(Another chapter for those that are still reading this trollop of a story. Second term starts in the next chapter, so we're getting close. As always, I don't own it! Enjoy!)

Yule Ball, Christmas, Hogwarts.

Sitting down to breakfast a few days later, Sirius and Prongs joined me. Harry had left the day before citing his own family holiday traditions. He was in Norfolk, but we had our own way of communicating.

Sipping on my tea, I reached for the blackberry jam and toast when Poe flew in interrupting our breakfast. Reaching for the envelope, I gave him a strip of bacon. Breaking the seal, I must not have recognized the coat of arms. Raising an eyebrow as I pulled the letter out. It wasn't a letter, but an invitation. It was cream invitations with gold lettering inviting me to the Royal Yule Ball. Formal wear required.

"Great Merlin…..why didn't he say anything?" I moaned setting the invitation down beside my cup of tea.

"What's going on?" Prongs inquired taking a forkful of scrambled eggs.

I picked up the invitation. "I'm invited to the Royal Yule Ball."

Sirius raised an eyebrow but began to snicker before a non-descript owl flew into the dining room where we were taking breakfast instead of the cozy breakfast nook. It, like Poe, had an envelope attached to its leg. I watched in amusement as he read over the letter. Groaning like myself, he frowned at me when I snickered.

"Looks like you received one too. Who's going to be your date Uncle Siriy?" I teased. This earned a glare from him.

Taking a look at Harry who was quite amused by the play, he avoided his eyes reading over his own mail. He smiled reading quite a long one from what must be Hermione. A shorter letter sat right beside his own cup of tea that must be from Ron. I'm sure he wasn't the 'writing' type.

Finishing breakfast, I took my invitation upstairs to my room where I sat it down on my desk like it was diseased. Harry knew I hated public spectacles, but this was for him from his family. Which was a good sign. This meant they were ready to finally meet me. Now that I knew I wasn't going to be the only magical being there, I felt a bit more comfortable.

The Yule ball was schedule for tomorrow night and I needed a dress. A formal dress which meant that Sirius needed a tuxedo. No formal dress robes needed. Going to my closet, I begun the search for the perfect dress. Harry had no specifications about color or style, so it was open for me. I wasn't part of the family...I would like to be, but I never counted my chickens.

Christmas was in three days from now and Remus had yet to arrive. Of course, his Owl to me said he would try to be here by December 24th for our Christmas dinner. I surely hoped so. Uncle Siriy had tried wheedling it out of me, but I wasn't having it. Flipping through the horde of dresses that would be nice for any occasion, but this one.

Growling in frustration, I called for Tippa. When he arrived, I gave a small smile at his nervousness. "Tippa, I need a formal gown for tomorrow night. Lord Black needs a tuxedo."

"Lord Blackie says young Master Harry needs a tuxedo as well." Tippa informed me. I chuckled noting Prong's mounting despair that he was being forced to go. He hated being in the spotlight but being one of the last scions of the House of Potter, he was required to make an appearance.

"That's fine. Can we have the clothes ready by tomorrow morning? I will be spending the day getting ready for the ball."

"Of course Miztress! I can haves the tuxedos ready in a few hours and have yours dress ready by tonight's." Tippa replied in earnest. Handing him a picture of what I wanted, he took it gingerly from me and looked it over.

"This what I'm looking for." I said crouched down to his level. I wanted Scarlet, but Burgundy will look lovely on me as well. The strapless, A-line, chapel train dress was going to look lovely on me. My favorite part was the lace up back of the dress.

He took the picture and 'POP' out of the room. Now that was done, I would take on a small spa day tomorrow to get ready. How we were going to get there I wasn't sure. In Muggle London, Sirius had a better chance of getting around, which is why I'm sure he and Prongs were leaving to the tailors.

A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. Poking his head in was Prongs. He didn't look real happy but I could tell he was dealing. "So you heard about me going as well?"

"I did. Tippa informed me. You and Uncle Siriy can go to the tailors today. I' sure they have some pre-made tuxedos for you to wear." I snickered as I came toward him. Leaving the room, he followed me downstairs to the library.

"What about you? Your dress?" he inquired.

"That is going to be made by magic. I don't have time to pop into Muggle London for a dress. You know this is a purely Muggle affair?"

"Yea, I realized that when Sirius mentioned dress robes and Tippa went off on him." he chuckled like he remembered the memory.

"Don't worry Prongs, I'm not looking forward to going either. But I am because finally, Harry's family is ready to see me. We've never made it official, but I think he's pushing for it."

Stepping into the library, I immediately plopped on the couch. He took a seat beside me and we looked into the roaring fireplace. "You know, I love it here. Thank you." he said softly. A 'POP' was heard as Tippa brought us some snacks.

His sincerity warmed me to the core. It wasn't often that I was actually thanked for something I did. I never had that living with my mother. I, realized that sometimes, I was treated no better than a house elf in a very bad family. Even the house elves that lived here were treated with the utmost respect and admiration.

"You're welcome. We'll be back next summer. I assure you."

"So who's our special guest?"

I groaned and he smiled at me. "Not you too….I won't tell Uncle Siriy, I'm definitely not telling you."

"We just want to be prepared!" he protested sitting up from his spot.

"Yea, well both of you know him." his eyes widened and he opened his mouth. "And that's all I'm saying. Don't ask again. He'll be here for our Christmas dinner."

"Good." he said. Getting up, he excused himself and wandered off. I sat there until it was time to eat dinner. Only the smell of food brought me out of my stupor.

-3-3-3-3

The next morning brought freezing temperatures and lots of snow. Looking out the window, I shivered from the breeze that floated in the room. I couldn't get warm so far this morning. Wrapping my robe around me tighter, I would take breakfast in my room. I wasn't planning on leaving it until it was time to go.

Curling into my bed, I grabbed my journal. I needed to speak with Harry. I still needed to know how we were going to get there. Taking my pen in my hand, I flipped a page open. I knew that he might not respond right away since the family normally spent lots of time together during the holiday.

"Harry, I need to know how we're getting to the Yule ball? You know, this is the first time I've ever heard of it. I thought everyone was at Sandringham during the Christmas season?"

Setting the journal down, I knew he would get back to me when he could. I really wish I could use a phone to talk to him, but Potter Manor was surrounded by old magic that would interfere with signal.

Reaching for the cup of tea that lingered on my night-table, I sipped it slowly. I loved the tea but the British preferred it scalding hot and I couldn't do it. I remember the one time I made a mention about sweet tea; something I knew no one but the Southeaster US drank. I was laughed at. Didn't mention it again.

A quiet 'POP' let me know that Tippa was back with my dress. I watched as it floated from the bag and onto a hook of my closet door. It was marvelous. Exactly what I wanted. I was going to blow his socks off. Suddenly, I heard the bath being run. Was it time to bathe already. I know I was supposed to be going, but like my brother, I hated public displays.

I had avoided being in the spotlight for so long-letting others take the praise of my achievements because of my empathic abilities-I learned to dislike being around large crowds. And then, the boyfriend that every girl wishes she had, invited me to a Ball. I could throttle him. But I love him and I would do this for him.

After a long soak in my bath, there was a knock on the door. Opening it up, there was a petite witch standing before me. I didn't know who she was. I had never met her. "I'm sorry, who are you?"

She chuckled at my question. "I'm Daphne Snow, Lady Potter. I'm here to get you ready for tonight. I've learned that you're invited to a Ball and a Lord Black suggested that you needed help."

Oh, yes...he was getting a flea bath!

"I'm sorry...Please come in." I stepped aside and let her in. She quickly surveyed the room and found my desk. Transfiguring a large mirror, she began unpacking her bottomless bag. Once, she pulled all of her torture contraptions out of her bag, she motioned for me to take a seat at my desk.

Thank Merlin, Harry decided to write back. The subtle pinging of the journal begun to glow a light blue. Snatching it off the pillow, I grabbed my pen and took a seat like Daphne instructed. Flipping it open, I chuckled at her amused glance.

"Normally yes, we stay at Sandringham, but granny wanted to throw a ball this year. The last one was over a decade ago. Oddly enough, when i asked her about it, she said your dad and lily were invited. I hope you're ready for this because in muggle London your family still carries a title that holds ground."

Great...More titles. Harry isn't going to like this when I tell him.

"There is an Earldom floating in your family. So tonight you'll be Lady Alyssa Potter-much the same as you're addressed as now, but Prongs will be different. He'll be known as Earl Potter because of your dad. James Potter didn't have any lesser titles so he will inherit this one. Regardless if he's of age. -as how you're getting here, the invitation is a portkey that will go off at 6:30PM. It will give everyone enough time to adjust before the Ball starts at 7."

Fan-freakin-tastic.

I sighed and set the journal down. Daphne had set my hair to curl and while it was already long, it looked like she charmed it to look longer. Before I could comment, she had spun me around to do my make up.

"Tippa!" I called.

"Yous calls Miztress?" he asked appearing before me.

"Yes can you get Harry? Please tell him to come to my room, I have something to tell him."

"Ohs yes I can!" he exclaimed happily before disappearing. Then my stomach grumbled. Damn, now I'll have to call him back. Daphne, unbothered by the house elf, kept her pace and steady hand at my face. I was almost afraid how how she was going to make me look. Normally a little eyeliner and some lipgloss go a long way for me.

Not to say I'm not girly. I am, just not at school. At my mother's, during the summers, I never got the chance to dress up and go places. I rarely saw the outside of her house. Rarely did I ever step foot in Atlanta. Dear Merlin, what a shock to her group of friends to find out she had a daughter before marriage.

A knock interrupted us and I hoped there was food coming with that knock. But when Harry stuck his head in, Daphne cast a Disillusionment Charm on me. I shot her an annoying look as I started to disappear.

"Alyssa?" Prongs called from the door.

"I'm here. I'm the invisible girl…." I muttered sarcastically.

"Right. Tippa said you needed to talk to me." I could see him take a seat on my bed.

"Yea, that….Firstly, good news. Harry said the invitation is a portkey to go off at 6:30. Secondly, bad news-which you're going to hate. When we're introduced tonight, you'll be knows as Earl Potter. And I will be Lady Alyssa Potter."

"Great…" he muttered. "Wait! I'm not of age."

"Yes, Harry said it didn't matter. It is-was dad's Muggle title. Sorry kiddo, I know how much you hate the titles and such, but this one you can't get out of. If dad were alive, you'd have a courtesy title-which he had none...So you'd be known as Lord Potter. But you're known as Earl Potter. Just be polite and try not to step on my feet if we dance." I joked lightly with him.

"What about Sirius?"

"He's just known as Lord Black. His family, lost all their Muggle titles five hundred years ago. You, technically outrank him. Oh and when you see him...he's getting a flea bath." Prongs chuckled lightly and shook his head.

"While this has been all informative, Mr Potter can you please let me finish your...sister up?" Daphne asked without swooning over my brother. I chuckled as he left the room quickly. Casting Finite on me, she picked back up where she left off.

Hours later, I was dressed in my ballgown...all ready. My hair had been curled down my back and left down. My makeup light but effective. Overall, Daphne did quite well. Leaving my room and taking the stairs, I realized we had five minutes before the portkey activated.

"HEY! T-Minus five minutes you two. I've spent all day getting ready and I'm done before you…" I shouted from the middle of the stairs.

"Alyssa...we're down here." Uncle Siriy said from the bottom of the stairs. I scowled and hurried as best I could with heels on to the bottom of the stairs. Reaching the bottom my heels clacked against the hardwood flooring.

"You look nice Alyssa…" Prongs said.

"I suppose that will do from my brother." I teased and he poked his tongue out.

"Well, if you two are ready, can we get going?" Uncle Siriy remarked holding the invitation. Grabbing ahold of it, Prongs did the same thing. In seconds we were jerked from Potter Manor and traveled quickly and far. Landing in a grand ballroom, it was richly decorated in Christmas decor. The scents of evergreen and holly were everywhere. A twenty foot tree adorned one corner of the room. Two smaller trees decorated finely sprang up around the ballroom.

On a dais, there would be an small orchestra that would be tonight's entertainment. A huge chandelier hung from the ceiling. Sparse seating graced the room for those that didn't feel like dancing.

Oh Merlin, dancing.

Even though, I always celebrated Christmas at Ilvermorny instead of my mother's, I've always had a fondness for the holiday. The spirit and joy that came with it was overpowering. An emotion I liked. Taking a glance at Prongs and Sirius, I smiled seeing their faces. It wasn't like we were privy to this sort of entertainment all the time. Hogwarts was grand, but this was something else.

"You still have your wand?" Sirius whispered.

"Of course, I do. It's invisible." He nodded and we turned around seeing a man dressed in livery.

"You must be the guests of His Highness Prince Harry?"

"We are." I said giving the man a small smile.

"Follow me, if you will." he turned sharply and headed out of the ballroom. Taking us through the door, he led us across a warm foyer that was similarly decorated like the ballroom. Stopping in front of a large set of doors, I could feel the warmth coming from the room. Lowering my shields a little, a smile begun to form on my face. Harry was behind the door and I'm sure he could feel me already.

"The whole of the Royal family is behind this door." I whispered low enough for Prongs and Sirius to hear. "So use your manners…"

The man pushed the door opened and announced our arrival. Stepping aside, once we were admitted entry, I led us in. Of course, Prongs should be the one to lead, but I could feel his nervousness and decided to take pity on him.

My swept the room, like I had been trained to do, but I caught Harry's eye and saw the twinkle of amusement. I was so going to throttle him after this. He sprung this on me and expected me to handle it. Play it by ear. Wing it, if you will.

Dipping into a low curtsey, I caught Prongs and Sirius bowing as well. At least they weren't totally hopeless.

"Ah, Lady Alyssa Potter, Earl Potter, and Lord Black, please do have a seat." the Queen instructed. Doing as she asked, we three took a seat across from them.

"I do hope your arrival wasn't too rough?" she asked.

"Not all all your Majesty. I've grown accustom to the Portkey." I assured her gaining a glare from Sirius. Apparently, he wasn't informed that the family knew about the magical counterpart.

Prince Charles laugh startled Sirius from his glare, "Do not worry yourself, my sons are Magical, we know about your world."

"That's good. I didn't expect that."

"I told you that Prince Harry was Muggle-born. He even said it himself." I teased him.

Sirius opened his mouth to retort, when Harry shook his head, "Don't worry. These three are all like this." he assured his family.

Oh, really now? I eyed him carefully so he'd understand my thoughts. A smile ghosted his face and I chuckled in my mind. He shook his head at me.

"You know, that is rude." William spoke up.

"No it's not…." Harry stared.

"What is?" I asked a bit too innocently.

"Communicating silently like that…" his family turned and looked at us sharply.

"You can do that?" Charles asked bewildered. Taking Prongs and Sirius aside quietly, they begun talking along with his father & William. Leaving me alone with the ladies and Harry. I knew this wasn't going to be good. More questions. More answers.

"Only Harry and Alyssa can." William replied. "I can't do that. Would be nice if I could."

"How can they do it?" The Queen asked.

"I, well…." Harry started looking desperately at me for answers. Everyone turned back to me for an explanation.

"We share a bond." I started. "Bonds are incredibly hard to come by. Normally they begin when two people are young and grow as they pair grow. Or they are spontaneous and happened when two people are meant to be together. There are several bonds in the Magical World. Love, life, and blood."

"You and my grandson have a love bond?" the Queen asked eyeing me critically. I blushed and I could feel my nerves flare. I could feel her emotions bouncing over the place.

Curiosity

Disbelief

Astonishment

"I think so, your Majesty. It would have been spontaneous. We've only recently discovered this when I officially moved to England."

"How does it work?" his stepmother asked.

"We can communicate silently when we're close to each other. We can share thoughts for now. I"m sure with practice we can discover more."

Can it be permanent?" the Queen asked.

I looked at Harry before turning back to the Queen, "I don't know. Bonds are normally permanent, especially love bonds. To sever one with dark intent could kill the bonded."

Their eyes widened at my answer. Harry, seemed unaffected by my answer. He had done his research, just as I, so he knew what to be expected. Glancing at my clasped hands, I felt them start to tremble. A small pain between my eyes begun and a headache was on its way. Everyone in the room was far too curious and the emotions were overwhelming. Throwing my shields up, it slowed the trembling down a bit but not enough.

"Lady Potter, are you alright?" his stepmother noticed my trembling hands.

Harry, hearing this rushed over and grabbed my hands. "You'll be fine. Just take a breath…" I peered up at him with a shaky smile and closed my eyes and took a long slow breath.

"Harry! Is she alright?" his stepmother demanded again.

"She will be. Everyone please calm down." he instructed.

"What on Earth do you mean?" the Queen asked.

Sirius brought Prongs over and he looked a little shaky as well. Not as badly as I, but he took a seat beside me. I looked warily at him and thinking I could suppress his even more so than mine. As I was sitting, I was concentrating so hard that I felt woozy.

"Alyssa, don't even think about trying to do what I know you're thinking." Harry warned. My eyes flew open and I shot him a dirty look.

"Alyssa…" Prongs groaned. "My head's starting to hurt."

Harry, finally tired of seeing me struggle looking at his overly curious family. "Everyone please pick a neutral emotion. Act like you're bored, please?"

Everyone shot him a look, but soon enough the emotions started dropping around us. Peeking an eye open, I saw that everyone had, temporarily, occupied themselves. Sighing in relief, I heard Prongs do the same thing. I lowered my shields, only just but kept them strong. Releasing the tightened grip on Harry's hand, he gave me a wane smile before flexing his fingers.

Looking over at my brother, who had Sirius standing as his guard, I saw the relief etched on his face. Maybe it was time to teach him Occlumency. Even if his trait wasn't fully exposed, the Occlumency would help him stabilize and block everyone easier.

"Anyone mind telling what that was?" the Queen asked trying to keep the agitation out of her voice. I could tell that she wasn't pleased having been told what to do by her youngest grandson.

Harry beat me to my explanation. "Alyssa and Prongs… I mean Harry...are empaths. Alyssa is full blown empath while Harry is only scratching the surface of his gift."

Prongs looked at me in surprise, then looked at Sirius who nodded at him. I hadn't told him exactly what the trait was. Just that it was a trait. Empaths were rare, but the trait skipped around in the Potter ancestry. Just so happen, it landed on the both of us. The last Empath had been Grandfather Potter. It skipped all four of his sons and we inherited it.

"This means we can feel the emotions of others. I'm also a skilled Occlumens as well. It helps protect my mind from the onslaught of emotions that I feel on a daily basis." I added to Harry's explanation.

"You've told me some of this already, who else had it?" Prongs jumped in as well.

"Grandfather Potter was the last Potter to have the trait. It skips around...Like red hair." I used my boyfriend as an example. Had we been alone, he would have retaliated.

Suddenly, the door opened and a butler announced that it was time for the ball to begin. Had we been in here half an hour? It seemed like much longer. Everyone nodded at the announcement and left leaving Harry and I behind.

When the door closed, he turned and looked at me, caressing the side of my face, "You look beautiful tonight." Like the girl I am, I blushed prettily, but his chuckle ruined it. He leaned forward and captured my lips. A hand wrapped around my waist and the other tangled in my hair. My own hands snaked around his neck as he pulled us closer.

We stood there kissing for a few minutes before we heard the door open. "Oh!" his father stood at the doorway but averted his eyes. "Sorry for intruding, but Harry it's time to greet everyone."

Harry reluctantly let me go and followed his father out. Taking a breath, I threw my shields up on full force and followed them out. Finding Prongs and Sirius, I was given curious looks from the both of them. Averting my eyes, I watched as my boyfriend walked into the room with the rest of his family. As they passed the crowd, everyone paid their respects. Including my group. Harry stopped for a mere second and gave me a quick smile for my effort. Winking at him, he shook his head and followed his brother.

The night passed quite uneventfully. I danced several times with Harry and once or twice with my brother who kept being referred to as Earl Potter. I could tell that he hated the title but there wasn't anything he could do about it. I snickered every time I heard it. That night, I met William's girlfriend Marisa. She barely spoke a word to me, giving off an air of snootiness. I wondered briefly if she was related to the Malfoy's.

Quite surprisingly, I didn't have another attack that night. Neither did Prongs, whom I kept an eye on after what happened earlier. Sirius, even though known for his fugitive status in Magical Britain had no share of trouble in Muggle London. I wondered if I could have him exonerated by the Queen. I would have to bring it up with Harry. If our government was easy to condemn an innocent man, maybe the Squib Queen could step in and help out.

Christmas Eve Dinner…

Christmas Eve was finally upon us and I was waiting around the foyer for our guest to arrive. I had contacted him earlier and set up a portkey for him to arrive. The elves had spent most of the day preparing a feast of some sort. It was going to be a festive evening. Harry had convinced William to stop by. I told him he didn't have to come. There was the formal dinner their family had every year for Christmas Eve dinner. Of course, he told me that it was nonsense that he would miss this.

Surely, I wasn't looking in good favor to the Queen by now. Unsurprising, I hadn't been invited back. It had been announced at the Yule Ball that Harry and I were exclusively dating. Not even the Queen could dispute it-regardless of the love bond. But there was something from her that I felt that wasn't cordial to my dating her grandson.

Taking a seat on the bottom step, I acted completely unlike the Lady Potter I was supposed to be. Looking at my watch, I huffed heavily blowing the hair from my face. Everyone was supposed to be there five minutes ago. Maybe the boys had a hard time getting away. If they couldn't make it; it was perfectly fine with me. Less being nervous than anything else.

A sound chimed in the main hall announcing that a portkey had arrived. Standing up, I brushed off invisible lint on my dark blue dress with an attached lace long sleeved jacket. My heels clacked against hardwood flooring and I was beat to the portkey arriving room. I had designed it to help out traveling.

Prongs and Sirius came running in from another room that was close by and flung the door open. In front of them was Remus Lupin. Our special guest of the evening. He looked worse for wear and I hoped he would take one of the cottages that were on the grounds. Somewhere safe for him to live and an endless supply of Wolfsbane potion. Lucky for us, the moon wasn't close to Christmas Eve. We were all safe and sound, for now.

"Remus! Thank you for coming." I said ignoring the other two while embracing him.

"Thank you for having me. I know it's Christmas Eve and all…." he started to say then saw Sirius standing there. Pulling his wand, I instantly snatched his arm and lowered it.

"It's fine Uncle Mooney….he's not here to harm. He gets the flea bath if he does." I threatened.

"Then what is he doing here?" Remus asked cautiously.

"Because he's family. Like you." I pointed out. Nodding as if he were satisfied. Sippa 'POP' in and took his bags from him. Turning to his best friend, Prongs and I watched as they embraced.

ProngsPOV

Once the Yule Ball was over, I was happy for it. I couldn't stand everyone calling me "Earl Potter". Even though, Alyssa had explained to me why it was customary-didn't mean I liked it. Ron wrote me begging me to come to the Burrow and save him from Ginny. Apparently, he was surrounded by her at every waking moment talking about me.

Me? Of all people.

I wasn't interested in her.

Hermione, on the other hand wrote to me several times always wishing I was having a good holiday and how much she missed me. Each time I received one of her letters, my mind raced back to the day when she found out the news of Buckbeak. That almost kiss that I wish had happened. How I wanted to hold her close to me and snog her senseless. Now that would shake her personality a little.

I almost invited her over. I wanted too, but she was adamant that I spend my first Christmas at Potter Manor without her. I needed this more than she did. If that was the case, I would just invite her over during the Summer hols. She couldn't say no to that. Maybe invite Ron as well.

That was another problem in my continuing list. Coming back here. I was dead sure that Dumbledore would try forcing me to go back to the Dursleys and by Merlin help me, I wasn't going back. No matter what he said. No matter what Alyssa and I had to do.

I still couldn't wrap my mind around that someone I trusted implicitly would betray me like that. Would deny me the simplest of life to help his cause. I couldn't bear to tell my friends yet. They still saw Dumbledore as someone to look up too. A paragon of goodness. If only they knew.

That's fine with me. I had Alyssa and Sirius and tonight I was going to find out who else I could trust. At least, I hope so. I needed as many people around me that I could. Even Prof Lupin offered his services to help me learn to defend myself. A feat, that I was coming to learn, I was particularly good at. Despite everything I've ever been told. Another thing Alyssa and Sirius said that Potters-especially Potter men-did well.

Laying in my bed, I was taking a page of out Alyssa's book and listening to music. Piano music floated throughout the room. The light show that she should me the spell too danced to the notes of the music. At least, I was entertained. Maybe I could do this when we arrived back at school. I knew that as soon as I stepped foot onto Hogwarts grounds, I would be pulled in by the Headmaster about Alyssa. I don't know if I could handle my temper around him. It was bad enough when I learned about how Dumbledore betrayed me. Imagine what it will be like when I have to face him?

The clock from the hallway chimed six and I remembered that Alyssa said we were going to have a special guest. She had been mum about it for days now. Finding my shoes, I slipped them on grateful to have a pair that wasn't falling apart. A benefit of having a sister who cared about me. Treading down the stairs, I took a look around the Manor. The house elves had outdone themselves and for that, I was grateful. Meeting up with Sirius, we took the stairs together and took a seat in the formal sitting room.

We heard the chime sounding the arrival of a portkey. Smiling at each other we rushed from the sitting room to the entrance. I had finally grown accustom to seeing Sirius often and so far he hadn't made an attempt on my life. He said he was looking for someone else. The man that betrayed Alyssa and I. I hoped he would find him.

I gaped when I saw the man remove his hood. Prof Lupin? He was our special guest. I wasn't aware that he and Alyssa knew it each other. I mean, I knew she had to take his class; as did I. But I wasn't aware they had a personal relationship. Watching them embrace, things started to become more confusing.

"...Because he's family, like you" was all I heard before Sirius and Prof Lupin embraced like old friends.

I stood there mouth agape. They knew each other? For some reason, this didn't bother me too much. I'm sure they knew each other in school. But to openly admit it now?

"Anyone mind telling me what's going on?" I asked curiously.

"Ah, well. Let's adjoin to the formal sitting room and we'll discuss." Alyssa said trying to keep up appearance. Leading us to the formal sitting room, we all took a seat and Tippa brought tea and snacks. Everyone took a cup and sat back. Prof Lupin looked around and shook his head.

"I haven't been here since we were in school." he looked around the room. "Still looks the same."

"So how do you know Sirius and Alyssa?" I asked getting to the crux of the situation.

"Sirius and I were best mates in school, along with your dad." He explained vaguely. "We were the ones that created your map."

"The map?" I asked looking toward a sheepish Alyssa.

"Accio Marauders Map." she waved her wand using a Summoning Charm. It flew through the house, from presumably her room and landed on the table before us. For its age, it still looked well taken care of.

Picking it up, I looked over. It didn't look like a map. It just looked like a bit of parchment. I flipped it over but still didn't see a map. Looking at the amused faces of my guests, Sirius held his hand out and I handed it to him.

"I solemnly swear I am up to no good…." he muttered and handed it back to me. Ink begun to spill over the parchment creating lines and words. The front of the parchment read as such:

Messrs:

Moony, Wormtail

Padfoot & Prongs

Are proud to present:

The Marauders Map

Opening it up as, the ink bled, I saw that it was shaping the form of a place. I watched in amazement for a few seconds when I realized I was looking at a map of Hogwarts. I remembered this map! Harry showed it to me over Halloween. Although, it was a quick showing. We were too busy trying to find Alyssa that night and since then she hadn't showed it to me. Imagine the use I could get out of this at school. The mischief I could try to keep myself out of!

Looking at everyone, Sirius nodded his head and leaned back into the couch he was sharing with Alyssa. She looked as amused as I was.

"There's my nickname!" I exclaimed seeing 'Prongs'.

"Do you know who everyone is?" Prof Lupin suggested.

I shook my head at him. "No, but Alyssa called you Uncle Moony, so I take it that is you."

"Correct Harry. Who else?"

"I'm not sure." I answered with confusion. Looking at Alyssa, I'm sure she definitely knew. This caused some irritation in me.

"You know, I don't tell you everything up front because things like this are a surprise. I hate to ruin a surprise for you, Prongs." she confessed using my nickname.

"So, tell me who everyone is…." I demanded.

"One of them is sitting in the room with you." Sirius spoke up. "I'm Padfoot."

Who's Wormtail?" I asked skipping over Prongs.

Every face in the room darkened…"That's Peter Pettigrew…."

"Oh. So Prongs is….?"

"Dad, you silly dolt." Alyssa teased. I stared at her then at the map in full amazement.

"Harry said this was my legacy."

"Yea, I'm sure told you that dad helped invent it, didn't he?" she asked setting her tea down. Refusing to touch the snacks because of upcoming dinner.

"He did, but didn't tell me who everyone was." I shrugged and then we heard the chime of another arrival. Looking at Alyssa, her face broke out in a huge smile.

"Who else is coming?" Sirius asked watching her bolt from the room.

"Harry and William follow me…" we heard Alyssa say as the door opened revealing the two Princes. I was surprised they showed too.

"Harry, you know Prongs, Sirius and Remus…." Alyssa said giving a re-introduction. Then she formally introduced Remus to William.

A subtle 'POP' interrupted the light conversation. Tippa announcing that dinner was ready. Alyssa took the lead and led us out of the sitting room and into the dining room where we took our seats. I was stuck sitting between Prof Lupin and Sirius. Alyssa looked like the odd woman out being the only female in the room.

In seconds, a feast was laid out before us. There was a mustard butter-basted roast turkey with bacon. Adorning the turkey was brussel sprouts with chestnuts and sage, honey roasted carrots, chunky roasted potatoes. There was something added that I didn't recognize. Whatever it was, it still looked delicious.

"That's Port and cranberry sauce with juniper." Alyssa pointed to my confusion. I nodded to her eyeing the delicious food.

"I see your house elves out did themselves." William complimented.

"It seems so." Remus added.

Everyone dug into the meal, occasionally commenting about the food or topics of interested. For some reason this felt right with me. I had a family. Although, only one of them were blood related. Soon enough, dinner was replaced with coffee and a trifle. Dobby must have informed them I prefer treacle tart because it was before me. I had to smile at the little elf. He did have flair.

After dessert, everyone sat around and talked for a little while longer until Harry and Will bid their goodbyes. They still had to spend time with their family. I could tell Alyssa was saddened to see Harry go, but I could tell she understood.

As they left, she frowned for a moment, knowing that Harry would return to her shortly. I think they were determined to spend as much time together during the hols. Turning back to Remus and Sirius, who were busy talking, she flashed a small smile.

"If you wish Remus, you can stay in one of the guest rooms tonight. Tomorrow is Christmas and I want you to stay with us." she offered playing the perfect hostess. When Prof Lupin started to protest, she held up a hand. "I've already gotten your gift, so now you have to stay."

His protest died on his lips, but I could tell he wanted to argue with her. The only one who liked to argue with Alyssa was Dumbledore. Maybe we would tell Prof Lupin what Dumbledore did. Maybe we could sway him to see our side of the story.

One could only hope.

Bidding us good night, everyone parted and headed back to their rooms on a full belly. Even I was starting to get drowsy. The food the elves had whipped up was delicious and for the first time in a very long time, when I laid my head down, I learned I could really come to love the holidays.

The next morning, I woke up to a blizzard. The snow must have accumulated at least another foot while we were sleeping. Glancing at my clock, it was six AM. Might as well get up, but before I could, my door burst open. In rushing Alyssa. She squealed and jumped on my bed like a small child.

"It's Christmas! Why aren't you awake yet? Get up! Get up!" Her excitement woke Hedwig who glared at her balefully. Or at least as well as owl could.

"I'm up. Geroff my bed!" I tried pushing her off the bed, but to no avail. She was too quick. Laughing, she rushed from my room and I could hear her feet pounding down the stairs. I shook my head at her antics and swung my legs over the bed. Looking down at my clothes, I realized she had transfigured my sleepwear into a Santa suit.

Payback is a bitch….

Grabbing my robe, I met up with Sirius and Prof Lupin who were watching Alyssa in the living room. She was sitting by the tree and waiting on us. The older sister exterior was gone. Replaced was the teenager she really was. In her hand was a cup of tea and upon her head was a Santa hat that matched my suit.

"Nice sleepwear you have there Prongs." Sirius spoke up grinning. Looking at him, she had changed his as well. He blinked like a Christmas tree. Only Prof Lupin wasn't subjected to her prank.

"She must have attacked you as well?" I asked shaking my head.

"Of course she did. She's been waiting on today for weeks. Best not to ruin her fun. It's rare to see her completely happy." he warned.

Entering the room, she looked up to see us. Beaming, I felt her overwhelming joy of spending Christmas with people she actually cared about. Taking a seat, she stayed in her spot by the tree and rolled her eyes.

"Lighten up all three of you. I swear there will no more pranks." her eyes twinkled madly.

"This-coming from the daughter of a Marauder. We're supposed to believe you?" Prof Lupin asked taking his tea as well.

"Of course you are! It's a rule." she teased. "We're doing gifts before breakfast. I couldn't wait any longer."

"That's fine…" we all agreed with her.

Handing out gifts, she set aside her own few and watched us. We all received mundane gifts-including flea bath for Sirius. Broom-polishing kit for me from Ron, books from Hermione (as usual). Sitting around, I wondered where my gift from Alyssa was.

"Here. This is from me. I know it's not much. I did get you a house already…." she handed me an envelope. Looking at her warily, I hoped it wasn't a prank. Her mood was jolly enough for it.

Dear Mr Potter

We received your application as well as a high recommendation letter from one our own. I am writing to congrat you on being accepted into the Junior Auror Academy. Summer session begins June 21 and lasts till August 10th. We look forward to seeing you there.

Stephen Hatter.

US Auror, ret.

"You-you're serious?!" I exclaimed looking wildly at her then back to Sirius and Prof Lupin.

"What she do?" Sirius asked. I handed my letter over to him and he scanned it before handing it back. Whistling, he gave Alyssa small smile and a quick nod.

"Yes, I am serious!" she exclaimed in mock offense. "You wanted to learn to defend yourself. So, I pulled some strings and got you in. It's incredibly hard to get into the camp. Unfortunately, you're gonna spend next summer in America."

"I-I don't know what to say?"

"Well a 'thank you Alyssa' works just fine for me." she teased.

"Thank you Alyssa." I retort.

"Since you're going to camp, you're going to need this." Sirius said handing me a wrapped brown package. Unwrapping it, it was a Firebolt. My mouth dropped open and I looked at him like he was Father Christmas.

"Ho-how?"

"Your Nimbus was destroyed at the Hufflepuff game. I've missed out on a lot of Christmases and birthdays. This is my makeup gift to you." he confessed.

Overall, it was by far the best Christmas a bloke could ever have. The biggest surprise was Prof Lupin's gift from Alyssa. She gave him one of the cottages on the property to live in and his own house elf.

He tried to fight her, but when Sirius told him it was futile, he gave up. Sirius told him that he had his own cottage and it suited him just fine. When I asked what she got for Sirius, he replied, "She has done enough. I don't need anything more."

The rest of the holiday flew by with Harry stopping in for a couple more days and Prof Lupin leaving to return back to Hogwarts for the second term. Before he left, he told me to meet him in his office one week after we arrived back. I would start my training then.

As we packed our things to return back to Hogwarts, I realized this was the best Christmas I've had since I found out I was a wizard. I couldn't wait to tell Ron and Hermione about the Junior Auror camp.

That morning as we were getting ready to portkey back to Kings Cross, Alyssa made sure to keep in touch with Sirius to make sure he took use of his flea bath. Which earned a glare and a hug from him. Giving me a hug as well, we touched the portkey and before I could blink we were back at King's Cross. Walking through the invisible barrier of Platform 9 ¾ , we were surrounded by the massive student population with their families.

Seeing the Weasleys, I rushed over to talk with Ron. Hermione joining us a few minutes later. Looking around, I realized Alyssa had disappeared onto the train. Whereas she was lively and talkative at home; she was reclusive when we were in school.

One day, I would learn why…..

Following my friends onto the train, we found a compartment and claimed it. Ginny and Neville joined us later on where we talked about our holiday. I didn't mention the camp just yet. That was a private matter. The train ride was uneventful even with Malfoy poking his nasally head in. I didn't see Alyssa until it was time to depart. She had changed from her Potter robes to her school robes and was buried in a book.

"You ready to go?" I asked her knocking on her compartment.

"Not really. I'm not ready to face this semester." she mumbled quietly. Something was bothering her, but I chalked it up to it being her last year before she graduated.

Nudging her out the compartment, we met up with my friends and took the carriage back to Hogwarts. Declining to sit with us, she sat with three other classmates and looked out toward the Great Lake the whole time. Entering the castle, we took our seat at the Gryffindor table-along with Alyssa this time-who was still buried in a book.

Once the student body had found their seats, the Headmaster took his time getting up and welcoming everyone back from the holiday. With a few more short words, we (excluding Alyssa) dug into the feast.