Chapter 4

Sirius Black, freshly released from Azkaban, lies on a bed in St. Mungo's, his mind still reeling from the sudden shift in his fortunes. As the healer enters the room, Sirius's gaze locks onto her familiar features, and a spark of recognition ignites within him.

"Andi?" Sirius breathes, disbelief coloring his voice.

"Andromeda," she corrects gently, her tone warm but firm. "While I'm on duty, it's Healer Andromeda Tonks. But you can call me Andi when we're not in the hospital. How are you feeling?"

Sirius responds with a hint of sarcasm, "Oh, you know, like I've just spent five lovely years in Azkaban. But hey, at least the accommodations were top-notch."

Andromeda chuckles softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of relief and concern. "Well, you certainly don't look like you've been living the high life. But don't worry, Sirius, we'll get you patched up in no time."

Andromeda's tone softens as she delivers the news. "Our grandparents are waiting outside for you, Sirius. I know things have been... complicated between you and the family, but they're here because they care about you."

Sirius's expression softens, a mixture of surprise and gratitude crossing his features. "Thank you, Andi," he says quietly, his voice tinged with emotion. "Please, could you call them in?"

—

As Sirius lies in the hospital bed, memories of his tumultuous upbringing in the Black family home flood his mind. He recalls the oppressive atmosphere, dominated by his mother's strict adherence to pure-blood ideals and her relentless pursuit of perfection. Unable to bear her tyranny any longer, Sirius had made the bold decision to leave home at the tender age of fifteen, seeking refuge with the Potters, who welcomed him with open arms.

Over the years, Sirius had forged a deep bond with James Potter, his best friend and brother-in-all-but-blood. Together, they had navigated the trials and triumphs of youth, creating cherished memories that sustained Sirius through the darkest of times. But amidst the laughter and camaraderie, the specter of his estranged family loomed large, casting a shadow over his happiness.

As Sirius reflects on his past, he can't help but feel a pang of regret for the choices he and James had made in their youth. They had been privy to the intricate web of alliances and conflicts within the wizarding world, aware of the roles played by Charlus and Arcturus as members of both the Light and Dark factions, as well as their positions within the enigmatic Black Dragon Legion.

Despite their initial admiration for their grandparents and the ideals they represented, the attack on the Potter Family Estate had shaken their faith in the Legion's methods. In their youthful naivety, they had turned to Dumbledore and his Order of the Phoenix, believing in their vision of a more just and inclusive wizarding society.

In doing so, Sirius had unwittingly severed ties with his own grandparents, the very same people he had once respected and looked up to. Now, as he lies in the hospital bed, awaiting their arrival, he can't help but wonder if it's too late to bridge the chasm that had formed between them. Would they be able to forgive his past transgressions, or had he irreparably damaged their relationship?

As Arcturus and Melania step into the room, Sirius's heart skips a beat. Despite the years of estrangement and the rift that had formed between them, he can't help but feel a surge of emotion at the sight of his grandparents.

For a moment, they simply stand there, gazing at each other, the weight of their shared history hanging heavy in the air. Then, Arcturus strides forward, his expression unreadable as he approaches Sirius's bedside.

"Sirius," he says, his voice gruff yet tinged with a hint of warmth. "It's been too long."

Melania, ever the epitome of grace and poise, follows close behind, her eyes brimming with unspoken emotion. Without a word, she reaches out and takes Sirius's hand in hers, a silent gesture of love and forgiveness.

Tears prickle at the corners of Sirius's eyes as he looks up at them, overcome with a mixture of relief and regret. In that moment, surrounded by the love of his grandparents, he knows that despite the pain of the past, there is hope for reconciliation and redemption.

As the tension begins to ease, the three engage in some small talk, exchanging updates and anecdotes from their respective lives. Sirius listens intently, cherishing this rare moment of connection with his grandparents.

Eventually, the conversation turns to Harry, and Sirius can't help but feel a pang of guilt at the thought of his godson. "How's Harry?" he asks, his voice tinged with concern.

Arcturus exchanges a knowing glance with Melania before answering. "He's with Charlus and Dorea," he explains. "They're taking care of him."

Sirius's eyes widen in shock at the unexpected revelation. "Charlus and Dorea are awake?" he asks, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Melania nods solemnly, her expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. "Yes, they've only just awoken a day ago," she confirms.

Sirius notices the subtle exchange of glances between Arcturus and Melania, sensing an underlying tension. "Is something wrong with Harry?" he asks, his voice laced with concern.

Arcturus hesitates for a moment before responding, his tone measured. "Harry's situation is complicated," he admits. "But he's safe with Charlus and Dorea. They're taking care of him."

Sirius furrows his brow, his concern deepening. Despite the reassurance, he can't shake the feeling of unease nagging at the back of his mind.

Arcturus notices Sirius's expression and sighs heavily before speaking. "Sirius, there's something you need to know about Harry's living situation," he begins, his tone grave. "Dumbledore placed him under less-than-ideal circumstances."

Sirius's brow furrows, his expression clouded with concern and disbelief. "What do you mean, less-than-ideal circumstances?" he asks, his voice tinged with urgency.

Arcturus sighs heavily, his gaze somber. "Dumbledore placed Harry with Lily's sister, Petunia Dursley," he explains, his voice heavy with disapproval. "From what we've learned, Harry was subjected to neglect, abuse, and malnutrition under her care."

Melania's eyes glisten with unshed tears as she continues, her voice trembling with emotion. "When Charlus and Dorea woke up, they were devastated to learn the truth about Harry's upbringing," she adds, her voice barely above a whisper. "We found him using a Potter Family House Elf, alone and in dire need of help."

As Sirius recalls that fateful night, his heart aches with the weight of memories long buried. The devastation of losing James and Lily still cuts deep, but amidst the rubble of tragedy, he had found solace in the tiny form of baby Harry. 

He remembers the moment he scooped Harry into his arms, the weight of responsibility settling upon him like a mantle. In that moment, as Harry's cries softened into gentle sobs, Sirius had made a silent vow to protect him at all costs. 

As Hagrid arrived on that fateful night, Sirius's mind was clouded by a mix of grief, anger, and confusion. The shock of James and Lily's death, coupled with the sudden appearance of Hagrid under Dumbledore's orders, left him reeling. 

In that moment of turmoil, Sirius's judgment was clouded by his desire for answers, for justice. Blinded by rage at Pettigrew's betrayal, he made the fateful decision to entrust Harry to Hagrid, believing Dumbledore's assurances that it was for the best.

Little did he know that this decision would seal his fate, leading him down a path of wrongful accusation and imprisonment. 

The weight of Sirius's wrongful imprisonment bore down on him heavily as he reflected on the events that led him to Azkaban. For years, he had clung to the belief that Dumbledore's judgment was infallible, trusting that Harry would be safe under his care.

Yet, the revelation of Harry's abusive upbringing shattered that illusion, leaving Sirius grappling with feelings of guilt and betrayal. The realization that Dumbledore had failed to protect Harry, just as he had failed Sirius, stirred a fierce determination within him to right the wrongs of the past and ensure Harry's safety and well-being.

Sirius clenched his fists, his voice filled with urgency. "I need to see Harry. I need to make sure he's alright."

Melania placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "Charlus and Dorea will be bringing him here later today. You will see him soon."

Sirius's eyes softened, but his resolve remained firm. "Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I won't let him down again. I promise."

Andromeda entered the room, her professional demeanor firmly in place. "Mr. and Mrs. Black, I need to conduct a thorough examination to determine the extent of the damage caused by Dementor exposure," she stated, her tone polite but firm. "Could you please step outside for a moment?"

Arcturus and Melania exchanged a glance before nodding. "Of course, Andromeda," Arcturus said. "We'll be right outside." As they left, he added softly, "Take care of him, granddaughter."

Andromeda turned to Sirius, her expression softening. "Alright, Sirius, let's see what we're dealing with," she said, her voice gentle. "You've been through a lot, but we'll get you back on your feet."

Sirius managed a weak smile, grateful for the familial bond that was still intact. "Thanks, Andi. It's good to see a familiar face."

Andromeda chuckled lightly. "It's Healer Tonks while I'm on duty, remember?" she teased, before her tone turned serious. "Let's start with a full diagnostic. We need to know exactly what we're up against."

—

In the cozy, warm sitting room of the Potter estate, Charlus and Dorea sat with Harry, their faces gentle yet serious. Harry, with his mop of untamed black hair and bright green eyes, looked up at them with a mixture of curiosity and nervousness.

Charlus knelt down to Harry's eye level, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Harry, there's someone very important we want you to meet today," he began, his voice kind but firm. "Do you remember us telling you about your godfather, Sirius Black?"

Harry nodded slowly. "Yes, Grandpa. You said he was a very good friend of my parents."

Dorea smiled warmly, her eyes softening as she watched her grandson. "That's right, Harry. Sirius has been through a very hard time, but he loves you very much and has always wanted to take care of you. He's finally free now, and he can't wait to see you."

Harry's eyes widened with a mix of excitement and apprehension. "Free? Was he... in trouble?"

Charlus nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, Harry. He was in a place called Azkaban for a long time, but it was all a big mistake. He didn't do the things people said he did. Now that the truth is out, he's coming to see you."

Harry fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. "Will he like me?" he asked quietly.

Dorea's heart ached at the question, and she quickly pulled Harry into a gentle hug. "Oh, sweetheart, of course he will. He already loves you so much. Just be yourself, and everything will be fine."

Charlus stood up, offering Harry a reassuring smile. "We'll be there with you, Harry. You don't have to worry about anything. Sirius is family, and he's been waiting a long time to see you."

Harry nodded, feeling a little more at ease with his grandparents' comforting words. "Okay, Grandpa. I'm ready."

Charlus and Dorea exchanged a glance, both feeling a mixture of relief and anticipation. This reunion was long overdue, and they were determined to make it as smooth and comforting for Harry as possible.

"Alright, then," Charlus said, taking Harry's hand. "Let's go meet your godfather."

Dorea knelt down to Harry's level, her eyes warm and reassuring. "Harry, we're going to travel to St. Mungo's to see Sirius using something called Side-Along Apparition," she explained gently.

Harry looked up at her, his eyes filled with curiosity. "What's that, Grandma?"

Dorea smiled softly. "It's a magical way of traveling quickly from one place to another. When we Apparate, it might feel a bit strange, like being squeezed through a narrow tube. But don't worry, you'll be with me the entire time."

Harry's eyes widened slightly, a mix of excitement and apprehension in his expression. "Will it hurt?"

Dorea shook her head, her smile reassuring. "No, it won't hurt. It might just feel a bit unusual, but it only lasts a moment. All you need to do is hold on to me tightly and don't let go."

Harry nodded, taking a deep breath. "Okay, Grandma. I'm ready."

"That's my brave boy," Dorea said, pride evident in her voice. She stood up, holding out her hand to Harry. "Hold on to my arm, just like this."

Harry grasped her arm firmly, his small hand gripping tightly. Dorea looked over at Charlus, who nodded encouragingly.

"On the count of three," Dorea said softly. "One... two... three."

With a soft pop, the room around them vanished.

As the world around them solidified into the bustling environment of St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, Harry felt a slight disorientation. But as promised, his grandmother was right there, making the transition smoother and less intimidating. 

Beside them, with a soft pop, Charlus arrived as well, appearing right next to Dorea and Harry. He steadied himself and smiled warmly at his grandson.

"That wasn't so bad, was it, Harry?" Charlus asked, patting Harry gently on the shoulder.

Harry looked up at his grandfather, a mix of excitement and nerves in his eyes. "No, it was okay, Grandpa. Just a bit strange."

Charlus chuckled, his eyes twinkling with pride. "You'll get used to it in no time. Now, let's go see Sirius. He's been waiting a long time to meet you properly."

Dorea knelt down again, smoothing Harry's hair with a gentle hand. "You did great, Harry. Now, let's go see your godfather."

Harry nodded, his heart pounding with a mix of nerves and excitement. Holding tightly to Dorea's hand and with Charlus by his side, he walked with them towards the room where Sirius was waiting, ready to finally meet the man who had loved him from afar for so long.

—

Harry clung tightly to Dorea's hand as they entered the bustling lobby of St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries. The walls were lined with moving portraits of famous Healers. Healers in lime-green robes moved efficiently among the patients, their wands casting diagnostic spells and healing charms.

"Just stay close, Harry," Dorea said softly, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. "We're almost there."

Harry nodded, trying to match their calm demeanor. As they moved through the corridors, he couldn't help but feel a mix of anxiety and anticipation. He was about to meet Sirius Black, his godfather, a man he had only heard about in hushed tones and whispered stories.

They approached the reception desk, where a kindly-looking witch smiled at them. "Good afternoon. How may I assist you?"

Charlus stepped forward, his voice steady and authoritative. "We're here to see Sirius Black. Could you direct us to his room, please?"

The witch nodded, flipping through a magical ledger. "Ah, yes. Mr. Black. He's in room 403, on the fourth floor. Take the lift to your right, and it's the third door on the left."

"Thank you," Charlus replied, leading the way to the lift.

The lift was an ornate brass cage, decorated with magical creatures that moved and shifted as they entered. The doors closed with a soft chime, and the lift ascended smoothly, accompanied by the faint sound of tinkling music. The ride up felt like an eternity to Harry, though it only lasted a few seconds. When the lift doors opened, they stepped out into a quieter, more subdued corridor. Harry felt his heartbeat quicken with each step they took toward Sirius's room.

As they approached room 403, Harry spotted familiar faces waiting outside. Arcturus and Melania Black stood tall and imposing, their expressions a mixture of anticipation and concern.

"Charlus, Dorea," Arcturus greeted them with a nod before his gaze softened as it fell on Harry. "And Harry. Are you ready?"

Harry nodded, feeling a mix of awe and shyness. "Yes, Grandpa Arcturus."

Melania stepped forward and placed a gentle hand on Harry's shoulder. "Hello, dear. Are you ready to meet Sirius?"

Harry swallowed hard but nodded. "Yes, I think so."

Charlus smiled down at Harry. "Remember, Harry, Sirius has been waiting for this moment just as much as you have. Be yourself."

Taking a deep breath, Harry stepped forward as Dorea pushed open the door to room 403. The room was bright, filled with the soft hum of magical medical equipment. In the center of it all lay Sirius Black, looking thinner and more worn than Harry had ever imagined, but with a spark of life in his eyes that seemed undiminished.

As they entered, Sirius's gaze fell upon Harry, and his eyes widened with recognition and a profound, heartfelt emotion. "Harry?"

Harry took a tentative step forward, his voice small but steady. "Hello, Sirius. I'm Harry."

Sirius's face broke into a smile, and despite his obvious fatigue, he tried to sit up straighter. "You've grown so much, kiddo. Come here, let me get a good look at you."

Harry moved closer, feeling a warmth spread through him as he approached the man who had been a part of his life in spirit, if not in person. Charlus and Dorea stood nearby, their faces filled with pride and relief, while Arcturus and Melania watched with a mixture of hope and solemnity.

It was a moment of reunion, of family bonds reforged after years of hardship and separation. For Harry, it was the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with love, support, and the promise of a brighter future.

—

As they entered the hospital room, Sirius's eyes immediately fell upon the boy standing before him. His heart skipped a beat at the sight of Harry, his godson, standing there looking both familiar and unfamiliar at the same time.

"Harry?" Sirius breathed, his voice barely above a whisper, disbelief coloring his tone.

The boy took a tentative step forward, his voice steady despite the obvious nervousness. "Hello, Sirius. I'm Harry."

Sirius couldn't help but smile, a rush of emotion flooding through him at the sound of Harry's voice. "You've grown so much, kiddo," he said, his own voice filled with warmth and affection. "Come here, let me get a good look at you."

Harry moved closer, and Sirius couldn't tear his gaze away. He reached out, his fingers trembling slightly as they brushed against Harry's cheek. The boy leaned into the touch, and Sirius felt a surge of love and protectiveness wash over him.

In that moment, surrounded by his family, Sirius knew that everything he had endured in Azkaban was worth it for this one moment of reunion. It was a chance to make up for lost time, to forge new memories together, and to finally be the godfather Harry deserved.

—

Sirius turned to Charlus and Dorea, his heart overflowing with emotion at the sight of them awake and well. They had been like a second family to him, especially after he ran away from his own home and found solace with the Potters.

"Charlus, Dorea," Sirius said, his voice choked with emotion. "I can't tell you how relieved I am to see you both awake and well. You've been like parents to me, and I'm forever grateful for everything you've done."

His words were genuine, a testament to the bond they shared, forged through years of friendship and shared experiences.

Charlus and Dorea exchanged a glance, their expressions softening with empathy as they listened to Sirius's heartfelt words. 

"Sirius, you've always been like a son to us," Charlus said, his voice gentle yet filled with sincerity. "It pains us to know the suffering you endured, but we're grateful beyond words that you're here with us now."

Dorea nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "You've shown incredible strength and resilience, Sirius," she added. "We're here for you, now and always."

Their words were a balm to Sirius's wounded soul, offering him comfort and reassurance in the face of his past trials. In that moment, surrounded by the love and support of his surrogate family, Sirius felt a flicker of hope ignite within him, illuminating the path forward with promise and possibility.

—

As Harry and Sirius began to bond, Andromeda turned to the Black and Potter families, her expression serious yet compassionate. 

"Sirius has endured severe physical and emotional trauma during his time in Azkaban," she began, her voice carrying the weight of her expertise as a healer. "The prolonged exposure to Dementors has left him weakened, both physically and mentally."

Melania and Dorea nodded in understanding, their years of healing experience enabling them to grasp the gravity of Sirius's condition. 

"He'll need extensive treatment and rehabilitation to recover fully," Melania added, her tone firm yet compassionate. "But with proper care and support, there's hope for his recovery."

Andromeda's expression softened with relief as she heard Melania's assessment. "We got Sirius out in time," she interjected, her voice tinged with gratitude. "Prolonged Dementor exposure can have lasting effects, including infertility. But with his release, there's hope for his physical recovery as well."

Melania and Dorea exchanged knowing glances, silently acknowledging the challenges ahead but also the resilience and determination of their family to overcome them. Together, they would support Sirius on his journey to healing, offering him the care and love he so desperately needed after years of suffering in Azkaban.

—

As Sirius and Harry sat together in the hospital room, the atmosphere was initially tense, both unsure of how to bridge the gap that had formed between them over the years.

Sirius glanced at Harry, his heart heavy with the knowledge of what his godson had endured. "Hey there, Harry. How are you feeling?"

Harry shifted uncomfortably, unsure of how to respond to this man who was both a stranger and a family member. "Um... okay, I guess."

Sirius nodded, his expression softening with empathy. "Yeah, I get it. It's been a lot, hasn't it?"

Harry nodded, his eyes downcast. "Yeah... I'm glad you're out, though."

Sirius smiled gently, reaching out to ruffle Harry's hair. "Thanks, kiddo. I'm glad to see you too."

As they sat in silence for a moment, the weight of their shared experiences hung heavy in the air. But as they spent more time together, Sirius and Harry began to open up to each other:

Harry shifted closer to Sirius, drawn by the warmth and kindness in his godfather's eyes. "Do you miss them?" he asked softly, referring to James and Lily.

Sirius's expression softened, a bittersweet smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Every day," he admitted, his voice tinged with sadness. "Your parents were the best friends I ever had."

Harry nodded, his own eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I wish I could remember them," he whispered.

Sirius placed a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder. "You don't have to remember them to know how much they loved you," he said gently. "They would be so proud of the brave, kind-hearted boy you've become."

As they sat together, sharing stories and memories of James and Lily, their bond grew stronger with each passing moment. And in that shared grief and longing, they found solace and strength, knowing that they were not alone in their pain.

—

Dorea and Melania exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes filled with both sadness and hope as they watched Sirius and Harry bond. Arcturus and Charlus stood nearby, their expressions reflecting a mixture of pride and relief at the sight before them.

"It's like watching James and Sirius all over again," Dorea murmured, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

Melania nodded, a soft smile playing at her lips. "Yes, they were always inseparable," she agreed. "But now, it's Harry's turn to have someone to lean on."

Arcturus placed a reassuring hand on Dorea's shoulder, his gaze never leaving Sirius and Harry. "They'll be alright," he said quietly, his voice filled with conviction. "Together, they'll get through this."

Charlus nodded in agreement, his eyes shining with pride as he watched his grandson and godson forge a bond that would withstand the trials and tribulations ahead. And in that moment, surrounded by family and love, they found hope for the future.

---

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