Disclaimer: No. Not Rowling's. Nothing belongs to me. Just playing in her universe

Hey guys. Here's the next chapter, and the final installment in the ACOM series, although there will be one more Christmas chapter after this. Just so you know, the next chapter will take a while to get up. I'm having a bit of a writers block, and School is becoming really demanding, plus I'm working, and have church obligations on top of that, but I will get it out as quickly as possible.

Anyway, onward. Thanks.

Midnight Star 25

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A Christmas of Miracles-Part 3

Christmas Day

St. Mungos

"I'm really sorry we couldn't go somewhere for Christmas. I promise it'll be better next year."

Neville shook his head. "It's okay, mum, really."

"I still say they have no right to keep us here." Frank huffed "I say we bust out anyway. What do ya say, son?"

"FRANK EDWARD LONGBOTTOM, you will do NO such thing. And stop trying to corrupt your son."

Frank gave his mother a puppy dog face "Aww mum, I'm just trying to make up for lost time."

Augusta softened a bit, but still held her ground.

"You will not try any such thing till you've been given a clean bill of health."

"And that's exactly what we're here to help with."

The family turned to see another lady carrying a briefcase.

"Is this the Longbottom ward?"

"Yes." Augusta answered defensively "Who are you?"

The woman just smiled "You must be Augusta. It's a pleasure. We have a delivery. Is it alright if we bring it in?"

The group looked surprised, but Frank answered.

"Of course. Please."

"Thank you."

She stuck her head out the door.

"Alright guys, bring it in."

At that, a dozen delivery men filed into the room, arms filled with everything but the kitchen sink. One man levitated a fully decorated Christmas tree. Three men carried boxes full of Christmas decorations, tinsel, and magical lights. With a few flicks of their wands, the entire room was a festive winter wonderland, complete with a temporary charm on the ceiling to make it match the wintry sky outside, and make it appear that it was snowing.

The other men brought in package after package of every shape and size, piling those that would fit under the Christmas tree and the rest wherever there was an empty spot.

As quickly as they'd entered, they were gone, leaving behind a mini winter wonderland, filled with presents, the family, and two other women.

"Wha…What's going on?"

"That's what I'd like to know. Augusta?"

"I don't know anything about this."

"Mr. and Mrs. Longbottom?"

"Yes?"

"Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Christine Andrews. My card."

Frank read over it. "Real Estate?" he asked confused.

"Well, as I understand it, you'll be getting out of here in a couple of months, and you'll be needing a place to live. That's what I'm here to help you find."

"What? But how…?"

"Not to worry, Mrs. Longbottom. I've been briefed on the delicacy of your situation. Nothing will be made public. I'm merely here to help, and as I understand it, we have several options, including starting from the ground up, to a family residence, or just finding the house that you want. We just want you to have the home of your dreams."

The second woman spoke up. "I'm here to help with that, as well."

"May I introduce a friend of mine. This is Pamela Hamilton."

"It's very nice to meet you, Aurors Longbottom. My card. I'm an interior designer. Once you decided on a home, I'm here to help you design it. Furniture, appliances, color scheme, and any amenities you'd like a swimming pool, Quidditch Pitch, basketball court…"

She chuckled at the confused looks she received.

"I specialize it both muggle and magical design."

"But I…uh…I don't…Who told you about us?"

"We were engaged by the Unity Foundation. Don't worry. All of our initial fees are taken care of…as a Christmas Present to you and your family."

"And all this?"

"I believe it's the same thing, but I was told these letters would offer further explanation"

She handed over 4 letters to Frank.

"Now, I'm sure you and your family are ready to relax and enjoy each other today. You have our cards, and we'll be in touch after the holidays, when ever you feel up to it. It was very nice meeting all of you."

"Yes, Happy Christmas."

And with that, both women exited the room.

"Did…uh…what just happened?"

"I don't know, mum, but this letter's addressed to you. There's one for each of us."

"Even Neville?"

Frank nodded.

"Me?"

Frank passed out the letters, and for a few minutes, the room was silent. Frank spoke first.

"Honey?"

Alice wore an unreadable expression.

"It…thanks us…for our 'sacrifice'. The letter's unsigned. Who…who would do something like this?"

"If this is the Unity Foundation, it would probably have to be either Myers or Lawson, the ones I told you about."

"But they've never even met us."

Augusta shrugged, thoroughly confused.

"Neville, what does your letter say."

Neville handed the letter to his grandmother.

"Just to…live life to the fullest and…not take anything for granted." He said softly

"Augusta, what do these guys want?"

Augusta shook her head.

"According to the contract…nothing. Maria even said they stopped by a few days ago, and insisted that St. Mungos try to keep their names out of the paper, and away from the press as much as possible."

"So…why are they doing all this?"

"That…seems to be the million galleon question."

"So, uh…mum, can we…uh…open these?" Neville asked hesitantly

Alice looked at her husband.

"What do you think?"

Frank hesitated "Um, well…I…I guess so."

"YES!" squealed Neville, excitedly

The adults just laughed.

-----------------------

Back at Moony's Den

"Here Padfoot, this one's for you."

"Where did you find the time to do all this shopping, Harry?"

"I, uh, ordered a lot of it through owl post. Some of the older kids told me how to do it."

"Oh."

Harry was sorting through the presents under the tree.

"This one's for Ms. Karin. When is she coming over?"

"About 11, right before we go over to the Weasley's."

"Whoa, a top of the line Lighting Bolt. Harry, how much did you spend on us?"

Harry put on his best puppy dog face, and stuck out his bottom lip.

"I thought you weren't supposed to ask that kind of question at Christmas. I could ask you the same question. Here, this one's for you." He said, changing the subject, and handing an almost identical package to Remus.

"A Windspeed! Harry, this alone is too much."

Harry just grinned "Hey, I'm gonna need some help practicing this summer if I want to keep my spot on the Quidditch team."

Sirius spun around "Quidditch Team!? WHAT!?"

Remus chuckled "We were going to keep it a surprise, but I guess the cat's out of the bag. Harry."

Harry's eyes were twinkling with mischief.

"I play Seeker for Gryffindor. Youngest player in a century."

Sirius' eyes went big.

"It's true, Padfoot. He had as much talent, if not more then James did. You should see him fly."

Sirius was still reeling. "I…I intend to."

"My first game after the holidays is in the first part of February. It's against Ravenclaw. Are you gonna come?"

Sirius shook his head. "Try and stop me!"

All of a sudden, there was a tapping at the window. Harry bounded over, and let the owl over, then grinned as he recognized the package.

"What is it, Harry?"

"It's for me."

He quickly read over the note.

'Harry, your father left this in my possession before he died. It's time it was returned to you. Your guardians will know what it is. I sincerely apologize for any pain you may have gone through."

'Hmm. A bit different from the last time.' He handed the letter over to a waiting Remus, and pulled the string from the package.

"Whoa! It's dad's old cloak. I read about it in his journals."

"James' invisibility cloak? I forgot Albus had that. James never did figure out why Albus wanted to borrow it."

Harry knew why Albus had wanted the cloak, but he had no intention of revealing that and by the expression on Remus' face, Albus was not a good choice for a discussion topic.

He quickly threw the cloak around himself, making everything disappear but his head.

"WOW! This is SO cool! Can I keep it, Uncle Moony, pleasse!? Padfoot, please!?"

Remus reverted back to responsible mode.

"You mean take it to school and potentially get into major trouble."

"Well of course he does, Moony. He wouldn't be a Marauder otherwise."

"So I can!?"

"It's okay with me." Sirius grinned

"Thanks Padfoot!" Harry squealed, giving Sirius a big hug, then he turned back around.

"Please, Uncle Moony."

Remus closed his eyes, and rubbed his temple.

"Alright." He reluctantly consented

"YES!" Harry gave his uncle a hug

"Thank you Uncle Moony! And I promise not to get into too much trouble, but I do have to break that record."

Both adults chuckled at that. Then another voice interrupted.

"Hello. Anybody home?"

Remus moved to greet their guest, who had her arms filled with packages. He helped her set them down, before greeting her with a kiss.

"Hmm, I definitely should have come over here earlier." She stated, returning the kiss

"What's wrong?" Remus asked, concern in his voice

"Oh, nothing. I can just only take so much of my loving family." Dejection and sarcasm in her tone

"It couldn't have gone that bad?"

Karin sighed "Normally it doesn't, but with all this publicity…it's all they want to talk about. They don't care about me. Sometimes I just wish they'd gone ahead and disowned me 6 years ago when I married John. They would have too, if I hadn't just made full partner at Malcom and Mayes. My father and brother still consider marrying a muggle the ultimate sin.

"But I thought you got along with at least some of your family?"

"Oh, my mother's side of the family is great, but my dad's…my mother and niece are about the only ones who even like me."

"You mean Pansy?" he asked absently

Harry had barely seen the girl since school started. Aside from seeing them in class, he tried to avoid the Slytherins as much as possible, out of, what he knew was misplaced guilt.

"That's right. She's a bit spoiled, but my brother's extremely hard on her. I know what my father and brother…" she looked at Harry, and quickly stopped, mid sentence "I…I know what they…believe, but I'm sorry, it looks like I'm interrupting your…"

Remus put an arm around her, and gave her a reassuring squeeze. "Karin, you could never interrupt."

"Actually, you're just in time." Harry piped up

Everyone looked at him.

"In time for what?" Remus questioned

"Oh, just a surprise." Harry said, mysteriously "Actually it's for Sirius."

"Me?"

Harry nodded, enthusiastically "It's out on the terrace. It was too big to bring in. I had a friend bring it over early this morning."

"Too big?"

Harry's eyes were twinkling with excitement. "Just come on." He grabbed his godfather's hand, pulling out to the large terrace, followed closely by Remus and Karin.

Outside, there was a large object, covered by a solid black tarp.

"Harry, what…"

"Just go on." He grinned

Sirius walked over, and slowly pulled off the tarp. What he saw under it, made him gasp.

"Is that…?" a wide eyed Remus questioned

Harry nodded enthusiastically.

"But how…" Remus questioned. Sirius was still speechless

"Hagrid had it. He, uh…he told me how you let…let him…borrow it that…that night. I thought you might like it back, so he agreed to bring it over. I cleaned it up a bit. Do, uh, do you like it?" Harry asked hesitantly. His godfather currently wore an unreadable expression. Harry was afraid that, maybe, he had made a mistake. Perhaps the bike brought back too many bad memories of that night.

Without warning, Sirius pulled him into a bone-crushing embrace.

'What was it about his guardians wanting to hug him to death?' First Remus at the Quidditch game, and now Sirius.

"I…kinda…need to…breath." He gasped out

"Oh, Harry, you don't know what…what this means to me." He stated, as he released him

"Did…did you know your dad gave this to me for graduation?" he said softly, as he ran his fingers over the leather seat.

"Really?" Harry really hadn't known that, which surprised him.

"Come mere and look at this." He ran his fingers under the edge of the seat, till a small 'click' was heard, and the seat popped up. An inscription in gold lettering lay on the back of the seat, and an empty compartment underneath. The inscription read

To Padfoot.

The Second Greatest

Prankster in the world.

From the Number One

Prankster in the world.

Prongs

Harry chuckled. Only his dad or Sirius would have that kind of note permanently inscribed on a gift.

"My dad was a character, huh?"

Sirius laughed "He was the best mate a bloke could ask for."

"Oh, and I got this to go with it." He said, handing over a brightly decorated box

"Harry, you shouldn't…WHOA!"

"Sound's like you approve." Harry chuckled

"This is…awesome!"

Inside the box, lay a tailored made and very expensive black dragon hide jacket, a matching pair of pants, and a matching pair of biker gloves.

"The place I bought them from said that there were charms on them so that they would be custom tailored once you put them on."

A huge grin currently crossed Sirius' face, as he unfolded the jacket. The name 'Padfoot' was embossed in gold on the front, left side of the jacket. As he turned it over, Sirius' face turned to one of confusion.

"What…what's this?" he questioned, looking at Harry

Harry grinned "What do ya think?"

On the back of the jacket, there was a large crest, also in gold, with a very familiar looking dog, stag, and wolf.

"I…thought the Marauders could use a family crest."

"Did you design this?" amazement in his voice

Harry nodded.

"Moony, come look at this."

Remus walked over, his eyes lighting up as he surveyed the crest. He ran his fingers across the words displayed on the top part of the shield. In the same gold font, the words Les Maraudeurs, was displayed in a slight arch, and below that was a phrase.

"Fratres in Aeternum." He murmered "Doesn't that mean…"

Harry nodded "It's Latin. It means…'Brothers Forever'. Every family needs a motto, traditional or not."

Both men looked at him, Sirius, wearing a look that seemed to indicate that he felt like he'd just gotten his best friend back. Remus, on the other hand, was giving him a more calculating look, although Harry didn't seem to take notice. Something about the way Harry had said the word 'family' niggled at the back of his mind…like he'd…heard it before…somewhere?

His thoughts were interrupted by Harry pushing a box into his hands.

"I got one for you too, Uncle Moony…and you, Ms. Karin." Producing a third box "Although I had the Slytherin Crest put on the back of yours. I remember you said you were a Slytherin in school."

Karin looked taken aback "Thank you…Harry, but…you really shouldn't have."

Sirius interrupted "You're dating a Slytherin, Moony?...Uh, not…not that there's a problem with that." He added hastily, when he realized the looks he was receiving from Remus and Karin

"Need I remind you, Padfoot that said Slytherin is why you're currently not in Azkaban at the moment, not to mention, the number of Slytherins you dated during school. Ava Greengrass, Sarah Lawson, Heather Travors, Erica Waters, Lindsey…"

"OKAY, OKAY, I get it!" Sirius gasped out "Like I said…not a problem."

"Oh, and there was that little incident with Jennifer Matherson in 6th year ov…"

"HEY, we agreed never to mention that again!"

"Ooh Ooh, I know!" Harry exclaimed, jumping up and down

"The two of you had been dating for like 3 weeks, but you complained that she was too needy, so dad decided to 'help' you out. He sabotaged one of your dates in Hogsmeade, by following you, and dropping an exploding dung bomb in her soup."

"HARRY JA…" but Sirius was cut off, by Remus' silencing charm

Harry smirked, and went on

"Somehow, she got the impression that you did it, and vowed revenge. Two days later, she managed to slip you a 'repetitive potion', that…"

Sirius leapt to clamp his hand over Harry's mouth, but Harry easily dodged him.

"…that made you repeat I love Severus Snape anytime someone asked you a question. Dad actually left some pensieve memories of that one."

Karin and Remus were doing their best to suppress their laughter, but weren't being very successful.

Sirius' expression was priceless, and was currently ranting and raving, now that Remus had removed the silencing charm.

Harry heard something like "Tell me where…now…" and "Destroy, destroy, destroy…"

"Oh, I remember that!" Karin exclaimed "My brother was a…uh…friend…of Severus'. I think he was as embarrassed as you were. He holed up in the Slytherin common room for like three days, refusing to speak to anyone."

"Yeah, well, that's all I wanted to do, but McGonagall wouldn't let Me." a longing bitterness in Sirius' tone

Harry laughed

Sirius glared at him "I want those memories destroyed immediately, and just for that 'no ride'." He stated in a pouty voice

Harry put on his best look of innocence.

"Aww…come on, pleasse…I've got the jacket and everything."

He pulled out a child size version of the jacket he'd given Remus and Sirius, and slipped it on.

Remus was looking at him curiously

"Uh, Harry…what's…what's the name on that jacket?" he asked, amusement in his voice

Harry smirked, as he displayed the name

"Slick?" Sirius questioned "How did you get that?"

"That name wouldn't have anything to do with a certain prank group at Hogwarts would it?"

Harry just shrugged "I don't know what you're talking about, Uncle Moony." He answered evenly, a twinkle in his eye

"So the next time the 'Golden Vipers' strike, I can assume you had nothing to do with it."

"I'm only a first year." He drawled

Remus covered his face and shook his head

"I'm doomed."

Those around him couldn't help but laugh.

"Okay, you've got to tell me about this prank group." Sirius stated, excitedly, his anger momentarily forgotten

"I will on the back of the motor bike." He said in a singey-songey voice

Karin interrupted "I'm curious…the wolf, well…that's obvious, but what about the others? I take it had something to do with your nicknames, but…" she wore an expression that said she was trying to work out the pieces to a difficult puzzle

Sirius' expression had changed too

"Uh…you're right, Harry, I will give you a ride. Let's go now!" quickly pulling himself and Harry on the back of the motorcycle.

"Coward!" Remus snapped, clearly annoyed

"Hey, she's your girlfriend mate. You explain it to her."

"And if she decides she wants to chuck you back in Azkaban…?"

Sirius shrugged "Well…then it's been nice knowin' ya." He stated, before starting up the motorcycle, and quickly taking to the air

"Okay, that could definitely make a fun date!" She laughed at Remus' expression, before turning serious

"But what did you mean about Azkaban? If there's something I…"

Remus sighed "It's a long story…Any chance that lawyer-client confidentiality is still in affect?"

-------------

Several hours later at the Weasleys

Karin had been, surprisingly, understanding, and claimed she wasn't going to report Sirius, besides, she said that it would look bad on her, since she had been the one representing him, and claiming that he was completely innocent.

Harry, Sirius, Remus, and Karin had been met with a warm reception by the Weasleys, and introductions were exchanged all around.

The younger kids seemed a bit wary around Sirius at first. After all, until a few days ago, he had been a convicted murderer, and there were still rumors and gossip spreading all over the wizarding world that he still was, and that he had tricked the Ministry into releasing him, using his 'dark powers', or some other outrageous theory.

Harry quickly remedied this by letting the name 'Padfoot' accidentally slip. Fred and George were in shock for like, a second, before they fell to their knees, bowing and scraping, and started chanting 'We're not worthy!' "We're not worthy!'

The twins bombarded, both, Sirius and Remus with question after question, so the first hour was filled with tales of the Marauder's adventures. There were even a few stories of just James and Sirius that even Harry had never heard.

Even being in the same room with Ginny wasn't the disaster he had thought it would be. She was shy around him, nervous even. Given, his Occulmentry shields were getting a work out today, but…well…it helped to see her as an innocent 10-year-old, rather than an adult. 'She would never…' 'But, she had never…' 'This time she wouldn't…' 'This time he wouldn't…'

Harry shook his head, trying to clear it. This was so confusing, and it was giving him a headache. At least for the moment, there was no threat, and it was Christmas. His first real Christmas in many years, and one that he was actually enjoying.

Lunch had finished just a bit ago, when the doorbell rang.

'Right on time.' Harry had torn himself away from Ron just moments before, and positioned himself close to the door, which he was now opening.

"You know…I think I like the red hair better. Definitely explains your temper."

"Brat."

Harry smirked "Hey, save that for your niece and nephews."

"Speaking of which…?"

Harry nodded "It's going…much…much better then I expected. So…are you ready for this?"

Fabian sighed "As I'll ever be."

"Okay. Here we go." He turned around

"MRS. WEASLEY." He called "THERE'S SOMEONE HERE TO SEE YOU!"

Fabian let out a groan "Is it absolutely necessary to yell?"

Harry smirked again "Hey, I'm a kid."

Fabian rolled his eyes "Yeah, and I'm a Muggleborn."

Harry wore an amused look.

"You know we just described our alter egos?"

Fabian gave him an exasperated look, but quickly masked it, as Molly came around the corner, wiping her hands on a dishtowel

"Thank you, Harry, dear."

She turned towards her visitor.

"May I help you?"

"Hi, Ruby."

Molly's face contorted

"Who are you?" she demanded "No one calls me that!"

"Has it really been that long, Ruby? Or should I say, Ruby Rose?"

"Who…are…?"

Harry could see that Molly's eyes were searching the face in front of her.

She let out a small gasp "F…F…Fab…"

Fabian caught her, just before she collapsed

"Well…I…think she recognized you."

A cry of 'DAAAD!' interrupted them

Harry closed his eyes and shook his head.

"Like mother, like daughter." He muttered, under his breath, earning an amused look from Fabian

Arthur appeared from around the corner, flanked by Remus, Sirius, Bill, and Charlie, all wands drawn

"Ginny, what's wrong?!" Arthur's voice was panicked

Ginny just pointed to the doorway.

Harry could see that this was about to spiral out of control

"Its okay, Mr. Weasley. She just fainted." Harry said quickly

"Harry, what's going on?" Remus demanded

Harry put on his best look of innocence, and shrugged.

"I don't know. I think Mrs. Weasley was just surprised to see Mr. Prewett, here."

The group looked at the stranger. Arthur spoke first.

"Prewett, but…" he was studying the face before him

"Who are…?" there was confusion in his eyes

"Wh…F…Fabian?!"

"Its been a long time, Arthur." Fabian answered smoothly, Molly still in his arms

"But…uh…didn…didn't …didn't I attend your funeral?!"

It was like a ping pong match, the heads whipping back and forth between Fabian and Arthur.

"That's…a long story. May I come in? I'll explain everything."

"I..uh…I guess you'd better." Indicating his wife

"Can I set her down somewhere?"

Arthur nodded "This way."

Arthur led the way back to the living room, where Fabian laid Molly on the couch

She started to stir

"Ar…Arthur." She moaned softly

"I'm here." Arthur said, moving next to her "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, I just thought…" She gasped as she spotted the face in front of her

"Fabian?" her voice was a ghastly whisper

By this point, the rest of the kids and Karin had heard Ginny's scream, and had joined the group in the room.

"Hey, Sis." Fabian answered softly

Surprisingly, Percy spoke up "Wait…you're Uncle Fabian?"

"NOO!" Molly screeched "My brother's DEAD!"

"Ruby, please…"

"DON'T call me THAT!"

"Molly…"

"NO! How dare you IMPERSANATE my brother! I…"

Without warning, she inexplicitly stopped talking. Everyone looked confused, waiting for another outburst.

Fabian looked at Harry.

He mouthed the words 'Calming Charm'

'Thank you' he mouthed back

"Molly, please. Let me explain. It's really me."

Harry could see that the calming charm was working, even though she was fighting it. Her demeanor was going from anger to grief.

"But…you…you can't be my…" tears were starting to well up in her eyes

"You can't be him…you just…"

"When you were 8, you stole mum's wand, placed a permanent sticking charm on Gideon's favorite Quidditch T-Shirt, and stuck it to the wall, because he'd turned your hair green and purple with yellow polka dots during one of our summer lessons. You then blamed it on me, and got me grounded for two weeks, but I never told on you because I hated that shirt, with a passion, and had already tried everything I could to get rid of it, because every time his Quidditch team would beat mine, he would put it on, and prance around the house like he'd just won a Merlin's First Class award."

"You SWORE you'd never…"

Her voice faltered

"Fabian?"

"I'm sorry Molly."

Without warning, she launched herself into his arms.

"How did you survive?" she sobbed

"It's a long story."

"Gideon?" her voice was barely a whisper

Fabian shook his head sadly "He really died that night."

Remus spoke up "Arthur, I think we'd better go. It looks like you need some…"

"No."

"Excuse me?"

"Please take a seat, Mr. Lupin."

A look of suspicion crossed Remus' face

"How do you know my name?"

"You always keep an eye on your family, Mr. Lupin, whether you're able to be a part of their lives or not. You work with Arthur, if I'm not mistaken."

"That's right."

"Then please…stay. Plus, we have something else in common."

"Oh?"

"I'm actually speaking to Mr. Black as well. 'The Eternal Flame.'"

Remus' eyes widened "You were a…"

"My brother and I both were…That's kinda where my story begins."

Molly had finally regained some sense of control, and interjected

"Kids, why don't you go upstairs and play."

There was an uproar of protests all around the room.

"No Molly, they need to stay." Fabian said softly

"WHAT!? No, they're too young!"

"They need to understand why they won't be able to tell anyone about me. I just put up series of spells and secrecy charms that affect each person in this room. Anything that's said in this room…anything I tell you…you'll only be able to discuss it between the other people in this room."

"WHAT are you doing, Fabian?! You waltz back into my life, and start casting spells on us?!" her voice had taken the terrifying tone of when she was reprimanding children

"It's only for protection, Molly."

"Protection?! You always thought I needed protecting, Fabian."

"Molly, if…if certain parties…were to find out I'm alive…if one of the kids were to slip…I…I don't want you to get hurt, Molly." He sighed, a concerned expression on his face

"And why would you be worried about that, Mr. Prewett…it is Prewett, correct?"

Fabian's lips twitched into a slight smile

"That's correct…And spoken like a true lawyer, Ms. McAlistor. It's a pleasure. You're quite infamous these days."

"So I'm told." She stated shortly "But, that doesn't answer my question."

"You don't beat around the bush, do you?"

"I don't fancy strangers putting a series of unknown spells on me." She stated, dangerously

"I apologize for that. I was unaware there would be guests."

Harry discretely rolled his eyes.

"So what is the story, Fabian?" Molly demanded

Fabian looked guiltily into his sister's eyes.

He sighed "Okay…It all began…"

Fabian gave a highly abbreviated version of how he had joined an 'organization' that had helped fight Voldemort, being found out, what happened that night, and what he'd done in the last 20 years. At the end of the explanation, and a series of quick introductions, Molly insisted that Ginny, Ron, Fred, George, Percy, and Harry go upstairs and play.

Once the kids were gone, Molly turned back towards her brother.

"I'm sorry, Molly. It was wrong of me to stay away for so long, but…they…they threatened to harm you, and…and mum and dad."

He shook his head sadly

"Bill was so little, and you were pregnant with Charlie. I…I just couldn't…" his voice was starting to break from years of built up emotions

Molly moved next to her brother, and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder

"Thank you, Fabian."

For a moment, nothing more needed to be said. She pulled him into a much needed hug, which he returned.

She finally released him, tears streaking her face

"Soo…what's this organization you're talking about?"

Fabian sighed "I haven't been a member of it for over 20 years, although I have kept my eye on its activities. That's how I knew Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin were members at one point, but Mr. Lupin would probably know more about it than I would."

Everyone turned to look at Remus

Remus looked uncomfortable at being put on the spot

"Not…really. It's true though. We were there to fight Voldemort."(several gasps and shudders occurred around the room, but Remus ignored them) "I suppose you could say that we've been…'unofficially' disbanded for about 8 years now. In truth, I suppose we…just… kind of…faded into existence. We became a part of the war that was no longer necessary, and a part most of us wanted desperately to forget."

Now Remus wore a grim expression. Karin squeezed his hand gently. He gave her a grateful look, before putting an arm around her, and pulling her close.

"What's the organization called, and how were you recruited?" questioned Bill, speaking for the first time

Remus sent a questioning look to Sirius

Sirius shook his head

"Don't look at me, Moony. I don't know. There's nothing stopping us from saying something, and I'm sure, uh, Arthur has some idea of what we're talking about if he's worked at the Ministry."

Everyone now turned to look at Arthur

Molly spoke up "Arthur, do you?"

Arthur also looked uncomfortable

"I…think so, but I only know the basics."

"Is there a reason you're being so cryptic, Dad?" Charlie questioned

"Well…It's…It's complicated. I was never part of it, and like Remus said, that was a part of our lives we…tried very hard to forget."

There was a moment of silence, before Karin interjected

"May I offer a piece of advice."

The group looked at her.

"I think you'd offer it anyway, Ms. McAlistor." Fabian answered amusedly "Please."

She glared, but continued "I admit…I'm intrigued. Sirius stated that there's nothing stopping you from telling us, and we're already under your protection charms." Heavy stress on the last two words "Nothing said here is going beyond the people in this room, and perhaps it would help us understand your story a bit better."

Fabian looked amused

"It's easy to see how you got your reputation, Ms. McAlistor. I, personally, don't mind telling you…at least the basics, but I don't believe it's just my call to make. Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin were members longer than I was, and much more recently."

Everyone looked at Remus and Sirius

Sirius shrugged "I don't care. Protecting the 'Order's' secrets hasn't exactly been a priority in my life."

"The 'Order'?" Bill questioned

Remus sighed "Yes. It was a society known as 'The Order of the Phoenix'. Something of a…vigilante resistance group for the war. There were members of all ages, but most of us were recruited right out of Hogwarts. I don't think we ever knew who everyone was. Most of us were pretty excited and eager to join. It was better then just sitting around, listening to rumors, not knowing when or where the next attack would take place."

"But who recruited you?"

Remus glanced at Sirius before answering

"Albus Dumbledore. He was the founder and leader."

Bill, Charlie, and Molly all wore startled expressions

Karin, on the other hand, wore a look of understanding, that clearly stated she had just added a big piece to the puzzle, that was her boyfriend.

"Professor Dumbledore?!"

"Albus?!"

Fabian nodded "If you think about it, I suppose it's logical. He was the only one that Voldemort ever feared." (once again, several gasps echoed around the room)

"I'm surprised at you, Molly. You never used to fear that name."

Molly shifted nervously

"That was over 20 years ago, Fabian. Things change."

"You actually used to say his name, Mum?"

Molly looked guiltily into her sons eyes

"It…it was a long time ago, before…before the worst part of the war."

"Molly, he's not going to appear just by saying it."

She let out a heavy sigh "I know…I know, Fabian, but…you don't…don't know how hard…after…after you and…then Mum and Dad…I…" she was starting to tear up again

Fabian pulled her close

"I didn't mean to cause you any more pain, Molly. I…I was at Mum and Dad's funeral. It only reinforced that I was doing the right thing by staying away. I felt like it was my fault."

"But…that happened 5 years later, and it was a random attack."

"I know. It was just guilt, wondering if I could have done more to save them."

"So, uh…why reveal yourself now?" questioned Arthur

Fabian hesitated "A…friend…showed me the error in staying away for so long."

He turned back towards Molly "You are the most important person in the world to me, Molly. I love you, and that will never change!"

Molly was tearing up again

"So, um, where…where are you living?"

Fabian grimaced "I…can't tell you that. Not yet, anyway!" he added quickly

"What?! Why?!"

"I'm undercover right now, Molly. Like I said, if certain parties were to discover that I was alive, there could be trouble. I know which Death Eaters were there that night. I can identify them, and not all of them are in Azkaban."

Molly didn't know how to respond, but Karin spoke up.

"Mr. Prewett, if you have information on Death Eater activity, you should report it to the proper authorities."

Fabian gave her an amused look

"Do you trust the Ministry, Ms. McAlistor? They did such a bang up job on Mr. Black's case. Even if I were to bring charges, they would almost instantly be dismissed. These men are as innocent of Death Eater activity as you are guilty, but they bribed and blackmailed their way out of a conviction. They are ruthless, Ms. McAlistor, and I won't be responsible for putting my family in that kind of danger!"

An uncomfortable silence followed Fabian's declaration, as no one seemed to know how to respond.

--------------------

Meanwhile, Upstairs

"So, I guess it's pretty weird that your Uncle's alive, huh?"

Ron shrugged "I guess. Mom's always talked about him, but I never knew him."

Harry could tell that this didn't really affect Ron, Fred, George, or Ginny. They were too young to understand the magnitude of this. Percy was the youngest one who seemed to have some sense of its significance, and was currently brooding that he should have been allowed to stay with the adults.

Harry decided to change the subject

"So, where is everyone?"

"In their rooms I think."

"Well, come on. I'm bored. It's not snowing right now. Let's see if we can't talk them into a game of Quidditch. Plus, don't you have a new broom to break in?"

Ron's eyes lit up "Yeah, let's go see."

They made their way down the hall to Fred and George's room

"Hey, Harrikins, we were just about to come and find you."

"Oh, and why's that?" he asked suspiciously

"Well…we just thought our Uncle deserved a proper welcome into the family."

"You know a traditional Weasley welcome. Show him what he's getting into."

Harry grinned mischievously "What'd you have in mind?"

-----------------

A bit later

Harry cautiously stuck his head in the living room. The adults were softly talking. He cleared his throat, alerting them to his presence. All conversation stopped.

Harry took a moment to observe Fabian and Molly. There was a sadness in their faces, but the happiness or contentment was more then evident. His thoughts were interrupted by Remus.

"What is it, Harry?"

"Um, we just wanted to know if it would be alright if we went outside."

"Actually Harry, if you would, could you go tell the boys and Ginny to get ready. We'll be leaving shortly."

"We'll be going too, Harry, so don't go too far."

"Where are we going?"

"Our work's throwing a Christmas Party for some of the kids we…help. Molly, Arthur, and I have volunteered to help out for a bit."

Harry suppressed a small smile

"Okay, I'll go tell them."

As he walked back up the stairs, he heard the comment

"Wow, no argument. I'm impressed, Remus. What's your secret?"

"Don't look at me. It's just…Harry. The only things we argue about are just the little things, and the only big argument we've had was at his first Quidditch match when he didn't want to go to the Hospital wing."

Sirius interrupted "And just WHY would he need to go to the Hospital wing?!" he demanded

"That…is a story in itself."

Harry chuckled as he continued up the stairs, and entered the twin's room.

"Well?"

"Sorry guys, but the pranks gonna have to wait, but I've got an idea for another time. We just need some ingredients, a little bit of time, and…"

An excited glint appeared in the twin's eyes as Harry laid out a future plan.

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Alright, there's the reunion between Molly and Fabian. I tried to make it realistic. Let me know what you think. For those of you who liked it, there will be future interaction between said brother and sister.

For those who hoped to see a big Harry/Ginny scene, sorry for disappointing. There is a reason for it, and you'll see that in later chapters. If you want a clue as to why, go back and reread the two small sections right before the flashback scene in Chapter 24.

Oh, and I've got one request. I need a little bit of help. I've gotten a lot of reviews saying that things are going too perfect for Harry, and I think you're right. Life is never perfect, and everyone has problems, but I'm having a hard time coming up with plausible scenarios. I do have some problems coming his way, but I still feel I need some ideas, so if you guys have any, I'd really appreciate the help:-) You can either leave it in a review, or PM me. If I use your idea, I'll give you credit. Thanks in advance.

Oh, and this is the last installment of 'A Christmas of Miracles'. The next chapter will still be Christmas. I'll be showing Unity House, the main safe house for the 'Unity Foundation', and their Christmas party, but it'll have it's own title.

Thanks for reading.

Midnight Star 25