'Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Warning: Angst.
Chapter 59 – Muggle Paris, Magical Paris
"I believe our guests have arrived," Alphard walked back inside the apartment from the balcony situated at the end of the entrance hall. "Everything is ready outside and the weather, thankfully, has cooperated." He walked to where Sirius stood and patted him on the shoulder before throwing wide the double doors.
"Welcome, welcome," Alphard greeted his guests and, smiling broadly, he shook hands with Mr. and Mrs. Potter, then with James, Remus, Lily and, finally, Kate as Sirius made the introductions. As the others moved further into the hallway, Alphard leaned down toward Kate and said, "And I am particularly pleased to meet you, my dear. My great-nephew has told me quite a bit about you."
Kate smiled in return. "I am so happy to meet you, Mr. Black. Sirius speaks so warmly of you I feel that I know you already."
"We'll be having none of this 'Mr. Black' nonsense. That particular address belongs to my nephew, Orion – and I'd just as soon avoid any comparison to that particular wizard, if you please!" Alphard situated Kate's hand in the crook of his arm and led her over to where the others were standing. Kate looked a smile over at Sirius, who was grinning widely at the pair of them. "Sirius, if you allow me the pleasure of escorting your young lady to the balcony, I promise to surrender her to you for the meal."
"Absolutely," Sirius said and fell in step with James and Remus as they made their way down the hall and out onto the huge balcony beyond.
"So that's Uncle Alphard," Remus whispered.
"Yeah; brilliant, isn't he?" Sirius replied.
Remus and James both nodded. "Totally brilliant. I've never seen a wizard his age in Muggle clothes – and bell-bottomed jeans, no less!" James' eyes were wide as he looked over at Alphard's current outfit. This morning, the older wizard had paired yesterday's jeans and sandals with a bright pink button-down cotton shirt.
The group approached the large table situated in the center of the balcony, in a spot that offered a beautiful, unobstructed view of l'Arc de Triomphe. The deep cherry table had been covered in a crisp, white linen cloth on which rested lovely china and cutlery place settings for the eight in attendance. Bowls of fresh fruit dotted the table with pitchers of thick, sweet cream resting nearby. Plates of flaky, buttery croissant were littered about the table and a platter of waffles had been placed in the center, beside a similar platter of crepes. Marie had provided pitchers of warm syrup, bowls of jams and jellies as well as pats of rich butter so that everyone could have their choice of toppings. There were omelets filled with a variety of cheeses, potatoes au gratin and crisp bacon, for those who preferred a more savory breakfast. Pots of tea, coffee and chocolate stood on a side table with pitchers of orange juice and milk for those who preferred a cold beverage with their meal. Charms had been placed to keep hot dishes hot and cold items chilled to their proper temperatures.
"Wow," James said as he looked 'round the table.
Alphard laughed. "Indeed. Sit down, everyone, please – and dig in, as they say. If there's something you'd like that you don't see, please let me know and we'll get it."
Sirius took a seat between Kate and Remus and leaned in toward the young werewolf who was eyeing his cutlery cautiously. "Stainless steel," he whispered. "Uncle Alphard refuses to use the real silver because it has the family crest all over it. Says it makes him too nauseous to enjoy his meals!"
Remus smiled broadly and with a bit of relief. "I understand why you like him!"
Over breakfast, Alphard traded Hogwarts stories with the students and assured them that he did, in fact, know Albus Dumbledore – had known him for many years, in fact. He also put paid to the rumor that he had been taught by Professor Binns – when the teacher still had his corporeal form. "Complete lie," he said, putting his hand over his heart. "I swear it!"
The elderly wizard gave Margaret the location of several of his favorite antique vendors, situated along the rue des Rosiers. "Bloody awful name, that," Sirius muttered so only Kate and Remus heard him. "It's in the Jewish Marais – lovely bookstores and bakeries. It's in the 5th quarter, however, so you will need to take the train." Remus' interest was piqued at the mention of the bookstores and Lily's expression reflected her delight at exploring heretofore undiscovered literary treasures.
"There is also quite a poignant memorial nearby – behind Notre Dame Cathedral. It commemorates the nearly six million Jews who were murdered by the Germans in the Muggle Second World War," Alphard's voice grew solemn as he spoke.
"Six million people?" James was aghast. "What was the war about?"
"Racial superiority," Remus said, his voice like steel. "A man named Adolph Hitler rose to power on the theory that the German race was far superior to any other. Jews of all ancestry were considered the enemy – and completely responsible for all that was wrong with the world. Rid the world of Jews, he thought, and Aryan supremacy would be unquestioned. Hitler formed what came to be known as the Nazi Party and its army infiltrated all of Muggle Europe in the late 1930's through 1945. People disappeared almost as others were looking at them. Scores of Jewish families fled Europe for America before the war truly began. Others went into hiding throughout Europe, hoping to evade capture in the raids that were conducted quite regularly. Soldiers destroyed Jewish businesses and households, arrested innocents and sent them to prison camps where they existed in conditions that can only kindly be described as squalor. Children were separated from their parents and often sent miles away, only to be killed later on. Whole families were separated from each other. Men and women alike were murdered in gas chambers and shot in prison yards. All because they were considered too different to live; too lowly to be tolerated. The Americans and the Russians liberated the majority of the camps by the mid 1940's. There were comparatively few survivors and those who had lived through it came back to nothing; everything they'd worked for had been destroyed by the Nazis."
The silence that had fallen over the table while Remus spoke continued for some time after he finished.
Hal finally broke the stillness. "Adolph Hitler; Dark Wizard. Jews; Muggles. Nazis; Death Eaters."
"Discrimination and intolerance," Remus added softly.
"People disappearing, persecuted. Homes and businesses destroyed. Lives ruined by suspicion and hate," Lily added. "So many parallels."
"So many lessons to be learned," Alphard said, looking around the table. "The Jews who were annihilated over three decades ago did nothing to earn their fate, but so many chose to believe that such terrible atrocities would not – could not - be committed against them. They were reluctant to leave their homes, their lives – and start over again in a strange new place. As Hitler and his army gained footholds throughout Europe, many recognized the danger and tried to escape, but it was too late. We have begun to see signs of an uprising in our own world. We cannot stand by and deny these signs are there. We must acknowledge them and do all we can to stop their progress. We cannot allow another group of innocents to be slaughtered in the name of prejudice and arrogance. We must stand together; loyal to what we all believe in and unwavering in our support of that belief – and in each other." He stopped once again and took stock of the group around him. The elderly wizard smiled ruefully. "Alas, I have allowed my convictions to run away with what should have been a lighthearted gathering of friends – old and new. Please forgive an old man's rambling."
Hal shook his head. "There's nothing to forgive, Alphard. These young people are the future of our world. We cannot allow them to remain unaware of what's happening. Perhaps we have done so for too long as it is. We need to reaffirm their belief in what's right so they cannot be swayed by the more seductive powers embraced by others." His smile encompassed Sirius and, discreetly, Remus as he added, "People are not always who and what they seem. Those who would normally be associated with Darkness by virtue of birth or circumstances are often unfairly and incorrectly labeled. I don't think anyone at this table is apt to make that mistake – particularly after hearing your very meaningful words, Alphard."
"You are very kind, Hal," Alphard smiled. "But, I think our young friend Mr. Lupin was far more eloquent than I. It seems that you and I share a similar conviction, Remus."
Remus looked embarrassed. "I think everyone feels the same way," he demurred. "I would like to go and see the memorial, if we could fit it in."
Margaret nodded. "As would I, Remus. You all have a friend to visit, I believe. While you are at the hospital, perhaps Hal and I will wander about the local shops and then meet up with you when you're finished. If Alphard could give us the directions, we can do a bit of shopping for antiques – and books," she smiled at Remus and Lily, "and a bit of history."
A bit of historical prevention, more like. Sirius' expression was resolute as he rose from his chair and waited on the fringes of the group to bid his great-uncle goodbye.
"We'll wait for you downstairs then," Hal said after shaking Alphard's hand.
"I'll be right there."
When they were once again alone, Alphard hugged Sirius tightly then took a step back, keeping his hands firmly on the younger wizard's shoulders. "I know how tempting it is to rebel against some of the bindings that restrain us," he said, holding Sirius' gaze with his own. "I implore you to remember that while those bindings can chafe, they also protect. It is imperative that you refrain from snapping them, my boy. Those who would hurt you know your weaknesses – your temper, your rebellious nature and impatience chief amongst them. You've come through so much this year, Sirius. Do not allow yourself to play into their hands. Accept the protection given to you; if this Dark wizard continues to gather followers, we will need all of our powerful young witches and wizards to join in the fight later on. Do not take chances now – do we understand each other?"
Sirius nodded slowly. "And what about you, Uncle? What about those who would hurt you? You don't have anyone here to protect you and I…"
"…worry about me, as well?" Alphard finished, a soft smile playing about his mouth. "You, my boy, are at the very beginning of your life – with so many opportunities for adventure stretched out before you. Worrying about me is nothing more than a waste of the time you could be spending in pursuit of more exciting things."
"That's not an answer, Uncle Alphard," Sirius would not be swayed, but he added, "With all due respect."
"I suppose it's not. Consider this my answer then: I have lived a good many years. I've seen and done many exciting and wonderful things. While I'm not quite ready to leave this realm, I will say that when my time arrives, I'll not be taking many regrets with me. I should like to see you grow up the rest of the way, of course – and perhaps see you and your young lady settled – with perhaps a few great-great nieces and nephews to entertain. I'm a realist, however, my boy and whilst not a Seer, I am doubtful that this will come to pass." As Sirius drew breath to protest, Alphard squeezed his shoulders lightly. "I am in good health, for a wizard of my age and I have no intention of allowing anyone to – what is it the Muggles say – 'catch me with my pants down'? Yes, that's it! Delightful turn of phrase they have!" When Sirius did not seem to share Alphard's enthusiasm for the witticism, the older man turned more somber as well. "Sirius, there's really no point in worrying about me. I am still a powerful enough wizard to take care of myself and I have the added benefit of having been on this earth long enough to have seen this sort of uprising before."
"Grindelwald," Sirius said quietly.
"Yes; Grindelwald. And it was as nasty an experience as you can imagine; ask Dumbledore – he was there as well. He defeated the bastard in the end," Alphard nodded. "Soundly, I might add. He deserves the accolades he received for his valor. That particular commodity – valor – was not in great abundance at that time. It has never been a dominant trait in our family, either. Remember well what we discussed last night. Remember what I told you about your father's family, in particular. They were an unpleasant lot and most remain so. For all my bluster, Sirius, I am too old to go off chasing Dark Wizards and engaging in battles. That's not to say that I won't do my part – just quietly, behind the scenes this time." The older wizard looked unblinkingly into Sirius' eyes for a few moments. "You should not fear for me, my boy as it will take your attention away from your own pursuits and will only make you paranoid and suspicious in the end. You can neither protect nor defend me from your castle in Scotland – and I don't require either effort from you. What I do need, as I've said, is to know that you are safe and learning all that you need to know for the battles that may come later on. Know your enemies, Sirius. I surely know mine – and can therefore take precautions to remain safe from them."
Sirius nodded, but a sense of disquiet had lodged itself firmly in the pit of his stomach. "I don't want anything to happen to you," he said stubbornly, "but I understand what you're saying. If I promise you to look after myself, not to take chances and to control my … weaknesses, will you promise me to do the same?"
Alphard drew the young man into a brief hug one more time before draping his arm across Sirius' shoulders and walking with him to the front door of the apartment. "I will promise you that I will not take foolish, meaningless chances and that I will owl often to assure you that I am well."
"I'll write back. I promise," Sirius said as Alphard opened the door for him.
Sirius picked up his backpack from the hallway table. "Thanks for everything, Uncle Alphard." He reached out and grasped the older wizard's arm for a moment.
"Thank you, my boy. Thank you for breathing some youth into this place, for introducing me to your friends. You all give me a great deal of hope for our future. Now, run along. They're all waiting for you. Safe journey, Sirius."
With that, Sirius walked out the door and rang for the lift. When it arrived, he turned and pressed the button for the Lobby. "Goodbye, Uncle," he said with a smile – and held Alphard's gaze until the doors slid to a close.
"Goodbye, my very dear boy," Alphard whispered, stepping back into his entryway and softly closing the door.
XXXXXXXX
Similar to St. Mungo's in London, the magical community in Paris was cared for by St. Gunhilda's Hospital. Unlike St. Mungo's, however, as it was located in Magical Paris, there was no need to disguise its existence or location from passersby. The building, constructed completely of white, Italian marble, boasted 13 floors and stood majestically against the cool, Paris sky. The double doors were also made of the same blindingly white marble, intricately carved with a relief of. Gunhilda of Gorsemoor, the hospital's founder, dispensing medicine to a bedridden patient. The same magical properties found in wizard photographs had been applied to the relief and the scene was animated to show the hospital's founder sweeping into the room with a phial of potion, sitting gently on the side of the bed and helping the obviously desperately ill child to drink it. Once she had consumed the potion, the effects were instantaneous as the child smiled beatifically, hugging the healer tightly 'round the neck. After settling the child back against her pillows, Gunhilda rose and left the room. After a moment's pause, the scene began anew.
Sirius let out a low whistle. "Wonder what this St. Gunhilda did to get that kind of showy display!"
Lily brushed by him and approached the door, tossing over her shoulder, "She cured dragon pox, you dolt! I swear, do any of you read?"
"Oi!" Remus protested.
"Oh, sorry – I wasn't including you …" Lily stopped mid-sentence as the door made a small tinkling sound – rather like a tiny music box – and began to shimmer. As the group watched, the shimmering effect intensified and in a moment, the door was gone and the pathway to the interior of the building cleared.
"Wow," Kate breathed.
"Come along," Remus suggested, herding them along with him. "We don't know how long this will last, do we?"
As they crossed the threshold into the cool interior of the hospital, a soft, feminine voice began to speak. "Welcome to St. Gunhilda's Hospital. All are welcome here." The hum of magic intensified and the students turned to see the door shimmer into being once again.
"I think we're supposed to start there," Remus said, gesturing toward a gleaming, circular stone desk in the center of the facility's atrium. Around it buzzed healers – easily recognized by their muted, lilac robes, caregivers, the magical equivalent of nurses, dressed in pale blue and balancing stacks of parchment - and all varieties of patients and visitors. The noise level matched the foot traffic and the group wove their way through the crowds until they'd reached the information desk.
After securing the floor and room number for Ofelia and her daughter, the group made their way onto an empty lift. Seconds later, they emerged to an area that was as peaceful and serene as the atrium had been chaotic. The lighting was softer and gentle music wafted through the corridor as they walked along, peering at door numbers to find the one occupied by their friend and her family. The air smelled sweet – reminiscent of talcum powder and baby lotion and happy, cooing and gurgling sounds reached them from beyond the open doors of the rooms they passed on their way.
"Here we are," Lily said, pausing on the threshold of the last door on the right. "Shall we?"
The friends quietly entered the room, finding it to be much larger than it appeared from their vantage point in the hall; in fact, it appeared to be more suite than single hospital room. Painted a soft peach, one side of the suite featured a large sofa with a low table situated in front. The wall beyond it was solid glass, affording the observer a very nice view of the Paris skyline. A partially open door stood just beyond the corner, next to which was a queen-sized bed, which quickly became the focal point for the visitors. Propped up against a seeming mountain of pillows, with hair neatly brushed and looking serene, Ofelia cuddled her tiny daughter.
"Finally! Come, meet my beautiful daughter," she said, beaming a smile at her friends.
True to form, both Kate and Lily moved forward quickly while the wizards hung a bit further behind. After the girls had exclaimed over the baby who was exactly as beautiful as her mother proclaimed her to be, James and Remus took their place, spending considerably less time examining the small bundle and more reacquainting themselves with Ofelia. Sirius lagged a bit in the background until Ofelia noticed and beckoned him forward. "Sirius, my dearest friend, please come and see Hélène. In so many ways, it's as if you already know her; you were the first to know of her, after all."
Sirius walked slowly toward the bed. As happy as he was to see Ofelia again, he wasn't certain about this little being; she was, after all, the catalyst for so many things – good and bad – that had happened to him this past year. But then he was there, standing next to Ofelia's bedside, being handed this little life, wrapped tightly in a bit of yellow blanket. "Go on – take her," Ofelia urged quietly. "Hold her like this – that's right – she won't break, I promise you." And there she was – this tiny scrap of humanity with a tuft of light-colored hair and pink cheeks, settled safely in the crook of the young wizard's arm. Her long eyelashes were darker than the sparse hair on her head and they rested against her cheeks in dainty crescents. Her wee, bow-shaped mouth curled a bit as she dozed and one fist unfurled then clutched again. Sirius simply watched her, enchanted by this miniscule creature who, until so very recently, had been an intangible – a promise of something to come. Now, here she was. Suddenly, her mouth opened in a delicate yawn, she stretched a bit then opened her eyes; it took her a moment, but Hélène settled her gaze on Sirius' face and stared at him without blinking.
"What?" he asked softly. "Do I have my breakfast on my face or something?" Hélène merely blinked and continued her somber observation.
"I think she likes you," Ofelia said, smiling at them.
"Big surprise," James snickered.
"She's a bit young to decide who she likes, isn't she?" Sirius deliberately ignored James.
"Not at all. Babies are very adept at sensing people who can be trusted – and those who can't." Ofelia paused and flashed a mischievous grin. "She hates Michael's great aunt Gertrude. Odious woman – drips diamonds and virtually bathes in that scent "My Sin"; we can smell her coming when she steps off the lift! She always talks very loudly to the poor baby and it frightens her." Ofelia dropped her voice to a whisper. "Poor Hélène was so startled yesterday that she – well, to be delicate – wet herself – and Aunt Gertrude – quite thoroughly. I don't think that woman will be visiting us anytime soon!"
Sirius chuckled and Hélène let out a small squeak. "Here," he said to Ofelia. "You'd better take her before she thinks I'm related to dear old Aunt Gertrude!"
But, Ofelia refused to take the baby from him. "She knows better – and you're doing just fine. Why don't you sit down," she invited, pointing to a chair a short distance from where he was standing. "You'll be more comfortable."
Sirius looked panicked for a moment as he considered the distance. "Carry her all the way over there?"
Ofelia rolled her eyes. "She can't be that heavy, Sirius; I'm sure you can make it if you focus."
Remus laughed out loud then went to fetch the chair for his friend. "Here you go, Padfoot."
"Very funny," Sirius sank slowly into the chair, careful not to jostle Hélène as he did so. "I have no idea if you'll be spending time with any of them as you grow older, but if you do, you come straight to me first and I'll tell you what complete tossers they are – just so you're prepared!"
"Nice language, Pads," James snorted, coming to peer over his friend's shoulder. "Blimey; she won't look away, will she?"
"Is my daughter being rude again?" A deep voice came from the door and soon, a smiling Michael Delacour strode into the room and dropped a kiss on his wife's cheek before coming around to say hello to the baby. "Yep, there's 'The Stare'," he confirmed. "Although I'm a bit miffed to think that she'd fix it on anyone other than her dear old Dad! Do you mind?" He asked Sirius, holding out his arms. The younger wizard shook his head – a bit gratefully – and surrendered Hélène to her father.
Once he'd settled himself at the foot of Ofelia's bed, Michael laid the baby in his lap and smiled at their visitors. "Thanks for coming to see us," he said warmly. "You all did so much to make sure we got to this point; I'm not sure I can ever thank you – particularly you, Sirius."
"I think anyone would have helped if they could have," Sirius replied, going to stand next to Kate and hoping his face didn't reflect the heat he felt there.
"I'm not sure that's true," Michael said. "Ofelia and I wanted very much to show our appreciation for your friendship in a very real way – by asking you to be Hélène's godfather. Unfortunately, my parents are sticklers for tradition in some ways and they have asked us to have a pair of cousins serve as godparents. Please know that if we had our way…"
Sirius shook his head. "You shouldn't cause problems in your family because of me," he said. "I've caused enough in my own to have made my quota there, I think. I really appreciate the thought, though." He smiled at Ofelia. "Even after everything you know about me, to think that you would have considered me means a lot."
"Well, you took care of her – of us – before she was born; we had every confidence that you would continue to do so afterward – if you'd had to do it. But, we want you to visit as often as you'd like – all of you – once we've finally settled in at home. I miss you all a great deal," Ofelia said her eyes bright.
"Of course," Lily spoke up. "But you're going back to school, yes?"
Ofelia nodded. "Beauxbatons," she confirmed. "But I will not be living at the school. Michael and I have a small cottage on his parents' estate. He will be attending university in Paris and will also be living at home. Hélène will stay with her grandmother – Michael's mother – during the day; she refused to even hear about a nanny to care for her."
"It's worked out well for you," Kate smiled. "I'm so very happy for you – for all of you."
Ofelia glanced up at Michael, her expression sad before she turned her attention back to Kate. "It has not come without some degree of sacrifice. My parents have decided that I have not exactly treated the name of Bullstrode in a very respectful way. I have brought dishonor to our family and compromised our reputation. They have, of course, disowned me." She stopped speaking for a moment and was obviously working to control her emotions. Michael patted her knee encouragingly. "While I do not appreciate their attempts to dictate my life, I will admit that it is a bit unsettling to have your family walk away from you."
Sirius nodded. "I know a bit about that. What makes up for it – for me, anyway – is finding a true family who loves me for who I am. You have that now, too."
"You've had a difficult time, my friend," Ofelia said softly. "I'm so sorry."
"Don't be; I'm fine now. Better than fine. I'm not part of them anymore; that part of my life is over. I'll never go back there. I'll never let them get to me again." Sirius smiled at her. "Enough of that. Hélène doesn't need to hear all about the sick and twisted Blacks."
"Nope, just the prankster ones," James offered, neatly side-stepping Sirius' elbow.
"So, you are returning to Hogwarts this year?" Ofelia asked Sirius.
"Already returned," he said. "We all went back a little early this summer." His eyes swept over his friends in a silent request that they not expound on this fact; happily, they did not. Unhappily, Ofelia wasn't going to let him get away with it.
"All of you? Why?"
"Would you believe that James' parents got sick of having us underfoot?" Sirius asked.
"Given the fact that they're treating you to a long weekend in Paris? No."
"Fine. After my exit from Grimmauld, my father took my mother to a special hospital here in Paris. It's the sort of place they bring people with problems like hers – mental problems – and work with them to see if they can get them under control. After she left, old Walburga expressed an interest in meeting with me. Understandably, I'm not interested in having that happen and, thankfully, Dumbledore agreed. With no apparent regard for the school, he generously included this crowd in his invitation to return early." Sirius smiled, hoping his abbreviated version of events had enough meat to satisfy Ofelia who had, after all, been exposed to enough of the Blacks – and general Pureblood behavior via her own family – and could easily surmise the rest. This time, the fates gave him his reprieve.
"A better summer than you would have had otherwise," Ofelia replied. "But it's a pity that Peter couldn't have made time to come with you today."
"We wanted him to come back to school early, as well; sent him an owl and everything, but his mum wouldn't let him leave Wales. He might come back a few days early next week, but that's about all he was allowed," James explained, grimacing at the thought of the whining they would need to endure.
"Wales?" Ofelia looked at them in surprise.
"Yeah…Wales," Sirius replied. "Some family thing. Old lady with cats if I remember right."
"Well, I don't know anything about cats, but Michael said he saw him in London last week," Ofelia said, looking over at the young man for confirmation.
"Yes, I recognized him from one of your previous visits; short boy, rather heavy-set, light-colored hair. I had stopped into the Leaky Cauldron for a quick lunch before I met with my advisor at University. I was sure it was him, but the place was rather dimly lit and I didn't notice him until just before I was ready to leave. I'm afraid I was running quite late by then and I didn't have the chance to stop and speak with him," Michael shrugged.
"Did you happen to see if he was with anyone?" Remus asked, curiously.
"I believe he was with someone – a man, I believe. I had the impression it was his father, perhaps? The age seemed right, but, as I said, I was in a hurry and didn't pay much attention," Michael's voice was apologetic, then curious as he added; "Didn't he contact you?"
Sirius, James and Remus exchanged a look then Remus shook his head. "No, he didn't; at least we haven't heard that he tried. Perhaps there was a message that hasn't gotten to us, yet."
James shook his head. "And it wouldn't have been his father; he died and it's just Peter and his mother now."
Remus was quick to reply. "Well, no matter; I'm sure there's a logical explanation. Perhaps Peter was in a hurry, as well. His mother might have been waiting elsewhere for him and his time wasn't really his own. We'll find out soon enough."
The answering expressions on James' and Sirius' faces indicated that 'soon enough' was a relative term.
Hélène broke the brief silence with one or two small cries and Ofelia smiled. "It's getting close to her feeding time, I think." The friends responded by rising – the boys rather quickly – and making their good-byes to the young family. Ofelia shook her head in amusement.
"I hope that you'll come and visit us soon. We're going home tomorrow; I'll owl you the address so you can come anytime you're able." Ofelia hugged each of her friends in turn until only Sirius was left. The others discreetly withdrew to the hallway to wait for him and Michael – carrying the once-again dozing baby – joined them.
"So," Sirius said, standing awkwardly by her bed.
"So," Ofelia replied.
"I guess I'll be seeing you," he said. "But it will be strange not to see you at the castle."
Ofelia nodded, smiling even though Sirius could see tears in her eyes. "Who would have believed – when all this started - that I would get so emotional over the concept of not seeing you with any predictable frequency?"
Sirius chuckled. "What can I say? I grow on you after a while!"
Ofelia gave a small laugh and reached for a tissue to dab at her eyes. "Yes, you certainly have done that." She paused for a moment then reached for his hand. "You are very important to me, my friend; very important. Please stay in touch – even if it's only by owl. I'd rather that you visited, however."
Sirius nodded, then leaned down and hugged the young witch warmly. "You're important to me, too. You take care of yourself – and that new baby of yours. I think she fancies me, you know!" He stood up straight and gave Ofelia a rakish wink, backing out of reach as she made to swat at his arm.
"You're incorrigible," she said, shaking her head at him.
"Just one of my many attractive qualities," he replied. Sobering, Sirius added, "Take care of her, Ofelia; make sure that she doesn't put up with the shite that we have, yeah? Don't let anyone teach her that the purity of someone's blood defines their value. You and Michael do better by her than our parents did by us." He raised his eyebrows then smiled when she nodded.
"I promise."
As Sirius turned and opened the door to the hallway, the sound of a baby's cry reached them. He turned back to Ofelia and grinned. "Well, either she's hungry or she just got a good look at James' hair!"
XXXXXXXX
"So, Peter was in London," James muttered to Remus and Sirius as the five friends waited for the lift that would take them to the hospital lobby. Lily, who was standing in front of the bespectacled wizard, sighed her impatience.
"No doubt dragged there by his mother," she commented. "Didn't you listen to Remus? He's right, you know. There could be any number of reasons why he was in London and didn't owl you."
Sirius looked over at Remus. "I don't know, Moony; there's something about this that doesn't seem right. He can't come to school early because his mother has him hogtied in Wales. Michael sees him in London – talking with some old bloke – in a back corner of the Leaky Cauldron and … no mum. Doesn't seem like she much dragged him, does it?" The lift arrived and they piled in, the car magically sizing to accommodate them comfortably.
"Peter's your friend, Sirius," Kate offered. "It could be that she did drag him to London for some reason or other. He didn't actually tell you that she was keeping him in Wales until term started, so it could easily be that they both returned to London early – or on schedule, depending upon what the plans were. She could have dragged him out on errands and they met up with – an uncle or a cousin."
"Peter doesn't have any uncles and this man sounded too old to be a cousin," Sirius said.
"Well, maybe Mrs. Pettigrew has a companion," Lily said as the lift doors opened and they stepped out into the bright lobby. "Maybe she was running errands and Peter was getting to know his mother's new … boyfriend."
James rolled his eyes. "I may be ill."
"It does happen," Remus said. "Kate's mom found someone new, after all. I suppose Peter's mother could have done, as well."
"Still," Sirius wasn't quite ready to admit defeat. "Wouldn't his owl have mentioned something about it if she had?"
Even Remus fell silent at that and, in the next minute, the Potters were walking up to greet them and the conversation – for that moment anyway – was over.
XXXXXXXX
Reunited, the group chatted happily as they made their way to the Metro which would take them to the 4th arrondissment district – and the Jewish Marais. This, the most famous Jewish neighborhood in Paris, represented the cultural and historic richness of its people, who had lived there – on and off – since the thirteenth century. Scattered up and down the quaint, narrow rue des Rosiers, as well as on the many side streets, were Jewish restaurants, bookshops, boulangeries and synagogues. Passing one open door, the visitors paused at the rhythmic, almost musical sound of many voices, murmuring together in a tongue that was most foreign to their ears. "It's a shtiebel," Hal informed them, quietly. "A small prayer room. Lovely, isn't it?" The group continued down the streets, stopping here and there to enter one of the small bookshops or a tiny pottery and glass merchant. Finally, they stopped in one of the bakeries, taking away warm, fragrant Challah rolls and paper cups of rich coffee. Wandering along the rue des Rosiers, the street widened and Kate pointed out the majestic stone façade of Notre Dame Cathedral in the distance. Munching their snack, they walked along, anxious to visit the memorial about which Alphard had told them. On the way, they passed a Jewish trade school which bore a plaque with a message inscribed in French. Remus, fluent in the language, translated, "To the memory of the Director, the Staff, and the Students of This School. Arrested in 1943 and 1944 by the Vichy Police and the Gestapo. Deported and Exterminated at Auschwitz only because they were Jews."
"The cruelties man commits against himself," Margaret whispered.
The rest of their walk was completed in silence.
When they arrived at the vast courtyard and stood before the immense and stately Cathedral, they were struck by the sheer beauty of the Gothic architecture. Remus entertained them with the story of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", which Hal confirmed as a true story of a creature that had actually lived in the bell tower of the landmark. The theory in the wizarding world was that Quasi Modo, as he had come to be known, was not a deformed human as was the popular belief, but rather a troll who had failed to achieve the size and stature customary of his magical brethren. Banished by his tribe, he came to live at Notre Dame, falling in love with the beautiful Esmeralda – and meeting a predictable end at the hands of those who did not care to understand him. Choosing to bypass the bell tower, the Potters and their charges entered the cool stillness of the Cathedral itself and spent time taking in the beautiful stained glass windows and the creamy white marble statues – all amidst the soothing whispers of those who gathered before the many altars to offer their daily prayers. The experience proved calming for the magical visitors – particularly for Sirius, who carried with him the stories of annihilation and persecution told at breakfast and underscored by their stroll through the Jewish Marais and the memorial embedded in the wall of the school. Somehow, in this still and ancient place, his equilibrium had been restored; he might not share the beliefs of those who worshipped here, but he respected the faith that brought them – and the freedom, won for all – that allowed them to gather together to practice it. And Sirius could not deny that there was a presence of some kind that drew these faithful, even though he did not understand what it was.
Walking out into the bright sunlight sometime later, Harold led them behind the great Cathedral, across rue de l'Archeveché, to Square de l'Ile de France. They made their way quietly through a small gate that led to the memorial they had come to see. Inside, were written the names of the German death camps where 200,000 French men, women and children – Jews and Christians – had been murdered. Each stood silently, contemplating the parallels between this horrific event and that which was shaping up in their own world – events which Muggles had already endured.
"Perhaps instead of looking down on Muggles, our world would do better to try to learn something from the wars they've fought," James commented softly.
"Perhaps we are, in a way," Harold replied. "All of this was the brainchild of a madman who took the fears of a certain class of people and capitalized on them for his own benefit: power. It is difficult for the masses to stop a madman once he has amassed a following. We are working to stop our particular madman – this Dark Wizard – before his followers grow too great in number. I won't say that this trip this morning has taught us anything tactical because it hasn't; the French did not recognize the monster quickly enough to strike it down early. What it has done – at least for me - is to strengthen my resolve to make certain this does not happen – that it never happens – in our world."
As the group walked through the gate, Sirius glanced up over the door and saw a message written there. "Moony, what does it say?"
Remus read the words, then turned to his friend, "Forgive, but do not forget!"
Sirius stiffened, but relaxed when Remus draped his arm across Sirius' shoulders. "I think that the creators of the memorial meant it as a means to heal. Forgive those who murdered the innocents, but remember that it happened so you can prevent it in the future."
"How could anyone forgive the Germans for what they did?" the dark-haired wizard's voice was incredulous.
"Not all the Germans were guilty of the crime," Remus shrugged. "And some of those who were guilty participated because they – or their families – were threatened with harm if they did not. And some people believed that all of them had to be forgiven – even those who were guilty by choice – to allow the survivors to move on with their lives, to have some degree of happiness after such great loss."
"I don't know that I could have forgiven," Sirius said, shaking his head.
"I don't know that I could have forgiven them all," Remus said, squeezing his friend's shoulder. "Definitely not those who embraced Hitler's beliefs and tortured and killed people intentionally."
"Do you think people like James' father will be able to stop this Dark Wizard before he goes too far?"
Remus sighed. "Who can say? I'll wager when Dumbledore killed Grindelwald all those years ago, the wizarding world thought it would never happen again. And it looks like it is."
Sirius nodded. "'Do not forget,'" he said softly. "It would seem that we did."
"But now we remember. And perhaps we won't forget again." Remus looked through the gate where the others were standing, talking amongst themselves and waiting for the two young wizards to join them. "Come on, Padfoot; let's not keep them waiting any longer." Remus steered his friend through the gate.
