More Than You Think You Are Chapter 19: God knows it weighs on me, a heavy as stone, and as blue as I go…, a harry potter fanfic

Author's Footnotes: Last time, Harri apologized profusely to Sirius, Draco and Lupin trained, Severus nearly solved the puzzle of Trelawney's message, and Fawkes called for assistance. In this chapter lots of things happen. I apologize about the lateness of my update, but I haven't been able to use my computer for the last three weeks. I just got my computer back, and so I had to write most of the story after the three weeks. Anyway, I'm here now. Oh in case I forget, check out my C2 h t t p : w w w. f a n f i c t i o n. n e t / c 2 / 4 / 0 / 1/ Thank you to the following for reviewing: Chompekitas, Liviania, Crazy-Physco, Lydia Blue, Steph, me, Artemis Moonclaw, Kenny Bradshaw, and IvyLilac. Thanks for reading this chapter, and please review. Also if you like the story, feel free to recommend More Than You Think You Are. I apologize for the appearance, but QuickEdit is a piece of shit that ruins my formatting.

More Than You Think You Are

Chapter Nineteen: God knows it weighs on me, a heavy as stone, and as blue as I go…

Nia was the oldest of their kind, appearing on Earth in what was now known as Africa. Only alone for exactly thirty days, her occasional compatriot, the second oldest of the phoenixes appeared in what is now Ireland. As the oldest male phoenix, Murchadh and the other male members of their brethren sought him out when they needed help with their respective familiars. Nia wouldn't want to be involved, but even she with her cynical countenance, would be willing to help the child of Lily. Fawkes felt apprehensive in calling for the assistance of his eldest brother and sister. Murchadh would come to Fawkes' because he was always more than willing to help his younger brethren. Nia however, was an entirely different story. Nia despised almost every member of the human race. In her opinion humanity was a virus, a sick disease spreading its disgusting behavior. Fawkes knew that the ancient phoenix had a right to feel the way she did, but he hoped that her opinions might be changing. After all, her own destiny would be faced when she arrived along with Murchadh. He was in his human guise now, so that the humans could understand them as they communicated.

Dumbledore tried offering him a bite of his favorite sour candy, but even treats from his familiar could not calm him now. He could feel Murchadh's presence. He was flying, only a few hundred yards away. Nia however, was clever and would choose a more appropriate entrance. Young Harri, the newest member of their coven was also decidedly nervous. She was after all meeting her 'aunt' and 'uncle'. He could see the waves of her unease roll off of her body, which was an odd olive green hue. Ever since she returned from the past, her magical signature was becoming more noticeable to him, and probably Severus as well. The windows to Dumbledore's office sprang open, and as the wind and dust settled, a beautiful phoenix with violet eyes landed on a vacant chair. Nodding to his older counterpart, Fawkes witnessed the rare event when Murchadh would show his human form. The male in question turned to the assembled guests, bowing politely.

With transfixed eyes Harri, Severus, Draco, Sirius, Lupin, Dumbledore, Hermione and Ron all watched the amazing bird change shape. No longer was there a rather plump colorful bird preening himself. Now there stood a tall man, with red hair, green eyes and a bright smile. His skin was tanned, possibly from days spent outside in pleasant weather. He studied the human creatures before him, before his eyes finally settled on another that shared his blood. He leaned down towards Harri locking eyes with her. His smile widened, when eh saw the tell tale scar, and startling green eyes. This had to be Lily's daughter, the famed savior of the wizarding world. She was taller than he expected. She was pretty, but in an unassuming way. Her smile was slightly crooked, but that could have been attributed to the fact that he was so close to her. Seeing her obvious discomfort, Murchadh stepped back. He faced Fawkes, drawing the younger male into a warm hug. The sound of a throat clearing broke the sentimental moment.

"Good day friends, I am called Murchadh. I realize that my name may be a bit difficult to pronounce. In any case, you may call me Murray for short."

He began his usual introductory spiel, in hopes of lightening the mood. His name he realized, millennia ago was a bit hard to wrap around the tongue. The human dialect would never correctly address him, so he willingly made leeway. He adopted the name on his first conscious day on the green isles. He loved his homeland of Ireland. He loved that his name literally meant warrior of the sea, because he loved the piece of land to which he belonged. Now that he had gotten the awkward part out of the way, he could find out what exactly these humans needed from him. The bushy haired girl seemed to have recovered from her shock first, garnering enough courage to speak with him directly. The other humans however were decidedly suspicious of him. That could prove to be a double edged sword.

"Mr. Murray, I was wondering if you could tell us why we are here. Fawkes seems to have conveniently neglected to tell us."

Hermione started, voicing what was the opinion of the group at the moment. Taking a seat he was about to begin explaining his presence to the humans, but was interrupted by a loud boom in the fireplace. The walls shook, dust and papers flew everywhere. Everyone in the room drew their wands, facing the source of the commotion. Fawkes and Murchadh rolled their eyes in annoyance, obviously peeved by their sister's entrance. Tumbling out of the dingy fireplace, a tall woman stepped into the office. With a swipe of his hand Fawkes removed the dirt and grit from her body. Giving him an appreciative smile, she hugged him. Harri thought she was interesting sight to see. Her hair was natural, braided into tiny little braids which she wore all about her head. Her eyes were a warm earth brown, and her skin looked to be the color of the sun shining through a glass of Pepsi Cola. She was taller than Harri, and unlike Fawkes and Murchadh, who chose to wear traditional wizard robes, she had come dressed in an indigo t-shirt, and a pair of denim jeans. Her muggle attire was fashionable at least.

"Really Nia, you could have at least worn something less conspicuous. What happens when we walk about the school and you're dressed as a common muggle? Besides, I thought you hated human clothing."

Fawkes said teasingly to the surprise of everyone in the room. The woman in question rolled her eyes, and smirked at her mortal audience. Conjuring a seat for herself, she sat calmly. Murchadh stifled a chuckle, knowing full well his young brother would be chewed out later when they were alone. Even if Nia was contradicting herself, she was the oldest, and he knew better than to speak out of line, even in jest. No one said anything; instead they stared at the new arrival with suspicion. Draco didn't like the look of her, even if she was a magical creature. Harri thought that for a phoenix she was pretty in her human form, although Harri secretly wondered how she appeared in her true form. Ron thought she looked pretty hot, and while the others didn't really seem to have an opinion of her yet. They didn't seem like a bad lot, for human beings at least. She was a busy creature, and she wanted to get down to business. The auras in the room were pretty steady, but Lily's daughter was definitely giving off erratic energy. Her features were sharp, and she could see the resemblance to Severus quite clearly. Her glamour was breaking down however because her facial features flickered from a façade to her true looks. The girl was beautiful, having her mother's eyes, and her father's height and build. This was a girl she would be proud to call her niece. She felt a wistful tinge in her heart. The girl was a huge reminder of Lily.

"Fawkes, that is beside the point. When were you going to tell me that my niece has such uncontrolled powers? You didn't even place a binding spell on the poor child! What if she is hurt mentally by someone and her protector goes on a rampage?"

Personally, Fawkes didn't think he was at fault in any way. Nia was the oldest of their kind, and as such she had responsibilities to fulfill. She was supposed to be the one that checked up on the girl, she was the one that was supposed to train Harri not him. He had gone above and beyond expectations to ensure that Harri's powers were even awakened. He didn't expect his sister to be very understanding, but she could at least have come earlier. Murchadh, who had been listening silently to his brother's rants, knew that an argument could erupt between the two at any time. As the second oldest, and the eldest male, he was one of the more laidback of their brethren, and because of this he was the unofficial peacekeeper of the group. He sympathized with Fawkes, but the younger bird should realize the burden Nia bore. Nia was restricted so much, that she could not do much of anything without adhering to strict rules of the coven. Every time he was with his siblings he felt torn, because each had justifications for the beliefs and opinions. Still, he needed to intervene before something was said or done thoughtlessly. Fawkes was easily offended, and his emotions were worn on his sleeve. Nia could be very insensitive, and she would end up saying something hurtful without even realizing that she had done so.

"Nia it's too late to focus on that right now. The young lady needs our help and we should be there for her. I know you prefer to stay out of human affairs, but she is family. If anyone threatens her, then they threaten us all. Besides, we must do all that we can to ensure Lily's legacy lives on. Or do you not care at all about that?"

Harri, who had been rather quiet through their discussion wanted to know exactly who these people were to her. Were they the ones that shared her blood? Could these two be the legendary oldest phoenixes in existence? They were her mother's siblings so that meant that they were her aunts and uncles, right? If that was the case, then where the hell were they when she needed them the most? Why had she never heard of these relatives before? She didn't want to believe that she had relatives out there that could have rescued her from the Dursleys. Why couldn't they have taken her away from those awful people? Thinking about things like that would only hurt her. Sirius had already been offended when she broached the subject with him. Who knew what these strangers would say. Still, this just affirmed her own belief that she was no wanted by any of their kind. Why else would they neglect to rescue her from the hell she had known while growing up with the Dursleys. Even if they were Fawkes' siblings, she didn't think she could trust them. Murchadh and Nia behaved as if she mattered to them, but her suspicious nature prevented her from being swayed.

"Fawkes believes that with either Nia or Murray living here, a special spell can be enacted using their blood. I don't know the specifics, but apparently, if we allow one of them to reside at Hogwarts, Harri will have the protection of two immortals. It would mean that once she accepts their blood she would be hard to kill. With two phoenixes on campus there would be enough power between the two to protect the entire school."

Dumbledore spoke clearly, drawing Harri from her thoughts. This wouldn't work at all! Hadn't her father said no one else could know that they were planning on resurrecting her mother? Weren't there rules against something like this? Fawkes had made it clear that there could not be an abundance of phoenixes in one place! If both Nia and Murray stayed, they would be in the way. Of course, Dumbledore had no idea of her plans with Sirius, Remus and her father so naturally he wouldn't be taking any of this into account. What were they going to do? They couldn't very well tell both of the phoenixes to go home. Harri fidgeted in her chair nervously, unsure of how to introduce the topic. The last thing she wanted to do was offend anyone. However, he mother's return was above all else, the most pertinent issue at hand. Not even Draco, with whom she had shared so much, would be privy to this knowledge. As she these thoughts ran rampant in her mind, she was unaware that she was being watched by both Murchadh and Nia.

"Murchadh and I must leave, so that you may have time to prepare for our formal arrival. Murchadh must return to his familiar, and I need to speak with Fawkes and young Harriet privately."

Severus glared at the woman, still untrustworthy of her presence. He ushered Draco, Hermione, and Ron out the door, exchanging a knowing glance with Harri. If things got too heated, she knew to send him in. He didn't like the look of those two, but he had always been suspicious of everyone. His Slytherin nature was to question his environment. Draco offered her a smile, before walking out the door. Remus and Snuffles were the first out, although Harri knew Sirius would want to listen in with a pair of the Weasleys' Extendable Ears. Dumbledore rounded off the end, and with a slam of the door, the room was vacated save for Fawkes, Nia, Murchadh, and herself. She was getting uncomfortable in the silence. The only person she knew very well was Fawkes, but he was off sulking in a corner.

"Murchadh and I wanted to speak with you privately. Is that alright Harriet? Or is it Harri?"

Nia said with a syrupy smile. Harri glanced at Fawkes and he nodded, signaling to her that it was alright to talk freely with the two strangers.

"I go by Harri. Harriet is too formal. I never liked that name."

Murchadh grinned, understanding completely. Names were important monikers that helped define a person.

"Anyway, we are aware that you plan on resurrecting Lily this weekend. Unfortunately, rules forbid us from being present at the rebirth of a phoenix. Even Fawkes may not attend. However, this is all for the best. Our presence would only be a distraction and could very well prevent your mother's return."

Harri nodded, not really understanding what the woman was saying. Why did they have to abide by any rules? Weren't they the oldest phoenixes in existence? If so, than shouldn't they have set rules for themselves that allowed for these things to happen? It was not as if she really wanted them or needed them to be there during the ceremony, but perhaps they could be of use. That was why Fawkes had sent for help in the first place right? She scowled, grimly. Nothing made sense anymore. Everywhere around her there was some double standard. There was always an exception to the rule. After awhile things got difficult and annoying. Couldn't anything around here ever happen normally?

"Harri, our very presence would stifle Lily's own spirit. A full blooded phoenix can not resurrect its brethren. Lily chose to leave this plane of existence, and we as a group permitted this. This is partially because we knew that it took someone with human blood to do so. Also, we all knew that your mother's human loved ones would resurrect her. We are not allowed to interfere. We would be contradicting ourselves by bringing her back to life. You, your godfather, Remus and Severus all have the power to bring Lily back because you all love her unconditionally, you wish to return her to her human form, and you are human, for the most part."

Murchadh explained, as Harri digested his words. How could that be? This was a direct contradiction? Didn't they know what they were talking about? What in Merlin's name was going on here?

"That doesn't make any sense at all. How am I able to bring my mother back if I am a phoenix?"

Fawkes chuckled, as Murchadh and Nia rolled their eyes. He had finally decided to join their conversation. They made room for him at Dumbledore's desk. The three phoenixes looked at their fellow member with incredulous faces. The girl could not possibly be serious could she?

"Harri you are Lily's daughter. While we may not be apart of the revival ceremony, you are her direct offspring. I had thought by now you would have caught on. Do you not understand? You are a miracle child, I should say. Phoenixes in their true form do not have the ability to reproduce. Your mother laid the egg, which would become you. Even we cannot explain how that happened. The very fact that you exist proves that you are destined for the responsibility. Have faith in yourself."

Nia hesitated, unsure if she should go any further with their discussion. Harri was a remarkable young woman and a mystical anomaly as well. Her very existence was puzzling at best. In her lifetime as a phoenix, and eventually as a human being she possessed remarkable traits that could only be attributed to some other mystical force. She exchanged worried glances with her brother Murchadh. Should they disclose every detail about her? Was she ready to know the full extent of her powers and history just yet? Sighing, Nia stood up from her chair, looking down at the children at play outside. Her hands trailed the oak window sill, and she wistfully stared outside. Harri quirked a raven colored eyebrow at woman's behavior. Fawkes, and Murchadh stared at their sister, unaware of what she was thinking. She had the annoying tendency to close off her telepathic link at times. Suddenly, the tall woman turned, and stared into Harri's eyes.

"Harri, I'll level with you. You never asked for anything that you have received in life. You never deserved to be left feeling unloved, and unwanted for so long. You see, I am the oldest phoenix, and as such I feel as if I have failed you and your mother. Lily is my younger sister, and before you came along she was the youngest female phoenix. I have always watched over her, but yet we all knew it was her destiny to die and be reborn. I could never fathom how one such as I could be blessed with so much power, and have so little influence over what happens to the people I love. You may hear from your father, and others that I hate humans, but I do not. I have lived for a very long time, and I have seen humanity at their worst. I have seen what they do to one another, and it pained me when Lily left."

She stopped for a moment, breathing deeply as if to calm down. She appeared to be relaxed, but upon closer inspection Harri could see the woman was tense. Her hands clutched her clothing tautly, and her face was strained. Fawkes, who did not want Harri to witness his aunt's breakdown, placed a calming hand upon her shoulder.

"Nia and I, on our first days as sentient beings intrinsically knew the rules to which we to govern ourselves and our brethren. Nia was willing to break the rules of our coven by admitting you into our fold, causing an imbalance in our numbers. It was because Nia was willing to break these rules; she would have been kicked out of the coven, and not even allowed to exist as a human. She would simply die. Her powers would be lost, and what's worse is that our coven would have also been affected."

"This bloody sucks! Why does everything around here always have to have a stupid ruddy catch? Why can't things for once, end happily ever after? What in the bloody hell do I have to do get one happy ending? I mean does God hate me or something? Why are things like this always happening to me?"

Harri whined, wanting to kick and scream and yell. Was God mocking her or something? Her cheeks were now puffed out, and her eyes a brilliant shade of bloodshot red. She caught a glance of herself in Dumbledore's wall mirror and visibly blanched at what she saw. She definitely looked like a frightful sight. Sighing, she smoothed her unruly hair down, and wiped her face with her hands. Wiping her glasses off with the ends of her robe, Harri willed herself to calm down. Before she could begin speaking again, someone interrupted her.

"Are you quite through with your pity party then?"

Her father's smooth voice, carried into the large room. Hunching her shoulders, Harri nodded at father. She cursed the acoustics of the room, and sullenly sat back down. Then she remembered that the doors had been locked. How exactly had he been able to enter room, and how had he heard her words? Harri hadn't loud when she had been complaining. She cast her father a suspicious look, wondering exactly what it was that he had up his sleeve. Smirking triumphantly at her, he stared her down willing her to speak.

"I suppose you are wondering how I got in?"

Fawkes rolled his eyes at the father and daughter, amazed at how easily they could get off track. Lily certainly was never that way. Her mind could remain focused on whatever task she was doing at the time. If he didn't explain the occurrence now, Harri would not bother paying attention to anything else that was said. Severus would be no better, since he encouraged the girl.

"Harri you really do have lots to learn. Severus came in on the end of the conversation because we invited him back in telepathically. There are few things that we need to discuss with your father present. Now that this is settled, if I may—"

"Annoying bird, you ruined it. I would much rather that she believes that I had some kind of incredible powers that enabled me to enter. Well I suppose it's a moot point anyway. Granger, Weasley, and Draco aren't doing anything but trying to listen in. Dumbledore ran off, and the mutt and wolf are waiting patiently like the good bloody Gryffindor lot that they claim to be. Hmmph!"

Harri rolled her eyes at the last bit. Her father still had yet to completely make peace with the two men, but did she have to insult Gryffindors to? The only Gryffindor he ever seemed to truly like had been her mother. At least now, she would be able to return to them if they could just get everything in place. Just as the two adults began to argue, Murchadh intervened yet again.

"While I'm sure there will be plenty of time for arguing, Nia and I must be leaving soon so that you can begin the spell later on this weekend. You only have until tomorrow, to prepare. As we were saying before you entered, you only get one chance at this. I know all the books fail to mention it, but we can never be too certain. Not I or any of our brethren know Lily's future after her awakening. We have no idea what can happen next because we are cursed with numerous possibilities in an infinite number of futures."

Severus nodded grimly as he listened to the man's words. None of them—not himself, Harri, Lupin or Sirius could afford to make mistakes. He would have to drill them repeatedly until they all knew the spell like the back of their hands. If there was even a miniscule missing detail, he and Harri would never see Lily again, and they may very well disturb their futures more than they all thought possible.

"Here is a list of everything that you will need. Once the ceremony is complete, send word to Fawkes and Murchadh and I will return immediately. It is imperative that you send for us once Lily is awakened. As Murchadh stated, we have no idea what happens to Lily after her awakening, so it is very important that we be there to protect her. Voldemort could sense her return because of the reverse effects of the killing curse. Our youngest sibling Alejandro has been keeping a very close eye on Voldemort and he definitely is alert to the fact that there has been a change in your magical signature. He may also know that there will be a shift in bond that you two share. Tell no one of this conversation Harri, no one. Not even your friends, not even Draco."

Nia looked pointedly at the girl, making sure that she understood her clearly. Harri nodded solemnly, determined to keep her promise. When it came to the return of her mother, she would have to keep this secret. Even her best friends, and Draco with whom her secrets had been known, would know nothing of this. Harri ignored the pointed glance her father gave her, and clutched the list of necessary items in her palm. On the tiny list, written in elegant scrawl were the answers to a prayer she had held for a lifetime. No, she wouldn't think of jeopardizing something so significant. She barely heard the two phoenixes bid their audience farewell.

As Harri exited from the room along with her professor, Draco silently wondered what exactly had went on in the Headmaster's office. Looking at Potter's face, he could clearly see that the girl was troubled about something. He arched a sleek blonde eyebrow at the object of his thoughts and pondered if she was alright. Her physical appearance seemed okay. She didn't look as if she had been manhandled, but aside from her mysterious countenance, he could see the determination upon her face. He managed to catch her eye, and she graced him with a weak smile. He couldn't just go after her could he? Their relationship was still clandestine, and the only person that knew that they were involved was Fawkes, although Professor Snape seemed as if he may know what really was going on between the two. Already he had tried talking to her before the little meeting. He and Weasley were visibly upset when they, along with the rest of the people waiting outside had been ushered out. They had barely been able to stay before the two arrivals had kicked them out. What was more puzzling was that Dumbledore had given the two free reign of his office. Then surprisingly enough, Professor Snape had managed to get back in while the rest of them had to wait like commoners.

Something was fishy was definitely going on, and he aimed to find out. Of course, getting anything out of Potter was like pulling teeth with the stubborn girl. When he actually managed to get a secret from her, she always treated it like some kind of exchange. If she divulged a secret, he was to do the same. Of course this system was based on the honor system, and he sometimes marveled at her ability to easily tell him such private information. He could easily abuse he trust, and lie about his personal experiences all the while gathering sensitive intelligence about her, only to use it against her later. While he had never been an expert at love, or whatever this infatuation with her was properly called, he still enjoyed the perks. It was because of this, that he had been honest with her from the beginning. If he felt something was still too personal to talk with her about, Potter understood and did not mention it again. His mind searched for times in which their schedules would not conflict, and when he would be able to talk with her privately. Expectedly, his mind drew a blank.

Lately, he had noticed Pansy had been following him around more and more. Originally, he attributed that to his abrupt return from the past, but even still she was being even clingier. Originally, he had tried to pass the girl off to Blaise, but even he tired of being around her, and once more she had returned to nag him. Now he noticed that when they were together, she always seemed to want to know where had been and where he was going. Rumors had begun to float about him and Potter, and unsurprisingly she was very jealous. She never balked at an opportunity to criticize Potter or her friends. She had noticed that he would remain silent as this was happening, and amazingly enough the Slytherin girl must have figured out that there was something between he and Potter. He hadn't discussed the situation with Potter, and he didn't need to. They were now two weeks back into their return and were still the talk of the school. He had heard his name mentioned repeatedly (and in a negative light mind you) and he witnessed Potter's silence. She never defended him, and he never defended her either. Yet they never laughed at each other to save face anymore either.

Even more confounding was the fact that Weasley had been acting strangely around Potter. The youngest Weasley had always been an odd one, but now, instead of paying attention to that annoying mudblood, he seemed fixated on Potter. Granted, Draco couldn't be around the girl constantly, but he did manage to have mist of the same classes with her, and even when they had free time, Weasley was always interested in what she was doing. If he didn't know better, he would say that the boy might have a thing for her, but Potter had said before that they had always looked at one another as siblings. Still, opinions and feelings changed, he himself could attest to that. But how else could he explain the boy's peculiar behavior? If he brought it up with Potter, she'd probably think that he was jealous and get upset with him about trusting her friends. No, he couldn't talk to her about it. Not yet anyway. Draco Malfoy was not one to have the wool pulled over his head. Both Pansy and Weasley were connected somehow, he was certain. In what way exactly, he didn't know. They could be working together, but that was too far fetched. Weasley hated Slytherins, and Pansy hated Gryffindors. However, he wasn't put anything past those two. He watched as Potter walked off, leaving her friends behind. They could both see that the girl did not want to talk at the moment, but perhaps he could get her to open up. Besides, his questions for Professor Snape would have to wait anyway.

Taking advantage of their distraction, Draco skulked off after Potter. It didn't take too long to find her. After following her footsteps past a winding staircase, and down a hallway or two, Draco realized that he was back at the Prefect's guestrooms again. Potter had remembered the directions to the secret hideaway as well? Grinning mischievously, he snuck up behind her, and slammed the door. Startled by the noise, Harri turned around swiftly, with her wand aimed at his chest. She frowned at his cocky smirk, placing her wand back into her robe. She placed her hands on her hips, looking up into his eyes defiantly. He swallowed nervously, realizing that he was now in deep trouble. Backing up a bit to give her space, he gazed her eyes apologetically.

"Draco, what in the bloody hell are you doing following me? What if someone saw you?"

She growled out impatiently. His grin returned, now that he knew he would not receive much of her ire. Before giving her a chance to further complain about his presence, he wrapped her in his arms and kissed her gently, smiling into the kiss as he felt her pull closer. He could tell by the way that she wound her hands in his hair that she wasn't really angry with him. If he had known his kisses held such power as to silence her sometimes vicious tongue he would have kissed her long ago. They broke their kiss, as the need for air became prevalent. Breathing heavily, Draco stared into her half lidded green eyes, happy that he had calmed her, if only a little. He took her hand, and guided her to the couch in the foyer. They sat facing forward, in companionable silence while he idly played in her hair. Finally, when he felt enough time had passed, he spoke.

"Okay Potter, spill it. What's the problem? Ever since you left that meeting that the rest of us couldn't be apart of, you've been acting strange. Are you going to tell me or will I have to do something drastic?"

Harri sighed, pulling away from him, letting her hair slip from his hands. She wasn't supposed to tell him anything, even though she wanted to. She didn't want to lie either, but if she just didn't say anything he would only get upset. She turned to face Draco, searching his silver colored eyes. A frown marred her features, but she could not help it. She wasn't going to tell him of anything that had transpired. He would just have to accept this and honor her decision.

"I-I can't tell you Draco. I'm sorry, but this is a private thing, and I'm not allowed to tell anyone even if I wanted to say something. I hope you understand."

"Hmmph! What about your friends, Granger and Weasley. Are you going to tell them your big secret?"

"Of course I'm not going to! Did you not just hear what I said? Geesh Draco, what is with the attitude? What's your problem?"

Draco couldn't believe what she was saying. Wasn't she the one that always, always told her friends everything, even if it was a dangerous secret? She really could be a hypocrite sometimes. This girl was such an enigma. She was constantly contradicting herself for the sake of her friends. What in Merlin's name was so ruddy good about the Weasel and the Mudblood anyway? Draco stood up suddenly, standing before her angrily.

"Potter, I am not the one with the attitude it's you. All I did was ask if you were going to tell your friends, which we both know you always do! All I am asking for is that you think about letting me in on things too, or do I not matter to you? For fuck's sake Potter, if you only wanted this to be a fling, and you don't really care about what I think, don't act as if this is more than that! If you want to be secretive, then go ahead! This is the last time that I ask out of concern for you!"

Draco yelled, as he stormed out of the room, slamming the door. He didn't bother with a goodbye. Harri sat still and silent for a few minutes wondering if he would come back. When it was apparent after twenty minutes that he had no intention of returning, Harri began to wonder when everything was shot to hell. Retreating to one of the bedrooms, she practiced her parts of the Mother Root spell. Harri did not mean to pick a fight, but she needed privacy, and perhaps this was for the best. Draco would only be a distraction to her anyway. Still, somewhere in the back of her mind she felt as if the groundwork for catastrophe had been laid. Maybe when he mother had safely returned and things were back to normal they could have a chat. Until then, the return of Lily Evans was her main priority.

Lord Voldemort was among other things, a very patient, and very old man. Of course, to call him a man would be foolish indeed, as he no longer possessed the qualities that would qualify him as human. He was still humanoid in appearance, but his spirit and his soul had long since been consumed by hatred and darkness. In his quest for world dominance he had made two things clear. One: Harriet Potter would either join him and die, and two: every mudblood, halfblood, and muggle would die. These were simple wishes in theory, but so far both his bids to accomplish both goals had failed. The Potter girl still lived, and he had not wiped out the unclean and dirty blood that infested the world. So far, through his pilfered copy of Gnostics of the Light, (courtesy of one now deceased Ingrid Brenham) he had discovered that there was more to the Potter girl that Dumbledore let on. Lucius, his most faithful of servants had acquired the book from which he now read and would be duly rewarded with the sparing of his life. Severus, on the other hand needed to be dealt with.

He had long since suspected that the surly Potions Master was a double spy. Now that Wormtail had managed to come by a few interesting documents, Voldemort now realized that he had seriously misjudged the man. As long as Severus still believed himself to be invaluable to Voldemort he was still useful. This unfortunately meant that Voldemort could not kill the traitorous wretch. He could however have lots of fun torturing the bastard. His plan was quite simple but it would work. He would continue to wheedle information out of Severus, until he had all that he needed, and then, he would strike. How he wished that there were a more qualified Potions expert, but there was none to be found. If Voldemort were to concoct his potion as planned, he would need Severus. Damn it, if only he could do away with such problems! Looking about his dank room with ruby red eyes, he searched for a suitable minion. Of the twenty or so Death Eaters that sat at his feet, none would prove mentally savvy enough to undertake in his plan.

Abner Goyle, and Jeremiah Crabbe were too stupid to be assigned anything worthwhile. If he commanded that their children somehow find a way to get close to Potter, they would fail miserably. He could not ask Lucius, because Dumbledore was no doubt keeping the Malfoy boy as far away from Potter as possible. No, he needed someone that would be able to infiltrate the girl's routine. This person would have to be female, and should probably be around Potter's age. Who among his loyal servants could do such a thing? Whoever's child he chose, she would have to be good at spying. He racked his mind for possible candidates, and only two girls came to mind. That Parkinson girl and the Bulstrode's daughter could prove to be of use. Unless they were as dumb as the hulking chunks of flesh Crabbe and Goyle called sons, perhaps he could use them.

He would need time to mull over all avenues of access to the Potter child. According to that book, the girl's power grew stronger each day. Who knew how long it would take before she would over power him in strength. Then he would be left with an option more horrible than he imagined. Charging into the castle would do no good, for Hogwarts was too well protected. He scowled, thinking of the ancient magic that surrounded the school. He couldn't kill her muggle family to get to her either, because they also were protected by blood magic. The girl was always supervised and never went anywhere alone. Yes, he would have to get someone to get to know Potter, get her alone, and lead her off the school premises so that he could get her. The damned book was most likely accurate, and as her power grew he felt no change in his own. He had however; felt her through their bond. The lightning bolt scar had actually been useful to that extent. He may not be able to know what she was thinking, or feeling, but he could feel fluctuations in her magical aura. While he would never be able to gauge her powers, and he hoped that she would not be able to do the same, the girl was growing. Her signature felt unwavering, as if she had gained confidence in her abilities. He always suspected the little bitch was a coward.

He sneered angrily, performing the Cruciatus curse on an unsuspecting Death Eater. Smirking slightly, he felt a little bit better. Torture and cruelty did always lift his spirits. Shaking his pasty white, bald head, he wondered which young future Death Eater he could trust with such responsibility. He'd rather use a girl that had been made a death eater, but none of the newer recruits were female, and none of them were Potter's age. This meant his only viable option was Parkinson. He heard stories about Bulstrode being dumb as an ox. Parkinson seemed to have enough brain cells to pull the operation off. He wanted to implement his plan immediately, but Parkinson would need training. The winter break for the Hogwarts students was fast approaching, and then he would be able to use her to lure Potter out. She along with the younger Malfoy helping her would be enough to get him what he wanted.

He allowed himself a true vicious smile, which showcased his missing and blackened teeth. Finally, everything was beginning to work out his way. By the beginning of the new school year the girl would be his. He would finally get to kill her, and return all the pain she had dealt him a thousand fold. That child would die by his hands alone. She would suffer, and he would enjoy torturing her. He almost wished Potter's parents were still alive so that they could see their daughter ruined in the worst ways imaginable. He cackled then, as the certainty of his victory became clearer. The nervous shudders of his subordinates did nothing but spread the malicious grin further upon his face.

"You know what to do then?"

Severus asked the group of three before him. Exchanging nervous, but eager smiles, they nodded in agreement. The potion master smiled— a rarity for someone like him. He read over the Mother Root spell once more, making sure that he had perfected the incantation. The spell would be performed on the first Sunday of December. It had been two days since Nia and Murchadh had visited and given them everything that they would need. Everyone knew what their responsibilities were. Harri would be in the center, and with the vial of her mother' blood, and a lock of her red hair, she would recite the chant her father had given to her, which would then somehow bring Lily back. He hadn't been too surprised to learn that Harri was not a descendant of Godric Gryffindor. James Potter was however, but when he died the Potter line died completely. Gryffindor's heir most likely has lived and died. The charm was rather simple in its inception. A group of three or more created a circle in which the last living blood connection of the deceased sat, holding a physical connection to dead. In their case, it was Lily's own blood, which contained the cells for which all life stems. Lily's hair was another contribution that would be used. The hair served as a booster of sorts, so that there would be enough to restore, and age her body properly. The spell was rarely performed because there were special circumstances for each case. For instance, the people that made the surrounding circle were required to love the deceased unconditionally, and truly wish for their return. That meant that all of them would have to love the deceased so much, that each participant must be willing to donate a bit of life energy to ensure the deceased has enough power to reconstruct their own body. Not only was this a monumental endeavor on the spell casters, but the deceased must make a serious effort as well. None so much as the heart of the circle would donate the energy. Because Harri had a blood connection to Lily, her mother would take much of the necessary energy from her daughter, because they were so closely connected. It was imperative that they hold hands during the ceremony so that Lily would not take too much of Harri's energy, and that she could share from all of them.

"Yes, we know what to do, Severus for the hundredth time! Honestly."

Sirius blurted out, slightly annoyed. Remus placed a hand on his shoulder in a claming manner. They had been in the Black Manor for three hours now, going over the incantation until they were blue in the face. All of them had made sure that they had bathed in the purification waters of the Euphrates River. Severus summoned enough for the four of them, and they each bathed in the numerous baths at Black Manor. The spell required that they not say anything blasphemous for five hours before the spell was chanted. This was especially hard for both Sirius and Severus. Remus and Harri had to separate the two most of the time until the time had elapsed. Now, after taking everything into consideration, they were ready to begin. In the basement of the Black Manor, the four of them had cleared away all of the debris and grime in the room. The house elves had been swift in their work, which was extremely important. The Mother Root clearly mentioned that no magic should be performed in the room in which the ceremony would take place. Harri believed that they had followed everything as planned, but she was nervous. They only had the weekend to perform this spell. Harri had to lie to Ron and Hermione and tell them that she was spending the weekend with Sirius. Luckily, McGonagall had given her permission to take a two day leave now once she saw that Harri's grades had improved in Transfiguration. She had James to thank for that achievement. Still, Harri couldn't help but feel nervous about it all. She was only moments away from meeting her mother! In just a short while she would be reunited with her mother again.

"Harri, are you alright?"

Remus asked softly. She gave him a nervous smile, and took her place in the center of the circle. Her father stood in front of her, with Sirius to her left, and Remus next to him. In the center of the circle, he had placed a stand so that he could read from the book, without releasing his hands. They had placed candles about the room, and a few of Lily's favorite things. Harri wore the ceremonial robes her mother had given her when she was in the past. On the floor, a set of witch's robes lay on the ground. Inside the folds, and beneath the undergarments, Harri had placed the lock of hair, and the vial of blood. She pricked her finger, and dripped her own blood into the vial. Stepping away from the robes, Harri looked to her father for instruction. Severus nodded, and Harri began the ritual. Suddenly the air in the room became colder, and all was silent. The room darkened just as quickly. Harri gulped, but faced her father prepared to begin the spell. Severus placed a hand to lips, signaling that they were to all be silent as she spoke.

"Oh Matris Radix, ego abeo phasmatis quod viscus of meus matris Lily Evans. Per meus cruor, meus chi, quod meus phasmatis ego tribuo unto suus navitas ut is postulo. Meus viscus quod meus cruor , est praecessi of suus somes. Ego volutarie tribuo meus vita substantia ut is may ago iterum. Recipiro ex meus aura matris, ut vos may ingredior inter victus iterum. Recipiro ex meus abbas , ut vos may basium him quod diligo iterum. Recipiro ex vestri frater ut they may animadverto vos iterum. Recipiro quicumque est necesse vobis ut reverto nobis. Nos tribuo unto quantus quantus vos postulo. Ressurectio!"

Harri stopped, looking at Severus who smiled at her with pride. He closed his eyes, and said his portion of the spell, which essentially was the same thing that Harri spoken. They repeated this process until Remus had finished. As the last word fell from his lips the walls began to shake, and the candles flickered on and off. The four of them watched the clothing, transfixed. Blood from the vial burst open, and glass flew at their feet. The blood soaked the clothing, and a burst of light filled the room. It faded quickly and in the light's place, they could clearly see the bones of human body being reconstructed. The spectacle before them was happening at an alarming rate. Nanoseconds passed by, and soon the bones gave way to human flesh. Blood vessels and muscles were forming. Harri thought it was like watching a body being formed from the ground up. Of course, this is exactly what she and the others were witnessing. The muscles gave way to hair, and nails. Soon they could see eyes being formed. In a few short moments, her mother's body was complete.

Harri stepped back, afraid of what she was witnessing. Flesh and bone had been molded, until finally, an attractive red haired woman lay with closed eyes on the floor beneath them. Everything appeared to be in order. Severus gestured for Harri to search her mother's robes to ensure that she was not lacking in any areas. She obediently did as he bade, and stepped backed pleased to say everything was as it should be. Before she could elaborate, Harri suddenly sank to her knees, feeling her body being drawn to her mother's. Her hands, moving as if they had a will of their own, covered her mother's chest, and she suddenly felt searing heat. She could fear fire lap at her legs, the flames engulfing her body. The blinding pain that she would later describe as millions of hot needles, poking and twisting under her skin, became too much for her, and she let out an inhuman squawk. Behind her, she could hear the distant voices of her father, Sirius, and Remus, but Harri could not turn around, let alone move her body. Suddenly, just as quickly as the pain arrived, it faded away. This was not supposed to happen was it? Was Harri to die in some cruel form of divine retribution while trying to revive her mother? Could she be resigned to such a fate?

She was no longer aware of anyone or anything. Suddenly she was floating, and all around her a collage of colors meshed together. Harri wondered if she were seeing all the colors in the known universe. Beneath there was nothing. She was floating in a fathomless colorful void, simply content. There warmth, and there was light, and everything felt wonderful. But she was not to enjoy the respite from pain, for she suddenly felt as if she were not alone, she could sense a multitude of presences. They, or whatever it was, felt just like her; warm, colorful, and safe. Somehow, she knew that her eyes were closed, but she did not wonder how she could see colors. Opening, her jade green eyes, Harri realized that she was back in the present, and it was in that moment, she wondered if she had ever really left. Did she just dream all of these strange feelings? She tried opening her mouth, to speak but she couldn't. Speech was impossible, and looking at her newly changed body, Harri knew why. Her body was now that of a beautiful, colorful phoenix. Harri resembled Fawkes in a fashion, save for the fact she was a couple dozen times bigger. She was now the size and stature of a phoenix the size of a grown man. Looking around the room, Harri saw her mother, talking animatedly with Remus, Severus, and Sirius, as they all hovered around her. Not knowing whether to faint, or to cry, Harri did a strange combination of both. Two wet tears fell unto her mother's skin, before being absorbed into her body. Shocked by the action, Harri felt her green bird eyes, roll into the back of her head. She heard herself squawk before she fainted, for the second time at the sight of her living, breathing mother.

Oh Mother Root, I channel the spirit and flesh of my mother Lily Evans. With my blood, my chi, and my spirit I give unto her the energy that she needs to revive. My flesh and my blood, is the result of her body. I willingly give my life's essence that she may live again. Take from my aura Mom, that you may walk among the living again. Take from my father, that you may kiss him and love again. Take from your brothers that they may see you again. Take all that is necessary for you to return to us. We give unto you as much as you need. Awaken!

Footnotes: Booyah! That's it. Lily, returned, Draco and Harri fought yet again, Voldemort mused, helped arrived in the form of two very strange, very powerful phoenixes. I didn't get to everything that I wanted to, Hermione's dream, Sirius' resonation, or Lupin and Draco's bonding, but not to worry. There is plenty of time in the next chapter. I thank you for your patience, but remember this late update was not my fault this time! I did not have access to my computer! However, at least the hard stuff is out of the way, so I'll try to get the next update in under a month. Next up, the aforementioned stuff, but Voldie's plan gets underway, with comical results! Anyway, thanks again for reading and I hope you enjoyed this chapter! As always reviews make me update quicker, and encourage me to continue. Please review. Don't forget to check out my C2 h t t p : w w w. f a n f i c t i o n. n e t / c 2 / 4 / 0 / 1 / You may find your story there! Peace.

-Shanni