Transcendence Through The Looking Glass

October 29th, 1989 

Remus-

Remus was many things. The most prevalent of those things was that he was a werewolf. And that he'd always thought himself a good friend. Yesterday, Remus had realized that maybe he wasn't as good of a friend as he's thought. And wasn't that a really depressing thought. Or maybe it wasn't him and Remus was really bad at choosing friends? Either way after leaving Dumbledore's office yesterday he just felt gutted.... empty.

Too much had happened and even he had to admit that his choices hadn't been good. Remus had been largely cut off from the magical world for a long time. Jobs freely given to werewolves usually weren't good ones. They were usually shady, illegal, dangerous, and ill paying. Not that werewolves, had much of a choice really. It was either that or have no job and either live on the streets. Or go to live with the wild wolf clans. None of those options appealed to Remus in the slightest. Especially if there was a chance, he could encounter Fenrir. Disgust went through him at the mere thought of the man. He loathed the very existence of the man. It was his fault Remus was like this!

After that fateful night at Godric's Hallow. Where Remus thought he'd lost three of his friends and the fourth had betrayed them. Well, that was it for him. Reassurance from Dumbledore had told him that Harry would be safe. As the only remaining member of the pack, he'd called family. Remus was relieved to hear that Harry would be alright. As much as Remus wanted to take Harry and be with his cub. He knew that it could never be.

He was a werewolf...deemed and branded a monster by society as a whole. Who would leave a child.... let alone the boy-who-lived with a werewolf? Remus had been disillusioned rather early in his young life. His father Lyall was very vocal about how he felt about creatures. He'd worked for the department for control of magical creatures. Which at the time was filled with people just like his father. Who believed the only good creature was a creature in chains or simply dead ones. Growing up hearing his father's hate filled rants to his mother every night after dinner. Well, Remus had no illusions about how his father felt when he was mauled by Greyback.

He wouldn't even look at Remus after the attack happened. It came as no surprise when his father eventually left his mother. Oh, Remus had overheard their final fight. His mother Anna pleading with Lyall not to leave. Trying to tell the hateful man that Remus was still their son. And hearing his father's voice so coldly and viciously saying that, "that monster is not my son! He's dead now and only that beast is left!". Remus hadn't ease dropped on the rest of the conversation. He'd cried so much that night that he'd gotten sick all over the floor. So, no Remus hadn't fought to keep Harry with him. 

He figured his cub would be better off with a real family. Remus struggled to find employment and was constantly moving from place to place. He wasn't stable back then, not like now. Remus realized things would be easier in the muggle world. So, he'd left behind the magical world, not entirely, and found cheap housing. With some research into muggle diseases, he could finally find a job. He knew that having to have a week off for the moon every month. Would cause most workplaces to fire someone. But with the excuse of having a chronic medical condition. That required one week a month off to be at the 'hospital'. He tended to feel sickly and sometimes aggressive near the moon. And after the moon he needed a few days to recover. It was the perfect solution; a simple doctors note and a Confundous charm later. Well, the rest was history as the muggles say. Remus picked up a job at a bookstore during the days. And later at night he worked as a night watchman for a nearby jewelry store.

His situation had improved drastically as a result. His clothes no longer looked as shabby as they had before. He could afford a better apartment in a less rundown neighborhood. He managed to scrape up enough to exchange for wizarding money. Which was an expensive change over fee. But he couldn't pay for the wolfsbane potion with muggle currency. So yes, he'd been away from magical society for a few years. Remus was a little ashamed to realize that he hadn't spared a thought for Harry in the years away. His trust in Dumbledore had been absolute back then.

Now Remus was questioning pretty much every life choice that even tangentially involved Dumbledore. And with Sirius suddenly being proven innocent. Along with the revelation that Lily and James lived. Well, he was questioning how good a friend he was too. Because the couple and Dumbledore never said anything. The less that was said about Peter the better. And Sirius was a whole other thing.... Clearly the people he'd called friends and pack didn't trust him. To think that they would actually suspect that Remus or Sirius of being moles in the Order. All because Sirius was a Black and Remus was a werewolf. That was the justification for putting him through hell, leaving Harry with Petunia, and Sirius in jail.

Sirius...After coming home Remus had replayed the conversation over and over in his head. Merlin, he'd be lucky if Sirius ever gave him the time of day again. He'd completely dismissed Sirius's feelings. And had confusedly and badly focused on Harry, Dumbledore, and the shocking news of James & Lily. And not once in that conversation had he apologized to Sirius. He hadn't even asked how the other man was. Maybe he deserved to be alone...

Sighing he stood up to let in an owl that was carrying a Daily Prophet. He'd only gotten a subscription to the gossip rag yesterday at Dumbledore's behest. Anyone who was of moderate intelligence knew what they wrote was unsubstantiated rubbish. Unfolding the paper his eyes grew wide at the headline.

Fuck.

Dumbledore-

Albus smiled and greeted the students as he made his way to the Great Hall for breakfast. The sun was shining bright and beautiful, nothing could possibly ruin his good mood. Entering through the side door he took his usual seat. Helping himself to some sausages and toast. Mixing sugar into his tea he settled in listening to the conversations of his fellow professors. Albus had just finished his toast when the owls came swooping down. 

A dark brown barn owl dropped a copy of the paper down near his plate. Popping a strawberry in his mouth he began unrolling the paper. Albus seriously regretted that strawberry as it flew out of his mouth. Shock had propelled the half chewed fruit right out his mouth. This wasn't good! An angry huff sounded next to him as both Minerva and Severus glared at him.

"Albus is this article true? Tell me you didn't have a hand in this!" Minerva growled, her glare causing him to shiver.

That look promised murder!

"I'd like an answer to that as well." Severus drawled, his glare penetrating his soul.

He tried to hide the wince their dual looks of murder made him produce.

"I'm afraid that I have business to attend to!" Albus replied, the twinkle absent from his eyes.

He made a hasty retreat out through the teacher's entrance. Albus returned to his office at a brisk pace. The horrid newspaper was still clutched in his hand with a death grip. 

Dumbledore's Scandal, Potters not quite dead?

By Rita Skeeter

Dear readers I bring you shocking news from the depths of Diagon Alley! I was minding my own business and accidentally overheard a juicy conversation! It was so compelling that I knew it needed to be told! I overheard two men talking smack dab in one of the streets. The first man was Remus J. Lupin, who I was looking to interview about Harry Potter's disappearance. As Mr. Lupin was childhood friends with the Potters.

Imagine my surprise when he started talking to the second man. Now for legal purposes I can't name this man in the article. Anyway, the conversation started with an inquiry about Albus Dumbledore. Our second man seemed quite hostile at even the mention of the famed headmaster. Considering how close man number two was to Dumbledore before the Potter's murder. The utter amount of disgust and anger in that statement alone was shocking. It was then revealed that Mr. Lupin was sent there on orders!  Orders that were apparently given by Albus Dumbledore. Which led to Mr. Lupin scouring the Alley looking for signs of Harry Potter and his abductor. Why is he taking orders from Dumbledore exactly? The conversation went downhill rather fast. As I heard once again that Dumbledore had sworn in the secret keeper for the Potters. Our secondary man then went on to berate Mr. Lupin for being a ''bad'' friend. He then accused Lupin of knowing the Potters were actually alive!

Now I bet you're wondering, Rita how can this be true? Well, our second man had the Potters listed as beneficiaries in his will. He had been doing an audit of his accounts and updating his wills and estate. We all know that there is no way to fool goblin magic. When a goblin confirms something, the evidence is irrefutable. As a goblin would never allow anyone to besmirch their honor. Their use of blood and other questionable magics allows them to confirm things not even the Ministry can. So, imagine my shock in overhearing this interesting news. The second man even mentioned looking up the Potter family tree.

Now everyone knows that all magical family trees available to Gringotts are self-updating. They are tied the family magic of each family. So that births and deaths are accurately recorded. Our second man shockingly enough said that the Potters were not only alive. But that they had another child named Bianca! When the two men left, I of course followed my lead. The goblins for a price will allow the general public to see family trees. I went straight to Gringotts and requested just that. Now if a person dies their names fade and all children are listed under their parent's names. Not only were James and Lily Potter not faded. But there were two other shocking finds. There were two spots for children available. A Bianca Rose Potter was all of two years old. And the second spot where her brother Harry James Potter should be was empty! Not faded like a dead person...just plain empty like he'd never existed! How is this even possible? And was it part of their plan?

Dear readers what is the reason for this deception? Even if they faked their deaths to hide from Deatheaters and he-who-must-not-be-named. Surely it has been plenty safe enough to return. So why continue to play dead? And just how much is Albus Dumbledore responsible for this event?

Either way dearest readers this is a huge scandal that can't be ignored. Why wasn't Harry Potter living with them? Why was he placed with Lily Potter's muggle sister? And do the Potter's know or even care that their son is missing?

-Rita Skeeter

Albus was deathly pale after finishing the article. How could they be so utterly stupid?! Having a conversation like that in Diagon Alley of all places. Remus had mentioned the conversation. But had neglected to say where in the Alley it took place. He'd assumed they were smart enough to find a secluded side Alley. But no, they were talking about this in Diagon's main thoroughfare! He cursed Lupin for not doing revealing spells. Yes, a well-placed area silencing spell was standard for such things. But failing to use a revealing charm, to ensure no one invisible was listening in was just stupidity.

He couldn't even blame Sirius for the debacle because the man hadn't been allowed a wand yet. Which meant Remus had full responsibility for not properly checking. And now all of his carefully laid plans were ruined. He'd planned to keep the Potters a secret for a little bit longer. Slowly but surely reintroducing them to Order missions. There was no better agent than one that everyone thought was dead. And then eventually introduce Harry to the Order in his fifth year. Where he would meet his parents under glamours. 

Now his plans were ruined, James & Lily weren't safe, and Severus and Minerva were out for his blood. Not to mention the scrutiny he'd face from the Ministry. And Harry was still missing! This was just unacceptable, too much was happening all at once. And Albus had found himself ill equip to deal with it all at once. Sighing he knew he'd have to leave soon or risk getting shredded by an angry lioness and a vicious snake. He made sure he had what he needed and apparated out of his office. He couldn't afford to be caught before he had time to talk to the Potters. But first he had to visit a werewolf.

Harry-  

Harry had been eating breakfast with Hedwig, Loki, and Percival. When the Daily Prophet was brought to the table by an elf. Harry paled at the headline, he wasn't sure what to feel. But he did know that this was going to happen eventually. Hedwig had noticed Harry's distress and was nuzzling his neck. Soft hoots sounded as she continued to try to get his attention. Even Loki had left his bowl. And had scrabbled over to Harry, looking at him with a tilted head with a questioning look. Percival had even tried to get his attention as Harry had been very still. And too... quiet.

Harry snapped out of it after Loki decided to distract one of his humans by being himself. Loki had taken a chunk of mushroom and tossed it. The mushroom hit Harry in the forehead, which set him on a game of catch the fuzzy menace.

Sirius-

Sirius shook his head as he dropped the Prophet on the table. On one hand Sirius felt guilty for so carelessly talking about the Potters in a shopping market. On the other hand, Sirius felt an odd sort of vindication. As the lies that had eventually led to his imprisonment were exposed. This was either the worst thing or the best thing. It was the worst because it would be a reminder for Harry that his parents had abandoned him. Which what did one call it when they fake their deaths, their baby gets left with abusive muggles, and continue on with their lives like nothing happened? To Sirius that was abandonment pure and simple regardless of the circumstances.

On the other hand, this exposure was for the best really. It exposed the lies of his ex-friends and brought to light the injustice of Sirius's own imprisonment. Vindicating Sirius yet again and giving him the opportunity to confront them. He still didn't know where they had squirreled themselves away to. And Remus hadn't contacted him again. Honestly Sirius wanted to know two things from them. One: Why did they not tell him of the change of plans. Two: Did they know Sirius was in prison? And did they even care? Well, that's three questions really. But Sirius felt he deserved the right to know.

Regardless of the answer he wasn't going to trust them again. There was just too much pain and trauma. Caspian would be thrilled about this latest development. The man hadn't made it a big secret about how he felt about the Potters. Well, Caspian didn't like any of Sirius's ex-friends. But out of all of them Caspian didn't like the Potters the most. Sirius had been utterly surprised that the dislike came from Sirius's own trauma at their hands. It left Sirius feeling warm and suspiciously happy that someone cared. Shaking his head he turned his thoughts to a different topic. He'd be visiting Harry again today and was determined to not let his mood be ruined. The Potter's weren't worthy of his thoughts anymore.

Dumbledore- 

He finished transfiguring his clothes to look more muggle. Then Albus stepped out of the alley. He was a block away from Remus's muggle flat. After a quick walk followed by a climb up the stairs. He didn't trust those metal boxes that took people to different floors. Albus was glad Remus lived on the third floor as the stairs had tired him. Outside of C324 he knocked briskly hoping the man was there. After a few moments a lock unlatched and revealed a resigned looking Remus. With no words Dumbledore stepped into the flat and seated himself on the couch.

"Would you like some tea?" Remus asked, his voice sounding scratchy.

"No, my boy, I think you know why I'm here. I was under the impression from our other conversation that your talk with Sirius. Wasn't smack dab in the middle of thoroughfare." Albus said, disappointed.

"Albus, I put up the charms necessary I swear. No one was close enough in proximity to be in our sphere to hear anything. I didn't smell anyone either, so I didn't bother with revealing charms. I know Sirius didn't say anything about what we discussed." Remus said, biting his lip.

"Well, be that as it may. We have a problem that can't be fixed or swept under the rug. I've always known that Voldemort would return someday. And that James and Lily would need to remain hidden. Now everyone knows they are alive. The Ministry is going to have a lot of questions. Those vultures on the dark half of the Wizengamot, have been waiting for something like this. Something that will give them a reason to remove me! What I've done has skirted and bent the laws. With Harry still missing it's been a huge blow to our side this year. No more conversations outside. No more meetings without going through every revealing charm possible. And do not talk or even be near a reporter." Albus said, gruffly. 

He was getting much too old for this shit. Albus just needed a vacation to clear his mind. And scrap all of his plans because they were all in the rubbish bin. Prophecies weren't always accurate 100% accurate. That didn't lessen his belief in them. Albus had been so sure that it had been about Voldemort and Harry. But Tom sadly wasn't the only dark lord in the world. They cropped up rather frequently and most of them never become dangerous. Well...dangerous enough to deal with anyway. Most never gain enough power or followers to be a threat. Something that had surprised himself and Gellert in their youth. Without Harry, whatever value the prophecy may have had became absolutely nothing. Albus had tried so hard to make up for the things he'd done with Gellert.

He'd completely dropped the ball when he'd met a young Tom. The boy had reminded him of Gellert a tad too much. Coupled along with the Parseltongue and his own guilty mind. Then later on becoming a Slytherin. It had clouded his judgement and made him fearful of another rising dark lord. Thinking back to that day, Albus realized that he'd inadvertently pushed Tom too far. That Albus had created another dark lord. One that could've been avoided if only he'd been able to look passed his own faults. If only he hadn't judged Tom too soon. Tom had been but a child back then. There had been plenty of time to help him from his course. He could've gotten the boy adopted by a magical family. Hell, he could've gotten the boy a mind healer! But Albus had done none of those things. So, to assuage his guilt he'd become the champion of muggleborns and muggles for their world. Hoping for a world of integration, the exact opposite of what he and Gellert had wanted.

He repeated his mistakes two more times. Albus had thrown his full support to his new greater good. In doing so he failed to remember the flaws in the muggles that had made him want their subjugation to begin with. Once with Severus, Poppy had warned him of the worrying signs on the boy's health check. He at the time hadn't wanted to see it...didn't want to believe that anyone would do that to a child. Let alone a magical child whose mother was Eileen Prince. No self-respecting witch would let a muggle abuse them let alone their child. Besides those injuries very well could've been from attending a muggle school. Kids played and roughhoused all the time and nothing was serious. He failed Severus a second time when the Marauder's had taken an interest in him. Albus had written it off as boys will be boys. That it was nothing more than a silly schoolyard rivalry. It wasn't until after the near fatal attack by a moon transformed Remus. That he realized it was worse than he thought, if things had gone this far. And look what had happened to Severus...He'd failed the man and was doing all he could to try and keep him out of prison.

The Ministry was well aware of Severus's mark. They had wanted him up on charges like the other deatheaters. But Albus had stepped in and lied saying he'd been a spy for him. And then there was little Harry. He thought Harry would be safe with Petunia. That she would treat her nephew with care after he'd told her how important the boy was to their world. But the flashes of memory he'd skimmed from her thoughts. Had finally killed any lingering trust in muggles. Lily hadn't been exaggerating about her sister. He'd underestimated the cruelty of muggles. Harry was missing, Merlin only knows where and who he was with. 

"Albus? Albus are you okay?" Remus said, worriedly.

He looked up to see Remus kneeling next him, a single hand on his arm. Worried amber eyes were looking at him.

"I'm sorry my boy, I got lost in the past. You will mind what I told you?" Albus asked, giving Remus a pointed look over his glasses.

"Of course, I will but what about James and Lily?" Remus asked, desperately.

"I know you wish to see them again. But it will have to wait a little longer. As much as I would like to chat, I have damage control to deal with. Their future safety is now uncertain as it is. But I will let them know that you wish to see them." Albus said.

Remus sighed and stood back up. 

"Yes, I would indeed like to speak with them when possible." Remus replied.

Albus stood and made for the door. Muttering a goodbye, he left Remus's apartment and headed for the stairs. Checking that he was alone Albus apparated to the Ministry dreading every moment.

Harry-

After catching the furry menace of mischief. Harry had tickled the little Niffler until the contents of his pouch fell out. Loki's collection of sea glass with other odds and ends laid sprawled across the bed. A raised eyebrow later Harry gave Loki an unimpressed look. The entirety of the jewelry and cufflinks collection Harry had in the closet. Loki for his part looked entirely unrepentant as he repacked his pouch.

The wards chimed letting him know that someone had arrived. Harry scooped up Loki, who let out a flurry of protesting squeaks the further he got from his pilfered goods. Coming down the stairs at a run. Harry ran right into Sirius knocking the man off his feet. Angry chittering sounded as Harry felt Loki escape. A loud boisterous laugh sounded as Loki scampered away.

"Pup! I'm happy to see you too!" Sirius said, excitedly.

Harry hugged the man and sat up on his chest. 

"Siri! What are we doing today?" Harry asked.

An amused chuckle sounded from behind them. Turning Harry saw Caspian watching them with mirth in his eyes. He was stroking Loki's back and scratching just behind his ears. 

"What you aren't glad to see me too? I'm kinda hurt." Caspian teased.

Harry got up off of Sirius and rubbed the back of his head.

"I didn't know you'd be with him. But Loki seems to have provided you with ample attention." Harry said, smiling softly.

He did so love that furball dearly.

"Well, we thought that after this morning's paper. We'd do something big to get all of our minds off of it. So, Sirius and I are going to teach you how to fly. Then maybe we'll try playing a match. The house-elves can charm the balls and play other positions." Caspian said.

In answer to Harry's question to Sirius. Sirius had just gotten up off the floor and was standing just behind Harry.

"Speaking of the newspaper, how do you feel about that?" Sirius asked. cautiously.

Harry stopped reaching out for Loki. He'd been trying to rescue his furry friend. Who had turned into a pile of niffler goo under Caspian's careful ministrations. To look back at Sirius, his shoulders dropped, and Harry looked at his feet. He'd told himself a hundred times that it didn't mean anything. That they didn't mean anything to him. Something hot and wet hit his cheeks. Confused Harry swiped at it...was he crying? He didn't have a whole lot of time to process it. Before being scooped up and cuddled to someone's chest. That was all it took before Harry let go.

Sirius- 

Sirius hugged his heartbroken cub as close as he could. Picking Harry up off of his feet and just standing there. He buried his face Harry's hair as tiny shoulders shook. Looking up he caught Caspian's eye. The other man looked in the direction of the side hallway. Right one of the sitting rooms was down that way the one in all blue. Caspian led the way and opened the door for him.

He carefully sat on the nearest sofa mindful of Harry's dangling legs. Rubbing Harry's back, he whispered reassurances to Harry. He looked up in time to see Loki had escaped Caspian. The niffler was now perched on his knee looking at Harry. Not thinking about it, Sirius moved his arm his hand outstretched in invitation. The niffler seemed to understand as it sat on his hand. Moving carefully, he braced Loki against his chest near where Harry's head was. Harry hadn't noticed, Loki started nosing around then in typical niffler fashion. Vanished through a small gap between Harry's arm and Sirius's chest. The shaking had stopped replaced by giggles. The giggling continued until Harry pulled back from his chest. Loki had a hold of Harry's ears, tiny hind paws braced on his chin, as said niffler was licking Harry's face.

Loki climbed up to Harry's head after gaining proper leverage. And laid flat atop Harry's head. Smiling despite his upset earlier Harry sank into the couch next to Sirius.

"I think that it's good for them to be ousted. They hurt a lot of people directly and indirectly. Me included, not that they cared they went on with their lives. I don't care about them really. I'm more upset with...what could've been. I guess I'm mourning the idea of what could've been with them. If that makes any sense...I've gone my whole life without a family who cares. So this really isn't as upsetting as it could've been had I loved them." Harry said.

Sirius grimaced, knowing how horrible it felt to love someone and have them betray you. Every time his thoughts strayed to James; it was like being stabbed...like the air had left his lungs. Love just hurt sometimes, romantic or otherwise. And he knew Harry would feel a whole lot worse if he had actually known them. Abandonment, no matter the reason, was always a horrible thing to realize.

"You have us now Harry you don't have to be alone. We can be your family...sometimes you have to make your family. Especially when your birth family isn't what is needed. James's family became mine when I was a teenager. Aside from my less than charming mother. It was the beliefs they held...the things they supported...that just disgusted me. I was different than the other Blacks. And that never sat well with my mother. Eventually I couldn't take it anymore. I left; home should be a place where you feel safe. And that was something I never felt with my family. The Marauder's and James's parents became my family. I had to find them, in order to find my home...to find my place." Sirius said sadly.

Harry smiled.

"I found my family too. Percival, Loki, and Hedwig were the first of my found family. And I wouldn't trade them for anything. Before them family was just some abstract thing that I never thought I'd have. Blood doesn't mean family and just because someone provides the genetic material to create you. Doesn't make them a real parent. James and Lily gave me life but that doesn't make them parents. They were never there for me and one day in the future. I will tell them exactly how I feel about them. But this isn't that day, and I want to learn how to fly!" Harry said.

That was the second time Sirius could recall Harry mentioning Percival. Who was that? Harry said Percival had helped him get to the magical world. So, he had to be a real person and not an imaginary friend. But then where was Percival exactly? And just how old was he? Whoever they are they could've hurt Harry or even taken advantage of him. The few visits he'd shared with Harry he'd never seen this Percival. Loki, curiously enough, always perked up at the name. 

"Harry, you mentioned Percival before. Who is that exactly? We've never seen him before while visiting you. You must care for him a good deal to have him as part of your found family." Caspian asked.

Sirius could've kissed the blond for asking the one thing he'd wanted to know. If Harry got mad, then at least it wouldn't damage the fragile relationship the two shared.

"Percival...is pretty complicated. I want to help him the way he helped me. I want to introduce you guys to him, but I didn't know if it would be safe. I mean I didn't know if I even wanted to know Sirius. Percival...if I lost Percival...because I was careless or too trusting. I would never forgive myself...he...Loki is his friend. I never would've met Loki if I hadn't met Percival. So, I wouldn't want to risk him needlessly. But one day I will introduce him to you." Harry said, looking between them unsurely.

Now he was definitely wanted to meet this Percival. Glancing at Caspian over Harry's shoulder, Caspian shook his head. The other man was probably right, making a big deal about Percival now wouldn't end well. Harry might pull back and away from him. 

"Yeah, that sounds good Harry. Lets go fly! I can't wait to show you Quidditch!" Sirius exclaimed, bolting through the door. 

Harry came flying out the door behind him. Loki holding on to his hair for dear life. While he could hear Caspian laughing behind them.

Dumbledore-  

Standing outside the cottage where the Potters resided. He breathed in the late Autumn air as he thought about the best approach. How do you tell people that you kept ignorant of the outside world, that they were exposed? How do you tell them that the world at large was outraged? Nine years ago, hiding the Potters seemed like the safest most logical thing. Now even Albus wondered if he'd done right by them. Sometimes it was better to simply approach the dragon in the room and get it over with. There was no point in prolonging the inevitable confrontation. Moving up the walk Albus knocked on the front door. James opened the door and grinned at him.

"Albus it's nice to see you again. Are you here just to visit or do you have news?" James asked, curiously.

Albus grimaced at the question.

"I have news and it's not good news." Albus said, gravely.

James stepped aside immediately and called for Lily. After settling down at the small dining room table. Lily came through carrying little Bianca. The cute little girl was napping in her mother's arms. Her chestnut hair was already showing signs of the trademark ''Potter'' hair. She would have to wear it long or the hair would be virtually untamable. It was fine as boys tended to have messier hair. On a girl though...well only time would tell on how she would look. 

"Dumbledore what brings you here today? Have they found anything out about Harry?" Lily asked, as she sat in the seat her husband held out.

"No, there hasn't been any progress with Harry's case. I'm here because your cover has been blown." Albus said.

He sucked in a harsh breath as he watched their reactions. James looked shocked and a little worried. Lily showed nothing but a brief flash of relief. He knew that Lily had been dissatisfied with their hiding. But potions and spells aren't exactly full proof. And Albus had been afraid that the two of them wouldn't be able to maintain a cover. James was brash yet skilled as an Auror, Lily while more careful. Just wasn't satisfied maintaining the status quo. He worried that they couldn't maintain their distance from their friends. Friends which at the time Albus had suspected as possible traitors.

"How? We were so careful! And we never sought out any form of contact!" James said, as he rocked back in his chair.

"Remus and Sirius had a conversation that should've never occurred in the open. Despite a privacy charm, someone still heard and then later investigated. Copies of family trees are kept at Gringotts self-update. Well, for a price anyone can view a family tree. And they of course discovered that the two of you were indeed alive. The person who happened to hear this unfortunate conversation was a reporter. The Prophet doesn't always print the truth. But this time backed up with goblin-based evidence. Well, the public is going to want answers." Albus said, gravely.

He sighed at James's cursing.

"Those fucking idiots! What were they thinking conversing about sensitive information in public! This is exactly why they weren't in on our plans. They can't even act properly." James spat.

Lily merely shook her head.

"What did you expect from your trouble making friends?" Lily said, glaring at her husband.

"So, what's going to happen now? How do we proceed with this?" James asked, looking away from Lily.

"I escaped Hogwarts not long after the paper came out. But it implicated me in your disappearance. Once I go back, I will be facing an investigation. Not just from the public or the Wizengamot but also the school board. Everyone has suspected for years that I led the Order of the Phoenix. This is only going to bring me back into the spotlight. Harry's disappearance has upset a lot of people. And with what happened with Sirius, well I'm afraid that this might be the death of my political career. Too many people have lost faith in me." Albus said, sadly.

"Wait, what do you mean what happened to Sirius?" James asked.

Lily huffed indignantly.

"Who cares about Sirius right now! We need to deal with this problem first. Our family is in danger and you're asking about your mutt friend? This is why I can't deal with US anymore! You're putting other people above your family and duty. You just said this is why we don't trust them. I personally, while angry at being exposed. Feel relieved as now we can rejoin society as a whole. I'm tired of being locked up here! We've been in hiding for years. If they haven't caught all the deatheaters by now, then they aren't going to." Lily argued.

James scowled at her before stomping off.

"God, he is such a man child! What did I even see in him?" Lily said, glaring in the direction James left in.

Had he done this to them? These two people who had been so in love. Now they could barely stand to be in the same room. Was it because of the isolation? Or was it simply the deterioration of time? Either way it saddened him greatly to see them in such a poor state. He wondered if their marriage would survive their return. Albus supposed it was a good thing they didn't marry each other with binding magic. Or else one of them would have to die in order to be separated.

"I'm sorry to have brought this back to you two. With the prophecy and the circumstances. I thought hiding you both away would not only save your lives. But everyone else's as well. Now I wonder if we'd let the fear from the war cloud our judgement." Albus said, sighing.

"It's not your fault Albus. You did what you thought would protect us at the time. I admit that I didn't approve of such drastic measures. It was my trust in James that convinced me to do all this. But I have to say that there were times when I resented you. You who got to be free and live your life outside. And I was angry that we couldn't even have something from the outside world, without you prescreening it. But James and I made the choice to do this, we made the choice to support you Albus. So, neither of us has the right to be angry about the past. James and I had problems before our seclusion. The cracks in our relationship are just more obvious. We don't have anyone to act as buffers between us. I think we're just sick of each other honestly. Nine years of seeing nobody but each other and maybe you every so often. It's difficult..." Lily said, faltering.

She shifted Bianca in her arms slightly as she bit her lip.

"The two of you should be prepared for possible backlash. The mail wards should keep at least that much from hurting you. But the Wizengamot might decide to make a case about it. The method we used was dark in nature and we may face charges for it. Though the ban on certain magics was lifted temporarily during the height of the war. It may save us from jail time. Faking one's death isn't exactly illegal per se. But it's still heavily frowned upon by the general masses. I'm confident in our defense, but I might lose standing for it." Albus said.

"Then we'll be ready. It's time to stop hiding regardless of your certainty that Voldemort will return. At least this way we can demand more progress with Harry's disappearance." Lily replied.

"Of course you'll have to forgive me. But I need to return to Hogwarts, I have no doubt that I will have to face yet another inquisition once I'm back. I'm tired already and it's not even 3pm yet. It's been quite the day, and I can't wait for some tea and lemon drops. Goodbye ladies." Albus said.

He rose leaving Lily with her daughter and calling for Fawkes. Fawkes trilled at him and whisked them both back into his office. Once his feet safely touched the flagstones, he sagged in tiredness. Tea and lemon drops did indeed sound good with luck no one would notice he was back yet. He called for Liza, one of the Hogwarts elves, and ordered his snack. All but falling into his chair heavily. Albus looked balefully at the stack of mail on his desk. He took solace in the fact that not a single howler was among them.

No sooner had he popped a lemon drop in his mouth and opened his first envelope. He nearly choked on his favored candy as a throat cleared near the door. Coughing and nearly hacking up his candy. Albus breathed calmly even as his throat ached. A glaring Severus and Minerva stood near the door. How the hell did they know he was back already? Glancing up he glared at the portraits overhead. No doubt one of them informed the two heads of houses.

"Ah, Severus...Mini it's lovely to see the two of you. Would you care for some tea or perhaps a lemon drop?" Albus asked, cordially.

Severus glared harder while Minerva scoffed.

"We aren't here for tea and candy Albus! There were some serious accusations in that paper. The schoolboard was here demanding to know where you were. They wanted to know what was going on. Even Fudge and Madame Bones was here! So, let's cut the haggis and tell us is it true? Did you really fake their deaths?" Minerva said, nearly shouting.

"Yes, do tell us if this bout of stupidity is accurate or not?" Severus drawled sarcastically.

"Then I think it's best that the two of you sit down." Albus said.

This was going to further exhaust him.

"When I first heard the prophecy, I took action immediately to determine the participants. I came to the two most accurate conclusions. The Potters or the Longbottoms. I believed that it referred to Harry. As Harry shared the same status of a half-blood. That and Neville had a weaker magical core at the time. So, the child was an obvious choice, which Voldemort himself concluded. At the time it was apparent that there was a spy in the Order. I suspected several people Sirius and Remus among them. I didn't suspect Peter at all, which was shortsighted on my part I admit." Albus said, gravely.

"So, what led to this bright idea of yours then? There were plenty of better ideas. Like I don't know a second property with a Fidelus charm and a different secret keeper?" Severus asked.

"That had occurred to me, which is where the two and their daughter now reside. I knew that Voldemort would pursue them relentlessly. Knowing of Harry's importance, I thought it was best to split them up. Harry went to Petunia with the blood wards set up. James and Lily went to the secondary safe house. I had planned to reveal them eventually. So, they could reunite them with Harry at a certain point in time." Albus said, thoughtfully.

The heated anger that was on Severus's face made him want to hastily exit his own office. Minerva wasn't much better as her glare seemed to pierce through Albus.

"So, you willfully tore a baby away from their mother. Then lied to the world at large...lied to their friends...their families. And allowed an innocent man to rot in prison, for nine years just to keep your lies under wraps? We buried their BODIES Albus! If they weren't James and Lily, then who were they? WHAT DID YOU DO?" Minerva shouted.

Wincing he reared back.

"Well, he either confounded some people dosed with Polyjuice or did something far darker...Something I myself would never suspect him of doing. So, which is it Albus? We both know there are only two full proof ways. Did you murder some people confounded people? Did you cross that line Albus...did you do what the dark wizards do?" Severus sneered.

"What's he talking about Albus?" Minerva asked.

"Golems." Albus said.

He let that word drop as the two looked at him in varying degrees of anger. Minerva was confused and angry. But Severus was giving him a look of utter disdain. There were only two kinds of Golems. One was the standard version. That was literally made of clay and mostly used as guardians. The ritual itself usually required a sacrifice of blood. Whether that meant in blood or sacrificial animal life varied. The second more permanent ones held their shape long term. But only after the sacrificial giving of a human life. Both forms were dark magic and highly illegal. And under normal circumstances he would've faced jailtime. But he had committed these acts during a point in the war, where the ban on dark magic was lifted. So Albus was in a legal grey zone. 

"Either way you would still need a sacrifice for the Golem Albus. Who is really in those graves?" Severus pressed.

Minerva gave him a horrified look as it sunk in that sacrificial magic had been at play.

"Not a who but a what. We altered the ritual enough that we could us magical creatures instead." Albus said, defeatedly.

Severus narrowed his eyes.

"You would need an altered form of Polyjuice then. As creatures magical or otherwise can't take potions. Not unless the potion is heavily modified. Polyjuice has two requirements a magical core and a human form. As I recall there weren't any 'gifted' potions masters in Britain at the time. The closest is Slughorn and he left a lot to be desired. His safety record was atrocious and no less than six students died during his tenor. Please tell me that idiot wasn't who you used?" Severus said, sneering.

Albus hadn't asked Horace for exactly that reason. And Severus the time wasn't considered an ally yet. No, Albus himself was gifted in the same field. As was necessary in order to be proficient in Alchemy. But Severus was correct, heavily altering both a potion and a ritual took skill. Skill that most people assumed Albus didn't have. Oh, they knew he was powerful...a true force to be reckoned with especially on a battlefield. But most forgot to remember his other accomplishments. Alchemy was his specialty with a secondary for spell crafting and potions. How else does one determine the uses of dragon's blood?

"Why my boy, I used myself." Albus replied.

The raised eyebrow and slight disbelief on Severus's face was oddly satisfying. Severus was a hard man to get emotions out of. The man cycled between calm, anger, and annoyance on the regular. So, disbelief was an emotion that was damn near mythical with this man. 

"Yourself??? Really?" Severus asked, in disbelief.

"I didn't know he did potions like that. Usually, only masters alter potions. The altered ritual, I actually believe that one though. Albus is very intelligent when it comes to that and Alchemy." Minerva said, thoughtfully.

"Well, if that's true they clearly managed to pull it off. It would most certainly have to be the secondary kind. Normal Golems are made of clay or stone. The bodies would need to stay together better. Their bodies were kept and even examined briefly by the department of mysteries." Severus said.

Minerva swore.

"When did they do that? Actually, that would explain the amount of time between burial. It was weeks before their funerals were announced. I thought it was simply because everyone was too busy celebrating. But to withstand scrutiny by the department of mysteries. Albus they are going to ask a lot of uncomfortable questions. Even with the substitution of drugged magical creatures. It'll ignite a powder keg; creature rights are already a hot button in the Wizengamot. And we have trouble gaining allies as is. A lot of our current society still think of creatures as lesser beings. Merlin Albus, you'll be lucky if you escape with your job! Let alone the rest." Minerva said, her voice shrill with her Scottish brogue.

Her accent only seemed to come out when she was upset or angry. 

"All of that aside Potter is a lot of things, but he and Black were rather close. I can't see the man just letting Black go to prison. Lily, at least the one I knew wouldn't have let someone else suffer. If they weren't guilty, she wouldn't let it happen. Unless....unless you made it, so they had no clue what was going on. That's...why am I not surprised you didn't think this all the way through!" Severus said, pinching his nose.

"He's not Merlin, Severus! As intelligent as he is even Albus can't predict the future. That being said he could've put a shorter timeline on it than nine damn years! He should've reconsidered after the first two years. Hunting fugitives takes time after all. There were so many other options. They could've left the country even and taken asylum somewhere. He didn't have to split up a family. It makes sense to a point, with an ounce of actual thought. One could come up with many more plans. What did you do go with the first one?" Minerva asked.

Albus winced as she'd hit the nail on the head.

"You idiot!" Minerva shouted. 

She stood swearing as she paced the length of his office.

"What she said." Severus said, sarcastically. 

"So, when are they coming back then?" Minerva demanded.

She'd stopped just in front of Albus's desk.

"I don't know yet for sure. Probably during or after the Wizengamot rake me over the coals." Albus replied, feeling as tired as everyone of his years on Earth.

He heard Minerva say 'good' as she swept from his office angrily. Severus just shook his head before standing.

"No one is going to take you seriously after this. The dark lord would have to waltz into the Ministry before anyone will believe you now. Even if you do lead our side the absolute faith, they once had in you. Anyone with a working brain will question anything coming out of your mouth. And that's not to say the public backlash for the Potters. It's...this is just so negligent that it's stupid. It might have saved them from death and the same fate as the Longbottoms. But it wasn't a good move, I think those lemon drops have melted your brain. That being said you know that without Harry. There is nothing keeping me here otherwise. Even Lily isn't enough at this point. But finding a job as a marked deatheater is too much of a hassle at this point. So, for now I'm here." Severus drawled, as he exited the office.

Albus sagged in his chair heavily. They were right though. He'd overthought the plan and had gone with the first viable plan that had popped into his head. A plan the Gellert would've approved of whole heartedly. Sometimes he missed the days when he was a simple young man. Caught up in his first and only love. Albus couldn't help to think how different things would've been, if he hadn't chickened out. If he'd stayed with Gellert and saw their dreams through. Albus was in charge of enough things as was. Which was why he had no true aspirations to be Minister. Gellert though had always been the charismatic one. When he spoke, people listened and when he did something everyone respected him. Even his enemies respected him.

And while Albus wasn't a push over and could lead just as well. There were days that he just wanted to bury himself in research again. To just let Gellert take the .... but Gellert wasn't there anymore. He wasn't there to bounce plans and ideas off of, he wasn't there to comfort him, he wasn't with him anymore. And that was because of his own cowardice...because he couldn't stomach what Gellert had resorted to. 

Going back to his mail once more he froze. The emblem for the Wizengamot seal shown in bottle green wax. Breaking the wax with his thumb nail he started reading. There would be an emergency Wizengamot meeting tomorrow.

Sirius pov-

Harry let out a whoop as he flew in loops. The house-elves had joined them out in the garden. They conjured up some floating hoops and enchanted the game balls. They had spent hours switching positions. So, Harry could try each position, while the house-elves flew on ancient Comet brooms. Sirius knew the elves could've easily blocked every shot and caught the snitch with no effort. 

But they too seemed to be thrilled at Harry's laughing boisterous behavior. Caspian who had played a chaser for Hufflepuff when he was still at school. Sirius himself had been a chaser as well. But they were more invested in teaching Harry than anything else. They managed a few games, but Harry seemed to take after James. Harry preferred being a seeker. Loki of course not caring about the wild winds. Was invested in helping Harry catch the snitch.

The little niffler had caught the snitch once by a literal foot. Loki had hopped out of Harry's pocket with his little nails gripping the broom handle. Scooted along the handle and had reached out to catch the snitch. But had let go and caught himself, so he'd been hanging off the broom by his left foot. He'd give the critter credit where it was due. Nifflers had some seriously dexterous paws. Loki hadn't missed a beat; he shoved that snitch in his pouch and climbed back up onto the handle. The whole event took seconds but felt like much longer.

Caspian looked as stunned as he himself was. While Harry merely scooped the crazy rodent up. The funny part was when he noticed Loki's stomach. It was fluttering as the snitch moved around in his pouch. It just looked so odd that it startled a laugh out of him. 

Eventually Ferid called them in for food. While they were eating Loki hopped off the table and climbed up a table runner. There was a table parallel to the dining table that had candelabras on each end. And a flower vase in the center holding peace lilies. The only other item was a small ornate silver box. Loki opened the lid and disappeared within. Harry didn't even look over as he was talking to Caspian.

They were talking about wizarding games. Caspian was explaining gobstones at the moment. Perhaps Loki had a habitat in the box? Sirius shrugged and entered back into the conversation touting wizarding chess as far superior. Caspian revealed that he was a decent player. They would simply have to introduce Harry to one game at a time. One thing was for sure. He was a very happy dog star. ;)