Megumi-chan
Harry is Just out of the second year of Hogwarts and is about to find his life was nothing like he thought, being told your mother was not who you were told, your father wasn't the man you thought would be bad enough, but learning that your not the boy who lived and your not even a boy how will Harry cope with life changes new family ties. No one can say life is boring since finding out magics real.
I do not own the right to Harry Potter, Rights go to J R Rowling and her publishers, this is just my take on how it could have been.
-----This story is set after Chamber of Secrets-----
Harry Potter was anything but your average teenager, many people assume they know him even though all they really knew was a name. Even Harry didn’t know himself he had for years felt something wrong and when he found out about magic he thought that was what it was but he was to be in for a very big shock.
Harry had just returned from Hogwart’s for the summer vacation, no sooner had he arrived back the Dursley’s had given him a huge list of chores and told him when he wasn’t working to stay in his room they had then gone off for the week to the coast for a holiday. Vernon had had a CCTV system installed and warned Harry that if he did anything freaky they would know and he’d be punished.
Harry wasn’t too bothered in fact he was happy to be alone for once; he hated staying with the Dursley’s and no matter how much he pleaded with Dumbledore the old man refused to allow him to live anywhere else. The Weasley’s had even offered to adopt him after last year but Dumbledore would hear none of it.
Harry had only been at Hogwart’s for 2 years and was already sick of Dumbledore’s manipulations, Harry acted like he didn’t know Dumbledore was using him, after all if Dumbledore had really been worried about the stone in the first year it would have been destroyed before Voldermort went after it. He also wondered about the diary and who really planted it.
Harry never said anything but he suspected that Lucius may not have been behind it, his actions were of the type that were typical of purebloods that he had come across but for some deep reason he felt that again he had been played. Harry started wondering what the next few years would be like having to clean up messes created by Dumbledore’s for his amusement.
Harry knew he was being groomed to be the saviour the Wizarding world wanted but at present he saw no way out. As he lay on the bed contemplating the woe’s of his existence little did he realise the way out was about to open and it would be nothing like he expected. There was a loud pop and Harry bolted to his feet with his wand drawn.
There standing in the middle of the room was a finely dressed goblin. He had made no attempt to run, hide or defend himself as he stood there looking at Harry.
‘Mr Potter your wand is not required, I am here on official Gringotts business and mean you no harm,’ said the goblin ‘my name is Gragnok, chief advisor to the Potter/Black estates and finances.’
Harry was unsure but knew too well goblins although able to be vicious were also highly trustworthy, after all they were trusted as bankers for the Wizarding world, Harry slowly lowered his wand but kept grip on it just in case.
‘That is better, I am here on behalf of your departed parents to discuss some important matters, however it is unsafe to proceed here, so that you can better trust me I have a message from your mother. Gragnok said as he held out an emerald
Suddenly a small holographic type image of Lily Potter appeared
‘My beautiful child, how I wish I could be there for you right now, if you are getting this message then something has happened to me and I am no longer with you, I have left instructions with Gringotts in case something should happen to me, Gragnok should be bringing this message trust him, he will do no harm. I suspect Dumbledore will have left you with the Dursley’s if so it was against my wish and my will, if this is so the information Gragnok will give you will allow you to leave there, I will talk more soon.’ With that the image disappeared
‘If you would change to more suitable attire and pack your things I shall take you directly to Gringotts and after our business I can drop you were ever you like.’ Said Gragnok
Harry considered the message and decided to go along for now to see what this was all about. Harry didn’t have much in the way of wizard clothes but he did have 1 set of everyday robes just in case he needed them, after changing his clothes he quickly packed his meagre possessions in his trunk and stood in front of Gragnok.
‘Firstly pour this over your wand, it will remove all tracers that the Ministry use to detect underage wizards,’ said Gragnok as he handed a vial to Harry ‘here is another vial because at some point you may have to change your wand,’ he said as he handed Harry another vial
Harry did as requested and there was a feint glow around the wand before it dissipated and then harry placed the other in the potions area of his trunk.
‘Now to hide your scar,’ said Gragnok ‘Please stand still this will only hurt slightly,’ said Gragnok
Harry felt a slight pain but remained standing, after a few seconds Gragnok nodded and Harry reached up. He felt the area the scar had been only to note he felt nothing there.
‘Take this, it is a port key directly to my office at Gringotts, I will bring your trunk and Owl,’ said Gragnok as he handed Harry a quill ‘say pure and it will activate,’
‘Pure,’ said harry as he suddenly felt a tug below his navel, seconds later he crashed in a heap in the floor in a large office
‘My Apologies I should have warned you to bend your knees for landing.’ Said Gragnok as Harry got back to his feet ‘Please take a seat,’
Harry sat in a large red leather armchair facing a carved mahogany desk as tea appeared in front of him
‘Firstly I have another message from your mother,’ Gragnok said as he held out another gem
‘My beloved child, this will be difficult to hear but I beg you to listen as calmly as you can, before I go into further details I ask that you drink the potion Gragnok will hand you, do not worry it is not poison it will restore you to how you should look, you see you were disguised at birth to protect you from Dumbledore, when you have taken the potion Gragnok will relay the rest of this message,’ said Lily’s image before it faded again
Gragnok placed a vial of silvery pink liquid on the desk, Harry eyed the liquid unsure of what it might be but he was sure it would not be poison, had Gragnok wanted him dead he would have done it earlier. Carefully Harry picked it up un-corked it and drank it in one, the liquid felt warm and tasted slightly bitter.
Harry placed down the empty vial and quickly drank a little tea to remove the taste. Gragnok placed the gem on the table and Lily’s image reappeared
‘Firstly my beloved child you have most likely been told many lies about your heritage, I am sure you have been told I was a muggleborn and that I had a sister Petunia, if so you have been lied to. My real parents were Cygnus and Druella Black; I have 3 sisters Bellatrix, Andromeda and Narcissa.’
‘I was born a year after Narcissa I was named Sapphira Antheia Black and was the youngest, however someone Obliviated my family and stole me from them at my birth replacing me with a stillborn baby to make it seem like I had died at birth. I only discovered this in my 5th year at Hogwart’s using a potion to discover my ancestry. Narcissa and I were always close at school,’
‘We discovered what had happened together and it was Narcissa who told me that I had supposedly died at birth. We had to be careful who we told in case the person who did it was still around, we did tell my real mother and father and my other sisters were aware too as was Severus Snape,’
‘It was Severus that caused me to find out about my heritage after he called me a nasty name, anyway someone must have found out because just after school my parents died mysteriously and of course it was blamed on Voldermort. Anyway after that I suspect my sisters had been Obliviated, again as Narcissa and Andromeda didn’t seem to want to know me anymore and Bella seemed as though she had begun losing her mind.’
‘Anyway going back to during my 7th year at Hogwart’s I fell in love with Severus and we began dating, I had always been close to him all through school and thinking back I have to wonder whether the marauders picked on him because of that reason. I suspect it wasn’t their doing though and that they were being manipulated.’
During the last year of school Severus and I had also made peace with James Potter and Sirius my cousin, after checking them for the Imperius curse I confided in them about my real identity, they both became very protective of me when they found out what someone had done, to everybody outside our circle we were all just friends.’
‘I could not prove they had been manipulated before and even they just put their issues with Severus down to immaturity. After school I was still going strong with Severus and after a year together I became pregnant. It was then that I heard Severus had joined Voldermort and had been found as a spy and killed. I was also warned that my baby was at risk,’
‘When I was told Severus had died and that Voldermort might be after you James pretended to marry me and made out you were his, we disguised you at birth to make you look like him. I didn’t like it because it made me sad to see my beautiful daughter living as something other than what she really was.’
‘Yes honey by now you are thinking what the hell do I mean by that, you were not born as the boy Harry James Potter you were born as my daughter and your name should be Persephone Sapphira Black, Black because I was still unmarried at the time. Before you were 2 months old I found Severus was alive but due to things Dumbledore had told him he would not speak with me thinking I had betrayed him.’
‘I tried many times to tell him but before I knew what was happening we were deep in hiding after being told of a Prophesy that had been made and that Voldermort was definitely after you. James had come to love you as his own and although I was still not in love with him we were happy to an extent, James said that if he did not survive the war that the Potter titles, lands and wealth were to be given to you. I tried to refuse but he said that if not the Potter wealth would end up in the wrong hands and he did not want that.’
‘He also said that even though you were not of him he saw you as his own no matter who your real father was, I relented in end. When my real parents died my father had made sure I would want for nothing, when father first found out about me he remade his will making sure I had a home and money should I ever need it.’
‘Gragnok is the goblin that organised the wills of both the Blacks and the Potters and shortly he will read them both to you. I am sorry I am not there with you my daughter and I only hope life has not been too harsh on you, be wary of Albus Dumbledore he is not as good as he makes himself appear, as for Voldermort again he is not what he appears to be.’
‘Yes Voldermort is a dark wizard but there is a difference between being dark and being evil, sometimes the light can be more evil than the dark. From what I discovered Dumbledore was behind my kidnap and possibly my parents death, If a prophesy was made it is possible it was faked to stage our deaths,’
‘I am not saying to trust Voldermort if he still exists I am just telling you to be wary of both Dumbledore and Voldermort and to use your own judgement, not all of the things carried out in Voldermort’s name were done on his orders. His main goal was to liberate the magic world so that the dark magic was not restricted by the light.’
‘As said before Dark does not mean evil and light does not mean good a light wizard can be evil just as much as a dark can. A couple of final things before this message ends, firstly the potion will return you to your real gender by tomorrow morning, please live again as my daughter and accept your real name, secondly I want you to find my sister Narcissa and make sure she receives the gem Gragnok will give you.’
‘Narcissa I hope will take care of you and teach you of our family, also if Sirius is around see him too, he is the head of the Black family and he can make sure you are looked after, he is your godfather and you should already be living with him, but I suspect he has done something foolish if we are dead.’
‘There is another gem which contains details of our secret keeper, if we were betrayed by Peter Sirius may have been blamed as everyone thought he was our secret keeper, please make sure Narcissa gets that too, if Sirius gets into trouble it will hopefully get him out. There is also a gem for Severus, if he is still alive please find him and give it to him’
‘Finally my beautiful daughter grow up strong and proud, I wish I could be there with you but know I will always watch over you,’ said Lily’s image as it slowly vanished
Harry sat there is shock with tears running down his face, his whole life was a lie, everything the Dursley’s, his mother’s blood status, his father. It was becoming clear that Dumbledore was still manipulating the situation. By keeping him at the Dursley’s he knew Harry would become compliant and submissive, or so he thought.
By making sure he had certain information he was guiding him to do certain tasks to make sure the world continued to see Harry as the saviour of the Wizarding world, since his mothers kidnap Dumbledore had been trying to create the perfect submissive tool one that people would look too in tough times and one that would make Dumbledore himself look good.
Harry was brought out of his musings by Gragnok
‘I apologise for not giving you more time to think on things and can assume that it will take some time for you to wrap your mind around everything that is happening, I apologise but there are other things we need to discuss,’
‘Firstly the will of James Henry Potter,’ said Gragnok
‘I James Henry Potter being of sound mind and under witness does hereby bequeath all of the lands, titles and wealth of the Potter family to Miss Persephone Sapphira Black. These include the Potter family manor which is un-plot able. To reach the property you will first have to call the estates head house elf scarlet.’
‘Scarlet is a free elf who works for the Potter family and from this day forth the Black family, she will guide you to the Potter family properties and will also serve as your personal maid. I also hereby will that you be recognised as an adult in regards to your inheritance, but I would recommend having Gragnok continue as financial advisor,’
‘Seph although you may not have been my child know that I love you as if you were, know that although your mother and I were friends and not married you still mean a great deal to me, if I am no longer around know that like your mother I will watch over you.’
‘Gragnok is to provide you with the Potter family ring which will allow you to access the money without having to enter the bank, he is also to provide you with a card similar to a muggle credit card that you can use in the muggle world.’
‘Gragnok is also to provide you with all your identify papers which will change depending on whether you use the name Potter or the name Black, please remember you do not have to use the name Potter I will not mind, just remember me, Forever your father James.’
Harry had sat listening to every word, tears still streaming and still struggling with the knowledge that had been imparted.
‘I will provide you with a detailed ledger of all the lands properties and monies included in the potter family that belong to you, only you will be able to open the ledger, now we move to your mother Sapphira Antheia Black’s will or as she was known Lily Potter.’
‘I Sapphira Antheia Black being of sound mind and under witness does hereby bequeath all my possessions to my beloved daughter Persephone Sapphira Black. The possessions include the black family cottage in Wales the house elf Emerald will guide you there, all of the personal possessions in vault 204 and all the monies left to me by my father. ‘
‘Please remember when you are settled you can have the items from vault 204 transferred to where you live, the items include diaries and other personal items as well as lots of books on various aspects of magic, use them well and study hard you may need the knowledge, some of the books are considered dark so be careful who you tell,’
‘Gragnok is to provide you with one of the Black family rings which will allow you to access your money without having to enter the bank, he is also to provide you with a card similar to a muggle credit card that you can use in the muggle world and will be linked directly with your vaults.’
‘I have asked Gragnok to continue to manage the family finances and I ask you to trust him, he has always looked after our assets with care, you are also to be recognised financially as an adult, this allows you direct access to your monies and prevents anyone else from interfering with what you do with your money and possessions.’
‘This precaution was taken because both James and I feel that someone may try to seize your properties and wealth to use for their purposes, we know Dumbledore had a group called the Order of the Pheonix and we feel he may wish to use your wealth to fund his own goals and ambitions so be careful.’
‘Finally my daughter remember no matter where we are we love you,’ with that Gragnok placed the parchment down and looked at Harry
‘Miss Black I will tell you now that the Potter or Black family rings cannot be removed once on your fingers and the cards will not work for anyone but you even under Polyjuice or other concealments.’ Said Gragnok as he handed Harry 2 rings, the first had a fire diamond with the Potter family crest engraved into the stone, the other looked like liquid Onyx with what Harry assumed was the Black family crest engraved.
Harry slipped the Black family ring on his little finger of his right hand and the Potter ring on the little finger of his left as Gragnok suggested. As the rings readjusted to Harry’s fingers the stones both glowed for a second or two and Gragnok said that that was to indicate that the rings had been activated.
Harry was also told when the change occurred the rings would again resize, Harry was now recognised as the head of the Potter family and the Black family heiress even though he was still male, Harry was also told that now the rings were active he could call on the house elves of both the Potter and Black families and no matter where he was they would appear.
Gragnok then handed Harry 2 portfolio’s detailing the properties and other items available to him now.
‘Miss Black,’ said Gragnok
Harry flinched at the name still very uncomfortable with the knowledge in less than a day he would change into a girl, the whole idea was frightening the hell out of him, how in the world was he to cope being a girl after 12 years of life as a boy.
Harry was snapped out of his musings by Gragnok
‘Miss Black, I understand this is still a rather large shock for you, but there are still things to organise and discuss so I must ask that you try to keep with me as I discuss other matters regarding you and your relatives.’
Harry nodded
‘Firstly your aunt Narcissa, I have contacted her and asked her to attend a meeting tomorrow morning, I felt it best you see her after you change tonight,’ said Gragnok
Harry nodded still slightly numb but aware of what Gragnok had said
‘Your other Aunt, Bellatrix is in Azkaban for murder, the charges are pretty severe and I doubt she will be out ever. Then there is your cousin Sirius Black, he is also in Azkaban but there may be a chance with the information on the gem your mother discussed and there may be grounds for an appeal.’
‘Lastly your other Aunt Andromeda is also free as she never openly supported the dark lord, however I would suggest you let Narcissa guide you with regards your family as some may be loyal to Dumbledore and it could cause problems.’ Said Gragnok
‘For tonight I would suggest you call your personal elves and ask them which of the properties are habitable and stay there tonight, have one of them bring you back here around 8am tomorrow, Your aunt is to arrive at 8.30. I would suggest you bring your trunk and other possessions as once Mrs Malfoy knows the truth of your heritage she will most undoubtedly take you to live with her.’
Harry nodded again before shaking himself out of his slight daze
‘Is there anything else I need to know,’ asked Harry
‘No for now that is all,’ said Gragnok as he handed Harry the identification and documents.
Harry placed the Gems and the documents in his trunks and the ID in his pocket before turning back to the goblin.
‘I take it I just say the names of the elves,’ when Gragnok nodded Harry continued ‘Emerald, Scarlet,’
There was a sudden pop and 2 house elves appeared one in a little red dress on in a green one
‘Good day Mistress, how can Scarlet serve you,’ said Scarlet looking slightly confused
‘Good Day Mistress, how can Emerald serve you,’ said Emerald also slightly confused
‘Why did they call me Mistress, I’m a guy,’ said Harry confused
‘Because although the physical change may not have occurred you are still recognised as the Mistress of the 2 families,’
‘We are sorry is we upset Mistress we is just doing as we must,’ said Scarlet with her ears curled over her eye’s slightly, Emerald had the same look as if they had done something wrong
Harry sighed ‘It’s okay, I just wondered that’s all, I suppose I will have to get used to it sooner or later although looking like this does make it feel even more confusing, now Scarlet, Emerald out of the Potter and Black homes I own which is ready for habitation,’ asked Harry
Scarlet was the first to speak ‘The Black Family cottage is ready,’
‘The Potter Manor was shut down when Lord Potter went into hiding Mistress, you will need to visit to wake the Manor up again,’ said Emerald
‘How would I wake it,’ asked Harry
‘Mistress would need to use her magic to light the fire in the main bedroom, that will wake up the Manor again,’ said Emerald
‘Okay I will leave it sleep for now and will stay at the cottage tonight, what about food at the cottage,’ asked Harry
‘Emerald can fetch some food while Scarlet takes Mistress, if that is okay with Mistress, is there anything particular Mistress wants,’ asked Emerald
‘No I don’t mind,’ said Harry ‘Okay Scarlet please take me to the cottage,’ said Harry as Emerald popped away ‘Thank you Gragnok I will see you tomorrow,’
Scarlet snapped her fingers and Harry, Scarlet and Harry’s possessions vanished from Gringotts. Seconds later Harry opened his eyes to stunning living room in Emerald, the furniture was all deep dark mahogany. Scarlet turned to Harry with big bright eyes
‘If Mistress wants Scarlet will show Mistress around,’ said the little elf
‘That would be nice,’ said Harry
For the next hour Scarlet led Harry around the cottage, the place was huge and Harry had to wonder if it was more a mansion than a cottage. The common room was large enough for a family gathering, there was also a large dining room, a study, a library and at least 10 bedrooms including the master suite which Scarlet had already set up for Harry to sleep in.
Harry spent some of the afternoon perusing the library, he found many books of interest including transfiguration and potions and especially some charms books that were specifically for girls. Although Harry still wasn’t sure what to make of everything he had been told he felt he should prepare.
It all seemed unreal but at the same time why would his mother lie, Harry just couldn’t see it happening yet he still wasn’t sure how to deal with what he knew tonight would bring. Part of him wanted to contact Hermione for help; the other part feared not only her reaction but whether she was under the control of Dumbledore.
Harry had seen Dumbledore’s manipulations for the last 2 years, he suspected he was being groomed and it was slowly becoming clear that Dumbledore was definitely not the man he portrayed himself as. If what his mother had said was true it was very possible it had been him who had shaped even his mother life.
The question was why, could it be that to gain power he wanted to be seen as the one who shaped the saviour, did that mean Voldermort was not bad but had been made to look bad just to boost Dumbledore’s reputation so that he could take over from behind the scenes rather than a direct assault to gain power.
The more Harry considered this the more sense it made, Harry decided he needed an ally but Ron was a bad idea, it seemed the Weasley’s or at least most of them were in Albus’s control, Harry doubted Hermione would be though then again she did always seem to be very interesting in Harry’s business.
Harry decided to worry about it later for now he had bigger issues, first the fact that his mother wasn’t who he was told she was and second his father was Snape, of all the people it had to be Snape, then again he worked for Voldermort maybe he would be good to talk to.
‘Scarlet,’
‘Yes Mistress,’ said the elf
‘Can you got to Hogwart’s and bring Severus Snape here, make sure he is alone when you get him and make sure he knows not to tell anyone,’ said Harry
‘Scarlet will do as Mistress asks,’ said the elf before she popped away
Less than 10 minutes later Scarlet popped back with a tall dark familiar figure, as the figure turned to Harry with his wand ready Harry saw confusion before Snape’s mask re-appeared
‘Potter,’ sneered Snape ‘Why have I been brought here,’
‘Please take a seat professor, we have a lot to discuss,’ said Harry
‘I will not, tell me where are we, this does not look like your relatives home from the description Dumbledore gave.’ Said Snape angrily
‘No it isn’t this is my home, part of my inheritance, and if you don’t want to sit that’s fine, you should know though, my mother never betrayed you,’ said Harry
Snape’s eyes widened
‘What the devil are you talking about Potter and no riddles,’ snapped Snape
‘I want your oath that what is said here between us stays between us, if not then I will have Scarlet return you to Hogwart’s,’ said Harry
Snape looked angry ‘Fine you have my oath,’ said Snape as he was bathed in a pale blue light
‘Thank you as I said my mother never betrayed you, till the day she died she loved you even when you turned your back, Dumbledore had swore you were dead and Voldermort might come after her child so she pretended to marry James Potter to cover her pregnancy, that way no-one would suspect her child was yours,’ said Harry
‘How dare you lie about such things, your just like your father and his damned pranks, I am warning you Potter continue like this and I will kill you myself.’ Snapped Snape
‘I take it you don’t remember my mother was part of the Black family and that she was replaced at birth with a stillborn before being placed with muggles.’ Asked Harry
‘What kind of fool do you take me for Potter, your mother was a muggleborn witch,’ said Snape
Harry pulled out the birth certificate he had been given earlier and handed it to Snape before pouring 2 cups of tea. Snape stared at the document with a look of complete shock on his face; slowly he sat still with his eyes on the document.
‘Where...where is she,’ he asked
‘Who,’ said Harry
‘My daughter,’
‘That is not for you to know right now,’ said Harry feeling awkward
Snape stood up fast and pointed his wand at Harry ‘you will tell me now or you will feel pain like never before Potter,’ said Snape
‘You would harm the only person who knows your daughters whereabouts, not that you have any right to call her your daughter,’ snapped Harry
‘I’m warning you Potter,’
‘Don’t threaten me again Snape or you will never see me again, it’s bad enough that you have treated me like dirt for the last 2 years but to see that you would hurt your only child is sick,’ snapped Harry angrily
If Snape’s eyes could have gone any wider they would have fallen out his head, he paled as he slumped down in the chair behind him and put his head in his hands.
‘No, you’re lying,’ said Snape ‘you look just like that traitor and you’re clearly a boy,’ he hissed
‘I won’t deny I look like James now but I am assured that by tomorrow I won’t, my mother fearing for my safety made me look like a boy when I was born. Dumbledore lied to my mother saying you were a spy for the light and that Voldermort had discovered your betrayal and killed you, she pretended to marry James to cover my birth.’
‘Then 2 months after my birth she found you were alive but you refused to speak to her when she wanted to explain, before she knew what was happening both she and James were in hiding because of a prophesy, Dumbledore told them Voldermort was after me because of it. She never got to speak to you again.’
‘Maybe if you had listened to her she wouldn’t be dead, but either way it happened and now I have to wonder who killed her, was it Voldermort or Dumbledore,’ Said Harry
‘Dumbledore wouldn’t,’ said Snape
‘Are you sure, he has manipulated my life since birth sending me to abusive so called relatives when they are not even related to me so I would become humble and attention starved, giving me clues to protect a stone that should have been destroyed rather than placing kids in a school in danger. You tell me, what better way to gain power than to do things from the shadows while standing in the light,’ said Harry
Harry explained about Lily being a Sapphira Antheia Black not an Evan’s as was thought and how even after finding the truth it had been re-hidden by someone and Harry was suspecting Dumbledore, they carried on talking through dinner and Harry imparted more about what he knew had been going on and also about his life at the Dursley’s. Harry had also given Snape the gem entrusted to him to pass on to Snape, part of him did not want to but the other part felt he had to for his mothers sake. Snape had said he would view it later.
‘It makes sense now,’ said Snape
‘What does,’ said Harry
‘Dumbledore told me that I had to be a spy for him, he said if I wasn’t careful I could lose Lily, he made it sound like Voldermort would go after Lily so I agreed, then I returned to find Lily in James house and her with child, I felt betrayed. That damn meddling old man,’ snapped Snape as anger overtook him
‘Yes well you’re not the only one Dumbledore had been playing around with,’ said Harry
‘I’m sorry,’ muttered Snape
‘Excuse me,’ said Harry
‘I said I am sorry,’
‘For what, not listening to my mother, for being Dumbledore’s pet spy or for hating me for no reason and treating me like dirt?’ Asked Harry
‘All of it, everything. I treated you like that because I felt betrayed by James, we only made friends in the 7th year of school and even then it was a rocky friendship, then I saw them together and I flipped, when I saw you the first time I saw him, I hated you because you should have been mine and Lily’s not his,’
‘Worse I allowed myself to think you had been pampered and preened all your life, I hated you because I hated James, ‘said Snape as his masks dropped and he finally showed the broken man he truly was and wept
Snape stayed like that for a while, Harry was struggling with what to do, part of him wanted to see the man hurt but he realised that he had been played as much as everyone else, after a minute or two Harry got up and gently took Snape into a hug. Snape tensed at first but after a few seconds he allowed himself to relax and weep for his losses.
‘Emerald,’ said Harry while Snape was still in his arms and it was getting late, there was a pop and Emerald appeared
‘Yes Mistress, how can Emerald help Mistress?’
‘Please can you set up the guest bedroom next to the master suite, the professor will be staying tonight.’ Said Harry
‘No I should go, I don’t deserve to be here,’ said Snape
‘Emerald will do as Mistress asks,’ said the little elf as she popped away
‘I didn’t ask, as for deserving that is beside the point, if you return to Hogwart’s in this state Dumbledore will know something is wrong and he will discover what has happened, I cannot allow that just yet,’ said Harry
‘You’re right, and I would not want to cause you more suffering than you have already had because of that man,’ said Snape ‘Why did you comfort me, surely you hate me for all I have done’ he asked
‘I never hated you, I was angry at you and how you treated me, I was angry when I found out how you treated my mom towards the end, but at the same time I can understand how you must have felt like you were betrayed and my mom must have seen something special worth loving if even at the end she still loved you,’ said Harry
‘Don’t get me wrong I am far from comfortable about all this, to be honest part of me wants to curl up and wish all this news away, but I can’t and right now I have a lot more to worry about than who my father is, so forgive me if I cannot bare to call you that at the moment, I don’t know who you are, I only know the bitter potions master who made the last 2 years hell,’ Snape paled
‘Maybe with some time I will feel different but for now let’s just head to bed and take things a step at a time, I have a meeting with Aunt Narcissa tomorrow, I would be grateful of your support, maybe we can spend some time together over this summer and get to know each other from the beginning,’ said Harry as he stood up
‘I would like that,’ said Snape
Before he could say anything more Harry began to drop to the floor in agony, Snape paled and quickly caught Harry before he fell. At first he was worried but then he noticed Harry hair was slowly getting longer and seemed redder and he decided it must be the transformation Harry no Persephone had mentioned earlier.
Quickly he called Scarlet to show him to Persephone’s bedroom where he gently placed his daughter on the bed before Scarlet changed Persephone’s clothes. Snape conjured a chair and watched his daughter as she slowly began to morph, he held her hand as her body was wracked in pain but there was little he could do to help her.
Pain medication would not help in this situation the changes were too severe to be numbed. So he did the only thing he could and watched over her holding her hand hoping to give her strength, after what seemed like an eternity she seemed to settle down before finally drifting into a peaceful slumber exhausted from the transformation. Snape gasped at the sight of his daughter, she was truly Lily no Sapphira’s daughter.
She looked slightly taller with waist length Mahogany hair with obsidian low lights, she had defined cheekbones which were a trait of the Snape’s and her skin was like porcelain like Sapphira’s and Narcissa’s was and she had a perfect slim figure, he found himself hoping to be able to become the father he should always have been.
Even though he realised that after his actions towards her mother and herself it may be too late, even so he would try. As he considered how to go about making amends he slowly drifted off to sleep.
Harry is Just out of the second year of Hogwarts and is about to find his life was nothing like he thought, being told your mother was not who you were told, your father wasn't the man you thought would be bad enough, but learning that your not the boy who lived and your not even a boy how will Harry cope with life changes new family ties. No one can say life is boring since finding out magics real.
I do not own the right to Harry Potter, Rights go to J R Rowling and her publishers, this is just my take on how it could have been.
-----This story is set after Chamber of Secrets-----
[From this point on Harry will be known as Persephone or Seph for short and he will be recognised as female]
Seph’s eyes fluttered open after a minute or two she realised her vision was clear and felt her face for her glasses only to find they were not on her face and her face felt different. Slowly she began to push herself up noticing her body felt sore but lighter. She slowly swung her legs off the bed and attempted to stand nearly falling before she managed to grab one of the posts of the bed.
Tentatively she made her way over to a full length mirror using the wall as her support, she notice her balance was off way off and whatever she was wearing felt weird even if it was comfortable, there was a knock at the door and Seph went to answer but stumbled over landing in a heap on the floor.
Snape heard the sound and rushed in to see what had happened, he quickly helped Seph back to her feet and figuring her intended destination he held her and guided her over to the mirror. There she stood with complete and utter shock written on her face. Standing there was no longer the boy who lived with an unruly black mop of hair, skinny limbs and pasty complexion.
Instead there was a young girl long deep red hair with black streaked in it, her face was porcelain and her skin was flawless, she had a curvy slim figure, long shapely legs and...and breasts and they were not small well at least when compared to other girls her age, it didn’t take Seph long to figure why she was off balance with longer legs and different weight distribution she knew it would take a little time to learn to move properly again.
The biggest change was her face her eyes seemed a slightly brighter green than before and a little bigger, her face was almost just like her mother except for her cheek bones which she noted were similar to Snape’s. As he held her there she realised how much she looked like him and her mother crossed, she was taller by at least 2 inches.
Even though part of her wanted to scream she had to admit she was hot even if she did think so herself, she looked up at Snape for a second before looking back at her reflexion, this was definitely going to take time to get used to she thought.
‘You’re beautiful, just like your mother,’ whispered Snape
Seph blushed then noticed the blush in the mirror and blushed more, carefully she turned to walk back to her bed but Snape kept his arm around her to help guide her.
‘Are you feeling okay,’ he asked
Seph wasn’t sure, how does one deal with a sudden and complete reversal such as this, how was she going to cope being a girl when she knew nothing about girls, sure she had friends at Hogwart’s who were girls and she supposed there wasn’t much of a difference other than the way they dress. Seph paled as she realised it meant skirts and girl clothes.
As she sat on the bed she looked at Snape again before answering
‘I’m...I’m not sure,’
‘I can understand that, it isn’t everyday you find everything about you was not what you thought, and looking so different probably doesn’t help. Know though that although I haven’t been the best person to know I intend to change that, if ever you need to talk know I will listen and try to help as best I can,’
‘It’s going to be hard at first but I will do my best to be there for you, I don’t expect you to call me dad or father or even think of me like that until you’re ready if ever, I cannot take back what I did all I can do is try to change to be more the person I should have been to support you,’ said Snape
‘Thanks, you know you are very different when you don’t try to act the big bad potions professor,’ said Seph
Snape laughed something that startled Seph at first, she could not remember a time she ever heard the man sitting beside her laugh, he had a nice laugh and it seemed such a waste to have hidden it from the world, Seph realised for the first time how much Dumbledore’s manipulations affected the man beside her.
She wondered if he had laughed like that when he was with her mother and whether she was the last to ever hear that laugh. Snape took a more serious expression
‘I haven’t laughed like that for some time, since your mother actually, when I was told she had married James I fell into a depression which later turned into a form of hate, when your mother died I blamed James and vowed I would never love another woman, I never smiled again, I never laughed I just threw myself into work,’ said Snape
‘Well I have to say I kinda like your laugh and it is something I could definitely get used to hearing, that is if you care to come out of that depression and hate filled existence,’ said Seph ‘It would not do me any good to have a manic depressant as a father,’
Snape laughed again ‘You know I think I could get used to laughing again, although I might have to scowl in potions, you know to keep up appearances,’
‘Making student’s nervous isn’t the best way to get them to co-operate, take Neville he is excellent at Herbology he should be good at potions but because of his fear of you he becomes clumsy, maybe if you didn’t intimidate him he would not blow up your classroom as much.’ She snorted
‘Yes but I can’t be nice to him he is a Gryffindor,’ snorted Snape
Seph put her hands on her hips and glared at him
‘Oh Merlin,’ said Snape with a worried expression
‘What,’ said Seph looking confused
‘The shame my daughter the daughter of a Snape is in Gryffindor,’ he said trying to keep a straight face,’
‘Yeah, yeah lap it up laughing boy, you should know though that the hat wanted me in Slytherin,’ said Seph
‘Then why were you placed in Gryffindor,’
‘Because I asked it not to put me in Slytherin, people told me that all bad wizards came from Slytherin so I didn’t want to be in there,’ said Seph
‘Well I have to say it is not my house that makes a wizard bad it the wizard themselves that do that, during the war there were as many Gryffindor’s, Huffelpuff’s and Ravenclaw’s in the service of the Dark Lord as there were Slytherin’s,’ said Snape
‘I’m beginning to realise that,’ said Seph ‘I am also beginning to realise not everything I have been told about the war is the truth,’ said Seph
Before she could continue there was a pop and Scarlet appeared
‘Mistress, Scarlet is happy to see Mistress looks like Mistress now, breakfast will be ready in about half an hour, Emerald went this morning to collect some clothes for Mistress and Scarlet has run a bath,’ said Scarlet
Snape kissed Seph on the head startling her ‘I will see you downstairs, do you mind if I check out your library while I wait,’ he asked
‘Be my guest,’ said Seph
Seph tentatively stood determined to learn to walk with some sense of balance as Snape left the room
‘Does Mistress need Scarlet for anything else?’
‘No that will be fine thank you,’ said Seph as she wobbled to the bathroom
She managed to get there and quickly undressed trying not to look at her body
[How in the world am I going to do this without looking] she thought [Oh what the hell it’s my body and I will have to deal with it sooner or later]
With that Seph braced herself and took her first look in a mirror naked only to begin blushing like mad, [definitely hot] she thought, she pushed the strange feelings she was having away [I’m sure in a few weeks as I feel more natural like this I won’t react like that again]
Seph slowly got into the bath relishing in the heat that eased her every aching muscle, she let out a long soft moan startling herself and making her blush again, she quickly began to wash checking her body out completely [the sooner I do this the sooner it won’t embarrass me] she thought. After 15 minutes she was out the bath and busy drying herself off when Scarlet appeared
‘Scarlet will dry you Mistress,’ said the elf as she snapped her fingers and suddenly a warm feeling came over Seph and she was dry
‘Thank you Scarlet,’
‘Emerald had placed some clothes that should fit Mistress on the bed,’ said Scarlet
Seph walked in with a bathrobe on and blushed at the sight of the female underwear, she quickly put on the panties before looking at the bra confused, Scarlet saw the confusion and explained how girls put them on and why. Seph followed the instructions and soon she was dressed completely.
Seph looked at herself in the mirror and realised although everything still felt weird she had to admit she looked good. She was wearing a white knee length sundress; though she had to admit getting used to the breeze would be the hardest task even if it did look good.
Seph was about to make her way downstairs as the door was knocked
‘It’s open,’ said Seph
Snape walked in and smiled at what he saw
‘You look really beautiful,’ he said as he took her hand and kissed it.
‘Thanks,’ she blushed feeling uneasy still with the fact that it was seen as normal for a man to kiss a girl or womans hand
‘Breakfast is ready shall we go,’
Seph nodded and Snape placed her arm in his as he led her down to the dining room. Seph really enjoyed her breakfast, she found she was hungrier than usual and suspected it was all the energy it took during the transformation. The pair continued talking through breakfast, Snape suggested during the summer she learn Occlumency to keep Dumbledore from her mind.
They also talked about Narcissa and the Malfoy’s, Seph was very worried about how Narcissa would accept Seph as her niece and how Draco would react when he learned the boy who lived was a girl and his cousin. Snape tried to reassure her that the Malfoy’s might be proud and a little snobbish but away from the public they were a very loving family.
‘Draco is my godson, I know him very well although he knows very little about me, after all he knows nothing of me and your mother or why I have always appeared closed to the world, I think him seeing me smile or laugh because of you will win him around, I might even have to warn him from chatting you up,’ said Snape
Seph laughed nervously whilst blushing [That is definitely the last thing I want to think about right now] she thought [Oh Merlin I never even thought about girls before in that way let alone boys]
They finished eating around 7.30 but as Scarlet and Emerald were going to be taking them they didn’t need to rush, they sat in the common room drinking tea and the conversation turned to the library.
‘You have a very good collection of books in your library by the way,’ said Snape ‘I can tell they are your mothers choice,’
‘How can you tell that,’ Seph asked
‘Your mother was excellent at charms and potions and a dab hand at transfiguration there are also a few books she wrote of her own on the subjects,’ he informed her
‘Well I best take another look now as after today I may be living at the Malfoy’s and I might like to take them with me.’ Said Seph
Snape showed her the books and Scarlet brought her trunk down before she deposited her mother’s books and a few others she had seen and some Snape had recommended. Before long though it was time to leave, Snape handed Seph a white cloak, Emerald shrink Seph’s belongings and picked them up before Scarlet snapped their fingers and the group vanished from the cottage.
A few seconds later they appeared outside Gringotts, Snape kept hold of Seph as she nearly fell over, since she had woke up she had begun getting better with her balance but it was still a bit off. They made their way inside and were greeted by Griphook.
‘We are here to see Gragnok,’ said Seph
‘Any you are,’
‘Har’ said Seph before she was cut off by Snape
‘Miss Persephone Black and Professor Severus Snape’ said Snape calmly, ‘I would also like to see Gragnok alone at some point if it can be arranged,’
Seph realising her error blushed
‘I will inform Gragnok now, if you would like to wait in the VIP suite I will also arrange some tea,’ said Griphook
‘Thank you,’ said Seph as she entered the room Griphook had indicated, she took a seat only to realise her legs were open and quickly closed them blushing
‘This is going to take some time to get used to,’
‘Of that I have no doubt but I am sure you will learn quickly, said Snape as Gragnok walked in
‘Ah Miss Black I am pleased to see you have contacted Professor Snape, Miss Black if you would wait here for a few minutes I believe the Professor wishes to speak to me,’ he said as Snape nodded
‘No problem,’ said Seph
‘I will be back shortly,’ said Snape as he followed Gragnok out the room
Seph poured herself some tea and chatted to the house elves while she waited, she asked them about the properties she owned and asked if there was a way to allow Snape access to the cottage. They confirmed how she would be able to provide him access; it was as simple as her telling him he was welcome there without invitation. Seph had to laugh she expected some complex spell or ritual.
It was almost 20 minutes before Snape returned with Gragnok
‘Miss Black we can head to my office now, I am sure Mrs Malfoy will be here shortly and there a few things Professor Snape wishes to discuss with you,’ said Gragnok
Seph nodded and followed the 2 to the office she had been in the other day; she took a seat in one of the armchairs before Snape began to speak
‘Firstly I am aware you are already wealthy but I would like you to have this, I cannot make up for the lost time or the mistakes I have made but I wish to at least begin, you don’t have to use it but it is a symbol that you are of the house of Snape,’ said Snape as he handed Seph a ring with a blood diamond and the Snape serpent crest etched into the stone.
‘I.’ Seph was cut off before she could argue
‘I am still not expecting anything in return other than the chance you gave me yesterday to get to know each other from the start again, but if for any reason I die as the last Snape I would like you to inherit as it is your birth right,’ said Snape
Seph nodded, she could see it was pointless to argue and placed the ring on her right fourth finger.
‘I would also like to give you these, they were my mothers, they have always been passed to females in the family and my mother would want you to have them as do I,’ he said handing Seph an old carved wooden box
Inside was a beautiful white gold serpent necklace, the serpent had emerald eyes and Seph could feel a strong magic energy coming from it, the box also contained a pair of serpent earrings and a serpent bracelet that looked impossible to put on.
Snape took out the necklace and Seph lifted her hair so he could put it on her but the necklace seemed to slither on itself, he then pointed his wand at her ears piercing each one magically before putting the earrings in, he then carefully lifted the bracelet out and held it next to her arm. Seph jumped as the bracelet began to move and slithered around her wrist before going still again.
‘The necklace is imbued with protective spells and will protect the wearer from many jinx’s, the earrings work together with the necklace, the bracelet works as self defence and contains a mild paralysis agent which will render attackers unable to move for 30 minutes, the bracelet activates automatically if it detects a violent threat against you.’
‘Also the bracelet will act as a wand holder and any wand held there will be unable to be removed except by the owner,’ Said Snape as he sat back down
‘Th...thank you, I,’ said Seph a little overwhelmed with Snape’s behaviour [maybe it will work out between us, maybe he will be the father I have always wished for] she thought
‘There is no need for thanks Seph, I am happy to be able to see them being worn again,’ said Snape
There was a knock at the door and Griphook entered
‘Mrs Narcissa Malfoy is here to see you,’ he said
‘Good, good show her in,’ said Gragnok
The goblin stepped aside and Narcissa walked in head held high, she noticed Seph but said nothing as she noticed Snape both of which had stood.
‘Severus, it is good to see you, you haven’t been around this summer yet, I hope you come soon Draco is terribly bored,’ said Narcissa as Snape took her hand and kissed it.
‘I hope I will be around a lot more than previous years this summer, I hope I have reason to visit you nearly every day if not stay over,’ said Snape with a smile
Narcissa raised an eyebrow
‘Severus have you finally met a woman you are interested in, I haven’t seen you smile since just after Hogwart’s,’ said Narcissa
‘You could say that,’ said Snape
‘Any is this the young lady you have your eye on,’ asked Narcissa as she appraised Seph
Seph blushed and looked down
‘She seems very shy Severus, although I do have to say she is very beautiful.’ Said Narcissa
‘She is the young lady we speak of but it is not to do with love or marriage,’ said Severus
Seph was playing with her hair feeling very self conscious it was then that Narcissa spotted the Black family ring
‘Where did you get that,’ she said as she went to grab Seph’s hand
‘Narcissa please take a seat and all will be explained,’ said Snape as he caught her hand
Narcissa dropped her arm and regarded the young woman again ‘Fine but I expect a good explanation,’
Snape helped Narcissa into a chair then Seph before he sat between them
‘Miss Black do you have the gems I gave you yesterday,’ asked Gragnok
Narcissa’s eyes went wide
‘Damn,’ said Seph ‘I left them in my trunk, Scarlet,’
Scarlet appeared with a pop
‘Yes Mistress how can Scarlet help young Mistress,’
‘Please can you get my trunk in here I need something from it,’ said Seph
With a pop the trunk arrived and was enlarged, Seph quickly bent over and opened it up
‘She isn’t very lady like is she,’ said Narcissa
Seph blushed realising what Narcissa meant and she quickly crouched as she rummaged for the gems. A few seconds later she had found them and after closing her trunk Scarlet popped away again with it. Seph went to hand Gragnok the gems but he stopped her.
‘Pass the red one to Mrs Malfoy,’ said Gragnok ‘Only she can activate it,’
Seph did as told and handed Narcissa the gem in question, Narcissa looked at it and realised its significance she placed it on the desk before an image of Sapphira AKA Lily appeared
‘Hello dear sister, I know this will come as a shock to you as I know your memories were altered but please hear me out, the last you heard of me you thought of me as Lily Potter but that has never been my true identity. When I was born I was stolen from my family and replaced with a still born, I was placed with a muggle family who raised me as their own.’
‘I suspect they had their minds altered, however it was not until my 5th year at Hogwart’s before I learned the truth, you helped me check my heritage after Severus called me a mudblood, we found that I was not Lily Evan’s at all and that I was in fact your younger sister Sapphira Antheia Black. We told mother and father and our other sisters and tried to pretend we were just friends,’
We did that for fear whoever took me in the first place may try again. Unfortunately whoever it was did find out we knew and they Obliviated yours and our sisters memories and killed our parents. After that you would never let me speak to you again even though we had been close friends all through school,’
‘I suspected that whoever had altered your memories had put me in a bad light, the young girl sitting by you is my daughter Persephone Sapphira Black, and she is a Black because I was unmarried at the time of her birth. When she was born she was disguised as a boy because we suspected someone might come after her.’
‘She has been hidden as a boy for a little under 13 years, she will need help coping with such a sudden change and I ask you as my sister to help her, she was most likely placed with my adopted family who may have mistreated her, she will probably have very little knowledge of the magical world and I suspect Dumbledore may even have plans to manipulate her.’
‘Gragnok has a copy of the Black family ledger, you will note both me and my daughter are listed, also Gragnok has a potion ready to prove Seph’s heritage, please sister love her as your own, give her the love I could not be there to give, teach her about our family the Blacks, her father is Severus and I hope he is away from that manipulative old man Dumbledore.’
‘If he is please let him know I never betrayed him, the Potter marriage was a fake to hide that fact that Seph was Severus’s child, Dumbledore lied to me saying Severus was dead and Voldermort would be after Seph if he found out my child was Severus’s, James was just a friend helping protect me and Seph,’
‘2 months after Seph was born I found Sev was still alive and tried to talk to him but he did not want to listen, he believed Dumbledore and his lies, I tried to convince him and explain but I didn’t get chance before I had to go into hiding because I had heard of a prophesy and that Voldermort was actively seeking my daughter,’
‘I hope Seph has contacted him if I wasn’t able before I died but if not and he is away from Dumbledore let him know about Seph he deserves to know his beautiful daughter. I have left a number of vials with memories of our time at Hogwart’s in my personal vault, they are there for Seph to be able to get to know me better but they may help you remember me too beloved elder sister.’
‘Please Cissa love her as you once loved me, be the family she needs to grow strong, and protect her from Dumbledore, I will always watch over you my big sister,’
With that the image of Sapphira vanished, Snape had his arm around Seph and both had tears on their eyes, Narcissa looked teary but kept her demeanour, obviously trying to work it all out.
Gragnok placed a ledger on the desk and Narcissa recognised it immediately as the Black family history, it listed every Black from when the Black first existed to present day it also listed birth and deaths exactly. Narcissa carefully picked the book up and opened it to the last entries, there in bold lettering was Persephone Sapphira Black daughter of Sapphira Antheia Black and Severus Tiberius Snape.
Narcissa’s mouth opened in shock ‘No it’s not true, Severus tell me this is a lie,’ she whispered
‘It is the truth Narcissa, Gragnok Sapphira said you have the Potion,’
Gragnok nodded and placed a large vial on the desk with 3 quills, Snape picked a quill up and dipped it in the potion before turning to Seph
‘This will sting but only a little, can I have your finger,’ he asked
Seph complied and held out her hand, Snape jabbed her finger drawing blood, Snape then placed the quill on some blank parchment and watched as the quill began to move, listing Seph’s family tree. After a few minutes it stopped and Snape picked up the parchment before handing it to Narcissa.
After a second Narcissa picked up another quill dipped it in the vial and pricked her own finger before placing the quill on another parchment. After a few minutes Narcissa compared them as Snape performed his test. Once done Narcissa paled
‘Why,’ was all Narcissa could say before she began sobbing
Seph was out of her chair straight away hugging Narcissa trying to comfort her.
‘I shall leave you for a short time, call me when you have had time to compose yourselves and we can continue, there is no rush,’ said Gragnok as he left the room
A tea set appeared on the desk and Snape poured 3 cups, it took a good ten minutes before Narcissa calmed down to a whimper rather than a sob, Seph never let go, she wasn’t sure why she acted like she did but for some reason she felt it right. Without warning Narcissa’s arms snaked around Seph and she found herself pulled into a tight embrace.
‘You poor dear,’ said Narcissa softly ‘If only I had known, Severus you have a beautiful daughter, would you mind if I teach her how to be a Lady of the Black family.’
‘It is not for me to decide, I have no right’s to make decisions for her,’ said Snape ‘I treated her terribly when I thought she was Harry Potter, as you remember I thought Lily had betrayed me but in fact she didn’t and because of that Lily died and Seph was placed in the care of abusive magic hating muggles.’
‘When she attended Hogwart’s I still had my anger of James betrayal and I took it out on Harry, I never even gave time to get to know her as Harry because of my blind anger, so it is up to Seph if she will accept your help,’ said Severus as he hung his head in shame
Seph untangled herself from Narcissa before wrapping her arms around Snape
‘I am still not ready to call you father but I meant what I said about giving our relationship another go, please don’t keep beating yourself down and returning to your depression, show me that lovely smile you had earlier and laugh for me,’ said Seph
Snape smiled as he hugged her back
‘Merlin,’ said Narcissa in a slight daze ‘It has just sunk in you were the boy who lived the golden boy of Gryffindor,’
Seph paled expecting the worst
‘Damn that Dumbledore and his interfering, Seph will you come live with me at Malfoy manor and let me get to know my niece,’ said Narcissa as she smiled softly
Seph looked nervous but nodded ‘I would like that aunt,’ Seph hung her head as she suddenly thought of Draco and the possible teasing she would receive from him.
Narcissa seemed to notice her distress ‘Is something wrong dear,’ she asked
Seph blushed before Snape answered
‘I believe she is concerned over Draco and Lucius, Draco and Harry never got on and during the last school year Seph accused Lucius of endangering the students with Riddles diary,’
‘Don’t worry Seph,’ she said as she held a hand out for Seph pulling her to her lap and enveloping her in a hug ‘Granted Lucius was a little angry but more so at Albus for putting the thought in your head in the first place,’
‘Do not worry, you are family and I am sure both will accept you, as for Draco I assure you he is nothing like he makes out at school, at home he is very loving of family.’ Said Narcissa
‘Severus please get Gragnok so we can finish our business and head home,’ said Narcissa
‘I would suggest taking Seph shopping first, she has only been female since this morning and only has what she is wearing,’ said Snape
Seph paled unsure about shopping, the only shopping she had ever done was to get school supplies never anything to wear elsewhere.
‘Yes even more important that we finish this meeting as soon as possible, there will be a lot to get,’ said Narcissa
Minutes later Gragnok came back in the office with Severus and took their seats.
‘To business, I take it Miss Black will be living with Professor Snape and your family Mrs Malfoy,’ asked Gragnok
‘Yes,’ both said
‘Good it makes me happy to see family getting back together, especially this young lady after hearing Miss Sapphira Black’s words spoke I know Miss Black will need lots of support, there are a few forms to sign Professor about legal guardianship obviously as her only living parent guardianship is passed to you,’ said Gragnok as he handed Snape 2 forms to sign
Snape read through and signed, the forms indicated he was taking responsibility of Seph’s life as she was underage to be considered a full adult.
‘Now just to make you aware Miss Black has been made an adult financially, I trust you both to make sure she does not go too mad with her wealth,’ said Gragnok ‘Although final say on purchases are down to Miss Black’s decision.’
The 2 adults nodded
‘Not that she will need to spend money for a while, I am sure both my family and Severus will make sure she wants for nothing.’ Said Narcissa
Gragnok nodded ‘Quite. Miss Black also has another crystal for you to see, I would suggest showing it in front of Mr Malfoy because he will need to act in a political fashion, it concerns your cousin Sirius.’ Said Gragnok
Narcissa growled
‘Actually it is testimony by Sapphira proving Sirius was not the Potter’s secret keeper meaning they were betrayed by someone else,’ said Gragnok ‘It is likely Sirius was framed and as no formal trial was ever had then he never had chance to prove his innocence,’
Narcissa’s frown disappeared as she took in this new information
‘Finally as Miss Black will be living at your home Mrs Malfoy I wish to ask Miss Black if there is anything she wishes moved there from her mother’s personal vault,’ asked Gragnok
Seph considered this for a minute ‘I don’t know how much there is and whether there is enough room,’ said Seph
‘Do not worry about space there will be plenty, Malfoy manor can be expanded magically to make rooms bigger in the inside than they appear.’ Said Narcissa
‘If it’s okay them I would like it all sent so I can go through it in my own time,’ said Seph
‘Seph can you call you elf,’ said Narcissa
‘Which one,’ said Seph causing Narcissa to raise a brow
‘How many do you have?’
‘2 personal maids,’ said Seph
‘Then call both,’
‘Scarlet, Emerald,’
Both elves popped in
‘Yes Mistress,’ they chorused
Narcissa turned to them ‘You are to go to Malfoy Manor and speak to Trixy my families elf, you are to inform her that we will be having a girl move in and she is to prepare the east wing, please assist her, when you are done return here and inform Gragnok, he will send the vault your Mistress wishes to be at home,’ said Narcissa
The two elves looked at Narcissa then at Seph
Seph nodded ‘Please do as Mrs Malfoy has asked,’
‘Yes Mistress, we will do as we are asked,’ with that the 2 elves popped away
‘If that is all Gragnok we will head out now as we need to address the problem of Seph’s wardrobe and other things young ladies need.’ Said Narcissa
‘quite, quite, well then Miss Black I wish you good luck with adapting and remember you are always free to come in if you need any advice,’ said Gragnok
‘Thank you for everything Gragnok, although I still haven’t quite figured everything out you have been most gracious and kind and I appreciate the time you have spent helping me,’ said Seph
‘You are welcome dear, take care,’ said Gragnok with a smile as the party of 3 left the office and made their way out of Gringotts.
Seph wasn’t sure she had ever seen a goblin smile before; it was a little unnerving but she tried to forget it and concentrate on the task at hand. As they walked out of Gringotts into the fresh air Snape turned to Seph
‘Before anything I think we best get your wand checked, it might not work as well now and the last thing you need is to return to Hogwart’s with a faulty wand,’ said Snape
Seph nodded and followed Snape while Narcissa looped her arm in Seph’s
As they entered the shop Seph remembered the first time she came there for her wand and how creepy Mr Ollivander seemed. It seemed Mr Ollivander was on target yet again as he suddenly appeared
'Good afternoon,' said a soft voice. Seph jumped.
An old man was standing before them, his wide, pale eyes shining like moons through the gloom of the shop.
'Hello,' said Seph awkwardly.
'Ah yes,' said the man. 'Yes, yes. I thought I'd be seeing you again Miss Black.' It wasn't a question. 'You have your mother's eyes. I remember telling you how it seemed only yesterday she was in here herself, buying her first wand. Ten and a quarter inches long, swishy, made of willow. Nice wand for charm work.'
Seph paled, Mr Ollivander moved closer to Seph. She noted his silvery eyes were as creepy as ever.
'Your father, on the other hand, favoured a mahogany wand. Eleven inches. Pliable. A little more power and excellent for transfiguration. Well, I say your father favoured it — it's really the wand that chooses the wizard, of course.'
‘Ah Severus it is good to see you and with your beautiful daughter too,’ said Mr Ollivander
Seph’s eyes were wide
‘You mean,’
Severus held up his wand and Seph felt like passing out, how much did Mr Ollivander know, Seph paled at the thought
‘And Mrs Malfoy as lovely as ever I see,’ Narcissa smiled
‘Do not worry Miss Black you have my oath and word of honour that I will never reveal my knowledge of your past to anyone,’ the old man said with a smile ‘Now let me see your wand,’
Seph pulled out her wand and showed it Mr Ollivander
‘Ah yes, it is good you came to see me, this will definitely not work for you at the moment, the core is still correct but the wand itself is wrong, hmmm let me see,’ he said as he removed the Pheonix feather and went in the back and collected a number of boxes.
Carefully he selected a few and placed the core in each getting Seph to try each one about the 15th wand she tried the wand sent out a large ball of red sparkling flames, the flamed did no damage just coated the store in a light show.
‘Indeed this is excellent,’ he said with a smile ‘Very unusual too, The outer surface is ebony with a Basilisk fang inside as you will see there are runes carved on the wand making it good for practically any spell and of course it still has your Pheonix feather core, it’s Ten and a quarter inches charmed to be flexible.’ He smiled brightly at Seph
‘Mr Ollivander would it be possible to place another Pheonix core in Miss Black’s old wand,’ asked Snape
Seph looked confused
‘Ah yes, I understand Professor Snape, of course I can make Miss Black’s old wand appear as if it has never been any different,’ he quickly went in the back and after perusing several Pheonix feathers he selected one and placed it in Seph’s old wand.
Seph went to pay but Snape interjected and paid the 15 Galleons for both wands before saying good bye and leaving the shop.
‘We will explain it later why we had your old wand made to look like it did before,’ said Snape
Seph nodded realising it was a secret matter
‘I have a few supplies I need to get so I will leave you and Narcissa to go to Madam Malkin’s to begin clothes shopping, I will meet you at lunch at the usual place Narcissa,’
Narcissa nodded as she led Seph to Madam Malkin’s
As they entered the shop Madam Malkin immediately made her way over ‘Mrs Malfoy it is a pleasure to see you, and who is the fine young lady accompanying you,’ she asked
‘This is my niece Persephone Black we are here today to buy her a complete new wardrobe,’ said Narcissa
‘Of course step this way,’ said Madam Malkin as she led them to a private room in the back of the shop
‘If you would step on the podium dear I can get you measured,’ she said
Seph looked nervous but with Narcissa’s encouragement she stepped up and Madam Malkin began to measure her waist, hips and bust before checking her height. A number of hours later the 2 of them finally left the shop, Seph had to admit it was pretty fun though, although she wasn’t sure how she felt about Narcissa’s insistence that she pay and not Seph.
After Madam Malkin’s they went to various other stores to collect hair products and make-up of all types, Seph found herself dribbling over watermelon fragranced shampoo’s and strawberry fragranced conditioners not to mention the huge selection of bath oils and body creams Narcissa bought her.
Make-up was just as bad with Narcissa buying a number of expensive make-up sets and various books on hair and beauty charm work. Finally they visited the Apothecary where Narcissa bought several readymade potions telling Seph they were for times of the month, Seph was utterly confused but shrugged as Narcissa said she would explain later.
All in all Seph was having a great time; her balance had improved tremendously since first thing in the morning, well that was until the disastrous shoe shop. Narcissa insisted on buying her several pairs of low heal and high heel boots, several pairs of court shoes and high heels, a number of flats, some strappy heels and more she also bought Seph several different handbags as well.
It was midday when Narcissa and Seph left Diagon alley, surprisingly neither were carrying bags of shopping as Narcissa had one of her house elves take all the shopping back to be placed in Seph’s room. Seph wondered where they were headed as they walked through the streets of London. The area was pretty expensive from the looks of it.
Before she could say anything though they entered a posh looking restaurant, the head waiter recognised Narcissa straight away and led them to a table where Snape was already waiting.
‘I was beginning to wonder if I would see you today,’ said Snape with a fake scowl
Seph laughed
‘Well we still have this afternoon to do yet, you might want to head back to the manor while we continue,’ said Narcissa
Seph looked at Narcissa in shock ‘You mean we haven’t finished yet,’ she asked incredulously
‘Of course not Seph, we have finished in Diagon alley and next we hit muggle London, there are so many other shops we have to visit there are all the brands young ladies should be aware of like Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and many more. All fashionable young ladies need designer clothes in their wardrobes.’
Seph was starting to wonder if all these clothes were going to bankrupt the Malfoy’s, she tried to insist on paying but her aunt refused point blank.
‘Have you had a good morning Seph?’
Seph beamed him a smile ‘Yes, I never knew shopping could be fun, the only time I have ever been shopping was in my first year with Hagrid and my second year with the Weasley’s, it’s also been fun getting to know Aunty,’ said Seph
‘Now Seph remember to call me Cissa, Aunty makes me feel old,’ she laughed
Seph blushed ‘Sorry this is all new, I mean having family and family that actually wants to know me,’ Seph looked down embarrassed by what she said
‘How anyone could not want to know you is beyond me, you’re so full of energy, don’t get me wrong Draco is my son and I love him but boys just don’t do shopping and I always wanted a daughter to shop with, and even though you might not be mine I am thoroughly enjoying this bonding experience,’ said Narcissa with a huge smile
As they ate their meal they continued to chat about Seph’s morning and how she was feeling, Seph was already feeling close to Narcissa and Snape was even closer after their chat last night and this morning it felt as though a huge weight had been lifted and there was much less tension between them.
Seph was starting to see why her mother fell in love with him, when he dropped the masks he was ironically very sweet and kind, Seph was looking forward to getting to know him better and wondered whether one day she may even feel natural about referring to him as her father.
Snape left them in muggle London and the girls went busily around the shops, Seph felt like a dress up doll but she didn’t mind it was pretty fun seeing how different outfits looked and figuring out what went with what. Narcissa promised to take Seph to a beauty spa later in the week where they would spend the whole day being pampered. Seph found she was looking forward to it even though she was still reeling from last night’s gender switch and still hadn’t quite got her head around the whole thing she was too busy enjoying her time with Narcissa to stop and consider it all.
It was around 6pm before they were finally done and made their way to the leaky cauldron to Floo back to Malfoy manor, both Narcissa and Seph were pretty tired but after Narcissa handed Seph a pep-up potion they both felt a little more alive and ready to face the Malfoy family. Seph called Scarlet at the pub and had her take the shopping back ahead of them.
Seph's life has been turned upside down, she's still running on automatic and hasn't had chance to sit and contemplate all that has happened but there is more to sort before she can finally process all that's happened and finally come to terms with her new life.
I do not own the right to Harry Potter, Rights go to J R Rowling and her publishers, this is just my take on how it could have been.
-----This story is set after Chamber of Secrets-----
As Seph stepped out of the fireplace at the Malfoy manor her eyes were wide, strangely enough though 2 men using the study she had entered paid her no mind as they continued to argue.
‘As I have been saying for years Albus Dumbledore should be removed from his position Minister, he is a danger to the children,’ said a man Seph recognised at Lucius
‘Ah but there had been no deaths and last year’s problems have gone away,’ said the man Seph recognised as the Minister for Magic
‘He is trying to make me look bad Minister, do you realise he led the Potter boy to believe I was the one that gave the Weasley girl that wretched book,’ said Lucius
‘Calm Lucius, I am sure it is a misunderstanding,’ said Fudge
‘It isn’t,’ Seph found herself saying without thought
She gulped as both men turned to her, fortunately Lucius noticed Narcissa
‘Cissa it is good to see you, have you been out all day, I thought you only had a meeting in the morning, and who is this young lady with you,’ said Lucius as he kissed Seph’s hand making her blush
‘It is a long story and one both you and the Minister should hear,’ said Narcissa
‘I can’t stay too long,’ said Fudge
‘Trust me you will want to stay for this, if I were you I would cancel all appointments, this may take some time and it is very important,’ said Narcissa
‘Okay dear but you still haven’t said what this young lady’s name is,’ said Lucius
‘She is your niece Persephone Sapphira Black daughter of Sapphira Antheia Black and Severus Tiberius Snape,’ said Narcissa
Lucius eye’s were wide ‘You only have 2 sisters so is Sapphira a sister of Sirius,’
‘No Sapphira was my younger sister who was kidnapped at birth and replaced with a still born, my family were Obliviated so we did not know the truth, and even when we learnt it we were mind wiped again.’ Said Narcissa angrily
Seph didn’t know where to put herself and stood with her head down tear in her eyes
‘Sapphira was raised in a muggle home as Lily Evans,’ said Narcissa
Both the Minister and Lucius gasped
‘You mean this girl is the boy who lived,’ said Fudge
‘Yes although even that was possibly staged,’ said Narcissa
‘Lucius may I use your house elf, I need to cancel my schedule for tonight, this takes precedence,’ said Fudge
‘Yes Minister,’ said Lucius as the Minister wrote a quick note before Lucius called an elf to deliver the message
‘Is Severus here yet,’ asked Narcissa
‘I haven’t seen him he is most likely with Draco if he is here, I have only recently got back from several meeting’s,’ said Lucius ‘We will find him and meet in the dining hall,’
‘Scarlet,’ said Seph
‘Yes Mistress,’
‘Can you ask Professor Snape to meet us in the dining hall please?’
‘Scarlet will do as Mistress asks,’ said the elf before popping away
Lucius’s eyes were wide ‘I take it that was your house elf,’ he asked
‘Yes one of 2 personal ones I have, the others are at the estates I own,’ said Seph
Lucius seemed impressed, and then he noticed Seph’s rings
‘If I am not mistaken those are the Black, Potter and Snape family rings,’
‘They are, both my mother and James Potter asked Gragnok to read me their will’s yesterday, I am now head of the Potter family, recognised as one of the Black family heiress’s and have been recognised as a the heiress to the Snape family,’ said Seph ‘Uncle,’
Lucius again looked wide eyed
‘I want to apologise for my behaviour last year at Hogwart’s, I was left clues which made the perpetrator of the years happenings appear to be you, I am sorry for losing you a house elf and for acting immaturely.’ Said Seph
‘Think nothing of it my dear and you don’t have to call me uncle, Luc or Lucius will do,’ he said as he gave the girl a gentle hug ‘come let us head to the dining hall and discuss the situation fully,’ he said as he took Seph’s arm and led them all out the room towards the dining hall.
Severus and Draco were waiting outside the dining hall as the group approached, Severus smiled at Seph, Draco approached and took Seph’s hand.
‘Who is this beautiful young woman father, I hope you are not cheating on mother,’ he said with a grin
Seph blushed ‘DRACO,’
Draco looked startled ‘I see my reputation precedes me,’ he said smoothly
‘You wish,’ she snorted with a very Snape like raised eyebrow causing Severus to laugh
‘Draco maybe I should introduce your cousin Persephone Sapphira Black daughter of Sapphira Antheia Black and your godfather Severus Tiberius Snape,’ said Lucius
Draco paled as Seph found herself giggling
‘Sorry Draco, I really don’t know you very well and in our first year you offered me friendship and I refused because I thought you were snobbish, I apologise for that and ask that maybe we can start over, there is a lot I don’t know about the Wizarding world and maybe you can be a good teacher,’
Draco looked even more confused
‘All will be revealed however I will say this now Draco, your cousin has been through a lot and she hasn’t even begun to deal with many of the issues that have just come up for her so I ask you as my godson to watch out for her and be her friend no matter what you are about to hear,’ said Snape
‘I will,’ said Draco
The group sat at the table, Lucius at the head with Narcissa to his right followed by Draco, Severus was to his left with Seph next to him and the Minister was at the end of the table. The food soon appeared and all began to eat as Snape began.
‘Firstly I will inform everyone here, Seph contacted me last night because she had had a meeting at Gringotts which had brought light to many things, firstly that she was not who she thought she was, secondly that her parents were not who she believed them to be and many other things,’ said Snape
‘May I ask who you were before Seph as you said I met you in school but I believe I would have remembered such a beauty,’ said Draco
Seph blushed and lowered her head
‘I was Harry James Potter son of Lily and James Potter,’ said Seph nervously
Draco gasped however he quickly recovered and got up before walking around the table, Seph braced herself knowing Draco was either about to Hex her to death or beat her to a pulp, needless to say she was surprised as hell when 2 strong arms drew her into a gentle hug, after a seconds the arms released her and she found Draco’s hand lifting her chin.
‘Do not be ashamed there is obviously a lot to this story and I for one would like to hear it, I promised your father I would be your friend and listen and I meant it,’ he said as he kissed her forehead and returned to his seat
Seph sat shocked and blushing for a minute before she snapped out of her daze when the Minister spoke
‘So how did this happen,’ he asked
‘Well from what I was told by a message left by my mother, I had been made to look like a boy at birth to protect me, the best explanation is if I get you to imagine what I have surmised as of yet from everything I have been told since yesterday,’
The group nodded
‘Okay imagine you want to create a weapon or a tool, a totally obedient tool that will be a source of hope for people, imagine you defeated a dark lord and it gave you power and status, people looked up to you and you enjoyed that power but a number of years later you found many already forgetting what you did,’
‘So you need a new Dark Lord to appear, what better way than to create one,’ said Seph
‘Create a Dark Lord on purpose,’ said Fudge
‘Yes, what better way to do it than at a school, but you can’t just use anybody, it will take planning and the right candidate, Tom Marvolo Riddle steps into view, he is perfect, mother died at a young age, father a muggle who abandoned him, brought up in an abusive orphanage. He is the perfect base to work on.’
‘Now deprive him of any further love or affection, every year force him to return to the muggle orphanage to be abused, and push him hard to excel in his studies, give him a taste of power like prefect or head boy but never give him praise. Sooner or later the boy grows to hate muggles this moves to muggleborns,’
‘The only wizards who seem worth anything are purebloods because at least they have tradition and certain ways of dealing with people, anyway eventually you create the Dark Lord, only you find he isn’t as blood thirsty as you wish he was, so you have to make sure people loyal to you do things claiming it was done in the Dark Lords name.’
‘The problem is The Dark lord never openly chooses to fight, he never attends battles and there is no way to kill him and look good in public, so you need to draw him out. You begin preparing for this by stealing a girl from her family and bringing her up as a muggleborn, but somewhere along the line she discovers the truth.’
‘She tells her real parents and sisters, he parent’s are killed and her sisters mind wiped, one of the sisters is so affected by the mind wipe she begins to lose her sanity, the other has been led to believe she hated the girl. The girl herself goes quiet and gets with a boy you want to use as a spy. So you hatch a plan,’
‘Firstly you tell the boyfriend that if he doesn’t spy for you his girlfriend may die, then while the boyfriend is away spying you tell the girlfriend her love is dead after being caught as a spy and if the Dark Lord knows of her child he may come after them. Needless to say fearing for her child’s life she asks a close friend to pretend to marry her so the Dark Lord won’t suspect it was the traitor’s child.
‘2 months after the child is born the boyfriend returns from his mission to find his girlfriend in another man’s house with child, you feel betrayed and refuse to listen to what she tries to tell you, you close down your emotions and become nothing but the perfect spy,’ Meanwhile the girl is forced into hiding when she is told the Dark Lord has heard a prophesy relating to her child.
‘To protect her child further she makes the child look male and more like her friend they then go into hiding, The manipulator tries to encourage the girl to use a close friend as secret keeper but as they already have suspicious they chose someone else, unfortunately for them the person is more prone to manipulation than the one they were advised to use.’
‘That person betrays them to both sides, The Dark Lord does not believe the prophesy and feels his name is being tarnished again so he attends the hiding place on Halloween he finds he is too late the manipulator is already there and the girl and her friend are dead, the Dark Lord then finds himself on the receiving of a spell that rips him from his body and marks the child as an equal,’
‘When people arrive on the scene they find the mother and the supposed husband dead and the child cut by a curse. People are led to believe the child survived the killing curse and he is hailed as a saviour because the dark lord is no more. The manipulator doesn’t get the credit though so he needs a new plan,’
‘He sends the child to live with the family he originally planted the girl in, knowing full well that they hate magic and will abuse the child because it is different from them. The child is indeed abused, beaten regularly by the supposed cousin, starved and forced to work as less than a house elf and only given rags to wear.’
‘He is lied to about his parents death and they never celebrate his birthday or show him any love what so ever, they treat him as a complete freak especially if there is ever a hint of magic, of course they also deny magic exists, so the child grows up alone with no friends and ignorant of the very thing that defines him.’
’10 years later Hagrid the gamekeeper a simple man but caring arrives and takes the boy to see the Wizarding world, Hagrid is so excited to be helping the boy who lived he misses the sign of abuse, and is so pre-occupied he never even noticed the boys glasses are broke and he is wearing rags, when the boy enters Hogwart’s he is shown love for the first time,’
‘The old manipulator makes sure to show kindness to the lonely love starved boy, the potions master and spy see’s his child as the spitting image of James his betrayer and he shuns the child making sure to make the child life hell thinking he is just like his father, the only one to actually show affection is the old manipulator,’
‘Of course this makes the child more loyal and trusting of the old man who seems to care for him, now all the manipulator needs to do is place the child in circumstances where it appears the dark lord is trying to rise again, this gets the Wizarding world praising the attention starved humble boy and even though it places the child and school in danger it makes the old manipulator look good in the eyes of the public for protecting and nurturing their saviour,’ said Seph
‘By sending the child back each year to live in abuse you are insuring you keep control and keep the child humble, either that of the child will snap and create the next Dark Lord for him to kill and gain power.’ Said Seph
Seph’s audience were all open mouthed in shock from her hypothesis
‘You’re saying Albus Dumbledore is the real Dark Lord, what makes you think it is him, why do it like this surely he would gather followers and just attack.’ Said Fudge
‘Minister if I pick up this fork and threw it at you, I would be blamed would I not.’ Said Seph
Fudge nodded
‘However if I used my mind to pick up a fork and send it at you who in this room could hold the blame, bearing in mind there are 2 people who were made to appear as Deatheater’s the wife of a suspected death eater and the son of the same, then there is the golden boy Harry Potter, who would you accuse of throwing the fork when no-one’s hands touched it,’ asked Seph
‘I apologise for what I just said I am just trying to use an example and make a point, what is done in the shadows is harder to prove and also causes distrust,’ said Seph as she addressed the Malfoy’s and Snape
‘Think nothing of it dear, your hypothesis and examples make very valid points,’ said Lucius with a smile
Fudge sat and considered all that had been said
‘You are correct Miss Black and I see your point but the problem is proving your hypothesis correct,’ said Fudge
‘I agree, the problem is if Dumbledore learns of who I am he will no doubt try to alter me again and either harm my family or mind wipe them and anyone else who knows of who I really am, Minister tell me about Sirius Black,’ said Seph
Fudge paled ‘The man was sent to Azkaban for betraying Lily and James Potter, killing 12 muggles and Peter Pettigrew,’ said Fudge ‘Why would you want to know about him,’
‘Was he ever given a trial,’ asked Seph with a raised brow, she already knew the answer but wanted to hear it from fudge
‘No all the evidence pointed to him Albus.....’ he broke off
‘Yes I have no doubt Dumbledore informed the Ministry Sirius was the Potter’s secret keeper, but in fact he wasn’t,’ said Seph ‘Emerald,’
The house elf appeared ‘Yes Mistress,’
‘Can you please get the purple gem from my trunk,’ asked Seph
Emerald nodded and popped away only to return seconds later with the gem
‘Thank you,’ the elf nodded and vanished
Seph placed the gem in the centre of the table and immediately Lily’s Image appeared
‘This message is in case something should happen to Sirius Black if we are dead, we were told by Albus Dumbledore that the Dark Lord was after my child, we were to go into hiding under Fidelus and Dumbledore suggested using Sirius Black, we had suspicious about Dumbledore and as it was widely known Sirius was James best friend we decided to use another.’
‘We chose Peter Pettigrew and Sirius was to act as a decoy, if the Dark Lord was really after us we felt he would go after Sirius first, this would then give us time to find another hiding place, however if we are dead there is a good chance we were betrayed by Peter, if so Sirius may go after him and do something stupid.’
‘However we feel Dumbledore may plan to frame Sirius to make sure Seph’s godfather cannot take care of her, there are some things about Peter that should be known if we are killed that might help find him should he go into hiding, the main thing is that Peter is an unregistered Animagus, his form is that of a grey rat.’
‘James and Sirius are also unregistered Animagus, James is a stag and Sirius is a big black dog, the 3 of them became Animagus in their 5th years at Hogwart’s to help a friend Remus Lupin and a condition he has. If we are dead and Sirius is blamed please we ask give him a trial under veritaserum to help prove his innocence, we know he would never betray us.’ Said Lily as her image faded
Fudge looked shocked as did everyone else
‘The question is did Sirius really kill those muggles or did someone find a way to frame him keeping him from looking after me and spoiling well made plans,’ said Seph
‘I think it best Minister if we arrange a trail for my wife and Miss Black’s cousin, it appears things may not be as they seem,’ said Lucius
‘Quite, quite,’ said Fudge ‘I will need the use of your owl to begin the process, I will have Sirius removed from Azkaban tonight and held at the Ministry till the trial can be arranged, however given the situation I will try to ensure the trial is tomorrow morning,’ said Fudge
‘If you will excuse us we shall return in a moment,’ said Lucius
Lucius and Fudge quickly left the room heading to Lucius’s study, Seph’s masks of calm were slowly breaking down and she was struggling to keep from sobbing, she had sat both last night and today and considered the whole thing, looking at it from every angle before she came up with her hypothesis.
And after imparting her theories she was feeling rather mentally and emotionally drained, when her idea’s were in her head they seemed so surreal but speaking the words and letting those thoughts out just brought back to her all that had been taken from her and her mother all because of one man wanting to have power behind the scenes.
Finally she could hold back no longer and tears began streaming down her face before strong arms picked her up and she was placed on a lap before being enveloped, Seph glanced up to see Snape holding her, he kissed her forehead and she buried her head in his shoulder and wept. She wept for her mother, for James Potter and for every wrong that had been done against her family.
Seph wasn’t sure how long she was there, she didn’t care Snape was warm, not the cold potions professor he made himself out to be but the kind gentle man her mother fell in love with. Eventually she drifted off to sleep in his arms.
PSBPSBPSBPSBPSBPSBPSBPSB
It was morning before Seph opened her eyes to an unfamiliar bed, she slowly pushed herself up wondering where she was and what had happened, she found herself in an ornate four poster bed with soft pastel peach hangings, the bed sheets were a similar colour and felt soft and smooth, from her shopping the other day she surmised they were satin sheets.
Ironically she had never even heard of the material until Narcissa had introduced her to it while at Madam Malkin’s, in fact she only knew harsh materials like wool until yesterday, she had never known of Kashmir, silks and satins before. Seph blushed on seeing what she was wearing, it was a soft short nightdress that did nothing to conceal her nipples or figure.
Seph pulled the hangings back and gasped at the room she was in, it was fairly big, with an ornate dresser and there was even a pale peach leather couch and matching chaise longue. The carpet was cream and felt soft to her feet as she stood up to investigate her surroundings. There were 4 doors leading from the room.
The first turned out to be a lavish bath suite complete with a sunken marble bath, Seph noticed the hair and bath products she and her aunt had purchased here already neatly laid out. The second door was a toilet. The third led to a common room which Seph decided she would investigate in a short while and the last door let to a walk in wardrobe.
The wardrobe rooms rails were filled with the clothes Seph and her aunt had purchased yesterday, everything appeared neatly arranged with all skirts, dresses and so on placed together, shoes and boots were neatly placed on special shelves designed for such items and there was even a place for the bags.
Seph was brought out of her musings by a gentle knock at the door; she darted to the bed to cover herself
‘Come in,’ said Seph blushing
Narcissa entered closing the door behind her
‘Good morning honey, did you sleep well,’ she asked with a soft smile as she made her way to the bed and sat next to Seph
‘Yes, err... how did I...’
‘Get here,’ said Narcissa
Seph nodded
‘Well you fell asleep in your father’s arms, so he carried you up and left before I changed your clothes and tucked you in,’ said Narcissa
Seph visibly relaxed ‘I don’t even remember falling asleep,’
‘Well it is to be expected you have had a busy few days finding you are not what or who you thought you were, finding a father who had no idea you existed, your transformation, meeting me, our shopping trip and then meeting Fudge and explaining your theories to us, It was a wonder you stayed awake as long as you did,’ said Narcissa with a smile
‘Unfortunately you can’t relax just yet, Fudge sent word Sirius was moved to the Ministry last night and Amelia Bones head of Magical Law enforcement has agreed to give Sirius a trial this morning, so we have to get you ready,’ said Narcissa
Seph nodded as she got up and followed her aunt to the bath suite, she blushed as Narcissa asked her to undress and began teaching Seph about her hair care and body care products. As Seph began to bathe whilst blushing Narcissa began to inform Seph about her body and things all girls should know about their themselves especially what they need to know at the onset of puberty.
‘You mean I will have...’ she couldn’t say it; she just couldn’t say the word. Seph had once heard a couple of girls talking about periods and menstrual cramps but never paid much attention.
‘Yes honey and it is nothing to be embarrassed about it is a natural process all girls go through,’ said Narcissa
‘Is it painful,’ she asked ‘I mean bleeding and all,’
‘It can be, although it isn’t the blood itself that causes the pain, and there are potions that will help ease any discomfort,’
Narcissa went on to explain the potions she had bought Seph the other day as well as the other products needed, she explained how to recognise the first signs and when to take the potions and use the other products. After a while Seph was out the bath and Narcissa dried her off using magic before Seph was wrapped in a bathrobe and led into her bedchamber.
Narcissa then went into the wardrobe and began to pick out something suitable to wear, Seph found herself blushing again at the lacy underwear Narcissa handed her but she quickly put them on knowing there was no way she could argue, Narcissa then handed Seph a short green dress and matching dress robes before finally helping her choose shoes.
Narcissa had suggested court shoes that had a low heel, and after a little while learning to balance in the blasted things Seph finally managed to walk without tripping over her own feet, she was still a little unstable but Narcissa was confident by the time they were to leave for the Ministry Seph would be able to walk more comfortably.
Narcissa also began to teach Seph the basics of make-up but Narcissa did most of the work because they were pressed for time. The pair made their way down to the dining hall for breakfast to find Snape, Lucius and Draco already there.
‘Morning Seph,’ said Snape and Lucius together
‘Morning,’ said Seph feeling nervous
‘Seph I just want to say I think you’re really brave,’ said Draco
‘Huh,’ said Seph confused
‘With everything you have just found out and everything your going through, you know with getting used to a new body and learning to be the opposite to everything you once thought you were, I think your pretty brave to be able to cope so well and I still stand by what I said yesterday and on the first day of Hogwart’s,’
‘I would like to be your friend Seph, that is if you will have me,’ Draco said
Seph smiled ‘I would like that Draco,’ she beamed
They settled down for breakfast and Seph noticed Lucius had the daily. The picture on the front cover caught her eye straight away.
‘Uncle...sorry Lucius when you have read that can have it please,’ asked Seph
‘Certainly,’ said Lucius
Seph thanked him and began eating, breakfast was a relaxed affair, they discussed Sirius and his pending trial and also discussed plans for the rest of summer, Seph didn’t think she would have much time to relax as Narcissa discussed the various girl training she would be having over the summer, from etiquette and deportment to Make-up and beauty.
After they finished breakfast it was time to head to the Ministry and Lucius handed Seph the Prophet saying she could read it while they waited for the trial to begin so she would not be bored. After collecting their cloaks they used the Floo network to head straight to the Ministry. Seph was caught by Snape as she tumbled from the fireplace at the Ministry.
Her eyes went wide as she took in the sight of the magnificent interior of the place, in the main room there was a giant fountain with 3 figures in the centre, no matter where her eyes went there was something new to look at as they made their way through the building. At the main reception for the courts they had to present their wands for inspection before being allowed through.
After going down several spiral staircases they appeared in what looked like a dungeon, but she was informed each door led to a courtroom. Soon they were all sitting within court 4 awaiting the trial to begin and Seph turned her attention to the paper.
A delighted Mr Weasley told the Daily Prophet, 'We will be spending the gold on a summer holiday in Egypt, where our eldest son, Bill, works as a curse breaker for Gringotts Wizarding Bank.'
The Weasley family will be spending a month in Egypt, returning for the start of the new school year at Hogwarts, which five of the Weasley children currently attend.
She had barely finished reading when the Judge entered and Sirius was brought in, there standing in the middle of the chamber was Sirius Black, his hair was shaggy and looked knotted and dirty, his clothes looked like rags and he appeared thin and pale. He looked at them his eyes narrowing on Narcissa before he noticed Seph.
His eyes widened as she smiled at him as he was strapped into a chair before his guards left.
‘My name is Amelia Bones and I will be the judge presiding over this case. This trial has been requested by Minister Fudge who has informed me new evidence has been brought forward by a Miss Persephone Black.’
‘Could Miss Black please approach the bench with her evidence?’
Seph felt nervous but stood and approached, she noticed since her name was mentioned Sirius’s eyes never left her even once. Seph placed the gem on the counter and Amelia watched as the message played.
Amelia regarded Seph after the message was complete ‘And how may I ask are you related to the Potter’s Miss Black,’ she asked
Seph looked around the room noticing there was no one else present ‘Is this room sound proof,’
Amelia nodded
‘Then I need to ask your oath that what I am about to tell you will never be revealed by you to anyone,’
Amelia considered the girl before replying ‘Then you have my oath,’ she said as she glowed light blue
‘I was their son Harry James Potter, Lily Potter was never married to James and Lily was not even Lily she was Sapphira Black, she had been taken from her family when she was born and placed in a muggle family, when she grew up and had me she feared that because of who my father was that I would be in danger so she disguised me as a boy.’ Said Seph as she looked down ashamed
‘That is quite a story, and who is your real father,’
‘Professor Severus Snape.’
What proof do you have that you are or were Harry Potter,’ asked Amelia
Seph held up her hands to show Amelia her three rings ‘I am the head of the Potter family, I am heiress of the Snape family and one of the Heiress’s of the Black family your honour.’
Amelia seemed please with the evidence after all only a Potter could wear the Potter ring; it simply would not accept anyone other than the heir of the previous head of house.
‘If you need I can also get the gem my mother left to tell me who I am and why they made me look like a boy,’ said Seph
‘That will not be needed, what you have shown is enough proof, I assume all this has only just come to light,’
‘Yes I only found out that I am a girl 2 days ago and it wasn’t until yesterday before my body had finished changing to its correct form,’ said Seph
‘Miss Black I must applaud you, you seem to be doing rather well, I myself would probably have a heart attack from that news, anyway let us get on with this trial.’ Amelia called one of the guards back who came carrying a vial of potion.
‘Sirius Orion Black, will you accept a trial under Veritaserum,’ asked Amelia
‘I will,’ said Sirius with a gruff voice
The guard approached Sirius and administered the potion, Sirius’s eyes glazed over and the guard confirmed Sirius was ready.
‘Is your name Sirius Orion Black,’ asked Amelia
‘Yes,’ said Sirius
‘Were you Lily and James Potter’s secret keeper,’ asked Amelia
‘No, I was not I was to be a decoy, both James and I felt it would be safer, Peter Pettigrew was to be secret keeper,’ said Sirius
‘Did you murder 12 muggles and Peter Pettigrew,’ asked Amelia
‘No when I found Peter he drew attention shouting that I betrayed Lily and James, in the confusion he threw a Bombarda spell behind him killing the muggles then he cut off his finger and used his Animagus form to escape.’ Said Sirius
‘We do not have Mr Pettigrew registered as an Animagus,’
‘That is because in our 5th year at Hogwart’s James, Peter and I became illegal Animagi to help a friend,’ said Sirius
‘Can you confirm Peter’s Animagus form,’ asked Amelia
‘He is a grey rat, obviously he should have a missing toe now,’ said Sirius
Suddenly Seph’s mind was a whirl and she jumped up
‘I know where he is, I’ve seen him,’ she practically shouted
‘You do,’ asked Amelia shocked
‘Yes and I can even show you,’ said Seph
Amelia eyed the young girl before continuing ‘Where have you seen him,’ she asked
Seph held up the paper
‘Step up here,’ said Amelia
Seph walked nervously over to Amelia and showed her the paper, there was a picture of the Weasley’s and on Ron’s shoulder was Scabbers the rat, he was grey and had a toe missing as described by Sirius.
‘Ron calls him Scabbers, he told me he has been in the family for around 11 years, if I am not mistaken rat’s tend not to live that long,’ said Seph
‘Kingsley gather a few Aura’s and go now to secure this rat before the Weasley’s leave for Egypt, bring it straight here, use extreme caution.’ said Amelia ‘Use the antidote on Sirius before you leave.’
Sirius’s eyes became unglazed before Amelia began to speak again
‘Sirius Orion Black, it is with pleasure that I find you not guilty of any of the charges you were imprisoned for, I hereby release you and will make recommendations to provide adequate compensation for the years you were incarcerated in Azkaban, although I doubt any money could make up for such injustice,’ said Amelia ‘however you will need to register your Animagus form,’
‘I will your honour,’ said Sirius as he was freed from the chair
‘I will make sure the possessions you had during your arrest are waiting for you when you get back, I assume you will wish to witness to the trial of Peter Pettigrew,’ asked Amelia
‘Yes your honour, I want to see him pay for his crimes,’ said Sirius
‘Return here in 3 hours, hopefully by then Pettigrew will be in custody,’ said Amelia
‘Thank you,’ said Sirius as he walked over towards the Malfoy’s, Snape and Seph, his eyes were on Seph only
He crouched in front of her and took one of her hands ‘You look just as beautiful as your mother, I can’t thank you enough for what you have done today, I only wish I could have been there for you all these years. I have no idea how I am going to repay you,’ he said as he kissed her hand
‘Well you can start by coming with us and getting cleaned up, I can’t have you running around with dirty paws now can I,’ asked Seph
Sirius’s eyes widened before he nodded and turned to the others
‘Lucius, my dear cousin Cissa and Severus it is good to see you, and who is this fine young man? Draco perhaps.’ He asked getting up
‘I am, I am surprised you know of me,’ said Draco
‘I was still a free man when you were born,’ said Sirius
‘It is good to see you Siri, I only wish it had been under better circumstances and that my sister was still here with us,’
‘As do I,’ said Sirius in a sad tone as Lucius and Severus also greeted Sirius
‘Come we will head to the Manor so you can get cleaned up,’ said Lucius
Life should begin to settle down for Seph, but how will she feel once the initial rush has slowed and she has time to think?
I do not own the rights to Harry Potter. Rights go to J K Rowling and her publishers. This is just my take on how it could have been.
-----This story is set after Chamber of Secrets-----
The group made their way out of the courts and to the Floo network. Moments later they arrived at the Malfoy manor. Lucius quickly took Sirius to some rooms that had been set up for him so he could bathe and change into clean clothes. Lucius had Twinkle bring some food up to him.
‘I still can’t get around the fact that Weasley’s rat Scabbers is really an Animagus who betrayed the Potters,’ said Draco still in shock as the group drank tea in the main common room.
Seph nodded with tears in her eyes before Narcissa pulled her into a tight hug and allowed her to release her pain.
‘It’s okay honey. I am sure they will catch him and when we return to court you can see justice fulfilled as it should have been all those years ago,’ said Narcissa in soothing tones.
After about an hour or so, Sirius entered the main common room looking much better. His hair was still long but it was clean and tangle free. He had had a shave and was wearing clean robes. He knelt before Seph and took her hand.
‘I cannot convey my thanks enough. It is good to see how well you have grown up, even though back then, you were a little different. Lily and James told me you were a girl and who your real father was. I am glad you found him. He is a good man even if we never really got on well,’ said Sirius as he gently kissed Seph’s hand causing her to blush.
‘Narcissa I hope you are well,’ said Sirius as he took her hand and kissed it also.
‘I am better since we found out about Seph. Come, let me sort your hair, cousin,’ said Narcissa with a smile.
The three of them went to one of the bathrooms on the ground floor where Narcissa set to work trimming Sirius’s long locks.
‘So you’re my godfather,’ said Seph.
‘Yes I am but you can call me Sirius or Padfoot,’ said Sirius.
‘Why Padfoot?’ asked Seph in confusion.
‘I will show you when your aunt has finished my hair,’ said Sirius with a smile.
A few minutes later Narcissa had managed to tame Sirius’s hair.
‘Thank you 'Cissa. That feels much better. Now little one, you asked 'why Padfoot?',’ said Sirius as he transformed into a massive black dog and began licking Seph’s hand causing her to giggle.
A few seconds later he transformed back.
‘You will have to get registered now,’ said Seph.
‘Yes I guess I will,’ Sirius said.
‘Can you teach me?’ asked Seph.
‘Only if your father says I can,’ said Sirius.
‘I am sure he won’t mind. Has Lucius mentioned that we would like you to stay here while your home gets fixed up,’ said Narcissa.
‘I don’t want to impose,’ said Sirius.
‘Nonsense Sirius, plus it will give you chance to know Seph and Draco after all you are their cousin and Seph’s godfather. Seph is still getting used to being female. We only found her a day ago and I am sure she has lots to ask you about Lily and James. After all you knew them better than us,’ said Narcissa.
‘Well, if it okay with all of you, then I would like that,’ said Sirius.
Just then Lucius walked in.
‘Ah much better, I assume you are feeling a little better now Sirius,’ said Lucius.
‘I am, thank you Lucius,’ said Sirius.
‘Then we best be off, court should resume shortly,’ said Lucius.
With that, the group went back to the fireplace in the study before heading to the Ministry.
They made their way to the court room and were ushered in straight away. There, in the middle of the room on the chair, was a grey rat which looked to be petrified. To the right, the Weasley’s sat and appeared to be in a slight degree of shock.
The twins seemed to be finding the whole thing funny and had smiles on their faces. At seeing Seph they gave her an approving wolf whistle much to Snape’s annoyance.
‘Ah glad you could rejoin us. Miss Black, could you step up to the bench please,’ asked Amelia. Seph nervously walked to the bench, everyone of the Weasleys' eyes were on her.
‘Miss Black, can you confirm this is the rat you mentioned at Sirius’s trial?’
The Weasley’s all looked at Sirius standing next to the Malfoy’s, shock written all over their faces.
‘I can confirm it is the same rat your honour,’ said Seph.
‘Just call me Amelia. When did you first see this rat, Miss Black?’
‘It was on the train to Hogwarts 2 years ago during my first year there,’ said Seph.
‘And you stated that Ron had said the rat was in his family for over 10 years,’ asked Amelia.
‘Hey I have never met her in my life,’ spat Ron angrily.
‘Mr Weasley, please be silent in my court or I will hold you in contempt. Please continue Miss Black.’
‘Yes he did,’ confirmed Seph.
‘Very well Miss Black. Mr. Shacklebolt, please check the rat to see if it is indeed an Animagus,’ said Amelia.
Kingsley cast a spell and suddenly the rat began to morph in front of everyone present. Suddenly, in the rat's place, was Peter Pettigrew. To say the room was shocked would be an understatement.
‘Please secure the prisoner,’ said Amelia.
Kingsley and another Auror, quickly strapped Pettigrew to the chair. Kingsley cast another spell to prevent Pettigrew from changing, also making sure to remove his wand before casting an Enervate spell to wake him. Pettigrew looked in shock, his eyes widening at seeing Sirius. Before he could speak, Amelia began.
‘Mr Pettigrew, you are charged with betraying Lily and James Potter as their secret keeper, which in turn caused their deaths. You are also charged with killing 12 muggles and faking your own death, causing an innocent man to be jailed for over 10 years. How do you plead?’ said Amelia.
‘It wasn’t me. It was Sirius. He betrayed the Potters,’ said Peter in panic.
‘Mr Black has already been found innocent of all charges. Mr. Pettigrew, how do you plead?’ said Amelia losing patience.
Peter looked around the room and spotted Ron. ‘Ron, it wasn’t me, I was a good rat wasn’t I, tell them it wasn’t me,’ he said in a pleading tone.
‘Enough, as you are so unwilling to answer the plea, I have no choice but to question you under Veritaserum. Mr. Shacklebolt if you please.’
Kingsley stepped forward and forced Peter to take the potion, his eyes glazed over the same as Sirius’s did.
‘Are you Peter Pettigrew?’ asked Amelia.
‘Yes.’
‘Were you the Potter’s secret keeper?’ asked Amelia.
‘Yes.’
‘Did you betray them to the Dark Lord?’ asked Amelia.
‘Only Lily.’
‘Why did you betray Lily?’ asked Amelia.
‘James married Lily and we became distant. It was all Lily’s fault. James, Sirius, Remus and I were close at school till that woman got her hands on James. The Dark Lord said that James didn’t really love Lily but was bewitched. If I helped him he could free James, and I would have friends again, but Lily killed James,’ said Pettigrew.
‘What makes you think Lily killed James?’
‘Because the Dark Lord tried to save him from her evil.’
‘Did you kill 12 muggles and fake your death to cover for your betrayal?’
‘Yes. Sirius knew, he knew I was the secret keeper. When he came for me, I screamed that he was the murderer. I then cast a spell and made my escape. Soon the Dark Lord will rise again and I will be there to help him to avenge James. I have been watching that whore’s son and the Dark Lord will reward me for my loyalty,’ said Pettigrew.
‘I have heard enough. Kingsley, use the antidote on Mr Pettigrew,’ said Amelia.
As soon as Peter’s eyes came back into focus, Amelia addressed him.
‘Mr Pettigrew, you have been found guilty of all charges. You are hereby sentenced to life imprisonment in Azkaban with no options for appeal. Mr. Shacklebolt take him from my sight,’ said Amelia in disgust.
Seph was in tears as Snape hugged her to him. After they had carted Pettigrew out of the courtroom, Amelia turned towards the Weasley’s.
‘Usually harbouring criminals warrants punishment under the law; however, I have no doubt you were unaware of the rat being an Animagus, and a wanted criminal; so therefore you are free to leave,’ said Amelia.
As they left Ron gave Seph a strange look and Seph wondered what it was but figured it was because she just lost him a pet.
‘Mr. Black, once again please accept my humble apologies,’ said Amelia.
Sirius flashed Amelia a grin that immediately had her blushing.
‘Don’t worry about it. You were not to blame,’ said Sirius.
‘Thank you Mr. Black. You are free to leave. You can collect your wand at the main lobby. I have already informed them that you will be along to collect it, along with any other personal items you had at the time of your arrest,’ said Amelia as she got up and left for the chambers behind her seat.
Sirius gave Seph another huge hug.
‘I still can’t thank you all enough for what you have done for me,’ said Sirius.
‘You are welcome. Now let’s collect your belongings, get your Animagus registry sorted and then we can head for something to eat,’ said Lucius.
An hour later after everything had been sorted at the Ministry, the five were sitting in a restaurant in muggle London enjoying a good meal. Lucius and Snape were updating Sirius on everything that had been happening since his arrest, and Seph was busy talking to Narcissa. After all there were many things she still didn’t know about the Wizarding World.
After they were full they made their way to Diagon Alley so Sirius could get some new clothes and a few other essentials. On the way Seph was asked by Sirius about her life. He was not happy to hear of the treatment from the Dursley’s, and said that had he not been thrown in prison that he would have taken Seph to Snape sooner, and had that failed, he would have taken her as his own.
It didn’t matter to Seph as time could not be reversed. She was just happy trying to get used to her new life. The reaction to Sirius in Diagon Alley was funny. Some seemed afraid, others were welcoming. The goblins in Gringotts seemed to already know Sirius had been cleared and allowed him access to his vaults without question.
When Sirius entered one of his vaults he came back with a bag. Seph didn’t ask what was in it as they made their way to another vault where Sirius picked up some money. Not that he needed it as he had his family ring returned to him. Sirius had a quick, private meeting with Gragnok before they went on to buy him some clothes and other things.
‘Cissa, will you take Seph and Draco and get them some ice cream. There is another place I need to go before we return,’ said Sirius.
‘We will meet you there,’ said Narcissa as she escorted Seph and Draco to Florean Fortescue's where she bought Seph a hot fudge sundae.
They were soon joined by Lucius, Snape and Sirius who looked rather pleased with himself. As soon as Seph had finished, the group made their way back to the manor. After Seph had helped Sirius unpack his new clothes, they met everyone in the main common room for tea.
‘Weasley is so in for it when we get back to school,’ said Draco. When Seph said how he had glared at her.
‘I told you before it was nothing. It was probably because I lost him his pet,’ said Seph.
‘Anyway I am sure if it was anything bad the twins will sort him out,’ she continued.
‘Why the twins,’ asked Draco.
Before Seph could answer Sirius cut in.
‘Well it seems the twins decided that Seph was a hot babe, after all, very few others would wolf whistle like that in a courtroom,’ he said causing Seph to blush.
‘Sirius,’ she exclaimed.
‘What?’ he said with innocent puppy dog looks causing all present to laugh.
‘So the Weasley twins have the hots for my cousin do they. I better go practice hexing,’ said Draco with a smirk.
‘I can help you there Draco, the Marauders and I created some great hexes for such occasions,’ said Sirius.
‘Draco, Sirius, I can take care of myself,’ said Seph with her hands on her hips as she glared at them.
The pair just laughed.
They talked for another hour, Sirius asking Seph and Draco more questions about their likes and dislikes. When Sirius found out Seph had been Seeker for Gryffindor during her first year he was astounded. He said he wasn’t that into playing Quidditch, but that James had been and that he was one of the best. Before anyone realised the time, Twinkle called them for dinner.
Lucius and Snape had been away during all the talk and as they sat having their meal they updated them on what they had been doing. Apparently, although Seph was registered at Hogwarts as Harry Potter, they needed to fill out forms to re-register her as a new student otherwise it might cause serious problems.
As they were eating desert, Twinkle popped in and handed Lucius several copies of the Daily Prophet evening edition, which he handed around the table.
During the trial, Black stated that Pettigrew was the secret keeper, and to cover his tracks, Pettigrew killed the 12 muggles before cutting off his finger and fleeing the scene in his illegal Animagus form. Miss Persephone Black, Sapphira Black’s daughter, recognised the description of Pettigrew’s Animagus form.
In a startling twist, it turns out that Pettigrew was hiding as a rat owned by Ronald Weasley. The Weasley’s were shown in a picture in this morning’s paper with Pettigrew on Ronald Weasley’s shoulder. Judge Amelia Bones immediately sent Aurors to apprehend Pettigrew and a few hours later it was proved to be true.
It seems the wizarding world owes Mr. Black an apology, and our thanks to Miss Black who helped uncover the truth. Sirius Black has received a full pardon and is set to receive a substantial sum in compensation from the Ministry for all the years of wrongful imprisonment.
The article went on to describe the charges that Sirius had been imprisoned for, as well as a summary of the night the Potters were killed. It was then, that Seph spotted another article and went pale.
Ministry sources are also tight lipped about the disappearance and refused to provide any information as to where the boy who lived could be. There is speculation that Mr. Potter has been removed from his family due to abuse, but without further information from the Ministry it is unclear.
The article discussed the fateful night of the Potters death again, and some information of Harry’s first and second years at Hogwarts. Snape was first to notice the expression on Seph’s face and the tears in her eyes. He quickly got up and pulled his daughter into a tight hug allowing her to cry freely.
‘Ssshh Seph, you’ll be alright,’ said Snape in a soft voice. ‘Try not to let it bother you. We will figure out a way to sort everything out.’
Seph nodded ‘Thanks. I think I’m going to head to bed. It’s been a busy few days,’ she said as she left the table.
When Seph had left the room Snape addressed the others.
‘I worry about how she is dealing with all this. She seems okay, but I have a feeling she is hiding her true feelings on everything that has happened,’ he said with a worried expression.
‘No doubt it is hard on her. She hasn’t really had time to even come to grips with suddenly being a girl let alone all the information she has taken in over the last few days. I’m sure she will be okay in the end though,’ said Lucius.
‘I hope you’re right old friend. I fear it will all hit her sooner or later and I just hope she can cope,’ said Snape.
‘She will Sev, she is stronger than she looks,’ said Narcissa.
Back in her room Seph lay on the bed staring into space, her mind a whirl. She felt lost completely, and utterly alone. On the one hand she now had more family than ever and they seemed to care for her but deep in her heart she was torn. Part of her still wanted to scream about the injustice of her life and the revelations thrust upon her.
How in the world was she going to cope with being a girl? She was still very aware of how different things seemed at the moment, not only physically but mentally as well. She had tried to ignore the situation and just deal with the information she had been given, but it was getting harder and harder to ignore.
Little things were beginning to bother her like giggling. For Merlin’s sake she was giggling like a school girl at silly things, then there was all the crying she had been doing. She didn’t understand why she was doing either, or what it would mean in the long run; that this life from now on was to live as a giggling, blushing cry baby.
Why was she even blushing when Sirius or other men would kiss her hand. Little did she know her hormones were still messed up, and were due to go crazy in the coming days or weeks. Then there were the physical changes which were even more apparent. While looking in the mirror it felt like she was looking at someone else.
She just could not get used to seeing the girl in the mirror and thinking of it being her. She still had the mental image of being Harry Potter and she was still unsure whether or not to ask Snape if he could make her male again. She was sure he would have a potion or something, but there was the message her mother left asking Seph to be her daughter again.
It was all very confusing and there lay the problem. Seph knew the message from her mother was the truth. There was no way to fake the message and even Seph’s own blood showed she was Sapphira Black and Snape’s daughter, but should she accept all these changes, or for that matter, could she accept them.
It was so confusing and this was only part of her dilemma. Another part of her dilemma was to do with her new family. She had plenty of fun with Narcissa and every one of them seemed genuine in wanting to know her, but could she trust them. The Dursley’s were supposed to have been family and look how they treated her.
They were supposed to care, but they never did. Had she not made efforts to steal food over the years, she would easily have been thinner if not dead. The Malfoy’s and Snape had treated her differently, they were welcoming and seemed friendly and kind, but that didn’t mean they would always be that way.
Yet she felt she could trust them, although in her first two years of Hogwarts, Seph hadn’t got on with Snape, Lucius or Draco. They were making an effort to show her they cared without requiring anything from her in return or expecting her to act a specific way. The only other people she knew like that, were her friends from school.
This brought to mind Ron, her first friend, and whether she could trust him. Part of her was unsure. The rest of her was screaming that even if he hadn’t been asked by Dumbledore to be her friend he would have been anyway. They had had their disagreements but deep down Seph felt his friendship was real. On thinking this, she had to ask herself what he would do if he was told.
Then there was Hermione. At times the girl acted as a complete know it all and Seph wondered if she told her, would she say she already knew. Seph had to laugh thinking that but she doubted it. Hermione seemed even more genuine than Ron and his family. Hermione, like Ron, was always there when she needed them the most, and right now she really needed them.
But how could she tell them and would the world end up knowing? Would she be safe from whoever manipulated her life till now? To a degree she felt it could be Dumbledore, but Seph wasn’t sure how. Even with his manipulations during the last two years, he seemed too nice to cause the amount of pain that Seph felt right now.
Could it be that someone else was behind it. If so, who? Seph had no idea and she could not be sure the manipulator of her mother’s life was even the same as her own. Could it be coincidence? Did Dumbledore know about Sapphira’s heritage, or Seph’s for that matter? Could he have been manipulated himself?
Seph hadn’t said anything in front of the others about her doubts and fears but they were there. Seph remembered being told by the sorting hat in the first year she should have been in Slytherin and for the first time, she was seeing why. It wasn’t because of being a Parcelmouth, or being linked to Voldermort; it was because even with her bravery she was cunning.
There had always been times in her life when she used her cunning. Whether to get a little food without the Dursley’s knowledge, or escaping Dudley and his gang. She thought nothing of it back then, but now that she thought about it she could see just how cunning she had been in the past and why the hat wanted her in that house.
At the time she had begged to not be sent to Slytherin due to what she had been told of the witches and wizards that frequented that house. The problem was as Snape had said, it isn’t the house that makes them bad, it’s the people themselves. Seph supposed it was due to the ambition Slytherins tend to have.
The thing is, there is nothing wrong with ambition itself. In fact, without ambition, how can anyone get anywhere? Slytherins are also known for wanting power which Seph herself had to admit she wanted as well. After all, she had fought Voldermort twice already, and she feared he would try again and she needed power to defeat him.
She hoped she would not have to deal with him now, but sooner or later she had a feeling she would and Seph wanted to be ready. How the world expected a 12 year old boy, now a 12 year old girl to deal with a wizard who was years ahead of her with regard to magic was beyond her, but that was what people expected.
As she lay there trying to figure out her life and what in the world she was to do to cope, she slowly drifted off to sleep. She was so deep in sleep an hour later she never noticed Narcissa change her clothes or tuck her into bed.
PSBPSBPSBPSBPSBPSB
The morning light bathed the room in summer sunlight. The hangings around the bed kept the brightest of the light from blinding the occupant as she began to stir. Slowly Seph’s eyes began to flutter open and her vision began to clear with each blink. Her face quickly took a confused expression as she took in her surroundings.
[Where the hell am I] where her first thoughts before her mind began to clear.
Seph began to remember things about the last few days, but shrugged them off as being just a weird dream. There was no way anything that weird could happen even in the magical world. As she pushed herself up, she noticed how different her body felt before looking down and seeing the difference for herself.
‘AAAAAGGGGGGHHHHHHH,’
Narcissa came rushing in the room moments later to see Seph curled up sobbing and practically hyperventilating on the bed. Snape soon followed with a worried expression on his face. Narcissa quickly gathered Seph into a hug and gently rocked and cooed trying to calm the sobbing girl down. They both were, to a degree, expecting this.
After Seph had left for bed and Draco had left too, the adults had all had a long talk about the situation with Seph and how she was dealing with the changes. None of them believed Seph had accepted everything so easily. They knew, sooner or later, that when Seph had time to process things there would be a chance of her breaking down.
Now Seph had finally let down her mental defences and they hoped she could begin to heal and come to terms with things now. There was little they could do to change things anyway. Seph had described to Snape about the potion, especially it's colour, taste and texture. Snape had not heard of it before, but looked it up last night trying to see what it's actual effects were.
He had discovered it was a rare and complex removal potion. The idea of it, is to remove a specific potion's results from a person. Snape had also looked into the original potion noting a number of key things about the potion he needed to let Seph know about. He had wondered why the potion to return Seph to her original form wasn’t used earlier.
At first he thought it was because Sapphira was worried about Voldermort. But then he considered what Seph had told him about the Dursley’s, and he shuddered to think how a girl would have been treated by them. There was more to it than that though, and after checking out the information on both potions he had a better idea of more reasons.
‘Why don’t you go and get dressed Sev, I will stay with Seph until she calms down,’ said Narcissa.
‘I need to stay; I have found some things that might help Seph deal with her changes.’
After about half an hour Seph’s breathing began to calm and her tears slowly subsided as Narcissa continued to rock her while whispering encouraging words. She had also had the young girl drink a calming potion that Snape had offered.
‘Sorry,’ Seph mumbled.
‘What for honey, you haven’t done anything wrong,’ said Narcissa softly.
‘For crying, you must think I’m pathetic,’ sniffed Seph.
‘There is nothing wrong with crying Seph, in fact we have been expecting it sooner or later,’ said Narcissa.
‘What do you mean?’ asked Seph, confused.
‘Honey, you have been through so much lately and you haven’t had time to work everything out. We knew, sooner or later, the situation would hit you and it would affect your emotional hold. We had a feeling you were bottling your feelings,’ said Narcissa.
Seph’s face took on a look of being ashamed.
‘Honey don’t worry about it, it’s natural for you to be upset, and it’s also expected that you would try to hide your feelings, anybody facing all of this would feel the same.’
‘I just don’t understand why now. I have lived as a boy for 12 years. Why did my mother wait so long?’ asked Seph.
‘I might be able to answer there Seph,’ said Snape. ‘I have been reading up on the potion you told me about and what it is there to do. The potion itself strips all magical transformation from a person who has used a specific potion. The original potion was designed to change baby girls into male heirs but it never worked,’
‘Well at least not fully. You see, centuries ago a potion was created to change girls born in a pureblood family into male heirs. This was due to an increase in female pureblood children. The problem is that the potion didn’t work fully, the potion only worked until the onset of puberty at around 13 years old.’
‘At puberty, the original dormant female hormones would override the potion causing severe pain, mutilating transformations and occasionally death, unless the counter potion was used before the 13th birthday. The original potion was banned because it was considered too dangerous and no further attempts were made to fix the problem with the potion.’
‘I also discovered that using the counter potion too early can also cause problems. Due to how severe the original transformation is on the child, changing a child back too soon can cause death from over exertion on the body. It was found the best time to use the counter was around the age of 10-13 years of age.’
‘By that age, the child should be well over the original transformation and strong enough to cope with the reversing effects,' said Snape.
‘Does that mean I am stuck like this?’ asked Seph.
‘I am afraid so. However, do you really want to return to being a boy?’ asked Snape.
‘I... I don’t know. It’s all so confusing,’ sniffed Seph.
‘Give it time honey. You’ll find as time goes on everything will work out,’ said Narcissa softly.
‘But what about my friends? No-one knows who I am now. Hell I don’t even know who I am anymore,’ said Seph angrily.
‘I’m sure in time you will work it all out and come to terms with everything that has happened. As for your friends we will have to see what we can work out. I am sure we can do something though,’ said Narcissa. ‘Sev would you go have breakfast with the others. Tell them Seph and I will be having breakfast here, but not to worry.’
‘I will,’ said Snape as he kissed Seph on the head before leaving her chambers.
‘Come let’s get you washed and dressed and we will have breakfast together and maybe try to work out what we can do about your friends,’ said Narcissa.
Seph nodded and hesitantly followed Narcissa to the bathroom. After a bit of coaxing, Seph bathed before putting on a thick cotton bath robe and heading into her bedchambers. Narcissa had already laid out a set of clothes for Seph, but Seph hesitated.
‘What’s wrong honey?’ asked Narcissa with a worried expression.
‘I... erm... isn’t there anything else I can wear?’ said Seph as she eyed the underwear and skirt on the bed.
‘What’s wrong with these?’ asked Narcissa.
‘Well they are... kinda... girly,’ blushed Seph.
‘You are a girl and you seemed okay wearing things like this the other day. What’s wrong with them now?’
Seph sighed, how could she explain how she felt.
‘I... I’m just not sure I’m ready for all this. As for the last few days I haven’t had much time to worry about what I was wearing. I just sort of went with the flow,’ said Seph hoping her words were clear enough.
Narcissa sat on the bed and patted it to get Seph to sit by her, the boy turned girl looked a little sheepish but complied.
‘I understand this has all been a lot to take in. I had no idea I had another sister until that meeting in Gringotts, let alone a niece. I still haven’t figured out how I feel about all this, so Merlin knows what you’re going through. Sooner or later you will have to wear things like this, especially when you go back to Hogwarts.’
‘Can’t the Professor just make a potion to turn me back?’ asked Seph hopeful.
‘I am afraid not. As your father told you before, your hormones would have affected you sooner or later and it could have been disastrous,’ said Narcissa as she pulled Seph into a hug as the girl began to sob.
After a few minutes Seph pulled herself together and wiped her tears with the sleeve of the bath robe.
‘You know you’re nothing like I expected,’ said Seph sniffed softly.
‘You mean I’m not the stuffy, snobbish, pureblood everyone thinks I am?’
‘Well yeah. Lucius and Draco too. I mean, when I met Draco we didn’t get on. I thought he was stuck up like my cousin Dudley.’
‘That’s understandable. In public we have to project an image. Our family is a proud one and one with much influence in the wizarding world. At home though, there is no reason to project that image.’
Seph nodded partially understanding what Narcissa meant. She herself had never been one to portray an image. Seph understood though that in certain roles in life, image meant everything. Still to Seph the difference between the Malfoy’s outside image and who they were seemed so very different.
‘Come on let’s get you dressed. I promise you, in time you won’t even feel it as strange. If you do this now, at least when you get to school you won’t feel awkward.’
Seph sat for a minute or so contemplating Narcissa’s argument. Even though Seph wanted to argue, she had to admit Narcissa was right. If she left it too long to get used to these clothes it would be worse. She thought of Hogwarts and remembered that she would now have to go in the girls' dorm. She would have to learn to be comfortable with her body and the way she would have to dress.
Much as she hated to feel beaten, there was no denying that she had no choice. It was either wear these clothes, or nothing. If Narcissa and Snape were right there would be no way to become a guy again. She wasn’t sure whether she wanted to, but she hated the idea that the choice had been taken from her. It was the story of her life. There was always someone, somewhere, making decisions for her.
Sorry for the delay in posting I have had a lot going on, this chapter had been done a while but I have been busy with hospital appointments and tests. The next chapter will probably be delayed aswell as I have just has surgery to free a trapped nerve in my left arm so writing is difficult due to pain.
The good news is I bought a graphics tablet some time ago and I am able to write rather than type although I do get tired easily, even so I will try to get the next chapter done as soon as I am able.
Megumi :)
Life has been tough on Seph and as she struggles with her gender and the changes her life has undergone in under a week will friends become enemies or will friendships survive.
I do not own the rights to Harry Potter. Rights go to J K Rowling and her publishers. This is just my take on how it could have been.
-----This story is set after Chamber of Secrets-----
With Narcissa’s help Seph quickly finished dressing before Narcissa began schooling Seph on how to do basic make-up and hairstyles. Seph struggled at first but Narcissa was a patient teacher and eventually Seph had managed to do both to Narcissa’s satisfaction. Regardless of how conflicted Seph felt she couldn’t deny loving the attention Narcissa paid her.
Seph had never experienced having a motherly figure, she had always hoped Petunia would have been more motherly but it was never to be. To her all that mattered was her fat lazy son and his selfish needs. Seph shook the thoughts from her mind and tried to forget that family; if she could have anything in this life, it would be to never see any of them again.
Seph followed Narcissa into the common room where Emerald had set up breakfast for them; they quickly settled down and chatted as they ate.
“Honey I know this has been very tough on you and know that I am proud of how you have been coping, just remember we as your family will be here for you.” said Narcissa with a smile
Seph gave a weak smile in return “I know it’s just hard knowing everything has changed, I’m scared.”
“What’s scaring you the most?” asked Narcissa
“Well my friends, I just don’t know what to do. If I tell them will they want to still be my friends, can they ever accept me as I am now or will they shun me and expose me to the media?”
“I can understand your concerns and you are right to be concerned, any true friend will support you no matter what but you still run the risk of one not accepting. Nothing I say here can change that it is just something you will have to find out when and if you decide to tell your old friends.”
“I guess you’re right,” said Seph with a sigh.
“Is there any friends you trust more than others?” asked Narcissa
“I have been thinking about that and I think Hermione is the main one, I am unsure about Ron his brothers Fred and George would probably be okay with me there are a few others but they are the closest.”
“How about we see if Hermione would come visit for a while and maybe she would be able to advise you on the others?” asked Narcissa
Seph nodded
“Okay after we have eaten we will go and see, if she is ok we will see if she can come for a few days to a week, she might even be able to help you with being a girl, how does that sound?”
“Okay I guess, I am still not sure about this girl thing but I am sure Hermione would try help although she may try to drive me up the wall,” said Seph with a weak laugh
“How so?” asked Narcissa
“Hermione is a bookworm and she will probably have me studying every book on being a girl that was ever made.”
Narcissa laughed, “There is nothing wrong with studying hard,” said Narcissa
Seph just grumbled to herself.
“Personally, I think your biggest problem is you haven’t yet realised there is very little you did as a boy that you can’t do as a girl. Sure certain things have changed like the clothes and the way society will treat you but in general it’s only the package and its presentation that have actually changed. You are still you no matter the shape of your body and the clothes you wear.”
Seph pondered Narcissa’s word for a while before speaking again, “I guess you’re right.”
“As for your friends well if they can’t accept the physical change then they were never real friends.”
“I suppose I can’t argue with that either, although I have to say it’s a lot for me to accept let alone other people.”
Narcissa nodded “Don’t worry, I am sure if Hermione is as good a friend as you say she will accept you,” said Narcissa with a warm smile.
The pair quickly finished their breakfast before the breakfast dishes disappeared from the table, Narcissa and Seph left Seph’s chambers and made their way down to Lucius’s study ready to head to the nearest fireplace to where Hermione lived. After telling Lucius where they were headed they quickly donned their cloaks before stepping in saying the name and vanishing.
Moments later they appeared from a fireplace, Seph stumbling as usual.
“One of these days I will get the hang of the Floo network that is unless I learn to apperate before then,” laughed Seph as she brushed herself down.
The pair began to walk towards where Hermione lived with her parents; Hermione lived in a typical muggle looking semi-detached house in a pleasant looking street. There were a few young kids playing in the street but very little going on other than that. As they got closer Seph felt her nervousness increase.
She kept asking herself whether she was doing the right thing by talking to Hermione and if at least one of her old friends could accept that she was Snape’s daughter and Narcissa’s niece. No matter how much she thought about it there were no simple answers, she would just have to hope Hermione was a true friend.
Finally they approached the door of Hermione’s home and Narcissa rang the bell, after a few moments a woman Seph recognised as Mrs Granger appeared.
“May I help you.”
“Good morning Mrs Granger, my Niece Seph and I are here to speak with your daughter if it’s possible.”
“And you are?”
“My apologies I am Narcissa Malfoy and this is my niece Persephone Black.”
“Just a moment,” said Mrs Granger before she closed the door.
Seph could hear Mrs Granger call Hermione then footsteps before muffled voices, then after a minute or two the door opened again.
“My daughter says that she doesn’t know your niece and I am to understand she is wary of you Mrs Malfoy, can I ask what you wish to discuss with her?”
“We are here about Harry Potter Mrs Granger and I assure you there is no ill intention in our visit, please may we come in to discuss the matter as it is not the sort of discussion to be had in a street.”
Mrs Granger closed the door a moment and muffled voices could be heard, seconds later the door opened and Mrs Granger bide them to enter.
“Forgive us being cautious but I am led to believe your son and my daughter do not get on well.”
“I understand and I hope that will change after our discussion.”
Mrs Granger led them into a large living room, Hermione was standing there with her wand drawn looking at Narcissa with distrust. Seph wanted to run to Hermione and hug her friend but she held back for fear of things getting out of hand.
“What is this about, where’s Harry?” asked Hermione rather sharply.
“I...I,” Seph stumbled for the words but found it tough to talk.
“Hermione the person you knew as Harry Potter is with me, as you can see Harry has changed a bit from when you last saw him.” said Narcissa as she sat on the offered chair.
“Right of course it is so obvious, what kind of joke do you think you’re playing Malfoy?” spat Hermione.
“It’s not a joke Hermione I am...was Harry Potter,” said Seph with her head lowered.
“Right and my name is Merlin,” snorted Hermione.
“Please Hermione hear me out,” begged Seph still with lowered eyes.
“Go on then but this better be good.”
“A couple of days ago a goblin from Gringotts came to see me at my Aunt Petunia’s, he gave me a crystal with had a message from my mother and a potion which the message told me to drink. The message from my mother told me that she was not really Lily Evans but that she was really Sapphira Black. It went on to tell me that my father was not James Potter.”
Hermione let out a snort.
“Anyway the message went on to tell me that when she was born my mother was taken from her family who were Obliviated and placed in the Evans care. My mother eventually found out who she really was with a family linage potion, whoever did it to her in the first place Obliviated the Black family again and they killed her real parents as a warning.”
Seph went on to explain how the events played out and how she had been given a potion to hide her as male. To be fair Hermione stood and just snorted every so often but allowed Seph to finish telling her story before commenting. Eventually Seph finished telling her story whilst tears continued to trickle down her face.
“So you are trying to tell me you’re Harry Potter,” said Hermione incredulously.
Seph nodded
“How dare you, how dare you do this just because he is missing doesn’t mean I will believe anything.” said Hermione with anger in her voice.
“It’s true I can prove it.”
“Yeah right.”
‘How many people know it was Millicent’s cat’s hairs you put in your Polyjuice last year,’ asked Seph.
“Okay I will give you that only three people knew that, it’s still not enough.”
“In our first year you said in the room with the logic puzzle that there are more important things than books and cleverness you said Friendship and bravery were more important. We were the only two people in the room.”
Hermione’s eyes went wide ‘Harry,’ she whispered
Seph nodded
Hermione dropped her wand and practically flew at Seph engulfing her in a bear like hug.
The pair sat for some time in each other’s arms almost holding each other for dear life, Seph sobbing into Hermione’s shoulder. Hermione also shed tears although they were more of relief that her friend was alive. After a while they eventually composed themselves as Mrs Granger brought out tea for them all.
Hermione turned to Seph and smiled “I’m sorry for doubting you it’s just so incredible.”
“I know I still haven’t got to grips with it myself,”
“You look great by the way,” said Hermione with a smile.
Seph offered a weak smile back.
“Who else knows?” asked Hermione.
“Just you, Severus Snape, my aunt and uncle, Draco, Sirius, Amelia Bones and Fudge.”
“Snape knows?” asked Hermione in shock.
“He’s my...he’s my real father,” spluttered Seph.
Hermione’s eyes went wide “you’re joking?”
Seph shook her head
“How are you coping with that?”
“Since he found out who I really am he has been completely different with me, it’s as though all the anger and hate has left him, he even smiles now,” said Seph as she smiled herself.
“What about Draco?”
“Again he is nothing like he was at Hogwarts, I have found The Malfoy’s and Snape especially are nothing like they had been portrayed,” said Seph softly.
Narcissa cut in “Hermione I know in the past my family has seemed at odds with Harry potter and have been given the idea that we hate muggles and muggleborns but in actuality we are not really like that, we tend to portray an image to everyone outside the family but it is just that an image. “
Hermione eyed Narcissa with suspicion “Why do you portray such an image if it’s not true?”
“It’s a long story and one I will share but not at this time, we are here to see if it is possible for you to come stay at Malfoy Manor and help Seph. She needs a friend one who knew her from before and who will accept her as she is now and keep it secret until she is willing to allow others to know,”
Hermione sat pondering whether to trust Narcissa, she knew she could trust Harr no Seph.
“I promise we mean no harm and you may come to see we are not as we have been made out to look.”
After a moment Hermione finally decided, Seph needed her and regardless of her own doubts, she would never let a friend down. “I’ll come if my mom agree’s, how long will it be?”
“A week or 2 maybe longer if you feel comfortable, but it will be up to you.”
Hermione looked at her mother
“Well as we have no plans for a holiday this year I have no problem with it if you feel you can trust them dear,” said Mrs Granger with a smile.
“Thanks mom,” said Hermione as she hugged her mother.
Narcissa offered to help Hermione pack which she readily agreed, with that they all headed to Hermione’s room and in no time she was packed and ready to leave. After a hug from her mom and a promise from Narcissa, that Mr and Mrs Granger could visit whenever they wanted the trio left the Grangers home.
As they walked towards the nearest Floo network Narcissa addressed her charges.
“How about we go for something to eat before we head back to the manor?”
Her charges quickly agree and soon they were back at the restaurant Seph had visited with Narcissa before. Hermione’s eyes were wide as they entered.
“I take it you are wondering how come we are at a posh muggle restaurant?” asked Narcissa with a chuckle.
Hermione nodded
As they took the table offered Narcissa quickly cast a silencing spell to protect their conversation from other patrons before addressing the question.
“I said I would tell you why we supposedly hate muggles and muggleborns and now is as good a time as any, you see 1645 until 1647 most of the Malfoy clan were hunted as witches by a muggle named John Stearne and his accomplice Matthew Hopkins. Hopkins was a muggleborn, he eventually was accused himself of being a witch and killed by those he thought allies.”
“Worse was that he was actually engaged to a Malfoy. Today we are wary of muggles and especially muggleborns as we have seen firsthand how we can be betrayed by those we trust the most.”
Seph and Hermione sat digesting Narcissa’s words “One of James Potters own ancestors was killed by Hopkins too Seph her name was Joan Potter.”
Seph’s eyes were wide
“In fact it would not surprise me if you too Miss Granger had an ancestor killed by Hopkins. Either way we have been distant from Muggleborns since but not against them just distant, muggles we have no issue with as they don’t have access to our world except via muggleborns.”
“Surely though that’s all in the past, I mean it’s not likely to happen in today’s society?” said Hermione.
“Don’t be so sure, remember today’s society can be just as vicious to people who are different than those of the past, I am sure if enough knew about our world it would not take long to begin hunting us again under some religious banner or another.”
Hermione sat and considered for a while before she finally began nodded “you’re right people today are just as prejudice to people who are different. What about muggles though you said you have no issues with them?”
“We don’t, I mean take for example where we are right now, this is one of my favourite restaurants, its owned and run by muggles and I am happy to sit here, then there are clothes shops run by muggles. For the most the Malfoy family mingle with muggles without even considering the subject however we tend not to make close ties but that is mainly because it is easier than exposing our world to them.”
“Clothes shops?” asked Hermione confused.
“Of course for example a couple of days ago Seph and I went into muggle London to hit the muggle designer’s boutiques.”
“You mean like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Gucci?” asked a wide-eyed Hermione.
“Absolutely some of the best designers are either muggles or squibs.”
Hermione sat gapping like a fish at Narcissa’s words whilst Seph and Narcissa giggled at her expression.
They continued talking as they ate and Hermione found she was warming to Narcissa, Seph was right Narcissa was nothing like she appeared previously. Throughout the meal Hermione had also been watching Seph discreetly and noted how nervous she looked not that Hermione could blame her after all it must be so confusing for her she thought.
Seph for her part was still feeling very unsure of herself, she kept thinking any time soon someone would scream boy in a dress, even though she knew she was all girl the thought still kept going round in her head.
After the sweet they all got up and left for the Manor, Hermione gently took Seph’s hand startling her slightly.
“Sorry I just thought I would make sure you knew I am still your friend Har Seph.”
Seph for her part looked confused.
Hermione was quick to figure out why “It’s okay for girls to hold hands, especially best friends when they need assurance of friendship. It doesn’t mean we fancy each other.”
Seph blushed but then smiled “Thanks Hermione.”
Narcissa placed a hand on Seph’s shoulder “Honey there is a lot to learn about the difference between how girls act towards each other compared to boys you are essentially in another world now but we will teach you all you need to know and be there for you.”
A tear escaped Seph’s eye but she managed a smile for her aunt.
They quickly made their way back to the Manor via the Floo network. As they entered the manor Hermione gasped at the grandeur the manor exuded. Seph called for Scarlet and with a pop the little elf appeared. “Yes Mistress, how can Scarlet help?”
“You have a house elf!” exclaimed Hermione with a touch of anger.
“Scarlet is a free Elf as is Emerald,” said Seph quickly hoping to avoid conflict.
“You mean like Dobby is free?”
“Yes Scarlet was the house elf of the Potter family Emerald the Black family but both were free elves who’s services were kept for me to help me adapt to being a girl,” said Seph quickly.
Hermione nodded
“How can Scarlet help mistress?”
“Please could you take Hermione’s things to my chambers?”
“As you wish mistress,” the elf said before it popped away with Hermione’s trunk.
“Shall we adjourn to the ladies lounge for some tea?” asked Narcissa.
“That’s fine by me,” agreed Seph, Hermione just nodded.
Before they had moved more than a foot towards the door Lucius entered.
“Ah good you’re here, just a word of warning Mrs Parkinson and her daughter Pansy arrived about half an hour ago, they are awaiting in the ladies lounge Cissa.”
Seph paled, as the world seemed to turn sharply to the right, fortunately Lucius saw Seph’s reaction and caught her in time.
“Seph, Seph,” said a frantic Hermione.
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Please bare with me as I try to catch up on my stories, I will be attempting to build a buffer with this story, I have a small buffer on Collision but hope to work it till I have at least 2-3 chapters buffer for each story.
In the meantime I thought I would give you something to hold you all over for a short while. Hope you enjoy. :)
Megumi :)