Chapter 3: The Prophecy
About three and a half hours later Dumbledore, Minerva, Sirius, Remus, and Demin were making their way back towards Hogwarts.
"Harry once told me Fudge was an idiot," Demin commented. "I now think Harry was being way too nice; that man is a complete ignoramus."
This caused the other four to chuckle and nodded their heads in agreement.
"So Demin," Dumbledore began. "Care to enlighten us as to why you took young Harry?"
"I thought you wanted to wait until we reached Hogwarts until you heard my very good explanation on why I took Harry," Demin said while shooting nervous glances at Sirius and Remus.
" I would to hear it now without everyone present," Dumbledore said thoughtfully. "That way I may tell the Order members the things they need to know and keep the rest among ourselves."
Demin nodded in understanding before taking a deep breath and beginning. "In my realm there is a prophecy or a Legend as many of my people have taken to calling it. It's written on a very old silver tablet in the center of our sacred woodland. It's been there for as long as anyone can remember over thousands of years. It's written in the old elfish language that is not used among my people anymore. However the prophecy was translated many years ago," Demin paused for a moment trying to collect his thoughts.
"The Prophecy reads: A child will be born when the entire world is pledged in darkness. A small light he will be amongst the fear and dying, but a light he shall be. The dark has great fear of this light and will try and extinguish the flame. Yet through a sacrifice by the one who loves him most will the light prevail that day. The darkness will disappear for many years, becoming only a shadow in the back of human minds. The light will grow in body, spirit, and mind through the years, however his life will not be easy. The older he grows the more difficult each passing year will be. He will be plagued with misery, despair, and guilt, and only through his tight and strong friendship to unwavering friends will he prevail over such trails.
"It is then that my people will take up the chosen child and teach him of the Promise that is his destiny. My people take heed, watch as the world is delivered from darkness and after the sun as passes fifteen times around our world will you know it's time to show the child the way."
It was silent after Demin finished reciting the prophecy. Everyone pondering in their own thoughts. It was Dumbledore who finally broke the silence. "So your people believe that Harry is this child, this Promise?"
"Yes, we do," Demin answered.
"How can you be so sure? I mean the Realm of the Elves watches over more then one world, do they not? So what makes you think the Prophecy applies to this world? Or to Harry for that matter?" Remus asked, more curiosity than anything.
"First off, yes you are correct in our role of watching over many worlds not just your own. However the place I live and the place the Woodland the tablet resides in belongs to your world. In other words, all the elves in my village have been commanded to watch over your world and no other. Therefore the tablet must apply to this world," Demin said, a small smile on his lips at the extensive knowledge Remus had towards his realm.
"But why Harry?" Sirius repeated impatiently.
Demin sent an amused smile at Sirius before answering. "At first the council wasn't sure who the Child of Promise was, so they kept watch. Then on July 31st, 1980 the silver tablet began to glow faintly. It was then that the counsel knew that the child had been born, but to whom they had no idea. So they got records of all the children that were born that day to magical families and kept watch on all those children. Then, the night of October 31, 1981, when Voldemort fell at Harry's hand they knew. After that we have kept watch over him, waiting until the time came for us to do our part."
"And what exactly is your part?" Minerva asked.
"We were to wait and watch until the sun had passed over our realm fifteen times. Then we were to take the child and train him and teach him. As for my personal involvement, I asked the counsel for the right to train him, to teach him. I'm not sure why, but I felt that it was something I had to do, for both of us," Demin concluded.
"So what will happen now?" Dumbledore asked.
"Harry needs to come back with me to my realm. His training is not done, and on his sixteenth birthday he is to go to our scared woodland, where the tablet lays and there he will learn of his destiny."
"What do you mean 'learn of his destiny'?" Sirius asked.
"The Counsel is not entirely sure what will happen. All they do know is that Harry must be there at midnight on his sixteenth birthday," Demin answered.
"So let me get this straight," Sirius said. "Harry is this chosen child that's in this prophecy and you are going to take him back with you to your realm, where you have no idea if he will even survive his sixteenth birthday!"
"I do believe that Harry will survive whatever is suppose to happen on his birthday. I believe whatever is to happen will only help him in his quest," Demin said confidently.
Sirius however, was not satisfied. "You expect me to just let you take my Godson again, not knowing what's going to happen? I will not allow it!"
Demin chuckled. "I didn't expect you would. That is why you, Remus, and Albus have been granted permission to accompany Harry and I back to my realm when we go."
"You're going to let us come with you?!" Remus said with awe and excitement.
Demin glanced at Remus and smiled. "Harry said that one of his guardians loved to learn and would love to raid our library. I believe his exact words were 'so he can add to his already extensive knowledge just to bug my Godfather with.'"
Remus gave Sirius an evil smile, which Sirius returned with a look that said don't-even-think-about-it before turning to Demin and asking, "When do you plan on returning?"
"Well since Harry's birthday is in two days and we have to be there by midnight I plan on leaving tomorrow after Harry has had time to talk to his friends," Demin answered.
"You mean if he survives his friends," Sirius said with a grin.
"Yes I've heard about the Weasley's famous temper. I for one want a front row seat to that encounter," Demin said.
Remus chuckled before asking, "Just how much did Harry tell you about us?"
"Well, all about his life with the Dursleys and the events that occurred when he received his Hogwarts letter. Then he told me all about his adventures at Hogwarts with his two best friends, Ron and Hermione. I believe his favorite adventure came in his third year when he met his overprotective, convicted Godfather and had the best DADA teachers he ever."
"I am not overprotective and I'm not a convict," Sirius said defensively, while Remus just laughed.
Demin laughed and said, "I know you're not a real convict, just a innocent man on the run. However, according to Harry you are overprotective," Sirius was about to contradict him again but Demin cut him off. "I for one know how you feel towards Harry and understand the need to protect him. Even though you're not related to Harry by blood, you are still the father that he never had."
Sirius was a little shocked and overwhelmed with what Demin had just told him and therefore did not reply. Sirius had always thought of Harry as his son and now that he knew Harry thought has him as a father left him with mix feelings. Sirius had no intention of replacing James as Harry's father, but he soon learned that he wasn't replacing him, more like becoming an adopted father.
"It seems Harry has snagged you in his web as well, Lord Demin," Dumbledore said to his old friend amusedly.
Demin smile and said, "Yes he has. Just by Harry being himself, I have come to love him like a son."
"Yes well, Harry's an easy boy to love." Minerva said much to everyone's surprise, except Dumbledore of course, who merely looked thoughtful.
"I'm not blind or heartless." Minerva snapped at them defensively. Remus and Demin quickly recovered themselves, while Sirius looked, if possible, even more surprise.
"Sure could have fooled me," Sirius said.
This earned Sirius a hard whack on the back of his head from Minerva. "I'll have you know Mr. Black that if you were still in school I would take at least 100 points from Gryffindor for that statement and give you a month's worth of detention."
"Well that would be the first time I've ever got in trouble for telling the truth," Sirius muttered softly, but not softly enough.
Minerva's eyes widened, while Remus just buried his eyes in his hands. 'Sirius could be really stupid at times.' Remus thought.
Remus uncovered his eyes just in time to see Minerva pull out her wand and point it at Sirius before muttering a spell. With a pop, where Sirius Black once stood, there was now a cute, white poodle.
Remus and Demin burst out laughing while Dumbledore looked highly amused and Minerva had a triumphant look on her face. The 'poodle' wasn't amused at all and gave an indigent bark that only caused Remus and Demin to laugh harder.
"As much has Sirius deserved that Minerva," Dumbledore said. "I do believe Harry will want his Godfather back."
"Can't we wait until we reach the castle, so we can ask Harry ourselves?" Remus said massaging a stitch in his side. The 'poodle' gave Remus a most unflattering look that said wait-until-I-get-my-hands-on-you, which only caused Remus to double up in laughter again.
"As amusing as that would be," Dumbledore said. "We have reached our Apparation point which requires Sirius to be human."
With a sigh and a pop Minerva restored Sirius back to normal. Or as normal as Sirius Black could be.
Five minutes later found the group walking up the front steps of Hogwarts, with a sulking Sirius and a still laughing Remus. Squeals of laughter meet their ears upon entering the castle. Their eyes traveled to the top of the stairs were they saw Harry tickling a young girl mercilessly.
"Harry . . .stop . . . please," Delia begged in-between laughter.
"Do you surrender?" Harry asked, not relenting one bit.
"Yes," Delia gasped. Harry immediately stopped tickling her, but kept her pinned down by the shoulders. Deliam understanding what Harry wanted, reached down and pulled a beautiful silver egg out of her pocket and handed it to Harry. Harry then released Delia and sat down across from her.
"You know if you don't stop doing this to Destiny she isn't going to like you anymore," Harry informed the young elfin girl, before tossing the silver egg into the air and mumbling a few chosen words. With a pop the silver egg transformed into a brilliant white and silver phoenix who gave Delia an unflattering look before gliding down to rest on Harry's shoulder.
"Whatever," Delia said. "Destiny's your phoenix, so as long as you like me so will she."
Harry sighed exasperated. "Well I'll have you know Miss Delia that Destiny, nor I, am very happy with you right now. Not only did you trick Destiny into bringing you here, you also transfigured her so she couldn't take you back. And on top of that your father is going to have a fit when he sees you here."
Delia shrugged. "So it's not like I haven't been in trouble before."
"Delia," Harry said slowly. "I think this is a little different then the other times you've been in trouble. You just jumped realms, a thing that is forbidden by Elf and Wizard law without permission."
Delia's eyes grew wide and frightened. "How much trouble do you think I'll be in?"
"Quite a lot." A familiar voice said from behind them. Harry whipped around where he sat to see Demin at the bottom of the stairs, looking none too happy.
"Hi Daddy," Delia said in her most innocent childish voice, hiding behind Harry.
"Don't give me any of your 'hi Daddy I'm so innocent look' because it is not going to work this time," Demin informed his daughter.
"It seems a lot has happened in the last ten years I've seen you," Dumbledore reflected looking at Delia curiously.
Demin looked startled around, he had forgotten the others were there. He smiled warmly at Dumbledore and said, "Yes it has been quite a while." Then turning back to his daughter he said, "Delia will you please come down here?"
"No thank you. I am quite happy where I am," Delia enlightened her father.
Demin sighed, "Delia I'm not going to punish you in front of witnesses. I only wanted to introduce you."
Delia still didn't look convinced and flung her arms around Harry's neck shaking her head profusely. Destiny gave a startle screech and flew off of Harry's shoulders, looking highly affronted. Harry just rolled his eyes and stood up, dragging Delia with him and carting her down the stairs.
"I'd all like you to meet my daughter Delia," Demin announced once Harry had reached the bottom. "Delia I'd like you to meet my old friend Albus Dumbledore, also known as the Headmaster of Hogwarts."
Delia lifted her head from the safety of Harry's shoulder to look at the old man before her.
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Delia replied shyly.
Dumbledore smiled gently, "Hello Delia, it is also a pleasure to meet you. How old are you child?"
"Seven," Delia answered.
"Ah a very fun age, full of curiosity, if I remember my days as a seven year old correctly," Dumbledore commented.
Demin gave Dumbledore a hard look before continuing. "Delia I would also like to introduce Minerva McGonagall, Professor and Deputy Headmistress here at Hogwarts."
"Nice to meet you too," Delia replied politely, as Minerva did the same.
"And these two are Sirius Black and Remus Lupin," Demin finished.
Delia's eyes widen when she heard these names, all shyness forgotten. "You're Harry's guardians, aren't you? Harry's told me all about you. Even the time in his fifth year when him and his friends used the map you guys made to sneak out of sch.." Her words were abruptly shut off when Harry placed a firm hand over her mouth.
"Isn't she adorable?" Harry said smiling innocently at his Godfather's stern look.
"Charming," Sirius said giving Harry a look that said 'we'll talk later.'
"Well Harry," Dumbledore said brightly. "Demin has informed us as to why he has kidnapped you, so why don't you enlighten us to what sort of training you've gone through."
"And where you got such a beautiful Phoenix from." Minerva added watching the Phoenix settle its self on the banister.
"And why you didn't contact us of your whereabouts," Sirius put in.
Harry set Delia on her feet and let out a low soft whistle. "This is Destiny," Harry said introducing his Phoenix as it fluttered down onto his arm. "I met her in the Elf Realm a week after I arrived. According to Demin she had been there for about a year, but belong to no one. She found me injured in the woods one day after trying to fend off a bear from hurting a Cubcat I had found. To make a long story short Destiny healed me and the Cubcat, and she hasn't left my side since."
"Amazing," Dumbledore commented. "It seems Destiny as chosen you as her master Harry. Which I might add is very rare." At Harry's confused look Dumbledore elaborated. "You see white and silver Phoenixes are very rare, so rare that many believe they are extinct. However, if one is found it is very unlikely that it will choose a master, they don't trust humans very easily. Yet here you are with one, amazing."
Harry looked stunned. Harry looked at Destiny who returned his look with nothing but trust and honesty.
"You fought a bear?" Sirius asked bewildered, pulling Harry out of his thoughts.
Harry shrugged, "I had to do something or the Cubcat would have been killed."
"What is a Cubcat?" Remus asked before Sirius went into overprotective Godfather mode.
"It's an animal that lives in the Elf Realm. It's a cross between a cat and a cougar. It looks like a cougar, but it stays about the size of a large house cat. It's very magical and telepathic to those who have the gift for telepathy."
"I would love to see one of those." Minerva said as Remus readily agreed.
"Well if Professor Dumbledore gives his permission I'll bring Elle back with me when I come," Harry said.
"Elle? You mean you have one?" Minerva asked shocked.
"Yes, the Cubcat I saved was only about two months old and her parents had been killed by the bear that I ended up saving her from. After that she kind of adopted me as her parent. I named her Elle and she accompanies me everywhere I go. But as you can see I couldn't bring her here. I'm sure she'll be quite furious when I return."
"You fought a bear?" Sirius said, still stuck on the image of Harry fighting a bear.
"Yes of course you may bring Elle back with you, Harry. I for one do not want to separate the cub from her parent," Dumbledore said ignoring Sirius, just as curious to see a Cubcat as the rest. "Now back to my first question, what type of training have you undergone?"
"And why you didn't contact us," Sirius repeated, finally getting over the bear issue.
Harry looked at his Godfather, deciding he better answer him first. "The reason I didn't send any of you a letter of my safety was because I was strictly forbidden to do so by the council of the Elves until after my birthday."
"Then way are you here now? Your birthday isn't for another two days," Remus asked.
"Er . . . you see I was watching the enchanted waters that allows me to view this world when I saw the vision of you and the other order members falling under attack. I knew if I didn't get down here to help, some, if not all of you would have died. So I kind of made a quick deal with Demin so I could come down and help."
"What kind of deal?" Sirius asked.
"One I'd rather not think about," Harry said regretfully.
"Yes, but one I am quite looking forward to," Demin replied with a wicked smile that Harry didn't like one bit.
"Why is it that you enjoy torturing me so?" Harry asked glaring at Demin.
"My dear Harry, whatever makes you think I enjoy torturing you?"
Harry openly scowled at him and stated, "Because you've nearly killed me every training session I've had with you the last month and you always have that very satisfied look on your face that makes me want to ran for my life whenever I see it!"
"I haven't the foggiest idea what you mean," Demin said looking hurt.
"I bet you don't," Harry muttered before turning to Dumbledore. "As far as my training went. I was rudely awaken at four in the morning by a rather ugly looking elf."
"Hey, I resent that!" Demin said. "And I was not rude!"
"Sure if we don't count taking a bucket full of ice cold water and dumping it over the person not rude," Harry said sarcastically.
"Well if you would have woken up, then I wouldn't have had to resort to such methods," Demin said defensively.
Harry whipped around and glared at Demin. "You didn't even give me a chance! Not once did you yell 'Harry get up' it was simply lets dump the ice cold water on him!"
"Well you learned fast didn't you? I only had to do it for three days before you were up before me and ready to train."
"Whatever," Harry said before turning back to Dumbledore. "Anyway I was woken at 4:00 in the morning only to have to run, walk, crawl or whatever for the next three hours to reach a new destination every day where I'd find my breakfast, however if I didn't make it in three hours I received no breakfast. Then I had an hour to eat and digest the food before I had to run to Demin's dojo. By then it was about 9:00 in the morning. Then for the next two to three hours I was drilled in sword fighting, staff fighting, and hand to hand combat. Then we had about an hour for lunch. After that I would spend the next four hours on magical training until we broke for dinner. Then after dinner was spent in the library researching spells, history, potions, and anything else I found interesting or worthwhile."
There was stun silence from the group after Harry finished. Sirius who seemed to have found his voice asked incredibly, "You did all that for a month straight?"
"Well the first week was at a slower pace and not so intense, but after that it was pretty much my routine."
"Amazing," was Dumbledore's comment again. "Perhaps a little demonstration tonight for us and the other Order Members."
"Sure why not," Harry said. "That is, if Demin doesn't mind partner me."
"Of course not," Demin said. "Though it might be better if you had someone else duel him magically. Elves powers are mostly used for healing not combat."
Dumbledore nodded thinking thoughtfully. Then he turned to Sirius with a mischievous smile and said, "Why don't you do it Sirius?"
"What?!" Sirius asked startled.
"Didn't you say that you wanted to test out your dueling skills with a powerful opponent to see if you still had it in you. Well I have a feeling Harry will give you a run for your money," Dumbledore said, his famous twinkle in his eyes.
Sirius looked to Dumbledore then to Harry and then back to Dumbledore. "I guess."
"Good!" Dumbledore said clapping his hands together. "Then it's agreed, Harry will duel with Sirius and then physically fight Demin.
All three people smiled in away that made Remus glad that he wasn't participating at all.
Harry then remembering where the group just came from asked, "How did things go with the ministry?"
Everyone's face reverted into a scowl as Dumbledore spoke, "Fudge acknowledged that the men who attacked Remus, Eric, and Arabella were indeed Death Eaters, but nothing else. He simply believes that these are random acts by Voldemort's old supporters."
"So in other words Voldemort is still gone in Fudge's eyes and we're back a square one," Harry said more as a statement then a question.
"Correct," Dumbledore answered. "However the good news is that he had no choice but to acknowledge the reappearance of one dead Peter Pettigrew. A trial will be held tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. to determine his and Sirius' future."
There was another moment of silence as everyone thought about what tomorrow meant for everyone, more precisely Harry and Sirius.
"It's getting late," Dumbledore finally said. "Sirius, Remus why don't you take Harry, Demin and Delia up to your Order headquarters and catch up before the others arrive."
Everyone nodded in agreement while Harry smile wickedly, "I'd love to, but first those three," Harry said pointing at Sirius, Remus and Demin, "are badly in need of a shower." The three men in question sent Harry I death glared firmly telling Harry to 'shut up.'
"You know he's right, Daddy," Delia piped in. "You guys really stink."
Harry and Delia traded quick glances before bursting out laughing, darting up the stairs and disappearing around a corner, with Destiny gliding right behind them.
Demin sighed, "Consider yourself lucky. I had to put up with the both of them for a month straight."
"Well if you hadn't kidnapped my Godson, then you wouldn't have had a problem," Sirius pointed out.
"Point taken, but I was under direct orders," Demin countered.
Dumbledore and Minerva just chuckled leaving the two men and the elf to follow after the children.
THANKS TO MY BETA READER NATURAL ANTHEM!
About three and a half hours later Dumbledore, Minerva, Sirius, Remus, and Demin were making their way back towards Hogwarts.
"Harry once told me Fudge was an idiot," Demin commented. "I now think Harry was being way too nice; that man is a complete ignoramus."
This caused the other four to chuckle and nodded their heads in agreement.
"So Demin," Dumbledore began. "Care to enlighten us as to why you took young Harry?"
"I thought you wanted to wait until we reached Hogwarts until you heard my very good explanation on why I took Harry," Demin said while shooting nervous glances at Sirius and Remus.
" I would to hear it now without everyone present," Dumbledore said thoughtfully. "That way I may tell the Order members the things they need to know and keep the rest among ourselves."
Demin nodded in understanding before taking a deep breath and beginning. "In my realm there is a prophecy or a Legend as many of my people have taken to calling it. It's written on a very old silver tablet in the center of our sacred woodland. It's been there for as long as anyone can remember over thousands of years. It's written in the old elfish language that is not used among my people anymore. However the prophecy was translated many years ago," Demin paused for a moment trying to collect his thoughts.
"The Prophecy reads: A child will be born when the entire world is pledged in darkness. A small light he will be amongst the fear and dying, but a light he shall be. The dark has great fear of this light and will try and extinguish the flame. Yet through a sacrifice by the one who loves him most will the light prevail that day. The darkness will disappear for many years, becoming only a shadow in the back of human minds. The light will grow in body, spirit, and mind through the years, however his life will not be easy. The older he grows the more difficult each passing year will be. He will be plagued with misery, despair, and guilt, and only through his tight and strong friendship to unwavering friends will he prevail over such trails.
"It is then that my people will take up the chosen child and teach him of the Promise that is his destiny. My people take heed, watch as the world is delivered from darkness and after the sun as passes fifteen times around our world will you know it's time to show the child the way."
It was silent after Demin finished reciting the prophecy. Everyone pondering in their own thoughts. It was Dumbledore who finally broke the silence. "So your people believe that Harry is this child, this Promise?"
"Yes, we do," Demin answered.
"How can you be so sure? I mean the Realm of the Elves watches over more then one world, do they not? So what makes you think the Prophecy applies to this world? Or to Harry for that matter?" Remus asked, more curiosity than anything.
"First off, yes you are correct in our role of watching over many worlds not just your own. However the place I live and the place the Woodland the tablet resides in belongs to your world. In other words, all the elves in my village have been commanded to watch over your world and no other. Therefore the tablet must apply to this world," Demin said, a small smile on his lips at the extensive knowledge Remus had towards his realm.
"But why Harry?" Sirius repeated impatiently.
Demin sent an amused smile at Sirius before answering. "At first the council wasn't sure who the Child of Promise was, so they kept watch. Then on July 31st, 1980 the silver tablet began to glow faintly. It was then that the counsel knew that the child had been born, but to whom they had no idea. So they got records of all the children that were born that day to magical families and kept watch on all those children. Then, the night of October 31, 1981, when Voldemort fell at Harry's hand they knew. After that we have kept watch over him, waiting until the time came for us to do our part."
"And what exactly is your part?" Minerva asked.
"We were to wait and watch until the sun had passed over our realm fifteen times. Then we were to take the child and train him and teach him. As for my personal involvement, I asked the counsel for the right to train him, to teach him. I'm not sure why, but I felt that it was something I had to do, for both of us," Demin concluded.
"So what will happen now?" Dumbledore asked.
"Harry needs to come back with me to my realm. His training is not done, and on his sixteenth birthday he is to go to our scared woodland, where the tablet lays and there he will learn of his destiny."
"What do you mean 'learn of his destiny'?" Sirius asked.
"The Counsel is not entirely sure what will happen. All they do know is that Harry must be there at midnight on his sixteenth birthday," Demin answered.
"So let me get this straight," Sirius said. "Harry is this chosen child that's in this prophecy and you are going to take him back with you to your realm, where you have no idea if he will even survive his sixteenth birthday!"
"I do believe that Harry will survive whatever is suppose to happen on his birthday. I believe whatever is to happen will only help him in his quest," Demin said confidently.
Sirius however, was not satisfied. "You expect me to just let you take my Godson again, not knowing what's going to happen? I will not allow it!"
Demin chuckled. "I didn't expect you would. That is why you, Remus, and Albus have been granted permission to accompany Harry and I back to my realm when we go."
"You're going to let us come with you?!" Remus said with awe and excitement.
Demin glanced at Remus and smiled. "Harry said that one of his guardians loved to learn and would love to raid our library. I believe his exact words were 'so he can add to his already extensive knowledge just to bug my Godfather with.'"
Remus gave Sirius an evil smile, which Sirius returned with a look that said don't-even-think-about-it before turning to Demin and asking, "When do you plan on returning?"
"Well since Harry's birthday is in two days and we have to be there by midnight I plan on leaving tomorrow after Harry has had time to talk to his friends," Demin answered.
"You mean if he survives his friends," Sirius said with a grin.
"Yes I've heard about the Weasley's famous temper. I for one want a front row seat to that encounter," Demin said.
Remus chuckled before asking, "Just how much did Harry tell you about us?"
"Well, all about his life with the Dursleys and the events that occurred when he received his Hogwarts letter. Then he told me all about his adventures at Hogwarts with his two best friends, Ron and Hermione. I believe his favorite adventure came in his third year when he met his overprotective, convicted Godfather and had the best DADA teachers he ever."
"I am not overprotective and I'm not a convict," Sirius said defensively, while Remus just laughed.
Demin laughed and said, "I know you're not a real convict, just a innocent man on the run. However, according to Harry you are overprotective," Sirius was about to contradict him again but Demin cut him off. "I for one know how you feel towards Harry and understand the need to protect him. Even though you're not related to Harry by blood, you are still the father that he never had."
Sirius was a little shocked and overwhelmed with what Demin had just told him and therefore did not reply. Sirius had always thought of Harry as his son and now that he knew Harry thought has him as a father left him with mix feelings. Sirius had no intention of replacing James as Harry's father, but he soon learned that he wasn't replacing him, more like becoming an adopted father.
"It seems Harry has snagged you in his web as well, Lord Demin," Dumbledore said to his old friend amusedly.
Demin smile and said, "Yes he has. Just by Harry being himself, I have come to love him like a son."
"Yes well, Harry's an easy boy to love." Minerva said much to everyone's surprise, except Dumbledore of course, who merely looked thoughtful.
"I'm not blind or heartless." Minerva snapped at them defensively. Remus and Demin quickly recovered themselves, while Sirius looked, if possible, even more surprise.
"Sure could have fooled me," Sirius said.
This earned Sirius a hard whack on the back of his head from Minerva. "I'll have you know Mr. Black that if you were still in school I would take at least 100 points from Gryffindor for that statement and give you a month's worth of detention."
"Well that would be the first time I've ever got in trouble for telling the truth," Sirius muttered softly, but not softly enough.
Minerva's eyes widened, while Remus just buried his eyes in his hands. 'Sirius could be really stupid at times.' Remus thought.
Remus uncovered his eyes just in time to see Minerva pull out her wand and point it at Sirius before muttering a spell. With a pop, where Sirius Black once stood, there was now a cute, white poodle.
Remus and Demin burst out laughing while Dumbledore looked highly amused and Minerva had a triumphant look on her face. The 'poodle' wasn't amused at all and gave an indigent bark that only caused Remus and Demin to laugh harder.
"As much has Sirius deserved that Minerva," Dumbledore said. "I do believe Harry will want his Godfather back."
"Can't we wait until we reach the castle, so we can ask Harry ourselves?" Remus said massaging a stitch in his side. The 'poodle' gave Remus a most unflattering look that said wait-until-I-get-my-hands-on-you, which only caused Remus to double up in laughter again.
"As amusing as that would be," Dumbledore said. "We have reached our Apparation point which requires Sirius to be human."
With a sigh and a pop Minerva restored Sirius back to normal. Or as normal as Sirius Black could be.
Five minutes later found the group walking up the front steps of Hogwarts, with a sulking Sirius and a still laughing Remus. Squeals of laughter meet their ears upon entering the castle. Their eyes traveled to the top of the stairs were they saw Harry tickling a young girl mercilessly.
"Harry . . .stop . . . please," Delia begged in-between laughter.
"Do you surrender?" Harry asked, not relenting one bit.
"Yes," Delia gasped. Harry immediately stopped tickling her, but kept her pinned down by the shoulders. Deliam understanding what Harry wanted, reached down and pulled a beautiful silver egg out of her pocket and handed it to Harry. Harry then released Delia and sat down across from her.
"You know if you don't stop doing this to Destiny she isn't going to like you anymore," Harry informed the young elfin girl, before tossing the silver egg into the air and mumbling a few chosen words. With a pop the silver egg transformed into a brilliant white and silver phoenix who gave Delia an unflattering look before gliding down to rest on Harry's shoulder.
"Whatever," Delia said. "Destiny's your phoenix, so as long as you like me so will she."
Harry sighed exasperated. "Well I'll have you know Miss Delia that Destiny, nor I, am very happy with you right now. Not only did you trick Destiny into bringing you here, you also transfigured her so she couldn't take you back. And on top of that your father is going to have a fit when he sees you here."
Delia shrugged. "So it's not like I haven't been in trouble before."
"Delia," Harry said slowly. "I think this is a little different then the other times you've been in trouble. You just jumped realms, a thing that is forbidden by Elf and Wizard law without permission."
Delia's eyes grew wide and frightened. "How much trouble do you think I'll be in?"
"Quite a lot." A familiar voice said from behind them. Harry whipped around where he sat to see Demin at the bottom of the stairs, looking none too happy.
"Hi Daddy," Delia said in her most innocent childish voice, hiding behind Harry.
"Don't give me any of your 'hi Daddy I'm so innocent look' because it is not going to work this time," Demin informed his daughter.
"It seems a lot has happened in the last ten years I've seen you," Dumbledore reflected looking at Delia curiously.
Demin looked startled around, he had forgotten the others were there. He smiled warmly at Dumbledore and said, "Yes it has been quite a while." Then turning back to his daughter he said, "Delia will you please come down here?"
"No thank you. I am quite happy where I am," Delia enlightened her father.
Demin sighed, "Delia I'm not going to punish you in front of witnesses. I only wanted to introduce you."
Delia still didn't look convinced and flung her arms around Harry's neck shaking her head profusely. Destiny gave a startle screech and flew off of Harry's shoulders, looking highly affronted. Harry just rolled his eyes and stood up, dragging Delia with him and carting her down the stairs.
"I'd all like you to meet my daughter Delia," Demin announced once Harry had reached the bottom. "Delia I'd like you to meet my old friend Albus Dumbledore, also known as the Headmaster of Hogwarts."
Delia lifted her head from the safety of Harry's shoulder to look at the old man before her.
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Delia replied shyly.
Dumbledore smiled gently, "Hello Delia, it is also a pleasure to meet you. How old are you child?"
"Seven," Delia answered.
"Ah a very fun age, full of curiosity, if I remember my days as a seven year old correctly," Dumbledore commented.
Demin gave Dumbledore a hard look before continuing. "Delia I would also like to introduce Minerva McGonagall, Professor and Deputy Headmistress here at Hogwarts."
"Nice to meet you too," Delia replied politely, as Minerva did the same.
"And these two are Sirius Black and Remus Lupin," Demin finished.
Delia's eyes widen when she heard these names, all shyness forgotten. "You're Harry's guardians, aren't you? Harry's told me all about you. Even the time in his fifth year when him and his friends used the map you guys made to sneak out of sch.." Her words were abruptly shut off when Harry placed a firm hand over her mouth.
"Isn't she adorable?" Harry said smiling innocently at his Godfather's stern look.
"Charming," Sirius said giving Harry a look that said 'we'll talk later.'
"Well Harry," Dumbledore said brightly. "Demin has informed us as to why he has kidnapped you, so why don't you enlighten us to what sort of training you've gone through."
"And where you got such a beautiful Phoenix from." Minerva added watching the Phoenix settle its self on the banister.
"And why you didn't contact us of your whereabouts," Sirius put in.
Harry set Delia on her feet and let out a low soft whistle. "This is Destiny," Harry said introducing his Phoenix as it fluttered down onto his arm. "I met her in the Elf Realm a week after I arrived. According to Demin she had been there for about a year, but belong to no one. She found me injured in the woods one day after trying to fend off a bear from hurting a Cubcat I had found. To make a long story short Destiny healed me and the Cubcat, and she hasn't left my side since."
"Amazing," Dumbledore commented. "It seems Destiny as chosen you as her master Harry. Which I might add is very rare." At Harry's confused look Dumbledore elaborated. "You see white and silver Phoenixes are very rare, so rare that many believe they are extinct. However, if one is found it is very unlikely that it will choose a master, they don't trust humans very easily. Yet here you are with one, amazing."
Harry looked stunned. Harry looked at Destiny who returned his look with nothing but trust and honesty.
"You fought a bear?" Sirius asked bewildered, pulling Harry out of his thoughts.
Harry shrugged, "I had to do something or the Cubcat would have been killed."
"What is a Cubcat?" Remus asked before Sirius went into overprotective Godfather mode.
"It's an animal that lives in the Elf Realm. It's a cross between a cat and a cougar. It looks like a cougar, but it stays about the size of a large house cat. It's very magical and telepathic to those who have the gift for telepathy."
"I would love to see one of those." Minerva said as Remus readily agreed.
"Well if Professor Dumbledore gives his permission I'll bring Elle back with me when I come," Harry said.
"Elle? You mean you have one?" Minerva asked shocked.
"Yes, the Cubcat I saved was only about two months old and her parents had been killed by the bear that I ended up saving her from. After that she kind of adopted me as her parent. I named her Elle and she accompanies me everywhere I go. But as you can see I couldn't bring her here. I'm sure she'll be quite furious when I return."
"You fought a bear?" Sirius said, still stuck on the image of Harry fighting a bear.
"Yes of course you may bring Elle back with you, Harry. I for one do not want to separate the cub from her parent," Dumbledore said ignoring Sirius, just as curious to see a Cubcat as the rest. "Now back to my first question, what type of training have you undergone?"
"And why you didn't contact us," Sirius repeated, finally getting over the bear issue.
Harry looked at his Godfather, deciding he better answer him first. "The reason I didn't send any of you a letter of my safety was because I was strictly forbidden to do so by the council of the Elves until after my birthday."
"Then way are you here now? Your birthday isn't for another two days," Remus asked.
"Er . . . you see I was watching the enchanted waters that allows me to view this world when I saw the vision of you and the other order members falling under attack. I knew if I didn't get down here to help, some, if not all of you would have died. So I kind of made a quick deal with Demin so I could come down and help."
"What kind of deal?" Sirius asked.
"One I'd rather not think about," Harry said regretfully.
"Yes, but one I am quite looking forward to," Demin replied with a wicked smile that Harry didn't like one bit.
"Why is it that you enjoy torturing me so?" Harry asked glaring at Demin.
"My dear Harry, whatever makes you think I enjoy torturing you?"
Harry openly scowled at him and stated, "Because you've nearly killed me every training session I've had with you the last month and you always have that very satisfied look on your face that makes me want to ran for my life whenever I see it!"
"I haven't the foggiest idea what you mean," Demin said looking hurt.
"I bet you don't," Harry muttered before turning to Dumbledore. "As far as my training went. I was rudely awaken at four in the morning by a rather ugly looking elf."
"Hey, I resent that!" Demin said. "And I was not rude!"
"Sure if we don't count taking a bucket full of ice cold water and dumping it over the person not rude," Harry said sarcastically.
"Well if you would have woken up, then I wouldn't have had to resort to such methods," Demin said defensively.
Harry whipped around and glared at Demin. "You didn't even give me a chance! Not once did you yell 'Harry get up' it was simply lets dump the ice cold water on him!"
"Well you learned fast didn't you? I only had to do it for three days before you were up before me and ready to train."
"Whatever," Harry said before turning back to Dumbledore. "Anyway I was woken at 4:00 in the morning only to have to run, walk, crawl or whatever for the next three hours to reach a new destination every day where I'd find my breakfast, however if I didn't make it in three hours I received no breakfast. Then I had an hour to eat and digest the food before I had to run to Demin's dojo. By then it was about 9:00 in the morning. Then for the next two to three hours I was drilled in sword fighting, staff fighting, and hand to hand combat. Then we had about an hour for lunch. After that I would spend the next four hours on magical training until we broke for dinner. Then after dinner was spent in the library researching spells, history, potions, and anything else I found interesting or worthwhile."
There was stun silence from the group after Harry finished. Sirius who seemed to have found his voice asked incredibly, "You did all that for a month straight?"
"Well the first week was at a slower pace and not so intense, but after that it was pretty much my routine."
"Amazing," was Dumbledore's comment again. "Perhaps a little demonstration tonight for us and the other Order Members."
"Sure why not," Harry said. "That is, if Demin doesn't mind partner me."
"Of course not," Demin said. "Though it might be better if you had someone else duel him magically. Elves powers are mostly used for healing not combat."
Dumbledore nodded thinking thoughtfully. Then he turned to Sirius with a mischievous smile and said, "Why don't you do it Sirius?"
"What?!" Sirius asked startled.
"Didn't you say that you wanted to test out your dueling skills with a powerful opponent to see if you still had it in you. Well I have a feeling Harry will give you a run for your money," Dumbledore said, his famous twinkle in his eyes.
Sirius looked to Dumbledore then to Harry and then back to Dumbledore. "I guess."
"Good!" Dumbledore said clapping his hands together. "Then it's agreed, Harry will duel with Sirius and then physically fight Demin.
All three people smiled in away that made Remus glad that he wasn't participating at all.
Harry then remembering where the group just came from asked, "How did things go with the ministry?"
Everyone's face reverted into a scowl as Dumbledore spoke, "Fudge acknowledged that the men who attacked Remus, Eric, and Arabella were indeed Death Eaters, but nothing else. He simply believes that these are random acts by Voldemort's old supporters."
"So in other words Voldemort is still gone in Fudge's eyes and we're back a square one," Harry said more as a statement then a question.
"Correct," Dumbledore answered. "However the good news is that he had no choice but to acknowledge the reappearance of one dead Peter Pettigrew. A trial will be held tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. to determine his and Sirius' future."
There was another moment of silence as everyone thought about what tomorrow meant for everyone, more precisely Harry and Sirius.
"It's getting late," Dumbledore finally said. "Sirius, Remus why don't you take Harry, Demin and Delia up to your Order headquarters and catch up before the others arrive."
Everyone nodded in agreement while Harry smile wickedly, "I'd love to, but first those three," Harry said pointing at Sirius, Remus and Demin, "are badly in need of a shower." The three men in question sent Harry I death glared firmly telling Harry to 'shut up.'
"You know he's right, Daddy," Delia piped in. "You guys really stink."
Harry and Delia traded quick glances before bursting out laughing, darting up the stairs and disappearing around a corner, with Destiny gliding right behind them.
Demin sighed, "Consider yourself lucky. I had to put up with the both of them for a month straight."
"Well if you hadn't kidnapped my Godson, then you wouldn't have had a problem," Sirius pointed out.
"Point taken, but I was under direct orders," Demin countered.
Dumbledore and Minerva just chuckled leaving the two men and the elf to follow after the children.
THANKS TO MY BETA READER NATURAL ANTHEM!