Lily's Protection

by JoannasHope

What if Lily didn't completely trust Dumbledore? It's not the "boy"-who-lived. Can two Mother's love protect a child to save both worlds? Begins Dark. Please note trigger warnings at beginning of chapters. Character deaths.

7. Chapter 7 - Names, Trust and Retribution

Disclaimer: No money received; HP never will be mine.

AN: Trigger warnings for this chapter; a little pain, a little blood, a few broken bones, a hint of ritual suicide - non explicit, a bit of sweat and a lot of tears, laughter and love.

**Please note poll on homepage at the top. I've never done this before, hopefully it works. I'm asking for your opinion regarding Hermione's role in this story. Every vote is appreciated.

This chapter is dedicated to roos1414.

Chapter Seven – Names, Trust and Retribution

The next day brought a few owls to the house, what with the delivery of an owl stand, snake enclosure and the robes they had ordered. Petunia had also decided to request the order form and catalogue, if available, from the book store. She also wanted to request subscriptions to potion magazines and wizarding newspapers. She settled for the recommended potion magazine by Mr. Jiggers, The Practical Potioneer, and the Daily Prophet newspaper. She decided to pay as she received the papers and if she decided they were helpful to pay for a yearly subscription.

She had awoken this morning with a deep desire to get started on her new business. She also desperately wanted to visit the Goblins to determine if Doug or she had any magic sufficient to, at the least, create potions. This she could not do as Jamie was being punished.

Sitting at the kitchen table, Petunia set about writing her lists of things that needed to be accomplished to have her business running. Frowning she glanced about, and realized she wasn't sure where to actual place a potions lab. It couldn't be the kitchen or anywhere easily accessible to her muggle friend, Sally. Not only did she need a well ventilated room, with sinks, vials, bottles and labels, she also needed a safe storage area for the ingredients and a preparation area. I'm stumped before I even get started. Petunia walked to the bottom of the stairs and called Jamie to come downstairs, as she needed her help.

After they were both seated at the table, Doug was out that morning playing football, Petunia proceeded to discuss what she was stumped upon with Jamie, and ending with saying that two heads were better than one for brainstorming ideas. After discussing and discarding many ideas they finally decided to discuss it with the Goblins. Jamie's brightest idea was having the potions lab in a trunk, while Petunia argued if they could expand a trunk that big why not a house. They did agree they needed to learn more about the wizarding world and went upstairs to select and read their "magic" books.

At one point Jamie ran into Petunia's bedroom, needing to share about a mode of transportation called a "floo", which was travel by floo powder and a fire in the fireplace. All they needed to do was get a connection hooked up to the floo network and the world was open to them. It would be an especially easy way to travel to Diagon Alley via the Leaky Cauldron, instead of taking the bus. The tricky part would be coming up with a unique name for their particular floo. They decided to wait for Doug to return before they discussed it further, as they wanted to decide as a family.

Jamie had also read about apparition, and although she was confident she could do it, she didn't want her Mum to worry about it. There were warnings about splinching oneself if not carefully focused and determined to reach the desired destination.

As Jamie left her Mum's room she entered Doug's figuring this would be the best time to talk to the owl, since Doug would not overhear her conversation and possibly become jealous of their bond. Quietly walking forward, she stopped in front of the cage and examined the owl. It looked like the owl was sleeping and Jamie was hesitant to wake it. The owl removed its head from under its wing and blinked as it stared at Jamie. "I'm sorry to wake you, but I needed to explain to you why you are staying with my brother and not me. See I know you are connected to me, but I think you are with him too. I already have another familiar and I don't want Doug to get upset with me having magic and two familiars. We really need you to be our family's familiar not just mine, okay?"

The owl tilted its head and then bobbed its head and gave a soft hoot. Jamie smiled and continued speaking as she began to stroke the owl thru the cage bars. "We will all take care of you too. You're special because we need you so much. I just learned about the magical world and it's nice to have a part of it here too. I better go now, Doug will be home soon."

The owl watched Jamie until she left the room and then tucked its head back under its wing to continue its rest.

Jamie popped her head into her Mum's room and stated, "Mum I'm just going to read the instructions and try the quills now."

Petunia looked up from her reading. "Go ahead but come get me if you are going to use the quill knife."

"Yes Mum."

Jamie read about how to sharpen the quill nib properly and hold the quill at the correct angle to the parchment. She was fascinated to watch the examples being drawn in the instruction booklet for each letter of the upper and lower case alphabet. It was like having a mini television in her book! After watching the sharpening example a few times and practicing without her knife, she pleaded with her Mum to allow her to sharpening the nib so she could practice her letter writing in the practice notebook.

Petunia agreed and carefully watched Jamie sharpen the nib while she bit her lip and tried not to take over. She couldn't help being a bit anxious, although this was hardly fair as she allowed Doug and Jamie to use knives during meal preparation. Thinking back on it now, she was always watching them carefully and anxiously at those times too. She was impressed with how easy Jamie made it look. She was also happy that Jamie was not complaining about being stuck inside the house but was wisely using this time to learn and practice the necessary skills she would need in the wizarding world.

"Jamie, I think I can trust you to handle your quill knife responsibly. You may use your knife as you need it without calling me, okay?"

Jamie carefully put down the quill and looked up at her Mum with a brilliant smile. "Really, Mum? You trust me already?"

Petunia gave a small chuckle and shook her head. "Yes, I do brat. You have been very trustworthy with my instructions so far today. You are making it very difficult not to trust you." Petunia gently teased Jamie.

Still smiling Jamie responded, "Love you Mum."

After a hug Petunia left and continued her own study.

While Jamie continued her writing practice she talked with her snake about the boy from yesterday and all that had happened on that very long busy day. When her hand started to ache she cleaned up her desk and put everything away. She washed her hands and was feeling a bit tired so she lay down on her bed. Her snake left her body and curled up near her stomach. Jamie started to stroke her snake and for the first time carefully examined it.

He was a truly beautiful snake, with dark grey scales on the upper part and a pale almost beige underbelly. The scales were iridescent when the sunlight struck them. Its human looking eyes changed colour, depending on the angle they were looked at, how near or far away it was and how much light struck its eyes. I always thought snakes had different looking eyes, not human looking eyes, strange. Jamie could see magic swirling around the snake. ~Are you magical?~

The snake was returning Jamie's gaze and also studying her at the same time. ~I was not until I became your familiar. Now I am. Though I am not yet sure what I can do.~

Still stroking the snake lightly Jamie continued their discussion. ~What species are you? Do you already have a name?~

The snake was enjoying the attention and contentedly hissed. ~I am a Black Mamba. My species are also known as The Shadow of Death and our bite is known as The Kiss of Death.~

~Wow, really? So do you want me to call you Shadow or something like that?~ Jamie asked.

The snake was silent for a moment and then replied. ~No, I want a name just for me.~

Jamie rested her head on her pillow but continued to stroke the thin snake. ~I will do my best to find you a good name. Do you poison someone if you attack them?~

Putting its head down onto the bed the snake answered. ~Yes, if we are threatened, I will attack repeatedly. My venom can kill within fifteen minutes depending upon if I strike a vein or not.~

Jamie let out a yawn. ~That's cool, so you'd protect us both, good. You are small like me, will you grow like I will too?~

The snake slithered closer to Jamie's chest and curled up against her. ~I am very young still and only two feet right now but I will grow very long. When I am older I will be able to move very fast too.~

Jamie's eyes slowly drifted closed. ~Huh, that's really cool…~ Jamie's voice trailed off into a mumble. Eventually her fingers stopped stroking the snake and were just resting on its coiled body as they fell into a deep sleep.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Jamie spent the remainder of the day, and the next studying and practicing. She did get a little frustrated with the House Spirits commentary on the correct style of writing. It appeared there were several types of scripts taught depending upon the century each Spirit had lived. Finally Jamie pointed out that she lived in the current time and wanted to follow the script from the book. They all agreed it would be fine until she had a tutor and could learn properly, for now it was constant practice holding a quill and properly inking it so it did not leave splotches all over the parchment. Jamie made sure she thanked the Spirits for their suggestions, as they did make it easier to learn the skill.

She had been puzzling over some things the books had mentioned and had asked the Spirits for their input. Happily they could explain it in further detail until she understood thoroughly. From that point on she asked that they would continue to freely comment on what she was reading as they had knowledge the books were lacking, although this made her reading take a lot longer to complete. She felt it was worth it, even though she could do without the long debates. Jamie found she was becoming used to their presence and now looked forward to listening to them and asking questions.

Petunia had decided to get a yearly subscription of the Daily Prophet as it was easier to pay that way then to daily find a knut to place into the owls pouch.

After a fun evening of imaging what to call their floo, with many hilarious and ridiculous names being mentioned, they decided on 'Hearts' Home', if it was available. Otherwise it would be called 'Evangeline' though they couldn't remember whose bright idea that was.

Petunia decided they would try to make one trip to the Ministry of Magic to arrange for a floo and to register a potions business. They each started to say names for their company. Doug, deciding to be absurd, yelled out "Marvelous Magical Potions." Both Mum and daughter looked at each other and said in unison "MMP" then they smiled and nodded. Doug protested that he was only joking but the girls outvoted him and refused to discuss any other name. Doug pouted a bit then smiled and boasted that he was great at naming things. This led to an all out tickle war while running throughout the house shrieking. They all ended up in the living room with tears on their faces as they sprawled on the floor gasping for air and still emitting small chuckles.

Privately Petunia was a bit worried about making potions that would be acceptable by a Potion Master and sellable to apothecaries. On the other hand, Jamie was excited and couldn't wait to write to Potion Master Snape at Hogwarts. She was hoping to create a dialogue with him and eventually meet so that she could give him her Mother's letter and learn about their school years.

It was decided that they would all attend Diagon Alley, after Jamie had her second meeting with the Goblins, to purchase potion making and ingredient preparation books. Once they had the basics covered and understood a bit better what they were getting into, then they would purchase the necessary equipment and ingredients in bulk. Petunia grabbed a few cooking books from the shelf and decided the family needed to learn what they could about dicing, slicing and crushing from the information readily available at home. They also learned the differences and temperatures between simmering, boiling, roiling boil and poaching. Although Doug wasn't really that interested he still participated as it was a family business and they all needed to pitch in to make it viable.

On the third day after their trip to Diagon Alley, the family went to the local library as the children needed to find different and meaningful names for the new familiars. They had tried all the names they knew already, and had only annoyed the animals enough that they turned away from the children upon seeing them enter the rooms. Petunia gently told the children that picking a name had to mean something special to each animal. She explained how she had named Douglas and Jamie, even to giving them special middle names. This advice was very helpful to both of the children.

Douglas decided he would take out some female baby name books specializing in a variety of different countries. Jamie copied any name that she could find that had the meaning "Shadow of Death". She discovered she would also need to look at other languages as she couldn't find many English names that seemed to fit.

Jamie also needed to think over where to move her scar on her body and research designs of tattoos to disguise it. She was thinking of flowers as both her Mums were named after flowers but she didn't want to pick just one as it didn't feel right to exclude one over the other. They both had saved her life and she wanted to reflect that in her tattoo. Then she was thinking that the tattoo should be something about her as well as her familiars. By this time she was very confused.

Walking over to her Mum, Jamie sat at the library table in the hard plastic chair at her Mum's left side, "Mum, can I talk to you?"

Looking up Petunia laid her book down, smiled and nodded at her daughter to continue.

Leaning close Jamie whispered, "I don't know how to pick a tattoo. I want to pick flowers because of you and Mother but I also want the familiars because they are important too. Oh, and I want Doug 'cause we're family…but that's a lot to put together and what would I use for Doug and what about me…oh I don't know what to do." A huff escaped the disgruntled little girl, who scowled, crossed her arms and leaned back into the chair.

Petunia tried to conceal her twitching lips by resting her left elbow on the table and placing her fisted hand against her lips as she leaned towards her daughter. Taking a breath and clearing her throat to stop her amusement, she placed her hand back down on the table and motioned her daughter to come close.

Speaking quietly Petunia queried her daughter, "Do you really need all of us represented? How about one symbol to represent the Evans and one for the Potters? What about the Peverells and the others?" Thinking hard Petunia continued softly, "See how it can be too much? By trying to include everyone individually it becomes confusing. Let's just think about it in the big picture. What are the two worlds you represent?"

With a frown Jamie looked at her Mum's arm and reaching out with her finger she started to connect the freckles on it. "Well, magic and not magic."

"Right, so don't make is so complicated. One symbol can represent a few special meanings. Also your scar can be turned so that it's not in the same position, I would think. Looking at the styles of clothes in this world you don't have much hope of covering up the tattoo unless you place it on your private areas." Looking stern Petunia warned, "Which you will not do young lady."

Then Petunia continued in a softer voice, "I think your upper back would be best as the clothes in the magical world cover up your body quite a bit, so no worries there. If you really want to represent your Mother and I, you could use a different flower altogether. Say a blending of the two which creates who you are. If you think about it, this is also true of the two worlds you are a part of. If one symbol is not enough to disguise your scar, you could use two. Maybe your scar could be smaller. Remember Jamie, anything is possible with magic." Petunia ended with a smile and a wink.

Jamie felt better after talking with her Mum. They looked through a few books together until Jamie felt she had a better idea of what she would like. Her Mum did explain that it was permanent and that she would need to approve the final choice.

Each of the Evans were thankful for their "magic" bags as they had taken quite a few books on loan from the library, some were quite heavy too. They had carefully ducked round the library towards a park with a bench to put away their books, while keeping an eye out for people who might be paying attention to them. It felt a little like they had just stolen the books and each of them gave a little nervous twitch. Petunia kept saying that they had done nothing wrong they were just keeping magic out of sight; Doug was looking around suspiciously of everyone; Jamie was huffing at Doug and punched his arm which irritated her Mum. Needless to say, they were a bit cranky on the walk home. It didn't last long though as Petunia distracted them by questioning the children on what names they had found.

After lunch and cleanup, Petunia insisted everyone go to their rooms for a quiet time, stating she was getting a headache and needed to rest.

The children each went to their respective rooms to discuss names with their familiars. Doug and the owl agreed on Hedwig, meaning battle and fight. Hedwig was very pleased with the name since many noblewomen were so named through the ages. Jamie and the snake decided on 'Shisou', which in Japanese Kanji means 'Shadow of Death'.

This also gave Jamie an idea to hide her scar in plain sight within the tattoo. Replacing the naming books with flower books and getting out paper and a pencil, Jamie started to draw her tattoo. After some frustration including broken pencil tips, a fair amount of erasing which included a few torn and crumpled up pieces of paper thrown onto the floor, Jamie finally had a coloured tattoo to show her Mum for approval. The House Spirits had given a few pointers and comments, though the most curious one was from M2 of "How appropriate". None would speak to explain the meaning of that comment no matter how much Jamie demanded to know the meaning. They did however give their approval of the tattoo, after they insisted Jamie use the quill for drawing instead of pencil or pen, though they did allow her to use coloured pencils to fill in the flowers.

By this time Petunia and Doug were downstairs getting supper started. Jamie quickly descended the stairs and carefully placed her drawing on the living room table to show later. She then went into the kitchen to help and, along with Doug, proceeded to reveal the familiars' names. They each had a difficult time saying Shisou and after awhile Shisou was a bit annoyed with them all and went back upstairs to get away from the ~…insulting family who cannot say my name properly.~ They did feel a bit bad about it and practiced during supper until they could say the name correctly. Jamie just hoped she was actually teaching it correctly to the others.

After their meal and the kitchen tidy, they then went into the living room to look at Jamie's tattoo drawing. Doug thought it was wicked, while Petunia was a bit perturbed over the meaning of the scar design. Jamie had done an excellent job drawing, although she admitted to freehand copying various parts of the design. Once Jamie had explained her reasoning behind each part of the design in detail, Petunia grudgingly gave her consent. Petunia eventually realized the design could not be cutesy or girly as Jamie would have this tattoo on her body for the rest of her life.

Jamie wanted to go back to the library the next day to return some of the library books, while Doug wanted a day at home. They compromised and agreed to go the day after tomorrow if Doug would play with Jamie in the back yard for a couple of hours in the afternoon.

That night they played a few board and card games and then went off to bed after letting the familiars out for the night. All of them had wished Shisou a goodnight while being careful to say his name correctly, which he was very pleased about. Jamie was happy he was appeased and leaving to hunt in a good mood. She had an irrational fear he would leave angry and never come back. The House Spirits took the time to explain to her the relationship between a familiar and its master/mistress, which did much to soothe her fear.

Bright and early the following day many owls arrived at their house; the Daily Prophet, the current monthly Practical Potioneer magazine, the Flourish & Blotts order form and catalogue, and the appointment with Gringotts (including the portkey with instructions). Needless to say Jamie was almost bouncing off the walls with excitement and Petunia had a hard time getting her to calm down.

Finally in exasperation Petunia declared, "Jamie go outside right this minute and skip rope until you are calm enough to read the letter so we can discuss this!"

Jamie was still very twitchy and started whining, "But Mum…"

Petunia had her arms crossed and now was tapping her foot. With a stern glare and pointing to the kitchen door leading to the back yard, she continued, "Outside or upstairs until lunchtime, your choice!"

With hunched shoulders and pouting, Jamie glared at her Mum and muttered, "Fine" as she stomped out the door.

Petunia collapsed onto the kitchen chair and rested her head down onto her folded arms which were on top of the table. "Doug, please get me a potion from my bedside table." Petunia whispered while her eyes were pinched tightly closed with pain.

Without answering Doug ran to get the Stomach Relief potion for his Mum while trying to be as quiet as possible. He knew she was getting a migraine and he didn't want her to have a full blown attack. This is my day of rest at home and Jamie is ruining it. Why is she being such a brat and causing Mum to be in pain? She needs a good scolding. Doug had reached his Mum's room and grabbed a potion, noticing that there was only one bottle left. How many did Mum buy? Has she really been using it a lot? By this time Doug had made his way back downstairs and whispered, "Here Mum, just lean back. I got it, just open your mouth. Do you need anything else, if not I'll just leave you alone to feel better. Love you Mum."

Petunia slumped back onto her arms again as Doug slipped his shoes on and went out the back door.

Doug looked around the back yard and saw his sister holding the folded jump rope in one hand while she viciously whipped it at the tree.

Clenching his fists Doug walked over to her with angry eyes and yet in a calm cold voice he addressed her, "Mum has a migraine because of you. It's my day to relax at home and you are causing so much trouble first thing. I'm so angry I could hit you."

When Jamie had heard her brother walking towards her, she had flown around with a nasty retort on her lips, but as Doug spoke she felt ashamed of herself. By the time Doug finished speaking, Jamie was starting to cry. Doug gave a huge sigh and reached for his sister to hug away her tears.

Jamie dropped the skipping rope and clung to Doug. "I'm sorry. I was so happy. I didn't think about you or Mum. Please forgive me? Is Mum okay?" she eased back a bit and wiped her eyes and nose on her shirt sleeves.

"Eeeww…that's gross. Yeah, I gave Mum the potion but she's still in the kitchen resting."

Jamie continued to sniffle a few times, took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Still looking down Jamie whispered in a scared little voice, "Do you still want to hit me?"

"Yeah" Doug replied. Making a fist with his right hand he lifted it up towards Jamie and gently bumped her jaw. "Okay all done. I feel better now."

Jamie looked up at Doug in shock and then began to giggle. Soon the two of them gave each other another hug and then proceeded to quietly take turns with the skipping rope.

With a smirk Jamie said to Doug, "This doesn't count for our outside playing time today."

Doug growled back, "Yes it does."

"Nope, it doesn't 'cause Mum ordered me out here for punishment not play."

"Yes it does, because I came out here to play with you."

Jamie stopped her skipping and turning towards Doug started to speak loudly, "You came out here to scold me!"

Doug narrowed his eyes and then started to smile. "Doesn't matter, I'm playing with you right now instead of being inside doing what I want."

Jamie was scowling and then turned on a mega-watt smile, "Well, we'll see what Mum has to say when I tell her you said we'd play outside this afternoon."

Doug slumped and then growled, "Not fair…"

Jamie just laughed. They both knew their Mum would say that the compromise had stated playing together in the afternoon. Secretly Jamie wasn't planning on taking advantage of Doug and making him play with her this afternoon. She just liked Doug to know she had the power to make him play with her this afternoon if she chooses to do so. The female House Spirit gave Jamie a mental high five while M2 was proud of her cunning.

After they put away the skip rope in the shed, they quietly walked back into the house so that Jamie could apologize to her Mum. After her apology Jamie had run upstairs, changed her shirt and cleaned up a bit, then Petunia, Doug and Jamie sat down in the living room to discuss the letter from Gringotts. The letter had stated their appointment was set for ten o'clock in the morning on Tuesday July eighth, which was in three days. The enclosed portkey was a five inch long black string, which would activate 5 minutes before the appointed time. Jamie and Petunia looked at the string, then at Doug and then at each other. Walking carefully they gently but securely attached the string to the bulletin board.

Doug looked at them as they did this with a scowl on his face and said, "What? I wouldn't do anything with it. Why did you look at me like that?" Then he sniffed and put his nose in the air while he crossed his arms. "Seriously, I wouldn't have done anything! How could you think that? I'm going to my room."

As Doug got up to leave the room, Petunia and Jamie smirked at each other and then tackled Doug and tickled him mercilessly. Finally Doug cried out, "Uncle, Uncle!" When they let him go, he dashed upstairs to the relative safety of his room.

The next few days brought the usual ups and downs of family life. Doug didn't play outside with Jamie that afternoon but they did take the time to practice the defense lessons they had neglected in the last few months. Unfortunately they had forgotten to be careful with their punches, kicks and throws, and Doug ended up with a severely sprained foot. Thankfully Jamie healed him within a few hours, after he had profusely apologized for breaking her arm with his foot.

Petunia's migraines were becoming more frequent while she stressed over her financial worries. Doug and Jamie were concerned enough that they had researched relaxation and meditation techniques at the library. They instigated a family meeting and it was decided they would all participate in relaxation exercises or meditation before bed every night as a family. The first time they tried was not as helpful as they had hoped, but they were determined to support each other until it worked or they could find something else that would. Jamie was determined to find something in the magical world that would help her Mum, even if it was just soft music to magically play in the background while they meditated together each evening.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Early morning, two days before the Gringotts appointment…

Ragnuk was sitting at his desk, in Gringotts, pouring over parchments and quite determined to snag every single knut he could squeeze out of the deal, when he was interrupted by a respectful knock on his door. Curbing his first impulse of hurling his wickedly sharp axe at the door he growled out "enter" in Gobbledegook.

Griphook and Bogrod entered, walked towards Ragnuk's desk and stood as still as statues awaiting permission to speak. After a few minutes Ragnuk stacked the parchments together and placed them into his desk drawer. Settling back into his chair Ragnuk stared at the two goblins before him noticing one had a stack of parchment clutched in his arms while the other held one piece of parchment. Ragnuk continued to stare at the goblins testing their resolve to stand before him.

Bogrod was the one who cracked. It wasn't much, just a minor twitch of his left eye, but it was enough for Ragnuk to tamp down his surge of bloodlust. In the old days that flinch would have seen Bogrod's head on a pike within one minute. Ragnuk was not pleased with Bogrod being the Potter Account Manager, as the Potter Account would need a strong warrior to defend it and guide the heir. Hmmm…he may salvage his life yet, depending on how he has handled the retrieval for Jamie. Perhaps I should have had Griphook handle the Potter Account, but no, I want her to interact and learn from Griphook now. He is loyal, intelligent and a strong warrior, he will handle Jamie correctly and line Goblin pockets with much gold. Ha! Yes you see contempt in my eyes, don't you Bogrod. What! Do I see a glisten of sweat forming on your brow?!

With a snarl Ragnuk barked out his order, "Sit and Report!"

Both golbins sat on the chairs in front of Ragnuk's desk, but only one of them was calm.

Taking the initiative, Griphook began, "As ordered, I have written to Andromeda Black and have received her acceptance to meet with Heir Evans, although I did not give her knowledge of whom she could be tutoring. Upon that meeting, I will ensure they come to a mutually beneficial agreement as per our special client fee rate." Ragnuk nodded his head and motioned for Griphook to continue. "All Peverell Family Vaults have been combined and, along with the Slytherin Heritage Vault, have been fully inventoried. The books are ready for inspection upon your convenience. Mind Healer Snipbue has prepared a schedule for his lessons with Heir Evans. High Warrior Boaxum has also prepared a schedule for lessons with Heir Evans. This concludes my report."

Ragnuk stared at Griphook for a moment and then spoke, "Acceptable on all counts. You have exceeded my expectations with High Warrior Boaxum. Tell me how did you convince him to teach Jamie?"

Griphook's teeth widened into a breathtakingly hideous smile showing even his back molars. "I convinced him in the old manner."

Bogrod was feeling just a bit more than a little queasy at the amount of bloodlust he felt in the room. With a nervous lick from his tongue to his dry lips, he began to wonder if he would survive the day with his head still attached to his body. Suddenly he realized exactly what a rodent felt like when a snake tracked it as he saw Ragnuk was staring at him.

Swallowing nervously Bogrod began his report, "I have sent out the retrieval squads to obtain the missing items and galleons from the Potter vaults." At this point he stood and placed half the sheaf of parchments onto Ragnuk's desk. "As you can see here, there are some items they were unable to retrieve as of yet…" Bogrod trailed off as he realized Ragnuk had narrowed his eyes at him. "Sir?" he squeaked out.

With a quiet hissing voice Ragnuk spoke, "Did I ask to see your documentation?"

"N-n-no you did not." Bogrod was trembling.

Ragnuk's hands clenched. "Then why have you littered my desk with your parchments?"

Bogrod could barely speak, "I meant only to show you how little were not yet retrieved." In his haste Bogrod quickly attempted to gather his parchments from the desk but instead he ended up casting his own parchments onto the desk and the floor.

Ragnuk stood up and said in a tight voice, "Leave now and know that you have only been spared from beheading at this time because of your decision to ensure Heir Evans received the Ancestry Ritual. You are removed from the Potter Account."

Bogrod snapped straight up, bowed his head in thanks to Ragnuk, turned and left the room closing the door quietly behind him. He knew exactly what was expected of him and he would perform his duty for his clan's honour. Well at least my head will be attached to my body this evening for my funeral pyre.

Ragnuk resumed his seat then lifted an eyebrow in Griphook's direction. Griphook swiftly waved his hand making the parchments disappear. "Report" Ragnuk's voice had returned to normal.

Griphook was glad he had briefly spoken to Bogrod before being called to report to Ragnuk's office. "All items will be retrieved by mornings rise or heads will roll. In the unlikely event any item is not retrieved, the goblin in charge of said item's retrieval and the thief will pay double the reimbursement cost. All stolen galleons will be accounted for at the same time. In the highly unlikely event the full amount of stolen galleons are unattainable, the thief will pay triple the amount from goods currently owned." Continuing to exude confidence and a calm appearance, Griphook allowed himself to smirk slightly as he continued speaking, "If any loses are still unaccounted for the thief will work in the deepest dragon pit at a rate of one hundred galleons per month which, when taken into account his upkeep, the thief will yield one galleon per year towards debt owed. Depending on amount unrecoverable and not compensated, interest could conceivably cost more than one galleon per year, which would mean a dishonourable beheading to stop the deficit of profit, as per Goblin Justice."

Ragnuk nodded his head, smiled and chuckled. "Ensure the Potter Account has an equivalent wise manager in place as does the Peverell and Slytherin Accounts. You are dismissed."

Griphook quickly stood, respectfully nodded his head towards Ragnuk then left and swiftly walked towards his office. It was going to be another long day in which he had much to accomplish and little time to complete it. Hmmm…I now have obtained the Slytherin Account, interesting. But I suppose that can be worked to my advantage. If I find a reliable Manager for Slytherin quickly, I will appear to follow the original wise directive of keeping the accounts separated. Just because he included the account in his words didn't mean it actually was official. So this is another trial. Does the Slytherin Account merit a Manager? Not much to do with it, is there? Waste of galleons to pay for a Manager. Thinking on vaults...Dumbledore's vault must also be checked for missing items as well. That will be done when we go to retrieve the missing galleons. Now, who shall I appoint as the Potter Account Manager? That is an immediate concern. They must be swift of mind to pick up this mess and work with me easily, without trying to cut my throat. Yes, loyal to my clan but a brother-in-arms. Ragua, no…Blatfoot, no…Nagnut, maybe…yes, I think yes. A quick trial and if he passes by surviving then he will be appointed. Griphook entered his office, sealed his door and while thinking of his plans for Nagnut, he changed his garments from banker to warrior and sharpened his double headed axe. But first, a few promises to be made to encourage the retrieval squad! Two battles in one day; Griphook loved being a Goblin.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Andromeda Tonks nèe Black was sitting with her husband, Ted Tonks, having tea in the afternoon on the day before her scheduled appointment at Gringotts.

Once they were both settled and comfortable Ted began their conversation, "Andi are you sure you want to be a tutor. I know we discussed this when you first received the letter, but I do have concerns over you spending time away from Dora right now, never mind your own grief."

Andi looked at her husband with sad, tired eyes. "Are you asking for yourself as well Ted?"

Ted gave a rueful smile, "No my dear, I will have you for myself during the night when my mind and heart aches and our tears fall. It is not for myself I am concerned about but for your and Dora's health and grief."

Andi took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I know it has been barely three months since our Teddy died, but strangely I feel drawn to attend this meeting. My first inclination was to decline, but as I put quill to parchment, I found myself unable to write a refusal. It feels right as rain after a parched summer day to accept." Andi paused for a moment collecting her thoughts and then continued, "I was concerned about Nymphadora but in just over a month she will be returning to Hogwarts for her third year. Then we will be alone again. We have talked and grieved together Ted, she is doing well, all things considered. I think it helped that he died after her spring break ended. She had time for a last visit and happy memories during his last birthday. We have talked about guilt and she confessed to having a little in regards to having a little brother who teased and irritated her."

Andi smiled and then wiped the tears that slowly fell down her face. "No, Ted, I am not replacing our little Teddy by tutoring but it will help fill the days. Although I hardly know what I will be needed to teach the child. As you also read the letter, it only stated they required someone to teach a child pureblood upbringing. Besides I doubt I will be teaching every day, perhaps only four or five days per week, if that."

Pursing his lips and taping them with his finger Ted commented, "This doesn't concern you Andi? That someone is actively seeking to have a child raised as a pureblood?"

Andi's back straightened and she turned a stern eye at Ted. "I will admit my family took things too far, but I do regret letting Nymphadora to be raised as she was. She is almost muggle in her manners! I know - I know I agreed with you when she was born, but it was too far the opposite from how I was raised. Now I have another chance, just like I did with our Teddy." Andi's mouth curved into a little slight smile at Ted and continued, "Who knows perhaps Nymphadora will help and learn as well."

Ted let out a booming laugh as his wife schemed to turn her daughter into a lady. "My dear that ship has sailed many years ago. But try if you must, just don't be too hard on the girl. Do you have any inclination if the child is a girl or boy?"

"No idea at all. The goblins have not replied to my questions, and I doubt they intend to. We shall know the answers in due time tomorrow. Let's all go to Floreans for an icecream now. Call Nymphadora while I get ready."

While Andi cleared the tea away, Ted went to gather Dora for a special treat.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Later that same evening…

Headmaster Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry; Order of Merlin, First Class; Grand Sorcerer; Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards; and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, entered his office at Hogwarts and knew something was a little off but was not able to bring to mind exactly what was wrong. In somewhat of a daze he called out, "Snally."

A small little person wearing a tattered teatowel bearing the Hogwarts crest, popped into existence, "Yes, Headmaster."

Albus couldn't seem to focus and was getting a bit testy because of it. "Desk and chair are required immediately."

Bowing Snally replied, "Yes Headmaster, straight away." She wondered what had happened to the desk and chair that had been in the office that morning. Popping back to the kitchens she discussed the confusion she had noticed the Headmaster exhibiting with her superior.

Snally's superior called for an immediate emergency meeting. It happened she had heard other rumors from her subordinates who had caught glimpses here or there of Goblins roaming the castle. The superior ordered everyone back to work after selecting Snally and five others to retrieve a desk and chair for the Headmaster and then to search the castle for other items that may need replacing. If at all possible she could prevent any other replacement requests. Besides she wanted to know who was being targeted by the Goblins. Every race knew to give the Goblins and their justice a wide berth, as no one wanted to be the next target due to interference. It was too easy to lose your head that way.

Within two hours the superior and her subordinates knew the Headmaster was the target and the large scale of items taken. This was worrying as the Goblins only every targeted the guilty and always had undeniable proof. That the Headmaster was in a daze meant he was not going to remember the items retrieved, which meant someone knew what the Headmaster had done and requested the retrieval. This was a shameful act and her subordinates had lost all respect for the Headmaster. This would have far reaching effects on their ability to perform their duties. Some already wanted to leave and find a worthy family to work for. With their lives and magic at stake the superior arranged for all her subordinates to receive pieces of the Headmasters' clothing and transfer their allegiance completely to the castle. The Headmaster would never again have any of her race bonding to his person or his magic.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

The sun rose early on the morning of the Gringotts appointment. Jamie decided to do very calm things to keep herself calm, the best being to simply stroke Shisou. She could almost always fall asleep while stroking him. After awhile Jamie got ready for the day; first exercise by stretching, second shower, third dress robes, fourth breakfast, fifth tidy up her appearance, sixth…

By that time her brother interrupted her by knocking on her door then opening it up. "Mum's not well. Migraine again, she wants to see you."

Jamie blanched and hurried from her room, entirely forgetting her mornings' plan. As she passed her brother she murmured, "She's getting them more and they are worse, right?"

Doug could only sadly nod his head as he quietly followed her to their Mum's darkened room.

Petunia lay in agony upon her bed. "Jamie go, keep appointment, trust you, straight home." Petunia struggled to contain her awareness of anything other than the intense pain.

In a barely audible voice Jamie spoke, "Yes, Mum."

The children swiftly but quietly exited the room. Jamie went to her room while Doug went downstairs to get breakfast started.

Jamie entered the kitchen with Hedwig. "Doug I hope you don't mind, but I had to get Hedwig from your room. I've ordered more potions for Mum and included the cost. Hopefully it arrives soon and Mum will feel better."

Doug gave a lopsided smile. "That's fine Jamie, it's for Mum. Here eat up and get ready to go."

After breakfast and cleanup was over, Jamie was feeling conflicted and needed a little time alone so she went to her room to calm herself down. Part of her was happy with her Mum trusting her so soon, but on the other hand she was upset because her Mum was getting sick more and more often. Could she fix her Mum? I don't know what's wrong with her. A broken bone is easy, you can see what is wrong and fix it. A migraine is in her head but I can't see what needs to be fixed. There's got to be a way to heal Mum.

Looking at the time Jamie quickly got ready in her new dress robes and ensured that her rings were charmed invisible. She also made sure she took her money pouch, her tattoo drawing and hid Shisou under her robes. As she looked at herself in the mirror she hardly recognized herself. Once she received confirmation from the House Spirits that she was presentable as a pureblooded Witch she went downstairs and retrieved the black string, holding it tightly in her damp hand. She was telling Doug that she was taking Shisou with her for safety but that she wouldn't exit Gringotts, when she felt a strange squeezing and pulling sensation. She was on her way to Gringotts, leaving the muggle world far behind.

Upon her arrival at Gringotts she wanted to throw up so badly but instead breathed in through her nose and carefully exhaled from her mouth. Slowly she opened her eyes and saw Griphook and another Goblin silently standing in front of her.

Griphook nodded his head as a greeting and then stated, "Portkey room."

Jamie glanced around noticing that it looked exactly like the cart room but without the cart or rails. Looking again at Griphook Jamie greeted him, "May your gold multiply as your wisdom increases." Then she looked expectantly at the other Goblin.

Griphook was startled and then pleased with her greeting to him. Turning to face Jamie and the other Goblin, Griphook spoke, "Nagnut will be your Potter Accounts Manager."

Jamie and Nagnut briefly nodded at each other. Jamie calmly commented, "I look forward to your report on the return of my items."

Nagnut looked at Jamie sharply with narrowed eyes. He had heard that same tone of voice from Griphook last night as he informed him of the trial to determine his failure and death or success and life while receiving the Potter Accounts. Turning to Griphook he enquired in Gobbledegook, "Is Heir Evans a Goblin in disguise?"

Griphook replied also in Gobbledegook, "She will be if Ragnuk has anything to do about it."

Nagnut nodded again at Jamie. "I look forward to informing you." Just what have I gotten into with these three?

"Tattoo first I assume?" Jamie enquired.

Griphook only nodded his head and gestured for Jamie to follow him out of the room. Nagnut left them to return to his new office.

Griphook walked beside Jamie not speaking a single word but gesturing which way to go. Finally with a sigh of exasperation Jamie commented, "Ritual Room Seven again?" When Griphook nodded she continued, "Then let's make the walk quicker and take this hallway, it's only a two minute walk from here."

Griphook was astonished and decided he had better rectify his mistake. "My apologies Heir Evans, I should have realized you had already been there."

Jamie smirked at Griphook and then gently bumped his arm and giggled. "Yes, and I can see through your confusion charm too. We will rub along well together I think Manager Griphook. I look forward to you teaching me about Goblins and Gringotts."

Griphook noticed she did not say that he would be teaching her about her accounts or holdings. Was it more important to her to learn about Goblins? Was she looking for allies? He would report this to Ragnuk at the next meeting.

Once they arrived at the Ritual Room Jamie made one comment. "Change and wait?"

Griphook again nodded and left Jamie alone.

Lying on the stone floor, Jamie was very relaxed while looking at the magic swirling around her. She felt life she was literally floating in magic. What she hadn't realized is that she was in fact floating a few inches above the floor. As she gazed above, she watched the shadow playing with the tendrils of magic, slowly her mood changed until she was euphoric.

She had left everything but Shisou and the drawing of the tattoo outside the room. Shisou had slithered about and now was resting upon her stomach looking at the room. ~What is this place?~

~ This is a ritual room, a safe place. I was here once before. The Goblins are going to move my scar from my forehead to my back near my right shoulder. They will then disguise it with a tattoo. Remember the picture I drew?~

Shisou slithered and peered at Jamie's scar. ~Yes, I understand better now. What are all these strange colours and lines in this room?~

Jamie smiles at her familiar and set about explaining the ritual room was carved with runes for protection. Excitedly Jamie asked, ~You see the colours of magic? Do you see the shadow up high on the ceiling?~

Stretching himself up a foot and a half, Shisou intently studied the ceiling. ~Yes, this place is filled with magic. I see the shadow as well. Is it friend or foe? Shall I kill it for us?~

Jamie's smile grew even bigger. ~It is, what it is. Neither friend nor foe, but more friend than foe I think. It may come to us and then we can be friends, but I don't think it can be killed. I think the House Spirits know who or what it is, but they won't talk about it. It's very frustrating; all they say is "all in good time" whatever that means. Though they seem almost in awe of it or almost frightened.~

Shisou looked back at Jamie, ~Your eyes are very bright green. Why did you change your eye colour? Can I make my eyes glow like that too?~

Startled Jamie floated back down until she was once again resting on the hard stone. ~What? My eyes changed colour? I wonder why, I didn't mean to do it. Let me know if I do it again, okay? It's strange and I don't want to be noticed by others, it can be dangerous.~

~Yes Mistress, I will watch out for you.~ Shisou hissed in pleasure as Jamie started to float again and began to stroke him.

~To answer your question, sure if you want to change your eyes to glow you can I guess. If you have magic you can do most anything. Well, as long as you know what you are doing. See I can't make my Mum better because I don't understand what is wrong, so I can't fix it. But I want to.~ Jamie paused and then continued speaking; ~Do you think you can do other things too with your magic?~

Shisou was silent for awhile and then looking at the scar said, ~I think I can become a tattoo. I won't ever be too heavy but I will grow long. Some of my species can grow to be fourteen feet long! That means I will be too long to be wrapped around you unseen. I like being wrapped around you, I don't like being apart too long. So I will make my magic change me into a tattoo when I am wrapped around you. Your clothes will fit better and then you can be hiding two secrets. We could have fun startling people and pranking them.~

Jamie giggled a bit. ~Okay do you want to try becoming a tattoo now? Just try not to go onto my back where my other tattoo will be.~

Jamie and Shisou experimented for awhile, until they found it easier for Shisou to be a tattoo on Jamie's left arm. The House Spirits suggested that her wand holster would go onto her right arm as she was right handed, thereby possibly causing Shisou to be trapped under the wand holster. Both Shisou and Jamie were glad of the House Spirits guidance.

Shortly after that the Nine entered the ritual room and again they were clothed in dark grey as was Jamie. Getting to her feet Jamie greeted them with a nod of her head and then respectfully added, "May your life be as prosperous as your gold."

The Nine shifted uneasily glancing at each other and then straightened, looked at Jamie and nodded.

Jamie was having a great time thinking up dual meanings for her Goblin greetings, especially since she kept getting the same reaction from the Goblins. House Spirit M2 was laughing uproariously; if he'd been alive he'd have been wiping tears from his eyes. Jamie just hoped she could continue thinking up new words to insult and praise the Goblins at the same time.

Shisou unintentional tickled Jamie as he slithered around her to peek out at the Goblins by her left shoulder near her ear. When Shisou began to flicker his tongue repeatedly "smelling" the Goblins, Jamie let out a bit of a giggle. This also startled the Goblins. Jamie was beginning to wonder if the Goblins were skittish by nature or nurture. She had thought they were very solid, unflappable, stern creatures but now was wondering if she had them pegged wrong.

Trying to reassure the Goblins she quietly spoke, "This is my familiar, Shisou. He is only here to protect me and keep me company. He will be merging onto my skin as a tattoo and will be out of your way shortly." Then she held out her tattoo drawing, "This is what I would like my tattoo to look like, if possible. I would prefer it on my back near my right shoulder." She then pointed to a certain part of the drawing making then aware which part would be her scar, "This part is my scar. Do you think it can be coloured and sized a bit like this? Do you have any suggestions?"

The Goblins gathered around the parchment and Jamie could feel a particular tension emanating from them. They spoke in hushed Gobbledegook for a moment, while Jamie was mentally telling herself she better order a book to learn their language. They turned back towards her and one spoke, "You obviously know what this word means. Did you obtain your guardian's permission to use this, with their full understanding?"

Nodding her head Jamie answered, "Yes, I explained in detail my reasons for choosing that word and the design surrounding it. My Mum was not happy but understood and accepted it." Then Jamie's voice turned to steel and her brilliant green eyes turned as cold and hard as ice, "Do not make the mistake that I am just a little girl by my appearance. You will recall I was here before and the results. Remember who requested that and this as well."

At her words the Goblins visibly flinched and their spokesperson nodded to Jamie and then spoke a final time, "Let's proceed."

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Slowly Jamie became aware of her surroundings, finding herself again in the same recovery room as before. This time she hadn't fallen asleep or passed out, but had gone into a kind of a healing stupor. She remembered a voice telling her that magical tattoos were healed instantly, would keep its shape as she grew and would never fade. It was wonderful what magic could accomplish, but she had been unprepared for the agonizing pain caused by moving her scar. She had almost passed out but had to concentrate on calming Shisou and preventing him from killing the Goblins for hurting her.

Getting to her feet and ignoring Shisou's advice to rest, she gathered her clothes from the wardrobe and entered the bathroom. She desperately wanted to see the tattoo, it had to be right. As if anticipating her need, the bathroom had a tri-fold mirror waiting for her use. Jamie quickly stripped and angled the mirrors for the best view. It looked absolutely perfect.

Quickly she called Shisou to come examine the tattoo. He lifted himself into the air and studied the tattoo. ~It looks correct my Lady. The colours are vibrant and it looks real. These vines represent me quite well with my own colour. Even though I watched them carefully I still don't how they added my shiny scales to your back. I am glad that you have part of my name branded into your skin. Everyone will know we are bonded. They did well for you my Lady.~

Jamie turned around and stared into the snake's eye. ~Trust me please Shisou, I want to see. I won't hurt you.~

Shisou acquiescent Jamie's plea and looked deeply into her normal green eyes. A bit of time passed and then Jamie blinked and their postures relaxed. Softly Jamie hissed, ~Thank you my dearheart.~

Shisou merely slithered around Jamie until he coiled onto her left arm and quickly changed into a tattoo except for his head. Whispering into her ears were the sibilant words, ~You are mine as I am yours.~

After Shisou sunk completely into a tattoo, Jamie dressed into her pureblood attire and picked up her tattoo drawing from the table in her room. Carefully folding it she placed it back into her pouch, then turned and approached the door just as a knock sounded.

Griphook was standing on the other side of the door and gestured for her to join him. Together they walked to Griphook's office, where Jamie had her Ancestry Ritual completed.

Once Jamie was settled in a chair facing the desk, a single knock sounded on the door. Nagnut entered, leaned a leather satchel against the legs of a chair and sat himself down in that chair beside Jamie.

Looking at Jamie, Nagnut started to speak, "There are some, shall we say, interesting developments in regards to the Wills of your parents. If I may ask, do you know who the last to die was?"

Jamie stared at Nagnut after glancing at Griphook and sated, "My Mother died after my Father."

Nagnut looked less sour and continued speaking, "That will make things less complicated – hopefully. Will you be willing to testify to that if there are any contentions regarding the will?"

Jamie stated her agreement and Nagnut continued. "The difficulty lies with there being a Joint Will of your parents and then an Individual Will from your Mother dated after the Joint Will. As far as the Goblins are concerned your Father died first leaving everything to your Mother. Then when your Mother died her Individual Will should have been acted upon. Gringotts received your Mother's Will signed in her blood and magic, and sealed with the Potter crest, but she did not have any witnesses sign it and it was delivered via House Elf. It could be contested, but we will stand behind her final wishes. Do you wish to know or read the Joint Will?"

Jamie had an internal dialogue with the House Spirits and final spoke, "Yes please, I will read it quickly."

Nagnut lifted his satchel, opened it, removed the Joint Will and handed it to Jamie.

While Jamie was quickly scanning the Will, Griphook had ordered a brunch setup on a low side table.

Nagnut lifted his eyebrow is surprise when Jamie returned the Will to him in two minutes. "Do you have any questions?"

Jamie smirked slightly, "No, it seems my parents wanted "Harry" to be raised by Sirius Black and Remus Lupin. Everything else seems minor."

Nagnut then pulled out the Will of Jamie's Mother. "This is where everything becomes very interesting. I assume you would also like to read this Will."

Jamie nodded and accepted the Will from Nagnut. The first thing Jamie noticed was that there was a sealed letter enclosed with the Will to Severus Snape and a second sealed bulky letter to Rita Skeeter. These she placed aside onto the desk. The second thing noticed was neither Sirius Black nor Remus Lupin were left anything. In fact, Lily Potter had left 200,000 galleons each to Petunia Dursley nèe Evans, in the event Petunia received her letter; and to Severus Snape, in the event he also received her letter.

Jamie let out a startled gasp when she read the curses her Mother included in the will:

· Albus Dumbledore, to die slowly and painfully scorned by all

· The Killer of Lily Potter nèe Evans, to dream each night of Lily's death by replacing her with themselves for her last few minutes so that they may feel her agony and pain

· The Betrayer to be betrayed as he betrayed Lily

Jamie continued reading and noticed a difference between the two wills. The first had stated "Harry" whereas this Will stated "my child". Looking at the Goblins Jamie questioned them, "I would not have received anything in my Father's Will because I am not "Harry", correct?" Both nodded their heads. "Because of the Ancestry Ritual I am the only living child from my Mother, so this means I inherit everything, correct?"

Nagnut solemnly nodded his head, "You are correct the estate would have been liquidated and gone to the Ministry of Magic. We were very concerned until we read your Mother's Will and how she named you. She was very smart. You will be happy to notice that an allowance had been set up for a guardian to look after you. It will be retroactive and added to Petunia's inheritance, which we have already opened a vault for. Each month the allowance will be deposited. Notice the stipulation though, Petunia Evans must return as soon as possible to make her vow."

Jamie quickly scanned the Will and read how her Mother did not set a specific person to look after her, but required a vow of life and magic. The vow was strongly worded to protect, nurture, guide and teach Jamie even to giving up their life. It was stated that the child's Godfather was Severus Snape and Godmother was Petunia Dursley nèe Evans. This made Jamie smile in delight.

The second to final paragraph was in regards to emancipation of the child at eleven years of age if requested, and at that time or upon majority to inherit completely with exception to the previously mentioned bequeaths. The last paragraph stated that there was a special box of memories for the child within the Potter Family Vault.

Jamie sat for a moment and then a frown appeared on her face, "Griphook there is something I don't understand. Why is this Will so different from my Mother's letter to me? Her letter was more in line with the Joint Will than this Will. Even my Godparents are listed as different people."

Griphook thought for a moment and then spoke slowly, obviously thinking deeply. "I do not know. The only thing I can think is that the letter was written shortly after your birth, whereas this Will was received a few days before her death. I can only assume she found out something that drastically changed her mind."

They all wondered what it could have been and how they could find that information.

At this point Jamie took a break and helped herself to the refreshments upon the side table. Bringing her tea with her, she returned to her chair placing her tea cup on Griphook's desk. While Jamie sipped her tea, Griphook slyly spoke to Nagnut, "It seems that others have been enjoying Heir Evans' greetings." Griphook glanced at Jamie. "At this rate I won't need to teach you about being a Goblin, but just make sure you attend warrior training. I will give you the schedule later."

Nagnut chuckled, "What was the latest one?"

Griphook grinned furiously, "She greeted the Nine with 'May your life be as prosperous as your gold'. They needed to think if it was an insult or praise. Then realized it depended upon the amount of gold they have obtained and since most all Goblins are trying to gather as much as possible, they decided it was high praise." Griphook turned towards Jamie, "You have stirred up the Goblins, Heir Evans because we are so used to hearing the same greeting from every witch or wizard that speaks to us. Well the ones who are polite enough to greet us that is. You are like a shiny sharp blade we wish to test."

Nagnut asked if Heir Evans would like to have a copy of her Mother's Will and when she accepted he handed her the copy in moments. At that point they moved on to the property and holdings Jamie now owned. Since the Peverell property and holdings were practically nonexistent, they were able to review the Potter property and holdings within a minimal of time. Jamie decided to accept copies of all her property and holding portfolio and decide upon her actions at another time. The most she wanted to do right now was ensure the property was in decent repair.

It was decided that a special trip, including Griphook or Nagnut, would be undertaken to visit the properties and assess their potential for renovation or liquidation.

Next was the retrieval report, this she had been looking forward to for the past week.

Jamie requested a copy of the retrieval report and scanned it quickly. "It appears all items have been retrieved. Is this correct?" Nagnut nodded his head. "Have the galleons been repaid in full as well?"Again Nagnut nodded his head. Jamie almost looked disappointed. "Pity, I would have liked to have had his head on a spit."

Griphook chuckled. "Like I stated earlier, you are most Goblin-like already Heir Evans." Nagnut agreed.

"I wish to retrieve a few items from the Potter Family Vault today when convenient." Jamie requested.

Nagnut answered, "While normally the Family Vault is off limits until you are emancipated or have reached the age of majority, we will make an exception for you, seeing you are last of the Potter line and the Will stated there was a special item available for you. I will ensure these two letters are retrieved from Gringotts by the recipients."

Biting her lip Jamie spoke hesitantly, "By all means do so with the Rita Skeeter letter but Severus Snape…If possible I would like to hold that one for the time being. I am hoping to become acquainted with Potion Master Snape and wish to advise him of the letter myself. Perhaps we should wait on both of the letters if possible. What is your advice?"

Griphook cleared his throat, "Rita Skeeter works as a reporter for the Daily Prophet. Her articles are very noteworthy but not fact reliant. If this is what we all think it is perhaps we should be sensitive to the timing of this exposure. Then again she will need time to gather her facts. Also the Wills have been on hold for a long time already, due to the sealing of the Joint Will by Albus Dumbledore at the Ministry, and should be executed immediately. As for the other letter we will leave that to your discretion, as I recall in Lily's letter to you she asked for you to deliver it when you meet him. We will take this up with Ragnuk and he will advise us."

It was decided that another appointment was needed in the next few days. Jamie mentioned that her Mum and Doug needed to be tested to see if they had a magical core, and if so the amount of magic it contained. Petunia had never mentioned this to Jamie but she couldn't help reading it from her Mum's mind since it was thought of often.

Nagnut decided this was the best time to visit the Potter Family Vault and deposit the two letters there until they were needed. Jamie and Nagnut set off for the vault after stating they would see Griphook later at the meeting with the tutor.

After another enjoyable trip down to the vaults, they stopped at vault number 531. Jamie gave the gold key to Nagnut and watched as he used it and his finger to open the vault. Jamie couldn't stop the giggle from escaping her as the vault shivered, as if the finger was run down someone's spine. When Jamie spoke her thoughts aloud to Nagnut he agreed and said the vaults were more self aware the lower the number.

"So the Heritage Vault is number 107, what type of vault could be lower than that?" Jamie asked.

As he swung the vault door open Nagnut whispered, "Goblin vaults for the Goblins, of course."

Jamie walked into the vault after groaning and smacking her forehead with her hand. "Of course, why didn't I think of that?"

Jamie stopped and then turned around to look at Nagnut with pleading eyes. "Nagnut perhaps you could help me? I am looking for just a few things and you hopefully know where to find them. Otherwise this could take a week."

Nagnut nodded and entered the vault.

Jamie smiled her thanks and gazed around again. "I am looking for the box Mother mentioned, the pensieve, the invisibility cloak and anything else you would recommend. Oh, and something to carry them in, I left my bag at home."

Seeing a desk Nagnut dropped the letters onto its surface and then walked back to the door. Just inside the door was a leather-bound ledger resting upon a dark oak stand. "Heir Evans lets use the ledger to call the items to us."

Smiling cheekily Jamie commented, "Goblins are very smart."

Nagnut proceeded to call for one good conditioned expandable bag, which flew to his waiting hands. It was acceptable for their use, even if it was terribly old fashioned, so he proceeded to call for the other items Jamie had mentioned. When they were stored safely in the bag, Nagnut then called for a book sized portrait of Lily Evans. Jamie gasped and tears flowed down her face as the picture flew to her eagerly waiting hands.

Spinning towards Nagnut she tackled him with an exuberant hug choking out "Thank you" repeatedly, until he patted her arm and then cleared his throat. With a very red wet face Jamie let go with a strangled "sorry". Nagnut just smirked a bit and gestured her towards the cart. After the picture was placed carefully in the bag, the vault was locked and both were ready to leave, they sped along the tracks and returned to Jamie's recovery room, where Nagnut left her to enjoy her lunch in peace.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Andromeda Tonks entered Gringotts and the stares and whispers started as her presence registered among the witches and wizards present. She, on the other hand, ignored it all and continued to let a Goblin know she was here for her appointment with Griphook and Nagnut. Andi was tired of it all, which is why she preferred not to attend Diagon Alley unless it was early evening or early morning. Some witch even screeched out "Bellatrix". Andi supposed she and her sister could have passed for twins but all you had to do was really look at Andi to notice the difference immediately. For one, Andi was mild mannered, not cackling insanely and crucioing everyone. Secondly, people knew Bella was in Azkaban, what were they thinking that Bella would enter a heavily fortified place like Gringotts. It just reaffirmed Andi's belief that the wizarding world was heavily populated with stupid people.

Just then Andi's eye caught the glistening strands of pure blonde hair, and her eyes focused on the hair as the person slowly turned around. With her throat tightening painful Andi looked into the face of her other sister, Narcissa, for the first time in eight years. They faced each other just five short feet apart, paused and then both blinked and turned away. Andi was deeply thankful a Goblin approached her at that moment and led her away. Once she was in an empty corridor she carefully dabbed at her face and eyes with her lace handkerchief while following the Goblin.

Andi had been ushered into Griphook's office and now was sitting in a chair while Griphook and Nagnut were examining her with their eyes. As Andi was brought up as a pureblooded witch, she was taught she was better than everyone else and they were all beneath her notice. Therefore she could take their staring until they tired of it, not that she believed any longer that she was better than them, but rather that she knew her strength as a person. What she could barely endure was being estranged from her sisters.

After a good five minutes of silence the Goblins glanced at each other then nodded and turned back to Andi.

Nagnut started the conversation. "Good you can handle pressure and silence. This is essential for your potential student as she will require your discretion. If you choose to become her tutor we will require an unbreakable vow from you in regards to her identity and secrets. The choice will be left to her if she chooses to tell you anything, we will tell you nothing other than the name you are to call her. Do you have any questions?"

Andi almost snorted. "Considering you will tell me nothing other than her name, I guess that is all I am left to ask for."

Griphook and Nagnut smiled, while Andi tried to control her shivers of fear.

Griphook commented, "We have chosen well." Turning to Nagnut he continued, "Bring Heir Evans."

While Nagnut was gone Andi enquired, "Heir Evans? The first name would be?"

Griphook blinked at Andi and replied in a monotone, "Heir Jamie Evans."

Nagnut opened the door and gestured for someone to enter the room before him. Andi was shocked to see a young six-year old girl with long black hair and startling green eyes precede him into the room. Andi had never before seen any Goblin treat a witch or wizard with such courtesy, it was almost reverential. Just who is this little girl? She is very pretty and already has the bearing of a pureblood. Her clothes could use some work. What exactly am I getting into here?

Andi nodded her head in greeting to Jamie and received a nod in return. When everyone had settled themselves, Jamie studied Andi for a moment and then asked, "May I have your name please? Will you tell me about yourself?"

Andi introduced herself and spoke about her pureblood status but that she had married a muggleborn and was removed from the Black Family. Andi noticed the slight tightening of Jamie's eyes at the mention of the Black Family. She paused to give Jamie a chance to speak, but Jamie remained silent. Andi continued to tell of her children and mentioned her daughter's gift of being a metamorphmagus and then paused when Jamie let out a gasp of surprise. Andi explained how her daughter could change her appearance into a completely different person.

Jamie interrupted her, "You mean like this?" Jamie's hair turned pure white and her eyes turned black.

The Goblins stiffened in surprise and then sighed. They really shouldn't be surprised anymore at the secrets Jamie shared. It was just one more thing to share with Ragnuk.

Andi's hand clenched the arm of her chair. "Yes just like that but Nymphadora can change her whole body; facial features, size and height as well. While I am not a metamorphmagus, I did teach my daughter and I can teach you as well if you'd like."

Jamie changed herself back to normal. "Yes, I would like you to be my teacher. Would you take your vow now please? Also I am sorry for your loss."

Smiling gently at Jamie, Andi answered, "Thank you my dear, it was a great loss but we are coping. Yes dear, I will take the vow to keep your secrets and identity safe. Though I feel I should also tell you about my sisters and cousin as it could change your mind." Andi then continued telling Jamie about her sister, Bella being in the wizarding prison, Azkaban; Narcissa being married to a known Death Eater, who followed a possibly deceased Dark Lord; and her cousin Sirius who betrayed his best friends and caused their deaths, who was also in Azkaban, and was accused of being a Death Eater, though she couldn't believe it.

Once Andi was finished talking, Jamie again asked her to take her vow. Andi agreed with a light heart. I never knew I felt a heavy weight because of my family's darkness, until I was accepted by this young witch. She is very special for having such an accepting heart.

Andi gave her vow of life and magic and all four pitched in to create a schedule for Jamie's tutoring which was to begin the following Monday. This was followed with the discussion of payment for tutoring Jamie. It was arranged for Andi to apparate Jamie home so that Andi could retrieve Jamie for her lessons. Once the Evans floo was operational, Jamie would travel on her own to her lessons.

The Goblins asked Andi to wait outside for just a few minutes, as they had just a few things to discuss with Jamie before she left. Once Andi had left, the Goblins gave Jamie her schedules from the Mind Healer Snipbue and the High Warrior Boaxum. Jamie asked if they had a day planner to keep track of everything as she didn't want to lose slips of paper. This caused Nagnut to give Jamie a short but intense lesson on creating her own magical day planner with just a few pieces of parchment, which he provided for her.

After politely saying goodbye to the Goblins and letting them know she would be waiting for their owl to inform her of the next appointment, Jamie left with Andi.

Griphook turned a sour look upon Nagnut and growled, "That parchment will be reimbursed by you. Do you realized yet that she not only did not pay for the parchment or for the lesson but that you also helped her learn Goblin magic?"

Nagnut plopped onto the chair with a stunned look on his face. Shaking his head he replied, "Oh she is good isn't she. Please don't tell Ragnuk that I got defeated by a six year old witch. I will never live this down. Completely overcome by a little witch. No I refuse to admit it. I was overcome by a Goblin in witch's clothes. You saw her, she can change her appearance. Oh no, that's not all, I also revealed how to access items using the ledger in the vault."

Griphook looked slightly put out and then a sly look came into his eyes. "Well, you're not the only one. Ragnuk claimed himself as her special friend with the special rate and ordered me to get her lessons for a mind healer and warrior. Plus he personally took her to Ritual Room Seven for the Nine to examine and suggested the tattoo that was performed today. I don't believe he requested payment for any of it either. All things considered you came out ahead against him. But I have you all beat; at least I made her pay for her Ancestry Ritual."

Nagnut snorted, "Sure you did better. Who just sat here all morning and afternoon while I talked to her about Potter business? Just who arranged to pay for the Retrieval Squad? Also, you made no mention of payment for your services to broker the deal between tutor and student."

The Goblins looked at each other and then started to swear in Gobbledegook. Then they stopped, looked at each other and swore they would tell no one, not even Ragnuk. Nagnut left the room in a hurry to attempt to salvage the day by finding some way to gather some gold into his pockets.

Griphook sat and laughed heartily. She will either bless us so that we can earn galleons from her vaults or break the economy by being a sneaky goblin friend. Either way she is not dull. I wonder how she will greet me at our next meeting. With those thoughts Griphook settled down to work, he had to find the gold to pay for the business deal he just brokered. He refused to work for free, even if it was for a little goblin-witch girl.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Narcissa had turned away from her sister, Andi, in a daze. She had enough presence of mind to complete her business with the Goblins, walk to the apparition point in Diagon Alley, and continue into Lucius' study to collapse onto the settee. She could barely hear Lucius approach her and beg her to tell him what was wrong. When his arms wrapped around her, she buried her head against his chest and burst into tears. The dam had burst and fifteen years of agony had let loose in a torrent of tears, wailings and curses against her sisters, parents and mudbloods.

When she roused herself to her condition she apologized to Lucius, but he only hushed her and let her know that there was nothing more important to him than that she and Draco were safe. While she repaired herself, Lucius called for tea. They then sat down and Narcissa explained what had happened at Gringotts. How she missed Andromeda and yes even Bellatrix, as she used to be before the Dark Lord and marriage had altered her Bella.

Lucius could not find any solution of reconciliation between the sisters. Bella was of course out of the question entirely. On the other hand perhaps if Narcissa and Andromeda met secretly in a remote location. Narcissa disagreed, the risk was too great for discovery and she would not risk Draco's safety even though she yearned for her sisters. Narcissa gathered what comfort she could from her husband. Perhaps in another few years she could glimpse her sister again as she had today and eight years ago. She had cursed the day Andi had run away from home to marry her mudblood fifteen years ago. Now she no longer cursed the day, but admired her sister's courage and strength to continue on even though she had been cast out of the Black Family. These were things she would never be able to express to either of her sisters.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Jamie had come out of the office with her belongings and had requested a note be sent to her Mum for permission to return home with her new tutor. Andi insisted upon paying for the owl delivery even though Jamie claimed she could take care of it. Jamie had let a Goblin know she could be found in "her" recovery room when they received a reply from her Mum. The Goblin had just nodded his head.

Andi was surprised when Jamie started to take her to the room without a Goblin leading them. When they arrived and settled around the table, they talked of all the different areas Andi could tutor Jamie.

Jamie requested if her brother could be her dance and dinner partner so that she could practice at home. Andi thought it was a great idea and enquired who would be tutoring her brother. Jamie revealed her brother, Doug, was her Mum's real son, whereas she has been adopted into the Evans family. At this point Andi found out that Jamie lived with muggles, but was reassured by the acceptance and love Jamie had received from them.

Soon a reply appeared on the table they were sitting at, giving consent for the return as discussed and an invitation for Andi to meet the rest of the family for a cup of tea. Although Andi didn't want to accept the invitation due to her emotional upheaval earlier, she thought it best to meet her student's family. Andi told Jamie that she accepted the invitation, but that it was pointless to reply via owl as they would be appearing before the owl could possibly get to her home. Gathering their things together they left Gringotts.

When they reached the apparition point, Andi asked for the address of Jamie's house.

Looking into Andi's eyes, Jamie quietly asked, "Will you trust me? If I show you an image of where to apparate to, will you let me?"

Andi gave a puzzled smile. "I suppose but I'll need the address as well, just in case."

Jamie rattled off the street address and then nudged into Andi's mind, sending her the picture of Jamie's back yard. Andi was startled and tried to close her mind and eyes against Jamie but was unable to until Jamie released her.

"Did you receive the picture I sent you?"

Andi blinked a few times. "How did you do that? I've never heard of anyone so young being able to do that. I couldn't even get you out or keep you out."

Jamie smiled. "I've never sent a picture before, did it work? I didn't hurt you did I?"

Andi reassured Jamie that she had only felt a gentle spring breeze in her mind. She described the back yard in detail back to Jamie, who agreed it was correct.

At this point a man cleared his throat, reminding them that others needed to use the apparition point and they needed to get going.

Holding onto Jamie's arm tightly Andi side-along apparated Jamie home. Jamie was slightly nauseous but quickly agreed they had reached the right place. Jamie led Andi into her home and was relieved to see her Mum up and about in the kitchen preparing tea for their guest.

Jamie introduced Andromeda Tonks to her Mum and brother after they entered the kitchen from the back door.

As they sat round the kitchen table, Andi felt another pain in her throat. This is what she has been missing, this closeness; sitting around a table talking and getting to know each other. Petunia reminded Andi of her sister, Narcissa, with her blonde hair and graciousness. Oh they didn't look alike at all but this is what sisters should do, sit around a table, talking, laughing and enjoying each other's company. This was also friendship at its very beginning stage. Andi craved this in her life, she had no close friends.

She was a pariah in high society because of her marriage to a muggleborn. When she was younger and during the first few years of marriage she didn't miss the tea parties, garden parties or the balls. Now that she was older and the house was empty most of the year, she found herself wishfully remembering the older ladies at those functions; they had a closeness and strength together. Politics never had any interference. The husbands could be bitter enemies and the wives would still get together for that bond of femininity.

Petunia could instinctively tell something was wrong with Andromeda Tonks, so she sent the children upstairs to rest or play quietly until supper. They looked at the adults, politely said goodbye to Andi and raced upstairs. Seeing the two interact brought tears to Andi's eyes.

Andi was lost in her own world, staring at the doorway through which the children had gone, while her hands cradled her teacup. Reaching out her hand, Petunia gently squeezed Andi's arm. "Call me Petunia please. I know you don't know me, but perhaps a stranger would be easier to talk to. You seem very troubled."

Turning startled eyes to Petunia's face Andi gasped and after a pause tears gently rolled down her face. "Oh, please call me Andi. I should really go home, I've disturbed you enough. What must you think of me as your daughter's tutor with me acting this way?"

Petunia scooted her chair closer to Andi's and wrapped an arm around the distraught woman. "No, you are in no condition to apparate. Just sit here with me and let it all out. We won't be disturbed and I think you need a friend."

Andi seemed to wilt and turned towards Petunia looking deep into her eyes. Seeing only compassion and a deep pain hidden within, Andi knew she could share her own pain. And so she did. She shared from the beginning; strict society, distant parents, the close bond between sisters and on through the years to the pain of losing her only son and seeing her sister today. The floodgates had opened and the two women grew closer. Petunia shared her own pain of losing her sister to the magical world, her death, her own jealousy and mistreatment of Jamie and on to the death of husband at her own hands until finally the hope, peace and yet loneliness of the past year.

The two finally stopped and just sat back in their chairs enjoying the peaceful silence. Although no solution had been found to the weight upon their shoulders, the burden was somehow lighter from being shared. They glanced at each other and both blushed as awkwardness permeated the silence.

Petunia straightened her spine. "I refuse to be embarrassed. We both needed to share. I have another close friend but she knows nothing of the magical world so I can't share completely with her. Having messed up my relationship with my sister, I refuse to do so with you. Could you be my friend, even if I am only a muggle?"

Andi looked up and smiled. "Yes, I would really like to be your friend. Perhaps we could have tea again on Sunday afternoon? I could apparate you over to my house for tea so you could meet my family and see where Jamie will be having her lessons?"

Nodding her head Petunia agreed.

Gathering herself together Andi stood. "Petunia, I can see who Jamie has learned her compassion and gentleness from, it's you my dear. Your family is very precious. I'll have my husband, Ted apparate with me so the children could come along and play with Nymphadora while we have our tea."

As Petunia closed the kitchen door, after Andi had apparated away – she just had to see what that looked like, Petunia was softly smiling. Picking up her teacup, "Here's to the start of a beautiful friendship." then she drained the last swallow.

-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-LP-

Ted heard the crack of apparition and walked towards his wife. Upon seeing her tear ravaged face he exclaimed, "My dear! What has happened, are you okay? Come sit down and tell me."

He led his wife towards the couch and cradled her within his arms.

Resting her head on his shoulder Andi soaked in his strength. "I'm fine, a little sad but mostly content. I saw Narcissa today at Gringotts before my meeting. I haven't seen her in eight years and it was so sudden I was shocked. Mostly I held myself together until just a few hours ago. Oh Ted, my student and her family are truly remarkable. I'm so happy I took this opportunity. I had to take a vow of silence so I can't say much, but it will be an honour to teach her. We'll apparate over and bring them back here on Sunday afternoon for tea."

Leaning back from her husband's embrace Andi looked up into Ted's eyes while hers shone with happiness. "Her Mother, Petunia, and I are friends. We talked and talked for hours and…we are friends." Andi let out a little sigh of contentment. "I briefly told her daughter about my family and she accepted me and wanted me to be her tutor. It never occurred to me how much it would mean to be accepted again in the wizarding world until a little witch accepted me."

Ted tucked Andi's head underneath his chin and hugged her tight. "I'm so glad my dear, so very happy for you."

His voice had taken on a wistful sad tone and Andi immediately reacted in a scolding tone, "Now Ted, don't you dare feel bad. I don't and I never shall. If I live two hundred years I would always make the same choice of marrying you. I just never realized how much I missed female companionship until now. I have no regrets for the life I have. I love you always and forever, my Teddy Tonks."

Ted relaxed and continued to hold his wife within his arms. "I am most blessed my dear for all that you have given up. Hush let me finish. I gave up nothing to be with you, but you gave up your place within the wizarding world and your family. I treasure you and your love for me and it humbles me, which is a very good thing…Let's order in tonight and just be together as a family."

A clatter and thumping sounded above them, then thundering down the stairs and then a muttering voice could be heard. "Ouch, oh that one hurt!"

Ted called out, "Dora you okay sweetheart?"

A girl's voice responded, "Yeah, just why do we have railings and tables that bite me? They hate me! Ow, ow, owchie, that's gonna' bruise."

Soon a thirteen year old girl landed with a slide and tumble into the room. Ted and Andi moved apart and opened their arms towards the spiky pink haired witch. The girl picked herself up from the floor and carefully walked over to them. She was almost to them when she stubbed her toes on the carpet and lurched into their arms.

Ted let out an "oof" and tried to catch his breath. Dora mumbled a "sorry" and straightened herself out. Peering at her Mother, Dora asked, "Mum you okay?"

Giving an extra squeeze to her daughter Andi smiled and answered, "I am now. So, are you practicing tripping so that you can fall into the arms of a boy you like?"

Dora looked shocked, "No Mum! Why would you say that? I would never do that!" But the blush that bloomed on her face gave away her lie.

Andi just smirked and then drawled, "Riighttt, you are more Slytherin than I thought. Good for you."

Ted just sputtered and coughed, "Think I have to go buy a shotgun and shells."

Both Andi and Dora turned and stared at him incredulously.

Ted coughed again, "Right, wizard here. Hmmm…maybe stinging hexes, nope they are just too light, maybe practice crucio or something."

The two females looked incensed and then burst out laughing.

Dora started whinning, "Dad, you can't go to Azkaban if I get a boyfriend. No crucios allowed."

Ted smirked, "Okay honey, maybe the threat will be enough to keep the boys in line."

Andi knew her life held more laughter than tears from the choices she had made. She was happy and loved; it was a day to be thankful for.