Disclaimer: Don't own Harry Potter or related characters they belong to J. K. Rowling. OC's are mine.

A/N: This is a Sirius had a son fic. Steps away from cannon about the third word in. Please review.

A/N: (7/23/2011) Due to massive problems with this story I'm doing a complete rewrite. The OC was way over powered in the original version. Also after reviewing some of the material it's just not well done. I feel I was trying for a M rated story when I'm better at writing T rated stories, for example my more recent stories in the Inuyasha (I have it posted as M, but several reviewers say it'd pass for T) and Naruto categories as well as my other Harry Potter story.

A/N2: Revision Notice: Original Version will be taken down when this version is posted. For those who read the original version this first chapter is a compilation of the original chapters 1-3, the pre-Hogwarts years. Unlike the original I'm going to also focus some on Harry and his half-sister. Since there are some changes to his time with the Dursleys, and I need to develop the second OC and her background during this time better.

Chapter 1

Halloween 1981 - London

Sirius Black slips out of the alley near his home. He knocks twice and waits for a second then knocks again. A feminine voice calls out through the door, "Sirius what did you do to my brother when he found out we were seeing each other?"

Sirius's face broke out in a huge smile, "I turned that death eater poster boy's hair red and gold. Linda, what convinced you to go on a date with me?"

"That one is too easy. Lily and I had a pact; I would go on a date with you when she went with Potter. I really thought Hell would have frozen over before that." Sirius had to suppress a barking laugh as Linda opened the door. "What is wrong? I thought you were going to stay with Peter tonight, to keep him company."

A grim look passed over Sirius's face. "I went to his house, and he was gone. There is no sign of a struggle. I have a bad feeling, but before I go check on Prongs and Lily, I wanted to get you and Orion somewhere safe."

"I just laid him down; it will take just a second to get him ready. I'll take him to your cousin Andromeda's then meet up with you at the Potters." Linda instructed her boyfriend.

They had never been formally married, but Orion had been given the Black family name. The boy was accepted by his grandfather who secretly paid for the London townhouse Sirius and Linda lived in prior to his death just before Orion was born. Sirius's mother was another story; she refused to acknowledge the child out of spite.

Linda entered Orion's nursery to find the toddler not in his crib, but sitting on the floor. Exasperated she began to shake her head, "I know you're a little magical prodigy, but you don't have to show off." She quickly gathered all Orion's necessities into a baby bag. Grabbing four special stuffed animals she scoops up her son and quickly follows Sirius out the door.

The couple doesn't make it more than three blocks before they are stopped dead in their tracks. Directly in front of them stands Linda's elder brother, Lucius Malfoy. He stood before them calm, and without his usual sneer.

First he looked at Sirius, then his sister. "Linda, put the child down and come over here."

"I will not let you hurt my child, or Sirius. If that is your intention, then prepare to defend yourself." Linda raised her wand, pointing it directly at Lucius's heart. "Now crawl back to your master brother, and bother us no more."

Sirius with his wand also at the ready examined the ally and street around them. No muggles in sight and no obvious death eaters. "What Lucius, you so arrogant that you thought you could take the both of us without help?"

"You're nothing special Black, just another bloodtraitor that has been allowed to poison the rest of us purebloods for too long. Give my regards to your traitorous brother Black." Lucius went to pull his wand from his cane. Only to be hit by both Sirius and Linda's curses. They left him where he lay. Once in the ally Linda disapperated to Andromeda's while Sirius went to Godric's Hollow.

November 1st 1981 – Tonks House

Andromeda sat in her sitting room watching the clock. It had been late the previous evening when Sirius's live-in girlfriend Linda Malfoy had appeared at her door and had left their son in her care. Linda was in a hurry, but said they needed to check on some friends, and that if they didn't come back to contact Remus Lupin. Andromeda was sure she remembered Lupin was a friend of Sirius's from school, but thought James Potter would be the person to contact. Though nobody had seen the Potter's in weeks, as they along with the Longbottoms had been targeted by You-Know-Who.

Shortly a sleepy-eyed Nymphadora emerged in the doorway. "Morning Mum," Dora stumbled into the room then went to sit next to her mother. It was then that she noticed what her mom was holding. "What's that mum?"

Andromeda smiled at her daughter's surprised look. "This is your cousin Sirius's son. His name is Orion, and his parents needed me to watch him for a little bit. Why don't you see if the Daily Prophet has arrived yet?"

"Ok mum." Dora said as she jumped off the couch. She ran into the kitchen, seconds later a crash that could only come from a falling chair resounded through the house. Andromeda chuckled, she knew that Dora was fine, what surprised her was that Orion seemed to not have been woken.

Looking down she noticed Orion awake and staring at her. She smiled at the baby and hummed a lullaby to get him to go back to sleep.

Before he was completely asleep Dora entered carrying the paper. She was intently looking at the cover trying to sound out a word. "Mum what does va…van…vanquished mean?"

Andromeda quickly snatched the paper from her daughter's hand. She read and reread the cover story to make sure it wasn't a dream. "Ted! Ted! Get down here!"

"What!" A slightly disheveled Ted Tonks stumbled down the steps.

"It's finally happened. Someone was able to defeat You-Know-Who." Ted and his wife embraced. Standing next to them Dora smiled, she didn't understand why her parents were so happy, but she decided to join in. Lying on the couch 22 month old Orion Black fell gently back to sleep.

November 2rd 1981 – Number 4 Private Drive

Petunia Dursley sat staring at the child she'd placed on the couch. It had been only an hour since she screamed upon finding him on the doorstep. She held the unopened letter in her hand fearful of what it said.

Nervously Vernon entered the living room, "Petunia…what does the letter say?"

Petunia with her hands shaking opened the letter.

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Dursley,

My name is Albus Dumbledore, headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I regret to inform you of the passing of James and Lily Potter. As you are certainly aware Lily being Mrs. Dursley's sister, you are their only living relatives. Being this the case I leave in your care one Harry James Potter.

I will leave it up to you to decide when it is prudent to reveal the following information to your nephew.

Last evening a notoriously evil wizard located your sister and brother-in-laws, at their home in Godric's Hollow. He proceeded to murder both James and Lily, but was for some reason unable to kill Harry. The reason behind this is yet unknown, but the attempt on your nephew's life left him with the scar on his forehead.

I implore you to keep him, as I know you might wish to send him to an orphanage. In your home he is protected by strong magical bonds which will extend the protection onto your family as well. It is my belief that followers of the wizard who murdered James and Lily may attempt to find Harry, and if you don't keep him they may attack you in an attempt to locate him.

With deepest regrets,

Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore

Vernon cringed, "So it's true…he's one of their bunch isn't he."

Petunia nodded.

Vernon grumbled, "We can take him down to the hospital. Just dump him off, say he was abandoned by some drifters."

Petunia scrutinized the letter again, "No…no we can't."

Vernon half choked, "What? What do you mean?"

Petunia steadied herself, "I don't like it anymore than you do, but for now we have to keep him."

Vernon started turning purple, "Petunia! I won't have one of them in my house."

Petunia glanced back at the baby boy sleeping on the couch, "Perhaps…perhaps he won't be like them. Maybe we can make him more like us."

Vernon calmed slightly and rubbed his chin, "Hmm…maybe so…we'll stomp this ridiculousness from him before it has a chance to start."

November 5th 1981

The relief Andromeda had had only a few days ago was gone. She had been saddened to hear about the deaths of James and Lily Potter, but she didn't know them very well. She knew they were friends of Sirius's and they had a son, but not much else.

Another sad event occurred later that day. Ted answered a call from Godric's Hollow; it was the local muggle police. They needed help identifying a woman's body, and the only phone number on her person was the Tonks' residence. Ted had only met Linda once or twice, but when shown a muggle picture of Sirius and her he recognized Andromeda's cousin and recognized who she was.

Sirius had been arrested, but by magical law enforcement. He apparently blew up a section of a muggle street. Thus killing several muggles and a wizard named Peter Pettigrew. Andromeda and Ted were never told when or where the trial would be. He was given a life sentence to Azkaban.

It had been days since they learned of Sirius and Linda's fates. They had been able to contact Remus Lupin. It turned out he was Orion's godfather. Unfortunately he was also a werewolf, and as such could responsibly care for Orion. The Tonks family and Lupin came up with a deal. Lupin would appoint Ted and Andromeda as Orion's guardians, and Lupin would help in whatever ways he could.

The only difficulty came when Lucius Malfoy got involved. He had recently been exonerated of all charges against him. His attempts to get himself appointed as guardian fell on deaf ears as Dumbledore himself had taken an interest in the case.

Dumbledore informed those ruling that though Remus Lupin was in fact a werewolf, he was doing his appointed duties as godfather by placing his charge into a safe and secure home. After Dumbledore's speech Orion was placed in the care of Ted and Andromeda, but the Malfoy family was given the rights to visit him at anytime, as long as Ted and Andromeda were present, a stipulation requested by Remus.

Dumbledore and Remus accompanied the Tonks family home, when they entered the house Dumbledore asked for permission to summon two of his colleagues from Hogwarts. Ted and Andromeda consented, and shortly they were joined by Professors McGonagall and Snape.

Upon seeing each other Snape and Lupin drew their wands, Lupin placing himself between Snape and the children. "Well, I guess Ted and Andromeda couldn't afford a real guard dog so they went with the next best thing."

"Watch it Severus. I am not in the mood for childish provoking. I don't know what's going on Professor, but why have you called this Death Eater scum here?" Lupin growled as he twisted his wand at Snape.

-Flash Back-

Twelve Months Earlier: Lupin POV

Lupin followed his friends James, Sirius, and Linda as they stormed through the back yard of number four private drive. As they approached the door, James pointed at Lupin then pointed at the door. Taking his cue Lupin pointed his wand at the door and silently cast a blasting hex.

The door flew open and James and Sirius charged into the open door closely followed by Lupin then Linda. As Lupin entered, he saw Sirius had Vernon pined to the ice box. Turning he saw James kneeling next to Lily, the state she was in angered the werewolf to the point he'd nearly lost control. Linda squeezed his elbow in an attempt to calm him as she moved to assist her friend.

Sirius noticed Lupin's anger and spoke, "Remus, you want the first shot at this piece of trash?"

Remus was about to answer when they heard Lily speak, "Don't…" Remus and Sirius turned to her, "…He didn't do it."

James took Lily's hand, "Who did it?"

Lily knew they'd overreact, so decided not to answer. Linda had finished her examination and turned to James, "James…I don't know how it happened so quickly, but Lily is pregnant."

They all looked shocked, but James recovered first, "We'll use a paternity spell once the child is born…for now we should return home."

The others nodded and they all headed for the door. A purple faced Vernon Dursley stuttered as they left. Lupin glared at the obese man, "Not a word." Lupin then waved his wand as he exited repairing the door he'd blasted open.

Snape's POV

Snape was in his lab brewing potions ordered by the Dark Lord. He was just reviewing the list of potions the Death Eaters need replenished when the door to his lab was thrust open. Rabastan entered followed by his brother and sister-in-law being drug in by the Carrows.

Snape stood quickly, "What happened?"

Rabastan's expression twisted to disgust, "My brother and his worthless wife have been working for the Order. They've been sending warnings to our targets and even passing information on the Dark Lord to the ministry."

Snape frowned, "Then why are they still alive?"

Rabastan lowed his head, "The Carrows and I caught them in the act. The Dark Lord knows nothing…" Rabastan turned to the Carrows and quickly obliviated them, "…I've heard rumors you've been working on a potion that mimics the effects of the imperious curse?"

Snape nodded, "Its similar yes, but I've not had a chance to test it. In theory it will allow you to actually convince the victim that they loyal to the Dark Lord."

Rabastan frowned, "How does it make them loyal to him?"

Snape frowned as he pulled a vial from a drawer, "Because to brew this particular potion I used a sample of the Dark Lords own blood."

Rabastan nodded, "How long does it last? Could you make more?"

Snape handed the vial to Rabastan, "That is only one vial of an entire cauldrons worth. The rest is kept by the Dark Lord. The fact you've even heard of this means only one thing."

Rabastan frowned, "What?"

Snape sneered at the younger of the Lestrange brothers, "That you're a victim of this potion. Most likely the Dark Lord discovered you were an infiltrator, and in an attempt to discover your brother's true loyalties used this potion to make you a double agent."

Rabastan shook his head, "That's not possible…I've always been loyal to the Dark Lord."

Snape continued to sneer as he took the vial back and poured three drops down both Rodolphus and Bellatrix throats. He then turned to Rabastan, "To answer your question on how long this potion remains in effect. Indefinitely…depending on the strength of the victims will."

Rabastan frowned, "So someone with a strong enough will could free themselves of the potion?"

Snape nodded, "But I'm sure you'll never be free." Snape used his wand to obliviate Rabastan. He revived the Carrows, and the two siblings turned confused expression to him. He spoke quickly, "Take these three to their rooms…I've tended to their injuries I'll report to the Dark Lord."

The Carrows nodded and using their wands levitated the three Lestranges out of the lab. Snape returned to his work, but several hours later heard a loud bang as his door was once more thrown open. He turned to see Bellatrix walking into his lab dragging a prone form behind her.

Snape's eyes widened in surprise as he recognized the person being dragged, it was Lily Evans, correction Lily Potter. Snape turned to Bellatrix, "What is the meaning of this?"

Bellatrix smirked evilly, "I was approached by this filthy mudblood at the edge of the manors property line. I recognized her as that girl you always whine about."

Snape glared at Bellatrix, he quickly figured out what had happened. Lily must have been meeting with Bellatrix tonight to receive information. The potion must have kicked in before the meeting so Bellatrix had no chance to warn her contact. Snape tried to brace himself as he spoke, "What do you intend to do with her?"

Bellatrix mimed a thoughtful expression, "Well…there's always the cruciatus curse, though I guess I could just skip ahead to the killing curse, but where's the fun in that…" Bellatrix smiled evilly at him. Suddenly Bellatrix pointed her wand at him and his mind went fuzzy.

Sometime later Snape awoke on the floor of his lab. He realized what happened, and immediately cursed himself for allowing someone to put him under the imperious curse. He tried sitting up, and quickly regretted it as pain shot through his head. Reaching up he felt around the sides of his head until he found the tenderest spot. He quickly realized someone had physically hit him.

Slowly this time Snape stood and walked over to a cupboard and forced the doors open. Pulling the doors open, he looked into a bank of monitors. Being a half-blood had some advantages; he'd requested his labs be hidden places that muggle devises would work. Rewinding the recording the security feed from this lab he stopped it at the point that Bellatrix cast the curse on him, easy to find since the video became static at the moment any magic was used.

Hitting play Snape watched the recording of Bellatrix forcing him to brew a potion and then to use the potion on both him and Lily. What he'd been forced to do next sickened him, and made him sick. Fast forwarding the recording he noticed Bellatrix convulsing and suddenly doubled over. When she straightened up, she whirled on Snape and picking up a piece of wood used for the fires of the larger cauldrons she slammed it into his head.

He continued to watch as Bellatrix helped Lily stand and showed her a secret exit from the lab. The one used by Snape when he left on missions or needed to get something from one of his other labs. Snape noted that shortly after Lily fled Bellatrix began to once again convulse. Snape paused the recording, "It seems Bellatrix is fighting the potion. She could possibly free herself one day." Snape fast forwarded the tape again, and noticed that while she was convulsing Bellatrix wrote a note and hid it under a book on his worktable.

Going to the table Snape found the note and was shocked at what it said.

'I'll kill you for what you've done."

Snape swallowed hard and burned the note. Feeling his mark burning Snape left his office to meet with his master.

-End Flash Back-

Lupin and Snape stared each other down, both daring the other to make the first move.

"Accio" Dumbledore cast before either man could react, and now found themselves disarmed. "Remus my friend, I trust Snape as I do you with my life. Now is not the time to allow old prejudices to sow seeds of discord. Now if you will all take a seat I think we have much to discuss, and since the Malfoys could come here at anytime, we are pressed for time." All those in the room found a place to sit, Andromeda sent seven year old Dora to her room while Remus put Orion in a crib in the guestroom. "Now that we are gathered I believe I need to extend an offer to Mr. and Mrs. Tonks. During Voldemort's," everyone takes a breath, "rein I had formed a group to combat him and his followers. If you would like to joi…" before Dumbledore finished they both nodded acceptance.

"Thank you for accepting. Now onto other business, you see the recent string of events was because we unfortunately had a traitor in our midst. At one time I believed it to be Remus, as recent events prove that was false, and I must extend my apologies to Remus for falling into preconceived notions of werewolves…" Dumbledore noted Remus silently accepting the apology, "…I then thought it was Sirius."

"He was James and Lily's secret keeper. He had to be the traitor." Snape voiced lividly.

"That is what many would believe, but they would be wrong. You see there were two other people who could be possibilities for secret keeper." Everyone looked closely at Dumbledore, "Actually three if you counted myself. James and Lily declined my offer, instead putting their faith in their friends. The other two were Linda Malfoy and Peter Pettigrew. Now there are several clues that tell us it wasn't Linda, namely I believe she was killed by the real secret keeper in a ploy to frame Sirius."

"You mean Peter did all this?" Remus didn't hide his shock.

"Yes, nor do I think that Sirius killed him." Dumbledore watched their reactions closely, "Without hard evidence though, it will be near impossible to clear his name. I ask you all to leave that in my hands and carryout my further instructions. I am going to disband the majority of the Order of the Phoenix. The five of you along with Auror Alastor Moody will remain active. Your duties will primarily be observing for signs of active death eaters or the return of Voldemort" another round of gasps, "Secondly, I see great potential in Orion. As soon as he is able to I want him to be instructed in the basics of potions and basic wand use." Everyone present sends curious looks to the others. "This will mainly fall to Professor Snape and Moody to accomplish, but I would like to see Orion to be at the level of a second year by the time his letter arrives for first year."

The others look shocked, but Remus looks at Dumbledore, "Why not wait for him to actually start school?"

"Because Remus I fear young mister Black already has powerful enemies." Dumbledore noticing the frowns on the others gathered, "While a majority of the Wizarding World believes Sirius to be a servant of Voldemort, the true Death Eaters will know the truth. They may target Orion for many different reasons. "

"We can protect him." Ted asks.

"Unfortunately, we tried that once already with two other children. Both attempts to protect them ended with one child an orphan and the second little better than that." Dumbledore notices their confused looks and turns to Remus.

Remus bowed his head, "Frank and Alice Longbottom were tortured in their home just after You Know Who vanished."

McGonagall turns to her former student, "No! Not them to?"

"They're in St Mungo's Alice and I…we are distant cousins, I was informed buy Augusta of what happened." Remus finishes looking at the group with a serious expression.

Dumbledore took a final look at his gathered members, "On this somber note I suggest we adjourn. We will gather in a month's time at Moody's house. There we will discuss further on current events."

Everyone silently nodded. Snape and McGonagall used the floo to return to Hogwarts with Dumbledore, while Remus went to check on Orion. An hour later Narcissa Malfoy arrived with her son Draco, he was a six months younger then Orion, but the boys played while Dora watched while she colored in a book.

Narcissa sat primly in one of the rather worn looking recliners in the living room and watched the three children, "They remind me of us, Sirius and Regulus playing some game while we had tea parties."

Andromeda kept a cold expression on as she spoke, "Mother and Father merely wanted me to keep you three out of trouble, and out of underfoot. Aunty Walburga wasn't keen on small children."

Narcissa smiled pleasantly, "Well, as it was you did a wonderful job." Narcissa seemed to be reaching for a new topic of discussion as she continued, "What is it your…husband does again?"

Andromeda narrowed her gaze at her younger sister, "He is news anchor…he tells muggles the news through those television things." Andromeda waved at the seldom used television in the corner.

Narcissa's eyes widened as she nodded, she wouldn't let on to the fact she hadn't understood a single word her sister had said.

Andromeda allowed a small smirk knowing her sister was confused, "He's home of course, asked his employer for some time off to handle family business. Do you wish to meet him?"

Narcissa turned her nose up, "I do believe I met him at school…I know I should have informed mother and father about the kinds of people you were associating with."

Hearing the tea kettle she stood to move into the kitchen. As she went she grimaced as she hoped the unwanted visit would end soon.

It was close to dinner, when Andromeda was surprised once again. Instead of Narcissa taking her son and returning home for dinner, Lucius arrived with Severus Snape. Narcissa and the Malfoy house elf Dobby aided Andromeda with dinner preparations. That night purebloods Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy and their infant son ate dinner with her disowned sister, a muggleborn, a werewolf, two halfbloods, and Lucius's bloodtraitor sister's son.

January 1984

Dumbledore was making his normal visit to check on Orion's progress. So far he was not disappointed, the boy showed an unusual amount drive toward learning, especially for a four year old. Along with himself both of the Tonks' as well as Professor Snape and Madeye were present.

Currently the six adults were watching as Orion used Ted's wand to levitate a chair.

"I see he is progressing well. Where does he stand so far?" Dumbledore asked Orion's tutors.

Moody's grin spread wide enough to stretch a couple of his scars. "The kid can cast quicker than even Snape; I'm going to look for a new sparring partner for him next week if you don't mind?"

Dumbledore nodded and thought for a second, "Yes, I think it is time for us to get some new blood in our ranks. Bring them to meet with me first before telling them about Orion." Noticing Snape's sneer from the corner of his eye, "How is he coming with potions?"

"Black's spawn shows quite an interest in the subject." Snape spat the words out, "He has already burned through all the course work for first and second year students. I was planning to hold him at this level and let him perfect his acquired skills."

Dumbledore chuckled, deciding to ignore Snape's obvious dislike for the boy. "Yes, that would be fine; we do need to leave you something to teach him when he actually attends school." Dumbledore turns to Ted and Andromeda, "well I do believe you have a birthday party to prepare for tomorrow. We will take our leave, but before I go I thought I'd ask if you would want me to arrange for some of Orion's future classmates to attend."

"Of course Professor, the only child Orion's age that was going to be here was Draco, but the two of them don't really get along. I'd be worried that Orion was becoming a bully, but he and Dora are near inseparable." Andromeda smiled toward where Dora was giving her cousin a piggyback ride toward the patio.

Ted also watching the two children, "It's going to be hard on them when Dora goes to school this September. It will be good for Orion to have some friends his own age."

Dumbledore nodded, and informed them that he would contact those he thought of after he returned to Hogwarts. He and Snape left through the fireplace while Moody apparated from the yard.

Once again, almost like she sensed they had left, Narcissa appeared on the front doorstep. Over the last three years she and Draco had come for almost weekly visits. Occasionally Lucius had also come, but he mainly stood in doorways glaring at everyone.

"Good day Andy, how are you and the children?" Narcissa asked.

"We are all doing fine, may ask is the reason for this sudden visit?" Andromeda noted how Ted had not been included in the inquiry. "As you know Orion's birthday is tomorrow, and Ted and I have to set up the backyard, I have asked Professor Dumbledore to contact several children in Orion's age group to attend."

"That is why I've come. I thought you could use a hand, and Draco wanted to see his cousins." Draco's eyes rolled behind his mother, "Now where is Dora hiding, I was down to the ally last week and saw something that will be very good for September?"

Ted walked into the room carrying a box of party supplies, "She just took Orion upstairs, they spent most the morning on their practice brooms. He was tired so they went up to rest."

"Of course, Draco how about you go up and join them. I can give this to Dora later." She pulled a shrunken sweatshirt from her purse and enlarged it to its normal size. Andromeda's jaw snapped open as she noticed the Black family crest had been sewn into shirt. "I figured that with the crest she would have no trouble finding the right kinds of friends."

Draco slowly climbed the steps, looking like he was walking to his own execution. He just had to remember not to use certain words around him. Not to mention no matter what Orion did to Draco, mother and father didn't care, he was to get close to his cousin no matter what.

Ted thanked Narcissa for the gift, remembering that Dumbledore had asked them to keep the Malfoys close. Andromeda and Narcissa began work on the decorations while Ted carried chairs out of a nearby shed. Using warming charms and impenetrable charms the yard was devoid of snow and dry. Years ago Ted had allowed the hedges to grow and used magic to thicken them so nosey neighbors couldn't see their backyard. Now with the added charms, it was like a greenhouse for the children to play in.

As they finished there was a knock at the door. Remus, looking quite disheveled, stepped in. "Sorry I wasn't by earlier, but tonight is the Full Moon. I just stopped to leave Orion's present, and pass a message from Arthur Weasley. He said it will take a couple days but he's pulled some favors, you can take Orion to visit his father probably in late summer."

Narcissa looked shocked, "Andy, are you seriously taking him there?"

Andromeda nodded, "Amelia Bones assures me it's perfectly safe, besides I know the patronus charm."

Narcissa threw her nose up, "Well, then you shouldn't go there alone, I'll have a word with Lucius."

Unnoticed by Narcissa, Ted and Lupin shared a look. Apparently Remus had another stop to make before the moon came up. He left the package he brought on the table, then turned and left, telling them to inform Orion he'd see him next week after he recovered.

They continued decorating until another knock summoned them to the living room. This time it was Lucius and Dumbledore. "I am sorry for the intrusion Mr. and Mrs. Tonks, but I thought I would hand deliver the list of guests for tomorrows festivities. I believed you instructed me the party was to begin at four in the afternoon correct?"

They thanked Dumbledore, who then turned and left. Lucius entered behind Ted, and quickly moved over to his wife. "Who else may I ask will be attending tomorrow?" His question directed only to Andromeda.

"It appears Augusta Longbottom will be bringing her grandson Neville. Arthur and Molly Weasley will be bringing all but their eldest who is already at Hogwarts, which will give Dora some people to meet as well. It also seems that Mrs. Finnigan is bringing her son Seamus, but her husband is a muggle, and doesn't know about magic so he won't be with her." Andromeda ticked off the names counting the total number of guests, "That is eight more children and four extra adults."

Lucius hiding his disgust for the blood traitors and half-bloods that would be attending spoke, "Well Narcissa and Draco will also be attending of course, but I'm afraid I won't be able to make it. I have several meetings around four that can't be postponed."

Narcissa smiled at her husband, "Don't forget, Severus said he would come as well. Something about keeping an eye on his godson and making sure he doesn't injure himself again."

Ted nodded, "That's good, and Professor Dumbledore also said he would be stopping by." Ted had to swallow hard; he couldn't stand having the two elitist purebloods and their son near his family let alone in his house.

Narcissa then called for Draco to come down, as they prepared to leave. The three children came down the steps quickly, and to the surprise of the adults, all three had smiles. Draco would later tell his parents that he and his cousins had worked out their problems. Dora and Orion would tell Ted and Andromeda that they basically ignored Draco's boasting.

Dora tried on the sweater given to her by her aunt, It fit, and she thanked her aunt for the sweater and silently for not cursing it.

That night long after the children went to sleep a shadow passed Orion's window. A quiet knock on the door alerted Andromeda, who answered. A man stepped in wearing a heavy dark cloak, from the cloak he produced a small package and handed it to her.

"Why don't you stay, and actually give it to him yourself, instead of all this sneaking around?" Andromeda looked sternly at the cloaked figure. He did not answer; only cast his head down shaking it. He then turned and left, moments later a loud pop could be heard from down the street.

The next morning Andromeda and Dora were awake before Ted and Orion. When Ted came down he told them he could hear Orion starting to stir. Andromeda took her daughter to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. Ted sat down to start reading the paper.

When Orion finally came down he was quickly rushed into the kitchen for breakfast. Also on the table were several presents from his family. Dora's present, that he opened first, was a copy of The 'Tales of Beedle the Bard'. "Now you have your own, and we don't have to fight over mine."

"Thanks Nymph," his nickname for her, that he probably being the only one who could get away with it, "I guess I'll be able to work on my reading skills more often now." Next he tore into a large box from Ted and Andromeda.

Inside were three old books on various magical creatures, but what got his attention was a black scrap book with gold trim. Inside were dozens of pictures of his mother and father. For the first time in a long time tears started to prick his eyes. Jumping from his chair he leaped into Andromeda's lap, hugging her as he cried, "Thank you Aunt Andy!"

She looked up at Ted, who knew the thanks to him were implied. A slight smile crossed her lips as she bent down and whispered into Orion's ear. "You still have a couple gifts to open before your guests arrive." Sitting up Orion wiped his face with his sleeve then reached for the gift from his godfather.

Upon pulling away the wrappings he couldn't believe his eyes. "There is no way. Uncle Remus can't afford this."

Ted smiled as he answered, "Well I do believe that Remus would spend every last Knut he had, if it meant you would be happy. His condition doesn't allow him to do as much for you he'd like, you know that."

It wasn't a question but Orion nodded. The gift was set of practice Quidditch equipment. Orion opened the box and saw the two beater bats and bludgers were labeled as having cushioning charms on them, while the snitch was much larger than the regulation snitch and didn't go either as fast or as high as the those. The only ball that was of regulation size was the quaffle which Orion picked up and tossed into the air a couple times.

Ted chuckled at how quickly Orion had focused in on Quidditch, "Alright, you'll have time to play with that later."

Orion set the quaffle on the table and reached for his last parcel. He looked at the tag, 'From my uncle'. He looked at his 'Aunt' and 'Uncle' "Who is this from; I didn't think I had any other Uncles besides Ted and Lucius?"

Ted slowly shook his head, "We made a promise a long time ago, not to reveal his identity to you. Maybe when you're older he'll deem it safe enough to reveal himself. This is actually the first time that he signed his gift; in the past he has had us sign it."

Orion looked shocked at his guardians, and then pulled the thin cloth used as wrapping away. Two mirrors set in silver frames reflected back at him. Wedged between them was a note from the sender.

Dear Orion,

Hope you have a good birthday. I hear you'll meet some new kids this year. Hope they are better people then your Uncle Lucius would invite. These are two way mirrors. Give the other to a friend or your cousin. Then say their name, when they answer they will appear in your mirror while you appear in theirs. Andromeda knows how to make more and how to connect them to these. It is a form of communication that can't be blocked or observed by anyone outside. Also only the one you give the mirror to can use it.

Sincerely,

Uncle

As Orion took his gifts upstairs, and Dora went to hide the mirror he gave her, Ted and Andromeda went to put the finishing touches on the backyard.

Far to the north in Scotland, a cloaked figure approached the gates of Hogwarts.

He stood waiting for several minutes before Professors Snape and Flitwick arrived. Snape sneered at the man, while Flitwick opened the gate. "Well why don't you remove that hood so we can see who you are?"

The man shook his head, and spoke in a distorted voice, "My hood comes down only in the presence of Albus Dumbledore and him alone. You my slimy friend should slither back to your dungeons. I happily admit that I am no match for a wizard of Professor Flitwick's caliber, but you on the other hand stand no match against me."

Flitwick shook with irritation at the two young men. "Back down Severus, I know this young man's identity, and I did not need your assistance. So please return to your classes they most likely need some proper supervision."

Snape turned and stalked off. Flitwick motioned for the man to follow him. As they walked the man spoke to the charms master, "Professor, why is that snake here? After what he did to Lily Potter, I figured he would be sent to Azkaban, I doubt that Remus would so easily let him off."

Flitwick nodded grimly, all traces of his usually happy demeanor vanished. "I wish I could tell you, but even I'm not sure. You know his actions resulted in the conception of a child correct?" The cloaked man nodded, "The child was at the Potter's house the night of the attack, Hagrid bought her here, after dropping Harry off at whatever safe house Dumbledore had devised. She is thirteen months younger then Harry, and will start here the year after him."

The man turned to look at Flitwick as they walked, "I assume the Headmaster found a safe place for her till such a time as she is reunited with her brother."

Flitwick turned to him with his grim face, "If having her live with her biological father considered safe."

Though Flitwick could not see the man's face clearly he could feel the anger flowing from him. "I believe I might be sticking around for a little bit longer than previously thought."

A smile returned to Flitwick's face as he turned back to the castle. "Well I'm sure Dumbledore would appreciate your presence here for awhile I'm sure he could get you a room down at the Hog's Head."

The two continued their way to Dumbledore's office where Flitwick excused himself, and returned to his classroom. The cloaked man walked up the staircase to the office door, and entered when Dumbledore called him without so much as a knock, 'I hate it when he does that!'

"Ah, my friend, it is good to see you once again. I hope your endeavors have been fruitful." Dumbledore cheerily asked after offering the man a lemon drop.

Declining politely the man shook his head, "There is no sign of Pettigrew anywhere. If he wasn't really killed, then he is doing a good job at hiding himself. I even tried to get in to talk with Sirius to see what he knew about Pettigrew, but seeing as I'm supposedly dead it makes things difficult."

Dumbledore looked at his visitor, "I would say so." The man nodded his head, "So what did you get Orion for his birthday this year?"

The man showed no surprise, "As if you didn't already know. I gave him some two way mirrors, I've kept one so I can keep tabs on him from now on." Dumbledore rose one of his eyebrows. "He is my family after all; I will not allow the Malfoys to harm him in any way. Besides, we both know I have several sins to repent for."

From the pocket of his cloak voices could be heard. "Come on Nymph, the other kids are starting to show up!" Orion's voice echoed from the mirror.

"I'll be down in a minute, and remember not to call me that around them got it." Orion must have nodded his response as there was no other sound.

"Well if you'll excuse me I must be off, I am expected to make an appearance at the Tonks house today. I also thought I would hand deliver Nymphdora's letter, it is early, but there is no denying she belongs here. I also wouldn't want her to feel left out, and Orion made me promise to bring it today." Dumbledore chuckled lightly. "Before I go, I believe you have some reservations about Severus having custody of his daughter." The man nodded, "Then I'm removing you from the search for Pettigrew, instead you job now is to watch over and protect young Sarah Potter." The man nodded his acceptance, and then turning into a hawk flew out the window.

Dumbledore turned to his fireplace and flooed over to the Tonks house with an acceptance letter for one child, and a present for the other.

Dumbledore arrived shortly after the last of the children did. He looked around the yard at all the laughing and running children, and the adults who already seemed haggard.

Near the table with the food Bill and Charlie Weasley sat to the left of Dora, while their younger brother Percy sat to her right with his nose stuck in a book. The elder three were talking lively, most likely about Hogwarts.

He had sent Bill home to the Burrow this morning and excused him from his classes. Since he was a good 2nd year that was well on his way to becoming a prefect in a few years, Dumbledore knew he could aid the adults in watching the younger children. His parents were no doubt greatly surprised to have their eldest son arrive that morning. When they thought he would be in class. He would take Bill back to the school when he returned after the party.

Across the yard Orion, Ron, Seamus, and Neville were all on practice brooms playing Quidditch. Ron and Neville taking up positions as keepers, while Orion and Seamus squared off as chasers. Draco sat nearby absentmindedly tossing the practice snitch between his hands as he watched the other four boys. Ginny Weasley sat off to the side, watching, sitting next to her Dumbledore was surprised to see Sarah Snape, the two girls looked as though they could be sisters with their red hair, but Sarah's green eyes gave away her mother's identity to those who looked close enough. The two three year olds seemed to cheer for whoever scored, and whenever one of the keepers made a save.

The brooms could go no higher than just barely lifting the kids' feet off the ground, and were much slower than actual brooms. Dumbledore chuckled as he walked over to the adults, "Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. I seem to be missing two members of the Weasley brood, am I not?"

Arthur chuckled, "Yes headmaster, Fred and George are planning a prank on their older brothers. I do believe that Ted and Andromeda's daughter is either an accomplice or may find herself to be collateral damage." He was looking at the group of older kids. Dumbledore now spotted the twins, who at that moment began throwing water balloons at their brothers.

At that moment everyone there found out one thing. Don't throw water balloons at Nymphadora Tonks.

With her hair turning bright red she stood up and began running after the two younger boys. Orion dismounted his broom near Draco, "Should we help her?"

Draco winced as he saw Dora catch one of the twins, "Mom says she has the Black Family temper…maybe we should sit this one out."

Orion nodded as he watched her catch the second twin and dragged them both toward the adults.

While that was happening Dumbledore turned to Andromeda, "Where might your sister and Professor Snape be?"

Andromeda smiled, "They are inside. Narcissa insisted on having her house-elf take care of dinner, and is supervising. Professor Snape felt his time was better off grading papers, I believe he's in Ted's study."

"Ah, ever the over worker, I'm surprised to see Sarah here, I wasn't aware she left the castle much." Dumbledore nodded to the girl sitting next to Ginny.

Molly smiled, "Professor, she comes out to the Burrow quite regularly."

Andromeda smirked, "That explains why Narcissa looked like she'd never seen the girl before."

Mrs. Finnigan looked confused, "Is there a reason she'd not. I never knew Severus even had a relationship with a woman let alone had a child."

Molly nodded, "I'm not sure of all the particulars, but Severus came to the Burrow not long after You-Know-Who vanished. He said Minerva gave him my name, said he needed help. I'm guessing the girl's mother was a muggle because he seemed nervous about revealing her identity. Of course I know Severus was from Slytherin House, but he shouldn't be ashamed of loving a muggle."

Dumbledore smiled at the Weasley matriarch's comment, "If only we could all be so inclined as to not prejudice."

Mrs. Longbottom looked sternly at Dumbledore, "I agree Headmaster, but I'm not sure I agree with everything you've done of late. I have heard rumors you've been looking into certain things…things related to one Sirius Black. These rumors state you believe the man innocent, both of the murder of his girlfriend and of his friend Peter Pettigrew along with all those muggles, as well as the betrayal of James and Lily Potter."

Dumbledore smiled and nodded, "Augusta my dear, I must know where you get your information. Your sources seem to rival my own. I have in fact been actively trying to prove Sirius's innocence since the night in question."

Mrs. Finnigan frowned in disapproval, "Why waste your time. Everyone knows he did it, he was caught at the scene where Pettigrew and those muggles were killed."

Dumbledore sighed, "I would not judge so harshly my dear. You see you've only heard one side of the story. Sirius was never even given a trial, a chance to tell his side. He was sent straight to Azkaban without his case even passing the courts eyes. The Ministers since have not remedied this blatant disregard for a man's rights."

The adults carried on this conversation only pausing so that Molly could discipline her sons and Andromeda could dry her daughter's clothes.

Bill laughed as he watched his younger brothers and Dora return, "Fred, are you and George going to do that again?"

Fred pointed to his twin, "Hey, he's Fred."

Bill looked sternly at the twins, "That might work on mom and dad, but it doesn't with me."

Dora frowned, "How do you tell them apart?"

Bill chuckled, "Easy, just bring up the fact Ron's teddy bear once turned into a spider."

George smirked at his brother, "That was a good one Fred."

Fred nodded, "It was some of my best work…though our dear mother has done a better job of watching where she leaves her wand."

Dora frowned, "You did a transfiguration? You're only what…seven?"

Charlie chuckled, "Those two are sneaky. They found an old spell book from when mom and dad when to school. They figured out one of the transfiguration spells."

Percy scoffed, "They shouldn't so blatantly disregard the law. There's a reason underage wizards and witches aren't supposed to do magic."

George frowned, "Oh why…"

Fred continued, "…is that…"

George and Fred together, "…Oh so perfect Percy?"

Percy fumed and turned back to his book.

Bill sighed, "Fred, George, you know Percy is right. You got to listen to some things, and dad could get in trouble if you guys get caught causing trouble."

Fred smiled, "Don't worry Bill…"

George nodded, "…we wouldn't do anything that bad."

Charlie snickered, "You're not going to win Bill."

Shaking his head Bill counted all the kids present, "Hmm…hey Percy, you up for some Quidditch?"

Percy glared at his eldest brother like he'd grown a second head.

Bill nodded, "Right…you'll keep score." Bill motioned for the younger kids to gather up, "Okay we're going to play some five on five Quidditch."

Draco frowned, "Five on five? How do you play it like that?"

Bill smirked at the Malfoy, "Easy. You eliminate certain positions. Seeing as we're using training brooms we won't be able to go fast enough to use even the training bludgers Orion got for his birthday."

Semus looked around, "So what are the teams?"

Bill pointed to himself and Charlie, "Charlie and I will be the captains; we'll also be the keepers."

Charlie frowned, "Hey? You know I play Seeker."

Bill glanced at the other kids, "Charlie that would be very unfair."

Charlie nodded, "Yeah your right."

Bill then pointed at his other brothers, "Ron you're with me. George and Fred will be on Charlie's team. You'll all be chasers." Bill moved on to Seamus and Neville, "You two will be on my team as the other chasers." He turned then to Dora, "Nymphadora will be Charlie's third chaser."

Orion spoke up, "What about me and Draco?"

Bill nodded, "Orion you'll be my team's seeker. Draco will be the seeker for Charlie's team."

Charlie frowned, "Why do I have the Malfoy?"

Draco glared, "Believe me the feeling is mutual."

Bill shook his head, "Alright everyone mount up."

Percy put his book down walked over to the box where the practice balls were lying. Once everyone was ready he flipped the latch on the snitch which had returned after Draco had stopped tossing it. It buzzed around everyone's head then darted off. Percy picked up the quaffle, "Alright, this is a friendly game so let's keep it clean."

Bill sighed, "Just toss the quaffle already. Those practice snitches only have thirty minute timers before they return to the box."

They played several rounds with the younger kids rotating positions. As it started to get dark they were called in to eat dinner and have cake. Orion's new friends gave him common wizarding world toys. As the sun set the parents gathered their kids and left for the night. Bill said goodbye to his parents and siblings then left with Professor Dumbledore. After everyone was gone Orion and Dora retired to their rooms, but still talked to one another through their mirrors.

Miles away, the cloaked man listened to their conversation. Smiling he slipped the mirror back into his pocket and then turned back into a hawk. Flying toward the castle he lands on a lower window and watches as Severus Snape loving tucks his daughter into bed. He remains there unnoticed for the rest of the night, and every night for the next seven years.

September 1st 1984

Kings Cross was packed with travelers and students on their way to school. Luckily the Tonks family and Orion had no trouble getting to platform 9 and ¾. Dora also had no trouble finding a compartment, as Bill decided to be a nice big brother and allowed Charlie and Nymphadora to sit with him and some of his friends.

After departing the station Ted left for work while Andromeda and Orion left to meet Narcissa. For the first time in his memory Orion saw Narcissa without either Lucius or Draco. He could really care less if his cousin was there. Today was an important day.

After talking for a few minutes, the group apperated from a nearby ally, they arrived at a small dock along the Northern Sea Coast. They quickly got into a small boat, and were ferried to the prison of Azkaban.

Two ministry hit wizards were accompanying them, and had their patronus keeping a slight barrier between the visitors and the dementors. Once they arrived the dementor glided off to another part of the prison, while the hit wizards took up posts at either ends of the hall.

To Orion's right a female prisoner stared at him and his companions. "So Orion has finally come to see his daddy, and look who came with him, my traitorous sister."

"What? No insults for Cissy, just me and Orion. I'm touched." Andromeda shook her head turning to Orion, "Just ignore her Orion. She wasn't sane when they put her in here; I really doubt the last three years have done her any good." Andromeda placed her hands on his shoulders and turned him to the cell on their left, "Sirius, wake-up! I know you can't be sleeping if that banshee is up. She wouldn't let you."

"You would be surprised at what is possible after three years." Sirius rolled over then pushed himself off the floor. "It's good to see you Andromeda, I heard I had some visitors coming, how's Orion?"

"Look down and see for yourself." Andromeda chuckled.

"It can't be. The last time I saw you, you didn't even reach my knee." Sirius dropped to his knees to look at his son. "Why did you bring him, it's dangerous for children to come here."

Andromeda waved him off, "Only a fool would not learn the patronus charm."

Sirius smiled, "I see…" He glanced at Narcissa then turned back to Andromeda, "…Phoenix fire is warm is it not?"

Andromeda whispered, "Not as warm as Phoenix song."

Sirius chuckled, "It is isn't it." Sirius turned to his son, "Let me give you a good piece of advice." Orion listened closely, "Watch out for rats."

Andromeda wondered what the meaning was behind the advice but decided to bring it to Dumbledore's attention.

They spent another hour at the prison talking with Sirius. Narcissa didn't pay much attention to the conversations, merely scoffed at the grime that clung to everything. She didn't even look at Bellatrix, who spent about 15 minutes glaring at her. Eventually one of the guards walked up and told them their time was up.

Andromeda and Orion said their goodbyes to Sirius, Narcissa merely nodded to each of her imprisoned relatives. As they left Orion turned back to Bellatrix's cell, "Good day to you cousin." The three visitors left a shocked Bellatrix, was still sputtering some kind of comment.

Finally after they had been gone for over two hours she turned to Sirius, "That was unexpected."

Sirius letting out a light chuckle, "What do you expect? He is a member of the Black family." The two prisoners' slipped into silence as they listen to their fellow prisoners slowly go insane.

September 2 1984

Orion as usual was the last person in the house to wake up. He entered the kitchen to find Ted and Andromeda talking to Remus. "Well, you've finally decided to join the land of the living." Ted chuckled at his charge.

Orion ignored his uncle, and took a seat next to his godfather. "Has Nymph sent a letter yet?" he asked the adults.

Andromeda passed him a folded piece of parchment. "Yes, it arrived just a little while ago. We were waiting for you to get up so we could all read it together."

Orion grabbed the parchment and opened it. He glanced at it for a second then passed it to Remus, "Could you read it? I've never been able to make out her writing."

The adults chuckled then Remus began to read.

Dear Family and Remus (I know you're probably reading this for Orion)

The train ride was great. Bill Weasley and his friends let Charlie and me sit with them. We had to go to the castle on some boats. I was sorted into Hufflepuff. Charlie was sorted into Gryffindor. He and his brother said we could still hang out since I didn't get put in Slytherin.

Also Professor Sprout said I'm having private lessons with Gryffindor Head of House Professor McGonagall. McGonagall said it is Order business and I'm only to tell the four of you. That's why this paragraph would only appear if Orion has touched the parchment. It will vanish after five minutes. Professor McGonagall taught me this, pretty cool huh.

Till later,

Tonks

Remus finished reading then folded the parchment back up. He turned to Andromeda and handed it back to her. "Make sure either you or Ted is the ones to show this to any interested Malfoys. Just to be on the safe side with the enchantment on that paragraph."

She placed the parchment in a safe place, and then went about getting breakfast ready. After the meal Remus took Orion into the back yard to work on his wand use. Ted soon left for work, and the moment Remus and Orion came in for lunch Narcissa came over with Draco.

Upon seeing the werewolf Narcissa smiled as she tried to appear friendly while at the same time being annoyed that the Half-breed was in her presence.

After lunch Remus excused himself and left. As he walked down the street to a safe appration point he came face to face with Lucius Malfoy. "I take it you are on your way to visit your nephew?"

"Not like it matters to you Lupin." Malfoy sneered at the werewolf.

"Actually as his godfather it does. Besides, four years ago you would have given anything to kill him and his father." Remus stepped closer to Malfoy, "Take this as a warning. If you ever so much as lay a hand on Orion or anyone else in that house, it will be the first time In my life I actually will position myself to attack someone on the full moon. You understand me?"

Malfoy gulped as he looked into Lupin's eyes. They had faced each other too many times during the Dark Lords reign. They both knew what each other was, and was willing and not willing to do. "I will take your warning to heart Lupin. I just hope you are able to do everything in your power to protect him when the time comes."

The two men stared at each other for a minute then went their separate ways. Both had much to think on the others words.

October 1 1987

Seven year old Orion sat on a couch with Andromeda and Ted Tonks. Across from them sat Professor Dumbledore. He had arrived earlier in the morning to speak privately with Andromeda and Ted. Now they were including Orion in their discussion.

"Now, Orion I know you've heard the story of Harry Potter, the boy who lived." Orion nodded at Dumbledore's statement. "Good, you see, after the deaths of his parents I was forced to place him in the home of his muggle relatives. Had your father been free, he would have been able to periodically check on him as Remus does with you."

"You mean my father is his godfather?" Orion had never heard of this before.

"Yes, he is indeed. Your father and Harry's were best friends, and could almost be considered brothers. Unfortunately with your father imprisoned, we have had very little luck keeping tabs on his well being. I have a squib, who has been watching him, but she only gets small glimpses at his home life, and what she has reported does not please me." Dumbledore looked sternly at Orion, "That is why I am sending you to spy on him for a day, maybe longer if needed. You will be enrolled within his class at a muggle elementary school. You will watch him at his school, and on his way to and from his house, do not reveal that you are a wizard. I have a feeling he knows little to nothing of our world or his place in it."

"What should I say about myself if asked?" Orion asked the Headmaster.

"We will state that you have recently been sent to live with a relative in the area." Dumbledore stood and walked over to the fireplace, "Myself and Professor McGonagall will meet you hear tonight, we will floo to Mrs. Figg's home, and put our final preparations in order."

With their silent nods Dumbledore left, Ted followed soon after to go to work. Andromeda talked with Orion for some time, and then took him into her potions lab to help him gather the appropriate ones for a mission of this nature, and to quiz him on what he knew of the muggle world.

October 2 1987

Orion sat in Ms. Figg's living room in the muggle clothes worn to that particular elementary school. Minerva McGonagall was going to act as his grandmother since Ms. Figg was a known person to Harry.

Professor McGonagall smiled at Orion, "Alright, do you remember the story we devised?"

Orion nodded, "Since it's close to the truth it's not hard to remember. My mother passed away when I was a year old, and my father is unable to raise me so I live with my grandparents."

Madeye entered the room with a patch covering his magical eye, "Why was I wrangled into this?"

McGonagall grimaced, "Because of the single men in the Order you're the only one that wouldn't make it seem I was robbing the cradle."

Orion snickered.

Madeye glared at him, "Quit that. Remember this is a mission."

Orion nodded, "Yes sir." Orion turned to McGonagall, "Professor, why couldn't my Aunt and Uncle just handle this?"

McGonagall looked stern, "Because Professor Dumbledore doesn't want to draw attention to this area. Ted Tonks is well known among muggles, and if he's spotted in this area other muggle-borns may hear he's been here. That could get back to any Death Eaters that avoided Azkaban. Andromeda is also handling another part of this mission. She is ensuring your other relatives don't get curious about your absence."

Orion nodded, "Okay…so I'm just to observe Harry in his school?"

Madeye nodded, "If you can, try and get invited to his house."

With everything in place they departed for the muggle school. Orion was registered and with some manipulation by the adult wizard and witch assigned to the same class as Harry.

McGonagall and Madeye disillusioned themselves and waited in the schoolyard.

Orion entered the classroom and looked around the room. Sitting in the back was a scrawny boy with black hair and glasses. Orion was motioned to the front of the classroom buy the teacher. She smiled at him, "I heard we had a new student coming." She turned to the class as a whole, "Well class, this is our new student, Orion." He glared at several large boys who snickered at his name. The teacher looked to him as she continued to talk, "You can take that empty seat next to Harry."

The teacher asked Harry to raise his hand to indicate where the seat was. Orion sat down his attention fixed on the snickering boys.

He was slightly surprised by a low voice, "Don't worry about them, they're idiots."

Orion turned to Harry, "I know the type."

Harry frowned, "Not to be rude, but who names their kid Orion?"

Orion smirked, "It's a family thing…apparently I was named after my grandfather."

Harry nodded, "Well, I'm Harry…I might be named after someone."

Orion frowned, "Your family doesn't talk about it?"

Harry shrugged, "My Aunt and Uncle prefer to pretend I don't exist."

Orion's frown deepened, but Harry didn't notice.

As the lunch bell rang Orion made his way unnoticed to the back of the schoolyard. He sat against a tree and seeing the blurred outlines of the Professor and Auror spoke, "It's worse than Professor Dumbledore thought."

McGonagall sighed, "I knew leaving him here was a mistake."

Orion frowned, "What you want me to do?"

McGonagall continued, "You'll follow Harry home. I'll follow while disillusioned."

Madeye growled out, "I'll head back to base and report to Dumbledore. If it gets bad, interfere and escort the two boys' home. We'll be watching and have a plan in place, I'll meet up with you with the details when you come into down the street."

Orion noticed Harry having trouble with the large boys from the classroom, "How exactly am I suppose to intervene, when I'm not allowed to use magic. I'm might be a healthy size for my age, but those guys are big."

"It would be for the best if you acted normal. I know we taught you how to act like a muggle, just make it look like you were trying to help someone in trouble. Just no fighting, remember you might use accidental magic." Madeye whispered to Orion.

The rest of the day at the school went about the same, as the boys left the school Orion and a disillusioned McGonagall followed them, Madeye apparated back to Mrs. Figg's house.

They had only gone a couple blocks when they saw Dudley's friends fall into step behind the two boys. They stayed behind the corner and watched as the other boys caught up with Harry and his cousin. When Harry was surrounded Dudley pushed him into the side of a nearby fence. As he raised his fist Orion walked into view, "Hey, what's going on?"

His sudden appearance, startled most off Dudley's friends, who all ran down the street. Dudley stood stupidly with his fist raised as he stared at Orion.

Dudley stuttered, "Get out of here…this don't concern you."

Harry looked closely at the Orion, "Where'd you come from?"

Orion pointed back toward the corner, "I was just about a block behind you guys since we left school."

Dudley glared, "We're the only ones who go this way."

Orion glared back, "Well, my grandparent just moved to the area, so I guess you'll be having some company from now on."

Dudley fumed, "Where do you live then?"

Orion huffed, "Magnolia Cresent."

Dudley seemed to go deep in thought, "Oh…that's just a street over from where we live."

Orion smirked, "Well, if that's the case mind if I walk with you?"

"No…it's quicker to cross the lot just down the street to get where you're going. We have a little further to walk." Harry supplied.

Unnoticed by Harry and Dudley a tabby with peculiar rectangle markings around the eyes had approached on slipped to the other side of the fence. Orion spotted the wand tip poke through the fence pointing at Dudley. He had obviously been confounded, "Actually Harry, it would be nice to have him explain to mom and dad why we are late getting home."

Harry was slightly confused by Dudley's answer, but didn't want to agitate him. "Okay, but we better hurry; Uncle Vernon could be home at any time."

As the group turned down private drive, Orion paused to tie his shoe. He felt an envelope being slid into his pocket and Madeye's voice at a low whisper "Escort them to the door, but don't give any names. Just hand this letter to Harry's aunt."

Orion did as he was instructed, and followed Harry and Dudley to the door. When Petunia answered Orion handed her the letter. Without a word he turned and walked away. Petunia watched as the boy walked down the street, and turned the corner.

When Petunia looked down at the letter she felt her heart stop, and her blood go cold. It was parchment, and the ink was green, she also recognized the handwriting. On the envelope written quite clearly stated. Only to be opened in the presence of Vernon and Petunia Dursley, and no one else.

She only had to wait a few minutes for Vernon to arrive home. After he came in she sent Harry and Dudley outside. She turned to him, and handed him the letter. He opened it and began to read it out loud.

Dear Vernon and Petunia Dursley,

I'm quite upset upon hearing of the treatment of your nephew. My agents tell me that he is bullied by his cousin. I've also received reports about the way you treat him in your home. Expect a visit very soon, and note that Harry will remain living with you, but I will be keeping a much closer eye on him from now on. I shall arrive when next both Dudley and Harry are away from the house, and you both are present.

There was no sender's signature. Vernon looked at Petunia, then back at the letter. "We should get this over with, call Mrs. Figg and see if she can watch them for a couple hours."

Petunia nodded and picked up the phone to call. She sent the boys over shortly, and the two elder Dursleys waited for their unwanted visitor.

Meanwhile at Mrs. Figg's several things were going on. First, McGonagall had returned to Hogwarts. Orion was confused when Dumbledore informed him, that he was required for another mission.

"Mrs. Figg has just informed me that Harry and his cousin are on their way here now. Madeye has already left, as he was needed back at the ministry. I will be going to have a chat with Harry's aunt and uncle. I need you to stay here and get to know them, but I will need to ask you to take this Polly Juice Potion. It would not be good for Harry to recognize you from earlier." Dumbledore's explanation completed Orion nodded and drank the potion.

A few painful minutes later Orion emerged from the bathroom looking like he could be Mrs. Figg's grandson. "You know that potion tastes horrible."

Mrs. Figg chuckled ask Orion finished grimacing; "Well it could have been worse. Alastor has told me about what happens when animal hair gets added by mistake." Orion's eyes widened at the presence of all the old woman's cats.

Dumbledore chuckled at his expression then noticed the two boys walking down the street. "I see your guests are on their way. I should be off. Orion, remember to use an alias, and don't mention anything about magic." Orion nodded as Dumbledore apparated away.

Back at number 4 the Dursleys didn't have to wait long. With a rather loud crack Dumbledore appeared in front of them. "I believe we need to have a discussion about the way you treat your nephew."

Vernon angered by Dumbledore's sudden appearance, and his believe that he had a say in the way they raised their nephew began to rant, "You're the one who dropped him off at our doorstep, with little more than a letter. Why couldn't one of your lot take him, better yet why don't you take him right now. He's just down the street at a neighbor's hou…"

With a wave of his wand Dumbledore silenced Vernon Dursley, "I know exactly where your nephew is. I don't really care how you feel about magic, but as this is the only place where he is safe, this is where he must remain." He turned to Petunia, "I can't believe you hated your sister so much that you would treat her son in such a way."

"Why couldn't one of their friends from that school of yours take him? Couldn't that Snape boy she used to hang out with take him? He being here is a constant reminder of what I lost, and in a few more years you're just going to take him from me as well." Petunia was nearly sobbing as she finished, Vernon held her as he silently glared at the Headmaster.

Dumbledore looked away for a minute then turned back to the Dursleys, "Firstly I've already explained to you the reasons you were the only ones that could take Harry in. Secondly Professor Snape is not in the position to care for your nephew, nor do I think he'd be able to. Finally you are misguided in believing that the magical world stole your sister from you. You pushed her away with your jealousy, I couldn't tell you the number of times Lily came to me or her head of house worrying about how you reacted toward her. We tried to calm her, but eventually she chose the path to cutting away her muggle heritage, and submerged herself completely in our world." Dumbledore turned his back on the Dursleys, "I'll leave you with these final words. Do you want history to repeat itself, do you want to lose Harry the way you lost Lily."

With those final words he disapparated. After his departed Vernon's voice returned. He looked at his wife as she sobbed into her hands. "Don't listen to that freak. What we're doing will keep Harry normal, after his freakishness is gone we can treat him just as good as Dudley."

Petunia shook her head, "You've heard about all the strange things that happen around him. There is no way to suppress this." Petunia looked at her husband for a minute, "I don't care what you say, from now on I will treat both of them the same."

Vernon looked at his wife, but did not comment. He merely nodded, knowing that what had been said this night was true. Lowering his head he whispered to his wife, "There is something you should know about your sister. She had another child."

Petunia looked shocked at her husband, "What do you mean!"

Vernon held his composure; knowing hiding this for so long would most likely mean he'd be sleeping on the couch till the boys went to their boarding schools. "A few months after Dudley and Harry were born she came here. You were at Marge's with Dudley. She was completely disheveled, her clothes were torn and she was crying horribly. I wasn't sure what happened, but she asked if she could stay here till that husband of hers could get here with some friends of theirs."

Petunia was beside herself, not only had her sister come to her home for help, but other wizards had been here as well. "What happened to her?"

"I don't know completely. I took her in the kitchen, in the light I noticed she had several bruises and cuts. I asked her if I need to call an ambulance, but she said she already signaled for help. Minutes later the backdoor was blasted in as her husband, two other wizards, and another witch came in. One of the wizards pushed me against the wall till your sister said it wasn't me." Vernon took a minute to gather his thoughts, then continued, "The witch did some of that freakishness, and then took her husband aside. I overheard that she had been," Vernon couldn't get the word out, "and she was already pregnant. Some form of their freakishness had been used."

Petunia gasped, she couldn't believe that that had happened to her sister, and she had not been there for her. She looked sternly at her husband. "Is there anything else you haven't told me about?" Vernon shook his head, "Then you better get the next few days off work, because we are visiting my sister, understood." Vernon nodded his head then went to the phone to call in some vacation time, get the boys excused from school, and call them back from Mrs. Figg's house.

Shortly after Vernon's call Dudley and Harry left. Orion waited for the potion to wear off, and then left through Mrs. Figg's fireplace. He'd told Harry and Dudley that he probably wouldn't see them again, as he would be returning to his parents' home that night. He wasn't surprised to find Dumbledore, Ted, and Andromeda waiting for him to arrive.

He gave Dumbledore a review of what occurred at Mrs. Figg's place, and then told him that Vernon had summoned the boys' home saying they needed to pack for a trip. This made Dumbledore curious, and he left saying he needed to get some people to observe the Dursleys closely.

Dumbledore soon left, leaving Orion to fill in Andromeda and Ted on all the details of the days missions. Dumbledore arrived to find the cloaked man waiting for him in his office. Not surprising since he could fly through a window in his animagus form. "I'm surprised you're not at your post."

"No, you're not. Anyways, it seems Snape is acting the part of a perfect father. Though I've asked a friend of mine for a special little potion, it will make him have nightmares about every mistake he's ever made." The man spoke with mild mirth as he twirled a small vial between his fingers.

"I hope you only intend to use that if he stops feeling the guilt he already does." Dumbledore looked sternly at his former student.

"Of course Professor," Dumbledore didn't need to see his face of see the sneer. "What other reason would I have to use this?"

Dumbledore was prevented from answering by a mild tapping on his door. From the other side Professor McGonagall's voice sounded, "Headmaster there is a Dolores Umbridge here to see you. She says she is the Senior Undersecretary for the Ministry of Magic."

With a wave of his hand the cloaked man nodded then transformed and left through the window. He opened the door with his wand and motioned for the two to enter. "Ah, Miss Umbridge what do I owe the unexpected visit at such a late hour."

Dolores Umbridge gave her most innocent look at Dumbledore, "It would appear that several members of the auror staff have been requested to observe several muggles. I had heard that you requested this."

Dumbledore looked at her confused, "Now Miss Umbridge, what would give you the idea I would have muggles followed by aurors. That does seem quite ridiculous, I may be the head of the Wizengamot, but I have no control over the aurors, not directly at least."

"It would seem that these aurors are subordinates to one Alastor Moody. He is a close associate of yours his he not?" Umbridge asked sweetly.

"Now Miss Umbridge, it would appear that you are attempting to contrive some conspiracy that does not exist. Yes Alastor and I are old friends, but he does not assign his aurors to tasks because I ask him to. It would seem that he is possibly following muggles that may be getting to close to uncovering us, and the obliviators had not spotted them yet." Dumbledore gave her another reason for the deployment.

A blank stare came from Umbridge's face for a couple seconds before she snapped out of it. "Of course, I'm sure that is what he's up to. Moody has always been a paranoid one."

She turned and left the office. After a couple minutes Dumbledore smiled at McGonagall, "She has left the grounds. I must compliment you on that excellent nonverbal casting."

McGonagall nodded, "Thank you Headmaster, but what do we do if she starts nosing around again."

Dumbledore smiled with a twinkle in his eye, "We let Orion know it's her fault his godfather can't find a job."

McGonagall frowned, "Is that wise? For a boy of seven he already has enough animosity toward the ministry."

Dumbledore sighed, "I fear young Mister Black will be at odds with the ministry for as long as one's blood status dictates their status within our world."

The End Chapter 1