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.

9. Chapter 9 - Floo, Tea and the Dervish

Disclaimer: Harry Potter series and world; no money, no fame, and not mine.

AN: Trigger warnings for this chapter; just pain

AN2: Re-uploading previous chapters due to spelling, grammar and continuity. Don't bother re-reading story as most changes are superficial, except the following.

· Important change: ch 4 removed "first" from "November first morning" (when 'Harry' is found). I could keep it and make it work, but it would be a pain to the continuity.

· Changed any reference to Shisou blinking; snakes don't have eyelids.

· Corrected Ravenclaw crest from raven to eagle, as per cannon. Sorry I originally went with logic.

Chapter Nine – Floo, Tea and the Dervish

Selena woke the next morning tired, sad, scared and depressed. Things had not gone at all like she had wanted. ~Shisou I don't get it. Why can't I remember my dream?~

Shisou lifted his head and part of his body from her arm to rub against her face. ~I don't know Mistress. Perhaps it will take time. Maybe you could talk to the Goblin Mind Healer.~

Selena huffed and pouted, ~They already know too many of my secrets.~ Then she sighed, ~I guess I will just have to wait.~

Shisou rested back onto Selena's arm. ~It will come in time.~

Gasping Selena stared at her Shisou tattoo. ~Are we thinking in Parseltongue to each other?~

~Yes, you've already seen through my eyes. What is shocking about mind speech?~

Selena just shook her head and then took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. ~I guess if I can put thoughts and pictures into human minds I shouldn't be so surprised that we can think to each other. Maybe this will help me understanding how to fix Mum's migraines.~

~Perhaps.~ Shisou fell silent then. Perhaps I just needed to distract you from being upset over not remembering your dream. I'm glad she doesn't realize what I just did. Shisou privately chuckled in his mind.

The House Spirits wisely didn't bring it to Selena's attention either. No one wanted a grumpy pouting almost six year old to deal with, especially as they couldn't get away from her.

Getting up and readying herself for the day, Selena remembered that the Goblins would be coming by this afternoon to set up the floo and potions lab, as long as everything went alright at the Ministry of Magic. Selena decided she would study her rune books and then watch the Goblins like a hawk as they worked. I'll be really careful to stay out of their way but I hope they will answer a few questions. Maybe I better read my how-to book as well. I hope I have enough time to read them all.

Thus was Selena distracted and didn't recall her failure to remember her dream or the snit she had been in because of it. What the House Spirits and Shisou were unaware of was that in the deepest part of her mind Selena was terrified she was losing the ability to recall things perfectly. She could not fathom having less than perfect remembrance because she had always had it. The Goblins had shown her that she could forget or be unaware of pieces of her memory and it frightened her terribly. Unconsciously she wondered if she had forgotten anything else or if she would soon forget other things; her bond with her brother or being rocked to sleep by her Mother.

Going downstairs to help with breakfast Selena couldn't help thinking that she should be remembering something about last night. But what was it?

Stopping suddenly on the stairs she let out a gasp as her eyes widened, someone had been in her room last night. A presence had invaded her room and yet it was not frightening. Her fingers reached up to touch her forehead. Something or someone had touched my forehead and hair last night, just a gentle stroke. It hadn't felt wrong like Uncle. Selena shuddered at the remembrance of her Uncle and then slowly continued down the stairs. The Presence from last night felt comforting.

After breakfast and cleanup was done Doug left to play football while Selena, laying on the sofa in the living room, started reading her books.

Petunia was feeling a little antsy this morning. She was excited to finally get the lab created and was anticipating shopping for the supplies needed.

Looking up from her book, Selena gave a huff of exasperation as her Mum started to dust the living room for a second time that morning. "Mum I think you have the cleanest house on the planet."

Petunia looked down at her dusting rag and flushed, "I'm just a little nervous sweetie and it doesn't hurt to have a clean house. Aren't you excited?"

Frowning Selena answered. "I guess. It's just not a sure thing until the Goblins show up, so I'm not thinking about it. I'm more nervous about Monday." Selena sat up and swung her feet down onto the carpet. "What do you think the Goblins will teach me? I don't even know where to go for my lessons at Gringotts." Selena bit her bottom lip.

Folding the dust rag and placing it on the coffee table, Petunia sat down beside Selena on the sofa. "I would think someone would meet you and take you to your teachers. As a friend to Ragnuk I don't think you need to worry much. Would you like to send an owl asking about Monday?"

Shaking her head Selena replied. "No, it will be fine. Thanks Mum."

Petunia leaned forward and stroked Selena's cheek. "You're welcome daughter of mine." Taking a deep breath Petunia got up, picked up the rag and left the living room. Carefully inspecting her house one last time Petunia finally allowed herself to sit with Selena and continue reading her new potions and ingredients books.

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

Time passed and Doug came home. The three continued their day until there was a knock at the back door. All three looked startled for a moment and then Doug rushed to open the door.

While Doug held the door open for the Goblins to enter, Petunia greeted them graciously, "Welcome to our home. Please do come in."

The three Goblins entered the kitchen and then two of the Goblins began to poke around opening cupboards and the appliances. The other Goblin left the kitchen to enter the living room, walked up to the fireplace and started to wave his hand in the air.

Selena had nodded her head in greetings to the Goblins as they entered her home, but she needn't have bothered as the Goblins completely ignored the three humans. She followed the Goblin to the living room and after watching him for a bit she noticed the motion of his hands seemed to resemble rune symbols. She watched the magic swirl through the air from his hands and focus on the fireplace.

The other two Goblins entered and started to poke around the living room. One of them stood underneath the stairs that led to the bedrooms.

Selena remembered her first visit to this house. Petunia had sat in the living room with her and Doug and explained that she had the cupboard under the stairs removed so that Selena would feel more comfortable with the open space there. When Selena and Doug finally started to live in the house on a more permanent basis they had added coat hooks and shoe racks to the area so it could be useable. It was never sealed off in any way.

One of the Goblins spoke in Gobbledegook, "Here". The other Goblin just nodded and without any further discussion started to wave their hands also.

Petunia gave a quick glance at Selena and then swiftly moved towards the two Goblins. "No, stop you can't change this area-"

Selena piped up, "Mum it will be okay. I don't mind if the entrance is there. In fact I think it makes sense."

Petunia hugged Selena tight while Doug bit his lip and looked worried. Petunia whispered, "Are you absolutely sure? You are more important than a potions lab Selena. I won't have you scared to enter through that area."

Selena gave an extra squeeze then let go of her Mum and smiled at Doug. "I promise I'll be okay. If I can handle hanging up my stuff and putting my shoes there, I'll be okay for a hidden door."

The three watched in awe as the Goblins continued to create a secret door, stairs leading down, and a hidden potions lab below the house. Walking over to them, the third Goblin started to carve runes into the floor and walls creating more magic to the mix Selena could already see.

Speaking through her mind-link with the House Spirits, Selena discovered the names and meanings of the runes being carved. Well, the ones that wizards use anyway. There were some that the House Spirits did not know, so Selena guessed they might be Goblin runes.

The first two Goblins had already gone down the stairs and the third was about to follow when Selena desperately called to him, "Please may I follow you and watch? I will stay on the stairs out of your way."

The Goblin gave a slight nod of his head before vanishing through the unseen doorway behind a hanging jacket.

Selena lurched forward and vanished from sight. Petunia and Doug looked at each other and then they too stepped through the hidden door. They found themselves on a landing big enough for four people. The dark oak stairs, with banisters on each side, were wide enough for two to walk abreast. They followed the stairs down until they reached Selena who was sitting in the middle of the second to last stair.

The three stared off to their left in fascination to see tall cupboards, deep double sinks, smooth marble counters and long rectangular wooden tables magically appear before their very eyes. Only Selena noticed that the items were being pulled from pockets and magically resized to fit into place.

Suddenly a ringing sound was heard. Petunia startled and rushed back up the stairs saying, "Oh that's the phone ringing."

Before her Mum and Doug had followed her, Selena had just managed to see the Goblins put up the lighting and pipes for the sinks. She noticed they used runes and lines of magic, like strings pulled from the stone walls and floor they had erected. She thought she understood what she was seeing but wasn't completely sure how the runes had connected to the lines of magic.

Off to their right was another long rectangular table surrounded on one side with stools, a desk with a comfy chair, a large moveable chalkboard and more bookcases and cupboards lining the walls. It looked like a classroom from school.

Doug pointed, back on their left side, to a strange looking rectangular waist-high box-looking cupboard that one of the Goblins was etching with runes. Another Goblin approached them causing both children to scoot aside to let him pass. They then raced after him to see what he was doing.

They quickly moved out from under the stairs to see the Goblin reach up and touch a knot in the wood beside the hidden doorway. Suddenly and quietly an identical box-looking cupboard, that they had seen from below, slid out from under the stairs and into the living room. The Goblin pulled a string from his pocket, placed it into the cupboard, touched the knot again and the cupboard slid from view.

One moment later the cupboard again slid into view, this time containing a piece of parchment. The Goblin grabbed the parchment, pulled a short quill from his vest pocket, wrote on the parchment and returned it to the cupboard, and then touching the knot again it slid from view.

Doug quietly spoke, "Do the items reappear in the potions lab cupboard?"

The Goblin gave a barely discernible nod of his head but spoke no words. The two remaining Goblins walked through the hidden doorway, handed a sealed rolled parchment to Selena and a small lidded stone bowl to Doug. They gave a curt nod of their heads to the children and then walked through the kitchen and out the door, closing it behind them, while the children continued to stare after them.

Petunia walked towards them from the kitchen looking puzzled. "Are they finished already?" At the children's' nodding heads, she continued, "Well, that was quick. What do you have there?"

It turned out the parchment was just a note from Griphook stating the connection of the floo network was approved using their requested destination name, Heart's Home. It also stated their business was registered and Selena's name change was completed. A postscript stated that the details of the potions lab were to be found in the top right hand drawer of the desk.

The children were about to race off down to the potions lab when Petunia said, "Hold it you two. Sally called earlier and is stopping by in just a few minutes. We don't have time to explore, but we do need to make sure this house is as magic free as possible." Selena gave a grimace. "I know it's a hassle but Sally is our friend. Selena are you sure the bedroom doors will not be noticed?"

Selena nodded her head. "Yup, but I'll double check the magic on them. Do you want me to do the same for the books in the living room?"

Nodding her head Petunia answered. "Yes please. Doug I need you to hide Hedwig and her cage or maybe you should let her fly – oh just place her in her cage in your wardrobe with a cover over top; she's most likely asleep anyway. Make sure you leave the door partially open so she can breathe. Check your room for any books too. Oh, and make sure no cloaks or robes are left out."

Petunia rushed to make sure the kitchen and laundry room were magic-free. Selena checked the living room before rushing upstairs to check her room and the bedroom doors. Shisou moved from Selena's left arm to her back as a tattoo. He refused to leave Selena's body in case he was needed for her protection; no matter how many times Selena insisted that she would be perfectly fine.

Sally arrived through the kitchen back door and stated, "There's something different about you two." Doug got a little nervous, while Selena narrowed her eyes and seemed about to hex Sally.

Petunia cleared her throat. "Oh, and what do you think that might be Sally?" as she turned away and prepared the teakettle for tea.

Laughing Sally said, "Oh come on, it's a joke. Although I must say you two are growing taller every time I see you. Nice haircut Jamie."

Giving a strained smile and a fake laugh Petunia agreed.

Suddenly a loud CRACK! was heard. Sally let out a "What on earth was that?!" while the children raced out the kitchen door into the back yard. Doug yelled out a "goin'ta play in the back yard Mum" and Selena called "Wait for me!" leaving Petunia to smile weakly at Sally when the door slammed closed behind them.

Sally looked a bit puzzled over their behaviour but shrugged it off. She sat at the table while Petunia swiftly placed their tea on the table. "Good now we can talk about a little girl's sixth birthday. Do you want to go in together on a gift? Any ideas what she would like?"

Petunia was desperately trying to calm her nerves and not wonder who had apparated into the back yard and why. Forcing herself to think about Selena's birthday she hesitantly answered. "Oh, well I haven't really given much thought yet to Selena's birthday. We've been a little busy with everything else right now that it's summer."

Sally held up her hand in a stop motion and gave a frowning look at Petunia. "Wait, what is going on and who is Selena? Are you calling Jamie Selena now?"

Petunia finally sat down at the table, closed her eyes and prayed for someone to take her away from the mess she had unintentionally created. After everything they had just gone through, she hadn't given a single thought about explaining Selena's name change. "Oh Sally…." Petunia rested her elbows on the table and raked her hands through her hair, she wanted to scream in frustration. This Statute of Secrecy really stinks!

Lifting her head and leaning back in her chair Petunia softly said, "Oh Sally so much has happened, I'm not sure where to start." Taking a sip of her tea Petunia found her mind racing to think of something suitable to say.

Lifting her eyebrow Sally waited for Petunia to continue. When a minute had passed and Petunia still didn't say anything Sally spoke, "Is this to do with your research to see if anything was left to help take care of Jamie?"

Like a person grabbing hold of a life raft, Petunia grasped at this straw. "Yes, yes that's exactly right. I'll start at the beginning. I managed to find out Lily's lawyers name and contacted them. There had been a huge mix-up and it appears the will was never processed correctly. Lily had left a sum for me and also for Jamie's care. A letter was written to each of us. Oh Sally, my sister forgave me for our quarrel and wants me to raise Jamie correctly. It appears that Lily's husband was from an upper crust society and wanted her raised a certain way."

Petunia was thinking hard and fast to keep the story as true as possible. "Lily also revealed that there was some estrangement between her and her husband. I really can't reveal it but I will tell you that Selena found out and it has made her very against her Father, not that I blame her at all. Selena begged to change her name and I agreed. The lawyers agreed that we should change her full name, so that her controlling relatives will not be able to find her. Her new name is now Selena Lila Black. The last name of Black is from a distant relative that nobody will remember now." Petunia held her breath and closed her mouth from saying anything more. I hope she accepts what I've told her and doesn't question it too closely.

Sally frowned a bit and took a sip of her tea. Finally she questioned, "Are you sure her relatives are that bad? You do have the law on your side to keep Ja- sorry Selena."

Putting on a sad look Petunia answered. "They are very wealthy and would do anything to take Selena away – even forcibly."

With a shocked look Sally gasped, "Surely not!"

Petunia just nodded her head and fiddled with her teacup. "I'd never be able to find her if they took her out of the country, which they could easily do." Then she gave a wan smile, "Let's discuss Selena's birthday and present since you are here."

The conversation moved on and finally the children returned inside to enjoy Sally's visit. Sally spent a bit of time fussing over Selena before she left.

The three collapsed on the sofa in the living room. Petunia groaned and weakly rested her arm over her eyes as she slouched on the sofa. "Let's order in and then you two tell me who and why someone apparated here."

It appeared that Healer Jaxom had requested to side-along apparate with Andi to the Evan's home in case there was ever an emergency. Since Jaxom was returning to St. Mungo's after an emergency house visit elsewhere, he stopped by Andi's house and begged her to take him to the Evans. His time was limited as he was expected back at St. Mungo's shortly so they hadn't had time to send a request by owl.

When the children rushed from the house without wearing any shoes and motioned for them to be quiet, they realized their mistake immediately. Andi quickly transfigured shoes for the children and adjusted her and Jaxom's robes. They quietly left the yard walking towards the park talking in hushed brief words.

While Selena looked around carefully to see if they were noticed, Doug let the adults into the back yard of a friend, who was away on vacation with his family. Andi and Jaxom changed their clothing back and apparated away. The children waited for at least fifteen minutes after the loud CRACK was heard before they left the yard unnoticed and returned home to visit with Sally.

When supper was finished the three explored the potions lab after Doug had released Hedwig from her cage. They each read the booklet left in the potions lab desk drawer and the children had fun showing Petunia the special cupboard. All three were relieved to read that only beings with a magical core could access the secret door to the potions lab.

After looking at the stone bowl and seeing the powder inside, Selena figured out that it must be a floo powder bowl. She quickly pulled a book from the bookshelf and opened it to show her Mum and Doug the picture of floo powder and how to use the floo network. Petunia thought it would be a good idea to have a floo address book hidden in the bookshelf just in case of emergencies.

The House Spirits cautiously agreed but said they would teach her how to charm it so that only the three of them would be able to open the book. They stated that wizards only gave out floo address to family and those they trusted to keep the information private, otherwise anyone could potentially enter everyone's home. Selena thought that there must be a way to place wards to keep out unwanted visitors. The House Spirits agreed that there were but that she needed to proceed with caution and further discussion needed to take place regarding the dangers.

Concentrating while holding a few pieces of parchment, Selena created a Floo Address Book. With the House Spirits instructions she charmed the leather covered book unreadable by anyone other than her Mum, brother and herself. Selena raced upstairs to grab her quill and ink to write down the few addresses they knew: the Leaky Cauldron and St. Mungo's.

The evening concluded in its usual way of meditation and goodnights. Petunia fell asleep happy that the stress of the day hadn't caused a migraine.

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

Again Selena awoke frustrated that she could not remember her full dream, although now she decided to call it a hidden memory. A bit more had been revealed: a bushy black beard up above her, the dark sky filled with stars, a cold wind blowing against her face and the rumble of a loud engine. She had no idea how this fit into the previous dreams. She was terrified that this was a different memory altogether and her mind had even more memories missing.

Shisou and the House Spirits did their best to calm her down, finally stating that if she kept pushing to remember the memory, it might delay or stop the process altogether. Shisou asked Selena to continue reading her magic books because he wanted to learn too. Then Shisou asked a few questions about the Goblins magic and runes that Selena had seen. Once again Shisou had successfully distracted Selena.

The day passed in a normal fashion; meals, clean up, reading, defense practice and spending time with their familiars. Selena especially wanted to practice her defense seeing that she had warrior training on Monday morning.

About midmorning a Gringotts owl had arrived with a letter for 'Heir Black'. Upon opening it Selena found another black string portkey for Monday morning's lesson with Warrior Boaxum. She read the letter stating that Griphook would be escorting her to her lessons on Monday and that he would also be taking her to breakfast between lessons in order to discuss a few things.

Finally it was time to get ready for their afternoon tea with the Tonks. At five to four Andi and Ted arrived to apparate their guests. When they discovered the floo was working, it was decided to use that mode of transportation instead.

Careful instruction was given on how to exactly use the floo; just a pinch will do, wait for the green fire, enunciate the destination, walk into the green flame, no breathing in through your mouth in the floo, elbows and feet tucked in, close your eyes, when whirling slows then count five seconds and on five open eyes and step out of the fireplace with their right foot off centre to the left.

They didn't do too badly for their first floo travel; Doug and Selena stumbled a bit. Selena liked it better than apparition at least, although the dust left a lot to be desired. Andi charmed away the floo dust and welcomed them to her home. Doug kept rubbing his right elbow; he had not tucked his elbows in right away and got a nice bruise as a result.

Dora insisted on sitting across from Selena and Doug so she could talk to them both while they had tea with the adults. Selena asked Dora what she knew about taking magical pictures. Dora didn't know too much about it, other than the pictures were developed using a special fluid. The adults entered the conversation, explaining in more detail. Ted was especially knowledgeable seeing as he was a muggleborn and could tell Selena that she could use any film camera except instant. The film could be processed at portrait shops in the wizarding world or you could do it yourself if you had a dark room.

Selena asked if there were any wizarding cameras which would produce the moving picture instantly. Ted replied that there were but that they were huge and bulky. He compared them to the early to mid 1800's cameras. Selena was disappointed to hear of the lack of technological advancement in the wizarding world. Andi cautioned that much was lost of refinement and honour in the muggle world because of that same technological advancement.

The House Spirits agreed with Andi, while Petunia wondered aloud if there could not be some sort of compromise between the two worlds. Andi just shook her head and said it was a topic for after Selena's training, as she would essentially come from two separate worlds.

The tea went well and the children left the adults sitting in the living room while they went to amuse themselves in a magical home. Selena unconsciously found herself searching for signs of abuse throughout the house. When she realized what she was doing, she asked Dora if they could play a magical game or go outside.

Dora led them to her bedroom and introduced them to Exploding Snap, Gobstones and Snitch Snatcher. A while later Doug and Selena were still having fun sitting on the floor playing the exciting magical games when they were called to go home. Andi reminded Selena that they would be meeting tomorrow at Gringotts for their one o'clock lesson. After thanking the Tonks for the invitation and lovely visit, they departed by floo.

Looking at each other in dismay at their dust covered faces and clothes, Selena laughed, "Mum can I try to remove the dust?"

Petunia lifted her lips in a wry smile. "Please do if you remember it correctly."

Quickly Selena confirmed with the House Spirits that she had the right spell and then waved her hand in the air at her Mum, Doug and then herself. All three were relieved at their clean state and thanks were expressed.

Petunia insisted that Selena have a quick supper, meditation and then get herself off to bed seeing as the portkey activated at five forty-five tomorrow morning. This would leave Selena fifteen minutes before the start of her first lesson. Selena was still excited enough to not grumble about the early bedtime.

While they enjoyed their supper, Petunia revealed that Selena's first pureblood lesson was going to be purchasing the supplies needed for their potion business. Petunia had discussed this with Andi, who thought it would be a great lesson to teach Selena how to select the best ingredients, how the shop owners treated purebloods and how to treat the shop owners and other customers. Pureblood Shopping 101 was starting tomorrow.

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

The following morning Selena awoke to find she had not remembered anything new from the hidden memory. She reached over to her alarm to slap it off noticing that it was five o'clock in the morning. Giving a big yawn and rubbing her tired eyes, she suddenly sat upright in remembrance that she needed to get up now so that she could leave on time.

Shisou and the House Spirits calmed her down by advising what she should wear and how to dress her hair. It was decided that Selena's Mum would be asked to braid her hair for her on this special morning. Selena put on her best dress robes knowing that she would be shopping later and she wanted to give her best impression of a pureblood. This is fun, kind of like dress-up and acting. Giggling at the thoughts floating through her mind, Selena grabbed her brush and elastics, and proceeded to the bathroom before venturing downstairs.

With half an hour left before she needed to leave by portkey, Selena quickly got herself some toast and water to tide her over until breakfast. With ten minutes left she surveyed the kitchen to ensure it was tidy and walked upstairs to brush her teeth. At this point Selena was wondering if she really should have eaten anything at all as her tummy was churning a bit with nervous excitement, also her Mum had yet to wake up.

Selena carefully put her hair in a ponytail and attempted to braid it. Just then her Mum entered the bathroom.

Giving a soft smile to her daughter in the mirror, Petunia stepped behind Selena and swiftly braided the ponytail. "There now all done." Petunia rested her hands on Selena's shoulders giving them a gentle squeeze. "You'll do fine. You have already taken some defense lessons and the Goblins like you."

Selena let out a big sigh and closed her eyes for a moment, "Thanks Mum." The two smiled at each other.

Arm in arm they left the bathroom to walk downstairs. Selena gasped, "Oh I almost forgot." She raced back upstairs and then ran back down. "Mum I want to leave my Potter locket and blanket in the vault today." Selena looked kind of sad and yet angry at the same time.

Nodding her head Petunia agreed, handed the black string portkey to Selena, and kissed her forehead.

Selena had placed the locket in her money pouch which she then placed into her special book bag along with the blanket. "They should be safe in here." She then let out a startled squeak, "Bye Mu..."

With that Selena was off for her first lesson with the Goblins. Petunia gave a sigh before slowing walking upstairs to see if she could get another few hours of sleep before Doug got up.

Walking into her room she sat on her bed and glanced at her bedside table. It was then that she remembered the bracelets. Swiftly she gathered up the bracelets along with a small jewelry bag, pen and paper.

Returning downstairs to the kitchen table, she wrote a note to Griphook requesting his assistance with her project, for an acceptable fee of course. Giving a smirk she recalled the two Goblins stressing fees for their services.

She almost let out a shriek of surprise when Hedwig flew towards her from upstairs. Petunia took a few deep breaths as she stroke Hedwig's feathers, "Hedwig aren't you the smartest owl ever. How did you know I needed you? What am I saying; of course you are our familiar so you would know when you are needed. Are you alert after your long night awake to fly this pouch to Griphook at Gringotts?"

Hedwig gave a nod and soft hoot and held out her leg for the pouch to be attached.

Petunia gave a quick glance at the clock and saw that it was already half six. "Okay girl just let me open the door and you can leave. Selena should already be done with Griphook by now."

The door closed behind Hedwig as she swiftly flew in the early morning sky towards Gringotts. Inside the home Petunia again returned to her bedroom for another attempt to rest.

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

Selena was pleased to find that she had less trouble this time with the portkey. She was also pleased that she had appeared in her special room at Gringotts. Looking around she noticed Manager Griphook was sitting at the table waiting for her.

Giving a nod at Griphook, Selena stated, "May I one day bring honour and glory to my special friends as you have honoured me."

Griphook was almost moved to tears with this declaration and had to clear his throat in order to respond. Standing and with a nod of his own head, Griphook responded, "Heir Black I am almost sure you have a Goblin-Witch soul." Then after a brief pause he continued, "This is now your own personal room at Gringotts, it will be keyed for only you to enter unless you invite someone in. In the wardrobe you will find two outfits. One is the grey cloak, which you have already worn for the ritual room. You will wear this for your lessons with Mind Healer Snipbue. The other outfit is for you to wear while in training with High Warrior Boaxum. I will be outside to escort you to your fist lesson."

With that being said Griphook exited the room while Selena swiftly walked towards the wardrobe. Upon opening said wardrobe, Selena arched one eyebrow when she examined her 'outfit'. Okay they weren't kidding about the warrior part. No weapons so that's good. This leather reminds me of my bag, could it be dragon armour? I better get changed fast; I don't want to be late for my first lesson. Oh now these are some well made boots, very comfortable too.

Selena quickly changed, left her clothing and original boots in the wardrobe and almost sprinted for the door to exit the room. "Manager Griphook anything I need to fix?"

Griphook walked around Selena critically studying her outfit. "Passable. The belt should be tied thus." He quickly untied the knot Selena had made and then showed her the special beginner warrior knot needed. Then he undid it and gestured for Selena to tie it as he had.

With a few tries Selena managed to copy the knot correctly. Then they walked away from her room and along the corridors. Selena was surprised to find they had walked into a room where a cart waited for them, just like if they were going to the vaults.

Giving a small chuckle Griphook motioned for Selena to enter the cart and once she did so he also entered, firmly closed the cart door and stated, "Warrior Training Hall with High Warrior Boaxum."

Off they flew along the rails, but this trip was unlike the others to the vault. It was faster, scarier and pitch-black. Selena was thankful for her ability to see magic otherwise she would have been terrified out of her wits. Even still she desperately held her scream within her throat. At one point Selena was sure they were falling without the aid of tracks, the sensation continued for at least five minutes and then they were careening around a corner to the left.

Just as suddenly as the darkness had begun it ended and bright light startled her eyes. The cart stopped in a cavern of dark brown stone. She could see water lapping at the stone the tracks were bolted to. Griphook helped her from the cart to the stone ledge which led to ornate blackened doors. The magic was almost pulsating from each of the ten foot high and five foot wide pair of doors.

Noticing splotches of a darker colour on the stone at her feet, she followed the trail from the cart to the doors. Suddenly she realized what she was really seeing. Generations of spilt blood had stained the floor. Straightening her spine and steeling her gaze she faced Griphook, "Thank you for escorting me. Shall I wait for you here after my lesson?"

Griphook just gave a nod of his head and waited for Selena to enter the doors. As she did so he whispered, "Well done Goblin-Witch, you are proving worthy of my loyalty, but we will see how you fare after all of your lessons today." With that he entered the cart and made his way to Ragnuk to report his latest encounter with Heir Black, the Goblin-Witch.

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

Slipping through the barely opened door, Selena carefully and quietly closed it behind her while keeping her body facing the room. She looked around in awe; the dimly lit room was huge. You could fit a full jousting tournament in here with the stands, stables and small village. Racks of weapons lined the wall on her right while the left side was too far away for her to see clearly, she only saw vague body shapes outlined. It looks like I am alone but I sense two presences here.

Moving further into the large room Selena noticed the stain on the floor spread outwards to encompass the whole floor and partially up the walls but below the tapestries, though the darkest stain was in the middle of the room and led right where she stood close to the doors. Hmmm…I always felt Goblins were bloodthirsty, guess I was right. I better focus so it's not my blood spilt today.

Continuing into the room but keeping her back to the wall as much as possible, Selena also slightly bent her knees remembering her defense training. Suddenly she was rolling on the floor and sprang back onto her feet as fast as she could. Ouch that hurt! Yup both legs, were did that come from? A stick or pole most likely. More attuned to her surroundings Selena was aware of the presence only a few seconds before another whack hit her but this time it was her back, hip to shoulder that pushed her forward.

~Who dares to attack you? I will kill them!~ Shisou hissed in her mind.

~No, you must not; this is training so that I will be able to fight! Please Shisou I must concentrate.~ Selena again regained her footing and this time crouched down and scanned the area around her. She looked for any disturbances in the magic, air and listened intently. There to my right!

Swiftly turning to her right she brought her arms up in a defensive position to thwart her attacker. It proved ineffective as this time she was hit with the pole across both arms and her legs were swept out from under her. In a panic and just before she expected to land in a painful heap on the hard stone, she blinked in amazement to discover she was standing in the darkest corner of the room.

Looking around she saw she had appeared, from her previous position, in the far upper left corner, but everything looked off somehow. She started to move out from around the practice dummies surrounding her and then realized she didn't feel quite normal. Looking at her body she saw herself shadowy-looking almost ghost-like but wispy black. I look like the shadow in Ritual Room Seven! How is this possible? How do I change back? Am I dead?

Shisou and the House Spirits were also frightened but it was the Potter House Spirits that calmed everyone down. They managed to have Selena focus on reappearing looking normal and slightly to the right of where they were currently. Closing her eyes and using her meditation techniques to further calm herself, Selena felt her body move and upon opening her eyes she discovered she had done what was asked of her. She was 'normal' looking and slightly to her right. PHS said they would explain what they thought had happened when Selena was alone.

Selena carefully walked towards the centre of the room and then saw the Goblin who had attacked her staring intently at her. They moved towards each other judging the other with each step they took. He was battle scarred and only a few inches taller than her. He was also wearing a training outfit but in black instead of Selena's brown. Selena also noticed that his belt was tied differently than hers. She almost giggled when she saw that they both had almost the same hair style, though his was pure white.

Meeting roughly in the middle of the room but with a five foot space between them, after a slight pause Selena bowed forward at her waist. "High Warrior Boaxum, may your weapons be as deadly as a basilisk's fang, as swift as a thought and as strong as an ant."

Continuing to wait in her submissive form, Selena sensed High Warrior Boaxum slowly and critically examine her as he walked around her. Keeping her eyes focused on the floor, her breathing steady and her body submissive and relaxed, Selena focused on not panicking as she felt extremely vulnerable. I'm safe with my teacher and he is a Goblin. I am in Gringotts learning to defend myself and others. I will become a warrior. I am relaxed in this position and even if I am punished, it is only so that I learn how to defend myself. My teacher will train me and I am safe.

High Warrior Boaxum had finished his inspection and was now again in front of Selena facing her. He raised her chin with his pole and forced her body upright. When her eyes refused to look into his own, he tapped her chin sharply with his pole.

After staring into her eyes for a full minute the Goblin released the pole from under her chin, turned his body so that his left side now faced her and slowly started movements while staying in the same spot.

Selena recognized that he was stretching his body and swiftly moved her body to copy his after she had moved slightly further back so that she could watch him easier. After about twenty minutes of stretching, Selena followed him to the weapons rack and pulled the pole he had gestured to. Then it was back to the centre of the room and more stretches, which somehow flowed into pole combat moves. She adjusted her hands into the proper position on the pole and then continued the movements.

Highly impressed with her new teacher, Selena started to analyze and see if she could predict his movements. Most times she could and slowly their movements started to synchronize. Suddenly Boaxum turned and faced Selena; he was almost startled by the fierce smile and brilliant green eyes which stared at him, though he refused to show it. Continuing his movements he watched as she mirrored his movements perfectly.

As suddenly as they started they both stopped. "You will call me Teacher and now we will fight."

With those few words Boaxum thrust out his pole to strike Selena. Selena reacted in a mirror image and thrust her own pole towards her Teacher. The resulting hit cracked through the room as they moved. It took Selena another two hits before she realized the pole movements from before were now directed at her. With that epiphany, Selena flowed into the rhythm of the previous movements, being careful of her foot movement. Wow if he followed these moves earlier and I couldn't even see him, he must have been a whirling Dervish. I am so glad he has slowed down to teach me.

After another ten minutes, Selena changed things and started to add her own attack instead of just defending herself. She would have smirked if she could have known how pleased Boaxum was with his new student.

She is the fastest to pick up on my teachings then I have ever taught before. She must have had training elsewhere, at least some defense with her body, most likely not with weapons though. Truly she is amazing with her ability to learn so quickly. How did she disappear before? I had her falling onto her back, when suddenly she was gone. What she is now attacking! Very good little one, let's see you handle this. Ouch! I can't believe it she actually managed to hit me! I better pay better attention or the student will become the teacher.

Suddenly Selena lay gasping upon the floor flat on her back. With a giggle she sat up and when she stood, once again bowed from the waist and said, "Thank you Teacher." Then she moved into a defensive position watching her Teacher carefully.

With a wave of his hand a table and two chairs appeared between teacher and student. The table held a pitcher of water and a bowl of fruit and nuts. Selena took both of the poles and returned them to the weapons rack. Then they both sat down and refreshed themselves, although Selena was very careful to only copy her Teacher's leading.

Once they were done and the table and chairs had disappeared, Boaxum told Selena to show him her previously known defensive moves. He told her to repeat them once again but holding each position this time. Silently he corrected her position for each of the movements. Selena was amazed at how the movements were easier to execute and flowed better into the next movement.

With a snap of his fingers two poles appeared in front of them. Boaxum immediately grabbed his own, while Selena's almost smacked her in the face before she grabbed it in time. Again Boaxum started his movements with the pole, except this time he uttered a word in Gobbledegook as he was executing it. He started repeating the first movement and name, until Selena said it perfectly. She was amazed to feel the name fit in perfectly with the movement and breathing. It was like each word was the movement. Maybe it is. This is unbelievable!

Selena had gotten about one third of the words down with the movements when Boaxum snapped his fingers and the poles reappeared on the weapons rack. He then restarted the original stretching movements, although he was slowing them down and pausing as he performed each one. Selena followed suit and felt her body unwind. She hadn't even realized her body had been tensed before.

Boaxum ended the stretching exercises by sitting on the floor cross-legged, eyes closed and body completely relaxed. Selena once again followed his example, but wished he would speak so she could know if she was doing this correctly.

Selena roused from her mediation when she felt a hand on her left shoulder. She rose from the floor and followed her teacher to the doors. Before her Teacher could open the doors, Selena once again bowed from her waist and in a reverential voice spoke, "Thank you Teacher."

Boaxum motioned for her to rise upright, "I am pleased that I don't have to throw your dying bloody body into the water." Then he exited through the doors.

Selena swiftly exited the room and blinked in surprise to only see Griphook and the cart. Her Teacher had completely disappeared. Absentmindedly she closed the doors, walked towards Griphook, nodded at him and entered the cart without saying a word.

Griphook internally chuckled. Yes, you are becoming more Goblin-like with every passing hour you are here. Let's see how you react to Ragnuk's orders: "Goblin Hall."

Selena raised an eyebrow at Griphook's words and then internally shrugged. I'm a special Goblin friend; let's see where Griphook wants to take me, though I could use a fresh change of clothes before going anywhere.

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

Selena stared around her with awe and amazement. Goblins, young and old, male and female, filled the Hall sitting at incredibly long tables before her. In front of the far distant wall another table was raise by two steps. Slowly Griphook escorted Selena towards that distant table, as the Hall hushed its noise in an almost visible wave radiating out from them. At that table sat Ragnuk and other highly esteemed Goblins.

To turn her mind away from the uneasiness of being inspected by every Goblin in the Hall, Selena remembered the trip from the Warrior Training Hall to the Goblin Hall.

They had swiftly left the chamber in the little cart and entered the darkness beyond. Once they had exited the cart, which had stopped at a narrow stone ledge, Selena commented, "I thought carts only had one speed?"

Griphook had laughed and said, "One speed for wizards only."

Selena replied, "No wonder your hair is always slicked back. I don't think I've ever travelled that fast in my life."

Griphook glanced at Selena and laughed again. He waved his hands and then spoke, "Your hair is fixed."

Selena arched an eyebrow. "Thanks, I am sure I wouldn't want to embarrass you to be the Manager of a ridiculous looking Witch."

Griphook swallowed and then subtly made another hand motion. "Of course not Heir Black, it is my honour to escort you to our destination."

Catching his eyes Selena laughed and after a moment Griphook joined in. He motioned for them to follow the ledge before them when she suddenly laid her right hand upon his arm. Griphook's eyes widened slightly and then he angled his arm correctly to escort Selena properly.

Continuing along the ledge Selena looked about at the walls about twenty feet away on each side. The ledge was narrow, fitting approximately four Goblins wide at the widest point, while the narrowest could fit only two abreast. Looking briefly over the side Selena could see a red glowing movement far, far, far below. It suddenly occurred to her that she could be looking at lava flow and was puzzled that she felt neither hot nor cold and that the air was not stifling either. Goblins never cease to amaze me. I do like the blue flames in the lanterns that are on the walls on either side. At least they emit enough light to see where we are walking.

Glancing down at her feet as her foot hit a small rock which careened over the side of the ledge, Selena was also very happy over her new boots. She had just spent three hours wearing brand new boots and her feet neither were hurt and aching nor hot and sweaty. I wonder if I can get another few pairs and perhaps in different colours. The female House Spirit was giving her ideas of different designs as well as colours.

The ledge eventually led to Goblin guarded doors not unlike the Warrior Training Hall doors, which were then opened to admit them into the Goblin Hall.

Selena pulled away from her thoughts as they had finally reached the stairs, while a deathly silence filled the Hall.

Almost at the exact same time Griphook and Selena bowed from the waist in front where Ragnuk sat at the High Table.

In a powerful but quiet voice Ragnuk spoke, "Rise Goblin Friend Heir Black, rise Manager Griphook. Join me at my table and break your fast."

At those words murmuring was heard throughout the Hall. Swiftly the words were repeated throughout the Hall Goblin to Goblin, "Griphook was manager to the Peverell and Slytherin Heir." No Goblin would dare to say or do anything against either of them. The rumors had been fierce over Ragnuk's meeting with a witch and her visit twice with the Nine. She radiated power and magic, none here would oppose her. Hushed whispers floated through the Hall, until it unified into 'Goblin-Witch'.

Ragnuk was pleased His People had accepted his decision to accept this Special Friend, The Goblin-Witch. He gestured for the two before him to come up to his table and join him. A movement up high in the shadows of the ceiling caught his attention and he took a swift swallow from his goblet to cover the fear that briefly shadowed his face. He scanned the faces before him and beside him to see if any others had noticed the shadow above them.

From the tensed grey-cloaked Nine below and to his right he knew they had noticed. A few here and there in the Hall had seen and quickly looked to him to determine how to respond. His warning to them all was to rise and help Selena into her chair beside his own, raise his eyes again to the shadow far above them and then meet each of the eyes of those who had tracked his every move as he seated himself once again.

Ragnuk glanced at Griphook, who was seated beside High Warrior Boaxum, who in turn was sitting on Selena's right, noticed his slightly widened eyes as he saw the shadow and then the swift look into Ragnuk's own eyes. Ragnuk gave a barely discernible nod of his head and saw Boaxum also notice the shadow but instead of turning his eyes to Ragnuk, he instead smiled at Selena. Others around noticed and swallowing hard, they waited for blood to be spilt, instead Selena nodded her head at Boaxum and murmured, "Teacher." Those closest heard a murmured, "Trainee."

Ragnuk was pleased that Griphook and Boaxum were now aware of how extremely important Selena was to the Goblin Nation. As the youngest of those who had acknowledged the Shadow's presence, Griphook was also the one with the longest and most direct contact with Selena and needed the warning Ragnuk was unable to voice. Only the bravest, smartest and strongest would be allowed around Selena, Ragnuk would not risk His People's continued existence on any less worthy. It was his only option.

After an enjoyable meal Selena, Griphook and Ragnuk entered a small room off to the side of the High Table.

Selena expressed her thanks for the honour of dining beside Ragnuk and asked if she may join the other Goblins for breakfast in the Goblin Hall after her future lessons with her Teacher.

Ragnuk was not so pleased to grant her request, as he would not be able to prevent the possibility of her being offended by other Goblins. He could not express his concerns as she had never confided to him about the Shadow's presence, therefore leaving him no alternative but to grant her request.

He did however give her a special bronze ring etched with the Goblin Crest. He instructed her to wear it on her index finger of her left hand and when she wanted to enter Gringotts to simple touch the crest with a finger and state, "Selena's Gringotts Room". It was a continual portkey from Gringotts to Selena's home. To return Selena only had to do the same but say, "Selena's Home" and she would appear in her bedroom at home.

Selena expressed her thanks for the ring and her own room at Gringotts to Ragnuk. She was deeply touched and told them both that she felt Gringotts was her home away from home. It was overwhelming for the little girl that in just over a year she had gone from being abused without a home or feelings of worth, to having two bedrooms and being cared for by family and friends.

Griphook and Selena left the Goblin Hall to make their way to Selena's room so that she could freshen up and change before her next lesson. Griphook also wanted to show her the Gringotts employees' canteen where it was a quieter and less crowded place to eat. He also stated that Selena could also have a quiet meal in her room instead, if she wished to.

Selena had not noticed Boaxum enter the small room off from the Goblin Hall or that Ragnuk had not yet exited. It was time for Boaxum to tell his own stories about the Goblin-Witch.

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

It was now one minute before ten o'clock in the morning and Selena was feeling just a bit tired and ready for a nap. Griphook had just said goodbye to Selena and now watched to ensure she entered the Mind Healer Hall. Selena gathered herself together and slowly and carefully opened the massive doors. Okay what is it with the huge doors? Did they have a special sale, buy fifty and next the next ten free? Not that the doors are ugly or anything, in fact they are beautiful in their own way, just heavy and thick. Nobody is getting through those doors if they are locked. Hmmm…maybe that's the point. They are the only way in or out and in an attack they would safe-guard the room. No wonder there are guards posted throughout Gringotts.

With those thoughts Selena gazed around the room. It was not what she had expected. A dozen rooms led off from this central room, like a queen's hive. Tapestries covered the walls and incense perfumed the air. It was an almost 'soft' room which puzzled Selena seeing as her view of Goblins was as a harsh warrior-like race. They were steadily breaking her expectations with each visit she had with them.

A group of ten or so Goblins were sitting cross-legged on woven cloth mats in a rough circle. They each wore dark grey cloaks, like the Nine, and as usual Selena could not see any of their faces or hands. She paused uncertain as to what she should do.

A gentle gong sounded in the hushed room. Like the ocean flowing with the rhythms of the moon the figures silently rose and dispersed into the adjoining rooms. Only one broke free and approached Selena before tilting its head and gesturing with a cloak covered hand to follow into one of the adjoining rooms to Selena's right.

Once they had entered and the wooden door closed tightly, Selena turned to the Goblin and queried, "Mind Healer Snipbue?"

The goblin nodded its head and turned towards Selena, raised its hands and pushed down its hood to fall against its back. Facing Selena was the shortest cutest goblin she had ever seen. He was a full head shorter than Selena, wispy white hair framed a halo around its head and pointed floppy ears, wrinkle upon wrinkle graced his round face, and his chocolate eyes twinkled mischievously. If Selena had ever pictured Santa Claus as a Goblin, Spinbue fit perfectly. Selena reciprocated and lowered her own hood.

After they had stared at each other for a few moments, Snipbue motioned for Selena to take a seat on one of the woven cloth mats placed on the floor. Selena did so and sat cross-legged, finally taking a moment to look around the room.

Tapestries of magical creatures covered every wall floor to ceiling, even the door was covered. If Selena were to close her eyes and spin, she would have no idea which tapestry hid the door. Not even a doorknob could be seen, in fact there was no doorknob just a simple bolt recessed into the door and wall.

Mind Healer Snipbue lighted a few incense on low tables near the walls around the room and then sat down across from Selena copying her pose. His eyes were closed and Selena let hers close as well.

Selena relaxed as the scent of cedar filled the small room.

Giving a startled jerk, Selena's eyes flew open to glare at Snipbue as Shisou reared up from Selena's arm and hissed a warning. Snipbue's eyes opened in surprise and then changed to his usual twinkle.

Chuckling slightly Snipbue held up a hand, "Very good, just testing your abilities. Although I think you should have your familiar away from your body for the next test. It's not really fair to have your mind protected while I try to test you."

Selena stroke Shisou to calm him down and asked in a puzzled voice, "What do you mean? Is Shisou protecting my mind from others trying to invade my thoughts?"

Snipbue arched an eyebrow, "Are you newly bonded?" Selena nodded. "Yes, Shisou is your familiar and has occluded your mind. Hmmm…maybe I should explain what I teach first."

With a wave of his hand Snipbue silently called for tea. A small table appeared between the two, set with fine china. Gold and crimson flying dragons were painted on the black tea set and their entwined tails created the handles. Clove and cinnamon scented steam rose from the teapot to perfume the air.

After pouring the tea Snipbue started to speak. "Heir Black and Familiar Shisou I welcome you to my teaching room. My goal is to teach Heir Black how to prevent anyone from entering her mind unless she wishes them to enter."

Selena started to ask a question but was stopped by Snipbue raising an eyebrow. Giving a rueful smile Selena bowed her head.

Snipbue continued, "You may wish someone to enter your mind to give them false information, to coax them into a path of action they might not have considered. Or to mislead them as to your true strength and knowledge – an innocent appearance, which I think you already use."

Giving a slight blush Selena lowered her eyes and took a careful sip of her tea.

Mind Healer Snipbue gave a slight smile. "Also I wish to teach you how to access other magical beings' minds, not just humans, but Goblins, Elves, Kentauros known as Centaurs, and other magical creatures with logical thoughts. We may do some travelling."

Snipbue took a sip of tea and then spoke again. "Where we go from there is up to you and your abilities." At this point Snipbue stared intently at Selena. "A piece of information for your reflection, I am one of the Nine. Therefore I am very interested in teaching you, especially in regards to your connections…those who are and will be closest to you."

Closing his eyes to break the connection with Selena, Snipbue quietly took another sip of tea. "You may call me Teacher or Teacher Snipbue. I will call you Heir Black. Now perhaps, once we are finished our tea, Shisou will be content to learn by observation? Then we will begin unless you have anything to tell me." Snipbue's eyes were once again twinkling.

Shisou slithered from Selena's arm to coil between the two and watch Snipbue intently, forked tongue flickering. After a moment Shisou turned to Selena, looked into her eyes and then gave a slight bob of his head.

Giving a near silent sigh Selena turned towards Snipbue. "Teacher, I have attempted to meditate with some slight success. Shisou and I have shared thoughts in Parseltongue. I have mind manipulated muggles and squibs, given a picture of my backyard to a witch so that we could apparate there and I have healed my eyesight and other various injuries."

Selena paused, took a sip of tea and then continued in a soft voice, "I wish to heal my Mum. She gets bad migraines and they are becoming more frequent." Then she spoke in a stronger voice, "It's frustrating because I can heal bones and flesh but I can't 'see' how to fix her mind. Would you help me?"

There was silence while Snipbue thought and then he spoke, "It would take years for you to learn how to heal a mind. Request Griphook or Nagnut to call the Nine to heal her. That is my best advice. Unless you wish St. Mungo's to heal her, but I don't know their individual Mind Healer abilities. Anything else you wish to discuss Heir Black?"

Selena gave a rueful smile and then nodded her head then took a deep breath and stared at Snipbue. "Only between us, swear it!"

Teacher Snipbue swore that what was between them in this room was to be known by only the three of them.

Hesitating Selena continued, "I…I wish to recall a hidden memory. It started when the Nine released the memory of the rune ritual by my Mother. It is plaguing my sleep and I can only recall snatches of it." Then is a near whisper, "I cannot piece together the parts I see. What if it is more than one memory? What if I can no longer perfectly remember my past?"

Large eyes brimming in tears looked into Snipbue's reassuring ones. Shisou uncurled and lovingly tried to comfort Selena by rubbing against her leg and coiling around her waist.

Snipbue reached out with his hand and patted Selena's hands that were clenched together. "Thank you for your trust Heir Black. This is what I want you to do: meditate each night before bed and every morning for twenty minutes. Try not to recall the memory and do not dwell on it. It will come when it is time." Snipbue held up his hand again to stop Selena from speaking. "Your mind is not yet ready to remember this memory. Your mind needs to prepare for its recall. I fear it will be a very traumatic memory and you will need my help to deal with it. Give me your hand with the Gringotts ring. Yes, yes of course I can sense it."

Selena removed the notice-me-not from the ring and held her hand out to her Teacher.

Snipbue pressed a finger to the ring and a pulse of magic was felt between the three. "There you will call out my name when you recall the memory in full. I will come to you wherever you are and help you." With another wave of his hand the teaset and table vanished. "Now let me teach you how to organize your mind and meditate correctly. You will feel me in your mind and we will walk together in your mindscape. Let's begin."

Both closed their eyes while Shisou watched them. Lowering his head he sent his thoughts to Selena and joined them in their mindscape.

Teacher Snipbue was pleased to see Shisou join them and was amazed that he could understand Parseltongue while in Selena's mind. He was pleased to know that Selena had already 'looked' through Shisou's eyes and it would be easy to have her enter Shisou's mind after that. In fact Selena had already done so in order to see through Shisou's eyes, she just hadn't realized it yet.

Snipbue walked through Selena's mind teaching her how to organize her memories and thoughts, starting first with a lesson on her mind fortress and the shapes it could take. He was amused when she created the North Pole and Santa's Workshop, with him as Santa. He built on that practice and had her create reality based pictures of the words he spoke to her. He only allowed her five minutes for each word and then would test the pictures, showing her the weak areas. He was very impressed with her reality of the word 'Pyramid'. She had included traps and hidden rooms, sarcophaguses, mummies and sphinxes, curses and treasure rooms.

Finally Snipbue had her learn how to meditate properly for twenty minutes with Shisou. After a short break where they sat and spoke of the Goblin life, Snipbue had Selena meditate alone for twenty minutes after he said 'think of your mindscape Selena, do not force it but let it come to you'.

After twenty minutes Selena opened her eyes and smiled. "I have my mindscape. At first I thought it would be Gringotts, with guards, mazes, vaults and hidden rooms. Then I realized training from Goblins should be one of my secrets. So I built a hidden walled country with all kinds of lands; forests, deserts, and swamps, also lands of ice, fire and lightening. Castles made of stone, trees, and crystal. Hidden deep in the land underground is my fire castle where my memories will be kept. I have traps and curses, hexes and mazes all over. Magical creatures roam freely; some even live in the castles. Even ghosts are haunting the castles. Do you want to see Teacher?"

Snipbue blinked his eyes with astonishment. She has completed all of that in only twenty minutes! What a pleasure it will be to teach her. She will exceed me and possibly end of teaching me in just a few years at this rate. "Yes, let us explore your mindscape. Shall Shisou join us?"

Shisou nodded his head and they all entered Selena's mindscape.

It was as beautiful and deadly as Selena had described. In fact it was quite a bit more deadly than Selena had described, as she hadn't mentioned the dungeons or the concealed tar/scorpion pits or the quicksand that littered her world. Snipbue had almost been drawn and quartered by a few vines in the forest, but was saved by Selena at the last minute. Therefore he was very impressed and decided he would not like to venture in without Selena or Shisou.

Selena was about to register him as a friend to her mindscape but Snipbue told her not to allow him that power over her mind, it was too dangerous. Then he told her about polyjuice potion, which allowed someone to appear as someone you knew and trusted. Also there was the Imperious Curse, which allowed someone to control you completely. Selena thanked him for his wisdom.

They moved on in the mindscape to Selena's Fire Castle. Snipbue had Selena organize a few memories and select in which objects she would hide them, and arm them with traps and curses. He also had her fabricate a few false memories, which they would continue to work on Friday. He cautioned Selena that she would need to rest and take breaks as she slowly organized her memories.

At this point Selena told her Teacher about her eidetic memory. Snipbue was very concerned and told Selena that he wanted her to only organize her happy memories first or if she insisted on following her life-time years, to make sure the painful memories were dealt with one at a time with lots of time taken to reassure her mind that she was not living in those dreams again. He was concerned she would not escape those memories.

Finally in an authoritative manner he stated that she was not allowed to organize those painful memories except with him in attendance. They would organize those memories together with Shisou's presence as well. Selena had to promise him and Shisou had to give his word as well that he would ensure Selena obeyed.

Their time was up and Selena learnt how to find and exit the room. Wishing her Gringotts ring to be hidden once again, Selena bowed to Teacher Snipbue and then left the Mind Healer Hall to find Griphook waiting for her.

They were about to take the cart, when Selena asked about dropping some things off in the Potter Family Vault. Griphook motioned to their cart and as they entered he explained, "These carts are only for Goblins and Special Friends. I will teach you how to use these carts so that you may go to the places you already have, but be warned not to attempt to go elsewhere unless you are invited by a Goblin. Your Friend status can only protect you so far. The wizarding vaults are accessible only by the other system of carts, well for them anyway. It is complicated and there are many traps in place. Suffice it to say, if you want to visit your vaults I will escort you on the other cart system."

Selena was surprised by how Griphook seemed almost flustered in his response. "Thank you for explaining it to me Manager Griphook and thank you also for your time to escort me."

Off they went whirling away on the Goblin cart, while Griphook taught Selena the trick to cart travel. It was disappointingly simple, think about where you wanted to go and release a small bit of magic to activate the cart while holding the front part.

They were on their way to the Potter Family Vault on the other cart system, when Selena turned to Griphook, "The other cart system has spoilt this for me. This seems so tame by comparisons."

Griphook grinned and arching an eyebrow said, "Goblin speed?"

Nodding her head, Selena gave a shriek of delight when they lurched forward to reach the speed of the faster Goblin cart system.

When they finally stopped outside of the vault, Selena gasped, "I thought you said there was only one speed on these vault carts?"

Griphook merely shrugged, "One speed for Wizards, one speed for Goblins and Goblin-Witch."

Deeply touched Selena bowed to Griphook and in a husky voice said, "I am honoured Manager Griphook." She turned away and carefully wiped away a tear that had fallen onto her cheek.

Nodding in response Griphook then opened the door of the vault after receiving the key from Selena.

Walking into the vault Selena carefully placed her locket and folded blanket onto a small table just inside and near the desk holding the letters. It's time to say goodbye to my past. Giving one last caress to the locket and blanket, Selena straightened her spine and shoulders, turned and walked out of the vault without looking back as the vault door closed with a clang.

She accepted the key from Griphook and once it was safely tucked away in her pouch, turned to Griphook as they entered the cart. "Would you like to join me in the Goblin Hall for lunch Manager Griphook?"

Griphook gave a nod of his head.

Then giving a mischievous look Selena enquired, "May I drive?"

Moving over and waving Selena to join him at the front of the cart, Griphook smirked as Selena touched the railing he gripped. He felt the surge of magic through his fingertips as the cart bucked and flew along the tracks. Internally Griphook swore in Goobledegook as he wondered if they would survive to see their destination.

"Oops! Maybe a little less magic next time!" Selena yelled as the wind from their travel tore the words from her mouth. Sparks showered behind them as they careened around corners, while Selena laughed out loud.

Griphook was sure he felt the back wheels leave the tracks at least five times.

Suddenly they saw a slower cart ahead of them, Griphook and Selena turned to each other their eyes widened in fear. Faster and faster they approached the cart. One last corner and they would hit it. The people in the other cart were clutching their robes and screaming.

With a bump they were airborne and falling through the air. Griphook turned to Selena, "Well this is different."

Bang! They had landed on another set of tracks five stories below on the crest of tracks going down. Again they were racing down the tracks gaining speed. They were going so fast that when they went under a waterfall Selena turned to Griphook, "Was that a waterfall? I only got two drops on my head. Oh wait nope, dry already."

Griphook just shrugged his shoulders. He had never travelled this fast in his whole life, if they went through fire he wouldn't have been able to tell. Everything was now just a blur to him. Suddenly they were in pitch black as they accessed the other Goblin cart system.

When they arrived, after only five minutes although it felt like a lifetime, they shakily exited the cart and rolled their heads and shoulders, arched their backs and then smiled at each other.

With an ironic twist of his mouth Griphook commented, "It would seem you can access both cart systems."

Selena just gave an incredulous look and nodded her head. Then she tilted her head and studied her windswept partner.

Griphooks hair was now defying gravity and swept straight back from his head. Selena couldn't quite tell, but she thought he had fewer wrinkles on his face.

Selena on the other hand, had roses for her cheeks, her eyes sparkled and her face was gently framed by a few wisps of hair. "We have so got to do that again! Do you think Ragnuk or Nagnut would like to join us next time? Or maybe we should ask Teacher Boaxum? hmmm…maybe not."

Griphook and Selena carefully walked along the ledge gripping each other tightly. They were still a little wobbly on their feet.

Before they entered through the doors Selena spoke, "Umm… your hair is… a little windswept."

Giving a shrug Griphook spoke, "I bet you one galleon someone will ask within five minutes of us sitting down at table."

"Two galleons, within three minutes." Selena's eyes gleamed with humour.

"Deal." They both said and shook hands.

Entering and sitting down at the first available table, Selena made a point of looking at each goblin around them and then sitting back and staring at Griphook. After two minutes a gruff older goblin turned to Griphook and asked him what had happened.

Turning to Selena, Griphook gritted his teeth and handed her the two galleons, "Cheating."

Giving a mocking smile Selena replied, "No rules not too."

Griphook laughed out loud and said, "Goblin-Witch"

"Thank you Manager Griphook, I am deeply honoured by your words." Selena gave a nod of her head.

Making sure that she was not offended and after searching her face and eyes, Griphook gave his own nod and turned to the Goblin who had asked the question, "How much will you pay to know the story of the first cart driven by the Goblin-Witch?"

With that Griphook made quite a bit of galleons with his story, galleons paid up front of course. It was quite a profitable and pleasant meal for the two.

Eventually it became known as a mandatory fear ritual before enter adulthood if you paid to ride in a cart driven by the Goblin-Witch. Ragnuk was the second Goblin to ride with the Goblin-Witch, but that is only because he pulled rank and it was immediately after lunch that same day. Boaxum and Snipbue were waiting for Selena outside her special room on the Wednesday morning. That morning Selena decided to see how much magic the cart could really take and unintentionally turned their cart into a chariot which almost seemed to fly to the Warrior Training Hall. While still extremely fast it really missed out on the cart falls and corner wheel lifts, which almost seemed to disappoint all three. Selena promised to do better next time after her warrior training, if they were willing to try again on the way to breakfast. They did and had a great time entering the hall staggering together, although Snipbue was a bit dusty from falling off the ledge.

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

Selena was waiting in her own room at Gringotts for her Mum, brother and Andi to show. She had showered and tidied herself up, rearranged her hair and changed into her robes in preparation for her first Pureblood Lesson. She was practicing her meditation to calm her nerves when a knock sounded at her door.

Rising from her chair and answering the door, Selena welcomed her Mum, Doug and Andi into her room as the Goblin escorting them bowed to Selena and then walked away. As Andi had already been here before, it was left to Petunia and Doug to be impressed with her now permanent quarters within Gringotts.

With a wave of her wand Andi made some minor adjustments to their attire so they would appear more in the pureblood fashion. Selena carefully watched every change and could tell the difference immediately.

"The key to appearing like a pureblood is voice, attire and attitude." Andi explained as she put on her own pureblood persona. Just a slight tilt to her chin, carriage lifted and straight, her words soft but with a refined tone and Andi appeared to be from a different era. "We will call each other by our full title and last names only, especially Selena who we will all call Miss Black. I have given this some thought and it would serve best for the necessary anonymity. We must have our story straight. Therefore we are relatives through Cassiopeia Black. Any enquiries are beneath us to speak of and the Goblins have all the details necessary. You three have recently returned to our English shores, after the death of Mrs. Evan's husband, and sought out family relations. You are related to Selena through marriage."

Andi paused and then continued, "We four met by accident and discovered our family connection. Due to the strain in the family on my side and your recent loss, we will be keeping a low profile at this time. That should take care of not meeting the rest of the Black Family at this time, any questions?"

Petunia looked thoughtful, "Were did we meet?"

"Gringotts." Andi gave a rueful smile. "We should keep it as truthful as possible. Perhaps the Goblins introduced us as I was also doing business that day and you desired a contact with your newly discovered relations."

The other three nodded and agreed it was a plan. A sketchy but workable plan and it was the best they could come up with at this time.

"Doug you will be required to act the gentleman for us ladies; opening doors, acting as our escort, very polite manners and speaking respectfully, which you already do well. You are only six but a Pureblood would already know how to do these things. If we meet anyone that I introduce, you must use the correct greeting, as must Selena. Short head nods are for those below your station; shop owners, other children and the socially inferior. You will know when to take an older ladies hand, bow and kiss the back of her hand if she holds it out to you. Those from the upper social elite require a lower bow from your waist, hands and arms in this position."

Andi showed and positioned Doug into the various correct bows. She then advised Selena of the head nod or curtsey she would need to perform and helped her practice as well. "Petunia, just follow my lead. Hopefully I am just being overly cautious but it helps to be prepared and besides you do need to learn this and the sooner the better. I think we are now ready to go unless you need to visit your vault."

Petunia declined stating that Griphook had already been in touch with her that morning and had already advised the apothecaries and related paraphernalia suppliers to submit invoices for any purchases today. Petunia had already requested a certain amount of galleon transferred from her personal vault to the business vault for their startup expenses.

Finally they left Selena's room and followed her out of Gringotts. Andi told them they would stop at the best place first, with the freshest ingredients. The first stop, surprising them all, was to a covered cart tucked in the far corner of the intersection of Diagon Alley and Carkitt Market.

Andi introduced them to Aunt Polly, a small grey-haired old woman wearing a crocheted grey shawl and faded blue dress, who owned the cart. All three nodded politely at the introduction. The rough wooden cart held all sorts of potion ingredients; from freshly picked flowers to live bugs and various exotic ingredients. They would eventually learn that Aunt Polly was a shrewd business woman who had international connections to any ingredient they could possibly request for the best possible price.

After they finished their negotiations with Aunt Polly and arranged for delivery, Andi took them to various apothecaries located in Diagon Alley. They eventually went to a few unsavory shops including ones in Nockturn Alley, though Andi warned them 'not to come at night and never alone'.

Near the beginning of their shopping and in one apothecary Andi taught them the valuable lesson of haggling with Pureblood attitude.

Andi had peered and gave a 'tsk, tsk' in disapproval at the beetles she was examining. In a snooty voice she mentioned to Petunia that 'Smithy's had the same item at five sickles for two scoops' and started to turn away and towards the door.

The owner swiftly walked over and voiced his disagreement, "My dear lady, I assure you my beetle's quality is much better. I turn over my stock regularly and they are all fairly uniform in size."

Turning back to the shop owner Andi commented, "I suppose that is true, I suppose we could accept five sickles for one scoop if you add one scoop of the lace wings."

When they had eventually left the shop Andi commented, "Most Purebloods feel that bargaining is beneath them, but it sure is fun and the bargains you can get are outrageous."

Most of the ingredients purchased they placed into their bags but for the large orders they had them being delivered by owl tomorrow morning.

At their invitation Andi stopped by the house to inspect their potions lab. She was very impressed and said they were off to a great start. When she enquired who was teaching them to create potions and they answered that they had thought they would learn on their own, she immediately offered to teach them as part of training Selena.

"Really it only makes sense Petunia, I would eventually teach Selena anyway. Besides if I stop her from learning any bad habits now it makes my job easier later." Andi convincingly argued.

Petunia gave in graciously and thanked Andi. They briefly went over what the children already knew and impressed Andi with their knowledge and experience. It was agreed that Andi would starting teaching them on Wednesday after lunch.

Just before Andi left, she casually mentioned to Selena that she would see her tomorrow morning just before nine at Gringotts.

Selena nodded her head, "Yes I will see you there. Goodnight Mrs. Tonks." Right tomorrow we inspect my properties. That is going to be another full day. I'm so tired.

"Sweetie, why don't you have a rest for an hour and then we will get supper ready." Petunia wrapped an arm around Selena's shoulders and led her to the stairs.

Giving a yawn and covering her mouth just in time, Selena nodded her head and climbed the stairs to her room. "Thanks Mum" she mumbled.

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

The rest of the late afternoon was relaxing. While Selena was sleeping Petunia and Doug put away the items they had brought home, organizing and deciding where things were going to be placed tomorrow.

When Selena got up from her rest she made sure she stretched her body as Teacher Boaxum taught her. She did not want to be stiff and sore tomorrow, well as little as possible.

Now that Selena was finally alone, the PHS told her that she had Shadow travelled when she was first in the Warrior Training Hall and being attacked. They explained, with a little help from M1, that it was a bit like apparition, but silent and she turned invisible when using shadows to move to another location. It was finally decided that it must be because of the special Potter invisibility cloak she had tried on the other night or the presence that had visited her. There was some confusion because no other person owning that cloak had ever Shadow travelled before, but they had heard of the ability from other ancient legends. When Selena tried to talk about the other Shadow she had seen, all the House Spirits would say is that they could not talk about it or explain it. They eventually said that it was not yet time for her to know.

After supper Selena took a warm shower and noticed a few bruises here and there. Using her magic she healed them, changed into her pyjamas and then sat at her desk. She decided to write down a list of what she had learned from her teachers and their instructions.

Doug interrupted her to play a board game with him and Selena swiftly followed him to his room so that they could spend a little time together. They had quickly realized they wouldn't see each other as much if Selena was going to be so busy away from home. After a while Petunia came upstairs and also took part in a game with them.

That evening Selena shared the techniques she had learned from Mind Healer Snipbue for meditating. They discussed candles versus incense and music versus silence. It was eventually decided to try a variety to find what worked best for them and in which combination.

After family meditation Selena finished up her list and then started to organize her earliest memories, but only for twenty minutes as she was still exhausted from her day. Still she had managed to organize her earliest memories including her brother and her first three months after birth.

Giving another tired yawn Selena curled up with Shisou, bid the House Spirits and her Mother's picture a goodnight and fell fast asleep.

AN: For those of you who would like the pronunciations: Boaxum – Bow-Axe-Umm; Snipbue – Snip-boo