Harry Potter - Series Fan Fiction ❯ Behind Green Eyes ❯ A Temporary Death ( Chapter 3 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Harry returns to classes on Monday, but as he is about to find out, Mondays aren't always the worst day of the week in some ways, but in others they are complete disasters. Yeah for more sexual tension as things build between our two favorite characters. More characters are brought in to further problems and Draco screws up something to the point where Harry doesn't want to see him. Reviews feed me and my inspiration and encourage me to type faster. I also made cookies...(hint hint)

Non Anime: Harry Potter - Series Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Shounen / Angst / Romance / Hentai | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 06.10.2007 | Updated On: 06.10.2007 | Pages: 38 | Words: 34.4K | Visits: 1.3K | Status: Work In Progress

Behind Green Eyes

Disclaimer: I don't own H.P. nor any characters. If I did, the story line would probably be a little different, so yeah. I'm not making any money off of this story nor do I plan to try.

Chapter Three: A Temporary Death

“Mr. Potter.”

Harry slowly moved his head from its place on his arms. He hadn't gotten much sleep the previous night and it was wearing on him. “Yes Professor?” He figured he should be used to sleepless nights, but after Friday and Saturday's rest, getting up today after last night's restless sleep was torture. He had been peaceful for awhile before a new nightmare took over. He had jolted awake, bringing Draco with him. The Slytherin had held him close until he had calmed enough to fake sleep. When he had felt the blonde fall asleep, Harry had opened his eyes and watched him. His latest nightmare had been like nothing he had seen before. It confused him until he realized why he had been so filled with terror.

Green eyes focused on platinum locks, Harry had tried to push the emotion aside. He was afraid of losing Draco Malfoy. Seeing him lying there on the bed next to him, Harry had realized he had become attached to his formal rival. He was terrified the Slytherin would wise up and leave him, just as his parents, Sirius, Ron, Hermione, and so many others had. He was waiting for the inevitable. In his dream, he and Draco had been sitting in silence, watching the sunset together, just as the blonde had wanted. He had turned to speak to the Slytherin, but Draco had vanished. Looking around, he saw a shadowed figure coming between them. Draco was being pushed back, further and further away until he disappeared, leaving Harry with the shadowed Stranger.

The male silhouette had turned and advanced on him. Harry was pinned against the ground and lay docilely beneath the bigger male. His body refused to fight, but his mind screamed in fury. The unknown male tried ripping his clothes off, his intent clear. The shadow cleared, revealing Vernon. Draco was suddenly there again, fighting, trying to move Harry's uncle. Harry closed his eyes as he heard a sickening snap.

“Look boy. That's what happens to anyone who cares for you.”

Draco lay lifeless a few feet away, blonde hair around him like a halo, silver eyes staring lifelessly at him, almost accusingly.

Harry shook his head to get rid of the memory as Professor Flitwik spoke again. “Would you perform the lock jaw charm please?” Nodding, Harry randomly picked his mark, whispered the spell, and flicked his wand. Immediately, the other student's jaw locked, lips frozen shut.

“Excellent. Five points to Gryffindor. Now, do you know the counter spell?”

“It's a silent spell. If you're hit with it, you can't exactly speak a counter. Finite Incantum would work if the silenced witch or wizard was powerful enough, however the spell to release the speaker is Verbal Solvo.”

“Bravo. Ten points to Gryffindor,” Flitwik said before moving to a different student, leaving Harry to his thoughts.

The Gryffindor laid his head down again, slipping back into his thoughts. He was tempted to push the blonde away, not wanting anything to happen to him. He really did fear Draco leaving him, however he was more afraid of the Slytherin being hurt or killed because of him. Sighing at his indecision, he packed his things up, heading for the dungeons for Double Potions. He was looking forward to it for a change.

“Watch it Potter,” came a cold voice as Harry fell to the ground. Glancing up, Harry was greeted with the sight of Ron Weasley and a gang of other Gryffindors that now hated him. Harry figured now would be a good time to get rid of the red aura around his former friend, and easily pulled in into himself. He was instantly hit with anger and hatred all directed towards him and below that, the lust Draco had spoken of. Wincing, he pushed back the feelings until he could barely feel them. He slowly got up, regretting his decision to pull Ron's emotions so soon after he had done the same to the staff. That had been interesting.

Dumbledore had actually had the most anger out of the Professors. He was practically brimming with the desire to let it all out. The other Professors weren't as focused in their emotions and were much calmer, though none so much as Snape. He radiated calm and relaxation. Yet again, Harry had almost been overpowered by the urge to just lie down and sleep, to let everyone else worry about life. Draco had also been pretty calm, with only little flares of emotions rushing to the front. As the bell rang, Harry groaned. He was late for Potions. He quickened his pace a bit as he felt apprehension and worry from both Slytherins. Sighing at the inevitable, Harry opened the door, stepping into the quiet dungeon.

“Ah, nice of you to join us Potter.”

“Sorry Professor. I-”

“Silence! Detention this evening. Sit down and begin the list of potions assigned to you.

Harry had to hide a grin as he sat down. He felt relief from broth Draco and Snape, though the Potions master was trying to hide it. Harry ended up in the back corner, focusing on his work. He chose a romance potion from the list. If taken, inhibitions would be erased, leaving the drinker completely open to repressed feelings. He couldn't help but wonder how the blonde Slytherin would react to it.

Feeling a push against his mind, green eyes raised to look for the source without drawing attention to himself. Emerald met obsidian, and this time, Harry couldn't quite hide his grin as he began projecting to Snape, receiving answers the same way.

`Why were you late?'

`Weasley. He seemed to find it amusing to push me aside.'

`Three turns counter clockwise. So it wasn't anything serious then?'

`Define serious. Thanks.'

`Violent.'

`No more than usual. His emotions are a bit…intense though.'

`You've already started drawing in students?'

`Yeah, the other Professors were nothing. Except for Dumbledore. Don't be alarmed if his head explodes sometime soon.'

`What? Add four crushed lacewings.'

`Thanks. He's filled with so much rage. I wouldn't be too surprised if he keeled over. Either that or started hexing and cursing anything that moves.'

`So he's as volatile as the Dark Lord?'

`More so I think.' Harry quickly put out the fire as he added one of the final ingredients without Snape reminding him.

`Beware of him then.'

`I haven't trusted him for years. Oh, wait, Draco's trying to get a hold of me.'

`Harry?'

`Yes Draco?'

`Why…?'

`Weasley. He delayed me a little. Hang on. Snape's on my other line. I'm gonna see if I can three-way us.'

`Say what?'

`Never mind.' Signing aloud as he made five clockwise stirs before cutting through the middle of his potion, Harry tried to form a temporary link between Snape and Draco. When that failed, he formed the connection in his mind.

`Can you hear me now?'

`Yes,' came the reply in his mind from both Slytherins.

`Goooood.'

`Draco will be joining you in detention. We have things to discuss about Friday night…'

`Do we have to? Can't I just clean cauldrons or something?' Harry's whine was evident even in his mind as bottled his potion and began cleaning up.

`No. Because it wasn't your fault you were late, the detention isn't real. Besides, do you really want to clean cauldrons?'

`So if it's not real, I don't have to come.'

`Harry, I'd almost think you don't want to see me.'

`Didn't you get enough of me over the weekend?'

`Nope.'

`I don't want to hear about your adolescent sexcapades.'

`And your mind is still in the gutter Snape.'

`Be here at seven Potter.'

`Aye aye mon capitaine.'

`Twit,' Draco said, and though Harry couldn't see the smile, he could hear it.

`Prat,' Harry returned before disconnecting the link. He sighed, already bored with nothing to do. He really didn't know why he had picked the quickest potion in the set on the first day. Snape had assigned each person a list of potions ranging from quick and easy, to very complicated and time consuming. He still had another hour before class was over and he was already slipping into boredom. He grabbed a sketch pad, eyes scanning the room until they landed on his target. His hand began to move, slow at first, until he fell into his rhythm. The charcoal pencil began to fly over the page, green eyes straying more and more to his subject. He was thankful the other teen wasn't moving, having chosen a quick potion as well.

He felt eyes on him, tracking his movements. Feigning nonchalance, his gaze moved around the room, trying to find out who was staring at him. His gaze landed on the Gryffindor side. Several of them had finished as well. His eyes landed on the Gryffindor Golden Boy. Harry Potter. The teen looked like he was concentrating furiously on whatever was in front of him. Suddenly, those shocking green eyes darted up and focused on him.

Busted. Harry's model had caught his gaze finally during one of the times he looked up. Blaise Zambini's cool brown eyes locked with his own, keeping him pinned for a moment. His hand hadn't stopped moving however, continuing his sketch of the handsome Italian Slytherin. His movements stopped as Zambini's deep brown eyes began to track his hand motions. He decided to continue though, to hell what the Slytherin teen thought, and resumed his sketching as his gaze returned to the drawing. As he finished, he looked up again, meeting Blaise's continued gaze. Harry knew he shouldn't, but he did anyway. Going back to his sketch, he tried to call his aura without looking. He had gone below the first level with Blaise before, so he already knew what it looked like. He glanced up again, surprised to find Blaise still watching him. Suddenly feeling immature, he stuck his tongue out like a three year old.

He stuck his tongue out? What the- Doing the only thing a self respecting Slytherin could do, he stuck his tongue out right back. Those emerald green eyes widened before the teen made a different face. Again, he did the only thing he could, and copied it. This continued on until everyone's favorite potions master stepped into the picture.

“Mr. Zambini, might I ask what you are doing?”

Coughing lightly, the Slytherin had the dignity to look sheepish. “Umm, well you see Professor…” His eyes caught Harry's amused gaze before he made his move. “Granger was making faces at me and I couldn't just let her get away with that, so I started copying her.”

“Miss Granger, twenty points from Gryffindor for distracting classmates, and detention with Filch this evening. I refuse to baby-sit two Gryffindors. Mr. Zambini, you'll do well to remember not to stoop to her level.”

“Yes Professor.”

“But Professor Snape, I wasn't-”

“Five more points from Gryffindor for talking back. Shall I add more detentions as well?”

“No Professor.”

Blaise glanced at the black haired Gryffindor. The green eyes had amusement still shining in them with a little surprise. For some reason, he was glad he had managed to surprise the other boy. He smirked a little as Harry picked up his sketch pad, looking at it for a moment before he turned it around, showing it to him. He stared in amazement at the picture. Even from halfway across the room, he could see the detail, so well done. Harry Potter, Gryffindor Golden Boy, had drawn him, and very well at that. His jaw dropped in astonishment which was further when the black-haired boy blushed and snapped the notebook shut, before looking down shyly.

He hadn't meant to show him the picture. He was half-tempted to obliviate Zambini so the Slytherin couldn't talk about it even though he could tell Blaise wouldn't do that. During his face off with the Italian, he had drawn in his aura. Just as he had said, Blaise was sweet, a romantic at heart, and was surprisingly open to befriending Harry himself. Sighing, he looked at his sketchbook cover before opening it. He began thumbing through his work, going over his older sketches. He had started with the Gryffindors, however now they weren't the best subjects. The teachers came next, when he didn't really need to pay attention. He stopped on one with Sirius and Remus. They were looking at an old photo album. They were both laughing at whatever they had done. Harry later learned that they had just played a trick on one of their professors at the time the picture was taken.

He flipped a few more pages, watching as his subjects shifted. He landed on one of Snape. This had been one of his most resent drawings. He had been staring off as Snape explained the Wolfsbane Potion yet again, when his professor had caught his eye. He had given up on explaining and was just working on it. He was more relaxed as he added something else. Harry couldn't resist pulling out his notebook and sketching his teacher. He had finished just as Remus's potion had. He slammed it shut just as Snape turned around, making sure his potions professor didn't see his notebook. He had ended up keeping that picture very well hidden. It showed a different side to the cold, emotionless Potions Master Harry was used to seeing. A side that was coming out more and more when Snape was around him.

The subjects of his art were taken in completely natural settings, much like Collin Creevy and his candid camera pictures. He didn't like poseurs or faked emotions, one of the reasons he was so selective about who or what he drew. He turned to the last page before the one he had just drawn of Blaise. Draco Malfoy lay drawn on the page before him. The Slytherin was actually fast asleep. After his nightmare, Harry had stared at the blonde until he was sure he was asleep before deciding he had to sketch him. He had summoned his pad and pencil and quickly drew the blonde Adonis.

Class dismissed, bringing Harry out of his daze. He scrambled for his stuff and dashed out, wanting to avoid a certain Italian Slytherin who he knew to be looking for him. Not looking back, Harry took off for the kitchens. He didn't feel like sitting anywhere near Ron. Even pushed to the back of his mind, the redhead's emotions were insanely strong and were making him sick. As he passed his former friend, he felt the lust once more. He was thoroughly nauseous by this time, but entered the kitchens anyway. Immediately, he was hit by the scent of lunch, though none of the house elves rushed at him except Dobby.

“Master Harry Potter Sir!”

“Hello Dobby.” He didn't bother trying to correct the house elf. Dobby would never call him just Harry.

“What can Dobby be doing for Harry Potter Sir?”

“Can I get a plate?”

“Of course. Dobby will be getting your favorites!”

Harry sighed as Dobby rushed off. Dobby would never stop worshipping him. He leaned back against the wall and slid down, coming to rest on the floor. His unofficial house elf returned with a huge platter of food.

“Thanks Dobby.”

“So this is where you vanished to.”

Green eyes widened as Harry turned his head around, staring at the entrance to the kitchens. Draco Malfoy stood there in all his glory, looking a round a little before coming back to rest on Harry.

“What are you doing in here?”

“I saw you take off like an angel out of hell. Not even Longbottom ran out of Potions that fast.”

Tan shoulders lifted in a shrug before Harry grinned. “I just had to get out of there.”

“So it's not because you were making faces at Blaise?”

“Not entirely.”

“I told you he'd get in your pants if he could.”

“Hey, I'll have you know he doesn't just want to shag me! He's genuine and actually open to being friends with me.”

“He would still shag you in an instant.”

“Draco Malfoy, he's your friend.”

“He's competition,” Draco muttered low enough that Harry couldn't hear. “So are you, and I won't have him screwing with you. Besides, you have a mate.” He plucked an apple off of the forgotten/ignored tray.

“Draco, he could very well be my mate, just like you could, and every other 7th year Slytherin and Ravenclaw male. I'm not going to stop talking to other people just because I have a mate somewhere. I won't cut myself off from friends or potential friends even if I am a bit of a recluse.”

“Don't blame me if your mate gets jealous then.”

“Nothing happens until Friday anyway, now let me eat, or Dobby will be upset.”

“Alright. Scoot over.” Draco slid down the wall next to the Gryffindor until he was sitting next to him.

If Harry was surprised, he didn't show it. He just began eating what was on his plate. He kept throwing quick glances at the blonde, smirking a little bit. Draco was jealous that he had been making faces at Blaise, but he was also worried. Harry thought it was so sweet and decided to reward him, but only just before they left.

As they both finished, Harry thanked Dobby and stood, Draco following him as they walked back to the entrance.

“Thanks for caring Draco.” Harry smiled before kissing the blonde's cheek and dashing out.

“Harry?!”

“Sorry. Can't be late Draco. See you tonight.” Green eyes laughed at the Slytherin as Harry blew a couple kisses back at him. Harry's good mood lasted only until he remembered what class he had. Divination. Why he hadn't dropped the class, he didn't know, though he had actually picked up the talent. According to Professor Trelawny, he had the strongest Third Eye she had ever seen, but Harry doubted he could trust her judgment. He had, however, noticed strange things in the class. Things that Trelawny was actually talking about. He hadn't had very many visions or predictions like she occasionally did, however, as cheesy as it sounded, he was very good at reading the stars and gazing into the crystal ball with real results, not that he told anyone besides Firenze. The centaur had been very helpful in developing his talents. He had ceased paying attention in class, but still attended and put forth the effort when she was standing behind him.

He sighed again as he began the way too long trek to the tower. He had thankfully managed to avoid Sir Cadogen as he trudged up the ladder into the too hot room. He grabbed his usual seat near the back corner so he could watch everyone else in their attempts to “see” the future.

“Ah Mr. Potter,” came the whispery voice that annoyed him to no end. “The Third Eye is strong in you today. Gaze into the crystal ball. What do you see?”

Rolling his eyes, Harry followed her instructions. Contrary to what she said, he didn't feel like crystal gazing. He saw a few flashes that reminded him of lightning and went with it. “It's gonna storm,” he said dully.

Everyone had been no so subtly watching him. They all turned to the open windows. The sun shown brightly, no clouds in sight. Everyone glared at him, knowing he wasn't taking things seriously.

“Perhaps dear, perhaps.” Trelawny moved away slowly, throwing glances back to the Boy-Who-Lived. Harry resisted the urge to flip her the bird and put his head down. He sighed and tried to focus on something besides Draco's emotions. He had refused to tone either of the Slytherin's emotions down. Snape was providing a calming influence to Draco's mood swings, though the young blonde wasn't very loud right now. He just bounced around a lot. Halfway through the class, he was close to slamming his head into the table it was resting on. Hard. Repeatedly. He sent a quick mental image of this to Draco and Snape, wondering if it would work. He saw yellow behind his eyelids and felt surprise from both of them just before he felt the tickle in his mind showing they were directing something to him.

`You rang?' Harry loved the Adams family…or was it the Munsters. Either way, Lurch amused him.

`I do hope you're not going that in real life Harry?'

`I'm trying to teach. What do you want?'

`Just testing to see if it works over long distances. I'm bored and there's not much else to do in Divination.'

`Why are you still in it then?'

`I'll see you tonight Potter.'

`What a grouch! Oh, yeah, Draco, according to the crystal ball, it's gonna storm soon.'

`What a load of rubbish. I'm in the greenhouses and the sky has been clear all day.'

The wind picked up, an icy touch compared to unusually warm breezes that had been blowing through the room. A flash of lightning appeared followed almost immediately by the rumbling crack of thunder.

`You were saying?' Harry asked in a dry voice. He didn't bother raising his head up from the table. He already knew the class was staring at him. It always happened if something he foresaw came true. That had actually been happening a lot lately, especially when he wasn't concentrating on it.

`So you're a Seer?'

`Don't be daft. Just because I make one prediction that comes true doesn't mean that'll happen every time or that it'll happen ever again for that matter.' Harry wasn't sure how Draco would take it if he admitted to having a gifted Third Eye. Firenze had told him to use his gift, but Harry didn't really care if it was going to be snowing all winter or if someone was going to break a nail, which was what a few of his gazings had revealed.

`If you are, you should use it. There's so much you could learn.'

`Like who's gonna break a nail or when I'll be late to class, cause let me tell you, those visions are stupid.' Harry cursed his words the moment he thought them, knowing the blond would catch his slip-up.

`I knew it. Such a liar. So what have you seen?'

`Just things. Like this storm, though I wasn't trying when I did that. I wasn't kidding about the nail thing and admittedly, I ended up being early for Potions when I was gonna be late.'

`See? So, can you get a vision about Voldie or your mate?'

`Hey, I can't just pick what I see, it just come to me.'

`Have you ever tried?'

`…'

`So try.'

`Not right now. Trelawny is giving me weird looks.'

`You're a real Seer, unlike that hag.'

`You realize I'm tuning you out right?'

`No you're not cause you're still talking to me aren't you?'

`No I'm n-' Harry broke off abruptly as a vision from Voldemort broke through his barriers like a hot knife through butter.

`Harry?'

`…'

`Harry?' Suddenly, Draco was hit with images that didn't make any sense to him. He saw his mother, bowing before a robed man, Crucio being cast on her, angry, beyond murderous, feelings coming from the mystery man. Then it switched off.

`Get…Snape…now!'

`Harry, what-'

`I'm gonna link us, but I won't be conscious for much longer. Tell him not to go! He'll understand. Beg if you have to.'

`Snape!'

`What now you insufferable little-'

`Sev!'

`Draco?'

`Don't go!'

`What are you talking about?'

`Harry said don't go! Told me to beg if I have to. Then he passed out.'

`Why?'

`I think he had a vision. I saw flashes of it. Mother was kneeling in front of someone.'

There was a pause in the conversation as pain raced through Snape's arm. `He's calling me.'

`Don't go Sev, please don't. Harry must have a reason for telling you not to. I know you don't like him, but please, he wouldn't do this unless he had a reason.'

`I have to go. You know this.'

`I'll follow you if I have to Sev.'

`He'll kill you. He'll find out about everything that's happened.'

`I know Occlumency.'

`Not enough. Stay here.'

`Only if you do too. Please.'

After a moment, Snape conceded. `Alright. Go get him from class. Take him to his room. I'll be there as soon as class is over.'

The link was severed as Harry's subconscious realized the conversation was over. Draco took off running, telling Professor Sprout he felt ill as he raced towards the school. He had never run up the stairs of Hogwarts as fast as he did. He climbed the unfamiliar ladder, muttering a thanks to his very annoying guide, Cudoogen or something like that.

“Professor Trelawny.”

“Yes?”

“I have to take Potter to Professor Dumbledore.”

“Of course.”

“Stupefy.” He knew it would look suspicious if Harry was unconscious for no apparent reason as he took him out. “Apparently, it's a surprise. I'm just following orders.” With a muttered oath, he levitated the boy, making sure to keep his smirk in place as Harry head apparently slammed into the trap door.

“Oops,” he said flippantly, all the while thanking the illusion charm he had used. As soon as he exited the room, he took off down the hall, Harry falling gently into his arms. Though he was thankful no one was in the halls, he cursed the Room of Requirement for being so far from the Divination tower. Classes ended just as Draco got to the door. He opened it and dashed inside, the door slamming shut behind him.

Draco set Harry down on the now familiar bed. He quickly cast Enervate, watching as some color entered into the too pale face. “So much trouble.” He grabbed a cloth from a nearby table and dipped it in the warm water. He gently brushed at Harry's bangs, sadly watching blood flow sluggishly from his scar. The door opened and shut, Snape quickly walking to the bed.

“Is he still out of it?”

“Yeah, he hasn't moved at all.”

“We'll have to wake him up. I need to know why I missed this meeting. My position may be compromised.”

“Already is,” came the mumbled reply.

“Harry?!”

“Don't shout. I've got the mother of all migraines.”

“Lay still idiot.” Draco shushed him as he gently brushed the cloth over the famous lightning bolt scar.

“It split again?” Harry asked groggily.

“It's bleeding if that means anything to you.”

“It split then. That happens when he's really angry.”

“Why did you order me not to go? And how did you know I'd listen?”

“He knows. About you and…” He broke off, glancing at Draco.

“What?”

“Yeah. That's why he was so angry. Your mother's one of his most loyal Death Eaters Draco.”

“So?”

“You saw part of it right?” She's the one that told him. She told Voldemort about two very important spies for the Order.”

“What? Who are they?”

“Professor Snape of course, and…

“Potter, don't.”

“Your father.”

“So you saved Sev, but…”

“Don't finish that sentence Draco,” Snape warned.

“You left my father to die! You knew he was a spy and you let him go to that meeting?!”

“Only technically. Not actually though. He's perfectly safe Draco.”

“What do you mean?” Draco asked warily.

“That's part of the reason I passed out. The vision took a lot out of me so I didn't have time to warn him the same way as Snape. I actually knew this was coming.” He looked sheepish as he glanced at the blonde. “I didn't exactly know what it was or when it was going to happen. I just…guessed. Until this vision and I was proven right.”

“So what exactly did you do with him Potter, if it wasn't Lucius at the meeting?”

“Like I said. He was, but wasn't. I've had a doppelganger in his place for a month now. He has been safe the whole time. I knew I'd be able to warn you Snape, but I couldn't warn Lucius in time, so I owled him about a month ago and took care of it then.”

“Where is he then?” Snape asked.

“Here.” Harry smiled tiredly. “He's here.”

“Here?”

“Uh-huh. Been here for a month.”

“How is it that Dumbledore doesn't know this?”

“Because Professor, I snuck him in and hid him. In here.” A door appeared off to the side as Harry's eyes closed again.

Draco slowly opened the door and peaked in. An entire house seemed crammed inside. He stepped in and walked around. An extensive library sat off in a side room. A potions lab was in another area. He walked into the study and saw his father bent over an ancient book.

“Father…”

The elder blonde looked up sharply, shocked at the sound of his son's voice. “Draco! What are you doing in here?”

“Harry let me in. What are you doing here?”

“Waiting I suppose. Harry told me there'd be trouble, so he gave me the choice. Defect permanently or die. Not a real hard decision.”

“You could have told me. As far as I knew, you were completely loyal to the Dark Lord.”

“No, and apparently neither are you.”

Draco shrugged a bit. “Things change.” He was trying not to make a big deal about it.

“Uh-huh, we'll talk. So where it he? I'm guessing whatever he feared has happened.”

“Come on, he's sleeping most likely.”

“Am not,” Harry muttered quietly.

“You should be Potter. I'm tempted to force a Sleeping Potion down your throat.”

“Your potions taste horrible though.”

“If they tasted good, I'd have every student wanting them.”

“So it happened then Harry?”

“Yeah. Old Voldie knows about you and Snape. Courtesy of your wife might I add. The good thing is, he things you're dead. So does the world.”

“My will?”

“Has already gone into effect. Draco is now in control of everything and Narcissa gets diddly squat.”

“I must thank you one of these days for warning me about her. She would be in control of Draco and his inheritance. I have no doubt now that she would have given everything to the Dark Lord, including my son.”

“Just say his name already.” Harry huffed, playfully glaring. “The wards have been reset too. No one can get in or out except for Draco and anyone he allows. This includes Voldemort. Your wife has most likely been force apparated out. She has no control over anything. The bundle of documents you had in safe keeping will have been given to someone trustworthy. Narcissa will go to Azkaban and both your name and Snape's will be cleared. Draco won't be under suspicion, so he'll be able to go back to the manner.”

“You did think of everything didn't you Harry.”

“Someone around here has to, don't they Luc?”

“Brat.” Lucius smiled slightly as Harry stuck his tongue out. “Come here.” He rolled his eyes as the Gryffindor pushed past the Potions Master to get to him. The blonde enveloped the petite brunette in a strong hug that was equally returned. “Thank you Harry.”

“You know I wouldn't let him get you. You're one of the good guys.” He grinned as he felt shock from the other Slytherins and jealousy mainly from the younger blonde, though Snape was trying to conceal his. Suddenly, Harry felt the tingle. The room was warning him that someone was coming to the door. “Oh, shit! You have to hide. Now! Someone's coming to my room.” No one moved. “Go already!” He pushed Lucius towards his room then shoved Draco and Snape in the same direction. He felt the room changing around him, becoming a small, plain bedroom with a door leading to an equally small and plain bathroom. He smiled wanly at Draco before the door slammed shut and disappeared. He collapsed on the couch just as someone (Dumbledore obviously, no one else came to visit him) knocked. Acting like he had just woken up from a nap, Harry went to the door and opened it.

“Hello Harry.”

“Professor Dumbledore? Oh, I'm sorry I wasn't feeling very well so I came in here to rest. I guess I fell asleep.”

“It's alright my boy. You have some visitors so it's good luck that you were in here. It is most certainly a surprise for me though. I'll allow them to talk with you. You're dismissed the rest of the day.” With that stupid twinkly in his eye, Dumbledore turned and walked off, leaving Harry staring at an empty doorway.

“Barmy old man.” Harry turned, the door shutting slowly behind him.

“Can't agree more with you,” came that hauntingly familiar voice.

Harry stopped dead. He knew that voice and that he couldn't really be hearing it. “Go away. I won't turn around.” The door had stopped before fully closing.

“That's not a way to greet someone back from the dead, though I'm not sure how you knew it was me.”

“You're not real.”

“Turn around and prove it to yourself.”

“I don't have to. People can't come back from the dead.”

“Yeah, you're right. I'll just go. Come on Remy.”

The door creaked as it opened back up, Harry ever green eyes tearing up as he turned around reluctantly. “Siri? Please be you.” His gaze landed on the achingly familiar sight of his godfather. “Oh god,” he hasped before promptly fainting.

“I always did affect people like this. Just never though my godson would fall for me too.” Sirius grinned as his godson fell into his arms.

“Sirius, can't you be serious?” Remus smiled indulgently at his lover.

“Of course. That's my name after all,” the ex-convict said cheekily as he and his lover walked into Harry's room, closing the door behind them. As soon as it was shut, the door locked itself and the room changed back to the way it had been just before the interruption. “Handy that,” Sirius muttered, surprised when a door appeared out of thin air and opened, revealing Draco and Lucius Malfoy and Severus Snape as the youngest blonde threw open the door and rushed out. (AN: This part isn't supposed to be clear on who's saying what because it's supposed to be confusing, but here's the order. Initials. DM, LM, SS, SB, SS, DM, RL, SB, DM, LM, RL)

“Harry?!”

“Black?!”

“Mutt!”

“Snivellus.”

“Wolf.”

“Harry?”

“Sirius.”

“Malfoy!”

“Harry!”

“Black.”

“Snape.”

It took Harry disappearing from his godfather's arms to get the adults to stop calling each other names only to start yelling about who took him or whose fault it was that Harry disappeared. In the meantime, Draco vanished as well, letting out a surprised shout as the floor opened up beneath him. His scream made the adults fall silent again before taking up the screaming once more. Draco meanwhile, had landed on a comfy, familiar bed next to a slowly waking Harry.

“Draco…”

“Morning sunshine.”

“I had the wildest dream. Sirius showed up with Professor Lupin and then started a yelling match with Snape and Lucius and-”

“Sorry to say that wasn't a dream.”

“So…he's really alive?”

“Yeah, I'd say he's alive. Alive and still fighting with Sev and my dad.”

“So he didn't care that I disappeared. He must blame me for his death. He's right though. It was my fault.”

“Harry, it wasn't your fault and I doubt he blames you. He just hates Slytherins more.”

“Yeah, more than he loves me.”

Draco knew nothing he said would convince Harry of the truth. He asked the room to knock the Gryffindor out before a door appeared. He stepped through, listening to them shouting at each other. “They're worse than little kids.” He sighed before addressing the room. “Would you like to quiet them or shall I?” Immediately silence reigned over the squabbling adults. Though they were still screaming, no sound passed their lips.

“Will you all shut the fuck up already?!” Draco smirked to himself at the astonished looks on the familiar faces. “That's better. Now, can any of you give a good reason for shouting at each other while someone you all claim to care about is unconscious?” When no one even tried to speak, Draco knew he had gotten his answer. “You should all be ashamed of yourselves. Father, Severus, you two are Slytherins, or rather, were supposedly Slytherins. Your behavior was worse than a bloody Gryffindor's!” Thankfully, both Slytherins had the pride to accept defeat. “And you two,” Draco shouted, turning to the two stubborn lions. “You claim to love Harry more than anything, but what do you do the second you see old rivals? You start yelling and shouting and don't even stop after he disappears. He's in his room thinking you two hate him. Frankly, I'm embarrassed to be related to you Cousin. You have no common sense. How do you think he should feel when you come back from the dead and the first thing you do is start a shouting match with old rivals? He should be first on all of your minds, but you were thinking only of your hatred and past grievances. Right now, I don't see how Harry can possible care for you all, but he does. You betrayed that, but you know what the worst thing about it is? He thinks he deserved it.” Throwing one last glare at the four thoroughly cowed adults, Draco turned on his heel, marched through the door, and slammed it shut.

The four rivals stood in silence even though the charm had been lifted the moment Draco slammed the door shut. Sirius suddenly collapsed into a chair, his face buried in his hands as the enormity of the situation hit him. “Oh, god,” he muttered, voice cracking. “He thinks I hate him Remy.”

Remus closed his eyes slowly in a grimace of pain. “No, he thinks we hate him Paddy.” Harry's behavior in Defense now made sense. The young Gryffindor thought he hated him for the death of his lover.

“He blames himself for your death Black,” Snape finally said after a few moments of silence. “He thinks you will too. And you Lupin, he thinks you hate him because your lover died and that you blame him as well.”

“Shut up Snivellus! Who the hell do you think you are?”

“Siri…”

“I'm his teacher. I've watched him for seven years now. I know him quite well, more so that you do. He always blames himself, even if things were completely out of his control. If the world ended right this minute, he'd blame himself because there was obviously something he could have done to stop it from happening.”

Remus slapped his hand over Sirius's mouth before he could yell in reply. “Snape, Malfoy, I think we should call a truce for Harry's sake. He apparently cares for you. If he can trust you, despite everything that's happened, then so can we. Right Siri?” The last part was said in a low, threatening hiss in the animagus's ear and was answered with a reluctant nod. “Good boy. Can you two agree as well?”

“Now wait just a min-” Snape's eminent rant was abruptly cut off as Lucius copied Remus's move and slapped a hand over his mouth.

“I think we can work that. For Harry. Right Sev?”

Obsidian eyes were rolled before Snape nodded his agreement as well, though reluctantly.

“Excellent. Now I think it's best if you two don't talk to each other unless it's polite,” Remus said, indicating Snape and Sirius and the murderous looks they were shooting back and forth. “If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all…or something like that.” Slowly, the two hands were removed from covering their friend's mouths.

The dark haired Gryffindor threw a glare at his love before marching to the door his godson was behind. No one said a word as they gathered behind Sirius as he slowly opened the door. Inside, Draco was sitting up, propped against the headboard of the bed with a silently sobbing Harry in his lap. It was obvious from the doorway that the blonde was trying to calm him down with little to no success. Harry had his face buried in the crook of Draco's shoulder. He didn't even realize the door had opened.

“He doesn't hate you. Neither does Lupin. And Sev and Dad aren't mad at you either.” Harry's reply was muffled, but Draco understood. “No. Did you try to feel it to make sure?” When he felt the Gryffindor shake his head, he smiled softly. “Well, why don't you? You know I wouldn't lie. They're not mad at you and they don't hate you.” Cloudy silver eyes glanced up to look at the group clustered at the door. “I'd say they're worried about you. Black and Lupin love you, it's obvious and even Sev is starting to like you, despite how he acts. Do you think he'd put up with your godfather otherwise?”

After a time, Harry's sobs quieted before finally moving his head away from the Slytherin's shoulder. “Thanks Dray. I don't believe you though. They have every reason to hate me.”

“No, they don't. But they have do have every reason to love you.” Draco smiled as the quiet Gryffindor slipped from his lap only to cuddle against him, his head against his side.

“Do you have to go to class?”

“It's just Ancient Runes. I'm already ahead in there anyway.”

“Thanks. I don't want to be alone right now. Not sure what I'd do.”

“Sev has a free hour right now and my father's kind of stuck here. Plus you have your surrogate mom and dad.”

A small smile graced Harry's pink lips. “So who's who?”

“Black is your mom of course, Lupin your dad. Sev and my dad are your uncles.”

“But that would make you my cousin and I don't want that.”

“Nah, I'm special like that. I'm just me and you're just you. No labels attached.”

“Thank you Draco. I'm glad you're skipping class for me.”

Severus chose that moment to interrupt with a small cough. Startled emerald eyes glanced up, widening as they saw who had intervened.

“Harry?” It was Remus who spoke first, drawing the pained gaze of his student and surrogate son. “Can we talk?” He was afraid he would frighten him or worsen the situation.

Slowly, Harry nodded. Draco smiled brightly. “Oh good. Come on Sev, Dad. Let's get some lunch.” Draco kissed Harry's cheek before bouncing to the door, grabbing the other two Slytherins and dragging them out, shutting the door behind him. He let go of his “baggage” before turning and glaring at them. “I'm not happy with you two,” he said before turning and heading towards a wall. Just before he hit it, a door appeared, leading into a kitchen.

“What are you doing Draco?” Lucius asked his son.

“Cooking.”

“Just call a house elf.”

“No. I'm giving them time to talk. They need it. Besides, this room would provide the food for us, no matter what it is. No, they need a chance to talk before we can all sit down together. I think we should let them work it out.” Draco set to making something. He gathered what he thought he'd need and then started cooking. His father and godfather watched in surprise as a meal began to take shape. The door eventually opened, allowing Remus, Sirius, and a subdued Harry exit. The youngest Gryffindor quickly perched himself on Lucius's lap, leaning back against the eldest blonde.

“Harry?”

“Yeah?”

“Sorry about before. I was just surprised.”

“It's okay. Besides, Snape was the mean one. But it's okay cause Sirius provoked him. So I can let it slide. So Dray, what's cooking Doc?”

“I have no idea, but it looks and smells good.”

“Lovely. Is it done yet?” Though he was subdued, Harry was still himself.

“Almost. So am I to assume you worked things out?”

“Sirius is gonna be good and at least respect my decision to trust you Slytherins.”

“Doesn't he know?”

“Know what?”

“What the You-Know-What said first year.”

“No. I don't want to give him a heart attack and kill him. He just got back.”

“Harry, I doubt anything you can tell me is worse than having to get along with the snakes.”

“Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you.” His smirk was decidedly Slytherin, a fact that worried his godfather a bit. “The Sorting Hat wanted to put me in Slytherin.” He waited. Three…two…Thump! Sirius fainted. “Told you, you didn't want to know,” He said cheekily.

“Much as I dislike him, shouldn't we help him up?” Lucius asked, glancing down at the animagus.

“Nah. He'll get up eventually.” Remus was the one who answered. “It's the least he deserves.” He turned his warm hazel eyes to Lucius before looking at Snape.

“Severus? I know there's nothing that can be done about the past, but can you possibly forgive my actions, if for no one else but Harry?”

“It wasn't you who caused the trouble, just those two. You stood aside and didn't help them.”

“I didn't stop them either. It's for that I'm asking forgiveness. I can't apologize for James and Sirius and their actions. It's not up to me.”

After a few moments of silence, Snape looked up and met Remus's gaze. “I'll try Lupin. I'll try to leave the past where it belongs. You're forgiven.”

“Awe, isn't that cute Sniv-” A silence spell was cast.

“Sirius! I told you no!” Harry's cheer at Remus's apology and Snape's acceptance was ruined. He was angry and had jumped up, casting the spell silently and without a want. “You said you'd try to get along, but you're the one causing trouble. Sna-” Harry cut himself off, glanced at his stunned Potions professor for a moment before continuing. “Severus has forgiven Remus for what he did or didn't do. He's willing to move on for me because I care for Remy, but you can't do the same. Your hatred of someone you've never understood or even tried to get to know is more than your love for me. Until you can move past what happened and accept that what you did to Severus was wrong, you're not my family.” Harry had tears in his eyes as he spoke. “I trust Severus with my life. Same for Lucius and Draco. I'm sorry if you can't accept that, I really am, but that's what I feel. I know these two men are good, past actions aside, and Draco is the same. I don't want to lose them because of your hatred. I want you to think about this. Use the Pensive in there to see your behavior for what it was. I'll see you tonight.” A door appeared and he pointed to it. “Consider this a final chance. I don't want to lose you, but if you can't grow up and let the past go, I won't have a choice.”

Not sure of what else to do, Sirius got up and followed his godson's directions. He didn't have the heart to go against Harry's pleading viridian eyes. Once the door shut, Harry willed it away and stood silently staring at the place it had been.

“Harry?” Draco was the one who broke the silence this time.

“I'm fine Dray. It-it had to be done. I won't have him living on prejudices he had as a kid. It's unfair to everyone around him, not just himself.”

“Don't lie.” This time it was Severus who spoke up. He stood, then walked past the Gryffindor, grabbing the teen's upper arm and pulling him with him as he walked to the sitting room. He sat the teen down in a chair and then surprisingly, kneeled in front of him. “Harry, why?” he finally asked in a soft voice.

“Because I can. Because it's the truth.”

“Go back in there and tell him you changed your mind. As much as I dislike him, he's your godfather, family. I don't want you pushing him away because of me. I can deal with him and his insults.”

“But I can't. He's pushing himself away with his actions. I don't think anyone should have to put up with insults and cruel behavior. I know it and you know why. If he can't move past his hatred, then I'll have to move past him. I shouldn't be the reason you feel you have to endure him, but I am. The least I can do is make sure he doesn't give you a hard time about the past. Just remember to keep your temper as well.”

“Thank you Harry. Merlin knows I've made your life hell and don't deserve it, but thank you.”

“You've saved my life countless times and never treated me special unless it was to take points from Gryffindor. You've been more help than you can ever know.” Surprising himself as well as his professor, Harry leaned forward and hugged him, knowing they both needed the comfort.

“Awwe, Sev's gone soft,” came Draco's teasing voice.

“Hush Dray or I'll give him all hugs intended for you.” Harry grinned at the younger blonde's immediate pout. “Now, where's lunch?”

“In the kitchen, where food usually is.”

“Oh, aren't you the smart one?” Harry asked, standing up to allow Severus to get up as well.

“Yes, so glad you finally noticed. Bout time. But what can I expect from someone who's so slow?” Draco teased, smirking as the young Gryffindor pouted.

“Hey Severus, can you give him detention? Dray's being mean to me.”

“Well, I suppose so. How does scrubbing the cauldrons sans magic sound?”

“Awe, you're giving my job to him? I'm being replaced.” Harry pouted. “Make him scrub the floor without magic.”

“Hey!”

“You say something Draco?”

“I spit in yours,” he replied cheekily as he set the plates on the table.

“Ewwy, Draco cooties.” The mood lifted as Harry laughed and explained what cooties were exactly. Despite the light hearted behavior, Harry was worried about that night and about Sirius.

“Severus, do I still have to have detention in the dungeons?”

“Why?”

“Because Remy and Lucius and Sirius don't know about what's happened. They don't have any idea about the journal or the lot downstairs.”

“I suppose we could have your detention up here. It would be easier in the long run. Besides, I don't have any cauldrons for you to clean.”

“Oh good, I'm still your favorite detentionee. At least you haven't replaced me.”

“Like anyone could,” Draco muttered.

Lunch progressed quickly after that. Severus left after promising to bring a few things for that evening. Draco reluctantly left for Transfiguration after his skipped Ancient Runes, saying he'd be back between classes. Remus took the rest of the day off, telling Dumbledore he had to stay with Harry and his friend. Harry ended up sleeping with his head on Lucius's lap and his feet across Remus's. He wasn't awake when Draco visited after Transfiguration, nor was he awake when the Slytherin stopped by after double Care of Magical Creatures. It wasn't until almost dinner time that he awoke. Neither of his make shift pillows had moved during his nap. The ex-Gryffindor and ex-Slytherin had talked a lot while their mutual charge had been asleep.

The youngest member of the ragtag group of outcasts woke up warm, covered in a Slytherin green blanket, and shining silver eyes gazing at him.

“Enjoy your nap sleepy head?” Draco teased, sitting back on his haunches. “Have you been sleeping since I left?”

“Yeah. I was really tired today.”

“That might have something to do with Friday Harry.” Severus actually leaned over the back of the couch, watching him intently.

“What about Friday cub?”

“Later,” he muttered as the door from that morning reappeared. “It's time to see how my family fares.” Without saying anything else, Harry got up and walked to the door, opening it, walking through and shutting it with a click.

“What now?”

“Now, we wait Draco. This is something only Harry and his godfather can go through. This will either break them apart or cement their relationship together.” Lucius tried to offer his son a smile, but couldn't. He was worried about how Harry would handle a bad ending.

“Sirius?”

“Go away Harry.”

“You hate me for siding with Severus then?”

The animagus gave a hollow laugh. “It's you who should hate me. Merlin knows it's the very least I deserve.”

“Siri?”

“I came in here knowing I was right, that my actions were justified. Now, Merlin Harry, how can you stand me? I looked back, revisited my memories. I know better. I still can't believe that was me, that I ever acted like that. It's as bad as the Dark Lord and his prejudices.”

“Siri, I'm proud of you.” Harry finally moved, walking over to sit next to his godfather. “You're finally growing up. I think things will be fine. It might take time, but Severus will forgive you.”

“You really trust him?”

“He's been protecting me from the beginning, even if he had an odd way of showing it. Yeah, I trust him.”

“So I have to be nice to him?”

“No, but you should try. He's really a good man. You'll see that once you get to know him.”

“And if he doesn't forgive me?”

“He will. He doesn't want to live in the past anymore than you do. Besides, he likes me. He was worried you wouldn't be able to get over me trusting him and I would lose you. He really is nice, it's just getting past his prickly outside that's the key.”

“Alright Harry. I'll trust you.”

“Thank you Siri. I'll bring Severus in here and let you two talk a bit.”

“Harry…”

“Sorry, can't hear you over my happiness,” Harry said as he skipped to the door before opening it and poking his head out. “Severus, Siri wants to talk to you. Says he has something to tell you.”

“I doubt both of us will leave the room alive,” the potions master muttered as he entered the room.

“Glad to hear you're optimistic Sevvy. Well, I'll leave you two to it. See ya,” Harry chirped before shutting the door behind him, leaving the two enemies alone together.

“Harry?”

“Yeah Remy?”

“Did you just leave Severus Snape and Sirius Black alone in a room, with their wands, and shut the door behind you?”

“Yep.”

“Wow, I wasn't hallucinating.”

“I told them to behave.”

“Like that works,” Draco muttered.

“Apparently it does. I haven't heard screams or explosions yet.”

“Listen to your dad Dray, I'm right. Besides, they're ready to come out already.” As he finished, the door opened, allowing the two calm and rational adults to leave. “So?” Harry asked Severus.

“We've agreed to get along as much as possible, for your sake. He's apologized and I've accepted.”

“Siri?”

“Hey, I said sorry and all that. We've both agreed to let the past go. I went as far as asking him about his past to get over my prejudices towards him.”

“Good, I'm proud of you both, now we can eat. Then talk. There's a lot that's happened that you don't know about.”

“Why haven't you told me yet Harry?” Remus asked, a little hurt to hear two Slytherins knew before he did.

“I only just found out this weekend Remy. Believe me, this is a bit huge.”

“Personally, I'm betting they all faint this time.”

“Dray, it's not that bad.” After a moment of silence in which the blonde gave Harry a look, the Gryffindor conceded defeat. “Okay, you're right. They probably will faint.”

“Malfoys do not faint. We would never do something so weak.”

“Bet he's the first to go,” Harry muttered to the youngest Slytherin.

“I'll see that. A galleon says he doesn't or if he does, he's not the first.”

“Deal.” Harry smirked evilly.

“Harry?”

“Yes Draco?”

“Do you know something I don't?”

“Yes Draco.”

“Figures.”

“Harry, eat your food. I want to know what my darling Gryffindor godson is hiding from me.”

“Whatever you say Siri.”

“You wouldn't be mocking me now would you?”

“Mf forph fot,” Harry mumbled through his mouthful of food.

“Translation: Of course not. Heavy on the sarcasm,” Lucius said, not looking up from his book.

“It's rude to read at the table Lucius.”

“It's rude to talk with your mouth full Harry. Besides, I'm working on that curse I was telling you about last week. Salazar Slytherin was rumored to have created it for fighting Godric Gryffindor in one of their more heated battles for the school.”

“Doubtful, but I can always ask him for you if you'd like. I'm sure Godric would love to hear about it.”

For a moment, there was absolute silence as Remus, Sirius, and Lucius processed what was said. Severus closed his eyes in a grimace at the situation, and how it was going to be handled by the Gryffindor. Draco ended up grinning. What a way to start up the conversation, and unintentionally too.

“Harry, I don't mean to question your sanity, but why are you talking about the Founders as if they are alive?” Sirius asked, only slightly worried.

“Cause they are.” At a cough from Draco, he corrected himself. “Okay, they're sorta alive.” When the blonde cleared his throat, Harry rolled his eyes before just admitting it. “Ok fine, they're paintings hanging up in the Chamber Of Secrets. I am technically the Hair of Slytherin, oh, and I'm related to the Founders.” Harry took a bite of his dinner and chewed while Remus, Sirius, and Lucius all process what he had just said. Awkward silence reigned as Harry's two surrogate parents shared a few meaningful looks. Finally, the Gryffindor's godfather spoke.

“Okay…that's not too bad. I haven't fainted yet.”

“Yet being the key word. I inherit everything they owned, including Hogwarts, billions of galleons plus sickles and knuts, any magical artifacts, or properties, and a few…extras no one knew about.”

“So that means…?” Remus started.

“You're the richest wizard alive,” Lucius finished.

“Yep. Richer than you Luc.” `Three…two…one…now.' Harry broadcasted his thoughts to everyone and just as he finished his countdown, the prestigious blonde wizard and proud patriarch of the Malfoy family, fainted. “Guess using telepathy without telling them about it was a bit much. Oh well, pay up Dray.”

“Yeah, yeah. I've been cheated.”

“Don't complain. It's not my fault you walked into that one. Hey Severus, do you think you could revive them? I can't exactly finish telling them about me if they're unconscious, now can I?”

“You could, but it'd be quite useless and you'd have to retell it anyway.”

“Was that…did you just make a joke Severus?” the Gryffindor asked, amazed.

“He does have a sense of humor you know, given, it's usually darker and more morbid with sarcasm and cynicism thrown in for flavor,” the blonde said as his godfather moved a potion underneath his father's nose. Immediately, the elder blonde woke up coughing.

“Tell me I didn't Severus?”

“You did.” The dark haired potions professor had a slight blush on his face as he left his friend's side to revive the two Gryffindors. Harry smirked as a plan began to form in his mind.

As the other two faintees awoke, Severus couldn't resist a slight jab at his long time rival. “What happened to your Gryffindor courage Black, fainting at something small like that.”

“Small?”

“Compared to the rest…? Yes, small.”

“And you've taken it all calmly?”

“Yes, but believe me, it still was shocking. Now get up and find out the rest of it.” Severus stood and walked back to his place beside his blonde friend. Harry had the room change the chairs around the dinner table to couches as the table and dishes disappeared. He curled up next to the younger blonde as he watched Remus and Sirius take one couch, Lucius and Severus taking the other. Harry smirked privately again, his plan beginning to take shape. He couldn't wait to tell Draco.

“Alright, so the next thing about me is that I'm a telepath, if you hadn't guessed with my voice in your head anyway. I can see auras and recently discovered that I can see the emotional aura. I suppose I'm an empath as well because I can feel the emotions after I draw in the aura, which helps, especially if I don't know what a color means.”

“So, have you drawn in auras yet?” Remus asked, curious.

“Yeah. Draco, Severus, the other Professors, Weasley, and Blaise. And no Dray, I don't want to hear it.”

“What about us?”

“Not yet, but I can. Hey Severus, I managed to grab Blaise's aura from halfway across the Potions dungeon.”

“So that's why you were making faces with him?”

“You knew it was me?”

“Of course. I just enjoy putting Granger in her place every one in awhile.”

“Anyway, I think it's becoming easier the more I pull in, though it was overwhelming, especially Dumbles and Weasel.”

“I'm guessing you're not on good terms with your friends. What happened?” asked Sirius, worried and concerned for his godson.

“I came out of the closet, found out Ron was using me for popularity and Hermione was taking my magic. Both were following Dumblefuck's orders. Pardon my French.”

“Forgiven. Should I bite them?”

“No Siri. They both know what you look like so they can tell people you're not dead. Though if Dumbledore knows, then-”

“He doesn't. I was under a Polyjuice type charm or something like that. Remy didn't trust him, for good reason apparently.”

“It's his fault you died. Why should I trust the man who helped kill my lover?”

“Remy, calm down. I'm alive and well and no one knows. Well, except for them. But apparently we can trust them, so I say we're fine.”

“So why could I see the real you?”

“I don't really know. I didn't release the spell until after the door shut behind us. You fainted into Sirius's arms before that.”

“It's possible you can see through spells, or maybe it just has to do with you seeing auras. You know that he is your godfather no matter how he looks,” Severus muttered thoughtfully. “What spell did you use?”

“Total cover. Numerus occulto. It's supposed to change even the person's magical signature, though not necessarily their aura.”

“But…I recognized his voice. If you didn't take the charm off, how did I hear his voice?”

“Again, it may be you could see through it. It also might be that because you knew his aura, you knew his voice.”

“I hadn't turned around when he talked to me though. I hadn't seen him.”

“We'll test it. Turn off your sight and close your eyes. We'll use the spell on all of us, and move around. Then, try and pick out who's who without our auras.”

Green eyes quickly closed as Harry turned off the auras. He heard the spell being cast a few times and then movement. “Alright Harry, you can look now.” It was Sirius who spoke. Following the direction, he opened his eyes, amused at the line up they made. “Sirius, Severus, Lucius, Remus, Draco,” he said, going down the line.

“Okay, you can see through spells,” Remus shakily said. “That's new.”

“Something else for me to perfect, right Severus?”

“You do have a quickly accumulating pile of things to do.”

“Not my fault. Anyway…what's after that?”

“Chamber maybe?”

“Oh, yeah, thanks Dray. Anyway, I found the Chamber of Secrets my second year, killed the Basilisk and Tom Riddle/Voldie's journal. Er, first year I beat the teacher's enchantments to get to the Sorcerer's Stone, faced Quirrel who had Voldie on the back of his head, killed him, but Moldieshorts got away.”

“Not that! I'm talking about who's in the Chamber and why.”

“Oh, fine. I get a little something extra from my great something or other great relatives. See, they weren't er…human.” Harry paused for a moment, unsure he could continue, until Draco grabbed his hand and squeezed it reassuringly. “Godric was an elf, but I'm not sure what the others are. According to Salazar's journal, there's a lot we don't know about the Four. My first transformation is supposed to be three months after my seventeenth birthday. That would be Friday, Halloween. I'll be transforming into Rowena's form, but we have no idea what that is.”

“Actually, I do.”

“Say what?! Severus, when were you going to tell me?” Harry asked, getting up and walking towards him.

“Probably after the fact.”

“Great load of help you are.”

“I know.”

“So what am I gonna be?”

“Sing.”

“What?”

“Sing.”

“I don't sing. Not even in the shower.”

“But you want to.”

For a moment, Harry didn't know what to say. Severus was right. He did want to sing, but he was tone deaf and couldn't carry a tune. “Why?” he finally asked his Potions professor.

“Because this will help solve what you are, at least if you are what I think you are.”

“Fine, but I don't see the point. I'm tone deaf.” He watched as Severus surreptitiously cast a silencing spell around the adults, leaving Draco uncovered, the younger blonde completely clueless. The young Gryffindor closed his eyes, trying to think of something to sing. He started humming without realizing it, the notes forming from nowhere. Draco was immediately caught. He stood slowly as if in a trance. A seductive smile appeared on Harry's lips, though the dark haired teen was unaware of it. Words began filtering out, a call in a sultry language, unknown to anyone in the room but Harry and his captive. His voice rose and fell, luring Draco closer to the one who was calling his heart. The words came to an abrupt halt as the green eyed boy fell silent. The blonde fell immediately from the trance, not knowing what had happened nor how he had gotten from the couch to right behind the Gryffindor.

“See my point?” Can't sing worth shit,” he said as his potions master released the silencing spell.

“No, I don't see your point, but mine was proven.”

“He's a…”

“But that's…”

Both Remus and Lucius seemed stunned at what they had just found out. Sirius actually looked proud as he finished the sentence his lover had started. “He's a siren.”

“I'm not a girl?!”

“First ever male siren in history, recorded anyway. My godson is a siren.”

“Hush up. I don't wanna lure women to me with my voice.”

“Why would you call women to you?” Remus asked curiously. Obviously something was off.

“Well, normal sirens call men to them. It's only reasonable, me being a guy, that I'd bring women to me.”

“I don't think that's how it works,” Severus said before nodding his head towards his godson. “It worked on Draco.”

“What?!” Harry yelped, spinning around to meet silver eyes. “I-you-but…never mind. Fine. I'm a siren, or will be. I guess I've just started to show signs.”

“If this is just a sign, and it's before your transformation, I'm beginning to wonder if every time you speak the same thing will happen.”

“But I don't want to have to be mute. Make everyone wear ear plugs or something. I may not talk much lately, but I do speak up occasionally.”

“There's no reason to panic. Besides, that's only a possibility. Snape was just voicing his thoughts. It's not likely to happen, is it?” Sirius glared at Snape as he tried to reassure his godson.

“No, but even if it does, you'll probably be able to control it. Don't worry about it until then. We'll have all weekend to work things out.”

“Wait, does this mean I'll be looking like a girl?!”

“Just means you'll grow longer hair. You're already really effeminate looking now,” Draco said teasingly.

“Dray! I don't wanna be a girl.”

“Relax cub. Your features will probably become a little softer, your hair longer, and your voice a bit higher. There's nothing to worry about.”

“Great, more attention.” Harry fell backwards, trusting the blonde to catch him. Draco didn't let him down and caught him easily.

“You really are too light. You need to eat more Skinny.”

“Oh, haha, it's not my fault I don't grow and you know it. So there.” Harry pouted, especially when the Slytherin picked him up bridal style and sat back down on their love seat. The others laughed easily as they took their seats as well.

“Okay, I'm turning into a Siren on Friday. Then I have Helga's and Salazar's heritage. And then I turn into a bloody elf for Godric's side. Lovely. I have a mate I need for the third transformation or else I stand the chance of dying. I can't guilt my mate into accepting me, so no telling him. He's in Ravenclaw or Slytherin and is in seventh year and I'll meet him soon or already have. There, that's everything I know.” Harry randomly ticked off the facts on his fingers as he went, making sure he didn't miss anything.

The elder Malfoy was the first to speak after the young Gryffindor's rant. “Well, I can't say I'm not shocked beyond belief, but I'll manage and won't abandon you.” He smiled a little as Sirius and Remus agreed with him. Harry smiled brightly in response as he leaned against his blonde pillow.

The adults around them began talking about everything they had found out. Dumbledore, the Order, Voldemort, and what to do about them came up as well. Harry had slowly been falling asleep when a thought hit him. The Dark Mark.

“Hey, let me try something.”

“I thought you were asleep,” Lucius said, looking up in surprise.

“Not really, but I just remembered that Voldie can find you two through the Dark Mark. If he tries, he can find out you're not dead.”

“There's no way to remove it Harry. I've looked through countless books. The Dark Mark is permanent and only disappears if the caster dies or removes the mark themselves. I highly doubt the Dark Lor-” At Harry's look, Lucius corrected himself. “Voldemort would be happy to take his mark off of a traitor and a dead man.”

“I'm not going to remove it, I'm going to change it. It won't be connected to him, but to me.” For a moment, there was silence and Harry thought he had offended the two Slytherins. “It's just a suggestion, I mean you don't eep!” He was suddenly grabbed from his perch on Draco and enveloped in the older Malfoy's arms. Severus placed his hand on his shoulder. “Umm, I guess that's a yes?”

“Yes Harry, that's a yes,” Severus said quietly. He didn't want anyone hearing his words. “You have no idea what this means for us.”

“Yeah, I do. Freedom. Sit back down. I need to be comfortable to concentrate on this.” Harry eventually settled with his back against Lucius's chest. He grabbed the blonde's arm and wrapped it around his chest, one hand lying gently on the black tattoo. “Draco, if you don't stop glaring at your father, I'll have to block you,” Harry said, eyes close as he began to concentrate. He covered his pain, not even moving when red hot agony burned up through his arm. He felt his mark appearing, though it wouldn't actually mark his skin. He was diverting the pain from Lucius and taking it into himself.

The minutes ticked by, Harry and Lucius remaining frozen where they were. Slowly, Harry let his power fade, pulling it back from the Dark Mark. His green eyes opened eventually and focused on where his hands rested. He had felt the skin shifting beneath his fingers and knew it had worked. He removed his grip and slid off of the blonde's lap, moving to sit next to Severus. He was pulled onto his Potion Professor's lap, the arm with the Dark Mark wrapped around him.

“It worked Harry. My mark is completely different.” A blood red Phoenix was in the place of the ugly skull and snake, stretching its wings out, almost as if it was in flight.

“I know. I felt it changing. Let me finish this.” He pushed his exhausting to the side, resuming his intense concentration. “Lucius, tone down the jealousy. Now I see where Draco gets it.” A ghost of a smirk came to his lips as he saw the blonde blush. His green eyes shut once more as his hands found their place. The process took longer the second time. Voldemort hadn't released his hold on Severus, despite the man being a traitor. He had a fight with the subconscious hold the Dark Lord held over the Potions Master. He finally managed to release Severus's mark and changed it, the actual switch going much faster because he knew what he was doing. Mission complete. Harry smiled before yawning and passing out. He didn't hear the muttered thank you from a man who rarely said the words. Soon after he fell asleep, he was put to bed, the younger blonde next to him. Four other beds appeared, though one remained unused, Sirius crawling in next to his lover seconds after Remus fell asleep.

“Harry?!”

“Mm-sleepin.” Harry didn't know or care who was talking, but it sounded like Lucius, again, not like he cared.

“Why are the Founders here?”

“I'm Heir.”

“I know that, but why are they not in paintings?”

“Don know, don care. Sleepin.”

“They were out before Dad, now let us sleep. Sev, make him go away.”

“You two do have classes today. Get up.”

“Yes mother,” Draco muttered cheekily. He sat up, glaring at the two elder Slytherins who had dared to wake him up. He ran his fingers through his hair, looking over at his bedmate, who happened to be fast asleep once more. “Harry…wake up.” When he got no response, Draco grinned mischievously. “Alright, but you leave me no choice.” Without warning, the blonde attacked and began tickling the brunette mercilessly.

Harry jumped and squirmed, trying to avoid those tormenting fingers. He finally gave up and opened his eyes, glaring at the evil blonde. “Fine, why don't you just ask them how they got out of their paintings?” he asked, giving Lucius a pointed stare.

“Because they're the Founders. You can't just ask them why.”

“Fine. Godric, how did you get out of the paintings?”

“You.”

“Okay, explain.”

“Your power was just supposed to awaken us, however, you are much stronger than expected. It took time, hence the reason we were still in our paintings the night you woke us, but by the next morning, we were able to come and go however we wanted. That's how we visited you without the use of our paintings and probably why we can do magic, despite what we may have said that night.”

“Happy now Luc? Now shoo, both of you so me and Dray can get ready to go. Yes, that includes you two too. Hey, where are Helga and Rowena?” he asked as Severus and Lucius left, leaving them alone with Salazar and Godric.

“They decided to let us visit today. We seem to have been wrong about something,” Salazar said with a sigh. “Things are happening at a faster rate than what we predicted. You've discovered that Rowena's heritage is that of a siren. You have begun adapting her changes already. As far as we can tell, it actually began Friday night.”

“So, what's that mean for me?”

“Your voice. Sirens can lure men to their deaths with their singing. Your voice has actually taken on a version of that. You seem to be able to charm people. They find it harder to hate you, though it's still possible, after prolonged exposure to your voice,” Salazar finished.

“That explains why Severus and Draco have stopped hating me.”

“Wrong Young One. You only have the ability to charm them. If the hatred was real, it would remain. If it is a weak feeling, it easily disappears. It seems neither of your new friends actually hated you.” Godric smiled down at the young Gryffindor. “They are true. You just helped them along a bit.”

“Good. You said things were happening faster than planned. Will I transform sooner then?”

“Not this first one, though I advise you to be in the chamber as soon as your classes end. If the others wish to join, there will be a way through this room. Now, about the other side effects. I'd advise you to talk as little as possible outside of here. People may begin to notice if there is a huge gang of people following your every word.” Godric couldn't resist a light teasing. “Your other changes were supposed to occur one month apart from each other. Now however, you'll have two weeks between them, except for the last one. That will happen only one week after Sal's blood takes affect.”

“Lovely, so I basically have two months of torture.”

“Look at it as a life changing experience,” Salazar said cheekily.

“Yeah, you can say that again.”

“Look at it as a life changing experience.” This time, the Slytherin House Founder managed a completely straight face.

“Smart ass,” Harry muttered before grinning. “Now scoot. You two woke us up, now let us get ready.”

“Bye Harry. We'll see you soon,” Godric said as he pulled his mate out of the room through the closed door. The two students heard a thump from one of the adults.

“Bet it was Sirius.”

“Agreed, besides, I'm not making another bet against you Harry. I learned my lesson the first time.”

“Awe, ruin my fun. Fine spoil sport.” Harry rolled off of the bed, pulling the blankets with him. He laughed when Draco, who had been sitting on the cover, was tossed to the floor. “Serves you right.” He traipsed to the bathroom, but was drawn up short when his blanket caught on something. Draco was standing there, smirking, his foot pinning the loose end of the coverlet down.

“That's mean. I think I'm hurt.”

“Sorry Dray.” The blonde found a bundle of Gryffindor brunette in his arms in what was turning into Harry's typical apology to him.

“You're forgiven.”

Fifteen minutes later, Harry was waltzing out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped around his waist. He finished dressing and walked out, joining everyone for breakfast. They were joined half and hour later by Draco, who was just as immaculate as ever.

“Took you long enough. You spend as much time in the bathroom as girls do. Well, the ones who are vain anyway.” (A.N. I'm a girl but I spend a total of 2 minutes doing my hair no makeup. This statement was made on my sister and other preppy vain girls. Thank you.)

“Perfection takes time Harry. I can't help it if your hair is impossible to style and your clothes don't fit. Don't worry though, we're going shopping this weekend. I'm buying you a new wardrobe.”

“Don't need one. The Room provides what I need. Besides, people might wonder if I suddenly started dressing better.”

“No, they'll finally see how hot you are. They'll just think you spent some money on yourself for a change. No arguments because I'm not going to listen.”

“Fine, but don't expect much from me. I refuse to become a life-size Ken doll for you.”

“I have no idea what you just said, except that you agreed.”

“Yeah…whatever. Hey, where'd Severus and Remus go?”

“They had to prepare for classes, speaking of which, shouldn't you get going?” Lucius asked, not looking up from the Daily Prophet.

“Fine, I guess you just want to get rid of me. And here I was going to let you read the translation of Salazar's journal to me. Guess not.”

“Not going to work Harry, but I would like to read it.”

“Me too,” Sirius piped up, talking around his omelet.

“Mouth closed when you chew,” Harry said, grabbing an apple from the table. “See you at lunch. If you know who stops by, the room will warn you and you both will be hidden. The translation is around in one of my notebooks. Just look for it. See you in Potions Draco,” Harry chirped back, good mood catching.

“He's too hyper now.”

“You better go before you're late. The Slytherins are going to get suspicious.”

“Yes father. See you later. I'll probably eat in the Great Hall for lunch. I can't disappear all the time.” Draco smiled before following the young Gryffindor out. They both had Charms with Flitwik first, but apparently Harry had forgotten this fact. Potions wasn't until after lunch today, though it was a single lesson instead of a double.

Draco strolled down the hallway, turning the corner towards the Charms class. He came face to face with the sight of Ron, Seamus, and Dean beating Harry into the floor. He pushed aside his worry, keeping a cold mask in place.

“Well, well, well, what do we have here?” He sneered when Weasley looked up.

“Look Potter, Malfoy's come to join in beating you where you belong, on the ground before your betters.”

“Or to return you to yours Weasley,” he said in a cold condescending voice. “Even Potter is above you blood traitor. Not only is he pureblood, he's rich and knows where he stands in the world: infinitely above you. Fifty points from Gryffindor for fighting. Each. Dumbledore will hear of this. I may not like Potter, but I hate you. Get to class, now, before I add detention to your punishment.” He turned from the three guilty Gryffindors to Harry, sighing as he saw the beat up teen. “Zambini, inform Professor Flitwik where we've gone,” Draco said, summoning a stretcher beneath the unconscious boy, levitating him up. “I'd better get him to the infirmary. Gryffindor of not, he's hurt. Being Head Boy has its disadvantages, especially taking care of goody goody Gryffindors.” He glared at the surrounding students before coolly moving away, stretcher following behind him.

Keeping his cold mask in place, Draco walked to the Hospital Wing. He resisted the urge to check on the unconscious Gryffindor to make sure he was okay. From what he saw, Harry had new bruises beyond the ones he had seen Friday night. There had been some from his own actions, but there had been others he hadn't caused. Apparently, this occurrence was a regular thing. He pushed open the door and calmly set Harry on the bed before going to Madam Pomfrey's office.

“Madam Pomfrey, Potter is here. I found Weasley, Thomas, and Finnegan beating him up outside of Charms.”

“Again? I've told Albus over and over again about those three, but he never does a thing about it. Come on, let's tend to the patient. Bring my bag. It's there beside you.” Poppy Pomfrey walked briskly to the patient's side, looking over his latest bruises. “He was just here Friday afternoon, before his detention with Professor Snape, and now he's already back. They usually give him a week to heal before attacking again. Harry never complains. If I didn't force him, he wouldn't come to me for help. He's lucky you were there to find him Mr. Malfoy. When they aren't stopped…well, I'm glad you didn't just leave him to their beating.”

“Being Head Boy comes with that responsibility at least. Besides that, I may not like Potter, but I hate Weasley.”

“Right, you don't have to lie here. Albus can't hear what we're saying.” She gave him a wry smile.

“Alright, I'm worried about him. He's too thin, he's small, and they are each twice his size. I don't think they would have stopped this time. Weasel…he didn't look stable, like he's been pushed to the edge and a small wind could knock him off the side.”

“This is Albus' doing. Mr. Weasley is always going in to see him, as is Miss Granger.”

“He needs to be stopped, but how?”

“Right now, we need to help Harry. Hand me my bag. His ribs have been damaged again. They haven't given him a change to recover from summer. Every week it's the same, and his ribs end up cracked again. If they don't leave him alone, permanent damage will be done and there won't be anything I can do to help him.”

“Don't worry. I have a feeling the three of them will conveniently fall down the stairs into a certain potion that's affects last one month at the least. They'll have to be transferred to St. Mungos. I don't see any potions that can help them here. Damn, what a shame.”

“Indeed. Watch your language. Well Mr. Malfoy, Harry will be released after classes are over. Would you be so kind as to escort my patient to his room?”

“It would be my pleasure.”

“Tell Professor Snape I need more of the Potion. He'll know the one, just not who it's for.”

“Yes ma'am. I'll see you later.” Draco smiled slight before resuming his cold mask as he left the wing. He continued on to Charms, walking coolly into the room. “I've been to the Nurse. Potter won't be joining the class. Due to the acts of certain students, he will be in the Hospital Wing for the remainder of classes today.” Without waiting for a reply, Draco took his seat next to Blaise and Pansy.

“He okay?” Blaise asked under his breath.

“Fine. A few bruises here and there. Pomfrey just wants to make sure nothing serious happened. She wants me to take him to his room after classes to make sure they don't jump him again. Want to come? You seem interested in him.” Draco was trying hard to reign in his jealousy. Harry wanted to be friends with Blaise, so Draco would bring the Italian Slytherin with him, albeit, unwillingly.

“Sure, it's not as though I have anything better to do.”

“We're to go get him after classes.”

Blaise gave a short nod before they returned their attention to the lesson.

The morning passed slowly. When lunch came, he left the Italian and went to Harry's room despite what he had said that morning. He figured the morning's events warranted the visit.

“Dad, Black, I've got bad news,” he said the moment he opened the door. Both adults looked up, surprised from the notebook they were looking at.

“I thought you were going to eat with your friends today Draco.”

“Change of plans. Harry's in the Hospital Wing again. Weasel, Thomas, and Finnegan beat him up. Don't worry, they'll be suitably punished. So, are you reading the translation?”

“Not exactly, something more captivating if I do say so myself. Seems our Gryffindor is a talented artist,” Sirius said, smiling a bit.

“I doubt he'd want you peaking at his private things. He gave permission to read the translation, nothing else.”

“There's a couple of you in here Draco. Want to see them.”

“That's low Dad.” Lucius knew his son's main weakness: curiosity.

“He was in Slytherin for a reason. Here,” Sirius said, moving the notebook over to the younger blonde before turning it to face him. “I think this is one of his best.”

Displayed on the page was a charcoal pencil sketch of himself, fast asleep with a peaceful, content, almost happy look on his face. He actually expected the drawing to start breathing and to wake up and smile sleepily at him. The work of art was by far one of the most lifelike he had ever seen, not to mention the fact that the notebook contained some of the best sketches he had ever seen. A picture of the Great Lake caught and held his gaze. There were several students out enjoying the obviously nice weather. He figured this had been drawn near the beginning of September when the weather had been unseasonably warm. Draco turned the page, finding that one stuck to the back of the Great Lake picture. He carefully pulled the two apart. Silver eyes widened at the sight, before he smiled.

“I think you missed one.” He handed the notebook back to his cousin, grinning at the shocked look on his face at the picture.

“Harry drew Snape?! But why?”

“It looks like he prefers to catch people at their most open and vulnerable. Or perhaps when his subject doesn't know they're being watched. I doubt Severus would allow Harry to sketch him or to keep the picture. He's my friend, true, but he's a private person. This drawing shows a softer side to him, one he rarely shows. I doubt he even realizes he can make this expression.” Lucius gazed intently on the picture as if trying to memorize the expression so he'd never forget it.

“These are really good. I wonder why he hasn't shown them to me yet.” Sirius figured his godson had been working on his talent for years, but he had never seen these pictures. He flipped through to the picture of himself and Remus. They had been reminiscing over their photo album. He couldn't help but wonder how Harry had hidden this talent.

“You have been dead for a year or so. That could be why.” A plate had appeared before the younger blonde who began picking at it a bit.

“This was before I died, obviously. This was the summer before his fifth year. He just didn't tell anyone about it.”

“Okay, think logically. Harry hasn't had an ideal childhood. His…relatives…hate him, he's been betrayed by people he trusted. Not exactly a confidence booster now is it. Add to that the fact that he lost you. He was probably shook up. You only just got back, and by the way, how? Talk about that later. Give him a break. Why don't you just ask him about it later?” Draco finished his lunch and stood, grabbing a second notebook from a nearby table. “Read the translation, leave his sketches alone.” He grabbed said sketchbook before taking it to Harry's room. “Blaise will be coming with me once we get Harry. Little Gryffindor says we can trust him. Hide from him until we're sure. Be good and don't kill each other. See you.” He grabbed his bag and walked out, heading to Potions. He stopped by Lupin's class to tell him about the morning's incident.

“Yes Mister Malfoy? What can I do for you?” Remus asked in a cool voice. Appearances had to be kept up outside of Harry's room, even if there was no one in the room besides the two of them.

“I just wanted to let you know that Harry was attacked outside of Charms this morning. He's in the Hospital Wing asleep. Madam Pomfrey says he'll be fine. I'm to go get him after classes.”

“Was it bad?” Remus asked, paling slightly.

“His ribs were damaged again.” He cursed his slip-up the moment the words left his mouth.

“Again?”

“Um, later. I've got Potions right now.” Draco escaped the room as fast as he could. He knew he had let something slip that he shouldn't have. Harry wasn't going to want to explain, even though he needed to. He made it to the classroom early, just so he could retell his story for the fourth time.

“Hey Sev.”

“Draco. Why weren't you at lunch?”

“Something came up. Harry exercised his amazing ability to get into trouble.”

“Again? That boy will be the death of me.”

“Weasel and his cronies attacked him. Pomfrey said he'll be fine, but he's excused from lessons because of his ribs. They haven't healed from summer. Oh, and she also said she needs more of the potion. She said you'd know the one she means.” Draco gave his godfather a pointed, meaning-filled look. “I let some things slip to Lupin. He's going to want to know about it.”

“Harry isn't going to be pleased. He'll want to keep everything that's happened to him a secret, especially his summers.”

“He needs to tell them though. They need to know and he should be the one to tell them. He can't start to move past it without talking about it, venting his emotions. It'll help him, even if it seems like a bad idea at the time.”

“While I agree, getting Harry to talk about what he's been through won't be easy.”

“We just have to be there for him.” Draco smiled a bit before turning to his seat to think about everything. Ten minutes later, students began entering slowly. Blaise say down next to him, beating Pansy Parkinson, clinging whore that she was, to the blonde's side.

“Draco.”

“Blaise.”

“You weren't at lunch.”

“I sent a letter to mother. I think something's wrong. Father hasn't written in a few days.”

“You think something happened to him?”

“I don't know. Something doesn't feel right though.”

Each person began working on his or her potion. Halfway through the class, an owl flew in, delivering a note to Professor Snape.

“Draco, the Headmaster wishes to see you. He says it's urgent.” He put a stasis charm on his godson's potion before continuing to make his rounds, deducting points from Gryffindors along the way.

Draco didn't bother taking his things with him. He had a feeling about what Dumbledore wanted to talk to him about. He made his way up the stairs quickly, wanting to get the meeting over with as soon as possible. He muttered the password, Mounds -seriously, who likes coconut?- and made his way up the winding staircase. He knocked on the door, determined to get the meeting over with.

“Come in Mr. Malfoy.”

“You wanted to see me sir?”

“Yes, I'm afraid I have terrible news.” Despite his words, the twinkle didn't leave his annoying blue eyes. “It's about your father. I'm afraid Lord Voldemort has lost patience with him. He murdered him yesterday. I just received word from your mother that you are to join her at this hotel.” Dumbledore handed him a slip of paper. “It seems she does not have access to Malfoy Manner.”

“I'm not going. She follows the Dark Lord.”

“I see. Would you like the rest of the day off to mourn your father?”

“No thank you. I've long since severed ties with him. He blindly followed You-Know-Who and willingly listened to him. As far as I know, he was completely loyal and devoted to him, not his family and most certainly not his son. May I leave now? I have a potion to finish.”

“Of course. I'm sorry for your loss. Good day.” Dumbledore watched as the young blonde silently turned and left his office, all the while planning on how to manipulate this newest defector from Voldemort's side.

Bastard. He didn't even admit to father being a spy. Lying, conniving, self-serving, manipulative…Draco continued on with his inner rant as he walked back to class.

“Draco?” Severus asked when he entered the dungeon once more. “What did the Headmaster want?”

“He wanted to inform me that my father was murdered. The Dark Lord was apparently tired of his failures. It doesn't matter to me. He followed a nut job. I've had no intention of joining the insane idiot.” He had no fear of speaking his view in front of the other Slytherins. They had all decided not to join Voldemort, but didn't want to show their true feelings just yet. He received fake glares from his housemates. The Gryffindors were worse. Many of them were openly smiling at his father's “death.”

A loud “Serves him right,” came from one of the annoying two-faced Gryffindors. Surprisingly enough, it had come from Granger. She had always been the one against that type of action, but there she was, showing her true nature.

“Miss Granger,” Severus started out, speaking her name as though it was a curse. “You must enjoy detention with Filch. One week detention with him, starting today, immediately after your final class and ending at curfew. I also want a minimum of two feet on the effects losing one's parents can have on a person as well as an additional foot on why such a loss is so devastating. Both are to be handed in to me at breakfast tomorrow.”

“But Professor…!”

“Twenty points from Gryffindor for the comment and fifteen more for questioning me. Care to speak again Miss Granger?” Severus finished in a sickly sweet hiss, warning clear in his voice.

“No sir.”

“Good. Now everyone, back to work.” He removed the spell from his godson's potion and waved him back to work.

The rest of class passed by without another incident, though Granger kept glaring at Draco and Severus, both of whom ignored the annoying, thinks-she-knows-everything-but-really-knows-nothing, Gryffindor. Draco was wishing for classes to get over with so he could see Harry again. He didn't like leaving the petite brunette alone for long. Who knew what sort of trouble he could get into? His mind irrationally forgot the fact that he was asleep in the Hospital Wing. He was contemplating skipping out on Arithmacy when a potion exploded near by. He glanced over and smirked. Granger was covered in a disgusting brown sludge that looked and smelled like it belonged in a sewer, not a potions class, let alone an Advanced N.E.W.T level class. He smirked as Snape approached the potion covered Gryffindor.

“Just what is that supposed to be Miss Granger?” Severus sneered evilly. “Ten points from Gryffindor for your failure to produce a simple hair coloring potion. I'm certain you will love to know the effects of your screw-up. If you did what I believe you did, you hair should be pink within the minute. Your skin will also take on a magenta tinge. Unfortunately for you, there is no reversal nor counteractive spell or potion. You'll have to wait until it wears off in about a month. Don't forget your detentions with Filch begin tonight. Dismissed.” He waved his want and bottled the completed potions, vanishing the remainder. “I need a new job,” he muttered, rubbing his eyes in frustration. “Perhaps after this year…” Severus sighed before putting instructions up for his class of 2nd year Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff students. He prepared himself for another round of messed up potions and sighed again, hoping that no one else would blow up a cauldron that day.

Draco fidgeted. He tapped his foot. He sighed and shifted around. He ended up losing five points from Slytherin and missed three easy questions as well as the homework assignment. He'd get it later. He forced himself to slowly walk to the Hospital Wing. Blaise showed up a minute later and together, they walked in.

Inside, Harry was pouting as he reclined in the hospital bed by now reserved solely for him. He was being poked and prodded at by Madam Pomfrey as she examined him.

“I'm fine Poppy. For the last time, I'll live.”

“Being difficult Potter?” Blaise was the one to speak up first.

“Oh, it's you Mr. Malfoy. Good. The patient was getting restless. As per usual,” Pomfrey added, glaring at her patient.

“I can't help it. I hate being cooped up like this. Well Doc, can I go now?”

“Yes fine. Make sure you don't stress your ribs. I'm tempted to put you in a bubble if it'll keep you safe.”

“Nope. Thanks again Poppy. See you later.” Harry climbed out of bed, wincing a little bit as he slowly walked to the Slytherins. “Hi Dray, I heard you were my knight.”

“I told you it could happen.”

“Hi Blaise. Decide to crawl out of the dungeons just to see me?”

“Actually Draco asked me to come.” Blaise missed the surprised look the Gryffindor sent to the blonde. “I'm curious about that picture you drew of me.”

“Too bad, so sad. But maybe if you're good, I might just show you.”

“Come on Sleeping Beauty. Let's go.”

“Whatever you say Sir Knight.”

“I think I'm being mocked. That's the last time I come to the rescue of a damsel in distress.”

“I doubt that. For some reason you can't resist playing the Gryffindor for me. Now that that's cleared up, aren't you supposed to be escorting me to my room?” Before either Slytherin could reply, Harry had linked his arms in theirs and started pulling. “Bye Poppy!”

“We've been hijacked.”

“No use protesting. What Harry wants, he gets, and apparently he wants us to literally escort him to his room.”

“Damn right Dray, now do the gentlemanly thing and open the door.”

“Whatever you say Princess.”

As soon as the door opened, Harry stepped away from the Slytherins, cold mask back in place. The easy attitude disappeared back under the `I hate you' look. Both Draco and Blaise followed suit, sneers and cold looks plain for all to see.

“Move it Potter. We have more important things to do than to baby-sit you,” Blaise said coldly.

“So leave, I didn't ask for you to walk me to my room snake.”

“Shut up and move,” Draco hissed, lightly pushing the Gryffindor but making it look like he was shoving him cruelly.

Harry glared hatefully at the two Slytherins before starting off in the direction of his room. “Don't follow me…I don't need or want your help.” He said the last word with such scorn and hate, that both Slytherins were almost believing what he said. Neither said anything but continued to follow him in silence. The rest of the walk was tense and very quiet.

When they finally made it to the room, everyone in the group was silently relieved. Harry opened the door and was quickly followed by the others.

“Well that sucked. Welcome to my room Blaise.” If Harry was surprised there was no one in the room, he didn't show it. Draco couldn't help thinking that he showed nothing of what he was thinking despite the Gryffindor having said he trusted Blaise. “Wanna drink?”

For the first time, Draco noticed the rarely there kitchen.

“Sure. Draco, is your dad really dead?”

The blonde didn't say anything for awhile. He kept his gaze towards the kitchen, then Harry as he returned with drinks.

“You gonna tell him Dray?”

“You trust him?”

“To a point. I think we can believe what he says.”

After a sigh, the blonde Slytherin answered, eyes still turned away from his dorm mate. “My father is alive Blaise.”

“How?”

“A certain Gryffindor got involved. He ended up saving Dad and Severus both.”

“Still getting into trouble Potter? One would think you'd learn.”

“Who me? Nope, I never could resist. Besides, Luc is a good guy, aren't you Luc?” Harry grinned as the now familiar door appeared and opened.

“So much for my surprise entrance.”

“You would have made it over the top anyway. Slytherins seem to have a flare for that,” Sirius said as he walked through the door behind the blonde.

“Siri, I haven't told him about you yet.” It seemed Harry was too late. Blaise gasped before he fainted.

“I seem to have that affect on everyone.”

“Siri, you're such a pain, saying that Lucius has an exaggerated entrance. You made him faint.”

“I made you faint too. Besides, he probably just has a weak constitution, fainting at the sight of a supposedly dead mass murderer. Jeez, what is this world coming to?” Sirius asked as they left the teenagers alone.

“Haha. Dray, put him on the couch. No, you don't have to sit next to him, just put him up there. It's rude to leave him on the floor.”

Grumbling, Draco levitated the other Slytherin up, setting him not so gently on the comfy couch before sitting in a chair not too close to the Italian.

“Don't pout Dray, you're still my fav Slytherin,” Harry chirped before sitting across the teen's lap horizontally. “He's not as special as you are.”

Draco preened under the words, even as he tried to look nonchalant about it. “I know, I'm just not sure we should have trusted him.”

“I am. You're just being jealous.”

“Maybe. Now what's this about a picture of him that you drew?”

“Nothing for you.” Harry turned to see the blonde pouting. “Dray, stop that.”

“But I'm your knight. Don't I deserve a reward?”

“Yeah, I guess you do. Alright, close your eyes.” Harry shifted around until he was straddling Draco's lap. “No peeking Dray,” Harry teased as he leaned in close. Harry licked his lips. Finally he'd get that kiss he'd been dying to have. Finally…finally…An inch away he paused, letting his breath feather over the blonde's lips, making sure the Slytherin knew what was coming. He moved so only a centimeter separated them…

“Kissing a guy with his eyes closed is playing sneaky.”

“Killing someone who interferes with said kiss is fair play and is highly encouraged. You might want to run.”

“Nah, go ahead and smooch him. Like I care.”

“You want in his pants Blaise. There's no way to deny it,” Draco said dryly, eyes opening.

“I won't. Who wouldn't want in his pants?”

“I am still here you know? And here I was going to ask if you were okay. Never mind then. Now that you've met Siri, you know the ones who are supposed to be dead but somehow aren't. Severus and Remy also join us on occasion.”

“We're an odd group. Somehow, Harry's pulled us all together,” Lucius said as he and Sirius reentered.

“That's Harry for you.”

“So glad to be loved. Now, does anyone have anything they want to tell me?” Harry's voice was sweet, leaving no one room to deny him.

“I'm gay,” Blaise said simply.

“Me and Remy are together.” Sirius smirked.

“I love Severus.” A light flush appeared.

“I like someone,” Draco said, finishing up with room's confessions.

“Well…yeah. I didn't mean that but…I knew, I could tell, he likes you back and who? Besides that, I meant a certain notebook of mine that isn't where I left it. Would any of you know where it is?”

No one said anything for a moment. Only Draco knew where it was, but he was hesitant to say anything. He didn't want Harry to get mad at him for looking at it since it was apparently off limits.

“Well, you see…” Lucius said, but he seemed at a loss for words.

“Er, we looked for the journal.” Sirius looked sheepish.

“They looked at it. I caught them and put the notebook in your room.”

“After looking at it,” Sirius added.

“Dray…?”

“I'm sorry Harry. I'm curious and Dad used it against me. I really loved them though. They were beautiful.”

“So that gives you a reason to look at something private?”

“No, I wasn't trying to justify it, just explain it. I came in and saw them looking at it.”

“He told us to put it away, but then I showed him his picture. Quite frankly, he couldn't take his eyes off of it.”

“So you all decided to look at them? To go through my stuff and look through something private? Why not read my journal while you're at it? It's just as personal.” Harry glared, tears in his eyes. He turned and walked to his room. “I want to be left alone.” Two notebooks came from the room as Harry walked in. They all recognized the first, but not the second. “Go ahead and look at them. It's not like you care about privacy.” The door shut behind him, showing all that he wanted to be left alone.

“Well that sucked. I told you he'd be mad and now he is, even at me.” Draco picked up the two seemingly harmless notebooks. He opened the first one, flipping to the page that Blaise had wanted to see. He silently handed him the book turning to the second one as he sat down. Harry's journal. Knowing what he did about Harry, he had a pretty good idea what was written on those pages.

Sitting down, Sirius put his head in his hands. “We screwed up. I knew we shouldn't have but…”

“We both knew better and we both didn't care. We wanted to see how good he was. We now know, but at a price,” Lucius added solemnly.

“You better go Blaise, the others will wonder,” Draco said softly, not looking up from the cover of the notebook he was holding. “We're going to have a long talk. No offense, but I don't trust you and I'm not sure Harry should have either.”

“I figured as much. Keep this safe.” Blaise handed the notebook back before grabbing his things. He opened the door, meeting Remus and Severus. “You missed the confessions. Too bad for you Professor Snape. I think you would have liked to hear what a certain blonde said. See ya in class Professor Lupin.”

“What'd you do this time Siri? Knowing you…”

“Hey, I take offense at that. Besides, he helped,” Sirius said, pointing at a guilty looking Lucius.

“Let's start with you telling us what happened,” Remus said with a sigh as he sat down on the sofa next to his lover.

“Well, we found something of Harry's. Something personal and private.”

“Let me guess, he found out.” Severus glared at the elder blonde. “And now he's probably upset with all of you, isn't he?”

“Hey, you would love to see this.” Sirius grabbed the notebook and flipped to the page he meant, before handing it to the Potions teacher. “He drew everything in there.”

Severus Snape, most feared professor in all of Hogwarts, was stunned silent at the sight of the picture. That Harry had captured him with such an expression, was privy to such a sight, astounded him. That Harry had drawn it so accurately, so precisely, was an eye-opener for the stoic man. The young Gryffindor had seen this expression and had captured it, making sure to emphasize the soft look. Harry had seen through to the real him. “He drew these?” he finally asked quietly.

“Yeah, he did. Remy, there's one of us in there too. From before the Veil. He's been drawing for years from what I can tell. That notebook has pictures from before he started school here.”

“And what made you go through his things?” Remus asked, glaring at the guilty pair.

“He told us we could read the journal left to him by Slytherin. We looked for it, but found this instead. You can imagine our surprise. We slowly went through them, until my son…showed up to interrupt us.”

There was no comment from Draco. The young blonde was sitting in the same spot he had been since Harry had run off. He was still staring at Harry's journal, silent tears streaming down his face. After a few minutes, he heaved a shuddering sigh, finally looking up from the notebook. “Sev, I think it's time they knew.”

The Potions Master knew exactly what his godson meant. It was past time for Harry's history to come out.

Author's Note: Yeah, well chapter three is now done. I am EXTREMELY thankful for my reviewers. I love you all. If fanfiction wouldn't have put up that stupid rule, I would have replied to everyone, but since I can't do it at ff, I won't at mediaminer because that seems a bit unfair. Anyway, this chapter was 77 written pages and 41 typed. I hope you enjoy. Keep the reviews coming. I really appreciate the feedback. Ja. EvilAngelBB