Disclaimer: Usually stuff applies here and it all belongs to J.K.
Rowlings. I only own the character Iris Hecate and the plots that involve
her. I make no money off of this.
Author Note: The Fall semester is quickly approaching. I will be busy with my classes and the extracurricular programs I am involved with. I will try my best in continuing to update often. I also want to thank all my reviewers you know who you are! You all are the best.
A New Beginning
Chapter 7 The Long Awaited Talks
Iris woke from her brief nap feeling refreshed and quite happy with herself knowing that her own plan was on its way. She took a quick shower and dressed in light pink robes. Before heading down to breakfast she decided to stop by Dumbledore's office to talk to him about her classes.
"Pop Rocks." Iris chimed.
The gargoyle jumped to the side and Iris made her way to Dumbledore's office. Iris reached the old doors took a deep breath and knocked.
"Enter Iris." Called Dumbledore's warm voice from behind the door.
Iris pushed open the door and smiled at Dumbledore as he greeted her with a warm smile and his sparkling blue eyes. Albus always amazed her from the time she was a student here at Hogwart's to now teaching here he has always been in tune with everything who happens to set foot on Hogwart's ground.
"You are looking better this morning, Iris." Dumbledore said happily. "Please sit down." He said gesturing to a comfy armchair.
"Thank you Albus." Iris said smiling as she sat down.
"What can I do for you this morning Iris." Dumbledore said as he clasped his hands together and placed them on top of his grand old desk.
"First I want to say that I left the hospital wing early this morning without letting Madame Pomfrey know." Iris said.
"Poppy has already been to see me this morning." Dumbledore said chuckling. "I told her not to worry and that you probably went back to your office early this morning to do some work." He continued.
"Just a tad bit of work." Iris said forcing a smile. "That is why I am here to speak with you Albus." Iris said staring down at her hands and playing with her silver ring.
Dumbledore adjusted himself in his desk chair and waited for Iris to continue.
"I was wondering if I could possibly take a few weeks off? I will understand if I can't." Iris said in a low voice.
"Yes, you may Iris. Can I ask why you need a few weeks off?" Dumbledore asked.
"I'm afraid with everything going on with the Order and with the Dark Lord I feel I need some time off. I'm having a hard time remembering where some things begin and some things end." Iris sighed not looking Dumbledore in the eye.
Dumbledore sat for a few moments looking at Iris and pondering what she had just told him. Iris sensing that he was looking at her lifted her head and gave Dumbledore a weak, little smile.
"Iris what did Voldemort do to you when you disobeyed him, lied to him or refused him what he wanted?" Dumbledore asked slowly pondering his own question.
Iris sat there ashamed of herself. That was a part of her life that only she knew about. Just recently Severus learned what all she endures from the Dark Lord.
"Well, Albus..sometimes he will beat me or use the Cruciatus curse." Iris said mumbling and looking down at the floor.
"Don't you mean use to, Iris?" Dumbledore asked.
"No sir I don't. So far I have only had to endure one of his beatings and that was several weeks ago when he thought that I had lied to him." Iris said hurriedly.
"What did he think you lied to him about Iris?" Dumbledore asked.
"He thinks that since I am the only living relative one James' side I am going to try and save Harry instead of obeying my orders and getting him by himself." Iris is sighed.
"Iris do you know how you are going to get Harry by himself?" Dumbledore asked with concern.
"No I don't. I won't even know what I am going to do until he calls on me Albus." Iris said placing her head in her hands.
"Do not worry Iris. The Order has been well informed of the situation and we are in the process of working on several different plans of attack." Dumbledore said in a strong and authoritarian voice.
"Albus can I ask one more thing of you?" Iris said on the verge of tears.
"Yes you can ask anything you want Iris." Dumbledore said warmly noticing Iris emotional state.
"I do not want to know any of the plans the Order is working on." Iris blurted out.
"Iris I do not think that is wise. You should be well aware of what is going on." Dumbledore said.
"I know but I would rather deal with the Dark Lords punishments than to have him gain access to Harry." Iris said crying now.
"That is not a wise decision but I will do as you've asked of me Iris." Dumbldore said shaking his head at her decision. "Iris can I ask you a question?" He continued.
"Yes Albus go right ahead." Iris said as she wiped away her tears.
"Iris you have shown no such signs of his punishment. How do you take care of yourself?" Dumbldore asked curiously as he eyed Iris.
"No sir I usually don't. I have special potions that I brew that quickly heal any and all wounds I receive at his hands. I recently ran out and with the help of Severus I was able to recover without difficulty since I did not have the right potions." Iris said.
"My, my Iris. If I would have known that Iris I would not have asked for you help with the Order." Dumbledore said with sorrow.
"I know Albus, but to lie to the Dark Lord would have resulted in death because he would have known that I am not his faithful servant. That is why I've had to let him continue." Iris said with a grimace.
"By all means Iris please take some time off. Get a way for a few days and rest." Dumbledore said with urgency.
"Thank you Albus but if you don't mind I would like to stay here." Iris said smiling at Dumbledore. "I have some things I need to work on and I can take care of it all here." She continued.
"Of course Iris do as you wish. You can even help out your replacement if he needs any help." Dumbledore said smiling once again.
"He? Who do you have in mind for my replacement?" Iris said with curiosity.
"Remus Lupin." Dumbledore said fondly.
"He will do an excellent job! I read over what he taught a few years ago he covered a great deal and he got rave reviews from students." Iris said cheerfully. "When do you expect his arrival?" She asked.
"I expect him to arrive later this afternoon." Dumbledore said.
"Great. If he needs anything please tell him to stop by my office anytime. He can borrow whatever he wants while he is here." Iris said as she stood up to leave.
"Thank you Iris I am sure he will appreciate that offer." Dumbledore said cheerfully. "And Iris if you need anything please don't hesitate to ask." Dumbledore continued.
"Thank you Albus for everything you have done for me." Iris said as she left his office and headed down the Great Hall for breakfast.
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Dumbledore sat in his office surrounded by many gadgets. Many of his gadgets made soft whistling noises as the spun around quickly. Some of his other gadgets and doodads had white smoke coming from them as well. Dumbledore sat surrounded by many scrolls on his desk. He would pick one up and read over it and quickly put it down and promptly pick up another one. He did this for several minutes when he heard a knocking at his office door.
"Come in Severus." Dumbledore said still pouring over his scrolls.
Severus walked in to Dumbledore's office. Severus was always amazed that his friend and ally always knew who was at his door. Severus just chalked it up to the wise old man knowing when someone had something important to discuss with him. Severus would never openly admit but he was truly thankful for Dumbledore.
"Good afternoon Severus. Please sit down and tell me what is troubling you." Dumbledore said stacking his scrolls and placing them to the side.
"What makes you think something is troubling me." Severus said sharply.
"Severus I know you are upset about me allowing Iris to teach her and getting her involved with the Order." Dumbledore stated plainly.
"What makes you think what I have to discuss with you has anything to deal with Iris." Severus said annoyingly.
"Then by all means tell me what you want to discuss with me Severus." Dumbledore said gesturing once again to the comfy armchair in front of his desk.
Severus stood there for several moments trying to figure out what gave him away. Truthfully Severus did want to talk to Dumbledore about Iris. Finally admitting defeat Severus sat down and sighed heavily.
"Albus I went to begin making the Polyjuice potion and came across many of the necessary ingredients missing." Severus said.
"Do you think some students are borrowing without permission?" Dumbledore asked.
"This time I don't believe it is any student stealing from me." Severus said standing up and walking over to the fireplace.
"Then who do you suspect Severus?" Dumbledore continued as he watch Severus pace back and forth in front of his fireplace.
"I think it was Iris who took the ingredients, Albus." Severus said as he turned to face Dumbledore.
"Have you asked her about this Severus?" Dumbledore asked with a raised eyebrow.
"No I have not. That is one conversation I would like very much not to have with her Albus." Severus said bitterly.
"Things between you and Ms. Iris are not good Severus?" Dumbledore asked with curiosity.
"Things haven't been the same in quite a few years." Severus mumbled.
"Severus I suggest you go and talk with Iris. You two need to talk things out. You need to hear her side of the story and the same goes for her." Dumbledore said bluntly.
"Why Albus? Why should I go and talk with her?" Severus said bitterly.
"Only you know why you should Severus I am just merely making a suggestion." Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eyes.
But before Severus could make any remark about him talking with Iris he was push forward on to the floor landing on his hands and knees. Severus turned with his black greasy hair in his face and glared at Dumbledore's rude and very inconsiderate visitor.
"Sorry about that mate." Remus Lupin said muffling a laugh and dusting soot off himself.
"Ah Remus I am glad to see that you can still make an entrance." Dumbledore said with a chuckle.
Severus stood up and adjusted his black robes and was heading out Dumbledore's office.
"Severus wait I have something I must tell you and Remus." Dumbledore said as he caught Severus leaving his office out the corner of his eye.
Severus turned on his heel and retreated back inside Dumbledore's office. He walked and stood by Remus.
"I've talked with Iris earlier today and she has made a very important and unwise request. She has asked not to be informed of any plans the Order is formulating about Harry." Dumbledore said.
Remus nodded but Severus was shocked. Dumbledore looked over at Severus and gave him a look of you now have a reason to go and talk with her.
"Severus you may leave now." Dumbledore said sensing his urgency to leave.
Severus nodded and turned on his heels and promptly left Dumbledore's office and returned to his office.
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"Remus please join me in a cup of tea before you head to your room and office." Dumbledore said taking out his wand and conjuring up a pot of tea and some cookies to go along.
Remus and Albus shared a few fond moments when he was a student and when he was a teacher a few years ago at Hogwart's. Dumbledore's office was filled with the sound of laughter when there was yet another knock on Dumbledore's office door.
"Please come in." Dumbledore said through a fit of laughter.
Albus and Remus both turned their attention to the door and greeted Professor McGonagall with warm smiles.
"Ah Minerva please come in and join us." Dumbledore said as he conjured up another comfy armchair for her.
Professor McGonagall joined the two men for a spot of tea and a few laughs before the conversation turned to business.
"Albus, I think we should discuss what we are going to do with Mr. Potter." Minerva said with a stern voice.
"Yes we should Albus." Remus said as he nodded with agreement.
"Yes we should. This is a matter that cannot be wished away." Dumbledore said in a sadden voice. "I've had a talk with Professor Hecate early this morning and she is fine with the idea of you taking over her classes for a short time Remus." Dumbledore said as he looked at Remus.
"That is good because I would not want to step on her toes about teaching her classes." Remus said.
"What does Ms. Hecate plan to do while she is not teaching Albus?" Minerva asked.
"She asked to take a few weeks off. With everything that she has been involved with she feels she needs some time off which she will be spending her." Dumbledore said before Minerva could ask.
"Albus can you explain to me why she asked not to be informed about any of the plans the Order devises?" Remus asked with curiosity.
"She did what Albus?" Minerva asked puzzled.
"Yes, in our conversation earlier this morning she asked me and the rest of the Order to not inform her of any plans involving Harry." Dumbledore said with a sigh.
"But why?" Remus asked.
"She would rather not know anything and deal with Voldemort herself then willing give him up to him." Dumbledore said.
"Oh!" Remus and Minerva but exclaimed.
"That is very unwise of her Albus. Voldemort will truly kill her if he finds out that she is with holding information from him!" Minevra exclaimed again.
"She is a very strong and determined woman. I am not going to force her into anything she does not want to do." Dumbledore sighed.
"Has she mentioned how she is going to get Harry alone by himself?" Remus asked.
"Ah yes that is one of the things we discussed earlier. She said she will not know until Voldemort calls upon her when he is ready." Dumbledore said as he clasped his hands together and looked at both Remus and Minerva.
"Albus do you believe her?" Minvera asked.
"At this point in time yes I do believe her. She has not given me any reason not to believe her at this moment." Dumbledore said sternly.
"We must tell Harry, Albus. He must be aware of the situation before him and the Order." Remus said looking at Dumbledore for approval.
"Yes we must. Minerva would you please go and fetch Harry for us?" Dumbledore asked.
"As you wish Albus." Minerva said as she left Dumbledore's office in search of Harry.
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Professor McGonagall headed out of Professor Dumbledore's office and went straight to the Quidditch pitch where she knew the Gryffindor team was practicing for the upcoming match against Slytherin. The days were now getting colder and colder as the winter months approached. As Professor McGonagall made her way down to the Quidditch pitch she pulled the collar of the robes up to try and block some of the wind since early evening was turning cooler and the wind was starting to pick up a bit. When she finally got there all of the Gryffindor team was practicing. Right now some of the Gryffindor team members were throwing quaffles at Ron since he was the new keeper since last year. Professor McGonagall watched for a few minutes and had high hopes for the upcoming match against Slytherin. Ron has improved so much from last year that he was actually a pretty good keeper. After a few minutes lost in thought Professor McGonagall then remember why she had come down to the Quidditch pitch to begin with.
Professor McGonagall pointed her wand to her throat. "Sonorus." She said. "Mr. Potter could you please come down her." Professor McGonagall ordered. She then turned her wand back to her throat and said "Quietus."
Harry turned to see who had called him down to the ground. Once he realized that it was Professor McGonagall he flew down and landed right in front of her and dismounted his broom.
"What can I do for you Professor?" Harry asked as he wiped sweat off of his forehead.
"I need for you to go and change and come with me to Professor Dumbledore's office quickly." Professor McGonagall said in her usual stern voice.
"Did I do something wrong Professor?" Harry asked getting worried.
"You can ask questions later Harry but I need for you to go and get changed and get back here quickly." Professor McGonagall said shooing him away.
Harry ran off to change and five minutes later he was back with Professor McGonagall. The two of them then promptly headed off to Professor Dumbledore's office. Harry had to run to keep up with Professor McGonagall's fast pace and they made their way back to the castle. As they entered the castle Harry found enough courage to ask Professor McGonagall what was going on.
"Professor can you tell me why we are going to see Professor Dumbledore?" Harry asked as he rushed to keep up with her.
Professor McGonagall chose not to answer Harry as they made their way. A few minutes later Professor McGonagall and Harry were standing in front of the Gargoyle guarding Dumbledore's office. Professor McGonagall the password and the gargoyle jumped to the side and Harry and Professor McGonagall quickly made their way up the stairs and walked into Dumbledore's office without even knocking.
"I have found Mr. Potter, Albus." Professor McGonagall said as she ushered Harry in and shut the door behind him.
Harry looked around Dumbledore's office and found the headmaster himself sitting behind his desk and someone sitting with his back towards Harry.
"Harry please take a seat." Dumbledore said gesturing to the empty chair next to the all ready occupied one.
Harry did as he was told and Professor McGonagall followed behind him and sat down in the chair on the right side of Harry.
Harry sat down and turned to his left to get a better look at the other person in the room with him, Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall. Harry turned and saw a familiar face smiling back at him.
"Professor Lupin what are you doing here?!" Harry asked shocked.
"Hi to you to Harry." Remus said as he gave a little laugh.
"Sorry Professor, hi." Harry said sounding more confused.
"Professor Lupin is here on business for the Order and to take over for a few weeks Professor Hecate's class." Dumbledore said drawing Harry's attention to him.
"Ok. But what does this have to do with me?" Harry asked in bewilderment.
"Harry we have some information that involves you in particular." Dumbledore said calmly.
"Ok." Harry said with curiosity.
"We've been informed that Voldemort is planning an attack on you." Dumbledore continued.
Harry sat there for a moment and digested what he was just told.
Professor Lupin put his hand on Harry's. "Harry are you all right?" Remus asked with concern.
Harry looked at Professor Lupin and then at Dumbledore.
"What do I need to do or better yet not do." Harry said finding his voice.
Dumbledore smiled at Harry. "You are a brave young man Harry and no wonder you are a Gryffindor through and through."
Harry sat there again feeling a little bit better hearing that compliment coming from one of the bravest and most talented wizards Harry knows.
"Professor Snape and Professor Hecate are both part of the plan for the attack on you Harry. But please remember that Professor Snape is working for us and so is Professor Hecate. She is our newest member of the Order and is also a spy against Voldemort." Dumbledore said looking Harry straight in the eye.
Dumbledore waited for Harry to say something but he didn't so Dumbledore continued.
"I am letting you know that you will be under surveillance where ever you go from now on. This is done purely for your safety. You will only know the few members of the Order that will be watching over you but as you know the Order has many other members that aren't known so just remember you will be watch at all times." Dumbledore said.
Harry just sat there in shock. He should be use to this by now. Voldemort has wanted him ever since he was one year old and did not die at Voldemort's attack. Harry wasn't use to this. He is a brave man. Harry can not be called young anymore really. Harry was sixteen years old now but has seen so much in his short life. Only men who were considerably older than Harry are usually the ones that see all the deaths he has seen and felt the pain and torture he has felt from Voldemort.
"Harry do you have any questions?" Dumbledore asked bringing Harry back to reality.
Harry shook his head and thought for a moment.
"Yes sir, I do. I actually have a couple." Harry said.
"Then ask away Harry and we will do our best to answer them for you." Dumbledore said looking at Remus and Minerva.
"Am I going to still be able to do the things that the other students can?" Harry said as he asked his first question.
"Yes you will Harry but you will need my permission if it is anything having to do outside of Hogwart's." Professor McGonagall said as she patted Harry on the hand.
"Your next question Harry." Dumbledore said.
"Yes, this one involves Professor Hecate." Harry started.
Remus and Minerva stiffened in their seats and Harry took notice of this but Professor Dumbledore kept his composure.
"Yes." Dumbledore said urging Harry to continue.
Well sir..I was just wondering..is she..a relative of mine." Harry finally said.
Everyone got quiet for a few moments as Harry's question continued to ring in their ears. Dumbledore's office was extremely quiet but finally a "yes" was heard. Harry was expecting the answer to come from Dumbledore but instead it came from his left side. Professor Lupin had answered Harry's question.
Harry turned and faced Professor Lupin. "She is." Harry said in shock.
"Yes." Lupin said repeating himself.
"Professor Hecate was your father's first cousin which makes her your second cousin Harry." Dumbledore added.
Harry had a million questions running through his mind right now but he only had one that he was able to put in to words and ask.
"How come I didn't go and stay with her after my parent's were murdered instead of going and living with the Dursley's." Harry said becoming agitated.
Harry sat there waiting for his question to be answered. No one answered right away. Harry finally blurted out all the questions that where running through his mind right now.
"Why did I have to live with people who lied to me about my parents? Why did I have to put up with their hatred of my family and me? Why couldn't I have live with someone who understands my world? Why am I just finding out that I have a blood relative on my Dad's side? Why did she never come and find me?" Harry yelled, as he became angrier and angrier.
"Harry please calm down!" Dumbledore exclaimed.
"WHY HASN'T SHE COME TO TALK TO ME THESE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS!" Harry screamed at Dumbledore.
"HARRY!" Remus growled at Harry.
Harry turned and looked at Professor Lupin as he sat there still growling. Harry became quiet and stayed quiet as he tried to regain his composure.
"Harry I know this must come to a complete and utter shock to you finding out that you have another relative but there are reasons why you never knew about your cousin Iris." Dumbledore said breaking yet another awkward silence.
"Then please tell me why I was denied the right to know my family." Harry said bitterly.
"Well, Harry I can only tell you what I know." Professor Lupin started. "She is your cousin as you already know now. You had other family on your Dad's side but during the time when Voldemort was running his Death Eaters many of them were killed. This of course all happened before you were born. Iris just happened to be the only survivor of those attacks." Professor Lupin said with a saddened voice.
"Why did she survive?" Harry asked.
"She was just a few months younger than your father. So we all entered Hogwart's the same year. But before then she always fancied the Dark Arts. We were always nice to her since she was your father's cousin but it was difficult since she was a Slytherin. Iris was one of the first Potters not to become a Gryffindor. That was a shock to your father's family but it was a delight to her mother since she also fancied the Dark Arts. She was a very strange woman very dark..." Professor Lupin said remembering old times. He shook his head and continued. "Shortly after we were in Hogwart's she changed her last name to her mother's maiden name. Which is what you know her as now Ms. Professor Hecate." Professor Lupin said staring down at the floor.
"Ok, I am glad to find this out but how come she lived and my parents and other family members died?" Harry said still wanting his first question answered.
"Well, Harry this will answer that question plus the one about you living with her instead of the Dursley's. She was a Death Eater. She was and is not safe for you." Professor Lupin finished.
"What?" Harry said not believing what he just heard.
"Harry she is ashamed of her past. So please do not bother her right now. She will come to you when she feels the time is right. So just be patient Harry." Dumbledore said with concern.
"Ok, I will but I am not happy about this. But I have one more question I want answered before I leave." Harry said annoyed. "What is or was the relationship between Professor Hecate and Professor Snape?" Harry asked.
A smile formed on Dumbledore's old and wise face. "During their time here at Hogwart's they were sweethearts." Dumbledore said warmly. "But right now Severus and Iris do not know where they stand with each other." Dumbledore added.
Harry just sat there in shock. He just found out that he has a cousin that use to be a Death Eater. She turned against her family and watched them all die at the hands of Voldemort. Harry can't talk to her about her past because she is not safe when it comes to him. To top things off his cousin Iris Hecate dated the teacher he dislike the most Professor Snape.
"Just another ordinary day." Harry said sarcastically to himself.
Author Note: The Fall semester is quickly approaching. I will be busy with my classes and the extracurricular programs I am involved with. I will try my best in continuing to update often. I also want to thank all my reviewers you know who you are! You all are the best.
A New Beginning
Chapter 7 The Long Awaited Talks
Iris woke from her brief nap feeling refreshed and quite happy with herself knowing that her own plan was on its way. She took a quick shower and dressed in light pink robes. Before heading down to breakfast she decided to stop by Dumbledore's office to talk to him about her classes.
"Pop Rocks." Iris chimed.
The gargoyle jumped to the side and Iris made her way to Dumbledore's office. Iris reached the old doors took a deep breath and knocked.
"Enter Iris." Called Dumbledore's warm voice from behind the door.
Iris pushed open the door and smiled at Dumbledore as he greeted her with a warm smile and his sparkling blue eyes. Albus always amazed her from the time she was a student here at Hogwart's to now teaching here he has always been in tune with everything who happens to set foot on Hogwart's ground.
"You are looking better this morning, Iris." Dumbledore said happily. "Please sit down." He said gesturing to a comfy armchair.
"Thank you Albus." Iris said smiling as she sat down.
"What can I do for you this morning Iris." Dumbledore said as he clasped his hands together and placed them on top of his grand old desk.
"First I want to say that I left the hospital wing early this morning without letting Madame Pomfrey know." Iris said.
"Poppy has already been to see me this morning." Dumbledore said chuckling. "I told her not to worry and that you probably went back to your office early this morning to do some work." He continued.
"Just a tad bit of work." Iris said forcing a smile. "That is why I am here to speak with you Albus." Iris said staring down at her hands and playing with her silver ring.
Dumbledore adjusted himself in his desk chair and waited for Iris to continue.
"I was wondering if I could possibly take a few weeks off? I will understand if I can't." Iris said in a low voice.
"Yes, you may Iris. Can I ask why you need a few weeks off?" Dumbledore asked.
"I'm afraid with everything going on with the Order and with the Dark Lord I feel I need some time off. I'm having a hard time remembering where some things begin and some things end." Iris sighed not looking Dumbledore in the eye.
Dumbledore sat for a few moments looking at Iris and pondering what she had just told him. Iris sensing that he was looking at her lifted her head and gave Dumbledore a weak, little smile.
"Iris what did Voldemort do to you when you disobeyed him, lied to him or refused him what he wanted?" Dumbledore asked slowly pondering his own question.
Iris sat there ashamed of herself. That was a part of her life that only she knew about. Just recently Severus learned what all she endures from the Dark Lord.
"Well, Albus..sometimes he will beat me or use the Cruciatus curse." Iris said mumbling and looking down at the floor.
"Don't you mean use to, Iris?" Dumbledore asked.
"No sir I don't. So far I have only had to endure one of his beatings and that was several weeks ago when he thought that I had lied to him." Iris said hurriedly.
"What did he think you lied to him about Iris?" Dumbledore asked.
"He thinks that since I am the only living relative one James' side I am going to try and save Harry instead of obeying my orders and getting him by himself." Iris is sighed.
"Iris do you know how you are going to get Harry by himself?" Dumbledore asked with concern.
"No I don't. I won't even know what I am going to do until he calls on me Albus." Iris said placing her head in her hands.
"Do not worry Iris. The Order has been well informed of the situation and we are in the process of working on several different plans of attack." Dumbledore said in a strong and authoritarian voice.
"Albus can I ask one more thing of you?" Iris said on the verge of tears.
"Yes you can ask anything you want Iris." Dumbledore said warmly noticing Iris emotional state.
"I do not want to know any of the plans the Order is working on." Iris blurted out.
"Iris I do not think that is wise. You should be well aware of what is going on." Dumbledore said.
"I know but I would rather deal with the Dark Lords punishments than to have him gain access to Harry." Iris said crying now.
"That is not a wise decision but I will do as you've asked of me Iris." Dumbldore said shaking his head at her decision. "Iris can I ask you a question?" He continued.
"Yes Albus go right ahead." Iris said as she wiped away her tears.
"Iris you have shown no such signs of his punishment. How do you take care of yourself?" Dumbldore asked curiously as he eyed Iris.
"No sir I usually don't. I have special potions that I brew that quickly heal any and all wounds I receive at his hands. I recently ran out and with the help of Severus I was able to recover without difficulty since I did not have the right potions." Iris said.
"My, my Iris. If I would have known that Iris I would not have asked for you help with the Order." Dumbledore said with sorrow.
"I know Albus, but to lie to the Dark Lord would have resulted in death because he would have known that I am not his faithful servant. That is why I've had to let him continue." Iris said with a grimace.
"By all means Iris please take some time off. Get a way for a few days and rest." Dumbledore said with urgency.
"Thank you Albus but if you don't mind I would like to stay here." Iris said smiling at Dumbledore. "I have some things I need to work on and I can take care of it all here." She continued.
"Of course Iris do as you wish. You can even help out your replacement if he needs any help." Dumbledore said smiling once again.
"He? Who do you have in mind for my replacement?" Iris said with curiosity.
"Remus Lupin." Dumbledore said fondly.
"He will do an excellent job! I read over what he taught a few years ago he covered a great deal and he got rave reviews from students." Iris said cheerfully. "When do you expect his arrival?" She asked.
"I expect him to arrive later this afternoon." Dumbledore said.
"Great. If he needs anything please tell him to stop by my office anytime. He can borrow whatever he wants while he is here." Iris said as she stood up to leave.
"Thank you Iris I am sure he will appreciate that offer." Dumbledore said cheerfully. "And Iris if you need anything please don't hesitate to ask." Dumbledore continued.
"Thank you Albus for everything you have done for me." Iris said as she left his office and headed down the Great Hall for breakfast.
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Dumbledore sat in his office surrounded by many gadgets. Many of his gadgets made soft whistling noises as the spun around quickly. Some of his other gadgets and doodads had white smoke coming from them as well. Dumbledore sat surrounded by many scrolls on his desk. He would pick one up and read over it and quickly put it down and promptly pick up another one. He did this for several minutes when he heard a knocking at his office door.
"Come in Severus." Dumbledore said still pouring over his scrolls.
Severus walked in to Dumbledore's office. Severus was always amazed that his friend and ally always knew who was at his door. Severus just chalked it up to the wise old man knowing when someone had something important to discuss with him. Severus would never openly admit but he was truly thankful for Dumbledore.
"Good afternoon Severus. Please sit down and tell me what is troubling you." Dumbledore said stacking his scrolls and placing them to the side.
"What makes you think something is troubling me." Severus said sharply.
"Severus I know you are upset about me allowing Iris to teach her and getting her involved with the Order." Dumbledore stated plainly.
"What makes you think what I have to discuss with you has anything to deal with Iris." Severus said annoyingly.
"Then by all means tell me what you want to discuss with me Severus." Dumbledore said gesturing once again to the comfy armchair in front of his desk.
Severus stood there for several moments trying to figure out what gave him away. Truthfully Severus did want to talk to Dumbledore about Iris. Finally admitting defeat Severus sat down and sighed heavily.
"Albus I went to begin making the Polyjuice potion and came across many of the necessary ingredients missing." Severus said.
"Do you think some students are borrowing without permission?" Dumbledore asked.
"This time I don't believe it is any student stealing from me." Severus said standing up and walking over to the fireplace.
"Then who do you suspect Severus?" Dumbledore continued as he watch Severus pace back and forth in front of his fireplace.
"I think it was Iris who took the ingredients, Albus." Severus said as he turned to face Dumbledore.
"Have you asked her about this Severus?" Dumbledore asked with a raised eyebrow.
"No I have not. That is one conversation I would like very much not to have with her Albus." Severus said bitterly.
"Things between you and Ms. Iris are not good Severus?" Dumbledore asked with curiosity.
"Things haven't been the same in quite a few years." Severus mumbled.
"Severus I suggest you go and talk with Iris. You two need to talk things out. You need to hear her side of the story and the same goes for her." Dumbledore said bluntly.
"Why Albus? Why should I go and talk with her?" Severus said bitterly.
"Only you know why you should Severus I am just merely making a suggestion." Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eyes.
But before Severus could make any remark about him talking with Iris he was push forward on to the floor landing on his hands and knees. Severus turned with his black greasy hair in his face and glared at Dumbledore's rude and very inconsiderate visitor.
"Sorry about that mate." Remus Lupin said muffling a laugh and dusting soot off himself.
"Ah Remus I am glad to see that you can still make an entrance." Dumbledore said with a chuckle.
Severus stood up and adjusted his black robes and was heading out Dumbledore's office.
"Severus wait I have something I must tell you and Remus." Dumbledore said as he caught Severus leaving his office out the corner of his eye.
Severus turned on his heel and retreated back inside Dumbledore's office. He walked and stood by Remus.
"I've talked with Iris earlier today and she has made a very important and unwise request. She has asked not to be informed of any plans the Order is formulating about Harry." Dumbledore said.
Remus nodded but Severus was shocked. Dumbledore looked over at Severus and gave him a look of you now have a reason to go and talk with her.
"Severus you may leave now." Dumbledore said sensing his urgency to leave.
Severus nodded and turned on his heels and promptly left Dumbledore's office and returned to his office.
*^*^*
"Remus please join me in a cup of tea before you head to your room and office." Dumbledore said taking out his wand and conjuring up a pot of tea and some cookies to go along.
Remus and Albus shared a few fond moments when he was a student and when he was a teacher a few years ago at Hogwart's. Dumbledore's office was filled with the sound of laughter when there was yet another knock on Dumbledore's office door.
"Please come in." Dumbledore said through a fit of laughter.
Albus and Remus both turned their attention to the door and greeted Professor McGonagall with warm smiles.
"Ah Minerva please come in and join us." Dumbledore said as he conjured up another comfy armchair for her.
Professor McGonagall joined the two men for a spot of tea and a few laughs before the conversation turned to business.
"Albus, I think we should discuss what we are going to do with Mr. Potter." Minerva said with a stern voice.
"Yes we should Albus." Remus said as he nodded with agreement.
"Yes we should. This is a matter that cannot be wished away." Dumbledore said in a sadden voice. "I've had a talk with Professor Hecate early this morning and she is fine with the idea of you taking over her classes for a short time Remus." Dumbledore said as he looked at Remus.
"That is good because I would not want to step on her toes about teaching her classes." Remus said.
"What does Ms. Hecate plan to do while she is not teaching Albus?" Minerva asked.
"She asked to take a few weeks off. With everything that she has been involved with she feels she needs some time off which she will be spending her." Dumbledore said before Minerva could ask.
"Albus can you explain to me why she asked not to be informed about any of the plans the Order devises?" Remus asked with curiosity.
"She did what Albus?" Minerva asked puzzled.
"Yes, in our conversation earlier this morning she asked me and the rest of the Order to not inform her of any plans involving Harry." Dumbledore said with a sigh.
"But why?" Remus asked.
"She would rather not know anything and deal with Voldemort herself then willing give him up to him." Dumbledore said.
"Oh!" Remus and Minerva but exclaimed.
"That is very unwise of her Albus. Voldemort will truly kill her if he finds out that she is with holding information from him!" Minevra exclaimed again.
"She is a very strong and determined woman. I am not going to force her into anything she does not want to do." Dumbledore sighed.
"Has she mentioned how she is going to get Harry alone by himself?" Remus asked.
"Ah yes that is one of the things we discussed earlier. She said she will not know until Voldemort calls upon her when he is ready." Dumbledore said as he clasped his hands together and looked at both Remus and Minerva.
"Albus do you believe her?" Minvera asked.
"At this point in time yes I do believe her. She has not given me any reason not to believe her at this moment." Dumbledore said sternly.
"We must tell Harry, Albus. He must be aware of the situation before him and the Order." Remus said looking at Dumbledore for approval.
"Yes we must. Minerva would you please go and fetch Harry for us?" Dumbledore asked.
"As you wish Albus." Minerva said as she left Dumbledore's office in search of Harry.
*^*^*
Professor McGonagall headed out of Professor Dumbledore's office and went straight to the Quidditch pitch where she knew the Gryffindor team was practicing for the upcoming match against Slytherin. The days were now getting colder and colder as the winter months approached. As Professor McGonagall made her way down to the Quidditch pitch she pulled the collar of the robes up to try and block some of the wind since early evening was turning cooler and the wind was starting to pick up a bit. When she finally got there all of the Gryffindor team was practicing. Right now some of the Gryffindor team members were throwing quaffles at Ron since he was the new keeper since last year. Professor McGonagall watched for a few minutes and had high hopes for the upcoming match against Slytherin. Ron has improved so much from last year that he was actually a pretty good keeper. After a few minutes lost in thought Professor McGonagall then remember why she had come down to the Quidditch pitch to begin with.
Professor McGonagall pointed her wand to her throat. "Sonorus." She said. "Mr. Potter could you please come down her." Professor McGonagall ordered. She then turned her wand back to her throat and said "Quietus."
Harry turned to see who had called him down to the ground. Once he realized that it was Professor McGonagall he flew down and landed right in front of her and dismounted his broom.
"What can I do for you Professor?" Harry asked as he wiped sweat off of his forehead.
"I need for you to go and change and come with me to Professor Dumbledore's office quickly." Professor McGonagall said in her usual stern voice.
"Did I do something wrong Professor?" Harry asked getting worried.
"You can ask questions later Harry but I need for you to go and get changed and get back here quickly." Professor McGonagall said shooing him away.
Harry ran off to change and five minutes later he was back with Professor McGonagall. The two of them then promptly headed off to Professor Dumbledore's office. Harry had to run to keep up with Professor McGonagall's fast pace and they made their way back to the castle. As they entered the castle Harry found enough courage to ask Professor McGonagall what was going on.
"Professor can you tell me why we are going to see Professor Dumbledore?" Harry asked as he rushed to keep up with her.
Professor McGonagall chose not to answer Harry as they made their way. A few minutes later Professor McGonagall and Harry were standing in front of the Gargoyle guarding Dumbledore's office. Professor McGonagall the password and the gargoyle jumped to the side and Harry and Professor McGonagall quickly made their way up the stairs and walked into Dumbledore's office without even knocking.
"I have found Mr. Potter, Albus." Professor McGonagall said as she ushered Harry in and shut the door behind him.
Harry looked around Dumbledore's office and found the headmaster himself sitting behind his desk and someone sitting with his back towards Harry.
"Harry please take a seat." Dumbledore said gesturing to the empty chair next to the all ready occupied one.
Harry did as he was told and Professor McGonagall followed behind him and sat down in the chair on the right side of Harry.
Harry sat down and turned to his left to get a better look at the other person in the room with him, Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall. Harry turned and saw a familiar face smiling back at him.
"Professor Lupin what are you doing here?!" Harry asked shocked.
"Hi to you to Harry." Remus said as he gave a little laugh.
"Sorry Professor, hi." Harry said sounding more confused.
"Professor Lupin is here on business for the Order and to take over for a few weeks Professor Hecate's class." Dumbledore said drawing Harry's attention to him.
"Ok. But what does this have to do with me?" Harry asked in bewilderment.
"Harry we have some information that involves you in particular." Dumbledore said calmly.
"Ok." Harry said with curiosity.
"We've been informed that Voldemort is planning an attack on you." Dumbledore continued.
Harry sat there for a moment and digested what he was just told.
Professor Lupin put his hand on Harry's. "Harry are you all right?" Remus asked with concern.
Harry looked at Professor Lupin and then at Dumbledore.
"What do I need to do or better yet not do." Harry said finding his voice.
Dumbledore smiled at Harry. "You are a brave young man Harry and no wonder you are a Gryffindor through and through."
Harry sat there again feeling a little bit better hearing that compliment coming from one of the bravest and most talented wizards Harry knows.
"Professor Snape and Professor Hecate are both part of the plan for the attack on you Harry. But please remember that Professor Snape is working for us and so is Professor Hecate. She is our newest member of the Order and is also a spy against Voldemort." Dumbledore said looking Harry straight in the eye.
Dumbledore waited for Harry to say something but he didn't so Dumbledore continued.
"I am letting you know that you will be under surveillance where ever you go from now on. This is done purely for your safety. You will only know the few members of the Order that will be watching over you but as you know the Order has many other members that aren't known so just remember you will be watch at all times." Dumbledore said.
Harry just sat there in shock. He should be use to this by now. Voldemort has wanted him ever since he was one year old and did not die at Voldemort's attack. Harry wasn't use to this. He is a brave man. Harry can not be called young anymore really. Harry was sixteen years old now but has seen so much in his short life. Only men who were considerably older than Harry are usually the ones that see all the deaths he has seen and felt the pain and torture he has felt from Voldemort.
"Harry do you have any questions?" Dumbledore asked bringing Harry back to reality.
Harry shook his head and thought for a moment.
"Yes sir, I do. I actually have a couple." Harry said.
"Then ask away Harry and we will do our best to answer them for you." Dumbledore said looking at Remus and Minerva.
"Am I going to still be able to do the things that the other students can?" Harry said as he asked his first question.
"Yes you will Harry but you will need my permission if it is anything having to do outside of Hogwart's." Professor McGonagall said as she patted Harry on the hand.
"Your next question Harry." Dumbledore said.
"Yes, this one involves Professor Hecate." Harry started.
Remus and Minerva stiffened in their seats and Harry took notice of this but Professor Dumbledore kept his composure.
"Yes." Dumbledore said urging Harry to continue.
Well sir..I was just wondering..is she..a relative of mine." Harry finally said.
Everyone got quiet for a few moments as Harry's question continued to ring in their ears. Dumbledore's office was extremely quiet but finally a "yes" was heard. Harry was expecting the answer to come from Dumbledore but instead it came from his left side. Professor Lupin had answered Harry's question.
Harry turned and faced Professor Lupin. "She is." Harry said in shock.
"Yes." Lupin said repeating himself.
"Professor Hecate was your father's first cousin which makes her your second cousin Harry." Dumbledore added.
Harry had a million questions running through his mind right now but he only had one that he was able to put in to words and ask.
"How come I didn't go and stay with her after my parent's were murdered instead of going and living with the Dursley's." Harry said becoming agitated.
Harry sat there waiting for his question to be answered. No one answered right away. Harry finally blurted out all the questions that where running through his mind right now.
"Why did I have to live with people who lied to me about my parents? Why did I have to put up with their hatred of my family and me? Why couldn't I have live with someone who understands my world? Why am I just finding out that I have a blood relative on my Dad's side? Why did she never come and find me?" Harry yelled, as he became angrier and angrier.
"Harry please calm down!" Dumbledore exclaimed.
"WHY HASN'T SHE COME TO TALK TO ME THESE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS!" Harry screamed at Dumbledore.
"HARRY!" Remus growled at Harry.
Harry turned and looked at Professor Lupin as he sat there still growling. Harry became quiet and stayed quiet as he tried to regain his composure.
"Harry I know this must come to a complete and utter shock to you finding out that you have another relative but there are reasons why you never knew about your cousin Iris." Dumbledore said breaking yet another awkward silence.
"Then please tell me why I was denied the right to know my family." Harry said bitterly.
"Well, Harry I can only tell you what I know." Professor Lupin started. "She is your cousin as you already know now. You had other family on your Dad's side but during the time when Voldemort was running his Death Eaters many of them were killed. This of course all happened before you were born. Iris just happened to be the only survivor of those attacks." Professor Lupin said with a saddened voice.
"Why did she survive?" Harry asked.
"She was just a few months younger than your father. So we all entered Hogwart's the same year. But before then she always fancied the Dark Arts. We were always nice to her since she was your father's cousin but it was difficult since she was a Slytherin. Iris was one of the first Potters not to become a Gryffindor. That was a shock to your father's family but it was a delight to her mother since she also fancied the Dark Arts. She was a very strange woman very dark..." Professor Lupin said remembering old times. He shook his head and continued. "Shortly after we were in Hogwart's she changed her last name to her mother's maiden name. Which is what you know her as now Ms. Professor Hecate." Professor Lupin said staring down at the floor.
"Ok, I am glad to find this out but how come she lived and my parents and other family members died?" Harry said still wanting his first question answered.
"Well, Harry this will answer that question plus the one about you living with her instead of the Dursley's. She was a Death Eater. She was and is not safe for you." Professor Lupin finished.
"What?" Harry said not believing what he just heard.
"Harry she is ashamed of her past. So please do not bother her right now. She will come to you when she feels the time is right. So just be patient Harry." Dumbledore said with concern.
"Ok, I will but I am not happy about this. But I have one more question I want answered before I leave." Harry said annoyed. "What is or was the relationship between Professor Hecate and Professor Snape?" Harry asked.
A smile formed on Dumbledore's old and wise face. "During their time here at Hogwart's they were sweethearts." Dumbledore said warmly. "But right now Severus and Iris do not know where they stand with each other." Dumbledore added.
Harry just sat there in shock. He just found out that he has a cousin that use to be a Death Eater. She turned against her family and watched them all die at the hands of Voldemort. Harry can't talk to her about her past because she is not safe when it comes to him. To top things off his cousin Iris Hecate dated the teacher he dislike the most Professor Snape.
"Just another ordinary day." Harry said sarcastically to himself.