"I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together."
Marilyn Monroe


May 4th – Present time

Dearest Tori,

Harry did it. We won. The war is finally over.

The price to pay was terrible… so many good people were lost… but hopefully it was worth it and there'll be peace from now on.

Your brilliant granddaughter finally reunited with Liam and Jean. Erasing her parents' memories and sending them half-way across the world… I don't know what's gotten into that girl… but they're together now. That's all that counts.

On a happier note: You should have seen Liam's when Hermione told him about her relationship with Ronald! His girl fought in a war that wasn't really hers, and the thing that shocks him the most is that she's kissed her boyfriend.

Anyway, since great parts of the castle have been destroyed, we're staying at my mother's family home for the time being. There's plenty of room for everyone, and I'm sure Hermione would be delighted if you were to stay with us. She misses you terribly. Liam does, too (of course, he would never admit it… stubborn as a hippogriff that son of yours…)

So, just say the word and I'll apparate you… or send a portkey – whatever you prefer.

All the best,

Arina


Xemerius Brooks sighed heavily once he appeared in front of the ancient manor deep within the Scottish Highlands. For a moment, he just stood there and took in the marvellous view: cloudless blue skies, evergreen hills, a gorgeous little lake framed by beautiful wildflowers.

It almost seemed as if time had come to a stop here, and the last couple of days – the battle, the injuries, the deaths, the war – had never happened. Apparently, the ancient protection spells that Min's ancestors had cast upon the place had prevented McGonagall Manor from being damaged too severely.

How many times he had visited the place… Xem honestly couldn't remember. Having grown up in an orphanage, the silver-eyes wizard never really fancied spending his summer holidays there, so instead, he usually joined Minerva and her family. Her parents – Rose and Apollo – never really minded him staying at the manor; in fact, the red-haired first Lady of Magic had always been delighted to have another person to help baby-sit little Athena when she and her husband were needed at the ministry.

"Matháir, look! Xemmi is back!" 11-year old Athena McGongall shouted, and almost knocked the 15-year-old off his feet. With ease, he lifted the little girl up in the air and twirled her around until she giggled almost uncontrollably.

"Stop it, Xem, you're making me dizzy!" the red-haired girl laughed, and her amber eyes sparkled happily.

Setting her back down on the ground, Xem smiled.

"Well, my dear, if you hadn't thrown yourself into his harms so vehemently, Xemerius would not have needed to defend himself," Rose McGonagall's voice floated through the great entrance hall. "And it's not like you don't see him very often, dear. The boy's here at least twice a week."

"Which I'm very grateful for, Ma'am," Xemerius replied and bowed playfully towards the witch.

"Oh Xemerius!" Rose laughed, shook his head and crossed the distance between the to give her daughter's best friend a welcoming hug. "It's about time you're back."

Xem smiled warmly at her. "It's good to be back. You're off to the ministry, I 'spose?"

The first Lady of Magic smiled sadly. "I'm afraid so. Apollo has sent me a rather urgent owl… Merlin knows how we are ever going to live in peace… Grindlewald may be gone, but his followers get more and more powerful with each passing day."

The silver-eyed wizard nodded in agreement.

"Nevertheless, I must get going. You'll find Minerva somewhere near the lake, Xemerius," the red-haired witch continued with her soft Scottish accent, patted Xemerius on the shoulder and kissed her youngest daughter lovingly on the forehead. "I'll be back as soon as I can, my darling."

The feeling of something moving brought the Ilvermorny Headmaster back to the present, and with a bittersweet expression he pulled little Batty from his chest pocket and sat the bat on his shoulder.

"That was the last time I spoke to Lady McGonagall before she was killed…" he mumbled, half to himself and half to Batty as he made his way further into the entrance hall and ascended the grand marble staircase. "Terrible… she was such a kind and loving witch… always saw the best in people… especially when they couldn't see it themselves. Min wasn't quite the same after that. But why am I telling you this, Batty, hmm? Maybe I am going bonkers after all…"


"What… what do you mean?"

Minerva's voice was nothing more but a hoarse whisper as she stared at her best friend; emerald green eyes wide and filled with unshed tears.

Poppy sighed and she looked at the transfiguration mistress guiltily.

"That night your girls where born… someone … we still don't know how… entered the hospital," the medi-witch stuttered helplessly, "… and… and… Aurora… she – she was taken from the hospital."

Minerva's eyes widened – if possible – even more, and she felt like her heart had just been shattered into a million of tiny little pieces.

"W-what?" she asked again, still unable to believe what she was being told.

The medi-witch swallowed hard, and looked towards the ground, where the water of the black lake crashed in small waves against the sandy shore.

"Dorothy Holloway was supposed to be on duty that night," the blonde witch finally admitted, "but she overslept and missed her shift, and the infant station was unguarded for a couple of hours."

The emerald-eyed witch covered her mouth with her hands, but a rather suffocating sound still escaped her.

"When Dorothy finally arrived, Aurora was gone."

Poppy dropped her head in shame. "Once she had realized what had happened, she asked me for help."

For a moment, Minerva said nothing. She merely stared at her best friend – speechless. Then, fury and anger replaced the shock in her emerald eyes.

"So you decided to cover it up by setting the infant station on fire?" she asked furiously and got up from the swing she had been sitting on.

"Minerva, please – " Poppy tried to intervene, "we thought – "

The ebony-haired witch pulled her wand from her robes and pointed it towards her best friend – tears streaming down her cheeks like rivers.

"You what? Thought it was necessary to uphold Dorothy's reputation? Or the hospital's?" she hissed in a dangerously low voice, and the water at the shore started to turn into ice.

Poppy shook her head vehemently. "We didn't know what else to do, Minerva! Dorothy was devastated and – "

"And what about me, Poppy? What about Aurora? She was my daughter!"

Tears glistened in Poppy's eyes. "I thought it was the best for you!" she shouted, and her pale blue eyes dropped held her glance this time.

"The best for me?" the transfiguration mistress repeated, her voice dangerously low. "Don't you think knowing the truth about what really happened to my little girl would have been the best for me? If – If I had known she was still alive… I – I would have – "

"I know you would have never stopped looking for the girl!" Poppy whispered and looked at her friend with tear filled blue eyes, "and it would have destroyed you!"

"She's my daughter!"

This time, Poppy's eyes blazed with fury. "And so is Arina," she hissed, "That girl needed a mother, too, and you searching for Aurora in vain would have left both your girls motherless."


When Harry's feet first touched Hogwarts' grounds, one of his hands held on to Ginny, while his other was tightly clutched around his mother's delicate golden necklace, with the little heart-shaped ruby pendant dangling from it.

"Are you alright, Harry?" Ginny asked concerned, while holding on to the Mablomi.

Harry simply shrugged, kissed her on the cheek and laid his arm protectively around his girlfriend, while they were walking back towards the castle ruins.

"It doesn't make any sense," he mumbled, and his fingers traced the delicate lines of the pendant, "I've seen this necklace before."

When Ginny looked at him questioningly, he pointed towards the Mablomi. "In the memories. This – my mother's necklace – once belonged to Professor McGonagall's little sister."

Ginny's eyes widened. "Harry… are you – "

He looked at her with emerald green eyes, begging her to believe him. "Please, Gin, you've got to believe me. I know what I saw."

They walked in silence for some time, before Ginny stopped, cupped his cheek with her one free hand, and kissed him lovingly. "Then we'll go ahead and ask Professor McGonagall. Maybe she can shed some light on this."

Harry kissed her on the forehead and pulled her even closer. "Thanks, Gin."

Ginny smiled, and was about to reply, when her deep brown eyes fell upon the Mablomi's glowing red surface. "I guess your questions have to wait a little bit longer, Harry."

Harry glanced at the mirror. She was right.

"Come with me again?" he asked hesitantly.

The girl nodded and kissed him on the cheek. "Of course, I will."

This said, both of them were once again sucked into the magic-blood-mirror; both curious as to what they would learn next about their favourite transfiguration Professor.


"Excuse me, Abe," Albus suddenly said as he spotted the slender figure of his wife; half-running, half-limping up the hill from where he knew her secret spot was. "Minerva – I'll, erm, I'll need to – "

Aberforth held up his hand and nodded; still a bit surprised to this side of his estranged brother. "By all means. Go get your wife."

The old wizard flashed him a thankful look, then quickly crossed the courtyard – greeting Rolanda and Augusta with a short nod – and ignored the many people that still stared at him over their early lunch.

"Professor Dumbledore, Sir, "Hagrid's shouted from somewhere behind him, "It's so good seeing you up'n alive."

Albus smiled at the half-giant. "Thank you, Hagrid. However, if you don't mind, I was just about to… "

Hagrid nodded enthusiastically. "Oh yeah, sure, Sir, lot's to do I s'posse."

Albus nodded thankfully and as quickly as his stiff bones allowed him to, made his way over to his wife. The unhealthy feeling in his stomach worsened drastically when he finally caught up with her. Although she had changed into a pair of dark blue robes, which he assumed belonged to his daughter, she was still wearing marks of the recent battle. Guilt flooded over him when he spotted the bruises on her hands and neck, the deep bloody gash on her soft cheek, and the walking stick in her hand that was supposed to help her with her damaged leg.

It broke his heart to see his beloved wife like this and more than once he blamed himself for his latest plan and keeping her in the dark for so long. If he had just told her all about it, he would have been able to join the fight. His old body probably wouldn't have made much of a difference when it came to winning the war, but at least he could have done something… instead of sleeping in a bloody portrait for a year.

When he finally reached the ebony-haired witch, he could see her grief-stricken emerald eyes, and the tears flowed down her cheeks.

"Tabby," he whispered gently before he reached out to take the shaking and shivering witch into his arms, "what happened?"


Harry held on tightly to Ginny's small hand as they once again hit the bottom of the Mablomi; red waves still forming around them and forming the setting of the next memory.

...

March, 1972 | Hogwarts | Headmaster's private quarters …

The saw Professor Dumbledore – perhaps in his late fifties – sitting comfortably in his sitting room, reading the latest article of 'Transfiguration Today' when a shy knock was heard.

Raising an eyebrow, the elderly wizard looked up.

"Enter."

Harry's heart skipped a beat when he spotted the 12-year-old version of his mother poking her head in.

"Uncle Albus," she asked with a small smile, and dancing green emerald eyes, "are you very busy?"

The older wizard only chuckled at her shyness. "I'm never too busy for you. Or Arina. Now, what is the matter, my dear?" he asked, and watched as she sat down opposite from him in an enormous red armchair by the roaring fire. Then he waved his hand and two cups of hot chocolate came flying out of the kitchen.

"I – I made this… for Aunt Min," Lily said, searched her cloak and handed a hand-made card to the Headmaster.

Professor Dumbledore's features softened – if possible – even more, and Harry was sure that he could see his bright blue eyes welling up with tears ever-so-slighty.

"A mother's day card," he whispered, and traced the hearts that Lily had so carefully glued onto it with his long fingers.

Within the mamblomi, Harry smiled at the memory and put his arm around Ginny's shoulder.

Lily's emerald eyes sparkled with both excitement and anxiety. "Do – do you think she'll like it?" she asked, hesitantly. "You see – ever since she's invited me to stay with you… she – well, she's been more of a mother to me than my real mum ever was."

Handing the cup of hot chocolate to the red-haired girl, Professor Dumbledore smiled warmly at Lily. "My dear, believe me when I say that Minerva already loves you as if you were her own. She will be delighted to get your card, Lily."

...

November 17th, 1953| London Southfields | 19:55 pm …

Soon, the red waves vanished, and Harry and Ginny looked around eagerly as brick-wall houses covered in snow and busy streets started to form around them.

Suddenly, Harry's green eyes lit up.

"Look! This is her again," Harry said excitedly and pointed towards the short woman with the curly hazel hair. "The woman to whom Professor McGonagall gave her son in 1955. What was her name again?"

Before Ginny could voice her words, his question got answered by the witch in the memory.

"Bay!" the 18-year-old version of their transfiguration professor shouted across the street. She was dressed in a beautiful black muggle dress with a thick dark blue coat over it. Her hair, covered by small snowflakes, was flowing down her back in beautiful black curls and her emerald eyes shone happily. Quickly, the witch crossed the street and tightly embraced the other girl.

"Min! Finally," 21-year-old Bay whispered, dressed up equally elegant, and held her friend even tighter. "Come in, come in. It's freezing out here!"

Arm in arm, the two friends entered a small Italian restaurant at the end of the street.

"What can I get you two lovely ladies?" a rather handsome waiter asked with a bright smile as he approached their table.

Bay blushed a deep crimson, while young Minerva only smirked. "A Pizza capricciosa along with a glass merlot for my blushing friend over there. Penne all'arrabbiata and a glass of white wine for myself, per favore."

The waiter flashed another smile at the curly-haired woman. "Gazie! Coming right up, ladies."

"Argh, you're unbelievable…" Bay muttered once the handsome waiter was gone.

Minerva chuckled and brushed the last remaining snowflakes off her coat. "Hey, you're the one complaining that you always run into the worst sort of men imaginable. I was merely trying to help. And he's cute. And Italian," she added with a smirk.

Once again, the shorter of the two blushed a bright crimson. "He is, isn't he?"

"Signora," the waiter returned and handed them their plates and drinks, however, not without flashing them a bright smile once more, "enjoy your stay."

Emerald eyes sparkled with amusement. "Oh, I'm sure we will."

With a grown, the hazel-haired woman buried her head in her hands and sighed. "Tell me, why did I ask you to come to dinner with me tonight?"

"Because," the ebony-haired witch stated, and took a sip of her wine, "it's not every day one becomes a certified midwife."

"Hear, hear," Bay cheered, "Thanks for coming, Min. Means a lot to me."

The two friends clicked their glasses together. "You're welcome. I'm quite glad to get a night away from the castle… there's only so much one can study for their NEWTs…"

For a moment, Bay looked at her with concern written in her eyes. "How are you holding up, Min?"

The seventh-year student sighed. "We're not here to talk about me."

"Oh, pish-posh. I want to hear about your life, too."

"This is your night."

Bay only raised an eyebrow.

Minerva sighed. "I miss her terribly."

"Athena?"

The ebony-haired witch nodded sadly and she tried her best to hide the tears that formed in her beautiful emerald eyes. "She's been dead for over a year now… still feels like just yesterday when I found her body. Sometimes… I – I just feel empty… Like… like all my happiness just died with her."

Bay reached out and took her hand. "You're not alone, Min. Remember that. You've got me, and Xemerius… and these other people on that Quatch-team of yours – "

"Quidditch."

"Ah, yes, Quidditch team. And your other friend, the older one you told me about?"

"Albus?"

Bay smiled. "Yes. He visits you every now and then, does he not?"

A small smile returned to her face. "Yes, he does. Last time he popped his head through the fireplace in the common room he scared Xemerius half to death."

"I would have given anything to see that!"

Minerva laughed. "Well, Albus won't be fire-calling any time soon, though. He's got quite busy with his dragon-blood research. But he's told me that he will resume his teaching post at Hogwarts next year."

Bay, about to bite off a piece of her pizza, stopped half way to her mouth. "Resume? I didn't know he taught there before."

The young witch sipped on her wine once more, then turned her attention towards her plate of pasta as well. "Well, he taught transfiguration for a couple of years during the war," she told her friend, lowering her voice whenever she mentioned something not-muggle. However, in the busy restaurant, nobody paid attention to the two friends and their conversation. "He left the school to search for Grindelwald, and won their duel in '45. After that, he once told me that he wasn't quite ready to face big crowds… so he decided to first finish his research, before eventually returning."

Swallowing a piece of pizza, Bay beamed. "Wow. Imagine having such a powerful wizard as your teacher."

The animagus smiled. "Pretty amazing, I guess. Though I'm quite happy he never was my teacher," she mused. "Merlin, I've known the man for… like… ever. Would be weird to see him as a Professor and not as a friend."

Harry couldn't help himself but laugh. "I guess at back then she didn't see him as a lover either…"

"Or husband," Ginny added with a smile and leaned into her boyfriend's embrace.

Bay laughed. "Not to mention that you'd probably melt away in his classes. The picture you showed me last time… damn, he's devastatingly handsome."

This time, it was Minerva's turn to blush, and Bay laughed happily before she snatched Minerva's fork out of her fingers and tried a bite of her pasta.

"I wonder where she's now. Bay, I mean," Ginny whispered and turned towards Harry while the blood-red waves of the mablomi once again swirled around them to create a new scene.

Harry shrugged. "I have no idea… what bothers me a bit more is whether or not anyone else knows about her son."

Ginny opened her mouth, but closed it again after a moment of consideration. Before either of the two could continue their conversation, however, a new memory started.

July, 1997 | old Dumbledore Family home | Godric's Hollow | 22:17 pm …

"I – I can't believe he's gone," Arina whispered, her beautiful blue eyes shimmering with tears as she turned towards her mother, who sat on a small chair in the kitchen. Her eyes, too, were red from crying, and she had a band-aid taped around her left hand.

When Harry saw Ginny's questioning and concerned glance, he said, "she went with Dumbledore on Horcrux hunt and cut her hand to open a blood entrance."

"Neither can I, Kitten, neither can I," the old witch sighed heavily and stared silently at a far point in the corner.

"What if – "

Whatever the younger ebony-haired witch was about say got interrupted by the front door that suddenly burst open.

Immediately, both witches drew their wands – pointing them straight at the intruder.

When the person finally lifted the dark hood, Professor McGonagall exhaled sharply, but nevertheless clutched her hands together over her chest in plain relief.

"Severus!" she exclaimed exasperated.

Arina, too, sighed, lowered her wand and slowly sat down on a nearby chair. "You really can't help but make an overly dramatic entrance, can you?"

Snape just rolled his eyes at her comment, before he joined mother and daughter at the kitchen table.

"I don't have the time to knock on doors, Rina."

Now the young witch rolled her eyes.

"Enough. Both of you," Professor McGonagall spoke up in a tone that left no room for argumentation. "We need to talk about moving Harry from Petunia's house to Grimmauld Place. Preferably in one piece."

Harry's eyes widened. Considering the date, this memory must have taken place only a couple of days after Dumbledore's 'death' – which, of course, everyone – including Snape himself – thought to be real. Astonished, he turned towards Ginny.

"She's just lost her husband," he whispered hoarsely, "and Arina her father. Still, they think about me?"

Ginny shrugged. "Good thing Arina was in on the plan… I guess otherwise… she probably would have killed Snape right then and there for murdering her father…"

"Yes, he needs to be relocated," Snape continued, and first glanced at Arina, then at her mother, "and the Dark Lord needs to know the real day when the boy's moved."

While Professor McGonagall nodded thoughtfully, his godmother's bright blue eyes widened. Apparently, also Snape noticed, for he sighed deeply.

"Don't look at me like that, Arina. Only then will the Dark Lord trust me completely."

The witch laughed grimly, and her blue eyes blazed dangerously. "Oh, really? And here I thought killing my father would be enough to accomplish that."

"Arina," the transfiguration mistress whispered, grief swinging along in her warning tone. Then she turned towards the potions master. "I've already arranged most of it with Alastor. We will leak the information to ministry officials that Harry will be moved during the night of his 17th birthday while, in fact, the task will be carried out before that."

Snape nodded affirmingly. "You will still need a distraction. The Dark Lord will presumably go after him personally."

The deputy headmistress didn't look pleased. "We've discussed this particular issue for quite some time within the Order. Harry's still got the trace on him, so we can't risk him performing magic. To be quite honest, I'm not very satisfied with the outcome, but eventually, we agreed that it would be best to use Polyjuice Potion. There will be teams of two. One 'fake' Harry along with one Order member."

To Harry's surprise, Professor Snape – like Arina – looked rather troubled. "That's quite dangerous, Minerva. Are you sure there is no other possibility?"

The old witch sighed, and Harry could see it in her clouded emerald eyes how troubled she was by this. "I'm afraid not."

Snape only nodded. "The teams? I assume at least some of your overly-emotional Gryffindors volunteered to go along with this plan?"

Harry's godmother only gave a muffled sound, so it was the transfiguration mistress who once again answered.

"We've had our fair share of discussions about the 'overly-emotional-Gryffindor', Severus," she said in a tone that she would usually use with a bunch of first years. "Alastor wants to team up with Mundungus Fletcher – "

"Minerva – "

She only rolled her eyes. "I know what you're going to say. He's a coward. Alastor is quite aware of the fact that Dung will most likely disappear some time during the operation. He'll use it to his advantage."

Snape raised an eyebrow. "He wants to fake his own death?"

It was Arina's turn to sigh. "He's had stranger ideas, hasn't he?"

"Well, never mind him now," Snape continued quickly, "who else will be part of it?"

Professor McGonagall accio-ed a piece of paper from her cloak. "Now, like I said: Alastor and Mundugus. Arthur and Fred Weasley," she read, and reached for her glasses that were stuck in her hair. "Remus and George Weasley. Nymphadora and Ronald Weasley. Bill Weasley and Fleur Delacour. Kingsley and Miss Granger – "

Here, Arina accidently shattered a vase behind her with a burst of uncontrolled magic.

"Get your emotions under control, witch," Snape mumbled.

Arina shot him a glare. "I'm trying," she hissed, then got up and poured them three glasses of water.

Once she returned to her seat, the transfiguration mistress reached out to reassuringly touch her daughter's hand. "I've tried to talk Miss Granger out of it, but she wouldn't hear any of it."

Arina only sighed and even Snape shot her a sorrowful glance. "I will deny having ever said this, but that niece for yours is an extraordinary talented witch. She'll manage just fine, Arina."

The blue-eyed witch swallowed, and tears welled up in her eyes. "Lily was an extraordinary witch, too, Sev," she whispered, glanced up, and winced at seeing his pain-stricken expression. "Sorry… I didn't mean it like that."

Snape blinked, trying to get the love of his life out of his mind. "Who's taking the boy?"

Professor McGonagall put her paper down on the table, then put her glasses back into her hair and looked at the potions master with determined emerald eyes.

"I will."

...

Harry stared at Ginny, dumfounded.

"I thought Hagrid took you?" the red-head asked confused.

"He – he did."

The witch raised an eyebrow. "Then why – "

"I don't know," Harry said, equally confused and brought his attention back to the memory. From what he had learned through the memories, he knew his transfiguration Professor was a marvellous quidditch player, so she most certainly would have had no problem flying with him to Grimmauld Place on a broomstick. And as for magical abilities… Harry loved Hagrid by heart, but he could see her reasoning. She was, after all, considered to be the most powerful witch alive. His heart flattered. Arina was right. Professor McGonagall did care for him. Enough that she would risk her own life to get him to a safe house.

Eagerly, he continued watching.

Severus sighed. "Not gonna happen."

The transfiguration mistress raised an eyebrow, as did her daughter. "Excuse me?"

"You heard me, Minerva, you're not going to be part of that mission."

Fire blazed in her emerald eyes. "Severus," she said, and her voice was dangerously low, "I won't stand idly by and watch when Mr. Potter is escorted to Grimmauld place. Especially when a wild bunch of Death Eaters will be attacking them. You know as well as I do that – albeit they have all been perfectly educated – I am by far the most experienced and – "

"Powerful, I know."

"I was about to say 'skilled'," Professor McGonagall said humbly, "but yes."

Snape nodded. "Exactly. That's why I need you at Hogwarts."

"Severus – "

He held up his hand. "Don't 'Severus' me, Minerva. I hope it won't, but if anything should happen during the operation, the students need you at Hogwarts. In one piece."

A dreadful silence fell over the three of them, and once could have heard a needle drop to the ground.

"The Dark Lord has great plans for a change of staff… and I need you there, Minerva. You and your power."

"Severus – "

The potions master rolled his eyes. "There's no arguing about it. I'm sure there's been a lot more volunteers among Order members?" he asked, and purposefully cast a silencing charm on Arina, who was about to shout her name out aloud.

The transfiguration mistress thought for moment before she answered, well aware of her steaming daughter next to her. "Hagrid," she finally said, "Albus always trusted him, and he would do anything to keep Harry safe."

Snape, albeit not overly convinced, nodded.

"So would I," Arina hissed, and glared at both her mother and Snape. "I'm his godmother. I'm almost as 'skilled' as you are," she said and glanced challengingly at her mother. "It's my duty to protect him."

Professor McGonagall shook her head, but it was Snape, who answered. "I know you love the boy. But this is bigger than just him."

...

Harry watched Ginny's eyes widen. "He's right," he told her, and continued watching the scene. At least now he knew why neither Professor McGonagall nor his godmother were part of the operation back then. "Ron told me the same thing when I was about to leave the burrow in the middle of the night. I argued that I never wanted anyone to die for me... and he said that this was about more than just me. The future. All our future."

Ginny nodded. "He's right. Must have been hell for Arina, though."

Harry nodded. "I bet…"

...

"Severus is right, Kitten," Professor McGonagall said and once again held her daughter's hand. "And think about your little girl. Arielle needs her mother, love."

Arina's blue eyes welled up with tears, and she looked from her own mother to her friend. She didn't need to say anything, her pain spoke volumes. 'Harry needs a mother, too.'

"As I said," Snape continued, and looked at Arina intensely, "This is bigger than just the boy, Arina."

Having inherited her mother's Scottish temper, the blue-eyed witch jumped up from her chair. "Severus, I can't just sit around while everybody else I care about is fighting!"

Snape – almost afraid – glanced at Professor McGonagall, before he turned his attention back to Harry's godmother.

"I know," he said, and purposefully avoided a certain pair of emerald eyes. "Which is why I need you to be my spy at the Ministry of Magic."

...

Harry's eyes grew wide, so did Ginny's. They both watched their transfiguration mistress, and how all the colour drained from her face.

...

"No," she said vehemently and – like Arina – got up from her chair and started pacing in the kitchen, "absolutely not."

Snape managed to hide his emotions well, but pity was written plainly in his dark eyes. "She's an Unspeakable. She works at the Ministry."

"She's still on maternity leave until Arielle is older."

"If anyone can get into the Ministry without being noticed it's her."

"It's too dangerous!"

"I need someone I trust. And she's a pureblood, so she won't have to fear this ridiculous muggle-born registration commission."

Professor McGonagall's emerald eyes blazed. "Severus, she's married by now. And she – "

"She," Arina intervened calmly, but demanding, and for the first time Harry could see a part of Dumbledore in her, "is capable of making her own decisions."

The blue-eyed witch started at both Snape and her mother intently. "And I won't stand idly by and watch from the side-lines."

"Working for the Department of Mysteries grants her a great deal of immunity, Minerva" the potions master said in an attempt to calm the worried mother. "Almost no one has access to their files."

Minerva looked up and stared into his dark eyes; a shadowed expression on her face.

"You don't know what's going to happen, Severus. What if they start inquiring Unspeakables, too?" she asked with a raised eyebrow and her eyes wandered from the potions master to her daughter. "As much as it pains me to say, Aidan comes from a muggle family. And once they start digging deeper, they will find that 'Arina Pendragon' only exists on a couple of papers. It's never been a cover that would withstand a full ministry background check."

The potions master looked truly troubled now. He quickly glanced at the younger ebony-haired witch, but Arina didn't show any signs of fear.

"I still need her, Minerva."

Emerald eyes filled with tears.

"I can take care of myself, Matháir," Arina whispered. "Severus is right. The ministry is infiltrated by Death Eaters. We need someone on the inside, and I'm the most qualified for the task."

She reached over the table and took her mother's hand in hers. "Maybe I can even get access to a couple of files and tweak them… It's Dan and Hermione you should be worried about. They are muggle-born."

...

Ginny's deep brown eyes were filled with unshed tears as the memory ended, and she buried her face in Harry's shirt. Admittedly, for a short time a part of him wondered why his godmother never assisted in one of the order missions that concerned him. But like Snape and Professor McGonagall, she protected him from the shadows. And both of them risked their lives over and over again, working under cover, to ensure their loved ones' safety.

Not knowing what to say to Ginny, he just held her, and waited for the next memory to present itself, albeit still holding on to the little heart-shaped ruby pendant, which he was now sure of, really belonged Professor McGonagall's little sister. And he was determined to figure out how the necklace came into his own mother's possession.

...

Christmas Eve, 1968 | Graveyard | Caithness, Scotland | 17:25 pm …

"Mummy, where are we going?"

In the distance, the 33-year-old version of their transfiguration Professor appeared, wearing a thick black muggle coat, and dark hair up in a messy bun. Her cheeks were rosy from the cold winter air. Holding on tight to her 8-year-old daughter, she paused for a moment and smiled sadly.

"You'll see," the witch merely said, before she scooped up her little girl and carried her the rest of the way through the tick layers of snow that had covered the grounds.

Shortly after, the pair had reached their destination. A black marble tombstone, with three names beautifully engraved into it.

APOLLO WILLIAM McGONAGALL
* March 12th 1870 – July 5th 1952

PRIMROSE McGONAGALL née GREYSTONE
* April 27th 1897 – July 5th 1952

ATHENA ROSE McGONAGALL
*December 24th 1940 – September 1st 1952

… BELOVED FAHTER – MOTHER – SISTER …

Gently, the witch put little Arina back on the ground, and the little girl watched in awe when her mother waved her hand and conjured a beautiful bouquet of red roses, which she laid down in front of the grave.

Then, she bent down and kneeled in front of it – apparently not at all bothered by the snow that started to soak her robes – and hugged her daughter tightly.

"Remember how Daddy always tells you that Mummy's always a bit sad on Christmas Eve?" she asked carefully, and clutched little Arina closer to her body.

The little girl nodded, and looked at her mother with sad blue eyes.

"Well," the transfiguration Professor continued softly, and pointed with a shaky hand towards the tombstone, "Mummy once had a little sister. Her name was Athena."

Little Arina cuddled closer against her mother. "Did – did she die, Mummy?"

The 33-year-old witch swallowed the lump in her throat, brushed away a tear and nodded sadly. "Yes, Kitten. She died. And – and I'm always a bit sad on Christmas Eve b-because it's her birthday today."

Big blue eyes looked up. "And you don't want her to be alone on her birthday?" the girl asked, innocently.

Both Harry and Ginny knew that this was not the entire reason, but it was apparently a good enough explanation to break such a heart-breaking topic to an 8-year-old girl gently, so the young mother only nodded with a teary smile on her face.

"Just like we always light a candle for Aurora's birthday?"

The young transfiguration mistress sucked in a deep breath; her daughter's question apparently hit her quite off-guard. Once again, she wiped her eyes, cuddled Arina close and brushed a couple of snowflakes from her daughter's long ebony hair.

"Yes, love, just like that," the emerald-eyed witch whispered, and after a moment of silence, picked Arina up once again. "Now, let's go, my love. It's freezing out here… and I'm sure Daddy's made us some hot cocoa for when we're back."

The little girl's blue eyes sparkled excitedly.

However, before the witch apparated them both back home, she turned around once more and softly touched the snow-covered tombstone. Once her wedding band touched the black marble, another name appeared in equally neat handwriting underneath the others.

AURORA LILYANA DUMBLEDORE
* January 31
st, 1960

"IF LOVE COULD A WAY TOWARDS HEAVEN
AND MEMORIES WERE STAIRS
WE WOULD BRING YOU BACK TO THE HERE AND NOW."

The young mother's eyes filled with tears. Then she closed her eyes once more, as to remember her second daughter and the few hours she spent with her. Then she gathered her courage, brushed away the tears and with another touch, the letters disappeared once again. Then she tightened her arms around little Arina and within a swirl of robes, both were gone.

Ginny's heart was aching. While the scene changed once more, she looked at the emerald-eyed young man next to her. He, too, had tears in his eyes at the bittersweet memory and she watched as he opened his hand and curiously stared at the little heart-shaped ruby pendant in his arms.

"I see why your mother loved this necklace," she whispered. "The pendant is beautiful."

Harry only nodded; completely oblivious to the blood-red waves that crashed all around them.

"Harry, what's wrong?"

He looked up at her, puzzled. "It's Athena McGonagall's necklace."

Ginny merely shrugged, unsure of where he was going with this. "I know. That's what you said earlier. I believe you, Harry."

The boy-who-lived flashed her a small smile. "And I appreciate it, Gin."

"Then what are you thinking about all the time?"

Harry shrugged. "I can't help but wonder… Professor McGongagall told us that Rina got Ariana's phoenix necklace."

"Ah, yes, she did."

While the new memory was about to start, Harry tightened his grip around the ruby-heart. "And didn't she also say that she gave Athena's necklace to her other girl?"

Ginny was silent, and roamed through her own memories. "Yes," she eventually agreed, "she did."

She could see the question rising in his eyes. "Then how in Merlin's almighty name did Aurora's necklace get into my mother's possession?"

The red-head's deep brown eyes widened in surprise. She hadn't thought about that particular problem.

"I don't know, Harry," was all she said as she leaned into his embrace, "but like I said before… I guess it's just another thing to ask Professor McGonagall."

...

June 15th 1954 | Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry | Graduation Day | 16:59 pm …

"Merlin, Min, are you alright?" 18-year-old Xemerius asked as he came running through the gigantic entrance doors. Immediately, he spotted his best friend and quickly hurried towards the ebony-haired beauty. "If I wasn't such a caring friend, I'd say that was one of the most spectacular falls I've seen from you."

"I'm fine," she coughed, and the silver-eyed wizard raised an eyebrow. However, he didn't comment on it, just helped his friend up from the cold grounds, and picked up the rolls of parchment and quill that was lying next to her.

"You should really check where you're going. Or stop turning corners quickly… that poor first year is probably scared to death that he ran you over."

Minerva sighed, and sat down on the nearest staircase with her friend.

"What is all this anyway? We're graduating in a couple of hours… you should be rather be concerned about what dress to wear instead of one of your transfiguration experiments," Xemerius mumbled irritated as he tried to make some sort of sense out of the scribbled notes on the parchment, while the emerald-eyed witch stared at something in her hands.

"It's got nothing to do with transfiguration, Xem," Minerva told him, sadness swinging along in her voice. "I – I've been asked to give a speech tonight."

The silver-eyed wizard merely shrugged. "So what?" he asked, "You're Head Girl. It was to be expected. And it's a great honour. You should be proud."

The witch nodded, most of her attention still fixed upon whatever it was she held in her hand.

"I – I have no idea what to say… I – I miss my parents, Xem," she finally admitted, and leaned her head on her friend's shoulder. Instinctively, Xemerius reached out and placed his arm protectively around her shoulders. "I don't even feel like celebrating tonight… it's – it's just … I feel lonely."

Xem nodded. "I know what it feels like," her orphaned friend said, "but what about Albus? I thought he always was a friend of your family?"

The ebony-haired witch sighed heavily. "He is. I did send him an invitation – the only one I actually sent, mind you. He said he wasn't quite sure if he'd make it on time. He's still out of the country doing his research."

Xemerius was about to reply, when the young Gryffindor got up. She extended her hand and pulled him up with her. "Never mind that now… I think I've got a much bigger problem," she whispered and held up the small golden object she had been holding in her hand the whole time.

"It's a time-turner," Harry explained.

Ginny raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?" the witch asked hesitantly, and Harry was about to ask what she meant when he noticed it himself. The hourglass that was so carefully placed within the thin circles of gold… was broken.

"That doesn't look good," Xemerius cringed.

"It must have broken when I fell earlier," Minerva whispered hoarsely. "Do you think it still works?"

The silver-eyed wizard raised an eyebrow at the witch. "How the bloody hell am I supposed to know that? You've been using that thing the last couple of month."

Minerva bit down on her lower lip. "There's only one way to find out, then."

Xemerius' eyes widened and he reached out to grab her hand before she could turn the item. "Min – you can't. It's too dangerous."

"I will only go back a few minutes," she protested, grabbed Xem's robes with one hand and tugged him into the nearest broom closet. "Don't worry, I'll finish the speech in time and find a dress."

Xemerius sighed, he knew when he was fighting a lost cause. "Well then, you better hurry. Otherwise, Poppy will have my head for it…"

Giving him a quick hug, she handed him the rolls of parchment, and turned the little wheel on the time-turner ever-so-slightly. Within second the witch was gone, and the scene changed once more.

...

February 29th 1935 | Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry |Broom closet near the Great Hall | 22:59 pm …

With a loud noise, they watched the 18-year-old version of Minerva McGonagall appear out of nowhere and crash straight into a pile of dirty and out-sorted quidditch uniforms.

Cursing in her famous Scottish accent, the young witch got up and dusted the dirt from the ceiling that had fallen upon her off her robes.

Then she reached for the broken time turner that still dangled around her neck.

"So far so good," she mumbled to herself, took a deep breath and carefully opened the door that let back out into the corridor.

...

"Look at the date!" Harry suddenly exclaimed and pointed towards the neatly written handwriting hovering above them, that only he and Ginny were able to see.

"1935. That's when she accidently travelled back into the time Dumbledore attended Hogwarts."

Ginny's eyes lit up excitedly and she beamed brightly at Harry. "When they fell in love with each other."

...

Nervously, the ebony haired witch walked through the dark corridors, the only light shone from the candles on the wall and the light on her wand. She had just passed the corridor that lead towards the Headmaster's office, when she heard a deep baritone voice calling after her.

"Isn't it a wee bit late for a young Gryffindor to walk the corridors at such a time?"

Almost frozen, Minerva turned around and quickly hid the broken time turner underneath her robes.

"Excuse me, Sir, I was just – "

Her voice broke abruptly. The older man had caught up with her and stared right at her, with an eyebrow raised. At a loss of words, the young witch stared right back at the old wizard, meeting a pair of emerald eyes identical to her own.

"Dad," she whispered, before she realized what she had said, and quickly covered her mouth with her hands.

The tall, muscular older wizard in front of her raised his eyebrow even higher. "What was that?"

The young witch didn't move. All she could do was stare at the younger version of her father. And by the way her beautiful green eyes widened, she must have realized that she had jumped a lot further back in time than she had planned.

"I'm sorry… Minister… I – I don't know what came over me," Minerva stuttered and was about to turn around, when her father caught hold of her small hand.

Holding up his wand a bit higher, he studied her features. "Despite my advanced age, my ears are indeed quit remarkable," he explained, and his eyes travelled from her face down to her hand. "As are my eyes. And this," he said, and pointed towards the old and ancient ring on her finger, "is a ring identical to mine."

Her emerald eyes widened when he showed her his own hand, on which he wore the exact same ring. "This ring has been passed on in my family for centuries. Always given to the first born child," he explained and her beautiful emerald eyes widened – if possible – even more.

Then he moved his hand, carefully reached out to softly lift her chin and studied her features once more. His emerald eyes softened visibly, as he continued to speak in a low voice, "However, I think we should move this conversation to an empty classroom. Do you agree, Minerva?"

...

The scene changed and Minerva and her father were now seated in an old classroom. Two cups of steaming hot tea were waiting on the desk, waiting to be touched.

The silence between them was not awkward at all, however, Apollo McGonagall took some time to study the young woman in front of him once more. And albeit the light in the classroom was not perfect, it was indeed a lot better than it was mere minutes before.

Eventually, the Minister of Magic leaned back in his chair, and his features softened.

"How did you know it was me," the ebony haired witch asked shyly, having gathered all her Gryffindor courage to speak first. "You knew it was me before you saw the ring, didn't you?"

Apollo smiled softly at her, his emerald eyes sparkled mischievously. "Your eyes. For the last couple of month people kept mentioning how my little baby girl's eyes look just like mine."

Minerva smiled sadly at him, not able to take her eyes off her beloved father.

"Which leads me to the question of how you even got here, darling."

His voice was gentle, but demanding at the same time, and Harry was once again reminded that back then, Apollo McGonagall was the current Minister of Magic. His aura was quite powerful and one could see that the 65-year-old wizard was most certainly no one to be crossed with. Apparently, a trait he passed on to his daughter.

The young witch winced and retrieved the broken time turner from underneath her robes.

"You used a broken time turner?" Apollo asked; his voice a bit too calm for Minerva's liking.

"I only wanted to go back a couple of minutes to see if it was still working," she explained, and looked at her hands in shame. "I know it was reckless. I'm sorry."

Wordlessly, she handed the artefact to her father and looked at him expectantly. "Can – can you fix it?"

He seemed to examine the broken piece, before his eyes met hers and he shook his head. "I'm an alchemist, darling, not a mechanic," he told her, but upon seeing the devastated expression on her face, he quickly continued, "but I might know someone who can. However, it might take some time."

Minerva nervously bit her lower lip. "What – what's going to happen with me until then?" Her voice shook with fear as she glanced up at her father once more.

The Minister took a deep breath and though for a moment.

"How is your German?" he wondered curiously.

Minerva stared at him confused. "Excuse me?"

Apollo smirked at her. "Your mother and I both speak German, I'm sure we will have at least given you some lessons in the future?"

The ebony haired witch rolled her eyes. "Yeah, you did."

"So, let me repeat my question. Wie steht es um deine deutsch Kenntnisse?" he repeated, smirking.

Etwas eingerostet, aber es wird schon gehen," she replied with a shrug.

Apollo clapped his hands and got up from his chair. "Excellent. Rusty is good enough."

"Good enough for what?"

"Until we fix your time-turner, Hogwarts is the safest place for you, Minerva," Apollo explained with a reassuring smile. Then he waved his hand and the witch's robes changed into an older modell, however, her Gryffindor-coloured tie and skirt remained.

"I suggest we introduce you as an exchange student from Germany, who has been sorted into Gryffindor. We will tell everyone here that you fancy a new challenge and would, thus, like to take your NEWTS at Hogwarts. You are in Gryffindor and in your seventh year, are you not, darling?"

Dumbfounded, the ebony-haired witch only nodded in agreement.

Apparently pleased with himself, the old wizard smiled proudly at his daughter. "If you come after your mother, you'll take at least 3 NEWTS… she's always been an overachiever…"

The young witch sucked in a deep breath, and at the mentioning of her mother, tears a lonely tear ran down her cheeks. She quickly brushed it away with the sleeve of her robe, but Apollo saw it nevertheless.

With a sigh, he sat down on the chair again, opposite from his daughter, and studied her features intently before he reached across the desk and carefully took her hand in his.

"I am dead, am I not?" he asked quietly, and softly brushed his thumb over the back of her palm. "The future you came from… I'm not alive anymore?"

Emerald eyes widened in alarm. "What – how – why would you – "

"I am your father," the old wizard gently lifted her chin once more. "I can read the truth it in your beautiful eyes. Again. You look at me with such grief, painfull sorrow and longing… It breaks my own heart to see you like this, my darling girl."

Harry's heart broke when he saw the young witch's carefully built walls of distance crumble. She knew that she wasn't supposed to tell her father anything about the future, much less allowed to interfere. But the look on her father's face already told her that he could not be fooled, and so she let her tears fall.

Without hesitation, Apollo got up, and took his daughter in his arms, holding her as tight as he possibly could. He mumbled soothing words into her ear, while stroking his long fingers through her long, ebony curls. Shivers ran through her body and she buried her face in her father's robes, unable to stop the tears from falling.

The old wizard didn't say anything, he let her cry for as long as she needed. Eventually, the young witch lifted her head and stared at her father with heartbroken eyes.

"I wasn't supposed to tell you that," she whispered, but didn't move out of her father's embrace.

"I would have found out sooner rather than later, darling," he reassured her.

"But – "

He shook his head. "No buts. I'm your father. And I want you to know, that – despite what will happen to me in the future – I'm already so incredibly proud of you, my love."

Minerva buried herself even deeper in his robes. "I – I love you, Daddy."

The old wizard chuckled and planted a soft kiss on her hair. "I love you, too, sweetie. So very much."

They stood like that for a while longer, before Minerva looked at her father questioningly.

"I won't be able to use my real name, will I?"

Apollo shook his head. "As much as I'd like to show you off to everyone," he chuckled, "you find yourself in the year 1935, and I'm afraid it would only complicate matters if I had to explain why my currently 5-months-old daughter is walking around the castle."

Even Minerva's lips turned into a small smile now. "Perhaps I could go by my middle name instead?"

"Esmeralda?" Apollo mused with a small smirk, "I've always like that name. Why not. It won't be too far way from the truth. Esmeralda… Esmeralda Pendragon?"

Minerva raised an eyebrow. "Won't it raise suspicion?"

Her father only shrugged. "No… I don't think it will… Not a lot of people keep up with old pureblood family lines. Don't get me wrong," he added after seeing his daughter's irritated expression, "everyone seeks to be pureblooded these days… but nobody ever bothers to do some ancestry research… if they did, they were to find that people which are so carelessly labled as 'mudbloods' often have magical ancestors."

The young witch smiled somewhat sadly at her father.

"Things will only get worse in the future, won't they?" Apollo asked with a sigh.

"I can't tell you, Dad."

The Minister rolled his eyes. "You don't have to, darling. I can read your eyes like an open book."

Like her father, Minerva rolled her eyes, too.

"On that note," the elderly wizards continued with a smirk, "you should probably change your hair colour, too. This way, it is easier for people you met here in the past to recognize you once you have returned to your own time."

"Alright. What about a blonde?" Minerva asked with a smile, then pointed her wand towards her hair. "Crinus Muto."

Harry's jaw dropped at her seemingly easy display of difficult human transfiguration; even Apollo looked impressed. They had attempted that spell in his second year, and even Hermione had trouble performing it without having one or two of her original curls remaining. But Professor McGonagall's hair had changed perfectly, and instead of her lovely ebony hair, blonde curls cascaded down her back.

"Impressive, my dear. Really impressive," Apollo McGonagall marvelled at his daughter's magic. "I dare say you won't be having any trouble in Professor Merryweather's transfiguration NEWT class tomorrow."

...

Once again the scene jumped forward.

Ginny used to opportunity to glance at Harry, her brown eyes a bit teary. "He's an amazing father."

Harry nodded with a sad smile. "Yeah… I mean, I'm still heartbroken over my parents, and I can hardly remember them," he whispered. "I can't imagine how devastating it must have been for her when she lost them."

...

March 1st, 1935 | Transfiguration Classroom | 7th-year- NEWT Class | 08:15 am …

"Attention," Professor Merryweather's voice thundered through the transfiguration classroom. Then she turned her head and smiled warmly at the young blonde witch, who stood quite nervously at the classroom door.

"Class, I would like to introduce Miss Esmeralda Pendragon," she explained and gestured for the girl to step further inside, "she's an exchange student from the Blocksberg Sanctuary in Germany. She will stay here for the remainder of the school year."

Some mummering was heard from the 7th-year students, and Minerva took a deep breath.

"Now, Miss Pendragon, why don't you take a seat," Merryweather suggested and scanned the classroom for an empty desk, which she spotted next to an auburn-haired wizard in the last row. "I'm sure Mr. Dumbledore won't mind."

"Albus?" the young witch whispered in surprise, and her emerald green eyes widened drastically when she took notice of the young version of the man she had known for almost all her life.

Relieved to having a person in the room she at least sort of knew, she flashed him a smile. However, contrary to the expected reaction, young Albus only groaned. "Professor, this is Bartholomew's seat."

Merryweather apparently didn't care at all for that. "Apparently it has escaped your notice, Mr. Dumbledore, but Mr. Hawk has just recently decided to drop this class after all."

Dumbledore rolled his eyes at her. "Well then, Professor, I'd prefer sitting alone then."

"Well, I am the Professor in this class, and your opinion on this topic matters only little to me, Mr. Dumbledore. I'm sure you and Miss Pendragon will get along splendidly. Now, let's get started, shall we?"

Quickly, as not to disturb the class any more than she already head, the emerald-eyed witch crossed the room and took her seat next to the blue-eyed wizard.

"Just so we're clear, this is my final year, and I can't waste any time explaining the easiest of things to you," he hissed underneath his breath.

Minerva's couldn't help but stare at him; she clearly wasn't used to see this cold and mean-spirited attitude.

Harry and Ginny, too, were also rather shocked at the way the young wizard behaved. There was absolutely no trace of the candy-loving and good-hearted Headmaster they had all grown to respect – or love, in Professor McGonagall's case.

"Now, why would you assume – "

"You're new. And from another country," the wizard interrupted her mercilessly. "This is a NEWT class. I highly doubt you will last very long. Usually, only students gifted in transfiguration are allowed to take this class."

Furious emerald eyes glared at him. "Oh, is that so. What makes you even think I'd ask for your help?" she hissed underneath her breath.

Blue eyes sparkled with ignorance. "Because you will need help. And I'm the best student here," he sneered.

"We will see about that," Minerva mumbled and turned towards her transfiguration book.

"What was that?" young Albus asked annoyed.

"Nothing," the emerald-eyed witch hissed, "I was just saying you're not the man I thought you were."

Whatever the young wizard was about to reply got interrupted by the nasty sound of fingernails scratched against the blackboard.

"Now that I have everyone's attention once more," Professor Merryweather glared at the class, "we will continue with last week's topic. Each of you will be given two wizard's chess figures. It is your task you transform your pawns into queens. Keep in mind your wand movement, incantation and the exact calculations of skill and proportion. A queen, which does not possess the ability of all her movements among the chess board, will be seen as a failed attempt."

Sure enough, most of the students started off with the incantation immediately.

And even though young Albus thought about it for a couple of seconds longer, his first attempts all failed. He did manage to transfigure his pawn into a queen, but once she was stood upon the chess board, she didn't move at al.

"Well, it is a complicated spell," the blue-eyed wizard defended himself when the emerald-eyed witch only raised an eyebrow at his rather unfortunate looking queen. "Besides, you haven't even started yet. What is it you're doing anyway?"

She shook her head, but didn't look up from her parchment. "And here I thought you didn't want to talk to me," she stated, and scribbled something down on her paper. "But if you must know, I've calculated the necessary speed and force when it comes to wand movement. It is essential to get it right. Otherwise… well… I think your queen is a rather good example for a misapplied transfiguration."

Albus blue eyes blazed furiously. "Oh really?"

Harry almost giggled at the smug smile that was playing around the witch's lips. "Really. Besides, you're saying it wrong. It's Re-GInam. Not Regi-NAM."

The wizard only sneered. "You do it then, if you're so clever. Go on."

Harry almost doubled over with laughter, recalling a familiar scene between Ron and Hermione during their first Charms class.

Also, unbeknown to both students, Professor Merryweather had appeared right behind them and watched curiously as the blonde haired witch took a deep, calming breath and one last glance at her calculations before she cleared her throat and pointed her wand at the black pawn.

"Converto Reginam."

With a bright smile, the young witch watched as the now black queen jumped upon the chess board and resumed her rightful place; bowing slightly to the emerald-eyed witch.

"Extraordinary work, Miss Pendragon! 20 points for Gryffindor," Professor Merryweather said, announcing her presence to both Minerva and Albus, of which the latter stared angrily at the chess board. "I think, Mr. Dumbledore, that you will – contrary to your earlier belief – benefit from Miss Pendragon's skills. If you drop this terrible attitude of yours, she might even be willing to help you with your chess set."

When she was far enough away, Albus turned to the emerald-eyed witch with and glared at her.

...

Once again, the scenery changed. To say Harry was surprised at how cold young Professor Dumbledore had acted towards the young witch was un understatement. He was quite aware of the fact that his ideas and ideals were quite different in his early years – Dumbledore had told him so himself. But being told about it, and actually re-living these memories was a different thing all together. On the other hand, it must have been quite the blow to his ego, to be outsmarted by such a young and beautiful witch, who had just recently joined the class. How the two of them would ever fall in love, however, was beyond him.

Excited, Harry watched how the transfiguration classroom quickly dissolved in waves of red and another classroom was rebuilt. It looked empty, and hardly used.

...

March 20th, 1935 | Hogwarts | Empty Class Room | 2nd Floor | 19:47 pm …

"You need to think about something happy," the emerald eyed witch said casually, having observed her fellow student from her spot at the door.

Albus turned around and half sighed, half glared at her. "How long have you been standing there?"

Minerva shrugged. "Long enough to see that you have trouble casting your Patronus Charm."

The wizard opened his mouth, but to his and Minerva's surprise, he kept his tongue and refrained from a nasty comment.

"What did you think about?" the witch asked, and her green eyes sparkled curiously as she walked further into the classroom.

Albus rolled his eyes. "It's none of your business."

"Of course. You're right. What was I thinking? Helping the oh so great Albus Dumbledore," Minerva mumbled, sarcasm dripping from every word as she turned around on her heel to exit the classroom.

"The first duel I won," Albus shouted after her after a moment of consideration, "that's what I thought about. But it still doesn't work."

The witch chuckled and turned around once more. "Of course it doesn't work."

When the wizard only stared at her confusedly, she shrugged. "Like I said, you need to think about something happy."

"But I did," Albus protested.

Emerald eyes narrowed. "It's always about pride with you, isn't it?"

He raised an eyebrow and the witch sighed once more. "Winning a duel… sure, it makes you feel victorious, perhaps even invincible. But at the same time, it's entire core is laced with destruction and pain and violence. This… this isn't happiness, Albus," she explained with her soft Scottish accent. "You need something that makes your heart flutter. Something, so strong that you want to chase it in your dreams… something that touches your soul and embraces the fierceness and courage that slumbers somewhere deep within you. Your memory needs to fill your whole body with a light, so strong that it will heat you up entirely and protect you from these villainous and evil creatures and their cold and soul-sucking demeanour."

The blue-eyed wizard was silent, and for the first time since they had met, his eyes shone with respect.

"A good friend once told me, that we will always have memories to guide us through the darkness," she said with a small smile and looked at him intently, "loved ones can be taken, but memories will always stay within us. And I'm sure, if you just search deeply within you, you will find something strong enough to protect your soul."

They stayed in silence once again; both lost in their own thoughts.

"What is it you think about?" Albus wondered and he looked at her. Questioning blue eyes meeting emerald green.

For a moment, the witch just stood there, holding his glance.

"My little sister," she eventually whispered, voice thick with emotion, "I think about her."

"You're close?"

Minerva smiled sadly. "We were."

Always known for picking up details, young Albus naturally noticed her choice of words. "Past tense? You had a fight or something?"

The witch shook her head. "She died."

The young wizard swallowed. "I'm sorry," he said genuinely, and Minerva nodded, brushing away a lonely tear.

"I was about to depart for my first school year," the young witch continued softly, brushed one of her long blonde curls behind her ear and sat down on one of the desks. "She walked me to the tr – to the station. And she hugged me and smiled at me… she had such a beautiful smile… She was so excited… probably more so than I was… even back then she couldn't wait to go herself."

A shadow crossed her face at the thought that Athena never saw the castle. She shook her head, looked at Albus, and continued.

"Well, and just before I left, she hugged me once more, and she wished me good luck. That's my memory. Simple as that."

This said, she got up from her seat and walked towards the door, when Albus called her back once more.

"Esmeralda?"

Surprised, she turned around. Emerald green eyes looking at him expectantly.

"Thank you," he said, wholeheartedly.

The young witch smiled. "You're welcome, Albus."

...

The memory ended, the red had cleared and the young couple was thrown out of the Mablomi again.

"Well, Professor McGonagall did mention that they had a 'rocky' start," Ginny smirked, and picked up the mirror from the ground. Thinking about it, it had been quite careless to enter the mirror together and leaving it lying on the grass.

Harry nodded, "Rocky is one way to put it," he laughed, link his arm with hers and lead her towards the large white tents he spotted in front of the castle.


Minerva almost didn't hear her husband's words, but the curse had weakened her body, and together with Poppy's devastating news about her long-lost daughter, she all but collapsed into Albus' arms. Tears spilled from her beautiful emerald eyes and she buried her face in her husband's robes.

"Tabby, my dear, what happened?" she heard Albus' voice, and he gently stroked her hair that had fallen loose from its usual bun.

Minerva snuggled deeper into Albus' embrace before she finally managed to find her voice again.

"Poppy… she – she lied to me… to us."

The old wizard didn't say anything, just continued holding her in his strong arms.

"That – that night," the emerald eyed witch continued, and her voice was nothing but a mere whisper, "Aurora – our little girl – she didn't die. She was kidnapped."

Finally, her tears had dried, and anger slowly replaced the sorrow that was written in them. "All this time… she might have been alive, Albus. And we never knew about it."


Still shaking his head, Aberforth Dumbledore headed towards the little table Rolanda, Augusta and Molly were sitting on after they finished serving brunch to everyone. Well, by now, it was actually past lunch time.

"Finally had the long overdue heart to heart with your brother, Abe?" Rolanda teased, without looking up from her big plate of scrambled eggs and bacon.

"Finally realized that your one true love is bacon?" Aberforth shot back, but a small smile was playing around the corners of his mouth.

Rolanda rolled her eyes while Augusta and Molly chuckled.

"Just for your information, I am indeed quite happy with my plate of bacon, thank you very much," the flying instructor replied curtly. "At least bacon – contrary to men – does not have the tendency to cheat on you."

The younger Dumbledore brother cringed. "Can't argue with that," he said and sat down next to her, and eyed her plate. "Care to share?"

Grumbling something incoherently, the witch waved her wand and a full plate came flying towards Aberforth, who nodded thankfully.

"How did it go?" Molly asked, looking up from her lunch, "with Albus?"

Blue eyes looked at the red-haired woman questioningly.

"What Molly means," Augusta added with a sigh, "is that it looked like you had at least a decent conversation?"

Aberforth nodded. "We're working on it. For Ana," he mumbled through his bread-filled mouth. "Still can't believe the old fool got married."

Rolanda almost choked on her toast. She looked up and rolled her eyes. "You and me both," she complained. When she heard a soft cough from Augusta, she looked at her friend with a raised eyebrow. "Come on, Auggie, don't tell me you are not the tiniest bit angry with Minerva. She got married without telling us. For Merlin's sake, she had a kid without telling us!"

Molly beamed. "A very lovely daughter, mind you."

Neville's grandmother sighed. "I know what you mean, Ro, but I understand her reasoning, too."

Yellow eyes looked doubtful.

"My dear Frank and his Alice were tortured – like so many others – because they fought on our side," she mumbled sadly and picked on her eggs. "A lot of Grindelwald's follower sought revenge on Albus for defeating him… and Minerva's always on Riddle's list…"

Several pairs of eyes stared at her.

"She's always been gifted," Augusta explained with a shrug, "the magic that flows in her veins is so powerful that most of the time, she doesn't even need a wand. Naturally, Voldemort used to convince her more than once to join him. If I were in her shoes, I would have hidden Frank as well."

Aberforth nodded thoughtfully, however, it was Rolanda who spoke up once more. "Alright, alright, I get it. And I am happy for them. I really am," she added after three pairs of eyes looked at her doubtfully. "Still hurts, you know, that she kept it from us. We are her friends, after all."

Augusta tapped her softly on the shoulder and chuckled softly. "Admit it, Ro. You're just salty you weren't invited to the wedding."

The flying instructor merely threw her arms in the air and sighed in defeat.


"So, what's your story?" Draco asked the dark-haired beauty, who sat next to him in silence, her eyes closed and hear head laid against the tree trunk.

"My story?"

Draco shrugged. "Well, yeah, I mean… I'm the one who always stood in Potter's way. Too much of a coward to resist my father's influence. So, what about you?"

For the first, time, Astoria looked at him. "I'm the invisible one."

When Draco only raised an eyebrow, she continued. "You never really noticed me before, did you?"

The blond shook his head, clearly embarrassed.

"Well, that's the story of my life," Astoria whispered, and although her hands trembled, her facial features remained calm. "My family, like yours, is part of the sacred twenty-eight. But I started questioning their ridiculous beliefs a long time ago. And much to my parents' disappointment, I've been sorted into Ravenclaw. Unlike Daphne… she's always been the favourite."

Draco sucked in a deep breath.

"I know she's been taken to St. Mungos," Astoria continued slowly. "She's been hit with a nasty curse. I hope she'll get better soon. She's all I have left since my parents went into hiding."

Draco hesitated for a moment, then he put one of his strong arms around her. She, too, hesitated at first, before she leaned into him.

"I can imagine that you are quite capable of looking after yourself," Draco mused, and a small smile appeared on the brunette's face, "but Professor McGonagall has invited me and my mother to stay at her manor for the time being… and well… being a Gryffindor through and through I'm sure she'd extend the offer to you."

Astoria gave a small laugh and shook her head. "Draco…"

He smirked at her. "And I'd have at least some support… going up against all these Gryffindors and all."

Albeit her dark blue eyes still looked a bit teary, she flashed him a smile. "What makes you think I'll support you, hmm?"


Albus had always taken great pride in the fact that he was hardly rendered speechless. This time, however, was different. Far too many thoughts shot through his mind at the same time, so all he could do was hold Minerva while she was crying.

"We will get to the bottom of this, Tabby," he eventually whispered into her ear, and gently brushed his long fingers through her slightly greying hair.

He felt her relax in his arms, and the sobbing quietened down. Slowly she moved her head from his chest and searched his eyes.

"How could this happen, Albus?" she asked, and her sorrow was written all over her face.

Albus shook his head and held her closer.

"I don't know, my dear."

He honestly didn't know. After all, they had accepted it so long ago that Aurora had died a couple of hours after she was born. He never had a reason to doubt Poppy. And back then, it wasn't unheard of that the Death Eaters attacked public places such as St. Mungos. Why steal a newborn child? He rummaged his mind to find a possible explanation, but couldn't come up with anything. Sure, if someone had found out about his relationship with Minerva, it would have been the perfect opportunity to blackmail him. Well, or both of them. On the other hand, Albus was convinced that the little group they had told about Minerva' pregnancy was more than trustworthy. Nicholas, Perenelle, Xemerius and Poppy. They were the only ones that knew. Admittedly, the fact that Poppy would keep such vial information from them hurt, but he assumed that the mediwitch had no bad intentions. Which didn't really leave room for other scenarios. Except…

"How much do you know about Dorothy Holloway?" Albus suddenly asked worriedly.

Minerva sniffed and brushed her tears away. "Dorothy? Why would you – "

"I've been thinking about who would benefit from taking Aurora. The people we told about girls would never hurt us like this. Not even Poppy," he added when he saw the dark shadow cross his wife's face. "Which only leaves someone on the nursing staff."

Emerald green eyes widened, but she shook her head vehemently. "But Dorothy? What motive could she possibly have had?"

Albus shrugged, and his forehead wrinkled. "I don't know," he repeated and placed an arm around her, "but she's the missing connection."

He softly stroked her cheek, and captured her lips with his lovingly. "We'll find out what happened to our little girl, Tabby, I promise."

Minerva nodded, and smiled at him ever-so-slightly. She was about to reply, when they heard Harry's voice behind them.


"Professors," Harry greeted, and flashed them both a smile. However, upon seeing Professor McGonagall's tear-stricken face, his features tightened. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, Harry," Dumbledore answered and patted him softly on the shoulder. "Minerva and Madam Pompfrey had a small disagreement about a personal matter."

The transfiguration mistress straightened, and like Ginny linked her arm with her better half, before she smiled at them weakly. "I suggest we go and fetch the others. I'm afraid if Xemerius is left alone at the manor for too long he will get bored. Last time that happened he charmed all the knights' armours so he could practice duelling with them."

Harry laughed. "Well, he must be an exceptional dueller, then."

The Deputy smirked slightly and continued walking with her husband, apparently using him instead of her walking stick. "I just wish he would clean afterwards, that's all. But enough of that now," she said gently and turned her head to look at Harry, "how did it go with Petunia, Harry?"

Harry felt Ginny squeezing his hand, and he tightened his grip around the heart-shaped ruby necklace in his fist. "Interesting, to say the least," he told her, and decided that this was not the place and time to ask her about her about the necklace.

He felt Dumbledore looking at him with the kind of expression that told him he didn't quite buy his excuse.

However, before he was able to give any further information, they were joined by another set of people.

.

"Minerva. Albus," Severus Snape said in welcome and nodded respectfully towards Harry and Ginny, albeit not letting go of Narcissa's hand in his own.

Minerva flashed them a small smile. "Severus. Narcissa. Draco," she greeted, then her emerald eyes fell upon the young brunette next to them. "Miss Greengrass. It's good to see you up and about."

"Professors," Astoria said politely, and quickly greeted Harry and Ginny as well.

"Are you ready to depart?" Albus asked flashing all four of them a knowing smile.

Narcissa nodded, but her blue eyes moved towards her son and the young Ravenclaw.

"I know I might be overstepping your kindness," she began, "but Draco wondered if it was possible for young Miss Greengrass to come along to the manor?"

The transfiguration Mistress smiled sadly at the young girl. "I've heard your sister was taken to St. Mungos."

She nodded, "Yes, Professor. And my parents – well, I – I can understand if you say you don't want someone like me in your house and – "

"Miss Greengrass," Minerva interrupted the girl, "you are more than welcome to tag along."

"Thank you so much, Professor," she said, beaming at her and one young Slytherin student in particular.

"Don't worry, Miss Greengrass," Minerva replied, but turned her head to look at Harry and for a moment, their eyes locked. "It might be frightening, but sometimes, good things fall apart so better things can fall together."

Harry smiled at her, and together, the little group walked further up the hill towards their destination.

.

"Merlin, what's gotten into Ro?" Minerva asked irritated after they had reached their friends. All their eyes fell upon the flying instructor, whose head was still resting on her bent arms over the table.

"Oh, the usual," Augusta laughed, "she's throwing a tantrum because you didn't invite her to your wedding."

Albus saw Minerva's lips twitching slightly, and despite the emotional roller-coaster she's been on recently, she was clearly thankful for her friend's antics. Albus knew that it didn't keep her mind from wandering to Aurora, but at least it gave her a small and very welcome distraction.

"You've had three of them yourself," Minerva chuckled, "isn't that enough for you, Ro?"

Her head moved, and frantic yellow eyes stared at her. "But – but I've had yours all planned out! A bunch of bridesmaids, flower girls, a gorgeous white princess-like wedding ball gown, the sparkling tiara and matching veil, an ancient church filled with people…" the witch sighed.

Albus glanced at her, amusement dancing in his sparkling blue eyes.

"What?" Rolanda asked, pointing her finger at the couple. "Anything wrong?"

"Oh, nothing," Minerva replied with a smirk, and her emerald eyes looked at him lovingly. "These plans do sound incredible. Almost like it turned out to be, right Albus?"

Albus couldn't help himself but chuckle, knowing full well that his wife was having her fun with the flying instructor.

"Accio," he whispered, and a small golden pocket watch came flying out of his robes. Whispering another spell, it opened to reveal an old picture of their wedding day, which he handed to Rolanda and the rest of the group.

"Who knew you were such a romantic," Rolanda teased and turned towards Minerva. "I'm curious… on your wedding night, did you – "

Albus wasn't at all sad that her chin dropped suddenly, yellow eyes wide open. She clapped her hands together over her mouth, in a vain attempt to muffle the hysterical sound that escaped her.

While she wordlessly handed the picture to Aberforth, Augusta and Molly, who in return passed it towards Severus and Narcissa.

Meanwhile, Minerva leaned into his side. He wrapped his strong arm around her waist, cupped her cheek with his other hand and kissed her softly – which was in a way the same position they were in when the photograph was taken. Of course, minus the dark grey muggle suit and tie he wore that day.

She had loved their wedding – they both did – but it was not at all like Rolanda had imagined.

Along with Poppy, Xemerius, Nicholas and Perenelle Flammel, they had travelled to Wiltshire, right in the midst of the ring of standing stones that the muggle called Stonehenge. Since Nicholas had agreed to be his Best Man, Perenelle Flammel had performed the traditional ceremony, binding a witch and wizards in magical matrimony.

Of course, Poppy had been Minerva's Maid of Honour. The only other person present was Xemerius, who gave her away. It was a simple, but nonetheless beautiful ceremony, away from preying eyes, within a magnificent landscape, surrounded by ancient magic.

And her dress… it was magical. For a moment he closed his eyes, recalling one of his most treasured memories. When his eyes fell upon Minerva while she walked towards them, flashing him one of her beautiful smiles. She never wanted to wear a veil, so he was able to look into her glistening emerald eyes while she held on tightly to Xemerius' arm.

Sometimes, the old wizards still couldn't fathom what she had seen in him back then. She was drop-dead gorgeous. She wore an ivory-coloured floor-length sheath dress with an off the shoulder neckline that revealed her porcelain skin and collar bone, and was made from elegant chiffon. It fit her slim waist perfectly and fell straight to the floor below her hips and ended with a short train, that was adorned with beautiful embroidery. The gown was simple, easy to move around, effortless, elegant and beautiful – Minerva.

"She – she looks like goddamn goddess," the flying instructor screamed and pointed accusingly at Minerva, who obviously didn't really know what to say.

"Rolanda is right," Augusta mumbled in awe, "that gown is lovely. Where did you get it, Min?"

The witch simply shrugged. "I had it tailored by Madam Malkin," she said with a small smile. "I described what I wanted – and what I didn't – and well, it turned out even better than I imagined."

Albus smiled at his wife and encircled her waist with his arm.

"Arina looks so much like you," Ginny whispered while she passed the picture on to Harry. "Did she wear your dress at her wedding, too?"

Minerva chuckled slightly and shook her head. "No, dear, she didn't."

"But – but it's such a lovely gown," Rolanda protested, having found her normal voice again.

It was Albus turn to answer. "Arina wanted something a bit more… princessy," he said, smiling at the memory of his little girl getting married.

Harry laughed. Augusta looked disappointed. "What a shame to waste such a lovely gown…"

Albus felt his wife tense for a moment, apparently Harry had noticed, too, for he looked at them curiously.

Minerva's eyes met his shortly, and he nodded, encouraging her to bond with the boy.

"Well, it was worn a second time," she whispered gently, and her emerald eyes never left her daughter's godson. "I gave it to Lily for her wedding day."

Several sounds of endearment were heard in the background, and Harry beamed brightly at her. "Do – do you have pictures?"

Minerva smiled and nodded. "I do. They're back at the Manor. I can show you later if you want."

The 17-year-old young man smiled happily. "I'd love to, Professor, thank you."

"Oh, Harry," she chuckled softly, but looked at Ginny, Draco and Astoria as well, "I think we have reached the point where you all call me by my first name, alright?"

Harry didn't reply. He took a couple of steps forward and hugged her tightly.

"Now," Albus spoke, his blue eyes dancing at the scene in front of him. "Let's get to the Manor, shall we? By now I share Minerva's concern… Xemerius Brooks on his own in a house filled with knights' armours is never a good combination."


Back down at the shore of the Black Lake, Poppy wiped away her tears.

Xemerius had warned her about Minerva's reaction. He knew she wouldn't take it well. And as much as she hated to admit it, he was right.

She had kept the secret for so long, and now that it was finally out, she feared that Minerva would never forgive her.

Sighing, she climbed up the last couple of stairs towards the top.

When she had finally reached the top, her pale blue eyes widened.

Immediately, she raised her wand at the intruder in front of her.

"Hands where I can see them."

Turning around, Poppy sucked in a deep breath when she recognized who he was. And once again she cursed herself for her lack of duelling skills. As riddiculous as it might sound, in another life I'll accept Xem's invitation to join in a duel against charmed knight armours…

"I am not here to cause any harm. I'm here to turn myself in," he shouted, and threw his wand towards her.

The medi-witch stared at the blond man with caution, and quickly picked up the wand. She was hardly trained in fighting, so she prayed to Merlin that he would not attack her with some sort of wandless magic.

"Why would I believe you?"

Lucius Malfoy's eyes darkened and he started coughing heavily. "Because I'll try to warn you a-about ss-someone," he suddenly coughed up blood. "B-but t-there's a s-spell to p-p-prevent t-that."

Poppy – the mediwitch she was – threw caution to the wind and ran towards him.

"Lucius," she screamed and kneeled down where the blond man had just collapsed.

She cradled his head in her hands. His body shivered, and his face was pain-stricken and his voice was barely audible as he said his last words and drew his final breath before his hollow eyes closed forever.


.

A.N.: First of all, I wish you all a late Happy – and especially healthy! – New Year 2021! Once again, I am terribly late with my update, but the almost 15k chapter should make up for some of that I hope 😊 I really hope you enjoy it! It's my favourite so far! And *drum roll please* I have already started with the next chapter! Thank you all for your continued support, reviews, favs and follows! This story is my baby, and I'm so happy to see that some people are still reading this! *hugs for all*

Oh, and seriously, I haven't watched the second part of Fantastics beasts… but ever since I saw pictures of Jude Law portraying a young Albus… my ADMM muse came back for sure! How can a man be so dashingly handsome? *_*

WC: 14681 (yeah, well, it did get a bit out of hands this time *blushes*)