The Shadows Solace Book I: The Growing Years Prequel

Chapter VI: Reinstating the Potter House

When Petunia finally returned to her home; Adriana was waiting and had a gentle smile to her face though it did look sort-of forced even if it was actually genuine. It seemed that the healer; she approved of what Petunia had started; even when she knew there were parts of it that she didn't like. The healer was aware that this was all being done for Harry's future and his well-being.

She carefully took Harry from her and left for the upper level; to lay him down to sleep for the time being, and she didn't let herself think about the soul-fragment of the dark lord inside of her charge. Adriana allowed the woman to rest and to sit down. They met Vernon in the living area; he was showing relief to see her, but it wasn't exactly as noticeable if you didn't know his moods.

Petunia sighed and then smiled gratefully in thanks to her when Adriana returned and summoned some tea as she sat with them while Harry napped and Dudley was playing in the playpen, "I have gained full custody of Harry as you both know, and you are aware of what transpired after. Ragnok surely told you; more than I wanted him to, but regardless...what is done is done now. This has been one of the hardest decisions I ever have had to make, but I stand by them. I refuse to allow Albus to use Harry for his games."

She eyed her husband, "We need to begin to pack up whatever we own that is most sentimental to us or has value. Potter Mansion is...far grander than this home and we won't need the furniture here. Ragnok told me he would find a buyer for it.

I'll warn you that the luxury of the noble houses is going to be beyond anything you will have encountered before, Vernon. You'll likely think royalty; and you would not be far off. Harry's magical lineage is as close to royalty in his world as it gets. We'll have to tread very carefully and not over-spoil our son and Harry."

She then smiled softly, "Though, a little spoiling never hurt anyone."

She eyed Adriana, "Are you sure that you want to be reestablished as the healer for House Potter? Even knowing what is going on and what we'll have to explain to my sister and her husband through their portraits?"

Adriana sighed and tiredness showed now, "I cannot deny or lie that some of this makes me uneasy. Remembering what the Dark Lord and his followers have done would cause anyone to hesitate; but I too standby the decision I made. I won't leave Harry alone...not like before. I also would like to be present for the time you spend in Malfoy Mansion; just to see the changes myself."

She eyed the ceiling warily; as if she could sense Harry through it and watched it with some unease to her, "It is odd to speak so freely while knowing that the spirit or sentience of the Dark Lord can hear us and that he is not responding.

Petunia nodded, "Yes, I suppose it is somewhat odd. But, before we even move to Potter Mansion; Lord Malfoy has extended his invitation to all of us to stay at his home for the duration of the rite that we need to be there for; more specifically, Harry needs to be nearby for."

She eyed the room distantly, "I would be lying if I said I wasn't anxious or nervous. I am praying this isn't an elaborate trap; though I doubt it is one to begin with. Did you find out why I was never contacted about the funeral?"

Adriana's eyes then hardened, "Yes. You won't like it."

Petunia nodded, "I suspected as much, but what did you learn that has you so angry?"

The healer's hands curled, "Albus decided not to let you know of the funeral because he knew of your strained relationship to Lily and thought you would not wish to attend it. That you would be too uncomfortable around so many other magical people.

You showing up at the Ministry and fighting for Harry's custody was a surprise to him; an unwelcome one. Their bodies were barely cold and the Headmaster; in his great wisdom, decided to have them entombed in the Potter Crypts after being prepared with little to no respect for proper traditions." She snarled nastily