A/N: Sorry it has taken so long but I had trouble with my internet and I
haven't been able to do much online lately. Here is the first Chapter of
Part III for you. This part will be much shorter than the previous two
because it will deal only with Lily's and James' final year. I'm so glad
that The Order of the Phoenix will come out this summer, I'm eager to see
what happens and I don't have to think about writing Harry's fifth year,
lol, I think that's the one thing I'm looking forward to. Anyways, here is
more story for you, have fun.
~ A Legacy of Two Generations ~ ~Part III - Dark Times ~
Chapter 1 ~ Welcome Harry!
Harry James Potter was born on the early hours of the 31st of July on the year 1980, much to the relief of his mother, Lily, and joy of his father, James. Awaiting the great news were his grandmothers and parents' friends. The staff joyfully shared the news with those tenants, curious to find the Manor household awake at such an uncommon hour.
The news rapidly traveled through the village and as mother and child rested, packages of every kind and size made its way to the Manor.
Homemade sweets and wines, toys and blankets, pillows and trays of fruits, all made their way to the dinning room, where they were displayed as the tenants and neighbors visited the joyous family.
"This kid will be spoiled." Sirius said as he looked over the gifts. "And drunk." He added as he held up a bottle of homemade wine.
"That's not for the baby, you ninny. It's for Lily and James." Said Katie as she snatched the bottle from Sirius' grasp.
"Maybe we should taste it then." Sirius said as he reached for the bottle once more.
"Oh no, you don't." Katie pushed it aside, out of his reach.
"What is he doing now?" Asked James as he entered the room.
"He is trying to drink some of the wine your tenants and neighbors brought." Said Katie.
"Well, Harry will have no need for it. At least not yet." Replied Sirius.
"I could always put it away in the cellar and keep it there until he is of age." Responded James and laughed at the crestfallen expression on Sirius' face. "We'll taste it later." He added.
"Oh good." Said Sirius and turned to inspect the rest of the offerings.
"How are Lily and Harry doing?" Katie asked.
"They are doing fine. They are both sleeping at the moment." James smiled.
"Did you get enough rest?" Mrs. Potter asked as she came into the room with others behind him. "The Colonel is here to congratulate you." She added as she motioned to the old gentleman behind her.
"Hoped to see the little tyke, but if he is sleeping don't bother." Their neighbor smiled and placed his small offering on the table along with the rest. A basket full of exotic fruits and homemade pies.
"I must tell Otty to take the day off." Laughed James as he looked over the gifts that his tenants and people of the village had brought. "But I thank you Colonel, that is very kind of you. I'm sure Lily will enjoy them." He added.
"How are you feeling young man? Quite an exciting evening, I wager." The Colonel boomed.
"It was." James smiled.
"Specially when he is screaming down the corridor in his undergarments." Snickered Sirius.
James and Katie glowered in his direction but he made no notice of them, he just laughed as the Colonel chuckled and Mrs. Potter tried to stifle a giggle.
They stopped when a young maid bowed at the door. "Master James, Sir. Minnie wishes to see you." She reported.
"Thank you Candice." James nodded. The maid bowed and left. "If you excuse me." James said nodding to the others and walked out of the door.
"Oh, dear, I hope it's nothing wrong." Mrs. Potter said.
"It's probably young Harry driving his mother crazy with his cries." Said Sirius. "The one thing I know about babies is that they cry the whole day. Cry, eat and sleep. That's all they do." He scoffed.
"Well, what do you expect? That's the only way they can tell us what they want." Katie exclaimed.
"Well, there should be a better way to do it. It's just annoying." Sirius complained.
The Colonel and Mrs. Potter chuckled.
"You'll change your mind when you have a baby of your own." Said the Colonel.
"I doubt it." Said Sirius somewhat skeptical.
The group turned as they heard footsteps on the hall.
"Probably another visitor." Said Sirius with a shrug.
James came into the room, carrying a bundle of blankets in his arms.
"Why did you bring him down James?" Exclaimed Mrs. Potter.
"He was awake and Lily couldn't rest, so I brought him down to keep him quiet." Replied James.
Everybody surrounded him to see at the small infant in his arms.
"Ah, look at him. He is so tiny." Whispered Katie.
"He doesn't have any hair James, maybe he will be first Potter to have manageable hair." Sirius said.
"Oh, I doubt it. James was as bald when he was born but his hair eventually grew." Said Mrs. Potter.
The infant gurgled and waved his hands as his little eyes darted around looking at all the faces in front of him.
"Look, he knows us." Exclaimed Katie.
"He knows your voices." Mrs. Potter whispered.
Baby Harry gurgled once more.
"Look at his tiny hands. We are going to have to work on that Young Harry, if you are going to be a chaser for Gryffindor, you'll have to grow some muscle." Sirius said.
"Sirius! Honestly!" Katie exclaimed.
Harry blinked and gave a little smile.
"See, he agrees with me." Sirius said.
"What makes you think that he will be in Gryffindor?" Asked Katie.
James and Sirius looked at her with surprise.
"Where else is he going to be? Every Potter has been in Gryffindor House. Why do you think the name of this house is Gryffindor Manor?" James said in an exasperated tone.
"All right, fine. But what makes you think that he will be in the team? And a chaser at that." She said.
"Stands to reason, doesn't it? I am a chaser and I will teach him to play Quidditch. There is no reason why he could not be in the House Team." James said.
Katie shook her head. "Insane, both of you."
Baby Harry started to cry.
"See, told you. All they do is cry." Said Sirius.
"Shush, Harry. I have you." James whispered as he shook Harry gently.
Harry didn't stop crying. In fact, he seemed to be getting louder and louder. James turned to look at his mother with a pleading expression.
Mrs. Potter smiled, and taking pity of her son reached for the baby. "Here James, give him to me."
James promptly gave Harry to his mother.
"Now Harry, there is no need to cry. You are all safe." Mrs. Potter whispered as she held Harry gently in her arms.
Harry stopped crying instantly. He blinked a couple of times and looked at the kind face in front of him. He smiled.
"See what experience can do?" The Colonel laughed.
"He needs to be changed. I'll take him to the nursery for now, while Lily rests." Said Mrs. Potter and promptly left the room.
James and Sirius sighed with relief.
Katie laughed.
"Do you wish to stay for luncheon, Colonel? We are rather informal today." James said turning to the old gentleman.
"Thank you Young James, but the wife is waiting for me." The Colonel said. "Congratulations again." He shook James' hand and nodded to Katie and Sirius before leaving.
"What are we having for luncheon?" Sirius asked.
"Sirius, really! All you think is food. Go look for Remus. He took the twins to the gardens to keep them entertained." Commanded Katie.
"Yes dear." Mumbled Sirius and walked out of the room.
"I'll go and see if Lily needs anything." James said.
Katie nodded and watched him leave the room.
She sighed. Maybe she and Sirius should have a baby, she thought.
Lily woke to find herself in a quiet and darkened room. She sighed and smiled. The memory of the exertion she went through on the early hours of the day were still clear in her mind. But it was worth it, she thought. She looked around and noticed that she was alone.
The curtains around the bed were drawn, keeping away the brightness of the day. She didn't hear motion nor sensed that anybody was within the room.
She stretched on the bed. It felt nice to feel her body back to normal again. She looked down and smiled as she saw her feet.
"Hello feet." She said and laughed.
"I gather you are awake." Said James as he drew the drapes aside.
"Hello." Lily said with a smile.
"Hello yourself." He said and leaned down to kiss her brow.
"Where is Harry?" She asked.
"In the nursery. Mother said he needed to be changed and we didn't want to wake you." James said.
"Hmmm-" Lily stretched once more. "I feel so tired."
"After the night you had, you should be tired." James said sliding into the bed. Do you want me to bring you lunch here in bed?"
"Please, I really don't feel like going down." Lily said, snuggling next to him.
"I thought of serving you on one of the chairs if you wished. Didn't expect you to get up at all. I could carry you." He offered.
Lily smiled. "No, I prefer the bed."
"All right. I'll ask Minnie to bring food here. We have lots of things that the tenants and neighbors brought."
"Really? I'll see them later. Can you bring Harry? I want to see him." Lily looked at James. She really wanted to have Harry in her arms again.
"Sure thing." He kissed her softly before leaving the bed.
Lily watched him leave the room with an indulgent smile.
Minutes later, he returned. A moving bundle of clothes in his arms.
"Here he is." He announced as soon as he entered the room.
He placed Baby Harry in her arms and slid into bed, next to them.
"Hello Harry!" Lily gushed.
Harry looked at the young woman above him and smiled.
"Look at him James. Isn't he the most beautiful baby you have ever seen?" She gushed.
As Harry was the only baby James had seen hours after been born, he could answer truthfully. "Yes, he is."
"Happy Birthday Harry!" Lily whispered.
Harry gurgled and waved his arms.
Lily and James laughed.
"Thank you." Lily said as she turned to look at her husband with loving eyes.
"Didn't do much really. I should be thanking you." James whispered.
Lily smiled and settled against him.
James put his arms around her and their child.
There couldn't be a better moment in his life.
During the first week of his life, Harry was introduced to a lot of people. He was happily transferred from arms to arms and gushed over.
Lily rested for three days after his birth. The doctor saw her everyday to make sure there were no complications, not that he was expecting any, but births were really tricky and you never knew what could happen.
On the fourth day, she made her appearance downstairs. Everybody was happy to see her up and about.
As Sirius said, Harry spent his days sleeping, crying and eating.
On this bright day of August, the new parents were holding court in the formal parlor room as the neighbors and friends made their appearance to meet the new member of the Potter Family.
The twins were allowed to stay during the visits.
"Can I hold him?" Asked Cassie as the recent wave of visitor departed.
"Me too." Francie said.
"Of course. But you'll have to sit here, next to me." Said Lily.
Each girl sat at each side of her.
"Ok, Cassie will hold him first. Hold your arms out. Like that. Now, be sure to hold up his little head." Lily said as she showed her niece how to hold Harry.
"He is really small. He won't be able to play, will he?" Asked Francie as she watched her sister hold their little cousin.
"Not for a while." Said James as he stood behind the couch looking at the small group.
"But remember, you are his big cousins, you'll take care of him and make sure that he doesn't get into any trouble." Lily said.
"But he can't walk yet, Aunt Lily." Said Cassie.
"Well, he'll start to walk soon enough." James replied.
"All right. But he better not get into our nerves." Said Francie.
James and Lily laughed. As younger siblings, they knew how older relatives viewed the younger ones.
"Can I hold him now?" Asked Francie. In her point of view, her sister had held him long enough.
"Sure. Careful Cassie." Lily directed as Harry was transferred to his other cousin.
Harry was oblivious of everything as he slept quietly.
"Why was he all wrinkly before?" Asked Francie as she peered down at Harry.
"All babies are born like that. They outgrow it soon enough." Said James.
"Hmmm.He was all red too." Cassie said.
"So were you and your sister when you were born." James replied.
"Ew!" Both girls exclaimed.
Harry woke abruptly and started to cry.
"I didn't do anything! I think he is broke." Francie exclaimed.
"No dear, he is hungry." Lily said taking Harry from his cousin's arms. "I'll return." She said to James and left the room.
James watched her leave as the twins slid down the couch and ran to the door to follow Lily out in the corridor.
James didn't stay alone for long.
"There you are." Sirius exclaimed as he and Remus entered the room.
"I've been trying to keep him out of your way, but I think he is as childish as Harry." Remus said in an exasperated tone.
"Hey! Harry is a baby." Sirius exclaimed.
"Exactly." Replied Remus.
Sirius glowered at Remus. "Fine friend you are." He said.
Remus smiled at him and threw him a kiss.
"Ew!" Sirius exclaimed.
James laughed. "Will you two stop? You're acting childish." He snorted.
"You are no better than they are." Said Katie coming into the room with a platter of fruit.
"Um, food." Sirius made his way toward her.
"You stay away. This is for our visitors." Katie exclaimed.
"But I want some." Sirius whined.
"Go to the kitchens if you want something." She said.
"Fine. Do you guys want to come?" He asked turning to look at his two friends.
"No, I have to stay to greet those who'll come." Said James.
"I'll go. I'm getting hungry as well." Said Remus.
The two young men left the room badgering each other and laughing.
"Honestly!" Katie was shaking her head.
James chuckled.
"Where is Lily?" She asked once the platter was placed on the table brought to the room, where refreshments had been piled for those who came to meet the new Potter.
"Harry was hungry." He said with a shrug. "I need to stretch my legs. I'm going to join the others in the kitchen after all. Do you mind staying here until Lily returns?" He asked.
"Sure." Katie nodded and James left her behind.
Lily was slowly making her way back to the front parlor. Baby Harry was sleeping quietly in her arms. A footman walked behind her with pillows and blankets.
She looked around the parlor when she entered and found Katie looking out the window.
"Where did James go?" Lily asked.
"He's gone to the kitchens with the others." Katie replied.
"I see." She sat in the chair that she had vacated previously, and turned to look at the footman. " John, bring that carriage here please." She said motioning to a small carriage standing in one corner of the room.
"Of course Ma'am." The footman said and walked toward the carriage.
"Is he sleeping?" Katie whispered sitting next to Lily and looking down at the infant in her friend's arms.
"Yes. Once he was full and his nappies were changed he fell asleep." Lily replied.
Both ladies smiled down at the quiet infant. The footman had retrieved the carriage and placed it next to Lily. The pillows and blankets were put inside and Harry was accommodated in it.
Visitors continued to come through out the afternoon and during the rest of the week. Harry slept through most of them. The twins were never far from the small infant. They liked to look at him, and in some occasions, they were allowed to change his dippers. Not a fun activity for either one.
The end of August was soon approaching, and with it came the twins ninth birthday. It was decided to make it a special day and to christen Harry at the same time. The girls were only too happy to share their special day with their cousin.
A small Christening Ceremony was planned to take place in the chapel in the morning. A luncheon would be served at noon on the lawn near the lake. James had sent to London for a group of clowns and puppeteers, and games were planned for the children of the village and the estate. The evening would end with a light dinner, followed by a small concert by a young, newly-formed, group of village girls calling themselves The Weird Sisters.
The twenty-eighth of August arrived. The day was warm and sunny. The twins woke very early, eager to start the day. Harry had kept his parents awake for most of the night. As a result, James and Lily were deeply asleep when two small persons sneaked into their room and made their way quietly toward Harry's room.
Harry was gurgling and smiling at the small flying objects above him. The trunk of Quidditch balls was open and the snitch ball had somehow made its way to the crib. One small teddy bear had also left its resting place among all the stuffed animals in one corner of the room and had also made its way to the crib.
The teddy bear and the snitch were floating above Harry, and he smiled and gurgled at them. His tiny arms and hands were flailing at his sides as he tried to reach for them. He turned to look at the door when it opened and the ball and bear fell inside the crib.
His face lighted up the moment he saw his two cousins approaching his crib.
"Oh good, you are awake." One of the girls said.
Harry blinked a couple of times and smiled.
"We are going to have a great day Harry." His other cousin said.
Harry gurgled happily.
Both girls giggled.
"You will like the clowns." Said Cassie as she put her hand through the bars and reached for his hand.
"And the puppets." Said Francie, playing with the ball and the bear that had fallen inertly on the blankets.
"And there will be sack races." Cassie continued.
"And rides on the horses." Francie supplied.
"And rides on small boats around the lake."
"And the concert. Don't forget the concert Harry." Francie exclaimed.
"Too bad you can't eat yet." Cassie said.
Francie nodded. "Otty is working on the cake now. It's big Harry"
"And you two should go to your room and get ready." James said from the door.
The twins turned to look at James with guilty expressions.
"We just wanted to see him."
"And tell him about the party." They said.
"I know. Go on, you'll have to get ready if you want the day to start." James said as he shooed them out of the room."
"Ok." The twins said and ran out of the room.
He smiled as he heard them say "Good Morning!" as they passed through his and Lily's room.
"Hello young man." James said as he leaned to get Harry from the crib.
Harry blinked up at his father.
"I see they put your snitch and bear in your crib." James laughed as he tried to untangle said objects from the blankets.
Harry gurgled.
"Yes, and you are enjoying seeing me doing battle with your bear, don't you?" James chuckled.
Harry smiled up at his father.
"Yes, I see that you do." James replied.
Once the bear and the snitch were free, James reached down for Harry.
"Come, I'm sure you want to see your mother." James said to Harry as he carried him to the bedroom next door.
Lily was sitting up leaning against the pillows when James entered with Harry. She smiled as she watch them approach her.
"As I didn't hear him cry out, I'm assuming the girls were keeping him entertained." She said as soon as James stood beside her and leaned down to transfer Harry to her arms.
"Uh-huh, they were telling him all about today's party." James said as soon as Harry was in his mother's arms ready to be fed.
"Do you like your cousins Harry?" Lily whispered.
Harry tried to smile and eat at the same time.
"Yes, I bet you do." Lily replied.
"You know that we'll have to keep an eye on the three of them. Cassie and Francie will lead him into a lot of trouble if we let them." James said as he lay on the bed watching his wife feeding his son.
"I don't think so. I think that Harry will be good for the girls. They know that they have to be careful with him and that they will have to keep him out of trouble. They might learn how responsibility works before they leave for Hogwarts in a couple of years." Lily said.
"Hmmm - Perhaps. As long as Harry doesn't do the same thing the girls did to me when I went back to Hogwarts after father's death." James said.
Lily looked at him with curiosity.
"They hid in my trunk and I didn't find out about it until Lotty was putting away my things in the dormitory." He answered her unspoken question.
"We'll just make sure that we know where Harry is whenever we are taking the girls to the station." Lily replied.
"I'll go get dressed, I want to make sure that everything is in order. There are still three hours for the ceremony. Rest." He said as he kissed her cheek.
"I want to see how things are going. I'll go to the lawn as soon as I'm done with Harry." Lily said. James nodded before walking to his dressing room.
"You'll have a great day Harry." Lily smiled down at her son.
Harry paid no attention to her as he ate.
Family and friends, along with some members of the neighborhood, stood in front of the estate chapel after the ceremony.
"He was so quiet, he is an angel!" Exclaimed James as the group started to walk toward the lake.
"An angel? James, didn't you hear him scream his lungs out when the water touched his head?" Exclaimed Sirius.
"He just doesn't like you much." Said James.
"Most babies cry at that moment." Mrs. Potter smiled.
"I still think it was a mistake to make Sirius his godfather. He will lead him into trouble." Said Peter, who had just arrived that morning to attend the ceremony.
"I'll make sure he doesn't." Said Katie scowling at Sirius.
Sirius smiled innocently at her.
"That's why Katie is his godmother." Lily said smiling down at Baby Harry whose open eyes darted around looking at everything.
The twins were happily running around the gardens.
The lawn in front of the lake was richly decorated.
A large tent had been erected, below it, several tables were distributed and covered with white table covers. Each table was surrounded by eight or ten chairs, comfortable white pillows on every seat. On one end of the tent was a large table. Three large cakes stood in the place of honor, around them trays of fruit, puddings and sweets were placed. Next to it was a long table; it was covered with trays of assorted meats, salads, and soups. Vases of yellow roses, pansies, and ferns, decorated the perimeter of the tent.
In front of the lake was a erected a stage. A few paces away, a temporary dock was placed, where small boats bobbed above the water. On the opposite bank of the lake, a race course was cleared. It was larger than the small one cleared in front of the tent, where the kid's races would take place. This large race course was cleared for the adult members of the party. James and Sirius had thought that the adults would like to have a horse race as well as a rowing race across the lake, so they wouldn't feel left out by the activities going on for the children.
Balloons of every size and color adorned several tall posts around the grounds. Booths with carnival games were placed around the small race course. Hanging on the walls were toys of every kind for the winners.
The Christening party arrived to the tent as it started to fill with their tenants and neighbors. Children were running, giggling across the lawn.
A thunderous applause filled the tent as soon as Lily entered with the twins and Harry.
Harry started to cry in fright.
"The poor little tyke." One of the neighborhood ladies cooed.
"He is just not used to so much noise." Said Lily as she tried to calm him down.
"Of course." The other ladies nodded.
The other children were called to join the adults in the tent as the guests of honor took their place at the center table.
Laughter and chatter permeated the tent as everybody ate and drunk to their heart's content. The children were happily piling their plates with sweets and puddings as they waited for the cakes to be cut.
When the footmen transferred the cakes to the table of honor, everybody cheered.
The twins were jumping with excitement as the candles were lit. Lily held Harry, pointing at the bright flames.
"Look at that Harry. Do you like the candles?" She cooed.
Harry smiled and waved his little arms.
"Yes you do." Laughed Lily.
Everybody fell silent while they waited for the candles to be lit.
"Ready?" James asked as soon as the flames on every candle danced merrily.
"YES!" Everybody shouted.
James laughed and the room readily exploded with: "Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday Cassie and Francie! Happy Birthday to you!" Several added: "And Happy Christening to Harry too!" Before the twins blew out the candles.
The cake was soon cut and served, along with ice cream for the children. Everybody was now looking forward to the games.
The tent was emptied soon after as everybody started to make their way through the games. The small band was starting to get ready on the stage. The clowns were settled underneath a small tent, with chairs surrounding a small space in the middle where they would make their act.
The puppeteer and his puppets were settled underneath a large oak tree, benches and chairs were placed in front of his small stage ready to entertain.
Soon, music and laughter was heard through the air.
The twins were everywhere, the neighborhood children running after them to join the fun. Lily and James pushed Harry's carriage around the lawn, stopped constantly by people wanting to take a look at the Potter heir.
Everybody had fun, the children enjoyed the sack races and relay races as much as the adults enjoyed the horse and boat races.
A light dinner was then served underneath the tent as soon as twilight had fallen. The games and fun had made everybody hungry once more as every platter served was soon emptied. The guests then piled out back onto the lawn to sit in front of the stage to hear to the young girls' band. Everybody enjoyed it.
The carnival games were a huge success and before the party was over, each person had won a prize.
It was late in the evening by the time the last guest left the estate. Lily had taken Harry for his nap and the twins were already tired and looking forward to a nice, long sleep.
While the servants cleared the lawn and put everything in order, the adults of the house reunited in the parlor room.
"That was fun." Said Sirius leaning against one of the couches.
"Thought so too." Said Peter, looking out the window.
"But very draining, I think I will retire. Good night." Said Mrs. Potter as she left her seat and walked to the door.
"Good night!" The others exclaimed.
"I think I will do the same. I'm going to check on Lily and Harry first." Said Mrs. Evans before leaving the room.
"That son of yours has large lungs James, how do you sleep at night?" Said Sirius after a moment of silence.
"I don't sleep much." Laughed James.
"We can see that." Remus said from his seat. "But he will grow out of it won't he? He is sure to do so."
"I hope so." Sighed James.
"Humph! I bet you are not the one getting up in the middle of the night to see what he needs." Said Katie.
"I do too. Lily doesn't have to do everything." James snapped.
"Well, you can't feed him, now can you?" Katie replied.
"I can keep him quiet." James pouted.
"I doubt it." Katie said before leaving the room in a snit.
"What is wrong with her?" Remus said as the young men watched her leave.
"I don't know, but I guess I have to look for her and see what is wrong." Sighed Sirius.
"It would be the best thing to do." Peter replied.
Sirius hurried out the door.
"What do you think happened?" Asked Remus.
James shrugged. "Could be anything really. Sirius will take care of it."
"Or he can make it worse." Peter replied.
In another room of the house, Lily sat on her chair watching Harry fall asleep in her arms.
"You are my sunshine
my only sunshine." She was singing quietly while her mother stood by the door looking indulgently at the sweet picture before her.
"He will be a happy child." Mrs. Evans said once the song was over.
Lily turned to look at her with a smile. "We'll do what we can to make him so." She answered.
"I'm sure you will. Do you need any help? I'm going to retire early." Said Mrs. Evans as Lily put Baby Harry in his crib.
"No, I'm set. I think I will go to bed early as well." Lily replied.
Mrs. Evans nodded, and together, they both left the room in silence.
Katie knew that she was being irrational. There had been no need for her to snap at James the way she did. She knew that, but she just couldn't help it. All that talk of babies and watching Lily happily during that day had made her jealous. The moment she held Harry in her arms during the ceremony had made her realize that she wanted a baby of her own, and when Harry opened his eyes and smiled at her, she felt a wave of jealousy had gone through her body.
She sighed with sadness as she stood in front of the window in the room that she and Sirius were always given when they came to visit. Perhaps it was time to return home, she thought. She didn't turn when she heard the door open behind her, she knew who had entered the room.
"Are you all right Kat?" Sirius said as he came behind her and put his arms around her shoulders.
"Yes." She said quietly.
"Are you sure?" Sirius asked turning her to look at him. "Tell me Kat, what happened?"
"Nothing happened. I'm just tired, that's all." Katie shrugged.
Sirius continued to look at her, but with a sigh let his arms fall at his sides. If she didn't want to tell him it was all right, he thought, she would in time.
"Very well." He said. "Are you joining us downstairs, or are you going to stay here?"
"I'll stay here." She whispered.
Sirius nodded, kissed her brow and left the room.
Katie watched him go in silence before breaking down and cried.
Sirius joined the others just as the servants arrived with the tea tray and some of the food that was left over from the party.
"Oh good, I'm just in time." He exclaimed.
"Serve yourself, there are no ladies here to pour tea." James said as he piled some food on his plate.
"Don't mind if I do." Sirius replied.
The four young men served themselves as much as the plate could hold.
"What was wrong with Katie?" Asked Remus as soon as they had returned to their seats.
Sirius shrugged. "She didn't want to talk about it."
James looked a bit troubled by this. "Do you think she is in trouble?"
"Don't see how, we are together most of the time." Sirius said as he started to pick his food.
"Maybe it's that time of the month." Peter said.
The James and Remus shrugged, it was possible, but Sirius continued to pick his food.
"I'm going to bed, I have a meeting with Dumbledore tomorrow." Said James once the food was eaten and the tea drank.
Peter seemed interested by this piece of news. "Are you? What for?" He asked.
"He is just coming to meet Harry." Said James. He had not told his friends about he previous meeting he and Lily had with Dumbledore before Harry's birth. He had promised to keep it secret, and he would, even if it was from his best friends.
The others looked skeptical at the reason for Dumbledore's visit. How many babies from former students had the Headmaster of Hogwarts actually gone to meet? But they didn't contradict him. For all they knew, that might be the reason Dumbledore had given for his visit.
By the next day, things had gone back to normal. Peter had gone back home and Remus was preparing to leave as well. Sirius and Katie were also thinking of cutting short their visit and let the new parents have time on their own with their son.
The servants had also gone back to their usual chores. From the moment Harry had been born, he had become the focus of every member of the house. Roberts and Mrs. Nichols had found several excuses to help Lily with the baby, and Otty had been happily making preserves for the infant. Minnie had become personal maid to Harry, and allowed Lily to have some time for herself. Even the other servants had found ways to help with the baby. Harry quickly became accustomed to the arms of everybody living in the house, and it wasn't uncommon to see a footman or a maid with Harry in his or her arms.
Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans were the doting grandmothers, and the twins enjoyed trying to keep their young cousin entertained.
"I really fear that Harry will be quite spoiled." Said Lily that morning as she and James got ready for the day.
"We'll just try to be careful and firm. I don't know about you but I won't have my son growing up like a Malfoy." Said James with a shudder.
Lily smiled. "At what time will Professor Dumbledore be here?" She asked next.
"He said he would come after luncheon." James replied.
Harry started crying. Minnie came into the room. "I believe Master Harry is hungry Miss Lily." She squeaked.
"I expect he is. I swear, that boy inherited your appetite James." Lily exclaimed.
"You say that as if it was a bad thing." James called as Lily walked toward Harry's room.
James spent his morning around the estate. Harvest time was almost near and some of the fruit and grains would be soon collected. He also had to check on the sheep and goats and check on the supply of wool and dairy left.
Luncheon was almost ready by the time he returned home. He found Lily and Harry holding court in the family parlor.
"James!" Sirius called the moment James walked into the room. "We have to take Harry to Quidditch Pitch one of these days."
"He is too young Sirius." Katie exclaimed.
"I will not allow you to put him on a broom yet. He cannot even sit on his own yet!" Lily frowned.
"We won't put him on a broom, we'll just show him around. Get him use to the place." Said Sirius with a smile.
Katie and Lily glared at him but said nothing more.
"We could do that later this afternoon. After our meeting with Dumbledore." Said James after kissing his mother's cheek and approaching his wife and son.
"You are not going to do anything dangerous, are you?" Lily asked concerned.
"Of course not. I would do nothing to put my own son in danger." Exclaimed James.
"You better not. Or we will have your heads." Exclaimed Katie.
"Nothing to worry about." Sirius said. "Remus will go with us."
"And that is supposed to make us glad? He got into much trouble as you two did." Said Mrs. Potter.
"Oh, but he is the most responsible." Said Lily.
"Well, one of us had to be." Remus laughed.
Luncheon was soon served and the group ate heartily. The weather was turning cooler, but the sun shined as brightly as before. Harry gurgled and slept in the carriage by Lily's chair, and the rest chatted and laughed as they ate.
Luncheon didn't last long. As Lily and James walked toward the bookroom with Harry to await Professor Dumbledore's arrival, the rest went their different ways looking for something to keep them entertained.
"Do you think we are doing the right thing?" Lily asked as she sat on one of the comfortable couches with Harry sleeping in her arms.
"I think we are. The future of our world depends on this Lily. I don't like the idea of Voldemort becoming immortal and more powerful than anybody on this planet." James said.
"Oh, I suppose you are right. But so many things could go wrong." Lily exclaimed.
"We will be here to protect him always Lily. Harry will not lack the protection he needs." James replied sitting be her and putting his arms around her shoulders, careful not to disturb his son.
"You are right, he has us to protect him." Lily whispered kissing Harry's bald head softly. Nothing more was said as Roberts opened the door. "Professor Dumbledore, Sir." He announced.
"Thank you Roberts." James said as the butler bowed and allowed Dumbledore and a cloaked figure to enter the room.
"Glad to see you again Professor, hope your trip was uneventful." James said as he shook the hand of his former Headmaster.
"Quite enjoyed it really. A nice trip before a new term begins." Said Dumbledore with his laughing eyes twinkling. "And I see our new Potter is here. May I?" He asked to Lily reaching down for Harry.
"Of course." Said Lily with a smile.
Dumbledore took Harry into his arms. Harry slept, oblivious of the old man in whose arms he was now resting.
"Well, hello there young Potter. I will be looking forward to seeing you in Hogwarts in eleven years. Hopefully you will not be as much trouble as your father was." Dumbledore said.
Lily giggled while James chuckled.
"What do you think of him my dear, will he serve as our protector do you think?" Dumbledore asked at the cloaked figure, who had stood by the door silently watching the group.
"I believe he will." A husky feminine voice said.
James and Lily looked surprised at the woman standing by the door. They had forgotten that Dumbledore had come accompanied and the voice made them think of the warm breeze blowing across a clear lake. James shook his head slowly, when had he become so fanciful, he though.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I've seen to have forgotten my manners, my dear, allow me to introduce you to the Potters. This is Lily and James, and the little man here is Harry." Dumbledore said motioning to the young couple beside him. "Lily, James, allow me to introduce you to Alanna. She will be performing the charm for us."
The woman released her cloak. A dark-skinned woman stood before them. Her black hair seemed to fall in waves to her shoulder and her eyes were the deepest shade of gray that they had ever seen.
"How do you do?" She greeted them.
Remus and Sirius had gone for a ride in the motorcycles as the meeting was taking place in the bookroom.
"I think I've found a way to improve on this bike." Sirius was saying as the young men emerged from the garage with their hair blown into all directions.
"Do you?" Asked Remus, he was sure that it would be a dangerous idea.
"Yes. If I tweak with it for a bit, it will be the best motorbike in England." Sirius exclaimed.
"You better not tell me, I'm sure that it could be illegal." Remus said.
"Oh pooh, you are becoming quite softhearted Remus. Who would've thought that you were once part of the adventurous group called The Marauders." Sirius scoffed.
"I've grown up Sirius. It's not fault of mine that you haven't." Remus smiled.
Sirius rolled his eyes. "If you are going to become all stiff and adult I will stay with Baby Harry."
Remus laughed. "Come, let's see if James is done, so we can take Harry to the Quidditch Pitch."
"Now you are talking." Said Sirius as he started running toward the house.
Remus followed him and soon a race around the gardens began.
Dumbledore didn't stay for long, and soon Remus and Sirius saw him pass through the entrance hall accompanied by a cloaked figure.
"Wonder who that is?" Said Sirius.
"Don't know." Remus replied.
James and Lily were leaving the bookroom.
"Now, be sure that you keep him covered. I don't want him taking a chill." Lily was saying. "And be careful. Don't you dare put him on a broom by himself. No matter what spells you use to keep him there."
"Don't worry, he will be fine." James replied.
"He will not need to be fed until four or five hours from now. Be sure to be back before then." Lily ordered.
"Yes, dear." James sighed.
"Now don't leave him lying on the ground while you lot go flying into the air. He might get bitten by an insect or something." Lily said.
"Don't nag Lily, he will be fine." James exclaimed.
"Oh, all right. Just be careful." Lily said, kissing Harry's brow before kissing James in his cheek. "Have fun."
"Oh we will." James smiled and joined Sirius and Remus who had been standing by the door waiting for him.
"About time." Sighed Sirius.
"This is the first time Harry will be out of the house, she is just worried." James said.
"We are not going far." Said Sirius.
"But young mothers are protective Sirius, you'll see how it is when you have your own children." Said Remus.
The small group walked quickly toward the Quidditch Pitch saluting and greeting tenants as they went. They stopped several times when the wives or children of the tenants were met wanting to see the heir to the estate.
"That took long enough." Sighed Sirius as soon as they stepped into the Pitch. "Young man." He said to Harry who had woken up as they walked around the gardens. "You are too popular for your own good."
Baby Harry looked up at his godfather and gurgled.
"Yes, well, you laugh now." Sirius said as James and Remus chuckled.
In the middle of the Pitch were three brooms laying on the ground.
"I suppose we won't be needing them now." Remus said as he bent down to pick them.
"Who says we won't?" Exclaimed Sirius. "Just because James can't use them, doesn't mean that we can't."
"Who says I can't use them." James asked.
"James, you promised Lily that you would not leave Harry on his own in the ground and that you were not going to sit him on a broom." Said Remus.
"I said I wasn't going to sit him alone on the broom. I didn't say anything about sitting him on the broom with me." James said as he took one of the brooms and mounted.
Sirius whooped and mounted his own broom.
"Are you sure about this?" Asked Remus looking at the hovering father and son.
"Of course, I'm not going to go really fast." James proclaimed.
Remus shrugged and mounted his broom. They hovered above the ground and soon were flying around the Pitch. Sirius and Remus raced from end to the other, while James trailed behind with a gurgling Harry in his arms.
"You like this don't you?" James laughed as Harry squealed and gurgled. "I told your mother that you would."
Harry's eyes were wide open and looked up at the flashing sky. His small arms waved and flailed as they rode.
"He is not even scared." Said Remus in awe as he and Sirius flew back to James.
"Of course he isn't. Quidditch Material, he is." Sirius said.
"I'm telling you, he will be the youngest Quidditch Player at Hogwarts." James laughed as the flying group started to float back to earth.
Harry gurgled his agreement.
When the three men touch the ground, Harry let out an earsplitting cry.
Remus and Sirius winced while James pushed up on the ground and let his broom hover to see what was wrong. Harry stopped crying.
"He didn't want to come back down." Smiled James proudly.
"Give him here James." Said Sirius taking Harry in his arms. "You like to fly do you? I'll show you flying." He said and zoomed up on his broom.
"SIRIUS!!" Screamed James. "I'm going to kill him." He said as he made to follow.
Remus stopped him. "Don't, if you follow him you know he is going to make it into a race."
James screamed in exasperation.
"Let's wait until he returns. It won't be long, he can't fly if he can't use his arms." Remus said.
"He is dead." James exclaimed.
"I agree with you. But wait." Remus replied.
Both turned to look at the flying man with trepidation. There were no cries, just laughter. Despite themselves, they smiled.
"He will be a good flyer." James said.
"He will have the best Quidditch Players Hogwarts had ever seen, with our help as his teachers." Said Remus.
Harry flew that whole afternoon in the arms of the three young men.
Darkness was falling by the time the foursome returned to the house.
Lily and Katie waited for them in the family parlor room.
"Hello dear, had fun with your father?" Cooed Lily down at Harry once she had taken him from James' arms.
"Lots of fun. I'm telling you Lily, he will be a great Quidditch Player." Exclaimed James.
Lily looked at James. "You did not sit him on a broom on his own!" She said.
"Of course not. I'm not a dunderhead!" James said.
Lily turned to look at Remus and Sirius.
"It's true. He never sat on a broom by himself." Said Sirius.
Remus nodded.
"Humph! Come Harry, it's time for your dinner." Said Lily and walked out of the room.
"Now really, did you sit that child on a broom?" Katie asked as soon as Lily had left.
"Nope, he never left our arms. He saw the Pitch as one of us carried him." Said Sirius.
"Are you telling me the truth?" Katie glared at him.
"Of course I am. Look at his clothing, if he was on his own in the brooms he would have a twig or something on his clothes." Sirius said.
"Sirius, flying brooms don't shed twigs as birds shed their feathers." Remus said.
"Are you sure? I always seem to have one or two on my clothes when I fly." Sirius said to his friend.
"That's because you are a maniac when you fly." James replied.
"Humph! Just go and change, dinner will be served soon." Katie said.
"Of course dear." Sirius kissed her quickly and left the room.
Katie glared. She was sure that lot let Harry fly on his own.
Remus left the Manor on the following day. Nobody knew where he would go to next. He planned to leave the country once more, in search for help in his condition.
Sirius and Katie left soon after. Sirius thought that a tour around the continent might help to cheer Katie, whom seemed a little depressed lately.
Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans moved with the twins to the small Dowager House that stood a couple of miles away from the Manor. They thought that the time had come for the young couple to be on their own.
For the first time in their lives, Lily and James were on their own, to start a new life and begin to form a family.
A/N: Here you are. Hope you liked it, remember to review and thank you for waiting so patiently.
~ A Legacy of Two Generations ~ ~Part III - Dark Times ~
Chapter 1 ~ Welcome Harry!
Harry James Potter was born on the early hours of the 31st of July on the year 1980, much to the relief of his mother, Lily, and joy of his father, James. Awaiting the great news were his grandmothers and parents' friends. The staff joyfully shared the news with those tenants, curious to find the Manor household awake at such an uncommon hour.
The news rapidly traveled through the village and as mother and child rested, packages of every kind and size made its way to the Manor.
Homemade sweets and wines, toys and blankets, pillows and trays of fruits, all made their way to the dinning room, where they were displayed as the tenants and neighbors visited the joyous family.
"This kid will be spoiled." Sirius said as he looked over the gifts. "And drunk." He added as he held up a bottle of homemade wine.
"That's not for the baby, you ninny. It's for Lily and James." Said Katie as she snatched the bottle from Sirius' grasp.
"Maybe we should taste it then." Sirius said as he reached for the bottle once more.
"Oh no, you don't." Katie pushed it aside, out of his reach.
"What is he doing now?" Asked James as he entered the room.
"He is trying to drink some of the wine your tenants and neighbors brought." Said Katie.
"Well, Harry will have no need for it. At least not yet." Replied Sirius.
"I could always put it away in the cellar and keep it there until he is of age." Responded James and laughed at the crestfallen expression on Sirius' face. "We'll taste it later." He added.
"Oh good." Said Sirius and turned to inspect the rest of the offerings.
"How are Lily and Harry doing?" Katie asked.
"They are doing fine. They are both sleeping at the moment." James smiled.
"Did you get enough rest?" Mrs. Potter asked as she came into the room with others behind him. "The Colonel is here to congratulate you." She added as she motioned to the old gentleman behind her.
"Hoped to see the little tyke, but if he is sleeping don't bother." Their neighbor smiled and placed his small offering on the table along with the rest. A basket full of exotic fruits and homemade pies.
"I must tell Otty to take the day off." Laughed James as he looked over the gifts that his tenants and people of the village had brought. "But I thank you Colonel, that is very kind of you. I'm sure Lily will enjoy them." He added.
"How are you feeling young man? Quite an exciting evening, I wager." The Colonel boomed.
"It was." James smiled.
"Specially when he is screaming down the corridor in his undergarments." Snickered Sirius.
James and Katie glowered in his direction but he made no notice of them, he just laughed as the Colonel chuckled and Mrs. Potter tried to stifle a giggle.
They stopped when a young maid bowed at the door. "Master James, Sir. Minnie wishes to see you." She reported.
"Thank you Candice." James nodded. The maid bowed and left. "If you excuse me." James said nodding to the others and walked out of the door.
"Oh, dear, I hope it's nothing wrong." Mrs. Potter said.
"It's probably young Harry driving his mother crazy with his cries." Said Sirius. "The one thing I know about babies is that they cry the whole day. Cry, eat and sleep. That's all they do." He scoffed.
"Well, what do you expect? That's the only way they can tell us what they want." Katie exclaimed.
"Well, there should be a better way to do it. It's just annoying." Sirius complained.
The Colonel and Mrs. Potter chuckled.
"You'll change your mind when you have a baby of your own." Said the Colonel.
"I doubt it." Said Sirius somewhat skeptical.
The group turned as they heard footsteps on the hall.
"Probably another visitor." Said Sirius with a shrug.
James came into the room, carrying a bundle of blankets in his arms.
"Why did you bring him down James?" Exclaimed Mrs. Potter.
"He was awake and Lily couldn't rest, so I brought him down to keep him quiet." Replied James.
Everybody surrounded him to see at the small infant in his arms.
"Ah, look at him. He is so tiny." Whispered Katie.
"He doesn't have any hair James, maybe he will be first Potter to have manageable hair." Sirius said.
"Oh, I doubt it. James was as bald when he was born but his hair eventually grew." Said Mrs. Potter.
The infant gurgled and waved his hands as his little eyes darted around looking at all the faces in front of him.
"Look, he knows us." Exclaimed Katie.
"He knows your voices." Mrs. Potter whispered.
Baby Harry gurgled once more.
"Look at his tiny hands. We are going to have to work on that Young Harry, if you are going to be a chaser for Gryffindor, you'll have to grow some muscle." Sirius said.
"Sirius! Honestly!" Katie exclaimed.
Harry blinked and gave a little smile.
"See, he agrees with me." Sirius said.
"What makes you think that he will be in Gryffindor?" Asked Katie.
James and Sirius looked at her with surprise.
"Where else is he going to be? Every Potter has been in Gryffindor House. Why do you think the name of this house is Gryffindor Manor?" James said in an exasperated tone.
"All right, fine. But what makes you think that he will be in the team? And a chaser at that." She said.
"Stands to reason, doesn't it? I am a chaser and I will teach him to play Quidditch. There is no reason why he could not be in the House Team." James said.
Katie shook her head. "Insane, both of you."
Baby Harry started to cry.
"See, told you. All they do is cry." Said Sirius.
"Shush, Harry. I have you." James whispered as he shook Harry gently.
Harry didn't stop crying. In fact, he seemed to be getting louder and louder. James turned to look at his mother with a pleading expression.
Mrs. Potter smiled, and taking pity of her son reached for the baby. "Here James, give him to me."
James promptly gave Harry to his mother.
"Now Harry, there is no need to cry. You are all safe." Mrs. Potter whispered as she held Harry gently in her arms.
Harry stopped crying instantly. He blinked a couple of times and looked at the kind face in front of him. He smiled.
"See what experience can do?" The Colonel laughed.
"He needs to be changed. I'll take him to the nursery for now, while Lily rests." Said Mrs. Potter and promptly left the room.
James and Sirius sighed with relief.
Katie laughed.
"Do you wish to stay for luncheon, Colonel? We are rather informal today." James said turning to the old gentleman.
"Thank you Young James, but the wife is waiting for me." The Colonel said. "Congratulations again." He shook James' hand and nodded to Katie and Sirius before leaving.
"What are we having for luncheon?" Sirius asked.
"Sirius, really! All you think is food. Go look for Remus. He took the twins to the gardens to keep them entertained." Commanded Katie.
"Yes dear." Mumbled Sirius and walked out of the room.
"I'll go and see if Lily needs anything." James said.
Katie nodded and watched him leave the room.
She sighed. Maybe she and Sirius should have a baby, she thought.
Lily woke to find herself in a quiet and darkened room. She sighed and smiled. The memory of the exertion she went through on the early hours of the day were still clear in her mind. But it was worth it, she thought. She looked around and noticed that she was alone.
The curtains around the bed were drawn, keeping away the brightness of the day. She didn't hear motion nor sensed that anybody was within the room.
She stretched on the bed. It felt nice to feel her body back to normal again. She looked down and smiled as she saw her feet.
"Hello feet." She said and laughed.
"I gather you are awake." Said James as he drew the drapes aside.
"Hello." Lily said with a smile.
"Hello yourself." He said and leaned down to kiss her brow.
"Where is Harry?" She asked.
"In the nursery. Mother said he needed to be changed and we didn't want to wake you." James said.
"Hmmm-" Lily stretched once more. "I feel so tired."
"After the night you had, you should be tired." James said sliding into the bed. Do you want me to bring you lunch here in bed?"
"Please, I really don't feel like going down." Lily said, snuggling next to him.
"I thought of serving you on one of the chairs if you wished. Didn't expect you to get up at all. I could carry you." He offered.
Lily smiled. "No, I prefer the bed."
"All right. I'll ask Minnie to bring food here. We have lots of things that the tenants and neighbors brought."
"Really? I'll see them later. Can you bring Harry? I want to see him." Lily looked at James. She really wanted to have Harry in her arms again.
"Sure thing." He kissed her softly before leaving the bed.
Lily watched him leave the room with an indulgent smile.
Minutes later, he returned. A moving bundle of clothes in his arms.
"Here he is." He announced as soon as he entered the room.
He placed Baby Harry in her arms and slid into bed, next to them.
"Hello Harry!" Lily gushed.
Harry looked at the young woman above him and smiled.
"Look at him James. Isn't he the most beautiful baby you have ever seen?" She gushed.
As Harry was the only baby James had seen hours after been born, he could answer truthfully. "Yes, he is."
"Happy Birthday Harry!" Lily whispered.
Harry gurgled and waved his arms.
Lily and James laughed.
"Thank you." Lily said as she turned to look at her husband with loving eyes.
"Didn't do much really. I should be thanking you." James whispered.
Lily smiled and settled against him.
James put his arms around her and their child.
There couldn't be a better moment in his life.
During the first week of his life, Harry was introduced to a lot of people. He was happily transferred from arms to arms and gushed over.
Lily rested for three days after his birth. The doctor saw her everyday to make sure there were no complications, not that he was expecting any, but births were really tricky and you never knew what could happen.
On the fourth day, she made her appearance downstairs. Everybody was happy to see her up and about.
As Sirius said, Harry spent his days sleeping, crying and eating.
On this bright day of August, the new parents were holding court in the formal parlor room as the neighbors and friends made their appearance to meet the new member of the Potter Family.
The twins were allowed to stay during the visits.
"Can I hold him?" Asked Cassie as the recent wave of visitor departed.
"Me too." Francie said.
"Of course. But you'll have to sit here, next to me." Said Lily.
Each girl sat at each side of her.
"Ok, Cassie will hold him first. Hold your arms out. Like that. Now, be sure to hold up his little head." Lily said as she showed her niece how to hold Harry.
"He is really small. He won't be able to play, will he?" Asked Francie as she watched her sister hold their little cousin.
"Not for a while." Said James as he stood behind the couch looking at the small group.
"But remember, you are his big cousins, you'll take care of him and make sure that he doesn't get into any trouble." Lily said.
"But he can't walk yet, Aunt Lily." Said Cassie.
"Well, he'll start to walk soon enough." James replied.
"All right. But he better not get into our nerves." Said Francie.
James and Lily laughed. As younger siblings, they knew how older relatives viewed the younger ones.
"Can I hold him now?" Asked Francie. In her point of view, her sister had held him long enough.
"Sure. Careful Cassie." Lily directed as Harry was transferred to his other cousin.
Harry was oblivious of everything as he slept quietly.
"Why was he all wrinkly before?" Asked Francie as she peered down at Harry.
"All babies are born like that. They outgrow it soon enough." Said James.
"Hmmm.He was all red too." Cassie said.
"So were you and your sister when you were born." James replied.
"Ew!" Both girls exclaimed.
Harry woke abruptly and started to cry.
"I didn't do anything! I think he is broke." Francie exclaimed.
"No dear, he is hungry." Lily said taking Harry from his cousin's arms. "I'll return." She said to James and left the room.
James watched her leave as the twins slid down the couch and ran to the door to follow Lily out in the corridor.
James didn't stay alone for long.
"There you are." Sirius exclaimed as he and Remus entered the room.
"I've been trying to keep him out of your way, but I think he is as childish as Harry." Remus said in an exasperated tone.
"Hey! Harry is a baby." Sirius exclaimed.
"Exactly." Replied Remus.
Sirius glowered at Remus. "Fine friend you are." He said.
Remus smiled at him and threw him a kiss.
"Ew!" Sirius exclaimed.
James laughed. "Will you two stop? You're acting childish." He snorted.
"You are no better than they are." Said Katie coming into the room with a platter of fruit.
"Um, food." Sirius made his way toward her.
"You stay away. This is for our visitors." Katie exclaimed.
"But I want some." Sirius whined.
"Go to the kitchens if you want something." She said.
"Fine. Do you guys want to come?" He asked turning to look at his two friends.
"No, I have to stay to greet those who'll come." Said James.
"I'll go. I'm getting hungry as well." Said Remus.
The two young men left the room badgering each other and laughing.
"Honestly!" Katie was shaking her head.
James chuckled.
"Where is Lily?" She asked once the platter was placed on the table brought to the room, where refreshments had been piled for those who came to meet the new Potter.
"Harry was hungry." He said with a shrug. "I need to stretch my legs. I'm going to join the others in the kitchen after all. Do you mind staying here until Lily returns?" He asked.
"Sure." Katie nodded and James left her behind.
Lily was slowly making her way back to the front parlor. Baby Harry was sleeping quietly in her arms. A footman walked behind her with pillows and blankets.
She looked around the parlor when she entered and found Katie looking out the window.
"Where did James go?" Lily asked.
"He's gone to the kitchens with the others." Katie replied.
"I see." She sat in the chair that she had vacated previously, and turned to look at the footman. " John, bring that carriage here please." She said motioning to a small carriage standing in one corner of the room.
"Of course Ma'am." The footman said and walked toward the carriage.
"Is he sleeping?" Katie whispered sitting next to Lily and looking down at the infant in her friend's arms.
"Yes. Once he was full and his nappies were changed he fell asleep." Lily replied.
Both ladies smiled down at the quiet infant. The footman had retrieved the carriage and placed it next to Lily. The pillows and blankets were put inside and Harry was accommodated in it.
Visitors continued to come through out the afternoon and during the rest of the week. Harry slept through most of them. The twins were never far from the small infant. They liked to look at him, and in some occasions, they were allowed to change his dippers. Not a fun activity for either one.
The end of August was soon approaching, and with it came the twins ninth birthday. It was decided to make it a special day and to christen Harry at the same time. The girls were only too happy to share their special day with their cousin.
A small Christening Ceremony was planned to take place in the chapel in the morning. A luncheon would be served at noon on the lawn near the lake. James had sent to London for a group of clowns and puppeteers, and games were planned for the children of the village and the estate. The evening would end with a light dinner, followed by a small concert by a young, newly-formed, group of village girls calling themselves The Weird Sisters.
The twenty-eighth of August arrived. The day was warm and sunny. The twins woke very early, eager to start the day. Harry had kept his parents awake for most of the night. As a result, James and Lily were deeply asleep when two small persons sneaked into their room and made their way quietly toward Harry's room.
Harry was gurgling and smiling at the small flying objects above him. The trunk of Quidditch balls was open and the snitch ball had somehow made its way to the crib. One small teddy bear had also left its resting place among all the stuffed animals in one corner of the room and had also made its way to the crib.
The teddy bear and the snitch were floating above Harry, and he smiled and gurgled at them. His tiny arms and hands were flailing at his sides as he tried to reach for them. He turned to look at the door when it opened and the ball and bear fell inside the crib.
His face lighted up the moment he saw his two cousins approaching his crib.
"Oh good, you are awake." One of the girls said.
Harry blinked a couple of times and smiled.
"We are going to have a great day Harry." His other cousin said.
Harry gurgled happily.
Both girls giggled.
"You will like the clowns." Said Cassie as she put her hand through the bars and reached for his hand.
"And the puppets." Said Francie, playing with the ball and the bear that had fallen inertly on the blankets.
"And there will be sack races." Cassie continued.
"And rides on the horses." Francie supplied.
"And rides on small boats around the lake."
"And the concert. Don't forget the concert Harry." Francie exclaimed.
"Too bad you can't eat yet." Cassie said.
Francie nodded. "Otty is working on the cake now. It's big Harry"
"And you two should go to your room and get ready." James said from the door.
The twins turned to look at James with guilty expressions.
"We just wanted to see him."
"And tell him about the party." They said.
"I know. Go on, you'll have to get ready if you want the day to start." James said as he shooed them out of the room."
"Ok." The twins said and ran out of the room.
He smiled as he heard them say "Good Morning!" as they passed through his and Lily's room.
"Hello young man." James said as he leaned to get Harry from the crib.
Harry blinked up at his father.
"I see they put your snitch and bear in your crib." James laughed as he tried to untangle said objects from the blankets.
Harry gurgled.
"Yes, and you are enjoying seeing me doing battle with your bear, don't you?" James chuckled.
Harry smiled up at his father.
"Yes, I see that you do." James replied.
Once the bear and the snitch were free, James reached down for Harry.
"Come, I'm sure you want to see your mother." James said to Harry as he carried him to the bedroom next door.
Lily was sitting up leaning against the pillows when James entered with Harry. She smiled as she watch them approach her.
"As I didn't hear him cry out, I'm assuming the girls were keeping him entertained." She said as soon as James stood beside her and leaned down to transfer Harry to her arms.
"Uh-huh, they were telling him all about today's party." James said as soon as Harry was in his mother's arms ready to be fed.
"Do you like your cousins Harry?" Lily whispered.
Harry tried to smile and eat at the same time.
"Yes, I bet you do." Lily replied.
"You know that we'll have to keep an eye on the three of them. Cassie and Francie will lead him into a lot of trouble if we let them." James said as he lay on the bed watching his wife feeding his son.
"I don't think so. I think that Harry will be good for the girls. They know that they have to be careful with him and that they will have to keep him out of trouble. They might learn how responsibility works before they leave for Hogwarts in a couple of years." Lily said.
"Hmmm - Perhaps. As long as Harry doesn't do the same thing the girls did to me when I went back to Hogwarts after father's death." James said.
Lily looked at him with curiosity.
"They hid in my trunk and I didn't find out about it until Lotty was putting away my things in the dormitory." He answered her unspoken question.
"We'll just make sure that we know where Harry is whenever we are taking the girls to the station." Lily replied.
"I'll go get dressed, I want to make sure that everything is in order. There are still three hours for the ceremony. Rest." He said as he kissed her cheek.
"I want to see how things are going. I'll go to the lawn as soon as I'm done with Harry." Lily said. James nodded before walking to his dressing room.
"You'll have a great day Harry." Lily smiled down at her son.
Harry paid no attention to her as he ate.
Family and friends, along with some members of the neighborhood, stood in front of the estate chapel after the ceremony.
"He was so quiet, he is an angel!" Exclaimed James as the group started to walk toward the lake.
"An angel? James, didn't you hear him scream his lungs out when the water touched his head?" Exclaimed Sirius.
"He just doesn't like you much." Said James.
"Most babies cry at that moment." Mrs. Potter smiled.
"I still think it was a mistake to make Sirius his godfather. He will lead him into trouble." Said Peter, who had just arrived that morning to attend the ceremony.
"I'll make sure he doesn't." Said Katie scowling at Sirius.
Sirius smiled innocently at her.
"That's why Katie is his godmother." Lily said smiling down at Baby Harry whose open eyes darted around looking at everything.
The twins were happily running around the gardens.
The lawn in front of the lake was richly decorated.
A large tent had been erected, below it, several tables were distributed and covered with white table covers. Each table was surrounded by eight or ten chairs, comfortable white pillows on every seat. On one end of the tent was a large table. Three large cakes stood in the place of honor, around them trays of fruit, puddings and sweets were placed. Next to it was a long table; it was covered with trays of assorted meats, salads, and soups. Vases of yellow roses, pansies, and ferns, decorated the perimeter of the tent.
In front of the lake was a erected a stage. A few paces away, a temporary dock was placed, where small boats bobbed above the water. On the opposite bank of the lake, a race course was cleared. It was larger than the small one cleared in front of the tent, where the kid's races would take place. This large race course was cleared for the adult members of the party. James and Sirius had thought that the adults would like to have a horse race as well as a rowing race across the lake, so they wouldn't feel left out by the activities going on for the children.
Balloons of every size and color adorned several tall posts around the grounds. Booths with carnival games were placed around the small race course. Hanging on the walls were toys of every kind for the winners.
The Christening party arrived to the tent as it started to fill with their tenants and neighbors. Children were running, giggling across the lawn.
A thunderous applause filled the tent as soon as Lily entered with the twins and Harry.
Harry started to cry in fright.
"The poor little tyke." One of the neighborhood ladies cooed.
"He is just not used to so much noise." Said Lily as she tried to calm him down.
"Of course." The other ladies nodded.
The other children were called to join the adults in the tent as the guests of honor took their place at the center table.
Laughter and chatter permeated the tent as everybody ate and drunk to their heart's content. The children were happily piling their plates with sweets and puddings as they waited for the cakes to be cut.
When the footmen transferred the cakes to the table of honor, everybody cheered.
The twins were jumping with excitement as the candles were lit. Lily held Harry, pointing at the bright flames.
"Look at that Harry. Do you like the candles?" She cooed.
Harry smiled and waved his little arms.
"Yes you do." Laughed Lily.
Everybody fell silent while they waited for the candles to be lit.
"Ready?" James asked as soon as the flames on every candle danced merrily.
"YES!" Everybody shouted.
James laughed and the room readily exploded with: "Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday Cassie and Francie! Happy Birthday to you!" Several added: "And Happy Christening to Harry too!" Before the twins blew out the candles.
The cake was soon cut and served, along with ice cream for the children. Everybody was now looking forward to the games.
The tent was emptied soon after as everybody started to make their way through the games. The small band was starting to get ready on the stage. The clowns were settled underneath a small tent, with chairs surrounding a small space in the middle where they would make their act.
The puppeteer and his puppets were settled underneath a large oak tree, benches and chairs were placed in front of his small stage ready to entertain.
Soon, music and laughter was heard through the air.
The twins were everywhere, the neighborhood children running after them to join the fun. Lily and James pushed Harry's carriage around the lawn, stopped constantly by people wanting to take a look at the Potter heir.
Everybody had fun, the children enjoyed the sack races and relay races as much as the adults enjoyed the horse and boat races.
A light dinner was then served underneath the tent as soon as twilight had fallen. The games and fun had made everybody hungry once more as every platter served was soon emptied. The guests then piled out back onto the lawn to sit in front of the stage to hear to the young girls' band. Everybody enjoyed it.
The carnival games were a huge success and before the party was over, each person had won a prize.
It was late in the evening by the time the last guest left the estate. Lily had taken Harry for his nap and the twins were already tired and looking forward to a nice, long sleep.
While the servants cleared the lawn and put everything in order, the adults of the house reunited in the parlor room.
"That was fun." Said Sirius leaning against one of the couches.
"Thought so too." Said Peter, looking out the window.
"But very draining, I think I will retire. Good night." Said Mrs. Potter as she left her seat and walked to the door.
"Good night!" The others exclaimed.
"I think I will do the same. I'm going to check on Lily and Harry first." Said Mrs. Evans before leaving the room.
"That son of yours has large lungs James, how do you sleep at night?" Said Sirius after a moment of silence.
"I don't sleep much." Laughed James.
"We can see that." Remus said from his seat. "But he will grow out of it won't he? He is sure to do so."
"I hope so." Sighed James.
"Humph! I bet you are not the one getting up in the middle of the night to see what he needs." Said Katie.
"I do too. Lily doesn't have to do everything." James snapped.
"Well, you can't feed him, now can you?" Katie replied.
"I can keep him quiet." James pouted.
"I doubt it." Katie said before leaving the room in a snit.
"What is wrong with her?" Remus said as the young men watched her leave.
"I don't know, but I guess I have to look for her and see what is wrong." Sighed Sirius.
"It would be the best thing to do." Peter replied.
Sirius hurried out the door.
"What do you think happened?" Asked Remus.
James shrugged. "Could be anything really. Sirius will take care of it."
"Or he can make it worse." Peter replied.
In another room of the house, Lily sat on her chair watching Harry fall asleep in her arms.
"You are my sunshine
my only sunshine." She was singing quietly while her mother stood by the door looking indulgently at the sweet picture before her.
"He will be a happy child." Mrs. Evans said once the song was over.
Lily turned to look at her with a smile. "We'll do what we can to make him so." She answered.
"I'm sure you will. Do you need any help? I'm going to retire early." Said Mrs. Evans as Lily put Baby Harry in his crib.
"No, I'm set. I think I will go to bed early as well." Lily replied.
Mrs. Evans nodded, and together, they both left the room in silence.
Katie knew that she was being irrational. There had been no need for her to snap at James the way she did. She knew that, but she just couldn't help it. All that talk of babies and watching Lily happily during that day had made her jealous. The moment she held Harry in her arms during the ceremony had made her realize that she wanted a baby of her own, and when Harry opened his eyes and smiled at her, she felt a wave of jealousy had gone through her body.
She sighed with sadness as she stood in front of the window in the room that she and Sirius were always given when they came to visit. Perhaps it was time to return home, she thought. She didn't turn when she heard the door open behind her, she knew who had entered the room.
"Are you all right Kat?" Sirius said as he came behind her and put his arms around her shoulders.
"Yes." She said quietly.
"Are you sure?" Sirius asked turning her to look at him. "Tell me Kat, what happened?"
"Nothing happened. I'm just tired, that's all." Katie shrugged.
Sirius continued to look at her, but with a sigh let his arms fall at his sides. If she didn't want to tell him it was all right, he thought, she would in time.
"Very well." He said. "Are you joining us downstairs, or are you going to stay here?"
"I'll stay here." She whispered.
Sirius nodded, kissed her brow and left the room.
Katie watched him go in silence before breaking down and cried.
Sirius joined the others just as the servants arrived with the tea tray and some of the food that was left over from the party.
"Oh good, I'm just in time." He exclaimed.
"Serve yourself, there are no ladies here to pour tea." James said as he piled some food on his plate.
"Don't mind if I do." Sirius replied.
The four young men served themselves as much as the plate could hold.
"What was wrong with Katie?" Asked Remus as soon as they had returned to their seats.
Sirius shrugged. "She didn't want to talk about it."
James looked a bit troubled by this. "Do you think she is in trouble?"
"Don't see how, we are together most of the time." Sirius said as he started to pick his food.
"Maybe it's that time of the month." Peter said.
The James and Remus shrugged, it was possible, but Sirius continued to pick his food.
"I'm going to bed, I have a meeting with Dumbledore tomorrow." Said James once the food was eaten and the tea drank.
Peter seemed interested by this piece of news. "Are you? What for?" He asked.
"He is just coming to meet Harry." Said James. He had not told his friends about he previous meeting he and Lily had with Dumbledore before Harry's birth. He had promised to keep it secret, and he would, even if it was from his best friends.
The others looked skeptical at the reason for Dumbledore's visit. How many babies from former students had the Headmaster of Hogwarts actually gone to meet? But they didn't contradict him. For all they knew, that might be the reason Dumbledore had given for his visit.
By the next day, things had gone back to normal. Peter had gone back home and Remus was preparing to leave as well. Sirius and Katie were also thinking of cutting short their visit and let the new parents have time on their own with their son.
The servants had also gone back to their usual chores. From the moment Harry had been born, he had become the focus of every member of the house. Roberts and Mrs. Nichols had found several excuses to help Lily with the baby, and Otty had been happily making preserves for the infant. Minnie had become personal maid to Harry, and allowed Lily to have some time for herself. Even the other servants had found ways to help with the baby. Harry quickly became accustomed to the arms of everybody living in the house, and it wasn't uncommon to see a footman or a maid with Harry in his or her arms.
Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans were the doting grandmothers, and the twins enjoyed trying to keep their young cousin entertained.
"I really fear that Harry will be quite spoiled." Said Lily that morning as she and James got ready for the day.
"We'll just try to be careful and firm. I don't know about you but I won't have my son growing up like a Malfoy." Said James with a shudder.
Lily smiled. "At what time will Professor Dumbledore be here?" She asked next.
"He said he would come after luncheon." James replied.
Harry started crying. Minnie came into the room. "I believe Master Harry is hungry Miss Lily." She squeaked.
"I expect he is. I swear, that boy inherited your appetite James." Lily exclaimed.
"You say that as if it was a bad thing." James called as Lily walked toward Harry's room.
James spent his morning around the estate. Harvest time was almost near and some of the fruit and grains would be soon collected. He also had to check on the sheep and goats and check on the supply of wool and dairy left.
Luncheon was almost ready by the time he returned home. He found Lily and Harry holding court in the family parlor.
"James!" Sirius called the moment James walked into the room. "We have to take Harry to Quidditch Pitch one of these days."
"He is too young Sirius." Katie exclaimed.
"I will not allow you to put him on a broom yet. He cannot even sit on his own yet!" Lily frowned.
"We won't put him on a broom, we'll just show him around. Get him use to the place." Said Sirius with a smile.
Katie and Lily glared at him but said nothing more.
"We could do that later this afternoon. After our meeting with Dumbledore." Said James after kissing his mother's cheek and approaching his wife and son.
"You are not going to do anything dangerous, are you?" Lily asked concerned.
"Of course not. I would do nothing to put my own son in danger." Exclaimed James.
"You better not. Or we will have your heads." Exclaimed Katie.
"Nothing to worry about." Sirius said. "Remus will go with us."
"And that is supposed to make us glad? He got into much trouble as you two did." Said Mrs. Potter.
"Oh, but he is the most responsible." Said Lily.
"Well, one of us had to be." Remus laughed.
Luncheon was soon served and the group ate heartily. The weather was turning cooler, but the sun shined as brightly as before. Harry gurgled and slept in the carriage by Lily's chair, and the rest chatted and laughed as they ate.
Luncheon didn't last long. As Lily and James walked toward the bookroom with Harry to await Professor Dumbledore's arrival, the rest went their different ways looking for something to keep them entertained.
"Do you think we are doing the right thing?" Lily asked as she sat on one of the comfortable couches with Harry sleeping in her arms.
"I think we are. The future of our world depends on this Lily. I don't like the idea of Voldemort becoming immortal and more powerful than anybody on this planet." James said.
"Oh, I suppose you are right. But so many things could go wrong." Lily exclaimed.
"We will be here to protect him always Lily. Harry will not lack the protection he needs." James replied sitting be her and putting his arms around her shoulders, careful not to disturb his son.
"You are right, he has us to protect him." Lily whispered kissing Harry's bald head softly. Nothing more was said as Roberts opened the door. "Professor Dumbledore, Sir." He announced.
"Thank you Roberts." James said as the butler bowed and allowed Dumbledore and a cloaked figure to enter the room.
"Glad to see you again Professor, hope your trip was uneventful." James said as he shook the hand of his former Headmaster.
"Quite enjoyed it really. A nice trip before a new term begins." Said Dumbledore with his laughing eyes twinkling. "And I see our new Potter is here. May I?" He asked to Lily reaching down for Harry.
"Of course." Said Lily with a smile.
Dumbledore took Harry into his arms. Harry slept, oblivious of the old man in whose arms he was now resting.
"Well, hello there young Potter. I will be looking forward to seeing you in Hogwarts in eleven years. Hopefully you will not be as much trouble as your father was." Dumbledore said.
Lily giggled while James chuckled.
"What do you think of him my dear, will he serve as our protector do you think?" Dumbledore asked at the cloaked figure, who had stood by the door silently watching the group.
"I believe he will." A husky feminine voice said.
James and Lily looked surprised at the woman standing by the door. They had forgotten that Dumbledore had come accompanied and the voice made them think of the warm breeze blowing across a clear lake. James shook his head slowly, when had he become so fanciful, he though.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I've seen to have forgotten my manners, my dear, allow me to introduce you to the Potters. This is Lily and James, and the little man here is Harry." Dumbledore said motioning to the young couple beside him. "Lily, James, allow me to introduce you to Alanna. She will be performing the charm for us."
The woman released her cloak. A dark-skinned woman stood before them. Her black hair seemed to fall in waves to her shoulder and her eyes were the deepest shade of gray that they had ever seen.
"How do you do?" She greeted them.
Remus and Sirius had gone for a ride in the motorcycles as the meeting was taking place in the bookroom.
"I think I've found a way to improve on this bike." Sirius was saying as the young men emerged from the garage with their hair blown into all directions.
"Do you?" Asked Remus, he was sure that it would be a dangerous idea.
"Yes. If I tweak with it for a bit, it will be the best motorbike in England." Sirius exclaimed.
"You better not tell me, I'm sure that it could be illegal." Remus said.
"Oh pooh, you are becoming quite softhearted Remus. Who would've thought that you were once part of the adventurous group called The Marauders." Sirius scoffed.
"I've grown up Sirius. It's not fault of mine that you haven't." Remus smiled.
Sirius rolled his eyes. "If you are going to become all stiff and adult I will stay with Baby Harry."
Remus laughed. "Come, let's see if James is done, so we can take Harry to the Quidditch Pitch."
"Now you are talking." Said Sirius as he started running toward the house.
Remus followed him and soon a race around the gardens began.
Dumbledore didn't stay for long, and soon Remus and Sirius saw him pass through the entrance hall accompanied by a cloaked figure.
"Wonder who that is?" Said Sirius.
"Don't know." Remus replied.
James and Lily were leaving the bookroom.
"Now, be sure that you keep him covered. I don't want him taking a chill." Lily was saying. "And be careful. Don't you dare put him on a broom by himself. No matter what spells you use to keep him there."
"Don't worry, he will be fine." James replied.
"He will not need to be fed until four or five hours from now. Be sure to be back before then." Lily ordered.
"Yes, dear." James sighed.
"Now don't leave him lying on the ground while you lot go flying into the air. He might get bitten by an insect or something." Lily said.
"Don't nag Lily, he will be fine." James exclaimed.
"Oh, all right. Just be careful." Lily said, kissing Harry's brow before kissing James in his cheek. "Have fun."
"Oh we will." James smiled and joined Sirius and Remus who had been standing by the door waiting for him.
"About time." Sighed Sirius.
"This is the first time Harry will be out of the house, she is just worried." James said.
"We are not going far." Said Sirius.
"But young mothers are protective Sirius, you'll see how it is when you have your own children." Said Remus.
The small group walked quickly toward the Quidditch Pitch saluting and greeting tenants as they went. They stopped several times when the wives or children of the tenants were met wanting to see the heir to the estate.
"That took long enough." Sighed Sirius as soon as they stepped into the Pitch. "Young man." He said to Harry who had woken up as they walked around the gardens. "You are too popular for your own good."
Baby Harry looked up at his godfather and gurgled.
"Yes, well, you laugh now." Sirius said as James and Remus chuckled.
In the middle of the Pitch were three brooms laying on the ground.
"I suppose we won't be needing them now." Remus said as he bent down to pick them.
"Who says we won't?" Exclaimed Sirius. "Just because James can't use them, doesn't mean that we can't."
"Who says I can't use them." James asked.
"James, you promised Lily that you would not leave Harry on his own in the ground and that you were not going to sit him on a broom." Said Remus.
"I said I wasn't going to sit him alone on the broom. I didn't say anything about sitting him on the broom with me." James said as he took one of the brooms and mounted.
Sirius whooped and mounted his own broom.
"Are you sure about this?" Asked Remus looking at the hovering father and son.
"Of course, I'm not going to go really fast." James proclaimed.
Remus shrugged and mounted his broom. They hovered above the ground and soon were flying around the Pitch. Sirius and Remus raced from end to the other, while James trailed behind with a gurgling Harry in his arms.
"You like this don't you?" James laughed as Harry squealed and gurgled. "I told your mother that you would."
Harry's eyes were wide open and looked up at the flashing sky. His small arms waved and flailed as they rode.
"He is not even scared." Said Remus in awe as he and Sirius flew back to James.
"Of course he isn't. Quidditch Material, he is." Sirius said.
"I'm telling you, he will be the youngest Quidditch Player at Hogwarts." James laughed as the flying group started to float back to earth.
Harry gurgled his agreement.
When the three men touch the ground, Harry let out an earsplitting cry.
Remus and Sirius winced while James pushed up on the ground and let his broom hover to see what was wrong. Harry stopped crying.
"He didn't want to come back down." Smiled James proudly.
"Give him here James." Said Sirius taking Harry in his arms. "You like to fly do you? I'll show you flying." He said and zoomed up on his broom.
"SIRIUS!!" Screamed James. "I'm going to kill him." He said as he made to follow.
Remus stopped him. "Don't, if you follow him you know he is going to make it into a race."
James screamed in exasperation.
"Let's wait until he returns. It won't be long, he can't fly if he can't use his arms." Remus said.
"He is dead." James exclaimed.
"I agree with you. But wait." Remus replied.
Both turned to look at the flying man with trepidation. There were no cries, just laughter. Despite themselves, they smiled.
"He will be a good flyer." James said.
"He will have the best Quidditch Players Hogwarts had ever seen, with our help as his teachers." Said Remus.
Harry flew that whole afternoon in the arms of the three young men.
Darkness was falling by the time the foursome returned to the house.
Lily and Katie waited for them in the family parlor room.
"Hello dear, had fun with your father?" Cooed Lily down at Harry once she had taken him from James' arms.
"Lots of fun. I'm telling you Lily, he will be a great Quidditch Player." Exclaimed James.
Lily looked at James. "You did not sit him on a broom on his own!" She said.
"Of course not. I'm not a dunderhead!" James said.
Lily turned to look at Remus and Sirius.
"It's true. He never sat on a broom by himself." Said Sirius.
Remus nodded.
"Humph! Come Harry, it's time for your dinner." Said Lily and walked out of the room.
"Now really, did you sit that child on a broom?" Katie asked as soon as Lily had left.
"Nope, he never left our arms. He saw the Pitch as one of us carried him." Said Sirius.
"Are you telling me the truth?" Katie glared at him.
"Of course I am. Look at his clothing, if he was on his own in the brooms he would have a twig or something on his clothes." Sirius said.
"Sirius, flying brooms don't shed twigs as birds shed their feathers." Remus said.
"Are you sure? I always seem to have one or two on my clothes when I fly." Sirius said to his friend.
"That's because you are a maniac when you fly." James replied.
"Humph! Just go and change, dinner will be served soon." Katie said.
"Of course dear." Sirius kissed her quickly and left the room.
Katie glared. She was sure that lot let Harry fly on his own.
Remus left the Manor on the following day. Nobody knew where he would go to next. He planned to leave the country once more, in search for help in his condition.
Sirius and Katie left soon after. Sirius thought that a tour around the continent might help to cheer Katie, whom seemed a little depressed lately.
Mrs. Potter and Mrs. Evans moved with the twins to the small Dowager House that stood a couple of miles away from the Manor. They thought that the time had come for the young couple to be on their own.
For the first time in their lives, Lily and James were on their own, to start a new life and begin to form a family.
A/N: Here you are. Hope you liked it, remember to review and thank you for waiting so patiently.