Hey everyone,
So this chapter is going to be both hard and a lot of fun. It is going to concern a confrontation or two, but considering the title of the second chapter, I am actually really looking forward to this chapter. And I won't lie, I have been feeling slightly sadistic to certain characters lately as well, which will definitely help.
(cackles evilly),

Venquine1990

Chapter 36
The Mother And The Uncle

9th of August 1995
The Dimension
Harry's POV

I don't know why, but for some reason I have a really bad feeling about the next two chapters. So far, Percy's story has really made me grow close to the boy who – if you look at it right – is actually my cousin as our Divine fathers are brothers and something about his character has also made me pretty protective of him.
I know, because of that, that I went a little too all out on Chase and I can definitely see that there is a crazy strong bond between the two, but I also know that, if it comes down to it, I won't back down from letting her know when she is in the wrong. And Percy seems actually able to both accept and appreciate this fact.

Another problem I feel like I'm facing is the fact that, as happy as I was when Chiron offered me and my friends sanctuary, I am now doubting whether or not that's even a good idea as it seems as if there were, at one point, as many moral problems at Camp as there currently are at Hogwarts, which really depresses me.
Yet it doesn't really affect me that much as all that Lord Hades, the Lord of the Dead, has said about and to me so far has really kept my mind occupied and while I have no doubt that my chances for emigration have shrunk just a little thanks to our talk between chapters, do I still feel shy over the fact that I got the God's respect.

Yet while I think about this – and about a few of the things the God said as I was making my interval visits to the room while working on new cakes and cupcakes – do we then get startled by the Lord of the Dead looking up and apparently in a mental conversation with someone. "Must be with Lady Hecate." I think to myself.
The God hums and seems to make noises of understanding before he says: "If that's how you want it." And he snaps his fingers at the same time that a bright light appears there where new arrivals appear each and every time. And instantly the bad feeling returns to my stomach as I worriedly await to see who will arrive.
And upon seeing the plumb form, the short stock and the bright red hair, do I think: "Oh, so that's why." And I share a look with the other Weasley kids, all of them sending me back looks that prove they will be on my side and will help and support me in case it becomes needed. At this I send them all a grateful smile in return.

I then focus on the other person who arrived and to my interest does it seem as if Lady Hecate decided on a mix between our worlds as the other person is a satyr with incredible horns like a mountain goat and who has grey hair as well as a grey goatee, yet who has brownish grey fur on his legs, which is shown as he wears shorts.
To my shock the man is actually missing an arm and the way that his muscles are sticking out of the part that is missing proves that he lost it in a horrifying battle. Yet then Percy winces and mutters: "I forgot. He lost that during the last fight. After she had already gotten to him." Yet the man himself seems unbothered.
He does look at his arm from a few angles for a while, but then shrugs, only to wince as Mrs. Weasley finally seems to have realized where she is and who she is with. Yet while I kind of expected it, do I still feel intense fury rising as the woman doesn't run for her kids to hug them, but instead storms over to Sirius and starts to rant:
"Sirius Orion Black, there you are! You are in so much trouble. You are just lucky that –." But before she can continue, do I stand up and push my arm out at her. And instantly the air in the room obeys my command, causing for a huge wind to blow from behind me and to actually push the woman off her feet and against the wall.

The woman looks shocked and I growl: "Don't you dare blame this on Sirius. You have no idea what is going on and you have no right to blame him without having all the facts. It makes you no better than Crouch and Bagnold." The woman gasps, but then wants to angrily turn to Sirius again, further infuriating me.
I swipe my arm and another gust of wind blows against the woman, this time hitting her in the cheek and making her hit her head against the wall. The woman grunts, but then I notice Ron send a strange look at Sirius, who seems to get it as he nods. "Mate, all things nice and fair, you could have just pushed her back again."
He says and this confuses me, but then I feel shocked to see that he is aiming his wand at me. "Depulso." And to my shock do I feel the curse pushing me off my feet. And while Mrs. Weasley actually snaps Ron's voice, do I then get to experience the reason behind all this as I hear Sirius' clear voice over hers.

"Accio my son." And I feel his magic overpowering Ron's spell and just like last time, do I feel myself getting pulled to where he is, the man happily turning his chair around and sitting in it as he catches my smiling form, the two of us happily wrapping our arms around each other with large smiles on our faces.
"What – but – but – but – how?" Mrs. Weasley asks and I look up at her in an angry glare as I say: "You're not the only one who considers me her son, Mrs. Weasley. It's just that simple." And the woman seems shocked to hear how apathic I sound as I tell her this. I then decide to focus back on the other new arrival.
"Greetings sir, and you are?" I ask, only for another to give me the answer as he gasps: "Uncle Ferdinand, it's you!" And the elder satyr looks at his apparent nephew in shock as he asks: "Wait, Grover? Is that really you, little tyke? How are you so – so – so big?" And Grover cringes harshly before he mumbles:
"Just – just come sit down, uncle. We – ehem – we're reading of my friend Percy here and his first great adventure as a Demigod. The – yeah, I think the upcoming chapter will explain everything." The satyr nods, but then Mrs. Weasley asks: "Wait, you all got kidnapped – to read a stranger's book?" And I answer:
"The books about a stranger and about me. We already read the first book, describing my first year, and are now reading about Percy. And Mrs. Weasley, let me tell you this. The Gods ignoring how you don't have to raise your kids as their champions – isn't their own work. It's thanks to a curse that hit England long, long ago."

The woman whitens as she hears me say this and then Mr. Weasley leads her over to the chair he was sitting in, but that he changed into a couch before walking over to her. Yet as I look at her, do I feel like getting one last hit in and I look at her kids, silently asking them for permission and signing to the many rooms door as I do.
At this the Weasley kids share a couple of looks and then nod at me, me smiling back at them gratefully. I then move out of Sirius' lap and over to the many room door, Andromeda smiling at the Weasleys before she follows me as she knows just how much I managed to get done while working through my anger.
And with a small sense of vindictiveness and a strong sense of pride and glee, do I happily use the levitation charm on a whole array of platters and plates. Only when Mrs. Weasley sees me do this, does she stand up and shriek: "Harry James Potter, what do you think you're doing. You know you can't use magic outside school!"
But I ignore her other than rolling my eyes and yet Ron seems to have other plans as he asks: "Mum, how can you shriek at him for that, when I did it just minutes ago? Seriously, how unfair is that?" And the woman looks shocked while I send my best friend a grateful smile and then finally I set the plates down on the table.

I then happily use a little magic to pull off all of the lids that were on top of the platters and plates and that were charmed with static and preservation charms and everyone gasps in glee as they see the many cakes and pies that I managed to create as they read the former of the last two chapters. "Damn, that is looking really good."
Ron moans and the others all nod before Andromeda smiles at me as she shows that she was also carrying plates and forks as well as a few large knives for the sake of cutting into the cakes. I smile back at her and ask: "So, who wants what?" And after a few minutes does everyone have a slice of pie or cake on their laps.
Everyone is, just like I knew, moaning and making sounds of delight as they are enjoying their cakes or pies respectively and, just like he has been doing several times now, is the Lord of the Dead sending me looks that prove he really respects me for my skill. And this really makes me feel even better, considering his relation to me.

Yet then something happens even I didn't expect as Mrs. Weasley says: "Andy, you have to give me the recipe for this lemon meringue, it is just delicious." And I feel like choking as I cannot believe the woman would say such a thing after all the times I managed to beat her in the kitchen during the summers I spent at the Burrow.
Yet Andromeda calmly sets her plate down and says: "I will do no such thing, Molly. As it is not my recipe. Harry made all of these cakes and pies. It's part of his therapy sessions with me. And before you say anything, Molly, there are plenty of reasons why Harry needs therapy and he is that skilled of a baker, as you well know."
The woman looks shocked to have been talked to like that and then, while taking a bite of her apple crumble, does Madam Longbottom say: "And because he is that skilled and has been proving his skill like that, have we already decided that the kitchen in these rooms are Harry's territory. That was a group decision, Molly."
"But the boy is way too young to cook for so many." The woman shrieks to which I retort: "And yet the Muggle appliances in the kitchen are way out of your league. Your league, not mine." And the hidden message of the decision doesn't matter, you can't claim my kitchen is heard even though no one voices it.

The woman looks at me shocked and I smirk at her, loving the fact that I am finally getting the chance to fully show off my full potential in some of the skills others always made me feel as if I had to suppress them and I think: "I was send here first as a sign that I am to ignore such impressions from now on."
And because I have been dreaming of such a chance – and because I really want to be me and me only when I finally meet my dad, do I just happily go back to my own treacle tart before I ask: "Speaking of which, how many chapters are we going to read before dinner?" And while the others think of this, does Mrs. Weasley snap:
"What are you talking about? It's only 2.30 in the morning!" But I glower at her and say: "Time moves different between here and London, Mrs. Weasley. And I'm pretty sure I reported this to Dumbledore shortly after arriving here. It's morning for you, but it's past lunchtime for us." And the woman looks startled.

"I'm feeling a bit hungry myself. But I'd rather hear that explanation first. Dinner after the chapter?" Grover's uncle then asks, but Mr. Weasley says: "Sorry, we've started to read two chapters per arrival now that we're getting two guests per arrival." The satyr nods and I say: "I'll just duck into the kitchen during the second chapter."
To which the satyr says: "Well then, if your dinner meals are as good as your cakes, I am looking forward to that meal." And he happily digs into his own slice of cake which I – somehow – managed to make out of the usual ingredients – and straws of hay. Still feeling quite achieved with that, do I smile at the satyr.
A little while later everyone is finished and the elder satyr asks: "So, who reads?" To which Grover snickers and says: "Either you or Ron's mum. We've all read our own chapters already.""The chapter will explain Grover being much older than I remember, right?" And as the others nod, does the satyr grab the book and start to read.

WE VISIT … your day.

This startles and worries Mrs. Weasley, but Mr. Ferdinand just looks up and asks: "Who are we reading about and what did he do to get the King of the Gods after him?" To which Percy answers: "Me, Percy Jackson, and I didn't do anything. I got accused of doing something. You'll see." The satyr nods and reads on.

So there … at once."

This startles the satyr enough he bleats and drops the book in fright. But then Percy nods and says: "And they weren't even working for Lord Hades here anymore. It's all explained in the final few chapters." The satyr looks at the Son of Poseidon in shock, but then seems to regain himself and takes back the book.

I was … tin cans."

"That's a real shame. What exactly happened?" Mr. Ferdinand asks and Grover explains him the story in short detail. Of Percy and the missing Master Bolt, which still makes me grimace, of the quest given to him and of how their trip started with the bus ride that was just described. His uncle whistles at the end and then reads on.

We sloshed … the bus ..."

"You mean the way the Furies were asking for an object and not a person? Or the fact that they were willingly calling Lord Hades by his name and not an honorary title?" Hermione asks and Annabeth answers: "The former, that just confused me so much, I didn't even notice the latter." My best friend nods as the reading goes on.

Whatever she … Hilary Duff.

At this Grover playfully glares at his best friend and Percy says: "Hey, it's like Annabeth said. At Camp, you never needed anything other than those two songs. Not my fault you never tried to broaden out your song list." At this Grover rolls his eyes and crosses his arms, but I can tell that he's not really insulted as his uncle reads on.

Instead of … double cheeseburger.

"Hate to say it, but I probably won't be making meals like that too often. Had to make them almost on the daily for a good while back at the Muggles." I then tell Percy, yet the boy shrugs and says: "Your meals are still delicious, I don't care." Making me smile at him, yet then I get my happiness taken away instantly.
"Harry James Potter, how dare you lie to –." Mrs. Weasley tries to shriek, but I silence her with a glare and growl: "Never, Mrs. Weasley. Never accuse me of the same thing the Ministry is. They're calling me a liar on something you know I am not lying about, so don't even try and call me a liar on any – thing – else."
The woman looks shocked to hear me talk back to her in such a tone before I turn my face away and snarl: "Besides, we all know how you think about those Muggles. You're just holding up a front, because you don't want to believe that Dumbledore could have been in the wrong putting me with those Muggles time and time again."

"You never complain!" The woman shrieks, but then I jump up and shout back: "NO! AND WHY IS THAT! BECAUSE HYPOCRITES LIKE YOU, WHO CALL ME THEIR SON, DON'T DO JACK NOTHING ABOUT DUMBLEDORE SENDING ME BACK THERE! NOTHING OTHER THAN COMPLAINING BEHIND HIS BACK!
BUT WHEN HE SAYS I HAVE TO GO BACK, YOU JUST ACCEPT IT AND DON'T ASK A SINGLE QUESTION OR RAISE A COMPLAINT! SO WHY SHOULD I EVEN TRY WHEN NONE OF YOU ARE WILLING TO STAND BEHIND ME!" And with that do I storm off yet again, but then I snarl:
"Chiron, if you don't mind." And the Centaur nods, following after me as I run back into the Obstacle Course room. And while I do hear Mrs. Weasley shriek when she sees what the Obstacle tower looks like, do I just ignore it and how Chiron goes to sit off the side of the tower. Instead I put my full focus on the tower itself.

Sirius' POV

"I really saw that coming." I think to myself and then Andy says: "He is really making good progress." To which we all turn to her and Molly shouts: "Progress? What are you talking about?" Yet she reels back as Andy sends her a look that proves she is a true Black and related to that mad woman known as Bellatrix Lestrange.
"Harry is abused, Molly. Mentally, emotionally and physically. And people who are usually as mentally or emotionally abused as he is don't easily open up about what bothers them. In fact, people like that, if they see others unwilling to fight and defend their rights, think why bother and just keep their problems to themselves.
Harry has done so for the longest time, but these books and in fact this very room is helping him open up." At this I nod and say: "I can vouch for that. When we first found the kitchen, I could tell Harry had a deep love for the room, but he tried to hide it and told me to just ignore it. Now look at him, claiming that room and everything."

At this Andy nods and says: "Exactly. Harry is making progress. And while I have no doubt that his hormones come into play here as well, am I still very glad that he is going forward like this. He won't be meek, gullible or easy to trick and manipulate anymore anytime soon.""But why should that even matter in the first place?"
Molly then asks, yet this makes everyone glare at her, both the Greek Demigods and her own kids before Ginny is actually the one to snap back and says: "It matters, because it means those that care for him can't make the mistake of ignoring his rights if they want to do what's right. That's why it matters, mum."
And just the way that she sneers as she emphasizes her words twice seems to really bring the message home before Ron says: "Harry growing in this way means no one, not friend, not enemy, can ever walk all over him again, which is his good right. End of discussion." And Ferdinand seems to take this to heart as he reads on.

We kept … GOMEN MEPROUIM.

"I still can't believe that Harry hid his own dyslexia from us for so long." Hermione then mumbles and Andy replies: "It's due to his abuse, especially the emotional side. He's been alone for most of his life, so to admit that he has flaws is to him like a way of saying I'm not a perfect friend, just leave me be, I'll be fine."
"Surely –." Both Hermione and Molly try to say, but Andy smiles them both silent and says: "That's how Harry used to think. Like I said, it's an aftereffect from years of being emotionally abused and alone. You've seen for yourself that Harry is growing out of that." And the two quiet down, obviously relieved as Ferdinand reads on.

"What the … ignored him.

"We really shouldn't have." Annabeth mumbles with a grimace and Ferdinand looks up as he asks: "Is this going to explain how I've missed so much of my nephew's life?" To which the trio nods and Molly asks: "Were you – were you in any danger?" And another set of nods has her gasping and has Ferdinand reading hurriedly.

The front … Uncle Ferdinand!"

And this instantly makes the man shout in a bleating sound and throw the book up, the fright on his face proving he has already deduced what kind of danger Percy, Annabeth and Grover are going to be in. This really concerns me, yet then Lord Hades takes the book off the ground and dusts it off before he himself starts to read.

We stopped … I smell?"

"Damn, that is one killer skill there." Charlie then says, yet while his mother glares at him, does Hades nod and say: "Indeed. I believe it's important for both wizards and Demigods to be able to come up with a cover story on the spot. Well done, Perseus." And the son of Poseidon smiles at his uncle, does said uncle then read on.

"Oh, my … of kelp."

"You were jealous that Percy came up with the cover story, weren't you?" One of the Stoll brothers asks laughing, but Annabeth turns red and says: "Actually, I felt impressed he was able to think up such a story while hungry and didn't want to admit it." At which both brothers laugh and Percy hugs her as Hades reads on.

The warehouse … about food.

Yet because I have been reading up on ancient myths since finding out that I am a Son of Hermes, do I instantly realize what this description means and I turn white. Hermione also gasps and grabs Ron's hand, the boy himself having turned white to indicate that the both of them realized the same. And with dread, do I listen to the reading.

Go ahead … behind us.

By now half the audience seems to have caught onto the danger levels and all of them are either holding onto each other or gripping the arm rests. The only ones who seem unaware or unable to grasp the seriousness of all this are Oliver, Viktor and Angelina and this really impresses me about the others as Hades reads on.

All I … out front.

"I know now is not really the time to ask this, but – what are soda, nachos and pretzels?" Ron asks and then we all yelp as a voice sounds behind me and says: "I'll make some tomorrow." And we turn around, our eyes wide when we see that Harry is looking quite bedraggled and is actually riding on Chiron's back.
"His first accident. His ankle's twisted. I gave him some nectar, so he should be able to stand on it in an hour or so, but for now –." Chiron says and we all nod, me feeling slightly proud when I see Molly looking guilty and Chiron helps Harry sit next to me before he himself crouches down next to Percy and then Hades reads on.

"Please, sit … introduced ourselves.

"Can I ask you something, Percy?" Harry suddenly asks and when Percy nods, does he ask: "What bus did you guys take? At what time did it leave?" The lad seems to think on this and mumbles: "The bus left – I'm pretty sure it was sometime between nine-thirty and ten past nine." At this Harry nods, but he doesn't seem done.
He then turns to Lord Hades asks: "And at what time did the Furies return to you, Lord Hades?" Yet the man already seems onto what Harry is thinking and says: "Three hours later. Which gave them plenty of time to tell that Aunty Em all about their little encounter." Which shocks most of us, but not Harry, who nods and says:
"And that is how that monster knew Annabeth's name. The Furies escaped the blown up bus, licked their wounds and then realized how close they were to one of their kin and decided to use that fact to their benefit." And while even the three travelers seem amazed and shocked at this, does Hades just smile at him before he reads on.

Our hostess … be waiting."

By now Harry is grimacing something awful and he says: "This sounds like my second year all over. I thought I could trust someone when I was in a dangerous situation and only realized too late that he was the cause of the dangerous situation." At this Ginny nods emphatically, but then Molly jumps up and furiously shouts:
"Harry James Potter! How dare you bring up that awful time. You apologize to Ginny right now, young man." Yet Harry just glares at her and while I know why, does he snap back: "Ginny doesn't seem bothered that I'm bringing it up. She seems to emphasize with me." And the woman looks at her daughter in shock as Hades reads on.

She sounded … of statues.

"She actually led you back outside. That monster is either bloody confident or utterly stupid." Ron mutters and Percy answers: "Neither, she was cunning with her food, but probably got told by the Furies that our escape was just a case of luck." At this Ron nods, yet the words seem to unsettle Harry for some reason.
"The food was drugged." He mumbles and we all turn to him as he says: "There – there must have been potions in the food. Grover was never affected, because he didn't eat any of it. Annabeth was less affected, because she stopped early. But Percy was most affected, because he ate practically all the food she presented him.
She must have put a mild sleeping draught or maybe a draught of peace in the food, to mellow you guys out and increase her chances. She probably would have put in something stronger if the Furies had told her your escape was skill instead of luck based." At this the three grimace, yet they still nod and Hades reads on.

Aunty Em … lady's voice.

"Wait, is this who I think it is?" Harry suddenly asks and I can't help but ask: "Caught on, have you?" Yet Harry ignores this and turns to Percy as he says: "You having to work so hard to focus wasn't your fault. You weren't just affected by some drug, that blasted woman was using Parsletongue to top it all off."
"What's Parsletongue?" Percy asks and Harry answers: "The ability to talk to snakes. I found out about it in my second, though I unknowingly used it just before coming to Hogwarts myself." The son of Poseidon looks shocked and then he says: "That sure makes a lot of sense." And Hades himself nods before he reads on.

"I will … Grover gasped.

And this seems to be all the satyr in question needs to hear as he sighs and grimaces before he turns to Lord Hades and says: "Thank you, my Lord, for this new chance at life." But the God says: "I only work on the whims of Lady Hecate. If you ever meet her, thank her." And the satyr nods, a little startled, as the God reads on.

"Look away … look up."

Yet at this Harry tenses up and I turn to him. Instantly I get worried as Harry's face is dark with pain and fear and he is actually suppressing his body from shivering too badly. "Harry?" I whisper softly, not wanting to draw the attention of the others. Yet Harry's voice draws attention as he mumbles: "It's just like that night."
The others all turn to him, all of them gasping or their eyes widening as they notice what my godson's state is and Molly wants to rush over, but gets stopped by Arthur and Andy. "He needs this." The latter mumbles and then I notice Harry looking up, his dark green eyes meeting Percy's blue ones and he says: "Don't."
Yet while this seems to be the only thing my godson can bring out, does Percy seem to get what he means and he says: "Don't worry, I didn't." And those four words seem to act like a balm on Harry's state, the trembling stopping instantly and Harry sagging against me, tears of relief sticking to his eyes as he closes them.
I pull the boy close to my side and whisper: "You really need to talk about that night again sometime soon. In an area you feel better, more in control." And Harry nods before he mumbles: "Later." And while I would have preferred it if he gave a specific time or date, do I just accept this nonetheless and Hades calmly reads on.

I fought … not suffer."

By now I can't help but feel confused as something doesn't feel right. And while Harry seems to only be listening with one ear, does it seem as if the others are more attentive as Neville mumbles: "Someone's after Percy. Someone strong. Maybe –." He then turns to Percy and the other two who had been there and asks:
"The one who turned the Furies away from Lord Hades?""How did you figure that out?" Annabeth asks and Neville answers: "Both the Furies and Medusa. They're monsters, so they should want to take out any and all Demigods. But – it almost seems as if they are trying to safe Percy up for whoever is giving the orders."
At this Percy nods, but then the twins ask: "Wow Neville, how did you manage that?" And the boy laughs as he says: "I spend the last four years with this lot." And he motions for both Ron and Hermione as well as my godson. And while Molly wants to reprimand him, does she get silenced by us laughing as Hades reads on.

"No," I … Not fun."

"I'm surprised the magic didn't wear off after she got killed like that. What, is she going to get reborn with a new head, but still with the curse in affect or something?" Hermione asks and to all of our shock, does Hades mutter: "She already has been. She's back in her emporium and planning to trick Percy back there."
This frightens us all, yet then Hades turns to his new glove and says: "Which really makes it a shame that I have this now. You, Harrison, would have had a good chance against her if I hadn't take it." "Wait, does that mean that I'm no longer a Parsletongue?" Harry asks and Hades answers: "Exactly, yes." Shocking the boy.
He then turns to Percy with a look of guilt on his face, yet Percy just looks at Hades and asks: "Isn't there anyway to break the curse? Those people really don't deserve to remain like that." Yet Hades grimaces and says: "There is, but it's unlikely. You, Perseus, need to beat her three times in a row. And seeing respawning time –."
At this Percy nods, his face determined and he says: "I'll go back to her once we get out of here. Could you let Nico know when she gets reborn again after that?" And the God of Death nods again before Percy turns to his friends, who instantly chorus: "Count on it." Making most of us smile at the trio as Hades reads on.

He snatched … of him."

"I really wasn't paying attention there. If I had, I might have realized how wrong I was." Annabeth mumbles to which Harry shrugs and says: "The acts of the parents don't always have to affect the lives of the kid." And while I know that he is referencing Snape, does Annabeth seem to appreciate his words as Hades reads on.

My face … Persephone's garden.

This makes a lot of us look at Hades in utter shock, but the man says: "I used to use her to punish some of my minions. I would sent them to her if they failed me too many times and she would send them back to me like that. I have no use to dead mortals, whether in stone or not." Which reassures those shocked as Hades reads on.

According to … you're impertinent."

"They deserved it though." Harry then mumbles to which Molly snaps: "Harry James –." But the boy glares at her and swings his arm again. Yet this time it doesn't make the woman get shot out of her seat. Instead it causes a small, familiar note to shoot out of his pocket and fly over to the woman, who catches it out of instinct.
"Read that." Harry snarls and while I wonder when Molly will ask why Harry is being so violent with her, does the woman read it. Her eyes widen and Harry says: "My father blamed Percy for crimes he never could have committed. They deserved a package like that." And while Molly looks at him startled, does Hades read on.

I poured … new plan."

And there the God yet again lets down the book and Mr. Ferdinand sighs as he says: "So that's why I've been gone for so long. Thank you, Lord Hades. And my apologies for making you do my job." Yet Hades just lies the book down next to him and a shadow swallows it up before making it reappear next to Molly.
"Your turn." The God of the Dead calmly says before crossing his legs and wrapping his fingers around his left knee, his eyes once more aimed at Harry with a calculative, yet greatly respecting look. And while Harry sends him back a smile that proves he greatly approves of the God's methods, does Molly read the chapter title.

12. WE GET ADVICE FROM A POODLE

At this the woman looks up and asks: "Is one of you an Animagus?" But the three shake their heads and Grover says: "Just read on, it's usually explained somewhere in the chapter." Yet to this Harry stands up and says: "Be that as it may, it's almost dinner time and I made a promise. I'll be back later." And he leaves the room.
"Are we really going to –?" Molly asks, but Andy, Augusta and I silence her with a glare and I snarl: "Molly, let me make one thing clear. Harry was the first to come here for a reason. It was on Lady Hecate's orders and it was to help him heal of everything he's been through since Voldemort took him his mother and James.
Harry has free reign here. As long as he either treats others with respect or has a good reason not to, there is nothing any of us will do to stop him. If anything, the only reason we are send here, is to realize how much we have failed him and to make up for all that failing. So stop judging every little thing he does – right now.
And if you don't feel like doing so, too bad. At London I was in the minority with you, Albus and the others constantly against my arguments. Now, it's the other way around. And no, I am not enjoying that, but it – is – necessary. You need to realize that you are this time the one in the minority and that we are unanimous in this decision."

The woman looks shocked and looks around, yet everyone she looks at has either apathic or guilty looks on their faces as they nod to prove they agree with me. Then she turns to Andy and the woman says: "For your information, Molly, I think Harry is a more complex patient, who needs my help more, than even Sirius.
And we both know where he's been suffering for twelve years straight, don't we?" At this Molly cringes before she looks at the door that Harry vanished through and asks: "But – but how – how could that –." And Andy sternly says: "Because Albus – was wrong. Now please read." And as if in trance, does Molly comply.

We were … stupid quest?"

"You were going on a quest you didn't even like? Why? What did the Gods offer you in return?" Mr. Ferdinand asks the boy and Percy shrugs as he says: "Not much, other than my innocence proven. I was more-so doing this for personal reasons, really." And this is something I can really emphasize with as Molly reads on.

"No. This … license for?"

Yet at this Ferdinand grimaces and says: "Grover." But the lad says: "I found him." Shocking his uncle and the satyr asks: "You – you – you did? Where?" But Grover first shudders and then looks down and says: "There where no satyr would dare to thread. It's in a few books from now." At which his uncle nods as Molly reads.

A strange … to him?"

At this Ferdinand turns to Lord Hades, yet the man answers: "Trust me, you're better off not knowing." And this instantly makes everyone turn grim before Ferdinand asks: "There's no chance for him – to be like me?" To which Lord Hades answers: "No, because he's not dead – and he'll never be able to die either."
This shocks everyone and Hades says: "Just stop asking. Like I said, you're better of not knowing. If anything, I wish I hadn't told you that part." At this the others grimace and Ferdinand goes to sit with Grover, who now has Chiron crouched down next to him. And while the rest of us really feel for the two, does Molly read on.

"None.""But … figured out."

"I swear, Percy. One minute you are practically Harry's twin, the next you remind me of Hermione and me before we became friends. You're scary like that, you know." Ron laughs as he says this and Percy smiles at him before happily grabbing onto Annabeth's hand and giving her cheek a loving kiss as Molly reads on.

"Don't be … pressed him.

"Wait, you actually blamed yourself for what happened back then? Was it anything like the whole thing with Percy and the Minotaur? Cause if it was, you really had no reason to feel guilty and the Coven had no reason to blame you." Hermione says and Grover smiles: "I know that, now." At which Molly calmly reads on.

"But as … have any.

"Why did you look to him for answers anyway? No offense, Percy, but you're the one with the least experience there. How could you possibly know what these two supposed experts didn't even know?" Ron asks and Percy shrugs as he says: "I guess it's just what friends do." At which Ron nods and his mother continues the chapter.

I thought … my mother."

"Oh dear, what happened to her?" Molly asks, instantly worried and Percy answers: "She was taken by Lord Hades. It's all part of the plot. But don't worry, I got her back in the end. She's back home.""Isn't she worried then?" The woman asks and Percy sighs as he says: "All the time. Whenever I leave for Camp.
But – she doesn't know I'm here right now. I was at Camp when I was taken. As far as she knows I am busy working to fix the damage from our latest big fight. She knows I'm safe and healthy, she's just a little unaware as to where." And this last bit seems to upset Molly, but then I say: "She'll probably be brought here soon."
Which instantly seems to cheer everyone up and instantly Percy jokes: "You think Harry will allow her to his domain?""If she can prove her worth and work the appliances, probably." I joke back and then say: "Besides, if she's as great as the book says, it'll be good for Harry to work on meals with her by his side."

"And why do you think that of her and not me? You don't –." Molly snaps, but I snap back: "I think that, because Sally Jackson sounds like a much more laidback and accepting person, instead of someone who tries to push her opinion onto everyone, regardless of their own. She lets them make their own choices, whether good or bad.
To put it simply, Molly. She is the kind of mother that worries and wants to protect their kid, but is also willing to let them make their own mistakes. You, on the other hand, rant and berate your kids even before they can make a potential mistake. That is why I think Sally will be a better mother figure for Harry to have.
Besides –." Here I turn from her shocked form to Percy and say: "I think Sally is the kind of mother who will adopt other kids into her heart, but not expect them to consider her their mother at the same time." At which Percy smiles while the other Demigods nod to prove that I'm right and while again in a daze, does Molly read on.

Grover blew … about him."

"Good grief, were you wrong about that." Hades suddenly says and we all turn to him as he says: "I'm sure you won't like hearing this, Perseus, but one thing that really made Zeus suspicious of Poseidon – was him constantly hiding himself away whenever he wanted to gaze at you from afar. It was his way of bending the rules."
Percy looks shocked and asks: "Wait, dad – dad was – watching over me?" At which Hades nods and says: "That, playing with Gabe whenever he almost went too far and giving your mother messages to help keep you safe and out from under Zeus' radar. Trust me, he cared." And Percy smiles at this as Molly calmly reads on.

Grover gazed … he thinks."

"Why would you lie to him? To yourself?" Ferdinand asks and Percy sighs as he says: "It's because of the circumstances. I felt I couldn't really appreciate the gesture of dad recognizing me, because it happened right when the problems between him and Zeus were reaching a head. As if I was a last resort and nothing more."
He then turns to Hades and says: "As you just found out, I had no idea how much effort dad was going through to prove he did care. He was being forced to being an indirect part of my life and for my own mental health and my safety, did mum keep to those rules as well. And that went on for years, until all this happened.
Then mum gets taken, I find out about the problems between the gods, discover my father is one of them and get accused of stuff I didn't do before being offered this quest. You can guess how a teen of my age would behave to that." At which the Satyr laughs and says: "Yeah, I sure can." I snicker too as I listen to Molly reading.

Grover pulled … was asleep.

At this Percy smiles at his best friend and says: "And you call yourself a bad Keeper. You knew me better than I wanted to know myself and knew exactly what I needed. Yet still it took you so long to admit you were a worthy Keeper, honestly." And the younger satyr sends him a playful glare while the rest laughs and Molly reads on.

In my … treacherous gods!

At this Hermione gasps and Annabeth groans: "Oh Di Immortales, you can't be serious. What did you find out this time?" And the girl whimpers: "I – I – I know who – who –." But Annabeth grimaces and says: "Never mind, it's alright. You don't have to say it." And Hermione sends her a relieved look as Molly worriedly reads on.

The spirits … zombie lives."

"You should show him some more care." Molly snaps at the girl, but then a cold voice says: "You have no right to berate others on that right now, Mrs. Weasley." And I notice Harry walking in with a large, rectangular shaped plate covered in bowls, dishes and plates, all covered with lids floating just above his right shoulder.
He moves it over to the center between us all and says: "Plates on laps, please." And when we have done as he asked, does Harry remove the lids, lie down the plate and then take a stance. He seems to focus on something and then starts moving his arms in each of our directions with rapid speed, shocking us all.
Yet as he does this, does it cause for all kinds of beef, meat, potatoes, greens, vegetables and even pastas to shoot out of and off of the bowls and plates they are on and to land on our plates perfectly, only a few drops of different sauces either dripping on the floor or splashing against our fronts as the lad does this.
We all look shocked and then Harry starts to pant, but he smiles at seeing how well he got to fill our plates and says: "Bon appetite." And he happily takes some broccoli covered in cheese-sauce, roasted potatoes and tartar meat on his own plate before happily retaking his seat on my couch next to me. And I happily pull him close as he does.

We all enjoy our meals, Ferdinand and Grover sending Harry a grateful smile for the enchiladas and the spaghetti made with spinach and mushrooms that he presented them. And while Molly looked shocked at the plate on her lap at first, does she silently enjoy her meal, this time not trying to belittle Harry or deny his talent.
"Guess she can learn, after all. Let's see how long it'll last." I think to myself and then hear Harry mumble something under his breath. And it takes me a few minutes before I realize that, while he fakes moaning in delight, he actually says: "Enchant the door before we go to bed." And I lower my head in order to surreptitiously nod.

We all finish our meals, some taking longer than others as they seem to savor almost every bite and compliments ring throughout the room afterwards. Yet then Percy asks: "Harry, would you mind if mum were to test her own skill when she comes? If you don't want her there after the first time, she'll accept. It's your call."
At this Harry seems to turn thoughtful and he says: "I got to admit, there are a few appliances in there that are better being worked by two people instead of one and your mum does know more about Muggle stuff than I do after the last few years. But it stays my domain." At this Percy nods, but then Molly asks:
"Harry, why would you accept a total stranger, but not me? You've known me for years and –.""And that is exactly why. The kitchen is my domain. I don't want someone in there who tries to make me think they know better than me. I'd like someone who listens to me, not someone who tells me what to do or how to do it.
And Percy's mum, from what we've read of her, sounds like that kind of person. That – and she and I have a pretty similar past. We both lost our parents at young age and both had to sacrifice a lot before we found happiness. It's why I'm looking forward to meeting her. Now can you read on?" And the woman grimaces as she does.

I was … the poodle.

By now quite a few of the kids are either trying to hold back their laughter or laughing hard enough they're almost in stitches and I notice Remus glaring at me playfully. To this I shrug and say: "What can I say, I was a puppy back then." At which the man rolls his eyes and Harry laughs harder as he hears this before Molly reads on.

Grover explained … at noon."

"Will that be any safer?" Molly asks worriedly and Annabeth smiles at her as she says: "We may not have gotten all the way where we wanted to be, but that was because the reward wasn't enough to pay for the costs, not due to any dangers." And the woman sighs relieved before she asks: "So, what happens now?"
And Harry sighs as he says: "I think we best just wait for the next two readers, I send Dumbledore one more letter to catch him up to date on most of what's been going on and then we head for bed.""Won't that mess with the timelines even more?" "Not really, seems like sleeping time is based on how many chapters we have read."
This confuses the lot and Harry says: "What I mean is this. The amount of hours spend outside this realm when we're asleep depends on how many chapters we have read that day. And today we read – wow, seventeen chapters. That's practically my entire first year in one day." And the others gasp in shock as they hear this.

"Damn Percy, your books are a lot easier to get through than mine. We needed two to three days to get through my first year." Harry says, but then Molly shrieks: "But that means we'll lose an entire day back home." To which Harry says: "And that is why I want to write the Headmaster before bed. So he'll know what to expect."
The woman seems hesitant to this and so Arthur says: "Molly, remember why Harry was brought here first. Hecate's Realm, but Harry's rules." And to my great annoyance does the woman seem to hesitate before accepting this. Yet Harry is uncaring of this and just turns to where the woman appeared, awaiting the new arrivals.

Molly, Molly, Molly.
Now I know that the group had "dinner" in a previous chapter, but I am probably going to change that to just a late lunch or something. Also, don't expect Sally to come until somewhere down the end of the first book and know that – I have no idea who the new arrivals are going to be. Nonetheless, I am proud of this chapter.
Happy new year,

Venquine1990