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.

10. Chapter 10 Magical Beings Near and Far

Disclaimer: Same as previously mentioned.

AN: Trigger warnings for this chapter; night terrors and mithridatism – please don't try this

Chapter Ten – Magical Beings Near and Far

The man awoke heart pounding and gasping for breath, his fisted hands clenching sweat soaked sheets. The nightmares were more frequent than last month – or rather The Nightmare. There was only one that replayed every night now for almost two weeks.

He had been having this same nightmare for almost five years now, but it hadn't ever been this bad before. The first time he had the nightmare it had alarmed him. Since that time he had done what he could to lessen the impact it had on his sleep and his health. He had been mostly successful until now.

Somehow it was now worse than it had ever been before and he was terrified it would drive him insane. He would have to increase his frequency of Dreamless Sleep potion. There were side effects but he could handle them. After all he was who he was, and being who he was, he would succeed at whatever he wanted. He had proved it throughout his life. Those who opposed him had no life or less than a life depending on his benevolence. No one ever got the best of him, it just wasn't done.

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

Tuesday morning Selena awoke and remembered yet one more fragmented memory.

This time it was of another black-haired man picking her up from her crib, holding her tight and rocking slightly on his feet while he sobbed out, "I'm so sorry Harry… Lily deserved better….Please forgive me Harry … I'm so sorry I failed you both."

She felt his tears soak her pyjamas while his cold leather clad body trembled in anguish and his minty breath shuddered between the repeating words. "Pafoo?" she said as her baby hands stroked his hair.

With sudden clarity Selena realized that this black-haired man was the same one from the pensieve memory with her father - Sirius Black.

Quickly Selena sat up in her bed and started her meditation. She needed to get away from this memory before it consumed her thoughts. She gathered the other fragments of memories and placed them all into a sealed urn, placed it within a hidden room in her Fire Castle and protected it with traps. She didn't know if the partial memories belonged together but it was easier to keep them together for now.

Shisou entered her mindscape and agreed with her. He told her he would add his venom to a few false memory objects and anywhere else she wanted.

Selena giggled a little and thanked him for his generosity. I guess his poison would work the same way as in reality. Hmmm…I wonder if it would poison me. ~Shisou if I touched your poison would it kill me?~

~I do not know My Lady. My poison has to reach the blood stream in order to kill.~ Shisou started to undulate in circles becoming increasingly agitated. ~Perhaps we should make you immune to it just in case.~

~Agreed.~

With the input of the House Spirits, Selena and Shisou came up with a plan to research mithridatism, which is to slowly increase immunity to poison over a period of time.

Once her twenty minutes of meditation was over Selena looked at the time and was thankful that it was only half seven. She had plenty of time this morning to follow Teacher Boaxum's exercises and get ready for her appointment.

Looking over her day planner she realized that if today had been a normal training day she would have been home by three this afternoon, now she wasn't sure just when she would get home, as she had two days worth of properties to look at.

As she started her exercises Selena felt a bit sore and stiff, but as she moved through the stretches her body became suppler and smoothly flowed from one to the next. It felt liberating and calming. She wanted to start the pole movements but decided not to, although she did run through the memory and repeated the Goblin words in her mindscape. I need an exercise area in my mindscape, perhaps in a flat field or in my Fire Castle. Hmmm… a special exercise place in my Fire Castle and I'll put my exercise memories there. Maybe in globes of light, then you can't tell which one is just a light and which is a memory light – dual purpose lights. Maybe copy the room in each of my Castles but without the memories.

Selena got herself ready for her busy day of exploring houses and their surroundings. I wonder if I should change into my warrior boots at Gringotts, they were so comfortable. I don't want to wreck them though. I'll ask Manager Griphook if it is possible to order more of those boots or where they bought them.

The remainder of her time was spent with her Mum and brother, eating, talking and making sure she was ready to go. She had already reviewed her property paperwork while in her mindscape, so all that remained was to organize today's memories tonight. She decided a picture gallery would work. Each location memory; a room, seaside, forest or hills, would be embedded as the background of portraits or just become landscapes. She could even make them moving pictures. I love magic; I can make it do whatever I dream of in my mindscape.

Just before she left, Selena's Mum presented two cloth bags to Selena and Doug. "I want you both to always wear these."

Both children opened the pouches and shook out identical black/grey stone bracelets knotted with black leather.

"Mum?" Doug tilted his head enquiringly.

Petunia held out her own right arm which had an identical bracelet. "Those two bracelets are monitoring bracelets and emergency home portkeys. I just want to give you both the best protection I can in both worlds. Just think of it as a kind of walkie talkie that doesn't talk except to me."

The children looked at each other and then nodded. "Okay Mum." they chorused. Selena opted to place her bracelet onto her left wrist.

Petunia helped both children put on their bracelets while she explained how to use the portkey, which was the last slightly larger stone pushed through the end loop. She stressed that it was only to be used in an emergency but that she also wanted them to have one practice to familiarize them to its use.

Doug was startled when the bracelet automatically adjusted to his wrist. It fit snug enough that it wouldn't move around but not too tight as to be uncomfortable.

Selena just giggled at Doug as he gaped at the bracelet. She knew exactly how he felt, as she had felt the same when her rings re-sized.

After a round of hugs Selena was off to Gringotts by using her ring to portkey there.

Just after Selena had inspected her boots in the wardrobe in her Gringotts room a knock sounded on her door.

Opening the door Selena greeted them. "Welcome Mrs. Tonks. Manager Griphook and Manager Nagnut may your enemies' blood fall from your blade as rain falls from the leaves of trees."

All three returned her greetings and then entered the room and sat at the table. Selena quickly asked Griphook about wearing her warrior boots.

Griphook explained that it wasn't profitable for Goblins to purchase most things outside the Goblin Nation; therefore the boots were Goblin-made especially for Selena. "I will have Master Cordwainer Moonclaw attend you tomorrow after breakfast. Meanwhile I will request another pair of boots to be in your wardrobe for tomorrow's lesson."

Quickly walking to the desk Griphook wrote a quick note on the available parchment and uttered a few words in Gobbledegook.

Selena was astonished to see the sealed parchment disappear. I have got to learn how Manager Griphook did that!

Griphook walked towards them and enquired if Selena would like to change into her boots. With a shake of her head and then a nod Selena quickly changed into her warrior boots, put her other boots away and with a slight blush said, "Sorry for the wait, I'm ready now."

Waving Selena to a chair at the table Griphook also sat down at the table. "Just to give you a brief itinerary, we will be using portkeys to access the properties. We will start here in England and then proceed around the world in a clock-wise rotation. We will leave via the apparition room for ease of mobility."

All three nodded and Nagnut spoke, "Griphook and myself will be accompanying you both everywhere for safety reasons, so please do not wander. If you wish to go anywhere please advise us."

"Do you anticipate any issues?" Andi enquired.

Shaking his head Griphook replied, "No, but it is still better to be prepared for any problems. Also some of these properties are quite old and we do not know about their upkeep or security measures."

Getting to her feet Selena gave a short bow to both Griphook and Nagnut. "Thank you for your care."

The others followed her example and rose to their feet and walked towards the door to exit the room.

Andi, as they walked along the corridor, asked Selena about her 'warrior' boots.

While the two females were discussing footwear, the Goblins were silently leading them to the apparition room.

Selena had to bite her bottom lip to stop herself from smirking at the black string portkey. "Ummm… Manager Griphook, are all Goblin portkeys black strings?"

Smirking back Griphook replied, "Yes, though for our trips today we had to use other colours as well."

Mumbling under her breath Selena commented, "That's a relief."

With a word in Goobledegook by Nagnut, they all felt the tug and pull in their bodies and away they went.

With a slight stumble Selena landed on her feet but then narrowed her eyes at the vision before her. Her companions were running in midair as they gracefully landed. Narrowing her eyes Selena commented, "That would have been useful to know before I started portkeying."

Nagnut and Griphook swallowed and looked slightly nervous. Griphook bowed his head to Selena. "My apologies Heir Black, it was remiss of me to not provide you with the information. How may I compensate you for my error?" Griphook had of course shared the breakfast incident with Nagnut. It was imperative that Selena's Managers know exactly how important their client was.

Andi's eyes grew wide at the display before her. Merlin, I'm missing something huge. Why on this green earth, would a Goblin ever lower himself to a Witch and ask for her to punish him for an innocent error? Do I really want to know the power she holds over them? I am also in error and I better get in line for my punishment. Whatever this power is that she holds Ragnuk must know about it. He would not have let a subordinate lower himself before a Witch or Wizard otherwise. Wait, does she hold the entire Goblin Nation in the palm of her hand? If so, does she hold the Wizarding World in her hand and we don't know? Merlin's beard she is not yet six years old, what if she becomes offended by us?! No, I must treat her as any – well, almost any child would be treated. Maybe a bit more of the kid gloves though. I don't know if I can do this alone. I can't wrap my brain around this. Perhaps I could ask Selena if I may speak of her to those who already know about her. I need a confidant.

Gathering her courage Andi spoke in a calm soothing tone but with sincerity, "Selena I am also in error. I should not have assumed that you knew how to portkey correctly and as your Teacher it is my duty to teach you all aspects of the Wizarding World. If there is any compensation it should come from me."

Griphook and Nagnut shared another significant look; a Witch was placing herself between them and possible death. It was unnerving and surprising. Ragnuk must be told of this.

Losing her narrowed eyed look, Selena gave a quirk of her mouth and replied, "It's okay, I guess I'm just so awesome that people forget I am a newbie and know nothing. Well let's go exploring. Where are we and where are we heading off to?"

With those words Selena grabbed the hands of Andi and Griphook and looked at Nagnut to answer her questions.

Giving a startled blink or two, Griphook clasped Selena's hand and gently turned her around on the dirt road they stood upon. Now before her was a ten foot tall silver-iron gate. Above their heads, at the top of the gate were the words 'Potter Manor'.

Tears weld in her eyes. I'm home. No! This is not my home; it was my Father's home. Selena tried to suppress her feelings of homecoming but she was not successful. Maybe I can make it my home – no, I have a lot of homes. I can pick my home and it is with my Mum, no place else.

Nagnut turned to Selena, "Welcome to Potter Manor Heir Black. If you will touch the gate, it will take a sample of your blood and the wards will accept you and who you allow to enter. This road will lead us to the Manor and once there those doors will also need your blood to open. After that we shall explore the house and land as you see fit."

Selena approached the gate and saw the Potter Crest in front of her. She touched the crest and felt a prick of her fingertip. Immediately after, a shudder ran through her body and also through the gate. The Potter Crest shifted apart and the gate swung open away from them.

Stepping through the gate the Potter House Spirits spoke, Welcome Heir. This is your inheritance, make of it as you will. Remember to get the Potter Family History Books. Please try to be open minded of your Potter heritage and through them your Black heritage.

Giving a sigh Selena responded, I will try to keep an open mind PHS – it's just difficult. My last memory of Sirius Black has made me question his character from the pensieve memory. I am confused how he seemed to care for me and apologized. He was broken hearted at my Mother's death and made no mention of my Father.

PHS: It will come in time Heir, be patient. For now look upon this land your ancestors claimed as home.

As they continued walking Selena looked about, it was truly a beautiful location. Hills, trees, a pond and lush green grass flowed around them. The cobblestone road was smooth and lined with white stone edging. They rounded a corner and before them lay the house – or rather Manor. A white building three stories high with an attic above sprawled before them, littered with windows and columns of stone graced the long porch while wide stone stairs invited them to the entrance. Rosebushes bloomed in a multitude of colours from the lawn in front of the porch railings. The blossoms perfumed the air with their scent.

Andi hesitantly spoke, "I think you have House Elves taking care of Potter Manor Selena. They should appear if we go inside."

Selena drew her hands from Andi and Griphook and walked up the stone stairs, across the wooden porch and approached the doors, which were made of frosted glass and white wood. Each of the doors was etched with half of the Potter Crest. As they were closed the Potter Crest was intact.

Drawing a breath Selena touched the Potter Crest and a white light burst from the spot to encompass the house and land. The very air seemed to sing that the Potter Heir had come home. Somehow the place seemed brighter, the colours more intensified.

Selena could vouch for that, for as her blood had touched the glass, magic roundabout had increased and danced around her and the property with glee. She was home. She felt light and immersed with magic and energy, but in a calm joyful manner. Looking behind her Selena asked, "Is that going to happen with each of my properties?"

Nagnut answered, "It should just happen with the primary homes you are heir of, if those homes are still in existence. Unfortunately, I cannot give you a complete answer because I am not entirely sure.

Griphook decided to also answer, "I have seen this happen before but not to this degree. If I would hazard a guess, you just woke the magical inhabitance of the Manor to your presence. They were waiting for your return and should be approaching soon to welcome you."

This was very true as the doors had swung open into the house. Gleaming cedar floors were before them as they entered the lobby. Cream coloured walls graced the entrance as they walked ahead. Dark oak furnishings were available for their use to place their coats, hats, gloves and pouches.

A soft Pop sounded the arrival of a female house elf; large green eyes brimming with tears. "Welcome Mistress Selena, welcome home." the high pitched voice trembled with suppressed joy. "Missy is my name and I was your Mother's personal house elf."

Five other POPs sounded. Lined up behind Missy were five other uniformed house elves. Each introduced themselves and gave their occupation with a bow to show their respect. Each had the Potter Crest sewn onto their uniforms high on their left chest.

· Missy wore a black tea towel with a white belt; she was now Selena's personal elf.

· Hoggy wore a black tea towel with a blue belt; he was in charge of the upkeep for the Manor.

· Nuggy wore a brown tea towel with a pouched brown belt; he was in charge of the gardens and yards surrounding the Manor.

· Peppy wore a white tea towel with a black belt; she was in charge of the kitchens.

· Chaffy wore a green tea towel with a pouched brown belt; he was in charge of the fields, forests and animals of the estate.

· Kitty wore a blue tea towel with a red belt; she was in charge of the household linens and other general duties.

Chaffy stepped forward and bowed again to Selena, "If it would please you Mistress, please step outside to greet The Others who live here." He was trembling slightly and his high pitched voice was a bit screechy while he continued bowing throughout his request.

Looking puzzled Selena glanced at her companions unsure of what to do. Andi and the Goblins all reluctantly nodded. They were also unsure of this unusual circumstance.

"Of course Chaffy, please lead the way." Selena replied as she gestured for the elf towards the front doors which were still opened.

Chaffy bobbed upwards with a huge smile upon his face. "Yes Mistress!" he exclaimed. He then dashed in front and led them out of the house, around the right side of the Manor towards the woods and a far off pond which was now ahead of them.

Slowing slightly Selena saw the magic coalescing just past the pond at the edge of the forest. Glowing eyes, flutters of wings, a limb or two, a patch of fur all teased their eyes as they caught these glimpses through the foliage of the trees and bushes.

As they rounded the large pond two magical beings came forth from the trees. Two ancient beings with flowered crowns upon their long flowing hair and silk clothed tall bodies stood before their group five feet from Selena. Chaffy approached them and bowed low almost touching his pointed nose to the grass at their feet. "May I present Selena, Heir of Potter Manor."

Other worldly eyes stared at Selena as they examined her. She felt a tickling of her mind and narrowed her eyes. With a smirk she opened her mindscape to them.

The two beings stood upon the wildflower field mindscape unease pouring off of their bodies. After a quick glance at each other they turned to Selena, who was sitting cross legged before them while she stroke Shisou's scales as he curled in her arms.

Shisou hissed, ~Mistress, shall I poison them for their rude attempt to read your mind?~

The two flinched as Selena answered Shisou, ~No, perhaps they will introduce themselves and explain their actions. After all they aren't going anywhere and any step they choose will end in their death anyway.~

The male being gave a look about him and with another significant glance at his companion gave a nod of his head to Selena and then mind spoke, We did not know if you would be able to understand our speech. Usually we seek a connection from a humans' mind to speak in their language for understanding. It is usually when we do not seek the connection that we have trouble with humans. You are different for a Witch.

His silver haired companion also mind spoke, We are trapped here. We wish no harm to befall you or us. We are of the Forest Fay.

The golden haired male fairy waved to his companion, This is my mate, Elysianna and I am Tyrellyn. We and the others wish to continue to live in these forests.

Come to my home within my mindscape. With a simple thought Selena brought them to her Fire Castle to sit with her in the lounge. Please be seated, is there any refreshment you would like?

Thank you, but no. Truly you are a most powerful Witch, but there is something more…Tyrellyn escorted Elysianna to her seat and then sat beside her facing Selena.

Elysianna's eyes clouded and turned white, The Shadow surrounds you and of a truth you too are shadowed Goddess of the Moon. With a blink Elysianna's eyes returned to their sapphire blue.

Selena paused and privately spoke to the House Spirits, who were agitated by what had happened and the words spoken, while Selena continued to study her guests.

At last Selena mind spoke, I thank you for the honour of your meeting with me. My lands are open to you and your kind. Perhaps we may become friends in time.

Tyrellyn questioned, Your lands, all of your lands?

All of my lands are open to your presence. I just request safety for those I welcome to my lands. Selena gave a full smile to her two guests. I have just started to travel to my properties to see what needs to be repaired or disposed of. I would like to know that my lands are a home to more than just myself.

Pleasure lit the two Fay and they smiled gently at Selena. It will be a pleasure to have new places of safety to visit.

Selena's eyes grew sad and then glowed with happiness. I know of living in an unsafe place and wish for no others to live like that. I noticed there were others behind you in the woods. Would they also like other safe places to live? And please call me Selena.

Yes Selena, replied Elysianna. Other magical beings requested us to present to you our living within the forests of Potter Manor. While we do not believe in the ownership of land, we have come to accept that man does. It has caused dreadful deadly issues between us, which is why we approached you as the heir of this place.

Do you require other land, not just forests but perhaps the ponds, rivers and fields? Would it be alright to meet The Others? Selena questioned.

With a thoughtful look Tyrellyn nodded his head. If we could all live in harmony the other areas would be welcome.

Alright I will speak to the House Elves. I too want harmony between magical beings. Then Selena tilted her head and a frown appeared on her face. By the way, can you explain why the House Elves work for Wizards? I don't understand how a magical race could be subject under another. We are all magical beings.

Tears came to the blue eyes of Tyrellyn and Elysianna. It was Elysianna who finally mind spoke in a very sad voice, What you now call House Elves were once like The Forest Fay except they were of the Home. A very powerful mage cursed The Home Fay race and bound their magic and very life to Wizards. We have mourned their loss for a very long time now.

Can they and do they want to be free? Selena enquired.

Gravely Tyrellyn mind spoke, We have found no way to lift this curse and it has been so long since – well, perhaps they never were truly free as they have always served the Home. They just had the ability to defend themselves and leave for a better Home if they so wished. They were not dependant on Wizard's magic for their very lives. They were honoured to serve the Homes of all magical races. The beauty and happiness others received from their exceedingly well done service was their pride and joy; it was all they wished to receive in return; a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship.

Hesitatingly Selena mind spoke, Perhaps we do not need to lift the curse but simply adjust it, so that it evolves to their original service. Privately Selena congratulated the insight from the House Spirits.

Elysianna mind spoke as a smile graced her lips, That might work and we will explore the possibility.

Selena stood and curtsied to the two Fay. Let us return.

Both stood and gave a returning bow and curtsy before Selena exited them from her mindscape.

Returning to their physical bodies, Selena curtsied to the Fay. They returned the gesture and then motioned The Others to come out from the Forest.

All manner of magical beings flew, walked, clopped and crawled from the Forest. The House Elves, who had followed them from the Manor, were pleased to see them emerge trustingly from their safety.

Tyrellyn spoke in a musical language once The Others had quieted down. Selena was slightly unnerved to have all eyes upon her. The Goblins just gave smug smirks as they looked at Selena.

Suddenly a loud roar was heard from the assembled magical beings.

Elysianna quickly mind spoke to Selena, Tyrellyn has told them of your offer. They are truly grateful and cheer their thanks. Next week expect to see these and other magical beings on the other lands. Be assured Selena that they will be a blessing to the lands. Magical beings treasure the earth.

Suddenly a tiny winged fairy flew and hovered in front of Selena's face.

Selena's eyes glowed in wonder to see such an exquisite being before her. "Welcome." Selena whispered and gave a nod of her head to the magic cloaked creature.

The fairy giggled and in return curtsied in midair, "Blessings Shadow Mistress."

Blinking slightly in surprise, Selena tilted her head and while the fairy flew away to disappear into the Forest, she gave a puzzled look towards Tyrellyn and Elysianna. They quickly evaded her eyes and gave slight smiles in response.

One by one The Others approached Selena repeating the same curtsy or bow and then statement as had the tiny fairy.

While this was happening Andi watched in wonder. Oh I am so confused and if I dare admit it to myself frightened over what I am seeing. 'Shadow Mistress' just what does that mean? Just how many names does Selena have? Okay, just breathe deeply and calm down. Great Merlin! Is that a Buggane the Fairies are shading?! I didn't think they still existed. Great Merlin's Beard, that-that creature is a Y Wrach. At this point Andi was shaking. She had studied ancient Celtic Spirits and knew of the malevolent disease spirit called Y Wrach.

Griphook placed a comforting hand onto Andi's arm. "Be calm. We are safe, Selena is here."

Andi glanced down with terror-filled eyes at Griphook and then looked into the Forest where Griphook and Nagnut were looking. All she could see was a very black shadow at the furthest edges of the Forest blotting out the trees as it moved between them. She reached for Griphook's hand and clutched it with both of hers. A tiny whimper escaped her lips. Closing her eyes she took deep breaths of air in an effort to calm her flight response.

With a sudden opening of her eyes she turned and stared at Griphook, "That Shadow – I've never seen it before. It can't be…"

Griphook and Nagnut returned her stare, their faces turned grim and they both gave very short abrupt nods in reply.

Slowly Andi calmed herself down, eventually letting go of Griphook's hand and giving him a grateful half smile in thanks. Softly she whispered, "She doesn't know yet but the Goblins do. Nobody else knows. We are on a razor sharp pinnacle about to topple over the edge. So, she is our salvation or destruction." The Goblins merely watched the proceedings carefully; they would have much to tell Ragnuk upon their return.

Finally the greetings were over and the two Fay were the only ones remaining.

Tyrellyn walked forwards and mind spoke to Selena, Open your mouth and receive a gift.

Trustingly Selena opened her mouth watching as Tyrellyn pierced the vein of his left wrist with his right thumbnail. The cut immediately healed but golden blood glistened on the tip of his nail. He swiftly swiped his thumbnail upon Selena's tongue and top lip, removing the blood completely.

Selena's eyes grew wide as she tasted the sweet flavour, swallowed and then licked her lips. Thank you I will treasure your gift. May I know what it is?

"The gift of languages Shadow Mistress, you will now understand and speak." Tyrellyn's musical voice was heard and understood by Selena. He then turned and slowly walked away towards the Forest.

"Here is my gift Shadow Mistress." Elysianna musically spoke as she walked forward and touched a fingertip to Selena's right thumb just above the second knuckle.

A pure song burst within Selena's mind, which spoke of the wind playing with the leaves of the forest and the grasses upon the earth, of the stream dancing upon the rocks, of the stars twinkling in the heavens, and of the moon and sun lighting the earth. Around Selena's thumb a dark forest green vine tattooed.

"For when you wish to come see us..." Elysianna whispered as she also turned and walked away towards where Tyrellyn waited for her. Then they also disappeared into the Forest.

Everyone paused, blinked and then came to themselves wondering if it had all been a dream. Slowly and silently they turned and walked towards the Manor.

They spent the next hour quickly touring the house and surrounding outbuildings. Selena was intrigued with the Quidditch area and the Library. She remembered to request the Potter Family History Books from Hoggy.

When they were ready to depart Selena received a bit of a shock.

"I will take the books and place them in your home. Then I will meet you at Calanque d'en Vau Castle." Missy firmly insisted.

"But Missy don't you live here at Potter Manor?" Selena questioned. It wasn't that she didn't want Missy to come; it was just that she was confused.

"No Mistress, I only followed Lady Potter last instructions to wait for you here. Now I may serve you as I did her." Missy answered and gave a severe look at Selena.

Selena frowned, "I don't understand what you mean, 'serve me'?"

Missy smiled joyfully, "You are my Mistress and I am your personal Elf. Where you go so will I. If you have need of anything I will do all in my power to see it done."

Hesitatingly Selena questioned, "Do you need or want to do this Missy? I don't know how to have a personal Elf."

In a firm voice Missy answered, "Both Mistress, I have waited a very long time to finally serve you. It will bring me much happiness to do so." Then with a toss of her head and a twinkle in her eye Missy continued, "I will train you on having a personal Elf." Then with a soft POP she disappeared taking the books with her.

Selena turned to Andi and the Goblins and said in a faint voice, "I guess that is that." Then with a shake of her head and in a firmer voice she said, "Okay on to the next place."

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

They met Missy at the entrance to the ancient Castle high on the bluff near Calanque d'en Vau, France. Selena was impressed to find out the Castle was completely invisible to Muggles, though there were rumors of an ancient castle which had once stood upon the cliffs. Wards were also in place repelling Muggles from the entire bluff and rocky coast below.

Shisou had gone off to explore and sun himself while Selena stood upon a balcony staring out at the beautiful scenery before her. It was breathtaking and she looked forward to stand upon the Castle's towers and outside walkways while a storm lit the sky and sea. Although the land was fairly barren and rocky it still felt like home.

Griphook explained that this was one of the Peverell estates long lost to current wizarding knowledge. Selena enjoyed the smirk they shared before continuing on with the tour.

Shisou returned to Selena's arm and let her know that he was looking forward to sunning himself again on the sun warmed rock of the Castle when they next came to visit.

Eventually they continued on using one portkey after the other to assess each property and land. Where House Elves existed the property was well looked after and Selena was abundant with her praise to them. Some properties not looked after were derelict and Selena ordered them torn down, once she received Griphook and Nagnut's agreement. Some properties she fell in love with right away and others she only kept for the profit of renting. In the end she decided to keep all of the properties as The Others needed homes too.

There was some discussion of purchasing more House Elves to ensure all the properties were well looked after. Missy advised Selena to wait and see if they were truly needed as most House Elves loved to work and often were sad at not having enough work to stay busy in an unoccupied house. Missy told Selena that four House Elves could easily look after at least three or four unoccupied houses if there was not much to cultivate of the surrounding land.

Selena questioned Missy if she should have all of the House Elves under one particular crest or leave them under the different House Crests.

Missy advised her to leave the House Crests in place as it now existed for each Elf. It was a point of honour to work for certain Families, which promoted a hierarchy of a sort amongst them.

The group was very thankful for Missy being with them as she provided an excellent mid-day meal, as well as refreshments as needed during that long day.

At each of the properties Selena had to ensure each House Elf was bonded to her personally. She made sure she used all of her names and specified which Family House the House Elves were to serve. It took a bit of time but Selena was well rewarded by the happiness radiating from each of them.

Finally they used the last portkey to return to Gringotts just after five o'clock.

Griphook and Nagnut said their farewells and left Andi, Missy and Selena in the Apparition Room.

Andi requested just a few minutes of Selena's time as she had a request to make.

Once the three were in Selena's private room, Andi made her request to adjust her vow so that she might speak to Ted about Selena in a secured area. Andi explained that she sometimes would like to share her day or ask for Ted's advice, seeing as he was also under a vow of confidentiality to Selena.

Selena carefully examined Andi's mind being extremely careful so that Andi could not sense her. What she found of Andi's thoughts were interesting and partially fit with her own ideas. Selena gave her permission to Andi and ensured the wording was carefully followed. She also ensured that Andi could not speak if the area was not secured with a locking and silencing charm, and also that no hidden persons or listening devices were there. Selena wanted to ensure that Andi would not accidently lose her magic or life if she spoke and someone was cloaked or somehow hidden without Andi's knowledge.

The House Spirits were a big help for Selena to understand how often vows of silence or obedience could be manipulated to become a weapon of assassination. Selena was understandingly horrified and wished to protect everyone who had made a vow to her.

Andi and Selena walked back to the Apparition Room while Missy returned to Selena's home. When they arrived Andi apparated them to Selena's home, where she said farewell and then left.

Selena could have used her Gringotts ring to take them both from her Gringotts room to Selena's bedroom at home, but she would rather keep it secret. She grumbled a bit to the House Spirits and Shisou that her secrets were leaking out for everyone to see.

M2 replied that at least Selena was exchanging her secrets with gaining power over others. Selena was somewhat mollified after that statement.

Carefully making her vine tattoo invisible, Selena gave a sigh of relief when it vanished. Again it was something she did not want to share and alarm her Mum or brother with. She also gave silent thanks again to Tyrellyn for his gift as she had caught Griphook and Nagnut speaking Gobbledegook that she could now understand. She would continue reading her books on it though as she still needed to learn how to read it.

Giving a smirk, Selena realized she was going to have fun tomorrow morning with Teacher Boaxum, seeing as she could now understand and speak fluent Gobbledegook. Pole exercises were going to be so much fun and to top it off she'd impress her teacher with her quick learning ability. Selena let out a giggle.

By this time she had reached the living room with Missy and was slightly puzzled as to where her family could be. She walked back into the kitchen and searched the notice board and found a note stating that her Mum and Doug were bringing supper home. Selena was to wait at home until they arrived with Andi, if possible.

Selena guessed that Missy would be a better babysitter than Andi seeing as Missy was here and Andi wasn't. With that thought Selena gave Missy a tour of the house including the hidden potions lab.

After the tour Selena realized that they didn't have a spare room for Missy and became quite upset, insisting that Missy share her room and bed.

Missy on the other hand was horrified and in equal measure awed that Selena would insist on treating her so.

Eventually Missy had her way and after magically expanding Selena's bedroom slightly they created a false wall for Missy to have her own small room, which was accessible from where the chair tucked under the desk.

Seeing that Selena was still disturbed regarding Missy's room, Missy was determined to discover exactly why Selena was so upset. Missy let out great sobbing tears when Selena was finally coaxed into telling Missy how she had lived in the cupboard under the stairs and what her life had been like.

This was a bonding moment and created a deeper understanding in Missy for Selena's character and feelings of equality for all magical beings.

By that time Petunia and Doug were home and calling to see if Selena had come home yet. Selena grabbed Missy's hand and pulled her from the room, "It's supper time and you are coming to sit with us and eat. Your family Missy and family sticks together."

Introductions were made and Missy was made to feel welcome, especially when Petunia pointed out the plaque on the living room wall.

Missy had to agree it was true and was thankful that she only had to wait for just a bit less than five years to be reunited with Selena. She hadn't been all too sure if she could have lived much longer without being bonded to a Mistress.

The magic infused in the Potter Mansion had kept all of them alive and performing their duties but with Missy it was a little different as she had been a personal Elf without a Mistress to serve. It had been an aspect Lily hadn't been able to anticipate or prevent.

Supper was finished and with a snap or two of her fingers, Missy had cleared the table and done the dishes. Petunia was a little disconcerted when Missy informed her that she would help around the house, although her primary care would centre on Selena wherever she went. Missy spent a little time explaining House Elves and why they served Wizards.

Both Petunia and Doug were horrified that someone would curse such helpful magical beings and how they essentially were slaves to live or die at a Masters whim. At that point Selena tried to reassure them that there was hope to change the curse eventually.

Making a point that they were family and all family pitch in together to do chores, Petunia ensured that Missy knew she was not a servant and expected to do everything. Although a little help was appreciated, Petunia had not just spent a year unspoiling Doug to have him revert back.

Selena shared the sleeping arrangements with her Mum and Doug. She then eased the conversation away from House Elves and onto the places she had visited. There was a bit of discussion over where they should have Christmas and holidays and perhaps even a short weekend get-away this summer if possible.

By this time it was evening and Selena quickly told Missy what their routine was. Missy went upstairs to give the family some alone time and prepare Selena's clothes for tomorrow.

After a short board game and discussion about putting away the remaining potion ingredients, cauldrons and essentials received this morning, the family got ready for bed and followed with meditation in the living room.

During this mediation time Selena created and organized her location memory picture gallery and duplicated some of the pictures for her other Castles. She was especially proud of the moving portrait which included her Mum, herself and her brother. It started very serious and proper and then each moved into a silly pose which ended up with them all collapsing into a laughing pile.

At the twenty minute mark they all said goodnight and went to their rooms.

Although Selena wanted to perform her exercises, she was quite tired from all the walking and stair climbing she had done all day, so she went straight to bed after thanking Missy for preparing her clothing for tomorrow.

As she lay in bed drifting off to sleep she mumbled her goodnights to Shisou, the House spirits, Missy and to her Mother. Missy also went to bed happily content with her new room close beside her Mistress.

A shadow moved from the corner of the ceiling, approached the bed and stood gazing at the sleeping little girl. It then moved away towards the wardrobe, caressed the invisibility cloak and a brief flare of magic was seen when it touched the robes Selena would be wearing tomorrow. It then faded away back to the dark corner from whence it had come.

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Waking the next morning Selena couldn't decide if she was happy or disappointed at not recalling any partial memory dreams. She decided to settle with happy and removed herself from her bed so she didn't fall back to sleep.

After a visit to the bathroom, Selena returned to her room to meditate for twenty minutes. Afterwards she grabbed her clothing to get changed.

As soon as her fingers touched the fabric she gasped as the material slithered onto the floor. Picking up the robe, she examined it intently. It was not the same as last night when she had gone to bed. It was deep black as if it was absorbing all light, silky and had crimson swirled embroidery, which resembled her vine ring, on the cuffs, hem and neckline. It was an exquisite garment fit for a dark princess.

Missy walked into the room and Selena questioned her, "Missy umm… you didn't do anything to my clothes last night did you?"

Walking forwards Missy's eyes grew large and she shook slightly, "Only cleaned them Mistress. That's not what I left out. I didn't see that in your wardrobe last night. The robe I left out was dark green Mistress."

Murmuring Selena said, "That's what I thought." Then she shook her head. "Never mind, I'll wear this. Would you mind helping with my hair this morning?"

The two got Selena dressed and prepared her hair for warrior training. When Selena stood up, Missy gasped in surprise. The dress seemed to shimmer as Selena moved. It was almost as if Selena was there and yet not at the same time; playing peek-a-boo with reality.

The two went downstairs and prepared a small snack for Selena, which she ate. They discussed if Missy would like to accompany Selena, stay at the house or come and go as Selena needed her. It was decided that Missy would come with Selena but be as unobtrusive as possible so as to not interfere with Selena's training.

Selena was pleased as she had wanted Missy to come see where and what Selena was doing. The only worry Selena had was if the Goblins would be affronted with Missy's presence. She decided to ask Griphook if it was alright. In fact Selena quickly wrote a note to Griphook and Hedwig tapped outside the kitchen window to be let in to take it. Selena took the time to lavish attention on Hedwig and then sent her on her way with the note.

Selena remembered that today she could drive the cart to her own training lesson with Teacher Boaxum, she was looking forward to it tremendously.

It was finally time to go, so Selena held on to Missy and activated her Gringotts ring.

Missy had never before seen such a beautiful room at Gringotts. She was very impressed that this was Selena's own special room that none could enter without Selena's express permission.

Selena had just finished changing and was knotting her belt when a knock sounded at the door.

Opening her door she was surprised to see Teachers Boaxum and Snipbue. They explained that they wished to accompany her to the Warrior Training Hall and that she could drive. Giving a little smirk Selena agreed and in turn requested that her personal House Elf, Missy join them for the day. She also promised that Missy would be unnoticeable and not interfere.

The two Goblins agreed and off they went. The warrior lesson went well and Boaxum was impressed with the skill Selena showed in speaking Gobbledegook. They finished the rest of the pole movements with the Gobbledegook names being spoken. They had a few spars and a few minutes rest and refreshment.

It was then that Selena decided to ask for her Teacher's advice. "Teacher Boaxum, I request your advice please."

Boaxum was intrigued. "What is it you wish my advice on?"

Selena then had Shisou change from being a tattoo on her arm and slither out to be introduced to Boaxum.

At that moment Boaxum realized that his regular routine of attacking a trainee unexpectedly at the beginning of the first day was possibly one of the most lethal risks he had unknowingly taken in his life. He carefully asked, "Was Familiar Shisou with you on the first day of training?"

When Selena confirmed that he had been on her arm as a tattoo, Boaxum swallowed and commented, "I see. Thank you for stopping him from attacking me."

Selena looked a bit puzzled and then smirked, "Well, Shisou did want to kill you for attacking me but I figured you were my teacher and of course I may get hurt here. How would I learn otherwise?"

"Indeed." Boaxum was now resigned to his fate. He now owed a life debt to Selena. He knew better than to think he would have survived a Black Mamba attack. He would have to let Ragnuk know. "So what is it you wish my advice on?"

Without meaning to Selena quietly and hesitantly spoke in Gobbledegook, "Becoming immune to Shisou's poison." Then she switched again to English and spoke with more confidence. "As a warrior it is best to become immune to threats from your enemies but Shisou may accidentally poison me, so I figured you may know best how to do this."

Looking thoughtful Boaxum slowly spoke, "Yes I know of a method, but you are quite young and we will have to be very careful. Shisou will have to be milked for the poison and we will only proceed with a Healer present. Also we must have Ragnuk's permission first." At this point Boaxum looked sternly at Selena.

"Yes Teacher Boaxum, you are wise and I will follow your advice. Perhaps I should ask to see Ragnuk or will a parchment do?" Selena asked with a respectful mien.

"I will discuss it with him and will advise you when he has given me his answer. Do not expect it Friday as we will be patient and not ask again until he decides to answer." Boaxum answered. He now had a few things to discuss with Ragnuk.

Licking her lips and with a bowed head Selena asked, "Would you and Ragnuk please not let anyone other than the Healer know about Shisou? It's just that I dislike everyone knowing my secrets. It's a good thing that I am a Goblin-Witch otherwise I would not like the Goblins to know as much as they do." Selena gave a little laugh.

Boaxum nodded his head, "Yes a warrior needs to keep his secrets safe. I am sure we will be able to keep your secrets." Then he laid his hand on Selena's shoulder. "Just remember not revealing secrets can lead to a very lonely road and trust in the wrong person can lead to knowledgeable enemies."

Selena just gave a smile in response.

At the end of the lesson Snipbue was waiting for them outside the Warrior Training Hall with the cart.

Missy was so unobtrusive that at one point, while riding the cart, Selena looked around wildly hoping she hadn't fallen out. Missy made herself appear when Selena called out her name in fright. Thereafter Missy made sure she was visible anytime they were riding the Goblin cart system. It was not proper for a House Elf to scare her Mistress.

After breakfast Selena and Missy said goodbye to Boaxum and Snipbue, they had enjoyed breakfast at the lower tables with other Goblins, and returned to Selena's Goblin room where she showered and changed. Selena was once again in her special robes and her original boots from home. She now had two pairs of specially made Goblin boots in her wardrobe.

While they waited for Master Cordwainer Moonclaw to arrive Missy cleaned the warrior uniform.

A parchment had appeared on the desk and Selena opened it to find a reply from Griphook giving permission for Missy to attend Selena in Gringotts wherever Selena went.

This relieved Selena greatly as she did not want to offend her Goblin friends and mentors.

A knock sounded at the door and Selena answered it, although Missy was disturbed and felt that it was her duty instead. Missy gave in when Selena pointed out that the safety feature only allowed her to let anyone in.

Selena was disappointed to have to keep her meeting with Moonclaw short as she had to be at Andi's for her lesson at ten o'clock and it was already twenty to the hour. Moonclaw had brought a few drawings of boots and shoes he had thought would interest Selena, and even Missy was seen to hover and give a quick glance at the drawings.

Moonclaw left embracing the joy in his craft by anticipating that he would shortly be creating boots and possibly shoes for Selena. He was also pleased that Selena would be paying for the finished products. He was intrigued with the charms Selena wanted to add to the boots and couldn't wait to start experimenting. He was so distracted that he forgot he should stop and talk to Ragnuk about the robe Selena was wearing.

Missy and Selena portkeyed home using the Gringotts ring. They had a few minutes to greet Doug and Petunia before Selena flooed to Andi's home. Missy decided to stay home, tidy up and then pop over to the Potter Manor for a little bit. Selena was told that she had only to call for Missy and Missy would appear.

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Andi was waiting for Selena when she exited from the floo. At first Selena thought she was late, but Andi reassured her that it was only proper manners to be waiting for your guest before they appeared.

Sitting in the living room Andi told Selena that she just wanted to have an informal discussion first about magical communities. She wanted Selena to have a firm background of the Wizarding World before they ventured forth. She had purchased a few books she felt would be helpful and went through them with Selena.

At one point Andi turned to Selena and in a soft voice questioned, "Selena you seem to grasp so much of this easily. Do you already know what I am teaching you?"

Selena bit her lip and then replied, "I know a fair amount but I do have gaps in what I know. I have an eidetic memory so anything I have heard, seen, smelled or touched I remember. Sometimes I remember conversations that didn't make sense but now that I am older I understand them. Also you do know I am the Heir of several Houses, yes?"

"Well, I do know about House Potter, but not about any other Houses. Is that why you have two Goblin Managers and so many properties?" Andi enquired.

Nodding her head Selena whispered, "Yes. I'd rather not tell anyone else but I think you need to know in order to train me correctly." Straightening up and taking a breath Selena explained, "My full name is Selena Lila Black Evans Potter Peverell."

Andi's eyes widened in shock, "P-Peverell, you are related to the brothers of the Deathly Hallows?"

Again nodding her head Selena continued, "I could also take the name of Gaunt and Slytherin."

With a white face and pinched mouth Andi just sat speechless for a moment or two. "The Heir of Slytherin as well…you are the also the Godchild of Sirius so you could have a claim to the House of Black, although it could be stated as Harry Potter, the Godson of Sirius."

Selena decided that was enough for now, she didn't want to explain about her conquest of Riddle/Voldemort.

With a frown marring her forehead Andi muttered, "Head of Houses, I'm not the best to teach you about being the Head of one House let alone multiple Houses. I need to think about this." Then she looked at Selena closely. "Selena have you gone shopping for more robes?" When Selena shook her head Andi then commented, "That's a beautiful robe you are wearing. May I enquire as to where you obtained such a robe?"

"It was a gift but I'm not sure who from. Missy left out my clothes for today and then everyone went to sleep. When we woke up this was in the place of my other robe."

At these words Andi once again turned white, "That is very unusual isn't it? The material looks like Acromantula silk and yet not." Giving a strained smile Andi downplayed the event. "Never mind dear just be thankful you have a guardian angel leaving you a beautiful present. Now back to our previous discussion…"

They continued their discussion, examining the books and finally ended the discussion with a decision to visit a few of the more popular Wizarding Communities, particularly Paris on Saturday. Andi wanted to take Selena shopping for exclusive wizarding robes, as per her status. Andi had no intention of letting Selena start off on the wrong foot in society. I must send a parchment to Griphook to arrange our portkeys and shopping excursion. Perhaps they can arrange advanced notice of our visit to the exclusive shops, prearranged credit as well. I have been out of touch with knowing which boutiques are still the best out there; they would have that knowledge as well. After all those making the most profits and sales usually were the best boutiques. It never ceases to amaze me just how much the Goblins actually know about the Wizarding World.

It was now time for lunch and Andi kept teaching Selena. This lesson was on how to enter a room, sit at the table and when to do so, if you should serve yourself or let your hostess serve you, when to start eating, which utensils to use or when fingers were appropriate, and how and when to excuse yourself from the table. There were a whole host of things for Selena to learn and this was only for lunch or luncheon as Andi called it. They had yet to have lessons on breakfast, brunch, dinner, tea and supper. It was enough for Selena's head to spin.

Andi reassured Selena that some of the rules were the same for every meal, and once Selena became proficient they would move on to the do's and don'ts of conversation during the meals and when socializing. "Selena relax you do have an advantage with your eidetic memory. You will know all of this easily in a very short time."

Giving a shy smile Selena ducked her head and said, "Thank you Mrs. Tonks."

After lunch they gathered Selena's new books and then flooed to Selena's home to start Potions Training.

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The Potions teaching area was brightly lit as Andi walked behind her three students, answering any questions, as they were reading and watching the moving pictures from the Beginners' Potions books by S.E. Prince which she had brought with her. Upon opening the book Petunia had exclaimed in joy how priceless they were.

Doug and Selena had quickly agreed and were eager to practice the cutting and grinding techniques shown. They had even noticed basic easy to follow recipes after each chapter. None of the ingredients were expensive or difficult to find.

Andi explained that the book was twenty years old and should be a standard purchase for every witch or wizard child; most purebloods had at least one in their libraries. She pointed out the safety warning instructions that began each subject and how each subject built upon the previously learned skill.

Doug couldn't wait for the snow recipes. He had never heard of the wizarding delicacies listed.

Petunia was grateful that each of the ingredient used would not be wasted but used in the example recipe, she wanted to try the rubs and sauces for various meats and stock dishes.

Andi got them to enter the lab area and select their knives and other things listed in the first chapter. They all walked slowly getting their knives and once they sat down again, set up some ground rules for walking a particular route so as to promote safety.

Andi was well pleased to see intelligent preventative thinking from her students. They practiced the route while selecting the remainder of their ingredients and cutting boards. They found they needed to rearrange a few things but overall their organization was fine.

The first hands-on class was used to correctly zest and slice lemons and then coarsely grind dry mint to create mint tea with a splash of lemon. They used their smallest cauldrons, learning about boiling, simmering, stirring and bouquet garni. They enjoyed it very much; their first lesson was a success.

Once they had cleaned up and returned upstairs, Petunia and Andi went to the kitchen where Petunia showed Andi her zester to safely zest lemons, oranges and limes. Andi agreed they were a better alternative than using a knife and asked Petunia to go shopping with her so that she might buy one. Petunia agreed and it was decided that they would go immediately, after they changed from robes to muggle clothing, as they still had time remaining for their potions lesson if they apparated. Missy was asked to bring Doug and Selena, which she agreed to do. Selena was glad to keep her Shadow Travel secret.

They arrived in a little alley close to a shopping district, that Petunia knew would have what they wanted at a decent price. While the two women were examining the merchandise Doug and Selena entertained themselves with a pretend game of things they would buy to outfit a formal dining room. They were subtle and not loud or rude in their behaviour. Andi noticed what they were doing and questioned Petunia about it. Petunia explained that often she would make up games for the children while they were shopping. Since they had a long bus ride to take both ways and they had to entertain themselves quietly while Petunia was shopping to prevent her headaches, this is what they routinely played.

Andi thought it was ingenious and asked the children what they had 'selected'. The two children took her through the store pointing out their 'selections' and she gave them pointers for quality and resourcefulness.

With their shopping done, they apparated back and then Andi flooed home. Petunia went to get supper started but found Missy had already begun and there was nothing for her to do.

Doug and Selena asked if they could practice flying their broom since their Mum had time to watch them. It was agreed upon and they had a great time.

As they were coming into the house Selena asked her Mum, "Mum, I know you said we would have to share the broom and fly together, but with my lessons and me not being home very much now, I think Doug should be allowed to fly without me."

Doug looked at his sister with sad but proud eyes. He knew this was a huge sacrifice for Selena as she hadn't had many new toys in her life and now she was willing for someone else to have it more often than her.

Petunia looked steadily at Selena's face. "That is very generous of you Selena. Doug, how do you feel about this?"

Reaching out and giving a huge hug to Selena, Doug said, "It's really nice of you Selena and I won't say I don't want to. But it's really not fair."

Selena sighed, "Doug and Mum it's okay, really. I will still fly on the broom; I'm not giving it to you Doug!" Doug and Selena smirked at each other. "But I'm also doing lots of stuff that Doug won't be and I'm going to need his help with some of my lessons too. I think it will even up and don't forget when I go to Hogwarts I'll be flying there and maybe playing Quidditch too." Then she went off on a tangent, "Oh Doug the Potter Manor has a Quidditch Pitch and I'm sure we will have other brooms there that we can play on – " Doug was smiling and almost bouncing thinking it.

At that point Petunia interrupted, "That's all very nice and I'm sure will cause my heart to be in my throat watching you both, but you are much too young to play Quidditch yet. So back on topic, thank you Selena, Doug will be allowed to fly on the broom without you, if he has finished his chores and homework and only if I am present or Missy is I suppose. Selena you may also fly the broom under the same conditions."

Doug and Selena gave delighted smiles and went to put away the broom, wash their hands and set the table for supper. Petunia went upstairs to take her potion as she could feel a migraine coming on, although she did not reveal it to the children.

After supper and clean up, which Missy was not allowed to do, they settled in the living room to read and play games. Selena was eager and yet nervous to start reading the Potter Family History Books, so she asked Missy which one she should read first. Missy gave her the first book recorded and it was rich with the life stories of her ancestors, what they had achieved and where they came from, life lessons they had learned and the love and honour they passed down to the next generations. There were sad tales and joyous ones, bitterness and happiness. Dark Lords to defeat and the treaties to barter; war times and peace times. A theme ran throughout the stories of honour to uphold in every aspect of a Potter's life. It intrigued Selena how this was and yet how far her Father had been from it, it puzzled her.

The usual night activities were completed and Selena retired to her room to join Missy. "Missy, I have a project I would like you to advise me about if I get stuck with it."

Missy nodded her head, "I'll help Mistress in any way I can. What is the project?"

Selena then pulled out her Spa Paradise book and explained exactly what she wanted to do. The two made lists and plans. Missy explaining how the runes carved used magic to access the necessary plumbing needed without hassles. They planned on starting tomorrow evening, since Selena had a bit of time. Missy explained that they first needed to select the building materials before they created the space. It was best to have everything needed before starting, just like the Goblins had when they created the Potions Room. Selena understood and it was agreed that if Selena was wearing her invisibility cloak then she could go with Missy to select what to buy, since Missy would be going to special magic stores for their purchases.

Selena just had to figure a way to get her Mum to agree. Missy wisely stayed quiet to let Selena find a way. Selena just sighed and asked the House Spirits and Shisou for any advice. The best was 'be honest'. Selena agreed and went to see if her Mum was still awake.

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Master Cordwainer Moonclaw was just polishing the second pair of ankle boots he had made for Selena. He gazed lovingly at the knee high boots that glowed with a high gleam. He was exceptionally proud of those boots as he felt they suited Selena's special robe he had seen her wearing. Moonclaw felt those boots were the pinnacle of his craftsmanship and he would never be able to equal them again. While he sat there polishing up the other boots he reflected on that robe and then suddenly he blanched and trembled in fear. He had not gone to see Ragnuk about that robe and what Selena had requested.

Taking a breath to steady himself, he cleaned up his work area and labeled who the boots were for. If he was not to return, he would still ensure Selena received her boots. He swiftly walked to Ragnuk's office to give his information and to accept his punishment.

When Moonclaw received permission to enter, he confidently walked towards Ragnuk's desk and lowered himself to the floor with his head bowed in submission. In gobbledegook he spoke, "I have been remiss in reporting my encounter with Heir Black. I submit myself to punishment as you see fit. My report is thus: Heir Black had on a very peculiar black robe that made her appear here and yet not, it seemed to be Acromantula Silk but of a quality I have never seen. She also requested several different types of boots, of which she said she would purchase. Heir Black spoke of several charms she would like on her boots, which I believe I have achieved and will receive her approval. I have also crafted a masterpiece pair of boots which I believe will compliment her new robe." Then he fell silent to await Ragnuk's words or axe.

Thinking carefully Ragnuk was silent for a while. He did need to punish Moonclaw for forgetting his duty and yet he had remembered and it was well known that craftsmen were obsessed with their craft to the exclusion of all other thought. Then there was the matter of having a Master Craftsman dead, which was not good for profit. What would Selena say if she discovered Moonclaw was dead and she requested more of his boots to be made? Also there was the matter of her Familiar Shisou and their mithridatism plan. "You will show me these boots and you will request Heir Black to wear the same or another of these robes so that she may see if your masterpiece compliments them. You will inform me immediately if she comes in Friday wearing this robe, I would see it for myself. Your punishment for delaying this information will be to gift Heir Black your masterpiece boots. Do not disappointment me again Moonclaw."

Relieved over his life being spared, Moonclaw, along with Ragnuk, returned to his work area. Ragnuk agreed the boots were of a higher quality than he had ever seen before and praised Moonclaw as he was worthy to receive. Slyly he commented, "Ensure you are available for Heir Black's growing need of boots Moonclaw, it would be disappointing to give her a lesser quality when she has already received the best ever created."

Moonclaw bowed low as Ragnuk left him. With shaking hands he had a bite to eat and drink and then wrote his request to Heir Black. He would send it tomorrow morning.

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Waking the next morning Selena was resigned to not having received another partial memory. She performed her meditations and exercises happy in the knowledge of how much she had been learning. She was excited for another day of visiting her property and hoping to see more magical creatures on her properties. She quickly got ready for the day thanking Missy for her help.

Sitting at her desk she wrote to Griphook requesting healing for her Mum's migraines at The Nine's convenience. She wanted to demand that they heal her Mum immediately but knew it was childish to demand her way. Besides it seemed like her Mum was doing better recently. It was best to be polite with your allies the House Spirits advised, while Shisou commented that you only attack when you were hungry and knew you would kill your prey. These comments caused Selena to be a bit embarrassed over her impatience and she thanked them all for teaching her to be patient. She then sent her letter off with Hedwig.

Walking downstairs to get her breakfast ready, Selena was near tears to see Missy had a healthy breakfast prepared for her. Hugging Missy Selena whispered, "You are the best Home Fay ever Missy, I love you. But please don't spoil me too much okay, I want to be worthy to be called a Lady and your Mistress."

Missy's heart melted and she nodded her head as she returned Selena's hug. Quite literally Missy could not speak due to the great honour spoken to her from her Mistress. As Selena turned away and began her breakfast a glow appeared around Missy, which slowly caught Selena's attention.

Missy grew taller and appeared less House Elf and more like the Forest Fay. She still wore the same clothing and was shorter than the Forest Elves but her facial features were more refined and ethereal looking.

Gasping Selena blinked and then whispered, "Just give me one minute and then we are going to see Tyrellyn and Elysianna." Selena started to run from the room and then she skidded to a stop and turned back to face Missy. "Oh Missy you are beautiful." Then she ran from the room.

Missy snapped a mirror into her hand and gazed in wonder to see her new appearance. While she gazed in stunned silence, Selena had reappeared dressed in her new black robe.

Selena blushed and then apologized, "Sorry to keep you waiting, I didn't want to appear with toast stuck in my teeth." Then she took a deep breath and clasped Missy's hand. "Missy, are you ready to go?"

Missy shook her head and then snapped the mirror away, and then nodded her head to Selena. She was still in shock and unable to speak.

Focusing on her vine thumb ring, Selena spoke in the musical language of the Fay requesting permission to see Tyrellyn and Elysianna. With a shimmer they were gone from the kitchen and reappeared in a dark forest glade surrounded by various magical beings.

The magical beings parted and murmurs were heard throughout the crowd. Selena and Missy approach the thrones where Tyrellyn and Elysianna were sitting. In stunned wonder they stood and glided to meet Selena and Missy. Giving a searching look between the two before him Tyrellyn asked, "How?"

Missy could only shake her head as happy tears flowed down her cheeks. Selena was left to answer and when she repeated what she had said and the consequences, she was shocked when Tyrellyn and Elysianna fell to their knees and bowed before her.

The other magical beings, including Missy soon followed their example leaving Selena distinctly uncomfortable and reaching forward to urge them to their feet. "Please don't do this…Please Tyrellyn and Elysianna get up! Missy! All of you get up, we are all magical beings and I am not any greater than any of you." Selena was almost in tears at this point and seeing this, the magical beings rose to their feet again.

Missy turned to Selena, "You are greater than us Selena and magic answers your wishes. You have done what no other has been able to do in well over a thousand years. You removed the curse from me."

Selena shook her head, "I just want you to be my friend. I just want to be friends with magical beings and help when I can. No one should feel less than any other."

Elysianna spoke, "Selena I understand, Tyrellyn and I look after the Forest Fay and other magical beings as they wish us to lead them. With that responsibility they have placed crowns upon our heads which we hold with honour and commit ourselves to rule them peacefully and guard them as needed. This is what you are already doing for your House Elves on your properties. The magical beings here only wish to give you honour for what you have done for Missy. Please realize that you have given us hope in returning to us our lost Home Fay."

Tyrellyn then added, "Selena do not fear power over others, it is tempered with responsibility and sacrifice. You have a good heart, wise counselors and friends who would see you become the Lady you wish to become. Do not fear Selena, embrace your destiny and let it guide you."

Selena nodded her head and then looked at Tyrellyn with a wishful thought. He chuckled and held open his arms. Selena threw herself into them and held him tight. She really was just a little girl overwhelmed with all the strange new happenings around her. Elysianna held her when Tyrellyn eased away, and then it was Missy's turn, which started a chain reaction of hugging Selena. Soon Selena was in a whirling hug being passed from one to another, strange earthly music started and everyone was spinning and dancing from arm to arm. Selena was whirling through the group and laughing in happiness. As suddenly as it started the music faded away and so did the magical beings, leaving only Missy and Selena standing in the clearing gasping for breath and laughing as they wiped tears from their cheeks.

Using her Gringotts ring to return home, Selena and Missy disappeared leaving the glade empty except for the magical glow of happiness echoing through the glade.

Missy reheated Selena's breakfast and the two sat and talked over Selena possibly changing her other House Elves. They decided to wait at this time until after they had visited all the properties. Selena wanted to start with the Potter House Elves and proceed with the others if it worked.

Before they knew it, it was time to leave for Gringotts and Missy decided to accompany Selena again. Selena was resigned to the fact that Andi and the Goblins would know another of her secrets, but maybe it was okay and like Boaxum had suggested, she could trust them with the Goblins. Selena said goodbye to her Mum and Doug, while Missy hid herself from them. They would know when there was time to answer questions, which was not right now.

As on Tuesday they met in Selena's room, where she quickly changed her boots before the others appeared. To say they were stunned at Missy's new appearance was an understatement. Selena just stated, "Let's go, I will tell you what happened while we examine my properties."

Selena told her story while they toured a magical Temple in Peru. Then she suddenly stopped, looked around at the stone structure, shook her head and asked, "Wait a minute, is this one of my properties too?" The Goblins smirked and confirmed it was. Selena exhaled slowly and commented in a long drawn out breath, "Okay, not sure about this one." Then she quickly reviewed her memories of her properties, "Right Slytherin property won in a bet around a thousand years ago, should have House Elves maintaining it. Muggles repelled and magical beings usually obliviated or killed, but since I'm the Heir we are safe. That's going to have to change; all magical beings here need to be safe."

She looked around again. "Beautiful scenery and incredible stonework, but it's not so comfy for the body." Then she moved into a central ring of stonework, and gasped. "Powerful magic right here, very addicting. Okay, yup going to keep this place but let's protect the House Elves first and any other magical beings that choose to live here."

The House Elves came out to meet the Heir and Selena spent some time talking to them so that she understood the place and the House Elves better. She made a huge deal praising them for the maintenance of the ancient stone Temple, making sure that their needs and comforts were being met. With the Goblins advice she keyed into the protective wards magical beings and those closest to her, namely those with her now and her family. She ensured the House Elves would receive help from the others if they so wished.

Onward they toured, until finally they arrived back in England in front of a little shack fallen to almost ruin. Selena shivered and Shisou raised himself up and hissed. This so stunned the Goblins, Missy and Andi that they suddenly stopped and stared at the two.

Selena steadied herself and spoke in Parseltongue with Shisou; they were both agitated and could feel that they were home but something was wrong with the place.

Griphook turned to Selena and asked, "Heir Black?" Griphook gasped when Selena turned to him, she had neon brilliant green eyes and seemed more shadowy than physically present.

Selena almost hissed at them, her speech was so sibilant as to be mostly unrecognizable, "We will leave this place I am not ready to be here yet." With that Selena abruptly turned around and almost ran from the shack. The others exchanged a frightened look and quickly followed after her.

Before they had followed the bend in the road and the shack would be lost from sight, Andi glanced back to see a large shadow standing guard before the derelict shack. She gave a gulp of fright and turned forward to race after the others.

Selena led them through a small village and up to a cemetery. A stately house could be seen in the distance and Selena walked purposefully towards it. She lifted her hand and with a wave the tall rusted iron gates flung open with a clang. The Goblins and Andi gave each other a significant look, this was not a little girl inspecting her property; this was a conquering Witch claiming it. They continued as she strode forward and once again used magic to fling open the front double doors with a crash. They were swallowed up into the darkness beyond.

Magically she lit every room and scowled at the dust and dirt. She threw angry glares at the broken windows and moldering furniture. Her eyes were still neon green and her nostrils flared in anger, but she was silent and none dared to speak and incur her wrath.

A thumping could be heard and then a querulous voice mumbling complaints, "…nasty little buggers…invading the Manor, I'll get them good this time…breaking windows…horsewhip the lot…"

The grey haired wizened old man, leaning on a cane thumped into the room and stopped short and stared at seeing the strangers before him. "Er now, what you lot doin' in here for? Go on home afore I call the beagle for tresspassen'."

Selena walked forward and with her presence alone shut the old man up. Her voice was cold and fear made everyone tremble at hearing it. "You are the caretaker?"

The aged muggle nodded his head and mumbled, "Frank Bryce ma'am. Looked after the place nye on fifty years or so. Who you be?"

Studying him intently, Selena stared into his eyes, "I am the rightful owner. Tell me Frank Bryce do you wish to leave here and be pensioned or would you like to continue working here? If you chose to leave you will be taken care of and live the remainder of your life in peace; if you stay I will change you to become my servant and provide you protection for your hard work. Chose wisely Mr. Bryce, there will be no changing your mind after the fact."

Frank leaned against his cane and scratched at his whiskered jaw as he mumbled out loud for all to hear. "Be nice ta forget about this place and the bad memories, but then it'd be good ta work and get some honour back from those nasty villager cows. Don't got a lot of years left, body's gettin' broken down, not like it used to be in the war. Don't got a lot of respect left and I surely do want that back." Then he spoke louder, "Can't do as I once did ta care for the place, too much for me ta do inside, need help there. What'cha offerin'?"

Selena gave a smile that was beautiful and yet still as cold as ice. "You will receive help for the Manor and the more strenuous outside tasks. Your meals will be provided for and you will receive pay and a few sets of uniforms. Your body will be healed and I will provide you with protection from all who would harm you. I expect, in return, your service, loyalty and silence. You will harm none you see within the Riddle Manor gates, no matter how afraid you will be. You must swear on your life to honour our agreement."

Continuing to lean onto his cane Frank stared at Selena and then abruptly spit into the palm of his right hand and held it out to Selena, who swiftly copied his actions and as they shook hands Frank said, "Deal."

Selena continued to hold his hand and told him to repeat after her as she stated the life-binding vow of service. She continued to hold his hand and a bright light filled the room, causing the others to turn away and close their eyes from the glowing two forms before them.

The light dimmed and disappeared altogether leaving them to blink at the spots before their eyes. Standing before them was Selena still with her neon green eyes and a younger-looking Frank Bryce. His cane lay upon the floor as he stood straight and tall, graced with a brown and black gardeners uniform. He smiled and said, "Thanks be little Mistress. I'll just be getting a few things done this afternoon. Any instructions Little Miss?" Then he rubbed his left inner arm and rolled up his shirt sleeve. Tattooed onto his flesh was a green snake shaped like an "S". He gave a happy smile at Selena and again uttered, "Thanks be Little Miss."

Stepping forwards Selena gave a warm smile and then hugged Frank, at which he gave a red cheeked hrumph and then cautiously and gently hugged her back. Selena pulled away and spoke softly to Frank, "Touch that mark and think of me, when you need to reach me for any reason and I will either come or speak to you or send Missy to you." She pointed to her personal Fay and Frank scrutinized Missy and then nodded. "This mark will protect you from danger. It will send you to a safe place where you will be cared for until I come. Do not risk your life Frank, for all life is precious to me." Frank again nodded his head. "Go home and rest, you have been through a lot today and although you feel full of energy your mind and body still have to recover from the shock. Take a few days to recover, clean your home and inspect the property. I will be leaving you an owl to send messages to me on what you feel needs to be taken care of and what you will require for this place to shine as the bright jewel it never was before. That includes your lodgings as well."

Frank once again nodded and walked away to the caretakers lodge.

Selena closed her eyes and Shisou slithered up to her neck and curled around her like a choker. He affectionately rubbed her cheek and flickered his tongue to taste the room. She wearily stumbled forward to collapse onto a chair in a dusty heap.

Missy sprang forward crying out, "Mistress!" She quickly Popped out and in again with a tea tray. Several other House Elves appeared and immediately left the room to start cleaning the filthy place.

Giving a wan smile Selena opened her normal green eyes and took the offered cup of tea and said, "Thank you Missy. I think I'm a bit tired."

Missy just fused about, carefully mending and cleaning the chair that Selena sat in. The others shifted uncomfortably, the Goblins refused to say anything and Andi was still shocked over all that she had witnessed.

Griphook, being the bravest of the three gave a little bow and then spoke, "Shall I have the shack warded against muggles and any other than you, Heir Black?"

Selena gave a beaming smile and concurred, "Oh thank you Manager Griphook, yes please. Have some tea, won't you? I think we all need it." She gave a wry smirk and conjured chairs for them all.

They all joined her; even Missy took a spot of tea. When they had finished they slowly walked through the foyer and up the stairs to inspect each floor, peaking into the rooms as they passed. The House Elves were hard at work, repairing and cleaning as needed.

Missy spoke to her Mistress, "We should have a few House Elves stay here to help Mr. Bryce look after the place and provide for his needs." Selena nodded her head and let Missy know that Missy could take care of it for her.

Andi was curious as to how the Riddle Manor fit into Selena's inheritance as she had never heard of a pureblood Family called Riddle.

Selena tilted her head and gazed at Andi then she shrugged and spoke, "This is dangerous information Mrs. Tonks. I own Riddle Manor through the Gaunt and Slytherin line by right of conquest, which is how I also own the Gaunt Shack." Then she turned away as Andi's face turned white.

As they left Selena magically closed the gates and sealed them. Griphook and Nagnut placed hasty wards to repel all muggles except Frank. Selena turned to them and requested that the team warding the Gaunt Shack also perform a standard warding for the Riddle Manor. Griphook and Nagnut bowed their agreement and they all portkeyed away to Gringotts.

Selena told Mrs. Tonks that she had to return to her room for just a moment and that Missy would see her home. After she reassured Andi, Andi left her in the care of Missy and apparated home to rest in her husband's arms. It had been a very long strange day, exciting and shocking but a very tiring day.

Grabbing Missy's arm Selena shadow travelled to her room. Missy shivered when they reappeared and Selena apologized for whisking her away without asking, she had been desperate to get to her quiet peaceful Goblin room and shower away her tiredness.

While Selena showered Missy cleaned her clothes and boots. Turning to the table Missy saw a parchment from Master Cordwainer Moonclaw as Selena exited the bathroom. Missy handed her the now clean clothes and boots. Selena dressed herself and then sat at the table reading the parchment as Missy fused over Selena's hair.

In a very soft voice Selena spoke, "Missy Master Moonclaw wishes me to wear this robe tomorrow so that he can see if his boots will compliment it. Maybe my guardian angel will send me another so that I have more than one to wear all the time." Selena let a little giggle escape. "I really shouldn't be so greedy, but it is so very comfortable and feels right against my skin. It's not wearing anywhere is it?"

Missy chuckled and answered, "No Mistress, it is perfectly fine. In fact I don't think I have to clean it at all, it carries no sent and dirt refuses to adhere to it. I only clean it out of habit. There your hair is all done. Shall I reply for you to Master Moonclaw?"

Selena gave a thankful smile but said, "No thank you I shall answer, though if you check it before we send it, that would be great." She stood and sat at the desk to answer the request. Missy approved of the reply and whisked it away for Selena. When Missy returned Selena used her Gringotts ring to return home.

When Doug and her Mum exclaimed over Missy's new appearance Selena groaned and claimed that she was going to lay down for a while and that Missy could explain. Petunia and Doug looked worried as Selena left the room and questioned Missy to see if Selena needed anything.

Missy reassured them that it had been a very long day with a new servant added, who had required Selena's special attention. Then she explained about how Selena set her free from the curse on her race and that hope was being told amongst the other House Elves and other magical beings.

Waking Selena after an hour's deep sleep, the family ate supper together and relaxed in the living room. Petunia sent a yawning Selena to bed after two hours stating she had to be up early for her Goblin Training.

Selena almost groaned but held it back knowing she only had herself to blame for being this exhausted. She said goodnight and promised to see Doug for supper tomorrow at Mrs. Tonk's. They had meal training tomorrow evening and needed Doug to escort Selena to the table.

Selena got ready for bed and performed her twenty minutes of meditation, organizing her day's memories as she did so. Just as she crawled into bed she groaned and spoke to Missy, "Oh Missy I am so sorry, I forgot we were to go shopping for our new bathroom fixtures. I don't know when we will be able to again."

Missy laughed and reassured her Mistress, "Mistress it is perfectly fine, I don't think either of us was up to it tonight. I'll go over your schedule and figure something out. You just go to bed and rest now."

Selena lay back reassured and then jerked upright again. "Oh Missy, I can't let you go to sleep in that little closet, you must stay with me until we get a better place for you. I'm sure you won't fit in there now."

Missy just shook her head and laughed again. "I've already taken care of it Mistress, thank you for caring. Now hush and sleep."

Selena lay back down and slurred her words, "Promise it's okay, I'll check tomorrow and be upset if it's not."

Missy whispered in musical Fay language, "I promise there is lots of room. Bless your kind heart Mistress and rest now."

Missy finished readying everything for tomorrow and went to her own rest. She would be by her Mistress' side tomorrow to look after her as best she could.

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

The Shadow moved from guarding the shack. It was not yet time for her to enter this place, it moved through this realm watching the girl. It approved of her decisions and the counsel she received. It was pleased over her being powerful enough to break the curse on her personal Home Fay and binding the muggle to her service. It was concerned over her magical use to heal to elderly old man and bind a connection.

It sighed over the lessons the girl would have to learn yet. There was still time for all of that; it wanted her to be a child while she could. It was intrigued by her compassion and the gifts she was given. It hoped her heart stayed true, but time would tell.

It smiled at her pleasure in its gift of the robe, and narrowed its eyes at how involved the Goblins were with her. For now it was tolerating their intrusion in her life. They had gifts to impart to her and she could use their help at this time. They could help her be stronger mentally, physically and emotionally. But it would still watch them closely.

It watched her weariness and followed her home. It waited until everyone was asleep then glided from the shadows to caress her hair. It gave her a magical rejuvenation boost to help her replenish her core faster. It was pleased how she used her magic to strengthen and increase her magical core but with her heavy schedule it was concerned over her not having the time to rest and replenish properly. No matter it would protect her.

It moved forward and caressed the cloak again, then examined her robes and what was left out for her. It silently chuckled at its thoughts. Then it stopped in wonder at finding something to be amused about after eons of time. It prepared its gift with a single thought and then left to perform its unending charge.

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

Andi had returned home to find Nymphadora gone for a weekend sleep over. Guiltily she felt relieved and then pushed it aside; she needed her Teddy Bear tonight to share her bewildering day. She also needed to plan tomorrow's dinner lesson.

Later that evening after she had magically sealed and silenced the room, Andi shared her past few days with Teddy. At first Teddy was concerned with Andi sharing so much due to her vow but then Andi explained that Selena had made concessions concerning her husband. Teddy was relieved and listened intently to everything Andi told him. He wished he could see it in a pensieve but knew better than to ask.

At the end Teddy just asked Andi a single question, "Is it still worth it to teach her?"

Andi automatically answered, "Of course it is, why she is the most fascinating person I have ever met…." Then she gave a wry smile and said, "Are you sure you were in Hufflepuff House?"

Teddy just chuckled and said, "Yup just a loyal badger here charmed by a beautiful snake." Then he pounced on her and tickled her until she cried uncle.

They cuddled a bit longer and then Andi turned a serious face to Teddy, "Do you think I should ask her to speak to Arcturus Black, he would definitely be able to train her to rule her Houses. I just can't do her justice in that area Teddy. I want to but I am limited. She needs him and he needs her. If Sirius is not guilty and never had a trial, we could have a scandal to rival all scandals. I know I was disowned but my heart never was and I truly want the best for the Black Heir, which I want to be Selena. If Sirius is proved not guilty and we get him to proclaim the living offspring of Lily Potter as the Black Heir, the House of Black would rival all Houses. She could bring it back from the disgrace it is in. I could have my Family back Teddy. Aside from all that I know Uncle Arcturus is Family to Selena and she needs his wits to train her. The Goblins are not wizards and not involved in the Wizengamot, they cannot advise her like Uncle Arcturus can."

Teddy calmed Andi down and then said, "Patience dear heart, patience. Let the poor girl catch her breath first. Then in a week or two, after things calm down you can ask her if she would be willing to be trained by Family. Give her all the information and then give her time to reply. Only then will we be able to decide a course of action."

The rest of their evening was quietly spent together. Andi requiring Teddy's input and compliance for tomorrow's fancy dinner and Teddy supporting her expertise in this area. Once all the plans were complete Andi joined Teddy in a well deserved rest.

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

Friday morning, July 18th, Selena woke refreshed from her sleep. She bounded out of bed and after a trip to the bathroom, returned to her room to mediate. Missy exited her room when Selena was finished, and showed her room to Selena, which had a different entrance than before. The bookcase could now be gently pushed away from the wall revealing a door to Missy's room.

Selena inspected the room with a critical eye and said it was passable, but not up to what she felt Missy deserved. Missy grinned and agreed she would spruce it up a bit more for Selena's sake. Then Missy picked up the clothes she left out for the day and let out an 'eek' in surprise. She had left out the black robe, which Selena had worn yesterday, but this was not it. This was a deep sapphire blue in the same shimmery material as the black one but with black vine embroidery edging.

Selena opened her wardrobe and gasped in surprise to see more robes in the same material but different colours; a deep dark forest green with gleaming bronze embroidery, the original black one, a royal purple with silver embroidery and a rich deep brownish black with gold embroidery.

The two females stared at each other and then Missy said, "Wear the one laid out and let's take the rest with us for Master Moonclaw to see. He will want to make boots for each that you have."

Selena gave a somber nod. "Missy how do I say thank-you to my guardian angel if I never see him?"

Missy smiled and said, "Well, you can always leave a note on the clothes I leave out, seeing he comes to visit you regularly. Now hurry up and get down stairs for a bite to eat, you're running behind. Don't fuss; I'll fix your hair as you eat."

While Selena was brushing her teeth, Missy packed the robes being careful not to crush them. Then it was time to leave for Selena's lesson. They arrived in Selena's special room and while Selena changed, Missy hung up the robes in the wardrobe. Selena complained that she should just take the warrior training outfit home as then she wouldn't have to change twice within a few minutes in the morning. Then she quickly commented that she wasn't sure that would be okay with the Goblins, as it was a Goblin Warrior training outfit.

Missy just nodded and spied two parchments on the table for Selena to read. Moonclaw would be seeing Selena at her room after breakfast at half nine and the other was from Griphook advising her that her Mum would meet the Nine on Monday at one in the afternoon. Griphook added that he would wait for Selena to advise her Mum and to please confirm at her earliest convenience. Selena was ecstatic and left in a whirl to get to training on time, with Missy running after her trying to keep up.

They arrived in time and Missy faded into the background watching the two carefully. Teacher Boaxum was determined to have Selena stretch and then show him all of the pole movements while saying their names in Gobbledegook. Selena did so perfectly and then they stretched again, took a short break and Boaxum started to pole fight Selena using a narrow obstacle course. He taught her how to vault upwards to search the area from up high for a tactical advantage, he also pointed out the hazards of doing so. The lesson was so interesting to Selena that she lost track of time. With a wave of his hand Boaxum made the maze disappear and called forth the practice dummies that Selena had already seen in her first lesson. These he animated to have two attacking her at the same time. He increased it to three and joined her to have her learn to rely on her partner to protect her back as she needed to protect his. The last few minutes were intense for Selena who had never fought like this before but understood the concept.

Boaxum sent the attack dummies away with a vague wave and gave a nod of approval at Selena, which caused her to beam with delight, while still gasping for breath.

He started to stretch and Selena quickly imitated him. Her breathing slowed as the movements relaxed her body and she mouthed the proper goobledegook words. Boaxum again gave her a nod of approval. When they had finished they sat in meditation, then Boaxum rose and turned to Selena, "I have spoken to Director Ragnuk as to your request, he will advise us when he has made a decision."

Selena bowed and held it as she answered, "Thank you Teacher Boaxum." Then she raised herself up and cheekily asked, "Would you care for a cart ride to breakfast?"

Boaxum laughed and agreed to the ride. As they left Selena commented, "I won't even charge you for the ride, seeing as you are my favourite Warrior Teacher."

Boaxum laughed again and entered the cart saying, "As are you my favourite Goblin-Witch trainee."

Missy joined in smiling at their comradely teasing.

Boaxum frowned at Missy and then nodded to her saying, "High Warrior Boaxum teacher of Trainee Goblin-Witch Heir Selena Black."

Missy nodded back and with a sly glance at Selena said, "Previously Personal House Elf freed from curse, now Personal Home Fay to Heir Selena Black."

Boaxum raised an eyebrow, while Selena groaned. Selena decided not to say anything knowing that it was already being told of by other magical beings and it would soon reach the ears of the Goblins, if it hadn't already via Griphook and Nagnut. She was resolved to no longer be concerned over controlling everything everyone would find out about her anyway, except her true secrets.

They had arrived and Boaxum thanked Selena for the ride. He then escorted the two females into the Great Hall and seated them beside him at a lower table. The nearest Goblins were intrigued over the two and demanded introductions, which Boaxum was pleased to do for one minute and then he ignored them all to eat.

Selena and Missy knew they only had a short time to eat and then meet Master Moonclaw so they tried to be polite. Selena soon grew frustrated and then narrowed her eyes at the Goblins roundabout and stated that they needed to eat and the next Goblin asking for an introduction would have to pay five galleons for interrupting her meal. That shut the Goblins right quick, since the ones already introduced used their knowledge to get galleons from the ones who didn't know yet. Selena groaned at the missed opportunity to gain galleons and then comforted herself that she still could gain some by charging for a cart ride.

Boaxum stayed behind in the Great Hall. He wanted to speak to Ragnuk, though he didn't tell Selena that.

Selena left with Missy and three Goblins, who she charged for the cart ride and extra for the introduction, which they willingly paid for.

Returning to her room, several Galleons richer, Selena swiftly showered and changed into the blue robe seconds before Master Moonclaw knocked on the door.

Selena was surprised to see not only Moonclaw but also Ragnuk as well. Quickly Selena greeted her guests by bowing and stating, "May your lives be enriched by galleons and honour as your wits stay as sharp as your weapons." Ragnuk was very pleased whereas Moonclaw was not as much, as he was a craftsgoblin and not a warrior. Selena hastened to add to Moonclaw, "Or in your case Master Cordwainer Moonclaw, as sharp as your craft tools." Moonclaw was mollified and pleased after all.

Ragnuk stayed back and waved Moonclaw to present his boots to Heir Black, while he silently studied Selena's robes and Missy.

Opening his large case Moonclaw presented his ankle boots and fitted them to Selena telling her of all the charms he had given them as per Selena's requests. Then he presented his masterpiece gift and fitted it to Selena, telling her with awe in his voice how he had never created such a boot before and it was all due to being inspired by her robe.

Missy brought out the robes and Moonclaw was ecstatic over each colour and embroidery. His mind in a whirl of possibilities for the leather and charms he would use to compliment them. Ragnuk was also surprised by the robes but was able to hide it much better. He casually questioned Selena and Missy as to their appearance.

Selena mockingly asked him, "Perhaps you could tell me more about my gift giving guardian angel than I could you, dear friend Ragnuk." Then she smiled to let him know she was only teasing him.

Ragnuk felt a shiver a fear and then chuckled back at Selena, "Perhaps you are correct. One moment please, Master Moonclaw if you are finished here, submit your invoice for the ankle boots and go about your work. I'm sure Heir Black would be most interested in seeing you next week with your ideas."

Moonclaw took the hint and left taking his empty case with him. Selena and Ragnuk sat at the table while Missy placed the robes carefully into the wardrobe and laid out Selena's mind training robe.

Ragnuk nodded at the subtle hint that Selena hadn't much time before her next lesson. "Heir Black I have noticed that you are being followed by a Black Shadow. The Nine and I have a theory about its connection to you, but we are not sure if we have the right to tell you about our theory. We ask your indulgence to let fate/destiny play out its hand as it sees fit. We will help you in any way you need and ask only that we remain your friends."

Selena quirked her eyebrow at that ambiguous statement and nodded her head, "It seems my life has many magical beings taking an interest lately. I will not pursue this matter further and agree to friendship with the Goblins as with the Fay and other magical beings. We are all magical beings, and I wish peace for all. Thank you for your time Friend Ragnuk may we be friends as long as the stars shine in the heavens."

Ragnuk rose from the table and bowed to Selena saying, "Your words bring happiness to the entire Goblin Nation Heir Black, may it be as you have said." With that he turned and left her room.

Selena changed with Missy helping. Then Selena took just a moment to write a swift note to Grandpa Hugh asking if they could have lunch together today at noon if he was available. She gave it to Missy to deliver for her while she was in training, and then the two left for the cart room to get to the Mind Healer Hall in time.

While Missy did enter the Mind Healer Hall with Selena, she did not enter the little room, but instead sent the note and then returned to Selena's Gringotts room to tidy up. She had been slightly scared trying to enter without Selena, but she figured the wards would know that she was only there to help and they should know that she was Selena's personal Fay. Swiftly she had the room once again immaculate. She packed up the robes and returned them to Selena's home bedroom.

She popped over to the Riddle Manor ensuring everything was running smoothly there. She caught a glimpse of Frank taking notes as he gazed at the lawns and flowerbeds. Every now and then he would shake his head and write something down then continue on to the next area. Missy smiled to see the muggle not batting an eyelash at seeing the windows repair themselves or the rugs beating themselves of dust as they hung outside windows

Missy continued in her travels stopping in at the Potter Manor, where the other House Elves congratulated her on her curse being lifted. She explained that it was Heir Black who had done it and soon she would be coming to Potter Manor to try to free them as well, if they want to try. The House Elves were caught between hope and despair, but all agreed they wanted Heir Black to try.

Looking at Selena's schedule she penciled in time for their shopping and to visit Potter Manor, she also included Petunia's visit to the Nine. She disliked removing Selena's rest time or play time but there was nothing else to remove in order for Missy to follow Selena's orders. With a heavy sigh, Missy went to visit with Petunia and Doug. She casually asked Doug if he would like her help preparing his robes for the dinner party this evening.

Doug gulped and in a strangled voice said, "Yes please, Missy that'd be great thanks." Doug gave her a greatful smile and Missy promised to return to give him a hand.

Missy returned to Gringotts seeing as it was almost time for Selena to be finished.

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

Meanwhile, Selena had shown Teacher Snipboo her picture gallery, the hidden partial memories and the training room with the memory lights.

Snipboo was impressed and praised Selena for her cleverness. They moved on to creating false memories, which Selena had difficulty with.

Selena understood the idea and how to do it, but the fact remained that it had to be flawless from a real memory. She became frustrated and shared with Snipboo that it should come easily to her because of her eidetic memory.

Calming Selena down with tea and a soothing tone of voice, Snipboo disagreed with Selena. It was because of her eidetic memory that she had problems. Selena had never had to develop her imagination because she had perfect recall.

Puzzled Selena asked, "Why could I create my mindscape so easily then."

Snipboo gave a gentle smile and answered, "Everything in your mindscape comes from what you already know. For example every creature in your mindscape came from a book or reality. You did not combine any creature parts to make a new creature; they were already in existence in your mind." Selena's eyes grew wide as she started to understand what Snipboo was telling her. "Now you showed progress when you placed your traps, but again you did not come up with anything original, but only what you already knew when you thought of the word traps. Now try to come up with something made up, whether it is a creature or trap."

Biting on her bottom lip and frowning, Selena thought hard. Everything she came up with already existed. She burst out in frustration, "I can't everything I think of already exists!"

Nodding his head Snipboo compassionately stated, "It is very difficult. Let's try this, think of a cat." Selena had her eyes closed and nodded her head. "Now picture every colour you know and randomly select a colour not found in reality for a cat's fur. Got it, now show me." Snipboo entered her mindscape and saw a green furred cat. He praised Selena and encouraged her to change the cat by size and then by changing different parts of it, like its eyes or tail.

Selena giggled and changed her cat to be as tall as her head with a round fat belly, a striped green and pink tail with a black tuff of fur at the end. Next she changed the eyes to be all black and made the ears to be large and floppy like a bunny's. She gave it hoofs for the front and eagle claws for the back. She studied it and then told Snipboo she was done.

Snipboo praised her imagination and told her it was a great start. "Now just like a memory, we have to study this made up creature. Can this creature eat, run, play and behave like a normal cat or any other type of creature?"

Looking critically at her creature, Selena shook her head and switched the claw and hoofs and gave it wings. Now her creature could run upright and fly. Snipboo praised her efforts again and pointed out the wingspan needed to be increased to carry its weight.

After many adjustments Selena had a winged cat-like creature that could have been real. She placed it in a protective area and turned to Snipboo, "I think I understand better now. I can take what I know and twist it, adding and deleting as needed until it could be reality. May I try a memory now Teacher?"

Snipboo nodded his head and exited her mindscape. He now knew she would be able to achieve a false memory and he was relieved. He hadn't wanted her to fail and be discouraged. He sat waiting patiently, his mind on the next lessons he wanted her to learn. He had decided that he wanted to teach her some Goblin magic. He needed permission from Ragnuk first but he felt it would help her and she was such a fast learner that he wanted her to learn everything he could teach her. He didn't want their time together to end too quickly.

Selena gave him a mental nudge to have him enter her mindscape and he chuckled at her intuitive use of magic. He entered as saw himself viewing a memory that he knew had to be false, but the details were so real it was hard to tell, perhaps they were to real. He watched the little girl on the swings being pushed by her Mother, while her Father called that he would catch her if she jumped off. The girl launched herself into her Father's arms and he deliberately stepped back, making no effort to catch her and instead watched to see the girl fall into a bloody broken heap at his feet. The Father's calm voice stated, "Oh how foolish of you Selena, you should have known I would never catch you." Then he turned and walked away out of the park as the girl's Mother came and magically healed the girl as she murmured, "Never mind sweetie I love you and I'll help you. See all better now." Then the two walked away from the swings and the memory ended.

Snipboo was disturbed at what Selena had created but he hid that and instead praised her for what she had accomplished. "Selena may I please watch a real memory, I need something to compare against and I would hate to point out errors where there are none."

Nodding her head Selena selected a memory of the time Doug had gotten hurt falling from his bike due to the dog chasing them. Snipboo watched it to the end and then nodded his head. "Yes very good, the focus is the same, clarity of voice and colours, details are sharp and crisp. Excellent Selena your false memory is comparable in every way to the true one. Now can you make a false loving one and also show me a true loving memory as well or do you need to rest?"

Selena bit her lip and said, "Rest for a minute I think."

Snipboo nodded and exited her dreamscape. He poured her another cup of warm tea which she cradled in her hands. With sad eyes he watched her struggle to come to terms with the false memory she had created. He continued to sit quietly letting her speak if she chose to do so.

After a few minutes Selena sipped her tea and softly spoke, "He planned on murdering my Mother; I saw it in a pensieve. He and his friend sat drinking planning a murder, as if she was nothing. He was proud he had a son, only I wasn't, she had hid it from him to protect me. He played with her mind, took her from the one she loved and who I should have belonged to. He never loved her or me, we were just his playthings. I'm glad he's dead, but then I remembered a fragment of his friend holding me and sobbing that my mother was dead and he was sorry. He said that my Mother deserved better and that he was sorry that he failed us. I am confused as to which is real."

Snipboo sighed and then gently spoke, "You need to understand that memories are without context. They have neither thoughts nor feelings to flesh them out and there are many ways to interpret a memory. Say for instance a battle is raging; all around men are killing each other. Who is the defender and who is the attacker. Which is in the right, those who defend or those who attack? Perhaps this is the first battle and the defenders are protecting their home. Perhaps this is the second battle and the attackers are trying to reclaim their home. Do you understand Selena?"

Nodding her head, Selena gave him a grave look. "It's like an apple that looks sweet and juicy but is in reality sour and bitter full of worms. Or perhaps it's like a gnarled apple sweet and crunchy from ripening on the tree. I cannot assume the truthfulness of one single memory, it must be judged by others, even if it is so damning."

Giving another sigh Snipboo cautioned, "That being said, it would be wise of you to proceed with caution in dismissing damning evidence showing your Father's cruelty. Look to the past to see the future Selena, history repeats itself and we must learn from it or perish. I think that is enough for today. Let us just rest and enjoy our tea together. You may create a false happy memory if you choose but stay away from the sad false ones for now. Don't forget, if you have need of me, simple call me on your Gringotts ring."

Selena gave a happier smile at this reminder and they sat in silence until it was time for Selena to leave. They bowed to each other and then Selena left. Snipboo gave a sad sigh wishing he could have given Selena the answer she longed to hear, but he would never be able to tell her that James Potter, her Father, loved her.

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

Selena walked with Missy from the cart to her room to swiftly change and see if Grandpa Hugh would be able to have lunch.

They entered the room to find a parchment stating that Grandpa Hugh would be happy to have lunch with Selena.

Again changing into her blue robe and new boots and making sure she had everything she needed Selena said goodbye to Missy, while she covered herself with a hooded cloak. Missy had finished tidying up and had agreed to keep a discreet eye out for Selena's safety. She too covered herself with a hooded cloak glad that she had brought from the Potter Manor.

Selena left Gringotts and walked purposefully to Grandpa Hugh's shop. Upon entering she giggled to hear his stating his usual 'I'm in the back' phrase. She stopped remaining silent when she realized he was with a customer. She made sure her hood covered her face so that no one could see her and she idly fingered some belts while studying the person her Grandpa was helping. He kind of looked like an older version of the boy she had healed. She casually moved around the shop stopping here and there.

Abruptly she was aware that the customer was staring at her right hand. She looked down and almost groaned when she saw she had forgotten to caste a notice-me-not on her Fay tattoo ring. Slowly she dropped her hand and wished the ring invisible. Immediately she clutched her inner left arm as Frank let her know he desired to speak to her. Turning away swiftly her cloak swirled around her and she noticed the shocked eyes staring at her right hand holding onto her left arm. She almost ran from the shop as the man stepped towards her.

She mind spoke to Missy sending her to find out what Frank wanted. She heard the bell ring as the man left Hugh's shop and look up and down the street trying to see her. Swiftly she stepped back into the shadows and morphed her features and changed her cloak to a dark grey and drew the hood down to her back. Her hair was now golden blonde, her eyes a cornflower blue and she had a snub little nose and a few freckles.

Walking towards the man, she kept at a steady pace as he studied her and then let his eyes scan the street again, frustration briefly crossing his features.

She stopped in front of him and stated, "Excuse me." He turned and looked at her, raising an eyebrow. Again she looked at him and huffed, "Excuse me you are blocking my way into this shop."

He blinked at her and then narrowed his eyes studying her again. Then he said, "My apologies little one." and opened the door for her, letting her precede him into the shop. She wondered over to the boots achingly aware that he was watching her carefully. She franticly wondered what she hadn't changed when it occurred to her that her height, boots, dress, bag and voice were the same. There was nothing else for it but to bravely continue on.

Grandpa Hugh came to her rescue, "Oh there you are Lord Malfoy, thought for a minute that you'd left without your trunk. If you'll just follow me to make sure it is up to your standards, you'll be out of here in no time."

Lord Malfoy stared at the girl once more and then reluctantly followed Hugh to the back of the shop.

Hugh turned back and called out, "Be right with you in a minute granddaughter and then we'll go for lunch."

Lord Malfoy focused his attention on Hugh and started to question him, "Oh that's your granddaughter is it? For a minute she reminded me of someone else."

Hugh chuckled, "Yes Sir, everyone says the same. I swear she must have more than a dozen twins throughout London. She's right smart and takes advantage of it too. Trying to get out of scraps, claiming it wasn't her." Hugh wiped his eyes with a hanky. "Don't let those innocent eyes trick you any, not that she's a bad girl. She takes after me in that way, we just like a prank now and again."

Lord Malfoy drawled, "Indeed."

Hugh went on to explain about the trunk and the extras he had added. Lord Malfoy paid for his purchase, shrunk and pocketed it and then walked to Selena and stopped to stare at her, then he commented, "Enjoy your lunch my dear and I do hope your arm stops hurting soon." He carefully watched for her reaction.

Selena's brow furrowed, "My arm Sir?" She gazed into his eyes letting puzzlement and confusion show. "I'm afraid I don't understand, there is nothing wrong with my arms Sir." She then smiled at him letting her eyes show happiness, "Thank you for your concern and for your wishes for our lunch, would you care to join us Sir? We do love having company and making new friends."

At her smile Lord Malfoy caught his breath and puzzlement came into his eyes. His eyes stared into hers and his puzzlement grew, he faintly answered, "Thank you but no, I have a previous engagement." He paused, looked at her right arm and the bag on her shoulder then into her eyes again as he said, "Perhaps another time little one." With that he swiftly walked away and out of the shop.

Grandpa Hugh walked up and stated, "Better keep the disguise up while we have lunch."

Selena groaned, "What were all of my mistakes other than my voice, bag, dress and boots looking the same. Oh, my build and height too I guess."

Grandpa Hugh chuckled, "Yup worse of all you walked the same. It's the unconscious things that trip us up. Did he try to use legilimency on you?"

Smirking Selena grinned, "Yup, doesn't work on me unless I want to let someone in and then they are in for so much pain until I let them escape." Then she giggled. "Oh since we're here can you show me how to change my initials on my bag and let's set it for blood protection while we're here please."

Selena was glad that she had already told Grandpa Hugh about her name change last time she had seen him for lunch. It had just been a few whispered words but he hadn't asked for more information and acted like it wasn't important.

They locked up the shop and walked to the back counter where they were done in less than five minutes. They left the locked shop and had something quick from a vendor as they strolled casually down the street. Selena noticed that Grandpa Hugh was limping and she scolded him for not telling her he was hurting. She placed herself under his arm to help him walk back to his shop. She wanted to heal him but he waved her off saying it wasn't anything much just an old war wound.

She didn't want to leave him aching like this and made him promise to see her next Monday for lunch. Then she stated they were going to have lunch every Monday and Friday from now on, even if it was just eating in his shop while he worked.

Grandpa Hugh laughed and told her to scram as he had more work to complete before the day's end. After she left his eyes turned serious and sad. He had felt the eyes following them as they walked. Unfortunately he was unable to walk any more today and he prayed for her safety, although Lucius Malfoy hadn't seemed threatening to his Granddaughter, but still nothing good could come from a Death Eater's interest.

He rubbed his face and decided he would purchase an owl to have around the shop just in case he every needed a quick letter sent. Nodding to himself he pulled his work towards him and immersed himself in his craft. Nice boots she was wearing, looked really expensive and that dress – fancy! – never seen anything like that before.

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

Selena ducked down a dark narrow alley, pulled her hood up, swiftly undid her physical changes and used her Gringotts ring to return home.

A few second later Lord Lucius Malfoy entered the alley scanning it swiftly with his eyes. There was no escape from the end and he knew the girl had walked into this alley. She was much too young to apparate, which left a portkey or disillusionment charm. She puzzled him. For a moment he had thought he had found Draco's friend, but when she had clutched her arm he had felt an echoing horrific remembrance of sudden pain. She was just a child, there was no way she would have a dark mark, and also the Dark Lord had been gone for almost five years now, thank Merlin! Or rather thank Potter…

That tattoo though on her thumb, it seemed familiar but he couldn't place it. It would come to him, it always did. He shook his head truly worried for the first time. He couldn't read her mind, such a young child and yet he could not get even a glimpse of her mind. Perhaps she was a natural shield, he had heard rumors, but didn't believe them. Plus there was that faint knowing gleam in her eyes as if she knew what he was attempting and it amused her that he was trying so hard and failing. She had been so amused at his wasted effort.

Seeing that disguise so quickly donned while he searched the street for her, then as bold as brass returning to tell him to move out of her way. He admired her guts but she had a lot to learn about true disguises yet. He knew it was her immediately, from her smell alone. In that instant as she stood beside him in front of the door to the shop, he knew it was her and decided to play her game.

Unfortunately she had gotten away, but he would examine the two girls' smiles and see if they matched. He knew where to find her now, if need be. It was entirely possible he had found Draco's friend and Draco could stop moping and smile again. It was best that she had left; he wasn't exactly sure what he had planned to do following her into this alley. Kidnapping her would not have been a good idea; he had already worked hard to stay out of Azkaban.

Turning he exited the alley and returned home to continue his study of the two identical warm smiles.

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

Missy was sitting at the desk waiting for Selena to portkey in.

Selena removed her cloak and said, "Go ahead Missy what did Frank need?"

Missy waved a bunch of papers in her hand. "Just to report in his findings. He was very thorough and the House Elves agree with him. He even obeyed you about the caretakers lodge and gave details to fix it up."

Selena sighed and said, "Thanks for going for me. Can you take care of this or do I need to do anything?"

Smiling Missy said, "Don't worry about it, I'll take care of everything. Now let's see your tattoo, your voice seemed laced in pain when you mind spoke to me."

They both looked at the snake tattoo, even Shisou examined it and claimed it didn't seem quite right to him. It was to be a simple communications tool not to create pain in either party. She made some adjustments and sent the same changes to Franks tattoo. She was glad she had the control to change his tattoo from this far away. She was becoming more tired as the day wore on and she still had a full afternoon and evening of lessons.

Heaving a sigh she got up and walked downstairs to greet her Mum and Doug before she left for Mrs. Tonks. At least she'd have some time with Doug tonight.

When she saw her Mum she remembered about the healing on Monday. So she took a few minutes to let her Mum know she had this option available, if she wanted it.

Petunia was shocked and so happy. She hugged Selena and Doug and thanked Selena over and over, until Selena regretfully pulled away. "I gotta go Mum or I'll be late. Love you, see you later Doug."

Racing upstairs Selena wrote a quick note to let Griphook know her Mum agreed to the appointment with the Nine. Then she rushed to the floor and left in the green flame.

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

Ted, Andi and Selena were arranged side-by-side waiting for Doug's arrival via floo.

The afternoon had been busy reviewing their previous lesson and finishing up about Magical Communities. Andi had let her know of the plans for tomorrow and how she had prepared for it. Then they had gone over tonight's lesson and what was expected of Selena.

Andi had reassured Selena to just follow her lead, and even though she was the hostess, most of her actions were to be expected from the guests.

Being thankful that it was only the four of them Selena calmed down and while they waited asked for some further lessons on morphing. Andi laughed at her shortening the name and gave her several exercises to perform while they waited.

Andi had seen that Selena had a good grasp on the larger scale of changes, so she had her scale down and exercise the small details increasing the change over a longer period of time. Namely nails; shape, length, and colour; and then hair details; shades and highlights, designs, streaks and lengths; various curls, waves and straight hair.

Selena was so busy that she almost didn't notice when Doug flooed over. Straightening her spine she reverted herself to normal, hands relaxed and clasped in front, eyes on the arrival and a gentle smile on her face.

Ted greeted Doug and shook his hand, offering to remove the floo dust. Doug agreed and then Ted introduced him to Mrs. Tonks and Miss Black. Doug bowed to each in greeting as they likewise curtsied.

Andi had explained that Selena would only be introduced as Heir Black in a formal setting, like a ball, or once she was introduced as such to society.

With Ted and Andi leading the way, with Ted escorting Andi, Doug held his arm out to Selena and followed behind them escorting Selena to the dining room. Ted and Doug helped their partners to sit at the table and then took their own chairs. Ted and Andi sat on each end of the table with Selena and Doug across from each other on the sides.

Surprising them all Missy had decided to take an active part in the Dinner Party by serving them. Decorum had to be maintained so they were unable to thank her at this time. It actually was a good lesson to keep their society manners in place no matter what happens.

Dinner was a success and they retired to the living room to talk and have after dinner tea. Doug took his leave, first to Ted and then bowing to Andi and Selena.

Selena stayed for a few more minutes, to recap the evening and accept any pointers from Ted and Andi. They had only a few things which needed improvement on but those things would come with time and exposure to further dining experiences. Andi told Selena that she would expect Selena to return by ten tomorrow morning for their shopping trip and she suggested that Selena wear a less noticeable robe is she had any. Selena blushed and said she'd check.

Selena left for home where she found Missy, her Mum and Doug waiting for her. Selena exclaimed, "Missy and Doug thank you for your help." She hugged them both and then went to her room to change for bed.

Selena spent the next two hours spending time with her Mum and Doug, reading and playing games. After their meditation, Selena spent a little time writing a Thank you note for Mr. and Mrs. Tonks, which Missy approved of.

Missy and Selena found a mostly plain robe for Selena to wear tomorrow. Selena sighed when she looked and felt it, then she giggled and said she was getting too spoilt.

Selena crawled into her bed saying her usual goodnights and Missy left for her own room. Lying in bed Selena thought about how loved she was and how many adults were helping her in her strange life. She thought about Missy, who was as close to her as a sister.

Stealthily she got up and pulled the bookcase open. Staring at Missy's bedroom door Selena frowned and then smiled and slowly and silently closed the bookshelf. She was about to return to her bed but grabbed her torch and wrote another note, which she left on her robe for tomorrow's wearing.

With a satisfied nod she returned to her bed to sleep contently.

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

She was small able to walk, climb and run. Her short black hair was always messy and she got cranky when she missed her nap or a meal.

Her head hurt and the big windows room frightened her. She was not in her bed and no one was around, "Mummy? Pafoo? Mummum?" she called starting to cry.

An older woman with short curly grey hair with a funny white hat walked towards her. She had a long robe on and it was covered with a white large apron. She came over and picked up the child, rocking to and fro. "There, there little Harry, your safe now. Hush little one you must be quiet. Let's get you something to eat."

The child frowned and asked, "Where Mummy, where Pafoo?"

The woman's eyes released a few tears down her cheeks. "They're gone Harry."

The child's eyes welled with tears, "Mummy sleeping. Why no wake, Mummy gone?"

The woman walked holding the child to a curtained of area and prepared a bit of cereal. "Mummy and Daddy are gone Harry." Then she fed the child and placed him back into bed.

The child's drugged eyes slowly started to close, "Owie." She attempted to touch her head but her hand barely moved.

The woman sighed, "Yes big owie Harry." thinking of how Harry's life would never be the same with both parents dead.

Selena woke and calmly reviewed this memory. It had to have happened right after her Mum was killed. Then she got angry and exclaimed allowed, "Who potions a little child to sleep instead of comforting them and letting them be with their loved ones. Why wasn't Pafoo, Moon or Tail there?" Why was I left with a stranger? Who took me from my home? Where was that place? The woman looked like a nurse.

All she had were questions, so she meditated and stored the memory with the others. Well, at least I've gotten out of my old bedroom. Selena gave a wry smile. Mum sure did great with hiding my gender, even that nurse didn't have a clue. Surely she would have done scans to see if I was hurt and why didn't she heal my head or help with the pain? It definitely was a magical environment; the nurse had a wand that she used. Never mind, put it away for now, one day it will make sense, I hope. Shopping today!

Selena calmed her mind and created a false happy memory of a picnic with her pregnant Mum and Doug. Then she added in a Dad for them, who looked like Doug but older. He ran after them as they played tag, teasing and laughing. All three of them ended up tickling in a heap on the grass as her Mum sat on the blanket caressing her swollen belly. The memory ended as they walked towards their Manor home.

Although it was a happy false memory, it still caused Selena to be sad and a few tears trickled down her cheeks. Shaking her head, she bounded out of bed and into the bathroom to get ready.

Returning to her room she paused and then quietly snuck into Doug's room to see if he was awake. He was just waking up. "Morning Doug," Selena whispered, "do you want to try exercising with me like I do at Gringotts?"

Doug closed his eyes and groaned then he leaped out of bed to grab Selena who screamed and ran out into the hallway and bumped into her Mum. "Ohh…Sorry Mum." Doug blushed too and muttered his apology as well.

Petunia looked sternly at them and then tackled both of them yelling, "I'm going to get you both now!"

Arms and legs flying they stumbled down the stairs and ran around trying not to be 'caught'. Missy came out of the kitchen eyes rounded in confusion. She wasn't sure if this was fun or serious. Finally they all ended up in a heap on the sofa, gasping for air and releasing a giggle now and then.

Doug turned his head to Selena, "Yup I'd like to practice with you."

Selena smiled and said, "Okay, just let me get up."

Petunia looked from one to the other and then groaned. "I have to get up first right?"

Both children solemnly nodded their heads and then laughed as their Mum groaned and sat up. "I'm getting too old for this."

The children protested that it wasn't true and that she had to take it back. Petunia shuddered and said, "Alright, alright I take it back. I am stronger, smarter and more gorgeous than you…" she paused dramatically, "combined."

Doug and Selena looked at each other then together said, "yup, no doubt, absolutely Mum." All three laughed as Petunia called them scamps. She returned upstairs while Doug and Selena moved the coffee table out of their way so they could exercise together in the living room.

Doug casually mentioned, "I miss practicing together."

Selena smiled and didn't look at Doug, "I've missed you too, brother mine." Then she started to show him the stretching exercises and then the pole movements as she breathed saying the goobledegook name.

Doug picked it up fairly quickly and was amazed at how smooth the movements flowed from one to the next. "This is even better than the defense lessons we got."

Nodding Selena started the slow stretching exercises again. "Yup and I need to show you how Teacher Boaxum corrected my movements for those as well."

Doug's eyebrow rose, "Really?"

Selena just nodded her head.

They finished up and took turns showering. They returned to the kitchen with their Mum to eat breakfast, which Missy had prepared.

All four were sitting at the table when Missy spoke, "Thank you Mistress for the beautiful door you made for me."

Petunia and Doug raised their heads and looked from Missy to Selena, who blushed slightly and said, "Well we all have our door decorated, so I thought you might like it too."

Petunia and Doug both wanted to see it and Missy agreed. Selena just nodded her head and finished eating while the others went to investigate.

Missy proudly showed them her door. Her name flowed like a blue stream in script form from the top left corner to the bottom right. Potter Manor was pictured as was Tyrellyn and Elysianna. In fact it was a moving picture showing the forest glade with the two sitting upon their thrones, magical beings all around. It flowed into the swirling dance as they celebrated Missy's release from the curse.

Missy whispered, "This really happened." Doug and Petunia stared at her and then watched the picture over and over again in awe.

Doug cleared his throat and said, "I'm glad Selena's my sister." Petunia hugged Doug and said, "Me too."

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

Selena entered her room to dress and noticed the note was no longer on her clothes. She grinned and started to change, then stopped and laughed to see that her guardian had changed this robe as well. It was not made of the same material, but of fine brushed cotton in a soft dove grey. Slightly darker grey vine embroidery edged the collar and cuffs only. Her underclothes were of gossamer and felt heavenly against her skin. After she had dressed and arranged her hair, she wanted to try some of the practice morphing exercises from last night, she found Missy in the kitchen.

Missy looked at her and said, "Guardian angel again?"

Selena twirled and said, "Yup."

Nodding her head Missy examined Selena and then said, "Good taste and you look good, not too much, but still fancy enough."

With a relieved sigh Selena said, "Thanks Missy. If I need anything I'll call for you. See you later." Then she returned to the living room and flooed to the Tonks. Petunia and Doug had left earlier for Doug's football game.

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

Selena flooed home exhausted but happy from her shopping trip. She collapsed onto the sofa reviewing the day.

She really needed to thank Tyrellyn for his gift of languages. They were in one very snooty and expensive robe shop, when Selena overheard the two saleswomen snidely commenting about her and Andi being foreigners and not deserving to wear their precious robes.

Selena was furious and decided to prank them so she winked at Andi and put on her spoilt rich little girl persona, allowing her heir rings to show. "Aunt I don't see anything here for us. It is so beneath us to even be in this…place." She picked up a satin robe looking at in disgust and then flinging it onto the floor with distain.

Andi caught on immediately and followed her example looking around with a sneer, "Well Dearest, it certainly has gone downhill from when I used to shop here. You are correct the styles are so unbecoming. Such a pity, as you do need a full wardrobe for the fall."

The two saleswomen gawked at the wealth displayed on the little girls hand and the words they heard in their own language.

Lifting her nose into the air, Selena commented as she stalked towards the door, "The clothes I'm wearing are so far above anything they have here. Let's leave the trash to those who know no better."

Andi and Selena walked arm in arm away from the store as the owner rounded on the two saleswomen in anger.

Swiftly Selena hid her rings once again and laughed with Andi. Then she sobered, "I guess that was kind of mean."

Andi shrugged, "Yes, but they did deserve it. They are there to serve not criticize those who support their employment."

Missy appeared in front of Selena offering to get her refreshments.

Selena groaned and said, "Thanks Missy, but I'm fine. A little rest is what I need. Oh, did you receive our purchases?"

Eyes wide Missy slowly nodded her head and said in an awed voice, "I had to magically make your wardrobe and dresser bigger to fit everything in. You bought a lot of things." Then she tilted her head enquiringly, "But no shoes Mistress. I saw everything but shoes and boots."

Biting her lip and blushing slightly Selena admitted, "The ones I have from Master Moonclaw were better than any I tried on. I just couldn't buy any."

Missy just wisely nodded her head, "When you find a Master's best product it is impossible to go back to what you had before."

Grimacing slightly Selena agreed, "It was even hard to buy the robes, because of my Guarding Angel leaving these beautiful robes and underclothes."

Nodding her head Missy agreed, "You did manage it though." Missy let the teasing twinkle show in her eyes.

Flopping onto her bed Selena could only groan in agreement. "At least these are clothes for summer and the fall. I don't even know if I'll be able to wear all of them. Thanks for putting everything away for me Missy."

Laughing Missy said, "Well, I am your personal Fay, that's one of the things I am suppose to do. Now do you need to rest more or should we go fixture shopping?"

Selena bounced off of her bed and opened the wardrobe to find her invisibility cloak. Finally she groaned and sent a pleading look to Missy.

Missy laughed, snapped her fingers and the cloak flew from the wardrobe and into Selena's hands.

"Thanks Missy, you are the best." Selena exclaimed as she tossed the cloak over her shoulders and drew the hood to cover her head. "Oh do you mind telling my Mum we are going now?"

Missy nodded disappeared and then in a flash reappeared holding out her hand for Selena to take, before Missy apparated them away with a POP.

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

Since they had already discussed exactly what was needed and what Selena wanted for her spa, it didn't take them very long to make their selections.

Selena spend most of the afternoon learning how to enlarge her room to create enough space for her bathroom, practicing and then carefully applying the proper runes. Missy was helpful by letting Selena do the work herself, only providing input when Selena asked.

They stopped when Selena had the plumbing runes completed and the stone laid for the floor, tub and walls. The counter was in as were the sinks and toilet. There were really only the finicky details left and the shower stall. Selena wanted to have a spa bath, shower and enclosed toilet area.

Missy could have pointed out a few things for Selena to add or change but she was letting Selena mostly figure it out on her own. After all it was a project that Selena had determined individually to complete.

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

After supper Selena asked her Mum to watch another memory with her. Missy agreed to watch over them, to which Doug gave an exaggerated relieved sigh. They all laughed at his comical look and Petunia agreed to come up now.

Petunia and Selena found themselves standing with a group of people outside of a house enclosing a small front lawn with hedges and a white picket fence. Of the group of people, they recognized Lily holding 'Harry' and James. Selena pointed to a slightly chubby man as her childhood nickname of 'Tail' and the old white long bearded man as Grandpa Albie.

The group faced the door of the house while Albie performed a complicated piece of magic, which took ten minutes to perform and caused him to visibly tire while performing. Dropping his arm down to his side he tiredly spoke, "There that's done. Peter as the Secret-Keeper you need to tell us the address please."

Tail, now known as Peter spoke in a reassuring manner, "31 Godric's Hallow, West Country, England." The house reappeared to the obvious relief of all present.

Both Lily and James hugged and thanked Peter and then Albie. Lily opened the door and entered the house with everyone following her. Lily spoke to the men as she placed Harry onto a blanket on the floor of the living room, "Won't you all stay for tea?"

Albie demurred, "No, no thank you. I must be going." Then he turned to Peter, "Peter if you wouldn't mind, I would like to discuss with you an apprenticeship in the Care of Magical Creatures post."

Peter smiled and nodded happily at Albie, "Yes Sir that would be nice of you."

Lily beamed a full smile at Peter, "Oh Peter, I am so happy for you. You've been struggling for awhile trying to figure out what to do." She gave him a big hug and then released him.

James clasped Peter on the shoulders and then pulled him into a hug, "Excellent Peter, things are looking brighter already. You'll be great at it."

Peter's face shone with gratitude and the love from his friends. He choked out a, "Thanks." as he and Albie walked out of the house closing the door behind them.

The memory ended.

Petunia and Selena stared at each other puzzled over this memory. Selena sighed, "My Father doesn't seem at all like the person we saw before." She turned to Missy, "Missy how long did you stay with my Mother before you went to live at the Potter Manor?"

Missy rubbed her hands together and whispered, "Mistress Lily told me to leave after the Ritual was completed but before the Fidelius Charm was cast. You had already turned one year old; I had to leave just after you turned fourteen months old. I was not allowed to be seen by anyone other than you and Mistress Lily."

Selena asked, "Who is Grandpa Albie?"

Looking frightened Missy answered, "Headmaster Albus Dumbledore."

Petunia looked at Selena and said, "This is our proof that he knew who the Secret-Keeper was."

Selena nodded her head and then in a very quiet voice asked Missy, "Missy did my Father love my Mother and me?"

Tears came into Missy's eyes, "I do not know Mistress. At times it seemed like he loved you both, but then when you were not in the room and it was only him and Lily…" she trailed off and then continued, "He was cruel most times. I tried to find a reason but I couldn't. We daren't have left you alone with him in case he had one of his moods. Mistress Lily had problems thinking, some days she just sat there staring at the wall, and then she would come out of it and be like her normal self."

Petunia hugged Selena and whispered, "Thank you Missy. It must have been very difficult on you as well."

Missy stood there silently crying and Petunia along with Selena pulled her into their hug. Missy whispered, "I couldn't save her."