Chapter 6: The Realm of the Elves
The view that met the four when they arrived was breathtaking. The sun was just setting behind the snow-covered mountains, giving off the illusion that the town below was ablaze. It happened every day there when the sun hit just the right place.
"You planned this didn't you?" Harry accused his mentor.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Demin informed his student, though he had purposely planned their arrival to occur at sundown. "Come. We better get going before Delia comes looking for us." With that the four of them set off towards Demin's house.
The Elf Realm itself was hidden within the snow-covered mountains that encircled them. All the shopping buildings and public places were centered directly below in the valley, while the houses were spread out in the hills above.
Their trip to the realm had left them only half a mile from Demin's house, so it was a short walk for the four. With in no time they were all standing in front of an extensive two-story house constructed of pure gray stone.
Harry had just enough time upon entering to recognize the familiar marble halls before a squeal of delight was heard and Harry found himself on his butt with a very excited Delia wrapped around his waist.
"I'm so glad you're back, I've missed you so much!" Delia said, hugging Harry tight.
"You just saw me yesterday and we've only been gone for two days," Harry said with a smile, picking himself up and dragging Delia with him.
"I know, but Daddy didn't let me say goodbye to you and I really wanted to," Delia said sulky. Then her face cleared up and she smiled brightly. "Oh and you'll never believe who dropped by! It was Caryn! She almost had a nervous breakdown when I told her you had left! It was actually really funny!"
Harry groaned.
"What, I'm I invisible?" Demin asked his daughter.
Delia smiled and hugged her father as well. Then she turned to Sirius and Remus. "It's great to see you again too."
"It's great to see you too Miss Delia," Remus said smiling at the girl.
"Who's Caryn?" Sirius asked, after greeting Delia.
Harry groaned again.
Delia pulled a face. "She's the girl that got me in trouble with Harry when she convinced me to slip some potion into his drink. Harry was mad at me for two whole hours!"
"Oh," Sirius said, a smirk on his face.
"Master Demin is that you?" A voice asked from a room to the right. A moment later an elderly elf woman came from what must have been the kitchen as she was wiping her floury hands on her apron.
"Yes Chris, it's us," Demin said with a smile to the old lady.
"It's so good to have you home." Chris said giving them all a bright smile. "And I see you've brought two more handsome gentlemen back with you."
Harry quickly turned his laugh into a hacking cough as all three men turned and gave him pointed looks.
"Sorry," Harry said. "Choked on my own spit."
Sirius raised is eyebrows at Harry and gave him a look that said, 'do-you- really-think-we-believe-that?'
"Er . . .right," Harry said. "Chris I'd like you to meet my Godfather Sirius Black and my dad's other best friend, Remus Lupin."
"It's a pleasure to meet you at last," Chris said smiling.
"Likewise," Sirius said as Remus greeted her as well.
"Chris helps me around the house," Demin explained. "She does all the cooking, cleaning, and laundry. I don't know what I'd do without her."
"It's more like the other away around," Chris said laughing. "The two guest room you requested is ready, dinner's in an hour."
"Thanks Chris," Demin said as the woman retreated back to the kitchen. "Harry why don't you show Sirius and Remus to their rooms, while I have a word with Delia."
Harry nodded and whispered, "Good Luck," to a now nervous Delia, before guiding Sirius and Remus the rest of the way down the hall and up a marble spiral staircase. He led them past five-closed door before stopping.
"This is your room Sirius," Harry said opening the door on his right to reveal a large room. Instead of marble on the floors, it had lavish blue carpet. A four-poster bed sat near the far wall, centered in the middle, with a nightstand on each side of it. There were two small dressers and a closet on one side of the room. The other side had a fireplace with two armchairs and a couch surrounding it. There was a door opposite the bed leading to it's own private bathroom. Then opposite the door they had just come in were French doors that led onto a balcony that over looked the entire valley.
"Wow." Was all Sirius said as he wandered into the room.
"And this is yours Remus," Harry said, opening the door straight across from Sirius'. His room was just as large and had similar furnishings as Sirius'. The only difference was that his room was decorated in a lighter blue color and had no balcony.
"My room is next to Sirius', Delia's is across from mine, Demin's is at the end of the hall, and Chris sleeps in the only bedroom on the main floor."
"Wow!" Remus said repeating Sirius's words. "This place is magnificent."
Harry laughed. "Just wait until you see downstairs. It's got all hand carved furniture that has been passed down through Demin's family for generations."
"Speaking of family," Remus said turning around to face Harry who had taken a seat in one of the armchairs. "What happened to Delia's mother?"
Harry smiled sadly. "According to Chris she died just after childbirth, from complications. Not even Demin's healing powers could help her. Chris was an old friend of the family and she came in shortly after it all happened to help out and she has been here ever since. It absolutely drives Demin nuts when Chris calls him master, but after so many times of Demin telling her not to call him that he gave up and just started to humor her."
"She sounds like an admirable lady," Remus said thoughtfully.
"She is. She's pretty much a grandmother to Delia and seems to have adopted me as well. When I first got here she wouldn't let me leave the table until I had cleaned my plate, twice! She said I was too skinny and that she was going to fatten me up if it killed her."
Remus laughed. "Good for her! I must remember to thank her."
Harry groaned, but before he could comment Sirius excited voice yelled from across the hall. "Remus you have got to come and see this! The view is incredible!"
Harry smiled. "Looks like Sirius has found the balcony."
Dinner that night was exceptional and very enjoyable. Demin, Delia, and Harry entertained Remus and Sirius with stories of Harry's time in the Elf Realm, while in turn Remus and Sirius told some stories of their time at Hogwarts.
They were just finishing up desert when a streak of brown fur came darting into the dinning room and pounced on Harry, purring softly.
"Elle!" Harry exclaimed cuddling the small Cubcat to him.
"So this is Elle?" Remus said, raising from his chair to come and examine the cat like cougar that had just attacked Harry.
"She's beautiful," Remus said as Harry handed over the brown furry creature to him. The Cubcat sensed immediately that Harry trusted this person exceedingly and warmed up to Remus purring softly.
"Good thing Harry trusts you," Delia said laughing. "You should have seen what Elle did to Caryn when she tried to pick her up."
"What happened?" Sirius asked curiously, reaching out and petting the beautiful cat, which also purred under his touch.
"You remember how I told you Cubcats have incredible magical powers?" Harry asked.
"Yes," Sirius said.
"Well it seems Elle can sense the people I like and trust against those I do not," Harry said. "The day Caryn tried to pick Elle up she . . .Er . . . kind of gave Caryn an electrical shock."
"What?" Remus asked, startled.
"Oh don't worry, it didn't hurt her, just scared her pretty bad," Harry reassured his former teacher. "One of Elle's many powers is the power to draw electrical waves from the air and formulate them into single energy sphere. The electrical shock she causes is mild now and couldn't possible harm anyone. Yet, I read that once they're fully grown the energy they accumulate can be as powerful as they want and can even reach the potential of a real lighten bolt."
"Isn't that kind of dangerous?" Sirius asked Harry.
"It is for the people that make her angry," Harry said with a shrug.
"And the people that mess with you," Demin pointed out.
"Great," Sirius said with a groan. "My Godson can kick my butt magical and physically. As if that's not bad enough, he has a pet that will barbecue me if I so much as look at him wrong."
The next morning Harry found himself at the breakfast table with Sirius, Remus, and Delia discussing what they wanted to do today, all avoiding the topic of what has going to happen that night.
Harry and Delia planned on showing Sirius and Remus around until about noon, when Delia had to report to the library. Demin had left early that morning to meet with the council would join them later.
So at nine o'clock Harry, Delia, Remus, and Sirius found themselves trekking down the dirt road that led to the village. It was only a mile walk from Demin's house and the four soon found themselves on the cobble stone streets of the magnificent village.
There were only three roads leading into the village. One from the south, one from the east, and one from the west, no roads led into the village from the north since the large library had been built right up against the mountain.
No matter which road you came in on, five shops lined each side of the road spaced exactly five feet apart. There were thirty shops in all. Every building was constructed out of gray stone and was styled after ancient Greece.
The three roads met in the middle of town, where a beautiful park could be found. Then the last and most impressive building was the library that sat up against the mountain.
The four spent the next two hours going in and out of shops, enjoying themselves immensely. Harry spent most of his time introducing Sirius and Remus and then conversing with the shopkeepers that knew him very well by now and liked him exceedingly. They were treated with the up most respected in every shop and the shopkeepers were more then willing to demonstrate anything that was uncommon to the wizards.
The second to the last store they stopped in was the book story that had hundreds of books everywhere. Needless to say Remus was lost to them immediately. Sirius, however, got bored with in the first ten minutes.
"Delia, I'm going to take Sirius across the street to the joke shop. Why don't you meet us back outside in twenty minutes," Harry said to Delia, a sly smile on his face.
Delia, who immediately caught on, agreed. With that Harry dragged Sirius across the street and into the joke shop. "Harry!" Squealed an excited voice before Harry found himself in a tight hug. "You're back!"
"I wasn't gone that long," Harry told the beautiful elf that had just hugged him.
Sirius looked at the elf that had hugged his Godson with interest. She was around Sirius' age, if not younger. She, like most of the elves Sirius's had seen, had long blond hair, except hers had streaks of black running through it. She had familiar purple eyes that just sparkled and her skin looks like she spent a lot of time in the sun.
"So have you finally come to get your hair streaked too?" The elf asked Harry ecstatically.
Harry rolled his eyes. Ever since he had met Kairi she had constantly bugged him about letting her dye his hair.
"No," Harry informed her. "I've come to introduce my Godfather to you."
"Oh!" Kairi said, finally noticing the handsome gentlemen behind Harry.
"Sirius Kairi, Kairi Sirius," Harry said introducing them.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet one of the famous Marauders I've heard so much about," Kairi said brightly shaking Sirius's hand.
"Harry's told you about that?" Sirius asked shooting a glance at his Godson.
"She owns a joke shop Sirius. She loves hearing about good pranks," Harry told his Godfather, "And since I'm such a good child," Sirius snorted "and don't play pranks I told her all about the Marauders," Harry finished ignoring Sirius's interruption.
"Which I enjoyed immensely," Kairi said smiling brightly. "Harry's given me some great ideas for products. I'm even thinking about doing some business with two exceptionally bright wizard twins I've heard so much about."
"Fred and George Weasley I'm presume," Sirius said with a smile. "Yes, Harry told me those two were the one's to steal the Marauders' Map back from our old school caretaker. I'm glad it found such worthy hands."
"Speaking of that map," Kairi said excitedly. "Harry said you would be able to teach me how you did it."
"I might be able to help you out," Sirius said smiling mischievously. "It all depends on what purpose such priceless knowledge is for."
"For reckless pranks of course!" Kairi announced
"In that case I think I can help you out," Sirius said.
Sirius and Kairi then got into a discussion, or rather a contest, of who had pulled the most brilliant prank when they were younger. In the ended Kairi won when she told him about the time she had once colored all the snow in the surrounding mountains pink and spelled out 'My Brother is a Prick' in black writing for the whole town to read.
Twenty minutes later Harry and a still laughing Sirius left the joke shop with Kairi telling Harry she would be there tonight.
"I really like her. She's got a great sense of humor," Sirius said walking across the street with Harry.
"I bet you do," Harry said laughing, which earned him a smack on the back of the head from his Godfather.
"So how was the joke shop?" Remus asked coming out of the bookstore with Delia in tow.
"It was brilliant!" Sirius said. "The shopkeeper has a sense of humor that matches her shop."
"So," Delia asked brightly, walking backwards so she could see Sirius. "you liked my Aunt Kairi?"
"Aunt?" Sirius asked dumbfounded.
"Oh, did I forget to mention that?" Harry asked innocently. "You see Kairi is Demin's sister. Twin sister, actually."
The look on Sirius's face was priceless.
An hour later Harry, Sirius and Remus were around a table in the library, all reading different books. Delia had left quite a while ago to start re- cataloging the books, which was her punishment for coming to the Earth Realm.
"This place is amazing," Sirius said, laying his book aside. "I now see why you like it here so much."
Harry put his book aside stretching. "Yeah, but this is the first time I've ever had the entire day to myself. I'm usually training with Demin all day."
Sirius nodded looking around the huge library. "So are you worried about tonight?"
"No, what ever happens, happens. So don't you worry about it either," Harry said with a shrug.
Harry was about to change the subject when he spotted the last person he wanted to see that day making her way towards him.
"Harry, what's wrong?" Sirius asked, as Harry jumped to his feet.
"Nothing," Harry said hastily. "Look you don't know me, you haven't seen me, and you don't even think there is such a person named Harry Potter."
With that Harry quickly dodged behind a bookshelf and disappeared. Sirius and Remus exchanged puzzled glances.
"What was that all about?" Sirius asked, worried for his Godson's mental health. Remus shrugged and was about to answer when a voice interrupted them.
"Excuse me?" A young girl standing in front of the table said. "I was wondering if you could tell me where Harry is?"
"No I'm afraid you just missed him," Remus said politely. "Miss . . .?"
"Oh! I'm sorry," The girl said with a smile. "My name's Caryn."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Caryn," Remus said to the young girl, as Sirius quickly covered his mouth to keep from laughing "My name's Remus Lupin and my friend here," Remus said kicking Sirius hard under the table. "is Harry's Godfather, Sirius Black."
"Pleasure to meet you Miss Caryn," Sirius said trying to keep a straight face.
"And you," The girl said shaking their hands. "If you happen to see Harry before I do will you tell him that the crystal he asked for is ready."
"We will do that," Remus said smiling at the girl. The girl politely thanked them and left.
"So that was Caryn," Remus said amusedly while Sirius finally let his laughter escape.
"At least that explains Harry's quick escape," Sirius said after catching his breath.
Five minutes after Caryn left, Harry returned.
"Sorry about that," Harry said. "I just wasn't up for a conformation with her today."
"That's ok," Sirius said laughing again. "She seems like a really nice girl."
"Oh she is. She just doesn't want to except the fact that I'm not in the market for a girlfriend," Harry said wearily.
"Ah, my poor little Godson!" Sirius said teasingly.
"Sirius do me a favor, don't talk," Harry said pulling a face at his Godfather. "Anyway, did she say what she wanted?"
"Yes," Remus said, very amused at the whole situation. "She said that the crystal you wanted it ready."
"Really?" Harry said excitedly. "I guess I should have stayed."
"What crystal?" Sirius asked curiously.
"It's nothing. It's just something I asked for," Harry said. "Come on we better go grab Delia, we're suppose to meet Demin at the park for lunch."
When they arrived at the park for lunch, they found Demin already there talking with none other then Albus Dumbledore.
"Albus when did you arrive?" Remus asked.
"About ten minutes ago. I would have come earlier, but I thought you might want to see this." Dumbledore said holding up several copies of the Daily Prophet.
Harry quickly reached for one and quickly read the bolded headlines on the front page.
SIRIUS BLACK FRAMED! PETER PETTIGREW FOUND ALIVE!
Two days ago seven wizards were captured and put on trail yesterday on the charge of Death Eater activity. Among them was the supposedly dead Peter Pettigrew that died fifteen years ago. The chaos his appearance caused was nothing compared to the news that he carried with him.
When Peter Pettigrew was put on trail yesterday under the influence of Veritaserum he admitted to faking his own death in order to frame Sirius Black for the Potter's death. Apparently Sirius Black and Peter Pettigrew switched as Secret Keepers fifteen years ago as an attempt to deceive the Dark Lord. Little did any one know that Peter Pettigrew was in fact the spy for He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Peter then confirmed that he had willing gave the Potter's location away to the Dark Lord. Then after the unexpected downfall of his Lord Peter cunningly faked his own death by killing 13 innocent muggles, to escape the wrath of Sirius Black, who had hunted him down to take revenge for his best friend James Potter.
At the end of the trail the jury found Peter Pettigrew guilty of all charges and sentences him to the Dementors Kiss, which he received early this morning. Sirius Black was then equated of all charges and announced innocent. Which was backed up by the ministry immediately. (This trail is on recorded and will be available to the public next week for any that wish to review it).
If this information wasn't startling enough, two minutes after the last trial, Sirius Black himself showed up inside the courtroom.
"You did what?!" Harry cried, looking up flabbergasted.
"Finally got to that part did you?" Sirius said a wide grin spreading across his face.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Harry asked.
"And miss that look on your face," Sirius said. "Not a chance."
Harry looked at his Godfather for a moment deciding whether or not to be mad at him then decided on asking, "Why then?"
"I thought it would be a very wise decision for Sirius to show up when all the jury members were still present." Dumbledore answered him. "That way things were guaranteed to go Sirius's way. Plus Sirius was coming back with you, which gives the Wizarding World enough time to digest such information before Sirius appears in public again. "
"Makes sense," Harry muttered. "So what happened?"
"It seems my appearance was the last straw for Fudge. He went into complete shock. Took quite a lot of Pep-Up potion to bring him around again," Sirius said laughing. "After that I was given back all my rightful property that hadn't been destroyed. They also reimbursed me for the twelve years I spent in Azkaban, as if that would make it all go away," Sirius said bitterly. "Anyway all I really wanted was this," Sirius said handing Harry a green envelope.
Harry looked at Sirius curiously before turning to the envelope opening it and reading the official looking parchment inside.
Sirius Black is here by granted legal custody of Harry James Potter, in honor of James and Lily Potter's wishes.
Many ministry officials, including Fudge whose signature was on the last line right next to Sirius's had signed the document.
Harry looked up at Sirius overwhelmed. "Is this for real?"
"Of course it is!" Sirius said, his blue eyes shinning. "You're stuck with me now, whether you like it or not."
Harry threw his arms around Sirius and hugged him tightly. "You have no idea what this means to me," Harry said a tear streaming down his face.
"I think I might," Sirius said returning the hug. Harry was oblivious to the four smiling faces around him as he hugged Sirius, all he know at that moment, was that he had a place to call home.
After they finally broke apart and everyone said their congratulations, Harry returned to the article. It pretty much just repeated what Sirius had just told him. He then quickly scanned the rest of paper.
"Why is there no account of Voldemort and his return?" Harry asked finally looking up again.
"Uh, yes." Dumbledore said stroking his bread. "The ministry believed that Sirius's innocence would cause enough uproar for one day. Therefore they are holding off the reporters for a couple of days to give the ministry time to prepare for the chaos that will insure when the article of Voldemort's return is printed."
"What about Fudge?" Harry asked.
"Fudge as lost a great deal of respected and supporters within the ministry. I am prepared to guess that he will be removed from office with in the next three weeks." Dumbledore informed the group.
Harry nodded. Things were defiantly looking better. He just prayed that the ministry would be prepared by the time the curtain raised.
At twenty to midnight Harry was inside his room pacing nervously. After he had listen to the counsel's instructions and then Demin's and Sirius's fatherly advice. He had declared he needed time to think and headed off to his room to be alone.
Harry really didn't know what he was feeling. He wasn't scared. It was hard to explain, but it felt like he had known that this day was to come and that his whole life had prepared him for it.
A knock on his door brought him out of his thoughts. "Harry it's time to go," Demin said coming into the room.
Harry took a deep breath, "I'm ready."
Demin just nodded as Harry followed silently after him. Downstairs they met Sirius, Remus, Delia, Dumbledore and Kairi who was all to accompany him to the woodland. It took ten minutes for the group to reach the outskirts of the woodland, where the ten council members then met them.
"Come my child." The elf Harry had come to known as Lord Nico said. "It is time to learn of your destiny."
Harry nodded silently and turned and gave everyone one last hug.
"Promise me whatever happens you'll come back safe," Sirius whispered as he hugged Harry back.
"I promise," Harry said, and deep down he knew it was true. Harry then stepped forward.
"We will take you as far as the outer circle of trees, where we will keep watch. You must proceed into the grove alone." Nico said before turning and leading the group deeper into the woodland.
Once they reached the place Nico had talked about they stopped. Harry could now see the stone tablet from where he stood, glowing brightly within the circle of dark trees. Nico then motioned for Harry to continue alone. Harry did so, following the narrow path until he stood in the clearing.
The tablet just stood there glowing brightly. Harry started to walk towards it, as if he was being pulled in. His first reaction was to panic until a soft voice spoke.
"Come Harry, it is time. Do not be afraid." The voice was familiar and Harry soon realized it was the same voice they had all heard, in Dumbledore's office that night.
When Harry reached the stone tablet he knelt down in front of it and if almost by instinct Harry reached out with his right hand and touched it. In that instant Harry vanished.
THANK YOU TO MY BETA READER NATURAL ANTHEM!
The view that met the four when they arrived was breathtaking. The sun was just setting behind the snow-covered mountains, giving off the illusion that the town below was ablaze. It happened every day there when the sun hit just the right place.
"You planned this didn't you?" Harry accused his mentor.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Demin informed his student, though he had purposely planned their arrival to occur at sundown. "Come. We better get going before Delia comes looking for us." With that the four of them set off towards Demin's house.
The Elf Realm itself was hidden within the snow-covered mountains that encircled them. All the shopping buildings and public places were centered directly below in the valley, while the houses were spread out in the hills above.
Their trip to the realm had left them only half a mile from Demin's house, so it was a short walk for the four. With in no time they were all standing in front of an extensive two-story house constructed of pure gray stone.
Harry had just enough time upon entering to recognize the familiar marble halls before a squeal of delight was heard and Harry found himself on his butt with a very excited Delia wrapped around his waist.
"I'm so glad you're back, I've missed you so much!" Delia said, hugging Harry tight.
"You just saw me yesterday and we've only been gone for two days," Harry said with a smile, picking himself up and dragging Delia with him.
"I know, but Daddy didn't let me say goodbye to you and I really wanted to," Delia said sulky. Then her face cleared up and she smiled brightly. "Oh and you'll never believe who dropped by! It was Caryn! She almost had a nervous breakdown when I told her you had left! It was actually really funny!"
Harry groaned.
"What, I'm I invisible?" Demin asked his daughter.
Delia smiled and hugged her father as well. Then she turned to Sirius and Remus. "It's great to see you again too."
"It's great to see you too Miss Delia," Remus said smiling at the girl.
"Who's Caryn?" Sirius asked, after greeting Delia.
Harry groaned again.
Delia pulled a face. "She's the girl that got me in trouble with Harry when she convinced me to slip some potion into his drink. Harry was mad at me for two whole hours!"
"Oh," Sirius said, a smirk on his face.
"Master Demin is that you?" A voice asked from a room to the right. A moment later an elderly elf woman came from what must have been the kitchen as she was wiping her floury hands on her apron.
"Yes Chris, it's us," Demin said with a smile to the old lady.
"It's so good to have you home." Chris said giving them all a bright smile. "And I see you've brought two more handsome gentlemen back with you."
Harry quickly turned his laugh into a hacking cough as all three men turned and gave him pointed looks.
"Sorry," Harry said. "Choked on my own spit."
Sirius raised is eyebrows at Harry and gave him a look that said, 'do-you- really-think-we-believe-that?'
"Er . . .right," Harry said. "Chris I'd like you to meet my Godfather Sirius Black and my dad's other best friend, Remus Lupin."
"It's a pleasure to meet you at last," Chris said smiling.
"Likewise," Sirius said as Remus greeted her as well.
"Chris helps me around the house," Demin explained. "She does all the cooking, cleaning, and laundry. I don't know what I'd do without her."
"It's more like the other away around," Chris said laughing. "The two guest room you requested is ready, dinner's in an hour."
"Thanks Chris," Demin said as the woman retreated back to the kitchen. "Harry why don't you show Sirius and Remus to their rooms, while I have a word with Delia."
Harry nodded and whispered, "Good Luck," to a now nervous Delia, before guiding Sirius and Remus the rest of the way down the hall and up a marble spiral staircase. He led them past five-closed door before stopping.
"This is your room Sirius," Harry said opening the door on his right to reveal a large room. Instead of marble on the floors, it had lavish blue carpet. A four-poster bed sat near the far wall, centered in the middle, with a nightstand on each side of it. There were two small dressers and a closet on one side of the room. The other side had a fireplace with two armchairs and a couch surrounding it. There was a door opposite the bed leading to it's own private bathroom. Then opposite the door they had just come in were French doors that led onto a balcony that over looked the entire valley.
"Wow." Was all Sirius said as he wandered into the room.
"And this is yours Remus," Harry said, opening the door straight across from Sirius'. His room was just as large and had similar furnishings as Sirius'. The only difference was that his room was decorated in a lighter blue color and had no balcony.
"My room is next to Sirius', Delia's is across from mine, Demin's is at the end of the hall, and Chris sleeps in the only bedroom on the main floor."
"Wow!" Remus said repeating Sirius's words. "This place is magnificent."
Harry laughed. "Just wait until you see downstairs. It's got all hand carved furniture that has been passed down through Demin's family for generations."
"Speaking of family," Remus said turning around to face Harry who had taken a seat in one of the armchairs. "What happened to Delia's mother?"
Harry smiled sadly. "According to Chris she died just after childbirth, from complications. Not even Demin's healing powers could help her. Chris was an old friend of the family and she came in shortly after it all happened to help out and she has been here ever since. It absolutely drives Demin nuts when Chris calls him master, but after so many times of Demin telling her not to call him that he gave up and just started to humor her."
"She sounds like an admirable lady," Remus said thoughtfully.
"She is. She's pretty much a grandmother to Delia and seems to have adopted me as well. When I first got here she wouldn't let me leave the table until I had cleaned my plate, twice! She said I was too skinny and that she was going to fatten me up if it killed her."
Remus laughed. "Good for her! I must remember to thank her."
Harry groaned, but before he could comment Sirius excited voice yelled from across the hall. "Remus you have got to come and see this! The view is incredible!"
Harry smiled. "Looks like Sirius has found the balcony."
Dinner that night was exceptional and very enjoyable. Demin, Delia, and Harry entertained Remus and Sirius with stories of Harry's time in the Elf Realm, while in turn Remus and Sirius told some stories of their time at Hogwarts.
They were just finishing up desert when a streak of brown fur came darting into the dinning room and pounced on Harry, purring softly.
"Elle!" Harry exclaimed cuddling the small Cubcat to him.
"So this is Elle?" Remus said, raising from his chair to come and examine the cat like cougar that had just attacked Harry.
"She's beautiful," Remus said as Harry handed over the brown furry creature to him. The Cubcat sensed immediately that Harry trusted this person exceedingly and warmed up to Remus purring softly.
"Good thing Harry trusts you," Delia said laughing. "You should have seen what Elle did to Caryn when she tried to pick her up."
"What happened?" Sirius asked curiously, reaching out and petting the beautiful cat, which also purred under his touch.
"You remember how I told you Cubcats have incredible magical powers?" Harry asked.
"Yes," Sirius said.
"Well it seems Elle can sense the people I like and trust against those I do not," Harry said. "The day Caryn tried to pick Elle up she . . .Er . . . kind of gave Caryn an electrical shock."
"What?" Remus asked, startled.
"Oh don't worry, it didn't hurt her, just scared her pretty bad," Harry reassured his former teacher. "One of Elle's many powers is the power to draw electrical waves from the air and formulate them into single energy sphere. The electrical shock she causes is mild now and couldn't possible harm anyone. Yet, I read that once they're fully grown the energy they accumulate can be as powerful as they want and can even reach the potential of a real lighten bolt."
"Isn't that kind of dangerous?" Sirius asked Harry.
"It is for the people that make her angry," Harry said with a shrug.
"And the people that mess with you," Demin pointed out.
"Great," Sirius said with a groan. "My Godson can kick my butt magical and physically. As if that's not bad enough, he has a pet that will barbecue me if I so much as look at him wrong."
The next morning Harry found himself at the breakfast table with Sirius, Remus, and Delia discussing what they wanted to do today, all avoiding the topic of what has going to happen that night.
Harry and Delia planned on showing Sirius and Remus around until about noon, when Delia had to report to the library. Demin had left early that morning to meet with the council would join them later.
So at nine o'clock Harry, Delia, Remus, and Sirius found themselves trekking down the dirt road that led to the village. It was only a mile walk from Demin's house and the four soon found themselves on the cobble stone streets of the magnificent village.
There were only three roads leading into the village. One from the south, one from the east, and one from the west, no roads led into the village from the north since the large library had been built right up against the mountain.
No matter which road you came in on, five shops lined each side of the road spaced exactly five feet apart. There were thirty shops in all. Every building was constructed out of gray stone and was styled after ancient Greece.
The three roads met in the middle of town, where a beautiful park could be found. Then the last and most impressive building was the library that sat up against the mountain.
The four spent the next two hours going in and out of shops, enjoying themselves immensely. Harry spent most of his time introducing Sirius and Remus and then conversing with the shopkeepers that knew him very well by now and liked him exceedingly. They were treated with the up most respected in every shop and the shopkeepers were more then willing to demonstrate anything that was uncommon to the wizards.
The second to the last store they stopped in was the book story that had hundreds of books everywhere. Needless to say Remus was lost to them immediately. Sirius, however, got bored with in the first ten minutes.
"Delia, I'm going to take Sirius across the street to the joke shop. Why don't you meet us back outside in twenty minutes," Harry said to Delia, a sly smile on his face.
Delia, who immediately caught on, agreed. With that Harry dragged Sirius across the street and into the joke shop. "Harry!" Squealed an excited voice before Harry found himself in a tight hug. "You're back!"
"I wasn't gone that long," Harry told the beautiful elf that had just hugged him.
Sirius looked at the elf that had hugged his Godson with interest. She was around Sirius' age, if not younger. She, like most of the elves Sirius's had seen, had long blond hair, except hers had streaks of black running through it. She had familiar purple eyes that just sparkled and her skin looks like she spent a lot of time in the sun.
"So have you finally come to get your hair streaked too?" The elf asked Harry ecstatically.
Harry rolled his eyes. Ever since he had met Kairi she had constantly bugged him about letting her dye his hair.
"No," Harry informed her. "I've come to introduce my Godfather to you."
"Oh!" Kairi said, finally noticing the handsome gentlemen behind Harry.
"Sirius Kairi, Kairi Sirius," Harry said introducing them.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet one of the famous Marauders I've heard so much about," Kairi said brightly shaking Sirius's hand.
"Harry's told you about that?" Sirius asked shooting a glance at his Godson.
"She owns a joke shop Sirius. She loves hearing about good pranks," Harry told his Godfather, "And since I'm such a good child," Sirius snorted "and don't play pranks I told her all about the Marauders," Harry finished ignoring Sirius's interruption.
"Which I enjoyed immensely," Kairi said smiling brightly. "Harry's given me some great ideas for products. I'm even thinking about doing some business with two exceptionally bright wizard twins I've heard so much about."
"Fred and George Weasley I'm presume," Sirius said with a smile. "Yes, Harry told me those two were the one's to steal the Marauders' Map back from our old school caretaker. I'm glad it found such worthy hands."
"Speaking of that map," Kairi said excitedly. "Harry said you would be able to teach me how you did it."
"I might be able to help you out," Sirius said smiling mischievously. "It all depends on what purpose such priceless knowledge is for."
"For reckless pranks of course!" Kairi announced
"In that case I think I can help you out," Sirius said.
Sirius and Kairi then got into a discussion, or rather a contest, of who had pulled the most brilliant prank when they were younger. In the ended Kairi won when she told him about the time she had once colored all the snow in the surrounding mountains pink and spelled out 'My Brother is a Prick' in black writing for the whole town to read.
Twenty minutes later Harry and a still laughing Sirius left the joke shop with Kairi telling Harry she would be there tonight.
"I really like her. She's got a great sense of humor," Sirius said walking across the street with Harry.
"I bet you do," Harry said laughing, which earned him a smack on the back of the head from his Godfather.
"So how was the joke shop?" Remus asked coming out of the bookstore with Delia in tow.
"It was brilliant!" Sirius said. "The shopkeeper has a sense of humor that matches her shop."
"So," Delia asked brightly, walking backwards so she could see Sirius. "you liked my Aunt Kairi?"
"Aunt?" Sirius asked dumbfounded.
"Oh, did I forget to mention that?" Harry asked innocently. "You see Kairi is Demin's sister. Twin sister, actually."
The look on Sirius's face was priceless.
An hour later Harry, Sirius and Remus were around a table in the library, all reading different books. Delia had left quite a while ago to start re- cataloging the books, which was her punishment for coming to the Earth Realm.
"This place is amazing," Sirius said, laying his book aside. "I now see why you like it here so much."
Harry put his book aside stretching. "Yeah, but this is the first time I've ever had the entire day to myself. I'm usually training with Demin all day."
Sirius nodded looking around the huge library. "So are you worried about tonight?"
"No, what ever happens, happens. So don't you worry about it either," Harry said with a shrug.
Harry was about to change the subject when he spotted the last person he wanted to see that day making her way towards him.
"Harry, what's wrong?" Sirius asked, as Harry jumped to his feet.
"Nothing," Harry said hastily. "Look you don't know me, you haven't seen me, and you don't even think there is such a person named Harry Potter."
With that Harry quickly dodged behind a bookshelf and disappeared. Sirius and Remus exchanged puzzled glances.
"What was that all about?" Sirius asked, worried for his Godson's mental health. Remus shrugged and was about to answer when a voice interrupted them.
"Excuse me?" A young girl standing in front of the table said. "I was wondering if you could tell me where Harry is?"
"No I'm afraid you just missed him," Remus said politely. "Miss . . .?"
"Oh! I'm sorry," The girl said with a smile. "My name's Caryn."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Caryn," Remus said to the young girl, as Sirius quickly covered his mouth to keep from laughing "My name's Remus Lupin and my friend here," Remus said kicking Sirius hard under the table. "is Harry's Godfather, Sirius Black."
"Pleasure to meet you Miss Caryn," Sirius said trying to keep a straight face.
"And you," The girl said shaking their hands. "If you happen to see Harry before I do will you tell him that the crystal he asked for is ready."
"We will do that," Remus said smiling at the girl. The girl politely thanked them and left.
"So that was Caryn," Remus said amusedly while Sirius finally let his laughter escape.
"At least that explains Harry's quick escape," Sirius said after catching his breath.
Five minutes after Caryn left, Harry returned.
"Sorry about that," Harry said. "I just wasn't up for a conformation with her today."
"That's ok," Sirius said laughing again. "She seems like a really nice girl."
"Oh she is. She just doesn't want to except the fact that I'm not in the market for a girlfriend," Harry said wearily.
"Ah, my poor little Godson!" Sirius said teasingly.
"Sirius do me a favor, don't talk," Harry said pulling a face at his Godfather. "Anyway, did she say what she wanted?"
"Yes," Remus said, very amused at the whole situation. "She said that the crystal you wanted it ready."
"Really?" Harry said excitedly. "I guess I should have stayed."
"What crystal?" Sirius asked curiously.
"It's nothing. It's just something I asked for," Harry said. "Come on we better go grab Delia, we're suppose to meet Demin at the park for lunch."
When they arrived at the park for lunch, they found Demin already there talking with none other then Albus Dumbledore.
"Albus when did you arrive?" Remus asked.
"About ten minutes ago. I would have come earlier, but I thought you might want to see this." Dumbledore said holding up several copies of the Daily Prophet.
Harry quickly reached for one and quickly read the bolded headlines on the front page.
SIRIUS BLACK FRAMED! PETER PETTIGREW FOUND ALIVE!
Two days ago seven wizards were captured and put on trail yesterday on the charge of Death Eater activity. Among them was the supposedly dead Peter Pettigrew that died fifteen years ago. The chaos his appearance caused was nothing compared to the news that he carried with him.
When Peter Pettigrew was put on trail yesterday under the influence of Veritaserum he admitted to faking his own death in order to frame Sirius Black for the Potter's death. Apparently Sirius Black and Peter Pettigrew switched as Secret Keepers fifteen years ago as an attempt to deceive the Dark Lord. Little did any one know that Peter Pettigrew was in fact the spy for He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. Peter then confirmed that he had willing gave the Potter's location away to the Dark Lord. Then after the unexpected downfall of his Lord Peter cunningly faked his own death by killing 13 innocent muggles, to escape the wrath of Sirius Black, who had hunted him down to take revenge for his best friend James Potter.
At the end of the trail the jury found Peter Pettigrew guilty of all charges and sentences him to the Dementors Kiss, which he received early this morning. Sirius Black was then equated of all charges and announced innocent. Which was backed up by the ministry immediately. (This trail is on recorded and will be available to the public next week for any that wish to review it).
If this information wasn't startling enough, two minutes after the last trial, Sirius Black himself showed up inside the courtroom.
"You did what?!" Harry cried, looking up flabbergasted.
"Finally got to that part did you?" Sirius said a wide grin spreading across his face.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Harry asked.
"And miss that look on your face," Sirius said. "Not a chance."
Harry looked at his Godfather for a moment deciding whether or not to be mad at him then decided on asking, "Why then?"
"I thought it would be a very wise decision for Sirius to show up when all the jury members were still present." Dumbledore answered him. "That way things were guaranteed to go Sirius's way. Plus Sirius was coming back with you, which gives the Wizarding World enough time to digest such information before Sirius appears in public again. "
"Makes sense," Harry muttered. "So what happened?"
"It seems my appearance was the last straw for Fudge. He went into complete shock. Took quite a lot of Pep-Up potion to bring him around again," Sirius said laughing. "After that I was given back all my rightful property that hadn't been destroyed. They also reimbursed me for the twelve years I spent in Azkaban, as if that would make it all go away," Sirius said bitterly. "Anyway all I really wanted was this," Sirius said handing Harry a green envelope.
Harry looked at Sirius curiously before turning to the envelope opening it and reading the official looking parchment inside.
Sirius Black is here by granted legal custody of Harry James Potter, in honor of James and Lily Potter's wishes.
Many ministry officials, including Fudge whose signature was on the last line right next to Sirius's had signed the document.
Harry looked up at Sirius overwhelmed. "Is this for real?"
"Of course it is!" Sirius said, his blue eyes shinning. "You're stuck with me now, whether you like it or not."
Harry threw his arms around Sirius and hugged him tightly. "You have no idea what this means to me," Harry said a tear streaming down his face.
"I think I might," Sirius said returning the hug. Harry was oblivious to the four smiling faces around him as he hugged Sirius, all he know at that moment, was that he had a place to call home.
After they finally broke apart and everyone said their congratulations, Harry returned to the article. It pretty much just repeated what Sirius had just told him. He then quickly scanned the rest of paper.
"Why is there no account of Voldemort and his return?" Harry asked finally looking up again.
"Uh, yes." Dumbledore said stroking his bread. "The ministry believed that Sirius's innocence would cause enough uproar for one day. Therefore they are holding off the reporters for a couple of days to give the ministry time to prepare for the chaos that will insure when the article of Voldemort's return is printed."
"What about Fudge?" Harry asked.
"Fudge as lost a great deal of respected and supporters within the ministry. I am prepared to guess that he will be removed from office with in the next three weeks." Dumbledore informed the group.
Harry nodded. Things were defiantly looking better. He just prayed that the ministry would be prepared by the time the curtain raised.
At twenty to midnight Harry was inside his room pacing nervously. After he had listen to the counsel's instructions and then Demin's and Sirius's fatherly advice. He had declared he needed time to think and headed off to his room to be alone.
Harry really didn't know what he was feeling. He wasn't scared. It was hard to explain, but it felt like he had known that this day was to come and that his whole life had prepared him for it.
A knock on his door brought him out of his thoughts. "Harry it's time to go," Demin said coming into the room.
Harry took a deep breath, "I'm ready."
Demin just nodded as Harry followed silently after him. Downstairs they met Sirius, Remus, Delia, Dumbledore and Kairi who was all to accompany him to the woodland. It took ten minutes for the group to reach the outskirts of the woodland, where the ten council members then met them.
"Come my child." The elf Harry had come to known as Lord Nico said. "It is time to learn of your destiny."
Harry nodded silently and turned and gave everyone one last hug.
"Promise me whatever happens you'll come back safe," Sirius whispered as he hugged Harry back.
"I promise," Harry said, and deep down he knew it was true. Harry then stepped forward.
"We will take you as far as the outer circle of trees, where we will keep watch. You must proceed into the grove alone." Nico said before turning and leading the group deeper into the woodland.
Once they reached the place Nico had talked about they stopped. Harry could now see the stone tablet from where he stood, glowing brightly within the circle of dark trees. Nico then motioned for Harry to continue alone. Harry did so, following the narrow path until he stood in the clearing.
The tablet just stood there glowing brightly. Harry started to walk towards it, as if he was being pulled in. His first reaction was to panic until a soft voice spoke.
"Come Harry, it is time. Do not be afraid." The voice was familiar and Harry soon realized it was the same voice they had all heard, in Dumbledore's office that night.
When Harry reached the stone tablet he knelt down in front of it and if almost by instinct Harry reached out with his right hand and touched it. In that instant Harry vanished.
THANK YOU TO MY BETA READER NATURAL ANTHEM!