walked back in the opposite direction.

"You'll see," she answered with a mysterious smile.

"Mummy is going to make you even prettier," Phaedra giggled.

"This is our final stop, "Circe said as they came to a halt in front of the local eye doctor.

"Circe, my glasses are fine. I don't need new ones."

"You aren't getting new glasses. I think you need to stop hiding those beautiful green eyes. It's time for contact lenses. When your a little older there is eye surgery to correct your eyesight if you want to have it, but this will do for now."

"Circe, I can't afford contact lenses, and the Dursley's won't pay for them."

"No, but your godfather will. Molly Weasley spoke with him, and he agreed you should be allowed to get them," she told Harry, nudging her into the shop.

The eye doctor had been expecting them, and took Harry's glasses. He then did a thorough eye exam and told them that after she turned eighteen and had stopped growing she could have the eye surgery to correct her near sightedness. In the meantime, he made up a pair of contact lenses with a wave of his wand. Harry found them uncomfortable at first, but the eye doctor showed her how to put them in and out and take proper care of them. She would keep her glasses for days when she didn't wish to wear the lenses or if she had to get up during the night. She was to get used to the lenses gradually, and wear them for several hours each day until the end of the week, when she should be able to tolerate them on a daily basis for long periods. They were extended wear lenses, so she need not worry if she fell asleep with them in, but it would be better if she didn't always sleep in them. By the time they were ready to leave the eye doctor, she felt like a different person.

"What do you think everyone will say?" Harry asked nervously as they prepared to return to Professor Snape's house.

"Their heads will all turn. We will have to take a picture for your godfather. It will be another ten days until he returns. Remus can see that he gets it."

"I think they will all say you look like a princess!" Phaedra hugged her, pleased that Harry liked her new self.

"Then lets go and show them how we all look, since we all had a day of beauty," Harry grinned saucily.

They stepped up to the hearth in the eye doctor's and took some floo powder. As usual, Circe and Phaedra went first, and Harry followed.

Emerging from the hearth in the Snape's parlor, she looked around and saw Remus Lupin sitting with Severus and Dumbledore. Phaedra had run over to her uncle and was sitting on his lap. Circe was talking with Lupin and Dumbledore.

"Princess," Remus Lupin was grinning broadly at the sight of her, "Phaedra said you were beautiful, and she was right. Sirius will want to keep you under wraps. He was nervous before, but when he sees you now..."

"Miss Potter...Harry...," Snape said coming over to her. He gently cupped her chin in his hand, his dark eyes sparkling, locked with her green ones. "If Antony had seen you first, Cleopatra wouldn't have had a chance."

"Thank you, Professor," Harry replied graciously, cheeks burning. 'Damn you Severus Snape, you have my stomach in knots,' she thought as Phaedra giggled.

"Uncle Severus, who was Cleopatra?"

"She was a queen of ancient Egypt. Many men sought her, but Antony won her heart."

"I think we need a picture to send to Sirius. He will never believe this," Remus shook his head.

"I have a camera in the other room," Circe told them, "I brought it just for this occasion. Albus, I'm glad to see that at least you are not acting like a love sick school boy," she said going to get the camera.

"I'm too stunned to move. Perhaps I should reconsider your proposal Harry?" Dumbledore teased recalling their conversation last June. Harry had told him that she wanted the man she married to be just like him, and had playfully asked him to marry her.

"Anytime, Professor Dumbledore," she winked laughing.

"Miss Harry, are you really going to marry Headmaster Mr. Dumbledore? I want you to marry Uncle Severus."

"Phaedra, right now I'm not going to marry anyone. I'm too young to get married," Harry explained as Snape went over to his niece, eyeing Harry speculatively.

"Okay, here's the camera," Circe said coming back into the room.

"I think we should all be in the picture. I want Sirius and Mrs. Weasley to see how nice we all look," Harry told Circe, motioning for Phaedra to come over to her.

"Then we should take one of you alone, since I'm sure Sirius Black would want one."

"I have a better idea. My godfather is noted for his history of playing practical jokes so..." Harry grabbed Snape and Remus and positioned them on either side of the sofa. She then carefully sat down between them on Dumbledore's lap, with her arm around him. Now take the picture, but I want to write something on the bottom of it," she grinned playfully.

"This I have to see,' Circe remarked as she snapped the photo. She then took the Polaroid from the camera and handed it to Harry.

Harry had Circe wave her wand over the picture as she whispered into her ear. Circe laughed aloud and then showed the picture to the three men, who laughed in unison. She had put a brief inscription on the bottom. "Payback is a bitch. You left a sly old fox, a snake, and a wolf guarding the hen house!"

"I do believe he will be extra sure to return on time, Harry, once he sees this, now how about a picture of all three of you lovely ladies together," Dumbledore suggested warmly.

"All right, but I also want a picture of Circe and Phaedra."

They took a few more photos and then moved into the dining room for dinner. Harry was happy and relaxed, and Dumbledore was glad, since once Phaedra was put to bed he would have Severus do the hypnosis. Circe had agreed to be present too, this way if Harry became frightened she could contact her telepathically along with Severus. Remus would see that everything was written down, so they could plan what to do, and notify Alastor Moody.

Following dinner Harry relaxed with Remus over a game of chess, with Phaedra watching intently. Remus won two out of three games and then Circe announced that it was time for Phaedra to go to bed.

"Do I have to Mummy? I want to try and play chest."

"Not chest, dear. It is Chess. There is no 'T' on the end of it."

"Chess," she repeated. "Can't Miss Harry teach me tonight?"

"Not tonight, Little One. Miss Harry needs to do something with me. "She will teach you on Saturday," Dumbledore said picking her up and handing her to her mother with a kiss.

"Oh, all right," Phaedra pouted with a yawn.

"I will be down in a little while," Circe told them as she left to put her daughter to bed.

Harry just sat quietly, petting Snuffles who was lying on the floor beside her chair. She was missing Sirius, and wished he were here with her. She wondered what he would say when Remus delivered her picture and smiled inwardly. She was counting the days till the end of July. Her thoughts were interrupted by Remus.

"He'll be back in only a few more days. Then you can leave the Dursley's. I know he's looking forward to it as much as you."

"It feels like forever since he left, yet it is only a few weeks."

"I know, he feels the same way. He sent you something. I had forgotten to give it to you," Remus reached into his robe pulling out a small box. Harry opened it and found a pair of gold earrings.

"They're lovely, but I don't have pierced ears."

"He knows, he said if you want to have them pierced to go ahead and he would pay for it. If you don't he can exchange the earrings for something else."

"Not a prayer. Do you think he would say anything if I got a tattoo? It's all the rage with the Muggle teens."

"I don't know about Black, but I will personally see that you do detention for the entire school year if I so much as hear the word tattoo," Snape said from where he was sitting reading.

"He means it, Child. Severus does not want to hear of anyone ever getting a tattoo."

"That wasn't the kind I had in mind, Professor. I was only kidding, anyway; but I will defer to your judgment in this matter," Harry relented realizing the subject of tattooing was a very touchy one with him.

Circe picked that moment to reappear and began lowering the lamps.

"Ah...Circe, why are you lowering the lamps? I thought your brother was going to hypnotize me. I didn't think he was in the mood for a séance," Harry quipped.

"The darkened room will help you to relax. Besides, we are only lowering some of them. If we were having a séance we would have only candlelight," Circe replied amused. "I think you might like some incense too. This one is an apple cinnamon," she explained, setting the incense to burn.

Harry could feel Snape watching her. Dumbledore was sitting off in a corner, his head resting on his chest. He appeared to be half-asleep, but Harry and the others knew better. Remus had removed his quill and parchment from his briefcase. Seating himself at the desk in the corner, he was ready to record her statements.

"Severus, whenever you feel Harry is ready, you may begin," Dumbledore's soft voice came from the corner; he had neither moved nor opened his eyes.

"Very well, Albus," Snape replied moving over to where Harry sat watching him.

"You're too tense, Miss Potter," Snape remarked softly, "let me help you relax so we can begin." He calmly reached down and began to massage the back of her neck.

"You're muscles are very tight, there is no reason for you to feel anxious," he spoke softly, carefully kneading the muscles going down her shoulders. "Hypnosis is merely a deep state of relaxation. It is similar to REM sleep, when you are dreaming."

Snape's voice reminded her of a soft melody she had heard somewhere a long time ago. Harry couldn't help but remember the time he had massaged her cold feet when she had been trapped on the roof at Hogwarts last winter. 'I still think no man should have hands like that,' she thought groggily, nodding off. The incense was making her head spin, and Snape's massage was putting her to sleep. 'Crazy fool, he's supposed to hypnotize me, not put me out for the night. I feel like I could sleep for days...'

"Very nice Severus," Dumbledore looked up from where he had appeared to be dozing. "I think this may be some kind of record for you."

"Thank you, Albus. She didn't realize what I was doing, so she relaxed much faster. I was concerned she would fight against me."

"Are you sure she's not really asleep?" Remus asked doubtfully.

"Lupin, she is merely in a state of deep relaxation. Let me show you." Severus took a seat next to Harry. "Miss Potter, you will listen only to my voice. You will keep your attention focused on what I have to say. No one will hurt you and you will remain relaxed and calm. Do you understand?"

"Yes."

"You feel free and your mind is clear. I want you to think back to your first look at Hogwarts. Can you tell me what you were doing?"

"We had just gotten off the train. The castle stood across the lake...I thought it was...beautiful."

"How did you feel?"

"Afraid...what if I really had...no...magic. What if it...were just a...pleasant dream. I would...wake up in...the cupboard...under the stairs."

"Okay, now you can move forward a little in time. You have the sorting hat on your head. It is looking into your heart and soul."

"Yes...I told it...not Slytherin." Snape looked sharply at Dumbledore. He had heard her say this once before, when she had told them about her dream. "The hat said...I...would do well...in Slytherin. I kept...saying not to...put me...there. It said...if not...Slytherin...it would...have to be...Gryffindor!"

"So you were sorted into Gryffindor?"

"Yes. I was...happy. My new...friend Ronald Weasley...was in Gryffindor. He told me...that most of...the wizards who...went bad had been...in Slytherin."

Snape shifted uncomfortably and sat up straighter.

"I want you to relax some more. You are going to think back to when you were four. Tell me what you see."

Harry started to cry like a little child, and Snape and Remus were immediately taken back.

"Why are you crying?"

"Aunt Petunia has thrown my doggie into the garbage. She called it a filthy rag! I want my doggie. Papa gave it to me! Aunt Petunia please give it back! Dudley is laughing. I want my toy doggie..." Harry wailed heartbroken.

"She told me this story this afternoon. We were talking about Phaedra's dolls," Circe whispered to her brother.

"Harry, it is all right, your doggie is safe. You can stop crying. Now I want you to listen to me. I want you to come forward in time. You are in the first day of Potions Class. I have just come into the room. What are you doing?"

"I am waiting. You stormed into the class as if you are angry. You are talking about defeating death...I am...taking notes...but you are upset with me...You are asking me...questions...I can't answer..."

"How did you feel when I questioned you?"

"Angry. You wanted to make a fool out of me. You were jealous. I could feel it. I told you to ask Hermione...you got nasty...embarrassed me...took five points...from Gryffindor. I sensed you...didn't like...me."

"All right. It was a long time ago. Do you think I don't like you now?" Everyone's attention was on Harry.

"No...you are...attracted...to...me. You are jealous...of Sirius. You think...I am...falling...in love...with him."

"Are you?" Snape questioned as Dumbledore cleared his throat warningly.

"I have...mixed...emotions. I care...for...all...three."

"Three? Who is the other one?"

"Remus," Harry's voice softened, "I don't mind that he's a werewolf. I think... it... makes him... rather interesting. I understand his pain."

"Severus, I believe you are supposed to be asking her about Lord Voldemort," Dumbledore had come to stand by Harry's chair, a look of stern disapproval on his face.

"I apologize, Headmaster," Snape lowered his eyes, "it was wrong of me to ask her personal questions. If you wish, I will tell her when she wakens and apologize for my invasion of her privacy," Snape looked at his mentor repentantly.

"See that you do so," Dumbledore nodded with approval. He knew it would be a difficult thing for the young wizard to apologize to Harry. "Now carry on with the questioning about Voldemort," he instructed resuming his seat.

"Harry, I want you to let your mind drift," Snape instructed her slowly. "I want you to feel the scar on your forehead and think about Lord Voldemort. Think about where he is."

"The scar...hurts...he...will know."

"No, Harry, he will not. You are safe in my home and Voldemort cannot touch you here. Let your mind find him."

"He's in a dungeon. McNair is with him...Imperious curse...They have...a...wizard...laughter. They're torturing...him. They want...to know...where...Mrs. Weasley is...his name...oh no...It is the Auror...Tom Clancy...He won't answer...Cruciatus curse...Voldemort is...impatient...No!" Harry screamed in terror.

"Harry you are in no danger. What did Voldemort do?" Snape asked smoothly, although he already knew the answer. They all did.

"Avadra Kedavra curse...Clancy ...wouldn't talk...Voldemort is leaving...anger...hatred...make it stop...pain...my scar..."

"Bring her out of it Severus," Remus concern showed in his face, "she's told us enough for now. We can try again some other time."

"Remus is right, Severus, we now know she can feel and see what he is doing. Their link is a strong one," Dumbledore considered thoughtfully.

"I'll raise the lamps," Circe told them quietly. "Albus do you want me to notify Moody about Tom Clancy?"

"Please do so immediately," he instructed as she quickly penned a letter to send to Mad Eye Moody at the Ministry.

"Harry, as I rub your neck you will begin to waken. You will feel relaxed and won't remember what happened. You will have no pain in your scar."

Snape had resumed his original position behind Harry and was gently rubbing her neck. She opened her eyes and looked around.

"I wish you would get this over with. If Professor Snape keeps this up, I will be ready for bed. He's supposed to hypnotize me, not put me to sleep for the night."

They all snickered, and Dumbledore spoke from across the room.

"Harry, Severus did hypnotize you. You have been under for about a half hour."

"Professor, that isn't funny. I have been sitting here just letting him rub my back. No body is that good."

"Princess, come over here and I'll prove it. I wrote everything you said down."

Snape immediately stiffened and Harry sensed his anxiety.

"Professor, why are you so tense?" she asked turning to look at him.

"I have to apologize to you, Harry. I asked you some questions which may disturb you," Snape explained stiffly, his face a mask.

"Like what?" Harry asked suspiciously, going to look at the parchment that was on the table in front of Remus. Snape did not answer; he just remained where he was, unmoving, while she scanned the parchment. "Oh no, Voldemort killed Tom Clancy! Isn't he the Auror that was with us when we questioned Pettigrew?" Harry demanded visibly upset.

"Yes, Child, we believe so. Circe has written a letter so Alastor Moody can investigate. That will tell us for certain whether your information is accurate."

"Miss Potter...I..." Snape began puzzled by her lack of expression about his asking about her feelings.

"Professor, there is nothing here that either of you didn't already know," she looked form one to the other. "It won't change how any of us feel or act towards each other. I'm only going to be seventeen. If Voldemort has his way, I may not live to see eighteen. In the mean time, we are all in checkmate, unable to make any kind of move. The three of you can't do anything until next summer when I will come of age. I can't do anything or it may jeopardize both your job and your lives. Voldemort has already targeted the three of you. If he even suspects there may be any kind of emotional involvement...Well I don't want to think about the possibilities."

"Princess," Remus began, "I doubt that even Albus could have said it better than that."

"Thank you," she smiled. "Professor Snape," Harry directed her attention to the Potions Master, "the next time you want to know about how I feel, just ask. If I want you to know, I'll tell you," Harry tossed her head defiantly.

Snape arched his brow in the familiar sardonic manner with the trace of a roguish smile, "I shall take that under advisement, Miss Potter."

"Professor Dumbledore, please let Sirius know to be extra careful. I have a bad feeling about all of this. I think Lord Voldemort is getting desperate. His followers are becoming more doubtful every time he fails to kill me. I won't feel safe until we're all back inside the walls of Hogwarts."

"I will, Child," Dumbledore cupped her chin gently. "I fear you are right, and time is growing short. Promise me that when you are with the Dursley's you won't venture outside very often."

"I promise, besides it isn't all that easy to try and ditch the Aurors you have shadowing me."

"I have no idea what you are talking about."

"Headmaster, you're a terrible liar," Harry grinned looking at him affectionately. "Now if no one minds, I'm going up to bed. Circe, do you want me to check on Phaedra when I go up?"

"Thank you, I would appreciate it. Sometimes she sleep walks."

"No problem. I will see you all in the morning. Good night."

"Good night," they responded in kind.

Harry went upstairs and quietly looked in on Phaedra. She was sleeping soundly with Mr. Hoppity Hop in her arms. Going into her own room, she changed her clothes putting on the nightgown that had been laid out for her and climbed into bed. She was worried about Sirius and the Weasleys. She was also embarrassed that her true feelings had been exposed. It troubled her that she had such conflicting feelings, but she had told them the truth. If Voldemort knew she cared for them, he would step up his attempts on all their lives. 'Oh, well,' she told herself drifting off to sleep, 'if I do survive my seventeenth year I'm going to have one hell of an eighteenth birthday.'