Disclaimer- i own nothing
The next morning was full of life as all occupants of Griffin manor where up. Arthur and Remus left for work as did Fred and George. Life started to go back to normal, or as normal as life could be with being friends with Harry Potter.
"Now Harry dear I will be back tonight I just want to check on the house" said
Mrs. Weasley.
Some where down the line Mrs. Weasley had decided that she as well as her family would stay with Harry till he kicked them out, which Harry would never do. So till he went back to school the Weasleys where staying put. "Bye Mrs. Weasley" yelled Harry as she disappeared through the fireplace of the Manor. Bill, Charlie and Percy right behind her. Harry laughed, and went to meet the rest of his family in the muggle room.
Though Sirius had been healing quite nicely he was still a bit weak and had trouble walking. So one could find dear old Padfoot laying on a chair his son and grandson curled up in his arms. Harry smiled at the site. Before walking in he noticed no one else was in there.
"Where did every one go" asked Harry to his godfather. "Hmm well Ara and Ginny ran off some where, to do what I am not sure but I would watch what you eat" said Sirius joking.
"I think Ron and Hermione might be snogging and let me tell you if that boy hurts my little girl I swear I don't care if you consider him a brother, I'll kill him" he said only half joking. Harry smiled happily, hearing Sirius referring to Hermione as his little girl. As Harry was about to reply a burst of flames signaled Hedwig's return. Harry went to go grab the letter she held in her talons when she snapped at him.
"Really," she said to him "not everything I deliver is for you." she finished fluttering over to Sirius. She stretched out her talons, so he could take the letter.
Shifting Jason's weight he took the letter. And after a few moments he was able to open it. He read it and sheer joy spread over his face. "What is it" said Harry. Sirius handed him the note and Harry read it out loud.
Sirius,
I am very happy to here of your return. I am even more happy to here that the Minister has seen fit to pardon you. You are a free man again. I was wondering now if you would possibly think of teaching. There is an opening on the Hogwarts staff for a defense against the dark arts teacher and I think that another marauder to fill the position would be perfect. Please respond as quickly as you can. Though do not fret if you are unable to I could always ask your cousin Ms. Tonks. Again I congratulate you on every thing Sirius and hope to hear from you soon.
Professor Dumbledore
Harry looked at Sirius, pure joy was visible on his face. "Well are you going to take the job" asked Harry.
"You know Harry, I think I will" replied Sirius happily. He stood up and laid both children down on the overly large chair he had been sitting in. "I am gonna go talk to Hermione first, before I reply, I'll be back in a little bit." Harry nodded and Sirius left the room.
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Sirius made his way down to were he knew Hermione's room would be. Forgetting to knock he barged in on a upset Hermione.
"Hermione what's wrong, did Ron do something" asked Sirius seeing his Daughter, his only Daughter in hysterical in tears. "I'm fine" she tried to say but it was clear she was not. Sirius closed the door and sat next to Hermione, who was laying on her pillow.
Sirius had never been in this situation before. How he thought was he suppose to comfort his daughter when something clearly was wrong.
"Hermione I know I am new at this whole Dad thing, but I am your dad ,you can trust me. What's wrong?" he once again asked, feeling slightly uncomfortable and in the deep parts of his mind planning a painfully revenge to who ever had upset his daughter.
"I..." she began but could not seem to put her words together. "I..um Sirius... its, I'm sorry its just all to much" she blurted out as the tears started to steam down.
"I never thought this would happen, I thought I lost it all when my parents where killed and I had to take care of Chris and wondering why I was abandoned, then I found out the truth and Harry was gone and its just all to much to have some of it back." she said as she continued to cry.
"And I feel weak for being like this and that I am betraying my parents by getting close to you and" but she never got to finish what she was saying because Sirius pulled her in to a hug and held her tight.
"Listen to me Hermione to me you are not weak at all. Not even a little bit. And your parents they would want you to be happy. I sorry for never knowing I, Hermione I think I better tell you everything. I should of told you as soon as you told me you where my daughter. I still can't believe I missed it. I mean you are so much like your mother I can't even tell you" he said and waited for her approval to continue. She nodded and tried to stop her sobs.
"First off let me tell you that your mother was and maybe still is one of the most bravest courageous loving woman that I have ever had the honor to meet. Her name was Elizabeth Potter but most people called her ZiZi. She found the name funky, like her. He had long brown hair like yours, she inherited from her mother your grandmother. Though you get the curls sadly from my mother," he said with a bemused smile.
"I meant her when I became friends with James. She was his sister, the same age as Ara and good friends with Lily and Ara. The three Queens of Gryffindor. Your mother was not just smart though she was head strong. You know I played quiditch and was one of the beaters, well she played the other. Could hit a bludger better then me." Hermione's sobs started to subside. "But why she leave me Sirius, why did she not tell you" asked Hermione. "That's a hard question to answer. First well I knew I had a daughter Hermione but I never was able to see her or hold her let alone name her. I thought your mother died Hermione. Please let me finish" he said seeing that Hermione wanted to comment.
"I thought she died, though I now know that it is not true. It was while she was pregnant with you, just before we where to get married. Lily had just had Harry and Zizi was due any day. The day it happened was one of the worst days of my life. It was just a week before you where to be born. I had been on my way home from work to arrive at our little cottage about a mile or two away from James and Lily's place. The house was on fire ," Sirius his voice flattered "and the dark mark was above the house. I ran, ran faster then I hade ever in my life. I tried to get
into the house, but some kind of charm kept me out. From that day on I thought she was dead." he finished soberly.
"But that does not explain Chris, I mean how did he happen then if she was suppose to be dead" she said with a raised eyebrow, reminding Sirius more and more of ZiZi.
"I thought it was a dream I really did. I meant her at a small muggle pub and well you know the rest. I woke up back in my bed and thought I dreamt the whole thing. Hermione I love you very much. I first thank you for bring me back," she tried to protest it was Harry but he stopped her
"with out your research it never would have happened. And I love you. When I thought Harry was all I had left he became my world, my one reason to survive but know I have 4 reasons Hermione. I will be here for you and Chris and Jason. I never thought I would ever be able to love again Hermione but I can. I love you and if you will let me I will ask you again, please let me be your father. I know you had a great one and that I could never compare but if you will just give me the chance" but never finished because Hermione hugged him tight. She wiped her eyes and smiled up at him "Thanks Dad." With those two words it would be known that Hermione would be a Black. There would never be a question of it.
"Now," she said wiping her face sum more "was there something you wanted to tell me earlier when you came in" she asked. Nodding his head furiously he told her about Dumbledore's letter and asked for her opinion.
"As long as your as good as Remus I think that it'll be great" she said truthfully. And with one last hug she left the room to wash up and get ready for breakfast and the big day a head. Sirius was being moved in to his own room at the Manor as well as Chris in to an adjoin room and Sirius, Hermione and Ron where going to Diagon ally for some things for Sirius and Chris.
Just before leaving Sirius wrote down a quick reply to Dumbledore, saying he was more the happy to take the position and would see him September 1st.
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The days went by fast. Every one, especially Hermione and Harry where very happy to have Sirius back. Sirius seemed to also be a good father when it came to Chris and was a great grandfather to Jason. Mrs. Weasley even approved. Sirius still thought it was hysterical that Remus was assistant minister. Hermione got very use to seeing Sirius as her father and you could usually find the two together, Sirius telling Hermione about her mother. There where still some sad days, days where things would just hit Sirius, Hermione and Harry.
It was the week before school and the night before Remus' and Ara's wedding. They decided to have a small wedding with only family and close friends. They wanted to have it before all the kids went to school. Sirius was chosen as Remus' best man and Hermione was Ara's Maid of Honor. This was a very big day with only one problem, who was going to preform the ceremony. Harry knew Remus and Ara wanted to have Dumbledore do it, but did not dare approach Harry with that question. Harry who had not been sure what to get the couple as a wedding present, know knew what to get them.
As the stag party ensued late at night Harry quietly slipped out. As a phoenix he went to see the one man who well lets say was number three on Harry's most hated list (one and two being reserved for Voldomort and Wormtail).
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"Hey Remmie" said Sirius who was very drunk at the time "seen my godson." Remus who usually was one to stay sober was no better then his friend to night and just started to laugh.
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Dumbledore sat in his chambers at Hogwarts, leafing through a not to interesting book when he heard a noise from his office a loud noise, some one was in there. Grabbing his wand Albus went to see what all the fuse was about. He pushed the door open slowly and what he saw before his old eyes made him gasp for he did not expect this at all.
"Are you going to stand there all day Sir and stare at me like I have two heads" asked a slight bemused Harry. "Harry" asked Dumbledore.
"Its me sir and I know you have a lot of questions, some that I will answer but some I will never and other not till you regain my trust. But I have come to ask you for a favor tonight. Do this for me and I promise to answer some of your questions after the favor" said Harry showing no emotion at all. Dumbledore nodded not sure what he would be agreeing to. "Tomorrow morning two people I care very much for are getting married and I know that they would like you to do the ceremony. You are invited to come to my house and do the ceremony as well as stay for the reception. After the reception you and I will talk. After I will send you back to Hogwarts and will not see you again until the new school year starts. So do we have a deal" asked Harry extending his right hand.
Dumbledore took and said "Deal". "Alright" said Harry who turned to Fawlks and seemed to speak to him and nodded. "Fawlks will bring you to the Manor at 8 in the morning be ready, the ceremony is at8: 30." said Harry. Dumbledore nodded still speechless. "See you tomorrow sir" and with that Harry disappeared back to the stag party. No one ever knowing for sure that he left.
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The next day came rather quick. All the girls where in Ara's room, helping the bride get ready as well as themselves. Remus, Sirius, Harry and Ron where getting ready in Harry's room. While the rest of the Weasley men where left in charge under Winky's supervision getting the Manor's great hall ready for the ceremony and the small reception. Dobby was on baby duty taking care of Chris and Jason who both seemed to have become inseparable. While Hedwig was picking up sum guest for the party.
It was still very early, just 7 in the morning and the groom was getting very nervous. "I don't think I can do this" Remus kept repeating. "I am going to be a horrible husband. Maybe this is to fast. What if Ara is," but was stopped by a fist hitting his square in the face knocking him of his stool.
Sirius stood there with a smile on his face massaging his hand. "You sir are marring my sister. You and I will become brother in laws and you will make my sister happy. Now no arguing with me Remus Lupin." Remus just nodded and tried to fix his hair.
"Harry" asked Remus, his voice still a little shaky "who did you get to do the ceremony." "Just a friend" said Harry. "He wont be here for another hour" finished Harry who gave up combing his untamable hair. Remus nodded nervously while Sirius and Ron gave Harry strange looks. Harry just smiled and could not wait for the ceremony.
"Molly how do I look" asked Ara. Molly smiled lovingly "You look like an angel" she said looking at her friend. And she was being truthfully. Ara had on a simple white dress that had been found in a muggle store. Her long black hair fell down her back, in soft curls and her eyes stood out bright blue filled with happiness. "I just can't wait" said Ara. "I can't wait till I become Ara Black- Lupin." All the girls nodded and continue getting ready.
Harry looked at his watch, "I need to greet the man for the ceremony. Sirius you should go get the girls in place" said Harry leaving the room. He walked down in to the kitchen where he had instructed Fawlks to bring Dumbledore. In a matter of minutes the old Headmaster was standing right in front of Harry, Fawlks on his shoulder.
"Hedwig is in the nursery." Harry said aloud and Fawlks disappeared from his master. "How does he know" asked Dumbledore. "I have it on good authority Hedwig has been visiting him" said Harry with a smirk.
Dumbledore looked around. "Where are we?" he asked. "We are in my kitchen at Griffin Manor." replied Harry. "Follow me," said Harry motioning for the Professor to follow him. They entered the manor's great hall. All the guest including Katie Bell, Fred's girl friend, Alica Spint, George's girl, Fluer, Bill's girl friend, Charlie who was with Tonks, Percy and Penelope as well as Hagrid and Minerva along with Oliver Wood, Angelina Johnson.. The Weasley men turned around and where slightly shocked to see Hogwarts Headmaster standing their beside their son/brother Harry. "Professor what are doing here" asked Charlie.
"He is here at my request to preform the ceremony" replied Harry for Dumbledore. Harry looked at his watch again. "Looks like the ceremony is going to start any second. Professor will you take you place, and the rest of you can sit" said Harry heading for the door.
In no time the ceremony began. Remus nervously walked through the door and was highly surprised to see Dumbledore standing in front of the glorious room. He made quick strides to the front and took his place but said, "Sir if I may what are you doing here" though Remus was thinking hope you are ready to run Harry is going to be pissed.
"I think a Mr. Potter wanted to make sure you and Isabella had the wedding you wanted." replied Dumbledore, his old twinkle bright in his eye. Remus nodded and could not help but love his best friend's son even more.
Soon out of no where music started (though this could be thanked to the twins and Sirius) and Harry with Mrs. Weasley on his arm started to walk forward. Next came Ron who's cheeks where very red, for he was escorting his sister down the isle. Next came Hermione by herself as the maid of Honor with a lovely bouquet of lilies in her hand.
A new song started "here comes the bride" and every one stood and Ara on the arm of her brother started down the isle. Ara was in completely shock, seeing the Headmaster in the room. Sirius did not seem as surprised but highly amused and could not wait to talk to the Headmaster alone for he had finally heard Harry's whole story (well really Harry's edited version). They both continued to glided down the isle until they stood before the Headmaster. "Who gives this lovely lady away" asked Dumbledore. "I do" replied Sirius. The Headmaster nodded and Sirius took the spot next to Remus. The ceremony officially began.
"Do you Remus Lupin take Ara Black to be your wife, to love and to hold, through the bad and the good" asked Dumbledore. "I do" replied Remus smiling.
"Ara Black do you take Remus Lupin to be your husband, to love and to hold through the bad and the good." "I do" replied Ara.
"The rings" asked Dumbledore. "I have them" said Sirius as he searched his pockets. "Ahh here are the little buggers" said Siris passing the rings to the Headmaster. Remus took Ara's and she took his.
"Remus repeat after me" said Dumbledore. "With this ring I thee wed." Remus did and slipped the gold ring that was woven with diamonds on to his beloved's hand. Ara Bella did the same. Dumbledore pulled out a golden rope and tied Remus left to Ara's right hand.
"May this knot symbolize your love that has and shall not ever be undone" said Dumbledore. "May I now present Mr and Mrs Lupin. You may kiss the bride" finished Dumbledore as the Remus planted a gentle yet passionate kiss on Ara's lips. The room erupted in cheers. New music started and food appeared on the tables. The reception started.
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The party lasted all day. The great hall had been decorated to look like it was meant for a wedding. The walls had beautiful white and blue (Ara hated pink) lace, with lovely flowers that came from the castle garden. There was one long table set for eating while the rest of the hall was used for dancing to the muggle music box (as Ron called it). After a wonderful dinner it was time for the best man to give his speech. Tapping his glass with his fork he stood up and all attention was on him.
Sirius was a bit nervous, the last time he had done this was at James and Lily's wedding. He sighed and looked over to his sister and new brother in law (thought this did not really make a difference the two men where already brothers) they sat at the head of the table looking at each other with such love. Sirius smiled and began his speech
"Never thought I be doing one of these again." he said no one understand what he meant but Remus and Ara.
"This could not have happened to two more deserving people. My sister Ara was such a tom boy when we where younger. Use to drive my mother nuts, never did thank you for that sis." Every one laughed having meant the portrait of their mother. "Isabella and me both survived the most Nobel house of Black. I remember the day we where both blasted off the family tree, never thought we could be happier. And my brother Remus who was the only one out of the marauders who actually used his head. He was the real brains behind every thing. I remember them falling in love. I remember Remus beating himself up over it. He never thought he was worthy of her love because of the wolf inside of him. Well Remus you are even if the wolf was still there, you both deserve each other. I can't think of any one else who could deal with that in the morning." he said as his sister stuck her tongue out at him.
"But in all seriousness ,no pun intended, I would like to wish you both all the best." said Sirius finishing and sitting down. Every one clapped. And cake was served.
As the party was dying down Harry stood up. "I just want to say a quick something before we all part. I would just like to congratulate both Remus and Ara, and I know its not much but with some help I had one of the rooms that over look the quiditch pitch prepared for you both tonight. So you two can have some sort of honey moon" finished Harry as his cheeks went red. Ara and Remus hugged Harry, thank Dumbledore and ever one else and was escorted to their honey moon sweet for the night by Winky.
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After Hedwig took all the guest home, excluding the Weasleys and Dumbledore, Mrs. Weasley and ever one else started to pitch in to clean up. Harry tried to stop them but they would have none of it. So after every one even Dumbledore helped clean out the great hall it was time for Harry to live up to his part of the bargain.
"Professor if you will follow me we will go to my room so we can have the discussion we talked about" Harry said addressing Dumbledore. The Headmaster nodded and followed one of his favorite students through out the castle.
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Slowly the rest of the great hall occupants found their way to bed or at least some of them did. For Sirius, Ginny, Ron, Fred, George, and Hermione where huddled around Harry's bed room door with extendable ears listing to the Headmaster and their beloved Harry's conversation.
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As they entered Harry's room, Harry motioned for Dumbledore to take a seat at the small table. Harry sat across from him. "Well were would you like me to begin" asked Harry. "The beginning is always the best" replied the Headmaster. So Harry did, he told Dumbledore his edited version of what happened. He told him everything he told his friends ending as he always did. Ending with he was a father.
Dumbledore 's eyes twinkles madly at this. "A father" he said softly. "Yes sir and he will be coming to school with me and will stay with me, so will his sister as soon as she is found." said Harry with a little venom in his voice. He was trying to be civil to the Headmaster but he was still angry at the man for many things. Dumbledore nodded and sat back in his chair as if studying Harry, who found this very annoying.
"Well Harry it seems you are leaving something out of you story" said Dumbledore staring in to Harry's cold green eyes. "What happened at the Durselys" he asked. Asking the one question that no one had dared asked Harry. "Why did the elves take you so soon from the Dursleys" he asked again.
"That would be none of your business" said Harry. "Harry you won't be able to move on from it if you do not let it out. Tell me Harry, what did he do," asked the Headmaster. Neither he nor Harry knew that just out side Harry's door stood several people wanting the same answer. "As I said sir, it is none of your business as well as I have put it out of my mind it no longer matters" said Harry sounding as if he was a robot.
"It does matter Harry, it does. The longer you repress this" but Dumbledore never got to finish for Harry stood up slammed his fist on to the table and said,
"I will advise you to not push this line of questioning any further" sighed Harry. "I have matters to attend to. Go through that door, and you will find Fawlks and you may say hello to my son" and with that Harry popped out of his room and into the muggle room where he sat down and put on a funny Muggle movie called Monty Python and the Holy Grail trying to forget the past memories that haunted him.
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Dumbledore sighed "He is gone, you may come in" he said loudly. The door opened and the listeners came in. Ginny and Sirius looking a tad red in the face. They all just stood there for what seemed like ages until Sirius looked in to the Headmasters eye and said,
"He deserves so much better, I donno what those people did to him, but I sure as hell will find out." He took a deep breath and continued, "I know we have much to discuss Albus but it will have to wait till school starts." finished Sirius, starting to leave the room.
"Oh and one more thing, Chris will be joining us to" and with that Sirius Black left the room his mind set on talking to Harry. Now if only I can find him he thought.
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Hermione lead the Headmaster into the nursery, and introduced the old man to Jason. Jason took a liking to the headmaster, but also seemed to be weary of him. Jason could tell something was wrong with this man but not what.
"Headmaster I," Hermione tried to apologize but really could not. "There is no need Ms," "Black" replied Hermione with out thinking. "As I was saying there is no need Ms. Black I must leave, I will see you on September first" finished the Headmaster as his phoenix flew to him to take both he and the old man home.
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