Excalibur Keeperoliver Chapter 3
The last few days were spent by the four members saying goodbye to the crew and to their family they were leaving behind. Lily and James found it hard to watch Harry and Luna as they prepared to leave, packing and collecting memories of the only home they ever knew. The Excalibur, though a star ship was still their home, and they would miss it dearly.
Sirius and Remus left two days before to get Black Manor up to shape before Harry and Luna would arrive. There was a matter that Sirius had to take care of with Kreacher, his house elf. It was the one thing that could disrupt their plan. Kreacher had always been a hard one to get to know. He was dedicated to the dark side of Sirius' family, and disliked Sirius because of his light side fondness.
Finally it was time for Harry and Luna to leave, and there were many tears shed as they entered the Transport room to beam down to meet Sirius and Remus. With one final good bye to James, Lily, Jamie and Data, they got on the platform, and with one wave good bye, the beam was energized sending them down to their new home. They appeared in Sirius' sitting room, where he and Remus sat waiting for their arrival. After their shared hugs, they were led to their rooms with their bags and settled in before they made their way back down stairs to relax and make their plans to reenter the magical community.
The plan started with contacting Albus Dumbledore, requesting a visit with him to enter two new students into Hogwarts. That meeting was set up for the following morning. This was a meeting that got Harry and Luna a bit nervous, not knowing what to expect. Everything they were experiencing was new to them, never having remembered setting foot on earth.
Remus was the one to approach Luna with the sad news that Luna's birth mum died two years back. Luna took this with a sad acknowledgment. Never having known her, it was still something that Luna felt bad about. She lost someone that she never got the chance to meet and get to know. Yes, Lily had spent many hours telling her how Selena was a beautiful woman so full of life and love. Her job kept her away for long periods of time, and that was why Luna was left with Lily and James. Luna's father, Xenophilius, was an eccentric person, that printed an obscure publication known as the Quibbler. He was so involved with it, that he lost track of time. He could not be trusted with the care of a baby when Selena was gone.
Luna didn't know how her disappearance was handled by her parents, and how they took it. She hoped they missed her. Remus hadn't heard what happened to her father after her mother's death.
Sirius told them that he made contact with Frank and Alice Longbottom, and would be joining them for dinner that evening with their son Neville. It would be Harry and Luna's first contact with children from their home planet. At least he was their age.
Harry and Luna went back to their room to set it up for their stay, killing time to prepare them for their guests.
At 5PM, they were down stairs waiting for the visit. When the door bell rang, Sirius excused Kreacher from answering it, and approached it with a smile on his face.
Frank and Alice pulled him in to a hug when they entered, and then did the same for Remus. Neville who was behind them, entered with a slight trepidation. However, when Sirius pulled him into a hug, he loosened up and felt better about the up coming meal. He was not good at first meetings. He was taken back when the blond girl also hugged him. He kept his arms at his side when she did this, not knowing what to do with them.
When Luna released him, his hand was taken by the boy, and was given a hearty hand shake. Neville was still a bit nervous and now his hand was hurting, as Harry's grip was more than he expected.
They were led to the sitting room where they talked waiting for Kreacher to announce dinner. Frank asked Harry and Luna, "Do you two know what house you would like to be in when school starts? Neville wishes to be in either Hufflepuff or Gryffindor."
Luna answered him, "Well, we haven't given it a lot of thought. They are all excellent houses, and one is as good as the other. I don't think Slytherin is right for us though, nor Hufflepuff. So I imagine either Gryffindor or Ravenclaw."
Harry added his own thoughts, "Personally I think I would like to be in Gryffindor, as that is where my mum and dad attended. If like Luna said we end up in Ravenclaw, that will not be too bad. Slytherin and Hufflepuff are not right for us, though we do have some of their traits."
They talked for about a half hour when Kreacher announced that dinner was served, and they made their way to the dining room where the food waiting for them. Small talk was made while they dined, and Harry and Luna mad friends with Neville, He was shy and quiet when he first got there, but, after listening to the two, he opened up, and his confidence grew. They were his first friends, as Frank and Alice hardly ever visited other families.
After dinner, Alice asked Sirius to explain how he managed to how he managed to save Harry and Luna from the disaster of Lily and James' death. "I think I should wait, and let you hear it when I announce it to the magical world Alice. It is something that hurts me to talk about too often."
Alice had a tear in her eyes. She knew what Sirius meant, as she missed the couple very much also. "I understand Sirius. It hurt Frank and I when we were finally healed after that attack Bella, Rudolphus and Rebastian made on us, to learn that Lily and James were killed that same night. Hearing that Harry was also killed made it even worse. So you can imagine what a surprise it was when you and Remus told us that Harry's death was a little over exaggerated."
They all shared a laugh over this. The evening continued on, until finally Frank and Alice decided it was time to go home and get Neville ready for bed. Once again hugs were shared, and this time, Neville put his arms around Luna when she hugged him. It was a tight hug, and Neville still felt a little nervous about it. Harry's hand shake still hurt when he shook hands with Neville. This time Neville laughed as he shook his hand to get the circulation flowing again.
After they left, they all went back into the sitting room and talked about the Longbottoms and how Luna and Harry felt about them. After they talked and knew that Harry and Luna enjoyed their company, it was time for the two to get some sleep in preparation for tomorrows announcement.
Excalibur-}
The following morning, after breakfast, they all got ready for their visit to Dumbledore's office. Sirius floo called the Headmaster, and then they walked through to start the story.
Albus was shocked when he learned that the boy was Harry Potter, and that he had a sister. Since he knew they were coming, and knew that they would be making an announcement, He had the press gathered in the great hall. Sirius made sure that only respected reporters would be there for the meeting.
They made their way to the hall, and Harry and Luna were amazed at the number of people sitting out there waiting. "Sirius, how many papers are being represented here. There must be twenty five reporters here."
"Well Harry, there are actually only five reporters, and the rest are photographers. The Prophet, and four other magical publications are her to listen to our story, to include the Quibbler. No Luna, your dad isn't out there. He sent his only reporter and photographer here to cover the story."
They got settled at the Professors table, and Albus stood up to start the conference. "Please quiet down, so that we can begin. As every one knows, Sirius Black is a member of the well respected Black family, and he has been missing from the public eye for the past ten years. He is here now to let us all know what he has been doing during that time. Sirius, the floor is yours."
Sirius stood up and took the stage. "Thank you Professor. I guess, I should begin with why we are all here. I am here to tell the world, that on the night of 31 October, 1981, when Lily and James Potter were killed, it was reported that Harry Potter was also killed. The truth is, I used the Draught of Living death on Harry, to protect him and get him into mine and Remus Lupin's custody, and out of the thoughts of certain other people. We did this so that Harry would grow up with a normal childhood. Now for Luna, Harry's sister, she was an orphan that was taken in by Lily and James. She was left on their doorstep, and taken in as their own daughter. Unfortunately, their joy was short lived, as they were both killed three months later. Remus and I raised them as best we could, away from the world of magic. We will not tell you where they were brought up, as we may have to go back there. Just know that it is a very secure place."
Remus then took over for Sirius, "We have trained Luna and Harry to be aware of the threat that there were others out there that may want to hurt them. Not so much in magic, but in muggle ways. Yes, there was a little magic involved. They had to be aware that they were a witch and a wizard. We taught them that magic was neither good or bad, It was the intent that made magic what it was. The intent of the witch or wizard using it. They know the difference between the two, and that they were to use their magic for only good. They were taught magical law, it's history, it's greatest heroes and villains. We brought them up to do what was right, not what was easy. We taught them to love others and to respect them. To enter any situation with an open mind, and form their judgment on what they were taught."
There were many questions after their talk by the reporters, and all were handled as well as they could be. After the interview was completed, Albus led them back up to his chamber, and were joined by Professor McGonagall for tea. This was where Albus seeked the truth of the matter. "My. Black, I heard the story you told down stairs, but, you and I both know that it was not the entire truth. Can you tell us the full truth?"
Sirius looked to Remus and saw him nod. "You may not believe it Albus."
"Well, I may not, but there is definitely more to your story than what you told the press. I need to know what to expect in the upcoming years."
"OK, here goes. The night that everyone thought that Lily and James were killed. They were not even in the house. They were not even in the country. They were not even on earth."
Minerva sneered her reply, "OH, I look forward to this explanation."
Sirius laughed, "And well you should Minnie, it is a doozy. Lily and James were rescued by a family member from 700 years in the future. His name is Remus James Potter, and he is the captain of a ship named the USS Excalibur. A Star Ship."
"Do you really expect us to believe this. You are telling us that James and Lily are alive, and are out in space?"
"Yes to where they are. And no to expecting you to believe us. It is the truth however."
Albus quieted Minerva down so that he could ask a question. "How did this ship come back in time?"
When Remus and Sirius finally finished their story as to how it all came about, it was four hours later, and they finally got them to believe their story. It took much more to get Minnie to believe it than Albus. Albus believed the because his probe detected no lies coming from the two. He didn't look deeply, he only scanned their surface thoughts. He also probed Harry and Luna's minds and felt the same thing. Honesty.
Minerva finally believed them, when Luna finally talked. "Professor, we can understand you doubt, but I think I know how to prove to you what we tell you is the truth. Mother and I had many talks about her school years. She told me you were her favorite Professor. She told me about your animagus form. She told me about your impartial treatment of the students, even though you were head of house for Gryffindor. She told me of the many talks you had with her in the evenings after dinner. How she would talk to you about two men in her life. Severus Snape who she knew before attending Hogwarts, and James Potter who annoyed her while in Hogwarts."
Minerva had to laugh at that, "Yes, she did go off on him quite a bit. She called him every name in the book of insults. So, it is true then. Is there where you have been for the past ten years?"
"It is Professor." Luna stated.
"And James and Lily are still alive?"
"Yes Professor."
"Can I see them? Talk to them?"
"This I don't know Professor." Remus stuck in. "Captain Potter is under strict regulations concerning time travel, and his interaction with the people in that time frame."
Albus keyed on this, "So, time travel is not uncommon in the future?"
Remus continued the talk, "Not so much it is common, but it has occurred. There are situations in space that I couldn't even begin to explain, and one of them is what brought the Excalibur here from the future."
"So, how will they get back?" Albus asked.
"The ship is waiting for the situation that brought them here to return and allow them to get back home. It is called a worm hole, and I guess there are different types. There is one that allows travel for many light years. Travel in time. Or destroy anything that enters it's core."
"So how do they know which is which?" Minnie asked.
Luna supplied this information. "If they have a chance, they use what they call a probe to send into the anomaly. This probe will send back signals to the ship as to what it encounters. Wrap travel, time travel, or destruction."
"So that was how the Excalibur knew this was a time travel worm hole?" Minnie added.
"No. As Sirius told you, they entered the hole not knowing what was in store. They did it to save another ship that was captained by Captain Potter's friend and his crew."
"I see. So they were lucky then that it wasn't one of the destructive ones. How often do these holes occur?"
"No one knows for sure. It has been ten years since it happened. It could be another ten ears before it returns, or it may never return. I don't know what will happen to the Excalibur if that were the case."
Albus interrupted their talk. "Well, as enlightening as this talk has been, I think we should end it here, and maybe continue it another time. I do hope that this Captain sees fit to allow us to visit this remarkable ship and talk with Lily and James. It sounds like a thrilling experience. Before you leave, here is a list of things that Harry and Luna need to have when they start school in a month. I look forward to you two starting school, and getting to know the other students. Now, I suggest you run long and make arrangements to take a trip to Diagon Alley and make the required purchases."
Once back at Black Manor, Harry and Luna went upstairs and talked about the day's events. That evening, they were visited once again by Frank and Alice. This time with them knowing about what happened. Or at least what the Prophet knew. They all made plans to visit the Alley the up coming weekend.
Excalibur-}
When Sirius and Remus took the kids to Diagon Alley, they used the floo, and Harry and Luna landed on their butts when they came through. Sirius was laughing at them, while Remus helped them up.
Once they were ready, they made their way though the inn, but, Remus stopped suddenly when they passed by someone sitting at the bar. He looked to the man in the turban, and could smell evil pouring from his soul. Sirius saw the look on his friends face, and it scared him. Remus never showed hate like he was showing right now. He looked to the man that caused this feeling in Remus. He didn't like what he saw in him either. He stuttered as he spoke, and he looked nervous, but, Sirius could tell it was all an act. What it was that he was hiding Sirius didn't know, but, what ever it was, he didn't like. When Sirius found out the man was the new DADA Professor at Hogwarts, he made it a point to warn the kids about what him and Remus felt. Once outside, they came to the wall, and Remus touched to stones, and the wall opened up.
Harry and Luna marveled at the activity that was going on in the alley. It was filled with people shopping for their children and themselves. It was a beehive of activity. Sirius and Remus took the hand of their godchild to keep them close. Sirius took Harry's and Remus took Luna's. The first place they went was to Gringott's.
They approached the Goblin at the far end of the room and Harry asked to enter his vault. When the Goblin asked for his key, Harry handed it to him, and the Goblin called for a second Goblin who he called Griphook. Griphook took Harry and Luna down to the vault. The vault was filled with coins. Gold, silver and bronze, although the gold far outnumbered the other two colors. They filled the bags they were given, and then left.
Remus thought Madam Malkins should be next, where they could get fitted for their robes. Next, they went to the shop for their potions kit. Then they passed Eylops, where Harry saw a beautiful white owl sitting on a perch. He walked up to the owl and petted it. He was surprised at how well it took to mhis petting. Luna approached harry and she petted the owl also. However, when a blond boy pushed her out of the way to see the owl, Harry got mad and pushed the boy away. Sirius was ready to break it up, when Remus stopped him. "Let Harry handle it Sirius."
The boy got up, "Do you know who I am? I am Draco Malfoy, and I don't take to half bloods or mudbloods very well. I know all the pureblood families, and you are not one of them. Now get out of my way. I wish to purchase that owl."
"I don't think so. I saw it first, and have taken quite a shine to it, as has my sister. Luna, do you like this owl?"
"Very much so Harry. However, why don't we let the owl decide who it wishes to belong to. Harry, move away from the perch. Draco you move also. Now, both of you hold out your arms to see which one of you the owl will go to." When they did, The white owl went to Harry, and a great horned went to Draco. Draco was about to complain, when the owl walked up Draco's arm, and nibbled gently on his ear.
Draco laughed at this. "OK, I get the picture. I will buy you." He turned to Harry and Luna. "You're very smart for not being a pure blood girl. What did you say your name was again?"
"Luna. Luna Lily Potter."
Draco's eyes grew to the size of a galleon. He then looked to Harry. "So you must be Harry Potter. Sorry about what I said. I am an only child, and to be honest, I'm kind of spoiled. I read the story in the Prophet about how you lived after the attack on your parents. The Draught of Living Death. It can be fatal if not brewed properly. You were very lucky. So, are you two starting school this year as well?"
Luna answered him, "Yes, we are. Looking forward to it. Harry and I hope to be in the same house together. How about you Draco?"
"I expect to be sorted into Slytherin, although if I had my say in the matter, I would like to be sorted else where."
Sirius stepped forward at this time, "Hello Draco. Believe it or not, You and I are cousins. I'm Sirius Black. Your mother and your aunt are my cousins."
"Yes, I've heard my mother talk of you. Aunt Bella wasn't too fond of you, but mother said that you were tolerable when you talked. Aunt Bella doesn't like anyone outside of her family. Of course right now she isn't seeing anyone. She is currently serving time in prison. Honestly, I hope she stays there, as she gives me the willies."
Sirius laughed at this, "Ya, she kinda did that to me as well. Any way, what I was wanting to tell you is that if you talk to the hat during sorting, it will listen to what you ask for, if at all possible."
"The Hat? What is the Hat? I thought we had to go before a panel to be sorted?"
"Shite, I forgot all about the secrecy of the sorting. Oh well, what's done is done. If you want in another house, all you have to do is ask. Do it in your mind, so that the rest don't know your secret. The Hat will hear your wish. Be polite though, as the Hat does not like to be told what you want."
Draco smiled at his cousin. "Thanks, I'll have to think about it. Harry hope to meet you soon. Luna, Thank you for not getting mad at me for pushing you the way I did. I hope we can be friends while we are at school. Now please excuse excuse me while I go pay for Nibbles." He was laughing as he left, as the owl was once again nibbling at his ear.
Harry and Luna followed him to pay for their owl. Once she was payed for, Luna named her, "Harry do you like the name Hedwig?"
"I guess, why?"
"I think I would like to name her that. It has a certain ring to it, don't you think?"
"What do you think girl? Do you like the name Hedwig?"
The owl hooted gently, accepting the name, and flew to Luna's shoulder and stayed there for quite a while.
After purchasing their books, they then went to Ollivander's to purchase a wand. After an hour, they walked out with Harry having A wand of Holly, 11 ½ inches with a Phoenix feather core and a very confusing story told to him by Mr. Ollivander. Luna walked out with a Mahogany, 13" with a unique faerie dust core.
Once the shopping was completed, they made their way back home, and put their things away to relax before dinner. It had been an interesting day for the two, making what they hoped would be a friend in Draco. They became upset when Sirius told them that not to expect it, "Draco's father is a snob elite. Lucius Malfoy was a pure blood bigot. He could not stand any one that was not a pure blood. I can see where his mother has a strong influence on him though. He was rather nice to you two."
Luna shared her thought about Draco to her family, "Did you notice how he changed when he heard Harry's name. I really think he doesn't like the image his father had given him. He wants to be normal. Not a pure blood bigot as you called Lucius, Sirius. Why else would he want a different house than the one his father was in?"
Remus thought about what Luna said. "You know Sirius, what Luna said makes sense. He did seem like he wanted to shed his pure blood upbringing. Being in a different house could make a difference in his way of thinking."
"Maybe, but Lucius keeps a strong grip on his family. If Draco were to go to any house other than Slytherin, he will either fight to get it changed,or possibly disown him. It would be an embarrassment to him if he were to go to say Hufflepuff or Gryffindor. Ravenclaw may be acceptable."
"Well, what ever happens, I hope we can still be friends. I liked Draco. Even with the rocky start." Luna laughed.
Excalibur-}
Molly was finishing up breakfast for her family, when the owl delivered the Prophet to the window. She put the knut in the pouch, and took the paper and set it on the table for Arthur for when he came down to eat. He liked to read it while eating. She didn't notice the headlines as she set it down.
When Arthur finally made it down stairs, he kissed Molly good morning like he always did, and then sat down to read. Molly almost dropped the plate she was carrying when Arthur shouted, "Merlin, I can't believe this. It can't be true."
"Arthur, don't scare me like that. For heavens sake don't shout." She looked up when she heard footsteps running down the stairs and saw her daughter come running into the room.
"Mum, dad, what happened? I heard dad yell."
Arthur looked up at the two female Weasleys and opened up the paper to show them the headlines:
HARRY POTTER IS ALIVE!