**Again I would like to apologize for taking so long, I really didn't want
to, but had to! Schools a real pain and it really didn't help things when
my creative writing teacher told me I couldn't write! But thanks to all
your reviews and support I figured I'd just tell my teacher to shove it,
what does she know anyway! And to show you that I am really sorry this
chapter is even longer then the last! Enjoy!
Chapter 20: Disappeared Trouble
"How are they doing?" A quiet male voice asked breaking the silence of the dimly lit room.
Albus Dumbledore who had been standing quietly by one of the open windows deep in thought turned to find Amos Diggory standing beside him looking tired and deeply troubled.
"I'm not entirely sure." Dumbledore replied turning his attention back to the open window where he continued to gaze at the demolished quidditch field. "Madam Pomprey has yet to inform me of any of their conditions."
Amos only nodded in understanding sensing the Professor's need for silence and instead looked around the peaceful hospital wing where his eyes lingering on each occupied bed while Madam Pomprey hustled from one bed to the next.
It had been roughly five hours since Hogwarts had been shaking to its very core by the unexpected eruption. Amos had later learned that most of the Professor's had rushed outside expecting an attack only to find the quidditch field in splinter ruins and still a flamed.
Amos and his team of Ministry officials had turned up minutes later only to the same devastating sight. After putting out the flames Dumbledore had immediately started to assign Professor's to round up all the students and get a head count from each house.
When the report had finally came in Slytherin house had had no students missing, while Ravenclaw had had two, Hufflepuff three, and Gryffindor six. And not until Dumbledore had asked for Demin and Kairi to be found for their healing powers did it come to everyone's attention that four of their own colleagues were missing alone with Demin's daughter, Delia.
So with a list of roughly sixteen people that could possible be trapped under the rubble of the quidditch stadium the professors and the ministry officials had set out to remove the destruction starting from the outside and moving in.
After about forty-five minutes of digging through the rubble the two Ravenclaw teens along with the three Hufflepuff's and two of the Gryffindor's had been found. All the teens had been extremely lucky, none of them had been seriously wounded and had been healed within minutes, before being sent to the Hospital Wing for the night.
It wasn't until hours later when their search had finally reached the heart of the quidditch field did they find the four professors along with three more Gryffindor's.
They had all been pulled out and sent to Madam Pomprey immediately where she had been looking after them ever since. The search had then continued for the remaining missing two.
"Did you found any trace of them?" Dumbledore finally asked breaking the silence and drawing Amos out of his thoughts.
"No." Amos said. "And I'm guessing you didn't have any luck either?"
"No." Dumbledore said his eyes lingering sadly on his old eleven friend and dark haired dueling professor. "All the tracking charms I tried have all come up empty handed."
"Is there anything else we can try?" Amos asked hopefully.
Dumbledore shook his head slightly before turning to Madam Pomprey who had finally stopped in front of him looking extremely tired and worried.
"Poppy?" Dumbledore asked questionable when Madam Pomprey reminded quiet.
"Can I speak to the two of you in my office for a moment." Madam Pomprey finally asked shooting a quick glance at the very distressed Mrs. Weasley whom was currently hovering over her children.
"Of course." Dumbledore said in understanding while Amos nodded and followed the school nurse into her office.
Once comfortably seated Dumbledore turned to the nurse and asked. "How are they Poppy?"
"Physically, they all should be fine with time." Madam Pomprey said. "The worst injury was sustained by Miss Weasley who has a concussion. Other then that it was mainly broken bones, burns, and bruising. They were all extremely lucky."
Professor Dumbledore nodded in understanding before giving Madam Pomprey a slight smile. "Poppy something is bothering you. Now please tell me what it is."
Madam Pomprey gave Dumbledore a smile of her own, relieved that sometimes Dumbledore could read people so well. "It's their magical energy, it's dangerous low in all of them. Even the students that were caught outside the quidditch pitch durning the explosion shows signs of magical depleting.
"Magical energy?" Amos interrupted confused. "I'm sorry I'm lost."
"Just like all human's have and live off life energy, wizards and witches also have what we call magical energy. It's what give us our magic and allows us to use it to a certain degree. It's also what causes wizards and witches to heal so quickly after injury." Madam Pomprey explained.
"I'm still lost." Amos said. "If all it does is help in the healing process then way are you worried?"
"It's Demin and Kairi I'm worried about." Madam Pomprey said. "They're elves and thus completely magically beings. They solely live off magical energy, it's their life force."
"How much danger are they in?" Dumbledore asked understanding fully what Madam Pomprey was so worried about.
"On the magical key Demin's at a 3 and Kairi's at a 5."
"Is that bad?" Amos questioned when Dumbledore reminded silence.
"Yes." Poppy said. "And there's nothing I can do for them as you already know Albus. All we can do is wait and pray they pull through this."
"Do what you can Poppy and keep me informed on their conditions." Albus said after a while. "Demin and Kairi are fighters they're pull through this."
"I hope you're right." Madam Pomprey said. "I really hope you're right."
"What could have done this?" Amos asked suddenly. "What could possible have the power to demolish a quidditch pitch, rob wizard's and elves of their magical energy, and then cause two children to completely disappear?"
"I believe we would all like to know that Amos." Albus said. "But what I do know is that we must find Harry and Delia and preferable before Sirius or Demin wakes up."
* * * * * *
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY'VE DISAPPEARED!" Sirius bellowed.
Sighing wearily Dumbledore leaned backed in his chair and rubbed his aching temples. "I mean exactly what I said Sirius. We found no sign of Harry or Delia when we cleared the destruction on the quidditch field. We our unsure of where they are."
"WHAT!" Sirius shouted jumping to is feet. "TWO CHILDREN DO NOT JUST UP AND DISAPPEAR INTO THIN AIR ALBUS!"
Dumbledore sighed again and waited patiently while Sirius threw his tantrum.
It had been three days since the quidditch pitch had exploded and Harry and Delia had gone missing without a trace.
One day since Remus and Hermoine had woken up and enlightened Dumbledore to all they could remember about the attack. And precisely ten minutes since Sirius had finally regained consciousness and had stormed into his office demanding to know where his Godson was.
"They couldn't have just disappeared!" Sirius repeated, starting to pace around the room and effectively drawing Albus out of his thoughts. "Maybe you missed something or you just didn't look hard enough, or . . ."
"Trust me when I tell you we've looked Sirius." Dumbledore said efficiently stopping Sirius's rambling. "The ministry as been here for the past three days trying to piece the puzzle together on what exactly happened. As for Harry and Delia I have used all the tracking charms I know and even the ones I placed on Harry when he was a child and everything had came up empty."
"How far does your tracking charms reach?" Sirius asked continuing his pacing.
"The strongest charm should have been able to track Harry anywhere within Europe." Dumbledore said. "Which explains why I couldn't find Harry when he disappeared with Demin into the Elf Realm months ago."
"You mean kidnapped." Sirius muttered under his breath. "So what you're saying is that Harry is either not in Europe anymore or that he's . . ."
"No." Dumbledore said sternly. "Harry and Delia are still alive."
"How would you know if you can't track them?" Sirius asked.
"Miss Granger." Dumbledore said.
"Hermione?" Sirius asked confused. "How would she know?"
"It would seem that Hermione, like Ron and Ginny are in possession of a bracelet that was given to them by Harry." Dumbledore said.
"Of course, the life bracelets." Sirius breathed in relief.
"You know of them?" Dumbledore asked.
"Yes, Harry showed them to Remus and I in the Elf Realm." Sirius said smiling. "He wanted to include our life magic to his bracelet."
"I see." Dumbledore said thoughtfully. "I must have a talk with Harry about these bracelets when he returns, they are quite fascinating."
"You mean if he returns." Sirius said wearily. "What did Demin have to say when you told him Delia was missing? Did he have any charms to track his daughter?"
"I haven't told him yet." Dumbledore said softly. "I haven't had the chance."
"What do you mean?" Sirius asked.
"Demin hasn't woken up yet." Dumbledore said somberly. "Neither as Kairi or Miss Weasley."
"Why? Is something wrong with them?" Sirius asked.
"Nothing seems to be wrong with Miss Weasley, she simple has not regained consciousness yet. As for Demin and Kairi . . ." Dumbledore said gentle. "They are still in a very critical state. Whatever attacked you on that quidditch field consumed their magical life energy and since they're . . ."
"Elves and they're completely magical beings it would be just like someone consuming my human life energy." Sirius finished quietly.
Professor Dumbledore raised a surprise eyebrow at Sirius who gave him a slight smile.
"I may not be the most devoted person to studying professor, but I have learned quite a lot about elves over the last few months." Sirius said before asking. "How bad are they?"
"Kairi seems to have taken less of a hit from the object them Demin has, but over all they both are still in danger of losing their lives." Dumbledore replied gravely. "Madam Pomprey has done all she can for them, all we can do is seat and wait."
"What did this Albus? What attacked us?" Sirius asked desperately, while sinking into the nearest empty chair.
"That Sirius is the million Gallon question." Albus said. "No one seems to be able to figure this mystery out, not even me."
"So what you're saying is that you have absolutely no idea what attacked us and if it attacks again we have no defense against it?" Sirius asked incredulously.
"I'm afraid so." Albus answered gravely.
"Do we even know who sent it or even how it got pass the school's multiple defense spells?" Sirius asked.
"I don't think we have to think hard to know who sent it." Ablus said darkly. "As to how it got past our defenses, I do not know."
"Then maybe it's time that I remedy that problem." A voice said interrupting the two.
Whipping around both men stared in surprise.
Standing in the headmaster's doorway was a very familiar face, right down to his long silver hair that was neatly tied back exposing his penetrating azure eyes and his refined emerald battle robes flowing elegantly around him.
"Lord Nico." Dumbledore said calmly.
"Headmaster Dumbledore, Mr. Black." Nico said respectively, while entering the office.
"What do you owe this pleasure to?" Albus inquired while offering the elf a seat.
"I've come to aid you in your investigation." Lord Nico said taking the pro offered seat beside Sirius.
"What do you mean?" Sirius asked. "Do you know where Harry and Delia are?"
"Should I?" Lord Nico asked turning to Sirius with a frown.
"No my friend, we were only hoping." Dumbledore said shaking his head. "You see Delia and Harry have gone missing."
"Would I be correct in assuming that their disappearance coincided with the magical explosion that happened here three days ago?" Lord Nico asked.
"How did you . . . ?" Sirius asked in surprise.
"I presume I can take that as a yes." Lord Nico said when Sirius just continued to stare at him in shock.
"You may." Dumbledore said eyeing Lord Nico questionable. "May I ask how you came to find out about the explosion?"
"Simple." Lord Nico said. "I felt it."
Dumbledore blinked. "Excuse me?"
"I, along with every other elf in my realm felt the magical disruption three days ago." Lord Nico explained calmly.
"How?" Sirius asked.
"Because . . ." Lord Nico said regretfully. "The object that attacked you was a creation of an Elf."
Complete silence followed Lord Nico's statement as Sirius and Dumbledore tried to figure out just exactly what Lord Nico was implying.
"Would you care to elaborate on that." Dumbledore finally asked in a slightly dangerous voice.
"Please my friend it is not what you think." Lord Nico said. "But before I explain further I ask that your minister be present to hear this, as well as Lord Demin and Lady Kairi.
"The Minister I can have here in about twenty minutes." Dumbledore said deciding to trust his old friend. "As for Demin and Kairi I am afraid that your request is impossible. They are both in the hospital wing in critical condition."
"Yes I know." Lord Nico said gravely. "That is why I brought three of my best healers with me, by the time the Minister arrives Demin and Kairi should be back on their feet."
"Your healers can restore magical energy?" Dumbledore asked in curiosity and surprise.
"My dear friend, we elves haven't lived this long without learning a few new tricks." Lord Nico said in amusement. "If Harry and Delia hadn't disappeared I'd imagine they both could have used their healing powers to help them."
"I am sure Madam Pomprey will be quite thrilled and fascinated to learn such a useful technique." Dumbledore said thoughtfully.
"I'm sure." Lord Nico said. "But elf healers do not just teach anyone their techniques."
"Well then you don't know Poppy very well." Dumbledore said in amusement. "She can be very persuasive."
"Um. Even if you are right, it will not matter in the long run." Lord Nico said knowingly.
"Meaning what?" Sirius asked interrupting their light bantering.
"Meaning Mr. Black that Madam Pomprey is not an elf and therefore the technique will do her no good." Lord Nico said smiling.
"The name's Sirius and how come Harry can use the technique then?" Sirius asked. "Because the last time I check Harry wasn't an elf either."
"You mean Demin or Harry haven't told you?" Lord Nico asked looking uncharacteristically uncomfortable.
"Tell me what?" Sirius asked eyes narrowing.
"I'm sorry Mr. Black, I know as Harry's guardian you have a right to know, but it is not my place to tell you." Lord Nico said, a little unsettled by Sirius's intense glare.
"And whose right exactly is it?" Sirius asked through clenched teeth.
"Harry's." Lord Nico said reluctantly.
"Albus do you know what he's talking about?" Sirius asked turning his accusing stare to the Professor.
"For once Sirius I am just as confused as you are." Albus said returning Sirius stare. "You will simple have to ask Harry when he returns."
"Oh believe me, I will." Sirius said darkly. "Right after I ring his neck for disappearing on me for the fourth time this year."
"Yes, well." Dumbledore said. "I do believe I will go contact the Minister right now. Sirius why don't you go find Remus I'm sure he'll want to sit in on this meeting."
"Fine." Sirius said through clench teeth before storming out of the office.
"Should I be concerned for Harry's health when he gets back." Dumbledore asked mildly.
"I'm not entirely sure." Lord Nico said staring uncertainly at the closed door Sirius had just exited. "I just hope Harry's up to telling his guardian why he can do elf magic when he returns."
"And why is it that Harry can do elf magic?" Dumbledore asked off-handedly.
"Albus." Nico said warningly.
"All right Nico." Dumbledore said chuckling. "I'll ask Harry myself when he gets back."
"You mean if." Nico said turning to look at his old friend seriously. "Harry and Delia may not be coming back."
"No they'll both be back." Dumbledore said smiling and retreating to the fireplace to call Arthur and Amos. "They both still have destinies to fulfill."
"I hope you're right Albus." Lord Nico said softly. "For both our Realm's sake, I hope you're right."
* * * * *
Half an hour later everyone who was suppose to be present in Dumbledore's office were there spread out upon Albus's furniture.
Kairi who still looked tired, but conscious was curled up on Sirius's lap on the coach next to her brother who had handled the excessive healing much better then she had and was only looking worried, not tired.
Dumbledore had informed Demin and Kairi about Harry and Delia's disappearance the moment they had entered the office and was surprised at how well his friend was taking the news. Demin had simple informed him that if Harry was with Delia she would be fine.
Amos and Arthur who had finally arrived where situated in two armchairs in front of Albus's desk along with Remus, while Dumbledore was situated behind his desk with Lord Nico standing behind him.
"Now that we are all here I believe it's time to start." Professor Dumbledore said. "I called you here Amos and Arthur because Lord Nico has come to us from the Elf Realm with some information about the object that attacked the school three days ago."
"You know what attacked the school?" Arthur inquired clearly surprised.
"I'm afraid to say that I do." Lord Nico said. "You see the thing that attacked you was an object that comes from my realm and can only be made by an elf."
Those who didn't already know what was going on or hadn't heard that before looked at Lord Nico with a mixture of bewilderment and terror.
"What exactly do you mean?" Amos asked. "Have the elves joined Voldemort?"
"No." Lord Nico said quickly. "At least not the elves that live in the Elf Realm now. It is my belief and the belief of the council that some of the elves that escaped down to the Earth Realm during and after the war have somehow joined up with Voldemort."
"War?" Amos asked confused.
"Maybe I should start at the beginning." Lord Nico said. "You see about ten years ago a war started in our Realm over who should have the right to govern our people. It ended up not very unlike the war you're fighting now, the Light vs. Dark. The war lasted for two years and more then half our people we're killed during that time. And coincidentally most of the killings where done by what soon became known as the Black Mystic Orb. Which happens to be the same thing that attacked the school three days ago."
"And what exactly is a Black Mystic Orb?" Arthur asked.
"It's a magical object that was created by the dark force to wipe out the resistances in one devastating blow." Demin soft voice answered. "And it did."
For a moment no one spoke after Demin's soft words and then Lord Nico continued. "It's a magical devise that was created to draw in our life magic and then use it to create a high generated explosive. That is the reason why all your magical energy was so low when they pulled you out of the rubble. The orb is charmed to consume it and then once it reaches its capacity it converts your magic into an explosive."
"If it's so dangerous then how did it get through the school wards?" Amos asked. "It should have been detectable."
"Simple, the Orb is relatively harmless until it is activity, so it wouldn't have set off your wards. So my theory is that someone within the castle brought it in, activated it, and then set it loose." Lord Nico said.
"Slytherin's." Amos, Arthur, and Sirius replied at once.
"We have no proof it was one of the Slytherin's." Dumbledore said.
"How about the fact that not one of the Slytherin was injured in the attack and was nowhere near the quidditch field at the time?" Arthur asked angrily.
"It could have been pure coincidence." Dumbledore said. "However, I do believe we should be keeping a better eye on all the students. Not every Death Eater has come out of Slytherin."
Sirius and Remus blanched at that statement and agreed.
"You're right Albus, we shouldn't assume that just the Slytherin's are our enemies." Amos said. "It could cost us lives."
"So assuming that someone in the castle did set this orb loose on the grounds why did it attack us on the quidditch field and not the people in the castle? It defiantly would have caused a lot more damage." Sirius asked.
"As I see it there are two possibilities. One their main target was Harry, or two the Orb switched targets when it felt the presence of so much pure magical energy in one area. With most of the children in Hogmeade the combined magic of Harry and three magical Elves would defiantly be enough to throw the Orb off target."
"So is there any way to protect ourselves from this happening again?" Arthur asked.
"Yes, after many weeks of research and many lost lives we finally discovered a way to protect ourselves against it." Lord Nico said. "Which is one of the reasons why I'm here, to instruct and help put up these wards."
"And the other reason?" Demin asked.
"To offer the council's and my people's alliance in your war against Voldemort." Lord Nico said.
Complete stunned silence followed that statement as everyone, mines Dumbledore of course, gapped at Lord Nico in disbelief, even Demin and Kairi.
"You're offering us your alliance?" Amos finally asked after finding his voice.
"Yes I do believe that is what I said." Lord Nico said smiling.
"But why?" Arthur asked confused.
"Because Voldemort crossed a line when he used our Elf technology against you and we refuse to let him get away with it. Besides my people have really come to love and respected Harry for who he is and wants to help him win this war."
"Then I believe gentleman it is time to get to work." Professor Dumbledore said his eyes twinkling madly.
* * * *
"I've finally died and gone to hell haven't I?"
Happen to be the first words out the Boy-who-Lived, one Harry James Potter's mouth once he'd finally regained consciousness and was able to pry open his heavy eyelids.
Harry heard laughter erupt around him after his statement, while he continued to stared up into the pair of murderess black eyes that loomed only inches above his own.
"Close, but not quite my dear Gryffindor." A familiar female voice said in amusement.
"Salazar get your ugly kisser out of Harry's face." Another familiar voice snapped before Salazar Slytherin was roughly pushed aside. "If I had to look at that face the second I woke up I'd think I'd gone to hell too."
Seconds later Harry was blinking confusingly up into a pair of well-known silver eyes of Rowena Ravenclaw.
"Hello Harry." Rowena said smiling. "How are you feeling."
"Confused." Harry said slowly seating up. "Where I'm I?"
"You're in Helga's home in the Land of the Dead." Rowena said.
"So I'm finally dead." Harry stated.
"Unfortunately for my Heir no." Salazar said rudely.
"So I'm not dead?" Harry asked choosing to ignore Salazar's rudeness. For now.
"No Harry you're not dead." Helga said chuckling.
"So if I'm not dead how did I get here and why I'm I here?" Harry asked.
"Two very good questions Harry." Rowena said. "To bad we don't have the answers for you."
"Excuse me?" Harry asked blinking. "If you don't then who does?"
"You of course." Helga said cheerfully.
"Me?" Harry asked becoming more confused by the minute. "How would I know how I got here? The last thing I remember was flyin . . .Oh Merlin, Delia!" Harry suddenly cried leaping out of bed.
"Is completely fine and currently driving Godric insane with all her questions." Rowena said an amusement.
"She's here? She's ok?" Harry asked hoping he had heard right. "What about the others?"
"Yes Delia's here and she's fine. As for the others I believe they are all fine as well, at least according to my information." Rowena said. "Though I must say you nearly gave poor Helga a heartache when you suddenly appeared in her garden half dead with an unknown child clutched in your arms."
"Er . . . sorry about that." Harry said sheepishly. "Though I'm still not sure how I got here."
"Then maybe it's time that yours truly makes her appearance and enlightens you." another familiar voice said interrupting them.
Looking up to see who had spoken Harry groaned. "Are you sure I haven't gone to hell?"
"Positive." Rowena said clearly amused.
"Though if you really would like to visit hell I'm sure I can arrange it." Lady Diane said stepping into the room.
"Thanks, but no thanks." Harry said smirking. "I'm pretty sure I'm already there. No offense Helga, Rowena."
"None taken." The two Founders said simultaneously.
"Harry I'm hurt." Lady Diane said. "And here I thought you loved me."
"Oh I love you, it just seems your appearance usually means I've royally messed up something." Harry said.
"If I remember right your 'royal mess ups' as you so nicely put them have ended up saving lives." Lady Diane pointed out. "And this time is no exception. Plus you gave me one of the rarest gifts a mother could ask for."
"Which would be . . .?" Harry asked.
"I finally got to meet my daughter." Lady Diane said beaming
"Delia knows you're here?" Harry asked surprise.
"Of course she does!" Lady Diane said. "Do you honest think I'd let this opportunity go by without meeting my daughter?"
"No, I just kind a figured it would be against the rules." Harry said with a shrug.
"Well technically it is." Lady Diane said smiling. "But since I'm your celestial guide and you're my responsibility whatever trouble you bring I get stuck with it too. Though I'm not about to complain."
"Because if she had been complaining, she would have been kicked out of my house ages ago." Helga said.
"And she's not kidding." Lady Diane said. "She's more overprotective of you then Demin is."
"Speaking of Demin is it true that all my family and friends are all right?" Harry asked anxiously.
"Yes Harry they are all fine and impatiently waiting for you and Delia to return." Lady Diane said.
"How long have I been here?" Harry asked stretching.
"A week." Lady Diane answered.
"A week!" Harry cried. "We've been here for a week and neither Sirius or Demin knows where we are or even if we're alive?!"
"That would be corrected." Lady Diane said cheerfully.
"Oh man." Harry said panicking. "Sirius is going to kill me! Wait scratch that, Demin will probably get to me first. Urg! Either way I am so dead."
"Harry!" Lady Diane said chuckling. "Calm down, neither one of them are going to kill you."
"Want to bet?" Harry asked.
"No, because I know they won't." Lady Diane said. "Nothing that happened was your fault and you know it! So stop blaming yourself before I sick my pet Slytherin on you!"
"Watch what you call me fairy?" Salazar growled.
"Oh no." Harry groaned as he watched Lady Diane turn deadly eyes onto Salazar. The last thing you ever wanted to do was call in elf a fairy. They don't take it to well.
"What did you call me?" Lady Diane asked in an eerie voice.
"Oh I'm sorry, do I need to speak louder? I was under the impression that was what your oversize ears were for." Salazar grounded out.
"Oh really." Lady Diane said calmly. "Obviously you're not very well educated are you?"
"Probable more so then you wood roaming creatures." Salazar said.
"Er . . .Rowena, Helga I think I'm going to go find Delia now." Harry said uneasily. "I really don't want to see this."
"I believe I will come with you." Helga said just as unsettled at the electricity jumping around Lady Diane. "Rowena?"
"I will stay here." Rowena said calmly. At there questioning looks Rowena smirk and added. "Someone's got to be the judge."
Harry groaned. "Rowena this isn't a game, someone could get seriously hurt."
"Harry they're dead. How much more hurt could they possible get?" Rowena asked.
"Good point, but I'm still leaving." Harry said exasperated. "Have Diane find me when she's done being a child. I would really like to know how I got here and how to get home."
"No problem." Rowena said, smiling as she watched Diane and Salazar continue to trade insults.
"Do try to stop them from destroying my whole house." Helga said apprehension as she exited the house with Harry.
* * * * *
As Harry exited the house with Helga, it was with a broad smile on his face. He just couldn't wait to get home and tell Demin who his wife picked a fight with.
Snapping out of his thoughts Harry looked around at his surroundings and froze.
If he really was in the Land of the Dead it was magnificent!
Where he now stood he was on an ivory granite pathway that led out of a white marble fence onto the same ivory granite that lined the sidewalks and streets. Both sides of the street where lined with houses, five on each side, built of either white, silver, or blue granite. All had white marble fences surrounding them with beautiful roses blooming on the ground in front of them and lushes green grass flowing over the rest of the yard.
At the ends of the street a grand staircase lead you up or down to another level designed excatly the same way, while waterfalls cascaded down on either side of the stairwells pooling into unknown place below.
"I take it you like this place?" Helga said smiling at Harry's reaction.
"It's beautiful." Harry said. "Is all the Land of the Dead like this?"
"No." Helga answered. "This is considered the upper plane. A place where those who have done something honorable when they were alive reside after they pass on."
"What about the others?" Harry asked curiously. "Like my parents?"
"They live in different places, on different planes. All depending on where they choose to live." Helga explained. "The reason this plane is separated from the other is so that those who were so well-known in their Realms can live here in peace, without obsessive fans. I'm sure you can imagine how many people try to get up here to see Merlin."
"Merlin lives here?" Harry asked.
"Most of time." Helga said chuckling. "Sometimes he disappears for days on end to who knows where. Not even Godric knows where he goes and their best friends! Rowena and I figure he's got a Lady friend somewhere on a different plane."
Harry groaned. "You would think the dead had better things to do then gossip."
"We need our entertainment just like everyone else." Helga said. "Besides we've got a pool going to when he's actually going to bring her up here."
"I don't want to here this." Harry said. "Just tell me where I can find Delia please?"
"Most likely at Godric's house." Helga said turning right after the fence and starting up the street. "She's quite fascinated with Blaze."
"Who's Blaze?"
"You'll see." Helga said smiling. "Come on we'll take the short cut, I really don't fancy a walk all the way to Godric's place."
And with that Helga took a hold of Harry's hand and they both disappeared only to reappears seconds later where Harry found himself in a large and beautiful back yard.
"Wow this is brilliant." Harry said.
"It is isn't it?" Helga said smiling. "Godric love's large open spaces."
Looking around it didn't take him long to find Delia who was sitting under a huge oak tree next to a . . . Griffin?
"Is that what I think that is?" Harry asked incredulously.
"Yep, that's Blaze." Helga said smiling.
Harry shook his head and laughed. "Figure's he'd have a pet like that."
"Yes it does." Helga said looking around. "Why don't you go see Delia why I try to find our missing host."
Harry nodded and made his way over to Delia while Helga headed into the house.
Delia was so absorbed in petting Blaze she didn't even hear Harry approach until he had spoke.
"You know I was under the impression that Elle was your favorite magical creature."
"Harry!" Delia cried happily, leaping into his arms. "You're awake!"
"Finally." Harry said smiling. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm fine." Delia said, before her eyes suddenly misted over.
"Delia's what wrong?" Harry asked worried as he suddenly found himself holding a sobbing Delia.
"I was so afraid you were going to die." Delia sobbed. "Mommy said that they had to put you into an induce sleep so you could heal, but when you didn't wake up when you were suppose to I thought . . ." but Delia didn't finish as she buried her head into Harry's shoulder.
"Delia look I'm ok now." Harry said gentle drawing Delia away from him and wiping her tears. "And if I had die what better place to do it then in the Land of the Dead? Ouch!" Harry said as Delia smacked him.
"That isn't funny." Delia said, even though she was laughing through her tears.
"You're right, I'm sorry." Harry said rubbing his sore arm. "But really Delia I'm fine and ready to go home."
"Home?" Delia asked hopefully. "Do you know how to send us back?"
"Unfortunately no." Harry said sighing. "Your mother got a little side tracked."
Delia giggled "She's fighting with Slytherin again, isn't she?"
"Yes." Harry said sighing. "Hey wait a minute, how did you know?"
"They fight at least once a day." Delia said shrugging. "I really don't think my mother likes him."
"Can't imagine why?" Harry snickered. "So what have you been up to while I was asleep?"
"Getting to know my mom." Delia said smiling. "Though when she wasn't around I was bugging Godric and playing with Blaze."
"Well I'm really glad you got to meet your mom." Harry said sincerely.
"Me too." Delia said happily. "But I missed my Dad."
"Then I think it's time I tell you how to return home." A voice said making them jump.
"Diane would you stop doing that." Harry asked clutching his heart.
"Hi mommy, Miss Rowena" Delia said. "What happened to Mr. Slytherin this time?"
"Nothing. Much." Diane said smirking.
"Meaning?" Harry asked.
"Here catch." Diane said tossing him something.
Catching the item Harry stared at it in surprise and then groaned.
"What is up with you elves and transfiguring things into eggs?" Harry asked tossing the black egg back to Diane
"Simple." Diane said. "It's about the only thing we can transfigure. Elves aren't the best at transfiguration like you wizards are."
"It shows." Harry said. "So how good are you at sending us home?"
"Seeing how I wasn't the one who brought you here I'm not the one that'll be sending you home." Diane said
"Yes you said that before." Harry said. "What I don't know is how I got us here."
"And that Harry is why I'm here." Lady Diane said. "To explain your new power and send you home."
"Then educate away." Harry said.
"All right, but let's go into the house first." Lady Diane said. "I'm sure Helga and Godric wants to hear this too."
So with that they all trudged into the house to find their two missing members. Ten minutes later they had found there missing members and after the greetings they made themselves all comfortable in the living room.
"So how did Delia and I get here?" Harry begun once everyone was settled.
"Simple you mesmerized yourself here." Lady Diane said.
"Jeez that makes much more sense now." Harry said sarcastically. "I can't believe I didn't think of that?"
"All right Harry I get the point." Diane said rolling her eyes. "Mesmerization is much like what you wizards call Apperation, with the obvious differences."
"Which are?" Godric prompted.
"Mesmerization isn't bound by any rules. Harry can mesmerize in and out of any wards he wants."
"Well that explains how a got off Hogwarts grounds." Harry muttered.
"He also doesn't have a limit to the amount of people he can take with him. It all depending on how his magical reserve is."
"Which explains how Delia came with me." Harry said ticking off another answered question.
" And finally Mesmerization isn't restricted to just one realm. Harry can practically go anywhere he wants anytime he wants. Different continents, different planets, even different realms." Lady Diane concluded.
"Which explains how I came to be in the Land of the Dead." Harry said shaking his head. "Can't any of my powers just be normal?"
"I'd say telepathy is a relatively normal trait." Lady Diane said thoughtfully.
Harry just glared at her. "What I don't understand is how I activated this power and why I ended up here and not in the Elf Realm or even in a different part of Hogwarts?"
"Do you happen to remember what your last conscious thought was?" Lady Diane asked.
"Er . . ." Harry said racking his brain for an answer. "I remember telling Delia to get out while she could . . . "
"Which wasn't going to happen." Delia said.
"Yes and I'm going to have a serious talk with you about that later." Harry promised Delia who's only reaction was to stick her tongue about in defiance.
"Real mature." Harry told Delia before continuing. "Anyway I remember my last thought was hoping that Delia would somehow make it out alive."
"Exactly!" Lady Diane said smiling. "You see with that unconscious wish and the dire need of the situation around you the power of Mesmerization surfaced to aid your urgency."
"So basically it's the same concept when Dumbledore's grandsons called me, only this time it was me in the desperate situation." Harry said in understanding.
"Precisely." Diane said. "Though how you ended up here I'm not entirely sure."
"Lovely. Does that mean I can end up just about anywhere when I mesmerize?" Harry asked.
"No. Normal when you mesmerize you simple picture the place you want to go and close your eyes and you'll appear there seconds later." Lady Diane said.
"Which now explains how I ended up here?" Harry said with a slight smile.
"It does?" Helga asked. "How?"
"When I was loosing consciousness with Delia's song drifting through my head I started to wonder where I'd end up once a was dead. Would it be with my parents, or Diane or maybe even you guys? Helga's name and face must have been the last person I thought of before I lost complete consciousness."
"Mystery solved." Lady Diane said beaming. "Now I believe I've answered all your questions"
"Yes I believe so." Harry said. "So all I have to do is think of a place in Hogwarts I want to go and close my eyes and I'll be there?"
"Correct." Lady Diane said. "Though before you take my darling daughter away with you can I have a couple of more hours with her?"
"Of course you can." Harry said. Then suddenly smirking he added. "On one condition."
"Which is?" Diane asked.
"You'll give my Salazar's egg." Harry said evilly.
"Deal." Diane said tossing him the egg without a second thought. Then taking Delia's hand they both disappeared.
"Er . . . Harry, what exactly are you going to do with Salazar's egg?" Helga asked nervously.
"Seeker practice." Harry said tossing the egg in the air before catching it again. "I'm a bit rusty. I figured I'd fly as high as I can before dropping the egg and seeing if I can catch it before it hits the ground."
"Sounds like fun, can I watch?" Godric asked as Rowena nodded in agreement.
"Sure, do you know where I can find a broom?" Harry asked walking to the door.
"Sure you can use mine." Godric said summoning his broom and handing it to Harry.
"Brilliant!" Harry said. "Lets go."
And with that Harry, Godric, and Rowena left the house, leaving behind a very worried Helga Hufflepuff.
* * * *
Two hours later Diane and all four founders (a very angry Salazar included) were gathered outside Godric's house saying their farewells to Harry and Delia.
"Harry before you leave can I ask you something?" Lady Diane asked.
"Sure what is it?" Harry asked.
"How come you never asked me what attacked you?" Lady Diane inquired.
"Because I already know what attacked us." Harry replied.
"So, I was correct in assuming that you went through Demin's war books." Lady Diane said.
"Yes." Harry said. "I wanted to learn more about Demin and he refused to tell me about the war or his part in it." Harry shrugged "So I found my own way."
"I'm sure you did." Lady Diane said. "You just better hope Demin doesn't finds out or you really will be dead."
"Oh well, just one more thing to add to my list of why Demin's going to kill me." Harry said shrugging. "Anymore question or can we go?"
"Nope I believe that's all." Lady Diane said. "Though I do have I few things to tell you. One I wouldn't mesmerize up here again unless it's absolutely necessary. Once you visit this place three times you have no choice but to stay forever, which means you have only one more visit left so use it wisely."
"No offense, but I really don't want to be returning to this place anytime soon." Harry said. "And besides it wasn't like I had a choice the other two times a was dragged up here."
"Ok Harry repeat after me, Yes Lady Diane I understand you perfectly. Also I would like to apologize for me rudeness when all you were trying to do was give me a simple message." Lady Diane prompted.
Harry raised his eyebrows at her and smirked. "Whatever you say my celestial guide."
"One of these days you'll be sorry you ever mocked me." Lady Diane said.
"Whatever." Harry said rolling his eyes. "What was the other thing you need to tell me."
"Oh right." Lady Diane said digging around in one of her pockets. "Give your guardian this when you return."
"What is it?" Harry asked catching the objected and examining the normal looking necklace that had a small crystal globe at the end.
"It's a tracking necklace." Lady Diane explained. "All Sirius has to do is say 'locate' and the necklace will automatically tell him where you are no matter the location."
"You have got to be kidding! You do realize you're giving Sirius Black the power to hunt me down whenever he wants?" Harry asked. "This seems a little unfair."
"Life isn't fair my dear Harry." Lady Diane said smirking. "Besides I'm sure Sirius won't abuse the power of the necklace. To much."
"Are you crazy?!" Harry asked. "Of course he's going to abuse it's power!"
"Oh well that's your problem not mine. Though I wouldn't forget to give the Necklace to Sirius if I were you." Lady Diane said reading Harry's mind perfectly. "Because the longer you have it the more you're going to wish you didn't."
"Meaning . . .?" Harry interrogated.
"Meaning if you want to find out then don't give Sirius the necklace." Diane said smiling
"Stupid interfering Elf." Harry muttered under his breath. "Can we go now?"
"But of course." Lady Diane said giving her daughter one last hug. "Be sure to tell your Father hi for me."
"I will." Delia said cheerfully.
"Thanks again for helping us." Harry told the Founders. "It's been real amusing seeing you again."
"And you Harry." Helga said smiling, while Rowena and Godric did the same. Salazar stood in the background refusing to acknowledge any of them.
"And Lady Diane despite everything I said to you, I do love you." Harry said smiling. "Thanks for all your help."
"Anytime my dear Harry, for that is what I am here for." Lady Diane said mock bowing. "And I'm sure I'll be seeing you around."
"Luck me." Harry muttered picking up Delia. "Oh and Sssalazar," Harry hissed in parselmouth. "Thanksss for the quidditch practice, it wassss real amussing."
And with that said Harry disappeared from the Land of the Dead, leaving behind four astonished Founders and one smug looking elf.
* * * * *
Harry and Delia reappeared in Dumbledore's office seconds later only to find it devoid of all human life.
"Wonder where the professor is?" Harry asked.
"On the quidditch field young one." A voice said inside Harry's head making him start violently.
"Fawkes?" Harry asked looking at the crimson bird that was staring intently at him.
"Sorry young one I did not mean to frighten you." The smoothing voice said.
"It's all right." Harry said. "Thanks for the information."
"You're welcome." Fawkes said tilting his head. "You do know that they have been looking for you and the other young one for days?"
"Yeah, I do." Harry said morosely. "Which is why I really would like to avoid the quidditch field right now."
"You will have to face them soon or later." Fawkes reasoning voice said. "It might as well be sooner."
"You've been Dumbledore's Phoenix way too long." Harry said sighing in defeat. "Come on Delia let's go."
"Good luck young one." Fawkes voice said followed them out.
"Don't you want to find Sirius and my dad first?" Delia asked as the gargoyle's closed behind them.
"I'm pretty sure they'll all be with Dumbledore." Harry said taking her hand and dodging into a secret passageway.
As it was Saturday Harry took all the secret passageways he possible could to avoid the rest of the student body. Of course Harry had to walk down some hallways to get to the next secret panel which is how he found himself face to face with . . .
"Caryn!" Harry said surprised.
"Harry!" Caryn said equal surprised.
"Potter."
"Malfoy!" Harry groaned when he realized who Caryn's companion was. Harry had completely forgotten that Draco was return to school that week.
"Harry where have you been?" Caryn scolded. "Do you realize that everyone has been worried sick about you and Delia."
"It wasn't his fault Caryn." Delia said stepping in front of Harry defensively. "Besides we would be dead right now if we hadn't disappeared."
"Delia it's all right." Harry said placing a hand on her shoulder. "Caryn what are you doing here?"
"I came here with Grandfather along with two other healers." Caryn said.
"Lord Nico's here?" Harry said suddenly smiling. "That means you guys are going to aid us in our fight."
"More then that we've made an alliance." Caryn said grinning. "Which is why I'm still here. I'm going to help train healers. Not elf healing of course, but basic magic healing."
"This is good." Harry muttered to himself. "This is really good."
"What's good?" Delia asked confused.
"I'll explain later." Harry said, before turning to Malfoy who had silently been observing the whole exchange. "Malfoy."
"Hello Potter." Draco said civilly.
"What exactly are you two doing?" Harry asked directing his question to Caryn.
"Draco's given me a tour around the castle." Caryn said. "I've been dying for one ever since I got here and Draco was kind enough to offer me one."
"That was generous of him." Harry said trying not to laugh. "Please don't let me keep you."
"You are going to see Demin aren't you?" Caryn asked suspiciously.
"Yes Caryn that's where I'm headed now. So if you'll excuse us." Harry said taken Delia's hand again and disappearing around the corner.
Once inside the secret passageway Harry started to laugh.
"Looks like Caryn has find someone else to chase around, hasn't it?" Delia said.
"Yes it does and I'm honestly not sure who to feel more sorry for, Draco or Caryn." Harry said walking along the passageway. "At least she'll be leaving me alone while she's here."
"I wouldn't count on it." Delia said as they both stepped out of the passageway into the fresh air and warm sunshine.
"I'll worry about that latter for now let's find our overprotective guardians." Harry said making his way to the quidditch pitch.
To say that Harry was surprise when he come around the castle and saw the quidditch pitch standing as if nothing had happen would have been the understatement of the century.
"Wow! How did they rebuild it so fast." Delia asked.
"I have no idea." Harry said. "But I'm not about to complain, it means quidditch games will go on as scheduled."
Delia giggle. "You would think you'd have more important things to worry about besides quidditch."
"You must have me confused with someone else." Harry informed the girl as they entered the stadium.
Looking around Harry spotted a group of people at the far end of the quidditch pitch huddled in a circle talking.
"Come on Delia lets see if we can't surprise them." Harry said starting to walk towards the group.
Though the closer Harry got to the group the more he wished he had waited in Dumbledore's office for him. Beside the Headmaster, Professor McGonogall, Professor Snape, Amos Diggory, Arthur Weasley, Demin, Kairi, Sirius, Remus, and Lord Nico were also there.
It seemed his Godfather and Professor Snape were currently fighting about something while the others simple watched.
"You know Black if you could just keep track of your rule braking Godson none of us would have to be here right now." Snape sneered.
Harry saw Sirius open his mouth to retort back, but decided to beat him to it.
"You know Professor it really isn't nice to talk about people when they're not even here to defend themselves." Harry said casually. "Then again, you never were one to be nice where you?"
For a moment there was a stunned silence as everyone stared at Harry. Then suddenly Harry and Delia both found themselves being hugged to death courteous of their guardians. Harry by Sirius and Remus and Delia by Kairi and Demin.
"Where have you been?" Sirius demanded the minute he released Harry from his death grip.
"Er . . . well . . . you see . . ." Harry started but was interrupted by Delia.
"We were with my mommy." Delia replied happily.
Demin who had been holding Delia nearly dropped her after her innocent little statement and Harry groaned.
"You met you're mother?" Demin asked founding his voice.
"Yep." Delia said grinning. "I spent the whole week with her."
All eyes turned to Harry for an explanation, who immediately took an involuntary step backwards.
"Er . . . we were with Lady Diane." Harry said refusing to meet Demin's eyes or any one else's for that matter. "Along with the four Founder's of Hogwarts."
"What?" Sirius choked out.
"Well you see I sort of Apperated Delia and I to the Land of the Dead before I lost consciousness." Harry said.
"Impossible." Snape said. "No one can Apperate through Hogwarts wards, much less to the Land of the Dead."
"Well that's because technically I didn't Apperate." Harry said. "I memorized. It's like Apperation just different rules."
"And what would those rules be Mr. Potter?" Professor McGonogall asked.
Harry sighed and told them everything Diane had told him about his new power, by the end everyone was again gapping at him.
"Great." Sirius finally groaned out. "Now you can disappear whenever you please to Merlin knows where and I'll be none the wiser.
"Er . . . it just so happens that you will." Harry said, reluctantly digging the necklace out of his pocket and tossing it to Sirius. "Lady Diane gave me this to give to you."
"What is it?" Sirius asked.
"It's a tracking necklace. It's charmed to track me no matter where I am, all you have to do is say locate and it'll activate."
"This will track you anywhere?" Sirius asked looking like his birthday had come early. "Even a different Realm?"
"Unfortunately for me, yes." Harry said.
"Don't worry Harry." Sirius said smiling. "I'll only use it in emergencies and not to ruin you're social life."
"Wouldn't want that now, would we." Snape sneered.
Seeing another fight about to start Professor Dumbledore stepped in. "Well Harry I must say it's good to have you back."
"I'm not entirely sure it's good to be back." Harry said eyeing Sirius and Demin and wondering what was going to happen to him once he was alone with one of them.
"Yes, well, I do believe you have I little more explaining to do Harry and we certainly have a lot to catch you up on. So why don't we all head back up to the castle to talk?" Professor Dumbledore said smiling.
"Brilliant idea Professor." Sirius said cheerfully. "And then right after you're done Harry and I can have a little talk of our own on why he is able to do elf magic."
'Oh crap' Harry thought trading quick looks with Demin. 'Were they ever in trouble.'
***No promise's on the next chapter, but hopefully not as long has this chapter took!
Chapter 20: Disappeared Trouble
"How are they doing?" A quiet male voice asked breaking the silence of the dimly lit room.
Albus Dumbledore who had been standing quietly by one of the open windows deep in thought turned to find Amos Diggory standing beside him looking tired and deeply troubled.
"I'm not entirely sure." Dumbledore replied turning his attention back to the open window where he continued to gaze at the demolished quidditch field. "Madam Pomprey has yet to inform me of any of their conditions."
Amos only nodded in understanding sensing the Professor's need for silence and instead looked around the peaceful hospital wing where his eyes lingering on each occupied bed while Madam Pomprey hustled from one bed to the next.
It had been roughly five hours since Hogwarts had been shaking to its very core by the unexpected eruption. Amos had later learned that most of the Professor's had rushed outside expecting an attack only to find the quidditch field in splinter ruins and still a flamed.
Amos and his team of Ministry officials had turned up minutes later only to the same devastating sight. After putting out the flames Dumbledore had immediately started to assign Professor's to round up all the students and get a head count from each house.
When the report had finally came in Slytherin house had had no students missing, while Ravenclaw had had two, Hufflepuff three, and Gryffindor six. And not until Dumbledore had asked for Demin and Kairi to be found for their healing powers did it come to everyone's attention that four of their own colleagues were missing alone with Demin's daughter, Delia.
So with a list of roughly sixteen people that could possible be trapped under the rubble of the quidditch stadium the professors and the ministry officials had set out to remove the destruction starting from the outside and moving in.
After about forty-five minutes of digging through the rubble the two Ravenclaw teens along with the three Hufflepuff's and two of the Gryffindor's had been found. All the teens had been extremely lucky, none of them had been seriously wounded and had been healed within minutes, before being sent to the Hospital Wing for the night.
It wasn't until hours later when their search had finally reached the heart of the quidditch field did they find the four professors along with three more Gryffindor's.
They had all been pulled out and sent to Madam Pomprey immediately where she had been looking after them ever since. The search had then continued for the remaining missing two.
"Did you found any trace of them?" Dumbledore finally asked breaking the silence and drawing Amos out of his thoughts.
"No." Amos said. "And I'm guessing you didn't have any luck either?"
"No." Dumbledore said his eyes lingering sadly on his old eleven friend and dark haired dueling professor. "All the tracking charms I tried have all come up empty handed."
"Is there anything else we can try?" Amos asked hopefully.
Dumbledore shook his head slightly before turning to Madam Pomprey who had finally stopped in front of him looking extremely tired and worried.
"Poppy?" Dumbledore asked questionable when Madam Pomprey reminded quiet.
"Can I speak to the two of you in my office for a moment." Madam Pomprey finally asked shooting a quick glance at the very distressed Mrs. Weasley whom was currently hovering over her children.
"Of course." Dumbledore said in understanding while Amos nodded and followed the school nurse into her office.
Once comfortably seated Dumbledore turned to the nurse and asked. "How are they Poppy?"
"Physically, they all should be fine with time." Madam Pomprey said. "The worst injury was sustained by Miss Weasley who has a concussion. Other then that it was mainly broken bones, burns, and bruising. They were all extremely lucky."
Professor Dumbledore nodded in understanding before giving Madam Pomprey a slight smile. "Poppy something is bothering you. Now please tell me what it is."
Madam Pomprey gave Dumbledore a smile of her own, relieved that sometimes Dumbledore could read people so well. "It's their magical energy, it's dangerous low in all of them. Even the students that were caught outside the quidditch pitch durning the explosion shows signs of magical depleting.
"Magical energy?" Amos interrupted confused. "I'm sorry I'm lost."
"Just like all human's have and live off life energy, wizards and witches also have what we call magical energy. It's what give us our magic and allows us to use it to a certain degree. It's also what causes wizards and witches to heal so quickly after injury." Madam Pomprey explained.
"I'm still lost." Amos said. "If all it does is help in the healing process then way are you worried?"
"It's Demin and Kairi I'm worried about." Madam Pomprey said. "They're elves and thus completely magically beings. They solely live off magical energy, it's their life force."
"How much danger are they in?" Dumbledore asked understanding fully what Madam Pomprey was so worried about.
"On the magical key Demin's at a 3 and Kairi's at a 5."
"Is that bad?" Amos questioned when Dumbledore reminded silence.
"Yes." Poppy said. "And there's nothing I can do for them as you already know Albus. All we can do is wait and pray they pull through this."
"Do what you can Poppy and keep me informed on their conditions." Albus said after a while. "Demin and Kairi are fighters they're pull through this."
"I hope you're right." Madam Pomprey said. "I really hope you're right."
"What could have done this?" Amos asked suddenly. "What could possible have the power to demolish a quidditch pitch, rob wizard's and elves of their magical energy, and then cause two children to completely disappear?"
"I believe we would all like to know that Amos." Albus said. "But what I do know is that we must find Harry and Delia and preferable before Sirius or Demin wakes up."
* * * * * *
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN THEY'VE DISAPPEARED!" Sirius bellowed.
Sighing wearily Dumbledore leaned backed in his chair and rubbed his aching temples. "I mean exactly what I said Sirius. We found no sign of Harry or Delia when we cleared the destruction on the quidditch field. We our unsure of where they are."
"WHAT!" Sirius shouted jumping to is feet. "TWO CHILDREN DO NOT JUST UP AND DISAPPEAR INTO THIN AIR ALBUS!"
Dumbledore sighed again and waited patiently while Sirius threw his tantrum.
It had been three days since the quidditch pitch had exploded and Harry and Delia had gone missing without a trace.
One day since Remus and Hermoine had woken up and enlightened Dumbledore to all they could remember about the attack. And precisely ten minutes since Sirius had finally regained consciousness and had stormed into his office demanding to know where his Godson was.
"They couldn't have just disappeared!" Sirius repeated, starting to pace around the room and effectively drawing Albus out of his thoughts. "Maybe you missed something or you just didn't look hard enough, or . . ."
"Trust me when I tell you we've looked Sirius." Dumbledore said efficiently stopping Sirius's rambling. "The ministry as been here for the past three days trying to piece the puzzle together on what exactly happened. As for Harry and Delia I have used all the tracking charms I know and even the ones I placed on Harry when he was a child and everything had came up empty."
"How far does your tracking charms reach?" Sirius asked continuing his pacing.
"The strongest charm should have been able to track Harry anywhere within Europe." Dumbledore said. "Which explains why I couldn't find Harry when he disappeared with Demin into the Elf Realm months ago."
"You mean kidnapped." Sirius muttered under his breath. "So what you're saying is that Harry is either not in Europe anymore or that he's . . ."
"No." Dumbledore said sternly. "Harry and Delia are still alive."
"How would you know if you can't track them?" Sirius asked.
"Miss Granger." Dumbledore said.
"Hermione?" Sirius asked confused. "How would she know?"
"It would seem that Hermione, like Ron and Ginny are in possession of a bracelet that was given to them by Harry." Dumbledore said.
"Of course, the life bracelets." Sirius breathed in relief.
"You know of them?" Dumbledore asked.
"Yes, Harry showed them to Remus and I in the Elf Realm." Sirius said smiling. "He wanted to include our life magic to his bracelet."
"I see." Dumbledore said thoughtfully. "I must have a talk with Harry about these bracelets when he returns, they are quite fascinating."
"You mean if he returns." Sirius said wearily. "What did Demin have to say when you told him Delia was missing? Did he have any charms to track his daughter?"
"I haven't told him yet." Dumbledore said softly. "I haven't had the chance."
"What do you mean?" Sirius asked.
"Demin hasn't woken up yet." Dumbledore said somberly. "Neither as Kairi or Miss Weasley."
"Why? Is something wrong with them?" Sirius asked.
"Nothing seems to be wrong with Miss Weasley, she simple has not regained consciousness yet. As for Demin and Kairi . . ." Dumbledore said gentle. "They are still in a very critical state. Whatever attacked you on that quidditch field consumed their magical life energy and since they're . . ."
"Elves and they're completely magical beings it would be just like someone consuming my human life energy." Sirius finished quietly.
Professor Dumbledore raised a surprise eyebrow at Sirius who gave him a slight smile.
"I may not be the most devoted person to studying professor, but I have learned quite a lot about elves over the last few months." Sirius said before asking. "How bad are they?"
"Kairi seems to have taken less of a hit from the object them Demin has, but over all they both are still in danger of losing their lives." Dumbledore replied gravely. "Madam Pomprey has done all she can for them, all we can do is seat and wait."
"What did this Albus? What attacked us?" Sirius asked desperately, while sinking into the nearest empty chair.
"That Sirius is the million Gallon question." Albus said. "No one seems to be able to figure this mystery out, not even me."
"So what you're saying is that you have absolutely no idea what attacked us and if it attacks again we have no defense against it?" Sirius asked incredulously.
"I'm afraid so." Albus answered gravely.
"Do we even know who sent it or even how it got pass the school's multiple defense spells?" Sirius asked.
"I don't think we have to think hard to know who sent it." Ablus said darkly. "As to how it got past our defenses, I do not know."
"Then maybe it's time that I remedy that problem." A voice said interrupting the two.
Whipping around both men stared in surprise.
Standing in the headmaster's doorway was a very familiar face, right down to his long silver hair that was neatly tied back exposing his penetrating azure eyes and his refined emerald battle robes flowing elegantly around him.
"Lord Nico." Dumbledore said calmly.
"Headmaster Dumbledore, Mr. Black." Nico said respectively, while entering the office.
"What do you owe this pleasure to?" Albus inquired while offering the elf a seat.
"I've come to aid you in your investigation." Lord Nico said taking the pro offered seat beside Sirius.
"What do you mean?" Sirius asked. "Do you know where Harry and Delia are?"
"Should I?" Lord Nico asked turning to Sirius with a frown.
"No my friend, we were only hoping." Dumbledore said shaking his head. "You see Delia and Harry have gone missing."
"Would I be correct in assuming that their disappearance coincided with the magical explosion that happened here three days ago?" Lord Nico asked.
"How did you . . . ?" Sirius asked in surprise.
"I presume I can take that as a yes." Lord Nico said when Sirius just continued to stare at him in shock.
"You may." Dumbledore said eyeing Lord Nico questionable. "May I ask how you came to find out about the explosion?"
"Simple." Lord Nico said. "I felt it."
Dumbledore blinked. "Excuse me?"
"I, along with every other elf in my realm felt the magical disruption three days ago." Lord Nico explained calmly.
"How?" Sirius asked.
"Because . . ." Lord Nico said regretfully. "The object that attacked you was a creation of an Elf."
Complete silence followed Lord Nico's statement as Sirius and Dumbledore tried to figure out just exactly what Lord Nico was implying.
"Would you care to elaborate on that." Dumbledore finally asked in a slightly dangerous voice.
"Please my friend it is not what you think." Lord Nico said. "But before I explain further I ask that your minister be present to hear this, as well as Lord Demin and Lady Kairi.
"The Minister I can have here in about twenty minutes." Dumbledore said deciding to trust his old friend. "As for Demin and Kairi I am afraid that your request is impossible. They are both in the hospital wing in critical condition."
"Yes I know." Lord Nico said gravely. "That is why I brought three of my best healers with me, by the time the Minister arrives Demin and Kairi should be back on their feet."
"Your healers can restore magical energy?" Dumbledore asked in curiosity and surprise.
"My dear friend, we elves haven't lived this long without learning a few new tricks." Lord Nico said in amusement. "If Harry and Delia hadn't disappeared I'd imagine they both could have used their healing powers to help them."
"I am sure Madam Pomprey will be quite thrilled and fascinated to learn such a useful technique." Dumbledore said thoughtfully.
"I'm sure." Lord Nico said. "But elf healers do not just teach anyone their techniques."
"Well then you don't know Poppy very well." Dumbledore said in amusement. "She can be very persuasive."
"Um. Even if you are right, it will not matter in the long run." Lord Nico said knowingly.
"Meaning what?" Sirius asked interrupting their light bantering.
"Meaning Mr. Black that Madam Pomprey is not an elf and therefore the technique will do her no good." Lord Nico said smiling.
"The name's Sirius and how come Harry can use the technique then?" Sirius asked. "Because the last time I check Harry wasn't an elf either."
"You mean Demin or Harry haven't told you?" Lord Nico asked looking uncharacteristically uncomfortable.
"Tell me what?" Sirius asked eyes narrowing.
"I'm sorry Mr. Black, I know as Harry's guardian you have a right to know, but it is not my place to tell you." Lord Nico said, a little unsettled by Sirius's intense glare.
"And whose right exactly is it?" Sirius asked through clenched teeth.
"Harry's." Lord Nico said reluctantly.
"Albus do you know what he's talking about?" Sirius asked turning his accusing stare to the Professor.
"For once Sirius I am just as confused as you are." Albus said returning Sirius stare. "You will simple have to ask Harry when he returns."
"Oh believe me, I will." Sirius said darkly. "Right after I ring his neck for disappearing on me for the fourth time this year."
"Yes, well." Dumbledore said. "I do believe I will go contact the Minister right now. Sirius why don't you go find Remus I'm sure he'll want to sit in on this meeting."
"Fine." Sirius said through clench teeth before storming out of the office.
"Should I be concerned for Harry's health when he gets back." Dumbledore asked mildly.
"I'm not entirely sure." Lord Nico said staring uncertainly at the closed door Sirius had just exited. "I just hope Harry's up to telling his guardian why he can do elf magic when he returns."
"And why is it that Harry can do elf magic?" Dumbledore asked off-handedly.
"Albus." Nico said warningly.
"All right Nico." Dumbledore said chuckling. "I'll ask Harry myself when he gets back."
"You mean if." Nico said turning to look at his old friend seriously. "Harry and Delia may not be coming back."
"No they'll both be back." Dumbledore said smiling and retreating to the fireplace to call Arthur and Amos. "They both still have destinies to fulfill."
"I hope you're right Albus." Lord Nico said softly. "For both our Realm's sake, I hope you're right."
* * * * *
Half an hour later everyone who was suppose to be present in Dumbledore's office were there spread out upon Albus's furniture.
Kairi who still looked tired, but conscious was curled up on Sirius's lap on the coach next to her brother who had handled the excessive healing much better then she had and was only looking worried, not tired.
Dumbledore had informed Demin and Kairi about Harry and Delia's disappearance the moment they had entered the office and was surprised at how well his friend was taking the news. Demin had simple informed him that if Harry was with Delia she would be fine.
Amos and Arthur who had finally arrived where situated in two armchairs in front of Albus's desk along with Remus, while Dumbledore was situated behind his desk with Lord Nico standing behind him.
"Now that we are all here I believe it's time to start." Professor Dumbledore said. "I called you here Amos and Arthur because Lord Nico has come to us from the Elf Realm with some information about the object that attacked the school three days ago."
"You know what attacked the school?" Arthur inquired clearly surprised.
"I'm afraid to say that I do." Lord Nico said. "You see the thing that attacked you was an object that comes from my realm and can only be made by an elf."
Those who didn't already know what was going on or hadn't heard that before looked at Lord Nico with a mixture of bewilderment and terror.
"What exactly do you mean?" Amos asked. "Have the elves joined Voldemort?"
"No." Lord Nico said quickly. "At least not the elves that live in the Elf Realm now. It is my belief and the belief of the council that some of the elves that escaped down to the Earth Realm during and after the war have somehow joined up with Voldemort."
"War?" Amos asked confused.
"Maybe I should start at the beginning." Lord Nico said. "You see about ten years ago a war started in our Realm over who should have the right to govern our people. It ended up not very unlike the war you're fighting now, the Light vs. Dark. The war lasted for two years and more then half our people we're killed during that time. And coincidentally most of the killings where done by what soon became known as the Black Mystic Orb. Which happens to be the same thing that attacked the school three days ago."
"And what exactly is a Black Mystic Orb?" Arthur asked.
"It's a magical object that was created by the dark force to wipe out the resistances in one devastating blow." Demin soft voice answered. "And it did."
For a moment no one spoke after Demin's soft words and then Lord Nico continued. "It's a magical devise that was created to draw in our life magic and then use it to create a high generated explosive. That is the reason why all your magical energy was so low when they pulled you out of the rubble. The orb is charmed to consume it and then once it reaches its capacity it converts your magic into an explosive."
"If it's so dangerous then how did it get through the school wards?" Amos asked. "It should have been detectable."
"Simple, the Orb is relatively harmless until it is activity, so it wouldn't have set off your wards. So my theory is that someone within the castle brought it in, activated it, and then set it loose." Lord Nico said.
"Slytherin's." Amos, Arthur, and Sirius replied at once.
"We have no proof it was one of the Slytherin's." Dumbledore said.
"How about the fact that not one of the Slytherin was injured in the attack and was nowhere near the quidditch field at the time?" Arthur asked angrily.
"It could have been pure coincidence." Dumbledore said. "However, I do believe we should be keeping a better eye on all the students. Not every Death Eater has come out of Slytherin."
Sirius and Remus blanched at that statement and agreed.
"You're right Albus, we shouldn't assume that just the Slytherin's are our enemies." Amos said. "It could cost us lives."
"So assuming that someone in the castle did set this orb loose on the grounds why did it attack us on the quidditch field and not the people in the castle? It defiantly would have caused a lot more damage." Sirius asked.
"As I see it there are two possibilities. One their main target was Harry, or two the Orb switched targets when it felt the presence of so much pure magical energy in one area. With most of the children in Hogmeade the combined magic of Harry and three magical Elves would defiantly be enough to throw the Orb off target."
"So is there any way to protect ourselves from this happening again?" Arthur asked.
"Yes, after many weeks of research and many lost lives we finally discovered a way to protect ourselves against it." Lord Nico said. "Which is one of the reasons why I'm here, to instruct and help put up these wards."
"And the other reason?" Demin asked.
"To offer the council's and my people's alliance in your war against Voldemort." Lord Nico said.
Complete stunned silence followed that statement as everyone, mines Dumbledore of course, gapped at Lord Nico in disbelief, even Demin and Kairi.
"You're offering us your alliance?" Amos finally asked after finding his voice.
"Yes I do believe that is what I said." Lord Nico said smiling.
"But why?" Arthur asked confused.
"Because Voldemort crossed a line when he used our Elf technology against you and we refuse to let him get away with it. Besides my people have really come to love and respected Harry for who he is and wants to help him win this war."
"Then I believe gentleman it is time to get to work." Professor Dumbledore said his eyes twinkling madly.
* * * *
"I've finally died and gone to hell haven't I?"
Happen to be the first words out the Boy-who-Lived, one Harry James Potter's mouth once he'd finally regained consciousness and was able to pry open his heavy eyelids.
Harry heard laughter erupt around him after his statement, while he continued to stared up into the pair of murderess black eyes that loomed only inches above his own.
"Close, but not quite my dear Gryffindor." A familiar female voice said in amusement.
"Salazar get your ugly kisser out of Harry's face." Another familiar voice snapped before Salazar Slytherin was roughly pushed aside. "If I had to look at that face the second I woke up I'd think I'd gone to hell too."
Seconds later Harry was blinking confusingly up into a pair of well-known silver eyes of Rowena Ravenclaw.
"Hello Harry." Rowena said smiling. "How are you feeling."
"Confused." Harry said slowly seating up. "Where I'm I?"
"You're in Helga's home in the Land of the Dead." Rowena said.
"So I'm finally dead." Harry stated.
"Unfortunately for my Heir no." Salazar said rudely.
"So I'm not dead?" Harry asked choosing to ignore Salazar's rudeness. For now.
"No Harry you're not dead." Helga said chuckling.
"So if I'm not dead how did I get here and why I'm I here?" Harry asked.
"Two very good questions Harry." Rowena said. "To bad we don't have the answers for you."
"Excuse me?" Harry asked blinking. "If you don't then who does?"
"You of course." Helga said cheerfully.
"Me?" Harry asked becoming more confused by the minute. "How would I know how I got here? The last thing I remember was flyin . . .Oh Merlin, Delia!" Harry suddenly cried leaping out of bed.
"Is completely fine and currently driving Godric insane with all her questions." Rowena said an amusement.
"She's here? She's ok?" Harry asked hoping he had heard right. "What about the others?"
"Yes Delia's here and she's fine. As for the others I believe they are all fine as well, at least according to my information." Rowena said. "Though I must say you nearly gave poor Helga a heartache when you suddenly appeared in her garden half dead with an unknown child clutched in your arms."
"Er . . . sorry about that." Harry said sheepishly. "Though I'm still not sure how I got here."
"Then maybe it's time that yours truly makes her appearance and enlightens you." another familiar voice said interrupting them.
Looking up to see who had spoken Harry groaned. "Are you sure I haven't gone to hell?"
"Positive." Rowena said clearly amused.
"Though if you really would like to visit hell I'm sure I can arrange it." Lady Diane said stepping into the room.
"Thanks, but no thanks." Harry said smirking. "I'm pretty sure I'm already there. No offense Helga, Rowena."
"None taken." The two Founders said simultaneously.
"Harry I'm hurt." Lady Diane said. "And here I thought you loved me."
"Oh I love you, it just seems your appearance usually means I've royally messed up something." Harry said.
"If I remember right your 'royal mess ups' as you so nicely put them have ended up saving lives." Lady Diane pointed out. "And this time is no exception. Plus you gave me one of the rarest gifts a mother could ask for."
"Which would be . . .?" Harry asked.
"I finally got to meet my daughter." Lady Diane said beaming
"Delia knows you're here?" Harry asked surprise.
"Of course she does!" Lady Diane said. "Do you honest think I'd let this opportunity go by without meeting my daughter?"
"No, I just kind a figured it would be against the rules." Harry said with a shrug.
"Well technically it is." Lady Diane said smiling. "But since I'm your celestial guide and you're my responsibility whatever trouble you bring I get stuck with it too. Though I'm not about to complain."
"Because if she had been complaining, she would have been kicked out of my house ages ago." Helga said.
"And she's not kidding." Lady Diane said. "She's more overprotective of you then Demin is."
"Speaking of Demin is it true that all my family and friends are all right?" Harry asked anxiously.
"Yes Harry they are all fine and impatiently waiting for you and Delia to return." Lady Diane said.
"How long have I been here?" Harry asked stretching.
"A week." Lady Diane answered.
"A week!" Harry cried. "We've been here for a week and neither Sirius or Demin knows where we are or even if we're alive?!"
"That would be corrected." Lady Diane said cheerfully.
"Oh man." Harry said panicking. "Sirius is going to kill me! Wait scratch that, Demin will probably get to me first. Urg! Either way I am so dead."
"Harry!" Lady Diane said chuckling. "Calm down, neither one of them are going to kill you."
"Want to bet?" Harry asked.
"No, because I know they won't." Lady Diane said. "Nothing that happened was your fault and you know it! So stop blaming yourself before I sick my pet Slytherin on you!"
"Watch what you call me fairy?" Salazar growled.
"Oh no." Harry groaned as he watched Lady Diane turn deadly eyes onto Salazar. The last thing you ever wanted to do was call in elf a fairy. They don't take it to well.
"What did you call me?" Lady Diane asked in an eerie voice.
"Oh I'm sorry, do I need to speak louder? I was under the impression that was what your oversize ears were for." Salazar grounded out.
"Oh really." Lady Diane said calmly. "Obviously you're not very well educated are you?"
"Probable more so then you wood roaming creatures." Salazar said.
"Er . . .Rowena, Helga I think I'm going to go find Delia now." Harry said uneasily. "I really don't want to see this."
"I believe I will come with you." Helga said just as unsettled at the electricity jumping around Lady Diane. "Rowena?"
"I will stay here." Rowena said calmly. At there questioning looks Rowena smirk and added. "Someone's got to be the judge."
Harry groaned. "Rowena this isn't a game, someone could get seriously hurt."
"Harry they're dead. How much more hurt could they possible get?" Rowena asked.
"Good point, but I'm still leaving." Harry said exasperated. "Have Diane find me when she's done being a child. I would really like to know how I got here and how to get home."
"No problem." Rowena said, smiling as she watched Diane and Salazar continue to trade insults.
"Do try to stop them from destroying my whole house." Helga said apprehension as she exited the house with Harry.
* * * * *
As Harry exited the house with Helga, it was with a broad smile on his face. He just couldn't wait to get home and tell Demin who his wife picked a fight with.
Snapping out of his thoughts Harry looked around at his surroundings and froze.
If he really was in the Land of the Dead it was magnificent!
Where he now stood he was on an ivory granite pathway that led out of a white marble fence onto the same ivory granite that lined the sidewalks and streets. Both sides of the street where lined with houses, five on each side, built of either white, silver, or blue granite. All had white marble fences surrounding them with beautiful roses blooming on the ground in front of them and lushes green grass flowing over the rest of the yard.
At the ends of the street a grand staircase lead you up or down to another level designed excatly the same way, while waterfalls cascaded down on either side of the stairwells pooling into unknown place below.
"I take it you like this place?" Helga said smiling at Harry's reaction.
"It's beautiful." Harry said. "Is all the Land of the Dead like this?"
"No." Helga answered. "This is considered the upper plane. A place where those who have done something honorable when they were alive reside after they pass on."
"What about the others?" Harry asked curiously. "Like my parents?"
"They live in different places, on different planes. All depending on where they choose to live." Helga explained. "The reason this plane is separated from the other is so that those who were so well-known in their Realms can live here in peace, without obsessive fans. I'm sure you can imagine how many people try to get up here to see Merlin."
"Merlin lives here?" Harry asked.
"Most of time." Helga said chuckling. "Sometimes he disappears for days on end to who knows where. Not even Godric knows where he goes and their best friends! Rowena and I figure he's got a Lady friend somewhere on a different plane."
Harry groaned. "You would think the dead had better things to do then gossip."
"We need our entertainment just like everyone else." Helga said. "Besides we've got a pool going to when he's actually going to bring her up here."
"I don't want to here this." Harry said. "Just tell me where I can find Delia please?"
"Most likely at Godric's house." Helga said turning right after the fence and starting up the street. "She's quite fascinated with Blaze."
"Who's Blaze?"
"You'll see." Helga said smiling. "Come on we'll take the short cut, I really don't fancy a walk all the way to Godric's place."
And with that Helga took a hold of Harry's hand and they both disappeared only to reappears seconds later where Harry found himself in a large and beautiful back yard.
"Wow this is brilliant." Harry said.
"It is isn't it?" Helga said smiling. "Godric love's large open spaces."
Looking around it didn't take him long to find Delia who was sitting under a huge oak tree next to a . . . Griffin?
"Is that what I think that is?" Harry asked incredulously.
"Yep, that's Blaze." Helga said smiling.
Harry shook his head and laughed. "Figure's he'd have a pet like that."
"Yes it does." Helga said looking around. "Why don't you go see Delia why I try to find our missing host."
Harry nodded and made his way over to Delia while Helga headed into the house.
Delia was so absorbed in petting Blaze she didn't even hear Harry approach until he had spoke.
"You know I was under the impression that Elle was your favorite magical creature."
"Harry!" Delia cried happily, leaping into his arms. "You're awake!"
"Finally." Harry said smiling. "How are you feeling?"
"I'm fine." Delia said, before her eyes suddenly misted over.
"Delia's what wrong?" Harry asked worried as he suddenly found himself holding a sobbing Delia.
"I was so afraid you were going to die." Delia sobbed. "Mommy said that they had to put you into an induce sleep so you could heal, but when you didn't wake up when you were suppose to I thought . . ." but Delia didn't finish as she buried her head into Harry's shoulder.
"Delia look I'm ok now." Harry said gentle drawing Delia away from him and wiping her tears. "And if I had die what better place to do it then in the Land of the Dead? Ouch!" Harry said as Delia smacked him.
"That isn't funny." Delia said, even though she was laughing through her tears.
"You're right, I'm sorry." Harry said rubbing his sore arm. "But really Delia I'm fine and ready to go home."
"Home?" Delia asked hopefully. "Do you know how to send us back?"
"Unfortunately no." Harry said sighing. "Your mother got a little side tracked."
Delia giggled "She's fighting with Slytherin again, isn't she?"
"Yes." Harry said sighing. "Hey wait a minute, how did you know?"
"They fight at least once a day." Delia said shrugging. "I really don't think my mother likes him."
"Can't imagine why?" Harry snickered. "So what have you been up to while I was asleep?"
"Getting to know my mom." Delia said smiling. "Though when she wasn't around I was bugging Godric and playing with Blaze."
"Well I'm really glad you got to meet your mom." Harry said sincerely.
"Me too." Delia said happily. "But I missed my Dad."
"Then I think it's time I tell you how to return home." A voice said making them jump.
"Diane would you stop doing that." Harry asked clutching his heart.
"Hi mommy, Miss Rowena" Delia said. "What happened to Mr. Slytherin this time?"
"Nothing. Much." Diane said smirking.
"Meaning?" Harry asked.
"Here catch." Diane said tossing him something.
Catching the item Harry stared at it in surprise and then groaned.
"What is up with you elves and transfiguring things into eggs?" Harry asked tossing the black egg back to Diane
"Simple." Diane said. "It's about the only thing we can transfigure. Elves aren't the best at transfiguration like you wizards are."
"It shows." Harry said. "So how good are you at sending us home?"
"Seeing how I wasn't the one who brought you here I'm not the one that'll be sending you home." Diane said
"Yes you said that before." Harry said. "What I don't know is how I got us here."
"And that Harry is why I'm here." Lady Diane said. "To explain your new power and send you home."
"Then educate away." Harry said.
"All right, but let's go into the house first." Lady Diane said. "I'm sure Helga and Godric wants to hear this too."
So with that they all trudged into the house to find their two missing members. Ten minutes later they had found there missing members and after the greetings they made themselves all comfortable in the living room.
"So how did Delia and I get here?" Harry begun once everyone was settled.
"Simple you mesmerized yourself here." Lady Diane said.
"Jeez that makes much more sense now." Harry said sarcastically. "I can't believe I didn't think of that?"
"All right Harry I get the point." Diane said rolling her eyes. "Mesmerization is much like what you wizards call Apperation, with the obvious differences."
"Which are?" Godric prompted.
"Mesmerization isn't bound by any rules. Harry can mesmerize in and out of any wards he wants."
"Well that explains how a got off Hogwarts grounds." Harry muttered.
"He also doesn't have a limit to the amount of people he can take with him. It all depending on how his magical reserve is."
"Which explains how Delia came with me." Harry said ticking off another answered question.
" And finally Mesmerization isn't restricted to just one realm. Harry can practically go anywhere he wants anytime he wants. Different continents, different planets, even different realms." Lady Diane concluded.
"Which explains how I came to be in the Land of the Dead." Harry said shaking his head. "Can't any of my powers just be normal?"
"I'd say telepathy is a relatively normal trait." Lady Diane said thoughtfully.
Harry just glared at her. "What I don't understand is how I activated this power and why I ended up here and not in the Elf Realm or even in a different part of Hogwarts?"
"Do you happen to remember what your last conscious thought was?" Lady Diane asked.
"Er . . ." Harry said racking his brain for an answer. "I remember telling Delia to get out while she could . . . "
"Which wasn't going to happen." Delia said.
"Yes and I'm going to have a serious talk with you about that later." Harry promised Delia who's only reaction was to stick her tongue about in defiance.
"Real mature." Harry told Delia before continuing. "Anyway I remember my last thought was hoping that Delia would somehow make it out alive."
"Exactly!" Lady Diane said smiling. "You see with that unconscious wish and the dire need of the situation around you the power of Mesmerization surfaced to aid your urgency."
"So basically it's the same concept when Dumbledore's grandsons called me, only this time it was me in the desperate situation." Harry said in understanding.
"Precisely." Diane said. "Though how you ended up here I'm not entirely sure."
"Lovely. Does that mean I can end up just about anywhere when I mesmerize?" Harry asked.
"No. Normal when you mesmerize you simple picture the place you want to go and close your eyes and you'll appear there seconds later." Lady Diane said.
"Which now explains how I ended up here?" Harry said with a slight smile.
"It does?" Helga asked. "How?"
"When I was loosing consciousness with Delia's song drifting through my head I started to wonder where I'd end up once a was dead. Would it be with my parents, or Diane or maybe even you guys? Helga's name and face must have been the last person I thought of before I lost complete consciousness."
"Mystery solved." Lady Diane said beaming. "Now I believe I've answered all your questions"
"Yes I believe so." Harry said. "So all I have to do is think of a place in Hogwarts I want to go and close my eyes and I'll be there?"
"Correct." Lady Diane said. "Though before you take my darling daughter away with you can I have a couple of more hours with her?"
"Of course you can." Harry said. Then suddenly smirking he added. "On one condition."
"Which is?" Diane asked.
"You'll give my Salazar's egg." Harry said evilly.
"Deal." Diane said tossing him the egg without a second thought. Then taking Delia's hand they both disappeared.
"Er . . . Harry, what exactly are you going to do with Salazar's egg?" Helga asked nervously.
"Seeker practice." Harry said tossing the egg in the air before catching it again. "I'm a bit rusty. I figured I'd fly as high as I can before dropping the egg and seeing if I can catch it before it hits the ground."
"Sounds like fun, can I watch?" Godric asked as Rowena nodded in agreement.
"Sure, do you know where I can find a broom?" Harry asked walking to the door.
"Sure you can use mine." Godric said summoning his broom and handing it to Harry.
"Brilliant!" Harry said. "Lets go."
And with that Harry, Godric, and Rowena left the house, leaving behind a very worried Helga Hufflepuff.
* * * *
Two hours later Diane and all four founders (a very angry Salazar included) were gathered outside Godric's house saying their farewells to Harry and Delia.
"Harry before you leave can I ask you something?" Lady Diane asked.
"Sure what is it?" Harry asked.
"How come you never asked me what attacked you?" Lady Diane inquired.
"Because I already know what attacked us." Harry replied.
"So, I was correct in assuming that you went through Demin's war books." Lady Diane said.
"Yes." Harry said. "I wanted to learn more about Demin and he refused to tell me about the war or his part in it." Harry shrugged "So I found my own way."
"I'm sure you did." Lady Diane said. "You just better hope Demin doesn't finds out or you really will be dead."
"Oh well, just one more thing to add to my list of why Demin's going to kill me." Harry said shrugging. "Anymore question or can we go?"
"Nope I believe that's all." Lady Diane said. "Though I do have I few things to tell you. One I wouldn't mesmerize up here again unless it's absolutely necessary. Once you visit this place three times you have no choice but to stay forever, which means you have only one more visit left so use it wisely."
"No offense, but I really don't want to be returning to this place anytime soon." Harry said. "And besides it wasn't like I had a choice the other two times a was dragged up here."
"Ok Harry repeat after me, Yes Lady Diane I understand you perfectly. Also I would like to apologize for me rudeness when all you were trying to do was give me a simple message." Lady Diane prompted.
Harry raised his eyebrows at her and smirked. "Whatever you say my celestial guide."
"One of these days you'll be sorry you ever mocked me." Lady Diane said.
"Whatever." Harry said rolling his eyes. "What was the other thing you need to tell me."
"Oh right." Lady Diane said digging around in one of her pockets. "Give your guardian this when you return."
"What is it?" Harry asked catching the objected and examining the normal looking necklace that had a small crystal globe at the end.
"It's a tracking necklace." Lady Diane explained. "All Sirius has to do is say 'locate' and the necklace will automatically tell him where you are no matter the location."
"You have got to be kidding! You do realize you're giving Sirius Black the power to hunt me down whenever he wants?" Harry asked. "This seems a little unfair."
"Life isn't fair my dear Harry." Lady Diane said smirking. "Besides I'm sure Sirius won't abuse the power of the necklace. To much."
"Are you crazy?!" Harry asked. "Of course he's going to abuse it's power!"
"Oh well that's your problem not mine. Though I wouldn't forget to give the Necklace to Sirius if I were you." Lady Diane said reading Harry's mind perfectly. "Because the longer you have it the more you're going to wish you didn't."
"Meaning . . .?" Harry interrogated.
"Meaning if you want to find out then don't give Sirius the necklace." Diane said smiling
"Stupid interfering Elf." Harry muttered under his breath. "Can we go now?"
"But of course." Lady Diane said giving her daughter one last hug. "Be sure to tell your Father hi for me."
"I will." Delia said cheerfully.
"Thanks again for helping us." Harry told the Founders. "It's been real amusing seeing you again."
"And you Harry." Helga said smiling, while Rowena and Godric did the same. Salazar stood in the background refusing to acknowledge any of them.
"And Lady Diane despite everything I said to you, I do love you." Harry said smiling. "Thanks for all your help."
"Anytime my dear Harry, for that is what I am here for." Lady Diane said mock bowing. "And I'm sure I'll be seeing you around."
"Luck me." Harry muttered picking up Delia. "Oh and Sssalazar," Harry hissed in parselmouth. "Thanksss for the quidditch practice, it wassss real amussing."
And with that said Harry disappeared from the Land of the Dead, leaving behind four astonished Founders and one smug looking elf.
* * * * *
Harry and Delia reappeared in Dumbledore's office seconds later only to find it devoid of all human life.
"Wonder where the professor is?" Harry asked.
"On the quidditch field young one." A voice said inside Harry's head making him start violently.
"Fawkes?" Harry asked looking at the crimson bird that was staring intently at him.
"Sorry young one I did not mean to frighten you." The smoothing voice said.
"It's all right." Harry said. "Thanks for the information."
"You're welcome." Fawkes said tilting his head. "You do know that they have been looking for you and the other young one for days?"
"Yeah, I do." Harry said morosely. "Which is why I really would like to avoid the quidditch field right now."
"You will have to face them soon or later." Fawkes reasoning voice said. "It might as well be sooner."
"You've been Dumbledore's Phoenix way too long." Harry said sighing in defeat. "Come on Delia let's go."
"Good luck young one." Fawkes voice said followed them out.
"Don't you want to find Sirius and my dad first?" Delia asked as the gargoyle's closed behind them.
"I'm pretty sure they'll all be with Dumbledore." Harry said taking her hand and dodging into a secret passageway.
As it was Saturday Harry took all the secret passageways he possible could to avoid the rest of the student body. Of course Harry had to walk down some hallways to get to the next secret panel which is how he found himself face to face with . . .
"Caryn!" Harry said surprised.
"Harry!" Caryn said equal surprised.
"Potter."
"Malfoy!" Harry groaned when he realized who Caryn's companion was. Harry had completely forgotten that Draco was return to school that week.
"Harry where have you been?" Caryn scolded. "Do you realize that everyone has been worried sick about you and Delia."
"It wasn't his fault Caryn." Delia said stepping in front of Harry defensively. "Besides we would be dead right now if we hadn't disappeared."
"Delia it's all right." Harry said placing a hand on her shoulder. "Caryn what are you doing here?"
"I came here with Grandfather along with two other healers." Caryn said.
"Lord Nico's here?" Harry said suddenly smiling. "That means you guys are going to aid us in our fight."
"More then that we've made an alliance." Caryn said grinning. "Which is why I'm still here. I'm going to help train healers. Not elf healing of course, but basic magic healing."
"This is good." Harry muttered to himself. "This is really good."
"What's good?" Delia asked confused.
"I'll explain later." Harry said, before turning to Malfoy who had silently been observing the whole exchange. "Malfoy."
"Hello Potter." Draco said civilly.
"What exactly are you two doing?" Harry asked directing his question to Caryn.
"Draco's given me a tour around the castle." Caryn said. "I've been dying for one ever since I got here and Draco was kind enough to offer me one."
"That was generous of him." Harry said trying not to laugh. "Please don't let me keep you."
"You are going to see Demin aren't you?" Caryn asked suspiciously.
"Yes Caryn that's where I'm headed now. So if you'll excuse us." Harry said taken Delia's hand again and disappearing around the corner.
Once inside the secret passageway Harry started to laugh.
"Looks like Caryn has find someone else to chase around, hasn't it?" Delia said.
"Yes it does and I'm honestly not sure who to feel more sorry for, Draco or Caryn." Harry said walking along the passageway. "At least she'll be leaving me alone while she's here."
"I wouldn't count on it." Delia said as they both stepped out of the passageway into the fresh air and warm sunshine.
"I'll worry about that latter for now let's find our overprotective guardians." Harry said making his way to the quidditch pitch.
To say that Harry was surprise when he come around the castle and saw the quidditch pitch standing as if nothing had happen would have been the understatement of the century.
"Wow! How did they rebuild it so fast." Delia asked.
"I have no idea." Harry said. "But I'm not about to complain, it means quidditch games will go on as scheduled."
Delia giggle. "You would think you'd have more important things to worry about besides quidditch."
"You must have me confused with someone else." Harry informed the girl as they entered the stadium.
Looking around Harry spotted a group of people at the far end of the quidditch pitch huddled in a circle talking.
"Come on Delia lets see if we can't surprise them." Harry said starting to walk towards the group.
Though the closer Harry got to the group the more he wished he had waited in Dumbledore's office for him. Beside the Headmaster, Professor McGonogall, Professor Snape, Amos Diggory, Arthur Weasley, Demin, Kairi, Sirius, Remus, and Lord Nico were also there.
It seemed his Godfather and Professor Snape were currently fighting about something while the others simple watched.
"You know Black if you could just keep track of your rule braking Godson none of us would have to be here right now." Snape sneered.
Harry saw Sirius open his mouth to retort back, but decided to beat him to it.
"You know Professor it really isn't nice to talk about people when they're not even here to defend themselves." Harry said casually. "Then again, you never were one to be nice where you?"
For a moment there was a stunned silence as everyone stared at Harry. Then suddenly Harry and Delia both found themselves being hugged to death courteous of their guardians. Harry by Sirius and Remus and Delia by Kairi and Demin.
"Where have you been?" Sirius demanded the minute he released Harry from his death grip.
"Er . . . well . . . you see . . ." Harry started but was interrupted by Delia.
"We were with my mommy." Delia replied happily.
Demin who had been holding Delia nearly dropped her after her innocent little statement and Harry groaned.
"You met you're mother?" Demin asked founding his voice.
"Yep." Delia said grinning. "I spent the whole week with her."
All eyes turned to Harry for an explanation, who immediately took an involuntary step backwards.
"Er . . . we were with Lady Diane." Harry said refusing to meet Demin's eyes or any one else's for that matter. "Along with the four Founder's of Hogwarts."
"What?" Sirius choked out.
"Well you see I sort of Apperated Delia and I to the Land of the Dead before I lost consciousness." Harry said.
"Impossible." Snape said. "No one can Apperate through Hogwarts wards, much less to the Land of the Dead."
"Well that's because technically I didn't Apperate." Harry said. "I memorized. It's like Apperation just different rules."
"And what would those rules be Mr. Potter?" Professor McGonogall asked.
Harry sighed and told them everything Diane had told him about his new power, by the end everyone was again gapping at him.
"Great." Sirius finally groaned out. "Now you can disappear whenever you please to Merlin knows where and I'll be none the wiser.
"Er . . . it just so happens that you will." Harry said, reluctantly digging the necklace out of his pocket and tossing it to Sirius. "Lady Diane gave me this to give to you."
"What is it?" Sirius asked.
"It's a tracking necklace. It's charmed to track me no matter where I am, all you have to do is say locate and it'll activate."
"This will track you anywhere?" Sirius asked looking like his birthday had come early. "Even a different Realm?"
"Unfortunately for me, yes." Harry said.
"Don't worry Harry." Sirius said smiling. "I'll only use it in emergencies and not to ruin you're social life."
"Wouldn't want that now, would we." Snape sneered.
Seeing another fight about to start Professor Dumbledore stepped in. "Well Harry I must say it's good to have you back."
"I'm not entirely sure it's good to be back." Harry said eyeing Sirius and Demin and wondering what was going to happen to him once he was alone with one of them.
"Yes, well, I do believe you have I little more explaining to do Harry and we certainly have a lot to catch you up on. So why don't we all head back up to the castle to talk?" Professor Dumbledore said smiling.
"Brilliant idea Professor." Sirius said cheerfully. "And then right after you're done Harry and I can have a little talk of our own on why he is able to do elf magic."
'Oh crap' Harry thought trading quick looks with Demin. 'Were they ever in trouble.'
***No promise's on the next chapter, but hopefully not as long has this chapter took!