Michael wasn’t sure exactly how much time had passed. When he was in seclusion with God, time became irrelevant, and everyone who could bother them knew not to unless it was an emergency. While things were serious, borderline grave/ Grim, it wasn’t an emergency. He trusted the Arch Angels to do their job, and as he descended back into the main temple, leaving a very satisfied goddess curled up and asleep in her bed, he saw Gabriel waiting for him.

It was time to get to work.

Rather than the viewing set up to his left, he moved to his right. Where a glass table and many chairs were set up to hold meetings. Michael sat at the head of the table while gesturing Gabriel take a seat as well.

“How have things progressed?” Michael asked as Gabriel seated himself. He was very eager for this update, and dreading it as well.

Gabriel had two folders with him. He set the thicker one in front of Michael. “Thanks to information provided by Mal, we’ve learned that Rida is a one life timer. Apparently, she was Mal’s great grandmothers best friend growing up. Rather than be a lowly breeder, Rida entered the local convent with Mal’s great grandmother. Rida went onto live the long life of a nun, but thinks her former friend succumbed to sin.”

Michael met Gabriel's eyes. Gabriel seeing the unspoken question in them nodded. "Rida was a life long member of that cult and an avid supporter."

Gabriel sniffed as he continued and Michael kept looking through the report. “Which explains why she behaves the way she does. It also explains why the standard protocol was not followed after Mal’s life with you. #1, she doesn’t even know what the protocol is! #2, as a former member of the cult, she sees no wrongdoing. Not in herself, not in the members of the cult. The only wrong she sees is in Mal and in us."

“Has she been punished?” Michael snarled.

Gabriel waved his hand as if to say so-so. "She didn't seem to believe me when I told her she was in trouble. According to Tarnok, she said several derogatory remarks to him and his fellow black wings. As well as trying to repel them from the citadel. I say try because all she managed was a breeze."

“Fledglings lack that kind of power.” Michael commented unimpressed. “A one life timer has no hope of accomplishing such a feat.” Then he sighed. “Still, I can see why Stephan promoted her; the raw talent she possesses, she had great potential. A few more lives and our fledgling courses, she would have made an excellent angel.”

“As much as I love and admire you brother,” Gabriel said rather firmly, “I, respectfully, must completely disagree with you.”

Gabriel then told Michael all about his walk with Rida to his office. Her reaction to Mal being with the newly dubbed Ares. Didn’t even matter that Ares was willing, it was all Mal’s fault for tempting him. Michael listened carefully and had to ask Gabriel to explain in more detail about Mal’s retaliation and how she seemed to calm Ares quickly and painlessly.

Michael wasn’t sure whether to be dumbfounded or impressed. He settled as a combination of the two and allowed Gabriel to continue. By the end of the tail, Michael was at a complete loss for words.

Understanding the reaction, Gabriel nodded. "My charges and I reacted in the exact same way." He shook his head. "I haven't seen that kind of reaction since -"

“Ancient times.” Michael agreed. “It’s because of poor Icarus that we had to rewrite the statue of angelhood and the minimum requirements.” He growled, “Please tell me that was Stephan’s only.”

Gabriel drew in a long breath, before slowly letting it out while shaking his head. "As I told Rida, Stephan's Head Angel status was suspended and both are under investigation. After making an iron-clad contract so we can protect our priority charges from them with Raphael, we look back through Stephan's records to see who asked for promotions and when."

“How long, and how many?” Michael asked trying not to sound bitter.

“Since he was promoted to a Head Angel a century ago,” Gabriel said then sighed, “from that point toll his suspension, he’s promoted over six hundred angels.”

"Damnable fornication!” Michael cursed.

“It’s easier just to say Fuck, but my sentiments as well.” Gabriel snarled. “Since we don’t promote fledglings anymore, Head Angels and Records have been taking advantage of the system.”

“How!?” Michael demanded.

“Some angels in Records apparently get bored and don’t bother reading the paperwork, they either just take the angels world for it, or they just sign the paperwork.” Gabriel said showing Michael in the thick folder where the report reflected that information.

“You found two?”

Gabriel didn’t need the venom in Michael’s tone to know he had to tread carefully.

"That's any who we found through backtracking Stephan's Records."

“You think there are more?” Michael asked critically.

“At least as many, but they are merely the scapegoats. Someone else in Records is merely using their laziness to their advantage.”

Michael checked the report and sighed. “Both angels deny being approached by Stephan himself. So’s there a middleman.”

Gabriel nodded.

“Any idea who?”

Gabriel shook his head. “We’ve looked through all Stephan has promoted; none are in Records. Whoever the middleman is, he’s not a loyal follower with his own end game, or he’s a secret supporter.”

"Not sure which is worse at the moment." Michael muttered, with more volume, he asked, "What have the six hundred?"

“That’s the interesting part.” Gabriel chuckled. “Of the six hundred, one-fifty decided to return to mortal lives by their own volition.”

"Another one-fifty went on to attend the fledgling courses and took various professions. Funnily enough, none are white-winged, all have at least five lives under their belts, they are not loyal to Stephan, and have not only excelled in their positions but have actually lived peacefully and not broken any rules." Gabriel met Michael's eyes. "Ephraim's wife was one if you wanted an example."

“Didn’t need one, but I see your point.” Michael nodded. “Emily has certainly done wonders for the infirmary, and I know Ephraim just adores her.” Gabriel nodded, so Michael continued, “Alright, those angels we leave alone. However, if they mess up . . .”

“No holds bar.” Gabriel agreed. “Now, of the remaining, one hundred now work for Satan and he claims they’re all up to snuff, but he’s got them under scrutiny.” Gabriel sighed, “They all have at least three lifetimes.”

“That leaves two hundred.”

Gabriel nodded. “Two hundred strong and loyal.” He said firmly. “All have been suspended, and they did not take it well.”

"All are white-winged, with one life lives, all have not taken the fledgling course where the others did."

"So Stephan has been sequestered to his Chambers, his contingency to the barracks." Gabriel finished sitting back relieved.

“Leave Stephan where his.” Michael instructed. “I assume his contingency still visit him?”

Gabriel held up his hands, "They all in the same area, I could have moved them to other barracks, and switch others there. It's not like Stephan can leave his rooms, and he can only have five visitors at a time."

“How loyal are the two hundred?”

Gabriel shrugged, “Pretty loyal. Though they are subtle about it. Rida’s the openly vocal one, and the only one everyone openly hates.”

“I take it she’s in the infirmary?”

“Much to their displeasure.”

Michael nodded. “Have them run every test and procedures we have.”

“Why?” Gabriel asked confused.

“To keep her as far away from our star couple as long as possible.” Michael said looking through the smaller folder which contained the new contract for final approval.

Gabriel became thoughtful, “You’re right. There’s every chance she’ll come after Mal.”

“I’d rather Ares not kill her before Stephan is completely dealt with and Rida properly punished.”

“I see the logic in that.” Gabriel nodded.

Michael tapped the table with determination. No more running. “Let’s go find our star couple. Vacation is over.”

~TLCW~

Mal wasn’t sure how long they slept, but she knew it was, quite possibly, the best sleep she’d ever had. As much as she wanted to continue with the fantastic sleep, better things awaited her when she was awake. So shortly after she woke, she found new clothes waiting for her. A white t-shirt with small sleeves, barely enough to cover her shoulders. It clung to her curves and had a low-cut collar, just enough to show a hint of cleavage.

The light blue jeans were also tight and hugged her hips and bum. They weren’t painted on tight, but it was close.

Ares’s whimper had her turning and looking back at him.

“Everything okay?” She asked with a raised eyebrow, which elicited another whimper from him. This had both eyebrows going up as she waited for his answer.

Ares had woken from a similar sleep as Mal, but as he had slept in Purgatory before, his waking didn’t carry the same wonder and amazement hers had. Still, he too was rather excited for what awaited them past this room.

He had woken shortly before her, watching her sleep peacefully. He couldn’t believe how lucky he was. Not only had he found his soul mate, but he had been reunited with his family. Despite he would have to leave them, he couldn’t, for the first time ever, see a negative about the situation.

Then, Mal began to get dressed. In an outfit that Purgatory provided. He had an all-new appreciation for the artisans that were responsible for the creation of fashion trends and clothes in the mortal realm. This outfit was perfect on her. Nothing flashy, but it still showed how beautifully sexy she was.

Now, he saw a negative. Having lived a normal life with Mal, having been married for most of the time, he now saw a very big negative. He whimpered. Perhaps it was unmanly, but considering what was now withheld from him, he could be forgiven.

Mal looked back at him and raised her left brow and asked if he was okay, he couldn’t help it, he whimpered again. That raised eyebrow was a turn on for him.

“I just found another reason to hurry this along and get back mortal shells.” He groaned.

Realizing what he meant by that, she laughed and joined him back on the bed. “I know just what you mean.” She said curling into his side as he wrapped his arms around her. “I can honestly say, sex with you in that life, was the best sex of my existence, and I cannot wait to get back to it.”

“Maybe we can get a special case here?” He wondered as he hugged her close.

“I think we got all the special favors we’re going to get.”

He groaned as he gave her one last squeeze and got up himself. “You’re probably right about that.”

She sat up and went to the vanity to brush her hair as Ares dressed.

“You ready to face the music beyond that door?” Mal asked looking at him a little nervous.

Ares turned back at her with a soft smile. “Are you?”

"Eh." Mal said wringing her hands together as she stood and began pacing. "I'm nervous, scared, in awe of the situation. I mean, I'm purgatory as if it was real life. I'm breathing and walking around. I'm talking with people who are supposed to be fictional characters. I'm more or less married to the Harry Potter," she held up a hand, "I know your name is changed. But the fact remains, I'm out of my freaking mind here!"

Ares shrugged. "How do you think I feel? I'm sitting in Pottermore, my family's manor, that I've twice due to forced marriages where my wives either sold it off for profit or tarnished the place doing secret experiments. I'm here with my family, with the blessing of the archangels, who plan to send me back with my memories so I might I can save the universe. Believe me, if I could drop that world and it's sheep minded people, I would." He stood and faced her with his arms crossed over his chest. "But more startling for me, for a man who has never been in love, or believed in true love, I'm going back with my soul mate."

She smiled softly at him. “You were never given the chance to find love.” She shrugged. “Personally, I think you would have been great with Daphne Greengrass or Susan Bones. My favorite pairings were you with Hermione, Daphne, or Luna. But I know the world we’re going into Hermione is every bit as a villain as the Dark Lords we’ll be facing.”

He grinned at her. “Can’t believe I got so lucky.”

“Well if you two are done at your marveling,” Mal and Ares turned to their bedroom door where Lily was waiting, wearing a similar outfit to Mal’s, “everyone’s waiting. We’ve got a lot to talk about and only a short time before the angels come back for your special training.”

Mal drew in a deep breath and nodded slowly. Ares took her hand and they followed his mother out of the room, down the flights of stairs to the kitchen area.

“They’re up.” Lily said sitting down next to James.

Monty and Mia, who sat side by side turned to look at the couple and smiled.

“Why don’t you two take a seat?” Monty suggested.

Mal and Ares sat. To Mal’s left was Tonks and Remus, to Ares’s right was his mother, James, then Sirius. Across from the couple, sat Monty and Mia.

Everyone sat in silence as they each tried to gather their thoughts.

“Harry, I mean, Ares,” Remus started before correcting himself. “How’s Teddy?”

Ares looked back at Remus, “Depends.”

“On?” Tonks asked frantically.

"Which lifetime you're asking about." Ares explained, then looked curiously at them, "I thought the deceased got to watch over their loved ones."

Everyone shook their heads, but it was Sirius who answered. “We’re allowed to view the life after the people have died.” He pointed to Mal, “We only got to see hers because she entered into an unbreakable contract with you.”

“Thus, making her very much your wife here as she will be in the mortal realm.” Lily explained firmly, looking around the table with narrowed eyes.”

“Relax Tiger-Lily,” James said taking her hand, “None here have anything against Mal.”

“Certainly not!” Mia said just as firmly as Lily had spoken. “I meant what I said before, and I’ll say it again, how she earned a living is no different than how some Veela live their lives back at the Veela nation. I will not see my granddaughter in law vilified for something that wizards everywhere would pay large amounts of gold to see.” She met Mal’s eyes. “We didn’t just see your last life Mal, darling, we saw it all.”

Mal bit her lip to keep her tears from falling but held her head high, which made Mia smile.

“I understand why you did what you did.” Mia continued, “I saw what you endured, and what was happening around you. You were beaten down, but you got up. You were thrown away, but you found sanctuary. You got up, you worked, you went home. You never did anything illegal. You took care of yourself admirably.” Mia slowly stood, all the while holding Mal’s gaze, “You have a strength in you that I’ve only seen in times of war. I’ve seen that strength in my son, my daughter in law, but more, I see that strength in my grandson. I know, that when the trouble starts for you two when you return, you will stand by him. Which is more than I could say for those harlots that ruined him before!”

Mal nodded at her, "Thank you for that ma'am. I just hope that I live up to your expectations." Mia nodded back then sat down. Mal looked back at Remus and Tonks, "You asked about Teddy, I know from what Ares told me, in his last life, Teddy's life was tragic. His soul bond was killed by Hermione before their bond was fully formed. This led to him being numb throughout his entire life and threw himself into work. Once he had the answers as to who and why I'd like to believe that he found some peace. I doubt it was happiness, but contentment and peace I think are what found him. As for the life where Ares married Ginny, what I know as the canon verse since there're books about it, I think he found happiness, but there was also the tragedy of losing his parents, and his godfather."

When Tonks and Remus looked to Ares, he nodded. The two sat back pensive for a moment. Tonks looked at Remus and gripped his leg. “We’re not going to die this time.”

Remus nodded. “Agreed.”

“I think it’s safe to say, minus the Potter’s of course, that no one will die.” Mal said looking around the room. “Though I’m sure some will, it won’t be those in this room.”

"I'm sure Gabriel will have a good reason as to why though if one of you isn't." Ares added.

“Well, if they go back with their memories, I’m sure they’ll survive.” Mal looked at Ares.

He looked back at her confused.

"Think about it," Mal waved a hand around the room. "Why else would the Lupins and Sirius be here if they weren't among those going back with their memories?"

“Because they’re beloved family?” Ares knew his argument was weak, it was what he had thought when he first saw them. Now, Mal’s argument was echoing in his head.

Mal shook her head. "We're going back with people who have their memories." She reminded him. "Those who stand to help us more. Remus is important because one" She began ticking off her fingers, "yes, technically he is an honorary godfather and uncle, but more, he's a werewolf." Realization dawned on Ares and he felt incredibly stupid. "With Remus on our side with his memories leads me to number two, he can rally the werewolves to the light side, or at least drag their dark asses to the gray. Sirius," she pointed in his direction, "will also be coming back because of the Black family fortunes and political clout they hold."

“And me?” Tonks asked curiously.

Mal looked back at her, “For comedic relief.”

Everyone laughed, and Mal smiled at them all before turning back to Tonks. “In all seriousness though, I’ve read books and seen shows where a werewolf loses their mate, it’s not pretty. If Remus were to go back with his memories and you didn’t, he would have knowledge you wouldn’t. He wouldn’t bring it up with you because of how noble he is, but more, you wouldn’t be his Tonks, you wouldn’t be his mate anymore. You’d be a mere shadow of the woman you are now. That would send Remus down a dark road in his heart, and later he would be easily manipulated. Be it by Dumbledore or Voldemort I couldn’t say, but his lack of his mate would be a serious weakness in his heart and mind, and there are many who would exploit that.”

Tonks looked at Remus worried. He nodded. “She’s right.”

Mal sat back having made her point. "I suspect there will be many going back with their memories intact, friends, family, I suspect a person in the DMLE to help clear Sirius of the crimes he'd been imprisoned for." Mal tilted her head in thought. "Perhaps Bones. She's the Director, and she has a prior connection to the Marauders having gone to school with them. She'd have the means and the political clout. Yes, Bones in the DMLE." She bit her lip as she thought over the characters, and who might bring more help than even she had initially thought. "I also suspect we have gain allies in those who were former enemies."

“What makes you say that?” Ares asked curiously, and seriously worried about who from the Dark side would be joining them. He wasn’t sure he could play nice with all of them.

“Because they can give us something that even our new found allies cannot.” She said softly looking back at Ares, “Insight to Voldemort.” She bit her lip again. “Depending on who they are, they’ll probably have political clout and their family fortunes as well.

"We're going into this with not one, but two Dark Lords. Obviously, the most commonly known will be Riddle, aka Voldemort. However, the unknown one will be Dumbledore. We'll need factions from all sides to aid our battles." Mal said looking around. "And that means from the Dark, Light, and Gray families." She looked at Ares. "Honestly I wouldn't be surprised of Greengrass or Malfoy approach you the moment we return."

Monty cleared his throat. “Mal, you wouldn’t by chance be clairvoyant, would you?”

“Uh, well, um,” Mal’s cheeks turned red and she looked away.

“Gabriel said as much.” Ares said, watching carefully at her reaction. “He said a partial seer, but I think you’ve got the right word for it.”

Silence rained in the room for a moment as that tidbit of information was digested. It was now clear to everyone, why this woman was matched with their boy.

“Damn!” Sirius whistled before grinning at Ares. “How in the hell did you find this one!?”

Ares laughed. “Got bored and decided to go for a walk.”

“Then he found my viewing room where I was strip dancing for a bachelor party.” Mal admitted, still not meeting everyone’s eyes. They could say they accepted her, but some part of her was still a little ashamed that she had no other choice but to take that job.

"That's a story for the great-grandchildren." Monty laughed.

Mal found herself inhaling deeply again to calm herself before blowing it out slowly. She looked around the room and the people in it. "So, what do we do now?"

"I think it best you get acquainted with Pottermore." Monty said as he looked at the younger couple. "Both the layout and its history. I think today we'll tour the inside, and since it will take quite some time, we can take a rest and talk about the history of the place. Tomorrow, we'll tour the grounds, explain what we need to, then come back inside to discuss the people from that world."

“And once the angels get here?” Mal asked nervously.

“I already know I’ll have combat training.” Ares said looking at her. “I won’t force it on you, but think you at least need to be able to defend yourself.”

Mal nodded. “And the rest of the time?”

“James and I will teach Ares what he needs to know about being the Lord of Pottermore and his role in the Wizengamot.” Monty said firmly.

Mia met Mal’s eyes, “And I will be teaching you about being the Lady of Pottermore and your role in Wizarding society as well your role of supporting your husband.”

“James and I will both be teaching you magic.” Lily said smiling at Mal. “And Ares as well when need be.”

“Sounds like a plan.” Mal smile nervously.

}TLCW{

So began their little reprieve from mortal life and demanding angels, but their time was still filled with learning. And there was a lot that Monty, Mia, James, and Lily had to explain to the younger couple before the real work began.

First, was a tore of the small castle that was christened Pottermore. Ares, having been there before, and lived for a brief moment in time in both of the last lifetimes when he reached adulthood, didn't necessarily need the grand tour, but he went along with any way to absorb new information.

They started with the basements, and that’s when Mal noticed how everything was made. Outside, she remembered the dull gray stone pattern that made up Pottermore’s outer walls. In the basement, the floor was the same dull gray stone, but the walls were granite. And by basements, Mal learned it wasn't a misspoken word when they said basements, they meant basements.

Pottermore had five sublevels. On the first, there was a potions lab, a fully stocked and functional potions lab Monty and Lily made sure to inform the couple. At least the one in the mortal realm would be. It was also properly ventilated. As soon as a person stepped into the room and the lights came on, the ventilation system would kick in before any work began.

Cabinets lined the walls, some would hold ingredients, some would hold premade potions, and other held storage for cauldrons and vials for potions. Each was charmed with expansion and fully stocked, meaning no more could be stored. They were also charmed with stasis meaning its shelf life was halted for however long they were in the cabinets. The drawback for this was any potion withdrawn had to be used within forty-eight hours or it would expire.

Mal was fascinated by it all and looked forward to her lessons with Lily about potions. Ares, did his best to bite his tongue. Not having a great experience with potions class, he wasn't looking forward to the subject in his temporary afterlife.

Across from the potion’s lab was a fully armed dueling chamber. Equipped with dummies, weapons, protective gear and more. This, excited Ares a great deal, and he looked forward to the dueling lessons with his father and Sirius. Mal looked around the room with unease. She didn’t think this would be a subject she would good at.

In the second sublevel, it was storage. It held three rooms, all of them charmed to be expanded on the inside, and held many centuries worth of old furniture and clothing. This, to Mal, was a regular basement, at least what she was used to when it came to basements. Despite the items not being there, Monty was able to give them an image of what it would look like in the mortal realm once they returned.

“As you can see,” Monty said with a sigh. “Everything is saved, very rarely is it thrown out.”

“Why is that?” Mal asked looking at Monty. “Why was nothing ever sold? Or given away?”

Monty shrugged. "It was either given to relatives or moved to another family home. However, after the Potter massacre, as the generations purchased new furniture, the old was moved into storage and never left."

“Ares, my love, your family is a bunch of hoarders.” Mal found herself saying after seeing the third room of expanded junk.

“They certainly put Petunia to shame.” Ares agreed.

“I know we won’t necessarily need it,” Mal said looking around, “but we might want to look into selling most of this.”

“Galleons or pounds?” Ares asked curiously.

"Pounds." Mal answered quickly. "While all of this may not sell for much in the Wizarding world given how far behind on the times they are, all of this is antique. The clothes alone would fetch a hefty price for museums and private collectors. And don't get me started on the art and furniture. That way we have massive amounts of money in both worlds."

“Those were my plans as well.” Lily said wrapping an arm around Mal’s shoulders. “That way we had a source of money no matter where we were and could buy whatever we wanted or needed. I managed to do some, which saved our hides a lot while in hiding.”

James nodded. “We had to go muggle for all of our shopping, meaning we couldn’t use wizard money. I was grateful she talked me into selling a bunch off. We should still have that account in the muggle bank. Or at least,” He looked at Ares, “You should. Should have had at least a hundred thousand pounds left.”

Ares whistles impressed. “How much did you two sell?”

Lily shook her head. “Not much, just six pieces of furniture, believe or not.”

“Sweet.” Ares grinned. “I could put that to good use.”

“Unless Dumbledore seized it and handed it over to Petunia and Vernon.” Mal said softly, staring at the rooms but not really seeing the image anymore.

“What?” Everyone asked.

"From what I understand, Vernon is a simple salesman. From what I saw in the movies and understood from the books, Petunia and Vernon were used to a particular lifestyle." Mal said as she kept staring ahead unseeing. "I suspect that Dumbledore may have bribed the Dursley's with the useless, to him anyway, muggle money to keep you. That, and embezzlement."

“Embezzl-” Ares looked at Mal, and turned her so she looked at him, he noticed the blank look on her face and the unfocused look in her eyes. “You think?”

She nodded. “Many stories have him doing something similar. It all boils down to greed. Petunia and Vernon want power, they can’t magical power, they take what they can, where they can. Power over you for one. Petunia also knows of the wealth of the Potter family, her motives for getting it are her own. In the meantime, she uses Vernon who embezzles and stole the money from you to keep her satisfied.”

Mal blinked and realized she wasn’t facing Ares anymore. “Did I say something wrong?”

Ares hugged her close and shook his head. Words utterly failed them all at that moment. Having seen a prophecy made before, and seen Luna talk in her weird way, he knew a prediction when he saw one.

As the projected imaged faded from the rooms due to the shock they just received, Mal looked at Monty and Mia, “Please tell me if there is anything you want to keep before we get to the mortal realm.”

Mia shook her head. "Anything on this level is up for selling. Anything we want to be saved is already in the vaults."

"Vaults?" Mal repeated, her voice dropping a couple of octaves in her confusion and hoping she didn't understand that right.

On the third and forth sublevels, were vaults. Much like what Ares was used to in Gringotts. These were not magically expanded, hence why the sublevels held six rooms each. All filled to the brim with treasures. Each room labeled so any Potter would know what the room held. The on the third sublevel, three rooms held gold, nothing but gold, and three held nothing family jewels. All jewels. Not attached to anything, just rubies, diamonds, sapphires and more, laying about on the floor or trunks.

On the fourth sublevel, two rooms held enchanted artifacts, two rooms were filled with the Lady Potter’s jewelry, and one room held family heirlooms that were too precious and rare to leave the protection of Pottermore. Not even Monty was sure what all was in there because he only went in there a few times.

The last room held the Wardstone. The true Wardstone. Apparently, there was a fake somewhere. If it was triggered, the true Wardstone would activate a fidelius ward to keep certain areas locked down and some items, such as books, and certain rooms, inaccessible. Only the Potter family ring and a certain key could get into this room.

Monty promised when they got to Lord’s office, he would explain it more.

On the fifth sublevel, there were a series of prisons cells. The fifth sublevel was adequately called The Dungeon. Mal wondered if these cells would have occupants in them someday.

Suddenly, she saw flashes of images, of people, in cells. Many images passed before her eyes. Death Eaters, the Dursley's, Dumbledore, the Weasley's, and more. Possibilities or certainties, she didn't know, but she had a feeling, someone was going to see the inside of the dungeons.

The walkway between the cells eventually led out to a secret tunnel that would open up outside the wards at the rear of the property for the family to escape if needed.

All of it was connected to a spiral staircase, with openings to the sublevels. Mal wasn’t sure she could understand how it was done, but she chucked it up to magic and didn’t try to apply logic to it. It would give her a migraine if she tried, she was sure.

Monty and James made sure to show Mal and Ares how to access certain areas of the sublevels, and what passwords were necessary. Most locks on the vaults revolved around family blood, and the family rings. Once Mal’s blood was added to the Wardstone and magic recognized her as Lady Potter, she could access whatever she wanted with ease.

“Did your wives have access to this?” Mal asked Ares softly as they walked back up the stairs.

“Ginny no.” Ares said with a shake of his head. “We never discovered further than the first level of the house. Hermione,” he shrugged, “to be honest that’s all a blur because of the potions, and I couldn’t tell you.”

Mal shook her head. “The more and more I learn, the more horrified of them I am.”

“You and me both.” Tonks added softly from behind them.

“More so for you probably because you knew them.” Mal said looking over her shoulder at Tonks.

“No.” Tonks said softly in a numb tone. “I obviously didn’t know them.”

Mal didn’t know what to say to that, she fell into the silence that had fallen over them as they continued ascending back to the first level.

}TLCW{

The first level, which held the entryway and two massive staircases on their side of the entryway, made out of polished marble, was what they explored next.

To the left of the entryway, and pass the left side staircase, the kitchen could be found. The official backdoor was attached to the back end of the kitchen leading out to the grounds. Just off to the side was the informal dining room for simple family dinners. There was no revolving doors, just an expansive opening in the wall that would have separated the kitchen and informal dining room. The floor was once again granite stone, with the white marble countertops, and the ebony wood cabinets table and chairs to match. The walls were painted a mute cream color to offset the ebony.

Back in the entryway, between the two staircases, to the left, was the formal dining room. The table was a deep mahogany, chairs to match with white cushions, with muted gold painted walls, the granite stone floor expanded into this room as well.

Between the staircases, to the right, was a large formal parlor. With plush looking couches and chairs, all in a pastel brown color. The walls were the dark ebony wood, with a few shelves for knick-knacks and books. A large white marble fireplace stood in the back of the room.

To the right of the right staircase, was the very large ballroom. The floor was the same granite like the rest of the first floor, but the columns were the white marble. Instead of walls, the ballroom was encased with glass. Some of it stained, some of it clear. A very large chandelier hung from the ceiling to provide light.

Most of the first floor was for the guests. Though it held no rooms. Only those close to the family stayed the night. Hence why everything on the first level was for the guests. It was a show of power, wealth, and provided decent entertainment when there were balls, dinner parties, or even meetings both business and of the political nature.

"As you can see, other than when we eat, we pretty much spend all of our time on the second levels." Monty said blowing out a breath of relief after having given the tour. "The staircases are also warded that only a select few can ascend them. Either by special invite or more permanently depends on their entry in the ward book, which you'll learn about soon. Now, these are nothing permanent, such as being tied to the Wardstone, which I will reveal its location later on. These wards are applied directly to the stairs themselves and can be removed with a bit of work. Sending off an alarm to the people on the higher levels to get to the secret passageways and get out the castle."

“Why though?” Ares asked looking around at the spender of his past and future home. “I get the wards and everything, but why go so far to keep people on the first floor.”

“To keep the enemies at bay.” Mal said coming to stand beside them. “If the family spends all of their time on the second level, then any who come into the first level, won’t know anything beyond what the Lord and Lady want publicly known. Such as if the Lady is pregnant, or taking care of the newborn, outsiders wouldn’t be allowed to ascend and create trouble if that was their goal.”

Monty pointed to Mal. “Listen to your wife. She’s right.”

“We Potters like our privacy grandson.” Mia chimed in. “You do as well, do you not?”

Ares glared back at her. “What do you think?”

Mia smiled at him. "Then surely you can understand why we keep most people at bay. Only a select few are allowed into our personal lives. As we ascend and start to talk about people, you'll learn why that is."

Ares nodded his understanding and acceptance.

}TLCW{

Both staircases came up the entry on the second floor, so it didn’t really matter which staircase was chosen. It was, as they said, all for show and power.

Gone was the granite flooring, instead, the ebony wood dominated the floor with a deep mahogany carpet trailing across the floor, the ebony flooring peeking out on the outer edges. The doors and their frames were all ebony, while the handles and other fixtures were all gold. The walls were painted a deep red to match the carpet

On the second floor, there was a small dining room. For quiet late-night dinners, or for the children when they were small during the parties.

They were also shown the Lord and Lady’s offices. They were side by side, connected by an opening bookshelf that made up the wall between the two. Both had to open the bookcases in each room, to pass through to the other. So if the Lord wanted into the Lady’s office, but the bookcase was locked, he’d have to go to through the front door, and vice versa. It was added in when a Lord didn’t think he talked enough with his Lady while they worked during the day.

In the Lord’s office, they were shown to a special coat of arms made from gold and jewels.

"Behind it," Monty said opening it up to reveal a small cabinet with a round metal ball, a leather-bound thick ledger, and a smaller ledger of what looked to be dragon hide, inside. "Now, these are just blank copies that Gabriel was so gracious to make so that I might explain it to you and you understand." He took both out and set them on the desk, where Mal and Ares watched him critically.

He held up the leather-bound ledger. "This, the fake Family Charter, it's a copy of the real one, just minus the important parts. Such as our full list of names and titles, the full list of our allies, and a full accounting of our holdings. It's all updated through magic." He set it down on the desk positioning the metal ball in front of it. "When you update the real Family Charter, you will want to configure the ball to its recording function, it will then copy the relevant information from the real Charter. You then place the metal ball on the fake, and it will dispel the modified formation."

He looked up Ares and Mal. “I’m sorry my dear, while I trust you, only the Lord will be able to do this.”

“Blood magic.” Mal nodded. “Only those of bloodline can alter anything.”

Monty nodded and carried on.

“This,” he held up the ledger, “Is the way to keep track of who has access to Pottermore, and how.” He opened it up and showed the three different sections. “The first, is the temporary admittance, such as those guests for balls, dinners, or business meetings. The second is intermediate admittance, where people can ascend to the second level. Meaning they have access to the Lord and Lady's offices, the informal sitting room, and most importantly, the library. But," Monty waved a hand, "We'll get to that later.

“The third portion of the ledger is those who have full access to Pottermore. The Lord and Lady, their children, etc. I can’t tell you who not to admit once you get back.” Monty sighed, “All I can do is stress that you do not invite people into the full access unless you know for certain where their loyalties lie. I’ve got to the extreme in the past and gotten an unbreakable vow, or something similar.”

“A vow on their magic, life, or both.” Mal said understanding.

Monty nodded. “Yes, exactly.” He looked at Ares. “You have to understand, we have just cause to be this paranoid. The Potter Massacre was caused by a fellow Potter who thought he had been cheated out of his wealth and position.”

Ares nodded. “I understand. To be honest, after living the life I did, I have no desire to allow everyone full access to this place.”

“I can think of a few redheads that I don’t have any access to this place at all.” Mal said firmly. “Or a bushy brunette.”

“Right there with you love.” Ares growled.

“And the ball?” Mal asked.

Monty grinned and turned the ball in his hands, “Tell me, my child, what do you see when you look at this ball?”

Mal took it in her hands and looked it over. It had several markings on it, and she realized certain areas could be pressed into, and the lines on the ball meant it sections could be twisted and turned to make new patterns. She was so immersed looking at it that Ares had to guide her into her seat.

“I-” She shook her head and tried again. “I’ve seen this before.”

Monty looked concerned, “Where!?”

“Treasure Planet.” Mal said softly.

Everyone looked at her utterly confused.

“It was a movie.” Mal explained as she turned the ball over in her hands and smiled brightly at it. “It’s based on the tale Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. Only instead of a piece of paper and sailing the oceans, it’s this metal ball,” Mal said holding it up, “and it takes place in space. With a variety of species and characters. It was one of my favorite movies growing up.”

Sirius clapped Ares on the back. “You said the timeline was sped up right?”

Ares nodded. “She wanted her music and books.”

“Does that include movies too?” Remus asked following along Sirius’s train of thought.

Mal nodded. “I would think so, and yes, I will show it to you if it’s out.”

The Marauders who would be going back alive settled back with a grin.

“Anyway,” Mal said looking back at the ball. “This was the map to get to Treasure Planet. People thought that was its only function. However, it also opened the portal gate to other planets, and most importantly, the treasure’s hiding place in the center of the planet.”

Ares grinned. “Sounds wicked.”

She rolled her eyes and her face fell into her palm. "Oh, Gods."

“What!?” He asked indignantly.

She resurfaced and glared at him. “I have a feeling you’re going to get a product idea for flying, and probably more.”

He grinned. “Gotta contribute to society somehow.”

She sighed and looked back at Monty, “If I had to hazard a guess, this is what controls the temporary wards around the house, and the only way to access the true ward stone is by using this to open the doors. Be it through the ball itself and certain combinations applied directly to the ball before it’s inserted into the proper place.”

"Right again. This is the key that I was talking about earlier." Monty nodded, "However, this has two purposes, it will open the pathway to the fake Wardstone." He waved his hand at the opened crest, "Which is hidden behind that room, along with the fake family charter. The real one is hidden in the library; I'll explain where once we get there. Which is why if the fake Wardstone is in there is triggered into becoming active by that door opening by someone who is not of Potter blood and magic, whether it be by overpowering, or with ease, the fidelius ward will be triggered on the real Wardstone, it will lock down all of the things that we want to be kept safe and guarded."

Mal nodded her understanding. “I take it this is also how blood is added to the Wardstone, both the fake and the real one. So appearances can be kept if the fake is triggered and we don’t have to travel all the way down to the true stone to accomplish our desires of adding family to the wards.” She tapped her fingers on the desk. “That’s also why the ledger exists. So it’s easier to admit and dismiss people without all of the travel.”

Lily came up behind Mal and hugged her tightly. “Yup, she’s a keeper.”

}TLCW{

Across the hall from the offices, was the informal sitting room. Again, with plush furniture, throw pillows, and blankets. It was a place to gather and talk to friends and family. They learned that it was in this room that Christmas was held. Due to its size and familiarity. It was so quaint, so homey, that Mal could see it.

With a tightness in her chest, and tears threatening to fall from her eyes blurring her vision slightly, she could see it. Her and Ares, surrounded by friends and family, it was a tight fit for the adults as the children scurried as fast as they could through what little open space there was.

She blinked when Ares took her hand and the image faded.

“I saw it.” She whispered.

He grinned at her. “Can’t wait.

All of that had been the front end of the second floor and the left half. On the far right, was the beginning of a highly known, highly sought after, Pottermore Library. The floor was the ebony wood Mal was used to by now. The shelves matching it, housing several thousands of tombs. Though, the most noteworthy thing about the library, it was three stories.

The first had tables with marble tops, and plush armchairs pushed into corners with end tables between them. No bookshelves touched the walls, despite the numerous number of them and what looked like a mini labyrinth towards the back made by the bookshelves, and there was a good reason for that. Glass walls like what the ballroom had continued upward to the first level of the library. So natural light could seep into the room and the occupants of the library could gaze upon the landscape of Pottermore when they weren't involved in a book or studying.

Mal could see Hermione there, studying, reading, and loving every inch of this library. Now Mal could understand why Hermione kept this place to herself and not sold it off as naive Ginny had. Ginny probably couldn’t access anything here and in a fit of rage sold it to a Dark Family for a lot of money.

A marble staircase with black iron railing ascended up to the second level, where those walls were enclosed with the cream color painted on to make the layout seem brighter. These books were simply lined straight, almost like domino's, though Mal would never dream of knocking them over. In the back, she could see a long table, with matching chairs, while in the corners in the back were the plush armchairs the first level had as well. Two to a corner. Though while the first level of the library sported a few couches in front of the windows, the second level had none.

An ebony staircase ascended from that level to the third where the third level of the library was completely enclosed and magically locked behind a thick ebony door with silver trimmings. Only a narrow passageway protected by black iron railing would prevent people from falling. The door to the third story library was located in the center.

Monty walked them through the whole of the first level of the library, explaining the layout as he went. The end of the labyrinth brought them to a little sitting area used by the Lord and Lady of the house when they wanted a quiet place to read, or needed to research something away from spying eyes of family and friends. This area was not warded to keep people away, so what could be studied here was limited.

At the front of the library, there was a pedestal, with a registry of all of the books on the first level. You simply wrote the name, topic, or author of who you were looking for, and the registry would find those books for you. Magically, the shelves would rearrange and the ones that carried the texts the searcher desired would be pulled out so the spine was exposed, and was slightly illuminated for easy finding. It was a genius set up in Mal’s opinion.

Monty and James went on to explain that the books on the first level were open to the public. Books that could be bought anywhere, both muggle and magical alike. Children’s books, school texts, and more could be found here.

"Basically, there is nothing here that can't be found somewhere else." James finished with a long breath. "It's all public approved, and kid-friendly. At least you know, tots through fourth-year curriculum and stuff along the same lines."

"The staircase here is warded much like the grand staircases back in the entryway, foyer, however, you want to address that room." Monty explained stepping up the staircase that led to the second level of the library. "However, while those stairs are warded separately, these are tied to the Wardstone. Only those on the full admittance list in the ward book are allowed up here. Intermediate are allowed access to the first level."

On the second level, there were more advanced books. Such as the school texts for the fifth year and beyond. OWL and NEWT courses. Most importantly, the Potter and Pendragon family libraries. Mostly their history, inventions and how-to guides, and journals pertaining to such things.

Mal could see why only family or those who were trusted were allowed to come up here. She didn't blame the Potters at all for the setup.

On the third floor, Monty explained the door would only open for those added to the Wardstone via blood of a Potter, or by marriage, and only with the family rings. There was also an age restriction, and that was part of why blood was used as a lock on the door. It tested for the age. No potion or charm could bypass this lock. There was also an intent base ward if a Potter by marriage or blood attempted to get into the room forcefully or with the intent of doing harm unto others with no remorse, then the door would fade and all access would be revoked to the person forever.

Inside the room, the walls inside were lined with the mahogany shelves, a thick cream carpet, a long mahogany table, with matching chairs, and two leather chairs. The room was about the size of the bedroom Ares and Mal shared, so there were a lot of books, and the room was spacious, but the books and knowing what they held, had Mal captivated.

It held the family magics of the Potter's, the Pendragon's, and the Peverell's. As well as the Peverell family library. The true Family Charter was sitting on a pedestal in the back. Further spells and protections were on it, but if one was determined and patient, it could eventually be cracked open and used by others.

“What do you want to bet that Hermione kept this place just so she could access this room?” She asked softly.

“No bet there to make.” Ares sighed as he walked further in. “Her obsession with knowledge and the desire that all knowledge should be shared would have driven her barmy.”

Mal nodded. "Yeah, I can see that. However, with all of the steps and fail-safes that I've seen, I'm positive she didn't get to this room. She probably got access to the second level, and the fake Wardstone, but not here, and not the places the true stone locked down. She was likely looking for the permanent Wardstone right up till she was separated from you and incarcerated."

Ares shrugged as he walked back out closing the door behind him. “Doesn’t matter now.” He joined Mal at the railing and looked down at the first level where the family had gathered after Monty explained everything to them. “She’s never going to come here again.”

Mal rubbed his back in comfort, “I hope so my love. I hope so.”

Ares sighed. “I remember coming here.” He paused for a long time, just watching the family below. Mal continued to rest her hand on his back in comfort as she patiently waited for him to continue.

"I, uh," He swallowed, his throat very dry. "I was standing by the door both times. Ginny and Molly had to fight to get to the second level. In my vaults, my father left instructions on how to gain access to this place, but because they weren't allowed into the wards, let alone loyal to me, the book didn't show them everything. So they could only instruct me to do what the book did show them. It took some time, but they finally managed to crack the second level and get up here. They tried, and both were repelled and injured pretty bad. If it weren't for my quick actions, they would have died. I remember a dark voice telling me to just let them die. I realize how it was my fighting against the potions."

He sighed hanging his head. “With Hermione, things were similar. She was repelled, but I just stood there,” he waved his hand at the door. “looking like some daft cow. I didn’t have a thought in my head that was original. I might as well have been Imperiused.”

“With her knowledge and skill at potions and pretty much everything else, I don’t doubt it.” Mal said softly. “But it wasn’t your fault.”

He nodded, “I know.” He shook his head. “Hermione ordered my help, so I helped her.”

"What happened afterward's, with Ginny?" Mal asked.

“She sold the place, calling it Dark and dangerous.” Ares growled, then chuckled. “Lucius spent his entire remaining fortune from both his vaults as well as the Lestrange’s, and after being here a week, the place exploded.” He grinned viciously at Mal. “Guess he triggered the wrong ward.”

She shook her head at his antics, but a small smile crept upon her face. “Come on, might as well get back to the others. Until we get to the real thing, we’ve seen about all there is to see in this library.”

Meeting up with the others at the bottom, Ares looked his grandfather in the eyes. “I swear to you grandfather Fleamont, I will get here as soon as possible. I will access that third library and start studying. I will be the best Lord that I can be for this family. I've failed you twice, there will not be a third time.”

Mal came up, wrapping an arm around his before taking his hand firmly in her own. "I pledge the same. I will work hard to be the best Lady of Pottermore that I can be."

Everyone looked at the two of them proudly. A small golden glow surrounded the couple, though they didn’t see it, cementing their promises into their very souls. The previous generations of Lord and Lady Potter’s knew their legacy was in safe hands.

}TLCW{

They left the library and followed the staircase in the back left up to the third level of Pottermore. This, where the bedrooms were kept. The master bedroom, where Mal and Ares were staying, and the various bedrooms for the children. Each end of the hall had storage for linens.

Mal examined each room, for which there were six, and realized each room had different styles. The master bedroom had ebony furniture to match the floor, an iron four-poster bedframe woven into Celtic knots for the head and baseboards. Over the top hung a sheer white canopy, draping down on all four posts, tied to their posts with a golden rope.

White marble decorated the tops of the vanity and little bedside tables. It was the constant medium in the bathroom, granite tiling making its return.

Silver and hold handles and etchings could be found everywhere.

All in all, it looked like a bedroom that would belong to the Lord and Lady of Pottermore.

The rest of the rooms were styled differently, and Mal was told as they had children, each room would change. So there was no need to decide if she liked them or not. Satisfied, they turned to the staircases. Of which, there were two, one heading upwards to the fourth level, and one heading back down to the second. As they'd yet more to explore, they were headed up to the fourth level.

“Do we have to use cream colored bedding?” She asked Ares.

He shrugged. “Why?”

“Because I would like to see something else there.” She looked around, “I would like to see it with a pattern if possible. Like golden leaves with vines tying them all together, or something.”

“Okay,” he drawled out slowly, not really caring, but still compelled to ask. “Why?”

"As I said before, it's too plain." She shrugged. "Anything but dark blue."

He gave her a curious look. There was something to that comment, it was way too specific. “Why?”

She shook her head. “I just, don’t think it would look in here is all.”

Her voice raised a couple of octaves, and Ares now knew there was a reason for it. He grinned, "Why?"

She turned and glared at him. “Nothing.”

“No,” He continued grinning, “there’s something there. Tell me.”

She glowered as she looked at the floor. "You'll laugh."

“I promise I won’t.”

She shook her head. “You’ll laugh anyway.”

“I promise Mal!” He insisted, “Now come on, what’s so bad that you don’t want dark blue on our bed?”

He really didn’t care either way. Hell, he’d slept on rags on a piss poor excuse for a bed, he truly didn’t care. She could have plum purple with tacky red hearts all over, and he wouldn’t care. Okay, he would, he was male after all, he would raise a stink about that. Thankfully he knew Mal wouldn’t pick something like that.

There was something to this blue thing, and he wanted to know.

“It was something I caught a glimpse of as a child.” She said still not looking his way. “I’m not sure if it was a movie or a show.”

“What does this have to do with blue bedding?”

“I’m getting there.”

Ares shut his mouth, and just let her say it in her own time.

“In the thing, a girl was in her underwear, reclining on the bed, the guy was standing off to the side, I think with his hands behind his back.” Mal swallowed, and Ares was getting the feeling this was going to good. He spared a glance at his family, who were patiently waiting by the stairs, but were listening in nonetheless.

"She's reclined on the bed, posing all sexy like." Mal sighed. "Suddenly this fleshy tentacle seemingly coming from nowhere wrap around her ankle. She looks to the guy, but his face is stony and offered no help. More tentacles pop up, wrapping around her neck and waist. Slowly, she's being dragged into the center of the bed, kicking and screaming. By the end, she's completely gone, and the center of the bed opens up, revealing teeth, and tentacles, and more. The guy yells something into the bed and that’s where I walked away.”

Ares blinked. Then blinked again. Thoughts, words, failed him. When they did come, all he could say was, “Huh?”

She sighed and looked away, “I know, I know, it’s crazy, but I don’t want blue bedding because it reminds me of that scene from, well, wherever it’s from. Hell, I don’t even know if the bedding was blue, I just know I saw blue, I saw a bed eating a woman, and that earned all of my NOPE!”

Later on, he would defend that he tried, he really did. It started off small, just a crack of a smile, a stifle of a snort, suppression of a chuckle. It was at that point, he couldn't hold it back any longer, he burst out laughing so hard he collapsed to the floor. When he looked, James, Sirius, and Remus weren't in much better shape.

“Laugh it up.” Mal snarled, then she thought of something and she had to follow it. “Though, it might be possible.”

That gained Ares's attention. "What!? You're off your trolley love, there's no way that's possible."

She put her hands on her hips, her left eyebrow raised as she tilted her head to the side and looked down at him. As sexy as it was, Ares had a feeling it was in for it now.

“Tell me, what do you know about DND? Specifically, their monsters.”

Lily gasped, then fought back giggles, and Mal knew that Lily was aware of where she was going with this.

Ares shrugged, “A little, nothing much, why?”

She grinned viciously, “Do you know what a Mimic is?”

“Oh! I do! I do!” Sirius exclaimed excitedly. “We used to play that! Lily got us into it, and a mimic is something that takes the form of inanimate objects, such as chests or wardrobes or something, and when people get close, they eat them!”

“There’s more to it, but in a nutshell, yes.” Lily agreed.

Mal crossed her arms, Ares could be forgiven for a moment as he became distracted by her rather large bust. Shaking his head back into the moment, he watched as Sirius’s expression of excitement slowly faded into horror.

“Oh, you don’t mean-” Sirius backed away a little in fear.

Mal and Lily grinned wickedly.

“I’m going back, and I have a lot of knowledge of things that shouldn’t exist.” Mal said in a sinister tone. “Meaning mimics could very well exist when we go back.”

Ares looked between his wife and mother, then to his uncles, “Well shite!”

“Oh bollocks to that!” Sirius shrieked. “I am not going back to some shambolic world with a creature that could be my bed and eat me!”

Mal was now on the floor with laughter.

Ares stared at her for a moment then realized what she did. She turned something that was fuel for teasing and future pranks, into something that no one would touch.

“Clever.” He grinned at his wife.

She gave him a wink and followed him up to the fourth level.

“Anything else, I should know about?” He asked before the tour began. “Other ridiculous fears?”

“You ever see Child’s Play?”

He nodded. “Bits and pieces.”

“Bride of Chucky?”

He shook his head.

“Well, a sequel was he reunited with an old girlfriend who brought him back. Said girlfriend was later killed by Chucky. Anyway, at one point, they’re at a motel, and the ceiling is a mirror, she threw a bottle of champagne at it. Shattered, killing the couple on the bed.” Mal said seriously.

“Okay,” Ares once again drew out the word. “So, no blue bedding, and no mirrors above the bed. Got it.”

“You think I’m crazy, don’t you?”

Ares shrugged. "I've listened to Luna about her creatures and things for years. I've also been married to a couple of different kinds of crazy. On the scale of things. Living without blue bedding and sex mirrors on the ceiling are perfection by comparison."

Mal’s laughter carried them through the last of the tour of Pottermore. Half of it was normal attic space. Mostly it was old paintings that were sent up here and covered over. The other half was a work out room with an attached showering area.

}TLCW{

The group retreated back to the informal sitting room that she was now calling the family room. Sitting down on a plush love seat, curled up with Ares, she thought about the whole of Pottermore with a soft, loving smile. She was positively giddy. There was no other way to describe this emotion.

Sure, every little girl dream’s of living in a castle at one point or another in life. With Prince Charming and true love. Pottermore certainly looked the part for it. Well, she looked at Ares, she didn’t have a Prince Charming. More like a Lord, who had more in common with Ciel Phantomhive than he did with any Prince Charming’s she was aware of. She quickly looked away before he caught her staring, she wasn’t willing to say that thought out loud yet.

The heart of the matter for her, was yeah, even she had fantasized about being rescued from her family, her world, and living in a castle like a princess with her true love. Well, that wish was granted, or it soon would be. And that left her with the giddy feeling.

Ares was also feeling similar. Perhaps not giddy, but definitely in awe, and exhilarated. He couldn't wait to get back to the mortal life and settle into his home. At the first opportunity he could, he would move into his ancestral home. With a sigh, he realized, that might take a little bit of time. What with Dumbledore on his ass all of the time.

Seated in chairs, Monty and Mia were facing Mal and Ares. Lily and James, shared a love seat as well and were to the couples right. Tonks, curled into Remus, was on a couch to the couples left, while Sirius occupied the only other chair that was available.

“You will be able to expand and add furniture however you please.” Monty said with a smile. “Pottermore gets updated a few centuries. I was the last one to update it. Which is probably why some of it looks more modern. Despite being purebloods, we like to keep on top of the more popular styles for the rich in the muggle world.”

“I was going to say, I’m surprised that you have furniture that’s very common from the time I’m from.” Mal said, “Which was about twenty, to thirty years ahead of you guys.”

“Different worlds, love.” He smiled at her. “I guarantee you that some places my world exceeds yours.”

She shrugged. “I can see that.”

Given the number of secrets this place held, and lengths her new family went to keep them, she was compelled to know:

“Is it actually called Pottermore, or does it have another name?” Mal asked critically looking back at Monty and Mia.

“No,” Mia shook her head. “The castle was already commissioned by Moira’s grandfather to be built, so when it was finished before she was born, it was named Pottermore for the family.”

“And to keep up appearances, the name was never changed.” Mal concluded. “Added to that, names have power, and I take it the Potter’s were powerful in their own right.”

“You ever hear the story of Robin Hood?” Mia asked quizzically.

“Which one?” Mal snorted. “There’s the cartoon version where he’s a fox. There’s the Prince of Thieves movie starring Morgan Freeman and Kevin Costner.”

It was only after she answered, she realized they wouldn’t know who those people were.

Still, Mia snorted herself. "Prince of thieves is apt. That's what the Potter's were. They stole from the greedy and villainous, and what they didn't keep, they gave to the people who needed it most. Robin Potter, was the inspiration for Robin Hood, as he started the whole blasted thing. Muggle, magical, didn't matter to that boy, he'd rob them blind if they got too big for their britches."

Mal gave a hearty laugh and fell against Ares in her mirth.

"Now," Monty said pressing his fingertips together to make a tent, "we've come to was is the most important part of our day, our discussions. We'll start today with history. When we get tired, we'll all retire for the night. Tomorrow, a tour of the grounds, and a discussion of people to be wary about." He met Ares's eyes, "I'm certain you can already guess at a few, your bride as well."

Ares nodded before looking down at Mal. She shrugged. “The two big ones I think would be Malfoy and Dumbledore. The Lestrange’s as well, but I’m not sure about that one.”

Monty grinned but said no more on the subject of people. Well, people from the timeframe they would be returning to, anyway.

Monty began his tale, further back than Mal initially expected.

He spoke of a time where the world and the ways were dark. Perhaps not evil, at least not completely, but they were dark. Magicals, of all species, roamed the earth and controlled it with a firm hand. Then, evolution and ice ages happened. Even with magic, several species became few in number, and many were forever changed, if not rendered extinct.

No-mages, muggles, were Neanderthals and were barely given the time of day. Monty went on to theorize, that as the species evolved, and became more intelligent, magical species began to breed with them because they were beginning to die out little by little. By the time the witches and wizards had amassed their numbers again, the cavemen had advanced themselves a bit more, and their appearance was the same as the Witches and Wizards now.

“I personally think it was because of natural advancement, magic in the air, and the breeding with some species, such as elves, or a desperate witch or wizard.” Monty explained in a clinical tone.

“Why isn’t this taught?” Mal asked. “Is there no history to back this up?”

Monty smiled. "There is very little written record of this. But there is a written record, and I'm sure you can figure out where."

Mal nodded and settled back down, so Monty continued his tale. Going through the ice age and then through to the history of the Founders, Hogwarts creation, and more. He explained then just how many names were in their bloodline, and how it should be relatively easy to find the others through their family registry.

Mal and Ares were already making plans on how to get at least some of this information out into the light for the Wizarding World. They both agreed, even a little of this information would be enough to tip the scales before the battle was even waged. If the public were receptive. Though Ares had a counter for that, if the Boy-Who-Lived were to publish something from ever hidden, ever secretive Pottermore library so it was available for the public, they would be lapping it up faster than Hermione would with a new book.

“I do get why all this is needed, given the names that are involved in this family. Especially the founders, even though they aren’t proven yet. But may I ask, how?” Mal asked Monty a little unsure of herself. “The fake family registry, the real one, the fake Wardstone, all of it. How are you able to pull off this misdirection?”

Monty grinned at her. "You don't need to embarrassed, my dear. As a matter of fact, as the future Lady of this house, this actually something you will need to know." He made sure to glare a little at Ares, "You will need to know this as well."

Ares snapped to attention and gave his grandfather the service he was due.

"Now, I will not reveal all to you." He gave Ares a piercing look. "You will have to learn of it on your own via the true family registry, and the Lord of Pottermore's hand guide. Which are on the pedestal in the third library."

Ares nodded. “Agreed.”

“Now, what I can reveal to you. Which is how we are able to pull off the duel names and no one is able to realize it.”

Monty sat back and stroked his beard for dramatic effect. Something Mal knew for what it was, and not as a form for deep thought those present in the room thought it to be. Mia got her eye and rolled her own before smiling at her husband.

"This was back before Gryffindor's daughter married into our family." Monty said seriously, making sure Ares was paying attention. "Eustis Pendragon was engaged to be married to a Moira Potter. He moved to what is now Wales with her and took her last name. Both sealed away the Pendragon's true name, only to be revealed later on. We are Potter's truly in blood, but Eustis only claimed the name is word only, he never had magic change his name for him. On the other side of the galleon, Maria never took the name Pendragon by magic either. So while the world sees us as Potter's,"

"Magic sees you as both Pendragon and Potter. Giving you the duel name." Mal finished with an understanding smile. "I like it. Makes it so no Potter - Pendragon can ever be forced into a contract or unbreakable vow against their will. Sure, magic may flash with recognition as you have Potter blood, but it won't hold as you are also magically named Pendragon."

Monty grinned and turned that grin on Ares, “I like this one! I couldn’t have found a better wife for you if I tried.”

Ares grinned at Mal as he caressed the back of her hand he was holding with his thumb. “My thoughts exactly.”

Monty kept his grin as he looked back at Mal. “Exactly right my dear, hence the fake family charter. It’s for our protection against unwanted marriages should the Lord pass before the next one was able to be taught what it was they needed to know. Case and point,” and he pointed at Ares before continuing. “Now the fake charter will work for the thief, for a time. They will be able to make contracts, and such. Alliances, and it is charmed to give the flash of recognition that a deal has been made. However, and this is the big thing here, when the real family charter is enacted by the Lord, which all Ares has to do is stand at the pedestal, put his hand on the charter, state his full name, his parents, and his grandparents, since he has to back to the last Lord that was instated, and James never got the chance to." James nodded off to the side admitting that he hadn't. "All former contracts will become void and the magic will vanish from them. Further, a notice will appear to the Head of the DMLE with a copy of the fake contracts, with a notice of theft, and a demand to look into it. Because as Purebloods, situations such as this are given priority until which time the matter is either settled out of court or resolved after court proceedings."

There were no doubts that Dumbledore still had the fake and that he was using it “on behalf” of the Potter’s as Ares’s guardian and Regent to the Wizengamot.

Mal shook her head, “So that’s why Dumbledore has a sense of security about these matters. As far as he can tell, the Charter is working for him. He likely thinks it’s because he’s Ares’s magical guardian and he now has control of Pottermore, certain sections excluded. He likely believes once Ares dies, he’ll gain access.”

“Unlikely.” Monty sighed. “I don’t know if it’s still on there, but I was told by my grandfather there was a self-destruct someone in the wards. If all the Potter’s in blood die, then Pottermore will self-destruct.”

Mal nodded her understanding, then sighed and shook her head. "I know Dumbledore is on that list of people you said to be wary of, and I know you have reasons why," She shook her head again. "I just wonder how much work it will take to get his closest supporters to see the light about him when we get there."

Ares was greatly amused by the drastic misconception and misdirection his family had used to con the Wizarding World for years. He saw no reason to change that. Though he knew for the sake of his future, some of the Potter-Pendragon secrets would have to come to light. He knew the Pendragon tag, and likely the Founder’s tags would come to light, but he would fight tooth and nail to keep the Peverell a family secret. So no more Hollow Hunters would come crashing at his door.

"Before we retire for the night," Ares began as he leaned forward his elbows resting on his knees, and his hands folded together. "I know those vaults in the sublevels are empty here, but is there anything I need to add extra protection to immediately upon my return? Just in case Dumbledore is close to cracking them."

“No.” Monty assured his grandson. “What vaults that fool has access to has nothing down there that can’t be replaced. Only some gold, and mostly old furniture, the fake Wardstone, and the fake family charter is the only thing he should have been given access to. Though it wouldn’t take him long to realize the Wardstone is a fake.

"However, by the time you get back, and considering when you'll be going back, it wouldn't be worth it to add the protection. If you go too soon, it will tip our hand and reveal that you know more than you should. I think you should speak to your wife and come up with a plan as to when it's best to make a trip there."

Mal and Ares shared and look and she nodded. It was something to talk about later. But now, it was time to sleep. The yawning coming from all directions were proof enough that their weary souls needed rest. Considering some were still going to head into battle, they needed all the rest they could get here. Knowing that they wouldn’t completely rest once they were stuck in mortal coils again.

}TLCW{

“Do you think you’ll be happy here with me?” Ares asked as they readied for bed.

She looked back at him with a bright smile and nodded enthusiastically. "Oh yes! I can't wait to start living here!" Then she frowned a bit. "I'm not exactly looking forward to all of the stairs every day and night, and I can see why your former wives eventually made you buy a smaller house for them to live in. I know it's only because we're in Purgatory that we're not winded all of the time. But this," Mal waved her hand around the room, indicating the whole of Pottermore, "is where you should live. Where every Potter, Pendragon, Perevell, what have you, those of your blood should live." She said firmly looking back at him. "I don't want to be the reason that this is taken from you. I will adapt, as I always do, and I'm certain, after living here for a time while alive I won't want to leave this place."

Ares grinned at her, then chuckled.

“What?” She asked confused as she climbed into bed beside him.

“It’s just,” he sighed trying to find the right words, “I only have foggy memories of this place, but I know in the back of mind, then and now, that I never wanted to leave this place. This place,” He waved his hand mimicking her gesture, “is home to me. More than the Dursley’s, more than the houses I lived in before and after Hogwarts.”

"I think that's your magic and the magic of this place." Mal said laying down playing with his hand and she yawned. "You're the Lord of this place, and it's where you were meant to be."

He laid down and nodded before resting his head against hers. “Any regrets from your old life?”

"You mean besides burning the cult members like they are witches at the stake? Or chopping off my ex-husband's manly bits before shoving them down his throat while having a cactus shoved up his bum?" She looked at him with a serious expression before shaking her head, "No."

He winced and chuckled at the same time. "I think I know what to give Riddle as a "welcome back to a body" present now."

She giggled. “I would suggest Dumbledore too, but I think he’d enjoy it.”

“And with that image, I’m going to have nightmares.” He shuddered.

Mal proceeded to climb on top of him, pulled off her nightshirt, before smiling down at him. She was pleased when he gave an appreciative groan.

“Then let me make sure you don’t have any.” She said in a sultry voice before pressing her lips to his own.

}TLCW{

Having risen from another great rest, as promised, this time the family spent their day exploring the grounds of Pottermore, and there was a lot to see. Pottermore sat on several acres of land, and while Monty had said they amount, Mal had missed that part. If she thought the castle had been impressive, the land on which it sat was just as much, if not more impressive.

The whole of the property, Mal and Ares were informed, was surrounded by a forest that was known to have unicorns in them among other creatures. It acted as a natural defense against the muggles. Located in Wales, about a two-hour drive from the Irish Sea, sat Pottermore, their home.

They were shown the quidditch pitch that got Ares grinning. While he wasn’t a fanatic like Ron or Wood, he did enjoy the game. Even if it had been forced on him at first, he found himself enjoying it. It was one thing that the potions didn’t force him to enjoy. Obsess over as much as Ron, well almost as much, probably. But they certainly didn’t force his interest.

They saw the stables for horses, there were even trails to ride the horses. Another set of stables for hippogriffs. They were shown a section of stables for actual Griffins as well, but Monty and Mia didn’t have any in their time. James hadn’t been alive long enough to purchase any, though he had a fund set aside for it. Ares promised to tap into that fund to get some.

They walked through an impressive garden with a hedge maze. It was far enough away from Pottermore, that a person couldn’t see into it without magical means. Even then, it was charmed to now allow hostile incoming spells, which, if they were coming from that distance, they were hostile. They were shown the way through the hedge maze to the very back of the property, though here in Purgatory that’s where the drop off began.

Mal and Ares listened as they were told the maze would give them cover if they could get to it. That is if all other escape routes had been cut off. The maze would not only protect them from incoming spells, but it would act as a natural defense against their attackers. The passage from the secret tunnel opened up inside the forest, and into a small, one-roomed cabin hidden under a fidelius. The objective was to get inside and immediate apparate or portkey away.

Exciting back from the hedge maze, they were brought to the Greenhouses for herbology lessons and potion ingredients. There six. To grow what the gardens could not. It was worth noting, in Monty’s opinion, that they had several properties that the house elves maintained, and they grew at the other properties what could not be grown in England for whatever reason.

Mal was interested to see there were places where livestock could be held. She saw chicken coops and pig pens. Vast open fields fence off so cattle and sheep could graze at their leisure, and barns for them to stay in at night or during the cold if they didn’t wish to venture out. But no goats, the Potter’s apparently couldn’t stand goats. Ares’s shudder was confirmation enough for Mal, though she chuckled about it.

In front was a large garage with various vehicles for muggle travel. James and Sirius listed off the many vehicles they had back when they were alive, and knowing the future that was to come, and the updated timeline, Ares was trying to remember the various cars he wanted to get. Mal shook her head at the men and their cars.

Though, she was impressed with how progressive the Potter’s were for purebloods. She had been led to believe that while not extremists, they had been traditional and initially didn’t want Lily to marry James. Until they met her, then they changed their minds. Mal was glad to see that the Potter’s were better people than some writers and fans thought them to be.

They had learned during the tour of the manor that the basement held the stores of portkey's each labeled for a specific place that only a Potter/ Pendragon activate and the store of Floo powder for floo travel. So once they finished with the garage, there was nothing left to go over about transportation or anything left about the grounds that they hadn't covered.

Mal was feeling a little awestruck at the enormity of the place. Not just the castle, but grounds. This was a representation of the royalty that they Potters actually were. She doubted very much any other pureblood had a set up such as this. She was also sure this was why many purebloods feared, respected, and were jealous of the Potters. It also explained why they fell over themselves to please the Potter’s even when they hated them.

}TLCW{

As they had the previous day, they sat in the family room, adopting the name Mal had affectionately called it. Secretly wondering why they hadn't thought of that before. This was the conversation that Mal and Ares were most eager to hear, and it was one that Mal knew, several of the members of their family was also dreading.

“The Longbottom’s, as they came from Vikings, never had a problem with this place. They had their own tastes, and they could match us when it comes to wealth and positions.” Monty explained.

“There has never been a Potter without Longbottom by their side.” James picked up from there, fixing Ares with a withering glare. “While Sirius and I were close yes, Frank was loyal and a true friend to me all our lives. He was as much as my brother as Frank. He was also an unofficial Marauder. He never got his Animagus form, but he covered for us a lot of the time with the professors.”

“So he knew what was going on then?” Mal asked

James nodded. “Him, and later Alice once they got engaged.”

“How do you think we were able to get away with everything?” Remus asked with an amused chuckle. “I mean, we were good, we just weren’t that good.”

“I didn’t hear that.” Monty groaned, then took a deep breath.

"Who should we be wary of?" Mal asked.

Monty looked at her with a smile. "You've already said the names, my dear. Malfoy, Lestrange, and Dumbledore." He said ticking off his fingers. "The Malfoy's came from France because their bigoted way of thinking has become outdated there and Abraxas was close to being arrested for his behavior and losing everything. So he came here to Britain where our society has stagnated and many of the Pureblood's are extremists and bigoted."

"As part of our traditions, we invited them to Christmas one year, the look of utter greed in his eyes," Mia gagged. "was enough to drive me to drink for a month if I was a woman of lesser constitution. As it was, I still had a couple of shots of fire whiskey."

“Abraxas, and later his son, had their sights set on Pottermore as a conquest.” Monty said. “Voldemort was bad enough, but the Malfoy’s added to that was a dangerous combination from the start.”

“The Lestrange’s are just insane.” Mia said firmly. “Too much inbreeding like the Carrow’s. Only instead of losing their looks, they lost their sanity. Though the Carrow’s aren’t that far behind in that road of insanity.”

“With Dumbledore, there are many reasons, I’m sure.” Mal sighed. “Let’s finish with everything else before we favor our conversation with that narcissist.”

“As I was saying then,” Monty nodded, “the Longbottom’s, and the Bones are the well known “Light” families that we are allies with. From the “Gray” faction we have the Greengrass’s, and the Lovegood’s.” He sent a piercing look at Ares. “From the “Dark” Factions we have the Black’s and the Princes.”

“Why so many quotations around the factions?” Mal asked.

“Because society has forgotten that Dark, doesn’t mean evil.” Monty sighed. “A Light family could kill just as easily with some of their spells, and the Dark can defend with some of theirs.”

Silence reigned for a moment as Ares digested that information.

He looked at Mal after a moment. “Where do I know that name from, Prince?”

“Snape’s mother Eileen’s maiden name was Prince.” Mal thought for a moment, going over all of the information she had in her mind. “Not much is known about the Prince family as J.K. has never elaborated on them, and the fandom is inconsistent with them. Some of them have Snape as a good guy, other’s a bad guy, but none that I’m aware of go into detail about his family history. They just focus on the man himself. All we know is that his father was a muggle, abusive, and his mother may or may not have pureblood.”

She looked up at Monty, “I take it that the Prince’s were purebloods, and there’s a different version of Snape’s parentage.”

Monty nodded, but it was Lily who explained. “Eileen was the only daughter to Archibald and Florence Prince. They had two sons older than her. Isaac and Alfie. Now,” she fixed them with a looked, “as I’m sure you know, some purebloods don’t think much of women.”

The couple nodded.

“The Prince’s weren’t like that. They valued their family members.” Lily sighed, “However, Archibald was a gambler. His antics and depts becoming more and more outrageous as the years went on. Many of the alliance had bailed him out at one time or another. Just before Eileen was married to Tobias, Archibald had run up a massive debt at an illegal gambling ring. Tobias, who ran the place, and was not a muggle mind you, but a Pureblood that had been banished from his family for some crime that he wouldn’t voice, and neither would they, offered Archibald a deal.”

“His daughter for a cleared debt.” Mal said softly. “And Archibald took it?”

“Not exactly.” Lily said holding up a finger. “There was an extensive marriage contract, with multiple clauses, Archibald agreed to have a clause that would have Eileen’s magic forced to love Tobias. Hoping that way Eileen would suffer less. However, Tobias wanted control of the Prince’s wealth and power, and tried to get more out of the contract than he normally would, and tried to trick Archibald. Archibald, who had a boon with the Goblin’s, turned that contract around and trapped Tobias into incriminating himself with the gambling den, and making to where he had no access to any of the Prince’s wealth, and that he was not to approach them.”

“So why didn’t work to keep Eileen away from him?” Ares asked.

"Because Eileen must have signed the contract to save her family." Mal answered for Lily. "To spare the Prince's the public shame, and knowing that her magic would make her love him, and be a Snape in magic as well as the name, she gave up everything to do with the Prince's to save her family."

Lily nodded in confirmation. “Exactly.”

“Because of that,” Monty growled, “Florence, Mia, and myself forced Archibald into an unbreakable vow to never gamble again. Archibald died mere months after that. He couldn’t keep his vow. We knew that going in, but we couldn’t risk him doing worse in the future. After what he did to Eileen, it was unforgivable, even if she agreed to it. By the time Florence and I knew what was happening, it was too late to stop it. Eileen was married to Tobias, and the contract was signed. So yes, we made him enter a deal that we knew would eventually kill him."

Mia sighed mournfully, "We had a daughter, about twenty years before James." She smiled a bit at Mal. "As I'm sure you are aware, we are different than Muggles and can have children well into our sixties." Mal nodded briefly before she continued. "Anyway, our daughter was six when she died." She quickly held up a hand, "I will not explain that you will learn later on."

Ares sat back, the anger he felt brimming at the thought of a member of his family dying to unnatural means simmered down. He’d wait then.

"Anyway, my point is, we had just found out we were pregnant with James when this happened, and we couldn't let Archibald getaway that." She sniffed and wiped away a tear.

"Tobias spent time in Azkaban, while Archibald gave Eileen enough money to keep a house and food on the table." Monty sighed. "Archibald died, Severus was born, and when the boy was two, Tobias came home. He had a loving wife and a son, but because the first child had been a boy, magic would not let Eileen have any more children. For Archibald feared that Tobias would rape any daughter he had. Tobias, now unable to find any work in the magical world, had to work in the muggle. Whatever money he made, went straight to his drinking."

“Severus had a very lonely, confusing, and hard childhood.” Lily said softly, a single tear rolling down her cheek.

Ares ran his hand up and down Mal’s arm with a pensive look on his face. “Not to veer even more off topic, but can you answer this for me?” He looked to his parents who nodded, "What does this mean for Snape? He was a right git to me, and I'm having trouble reconciling that his mother was a good daughter and her family an ally of ours."

Lily nodded. "Things were tense at school for a while. More so afterward when he joined the Death Eaters. But, we learned, things were not like what we thought."

"Turns out," James said leaning forward, "Severus only joined because he thought that Voldemort would bring about Change. Dragging the Wizarding Society out of its stagnant ways, and actually help people. He wanted people like his father to be punished here like they are in the muggle world. He wanted to make things like what happened to his mother illegal."

"I thought he was a bigot?" Ares was shocked by this turn of events. He looked to his mother, "I know he loved you, but he still followed the plan that sent me straight to death, twice! That also doesn't excuse how he treated me, Neville, and the rest of the students of Hogwarts for years!"

Remus shook his head. "No Ares, Severus, was nothing like what we thought. He hated his father but had a respect for muggles. He didn't think them villainous, or lesser creatures. He did think they were greedy but believed if Magic was shown to them, eventually, we could all live in peace. Someday, not in our lifetimes, but someday. He also hated the pureblood agenda." He gave Ares a sympathetic look. "As I'm sure you can imagine, given what happened to his mother. I promise you, he was on our side shortly after he joined the DE's, working as our spy."

“But, how?” Ares sat back utterly lost and confused.

Remus nodded. "He came to me, begging for forgiveness, and wanted to speak with James." He waved at Sirius. "After a tell-all with Veritaserum, his choice mind you, we brought him to James and Lily with their permission."

“He told us everything,” James said softly. “It wasn’t that he’d stopped loving Lily, but more he was working towards the bigger picture.”

"So why did he change?" Ares asked. "Why did he behave that way? Keeping one's cover was one thing, but what Snape did was terrible."

“We’d wondered that too.” Sirius said. “After we died, some things didn’t make sense.”

Ares sighed in frustration. “There’s a lot of that going around.”

“Dumbledore.”

Everyone looked at Mal.

“Dumbledore.” She said again. “Might as well, hear what Monty and Mia have to say about him before I get to what I think he did to Snape.”

Monty and Mia nodded in agreement. They revealed then they never liked Dumbledore. Sure, they made it look like they were following him, but they didn't trust him completely. They respected his power and his defeat of Grindelwald. But his personality, his methods, they left much to be desired. So they felt they couldn't trust him.

They talked about how he rose to power. About how there were suspicious circumstances as to how he got his positions. About how he talked and evaded the question. About how no fault could ever be found in him. About how those who disagreed with him, soon found themselves in questionable situations, and their credit and opinion were suddenly of lesser value than it had been before. That or Dumbledore would casually make a comment to the Prophet and they would write a whole bunch of slander.

One of the things that were talked about, that Mal was more interested in, was his reaction to Pottermore. She'd already figured out or knew about Dumbledore's politics and his way of manipulating things, but his unfiltered reactions is what she was more interested in.

James was out with Lily, so he wasn’t present for this.

The setup of the library had apparently infuriated Albus the one time he was allowed to visit. He had been helping with the war effort of Voldemort and asked to see if he could use their library for research. Seeing no reason to deny him, they allowed him the public access. He had been stunned by the room and the number of books. The greed was evident on the face that was usually masked with the grandfatherly persona.

Immediately, he had tried to gain access to the second floor without permission. Also, without permission, he attempted to take down the charms and wards on the stairs that were preventing him his ascension. As expected, an alarm went off and Albus was caught. When confronted about his behavior, he argued he had to know what was up there, he had to make sure they were not of dark material. It was his right as the leader of the light and his job.

An argument ensued, long and loud. Monty and Mia eventually got Dumbledore to slip, having him trapped in a ward by the stairs where he would be forced to tell the truth. An old ward that was long forgotten by the rest of the Wizarding World, and there was little hope of recreating as they had no idea which part of the Ward Stone it was on.

Dumbledore eventually slipped that he knew the Potter’s were the descendants of the Peverell’s and he wanted that magical power and the Deathly Hollows. Only he alone was worthy of them. Once he had Death under his control, the world would follow shortly after. He quickly clamped shut after having said that.

It found him thrown own by Monty and Mia. The next day, the elderly couple had found themselves killed. They had plans to sit down with James that night and reveal what Dumbledore had done.

“It’s hardly a coincidence.” Lily snarled after Monty and Mia finished their tale. James grinding his teeth in frustration beside her. Despite having heard this before, it never ceased to infuriate them.

"I agree." Mal said. "The very next day after Dumbledore slips up, they're killed? No, he had to have set them up and likely used Pettigrew. Being a master Legimens that he was, he had to know that Snape had defected and wouldn't turn over the Potter's, but Pettigrew, yes."

That realization didn’t sit well with the former generation in the room.

Mal felt she had to continue with what she was theorizing in case she was right. "Because the elder Lord and Lady would not grant him access, Dumbledore arranged for their death and did nothing in the public eye to stop it. He did this quickly, and thoroughly. You can't tell me that he didn't watch his order members like a hawk. He's a control freak, so he knew where they were and likely what they were doing at all times."

Remus shook his head in remorse while Sirius snarled. “You’ve got that right; I remember his probing questions.”

“It’s a sickening thing to realize.” James gagged.

“I understand that, believe me.” Mal nodded, remembering her own experiences with such a living. Causing Ares to rub her back in comfort. “Anyway, after his slip, he knew that James was out, and he knew that James would likely be out all night with Sirius and Remus. He likely had Pettigrew join you later to keep you out all night?”

She looked at the three in question, to see if she was on the right track. They all nodded in confirmation, realization dawning anew in their eyes.

“He set up Monty and Mia to be killed the very next day.” Mal sighed with a shake of her head. “They knew too much, and they were also powerhouses, who worked against him at times. He couldn’t have that, and he likely had them on is sacrifice list anyway. If nothing else to give James more reason to fight, revenge is a good motive, and while Dumbledore doesn’t exactly approve of it, he would use James’s broken heart against him. But his slip with the elder Potter’s just put them at the top of his list.”

Mal sat back with a shake of her head. "He was likely expecting that his precious minions in Lily and James would grant him full access to Pottermore. As they were his protégé's, and he thought completely loyal to him. Even if they didn't, with them later dead, all the magic preventing anyone, not of the family's blood would have eventually faded and he would get access to the manor."

Ares growled having to bite his fist to keep from cursing the room to pieces at the realization Mal gave him.

She looked up at James and Lily, “With this turn of events, and your grief, it was likely at this time that he must of have used a combination of charms and potions to make you loyal to him and convinced you to leave the safety of Pottermore, essentially abandoning it, to go live in Godric’s Hollow.”

A brief shocked silence followed before bedlam broke out.

"Son of a bitch!" James shouted as he stood and punched a wall before pacing.

Remus and Sirius having similar reactions as well. Monty and Mia had passed seething and were looking downright murderous. She was sure if they could do it over, they would have slaughtered Dumbledore while he was Pottermore.

Mal looked at Ares. “At least now I know where you get it from.”

Monty sighed, feeling that giving a chuckle at this time would be wrong. “Unfortunately, all the Potters have this tendency.”

"Damn it all she's right!" Lily was seething. Bringing the subject back to focus. "We had tea with Dumbledore at Hogwarts after the funeral. It was then that he suggested it, and we just agreed. We didn't even think to protest. Especially when we went in there with our doubts about him! James already suspected Dumbledore's hand in the situation. We never would have left Pottermore, especially not with Ares being a newborn!"

"Because of the prophecy, he expected you to die, and he likely suspected that Harry would die as well." Mal nodded. "He had everything tied up in a nice little bow, he just needed you to die. Because you were so loyal to him, and I'm guessing picked you up from Pottermore," Lily and James nodded, "he thought he must have had full access to this place. He probably came back right after you left, but found himself barred from certain sections. That's probably when he got to the fake charter and the fake Wardstone. It's probably then that he stole a few things. Because of the potions and charms, he got the cloak off James. Though I suspect after your deaths, the read Wardstone put everything on lockdown, and not even Dumbledore could get in. Which is why he took what he did when he did because he knew he wouldn't be able to get back until after Ares's death."

Mal looked back, Ares. "It's my theory that it's because of potions and charms that Dumbledore has total control over the Hogwarts staff and what they do. Because nothing like what happened during your Hogwarts experience would have if they had their true wits about them." She looked back at James and Lily. "I also think that's why Snape behaved the way he did. Because he'd been charmed, potioned, and perhaps obliviated a little to make him hate everything Potter, obsess over Lily and work as a double agent with only his best interests at heart.

"Given his place in power, the prophecy being enacted, and his great plan, he wouldn't leave so many loose ends untied. He wouldn't leave it to chance. He would make it all work in his favor. Whatever means he deemed necessary, after all, it was for "the Greater Good."

Mal now curled into Ares’s side, knowing he needed it. All of them had a grim expression on their faces.

"In canon, he and Grindelwald were seekers of the Hallows." Mal continued softly. "Grindelwald wanted the wand, while Dumbledore wanted the stone to communion with his departed sister, who he may or may not have killed. Going further with that line of thinking, I think, now I may be wrong, and it just may be the fanfictions coming to play here, but I think he was in league with Grindelwald."

This caused the other witches and wizards to jump as if they’d been shocked. Given that they knew the history with Grindelwald and Dumbledore’s part in the war effort, she could forgive them the ignorance or not looking at it too closely.

“Think about it,” Mal nodded. “Grindelwald’s slogan was “For the Greater Good”, what was it that Dumbledore was always saying to people and his minions before they cowed to his demands?”

Lily, immediately caught onto what Mal was saying. “You don’t mean-” Lily couldn’t even bring herself to finish the thought let alone the statement.

“They were lovers, even J.K. Rowling said that.” Mal nodded again. “According to some fanfictions, the falling out that saw Arianna killed wasn’t because Grindelwald was going dark while Dumbledore remained in the light. Though that was part of the reason, it was mostly because they disagreed on their methods. They went their separate ways to work on their separate methods and goals. Grindelwald failed, just like Dumbledore predicted, and because Dumbledore tricked him.

"People rallied against Grindelwald and fought to keep him contained. Dumbledore tricked his old lover into a night of passion, then while Grindelwald was knocked out, trapped him in his famous prison Nurmengard. Dumbledore used this event, merely saying he defeated Grindelwald – not killed him, to firmly cement himself in Wizarding society as a hero, a savior. One they could turn to in times of need. By the time Riddle came along, his influence was ebbing, and people were questioning, and Dumbledore couldn't have that.

"Now," Mal said sitting straight and looking them all seriously. "Some fanfictions say that Riddle was made into the villain that he was by Dumbledore, specifically for Dumbledore to end him and gain more glory. The prophecy ruined all his plans, so he set things up for everyone important to Harry," she patted, Ares's knee when he growled at the name "sorry, hun, it was a slip, won't happen again. Anyway, Dumbledore set up for James and Lily to die, for Sirius to be incarcerated and away from Ares. He sealed the wills of James and Lily, then he placed Ares with the Dursley's and set everything up over the years for Ares to be abused. When he came to Hogwarts, Dumbledore set things so Ares would either die during his school years or be killed by Voldemort upon his return. He was making it so Ares would willingly sacrifice himself for the Greater Good. Which would then give Dumbledore the chance to swoop in and claim his glory."

To say the ones who lived in that world were angry was putting it mildly. They passed angry long ago.

“Given this information, if all of it is correct, it puts paid to the theory of everyone being potioned and manipulated into doing what he wants them to do. From you guys told me, he wanted to get his hands on the Potter and Perevell family magic books. More than that, if he could eventually gain access to the vaults below the basement and what was stored in them like he tried to do at Gringotts. He probably thought that’s where the other Deathly Hollows were kept, or at the very least, the Resurrection Stone.” Mal sighed. “He wanted power, money, influence, and with this family gone, and Voldemort defeated, he would have all of it. If he succeeded in getting the Sorcerer’s Stone, then he’d have an eternity to bask in it all.” Mal rubbed the back of her neck. “Only he didn’t count on how evil Riddle truly was, and how far he would go to keep from dying. Which saw him killed before he could achieve his lifelong wish.”

Ares looked at his grandfather. “I’m sure she’s got the right of it.”

Monty nodded, “I think so as well.”

"Meaning it explains how he was able to make the marriage contract between myself and Ginny just three days after my parent's murder." Ares grimaced. "He had it in his hands the day he put my parents into hiding. He set it all up so if one plan failed, he had backups. He would gain access to this place, and he would have what he wanted, one way or another."

Mal looked over the room and marveled at them all. She got to know all of them really well during those two days. While Ares was reacquainting himself with things he already knew, and learning more than he did before. Both were really enjoying this time with their family.

Lily was a much of a prankster as the Marauders. She had secretly liked James for many years, just didn’t like the fact that he tortured poor Severus. Things changed the day he called her Mudblood so he wouldn’t get teased in Slytherin. She hated the fact that he chose bigots and bullies over her.

Remus was not the lost puppy dog that absently followed Dumbledore’s orders as if he was the next coming of Merlin like the books and many fanfictions made him out to be. He too had likely been potioned, but it would have taken an alchemic component never seen before in the potion to alter his state of mind to circumvent the wolf in Remus. In death, he seethed with rage at what Dumbledore had plotted. It had to be low self-esteem, guilt, and loyalty potions that had Remus running from Tonks when he truly loved her more than anything when he found out she was pregnant with his child. When truly, he would have never left her side. It was the only thing he could think of.

Sirius, they learned with great interest, had been madly in love with Amelia Bones all of his life. While many boasted about being with Sirius, and he was a vaunted playboy, he’d never done more than kiss, lightly pet a few girls, and stole their panties to piss his mother off. The only one he’d ever really been with was Amelia. The only one he truly loved, was Amelia.

He also suspected, the reason she believed he was guilty, and never fought for him, why no one fought for him, was the spells and potions that Dumbledore used after his arrest was made public.

He too learned in death the extent of Dumbledore's manipulations in his incarceration, and his staying on the run. He suspected it was Dumbledore who poisoned his state of mind to see Ares as James instead of the boy and son to him that Ares was. By use of mind-altering and mind deteriorating potions. Azkaban did a number on him sure, but nothing to that extent. That came after he was free.

Mal caught the worried expression from Lily and James but kept silent at that moment.

Tonks revealed she never wanted to be an Auror. It was a career path that Dumbledore, and the rest of Hogwarts, had pushed onto her at Dumbledore's urging. She wasn't sure what she wanted, but she knew it wasn't that. But Dumbledore needed her abilities there, just as he needed her loyalty to him.

Mal shook her head the more she learned about Dumbledore. While she was sure somewhere, in some world, there was a Dumbledore who was a good man. Flawed, but a good man. This Dumbledore she was about to face, was anything but. He truly was a Dark Lord behind the scenes. His actions with these few people and the manner behind their lives and deaths proved it.

The more they talked about it. The more it seemed her theories and their suspicions were true. As much as it upset her, those who had lived through it were even more so.

“How did no one notice this!?” Monty exclaimed furiously. “How could one man hold so much power!?”

“Could the Potter’s hold that much power, if they tried?”

Everyone looked at Mal.

“Think about it, you have the magical power, you have the means, surely if the Potter-Pendragon’s rose up, they could even surpass Dumbledore.” Mal said gently. “Dumbledore is no different than any other Dark Lord, he uses pretty words, his flare of magic, and in those who are reluctant, he slips a spell into their subconscious or a potion while they aren’t suspecting it.” She waved around the room by example.

"Remus was a werewolf since childhood, Dumbledore used to this to make a pawn in an attempt to bring the werewolf society to his whim. He did the same with Sirius, knowing Sirius's grandfather wouldn't kick him out of the family. How I don't know, but he obviously did. Because he later used the Black name, and influence. Wrenching from Malfoy's control so it would pass to Ares, and then upon Ares's death, to Dumbledore. James and Lily were used and sacrificed as his plan allowed. Ares was raised for the slaughter.

"All because of his flashy power, silver tongue, through subtle than blatant control, because he fought "for the Greater Good". He defeated one Dark Lord, was on the verge of defeating another, no one with that much power the masses would question. Magical Britain had become lazy and allowed themselves to become sheep, which is what Grindelwald, Voldemort, and Dumbledore all preyed upon." Mal sat back with a sigh. "Really society has no one to blame but themselves. They didn't want to look too closely. They wanted someone to protect them while they did nothing. Whether because they were lazy, or because they had beaten down to the point, I couldn't tell you, but I can say that society is to blame."

“Society and the Pureblood agenda.” Ares agreed and added to her argument. “The bigots in power are trying to keep things the way they know, the way they like it, with them in power and control. They don’t care what they have to stomp on, as long as they have power, that’s what matters.”

Mal nodded. "Dumbledore wants that. He wants them to stay the way they are and stagnant. With the eventual goal of either merging with the muggle world and overtaking it, or simply merging it to see the magicals subjected to the muggles, I have no idea."

“Whatever his plans, the eventual outcome would be war.” Ares said.

A collective sigh resounded by everyone. No more words were spoken as they headed to bed. Each lost in their own thoughts on the matter.