Disclaimer: ;)

AN: We are finally here! Thank you to everyone that reviewed the last chapter, you really lifted my spirits.

By the way I logged onto Pottermore and using Selena's characteristics was sorted, this was the result.

Chapter Seventeen – M.O.D.

The sun was shining when Selena woke up on September first. She lay in bed cuddled up to Padfoot, who was still sleeping. Easing out of bed she entered her bathroom, which she had magically altered a few years ago, and prepared for her day of travel. It was very important to start off today with a good first impression so she spent extra time styling her long blonde hair.

Walking back into her bedroom she noticed that Padfoot had left but hadn't made the bed. With an annoyed twitch of her lips she magicked the bedding to right itself then turned to her wardrobe. Her selection had already been made weeks ago so it was a simple matter for her to pull out her clothes and put them on.

With a sigh she locked her bedroom door, switched to her original hair and eye colour then turned to her full-length standing mirror to study her reflection.

Dark forest green robe from her Guardian Angel, check; black goblin ankle boots, check; Kagai and Kaiken, check and check; Shisou, check; wand holster and Sephtis, check and check; Stone from Guardian Angel, check.

Glancing at her left wrist she gave a half-smile half-sigh. It felt strange, like something was missing as she was not wearing her beaded monitoring bracelet. All three of them, including her Mum, had agreed that Doug and Selena were too old to wear them anymore especially in the wizarding world where everyone would know what it was. Instead Selena was wearing her Mexican shell bracelet that matched Luna and Dora's.

Reaching into her pocket Selena pulled out the ordinary looking small black stone, studied it for a moment and then carefully placed it back into her pocket with a sticking charm so it wouldn't fall out. At that moment Missy popped into her room to ensure she was ready for breakfast.

Changing her looks once again to blonde hair with blue eyes, Selena gave one last look at her room then with a small sigh she closed the door behind her as she entered the hallway. She was ready.

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

The gleaming black and red Hogwarts Express train was sitting on the tracks just as it had been when Selena had come to see Dora off so many years ago, only this time Arcturus and Cassi were here to send Selena to Hogwarts.

Suddenly a young girl with spiky pink hair was standing beside Cassi, "Wotcher Selena, I couldn't miss seeing you off your First Year, now could I?"

With a burst of laughter Selena stared at a mostly disguised younger looking Dora, "Only you would do something like this! Here I am trying to make the best impression of being a pureblood heir and you show up looking like that!" Still laughing, Selena, now with black hair and green eyes, hugged first Dora then her Uncle and Grandmother Goodbye. "I will owl you most likely tomorrow. I love you both so very much. Bye Dora thanks for coming."

Straightening her spine Selena turned around then briskly walked onto the train while her trunk floated behind her. They had arrived very early so Selena had her pick of compartments as no one else had arrived yet. Deciding that she would start as she intended to continue, she selected the first compartment after the Prefect's compartments.

With a wave of her hand she transfigured the door's frosted window to show the Black House Crest. This would be her personal compartment from now on. Admittedly she might cause some resentment from the older Slytherins but they would soon learn to accept her wishes.

Floating her trunk onto the floor she removed a small basket then charmed her trunk onto one of the storage racks above the bench seats. She sat down with the basket beside her then curiously looked around. As a frown formed on her face she muttered, "Not quite right for the Black Heir."

Swiftly she had Sephtis slide into her fingers from her wand holster. Waving her wand she enlarged the compartment then adjusted it. Soon the floor was white marble, walls dark oak, the seats black leather, the outer window frosted glass with an etching of the Black crest adorned with forest green velvet curtains and hanging from the ceiling a silver chandelier to cast warm light upon the room. With a final look around she nodded in satisfaction then sat down to visit with Shisou until Draco showed up.

It didn't take long until there was a knock on the door. Playing the Lady of the Manor, Selena called Missy. "Please find out who is at the door and if I need to greet them."

With a smirk Missy, in House Elf disguise, popped to the other side of the door, "Who wishes to disturb My Mistress?"

The Head Boy and Girl stared at Missy completely at a loss for words for a moment or two then the Head Boy shook his head, "We were just wondering who was in there since the door is locked."

Missy sniffed, "It is My Mistress' compartment. You may call her Heir Black. Is there any message you wish me to relay to her?"

Both flinched then hurriedly stated that they only wished her to pass on a message of welcoming Heir Black to Hogwarts. By this time other Prefects and students had shown up causing the corridor to become quite crowded. Missy gave a short nod, "Very well, I will inform my Mistress." She popped back into the compartment, silenced the room then shared an amusing laugh with Selena.

Meanwhile the rumours had flown like fiendfyre: The Black Heir was coming to Hogwarts and had her very own compartment in the Slytherin section. A few older Slytherins were annoyed and tried to open the door but it held fast no matter what spells they cast upon it. Eventually they gave up moving along in order to find a seat elsewhere.

Lucius and Narcissa arrived with Draco but did not come onto the train as Greg and Vince were well able to carry Draco's trunk. It didn't take long for Draco to hear the rumours or to find the compartment.

Before he could knock on the door Missy appeared, "Welcome Heir Malfoy, Mr. Goyle and Mr. Crabbe. My Mistress awaits you inside, you may enter." With a snap of her fingers the trunks disappeared along with Missy.

Draco had to clench his hands to stop their nervous shaking then he turned to Greg and Vince, "Don't embarrass me." He critically examined the two boys then nodded his approval before turning back to the door. With a deep breath which was noisily released he then opened the door and stepped inside.

Sitting on his right was a richly dressed girl with sticks holding together an intricate hairstyle of black hair while her calm green eyes watched him. Without meaning to Draco frowned at her in puzzlement, to which she raised an eyebrow. At that moment Vince closed the door startling Draco into composing his face, but his flush revealed that he was a bit embarrassed at having shown his confusion.

Stepping further into the compartment Draco bowed deeply then seeing her outstretched left hand, he took it and kissed the back while seeing the Black Heir ring upon her right index finger. Standing upright he examined the pretty face before him. "Heir Black, it is a pleasure to finally see your face."

Draco moved aside as he reluctantly let go of her hand to point out the two boys now beside him. "Heir Black please allow me introduce to you Gregory Goyle…and Vincent Crabbe. Gentlemen this is the Black Heir."

Selena was now smiling as she gave her left hand to each of the boys in turn then looked back at Draco, "It is a pleasure to see you face-to-face Draco. All of you please call me Selena and have a seat so we can become acquainted."

Each asked her to call them by their first names then looked around in surprise. They had glanced into other compartments but had seen nothing like this.

The boys sat down but Draco made sure that he was sitting beside Selena. He was staring at her so intently that Selena turned to face him, "Perhaps you would prefer to sit across from me instead Draco or have a picture. I'd hate for you to strain your neck or back."

As soon as Selena had said the word 'picture' Draco's eyes had widened in shock. "It is you! You were the girl in Diagon Alley that healed me! I can hardly believe that you're here and I've finally found you! I can't believe you are the Black Heir and we've been writing to each other."

"Well, technically I found you but it doesn't really matter I suppose. It is nice that you now know who I am though." Selena lifted her left hand to touch his face where he had gotten hurt. "It seemed such a shame to mar such a beautiful face." She dropped her hand back down to her lap.

Draco's breath hitched even while he blushed. "Thank you. I never did manage to thank you for what you did for me that day. Mother said it would have scarred."

She just gave him a faint smile then turned to the other boys, "Vince please tell me of your family and what you enjoy doing with your time."

While Vince hesitated Selena unintentionally saw memories from his life. Slowly Vince started to speak and after a few more prompts from Selena, he spoke steadily about his life and family. Draco even learnt a few things he hadn't known before.

When Selena turned to Greg he shook his head and gave a pleading look at Vince. With a sigh Vince stated, "Greg doesn't talk much cause he whistles when he tries. It usually hurts our ears so he rarely talks anymore."

Looking thoughtful Selena studied Greg then gently said, "Greg, why hasn't anyone taken you to a Healer to get your teeth fixed?"

Greg shrugged his shoulders but as Selena arched her eyebrow at him, he flushed then answered with a lisp, "Don't know."

Nodding her head Selena smiled, "Don't worry about it Greg, I still want you to tell me about yourself or you can write it down if you prefer."

Wide-eyed Greg nodded his head then indicated that he would write it down. Missy appeared with a quill, ink and parchment while Selena drew her wand to tap the wall under the window for a legless table to slide out. Both Draco and Vince stared in surprise at Selena's nonchalant performance of magic while Greg immediately started writing furiously.

Looking slightly uncomfortable for his friend, Vince softly said, "Greg's writing is not great but then neither is mine so…"

Selena gave him a reassuring smile, "I'm sure it will be fine and if you both want to improve I can help you, if you'd like."

Giving her a hesitant nod Vince's face then broke out into a happy smile, "So we can trade then, you help us to write better and we'll be your bodyguards."

Pure amusement shone from Selena's eyes as she bit her bottom lip to stop from laughing. Calming down she gently said, "Vince, I don't need one bodyguard let alone two. How about we say that I'm just helping out my friends, okay?"

Vince shot a quick glance at Draco, who just shook his head slightly while rolling his eyes, then looked back at Selena with a puzzled look, "Okay but friends protect each other too."

By this time Greg had written as much as he had the patience for and pushed the parchment towards Selena, who had the table slide back into the wall after Missy took away the ink and quill. After she enquired if she could read it aloud, to which Greg nodded in agreement, Selena did so. It started a conversation amongst the four that even Greg gave brief answers to.

Shortly after there was a rattle of the doorknob then forceful banging rattled the door. All four were surprised at the rude behaviour but Selena waved her wand at the door unlocking it.

Abruptly bursting in was a bushy-haired eleven year old girl with large top front teeth, "You do know you're not allowed to lock the compartments don't you? The Prefects perform routine checks on all the compartments so none are allowed to be locked. It's against the rules don't you know. Anyways, Neville's lost his toad. Have you seen it?"

The girl looked around at the four silent students before her then sniffed as she saw how different this compartment was and how they were strangely dressed. "This isn't regulation for a compartment. How did you get this one? Why is this one different from the others? Are you supposed to be in here? I'm sure you're not. How did you lock the door? Was it magic? I've done magic – it always works for me."

She continued speaking in this way even as the boy behind her tried to get her to stop and come away.

Draco was livid at her rude behaviour but Selena merely put her hand on his arm then barely shook her head when he turned to her. Raising her hand palm outwards Selena waited until the girl closed her mouth with a snap. "Excuse me, would you please move aside. I do believe the boy behind you wishes to say something."

With a huff the girl turned to look at the boy who was miserably flushed and looking very uncomfortable. He stepped into the room and bowed to them, "Please forgive my manners and our rude entrance into your compartment. My name is Neville Longbottom and this is Hermione Granger. She was just trying to help me find my toad. I'm really sorry to interrupt you."

Giving him a sharp look Selena questioned, "Heir Presumptive Neville Longbottom, parents named Frank and Alice Longbottom?" At Neville's surprised nod Selena smiled, "It is a pleasure to meet you. These are my friends, Mr. Vincent Crabbe…Mr. Gregory Goyle…and Heir Draco Malfoy."

The three boys nodded at Neville who nodded in return then Draco stood, "Please allow me to introduce to you Heir Selena Black."

Holding out her left hand Selena accepted Neville's bow and kiss then said, "Please call me Selena and I will call you Neville, yes?" Swallowing hard Neville once again flushed then nodded his agreement.

Selena stood then walked towards the door which forced Neville to move aside and Hermione to back out of the compartment. Flourishing her wand Selena firmly stated, "Accio Neville's toad." Swift as a blink her wand was gone then her hand caught the toad which was flying towards her.

Stepping back into the compartment Selena turned to look at the astonished offensive girl. In a soft voice Selena calmly said, "Thank you for attempting to help Neville, perhaps next time you could simply ask a Prefect to summon it instead of interrupting everyone. Excuse us." Sliding the door shut she magically locked it, leaving the girl in the corridor and Neville inside the compartment.

Smiling reassuringly at Neville, who was stuttering as he thanked her, Selena nodded while she gestured towards Draco, "Please have a seat Neville. Now what are we going to do about this toad?" Returning to her seat Selena frowned while looking at the toad. "Neville, why do you have a toad? Is it an ingredient for your potions?" Seeing Neville blush a deeper red Selena sighed, "Don't be concerned Neville, just tell us."

Haltingly Neville miserably explained that it had been a last minute gift from his Great-Uncle Algie. While the other boys looked at him in horror Selena thoughtfully nodded her head, "I see, well it's not like it could become your familiar. I don't think anyone would want one for that purpose either; they're not very intelligent or useful. Neville, would you mind terribly if we let this toad stay in the Greenhouses at Hogwarts? It would be better for your reputation to not be known as the only student with a pet toad."

~Or I could eat it~ Shisou murmured into her mind.

Amused but trying to keep a straight compassionate face Selena thought back, ~Right now is not the best time for my new friends to meet my Black Mamba Familiar. Let them get used to me first please.~

Shisou was amused at the terror he could cause but then grew quiet once more to listen.

Nodding his head Neville hesitantly stated, "I guess...that would be...okay, but I'm afraid most students already know." He gave a long-suffering sigh.

Winking at Neville, Selena gave him a sly smile, "We'll just have to make sure everyone knows that it is a present to Professor Sprout for her greenhouses tomorrow morning at breakfast. Perhaps it was from your Grandmother or Great-Uncle?"

A bright smile lit Neville's face, "Th-thanks, that's a great idea!"

Selena called Missy to take the toad to a safe place until tomorrow morning. Neville was a bit startled at Missy's sudden appearance into the compartment.

The five talked for a bit then Selena had the table slide out while she lifted her basket. "How about we have a bit of tea now? Its past Lunch time and Breakfast was quite a long time ago." Suddenly a white linen tablecloth, fine china, crystal and silverware appeared upon the table with a place setting before each person. Carefully Selena lifted out each item of food and drink from the basket until she examined the table then announced with a smile, "That's everything I think."

She placed the basket upon the floor then sitting down placed her napkin upon her lap. Her lips twitched to see the stunned expressions upon the boys' faces. Softly she ordered, "Enjoy."

They each served themselves then passed the dishes around. Using their best manners they ate and conversed while filling their empty stomachs. When they were finished Missy appeared to remove the food and dishes then popped away immediately.

After their meal they played games then the conversation turned to the Houses of Hogwarts.

"I have to get into Gryffindor. My Grandmother will expect it of me; my Father was in Gryffindor." Neville looked sadly depressed.

Looking at the other boys Selena stated, "I think it's safe to assume the rest of us will be in Slytherin. I hope that doesn't make a difference to you Neville."

Swiftly shaking his head Neville emphatically stated, "You've been nice and helpful to me, not many people are. At least my Family isn't and I've never had friends before. I-I just want to go into Hufflepuff. I'm not smart or brave or ambitious. I just want to be happy, like I am when I'm alone in the greenhouses."

There was silence for a bit then Draco sighed, "I think we all understand Family expectations. If you really want to go into Hufflepuff then do it. If you go into Gryffindor...well, it will be difficult for you to be our friend; the other Gryffindors won't like it."

Firming his lips and taking on an obstinate mien Neville stated, "Then I will be in Hufflepuff. I don't want to lose your friendships." The four smiled at him and quickly reassured him that he was indeed their friend.

They speculated as to how they would be sorted and what Hogwarts would be like, though Selena was rather quiet. Draco, who had been there on holiday with his Godfather, told them quite a bit about the castle and grounds. He then warned them about his Godfather, "Professor Snape is really...strict because he has to be teaching potions and he's brilliant so he's not very patient. Everyone's already read 'Magical Drafts and Potions' and the Herbs and Fungi textbook right?"

Greg, Vince and Selena nodded but Neville turned white as he stuttered, "N-no...I haven't. B-but I did read 'One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi'."

Draco bit his lip then gave a resigned sigh. "Look we've got time so I'll just have to tell you or...Greg pull down my trunk and get the potions textbook out...Thanks...You've at least made a few potions, know how to slice and grind ingredients right?" When Neville slowly shook his head, Draco bit back his frustration. "Okay basics then..."

Selena proudly watched Draco, with the occasional input from Vince and Greg, teach Neville as much as they could force him to remember in the time they had available. Thankfully Neville was already interested in Herbology so he knew quite a bit about plant potion ingredients.

All too soon, from Neville's viewpoint, it was time to change into their school robes. Selena stood up then slid open a hidden door revealing a bathroom while Neville stuttered that his trunk was in another compartment.

Selena shook her head, "No it's not. It's here with Greg and Vince's trunks." Neville turned to look up at the luggage rack and sure enough there was his trunk clearly showing his initials. Amused by the surprise on Neville's face Selena said, "I'll just change in here; knock on the door to let me know when it is safe to come back in."

All the boys nodded though Selena had already closed the door behind her. Her uniform was shrunk in her pocket so she didn't need to open her trunk and retrieve it.

Soon they pulled into Hogsmeade Station but Selena made them wait inside the compartment for two long minutes before she unlocked the compartment door.

Draco was smirking as he nodded his head then held out his elbow to act as her escort. He threw a smug look at the other three boys, "Timing is important for the correct impression one wishes others to have of you. We are purebloods and this is our world, we should be proud and show it."

Sharing an understanding smirk Selena and Draco led the way off of the train and onto the platform while all around them students stopped and stared at the procession.

A voice boomed out, "Firs' Years! Firs' Years over here!"

Draco felt Selena's hand clench his arm briefly but when he quickly glanced at her face it was still perfectly composed in a haughty mask. He filed the information away to ask about later as they strode forwards.

Maybe it was their haughty mien or perhaps the way they walked, it could have been the cold look in their eyes or even the other students unconsciously giving way to the powerful magical aura, but for whatever reason the students fell silent as they hastily moved out of the way of Selena and her companions.

As they moved from the platform to the dirt path leading down to the Black Lake, murmurs rose to question the identity of the five. Speculation rose to a fevered pitch as some confirmed or denied the five First Years' identities. Slowly the students climbed into the horse-less carriages to return to Hogwarts once again.

Meanwhile Rubeus Hagrid was telling the First Years to enter four to a boat. Neville hesitated then said, "I'll find another boat."

Selena gave him a sad smile, "Sorry Neville..." She paused then firmly stated, "I'll meet you a few minutes after breakfast starts with your toad ready to be presented."

Giving her and the other boys a relieved smile Neville moved away to enter another boat which only had three children in it.

Draco helped Selena into a boat then sat beside her while Greg and Vince sat opposite them. Soon they moved forward across the moonlit water, enjoyed the unique view of Hogwarts and then disembarked under the Castle at the boat dock.

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

Professor Minerva McGonagall stared at the parchment of names she held in her hand. Hannah Abbott had already given her the Sorting Hat and moved to the Hufflepuff Table where she had been sorted. In a strained voice Minerva called, "Selena Black?" Her voice had inflected a question at the end as if she was questioning the very existence of a Black once again entering Hogwarts.

In shock she watched as a pretty girl with a slight smile on her lips glided up to the stool Minerva stood beside. Once the girl was sitting on the stool Minerva hesitated slightly before she gently and carefully lowered the Sorting Hat onto the girl's shiny black hair until even the green eyes were covered.

While the students murmured and gossiped, Minerva was bewildered from looking into those coolly amused eyes. Her lips tightened as she gave a stern talking to herself. It matters not if the look in those eyes reminds me of Sirius Black, the hair of James Potter but tidy and the green eyes of Lily Evans. Somehow Hogwarts has obtained another Black...Merlin help us all!

Within a minute the Sorting Hat bellowed out, "Slytherin!" to which the Slytherin students cheered rather more enthusiastically than normal.

Slipping off of the stool Selena composedly stood placed the hat on the stool then curtsied to it before carefully picking it up so that it lay upright in her arms. She handed the hat to Minerva, "Thank you Deputy Headmistress McGonagall."

Involuntarily nodding Minerva accepted the hat then watched the girl confidently glide over to the Slytherin table and sit on the far side so that she could watch the rest of the sorting. Minerva's eyes were not the only ones watching the little girl, even the Headmaster and other Professors had watched her with silent fascination.

Continuing on Minerva called the next name, "Susan Bones."

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

Taking the Sorting Hat from Blaise Zabini, the last student to be sorted, Minerva paused then frowned in concern looking about the Great Hall then down at her list again. With a gasp her wide eyes lifted to Albus Dumbledore who was pursing his lips thoughtfully.

From the Gryffindor table came a boy's jeering voice, "Thought you said you were Harry Potter's best friend. Well, where is he then? Not here for sorting is he? I bet you haven't even met him let alone are his best friend. What a liar!"

A young boy's voice yelled out, "I'm not lying!"

The first boy mockingly said, "Prove it! Where is Harry Potter?"

A few other Gryffindor First Years joined in for they had all heard the prat's monologue bragging about being Harry Potter's best friend and had grown heartily sick of it.

At that moment Headmaster Dumbledore stood up and gave his benediction for the food to appear and the students to enjoy the Welcoming Feast.

Minerva, who by this time had made her way to the High Table and was sitting with the other Professors, kept glancing at Albus while wondering why Harry Potter was not on her list and hadn't appeared. The First Year Student Acceptance List had made the rounds of the table for all to see that indeed Harry Potter's name was not written upon it.

Meanwhile Selena was sitting between Draco and a rather large girl called Millicent. Looking about the Great Hall Selena could just make out Neville sitting at the Hufflepuff table talking with the other First Years. Good, the Sorting Hat kept its bargain.

Her eyes narrowed as she caught a glimpse of a red face and matching hair of the boy who had bragged about his friendship with Harry. Sitting beside him was the bushy haired offensive girl. Selena averted her eyes to study the Ravenclaw table. She didn't know anyone there and idly wondered if there was anyone worthwhile to cultivate.

Draco leaned closer to whisper in her ear, "I'm really glad you're here Selena." They had finished eating and now Draco looked slightly nervous. Just as he opened his mouth to say something a large gaunt almost translucent ghost floated over to sit beside him all the while rattling the thick heavy chains bound upon his embroidered tunic.

The ghost, who appeared to have silver blood staining his ancient clothing, carefully looked at each student with his black eerie eyes then stared at Selena. In a hoarse whisper the ghost asked, "Heir Black I assume?"

Inclining her head with a respectful nod Selena softly answered, "Indeed Baron, it is a pleasure to meet you."

A wisp of a smile briefly showed upon the Baron's face then disappeared as his usual solemn look replace it, "My Lady, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Hogwarts." He then cast one last chilling blank look at the other students at the table then left to wander the Great Hall.

Giving a slight smile to Draco, Selena whispered, "Don't think on it Draco."

Thoroughly confused and even frightened if he would but admit it, Draco resignedly nodded his head then watched in growing concern as Selena's face lost all expression while she stared at the High Table. He followed her blank gaze to look upon the frowning face of Headmaster Dumbledore.

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

Selena was being escorted by Draco, who was following the Fifth Year Prefects along with the rest of the Slytherin First Years to their House. Her right hand was fisted around the stone in her pocket. Casting a glance over her shoulder she felt a compelling urge to be walking in another direction. Puzzling over the strange feeling she mentally shook it off after discussing it with Shisou and the Black House Spirits.

Sharing a smile with Draco, she continued walking while memories of her many discussions, with her other House Spirits, about Hogwarts came to mind. With a silent snort she realized that she most likely knew more about the school than even the Professors did.

Once they were in the Slytherin common room she got her first look at the man who should have been her Father, Professor Severus Snape. Hiding her roiling emotions behind a blank face, Selena watched his every move and listened to the inflection of his smooth quiet voice. It didn't matter what he was saying right now about House Rules and Study Groups, she'd review the memory later tonight before sleeping. No, what mattered is that she was within touching distance of the man her Mother had loved.

In that very instant Selena wanted to express her many conflicting feelings; throw herself into his arms, hug him, call him Father, give him Lily's letter, cry and lastly hit and yell at him for not coming to rescue her. She was almost trembling as she tried to control her body's reaction and her volatile emotions. Shisou spoke calmly to her mind while Selena became aware of Draco letting go of her hand to place his arm around her shoulders pulling her closer to him so that their bodies touched.

Leaning against him she was able to relax as she slowed down her rapidly beating heart. She had been staring at the stone wall before her but now lifted her eyes to Draco's. She smiled to let him know that she was alright.

As Snape left the Seventh Year Prefects took over telling them where to find their dorms and how they would be escorted for the first week. Selena gave a goodnight wish to the three boys after agreeing to meet in the morning before breakfast then they split apart to take the stone staircases to their separate dorms.

As with the boys there were five First Year girls and so they were split unevenly. Pansy Parkinson insisted that she didn't want one roommate let alone two while Daphne and Tracey stated that they were best friends so wouldn't be split.

Selena turned to Millicent with a smile, "Well, it's up to you I suppose, which would you prefer one roommate or two?"

Looking startled Millicent then tentatively smiled back at Selena, "Oh, right...umm, I guess I can stay with Pansy if you don't mind."

Smiling at the uncomfortable girl Selena shook her head, "I don't mind having two roommates. I'm Selena by the way."

Before Millicent could say anything else Pansy huffed, "Well, I'm not going to stand here all night. Millicent move it, I want to get some sleep." She opened her dorm room and instantly started to talk about which bed she wanted and how the room was 'perfectly horrendous'.

Raising an eyebrow Selena softly questioned Millicent, "Are you really sure?"

With a near silent sigh of resignation Millicent shrugged, "I'm used to her, it'll be okay. Besides we're distantly related."

Chuckling slightly Selena teased, "So are we. My Great Grandmother was Violetta Black née Bulstrode."

Millicent's smile blossomed, which transformed her rather plain face, "Really? That's nice to know, most purebloods don't want anyone to know how I'm related to them. You're different but in a good way." She blushed then shyly looked at Selena.

Daphne and Tracey watched in disbelief as Selena effortlessly charmed the large girl out of her morose shell. They involuntarily smiled when Selena laughed softly and said to Millicent, "I think we are friends and Family too. Goodnight Millicent."

With a round of soft goodnights the three girls entered their dorm while Millicent entered hers with another near silent sigh.

Biting her lip Selena looked around the crowded room then gave a glance at the two girls beside her, "Please call me Selena and do you mind if I make a few changes to our dorm tomorrow? I promise if you don't like it I will switch it back."

Daphne and Tracey politely extended their first names for her to use and then tentatively agreed to any changes she made. Within an hour the girls were asleep, all except Selena. With Shisou wrapped around her neck and across her body in his normal strike position Selena stood in the shadows while wearing her original shadowy black robe, invisibility cloak and holding the stone in her left hand. Softly she hissed, "Show me...take me where you want me to go." Closing her eyes she shadow travelled to the unknown destination.

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

Headmaster Albus Dumbledore was in a foul mood as he returned to his chambers late that night. Within an hour after the students had entered their House common rooms the staff had an emergency meeting. He had tried to reassure Minerva that it was all a misunderstanding, that Harry was perfectly fine.

Finally he had acceded that someone had to check out the Dursleys and so had ordered Hagrid to their house tomorrow morning. Minerva had protested but seeing that she was teaching tomorrow and Albus wouldn't let her go tonight, she had no choice but to accept his decisions.

Entering his bedroom Albus was about to remove his robe when he reached for his wand but couldn't find it, "Strange, where is my wand? Accio Albus' wand." The twinkle in his eyes disappeared when his old wand flew into his hand and not the wand he had taken from Gellert Grindelwald.

Slightly confused he called for a House Elf, who reluctantly answered, to search the castle for his wand. The House Elf refused, "House Elves not allowed touching wizard wands. No House Elf help." The elf popped away before Albus could order him in another way.

Furious over the perceived insubordination Albus returned to his office and searched thoroughly, when he found nothing he searched his robes and cloaks. Unable to find it anywhere he reluctantly retired to his bed and drank his highly potent dreamless sleep potion with the intent to begin the search again in the morning.

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

A bit earlier, far away in a moonlit glade of the Forbidden Forest Selena stood still clutching the stone in her left hand while Shisou was on guard by her feet. Her voice whispered on the wind while her right hand was raised high and open to catch the thin piece of pale wood that flew into her hand.

Round about her magical creatures stood or crouched watching her while most still clutched a small piece of parchment with a single symbol upon it. Ragnuk glanced at Griphook while a feral smile revealed his sharp pointed teeth, "It's time." Nagnut nodded his head while the heavily cloaked Arcturus, Cassi, Petunia, Pandora and Luna stood quietly beside them.

As soon as Selena's hand closed around the Elder Wand a translucent spectrum of magic flashed outwards from her. As one those gathered around her kneeled down while a black shadowy winged form with red eyes knelt before the young girl who stared at it with cold neon green eyes. The figure's hollow voice caused them all to shiver in fear, "Mistress."

The girl, who was no longer covered by the cloak or holding the stone or wand, was wearing an elegant fitted robe of purest black with black embroidered runes upon the edges of the split flared heavy skirt while the long sleeves were cobwebs of black silk threads connected and overlaying the sweetheart bodice down to her hips and along the edges of the front left-legged split. Smooth knee-high black boots encased her lower legs and increased her height by four inches. She was at once Selena and yet not as they had known her to be.

Her voice rang out into the stillness of the night causing those who heard it to fear it more than they had the shadow kneeling before her. "Welcome Guardian Angel. Or should I now call you Death? Rise and speak with me."

Death rose to stand before its Mistress, "Mistress, please forgive me for not protecting you after you were found by the Dursleys."

"What do you mean Death?" Selena glanced at everyone still upon their knees and hastily called out, "Everyone rise up, come and rejoice the Deathly Hallows are combined and contained." Quietly she told Death they would talk later. For now she had to reaffirm that she was still the Selena who they knew and had met before.

Shisou slithered up her body to coil into his resting position with his head by her ear. He had grown over the years and was now about six feet long but would still grow longer over the coming years.

Arcturus walked up to Selena and gave her a bow, "Mistress of Death? Another title to the many you already have." His lips were twitching with suppressed mirth. "How was the train ride? Any new friends or news you wish to briefly share until I receive your anticipated letter?"

He watched as she hesitated then gave him her most innocent smile. His eyes narrowed, "You are still my Heir Selena even if you are the Mistress of Death. Now what is it? Quickly please you need to be back in your dorm in an hour, you have classes tomorrow."

She opened her mouth to protest then closed it and nodded in resignation. "Fine, I made friends with Greg, Vince, Neville and Millicent. I'm possible friends with Daphne and Tracey, who are best friends that I share a dorm with. Draco wants to become my boyfriend, he'll be writing you soon asking for permission and evidently he wants to marry me when we are older – much older I hope. Seeing Snape was difficult as I didn't realize that I was thinking of him as my true Father...I think that's all."

Cassi winked at Selena while Arcturus frowned before saying, "I see. Perhaps you will inform me in your letter as to your thoughts regarding marrying Heir Malfoy."

Giving him a brief nod she then hugged them all, whispered to Luna that she missed her, before swiftly moving away to greet others who were waiting to speak to her. She sent a greeting to Snipbue's mind and threw a small poisonous dart at Boaxum, who caught it, then swiftly flicked it back to her. It was as typical of them both as the warm hug from her Mum.

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

After the emergency staff meeting while returning to their chambers, Minerva approached Severus, "Severus please..."

His cold dark eyes were emotionless as he gazed at her, "What do you want from me Minerva? Albus has stated his course of action; it is none of my concern." He stopped walking to glare at her in exasperation, "I suppose you are going to pester me all the way to my chambers unless I speak with you."

Minerva normally would have given up at this point but then she saw Severus' eyes flicker to glance at the portraits then return to stare at her. Understanding dawned, "Of course I will Severus and tomorrow too if you don't speak with me immediately." As she had started to speak they had continued walking until they reached Severus' chambers.

Rolling his eyes and snarling he replied, "Fine but you won't like my answers any better than the first one."

They entered his chambers and while Severus sealed his room, Minerva glanced around. No portraits were to be found but it was a nice cosy room filled full of books. "No portraits or pictures Severus?"

Severus approached Minerva then began casting a dizzying array of spells and charms upon her. "There that should do it. Congratulations you are now free from the manipulative bastard's loyalty and monitoring charms. No, no portraits or pictures – I learnt that lesson early, my First Year I believe."

Gasping in surprise Minerva quickly grew incensed then forced her emotions to calm down in order to deal with the current situation. "I do believe I need to perform some housekeeping in my office and chambers. Severus I fear the worse. I told Albus that they were the worse Muggles. What can we do?"

At this point they were sitting on Severus' sofa. With a groan Severus shook his head then bent forward to clasp his head in his hands, "I've failed." Lifting his head he turned to look at Minerva as anger rose in him, "Where is Harry? What has happened to him? Tell me of that night."

Minerva told her story of that fateful night leaving a fifteen month old baby on the steps of a muggle house that cold November evening. They were silent as they berated themselves for the past and their actions.

With a startled look Severus blurted out, "The Book of Admittance and the Quill of Acceptance in the Locked Tower."

Hope appeared in Minerva's eyes, "Yes! We can floo to my chambers; it's just a short walk from there. Plus I have the key."

"Portraits?" Severus gave her a soured look.

Shaking her head she answered, "No, not along that corridor. No one ever goes there except me once a year."

They swiftly made their way until they were standing before the large book. After a few minutes perusal Severus fell to his knees as his face turned grey, "No, I've failed...I swore I would protect her child."

Rapidly searching the book Minerva found the name Harry Potter, which had a line drawn through it with a single word written beside it – Deceased. She stumbled back as she clutched at her chest then fell onto a chair as bitter tears flowed down her face. Two sets of anguished eyes met then ashamedly darted away.

Eventually Severus composed himself, "Does Albus know? Is there any way for him to check the Book without you knowing?"

Unable to speak Minerva nodded then transfigured a quill and parchment before she cast a silent spell to see a list of who had looked at the Book over the last eleven years. Together the two watched as the quill listed them along with the date and time and then Albus Dumbledore – who had looked at the Book immediately after the Welcoming Feast.

In an emotionless voice Minerva stated, "He knows. He knows the truth and yet he deliberately lied to us. What is he planning while hiding something like this?"

Giving a sigh Severus shook his head as he pinched the bridge of his nose, "I don't know but I do know that he believes the Dark Lord will return." He frowned in further thought, "He was the one who decided where to place Harry correct?" Seeing her nod he intently asked, "Earlier you mentioned the muggle house and Albus mentioned the Dursleys, where do they live?"

Gasping Minerva uttered, "Yes, Lily's sister, Petunia Dursley. That's where we left him. Come Severus I will take us there immediately. I'm not waiting on Hagrid or the next lie from Albus."

They snuck back to Minerva's chambers where she swiftly added a black cloak while Severus waited for her. He took her through a secret exit from when he had been spying on the Dark Lord for Albus.

Minerva ruefully shook her head, "Merlin's sake, there are more ways in and out than there should safely be for a school full of mischievous children!"

Severus smirked, "This is only one of the ways I know – the least one I have taken."

Their mood quickly sobered and after a quick walk and apparition they sneaked into the house where Harry Potter should have been living. Looking at the fireplace mantel full of pictures Minerva pointed out the obvious, "They don't live here anymore."

Exiting the house Minerva and Severus swiftly left the muggle area. They walked for a time then apparated back to the gates of Hogwarts.

Listlessly Minerva followed Severus to his chambers where they sat drinking firewhisky. "He knows Harry is dead and yet the ruse continues. Do we tell the Aurors? I failed them all, I never checked on Harry after I left him there. I know we don't know how Harry died but still, Albus insisted that he'd be safe...the poor wee bairn." She choked and couldn't speak further.

Staring at his glass of firewhisky Severus softly said, "I failed him too. This happening and now the stone being here too, what is Albus thinking? He risks all of our lives in the games he plays." He stared at Minerva. "We need to tell Filius and Pomona what we found out, no one else though."

Nodding her agreement Minerva finished her drink then accepted the dreamless sleep potion from Severus while whispering her thanks. She flooed back to her chambers while Severus stayed awake turning over all the inadequate information he had in order to see if he could find any way to justify his continued existence.

Lifting his glass up into the air he said, "To revenge; may you burn in hell Albus, may people spit upon your grave and your name be stricken from the Halls of Hogwarts." Swiftly he tossed back the remainder of his whisky.

He went to bed where he tossed and turned throughout the rest of that long night as his own childhood and days of being a Death Eater fed him possible images of what Harry's life might have been like. It wasn't difficult to picture a grown up Petunia being nasty to Harry; he perfectly recalled her horrible words being screeched at Lily and him.

Unfortunately he couldn't take Dreamless Sleep as he had become addicted to it many years ago when he had first become a Death Eater. It had been excruciating weaning off of the potion and it could no longer give him the peace he desired. Instead he relived his past every night when he closed his eyes.