Godric looked behind him at Salazar who just shrugged his shoulders. He had no idea what was going on either. They had heard rumors of one of the King's knights being a powerful wizard, but they had never expected to come face to face with him. They also never imagined that other wizards and witches would be willing to risk their lives to save theirs. Godric turned his attention to the red headed witch and the two wizards who were laughing and crying in relief.

Ginny gave Harry and Sirius a few moments before politely coughing. Sirius let go first and looked over at Ginny and then at Harry. "So, did you finally noticed the obvious?" he asked Harry with a smirk.

Ginny stepped forward and took Harry's hand. "It took a little prodding, but yes, he figured out I liked him," she replied for Harry.

Sirius leaned forward to Harry and whispered loud enough for Ginny to hear, "Don't lose this one, she special."

It was Harry's turn to smirk. "Sirius, you have absolutely no idea how right you are," he laughed.

Harry stood up and helped the armored man up as well. A huge grin broke out on his face. "There's so much to tell you. Remus and Tonks got married and are expecting a child," he told his godfather. If possible, Harry's grin got larger. "I can't wait to see Ace's face when we show up with you," he blurted out.

Instead of the smile Harry was expecting, he saw Sirius' expression grow sad. The old Maurader shook his head. "Dammit! I must have hit my head in battle and now I'm having a very vivid dream," he muttered.

Ginny smiled at Sirius. "You're not dreaming, Sirius. This is all real," she told him.

"Reality?" he spat at Ginny angrily. "Harry - the real Harry - is back in my own time, Ace is dead, and even though is a very brave man, Moony would never get up the courage to even ask Tonks out on a date!," he swore. Sirius continued to shake his head as he caught sight of someone walking towards them. The image of that man confirmed to him that this was all just a dream. "Not to mention there is absolutely no way Jack Harkness could be here," he insisted.

Harry's mouth hung open we saw Jack approaching. Other than the fact the older man was brushing white limestone dust off of his trench coat, he looked none the worse for wear. Jack winked at him and then waved at Sirius. "Hey, Sirius, how's it going?" he asked politely as if seeing someone out of their normal Timestream was something to be expected. "Trust me, Sirius. This is real. If it were a dream, I'd be naked," he informed him with a suggestive wink. This caused Sirius to chuckle and then look closer at those around him.

Harry was having a difficult time processing things. Not only was Jack walking around after falling to his death, he seemed to know his godfather. "You two know each other?" Harry inquired.

Jack beamed his usual megawatt smile. "Ace brought him to one of the 'company' Christmas parties," he replied. "She made me promise to keep my hands to myself," he told Harry.

Sirius started to chuckle at the memory. "And after seeing how you were smiling, she made you promise to keep the rest of your anatomy to yourself as well," he laughed. His brow furrowed in confusion. "What is going on here?" he wondered aloud.

Ginny stepped forward again and put her hand on Sirius' cheek. Without warning, she lifted her hand away and slapped him hard. Godric, Gertrude, and Salazar flinched at the audacity of striking a knight. "Did that feel like a dream?" she asked sweetly.

Sirius took off one of his metal gauntlets and rubbed his cheek. "No," was all he said in response.

Ginny smiled at him, kindness evident in her eyes. "Ace is alive and will be overjoyed to see you again," she promised him, her voice soft. When Sirius didn't reply, she went on. "Her Time hopper took a direct hit to its temporal engine core and threw her 16 years into the future," she told him. "She arrived a month after you went through the veil," she relayed to him. Sirius walked shakily to his to horse his grabbed a wineskin. He took a long drink as he thought about what she had said. He still wasn't quite sure if this was reality or just a dream. "I hate to add to how unreal things seem, but..." Ginny started to say. She stepped up to Sirius and whispered something in his ear.

Sirius spit out a mouthful of wine violently and spun around to look at the children the mob had been chasing. He stared at the tall boy until recognition dawned on him. Turning to look at Ginny, he became very somber. "The villages aren't safe for them. We must take them to Camelot as quickly as possible," he told her. He looked back at the children and noticed Salazar was standing only because he was leaning on Godric for support. "I can't believe I'm actually going to do this," he muttered softly to himself. "Come on, Salazar, you can ride my horse," he said as if the words tasted sour on his tongue. He helped the monkey faced boy onto the back of his war horse.

"My... my lord, it is forbidden for a peasant to ride a knight's horse," Salazar stammered from atop the war horse. He looked back at Gertrude and added, "Besides my lord, it would be more proper for a lady to ride than me," he said with conviction.

Sirius was completely taken aback. He had not expected the Founder of Slytherin house to not only be respectful , but also chivalrous. Motioning Gertrude over, her picked her up and sat her behind Salazar. Despite it feeling very unnatural, Sirius found himself smiling at Salazar. "You can ride if the knight in question orders you to do so, and Snape here can easily carry you both," he told him.

Harry ran his hand down the side of the huge horse's neck. "Why would you name your horse after Snape," he asked, bitterness evident in his voice.

Sirius grinned and swatted the horse playfully on the rump. "This monster was the most mean spirited, foul tempered beast in the stables. The name just seemed to fit," he replied. With a grin he added, "Besides, I always thought Severus was a horse's ass."

While Sirius was helping the children onto his horse, Ginny had dug out her Order coin and made contact with Hermione's coin. The image in the coin went from a golden representation of a phoenix to a small picture of Hermione, who appeared to be soaking wet. "Godric and the others are safe," she reported. With a frown she inquired, "Why are you dripping wet, 'Mione?"

Hermione squeezed some water out of hair before responding. "I fell into a lake," she told her. Ginny smirked at the irony. "Rowena and Helga are safe as well," Hermione informed her friend.

Ginny looked over her shoulder and then back into the coin. "'Mione, Sirius is alive. He's a knight now," she said excitedly. "He's a little shell shocked, so perhaps we should wait a while before dropping any more bombshells on him," she suggested. "We're headed for Camelot," she informed Hermione. "Does your... boyfriend... remember how to get there?" she asked, not wanting to be overheard mentioning the name her father used during this time period.

Hermione looked over at the Doctor who was listening in on the conversation. He pulled out his sonic screwdriver and scanned for the specific frequency of energy Excalibur gave off. He nodded his head when he got a lock on the unique blade. "He says yes, but I'll keep a flare spell ready in case we get lost," she teased. Ginny watched Hermione look to the side, grin, and then stick her tongue out. Hermione looked back into her coin. "We'll meet you at Camelot," she promised.

********DrW********

Ginny stood next to Harry and Sirius at the top of a small hill that overlooked the city and castle of Camelot. Her breath was taken away at the sight of the fabled citadel. Red pennants emblazoned with a black dragon snapped in the slight breeze. Sunlight reflected off of the silver capped towers that rose majestically above the rest of the castle. Even from this distance, Ginny and Harry could feel the magic that emanated from the keep.

Sirius took in a deep, calm breath. "I felt the same way when I first saw Camelot," he told them. "The castle is enchanted with old, powerful magic that I don't even pretend to understand," he said reverently. "The castle itself is a reflection of the King's character," he informed them. "Arthur really is like the stories say - kind, brave, and loyal to his people. He's a man I proudly serve," Sirius said. He led them into the city, watching in amusement as the young Founders as well as his godson looked at everything in awe. He couldn't put his finger on it, but Sirius felt there was something different about Ginny. She looked like she was enjoying herself, but wasn't nearly in awe as much as the others. It almost seems like she's seen wonders far beyond what Camelot has to offer,he thought.

Once inside the castle, Sirius led them to main hall where the King held court. He motioned for them to stay near doors and then strode into the room where Arthur was holding court. Harry stared at the King once he recognized the tall, blond man dressed in nice, but plain clothes sitting on the throne. The last time he had seen him was in a painting at Hogwarts after the knight in question had ruffed up some of the other paintings near the Gryffindor common room.

A beautiful woman with long brown hair and a small gold circlet on her head stood behind the throne. She wore a flowing white gown that gave her the appearance of an angel who fell to earth. She rested one slender hand on the back of her husband's throne. Ginny watched as the woman slowly looked over each of the newcomers, drinking in every detail. From the intelligence that flashed behind her eyes, Ginny was sure Guinevere was much more than a pretty decoration for court.

Arthur stepped down from his throne and walked a few steps to greet his knight. "What have you to report, Black knight?" Arthur inquired.

Sirius bowed his head before answering. "My liege, it is as we feared. The villages are turning against the magic users for some reason. Even Bretton turned against their hedge wizard," he said sadly.

Arthur furrowed his brows in confusion. "The people of Bretton loved their wizard. For as long as I can remember, they have been proud that one of their own not only became a wizard, but chose to return to his village and help wherever and whenever he could," he stated. "None of these uprisings make any sense!" he swore. Arthur seemed to notice the people standing in the doorway for the first time. "Forgive my rudeness, Black knight. I have not allowed you to introduce the guest you have brought to Camelot," he said graciously.

Sirius motioned for the children to come forward. "My king, these children are gifted with magic and were driven from their villages," he said formally. "They are magicians of staggering potential," he stated. The way he said it let Arthur know there was much more to the story. "Godric, Gertrude, Salazar, I present you to our king, Arthur Pendragon," he said with a bow. The children bowed deeply as well, in shock at standing before the King. "My lord, on behalf of these children and two others who I'm told are coming, I ask sanctuary within the court," he requested formally.

Arthur smiled wide at the children. "I'm sure we can find positions for them here at court... as long as they continue with their studies of the arcane arts," he offered. "Since my personal wizard seems to be here far less often than he is away, it always good to have others around to pick up the slack. I'm sure you will find his library very educational," he promised. Arthur made a shooing motion with his hand and the children went to stand along the wall.

Sirius took in a deep breath and gestured for Jack to step forward. "My liege, this man is a warrior from where I am from. The crown there has seen fit to entrust him with the safety of our isle when it comes to... monsters from far, far away," he stated, not really sure how to describe what Jack and Ace did for a living. "His name is Captain Jack Harkness," he said.

Jack knelt on one knee before King Arthur. "It is a true honor to meet you, your Highness," he told the king. For once, Jack had left his charm at a mere mortal level.

"Welcome to my kingdom, Captain Harkness," Arthur told Jack. "We could always use fine military commanders in our army," he suggested.

Jack stood slowly, a small smile on his lips. "I'm sorry, Your Highness, but I already sworn my services to another Lorduntil the end of time," he responded.

Arthur nodded his head in acceptance. "Loyalty is a precious commodity, Captain. I hope your lord is worthy," he said.

Without hesitation, Jack responded, "He is." Arthur nodded again and indicated Jack should step aside. Jack bowed once more and stood next to the children.

Sirius waved Ginny forward. "My king, I am proud to present to you Miss Ginerva Weasley, a witch of incredible strength both in magical powers and in character," he boasted. Ginny curtsied once she stood in front of Arthur. Sirius looked behind him and nodded to Harry. "And this my liege, is my godson, Harry Potter," he said, every syllable bursting with pride.

Arthur had been looking over the two magicians but sharply looked over to Sirius. "Is he the one you told me about?" he asked, surprised at the young man's arrival. Sirius' look of joy was all the answer Arthur needed. "Step forward, Sir Harry," Arthur ordered.

Harry stepped in front of the king and bowed low. With his head still bowed he said, "Forgive me, your Highness, but it's just Harry."

Arthur took an angry step towards Harry. "Are trying to tell me that my... " he started to say descendants, but changed his mind considering there were several in court who didn't know about Sirius being from the future. "That those who rule where you are from couldn't have been bothered to bestow knighthood on you after everything you have done to protect the people?" he demanded.

Harry was frightened by the anger behind the King's words. "Your Highness, I'm sure they are very busy and..." he started to say but was cut off by an angry hand wave from Arthur.

"No monarch is too busy to acknowledge those who have served the people bravely, risking their very lives against odds that would make a normal man soil themselves," Arthur countered. "Especially when the person fighting evil has done so since they were a mere 11 years old," he added. Sirius smiled when he realized what Arthur was doing. Many had heard his stories about Harry's exploits and now Arthur was giving a very brief recap for those who hadn't. Sirius took a few steps back and pulled Ginny with him. "This is an outrage!" Arthur bellowed. "An injustice that I will not let go unanswered!" he promised.

Arthur spun on his heel and stormed back to his throne. He reached for a scabbard hanging off of the arm of the high backed throne. With a motion that spoke of years of practice, Arthur freed his sword, Excalibur. Arthur kept his back to Harry while he ordered, "Harry Potter, kneel before the throne." Harry did as he was commanded and knelt behind Arthur, his head bowed in humility.

Arthur turned around and made eye contact with Sirius. Ginny saw the quick wink and her hearts felt like they were going to burst with pride for her boyfriend. Arthur redirected his attention to the brave, young man kneeling before him. "Harry Potter, do you swear to protect the people of this kingdom with your life if neccessary?" he asked.

Harry looked up in shock, unable to believe what was happening. He saw Guinevere mouth the word, "yes." Harry swallowed hard. "Yes... yes, your Highness," he replied.

Arthur's face was still a stone mask of seriousness. "Do you vow to be a vessel of both my justice and my mercy throughout the land?" he asked.

Harry squared his shoulders. "Yes, your Highness," he replied again.

Arthur already knew the answer to the next question, but he had to ask to make things official. "Will you devote your life to pursuing and destroying evil wherever it may be found?" he inquired solemnly.

Fire burnt behind Harry's eyes and he replied with conviction, "Until I draw my last breath, your Highness!"

Arthur smiled at Harry's choice of words. He raised Excalibur and placed the flat of the blade on Harry's left shoulder and then his right. "BY your answers, I believe you to be a man worthy of this hall. Rise, Sir Harry, knight of Camelot," Arthur said proudly. As he spoke, Harry could feel an old magic wrapping itself around him and sealing the bond between a knight and his liege.

As Harry stood, the hall was filled with clapping and shouts of congratulations from the other knights who swarmed forward. Each of the knights took a turn slapping him on the back and welcoming him to their fellowship. Unlike other members of court, they had all heard Sirius' stories, and if even half of what he said was true, the knights were proud to count Harry as one of them.

The cheers quieted down and only one person remained clapping. Arthur looked over to the door and saw two girls standing between a young witch who was oddly familiar and a man dressed in very strange clothes who was still clapping. Guinevere recognized the young woman, walked to the fireplace, and sat down on a stool. She picked up a needlework frame and slowly turned it around in her hand, as if she were trying to decide where to pick up again. Her movements stopped and she looked up to meet her husbands eyes. The slightest of smiles told Arthur what he needed to know.

Arthur clapped his hands once to get every one's attention. "Ah, I see we have another applicant for court jester," he announced. He walked towards the Doctor. "I must say, your choice in fool's costume is quite interesting. I've seen many different fools who have applied for the opening, but none of them were dressed as ridiculously as you," he told him.

The Doctor was slightly stunned. "What? What do you mean? I look good. Bow ties are cool!" he sputtered, defending himself.

Arthur spun around to look at the court. "Not bad, already he starts with the jokes," he told them. Arthur turned back around to look at the Doctor. "Before you proceed with another joke, I must in all fairness tell you of the wages. You will have a spot to sleep in by the kitchens, the left overs from our tables to eat, and I promise to keep the beatings to a minimum," he offered.

The Doctor's face was one of total outrage. He opened his mouth to speak, but he was too angry to say anything. Arthur spun around quickly and bent over, suddenly overcome with a bad case of the giggles. He waved his hand at his wife. "I can't do it! I can't go on... you know I'm rubbish with this sort of thing," he laughed. Arthur took in a deep breath and fought to regain control. When he was certain he could look at the strangely dressed man with out laughing, he faced him once more, a huge smile on his face. Arthur held his arms out wide to embrace his old friend, one who had been absent from court for far too long. "Welcome home... Merlin!" he bellowed as he hugged the Doctor.

The great hall became quiet as the children each dropped to one knee in respect for the King's wizard. Then every thing erupted as the knights cheered again, this time in joy at having Merlin back. Guinevere stood up and walked towards her husband and their friends. "It really is impolite to show up looking younger than you did the last time you were here," she teased. She took Hermione's hands in her own. "Lady of the Lake, be welcome as always in Camelot," she said formally.

Sirius was in shock. Harry put his hand on his godfather's shoulder. "We'll explain later," he promised.

Several of the younger knights had noticed the lack of a wedding band on Ginny's finger and flocked around the attractive young woman. Harry was going to step in, his alpha male instincts overriding his more sensible nature, but the Doctor's voice carried through the hall. "Ah, I see you've met my daughter, Ginny," he told Arthur. The young knights all took a hurried step back from the wizard's daughter, not wanting to draw his ire.

Arthur looked from Ginny to the Doctor and then back again in shock. Sirius was beyond numb. An older knight with dark hair leaned over to Jack. "Merlin has a daughter? I'm not sure who I'm more worried for, us or the minions of darkness," he joked.