Majorca

by Nanchih

The Dursleys have to take Harry to Majorca with them, and everything changes. They meet a Power no one expected. A Dark Lord is going down hard! Dumbledore said "As it is with the Godfather, so with the Godson." He never imagined this would be the result! Not my characters, only playing here.

The flight was crowded, and late. The weather was cold and wet. Mrs. Casey - older, conservatively dressed, and plump – was tired. Behind her in line was a family of 4, a young couple with two very small boys. The older one, perhaps 4, was quite fat, whining to his stick-thin mother that he wanted the window seat. His fat father was holding four carry-on bags while the mother (honestly, she was so thin she looked ill) tried to keep the boy calm. All three of them were blond, though the mothers' looked dyed. Their smaller second boy was quiet, wearing his tiny backpack in front of him and clutching it as though he was afraid of losing it. He had unruly black hair, a bad cut with a bandage, and stayed close behind their father.

Finally her flight to Majorca was called, and they were in the first boarding group, too. Mrs. Casey slid quietly into her front window seat. The seats were in rows of five across, 1A&B, the aisle, and then 3,4,5 at the other window. Being the first row, there was a bit more legroom but you were really too close to enjoy the in-flight movie much. But the bathroom was just there, too, very convenient. The little family turned out to be occupying the other seats in the row. The fat child addressed as Dudley was installed by the other window, with his mother in the middle and his father on the aisle. The quiet, tiny boy was put next to her, with strong admonisions to 'behave and not bother anyone because Vernon was right there to watch you!' Vernon spoke to Mrs. Casey, saying, "This is Harry. You be sure to tell me if he bothers you!" The boy nodded and shrunk into his seat, still clutching his backpack. Vernon pushed the baggage into the compartment, strapped himself in, and tried to doze off. His wife was offering gum, and gave a piece to both boys. This seemed to surprise Harry, who didn't know what to do with it. Mrs. Casey made sure he was strapped down, and told him to unwrap the gum and chew it hard as the plane took off.

The plane rapidly reached altitude above the clouds and leveled off, flying South. The sunlight streaming in through the right windows over the clouds was brilliant, so blinding that almost everyone over there immediately closed the shutters. Dudley was whining loudly that he 'wanted to see the island!' even though they were still too far to even glimpse it. His harried mother distracted him with some cookies and a coloring pad. She had to keep alert to catch crayons as he dropped them, but did not stop him coloring on the walls as well as his paper.

Harry was ignored. He remained huddled in his seat, clutching his pack and still enjoying his gum. After things seemed calm, he unzipped the top slightly and slipped his hand inside, cuddling something fuzzy. When the snack cart came by he was astonished to be offered a juice box and pretzles. Dudley screamed for orange fizzy drink, throwing crayons at the attendant who didn't pour it fast enough. His mother apologized to him, and pulled a chocolate bar out of his bag to appease him when he didn't want the pretzles. The attendant slipped the second little bag to an astonished Harry, putting them into his open pack.

As things settled down again, Mrs. Casey decided to take an active role. She turned to Harry and asked him, quietly, if he would like her to tell him a story about Christmas.

Astonished, Harry first checked on Vernon, who seemed asleep. Petunia was tidying up around Dudley, who had also drifted off. Harry turned back and nodded. Mrs. Casey was Salvation Army. She wasn't going to miss this chance. As the plane droned East, she told the little boy the eternal story of the God who loved him enough to come as a baby. She taught him, quietly, to sing "Jesus Loves Me", a song that seemed to be full of wonder to him.

Far too soon the plane was descending, the shutters opened and people gawked out the windows for their first views of the vacation island, soaking in sunlight in the blue-green sea. Dudley was fully occupied with the view. People around them were tucking magazines back into bags and gathering small belongings.

Vernon had not been asleep. He had listened to the strange lady telling Harry the story, and teaching him the song. It was a song he knew from his own childhood, reminding him of his parents taking Madge and himself to Church on Easter and Christmas. He had been thinking hard the entire trip. Now he spoke to Mrs. Casey. "Where do you go to church?"

Mrs. Casey told him, "Greater Whinging Salvation Army, Surrey."

"Perfect. We live in Little Whinging. Do you have the address handy? I think we would like to visit."

"Of course, and I have some literature handouts I can give you." She suited action to words, giving him the church calling card and a few small flyers. Vernon gave her one of his own personal cards in return.

That was all. The plane finished taxi-ing, and the doors were soon opened. Mrs. Casey stayed in her seat, because she was going on to meet her family in Madrid. It was a roundabout way to get there but she would have had to wait hours longer for the next direct flight.

The Dursleys hurried out, being at the front, with many crowding close behind in a hurry to get to their own destinations. Mrs. Casey did notice one thing. Vernon made sure little Harry was in front of him as they exited, and that his pack was again zipped.

Harry was totally confused. First Uncle had helped him out of the plane, making sure he didn't get lost in the crowd. At dinner he had been ordered a child's dinner with a grilled cheese sandwich, some fries, a fruit drink and a cookie and allowed to eat it all! When Dudley – who had a burger with his fries, soda, and an ice cream – wanted Harry's cookie Vernon had stopped him from grabbing it and ordered an extra! By this point Dudley and Petunia were also confused.

Finally in their hotel, Vernon had insisted their suite have TWO cots for the children, instead of making Harry sleep in the corner closet. Harry had been bathed in warm water and dressed in the soft, worn pajamas that were new to him. Forced to bring him along on their trip, Petunia had stopped at a second hand shop and purchased several short sets, swim trunks, pajamas, the jacket and backpack, a NEW packet of underwear that actually fit, and new trainers! Harry was absolutely overwhelmed. The only thing he carried that was his very own was the battered black toy dog in his backpack. He had been warned to never take it out because if he lost it they were NOT getting him another! He had also noticed Dudley noting that warning, and was sure Dudley would try to take the dog if he could. The toy stayed in his backpack, which he even wore to bed. Wore in front of him, to keep safer.

With the boys in bed, and the telly on an old movie, Vernon and Petunia settled on their tiny balcony (with the door open so they could hear if the boys needed them) and finally Petunia could ask some questions.

"What's going on, Vernon?" You haven't been acting yourself. You're even taking care of that freak! Is someone watching us? I know I've been busy keeping Dudley calm."

"Not exactly. I finally had some time to think, on the plane. You didn't hear that lady telling Harry a story, but I did, and I watched him lap it up. It made me realize we may have been doing this all wrong. When we took Harry we swore we would stamp the freakishness out of him! That crazy coot's letter told us to treat him as our own, and we haven't been. But, I don't think even treating him exactly like Dudley would work. However, what I think might work is something we will have to do together, as a family, and we can't do it half-hearted. We need to think about this, study it together, and stick together. There is a lot we don't know."

Sobered, she asked, "Just what are you thinking about?"

"That lady was Salvation Army. I think we need to go to church – ALL of us. I think we need to study the Bible. What I'm thinking about is the bit where witches can be exorsed, the Evil driven out of them. I also remember a story I heard once where evil was driven out of someone, but nothing was done to keep it out so the demons came back 7 times worse. So, if we can get the evil exorsed out of Harry we will have to keep going, fill the emptiness. We might wind up raising a Priest or something, but that's better than what we've got now!"

"But, what about Dudley?"

"I said ALL of us. Yes, he's perfect already, so we don't need to worry about him. He'll be fine, and have a grand time. We'll have them in all the children's activities, send them to camp in fun places, everything. We'll have TWO perfect boys, treat them just alike. Twins, for all practical purposes."

"Where do we start? We're here in a hotel, a long way from home. I thought we were thinking about a time-share cottage, a vacation home here?"

"The lady gave me some flyers. There has to be a Bible around here somewhere, or I can find a bookstore when we go shopping. There is no reason I can think of to not look for a nice vacation home. We'll relax, take the boys to that park and everything else. We need to get you to that beach, first. You're looking peaky. You need some sun!"

In the room, Harry was fast asleep, his grasp on his pack relaxed. Dudley was awake and pouting. He just knew it would be fun to take that toy away from Harry. Never mind that he had a dozen stuffed toys in his own cot. He wanted Harry's! The problem was the cot. It was the old fashioned kind with tall sides and a top! He couldn't figure how to get out, or how to get into Harry's. He was pretty sure his parents would not give him the toy – he had tried tantrums, which got him lots of new stuffed animals but not the 'Nasty old thing' which was all Harry had. He sat there in the darkened room, pouting until he tumbled over, asleep.

At the beach both boys were given pails and small shovels, and set to making piles on opposite sides of the umbrella Petunia was dozing under. Dudley made one attempt to get into Harry's pack, which seemed to contain only clean clothing. Before he could dump a bucket of sand in, Vernon scooped him up, zipped the bag shut, and began wiping sunscreen on him. It was sticky, yucky stuff, especially the white coating on his nose! Finished, Vernon put a white hat on him and dropped him back with his own toys. Then Harry got the same treatment, which Dudley thought was hilarious! It was sunny, but the water was really a bit cool for much swimming. The boys were happy playing in the sand. Lunch was chili dogs and lemonade from the beach stand, followed by huge ice creams. Huge if you were 4, anyhow. Back to the hotel they went for baths and naps. The boys were surprisingly tired, even if they were big boys who didn't take naps anymore.

While they slept, Vernon went shopping, coming back with a soft leather bound English Bible, a pile of local maps and tourist brochures, and a few other things. The boys each discovered new stuffed dolphins when they woke up, and Petunia had a couple of bright sun dresses she had admired in the hotel shop. The dolphins had zipper compartments to keep their pajamas neat, and Harry discovered his was large enough to hold Pafoo as well. Dudley did not notice the dog being tucked into the green dolphin, and was delighted with his own blue one.

The second day was planned for the nearby children's adventure park. The hotel had arranged tickets and transportation with a bus. Apparently there were several families going, so they all started talking. Both boys wore sunscreen and the white hats again, and each had a small pack with a set of clean clothing. Dudley's included some candy, though Vernon insisted there would be plenty of snacks at the park. Petunia wore one of her new sun dresses, which gathered several compliments. Her new white straw hat was wide, with flowers, and matched her shoulder bag. She also wore sunscreen – Vernon insisted she still looked pale. All four wore huge sunglasses from the hotel shop. The sun really was much stronger here! They had a wonderful day, completely wearing the boys out again. In the late afternoon they had gone into the Botanical Gardens, which Petunia loved. Since the boys were so tired they had hired two strollers, and the boys napped the entire time, waking only as Petunia was buying some garden books in the shop, including an illustrated one on the traditional language of flowers. The ride home on the bus was more of a small tour of the area, with the driver pointing out nice restaurants and shops. Dropping things in their room and cleaning up, Petunia called the desk, asked for a taxi and a reservation, and they returned to one of the restaurants. It was an Italian Pasta and Seafood buffet and very nice. Petunia had a shrimp salad. Vernon and the boys ate large plates of fish-and-noodles, with Dudley demolishing the plate of breadsticks provided. Half the bread went on the floor, part was consumed, and part was covered in sauce and left. Each of them had a large fruit lemonade. Vernon had a piece of pie after his noodles. There was wine available, but the adults were not interested tonight.

As the boys went quickly to sleep, Vernon pulled out the stack of papers Mrs. Casey had given him. Together they began researching, looking up every Bible reference as they read aloud to each other. At first it was difficult to find the references, even though most of the verses numbered seemed to be in the book of John. There were at least four sections named John, and the last part also referred to John. Once they figured out each section was called a 'book', with chapters, it went easier. Using a highlighter they marked each verse from the papers, seeing that several were referred to many times and they all went together. This took several nights because they were both so new to the ideas they read. When they finished they decided to read this Book of John straight through, which also took several nights. In fact, the study took their whole vacation

While they did not find a time-share they liked, or even a small house to buy, they did find a rental agent with an assortment of places. This might even work out better, because they could rent a larger place if they wanted to some years, with no commitment. They set up an account, and arranged for a beach cottage on the shady side of the island for the month of July. With six bedrooms and three baths Madge could come if she liked. It was stressed it was a No Dogs place, which pleased Petunia. Madge would have to leave Ripper behind.

Before they left they bought each boy a new Winter outfit. It was beautiful here, but back in Surry it was Winter. Even though it was warm the morning they left, they wore long pants, socks with their trainers, and there was a heavy sweater in each backpack. They had bought so many things while here that Vernon had the hotel ship a large box for him. It was mostly the Summer clothing and the dolphins. Pafoo was back in Harry's backpack, under the sweater. Dudley seemed to have forgotten Pafoo, but Harry was taking no chances.

In London, much to their surprise, Vernon checked them into another hotel! Then he spent several hours on the telephone. At lunch he told them he was having little work done on the house, so they would stay here to avoid paint fumes. In the afternoon they went to Harrods for the White Sales, which greatly pleased Petunia. She had never been to those before. Vernon told her she had to outfit three complete bedrooms he was having re-done, as well as buying lots of new towels, and warm clothing for both boys. She was on a mission!

Their house currently had three large bedrooms and one much smaller, mostly used for storage, and a bath at the end of the hall. Now there would be two large-size rooms, plus a new Master Bath for their room, and a new bath between two smaller back bedrooms. The hall bathroom would remain where it was. The resized guest room would still use that one. He would have a small television installed for Madge, who liked her soaps. The two back bedrooms would be as equal as possible, being one for each boy. Harry's room would be painted green, and Dudley's blue, both with white trim. Since both boys were moving out of cots, Vernon ordered matching white Captain's beds with 4 drawers underneath, and a matching wardrobe with four smaller drawers under the hanging compartment, low bookshelf, trash cans and large toy cabinets, to be delivered and set up when the house was ready. Each room also got a low table with a couple of chairs. The carpenters were installing sturdy shelving on the walls by the bath, as well as plenty of soundproofing in all the new walls. Petunia was in charge of ordering all of the needed bedding and curtains. The floors were left as hardwood so as to be easy to clean, but the stairs and hall were to be carpeted to reduce noise.

Monday Vernon took the train home. Petunia took Dudley with her, while he took 'Hair-Bear' with him. He needed to arrange for the current things in the bedrooms to be put in storage so the carpenters could get busy! They were pleased to have such a large remodel job in the dead of Winter, and Vernon was willing to pay premium wages to get it done quickly! He had to go back to work on Monday next! He and Harry then took the local bus to find the church Mrs. Casey had given the card for.

The church was not hard to find, being right on the corner at the bus stop indicated on its card. It was a long, low brick building. In fact, it seemed to be several connected buildings. There was a sign giving the service hours near the main entrance. Walking around the side (an arrow pointed toward an office) revealed several entryways. One indicated hours for a food pantry. One gave hours for a gym, and the last was marked Office. The lights were on in the gym, so they tried that door and it opened. Several men and women were using weights and exercise machines. It really wasn't a full gymnasium, but it had a pretty good workout area as well as floor space with plenty of mats. Vernon indicated Harry should sit in one of the chairs by the entrance, which he did as a large, heavily muscled man came over to them wiping his head with a towel. "How may I help you?" He asked in a deep voice. "We don't get many strangers just walking in on a random afternoon. I'm the Pastor here, Rev. Gedney. My wife (he indicated a small woman doing dead lifts) is over there."

Vernon was already impressed. This was noting like what he expected in a church! This he could respect! "I'm Vernon Dursley. I work at Grunnings Drills. On vacation recently we met a woman I think is a member here – Mrs. Casey?" The Pastor nodded. "She gave us some flyers and your church card. She also spent time on the flight telling a story and teaching a song to my little Harry. He loved it, and I decided it might be good for him, good for our family, to come to church."

"He's pretty small," commented the Pastor. "Looks almost ill. How old is he?"

"He's very small for his age. He's 4.5 and will be doing intake this Fall. Dudley is the same age but is much larger. We've been doing everything we can think of but he's got bad problems." Harry squirmed a bit under their gaze. Even in clothes that fit, warm boots and full Winter wear, he was still so small! He had been eating good, balanced meals for the last month and thought he looked a lot better.

"How did he get that cut?" That really made Harry squirm.

"When his parents died. He's our nephew, and had it the night he was brought to us. He has an exam coming up to try to figure out why it won't heal." News to Harry, but so many things were happening. Hearing that he was about to see a Doctor was almost not a surprise. "Anyhow, we have been talking since meeting Mrs. Casey and we think we need a change in direction, for Harry's sake. Tell us more about the church, please. We've not been church-goers, and we haven't taken him at all."

"Come, Hair-Bear." was directed back at Harry, who blushed at the nickname his Uncle had begun using. The three went through an interior door into the office, flicking on lights. Harry sat in the corner. To his surprise the Pastor handed him a coloring page of a boat with many animals, with a rainbow arcing over it all. He was also handed a box of colors, and told to see what he could do with that. He bent over it, starting with the rainbow. He wasn't quite sure about the colors, but there were only 8 in the box and one was black so he simply colored each stripe a different color. He colored the boat brown, plants green, sky blue, and then randomly colored the animals every color in the box. He was only 4, so he didn't stay in the lines very well.

"Come, it's time to go back." Harry blinked. He had forgotten where he was! Uncle would be mad that he wasn't ready! He dropped the colors and paper and shot to his feet.

But Vernon wasn't angry. He had a whole pile of papers he was tucking into his case. "We'll be here on Sunday! I'm not sure when we'll get back into our home, but we'll be regulars as soon as possible. I'm looking forward to joining the training classes." He checked Harry's coat, tucked his hair under the watch cap, and led him back to the bus stop. "We're leaving the car in storage because of the carpenters, so we'll go back on the train." At the station he bought sandwiches and paper cups of tea, which they enjoyed on the train.

Petunia had also had a busy day. She had managed to order everything she could think of, and choose a complete wardrobe for Dudley (Most of which he would out grow before wearing.) Everything would be delivered except the few bags she brought back to the hotel. "Tomorrow you take Dudley to the children's museum, and I will take Harry to get more clothes. Harry won't take long once we are sure of his size, so we'll meet you for lunch. Then he has his exam at the Children's Hospital."

She was quick. The museum was a hit with both boys so they spent the next day there as well so Harry could see it. Vernon bought a great many 'educational' picture books, 2 View Masters with huge sets of disks, and flashcards. Dudley got a large set of plastic dinosaurs, and there was a matching set of zoo animals with cards for Harry. Thursday they went to the London Zoo, going to indoor exhibits but not the Reptile House, which had a sign up that the Reptiles were in hibernation. Friday was spent on a boat ride on the Thames. Saturday they watched the changing of the Guard at the Palace, and went to a children's play on Saturday afternoon before going home. Looking at all the things they had collected, Vernon gave up and rented a van. The boys slept all the way home. Since the house still reeked of paint fumes he put everything in the garage, and they went out for pizza. Another hotel for another week, but this time the small local one so Petunia could be on hand to supervise the furniture deliveries and installation. Even with her best friend Yvonne helping it would take weeks to get everything unpacked. Vernon was actually glad he had to go back to work. Vacation was exhausting!

Vernon had left his work number at the Clinic because of all the relocations. There would be a packet of information later, but they promised to call him as soon as possible with a quick discussion of their findings. If necessary there could be an in-depth meeting to discuss actions. The call came that Thursday, during his lunch break. He was eating at his desk because he had so much to do.

"We have gone over everything, and it seems clear your Harry has a bad infection in and around that cut. There is a lot of scar tissue running through the skin around it, and all of it seems to be infected. We are also pretty sure there is something actually embedded deep in the scar, keeping it raw and open. We suggest surgery to drain it, and eventually remove it all the way down to the bone and doing a skin graft to fill the hole. It will still have a scar, but it should be much smaller. However, the surgeons have looked at it and won't consider doing this until he is older and healthier. That infection must be dealt with. We're phoning a long-term prescription to your chemist. We will also want to have Harry here once a month for intensive treatment. That infection may be causing pressure behind his eyes and sinuses, which can affect his hearing, vision and dental development. A treatment plan will be sent to your family Doctor. He needs to make sure Harry has all of his shots. Harry also has malnutrition and signs of malformed bones. His regular Doctor needs to deal with that. Since he's coming up on his Intake, he should have his preschool Dental, Hearing, and Vision screenings as soon as possible. We are sending the complete packet to both your home and your Doctor."

That was an earful. He was actually becoming fond of his little Hair-Bear, who was such a quiet little boy compared to their happy and rambunctious Dudley! But for the child to be this sick and no one had realized it? He was horrified, realizing that their treatment of Harry had been completely unwarranted. After a few minutes of thought he could no longer eat his sandwich. He called Petunia to tell her.

Petunia was literally in the closet under the stairs. The snow-suited boys were taking a walk around the block with Yvonne, who thought it was funny to watch them struggle in the snow. Petunia knew this, but also knew Yvonne would not hurt them. Meanwhile, she was scrubbing out the boot cupboard to prepare it for fresh paint. She wanted no trace of Harry in there when the painter came. Scrubbed out, she left the light on and added a small fan to dry it. The broken cot and stained mattress were in the alley for the trash man. She had debated about burning the old blanket, but since it was the one Harry had come in, with his name in the corner and a fancy "P" in the middle, she had it in the washer instead. If it came out clean and not shredded she would put it in the top of his wardrobe for him. She wondered where the letter was, but couldn't remember if she had kept it. Then the phone rang, so she had to go to the kitchen.

In the dump the construction company had used a crumpled letter was deep underground, slowly becoming soaked. It fizzed in an almost radioactive manner, but there were no people or even animals in its' sphere. It rotted, unnoticed.

The blanket came out looking great, so she put Pafoo in the next load (pinned in a pillowcase in case he came apart.) Pafoo came out looking as though he had just come from the store! Harry brushed his silky locks and tied on a fresh red ribbon, placing him on the bed, murmuring the whole time about how much he loved his Pafoo. Pafoo, previously a mess, was clearly a black Afghan.

Far away a cold prisoner woke up feeling very strange. He was clean, his hair was brushed, and his ragged uniform looked new. He felt better. When he shifted to dog shape he discovered the changes went along. He was very confused!

That night after dinner the four sat around the table, as they did every night now to read the Bible and go over the boys Awana verses together. However, tonight Vernon read only a bit, and then told the boys they had some important things to tell them.

He began by telling Harry "You are very sick, with a nasty infection from that cut. The Doctors are going to heal it as soon as possible, but you are going to have to take a lot of medicine and special care before they can even try the surgery that might help. You are starting the medicine tonight."

"Dudley, you are going to have to be our helper in this." This made Dudley proud! "You are going to have to be Harry's protecter. Try to watch that the other children don't hurt him playing too rough. Get help from grownups if he needs it. Tell us if you think he is too tired, or seems sicker. You will both be starting school soon, and we want it to be a fun experience for both of you, but Harry cannot be as active as you are."

Harry was confused. He actually felt better than he could ever remember. He was eating well, though not nearly as much as Dudley. They both loved the children's classes and Awana meetings. Dudley often went with Vernon to the Gym, where he could play ball and jump ropes while Vernon did a workout. Harry would stay with Petunia, usually baking cookies or coloring pages from his new Bible Coloring book.

Sunday School uses a lot of cookies. Awana needs them every week, and Petunia loved being needed. She wasn't the only one baking, but since she was new she felt this was something she could do. She attended weekly Women's Bible Class on Thursday mornings as well as the three regular weekly services. Tuesdays she went to a women's exercise class that included self-defense training from Judy, the Pastor's wife. All of the women discussed nutrition, and swapped recipes constantly. There was a supervised Gym time for the boys during both of these, with organized games and story time. She also began helping at the weekly Food Pantry, sorting donations and helping with the distribution. As Winter melted into Spring she began preparing her gardens, and discovered she didn't have time for the Little Whinging Garden Club, the neighborhood card club, or simply visiting all of her neighbors regularly for tea and gossip. They weren't interested in her church activities. She discovered she had no interest in their constant griping and searching for dirt. Somehow she drifted away from most of her old friends and spent most of her time with the new ones. Yvonne didn't garden. She had a yard service company do all her mowing, and had no flowers. She would sit on the patio drinking tea and chatting with Petunia while Petunia 'grubbed in the dirt.' The boys were designated a play area, and this gave an extra pair of eyes to keep them there.

Vernon felt happier than he had in years. They attended church services every time the doors were open. He wasn't able to help with the food pantry because he was at work, but he and the other men often spent evenings unloading deliveries and arranging the storeroom for the women. He did workouts three evenings a week, including Thursday nights while the boys were at Awana. He wasn't intending to compete as a body builder, but he managed to trim his bulk into muscle instead of fat. He had to buy new clothes for work. Mr. Gunning complimented him when he helped (unasked) to load parts into a truck when the lift broke. Since he was Director of the warehouse division, he was able to arrange for jobs for several of the men from the church. With several respectable men working there and doing well, they were soon able to set up jobs for a few prison parolees and keep them supervised. When Mr. Grunnings discovered this little program going in the warehouse he was absolutely delighted! It put the company in a very good light, and got Vernon a bonus!

When the church discovered exactly what was wrong with the Dursley's smaller boy, they became supportive. A medically fragile child, medical treatments, and the stresses that puts on a family are something most people understand. The Dursleys didn't need money, but they did need babysitters for Dudley. Harry had monthly trips to London for intensive treatments at the Children's Hospital. He had other treatments at the local Clinic. He wound up wearing leg braces to straighten his bones while he took nutritional supplements. His hair was kept very short to keep it out of the cut. Since it would NOT lay flat, it looked a bit like a mat on his head. The cut was covered with creams and bandages. He felt embarrassed about that, because people would look, so he usually wore a soft Andy cap. He needed glasses, which had to be checked every month. His teeth were ok, though delayed in erupting.

The boys loved Sunday School. Dudley felt important, carrying Harry's bag for him. The stories were all new, and both boys discovered they loved to sing. This was something Harry could do! The church decided to have a children's choir for an Easter program, and the boys looked adorable in their snowy surplices with huge green bows.

In May Petunia signed both boys up for Intake (Kindergarten). She filled out the long sheets for each, attaching their medical slips showing they had their required shots, eye, ear, and dental screenings. Then she took the papers to the Registrar and told her, "I have to make some special arrangements for Harry."

The Registrar was NOT happy. She had a full morning of harpy mothers insisting on certain teachers for their darlings. Here was another one! But Petunia's next words changed that.

"Harry is medically fragile. He will have to be out several days a month for treatments, and is currently wearing leg braces. I have his Doctor's Orders here. He cannot participate in any playground games where he might be hit in the head, or trip and fall, because his bones are soft. This includes most ball games or climbing equipment. But he needs sun and fresh air, of course, so I suggest he be allowed to have a book or small toy outside near the teachers. I do not think he will have any trouble with the coursework even with missing days here and there. He is quite smart and is already reading." She handed over the copies. "Dudley is very protective of him, even carries his backpack, but Dudley is a sturdy and active boy and should not be allowed to always hover around Harry. He needs to develop his own friends."

Herald James Peregrine Potter (Dursley)s' Intake file was marked for special attention, as noted. He would be addressed as 'Harry Dursley' in school, with his records in both names. Most people would assume he and Dudley were twins. It was easier that way.

As July approached the company shut down for re-tooling and new lines. Vernon sent his little family off to Majorca. He would follow them in about a week after being sure the warehouse was in good hands. Drills already made were still being shipped, and the warehouse never closed. He would take only 3 weeks of his vacation time, and bring them home.

As he was working out a shipping schedule with a customer from India, the man asked Vernon if there was anything he needed. Vernon said, "Yes. Can you find me a reputable dealer in exotic plants in India? My wife is an amazing gardener, and I have been trying to find a source for that fantastic 'Blue India' lily. I've bought 3 from British dealers but they are scrawny, pitiful things that haven't bloomed even with my wife nursing them along. I think with a decent bulb she would have no trouble."

Petunia had her good bulb for her next birthday gift!

Of course Madge was invited to Majorca. She was furious when she was told she could not bring a dog, not even her adored Ripper. Vernon didn't like it, but he had to explain. "First, the rental is strictly no-pets. You couldn't even stay somewhere else and bring him over for the day. He'd have to be put in a kennel. Second is the Rabies law here – he'd be impounded for 6 months when you tried to come back! Third is that Petunia and Harry are both fragile, and need the rest. The house even has maid service and a cook. It's an expensive package deal. I'll probably get a smaller one next time."

"What's the matter with your wife? You are spoiling that brat by even taking him along. He can work."

"Petunia is anemic, and on tonics. She's been working a lot harder than she should. Harry really is sick and is going to be doing physical therapy. I guess you didn't know about the leg braces? We have a trainer coming to teach the boys to swim and work with him to build him up. The Doctor thinks swimming will be the best exercise for him, and the sun will be good for all of us. The house is large and right on the beach. The boys will spend the afternoons in the park, which has a nice program for them. You can go shopping or anything else you like without being bothered by us."

Madge declined. She arranged an energetic week of hiking on the Isle of Wight, which is lovely in July, based at a hotel which accepted dogs. Instead, the Dursleys invited their Pastor and his sweet wife to come for a week. They would fly with Vernon. Petunia was delighted her friend Yvonne agreed to come for the first week when she would be alone with the boys. They had not spent much time together since they finished unpacking all the new things for the house in January. Yvonne had gossip for months from that, and expected to have fun describing this trip. They could go shopping as well as getting a nice tan.

Yvonne did enjoy her visit. She shopped every afternoon with Petunia while the boys were at the park. Her visit overlapped the Gedneys, whom she liked very much. Since she didn't get up before noon she did not go running at dawn with Vernon and the Gedneys.

Petunia did not run, since she was supposed to be resting, but she walked on the beach collecting shells the tide left. She took the boys with her. They dropped like rocks at bedtime, but woke early full of energy.

When they returned home Yvonne began attending the ladies exercise class with Petunia, and attended the main Sunday service every couple of weeks.

It was only a few weeks later that Petunia was feeling ill again. Vernon wasn't having this! He stayed home, took the boys to the church for their normal playtime and asked Judy to watch them until he got back. He took Petunia to the Women's Clinic to get her iron checked. Both were shocked, and delighted to learn she was pregnant! Vernon bought every supplement the chemist offered, and insisted on Petunia doing weekly checkups because he considered her to be high risk. He also hired a 'daily' to come while the boys were in school so Petunia didn't have to work so hard! The pregnancy diet sheets were not hard to manage because their diet at home was already good. Petunia needed to drink fruit smoothies every day to get more calcium. When the boys discovered how good those tasted they insisted on having them too! Petunia enjoyed spending more time in her garden while the daily cleaned and did laundry.

At school it was not long before the teachers were familiar with the 'Dursley twins', who had been placed in separate classes. The boys had playground time and lunch together, and it was noticeable how Dudley took care of his brother, making sure he got enough lunch and that no one picked on him on the playground. Dudley was a force on the playground because he didn't tolerate bullies at all! He protected all the smaller children. Dudley also carried both backpacks, delivering his brother to his desk before he went to his own room. Harry did miss at least a day a week because of his multiple treatments, but seemed to have no trouble keeping up. Dudley turned out to have a mild dyslexia, so he had tutoring once a week. His homework was always perfect and his test scores were acceptable, so his grades stayed decent and he kept up well. He told his teacher that he and Harry did their homework together, and his parents always went over it at night. Teachers appreciate that kind of parent.

A peaceful year passed. Madge visited for Christmas, bringing Ripper. The Dursleys were very careful the dog was not able to torment Harry, trip up Petunia, or bother the daily. Madge reluctantly acknowledged the braces and the medicines, though she made frequent comments about the burden Harry imposed. She attended the Christmas Eve service with them, commenting loudly about how adorable Dudders was in the choir and ignoring Harry. No one paid any attention. Everyone was commenting on how well Petunia looked, glowing in pregnancy. She continued to attend the exercise class, though she concentrated more on the stretches and flexing and doing less of the workout. There were half a dozen in various stages, so they formed a small group of their own at the side of the more energetic class. Baby Daisy Anne was born without complications just after Easter. By Fall the church nursery would be stuffed!

Vernon insisted it was his turn to carry the baby because Petunia had already had 9 months. He bought a special sling carrier, and carried the baby bag as well.

For the Summer trip Vernon rented a smaller house, still on the beach and near the same park. He also hired the cook and maid. Again, Madge refused to visit, and no one missed her, but Yvonne came. The Gedneys hired their own house next door and had a whole series of visitors, some from the church and some family. The two houses formed a happy community.

In September something weird happened. Vernon had accepted Christ during the Summer, while the Gedneys were visiting them in Majorca. In September a chalk artist came to the church, which was very interesting. Petunia and both boys came forward and prayed to accept Christ on a stormy Thursday evening. When Petunia did so, the lights in the auditorium blinked. The Pastor sent someone to check the breakers, and continued with Dudley. When Dudley prayed, the lights in the whole church blinked, faded, but stayed on dimly. Judy and Mrs. Casey went to the kitchen and put all the candles they could find into holders (dumping salt out of shakers to have enough) in case they were needed, passing them out in the prayer circle. While Harry prayed all the lights in the entire neighborhood blew out. Everyone in the church saw stars, blinking for a few minutes. That was when Mrs. Casey, who was a nurse, saw that Harry's bandage was leaking blood. Cleaning him up was a real mess in the candle light, with both fresh blood and some kind of dead tarry blood oozing out. A shriek had been heard in the dark, but it was assumed it was from Harry as he fell to the floor in pain. An ambulance was called, and Petunia rode with him. As they left the church the electric crews were seen arriving, concentrating on the neighborhood substation. The church members continued in a prayer circle lit by candles, with missing members being called.

Since his name was in the records the ambulance took them straight to London Children's. His Doctors had been notified and were assembling for Surgery. Mrs. Casey had been wise and sent along the blood-soaked towels in a bag, which were sent straight to the labs. In the pus the Lab found a splinter of wood which matched the object which showed in the X-rays. The saline IV the ambulance workers had starter was switched to antibiotics, and Harry went quickly into surgery. Petunia went to the waiting area. Vernon joined her, after dropping a suitcase with the family that would take care of Dudley and Daisy, and bringing a case for Petunia. The Gedneys, and Mrs. Casey arrived not much later, expecting a long night.

Only an hour or so later the Doctor in charge came out, still in scrubs. "Harry is fine, resting in the Recovery room. As soon as he wakes he will be taken upstairs and you can join him there. The ruptured infection completely blew out the splinter that seems to have been the cause. We were able to remove the swollen tissue around the cut, and close it neatly. There should be almost no scarring now. He'll need to stay here for a week for the IV antibiotic treatment we started. When he goes home he should be able to reduce the medications he takes, and once the stitches are removed he may not need any more! While he's here we'll run the regular tests, including his bone development."

Petunia collapsed, crying with relief into Vernon's arms. In another hour they were allowed to visit briefly with the groggy child. Petunia was elected to stay with him, Vernon promising to be back as early as possible. The Gedneys and Mrs. Casey went home – they had called the praying church as soon as the Doctor had reported.

That was Thursday. On Friday and Saturday evenings the chalk artist finished his presentation, though only Dudley was in the audience to see it. Sunday morning he spoke again, and gave the drawing to Harry. Vernon and Dudley took it home and arranged for it to be framed for hanging on Harry's bedroom wall, complete with a small 'blacklight' set in the frame so Harry could see the hidden figures at night. It made a nice nightlight.

Harry didn't go back to school until the stitches were removed three week later. His teacher sent home packets with Dudley, and stopped by each Saturday to make sure Harry had no trouble complete ling them. When he went back he wore only a small bandage protecting the healing skin. It didn't even show under his soft cap. What the children and teachers DID notice was that he no longer wore leg braces! (He did continue to wear elastic knee and ankle supports for another year, but they didn't show.) He was smaller than most of his classmates and most treated him like a younger sibling, much as Dudley did. Harry was encouraged to walk the perimeter of the playground, growing stronger every day. Harry learned to run again, and was very fast! His physical therapist released him at age 7, though encouraging him to keep swimming.

Majorca had become a tradition by this point, and with Harry out of braces and therapy it was more fun than ever! Their seashell collection was becoming impressive. Everyone developed deep tans. Oddly, Harry's hair, now longer and softer, developed red highlights while Dudley's bleached out to almost white. Harry still needed glasses for reading and watching television, but they were reduced in strength. Harry and Petunia both gained some much needed weight as their health improved. Vernon switched the toddler to a backpack carrier, which meant his hair was permanently spiked by sticky fingers.

At home, a cleaning service had deep-cleaned the house, carpets, and the furniture, refinished the floors and touched up the paint. A garden center had done a similar service in the yard and gardens, not only mowing and trimming but mulching and feeding everything properly. They came home to a home that looked both new and loved. Petunia's project for the Spring had been installing a small fountain with a waterfall near the back patio. The plants around it were thriving, and the water hyacinths were in full bloom, making a lovely display. The patio became the whole familys' favorite place for dinner and their evening Bible study. Petunia's garden was the envy of the neighborhood, though she didn't even know it! Neighbors commented it wasn't fair. Petunia had that handsome, doting husband, three wonderful children, and the greenest thumb in the area. It was like magic!

Far away, on a cold island in the North Sea, the warden and guards of a magical prison were frantic, checking the warding schemes for flaws. Extra guards were asked for. The Dementors had been told to double their patrols, and to be searching for unauthorized visitors. The Warden suspected a Black Family House Elf had managed to find a chink and was regularly caring for one of the prisoners. Sirius Black was in the highest security section, with constant oversight by the Dementors. After 8 years he should have been completely insane, comatose if not dead. Instead he was clean, his hair and beard freshly brushed every morning, his uniform looking perfectly new instead of ragged. He was quite gaunt, thin and pale, but he seemed warm enough. He was cheerful, greeting human visitors politely. It was one of the scariest things in the prison! The guards couldn't take it – they had to be rotated frequently. While his neighbors spent their waking hours screaming into the darkness, Sirius would be seen meditating cross-legged on his bed, frequently humming small tunes or even singing. The Dementors didn't seem to affect him at all.

That Fall the family joined a local club with an indoor pool, and signed both boys up for lessons on Saturday afternoons. Dudley also signed up for footie league, though Harry was advised to wait another year. The teams were sorted by size as well as age, and most of the boys on Dudley's team were a year older. Harry was a cheerful fan of his cousin, and the Dursleys attended all the games. They began roller skating with the church youth group once a month, and once the Dursleys were reassured Harry was no longer in danger of breaking four bicycles were bought, with full safety gear including a safety seat for Daisy. The family riding together in the early mornings was a familiar sight.

At work, Vernon's secretary decided he was a man moving up and it was time she made a move. Her mother had told her that men with new babies at home often were more open to attention from other sources. She started wearing revealing clothing and more makeup. When he didn't notice, she closed the door and confronted him. "Vernon, you're a good looking man and on your way up in the world. You need a good looking girl on your arm to impress customers. I'm yours if you like."

Vernon was shocked at her brazen proposal. When he got his words back, he stood and re-opened that door with a bang that drew attention. "You're fired! I'll give you one hour to clear your desk and locker, drop your keys and pass in HR, and be out of the parking lot! I'll call the guardhouse to confiscate your parking sticker on the way out!" Thus, Mrs. Number 7 lost her direct source of gossip from Grunnings, especially about the Dursleys! Her daughter would never live at Number 4.

Vernon called the guardhouse to make sure she was escorted out. He then called HR to pull a new secretary out of the pool. "Sure, you want a blond, redhead, or brunette? We have several young ones you can train to suit."

Vernon had enough! "Send me a battle-axe! I want an older one who has worked all over the company. She needs to keep my office running so I can work!" They sent him Allene, old enough to be his mother. She knew where all the supplies were kept and how to make good tea. His office had never run so smoothly! She filled the office windows with flowers, so he began giving her the same plants he gave Petunia. Allene seemed to also have a green thumb, and soon she and Petunia were discussing plants.

Harry and Dudley's school was very progressive. In third grade French and Art were begun. When Harry was scoring in the top of his classes he was moved to another group. He continued to do the same daily work as Dudley, but his curriculum was broadened to make it more challenging. In fourth grade he started Latin! Both boys began music lessons. Both learned the guitar first, and soon added piano. Harry discovered he was good with a recorder. Both were already active singers, and quickly learned to accompany each other in duets.

Petunia, listening to them practice, had something nudging her memory. Soon she had Vernon go to the attic. He brought down a really dirty old guitar case. Petunia had a sheet on the kitchen table, and was soon wiping the case with a wet cloth, and then a little olive oil. The boys were very interested! "Harry, this guitar was Lily's. I have no idea if it is in any condition to be played, but we'll take it to the music store if it needs repairs. Even if it can't be repaired you may keep it in your room. I remember it as being a particularly pretty one." The case cleaned, she undid the buckles to open the lid. The first thing revealed was an old notebook. "Good, this is Lily's music notebook. It should have most of the music she played, even some she wrote." Harry took it reverently. He had by now some pictures of his mother hung in his room, mostly as a little girl with long red braids. He did not have anything of hers.

Under the notebook was a 12 string guitar. It was dark red, with some kind of design. It was also very dusty. Petunia wiped busily with the oily rag, and the wood began to shine in the reflected light. The strings were loose, and several were broken. The boys were trying to see it better, and Petunia finally gave up the cleaning. She lifted the guitar out and set it on the sheet, continuing to wipe out the case. "I remember our father bought this at an estate sale when Lily was 8. She loved it always. I was so surprised when she brought it to me and asked me to keep it for her. She was headed into hiding, and was afraid it might be damaged if someone attacked the house while they were gone. I saw her again after you were born, but only for a few minutes. That's the last time I saw her."

Harry reached out one finger and touched the wood. Now that it was in the light he could see the inlaid design in various shades of red and gold. It was a sleeping Gryphon, with the tail running up the neck. He recognized it from his Mythology story book. It did not seem to be broken, so they gently tightened the remaining strings and replaced the broken ones that they had matches for. Dudley ran for the tuner and they soon had it in playable condition. Harry sat on the couch and began playing simple scales, listening to the amazing rich tones. It was so much better than the 6 string ones they had that it made those sound like toys. Harry began singing, beginning with the first he had ever learned, "Jesus Loves Me". Both he and Dudley began singing softly. Soon they had to stop, because Harry was crying.

"Hair-Bear," they heard, "Hair-Bear, don't cry!" Vernon wrapped his strong arms around Harry.

"I'm so happy! I never had anything of theirs before, and this is so beautiful!"

Petunia was almost crying, herself. "We'll be very careful with it. Keep it in your room. You may practice on this one after you do your regular practice on the other, but I'm not going to allow you to take it anywhere until you are much older. You do have something else – you have Pafoo and your baby blanket with your name embroidered on it. I'm sure Lily did the embroidery. I put it on the top shelf in your wardrobe to keep it safe. I'll get it down for you."

That night as Vernon was locking up, he peeked into Harry's room. The guitar case was neatly closed. Harry was fast asleep with his baby blanket wrapped around his shoulders, Pafoo in his arms.

As he slid into bed, Vernon told Petunia, "I need to call that cleaning service to clean the attic! It's filthy up there! But, it's a sunny room, or would be if the windows were washed. We could do something nice with the space, such as a new guest room, if I put in a proper stair. Daisy really needs her own room soon. Her crib is stuffed in beside the guest bed, but she has to be moved every time Madge comes."

At the prison the guards were now insisting on traveling in pairs when they went past Sirius Black. He was quiet, polite, and usually seated on his bunk in meditation. No, the problem was that his cell was clean! It had been a gradual process, but the stone walls now sparkled with tiny crystals revealed, and seemed to glow with a soft light that came from the rock. His waste bucket was always empty, his water bucket always full of fresh water, and no matter how nasty the thin gruel they brought, it always seemed to be wholesome and even hot when he ate. Even the ragged blanket on his bed was clean and whole, and the effect seemed to be spreading down the hallway. The warden had ordered him moved three times, and the effect followed him. No one could figure how to keep that elf out! Blacks' cousin was also clean and cared for. She had stopped screaming, though she continued to mutter 'her Master would come for her'.

In his position of Director of Shipping at Gunnings, Vernon had to do his fair share of high level schmoozing of customers. This was usually done at big meetings, fancy dinners (Petunia loved those), and Conventions. He didn't actually deal with Sales directly, but everyone had to chip in. You never knew just what was going to make a sale 'click'. Thus,

"Dursley!" Mr. Gunnings called over the Intercom one morning. "Can you come to my office right away?" Puzzled, Vernon left the shipping schedules with Allene and hurried to the executive offices on the top floor. "I know it's almost time for shutdown, but we have a possible customer in town and I need someone to take his family to dinner. He has a daughter about the age of your boys. He's the delegate from the Dentists Association. They use a lot of delicate high quality drills and bits, and he's shopping around to see if he can get a better price or better contracts. Sales has already given him our best offer, but Jennings can't be in town until morning to try to close. I've been telling him all the good things about the Company, and mentioned your little Parole project. That interested him. PLEASE call your wife and see if you can help out! Get her a new dress! Put it on the company card!"

Vernon took the offered phone, and called home. "Honey, would you like to go out tonight? With the boys, somewhere very nice? You can even have a new dress. Grunnings is paying. They want to keep a possible new customer interested."

"We can do better than that! That customer is probably tired of fancy hotels and noisy restaurants. Why not just bring them here for dinner on the patio? How many?" Details settled, Vernon went home early to help get ready.

A long black limo pulled up in front of #4 later that evening. The neighbors were agog, peering over fences and pulling curtains open. The chauffer held the door for a family of three. "I'll wait, sir."

Harry and Dudley were posted at the door, waiting. Hary noticed the girl was carrying a familiar book. "Look Dudley – she's reading the same Greek Mythology book I am!" Though they managed to be polite escorting the family through the living room, past the upright piano of Golden Oak, through the French Doors to the patio, both boys were clearly excited about something. After introductions, Harry asked, "May I show her? Look – we're reading the same book!"

Vernon laughed. "Yes, take her upstairs!" Seizing Hermione's hands, the boys practically dragged her upstairs.

A tiny, be-ribboned toddler in curls followed, "Wait for me!" Dudley came back, scooping Daisy off the steps and tucking her under his arm, tickling her.

Hermiones' father was definitely surprised! "THAT is not the usual reception our Hermione gets! She's quiet, and usually spend these boring visits reading in a corner! What was that about?"

"Music, actually. Harry has a beautiful guitar with a mythological animal design inlaid. We don't allow him to take it out of his room. He's reading that same Mythology book to learn more about it."

As the adults were seated with lemonades, guitar music wafted through the open window above them. Soon all four children could be heard singing, beginning with ballads and quickly shifting into pop songs from the 60s and 70s. Hermione's voice was gaining volume as the boys were not the least bit shy or quiet. Vernon could almost predict the minute they shifted into church hyms. Hermione clearly did not know as many as the boys did, as soon rollicking duets boomed out "There is power/ POWER/ wonder working power..." As the boys brought that one through the chorus, working their way up to 8x "Power" something very odd happened. The adults, all of them, could almost swear they saw stars and bits of light popping through the window! The Grangers looked embarrassed.

Vernon and Petunia looked at each other, and Petunia went inside. A moment later her voice could be heard. "Harry, Dudley, Time to put that away. Come downstairs."

Hermione was having a wonderful time. As Harry put away the lovely instrument she looked around the room at the interesting things on the walls and shelves. On the bed behind the pillow she spotted a nice toy dog, swaddled in a baby blanket.

"Oh, that's 'Pafoo'," Dudley was watching her, "Harry's had him since he was a baby, and takes very good care of him."

"Pafoo? What kind of name is that?"

Harry joined them. "Beats me. We assume it's something I couldn't pronounce when I was small. Sometimes we try to figure it out, but nothing makes much sense. I keep him clean, brush him daily, give him new ribbons to match the seasons. He seems cold, so I keep him wrapped in my baby blanket. I love him dearly and feel safe when he is with me."

The Warden was about ready to quit. The deepest, dankest high security wing in the prison was now completely clean. Every cell had clean buckets, dry blankets, and some sort of soft light. That elf was working overtime and no one could catch it! The worst, seen by many staff, was the almost constant sparkling bits of light in the air. He couldn't keep the normal restraint spells on Black – they fizzled into nothing. The demons seemed to like it – the hall was always full of them, as though they were visiting Black! There were now a dozen of them delegated to keep a 24-hour watch on him. One of the guards was on medical leave. He swore he had seen one of the demons inside the cell, talking to Black – both of them hovering above the bed!

They stopped by Dudley's room to put away his guitar. Hermione noticed the rooms were identical except for color. Both had huge collections of seashells on the shelves. "We collect those ourselves on our Summer vacations in Majorca every year!"

Daisy tugged on her - "see MY room, too!" Her room was a bit larger, white with identical furniture in a blinding candy apple pink. Raspberry bedding over mint green sheets and matching curtains were an explosion of lace. She did have twin beds. Her shelves held the normal toddler toys below, and half a dozen large museum- quality (reproduction) dolls in World costumes safely out of reach.

They continued down to the yard where their parents were chatting in the shade. Vernon was supervising steaks and veggies on the grill, so the boys hurried to help Petunia bring out the sides with a small cart. Jacket potatoes came from the oven, trays of salads from the fridge. A coconut cake stood on the counter, ready for afters. Tiny Daisy helped, too. She stuffed linen napkins into stone rings, setting one at each place. The pink one was hers.

Dan commented on the unusual rings.

Vernon explained. "The rings are carved salt crystals, in assorted natural colors just as they come, from different mines around the world that Grunnings supplies. They match the carved salt candle jars holding citronella candles that are set around the patio for pest control. The names of the mines and countries are carved on the bottoms. Mr. Grunnings gave the sets as Christmas gifts last year. I gave an extra set to our church as they really seemed to need some nice candleholders."

While they waited for the steaks to finish the boys took Hermione around the garden, showing their favorites and sometimes adding bits of meaning from the language of flowers, a thing she had not heard of. She loved the huge bank of colorful lilies. "These red ones are from Zimbabwe and are called 'Flame Lilies'. The blue one is from India. We think mother is the only person to grow one in Surrey, but she's amazing with flowers."

"So, you help your mother with the gardens? Is the weeding your regular chore?"

"Oh, yes, the only plants that don't do well here are weeds. I don't think I've ever pulled any wiregrass, though the neighbors have it."

"Mum also uses weeding as discipline. Last week she made us weed old Mrs. Figgs' garden. She has a million cats and the yard was awful! Took us three days to clean it up! We planted a bunch of low care non-poisonous plants that the cats shouldn't tear up, and put a bed of catnip at the back so maybe they will stay home."

"We also prune and do the digging as Mum needs things moved. Dad does the mowing and trims the hedge. We all work together to repaint the shed and fence every Spring. It's a family effort!"

During this whole conversation Daisy had been running around the yard with a large knobby ball. Each time she brought it back to her brothers one or the other would toss it out for her, which she chased with glee.

Mrs. Granger talked to Petunia, "Dan told me your boys are twins, but they could hardly be less alike!"

"Harry's actually our nephew, but their birthdays are very close and we celebrate them together. We've had him since he was small, and most people do think we have twins. He was injured when his parents were killed and had a very rough childhood – lots of time in hospital and years of care. He's fine now, though a bit small for his age, and his teeth are still delayed. Happily he's very bright and is in the top sections at school!"

"Dinner's ready!" Dan called the children back to the patio where Vernon was plating out steaks. He was setting up an extra meal, which the boys carefully carried out to the surprised chauffer before they settled in their own places on either side of Hermione. Vernon asked the blessing while still standing.

During dinner Dan and Vernon were talking quietly about the Parolee program at the warehouse. "It really only works because several of the foremen and supervisors are from our church. The Parolees share a small house near the church and must attend every service. They also are expected to workout in our church gym three nights a week, with me and those same foremen and supervisors. It means we all know each other very well both at work and in our free time. The parolees know they can come to any of us at any time if they have problems. They simply don't have time to get into mischief or fall in with bad company. By the time they finish their Parole they have established new friends, new habits, and a clean work history. We manage 4 at a time, and so far all three graduates have stayed at Grunnings and stayed in the church. One is getting married next week!"

"How much does all that cost?"

"Actually, nothing so far. The men pay their own rent and expenses at the house. The guys supervising them, and I, would be at the gym or at work anyhow. Mr. Grunnings gave me a bonus to show how pleased he is at the program. I gave it to the church, but so far the only thing it has paid for is three big church dinners to celebrate as each graduated."

Petunia and Jeanne were talking about vacations. "We're going to be leaving soon. We rent a house on Majorca every July, on the beach. The boys have huge shell collections from our walks. We have a trainer come give them swimming lessons in the mornings before it gets hot. After lunch the boys usually attend a Park program nearby, in a very shady pavillion. Every day the Zoo brings a new animal for them to learn. In the evenings we often just sit out, play on the beach, or swim together a bit. The boys' Spanish is almost perfect, just from playing with the other children and attending the program. Both boys have French in school, and Harry has Latin lessons, which Dudley does with him here at home because they think it's like a secret code, very funny!"

"We go to France every year, to visit Dan's tiny Grandmother Black, who lives in a Chateau near the sea. She only speaks French, so we all speak only French while there. His Grandfather still goes into his Law offices every day, so we don't see much of him. Hermione has become quite fluent. We have also gone to places like Switzerland in the Winters, to learn to ski.

The children were comparing their schools, lessons, and special lessons. Hermione was learning violin and Ballet. She knew French and some German, and agreed she ought to start Latin this Fall. She was almost a year older, so she was a bit upset that their neighborhood school was more progressive than her public one. Dan, listening in, commented that he wasn't sure whether their school was more progressive or more traditional than hers.

On their way home, the Grangers agreed that the Dursleys were one of the nicest families they had met. "I'm surprised at how modestly they live! Dursley has a good position in the company and makes a nice salary. They can afford expensive vacations, and most in his bracket would have a much bigger home. He mentioned turning his unexpected bonus straight over to their church, so it was clearly money they weren't counting on for bills."

"I really liked how they took their nephew into their home when he needed them. The boys might as well be twins for all the difference they make between them. The precious daughter is remarkably unspoiled."

"I had the best time tonight than I can remember ever having on such a visit. The boys took me straight into their fun as if we had been friends for years. Instead of teasing me for my book, they were reading the same one! I really want to meet them again!"

"That settles it. I'll go over that Contract again tonight to be sure, but my quick look earlier indicated a fair offer. With this being the caliber of people Grunnings employs, I think we're going to have a long relationship. While I'm dealing with their Sales office tomorrow, why don't you pack up, go shopping for a while, and then go home? I should be there by supper."

Madge declined to come to Majorca, again. Yvonne did come, and this year they invited Allene, who came for a week. She spent every night on the beach in the moonlight and every afternoon in the Botanical Gardens with Petunia. Despite the difference in age the two were the best of friends!

A little over a year later the whole Dursley family was surprised when BOTH boys received letters for Hogwarts. Petunia had by now told Harry everything she remembered – she even found some letters from Lily. She didn't know much about James, and could not find a picture of him. She knew he was rich and 'high society', and a terrible prankster who bordered on being a bully. Neither boy liked hearing that! "We'll do your school shopping when we get back from Majorca. No point in fitting school uniforms this early! You are both growing so fast I expect we'll need new ones by Christmas."

When they did the shopping the first stop was the Bank, to exchange Pounds into 'funny money' and to see about establishing trust vaults with links to the boys' Barclay accounts. It would be easiest to pay the tuition that way. It was, and the bank manager had a few other things to tell them. When they left all three children and Petunia were wearing simple gold rings. Harry had two!

In the prison, Warden McMillian had enough. In his office he had Madame Bones, Unspeakables, and an extra squad of Aurors. The Aurors went to collect Black. The Unspeakables followed to do a full scan of the wards. They had some new ones they wanted to try.

As the group passed Bella's cell, Black stopped. "Bella, I annul your marriage to Lestrange. I free you from all compulsions and commands he or his family or anyone else ever laid on you. Your mind is your own. What do you want?" A huge sparkle whooshed through the air. When it stopped Bella was crying.

Down the hall the brothers were screaming "NO!"

"I want to be free of that monster!" She held out her arm, displaying the tattoo.

Black said, "So be it, Daughter of the House of Black. You are free!" He reached out, pulling on air. The tattoo was ripped from her skin, snake writhing and biting. Once loose, he banished it into the nearest volcano. Surtsey belched. "Kreacher!"

The wretched creature appeared, clad in rags. "This will never do! Never shame the House like this again!" Black twisted his wrist: the elf was now clean and wearing a neat uniform, including boots. "That's better. You are now re-assigned to care for this Daughter of the House. She is here for now, in the care of the Sisters, who will assist you as needed until we bring her home. Bring her a copy of the book my Godson is reading." Black turned back to his guards and conversationally asked, "Shall we proceed? I believe there are guests?"

Upstairs, everyone crowded into the Warden's office, except the dozen Dementors who clustered outside the doorway. Fortunately it was a large room. Black did not wait for introductions. "Thank you for all coming so I only have to say this once. You have held me illegally for almost ten years. I never had a trial. While you may hold someone briefly for suspicion of a crime, you may not hold a Lord or his Heir for more than 24 hours without charges, nor more than 3 days without a trial before the full Wizengamont. I have been Heir Black since I was 16. I have been Lord Black since my Grandfather Pollux died. He held up his hand, which now bore the large Black Ring. You may hold me here no longer. My Lawyer will be in touch. Come girls, we're going home." He walked out – no one seemed able to lay a hand on him. Two shadowed figures separated themselves from the crowd, and the three vanished without a sound.

A very nervous Hermione occupied a bench seat in a middle car on a classic red train. She had her door open, hoping to meet some others. Her parents had advised the middle-of-the-train seat as being likely to see more traffic in the hall, and thus a better chance of making new friends. As she was talking to a equally nervous blond boy named Neville the connecting door to the next carriage opened. She heard a sound, singing and guitars. She knew that sound! She grabbed Neville's arm. "Come on, we have to go there! That's the Dursley brothers!" She called out to others with open doors as they pushed along.

A rousing chorus of 'Puff the magic Dragon' greeted them as she pushed through the crowd, finally tumbling through a doorway. A strong hand caught her so she did not fall. "Hermione! What a surprise! We're going to have a wonderful time now! Bring your friend in and introduce us!" Dudley guided her to the seat, shook hands with Neville, and picked up the verse Harry was continuing to sing. No one paid the least attention to the bits of flashing lights and stars in the air. Some of the children took up the lyrics, though Neville looked as confused as the rest. When the boys sang "Power" almost no one sang along, but the air was brilliant with stars. Quite a few children felt very strange, as though unbound.

As they trooped into the Great Hall it was clear the teachers were looking for someone specific. Hagrid handed them over to McGonagal with the words, "I counted them and the numbers are right, but I can't see him."

Dudley heard that, and was looking around trying to figure out who they meant. Since he was a head taller than most it was easy for him. With his almost-white Summer bleached hair and brilliant blue eyes he was quite noticeable. The much smaller boy behind him with the red highlighted hair and wire-rim glasses was talking excitedly to the girl with them.

Even the teachers were paying close attention during the Sorting. Children were being calle up not only by name, but by title. Some seemed a little surprised, as though they didn't realize they had a title. Others swaggered to their seats at the various tables, pushing to higher seats where spaces were cleared for them.

"Heir Bones, Susan," was announced with "Hufflepuff," joining her friend "Heir Abbott, Hannah."

"Heir Hufflepuff, Smith, Zacharias swaggered as he joined them with his friend, Heir Macmillin.

There were clearly a few surprises. "Heir Gaunt, Dursley, Dudley went to Hufflepuff, sitting next to

"Lady Dagworth-Granger, Hermione".

"You're a Lady? When did that happen?"

"Dad is Earl Granger. My brother is his Heir. He went to Business college and manages the property as Dad's Steward, while Dad and Mum are happy running their dental clinic. The Goblins told us about the Dagworth part. My school guide told me I could choose to fly low and anonymous if I wanted to. When Mum and I saw the differences in the quality of the uniforms on offer we went with the better choice. "What about you?"

"Mum told me about an ancestor named Gaunt. The Goblins confirmed it and said I really needed to claim it before the Ministry declared it dead and confiscated the vault, so I did. The last Heir had never claimed it and died about 10 years ago. Not much in the vault, really, but there is a bit of land and a shack, and a voting seat somewhere I'm supposed to delegate until I grow up. Mum's going to check on the land to see if there is any use for it. The map looked like some rough ground on the edge of a farming area. Oh, Daisy and Mum are both 'Lady Gaunt' and both have rings like mine. Mum is going to be Regent for both Gaunt and Potter until we grow up. Black doesn't need one, and he is going to help Mum."

"Heir Longbottom, Neville" joined them.

"Heir Malfoy, Draco" seemed a bit confused as he walked up, but was quickly sorted into Slytherin. He spoke in a whisper to the Deputy. "I expected to be 'Heir Black-Malfoy'! What happened? Father will be upset!"

"Sorry, you can check with the Ministry later. I only read out the list I have." He pulled himself together and swaggered to his table.

By now the Headmaster seemed agitated. He had told the Hat to NOT use that girl's title or full name. She wasn't important and didn't need any honors or inheritance! If it wasn't so set in Tradition he wouldn't have any titles called. He was shocked to see Dudley there at all, because he had bound the child's magic when he was born, as well as his hedge-witch mothers'. After Tom, he wanted the Slytherin line dead! Lily being stubborn had only confirmed that the whole line was trouble for his plans. Weren't the Gaunts supposed to be in Slytherin? The Malfoy brat was supposed to be Heir Black! He ought to feel more bindings around the room, but the children were too active for him to be sure who had some and who didn't. Now he was worried because the group was dwindling and he couldn't see Harry Potter!

He caught sight of a leaf in Pomona's hair, and banished it absently. Pomona had carefully put that pretty leaf there as a decoration, and glared at him. He didn't notice.

Finally the shocker. "Heir Potter-Black, Herald". Necks swiveled, and eyes widened when the small boy with wire rims and red-black hair came forward to sit under the hat. Minutes passed.

The Headmaster was fuming! A hat-stall! This boy didn't look like he was supposed to, not abused or downtrodden nor malnourished. The Headmaster hadn't noticed the scar, which must be under the brim of the Hat. He wasn't wearing rags under a poor-quality robe. Instead he was wearing a nice quality outfit under a silk robe! He held himself alert, straight backed on the stool.

Severus Snape was also in shock. This child really didn't look like James at all. He had caught a glimpse of him in the line coming in and thought this boy looked a lot like Lily, though the hair was darker. Severus had expected to feel rage at seeing James' son, but instead felt only sorrow rising.

"Hufflepuff!" The cry caught absolutely everyone by surprise. No one had expected that Sorting. Harry returned the Hat to the stool and walked quickly to sit with Dudley, clapping his silly pointed hat back on before anyone could glimpse a scar. People were looking, but not quickly enough to realize it was gone.

A pink-haired sixth year introduced herself as being one of Harry's cousins, and rather took the four under her wing. "Cousin Sirius told me to watch for you! I'm a Prefect. My charges are the second year girls, so after tonight I want you to move up the table so you sit between First and Second Year. You'll be under the current 5th year Prefects but can always come to any of us."

The last few seemed to Sort as expected until, "Weasley, Ronald" was called. When the Hat anounced "Slytherin" there was quite the uproar. Ronald himself was screaming at the Hat, "I told you I have to be in Hufflepuff with The-Boy-Who-Lived! Mum said I'm to be his best mate! He's going to marry my sister!""

An assortment of redheads at the Gryffindor table was shouting: "ALL Weasleys are always in Gryffindor! It's a tradition!" And, "he's WHAT?" Their Prefect seemed horrified!

And, standing in the middle of Slytherin, Heir Malfoy was screaming, "You can't put the blood-traitor here! Father will hear about this!" A pair of large boys pulled him down and sat firmly on either side, fencing him in. One peeled a chunk of very linty chocolate out of a pocket and shoved it into Draco's mouth as a cork. Draco did not seem to appreciate the gift.

Hermione spotted something sticking out of Harry's bag. "You brought Pafoo!"

Harry corrected her. "It's 'Padfoot'. My parents had a dog, and that is his name. My Godfather has him. They were out of the country and not able to come see me until recently, but he brought Padfoot, who has huge feet! He also brought his wife and daughter, who is about the age and size of Daisy so they have had a grand time playing with her swings and yard toys. It only took one lecture from my Aunt for Padfoot to be very careful about the flowers! She can be VERY scary!"

Dudley chimed in, "Turned out Mum is a kind of witch that doesn't need or use a wand. She's a Hedge Witch, or Earth Witch. That's why her gardens are so wonderful and why I'm sure if there is any use for my bit of land she will find it. It's also why she never came to Hogwarts – they have nothing to teach her. We bought her a history book about famous Earch Witches. Most are good at potions, too, so we bought her a Herbal. She's been experimenting with teas. She says half the recipes are poisoned, so she's being very careful."

Neville was really interested in that bit of lore! He made a note to order those books!

A month later:

Petunia, wearing a nice blue suit under the heavy Wizagamont robes, swept through the lobby of the Ministry. This would be her first meeting. Under the robe Tilly was seated on her boot, clinging to her ankle, invisible. Sirius had detailed Tilly as protection – no one paid any attention to elves. Petunia was actually about six feet behind where people 'saw' her, and a block of solid marble in her image occupied that space instead. Tilly was also projecting shields in all directions while monitoring for curses. This turned out to be a good idea. Three separate wizards fainted, ears and noses bleeding as they attempted compulsions or Legilamancy on the rock. Petunia, as instructed, continued to follow the marble at a steady pace toward the doors. Screams, and the guards were hustling the crowds into safety as that marble exploded with green light! Behind Petunia a witch in pink collapsed after shooting the illusion. She was bound and on her way to the holding cells before the medistaff arrived to deal with the first three. Now there were actual injured to care for.

Injuries and cleanup delayed the start for about thirty minutes. Petunia waited patiently inside the doors. The Minister was late. "Sorry, can't find my Secretary."

Finally she was called forward to state her business. "I am Lady Petunia Gaunt. I am here to vote the Proxies for Gaunt and Potter as their Regent until the boys reach their majority and are able to fulfill their duties. Here are my documents."

"She can't be here! She's a muggle! She doesn't even have a wand!"

"I don't need a wand. I'm an Earth Witch and a Christian." Petunia stared at the protestor, and the flower on his lapel grew huge as a bush, completely concealing him. From the sounds of him fighting his way out, it had plenty of thorns. She took her seat next to Sirius, whispering, "Thanks, Tilly!" Her ankle was hugged a bit tighter. The heavy gold cross hanging under her collar was warm against her skin, comforting her and reminding her she had Power they knew not. Everything would be fine.