Project Motherhood: Parasoul

by Gamer95

The Dursleys, bored with their nephew, decide to sell him off into slavery. Fortunately for him, the princesa of the Canopy Kingdom will be there to save him from this living nightmare...

2. Chapter 2

A few hours later, the young princesa awoke, feeling the small weight in her arms. She smiled softly and kissed his head as she realized the role she'd taken on. She wouldn't spring anything on him just yet... But if he ever asked to call her his mother, she wonuld't refuse. As she closed her eyes, he subconsciously spoke once more. "Love you... miss Parasoul..."

His voice was so precious, his tiny body so cuddly and crying out for love. Parasoul felt like this wasn't a boy, but she had somehow found a baby angel. An angel who fell from the clouds and landed in her lap, and she was beyond happy to have found him.

"I may have only had Harry for a day, but should anything happen to him, I would kill everyone in the room who hurt him." She thought with a grin, rubbing the boy's back.

She smiled and whispered softly to him as she began to drift away once more, "I love you too, Harry." That night, as he listened to her heartbeat, Harry was not troubled by the nightmares that had plagued him for so long. For once, he fell into a dreamless slumber as his body was finally given a chance to properly rest.

The next morning, Parasoul awakened with all the dignity a royal position would entail, meaning little if any She took a few moments to note the little extra weight in her arms, and she looked down to see Harry sleeping in her arms, cutely sucking his thumb.

Reclining against her, pillows she was content to let him sleep a while longer and run her fingers through his hair. She carefully adjusted the blanket wrapped around him and smiled at the tranquility of the morning. Unfortunately the moment was broken as her sister poked her head in the room with a grin on her face.

"Hey, how's he- AWW!" She began and softly screamed the second part of her question when she saw the sleeping boy. "He's so precious!"

"Umbrella! Don't wake him up!" Parasoul hissed back. Unfortunately, it was too late as Harry began squirming around in her arms. "No... don't wake up yet... you look so cute when you sleep!"

"W..whami?" Harry mumbled. "Nedtaclean...neetamakfood..."

Parasoul exhaled through her nostrils, silently cursing her sister for always being the early bird. Most all of her mornings were the only times of the day where she lost any and all dignity aside from the occasional blunder.

She shushed Harry gently and rocked him in her arms to soothe him, lulling him back to sleep. Parasoul brought a finger to her lips to silence her sister before gesturing towards Harry combined with a look that got her message across without a single word. 'Harry is still sleeping, so please keep it down.' Umbrella smiled sheepishly before carefully closing the door behind her and sneaking over to the bed, she wanted to be there when Harry woke up for the first time in his new home!

The two sisters watched over the sleeping Harry for several minutes, just watching him at peace and happy. Aside from the occasional shift in Parasoul's arms, he scarcely moved, content to just sleep. "He seems happy." The younger sister noted. "Can't blame him though. He's got the best pillows in the castle!" Parasoul blinked before noticing Harry was resting his head on her breasts.

Parasoul blinked, then gave her sister a 'seriously?' look but said nothing. Umbrella giggled at her sisters' annoyance. Knowing she wasn't going to be able to say anything that would stop her sister from continuing with her happy morning routine, Parasoul settled for heading towards a living room to await breakfast with her new charge.

Seating herself on a couch, she sighed, looking down at the still sleeping boy and grinned. Seeing him sleep was so... therapeutic in an odd way, and she couldn't explain why.

Umbrella approached them with a pout. "Siiiis, it was only a joke..."

She lightly flicked Umbrella on the forehead and rolled her eyes, "Please keep such comments to a minimum around Harry." Umbrella pouted as she rubbed her forehead but she could understand what her sister was getting at. Let Harry have some form of childhood innocence, but still they'll have their work cut out for them with his upbringing before them.

Parasoul smiled down at the sleeping Harry and gently rubbed his back as he snuggled in closer. "I remember when you were his age, Umbrella... You would climb all over me to try and wake me up..." Umbrella grinned at the memory, and Harry stirred, yawning cutely before looking up at Parasoul.

Parasoul smiled down at him and gently cupped his face with her free hand, "Good morning Harry, did you sleep well?" Harry nodded even as he sleepily rubbed at his eyes.

"Yes Ms Parasoul." Umbrella cooed and reaches over to gently ruffle his already messy bed head.

"Hi Miss 'Brella." He mumbled as well. His tired voice and small coo made both women let out an 'aww' at the sight. He was so wholesome and it was clear he was trying to be respectful to them. As he began to wake up fully, he looked around then asked: "Um, do you want me to make us food?"

"Heh, that's cute." Umbrella smiled down at him. "But a little sweetie pie like you couldn't cook! You're too tiny!"

"But, I did it all the time."

Parasoul's mouth formed into a thin line. "That is all wrong, Harry. You're just too young. We have staff to cook for us." She explained gently. Harry nodded slowly. Parasoul strokes his hair.

He smiled contently at the display of affection and leaned against Parasoul, feeling at ease and protected. Parasoul smiled, then rose to her feet with a small sigh. "Now then... Shall we go and have breakfast now?" Umbrella grinned and hopped to her feet.

"The chefs are just about finished!"

After stepping into her slippers and throwing a robe around her shoulders Parasoul followed after her sister. She smiled as Umbrella excitedly chattered on about everything that was waiting for them, "They made pancakes, waffles, bacon and eggs, they even have fresh squeezed orange juice waiting for us!" Harry was hanging on every word she said, he had made just about every dish she named but he never got to taste them before.

Parasoul noted this and exhaled through her nose. "It's time he had something aside from soup, I suppose... And a healthy breakfast is a good start... But Harry... If your tummy feels funny at any point... Don't feel as though you need to eat all of it to appease others. It isn't healthy you know..."

"Okay Miss." Harry nodded, his tone was clearly one of slight awkwardness. He could tell Miss Parasoul and Miss umbrella were being honest and kind to him., but they were also royalty, and adults, so he believed he owned them every ounce of respect he had.

Sitting herself on a seat, she placed Harry on her lap with a smile. Sure, he could probably feed himself, but... she wanted to. And since she was the princess, she dared anyone to tell her she couldn't.

"I wanted to do that..."

And of course, her sister was the only one who DID think about challenging her.

Parasoul rolled her eyes. "When you babysit him, then you can feed him. Better yet, rescue your own child." Umbrella just pouted. Parasoul began to feed Harry, noting how hesitant he seemed to take the food. "Harry... Please... Eat." She said softly.

Harry nodded his head when he saw the serious look on her face. Umbrella couldn't help but smile at the look she had seen countless times throughout her life. It was Parasoul's worried mom face, and she had a hunch she was going to see it more often now.

Parasoul smiled as he ate, but still felt worried the more she look at Harry's tiny frame. His weight and height was so unnatural for a child his age. He was two and a half heads smaller than the typical five year old should be. She prayed to the Trinity above that he'd be able to recover and reach a healthy weight.

She lets out a soft sigh. Her servants were all good and kind people, but she hoped they would tone I'd down a bit around Harry. At least for today, Harry was nervous enough as it was.

Thankfully, most of her servants didn't voice their questions or comments, but their faces spoke volumes. Either they were confused, or they thought Harry was the cutest thing ever. Actually, almost all of those who were in the former quickly changed to the latter once Harry timidly looked up, and then shrink back, trying to hide in Parasoul's embrace.

"There we are, good boy..." she spoke softly. It almost sounded like she was taking to a pet, but... she was new to this, so she didn't expect to be perfect.

She subconsciously gav3 him a gentle squeeze and mentally prepared herself to scold some of the staff for being able to keep their gushing under control. However, she was pleasantly surprised to find they were all very well behaved and make no move to swaddle Harry. Most out of character. She looked at Umbrella. "Umbrella... Did you...?" The younger sister winked at her with a toothy grin.

"I made sure everybody knew not to crowd Harry, or I would personally make sure their work schedule was changed so they couldn't so much as see him for the next three months." Parasoul fought to keep a straight face as several maids openly flinched at Umbrella's words while a few others looked at her with panic in their eyes, even as they kept a straight face. The royal maids' shared weakness for cute things was sometimes as amusing as it was exasperating.

Parasoul shook her head in amusement. "Your assistance is greatly appreciated, dear sister. It would be a true shame if the maids found themselves cleaning off the castle roof again." All the maids looked visibly terrified as they remembered many falls into the palace flowerbeds.

"Yeah. It'd... it'd be a real... real shame if they fell..." Umbrella said, her eyes darting back and forth nervously. "After being hit by a nerf gun..."

"What?"

"Nothing!"

Parasoul frowned but turned her attention back to what was more important. The tiny boy seated on her lap, wrapped up in her embrace. She noted that her hands had folded together and were on his lap, keeping him close. Smiling down at him, she noticed Harry seeming full, but also seemed like he wanted to eat more.

"If your tummy's full, you don't have to eat more." she said.

Harry nodded and looked at her with a frown. "Um... Were they okay, falling off the roof...?" Parasoul nodded.

"The gardeners were rather annoyed at the people shaped outlines in the flower beds, but the maids were properly chastised in the end."

The royal family finished eating breakfast, and Parasoul found herself lightly scolding a pouting Umbrella for her comparatively lesser table manners.

She shook her head before leaning over to wipe around Harry's mouth, "Honestly Umbrella, must you have such awful table manners? You are being a bad example for Harry." Umbrella merely shrugged her shoulders as her cheeks were currently puffed out like a chipmunk with a large stack of plates off to her side.

Parasoul just rolled her eyes, then looked over at Harry. "Harry, dear. Listen well. Don't take too much after Umbrella. I am a much better role model to look up to." Umbrella tried to talk to protest, but her mouth was full, so Parasoul couldn't make out what she was saying. She gave her a deadpan stare.

Harry didn't say anything in response, but made his content feeling known by snuggling closer to Parasoul, who smiled and wrapped her arms around him in a warm enveloping hug. She knew deep down Harry couldn't misbehave, he most likely had that beaten into him. Still, she'd show him compassion and reward his good behaviour, and pray he didn't take after her sister.

After the food was finished, Parasoul rose with Harry tucked into one arm, knowing it was time to get the little one changed. Then, well. She didn't know what would come next.

Umbrella said something excitedly, her mouth still full of food. "Please, don't talk with your mouth full, Umbrella. It does nothing but prove my point." Umbrella did her best to give Parasoul a glare but it's power was greatly diminished by her still puffed out cheeks. Parasoul turned back to Harry and smiled when she sees that his plate is mostly cleared and he drank all of his juice.

"Very good, Harry, you've finished all your food. Does your stomach feel well?" Harry nodded his head in affirmation. Smiling, she picked him up and cuddled him close. "Good... You're a very good boy, Harry... Never forget that..." She whispered before turning to Umbrella. "You see? The litle boy has proper etiquette. What's your excuse?"

Umbrella thought about it for a moment as she swallowed, "I don't really care about what other people think of me." Parasoul shook her head before firing back with,

"Personally I think it's Hungern being a bad influence on you. After all you have been witnessing his atrocious table manners since you were a little girl." The living weapon whined.

"Changes nothing." Umbrella smirked. Parasoul exhaled in annoyance but knew she wasn't going to convince her sister of anything in this scenario. The younger woman grinned and stuck her tongue out playfully, earning a giggle form Harry.

"Oh, c'mon." Parasoul groaned, looking down at the smiling Harry. To make matters worse, Umbrella skipped over and swiped Harry away from her arms. Giving him a warm hug.

"Hi sweetie~!" She cooed.

Parasoul frowned at that, but made no move to stop it. Harry would need to bond with his aunt after all...

She noted how she could be more gentle, however. "Yes... Hungern was the right choice for you. A lack of dignity through and through."

Umbrella pouted. "You leave Hungern out of this. He's an innocent bystander. This is between you and me, sis." Parasoul just rolled her eyes in exasperation.

"I really shouldn't be doing this with you... I must be getting Harry properly acquainted with his new home now..." She mumbled, taking him from her sulking sister.

When Harry looked up at her curiously, she sighed. "We've had the exact same argument almost word for word more times than I can remember over the years." She smiled ruefully, "My dear sister seems to despise all forms of formal etiquette and manners." Umbrella crossed her arms and looked away from them with a pout,

"I'm not the one in charge so why do I have to put up with all of that boring stuff?"

Parasoul facepalmed and rose to her feet. "Never mind her, Harry... Come now... There's so much to show you..." She said softly, carrying the little boy out of the room.

"Hey, wait for me!" Umbrella scurried to catch up with them and Parasoul rolled her eyes with a weary smile.

Harry looked around the large castle as Parasoul explained where they were. He intently took in everything she said, talking about the history of the castle and her family. Talking about the kingdom and the new life he was going to live. She noted with a smile how he seemed to be listening to every word with great interest and respect.

"...and just down there is a small pool in case you ever want to swim."

Harry flinched ever so slightly at the word 'swim'. Parasoul noticed and rubbed his back soothingly.

Honestly it would probably take more than one day to fully explore the castle with Harry, and that was without showing him all the old secret passages scattered about. So she decided she would show him the important areas for today, the ballroom, her office, the throne room, and other such places to help him get his bearings.

Deciding, she first took him to the ballroom. "You see, Harry, this is where the royal family hosts get togethers for important people. You're much too young to participate in such things yet, but someday, you'll be old enough to join us." Umbrella nodded.

"Yup! Then you and me can be bored out of our skulls together!" She chirped.

Parasoul shook her head, "That's because you refuse to socialize with the guests when you actually bother to attend." Umbrella scowled and crossed her arms.

"I get swamped by wannabe Casanovas every single time, and it's even more irritating when they can't look me in the eye while they talk." Thankfully the would be suitors stopped swarming her after she tossed one drunken idiot who wouldn't take no for an answer out the window and into a fountain in the courtyard outside.

While she didn't want to admit to it, Parasoul thought that was pretty funny. It had happened so quickly, and Umbrella didn't do it in anger, it was as if she was doing something she had done a million times. On top of that, the horrified reactions of everyone nearby had been refreshing. Again, she didn't want to admit to this but her sister was right, the gatherings could be somewhat dull at times.

"That is a fair point." Parasoul conceded.

Parasoul smirked. "What of the female guests?" Umbrella said nothing, just raising her brow. Parasoul nods in understanding. "Yes, right, of course, they're just as bad as the males the majority of the time..." She muttered, remembering the many times female guests have tried to win her over.

The worst ones were the giggling herds that would try to surround them and well... suffice to say those girls had some strange ideas in their heads. Umbrella growled as she rubbed her temples, "If I have to listen to them call me 'big sister' one more time." Parasoul felt a shiver go down her spine, it hadn't just been Umbrella who had gotten surrounded by a crowd of admirers a time or two.

Thankfully, Harry seemed blissfully unaware of their little reminiscense of perversion and was just entranced by how large and grandiose the ballroom was. "It's really pretty..." He said softly. Parasoul looked down at him with a beaming smile.

"I'm sure the castle staff really appreciates that sentiment, dear."

Readjusting him so Harry was resting his head against her neck, Parasoul smiled and kissed the top of his head lovingly. The trio continued with their tour until Parasoul returned to the door of her room.

"Well, let's get you dressed little mister." Parasoul smiled down at the tiny boy, who looked up and nodded. She looked to Umbrella, who had a disappointed look on her face, knowing her sister wanted to be left alone. Regardless, she bent forward and kissed Harry's tiny face.

"See you in a bit sweetie pie~." She cooed playfully.

Parasoul smiled in bemusement, then set about getting Harry dressed before continuing the tour. He was adorable in his little jammies, but he couldn't wear them forever. She dressed him in a striped t-shirt and a pair of overalls before going outside to find Umbrella had been waiting on her. Chuckling, she led her younger sister off, carrying Harry.

From the mirror smooth sheen of the polished floors, it appeared that they had just been resurfaced, and with that in mind, Umbrella got an idea in her head. "Hey, Harry want to see something really fun?" Harry was curious and nodded his head while Parasoul sighed as she saw her sister take off her shoes, but before she could say anything, Umbrella had already slid halfway across the room.

The pinkette squealed in joy as she skidded across the floor. Parasoul sighed and rolled her eyes, knowing how this always turned out for her. "Umbrella, you're going to..." A yelp and crash was heard. "...Fall out the window and land in the rose bush again..." Parasoul finished with a facepalm.

She sighed before quickly snapping off a text with her phone, while the gardeners wouldn't be happy about it they would get Umbrella out of the bush before she caused any permanent damage. "And that Harry is why we don't slide around with our socks in here, being on the second floor just makes things too dangerous." She frowned before gently bouncing a concerned Harry lightly, "This is especially true with how fragile your body is right now, ok Harry?"

Harry tilted his head in concern. "Is Miss Umbrella okay? We should check on her to make sure she isn't hurt..." Parasoul smiled softly at him and kissed his forehead.

"You're very compassionate, Harry... Never lose that trait, okay?" She carried him over to the window and they looked down to see Umbrella missed the roses entirely and was instead lodged headfirst up to her waist in the soil around them. Parasoul facepalmed. "I'm sure she would have preferred the roses, since that soil is freshly fertilized..."

Harry still seemed confused, but Parasoul simply smiled down at him once again. Something about her smile made Harry relax and he nodded in understanding. Re-adjusting him so he sat at her hip, Parasoul continued the trip through the castle. They passed the kitchen, the library, and a few other places, and Harry seemed to be listening intently all the while.

He was still worried about Umbrella though. She assured Harry that, "She'll be fine," even as a squad of gardeners rushed over to pull her out. "She'll need to bathe in tomato juice for a couple hours to get rid of the smell, but other than that she'll be ok. After all, this isn't the first time she's accidentally defenestrated herself. " She smiled before gracefully spinning around with Harry in her arms to distract him. "Maybe we will have a celebration in this very room when we formally announce you to the kingdom?"

She smiled softly at the thought. "Hmm... I'll have to get you a little suit... You'd look so cute and dapper in a little tuxedo..." She said, looking fondly at the boy, who looks up at her slightly nervously.

"Are... Are there gonna be a lot of people...? I... I don't know if I'm ready for that..."

Parasoul sighrd and held him close, "Unfortunately such events will always be crowded, but it won't happen for some time yet anyway. You still need time to recover both physically and mentally. So don't worry about that for now and just focus on healing."

"Okay. Thank you miss Parasoul." Harry nodded, seeming relieved, then realized something. "Um, Miss Parasoul? Are you a queen?"

The Princess chuckled softly and patted his head affectionately.

"Not exactly, I'm a princess." She smiled down at him. "One day I will be, but I'm not yet. But I am in charge of this land, and everything you've seen so far." That got a real reaction out of Harry, as his eyes widened in shock and amazement.

She poked his nose lightly. "But let's not dwell on that. Just see me as Miss Parasoul for now."

Smiling, Harry snuggled in closer to her and closed his eyes in content. She smiled and kissed his cheek gently. "Now then... Let us continue the tour." She carried him to her office, her private area where she did all her work and had her alone time. "Now, Harry, this is my office. If you need me and I'm not in my room, I'm most likely in here."

Harry looked around nervously, "But... if you're in here, doesn't that mean you're doing something important?" Parasoul shook her head before lightly booping his nose.

"Even if it's just because you want see me, I will always make time for you. The paperwork will still be there later, and you are infinitely more important."

Harry gasped at her genuine, kind words, and tears began to form in his eyes. He tried wiping them away, but Parasoul stopped him gently. "You know it's all right, Harry... You have my permission to cry whenever you need to..." She hugged him close and stroked his back gently. He cried again... but out of joy and gratitude.

Her heart broke somewhat as she watched him cry. It was so clear the level of abuse he had suffered was far deeper than she had expected, Harry clearly hadn't even been allowed to cry. Add to that the idea that someone making time for him seemed like something he had never expected? It was tragic. But it made her resolve to take care of him all the stronger. She gave him a gentle squeeze and kissed his head.

"It's alright love, you're safe now. You're safe." She said reassuringly.

She took a seat at her desk and leaned back as Harry rested against her chest, just softly whispering in his ear and rubbing his back to support him as his emotions ran their course. The rest of the tour could wait for now while they took a small rest.

He calmed down much quicker this time around, and she took this as a good sign. He was starting to recover... She gently dabbed at his eyes with a handkerchief to dry them, then cuddled him close to her breast for a few more minutes to give him time to relax. Then she leaned down and kissed his cheek.

Harry smiled and hugged her back as tightly as he could, causing a warm feeling to build up inside of Parasoul. 'He really is just too cute'. Unable and unwilling to stop herself, she covered his little face in kisses, sending him into a fit of giggles. Parasoul smiled before pushing her desk chair back and spinning around with Harry.

Again, this made the tiny boy giggle happily as he clutched to her chest in an attempt not to fall off the chair. Parasoul made sure that he wouldn't, but his small gesture was a sweet and appreciated one nonetheless. When they finally came to a stop, Parasoul smiled and lay Harry on his back before settling on tickling his tiny ribs, which only made him giggle harder.

"Ooh... it seems like you're ticklish..." Parasoul said in a mocking evil tone with a wide grin. "That's a shame... because you're not going anywhere!"

Harry giggled in delight at the spinning action, and Parasoul chuckled lowly, making sure to hold him tight so he didn't fall off. She continued to spin with him until she noticed a pink and yellow blur. Eyes wide, she stopspedspinning and tried to recollect her dignity as she facesdher sister. "Umbrella. Cleaned off I see."

Her sister wasn't falling for it as she looked at her with a knowing grin, "So when I do that it's 'inappropriate for a princess' but when you have Harry in your arms you get a free pass?" Parasoul merely gave her a flat look,

"You were spinning in your chair during a full palace staff meeting. I am currently in the privacy of my office, big difference."

Umbrella just huffed and puts on her 'salty face'. "Whatever... What I wanna know is just what the heck is in that fertilizer you buy that makes it smell so bad?!" Parasoul stared at her.

"...You mean you don't know?" Umbrella huffed.

"For some reason, whenever I ask, people just snicker at me." Smirking, Parasoul beckoned her sister closer and whispered the mixture into her ear.

"...why." Umbrella finally groaned.

"Yes, I know it's somewhat disgusting, but that's what fertilizer is made of."

"Yeah, but... C'MON!"

"Well, Yeti does sell it cheaper than other stores."

"C'MON! You couldn't have warned me earlier!?"

"I have warned you. Several times. You just keep sliding around regardless." Parasoul stated matter-of-factly, and a little annoyed if she was honest.

"And that isn't even the worst ingredient..." She whispered in her sister's ear.

Umbrella recoiled in open mouthed horror as she stared at her sister, "Where do you even get that much... you know what, I really don't want to know." She shuddered and rubbed her arms as goosebumps started to form, "Now I really want to takes another bath, maybe they can fill the hot tub with tomato juice this time?" Parasoul chuckled as she lightly rocked back and forth in her chair, there were many reasons why she wouldn't go near the gardens for a couple days after the fertilizer had been laid out and the mixture was the biggest one.

"Well, if you wish to miss the rest of the tour..." Parasoul began before Umbrella perked right up.

"And miss the opportunity to help get my new little nephew acquainted with his new home? Not a chance! C'mon, let's get all the boring places out of the way, like the glorified chair room." Parasoul facepalmed.

"Throne room, Umbrella..." Umbrella shrugged.

"Same thing."

"It's a room where we meet with dignitaries and people of high status to make alliances and bonds between people and races." Parasoul tried to reason.

"All while you sit on a big comfy chair."

"Well, yes. But that doesn't mean-"

"Ha! You admit to it! C'mon, let's show the cutie the big chair room!"

"Big chair room?" Harry asked.

Parasoul sighed. "Throne room, Harry." Umbrella just shrugged her shoulders as Parasoul followed her out of the office. "Umbrella, you really shouldn't speak of the throne like that, every one of my predecessors, our ancestors, has sat upon that same throne since the founding of the kingdom." Harry looked up at her face in awe while Umbrella sighed and rolled her eyes, she had heard this speech so many times before to the point she could recite it from memory.

She stepped into the throne room and smiled proudly at it. "You see, Harry? This is the royal throne. It is here where I hold audiences with the public and hear out their problems." Umbrella grinned impishly.

"And sometimes she takes naps on it.~" Parasoul bristled.

"I unintentionally fell asleep on the throne once! And need I remind you that when that singular incident occurred I had been working almost nonstop for almost a week and I had finally managed to close the case." Umbrella looked away sheepishly and scratched the back of her head, honestly she had forgotten that little tidbit. A rather nasty streak of arson incidents had occurred at the time and had set the kingdom ablaze metaphorically as well as literally.

Admittedly, the two behind it weren't criminals, just inept. It had started when a convenience store burned down, and the pair went on to try and find a new place to hang out in front of. However, misfortune, foul language and a rather off-putting smell (which Parasoul knew all to well the origin of) followed them wherever they went. Finally, the more vocal (actually, only one of them ever spoke) finally seemed to realize what was happening... after several more places burned down. Despite them serving time, nothing seemed to change about them, and Parasoul gave up on trying to reform them, as aside from the incidents and crude remarks, there wasn't anything inherently 'criminal' they were caught doing.

"Still, it's a nice chair." Umbrella shrugged, and Parasoul groaned in annoyance. Her sister never missed a chance to annoy her.

"You nap on it every other week, Umbrella..." Umbrella tensed.

"Well... um... You... You watch Annie Girl of the Stars!" Parasoul was gobsmacked by that.

"You swore to me you would never reveal my secret to anyone...!" Umbrella just smirked and shrugged her shoulders.

"Hey, what's the harm? You're gonna introduce Harry and use him as an excuse to watch it in the resting quarters anyway."

Parasoul scratched one cheek as she looked away from Umbrella, "Well... maybe just an episode or two to see if he likes it or not. I wouldn't force him to watch it with me if he doesn't like it." Harry tilted his head in confusion as he looked between them.

"What's Annie Girl of the Stars?"

"It's a show about a lame-o goody two-shoes that goes on boring adventures around the universe and fights stupid, lame bad guys and Parasoul's a massive fangirl. When I was a baby, she dressed up as Annie and made me be that weirdo rabbit of hers." Parasoul huffed indignantly.

Harry blinked, unsure of what to say. On the one hand, that sounded interesting, and he was never allowed to watch anything like that. But on the other hand, he didn't want to upset Miss Parasoul, but he also felt like not agreeing would upset Miss Umbrella.

Effectively, this left Harry questioning which of the two women he liked more, and which one he was willing to somewhat slight for the time being.

As he weighed his options, Parasoul and Umbrella continued their discussion.

"Oh don't act like you weren't adorable in that rabbit onesie! Besides that we had fun in those days, don't you remember all of the places we found here in the castle? Even mother and father didn't know about some of the rooms and secret passageways we found." Harry looked between them and let out a soft whimper as their argument grew more heated.

The sound did not go unnoticed by the two sisters, and they looked over at him before exchanging a glance. "...Yeah, that was pretty neat..." Umbrella admitted, tapping her fingers together in a guilty manner. Parasoul turned her attention to Harry.

"I'm...very sorry to scare you, sweetie... It was simply a disagreement between siblings... Nothing more..."

She started to rock him back and forth in her arms, 'By the Trinity I can feel his little heart trying to jump out of his chest!' Umbrella walked closer to run her fingers through his hair.

"We might argue sometimes, but we could never really be angry with one another, Harry. When it comes down to it we've always got each other's backs."

That was enough for Harry, as he nuzzled closer to Parasoul's chest, smiling contently as she hugged him.

"Awww... it's not fair he's this cute..." Parasoul thought with a warm smile. "No wonder Umbrella seems to love him so much... this much cuteness has to be toxic in some way..."

Holding him out at arms length, the princess grinned as she added:

"Do you want to sit on the throne?"

Harry perked up. "C-Can I...?" He asked softly. Parasoul nodded and set him down. He nuzzled into the throne, finding it very comfortable. It really was like a big comfy chair, he loved it!

But he liked being held by his new caregiver more. So after a few minutes, he reached up his tiny arms to be picked up, and Parasoul obliged with a mirthful chuckle.

Harry relaxed slightly and rested his head against Parasoul's breast. "M'sorry... I just... My auntie and uncle... They... They yelled at me a lot, and it was really loud and scary and they called me all kinds of mean things and told me I should die and then they'd beat me up and..." He began to tear up.

Parasoul gently bounced him in her arms as she whispered softly into his ear. "Shhh... it's ok Harry They can't hurt you ever again." Umbrella took a deep breath before slowly letting it out.

'Ok, so we've really got to be careful with how heated things get around Harry.' She might have to discuss with her sister about him seeing a professional as neither of them were really trained for this sort of trauma.

"So, uh... Sis... Hasn't Molly been studying psychology on the side...? It's something she's really passionate about, right? She can probably help talk things over with him..." Parasoul considered it.

"Hmm... Yes... I did think psychology was an odd thing to have as a hobby, but I'm certainly glad for it now."

Harry just listened to the soft heartbeat coming from Parasoul's chest. It was the most soothing sound he had ever experienced, and he felt like he could listen to it forever. His whole body relaxed unconsciously as he let the rhythmic thumping soothe him into a lulling sense of safety. This didn't go unnoticed by the two women, and both of them felt their hearts melt at the sight of the tiny boy cuddling in close to the princesses' heart.

"Awwwwwwww..." Umbrella finally let out, her eyes wide and shining in adoration. Completely forgetting the argument she and her sister had been having.

"The throne is comfy..." Harry mumbled softly.

Umbrella chuckled before leaning over to ruffle his hair, "It has to be if you're stuck sitting in it for hours and hours at a time." Harry nodded before holding his arms out to Parasoul.

"It is comfy, but you're comfier." Parasoul felt like her heart would leap out of her chest as she cuddled him.

She let out a soft laugh. "You're a truly wonderful boy, Harry..." She said before kissing his forehead gently, silently noting just how much he seemed to love that particular display of affection. He was truly starved for affection, and that seemed extremely wrong when he was this adorable.

'Well then, I'll just have to correct this appalling injustice.' With a smile she covered Harry's face in kisses, sending him into a fit of giggling. Umbrella smiled at them, but she couldn't help but feel a little jealous.

"I wanna cuddle the baby too!"

"After you take a bath." Her sister ordered, and Umbrella pouted, crossing her arms and looking away like a child. She knew she shouldn't, but Parasoul laughed somewhat at that. It came out a bit harsher than she intended, and may have inadvertently un-done the whole 'we-shouldn't-fight-in-front-of-harry-agreement' they came too a few moments ago.

Whoops.

"So, what do you do here?" Harry asked, knowing they 'Dealt with problems' but that wasn't exactly a clear answer to someone as small as him.

"Well, Harry, it's quite the complex life we live..." Sitting down, she sat the boy on her lap and told him all the jobs she and her team did. He listened intently, thinking it was just the coolest thing ever!

He was living with a superhero. She fought for justice! To protect good people from bad people! Miss Parasoul was his hero!

The shining adoration in his eyes was still the most heartwarming thing Parasoul had ever seen. It seemed to tell her she was doing a good job at ruling her kingdom, which was the one thing she secretly feared hand held reservations about more than anything. The life of royalty wasn't easy, and trying to clean up a mess that wasn't yours wasn't pleasant. But this tiny boy was essentially becoming the royal cheerleader without even knowing it. His adoration was all she needed to keep pushing forward, to fix every mistake she could, and she felt her soul fill with determination to do so, and nothing was going to stop her.

Unless Harry needed her attention.

Suddenly, the door was thrown open, and Umbrella walked back in. "All clean now, lemme hold the baby!"

Parasoul rolled her eyes, but smiled despite herself and handed Harry over to her sister, who snagged him eagerly with a toothy grin. Harry was a little bit baffled by the sheer difference between Parasoul's affection and Umbrella's. While Parasoul was far more calm and delicate about it, Umbrella was hyperactive and seems to enjoy smothering him in relentless love.

He was pulled from his thoughts when Umbrella held him to her chest and proceeded to smother him with kisses, "I can't believe it, but it seems like you get even more cuddly every time I hold you." Harry squirmrd in her arms as she started to tickle him even as Parasoul felt herself start to relax. It hadn't even been a full day since she had brought Harry to the palace and it already felt like he belonged there.

Umbrella spun around, holding Harry up in the air, giggling.

"You're just so Cute! CutecutecutecutecuteCUTE!" She giggled before holding him close once more, nuzzling the tip of his head and kissing him relentlessly again. Parasoul sighed slightly, smiling at their interaction. She wondered if she should show Harry that kind of affection, but she wasn't sure how he'd react to it. But she wanted to show him love too...

Then she realized. He had still yet to meet all of her top enforcers, which was an important thing to get done, as Adam, Molly, Panzerfaust and Roxie wrre, aside from Umbrella of course, the closest thing to family she had. Shaking her head with an amused smile, she turned around. "Come now, you two, there's still lots to see."

Umbrella quickly deduced where they were headed next, "Oh yeah, Harry needs to meet the Egrets." Parasoul smiled back at her.

"Of course, Harry needs to know where to find a safe place should an emergency occur and the two of us are unavailable. After all I doubt any danger will befall him if Panzer is keeping him safe."

Parasoul lead the way to the secret quarters of the Egret higher-ups. Since it was currently their downtime, she fully expected to find them playing cards, just like they always were when they had nothing to do. Stopping at the door, she knocked on it lightly with her weapon, hoping for a response.

There was the sound of a chair moving, and footsteps approaching, then Molly opened the door.

"Hey Parasoul, is something the-Ohmygoshhessocute." Molly began causally, but her eyes seemed to practically explode when she saw Harry sitting in her arms. PArasoul was about to say something, but felt her arms get much lighter, as Molly had stolen Harry and was now giving him a crushing but kind hug.

Suddenly from inside, they heard someone cry out, "Read 'me and weep, full house!" Followed by groans from her other officers before another responded, "I don't think so, I believe my royal straight flush trumps your full house." With a sigh, Parasoul pointedly grabbed Harry from a sheepish Molly before opening the door, her officers took their card games very seriously.

When she got the door open, she found Roxie sulking with her head on the table, Panzerfaust in the corner mourning over his lost funds, and Adam and a random egret they'd invited in the midst of an intense game of poker, seemingly neck and neck. She cleared her throat to get their attention.

Adam and Molly flinched before slowly turning their heads to her stern gaze, "I believe I put limits on how much you could bet during your card games." The sheepish looks sent her way told her that they had gotten carried away... again. There was a reason she had both limited what her officers could bet, and made it where the rank and file soldiers could only wager barracks chores.

"Where'd you get all that money come to think of it?" Parasoul asked, confused. She payed them respectable wages for their work, but the amount of money there just didn't... "Jay?"

"...no..." One of them finally said.

"Really? You're taking bribes from him? after the multiple accounts of arson?" She groaned, annoyed.

"Technically he owns the places that burned down, so that wasn't arson. Just... aggressive remodelling."

Parasoul sighed and rolled her eyes in mild exasperation before returning to what she came for in the first place. "Now, as you may know, I recently set out on a mission to infiltrate another slave trading organization. They only got so far as to have one child in their clutches..."

Roxie grinned as she lifted her head off the table while Panzer tilted his head curiously. Roxie lightly smacked her fist into her hand, "So this is the kid that you personally went to save." Adam and the egret put down their cards as they gave their commander and monarch their full attention.

Parasoul nodded her head, entering the room and holding Harry in a manner that presented him to the entire room while also ensuring that he was still close enough to feel safe. "Yes, everyone... This is Harry. He is a very special child... And he is going to be staying here. Permanently."

"Aww, he's a cute little guy." Roxie grinned, giving Harry a friendly wave. Understandably, the gesture made Harry nervous, and he seemed to try and shrink back somewhat. This sent warnings to all present that a LOT had clear happened to Harry, and it would be better for most of them to approach this topic without their usual tenacity. Molly had already figured that out.

"Now... He will be living here under my care."

Molly gasped as she clasped her hands together, "You adopted him!" Parasoul coughed into her fist and briefly looked away.

"Well... there's still a bit of paperwork to be done to make it official with Britain, but yes Harry is now a permanent resident of the palace under my guardianship. After all his previous guardians are... indisposed for the foreseeable future."

The four soldiers rose to their feet and approached for a better look. Adam gave her a serious look. "Designated babysitter Adam, reporting for duty sir!" Parasoul chuckled at his professionalism.

"Thank you, Adam. Just know that Harry won't be anywhere near as troublesome as Umbrella was." She noted great relief in Adam.

Her second in command gave her a wry smile as he looked between Harry and Umbrella, "I'm not sure it's possible for any child to be as troublesome as she was." Umbrella let out an indignant squawk but before she could really protest she was given a flat look from every adult in the room. "Ok, so maybe I was a little rambunctious back in the day."

"Little... right." Panzerfaust muttered, rolling his eyes. "Little in size, yes. Little in amount of rambunctious personality, no."

"Hey!"

"He's not wrong." Adam shrugged as Molly came back and gently pinched his cheek in playful way. Harry squeaked, then smiled up at her, feeling the smallest of smiles forming on his face.

"He's still so cute..." She cooed softly.

Umbrella waa still trying to plead her case. "I was just a bit of a handful!"

The adults all stared at her for a few moments before laughing at the sheer understatement of what the younger princess said. "Kid, one of your milder shenanigans ended up getting you and your big sis dunked in a vat full of ice cream sauces." Roxie snickered. Umbrella smiled nostalgically.

"Mmm... You say that like it's a bad thing."

Parasoul rubbed her fingers through her hair. "I took hours to get cleaned up, and my hair still felt sticky weeks later." Umbrella tried to defend herself only for Roxie to chime in.

"How about that time you thought it would be a good idea to take my latest prototype out for a joy ride? The one that was both still very much experimental and highly unstable at the best of times?"

Umbrella blinked, then grinned sheepishly. "Uuuuh... You'll have to narrow it down a bit..." Everyone snorted.

"Umbrella, if I had a single nickel for every time I've had to ground you, I could buy out every other kingdom on this planet." Harry now looked worried.

"H-Huh...? You...put her underground when she was bad...?"

"No, no... nothing like that." Parasoul immediately set to trying to reassure the tiny boy. "It's just an expression. But... I feel like there's something about it that upsets you, so I'll try not to use it."

'I swear if those bastards threatened to bury Harry for some sort of twisted pleasure, I'll send every Egret we have to rip them apart and-'

"Sis? You're seeming really angry..." Umbrella shook her older sister, who snapped back to reality.

"Oh, sorry... just... thinking about the time you also tried to make us breakfast and somehow created a monster."

"That wasn't my fault and you know it!" Umbrella snapped in annoyance. "Adam had just as much to do with that as I did!"

"So if you didn't bury her, what does grounded mean...?"

Umbrella pouted at the wistful expressions on the Egrets' faces with Adam sighing. Parasoul giggled before lightly booping Harry's nose. "Not literally grounded, Harry, although they might have considered burying her up to her neck as a last resort. It means that she was punished by taking away certain privileges, such as tv or her favorite ice cream, or by adding on extra work during her daily lessons."

Harry blinked, then nodded his head in understanding. "Ooooh... That sounds a lot better than..." He went silent, not wanting to bring up his past treatment and just focus on what was happening to him now. Parasoul smiled sadly. He was so well-behaved, she'd be shocked to her core if she ever had to ground him.

Quite honestly the idea of Harry doing something that would require grounding him without a good reason was completely laughable. She held him to her chest and slowly rubbed her fingers through his hair, "I highly doubt you could ever cause anywhere near as much trouble as Umbrella did as a child. I can't count the amount of times we had to either disable one of her pranks before it went off or clean up the aftermath."

She sighed in equal parts exasperation and guilt. She was the butt of the vast majority of her sister's pranks, which almost always went much further than the younger girl intended. She was aware she was doing it for attention due to being upset at not being able to spend much time with her... But still, being completely covered in pies and winding up with only her thorn-filled butt sticking out of the dirt of the flowerbed was a severe blow to her dignity.

Harry took the words to heart and nodded settling back down in a bit of a relaxed state. Parasoul smiled down at him and patted his head. She knew she made the right choice to take him in.

"You're such a good boy." She cooed softly, giving him a quick hug.

"Wow. She really cares for him." Roxie remarked.

"You thought she didn't?" Adam asked.

"What? No! It's just... so quick. Y'know?"

Parasoul noted to herself that she could not make the same mistakes with Harry that she did with Umbrella, especially after all he'd been through. Umbrella's desire for her attention drove her to misbehave, which broke her heart enough, but if she didn't give Harry enough attention, he might fall into a depression and develop serious baggage later in life.

Which brought her back to one of her main reasons for bringing Harry to meet her personal squad. But the problem was she needed to talk with Molly about this in private. She didn't want everyone to know about Harry's past from her, it would be Harry's decision alone.

She first decided to get Harry acquainted with everyone. Adam remained as professional and polite towards Harry as he would with her, Panzerfaust had to take great care not to harm him due to sheer size difference, Roxie showed off some safer inventions, and Molly seemed to be catching onto Harry's timid demeanour.

She held him gently at her side, letting Harry get comfortable with her hold before she spoke to him.

"So, how you like the place little guy?"

"Uh... it's... big." Was all Harry could get out at first. Molly smiled down at him warmly, earning another small grin in response. To Harry, there was something about Miss Molly that made him feel warm. It didn't feel like when Miss Parasoul held him, but this was the same idea. She seemed like someone he could talk to if he ever needed to. Miss Parasoul had told him to talk if he ever needed to, but what should he tell them? Harry didn't know, so he decided to focus on the new group of people he was meeting. It was safe to say, he liked all of them.

Molly quickly caught Parasoul's attention and inclined her head towards Harry with a concerned look on her face. Parasoul returned the look and noddee her head, telling Molly everything she needed to know. Her ruler had need of her skills outside of her role as a communications officer.

Parasoul nodded at her subordinates. "Now... That gets the introductions out of the way... But I must now speak with Molly alone. Molly, come along with me, please." Molly saluted and turned to Adam with an expression that said "This isn't over." before following after the princess.

Parasoul took a deep breath before addressing Molly, "I'm sure that you are already aware of what I wish to speak with you about." Molly responded without hesitation.

"Harry's demeanor and size all point to extensive abuses, far beyond anything those slavers are capable of in such a short amount of time. I'm guessing it has something to do with the guests in the dungeon?"

"His family, yes." Parasoul nodded.

"Oh for Solana's sake..." Molly muttered, her voice not heart broken, but very much one of someone who was tired. Tired of seeing this happen time and again. "I haven't done therapy as a job much, but I've talked with people who are in much better condition than the little cutie over there, and it's clear what's wrong."

"They poisoned his mind. They made him believe everything wrong was his fault, that he didn't deserve love, that he deserved to die."

Molly rubbed the bridge of her nose. "And the people in the dungeon?"

Parasoul nodded her head in affirmation. "Yes, they are his original... 'family'..." She said the word 'family' in a manner that suggested it was bile on the tip of her tongue to refer to those creatures as anyone's family. Harry, for his part, looked terrified.

"Th-They're here...?" He whimpered.

Parasoul gently shushed him and rubbed his back, "It's ok, they're locked behind a set of reinforced steel bars in the deepest part of the dungeon, and it's completely impossible for the two of them to escape." Molly's eyes went wide as she looked at Harry.

'What did those two animals do to him? Hearing that they are nearby nearly caused him to have a panic attack!'

Parasoul turned to Molly. "As you can see, it is quite serious... They have put Harry through tortures no adult should have to suffer, much less a young child like Harry... That is why I need your assistance, Molly. Harry needs someone with your knowledge... To help him recover...

Molly nodded, letting out a breath she didn't realize she had been holding.

"Okay, first of all, you need to get rid of them." She said in a serious tone. "I don't know how, and I don't care how. Second of all, let me hold him."

At first, Parasoul assumed Molly just wanted to hold Harry again for reasons unknown, but the look on her face said otherwise, and she slowly relinquished Harry into her friend's arms. Molly shifted Harry so he ws held in both arms like a baby, looking up at her.

"Hi, honey." She said with a soft smile. "I understand you've been through some really tough stuff, and I don't need you to talk about it, but when you're ready. I'll try to help in anyway I can. But here's some advice for now; you ever feel upset or sad, find Miss Parasoul. She'll take care of you."

Molly nodded her head with a determined look on her face, "I'll have an office set up for any sessions immediately. When Harry is ready just let me know and we can begin immediately." Parasoul felt a tension leave her shoulders when she heard that, now all she had to do was coax Harry into the first session.

"Thank you, Molly. Your loyal services are always appreciated." Molly salutes her with a toothy smile. "Any time, any place, your royal highness! "

Molly smiled. "Think you'll let your maids hold him like this? You know they'll want to."

Parasoul smiled at her, "That is Harry's decision to make, he isn't a stuffed animal you know." Molly pouted.

"But he is super cute like one."

"Okay, fine. Yes he is." Parasoul conceded, and Harry giggled slightly. It was a sound that seemed to make Molly want to keep him, and warmed Parasoul's heart. To her, it was a sign that all hope wasn't lost. That one day, this sweet, precious little boy would be better.

"Daw... you're too precious!" Molly cooed, hugging Harry closer and playfully poking his belly.

"Now, Molly, you'd best hold him gently. Don't overwhelm him, don't squeeze too tightly..." Parasoul fretted like a mother hen.

Thankfully Molly didn't give in to the urge to energetically snuggle the tiny child and instead slowly pulled him to her shoulder for a hug. Harry was still a little scared at first, but Parasoul trusted her so maybe he could to. As he slowly laid his head against her shoulder. Molly felt like her heart was about to explode.

"He's too cute for words, your highness... Heh... You're really lucky, y'know..." Parasoul looked at Harry and smiled softly.

"Yes... I suppose I am..." She looked at the child and thought to herself 'Would it really hurt to let him refer to me as his mother...? I am officially adopting him after all...'

"I'd like that, and I think he would too. But it has to be on his time.'

"Now, with that out of the way." Parasoul said, growing somewhat more serious. "Would you mind telling me both where you got this money and why you're breaking the one rule I set up concerning gambling?"

"Can't tell you, and Umbrella said we could." Molly lied on both fronts.

Parasoul narrowed her eyes. "And you think my sister's authority supercedes my own why, exactly?" Molly squeaked.

"It was Roxie's idea... Um... Any idea when the adoption will be finalized...?" Parasoul shook her head as the idea of being Harry's mother came back to mind.

She would discuss it with him in private later, after all it wasn't quite official yet. 'Just another mound of paperwork to add to the pile.' Molly meanwhile was cooing at Harry as she lightly cuddled him.

Parasoul smiled fondly and reclined against the wall, noting Harry's body language throughout the entire impromptu cuddle session. He slowly seemed to relax, resting his head on her shoulder, and losing all tension in his body. This was good. It would make his therapy sessions with Molly much easier.

Soon the cuddling came to an end and Harry was safely back in her arms and Molly looked completely refreshed. Harry was even smiling as he leaned against her shoulder! "We will discuss a schedule for Harry's sessions at a later time, I should probably get back to the others now." Molly said.

Parasoul nodded and took the small boy back, who snuggled into her shoulder, clearly liking behind held like this.

"Thank you Miss Molly." Harry timidly let out, and Molly's face reddened deeply as she laughed in surprise.

"Aw, it's fine little guy." She said with a grin. Parasoul smiled down at Harry, he was such a well-mannered child.

Still, the thought of WHY he was so well-mannered hurt. She knew all too well why he was so timid, so polite, it was out of fear.

Parasoul nodded and saw Molly off, then took Harry on the rest of the tour. She showed him the lavatories, the kitchen, the TV room, everything. He seemed entranced by just how big his new home was. Eventually, she got around to showing him her personal favourite part of the palace... The gardens.

Harry looked around in awe at the immaculate courtyard; every leaf and blade of grass was a deep green, every flower in full bloom, with not a single weed in sight, and that was just what he could see from the doorway! Who knew what else could be behind the hedges! Parasoul smiled and ruffled his hair, "I see someone is enjoying the gardens, and we've barely started the tour."

Harry was deeply fascinated by what he saw. "It's... It's way bigger than the garden at my old house..." He said softly. "Um... Do I have to..."

Parasoul shook her head. "No, dear, you don't have to garden. We have hired help for that. It is here for you to observe and enjoy."

"Oh. Okay, it's really pretty." Harry said, almost as if he didn't realize he had said it and Parasoul smiled. She prided herself on her floral designs she had given to the gardeners, and now the flowers seemed to flow like waves along the path, giving an ever-changing appearance of colours in a way that seemed almost like a painting.

Parasoul rubbed his head, "Yes it is, my gardeners take great pride in their work." As if to prove her right they found a gardener meticulously trimming away at a set of topiary animals.

Harry blushed and looked down, "Um... even if it was hard I kinda liked gardening." Parasoul hummed as she had an idea.

"Maybe we could find a corner of the gardens for you to grow some flowers of your own. Under the supervision of myself or one of the gardeners of course."

Harry perked up at the idea of having his own little patch to plant his own plants in. He began to consider just what kinds of plants he wanted to grow. Nothing too complicated, but certainly something he could enjoy looking at when they've finished growing. Parasoul was silently amused by his serious consideration.

She was thankful Umbrella wasn't here, as she'd probably say something to try and get a rise out of her. Harry just kept thinking and eventually nodded.

"Uh, flowers." He said. Parasoul laughed, and didn't want to not hurt his feelings. Thankfully, Harry didn't seem hurt, he giggled slightly and leaned back into her hold.

"Just keep thinking about what sort of flowers you would like to grow and I'll handle any arrangements." Parasoul smiled as they came across a bench in a quiet corner of the gardens. "Now that we have a moment, what do you think of your new home so far?"

Harry looksedup at her with his adoable green eyes and then nuzzled in close to her, clutching at her sweater with his tiny fists. "It's a really nice house... I love being here... But..." Parasoul tilted her head.

"But what, dear?" Harry sighed.

"I'm... I'm scared that this is all just a dream..."

Parasoul smiled sadly and held him close. "I can assure you, Harry, that this is no dream, so I'm not going anywhere and neither are you. This is your home now, just as much as it is mine, Umbrella's, and everyone who lives in these walls." Her smile brightened when she felt Harry innocently cling to her dress and snuggle into her arms.

She decided to take a few minutes and enjoy the cool afternoon air. She seated herself on a bench and set Harry on her lap. She sighed happily as she rubbed Harry's back, just enjoying the time together. She knew there would be LOTS more of this in the coming future, but it was right now, and she wanted to enjoy this feeling with her son.

'I wonder if he understands that's what he is to me now.' She thought.

She smirked to herself mirthfully. Yes, this was her child now... She was a mother... And she loved it...

"Thank you, Miss Parasoul... F-For everything... I... I'm glad you came and got me... Those bad men were really scary, they... they said they were gonna rip off my fingernails and pull my teeth out to see if they would grow back..." Harry said softly.

Parasoul felt sick she gaged slightly and had to quickly collect herself. Thankfully, Harry didn't seem to notice.

"I promise, your safe. You'll never be hurt again." She whispered, rocking him back and forth, deciding to simply enjoy this time. And do the best she could to help her son.

Parasoul frowned and gave Harry a reassuring squeeze, "They can't hurt you or anyone else ever again. I promise you this Harry, they will be behind bars for a very long time." The fact that it would be for the rest of their lives went unsaid, after all Harry was a little young for such things.

She internally seethed in rage at the unused threats of such violence against such a young child. Beating him with weapons was bad enough. But these men intended to mutilate him... Sighing, she held him close to offer her reassurance. "I...I love you, miss Parasoul..." he said timidly.

She smiled down at him and placed a kiss on top of his head, "I love you too, Harry." Her smile grew a little warmer as she watched Harry contently rest against her chest while listening to her heartbeat. This was something that she would remember for the rest of her life as a perfect moment.

She sat silently in the garden, cuddling Harry tightly, protectively and lovingly.

She decided to take a chance and ask him directly, "Harry, there is still a little more paperwork to officially place you under my care, and there is something I would like to ask you. Would- would you like me to merely name myself your guardian, or may I adopt you as my son?" Harry's little head snapped up as he looked at her with awe.

"Y..you'd...you'd be my mama?" Harry timidly asked, then seemed to realize what he had said and winced, shrinking back in fear. Parasoul smiled and brushed some hair out of his face.

"Yes love." Parasoul smiled. "If that is what you want, I would be happy to be your mother." She gently rocked the small boy with a content smile on her face as he looked up in amazement, then nodded.

"I...I thought you said you didn't wanna be my mommy..." He said, beginning to tear up. Parasoul shook her head.

"No, no, my little dear... I was only telling you that I wasn't the woman you thought I was... But if you see me as a mother figure... then I will embrace the role..."

Harry started to tear up as he nodded his head, completely unable to speak before bursting into tears. Parasoul smiled sadly and held him to her chest, gently rocking him back and forth, "It's ok sweetie just let it all out, mommy's got you now." Unknown to them Umbrella had managed to catch up to them and caught the tail end of their conversation from behind a hedge, but while she wanted to rush over and hug her sister and now official nephew, she settled for a fist pump and let them have their moment.

She still stuck around, watching with a bright smile at their interaction. It warmed her heart to see her aloof older sister being so open, warm and genuine with this child. And she could say from experience that she was the ideal mother for little Harry.

Sadly, while she had many happy memories of Parasoul taking care of her, playing with her, and giving her an upbringing she remembered fondly, she knew Harry was going to have a lot of uphill climbing until he got to a better place. Thankfully, he already seemed to be on that path, and with her sister by his side, Umbrella knew he was gonna be fine.

Parasoul sighed softly, feeling a new warmth fill her body, as she cradled her son in her arms. This was what motherhood was... Well, she loved it.

Harry had calmed down to mere sniffles while Parasoul gently wiped the last of his tears away, "There we go Harry, are you feeling better now?"

She felt her heart her heart almost explode when Harry gave her a tiny smile and said "Yes, mommy."

She let out a soft chuckle and kissed the top of his head, followed by his forehead and both of his cheeks. She then proceeded to sit with him, cuddling him close and running her fingers through his hair, eyes closed in content.

Harry relaxed in her arms and let out a soft, content hum, and for the first time in a very long time the tension that always seemed to be coiled in his belly started to fade. While Parasoul wanted this moment to last she knew there was one person who should share it with them. "I know you're there Umbrella, you can join us now."

Parasoul blinked. That was all, she blinked. It had to have taken less than half a second. But somehow, Umbrella was by her side, hugging both of them tightly. Harry giggled and tired to hug Umbrella, but was currently crushed between the two women. Parasoul sighed, but laughed and hugged her sister pulling her into the embrace.

"Yayyyyy... my sister is a mama!" Umbrella said cheerfully, before looking down and kissing Harry's forehead.

Then Umbrella looked at Parasoul with her salty face. "How'd you know it was me?" She said with a pout.

Parasoul gave her a smile, "Just good eyes and ears this time sis. I caught a glimpse of your shadow when you were peeking around the hedge, and I heard the leaves rustle when you leaned against it." Umbrella smiled sheepishly as she joined them on the bench.

"So maybe I wasn't as stealthy as I thought I was."

Parasoul chuckled softly and gave Harry another kiss on his forehead. "Now then... How much did you hear?" Umbrella gave her a toothy grin.

"Enough to know that I'm Auntie Umbrella now! And I'm gonna be the fun aunt to your stuffy mothering! It's a perfect dynamic!"

Parasoul gave her a blank look before turning to Harry, "Sweetie, make sure if she ever comes to you with one of her fun ideas you run it by me first, ok?" Harry nodded his head and wrapped his arms around her in a hug.

"Yes mommy." Umbrella pouted dramatically as she turned away.

"Hey I'll have you know that not all of my ideas have resulted in mayhem." Parasoul reached out to pat her head,

"Not all of them, but most of them do."

"But not all of them."

"No, those were the ones I wasn't able to find any proof you WERE responsible for, despite the obvious." Parasoul muttered in annoyance. If there was one thing she had to give her sister, she could be, well, resourceful, when it came to avoiding consequences. More than once, Parasoul had let the issue go because even she had to admit how impressive Umbrella's layers of deniability were. Sure, that wasn't a good way to be a parental figure, but at the same time, it was impressive.

Umbrella grinned mischievously. "Well, you have to admit that life would be a lot more boring without me, don'tcha?" Parasoul rolled her eyes.

"I'm just grateful you grew out of your lack of self preservation instinct you had in your younger years... I almost had a heart attack when you tried to turn the staircase into a waterslide..."

Umbrella looked away, refusing to make eye contact, "We were lucky that Panzer managed to grab you at the last second. Then there was the time you almost set off enough fireworks to blow the roof off the entire palace." Parasoul decided to stop at that when she saw Umbrella hugging her knees to her chest.

"Ugh... I really was a handful...wasn't I...?" She muttered, shaking her head. Parasoul sighed softly.

"I will sugarcoat nothing, Umbrella... You were very difficult to raise... But I will fully admit that it was very rewarding to see just how much you grew and matured."

"And let me guess, this is the part where you say Harry is going to be so much easier than me to raise? Just to make me feel bad?"

"To make you feel bad? No." Parasoul shook her head. "But indeed he will be." The two looked down at Harry, who was still being hugged between the two, with a warm, content smile on his face. "He's the exact opposite of you in almost every regard, he won't be that much of a handful."

The redhead smiled and ruffled her sister's hair. "You know I still love you, problem child." She teased.

Umbrella spun around to hug her and Harry, "Love you too sis." Parasoul chuckled and wrapped an arm around Umbrella, Umbrella was always much more expressive with her emotions. Jumping from angry, to sad, to happy all in the span of a few seconds.

Her sister was childish, yes, but also wise enough to know not to do the antics she once did as a young child. Immature, but wise. Smiling, Parasoul handed Harry over to her sister. "Here... Hold your nephew for a while."

Umbrella scooped Harry up with a massive grin and pulled him close to cuddle him. Parasoul smiled as Umbrella's more immature side came forth as she covered Harry's face in kisses. She had no doubts that Umbrella would always be more overtly affectionate than her.

Harry blinked in surprise, then giggles playfully, squirming about as she hugged him and kissed him. He looked up with love in his eyes as Umbrella held him close, nuzzling Harry's head with her cheek. The younger woman was clearly taken by Harry and was giggling and cooing the whole time she held him. she showed him this radiant energy and love that Harry wanted more than anything, and was all too happy to accept.

Parasoul smiled. Umbrella was so hyper with her affection...

Not that that was a bad thing. Sure, Harry clearly appreciated her more subdued displays of affection, but having someone smother him in love every now and then would be good for his well being. Harry giggled softly and snuggled into his auntie's embrace.

Umbrella nuzzled her cheek on the top of his head, "You're like the worlds most amazing teddy bear, all snuggly and cuddly!" Parasoul nodded her head with a smile as Harry hugged Umbrella back. He was currently a little hesitant, but he was still doing much better than when she first found him.

Umbrella gave him another kiss on the head and sat down with him, cuddling him close and gently stroking him on the back. Parasoul smiled in amusement at the scene. "Honestly, Umbrella, a little more maturing and you too might be a mother to an adorable bundle of love someday."

"Heh. Yeah..." Umbrella smiled, her tone softening somewhat, and PArasoul realized what she had said, and what it had meant to her sister. "I think I'd like that."

Parasoul smiled as she took her son back from her sister, who pouted in protest but eventually relented and relinquished the tiny boy to her older sister. Re-placing Harry on her lap, Parasoul wrapped him up in her arms, pulling him close into her warm embrace. She thought about what this now meant, that one day Harry would become ruler of her kingdom, that he'd become the king of all he could see... She wished her parents were here to meet him...

Or her mother at least... Her father was... well, he was morally questionable at best... Shaking her head, she looked at Umbrella. "I mean it... You would be a very loving mother."

Umbrella tilted her head to the side as she thought about it, "Maybe, but I doubt I'll find a little one like Harry any time soon. So I'll just be happy smothering my nephew for now." Harry smiled and sleepily mumbled as he relaxed in Parasoul's arms as he soaked up every drop of affection.

Umbrella giggled and Parasoul rested her chin on the top of his head. She cuddled him for a few minutes before hearing his soft little snores. Looking at him, she saw him sleeping peacefully in her embrace, innocently sucking his thumb.

Umbrella clamped one hand over her mouth to prevent her squeeing from waking him up. Parasoul smiled in amusement as she slowly took several deep breaths, "Ok, I think I'm good now." Parasoul gently rubbed Harry's head.

"Yes, he's quite adorable when he is at peace like this."

"So, has he told you anything about his family?" Umbrella asked with a tilted head. Parasoul looked to her with a raised brow and she quickly added: "I mean, not the ones who hurt him. His birth family."

"No, unfortunately not." Parasoul shook her head. "I believe his mother may have bore some resemblance to me, as he believed I was his mother when he first woke up. Other than that, he hasn't said anything. But considering how these past two days have been going for him, I can't say I expected him to tell me everything."

Umbrella hummed. Both sisters figured the reason why... They died when he was too young to remember them...

"It doesn't matter... For now... he is at peace." Parasoul said.

Umbrella giggled softly. "Well, we'd better give him a peaceful life then... Because this little sleeping face is something I wanna see all the time!" Then she gave her sister a stern look. "If I'm not the go-to babysitter, I'm gonna be really salty."

Parasoul chuckled and patted her head, "Yes dear sister you can watch Harry when I am fighting against the unceasing storm of problems and paperwork that come with ruling a kingdom." Umbrella's pout returned as she lightly batted away her sister's hand.

"Hey cut that out, I'm not a little kid anymore."

"Only physically, little miss seven gallons of ice cream in three hours."

"Hmph... You're just jealous you can't do it without getting fat. I love my high metabolism! Ooh, speaking of ice cream, I bet Harry here would love to have some!" Parasoul sighed.

"Very well, but not too much. I don't want him to spoil his dinner."

Harry looked up in confusion, before looking to Parasoul.

"Y..you're not fat mama."

"Oh, that is the sweetest thing I have ever seen." Parasoul thought with a huge grin. She pulled Harry into a warm embrace and kissed his head.

"Thank you precious." She cooed softly, making Harry giggle. The tender moment was ruined when Umbrella snatched him away and twirled around, holding him in the air.

"C'mon sweetie! Let's get you some ice cream!" Umbrella cheered before poking Harry in the ribs. "You're much too skinny... I think some ice cream should help with that!"

Parasoul carefully snagged Harry from her sister as she stood from the bench, "However, while you may have a high metabolism I distinctly remember the stomachache that left you stuck in bed for the rest of the night and through the next morning. You were groaning about it the entire time as well." Umbrella sputtered as she tried to refute her sister.

"Th- that's just because I didn't pace myself properly."

Parasoul rolled her eyes. "You rarely do, Umbrella... You rarely do... However, I myself wouldn't mind having a bowl of black cherry ice cream. Come, let's go." And with that, she walked off. Umbrella blinked as she followed after her. "Hey, are you the one taking the black cherry from my stash?"

Parasoul just smiled back at her, "And you are the reason it's sold out every time I go to buy some for myself, so I guess that makes us even." Umbrella smiled sheepishly and scratched the back of her head, the ice cream in question was only made at a small family owned business and only in small quantities since it was made with real fresh fruit.

"Ok, I guess that's fair sis. How about we break out a variety for Harry to try?"

Parasoul smiled and nodded in agreement, and took her son back as Umbrella handed him back and then rand off to get some ice cream.

"Umbrella can be energetic." Parasoul remarked, looking at her son. "Don't worry about her, she's happy because you're here."

Those words meant the world to Harry, who looked up with adoring eyes as he quietly asked:

"Really?"

Smiling, Parasoul nodded her head, when Umbrella returned with about a dozen cartons of ice cream. Parasoul sighed.

"Hmm...Just a small spoonful of each." Parasoul insisted sternly. "And don't overwhelm him. His stomach will still be weak from lack of proper eating, so he's likely to get health problems if we feed him too much all at once."

Umbrella winced and nodded her head, "Right, then we'll get him acquainted with the usual flavors and let him try the more creative stuff later. Hopefully he won't be on an all soup diet much longer." Parasoul chuckled.

"Planning on sharing your special stash of junk food with him?"

Umbrella giggled with a hand over her mouth. "But of course! The boy needs a taste of the good stuff in life, after all." Parasoul donned a stern expression.

"And I trust you've been making sure to have a good balance of healthy foods as well?"

"That's YOUR job." Umbrella smirked, taking Harry suddenly and sitting down with him on her lap. "I'm the fun aunt, you're the stern mom."

"Hey, I'm not stern!" Parasoul protested. "If i was, I had to be. because YOU wouldn't listen any other way!"

"So? You still were." Umbrella smirked, then bounced Harry on her lap and picked up a spoon. "Open up sweetie pie!"

As Umbrella was about to put the spoon in Harry's mouth, what Parasoul said made her freeze in her tracks. "Of course you realize I was referring to you when I inquired about healthy foods."

Umbrella began to sweat and refuser to look Parasoul in the eye, she already knew it was impossible to fool her sister. Parasoul sighed and rubbed her forehead, "Umbrella I swear if you can't maintain a healthy diet yourself I will find someone who can do it for you." Umbrella went pale and staggered.

"No, you don't mean... you would force me to have a personal trainer!?"

"Not just any personal trainer. Roxie." Umbrella got down on her hands and knees. "NOOOO, NOT HER! SHE'S A DEMON, SIS! SHE MAKES PEOPLE CLIMB FREAKING MOUNTAINS FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!" Parasoul sighed.

"One more chance."

Umbrella frantically nodded her head with tears in her eyes, "I'll do anything; eat veggies, drink protein shakes, I'll even go for walks in the garden daily. Just don't make me go through another Cerebella Bootcamp!" Parasoul smiled at the memories of Umbrella dragging herself with her arms because her legs were like cooked noodles after a workout with Cerebella. The former Medici muscle was the preferrable option compared to Roxie.

Down stairs, the guards were returning to their card game, when the muffled screaming came down through the floors. They paused, then looked up, then to one another.

"Huh. Haven't heard them have this conversation in about a month or so." Molly muttered.

"You think she'll actually follow through?" Adam asked with a smirk, knowing that while she made threats towards towards her sister, she usually never went through with them.

"Oh, Umbrella... Roxie makes Cerebella's workout regimines look like a simple jog around the block." Parasoul said, continuing the conversation. Umbrella paled.

"...I'll take my ice cream with a bag of carrot sticks..." She squeaked out softly.

Parasoul held up two fingers, "Two scoops a day for the next while, so choose wisely." Umbrella slumped forward and Parasoul could practically see a storm cloud forming over her head. "I'm only being tough on you because I love you Umbrella, and I would like for you to be a good example for Harry as well."

Umbrella sighed and lead them off to the freezer where she kept her ice cream. Parasoul decided that neopolitan flavour would be best for Harry to start out with and scooped some into a bowl.

Harry has remained quiet for the past ten minutes or so, unsure if he should speak, especially since his mama and aunt were talking... and yelling.

This didn't go unnoticed by Parasoul who mentally kicked herself for getting into another fight with her sister in front of Harry. It was clear he was somewhat frightened, and uncertain of what do say or do, so she gave him a hug to try and soothe him.

Parasoul smiled down reassuringly at the still nervous Harry before turning to her sister. "Let's return to the family room for some privacy, I think all three of us could use some family time." Umbrella nodded and turned to follow after her, all the while staring sadly at what was normally an overflowing bowl of ice creams reduced to only a couple of modest scoops.

Parasoul rolled her eyes in amusement. "You will be allowed the occasional cheat day, Umbrella. Just not too often." This seemer to be enough to pacify the younger sister for the time being as they reached the family room.

Umbrella let out a sigh as she took up her usual spot, "Well that's something I guess." Parasoul just shook her head in amusement before settling into her chair.

"Blast furnace metabolism or not, I still worry for you, Umbrella." She placed the bowl aside and gently started to wake Harry up.

"Sweetie, wakey wakey." She cooed. It took a minute, but Harry stirred himself and looked around, seeming nervous, but then greatly relieved when he saw his Mama. He smiled and leaned into her hug, making Parasoul chuckle at his cute interaction. "C'mon hon. Open up."

Harry opened obediently and let his mother feed him a spoonful of ice cream. At first, he reacted negatively to the cold, but then seemed to quickly grow accustomed to it and enjoyed the flavour. Once his mouthful was done, he looked up hopefully to his mama for more. His face was adorable...

"Good stuff, right? Ice cream is just the best treat ever!" Umbrella chirped, taking a spoonful of her own.

Parasoul gave her sister an amused smile, "Yes ice cream is a nice treat, but a balanced diet is very important Harry. Especially with the condition your body is in right now." Her smile grew warmer as she offered him another scoop, "But today is a very special occasion so you can have some before dinner."

Harry smiled and allowed his mother to feed him his ice cream, savouring every bite of the frozen dessert. Parasoul smiled fondly and looked down at the now empty bowl. "All right, dear, that's enough now. We can't spoil your supper."

"Awww..." Harry said quietly. Parasoul felt her heart lurch forward at his sadness, wanting to do anything to make him happy.

"Well, how about we have a little more after dinner?" She asked with a smile, and Harry's face lit up at the offer.

"Really!?"

"Of course love." Parasoul grinned, knowing that while she would have to say no to some things, this wasn't one of them.

Harry nodded his head before snuggling into her chest, "Thank you mommy, it was really nice." Parasoul kissed the top of his head.

"And that's just a very small sample of flavors, next time you'll get to pick a flavor from Umbrella's personal supply." Umbrella sighed as she finished her own bowl, she didn't really want to share her stash, but on the other hand she would get to properly introduce Harry to the wonders of ice cream.

She smiled softly as her sister and Harry interacted with one another. It was good for Parasoul to be so close to little Harry, as she was always so focused on work all the time. Harry may be the needed catalyst to get her to focus a bit more on family. She felt slightly jealous, but at the same time, she got it, because any woman would throw their motherly affections onto Harry at full force...

He was just so adorable, a perfect little angel that just fell into their lives out of the blue. With a smile, Umbrella stretched her arms above her head before hopping off the couch to pick up Harry's bowl. "I'll take these back to the kitchen, so make sure to give Harry an extra cuddle for me!"

Parasoul smiled and gave Harry a squeeze lovingly.

"C'mon honey, I wanna show you something." Parasoul smiled, rising to her feet, she walked away, passing down the hall and to a large balcony. She opened the doors and stepped outside, holding her son close and letting him look out over the kingdom. "This is our home. I've shown you the castle, but this is the kingdom."

Harry didn't reply at first, it was so beautiful! It was so colourful and vibrant, it seemed like a painting come to life!

Harry looked up at her, and she could see the pure adoration in his eyes.

Parasoul lovingly rubbed his head before holding him close to her, he was her son, unofficially at the moment but not for much longer, for all of maybe a couple hours now but he could melt her heart with a smile. She starts to cover his tiny face in kisses, causing him to break out in giggles. They were very lucky that he was too nice to use his cuteness for evil.

She sighed and looked up at the sky. "Tonight I'll have to see your... relatives out of the country. Is there anything you would like me to tell them before they're removed from your life permanently?"

"Uh... Um..." Harry stammered, looking down immediately.

"Never mind, don't you worry one little bit." Parasoul cooed, kissing his nose. "Your Auntie Umbrella will take perfect care of you while I deal with it. You'll receive lot's of love." Looking around, she held Harry up and whispered: "If she asks if you want ice cream, feel free to say yes, so long as you don't make yourself sick."

Harry shivered, unnerved that they were even here, because mostly he just wanted them as far away from him as possible. In fact he was pretty sure that anything he could ask his mama to tell them would just get her yelled at by them, either pleading to be let go or angry rants that insulted everyone near them.

She smiled sadly and kissed his head. "All right... I understand... Now... I believe some mother-child bonding is in order." She said with a warm smile. "Would you like to watch a movie with me, Harry?"

Harry shyly nodded his head, "Sure momma, I've never seen one before." Parasoul smiled as she carries Harry to the video cabinet to pick out something age appropriate for him to watch... hopefully that had something he could watch. 'Maybe one of Umbrella's movies would be fine, I think she had some animated films in here.'

Then she noticed a tape containing a few recorded episodes of her favourite show. She looked around wildly, then looked down at Harry. "Harry... I would appreciate it greatly if you didn't tell anyone I have what we're about to watch."

And that was how they wound up binge watching Annie: Girl of the Stars.

Harry seemed to enjoy it much more than Parasoul expected he would, which was fine by her. And thankfully, Umbrella seemed distracted by something which hadn't caused undue damage and chaos, yet. So they watched the show in peace, Harry snuggled in by his mother's side. This is what Parasoul believed little Harry's life should've been from the start, not being beaten and tormented days on end with no escape in sight.

Come to think of it, she wondered how his cousin was holding up. She was still somewhat angered he hadn't done anything sooner, but at the same time, he could've been in the same kind of fear Harry had been in, and he HAD done something, so that counted for what it counted as.

Harry was entranced from the very first episode as much as Parasoul was. Even though she had watched this same tale hundreds of times, she still loved the show. They cheered when Annie defeated the monster and cried out when she got hurt. They even laughed at some of her friends who would show up occasionally to help her fight the more difficult monsters such as the mighty and bombastic Beowulf.

Of course Parasoul did find herself frequently looking to the door and back, nervous she may be being watched. They ended up sitting there watching Annie until Parasoul noted that it was close to dinner time.

Thankfully the episode they just finished wasn't a cliffhanger, even if she owned the entire series those things were just plain evil! The credits were just rolling as she paused the tape, "Well thankfully that's a good place to stop for tonight Harry, because it's almost time for dinner." Harry let out a soft sound of disappointment, but his growling stomach makes its choice very clear.

Scooping her son up and bunching him in her arms, Parasoul smiled as she looked him over and decided to see if food was prepared. She walked down the hall again, looking at the paintings hung around the walls before entering the dinner room. She was thankful to see dinner prepared and set on the table.

"Hey~! Food's ready!" Umbrella waved with a grin.

"Hi auntie Umbrella! We watched a cartoon! I hope we can watch more..." Harry said with a smile.

Parasoul chuckled softly and messed up his hair. "We'll watch more another day, dear..." She hugged him close. "But for now, you need to get food in your tummy... Oh I pray your stomach will fill out soon..."

Harry smiled and relaxesdin her embrace, "Ok mommy, I really liked Annie of the Stars." He whispered so Umbrella wouldn't hear him. Parasoul smiled widely and twirled around.

"And I'm glad that you enjoyed it, it's so nice to have someone to watch it with me." Sometimes it was annoying having to keep up appearances as the ruler of the kingdom.

And the fact that half of her best soldiers would tease her mercilessly if they found out... Heck, her own sister DID tease her mercilessly any chance she got. Perhaps she should come out about it though... It was developing a larger adult fanbase, and it might make her more relatable to the public, which may help with her image...

But if it helped her grow closer to her son, that was better than anything she could hope for. Sitting down, she sighed and set her son on her lap, noting to herself that she'd ned to get him a chair at some point. Probably one to accommodate his small height. The thought of that made her laugh gently, thinking about her son sitting in essentially a high chair to reach the table... as if he couldn't be cuter than he already was.

"Look man, all I'm saying is that your plan is stupid." Adam remarked as he an Roxie passed by, on their way to their meal. "You saw what happened last time, and I really don't know if she's even recovered from that."

"Aw, c'mon. It's not like she needs to know!" Roxie replied.

Parasoul gave her trusted lieutenants a stern look, arms crossed over her bust. "Adam... Molly... Dare I ask what you are doing?"

Aug 18"...we'll get back to you." Adam remarked, then dissapeared, Molly following behind him. Parasoul groaned and rubbed her face in annoyance. She didn't know how this was going ot end, she just hoped it ended without much damage to the castle.

"Okay, so she knows." Molly remarked. "Sort of. Still, do you think she'd want to help with it?"

"Maybe. He's her son after all. Maybe she knows what he'd want for a welcoming party."

Parasoul sighed softly. She just prayed this wouldn't get any attention from the media and force her to reveal Harry early...

It would still be several months in the future before such an announcement would take place, so hopefully she could keep those tabloid vultures at a distance. Sighing, she carefully portioned Harry's food to an amount she was comfortable he could eat in his malnourished state.

She smiled as she finished off his plate with a yeast roll before setting it down in front of him, "Remember Harry, if you can't eat it all let me know. Don't force yourself to eat all of it and get sick." Harry nodded his head with a serious, but still very adorable, look on his face.

The meal was somewhat quiet, the small family talked to one another, but Harry seemed more interested in the food. Parasoul was just fine wit that, considering food was something he was deprived of for far, far too long. She smiled as she quietly noted that there was more colour in his skin, more life in his eyes. Those were good things, and they were a sign that things were getting better, as slow as it may be, there was at least SOME progress.

Smiling, she sat back and watched him eat, taking the occasional bite out of her own food as she watched her son closely, making sure he was eating safe and healthy. He managed to finish the plate.

Parasoul let out a soft sigh of relief and Umbrella was beaming at Harry as she rubbed his head. "Great job Harry, a few more meals like that and you'll be good to go." Meanwhile, one of the maids iwas softly whispering to someone outside the dining room door and cheering could be faintly heard from the other side.

Parasoul smiled in amusement. "I think the staff appreciates you eating all your dinner, Harry." This mafe Harry extremely happy, as he liked the idea that he could make the people around him cheer simply by eating his supper.

Expectedly, he seemed to be getting sleepy as he ate. When dinner was finished, he unknowingly let out a cute yawn and looked around, seemingly realizing what he had done. Parasoul just chuckled lightly and patted his head.

"If you need to take a quick nap, that's just fine love." She said softly. "We'll wake you when it's time for desert, or if you'd like to watch more of Annie."

"Thank you mama." Harry mumbled, leaning against her chest, but didn't fall asleep, just seemed ot be resting more than anything.

"Hmm...Perhaps it's time we went to bed." She said softly. "It is rather late for a young child to be up..."

"Mmkay..." Harry mumbled, nuzzling in closer. Parasoul smirked mirthfully.

"My, my... That's the first time I've ever told a child to go to bed without them making a big fuss about it."

Umbrella just shrugged her shoulders with a grin. "With how much sugar I consumed, I physically couldn't go to sleep until I crashed." Parasoul could only shake her head in amusement.

"I remember, sometimes you would crash as late as three in the morning only to sleep until noon." Meanwhile, Harry had started to lightly doze against her shoulder, only partially listening as he was carried away.

Parasoul reached her bedroom and gently tucked Harry in, making sure he was comfy. She could join him just yet, as she must first see the Dursleys out of her kingdom. She leaned down and kissed his cheek. "I'll join you very soon, Harry... I just have something I need to take care of." Harry smiled at her sleepily.

"Kay mama... I love you..."

"Aw, I love too precious." she cooed, kissing his head once again. She sighed, looking down at the floor, then shook her head, leaving the room. When she got outside, she saw Umbrella standing next to the door. She wanted to say something, but Umbrella cut her off.

"It's fine, go get rid of those monsters." She said softly. "I'll take care of the little angel."

"Thank you." Parasoul sighed, watching as Umbrella went into Harry's room and sitting on the bed. The Princess kept walking until she came to the top of the stairs leading to the dungeon.

It was finally time to be rid of those monsters. After taking a deep breath, she looked at Krieg. "Now then let's be off, old friend, I would like for this to end quickly." Krieg's eyes briefly flared up as the door closed behind her.

She stormed down to the dungeons and had the guards drag the Dursleys out in handcuffs. "It's time you returned to your country to face the punishment you deserve for the unspeakable crimes you've committed against my son." She said coldly.

Vernon spat at her feet, "Fine, if you want the freak you can have him you..." He was cut off by the guards slamming him into the wall while Petunia stared at her, well more like through her, while a single guard escorted her past the queen. Meanwhile, Vernon was struggling even as additional restraints were placed on him for his outburst.

There was so much she wanted to say, threats and promises she wanted to make and keep. But she knew right now there really wasn't anything more she could add. They were inhuman monsters. That's all they were, and all they deserved to be treated as. She had no second thoughts about what was going to happen to them, and the fact that death would be painful and unavoidable for what they had done... but she felt like remarking on that brought her to their level, and she refused to even consider that possibility.

However, one of her other prisoners wasn't so tasteful.

"So, how long do they think they have to live? Two weeks at most?" Guzz asked as she passed his cell.

"Eh. Probably less. Maybe longer if the inmates feel like dragging it out, you know what they do to child abusers..." The guard outside of it shrugged, earning a genuinely frightening and angry glare form Parasoul.

Deciding to ignore Guzz for now, she simply led the Dursleys to their sentence, taking the time to scowl at Vernon.

"He will live safely and happily, and grow into a fine young man. You, on the other hand, will spend the rest of your life in a cell, forgotten by the world at large, provided you don't become infamous for your cruelty."

One soldier kept a rather odd looking gun trained on him and it took a moment for Parasoul to recognize it, "Is that one of Roxie's experimental shock rifles?" The soldier gave her a wide grin.

"Yes commander, she managed to get a single unit ready, and well... it has to be tested at some point doesn't it?" Parasoul returned his grin and nodded her head.

"Carry on then, just be careful with that thing."

"Yes sir!" The soldier saluted and accidentally squeezed the trigger, zapping Vernon comedically. "Uh... Whoops..." Parasoul chuckled and lead the way. She emerged outside, where a Britain representative of the court of law awaited.

"These them?" The man asked, his voice much deeper than she had expected. Parasoul nodded sternly and the man grumbled something inaudibly. "Suprised they haven't gotten taken down yet... there's a lotta stuff they're gonna get slammed with."

"So long as they never come near my son again, I'm fine with that." Paraosul said coldly, not caring what else the Dursley's had done, just furious over how her son was treated.

Beside the lawman was a rather frazzled looking diplomat who was nervously looking between them as the officer stepped forward to greet her, "Lady Renoir, I am Detective Warner with Scotland Yard. I'm also in charge of the investigation for this matter." Parasoul politely returned the greeting as the exchange smoothly proceeded.

As Vernon and Petunia were read their rights and hauled off, Parasoul explained where they sent Dudley, and then she reached the part she needed to discuss the most. "I would like to adopt Harry. We've formed a very strong bond, and I just can't imagine sending him away."

She pulled out a copy of the adoption forms and handed them to the detective, "Everything is in order and has already been filed here in the kingdom. Are there any steps that need to be taken in Britain?" Warner was briefly stumped as he wordlessly went over the document handed to him.

"No." He finally shook his head. "Considering that this all happened within your kingdom, and those who abused him are going to lose any custody over their son, that's not even up for debate, everything should be fine."

"Thank you." She nodded curtly. "Anything else?"

"No, that should be all..."

A moment of silence. "There won't be any issue with my adoption of Harry?"

"Yes, there are a few more things that need to be done, but I believe that everything will turn out in your favour. When is a good time to get everything done?"

Parasoul frowned before pulling out a small leather bound book and quickly flipping through the pages. "I should be able to make any final preparations within the week. Is there anyone I should contact ahead of time about gaining custody of Harry?"

And so, after ironing out the details, Warner shook Parasoul's hand. "Thank you very much for bringing this to our attention, Princess Parasoul. I promise you, we will give this matter all the attention it deserves."

That was all the princess needed to hear. With a nod, she turned and stone away, closing this chapter of her son's horrific torture for good. She had no intentions of looking back, if ever wondering what would happen to them, all she wanted now was to look forward to the future. A future where her son was safe and loved.

"Still, he'll need to have some form of closure..." she sighed, thinking to herself. "Come to think of it, he'll need some sort of social interactions aside from myself, Umbrella and the rest of the staff. But who exactly is there that would be good for him?"

Well... That was a bridge that could be crossed later.

Parasoul returned to her bedroom. She was sad, but unsurprised to find Harry in the throes of a nightmare.

She quickly gathered Harry up in her arms and gently rocked him back and worth while softly whispering to him to draw him out of his nightmare. Her gentle coaxing worked and Harry soon woke from his nightmare, but she could still his little heart pounding through her hand on his back. She could guess what his nightmare was probably about, after all she just saw them off only a few minutes back.

"They're gone now, Harry... They're far away from here, and they are going to be punished for hurting you like that... You'll never have to worry about those animals again. I promise." She whispered in his ear as she continued to rock him.

Gradually, his whimpering seemed to calm down, still clutching to her as if his life depended on it, and looking at her with pleading eyes. It seemed like he was begging her to not lie to him, to tell him that it was true, that they were gone for good...

"Hey, it's alright sweetie." Parasoul cooed, kissing his forehead softly. "You're safe now. From now on, it's just you, me, your Auntie Parasoul, and people who care for you. You'll never be hurt again, you have my word."

Harry buried his face in her chest and clinged to her dress while the last of his shaking slowly faded away. Parasoul sat on the edge of her bed and placed a kiss on the top of his head. "Just take all the time you need, Harry. We can sit here all night if that's what you need."

Harry looked up at her with a teary smile, and she felt an extreme amount of warmth in her heart at the sheer amount of love he was conveying in his expression. "Th-Thank you mama..." He said softly. "I love you..."

Parasoul smiled before kissing his forehead and hugging him tightly. "I love you too Harry." She slowly rocked her body back and forth and soon Harry's eyes grew heavy again and he let out a cute yawn. Parasoul chuckled and carefully tucked him back under the covers. "Give me a minute to change into my nightgown and I'll be right back, Harry."

It took more than a minute, but when Parasoul returned, she felt her heart lurch at the sight in front of her. To someone her age and size, her bed was normal, if a bit on the larger size. But to someone as tiny as Harry, it seemed like the mattress was an entire desert and Harry was in the distance like a lone plant. His tiny, still hopeful face was visible as he seemed to have sunk a little into the mattress.

"Awww..." She couldn't help but let out. She made her way back to bed and climbed in, setting down next to her son and pulling him close, knowing tonight more than any night, he'd need her.

"I wanted to wait till you came back before I went to sleep so you can keep the scary dreams away..." He said softly.

Parasoul smiled sadly before tightening her hold on him. After kissing the top of his head, she curled herself around him and whispered "Don't worry about the monsters Harry, they know better than to try anything while I'm around." Harry sleepily giggled before wrapping his arms around her.

She gently stroked his back. "Now, you really must go to sleep..." She whispered softly into his ear. "Close your eyes and rest..." She began to hum a soft song to lull him to sleep and smiled when she heard his soft snoring.

Parasoul usually would relax in bed, reading or simply reflecting on all that had occurred over the past few days. Meeting Harry, a miracle of humanity happening with Dudley, the random meeting with Lobo and Guzz... the fact that one of the slavers was more than willing to throw himself under the bus to help take the ring down without any sort of reward on his end, and of course, adopting her son.

To some, it was a horrifying experience, seeing the darker side of the world, but to Parasoul, it was the beginning of good things. She was making strides to repair her kingdom, and to help her son.

Parasoul spent a few minutes listening to his soft breathing, and let out a soft sigh of relief. It appeared that Harry wouldn't be troubled by anymore nightmares that night. Parasoul smiled and gave him one last kiss on his temple before closing her own eyes.

She let herself slip into the warmth of her bed, and the love she felt emanating off of her son. When they two of them were together, it game Parasol hope for the future. Hope for what she could do for her kingdom and her friends, hope for what she could do for everyone she knew, and of course, hope for her son.

She fell asleep holding him close, and they slept soundly the entirety of the night, locked in each other's embrace