Chapter 29: Innocent Wanderings

Albus was informed that Harry was to remain in the Hospital wing for the weekend. He was surprised to hear that Harry hadn't complained about it once—he knew that the hospital wing wasn't the boy's favorite place—but he had a sneaking suspicion that it had to do with avoiding the rest of the school for as long as possible. His heart went out to him… but he also knew that Harry was most likely beating himself up over losing the game… it would be for the best if Harry was left alone for while.

However, he wasn't at all surprised to hear that Harry refused point-blank to throw out the remains of his broom.

"It's just a few shards of splinters!" Dilys told him the next morning. "I don't see why he's so bothered with keeping them!"

"It's hard to let go of something that we once cared about," Albus told her—though it was more to himself than to her. While Albus was lost in his thoughts, he was vaguely aware that Phineas was saying something—not that he was listening. They mostly ignored the former Slytherin Headmaster anymore.

Since Dilys was the only one who had a portrait in the hospital wing, he had her keep a close eye on Harry during his time there. She told Albus about his visitors—though he noticed with a bit of concern how the Gryffindor captain seemed to be taking this defeat. Perhaps it would be good to remind him that much more could've been lost that night instead of a game. As for Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger, they were never apart from Harry's bedside except when Poppy was forced to practically throw them out. Nothing was out of the ordinary…

Although something that Dilys said disturbed him…

It was just the next night that he found out that Harry was having nightmares. Dilys informed him that Harry talked about the Grim in his dreams… that couldn't be a good sign…

Maybe he should have a word with Sybill on how paranoid she was making the students. But he froze when Dilys told him that Harry was also having nightmares of the Dementors and called out for his mother in his sleep.

"You mean to tell me that he still cries for his mommy?" Phineas sneered when he heard that. But he stopped immediately at the cold look Albus gave him. Albus glared darkly at him—daring him to say one more word—luckily Phineas took the hint and shut up instantly. Albus bit his lower lip, and leaned forward onto his hands again… the likenesses he had with Harry were starting to worry him. For like Harry, he understood all too well the pain of being alone in the world. Though there was one large difference…

Albus thought about his younger sister and mother. He had betrayed them in one of the worse possible ways imaginable. He was just going to leave them to deal with their own problems in silence as he pursued his own dreams. But that's all they ever were: dreams… foolish fantasies. Even though he was young, he should've known that.

But by the time he did… it was too late. That thought caused a wave of emotions to crash the old man back into the present. He couldn't bring himself to care anymore. Dreams and desires seemed so insignificant when you already lost everything—everyone—that was important to you.

He folded his hand together and thought about what Dilys said. Apparently, Harry would toss and turn all night before he would wake up in a cold sweat and lay there awake until the sun rose. But if Harry didn't come to him about this, there wasn't much he could do. He could only hope that spending time with his friends would help.

But it seems that the rest of the school wasn't giving him an easy time either. He had seen Draco Malfoy during mealtimes… who had finally taken off his bandages and was doing unkind imitations of what happened during the last match. But it was somewhat amusing when he heard how Mr. Weasley had flung a crocodile heart at young Draco during their Potion's class. He wasn't at all staggered when he heard of Severus's over-reacted.

"I think that you shouldn't allow Severus to substitute anymore," Dexter told him late the following Monday. "That whole third year class was talking about skipping Defense Against the Dark Arts today if he was there again."

"Lazy, spoiled brats," Phineas grunted. "They should just suck it up and deal with it! You know, I always hated those little monsters and how they…"

"Then you really picked the wrong profession!" Dilys shouted at him.

Albus shook his head again. He was certainly glad that Remus was back at work—and even more pleased when Dexter went into grand detail about his Hinkypunk lesson. Once he was finished, Dexter said something that brought a smile back to his face. Remus had talked to Harry after the class was over.

"He wanted to know if Harry was alright," Dexter told him idly. "He seemed really worried about him."

"I can imagine," Albus said sitting up a little straighter and wanting to hear more. "What did they talk about?"

"Not much at first," he told him with a shrug. "He asked about what happened to Harry's broom and the willow. Oh, yeah… Lupin told him that the tree was planted the year he came… though he didn't mention why it was planted there in the first place. Davey Gudgeon was mentioned actually…"

"Ah, yes, I remember Davey Gudgeon," Albus nodded, his eyes twinkling. "He was very lucky that he ducked when he did. Otherwise he would've had his eye ripped clean out."

"Pffft," Phineas snorted. "That werewolf is a coward in my opinion. He's too scared to come out with the truth."

"Phineas," Albus warned. "Whether or not Remus chooses to tell others of his past is completely up to him. While I do wish that he could tell Harry what he was to his parents, I am confident that he will find out when he is ready to tell him."

"Well," Phineas told him. "He's certainly taking his sweet time."

"They also talked about the Dementors and how angry you were when you went running out onto the field," Dexter went on, drawing everyone's attention back onto himself.

"That doesn't surprise me," Albus said calmly. "I've heard many of the students talk about it." It was true, after he had taken Harry up to the Hospital wing; he turned his fury back onto the Dementors. He had called Cornelius Fudge out and spoke to him about this. He had demanded that the Ministry remove the Dementors at once.

However, that had become nothing more than a waste of breath. Cornelius had refused to listen and continued to make sure that the Dementors remained. Albus sighed as he leaned back in his chair. He overheard the students talking about how terrifying he acted once he banished the Dementors… He hated getting angry in front of children—but the idea of those horrible creatures showing up in the middle of a match and caused a panic—was terrible for him to imagine.

He was going to make double sure that they never came onto the grounds again.

"But this might interest you," Dexter's voice called to him. "Harry must trust Lupin because he came right out and told him about what he hears when those things get to close to him… he heard his mother's voice screaming… you know—what happened that… that Halloween night."

Not a single word was spoken… Not even Phineas seemed to be able to find anything to say to that. Albus's eyes softened as he bowed his head low. When he heard Harry say those words—stop the screaming—he had already guessed that this was it. But it was still difficult to hear it confirmed. He understood better than anyone how painful it must've been for Harry to finally discover what his worst memory was. But it must be even worse for him… this was the first time he heard his own mother's voice since he was a baby. And Albus was sure that he must be suffering right now.

"I see," Albus told him simply. "How does he… how does he seem to be taking this?"

"How else? He's obviously really upset and hurt when he talked about it," Dexter continued sadly. "I think that it would be just as bad for Lupin to know."

"Yes," Albus agreed. "Remus has been trying so hard to move on… but it couldn't have been easy for him."

"Oh, yeah," Dexter added. "They also talked about Sirius Black… that also must've been painful for Lupin to talk about the traitor. But on a brighter note, Lupin made him feel better by telling him why the Dementors affect him so badly."

Albus nodded, glad that Remus was here more than ever. He was always very gifted with telling others the exact words of comfort they need to be told.

"I am glad that you told me this," Albus spoke to Dexter with a slight nod of his head. "Anything else you want to tell me? If not, then you are free to take the rest of the day off."

"Just one last thing!" Dexter said with a small smack to his own head. "I almost forgot to mention it! After Lupin talked about how there were ways to fight the Dementors, Harry asked him if he will give him anti-Dementor lessons."

Albus blinked in surprise and chuckled to himself. "I should've known he ask something like that. Did Remus agree?" he asked eagerly.

"It took a little persuading," Dexter confessed. "But Lupin agreed easier than I thought he would. But he said that they have to wait until next term—you know—because of his 'condition?'"

Albus nodded in contentment. "Alright, well… at least we know we have one interesting thing to look forward too."

*A few days later*

"He just disappeared, Dumbledore!" Everard came running into his portrait as Albus finished some tedious paperwork. Albus looked up to see Everard panting heavily and leaning against his frame trying to catch his breath.

"Who just disappeared?" Albus asked lightly.

"Who do you think I mean?" he snapped back. "I was watching Potter like you said and he just vanished!"

"Just calm down, Everard," Albus said, though his own worries and fears were starting to rise at those words. "I'm sure that he'll turn up… where did you last see him?"

"On the third floor," Everard explained. "He was heading upstairs when he was stopped by the Weasley twins. They asked him to follow them and I haven't seen them since!"

Albus's anxiety was still high, but he relaxed a little at those words. The Weasley twins? If he was with the twins then he knew that Harry wasn't in any trouble… well, not life-threatening trouble at least. Perhaps they asked him for his help for some prank or something they're planning. If that was all, then he was sure that he could let it slid.

"Now, Everard," Albus said waving a calming hand. "If he's with the Weasleys, then I'm sure that it's nothing too serious. Maybe they just wanted his help with…"

"Oh, I wouldn't put it past him," Phineas said snidely. "Those two demons have been in here more times than the rest of the student body! And it wouldn't surprise me at all if they had been planning on sneaking into Hogsmeade. How do we know that they aren't there now? Ever think of that?" He then looked at the other portraits and called out, "Who wants to take a bet? Anyone want to see if Potter snuck into the village? That would explain why he just vanished!"

"That would be incredibly risky, even for Harry," Albus reminded him. "Any secret passageways that lead to Hogsmeade are all kept under close watch, and I know that Harry would never want to try to sneak pass the Dementors. And even if he had some way of sneaking into the village, let me remind you that all the teachers are visiting there as well today." He trailed off after that as his depressing thoughts once again began to take hold. He couldn't help but think of how hard it must've been for a teenage boy like Harry. He should be allowed to have some fun like any other child. Instead, he was being watched 24/7 and was now forced to stay in the castle—he's not even allowed to go out onto the grounds without someone constantly watching him or there with him.

He shook his head. "Just keep an eye out for him. I'm worried, yes, but something tells me that he's not in any danger at the moment. Just let me know when he does show up."

*That Night*

Albus had just returned from the feast, wondering what was going on. He was greatly relieved when he saw that Harry was safe and sound at dinner, but he couldn't help but notice that the boy hardly ate anything. He had been looking pale and a little sickly… like he was coming down with the flu. He kept a close eye on him all throughout dinner… but when the desserts appeared, Harry just pushed his hardly eaten plate away from him and left the Great Hall—still looking like he was about to be sick.

Albus was just getting ready for bed himself when Everard appeared. "He showed up about an hour before dinner," he explained as Albus looked up at him. "He seemed depressed for some reason. And from what I saw, he just went up his dorm and hasn't come down. He seemed really upset."

"I noticed," Albus said softly. "He didn't seem like himself at all during dinner… do you know what's wrong with him?"

"If I knew I tell you," Everard said annoyed. "All I know is that he doesn't look so good."

"If you ask me," Phineas chimed in. "He's just being dramatic like every single student here!"

"Oh, do us all a favor, Phineas," Dilys yawned widely. "And shut up! No one likes hearing you complain."

"Well, just keep an eye on him tomorrow and let me know," Albus told the majority of his portraits as Phineas's face grew red and looked ready to start shouting. He went to bed feeling more heavy-hearted than he had been for awhile… but he did finally learned what was bothering Harry the next day.

"He knows," Everard said in a faraway voice during a late snowy afternoon when Albus had been working on yet another letter to the Ministry. "I don't know how… but he knows that Black betrayed his parents."

Albus felt his heart freeze and he actually dropped his quill, smudging the letter. "How do you know that?" he demanded softly.

"I was keeping an eye on him like you said!" he retorted. "He didn't come down from his dorm until a little while ago! And let me tell you that he looked terrible. He was all pale and sickly looking like he was just getting over a bad illness. Anyway, I heard him talking to Ron and Hermione… and from what I gathered, he overheard some of the teachers talking about Black's connections to his family."

Albus didn't have a clue how to react to this. He had always known that Harry would find out about Sirius Black's link to him sooner or later… but like this… he folded his hands together and leaned forward to press his forehead into them. "So he knows…" he said to himself softly, not knowing what to do.

"Yes," Everard said grimly. "And he's not very happy about it. His friends were worried about him. They thought that he was going to do something stupid like trying to go after Black for revenge or something like that. They were trying to talk him out of it."

That was another thing that Albus could understand. The feeling of being hurt and betrayed… wanting to punish someone for their crimes. Only in his case, it was himself that he wanted to punish. Albus knew he would never be forgiven for any of his misdeeds to his family. So, he made sure he never forgot. It served as a sort of self-punishment for all these years. He visited the graveyard every year… on days like Ariana's and his mother's birthdays—as well as the separate days they died. He went whenever he felt that he was gaining to much control… whenever he was starting to feel confident… he went there to remind him never be given power. Even after all these years he was still punishing himself for the sins of his past.

But these were feelings that he never wanted Harry to know—feelings of hatred and rage. "What does Harry wish to do?" he asked, hoping for good news.

"Hard to say…" Everard said honestly. "He wants Black to pay for what he did… but he doesn't seem to know what he wants to do about it. His friends tried talking some sense into him, but I'm not sure he heard any of it. Weasley asked him if he wanted to kill Black and…"

"And?"

"Harry never answered. He never said that he wanted to kill Black… but it's obvious that he hates him. He was talking about blaming Black for never being able to know his parents," he answered. He sighed as he finished by saying, "More than anything… I think Harry's just upset that no one told him before now."

Albus looked down sadly. The reason he never told Harry—and he knew why no one else didn't was for the same reason—was because he couldn't bear to see the look of devastation in his face. He sighed—really, all he wanted was to protect the boy from more pain than was necessary, and he wondered how he hadn't seen before now that they just made it even harder. He did not want to tell Harry about the prophecy but if it had to be done… would he have the strength to go through with it?

"Where are they now?" he asked. "Are they still in the common room or…?"

"Went down to talk to Hagrid… I think Harry was going to demand to know why he never told him about Black."

Albus felt a terrible sadness at those words. "Let me know when they get back."

*A couple hours later*

"I don't think you need to worry," Everard said after Albus had returned from another dull meeting with Fudge. Just the usual… arguing about the Dementors and how Sirius Black remains on the run. Albus had just sat down, hoping for something to cheer him up from such a depressing day when Everard had appeared. "Harry let the matter of Black drop for now."

"Why?" Albus said looking up in revelation. He couldn't believe that Harry would forget about that so easily… no one could do that… "What caused the change?"

"Hagrid was all broken up about that trial for the hippogriff, Buckbeak," he answered. "He seems really scared at what the committee was going to do to him. He wants to just let Buckbeak go, but he doesn't want to risk getting in trouble and going back to Azkaban… at least that's what I overheard the trio say on their way to the library to do some research to help him. They're back in the common room looking for anything that could help."

Albus let out a sigh of relief; glad that Harry was able to channel his rage somewhere else for the time being. "I am relieved to hear that."

"Teenagers…" Armando shuddered. "No matter how many years pass, I don't think that there is anything scarier or more difficult to deal with then when kids are going through their teenage years."

Albus shut his eyes with a small, but sad smile, on his face. "No… I can't argue with that."

*Christmas*

Things had quieted down considerably by the time that Christmas came. Though there were less than 7 students left this year, the decorations were as perfect as they were every year. His favorite streamers of holly and mistletoe were strung along the corridors, fairy lights were secretly slipped into the suits of armor while Hagrid had gathered the traditional twelve Christmas trees, that Filius had expertly decorated himself.

With such few people this year, Albus decided that it would be ridiculous to have the House tables. And so, during lunch on Christmas day, he had moved all the House tables against the wall, and conquered a single table, set for just the twelve of them, in the middle of the room. Albus was the first one to sit down, soon followed by Minerva, Severus, Pomona, Filius and Argus who had all decided to stay for the holidays this year. There were shortly joined by two small first years, Derek—a Gryffindor, and Ariel—a Hufflepuff. About 5 minutes later and a fifth year with a sullen face called Vince showed up and seemed to be bored out of his mind as he took his seat nearest to Severus.

Just as the delicious food the House-Elves below them prepared, the Golden Trio came in through the doors. Albus was pleased to see the three of them looking more cheerful than he had seen them all year.

"Merry Christmas!" he called happily as they drew near the table. "As there are so few of us, it seemed foolish to use the House tables… Sit down, sit down!"

Naturally, the three of them sat together near the end of the table just as he reached for a cracker. "Crackers!" he called enthusiastically, offering the end of one of the several dozen Wizard Crackers that were lying on the table. Severus—who was looking irritable—tugged it and Albus knew that he was only doing this to humor him. Looking eagerly to see what was inside… it was a pointed witch's hat topped with a stuffed vulture.

Albus felt as though his ribs were breaking as he had to fight back a laugh as he remembered hearing about Mr. Longbottom's Boggart. Severus on the other hand didn't find it nearly as funny and just pushed it to him—with an air of disgust. Albus smiled brightly at him and put it on. He beamed at them all and said, "Dig in!"

A few minutes later as he was enjoying some more turkey, to his great surprise/delight, Sybill entered the hall—dressed in her favorite green sequined dress—once again looking like a dragonfly.

"Sybill, this is a pleasant surprise!" he called happily as he stood up to greet her.

"I have been crystal gazing, Headmaster," Sybill spoke in her favorite misty and distant voice when she wished to be mysterious. "And to my astonishment, I saw myself abandoning my solitary luncheon and coming to join you. Who am I to refuse the promptings of fate? I at once hastened from my tower, and I do beg you to forgive my lateness…"

Albus just decided to humor her. "Certainly, certainly. Let me draw you up a chair —"

He pulled out his wand and conquered up a chair for her—and he was about to place it right between Pomona and Filius when he saw Minerva out of the corner of his eye. Having a feeling that he might regret this—he set it right between Severus and Minerva at the last second. Minerva gave him a dark look just as Sybill let out a soft scream.

"I dare not, Headmaster! If I join the table, we shall be thirteen! Nothing could be more unlucky! Never forget that when thirteen dine together, the first to rise will be the first to die!"

"We'll risk it, Sybil," said Minerva impatiently and she shot him another annoyed look. Albus meanwhile was pretending to be interested in his mash potatoes as he heard her say. "Do sit down, the turkey's getting stone cold."

He didn't look up until he heard Sybill ask, "But where is dear Professor Lupin?"

"I'm afraid the poor fellow is ill again," Albus said lightly, reaching for more gravy. "Most unfortunate that it should happen on Christmas Day."

"But surely you already knew that, Sybill?" Minerva asked, her eyebrows raised and Sybill replied with her coldest look.

"Certainly I knew, Minerva," she said quietly. "But one does not parade the fact that one is All-Knowing. I frequently act as though I am not possessed of the Inner Eye, so as not to make others nervous."

"That explains a great deal," Minerva said quietly, but not quietly enough.

"If you must know, Minerva, I have seen that poor Professor Lupin will not be with us for very long. He seems aware, himself, that his time is short. He positively fled when I offered to crystal gaze for him —" she answered roughly. Albus smiled to himself—knowing full well that after that first class with the Boggarts, Remus had been working hard to convince everyone else that it was a crystal ball he feared the most—not the moon.

"Imagine that," Minerva replied dryly.

"I doubt that Professor Lupin is in any immediate danger. Severus, you've made the potion for him again?" Albus called to both quarreling women cheerfully—but loudly so that they would remember where they were and not let slip anything.

"Yes, Headmaster," said Severus a little regretfully—indicating that he was sorry for doing so.

"Good," Albus nodded to him. "Then he should be up and about in no time… Derek, have you had any of the chipolatas? They're excellent."

The little boy blushed red at his name and when he was passed the platter of sausages it rattled in his shaking hands. The rest of the feast didn't end until about 2 hours later when Harry and Ron Weasley both stood up, getting ready to leave, and Sybill reacted instantly as if she had been waiting for this.

"My dears! Which of you left his seat first? Which?" she screamed, pointing a shaking finger to each one separately.

"Dunno," said Ron, looking uneasily at Harry—who was looking calm—as if Sybill predicting his death happened every day. Which for him—that wasn't a bad guess.

Minerva suddenly spoke up in a cold voice, "I doubt it will make much difference. Unless a mad axe-man is waiting outside the doors to slaughter the first into the Entrance Hall."

The boys snorted as Sybill was now having a heated argument with Minerva. Albus was about to say something to them when Hermione Granger got up from her seat and whispered something into Minerva's ear. Albus watched them out of the corner of his eye until his Transfiguration teacher turned to her, temporary forgetting about Sybill and asked, "Are you sure?"

When Hermione nodded, Minerva suddenly got back to her feet and left the room with Hermione. Even though he was wondering what was going on—Albus didn't get a chance to find out what this was about until he spotted Minerva coming down the corridor. He raised his eyebrows in surprise at what she was carrying.

"A Firebolt?" he asked as he stared at the beautiful broom that was in her hands. "That's an expensive model you have there, Minerva. Did you buy it for yourself?"

"Potter received it this morning for a gift," Minerva explained to him hurriedly. "No note, no card, not even a signature… nothing at all… Miss Granger came to me and informed me that this might've come from Sirius Black."

Albus blinked at that. He looked from the broom up to Minerva and said seriously, "I understand. Do what you need to. Though it seems a bit… er… unlikely that Sirius Black would do this… though not impossible," he added.

"He always was unpredictable," Minerva reminded him. "You should remember that as well as I do."

Albus nodded and let her walk passed, wondering just how unpredictable Sirius Black was after twelve years.

*After New Year*

Albus kept small tabs on Harry thanks to his portraits eavesdropping skills for the rest of the holidays. The good news was that nothing seemed to have happened… except for the fact that the boys now refused to talk to Hermione for getting the Firebolt confiscated, which sadden him. With all the work she was doing, and now her two best friends refusing to speak to her, he understood that this must've been very difficult for her. He could only hope that they would make up soon. He was also taken aback to hear how Wood reacted to the news of the broom.

"He was willing to kick Harry off the team," Armando told him the day after term re-started. "Didn't want a repeat of what happened last time. But he seemed to me that he was showing more concern about losing another game then the chance that the boy could fall to his death."

"Obsessive," Phineas grunted. Albus smiled a little half-heartedly, it was one of those rare occasions that he had to agree with Phineas.

"I don't think we need to worry about any Dementors showing up again," he spoke to them. "I intend to make sure of it. And I also intend to be there again just to make sure. I don't want a repeat of what happened."

"In other words, you don't want your precious 'Golden Boy' put at risk again," Phineas stated complainingly.

"In other words," Albus told him, "I don't want to risk any of the students getting hurt or put even near any potential danger."

"Sure got excited about the broom though," Armando nodded—apparently not listening to their conversation. "Doesn't even seem to care that it might've come from Black and that it could kill Harry if he tries to fly it." He grinned and said, "In fact, when he heard that Minerva confiscated it and was going to 'strip it down' he went off to try and 'make her see reason'."

That set off them all. They all burst out laughing—knowing full well how well who was going to win that fight. "I don't think she'll like hearing that!" Dilys giggled.

"Oh, I wish I could see the look on their faces…" Everard snorted. "In fact, I think I'll go down to her office and see if I can see anything." And he then walked right out of his portrait leaving everyone else to finishing their laughing and calm down enough to talk about what to do.

"I think that Minerva cares more for her students than a game," Albus stated, wiping a tear of laugher from his eye. "Thank you for telling us that Everard. I think we could all have used the laugh."

"One more thing," Armando said, "Before I forget. I did hear from Lupin that they should have their first Dementor fighting lesson at eight on Thursday in the History of Magic classroom."

"AH, excellent!" Albus said grinning broadly. "I have been looking forward to seeing how well Harry performs here."

"I wouldn't want to get my hopes up too much, Dumbledore," Phineas called down. "You may have high expectations from that boy, but I personally don't see anything remarkable about that child."

"You should never underestimate students, Phineas," Albus told him patiently. "I am confident that Harry will be able to master the spell. I'm not saying right off the bat—I would be dumbfounded if he did—but I have no doubts that he will do well."

"Also, I thought that you might be interested to learn that Granger has Lupin figured out," Armando finished up and shifted comfortably in his chair.

"Truly?" Albus demanded, his laughter fading slightly. "What makes you so sure?"

"Well, I overheard Weasley wonder why Lupin's sick all the time and Granger said, 'isn't it obvious?' Not that she told him anything else. If she has figured out Lupin's condition then she hasn't told anyone."

"I had a feeling she do that," he said thoughtfully. "She has a good heart, and must respect Remus. And I know that she certainly doesn't want to see him fired."

"I doubt she knows the truth," Phineas said annoyed—determined to complain about something.

"I wouldn't bet on that, Phineas," Albus told him brightly.

The rest of the week had passed quickly, and before anyone knew it, it was already Thursday—and this time, Albus asked Dilys go and watch the private lesson. Later that evening, he was pleased at what she had to report.

"Remus brought a Boggart to practice with. They were using that to become the Dementor," she said. "For some reason, Remus had a feeling that you wouldn't be happy about having a real one in the castle."

"I wonder why?" Dexter asked sarcastically.

"Good," Albus nodded approvingly.

"Also…" Dilys said softly before she fell silent.

Albus raised his head. "Also what?" he asked gently, not liking her tone.

"He heard his father," she said mournfully. "Harry said that he heard his father screaming this time."

Silence filled the room… and it remained that way for several minutes until Albus found his voice again. "He heard James?" Albus repeated quietly.

She looked sad as she settled back into her seat and seemed to be playing with her wand. "He said that was the first time he ever heard him… that James tried to give Lily time to run for it when Voldemort came to their house."

Albus felt his heart clench tightly. Lily and James had always been two of his favorite students… when he heard of their deaths, it was like a gaping hole had appeared in his chest. "I'm sure that it wasn't easy for Remus to hear," he said, though he barely heard his own voice.

"Harry asked him if he knew James, and Lupin finally told him that they were friends… but he made it sound like they barely knew each other."

"I can't say that I'm not surprise," Albus said, looking up, feeling choked up. "Talking about his old friends just doesn't get any easier for him. But at least he was able to open up to Harry a little. That is good." Wanting to change the subject, he asked, "How well did he go with the spell?"

"He's as stubborn as his mother was," Dilys said sounding a little more cheerful. "He didn't want to give up… he fainted the first two times, but on the third he got a bunch of silver mist."

Albus beamed. "That is very impressive. Normally, wizards have to practice for a long time before they are able to produce even the slightest bit of mist and he got it on his third try correct?" He looked pointedly at Phineas—who was looking grumpy and doubtful—before he finished by asking, "Anything else that you wish to say?"

"Nothing unless you count the fact that Harry asked if Remus knew Sirius Black as well."

"Bet he loved that," Albus said, his good mood fading. He had been hoping that Harry wouldn't dwell on the past. But he couldn't blame him for feeling like this. He sighed, and said, "Maybe it's time for me to talk to Remus about this. I'll wait a little longer and see what he's going to do before I try anything."

*A couple weeks later*

Albus knew that the other teachers were still running spell after spell on the Firebolt to try and see if there's anything wrong with it… but so far there didn't seem to be anything wrong with it. But he did know that it most likely didn't help when Oliver Wood came to see her and told her that he didn't care what the broom did to Harry so long as they won the game first.

Albus could've sworn that he heard Minerva shouting at him from up in his office. And he also knew that her temper hadn't improved when Harry kept asking her at the end of every lesson if he could have it back. Finally, Harry seemed to have gotten the hint to leave her alone until she was done with his broom.

At the moment, Albus was pouring over some books about Patronuses.

The Patronus

A successfully conjured Patronus can take two forms: non-corporeal or corporeal, and both types vary greatly in their appearances and strength.

Non-corporeal

A non-corporeal Patronus is one which does not resemble any living creature and has few distinguishing features (if any). Non-corporeal Patronuses resemble a burst of vapor or smoke without any clearly defined form shooting from the tip of the wand. While they may be partially effective at halting Dementors (but not repelling them), non-corporeal Patronuses are not "fully-fledged" Patronuses, and are regarded as a more primitive or weaker version of the true Charm.

Corporeal

A corporeal Patronus is one that is completely and fully formed and takes the shape of a bright-white, translucent animal. The particular animal the corporeal Patronus takes the form of, like Animagus forms, has been said to reflect the 'true self' of the caster. They are, however, subject to change if the caster goes through an emotional upheaval of some sort.

If a wizard is an Animagus and can summon a corporeal Patronus, the two may take the same form. Most Patronuses take the form of an ordinary animal, but magical creatures, are not uncommon. The corporeal Patronus is also better at repelling Dementors.

Just as Albus finished reading, there was a knock at the door. Smiling, he closed his book and called, "Enter."

Remus Lupin came shuffling into the room—almost apprehensive—like he thought that he was in trouble for something. The look was so familiar to the hundreds of times he had worn it when he was sent to his office with Sirius and James that Albus couldn't hold back a chuckle. He had been watching Remus's private lessons with Harry and he could see that he was conflicted about his relationship with him and was afraid of getting any closer to the boy.

"Ah, Remus. Please sit down," Albus motioned to the chair in front of the desk, which Remus took rather reluctantly.

"You wished to see me, Headmaster?" he asked softly.

"Indeed, Remus. I was wondering how Harry's Patronus lessons were going. And also, it's Albus," he asked politely and he could see Remus shifted awkwardly in his seat. He could tell that he took Remus by surprise by asking him that question. Which was natural. He knew that Remus had not told him or anyone else that he was planning to teach Harry the Patronus Charm.

"You know about that?" he asked rather anxious.

"Yes, Remus," Albus said calmly. Remus opened his mouth to explain but Albus went on quickly but gently, "And opposite to what I'm sure you are thinking right now, Remus, I have no plans to scold you. If Harry's reaction at the last Quidditch match is any indication that the charm is going to be a necessity for him in the near future and I can't think of anyone I rather have teaching him. I was simply wondering how well you think the lessons are going, and if you do not mind my prying, how much about you Harry knows."

Remus blinked in shock, but he could also see a look of relief on his face. "Well, the lessons are going very well. He can produce some wisps of smoke when confronted with a Boggart Dementor. He is making excellent progress."

"That is very impressive for a 13-year-old wizard," Albus mused.

"He is expecting too much of himself though," he said smiling sadly. "He was so like Lily during the first lesson that it was almost like seeing her again."

Albus nodded in reverence. "Yes, I've noticed that as well. While he looks almost identical to James… more than anything else it's almost like he has Lily's soul as well as her eyes."

They were both quiet for a few uncomfortable moments (uncomfortable for Remus anyway) before Remus could speak up again. "As for your second question? Harry… he only knows that I was in school when his parents were… but he doesn't know how close we were" He then added in an almost whisper, "He's getting suspicious… he doesn't say anything but I can tell."

"Suspicious in what way?" Albus asked innocently.

"He seems to know that I'm not telling him the truth," Remus replied, "Or rather, not the complete truth anyway. Just like James could always tell if I was lying. I know that he's also wondering why I'm always falling strangely ill…"

"What have you told him?" The concern in Albus's eyes was almost hidden from Remus but his former student could see right through it.

"Nothing… or nothing important anyway," Remus said softly.

"He's a smart boy, Remus," Albus reminded him gently. "He'll most likely put two and two together eventually. And even if he doesn't do it himself Hermione Granger will. I'm curious to know if either one of them has already." He was about to tell him that he had a feeling that Hermione DID already know but…

"Well, the essay isn't making anything easier," Remus muttered.

"Severus has not made things any easier, I won't deny that," Albus said placidly. "That, however, isn't what we're here to talk about. The fact remains that Harry is suspicious of you, and I believe that you shouldn't have to hide any longer. I think it's ok for you to tell him who you are. I think that it would be safe for you to tell him the truth."

"I can't," Remus whispered biting his lower lip.

"And why not, Remus?"

"Because I can't bear to see how he reacts after he finds out," Remus said with a tight voice.

"Do you truly believe that Harry would hate you, Remus? Or can you not stand the shame you feel for yourself when others find out what you are?" The look on Remus's face was enough to tell Albus that he had guessed correctly. "Remus?" he prompted calmly.

"All my life I have been shunned!" Remus suddenly burst out. "I can't go anywhere in the wizarding world without people running from me and trying to protect their children from me like I'm always a monster! I can't find work anywhere in the wizarding community because of what I am, and I can't work in the Muggle community because the Ministry forbids it. How can I NOT be ashamed of what I am? Everyone sees me as the monster that I become once a month the moment they find out what I am."

Albus let Remus rant on until he stopped to take several deep breaths. He couldn't help but sadly wonder when the last time that he had a chance to say all this.

"I don't see that," Albus told him quietly. "Nor did any of your teachers when you were here. They all knew what you were from the start, and they all remember you fondly. We need more people like you in the world Remus. I don't see you as a monster… rather as one of the kindest, gentlest, and one of the most intelligent men I have ever had the delight to know." Albus stopped for a moment to see if he said anything—but he didn't. Remus was currently staring at his lap, whether or not he was listening was anyone's guess. "I don't blame you for being angry with the Ministry's laws—for they are indeed unfair and unreasonable. But I do hope that you haven't forgotten that not everyone thinks like the Ministry."

"I know that…" Remus said in a hoarser voice than usual. "But I can't know how Harry will react when he finds out. He doesn't remember me at all and…"

"I do not believe that Harry will care whether you are a werewolf or not, Remus. Surprised? Most likely. But I think he will still know that you are still the same person that he has known all year. He may even feel better, knowing that you trust him enough to tell him the truth," Albus had steeped his fingers long ago, and now he surveyed his former student over them. "And I think that he would be happy if he got to know one of his parents closest friends. I'm sure that it would mean a lot to him if you told him how close you were to James and Lily."

"It is getting rather late, Professor," Remus remarked as he quickly stood. "And I still have a lot of papers to grade. So if you don't mind…?"

"Very well, Remus. You may leave… but promise me that you will think about what I've said tonight," Albus's voice was still kind, but there was a small hint in it that tried to tell Remus that it will be alright if he did decide to tell Harry the truth. "I've had the pleasure of teaching him for two years already, and I know that he won't be prejudiced against you. Yet another thing he inherited from both his parents."

"I will think it all over," he said finally, looking at him long and hard. "And Headmaster…" he hesitated for a moment before he croaked out, "Thank you."

"No, it was my pleasure," Albus murmured. "I am telling you all this, Remus because I can see that you want to tell Harry the truth, but you're not sure if you should. I just wanted to let you know that it's ok. I think that this would be good for the both of you."

Remus nodded a little doubtfully, but he thanked him once more before he turned and closed the door behind him.

Albus looked at the closed door for a little longer before he muttered, "It is alright for you to be happy again, Remus. You can tell people what you want to you know… at least the ones who care."

(I know that I've been taking my time with this one, but it's not easy writing everything from Dumbledore's view… especially the parts that might've happened but aren't in the book. But on a brighter note: this is the first update for the new year! And I truly hope you all love it!)