156Author note- I know we are down to the last few chapters, and I've been a little unpredictable with updates. Unfortunately, my mother was in the hospital for ten days and passed away last week. As I'm sure you can imagine it has been difficult to get anything done. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Hold those you love close.
Song inspiration/ Reference- The Times They Are A-Changin' - Bob Dylan
Chapter 69
The Times They Are A-Changing
Remus stumbled a little as he floo'd into Albus' office. He laughed as Sirius grabbed him around the waist.
"Sirius." Remus squealed as Sirius tickled his ribs.
They'd had a wonderful night. The Portkey had taken them home this morning. Now, with everything packed up they were ready to set up their new lives at the castle.
Sirius smiled cheekily as he let go. Remus rolled his eyes. He hadn't seen Sirius this relaxed and happy since they'd first been out of school. He smiled softly back. This time with Sirius had been wonderful.
"No one's here. I figured at least Albus would be here to welcome us back." Sirius said looking around the office.
Remus also noticed the quietness. His stomach tightened. Something didn't feel right.
"I don't like this." Remus said, looking worriedly to Sirius.
Sirius nodded.
"Let's get out of here. I'm sure someone's around. We'll see what's going on." Sirius said, taking Remus' hand and leading him out of Albus' office.
Sirius sighed as they walked down another empty corridor. They hadn't seen anyone. Not even Filch. He was starting to worry as well. Something really didn't feel right. He wondered if there'd been an attack. There wasn't any sign that something had happened at the school, but he couldn't explain why no one was here.
They'd finally decided to head to the hospital wing and look for Poppy.
Sirius sighed when they opened the hospital wing door and saw Albus, Minerva, and Poppy at the far end of the wing.
Sirius jaw tensed when he realized there was a curtain pulled around a bed. Obviously, something was going on. He just hoped it didn't have anything to do with Harry.
The three looked up when they walked in. Albus looked grave and Minerva looked like she'd been crying. Sirius stomach tightened. Something bad had happened.
"Gentlemen." Albus greeted quietly with a nod as they approached.
"What's going on?" Remus asked worriedly.
Albus took a deep breath and glanced at the curtained off bed.
"Severus was injured on a mission." Albus said.
Sirius was surprised to find he was actually upset by that news. He'd unexpectedly come to actually kind of like the git. He'd done a lot for them this summer.
"Will he be alright?" Sirius asked.
Albus sighed.
"We don't know. He's been unconscious since yesterday. Poppy has done what she can. If he wakes up, she thinks he'll recover. However, she can't explain why he isn't waking up." Albus informed them.
Sirius bit his lip and looked to Remus. Worry lines lay heavy on his face. He hated that they hadn't been home for five minutes before the war was back in their laps.
"Was there an attack?" Remus asked.
Albus shook his head. Sirius supposed that was something.
"No. We were on a sort of scouting mission. We had been discovered and needed to leave quickly. We'd found what we were looking for and I…I didn't take proper precautions. Severus touched a cursed object. Thankfully after examining it, it appears the curse on the container wasn't nearly as bad as what had been cast on the object inside." Albus explained.
Sirius could see the remorse on Albus' face.
"What was it you were looking for?" Sirius asked.
Albus shook his head.
"I don't…" Albus started to say before Minerva stepped up next to them.
"Don't you dare. They need to know." Minerva hissed.
Sirius brows creased.
"They need to know what their son has been doing for you." Minerva added angerly.
Sirius looked back to Albus. How was this related to Harry?
"What is she talking about?" Remus growled slightly.
Remus was very protective of Harry. They both were but it almost seemed more instinctual with Remus. Sirius suspected that even if they hadn't known Harry was there son until earlier this summer, the wolf knew. Maybe it was a scent thing or something. Sirius didn't know. Remus had always been very protective of what he viewed as 'pack'. Harry had certainly been part of that since before he'd been born.
Albus shot a worried look at Minerva who only looked stern before he nodded.
Albus turned and looked at Poppy.
"May we use you're office?" Albus asked.
Poppy had an arm full of supplies and was headed back to check on Severus. She nodded and disappeared behind the curtain.
They all followed Albus into the office and took a seat. Sirius felt nervous. He didn't like this. Hadn't Harry been through enough? They had already both been worrying about him today, knowing he was going back to Diagon Alley.
Albus raised his wand and cast heavy privacy wards. They felt oppressive and Sirius wondered what required such wards in a nearly empty school.
Albus folded his hands on Poppy's desk and studied them for a minute.
"What do you two know about Horcruxes?" Albus asked.
Sirius brows creased. He didn't think he'd ever heard the word and looked to Remus. He also looked lost. The term sounded like dark magic and he'd actively avoided learning anything that was not required to know to be an Auror. Even then it was all about defense. He learned very little about the dark arts themselves. His family had oozed dark magic, and it repulsed him.
"I've never heard the term." Remus said.
Sirius nodded in agreement and turned his attention back to Albus.
Albus sighed and sat back in his chair.
"A Horcrux is very rare, very dark magic. Not many people know about them. Those that do have actively been seeking out dark magic or accidentally stumble across the term. I have removed all books mentioning them from the library. I have also requested that book's containing the term not be sold to school age children." Albus began.
They nodded their understanding. They both knew there were some dark texts in the restricted section, for research purposes. However, even in their own time at Hogwarts many books had been taken from the library to limit a dark arts education. At least at school. What children learned at home was a different matter.
"A Horcrux is created by using a ritual after splitting the soul. The soul is split after committing murder. Typically, a death that is not committed in hate will not have this effect. In defense or as an act of mercy for example." Albus began.
Sirius felt bile rise in his throat. Anything that dealt with the soul was very delicate magic. Light or dark, to interact with a soul was not something to take lightly. It's why dementors were so insidious. It's also why marriages had been restricted to only those who were not considered dark creatures. The spell used to perform a marriage, bound the magic and souls of those involved. It was believed by bigoted blood purest that to bind the soul to a dark creature would cause irreparable harm to one's own soul. It was all unfounded horse shit, but people believed it.
"What is the purpose?" Remus asked uncomfortably.
Albus stroked his beard for a moment before looking back at them.
"The purpose of a Horcrux is to conceal a piece of a broken soul. Should the body of the person be destroyed the soul can live on and with the use of other rituals be reborn." Albus explained.
Sirius shot Remus an alarmed look. This must be what Voldemort had done. As far as anyone knew Harry had killed him that night in Godric's hollow. Yet, here they were, over a decade later fighting him again.
"You-know-who created one of these?" Remus asked shakily.
Albus nodded and Sirius thought he was going to be sick.
Sirius caught Minerva glaring at the side of Albus' head and knew that he still hadn't told them all of the story. He still didn't know how this related to Harry. Other than they knew that Voldemort had used Harry's blood in the resurrection potion.
Albus looked to Minerva and nodded resignedly.
"Voldemort made six Horcruxes. Believing that to divide his soul into seven would be the most magically powerful." Albus said.
Sirius gaped.
"What!?" Remus asked in alarm.
Sirius felt the same but found himself unable to speak. Who broke there soul over and over like that?
Albus just nodded.
"Our mission yesterday was to find one of these objects. If they are not destroyed there is no hope to defeat Voldemort." Albus explained.
Sirius felt his panic begin to rise. They needed to leave. Now. He wanted to get Harry and leave the country immediately.
"Remus." Sirius whispered hoarsely. He turned desperate eyes to him hoping he would understand.
Remus nodded his understanding.
Albus raised his hand and drew their attention back to him.
"We were able to locate the object. It has not yet been destroyed but it will be soon. Minerva and I have been here with Severus since we returned." Albus said.
That did not lower Sirius anxiety at all. That meant there was still five Voldemort soul bits just out there somewhere.
"Albus that still leaves five! The Order should be aware of this. We should be making plans to evacuate the country. There is no winning against that!" Remus nearly yelled in alarm.
Albus took a deep breath.
"Four of the others have already been destroyed. The last is his familiar Nagini. I've suspected for a while She may be one and I am certain now. It's why I'd hoped to turn more Death Eater's. If we had someone inside, we may be able to destabilize him before the war escalates anymore." Albus explained.
Sirius shoulders relaxed slightly. They'd already destroyed most of them. He supposed that was good news. Though he'd hate to be the one to face down the snake. From what Arthur had said about his attack, it was a vicious beast.
Sirius looked to Remus. The concern had lowered slightly but he still looked stressed.
"I don't understand what this has to do with Harry." Remus said.
Sirius nodded. He also couldn't see the connection.
Albus looked a little pale now.
"First, I would like to make it known, I was not aware of this beforehand. I did not ask for this, nor give instructions. I know my reputation is hanging by a thread with all of you. I understand why and I am grieving this summer's revelation as well. I am terribly sorry for what my lack of action has resulted in. I never meant for any harm to come to Harry." Albus said sadly.
Sirius swallowed thickly. He hadn't thought about it like that. As a type of grief, though he supposed it was. A lot of his life was. Grieving the friends he'd lost. Grieving the years of life he had lost. This summer it had been grieving for the loss of ignorance. The loss of Harry's childhood. The loss of the time they should have had with their son.
They knew that Albus had been close with Lily and James. Albus had played grandfather to them all in some small way. He could even remember Albus holding Harry at a few Order meetings when he wouldn't settle. Harry had been fascinated with his beard. He would happily comb his chubby little baby fingers through it or nestle his face into it. Albus would just keep talking like it was perfectly normal that there was a baby attached to the end of his beard.
Albus took another deep breath before he spoke again.
"Harry was the one to destroy the other four Horcruxes." Albus answered.
Sirius' ears rang like a gun had just gone off in the room. What was Albus talking about? How was that possible?
"What?" Remus asked in a choked whisper.
Albus swallowed thickly and nodded.
"I don't know how he found out, nor do I know where he found them, or when." Albus said, shaking his head.
Sirius looked worriedly to Remus. This was not good. Dark magic wasn't something their son needed to be interacting with. It's why so much of Grimmauld had been deemed unsafe for the children.
"He…He brought me a box containing three of the object's, already destroyed, a month ago. The day he woke up. The other was already in my possession. A diary that found its way into our school four years ago." Albus explained.
Sirius mind raced. He remembered Harry mentioning a diary once. Though he knew he'd never heard the term Horcrux before.
Remus jumped to his feet and balled his hands at his sides.
"And you didn't tell us? Albus, Harry nearly died! Do you have any idea the kind of damage that could have caused him? This is a whole other issue Harry maybe struggling with that we knew nothing about!" Remus yelled.
Remus paced and cursed under his breath.
Albus sighed.
"I'm sorry. It is a very delicate matter. I would ask that if you discuss this with him it is under the strictest of wards. Voldemort was seemingly unaware of the other Horcruxes being destroyed. I believe we lost that advantage yesterday. As I said he cannot be defeated if any of his Horcruxes still exist. If he takes Nagini into hiding, we may lose the war." Albus said.
Sirius jaw clenched. He unfortunately understood where Albus was coming from. In a war tactic's sense. The less people who knew about this the better. He was, however, very upset that his son was once again in the middle of a war he'd never asked to be a part of.
Sirius sighed and looked at Remus. He seemed to have also come to the same conclusion and looked resigned.
"Who else is aware of this?" Remus asked quietly, though he did not return to his seat.
"The four of us, Severus, and Harry. I did not tell Harry not to talk about it, but I believe he is smart enough to know that this kind of information can't be shared." Albus said.
Sirius wanted to roll his eyes. Albus always seemed to forget that Harry was a child. He shouldn't have to carry things like this alone. When he'd been Harry's age he would have told his friends. His friends would have helped him through any struggle he was facing.
Though Sirius had to admit, talking about his hardships wasn't exactly Harry's strong suit.
Sirius sighed. They'd need to discuss this with Harry. It was an incredibly dangerous thing to have done. Especially because it sounded like no one, including Albus, had known.
Severus was lying in a hospital bed after just touching the container of one of these disgusting things.
Just as Sirius was going to stand there was a knock at the door. Albus looked at each of them before lowering the wards and swishing his wand to open the door.
"He's waking up." Poppy said from the open door.
They all quickly followed Poppy out the door. Remus took his hand as they stepped out of the office. He gave Remus' hand a tight squeeze. They would get through this together.
Severus groaned as he became aware. His chest felt tight, and his right arm was tingling strangely.
The smell of the space around him reassured him he was in the hospital wing. He hoped that the box he'd touched had been worth it. That it had in fact been the hidden Horcrux.
"Severus?" Poppy called.
Opening his eyes a little, he blinked at the harsh light of the room.
"Are you in pain?" Poppy said from beside him.
He could hear other footsteps and assumed it was Albus.
"Feels like I have a hippogriff sitting on my chest." Severus grumbled as he tried to take a deep breath.
Poppy waved her wand and the pressure was gone.
"Sorry, it was a restraint. You were convulsing when Albus brought you in." Poppy explained.
Severus sighed and nodded.
"How long have I been here?" Severus asked, hoping he hadn't lost days again.
"Just a day. Not even a full day, but close." Poppy replied.
Severus fully opened his eyes and realized it wasn't just Albus at the end of his bed but Minerva and the mutts as well.
"I'm not dying. You can all go about your business." Severus grumbled, sending Lupin and Black a half-hearted glare.
"Were glad your awake." Remus said, he truly looked relieved.
Severus felt the corner of his mouth twitch against his will. The change in there dynamic this summer was night and day. It felt nice to be worried about a little. Though he'd not be babied.
"Well, I am. I need to get to my office. The brats will be here in a day, and I have a lot to get done." Severus said, forcing himself to sit up.
"Easy." Poppy said from beside him.
He felt her hand gently touching his back.
He was thankful to find he was still in his regular clothes. He needed a shower, but at least he wasn't facing the indignity of laying here in a hospital gown.
"Did you destroy it?" Severus mumbled as he pulled himself to his feet.
He looked up to find a stressed look on Albus' face.
"Not yet. The enchantments on it are strong. Poppy was able to save your hand from the cursed box you touched. There won't be any lasting damage. However, upon opening the box I was compelled to touch the object inside. Minerva kept me from being harmed. I would appreciate your assistance in completing our task." Albus explained.
Severus nodded slowly and looked down at his right hand. It looked normal but it still felt tingly.
"The sensation should wear off in a day. You shouldn't notice anything by the welcoming feast." Poppy said.
Severus nodded.
"Very well. I'd like to get cleaned up and settled in. Perhaps I can come to your office this evening." Severus said.
Albus nodded his agreement.
With a sigh he walked past the group at the end of his bed and out of the hospital wing. As he made his way through the castle and down to the dungeon he thought. Harry had been right. He shouldn't have touched it. He knew better. He couldn't believe his carelessness. He was lucky that all that had happened was a curse and a day in the hospital wing.
He opened his office door and made his way into his quarters. He sighed. This summer had been entirely too long. He pulled his bags from his pocket and resized them before walking to his bedroom and setting them on his bed. He'd get unpacked and then head to his office. Despite how frequently he had returned to the castle this summer, he'd only been in his quarters twice. His nose wrinkled a little at the musty smell.
The smell lingered in the dungeons, but usually spaces that were lived in didn't have it as bad. He'd call a house elf to freshen his rooms.
He was thankful that Albus and Minerva seemed to be unharmed. When he'd first heard the apparition around the house, he was sure they were about to be fighting for their lives. It was also good that Remus and Sirius had returned safely from there trip.
His mind floated to Harry and Draco. Part of him was tempted to call the Burrow and check in. He glanced at the clock. They would probably be headed to Diagon Alley soon.
Severus sighed and rubbed his temple. If he hadn't lost an entire day, he'd likely be caught up enough to go to Diagon. He imagined most of the staff were there today. On the last day of summer most of the staff went to collect the last of the things they needed.
They were encouraged not to leave during the school year. There were obvious exceptions but mostly everyone remained in the castle from September until June. With the only escape being Hogsmeade.
He knew Albus had instructed the staff to keep an eye out while they were in Diagon today. He'd just have to hope things went smoothly. He was sure he'd hear tonight at the staff meeting.
Harry had locked himself in the bathroom again. Mrs. Weasley had sent them upstairs after breakfast to get ready. His heart was pounding, and he felt like he was going to be sick. He didn't want to go. He didn't care about getting school supplies. He'd send an owl order later.
He closed his eyes and tried to focus on the cold bathtub against his back and the hard floor under him.
His head raised at the sound of a knock on the bathroom door.
"Harry." A voice called from the other side of the door.
It sounded like one of the twins. He couldn't be sure but assumed it was George. They hadn't been here when he'd gone to the bathroom. He wondered how long he'd been there.
He swallowed thickly and vanished the blood from his clothing. Pulling down his sleeves, he stood. He took a quick glance around and made sure the blade had been tucked away and that he hadn't missed anything before he stepped to the sink and washed his hands.
"Harry, It's George. Can I come in?" George called. His voice was thick with worry.
Harry didn't want to worry him, or any of the others. He took a deep breath and pulled up his shield before walking to the door. He pulled it open and avoided looking at George.
"Hey, are you okay?" George asked softly.
Harry shrugged a little and then nodded.
"Come with me." George said softly before leading him back to his old bedroom.
Harry was relieved Draco wasn't in there. He assumed they were all downstairs.
George closed the door and stepped in front of Harry.
"What's going on?" George asked softly.
Harry just shook his head and tried to keep the blush from his cheeks as he looked anywhere but George.
"Are you worried about going to Diagon?" George asked gently.
Harry bit his lip as George cut straight to the heart of the problem.
George sighed before reaching out and taking Harry's hand.
"Look at me please." George said softly.
Harry looked up at him.
"I won't leave your side Harry. Nothing is going to happen to you. I'll even hold your hand so we can't get separated." George said firmly.
Harry took a deep breath and shakily nodded.
"Okay." Harry whispered.
George nodded back. His hand tightened around Harry's, and he gently brushed it with his thumb before letting go.
Harry's breath caught when he saw the blood on George's hand. George realized he was staring and looked down.
He looked at it for a moment before looking back at Harry.
"Harry, what did you do?" George asked softly.
Harry bit his lip harder and shook his head. His arms came up and wrapped protectively around his stomach.
George sighed, then laid his hand on Harry's shoulder and guided him to his bed. Harry sat in a numb haze. He was going to get in trouble now. He didn't want to be in trouble. Maybe George was rethinking staying with him in Diagon. He knew he'd been bad, but George wouldn't just leave him alone, would he?
His chest felt tight and black spots began to dance in front of his eyes.
George sighed as he looked at Harry. His eyes were glazed over, and it was obvious he was panicking. He wasn't sure what to do. He knew he should tell his parents but knew they would freak out and that would only upset Harry more.
"I'll be right back." George said softly.
He waved his wand and vanished the blood from his hand. It wasn't a lot, so he suspected Harry hadn't cut too deeply.
He quickly made his way down the stairs and walked past everyone in the sitting room, tapping his father on the shoulder as he went. He caught his eye and kept walking until he was in the kitchen.
"What is it?" His father asked as he closed the kitchen door.
George cleared his throat.
"Harry's really anxious about going to Diagon. Do you have any of his calming draughts?" George asked.
His father's brows pinched before he nodded and walked to the counter.
George heard him mutter something before pulling a drawer open.
"Does he need anything else?" His father asked, looking back over at George.
George shook his head. Apparently, his face gave something away though. His father turned fully and stared him down.
"I can always tell when you kids aren't telling me the truth. I'm not going to be upset. You know that, George. What's going on?" His father said in the same comforting tone he always used.
George sighed. He didn't want to lie to his dad, but he didn't want to upset Harry.
"Do you have any healing balm?" George finally asked.
His father looked concerned for a moment before nodding and digging around in the drawer again.
"Is that all?" His father asked.
George nodded.
His father nodded before closing the drawer and resetting the wards.
"Has he hurt himself?" His father asked seriously.
George swallowed and nodded.
His father let out a defeated sounding sigh.
"We've delt with that before with your brother. I'll let Remus know. Get him cleaned up and calmed down. Do you think he'll be all right to go out?" His father asked.
George brows creased. He had no idea one of his brothers had struggled like that. His mind raced as he tried to think of who. Not Fred. He doubted Ron. He supposed it could have been any of his older brothers.
"I'm not sure it's a great idea. I'll give him the calming draught and see how he's doing. Do you all want to go ahead, and we'll follow if he calms down?" George asked.
His father pulled off his glasses and rubbed his face. George could see just how exhausted he was.
"I suppose that's probably the best idea. The Order is guarding the alley today. For all of the kids but they want everyone out of there before dark." His father said.
George nodded. He already knew this. They were also expecting an increase in Auror presence. The alley would be packed today. It was a prime target.
"Very well. Send your patronus and let us know either way. Contact me immediately if things get worse and I'll come straight back. I assume his injuries aren't too severe or we wouldn't be having this conversation." His father said.
"I don't think so. I think he's just upset." George answered.
His father nodded. He patted George on the shoulder before heading back to the living room.
George listened to his father talk as he walked back through the sitting room.
"Draco you'll be sticking with me. Ginny, Dean you'll be with Molly. Fred, I expect you to keep an eye on Ron and Hermione." His father informed the room.
"What about Harry?" Ron piped up.
He caught his father's eye and surprisingly Draco's before he disappeared up the stairs.
"Harry and George will be along shortly." George heard his father say.
George could hear grumbling before the first woosh of the floo.
With a deep breath he walked back into his old bedroom. Harry hadn't moved from his spot on the bed.
"Harry." George called softly.
Harry looked at him with the saddest green eyes.
"I'm sorry." Harry croaked out.
George nodded.
"I know. It's okay. I brought you a calming draught." George said holding it out.
Harry reached out and took it but just stared at it for a long time.
"Are…am…" Harry started but didn't seem to know what to say.
"Shhh. It's okay." George said, gently pushing Harry's hand to encourage him to take the potion.
"Am I going to have to go alone now?" Harry whispered very quietly.
George felt sick at that question. Of course he wouldn't send Harry to Diagon alone. Never again if he could help it.
"No, I already told you, I'm going to be right there." George said.
Harry looked at him. George saw the moment a tear began to run down Harry's cheek.
"But…I messed up again." Harry said in a small voice.
George swallowed thickly. He knew Harry was upset. This was more upsetting to him though. Harry was so ready to believe they would just throw him away at the first sign of trouble. They wouldn't though. None of them. He was stuck with them now for good.
With a deep breath he hoped he could get through to Harry.
"Harry, we love you. All of us, okay? My whole family, Sirius, and Remus, probably even Snape. Okay? None of us are just going to abandon you. I promise Harry. You know me better than that, right? Fred and I have always been there. Even if you can't believe the others right now, you know we will always be there. I'm sorry this has been so upsetting for you. I wish you would have called me. I would have been here. I'll always be there if you need me. Might have to break about fifty school rules to sneak into the castle but I'll be there." George said, reaching out and squeezing Harry's hand.
Harry watched his face for a moment before nodding.
"Okay. Drink your potion and then I'll help you get your arms cleaned up." George said.
Harry looked down at the potion and nodded before taking it. George took the vial and pocketed it. He watched Harry as the tension seemed to melt out of him.
"Better?" George asked.
Harry took a deep breath and nodded.
"Sorry." Harry whispered.
George shrugged.
"It's fine." George said, as he pulled his wand.
"I'm going to heal your cuts, then I'll use a little healing balm on them. All right?" George asked.
Harry nodded but looked away when George began to push up his sleeves.
George tried to hold back the wince at the sight. Harry had really made a mess of himself. It was obvious the injuries to his arm weren't just from today. Some were already scabbed over. George slowly went over each cut with his wand and healed them. When he was done, he quickly rubbed the balm into his arm.
He was unsurprised to find Harry's other arm in a similar state. When he was done, he pulled both of Harry's sleeves down.
"Are you hurt anywhere else?" George asked quietly.
Harry shook his head and George recapped the balm.
He took a seat next to Harry on the bed and they sat there quietly for a few minutes. George tried to think of what to do next.
"Are they waiting for us?" Harry finally asked.
"No. I told dad to go ahead." George answered.
Harry shoulders slumped.
"You told your dad?" Harry asked dejectedly.
"I'm sorry." George said.
"No one else knows…But um…He is going to tell Remus. I'm sorry Harry. You can't keep doing this though. We're here. I promise you don't have to do this all alone." George said, lacing his fingers into Harry's.
Harry sighed and nodded.
"We should probably go." Harry said, pulling his hand from George's and standing.
"I can go collect your supplies if you don't think you can handle going." George offered.
Harry seemed to hesitate for a while before shaking his head.
"No, I'll be all right." Harry said.
George wasn't so sure about that. Harry seemed very withdrawn. Though George didn't exactly feel comfortable leaving Harry alone right now either.
"How about we go down to the kitchen and have some tea and then will go. I didn't have time for a cuppa before Fred and I left." George said with a half-smile.
Harry looked at him skeptically before finally nodding.
George was tapping his foot, and it was really starting to irritate Harry. He'd finished his tea and was also feeling anxious to get to Diagon and get his shopping done. He wanted to go and get back as quickly as he could.
George seemed hesitant. He knew he should say something.
"I'm going to be all right George. I'm sorry I freaked out earlier…and…Well…" Harry cut himself off and waved at his arms. Shame coloring his cheeks.
George shook his head.
"You don't need to apologize to me Harry. I can't imagine everything you've been through. I don't even know the right words to be honest. I know it must be difficult to go back to a place that you ran into your attacker. If you don't want to go to Diagon today, you don't have to." George said genuinely.
Harry sighed and rolled his shoulders.
"I need to go. Diagon Alley is kind of central to life as a wizard in Britain. If I don't go now, I'll be hesitant to go the next time. Trust me, this isn't the first place I never wanted to return. I'll be all right." Harry explained.
George looked at him sadly before he nodded his understanding.
"Do you want to go now?" George asked.
Harry took a deep breath and looked into his empty cup.
"One more cup?" Harry suggested.
George nodded and sprung to his feet to make them more. Harry considered George as he went about making there tea. He knew this was the last time he would be alone with George for a while. Maybe forever. He had no idea what school was going to look like this year. He also knew that with the war getting worse he might be dead before the end of the year.
"I know this looks bad, but nothing has changed. I wasn't trying to kill myself." Harry blurted.
George turned and looked at him sadly.
"I know." George said with a nod.
"It's still serious. You did a lot of damage to your arms Harry. I know you weren't trying to kill yourself, but accidents happen. I think you really need to talk to Remus about this. I think he could probably give you some suggestions to help you. I…I know you said you had to die…but maybe you don't." George said.
Harry sighed and shook his head sadly.
"I have to George." Harry said apologetically.
George swallowed thickly and nodded. He collected there fresh cups of tea and made his way back to the table.
They sipped there tea quietly for a few minutes.
"Can you explain it to me?" George asked softly.
Harry thought for a minute. He knew this was dangerous information.
"If I tell you I need you to take a wizard's oath you won't tell anyone else. Not your parents, not the Order, not even Fred. If other people find out it could be extremely dangerous. If the wrong people know that you have this information you could be in a lot of danger." Harry said worriedly.
George seemed to steal himself before pulling his wand.
"I George Fabien Weasley swear on my magic to never speak a word of this conversation to anyone, even under threat of torture or death. So mote it be." George said.
Harry sucked in a sharp breath. This was a difficult conversation to have. He trusted George though. He knew he'd keep it quiet, and he knew he would support him if the conversation ended in tears. Which it most likely would.
Harry nodded and began to explain about the Horcruxes. He explained where he'd found them and what he'd done to them. He explained what he had done to himself when he'd realized that it was what was in his head. There were a lot of tears, but George just listened to him patiently.
When he was done George got them another cup of tea despite Harry already feeling like he might float away with the amount in his stomach. They sat quietly while George processed everything Harry had said.
"Is there no way to remove it?" George asked.
Harry shook his head and shrugged at the same time.
"I don't know. I don't think so. The magic of it is intwined with the object or in this case with my own magic." Harry said, thinking of the swirling black magic he'd seen in the other objects.
George sighed.
"You could talk to Bill. He's a curse breaker, maybe he would know something." George suggested.
Harry shrugged noncommittally. He'd initially been planning to go to Bill with the locket and cup, but he didn't know how safe it was to be dragging more people into this.
"I'll consider it. I plan to get some books in Diagon to look into the problem. I'm not sure I'll find anything." Harry said honestly.
George sighed.
"Don't let it destroy you, Harry. Even if you have to die before this war ends, it doesn't mean you have to be miserable until then." George said.
Harry tipped his head sideways and considered that.
"Think of it like…I don't know…terminal pox…horcrux pox, I guess. You and I know you won't survive it, but you might as well be happy as you can be while you're still alive. Spend time with your friends, go flying, find a cute guy." George ended with a little laugh.
Harry blushed. He was surprised when Draco's face came to mind and wondered where that had come from.
"Just…maybe we'll find an answer that doesn't end with you dying. Either way though you're here now." George said softly.
Harry bit his lip. He'd been trying to push everyone away all summer. Afraid that them being close meant they were going to get hurt. Then when he'd found out he was going to die he supposed it all became pointless. All he could do was keep them safe. It was better to keep them at arm's length so that when he was gone it wouldn't hurt as bad.
"Is that fair though? If…If I have to die. Is it fair to enjoy the time now? Let everyone think I'm going to be fine just to die during the war anyway?" Harry asked.
To Harry's surprise George smiled.
"Of course. It's the best time for friends and lovers. None of us know if will make it out of this war alive. You might be a little more certain about your demise, but we all know we're targets. You'll have to face the reality that before the year is up, some of us might already be dead. I know it's hard but it's true. Wouldn't it be better to have the memories than to know you'd spent this time alone and miserable?" George asked.
Harry sighed. He supposed George had a point.
"It'll be okay, Harry. Just try and enjoy it for a little while. You deserve to enjoy a little bit of life." George said.
Harry smiled softly at the prospect. He eventually nodded. Maybe things would be okay. He wanted to spend time with his friends. His family too. His thoughts drifted to Draco again and he felt his cheeks warm a little and his stomach do a little flip.
"Are you thinking about someone you like?" George asked with a snicker.
Harry shot alarmed eyes to George.
"You had this little smile on your face and your cheeks started getting all pink. It was rather adorable." George said.
Harry's mind felt like it had just run straight into a wall. Did he like Draco? No, surely not. It was wrong. He couldn't like him like that.
Harry shook his head.
"No." Harry said, though it didn't come out as firm as he'd hoped. To his disappointment it was closer to a squeak.
George raised an eyebrow.
"Well, I hope for your sake it isn't another Weasley. Everyone's taken except for Charley. Though I think he's got his eye on another Metamorphmagus that we know." George said with a chuckle, taking their cups to the sink.
"Charley likes Tonks?" Harry asked shaking his previous thoughts from his head.
George laughed again and shrugged.
"I don't know for sure. They just seem to be chatting a lot. They were friends in school, maybe they're just reconnecting." George said with a shrug.
Harry laughed. Then he realized that George had said all of them.
"Does that mean that your mystery man finally agreed to meet, or are you two still just writing one another?" Harry asked cheekily.
He was surprised at his own boldness. Relationships made him horribly uncomfortable. Somehow though, talking to George right now felt relaxed. Like he could ask just about anything.
George smiled. It was nice to see. Harry saw George's cheeks blush a little and wondered if that's what he'd just looked like. He hoped not. He certainly wasn't developing a crush on Malfoy!
"No, still just writing. He's not much of a mystery but…I er…I think maybe will have a date soon." George said.
Harry raised an eyebrow.
"It's Oliver. We've actually been writing on and off again since he left school. I just…um...I don't know, a few weeks ago the letter's changed a little and we started talking a little differently." George said with a shrug.
"Oliver Wood?" Harry asked with a laugh.
George sent him a half glare.
"Sorry. I didn't realize he even like blokes." Harry said with a shrug.
George shrugged back.
"I'm not sure he really knows either." George said with a laugh.
Harry felt lighter with the silliness of the conversation.
"We should go if were going." George said.
Harry nodded. His stomach immediately felt like it was tying itself in knots. George was right though. They should go.
"I'm going to run to the loo and then we can go." Harry said.
Just as Harry was about to push the kitchen door open George called to him. Harry turned and found George holding his hand out.
"I want the blade." George said.
Harry sighed and dug it out of his pocket. George didn't even take it. He just vanished it from his hand.
"Do you have any more?" George asked.
Harry shook his head. It was a lie, but he wasn't ready to admit that yet. Even though he would try harder like George had asked, he needed his escape right now.
George didn't look very convinced but nodded all the same.
Draco felt ready to shove cotton in his ears. The group had broken up nearly the moment they'd gotten to the alley. He didn't really understand but he'd followed Mr. Weasley like he'd asked. Unfortunately, the man seemed to know everyone, and they seemed to stop every five or so paces to talk to someone. He'd gotten more than a few confused or angry looks when people realized he was with Mr. Weasley. He'd kept his face impassive. He tried to Remember what Severus had said earlier in the summer.
Even with the mark gone, he wasn't likely to find allies on either side of this war. George's patronus had stopped them just as they'd come out of Flourish and Blotts. Draco had kept his eyes peeled for them since but hadn't spotted them yet.
"Of course. I'll let Molly know. You have a lovely day now." Mr. Weasley said to an elderly blonde witch.
"Come along Draco." Mr. Weasley said.
Draco nodded and followed along.
He felt anger bubble in his chest as he finally caught sight of red hair in the distance. Harry had shifted his appearance. He looked like a young Professor Lupin again. He'd seen this disguise before. That wasn't what made him angry though. Harry was holding George's hand. He was even smiling a little.
He had no reason to be jealous. He'd suspected they might be together after seeing them on the couch. His distracted state led him to bumping into someone walking in the other direction. As he turned to apologize the person grabbed his hand for a moment and then melted into the crowd.
Draco looked around in confusion before realizing there was a piece of parchment in his hand.
He held it up and read the hastily written note.
I love you, Dragon. Be safe. We're all right.
Draco frantically looked around in the crowd. His mother was the only one who ever called him Dragon. He couldn't see her anywhere.
"Come Draco. We can't delay. We need to leave the alley soon." Mr. Weasley said, putting his hand on Draco's shoulder.
Draco wanted to yell at the man to keep his hands off of him. That he had delayed them plenty. That his mother was here somewhere.
Nothing came out of his mouth though as he was guided into the next shop.
"What's left on your list? We should be headed back soon." George said from beside Harry.
"Just parchment, quills, and ink." Harry said.
He'd had a surprisingly decent time in Diagon Alley. George had talked and joked with him the whole time and it had kept him distracted. His worry was lower than it would have been alone, or even with Ron and Hermione.
They both scanned the crowd as they went but never saw anything to be concerned about. Mostly students and parents milling around. Harry had also seen nearly all of the Hogwarts staff. Though he'd never seen Snape, Sirius, or Remus.
George led them into Scribbulus. Harry quickly gathered his supplies. Thankfully, this wasn't a shop that required much shopping around. He knew what he'd need for the year and there were loads of the standard supplies near the front of the shop.
When they stepped back out, Harry scanned the street. His eyes landed on a sign down the road and he bit his lip. There was a tattoo parlor a few stores down. He'd been thinking about getting one since Sirius described getting his first tattoo. Harry loved the idea of wearing art. He even knew what he wanted. He'd drawn it while they'd been camping.
Harry decided he was going to go for it. George might not be happy with the idea, but he'd been pushing the idea of Harry being happy earlier. He didn't know if this would help achieve that, but he knew this may be his only opportunity.
"Where are we going?" George asked as they walked down the road.
Harry stopped when they got in front of the tattoo shop. George looked the shop over and then gave Harry a skeptical look.
"You know I'll be in deep if mum finds out I took you in there, right?" George said.
Harry just shrugged and kept an innocent look on his face.
"I thought she was actually going to lose it when Bill came home with a tattoo. It wasn't even big." George sighed and ran his hand through his hair.
"I know what I want. You just told me; I should try and enjoy my life. I want to do that, but I don't know how long I will get to do that for." Harry whispered back.
George smiled slightly.
"I suppose a little mischief won't hurt." George said with a nod.
He dropped Harry's hand and held open the door for him.
Harry felt a little shaky as he walked in. He wasn't nervous about the pain or even the decision. However, the whole day had him on edge and the placement of the tattoo would require him to remove his shirt.
The wizard behind the counter looked like he might be rivaling Dumbledore for age. He wore a beaten down hat, not unlike the sorting hat. He had wild white hair that seemed to stick out in every direction. His beard wasn't as long as Dumbledore's. Mostly it was bushy like Hagrid's. The man had kind deep brown eyes and a very wrinkled face.
"What can I help you boys with?" The man asked.
Harry cleared his throat.
"I'd like to get a tattoo." Harry answered.
The man nodded and looked him over.
"Do you have a design in mind?" The man asked.
Harry nodded and swung his bag off his shoulders before withdrawing his sketch pad. He flipped through the pages until he found the one he was looking for. He set the open book on the man's desk. The man studied it for a while before nodding.
"Did you draw this yourself?" the man asked.
Harry nodded.
"It's rather good. I can do this for you. Magical tattoos don't take as long, and they aren't as painful as muggle ones. It'll take about thirty minutes and cost you about eighty Galleons. Is that going to work for you?" The man asked.
"Yes, sir." Harry answered politely.
The man grumbled before standing and waving his wand over the image.
"My name is Marcus." The man said.
"Max." Harry replied without thought. The name had become second nature.
"George." George said with a nod.
"I recognize you. You and that brother of yours have livened up the alley quite a bit. I saw what you did for Florean. Couldn't believe what those bastards did to his shop." Marcus said shaking his head.
With a sigh he stepped around his desk and waved them to follow.
"Come along." Marcus said.
Harry followed, George right behind him. He wanted George to stay with him. He knew he'd need to take his shirt off and he didn't want to be alone with this man. He wasn't behaving strangely but Harry didn't know him.
Marcus waved his wand again and Harry felt strong cleaning magic sweep over him and the area of the chair.
"Where do you want this placed?" Marcus asked.
Harry took a deep breath.
"Center on my upper back." Harry answered.
The man nodded and took a seat. Harry pulled off his shirt before sitting as directed. Harry flinched a little as he felt the tip of the man's wand touch his back.
"This will be painful. Though given the state of your back I'm sure not as painful as some of this." The man said.
"You're not a werewolf, are you?" Marcus asked in a conversational tone.
Harry's brows furrowed. He supposed with all the marks something like that could be assumed. He didn't think his scars looked much like Remus's though.
"No. Would it be a problem if I was?" Harry asked.
He wouldn't sit here and listen to a bigoted tirade.
"No, I tattoo all sorts. The needle I use is silver though and I don't want to hurt anyone. Haven't had to use gold in years but I keep them on hand just in case." Marcus said as he began to spread some sort of balm across Harry's shoulders.
Harry relaxed slightly.
"Werewolves can be good folks. I've met a few in my time. Tattooed a young werewolf once. Used to see him and his mates pretty regularly. You look a bit like him." Marcus continued as he did something on a small table.
Harry looked curiously at George. He was wearing a near replica of Remus as a disguise. He'd not seen any tattoos on him though.
Harry bit his lip as he considered what to say.
George gave him an unsure shrug and Harry decided he would inquire.
"My dad's a werewolf. I've been told I look like him." Harry said. The word 'dad' nearly got stuck in his throat. He still felt unsure about Sirius and Remus being his parents, but he supposed that's what they were.
The man slid his chair sideways and looked Harry in the face.
"Are you Remus Lupin's son?" Marcus asked.
Harry nodded hesitantly.
The man smiled widely.
"I had no idea he had any children. Good lad. He and his mates used to come by often. I wasn't so sure about letting a Black in my shop, especially back then. He was a good kid though. Kept my shop afloat with all that ink." Marcus said with a chuckle.
"Sad thing that happened to those boys. Glad he's out. Knew he couldn't have been the one to betray James. They were like brothers." Marcus said shaking his head.
Harry smiled sadly as Marcus talked.
"Well, enough old war stories. Your dad know your getting this?" Marcus said, tapping Harry's back.
Harry bit his lip and shook his head.
To Harry's surprise Marcus laughed.
"Good. It'll be a lovely surprise. You tell him when he sees it I did it. Then tell him to get himself down here for a cuppa. Haven't seen him in ages." Marcus said scooting back over to his table.
Harry released a tense breath. George looked like he was going to pop a seem trying to hold in his laughter.
"You mind if I ask how you ended up with so many marks on you?" Marcus asked as he leaned over Harry's back.
Harry felt his face warm. He'd not put up his glamour. He didn't want the tattoo to be misplaced because of an unseen scar. He hated his body and hoped adding some art would make it feel a little less shameful.
Harry looked worriedly at George. He didn't know what to say now.
"He only recently came to live with Remus. He was with other guardians before this summer. They weren't very kind. Sirius was able to get custody since the werewolf laws prevented Remus from having Max." George explained.
It was a rather revealing statement, but it was honest. He knew that despite the pranking and joking, Fred and George could be honest to a fault.
"Damn laws." Marcus grumbled.
"I'm sure those boys will treat you right. With dads like that, you'll grow up to be the right sort. Never seen two kids so in love. Nice to hear they've been able to get back together." Marcus said with a nod.
Harry smiled softly. Perhaps having them as his dad's wasn't such a bad thing.
The wand began to draw along his back.
"Okay the outline is there. I'll use my wand to guide a self-inking needle. The balm I put on before should lower the pain." Marcus said.
The pain Harry expected wasn't what he felt. It was cold and mostly ticklish. There was a slight burn to it, like ice on skin too long, but it hardly bothered him.
He sat still as Marcus worked. He looked at George through the entire process and was thankful for his presence. He wasn't sure he could have stayed still for so long, so exposed, if he'd not had George there with him.
When Marcus finished, Harry felt a salve being spread over his back.
"It'll take a few days to fully heal. The salve does most of the work." Marcus explained.
Harry nodded.
Marcus held up a mirror for Harry to see the tattoo. It looked good.
"Thank you." Harry said.
"Of course." Marcus said as he stood up.
Harry stood as well and pulled on his shirt before following Marcus back to the front of the shop.
He quickly counted out the eighty Galleons and then another twenty. He could afford it, and the man had given him another piece of family history he hadn't known before.
"I can't take so much from you." Marcus tried to say.
"No, I insist. I think I'll be back, and I appreciated the story about my parents." Harry said.
Marcus smiled and nodded.
"You seem so much like them." Marcus said softly.
Harry smiled then considered for a moment before shifting into his 'boy-who-lived' form.
Marcus's brows creased.
"You're James' son." Marcus said.
Harry shrugged.
"They are all actually my parents. I just didn't know until this summer." Harry said before shifting into base form.
Marcus smiled softly and nodded.
"Yeah, that looks right. Your mothers' eyes and Sirius long wavy hair. You have a good mix of Remus and James in your face." Marcus said with a laugh.
He dug in his desk and pulled out something before holding it out to Harry. Quickly realizing it was a picture, Harry leaned closer and looked at the wizarding photo.
Remus was sitting in an armchair Harry had noticed in the back of the shop. Sirius was sitting in his lap, laughing. His mum and dad were standing behind them with big smiles on there faces. Marcus was sitting in a small chair next to them grinning.
"The day I took that, I tattooed all four of them. Said they were finally out of school and wanted a memento." Marcus said with a smile.
Harry was surprised that they all had tattoos. He wondered what they had gotten. Perhaps if things continued to go well with Sirius and Remus he would ask.
"They helped me around the shop all afternoon while I worked on each of them. Sweetest kids." Marcus said.
Harry felt tears sting his eyes as he looked at the photo. It was nice to see them all together and happy.
"Thank you for sharing that. If you ever need anything, feel free to reach out. I know things are getting bad." Harry said, stepping away from the man's desk.
Marcus nodded.
"I appreciate that. We're doing the best we can around here. Most of the alley closes by dark." Marcus said with a sigh.
Harry understood. The light of the day was disappearing. They needed to get out of the alley as well.
"You boys take care of yourselves. Get home quick." Marcus said, walking them to the door.
Harry nodded and walked out behind George. He heard the door lock and saw the magical aura of wards go up around the shop.
Harry sighed as he looked down the alley. They needed to get out of here. Almost everyone had already left for the day.
Harry smiled at the thought of his tattoo. It had turned out exactly the way he had wanted it. He was also glad to have met Marcus. He'd told the man quite a bit about himself and he wasn't sure why. Usually, he wasn't that open with people. There was just something about the man's presence that felt reassuring.
He smiled softly when George took his hand. He wondered what it would be like to hold Draco's hand.
He shook his head. He could not believe the train his mind had started going down. Did he really like Draco? He'd never really felt this way before, so he wasn't sure.
"I like the tattoo. I think it's perfect." George commented as they walked back to the Leaky cauldron.
"Thanks." Harry said distractedly.
He bit his lip and considered asking George a question. Finally, he resolved he would ask. George had always been honest with him. He'd even answered the awkward questions he'd written down for Remus.
"Er…What um…what does it feel like to um…er…" Harry tried.
George stopped and looked at him curiously.
Harry's breathing felt too quick again and he focused on his shield and tried to calm himself.
"How about we go to the shop. You haven't seen it yet. You can come up to the flat and we can talk for a few minutes." George suggested.
Harry nodded and followed George down the road. He'd seen the outside of the shop before. It was rather impressive. He kept his eyes scanning the alley as they walked.
Once they were inside George released his hand and Harry stared around in wonder. The shop was amazing.
"Wow! This is really impressive George. You and Fred have really done something here." Harry said with a smile.
George smiled back.
"Check it out. I'm going to go check in with Lee and Angie." George said, heading to the front of the shop.
Harry was really impressed with everything in the shop. When he' finished wondering around he found George and followed him up to the flat. His nose wrinkled at the smell that filled the small space.
"Sorry. Fred and I have been experimenting with a few things. We had a potion fail yesterday and the smell seems to be lingering." George said, walking to the window and pushing it open.
Harry waved his hand and cast air freshening charms. The smell diminished but it was still there to a degree.
George sat down on the couch with a sigh and looked to Harry.
Harry swallowed and took a chair near the couch. His face felt warm as he considered what he wanted to ask George about.
"What's going on Harry? Are you getting overwhelmed again?" George asked, leaning forward, and resting his arms on the tops of his legs.
Harry glanced at him and shook his head before looking away and biting his lip.
"You were asking what something felt like, right?" George asked.
Harry sighed and nodded. He could see George's look of concern. He knew he needed to start talking or George was going to start making guesses and that wouldn't be helpful.
"What…um…What does it feel like to…well, to like someone?" Harry asked, his face blushing tomato red.
George snickered.
"I knew it. Is it Malfoy?" George asked with a smirk.
Harry groaned and dropped his head into his hands.
George laughed a little and Harry raised his head to glare at George.
"Sorry." George said, schooling his face. Although Harry could still see amusement dancing in his eyes.
"Um…It feels like…Hm…I don't suppose I've ever had to describe the feeling." George said, sitting back and looking thoughtful.
"I suppose it feels warm and exciting. I guess when I think about the physical sensations it feels like fluttering in your stomach and your heart sort of feels like it wants to stop and race all at the same time. I know when I have a crush I blush more and laugh more." George said with a shrug.
Harry nodded slowly and thought about how he'd been feeling about Draco. He supposed that fit.
Harry shook his head. He couldn't like Malfoy. His friends were tolerating him right now, but things would probably go sideways once they were all back at school.
"Doesn't matter, I suppose. No one would like me that way. No one that knows me. Draco was…he knows some of what happened this summer." Harry said with a sigh.
George got a look of concentration on his face, then smiled.
"No, I actually think he might like you." George said.
Harry shot him a bewildered look.
"I don't know, just a feeling. How do you feel about that?" George asked.
Harry stomach felt like it was in knots. It was one thing to have a slight crush on Draco. It was different for him to like Harry back. His stomach gave a slight lurch. He more or less understood what would be expected from a relationship and he couldn't do that. Any of it. It wouldn't be fair to get in a relationship when he…
Harry sighed.
He was a freak. He wasn't ever going to have what his classmates had. He thought about how he'd felt watching Remus and Sirius this summer. They seemed so in love. He wouldn't ever have that.
"It doesn't matter." Harry sighed, leaning back in the chair, and closing his eyes.
"I'm too messed up for anyone, George. Not to mention I have to die." Harry whispered. Swallowing thickly as he thought about the Horcrux in his head.
George sighed.
"It's up to you Harry. I don't think your messed up. I think you've got a lot going on. You don't have to pursue anything. Not with Malfoy or anyone else. It's completely up to you. Do what makes you happy." George said softly.
Harry smiled slightly.
"Thanks George." Harry said softly, opening his eyes just as the floo flared.
Harry looked to the floo and was unsurprised to see Fred step through.
"Hey Harry." Fred said with a smile before plopping down on the couch next to George.
"Hi Fred." Harry greeted.
"Is everyone back at the Burrow?" George asked.
"Yep. Mum asked me to come find you guys. She was getting worried." Fred said.
Harry sighed. He should probably get back. He thought about the day he was having. It had been exhausting. He wished he was going to have a few days before school started. Unfortunately, by this time tomorrow he'd be at Hogwarts. It was strange to feel like not going back.
"You're going to be okay, Harry." George said softly.
Harry looked over at the twins and nodded.
"Suppose I should get back before your mum comes looking for me." Harry said with a smirk.
The twins grabbed their ears in unison and Harry laughed.
Standing from his chair he stretched his back. He hoped at least tonight could be calm. Maybe even fun. Usually he, Ron, and Hermione played games the night before they went back to school. It would be nice to do something familiar.
"We're here for you Harry. Like always. If things get hard at school just send a letter or call, Okay." Fred said, walking closer and opening his arms.
Harry nodded and stepped into the familiar embrace.
Harry stepped out of one hug and into another. This one lasted a little longer and was a little tighter.
"Thank you for everything today." Harry murmured into George's chest.
"Of course." George said, squeezing Harry a little tighter before letting go.
"Keep an eye on Ron and Ginny for us." Fred said. His tone was a little jokey, but Harry could see the worry in his eyes. He knew how bad things were getting. He would do what he could to keep them all safe.
"Always." Harry said with a firm nod.
"Stay safe." Harry said, grabbing the floo powder and looking at them one last time before he floo'd back to the Burrow.
Severus sighed as he made his way up the stairs to Albus' office. He'd been able to get his classroom, office, and most of his living space put together. Only being interrupted by a quick staff meeting over dinner.
He'd shaken himself awake after accidentally falling asleep at his kitchen table twenty minutes ago. He was lucky he hadn't fallen asleep in his tea. He was exhausted and wanted to get this over with. Hopefully, he could adjourn to his quarters after for a quick shower and then a decent night of sleep.
"Severus." Albus greeted with a nod.
Severus nodded back as he made his way across the office. He still wasn't sure how he felt about Albus. His feeling about the man had been a little all over the place this summer. He'd been very thankful when the man had saved him from certain death. Then it had been the anger at being handed Harry. That anger had only grown over the summer. He wasn't sure how to fix that.
"Would you take a seat for a moment. I'd like to talk to you before we do this." Albus said.
Severus sighed as he sat down. His body ached from the curse it had endured. He hoped he'd feel better tomorrow. He hoped to present a slightly less caustic side of himself to the students this year. Though he still would not allow tomfoolery in his classroom or rule breaking. He wouldn't achieve that goal if he was still hurting this bad tomorrow though.
"I want to apologize Severus." Albus said with a sigh.
Severus raised his eyebrow.
"I've asked a lot of you this summer and never truly thanked you for it. I'm very thankful for everything that you do. You are someone I trust without question. I'm sorry I allowed that to be clouded this summer. I also want to apologize for what has happened with Harry." Albus said sadly.
"I'm hardly the one you owe an apology to on that front." Severus said stiffly.
Albus nodded.
"I'm aware. I intend to reach out to Harry as well. I was wrong and my lapse in judgement has cost Harry more then I know. I know I won't be able to make it up to him, but I hope I can help him in any way he'll allow me. He means more to me then I think he knows. I let my fear guide me. I'm thankful that I have you and Minerva to help me prevent other such oversights." Albus said.
Severus was pleased to know that he had Albus trust. He wanted to tell Albus to let Harry be, but he could not be the one to make that decision.
"You do have me Albus, but I will warn you that if I think you are putting a child in harm's way again, I will not be lenient. I may be on your side, on the side of the light, but do not forget that I was first a Death Eater. I may not bare his mark any longer, but I have not forgotten what I learned. I will not tolerate the children of this school being put in harm's way. War is at our front door. Arrangements need to be made to protect them should the school be attacked. Plans made for the tactics of war." Severus said firmly.
"Your mark is gone?" Albus asked in surprise.
Severus nodded and pushed up his sleeve to show Albus. It still amazed him every time he saw the unblemished skin.
"How?" Albus asked in amazement.
Severus considered what to tell Albus. He wondered if explaining just how powerful and intelligent Harry was would help or hurt.
"Harry removed it. He is an extremely intelligent and talented Wizard. Not only did he remove my mark, he has all but cured Lycanthropy and solved the issue I was having with finishing the blood replacement potion. He is kind, even to those others look down on. He's befriended a House elf as well as a Goblin. We have greatly underestimated what he is capable of. I don't tell you this to show you how my view has changed, but so that you will see what a great ally he is. Magically powerful. Even without a wand. I've never seen anyone perform magic the way he does." Severus explained.
Albus sat back and nodded with a thoughtful look on his face.
"Do not start plotting Albus. The boy will not use his discoveries to aid the war, only to aid the people afflicted. He is not a tool to be used in this war." Severus said firmly.
Albus sighed and nodded.
"I understand. Thank you for telling me." Albus said sitting up in his chair.
"As far as your concerns regarding the war and the students, I intend to have regular meetings with the staff and the Order to keep us all on the same page. I hope you can help us make the necessary plans. I'd hope to have more in place when the year started but unfortunately, we are here now." Albus said.
Severus nodded.
He was thankful that Albus had put something in place, but it wasn't enough. Not to face what was coming.
"I was pleased to hear that the staff didn't run into any issues in the alley today. I was rather concerned that it may become a target, given how many people were there today." Albus said.
Severus had to agree. The staff had said that things had been uneventful. No one had mentioned Harry. Which was unusual and Severus wondered if the boy had opted not to go after all.
"We should get this over." Albus said setting a box on the table.
It wasn't the same box that Severus had picked up, for which he was thankful. He did not want another stay in the hospital wing.
Severus stood and approached the desk.
"There is a compulsion charm on the ring inside. Do not attempt to touch it. I appreciate Harry's offer of the fang. However, I think the sword would be better for this. I'd hate for either of us to accidently touch the object itself." Albus said.
Severus had to agree.
Albus took the sword from a shelf and approached the box. Severus assumed he would just open it. However, he held the sword out to him instead.
"I think you deserve to destroy a little of your former master." Albus said with a nod. An understanding shined clear in his eyes.
Severus took a deep breath a nodded before accepting the sword. He hadn't handled one in years.
"I will open the box and tip it over. When I pull the box away, bring the sword down on the stone. Be prepared for tricks of the mind. You must remember whatever you see is not real. Horcruxes will do anything to protect themselves." Albus warned.
Swallowing thickly, Severus nodded his understanding.
The entire process moved quickly. Albus dumped the box, and Severus felt the compulsions. Shaking his head, he brought the sword down and black smoke billowed out of the ring. An ear-piercing scream emitted. It was trying to use Lily against him. A distorted visage of her formed, calling out to him.
Severus gasped as the smoke shoved him back and he collapsed against the floor. The shrieking stopped and Severus just stared at Albus.
Harry had done this not once but four times. Merlin only knew what the boy had been shown.
With a sigh he stood and placed the sword on Albus desk.
"Are you alright?" Albus asked.
Severus grit his teeth and shook his head. The feeling of the magic felt like blood on his skin. Lily's voice was ringing in his ears.
"Severus?" Albus called.
Severus met the man's eye.
"It's done. I must leave. I have other duties to see to this evening." Severus said, before sweeping out of the office.
He needed a hot shower. He committed to rereading Lily's letter. The one she'd written just before her death. He needed her real thoughts not the warped ones of the Horcrux.
"Your turn Harry." Hermione giggled.
Harry smiled and reached out for the bag of mystery sweets the Fred had given Ron. They'd been taking turns trying them out. It had been fun. Hermione was currently sporting short antlers. Ron had eaten one that made him spontaneously quack like a duck. Ginny and Dean had both managed to get some sort of laughing potion chocolates and couldn't keep a straight face. Draco hadn't taken one yet.
Harry had felt awkward seeing him after his revelation earlier. Draco had seemed cold when he'd first returned but had eventually relaxed. Harry hoped he wouldn't lose his friendship. Even if it could never be more than that.
Harry popped the candy in his mouth and smoke began to pour from everywhere. His ears, nose, mouth, even out from under his fingernails.
Draco laughed and Harry felt his stomach swoop. Draco had a great laugh.
He turned to hold the bag for Draco. Their eyes met for a moment and Harry felt like he couldn't breathe.
He felt his face flush and looked away.
"Um… your turn." Harry whispered.
Draco raised a skeptical eyebrow.
"I don't think so. Snap and Gobstones were fine. I didn't even mind the muggle board games. You've lost the plot though if you think I'm going to eat some random treat out of a bag from the Weasley twins." Draco said with a laugh.
"Come on Draco." Ginny goaded between laughs.
Draco turned back to him and smirked. Harry looked away quickly.
Draco began to say something that Harry didn't hear. His scar suddenly felt like it was being ripped out of his head.
Draco stared in horror as Harry screamed and grabbed his forehead.
"Harry." Hermione cried, jumping up and approaching him.
Draco turned to Weasley.
"Go get your parents." Draco instructed as he gently laid Harry back. His eyes had rolled back in his head, and he was still screaming.
Ron disappeared and a moment later they were all being shuffled out of the room by Mr. Weasley.
Draco sat with Harry's friends on the stairs outside of Ron's room waiting. The screaming had stopped but no one had come out.
There were pointed glances at each other, but no one said anything.
"He had a vision." Draco finally said.
Hermione's lips pinched and she nodded.
"How do you know about that?" Ron asked, confusion and shock clear in his voice.
Draco sighed.
"He told me before we went to save Bones." Draco answered quietly.
He fingered the slip of paper in his pocket. He hadn't told anyone about the note from his mother. He hoped that the vision wasn't about anyone he knew. He knew the others were probably thinking something similar. They all had loved ones out there.
When the door finally swung open, Harry stepped past them with a blank look on his face. Draco knew he was occluding. His mother had taught him some occlumency. It was important in a war.
Harry disappeared into their room then walked to the bathroom and closed the door.
The Weasley parents stepped out of the room, and both looked grim.
"Off to bed with all of you." Mrs. Weasley said quietly.
They all nodded and began to make their way back to their rooms. He could see the want to argue in their eyes. The worry. The need for answers but it was obvious they wouldn't be getting any.
When Draco was settled in bed, he just stared at the ceiling waiting for Harry to come back. He'd been having a lot of fun with Harry and his friends. He hated how this war could destroy perfectly normal moments.
He'd still been a little angry at Harry when he had returned. He'd been jealous of George. He wanted Harry to like him. The feeling had eventually faded as they had all spent time together. Then he was simply happy to spend time with Harry. He even thought Harry might have finally been flirting back. He wouldn't let himself hope though.
Harry watched his blood run down his arm as he sat in the shower. Tears mixed with the water raining down on him. The Horcrux had been destroyed and Voldemort was livid. Harry had told the Weasley's that there wasn't anything in the vision. Voldemort was just angry. He'd let Dumbledore know that Voldemort was aware of the Horcruxes destruction.
The thought of the dark magic in his head made him feel sick. He wished he could just carve it out of his head.
He lowered the blade to his arm again. He felt disgusting. The anger began to take over. He was a freak for doing this again. George had only healed his arms earlier today. It had been years since he'd been this bad.
He sighed and set the blade on the side of the tub, before standing and scrubbing his body. His thoughts had been drifting all day to Rick. Despite George's distraction it had lived at the back of his mind. He'd been so afraid of running into him again. He didn't know if he'd ever be able to go to the alley again by himself.
He scrubbed hard at his stomach and legs hoping he would stop feeling invisible hands on his body. He scrubbed at his forehead wishing that he could scrub away all the freaky parts of himself. His thoughts drifted to Draco. It was wrong to like him. It was disgusting. He scrubbed harder and willed the thoughts to leave him.
When the panic began to fade, and the water had run cold, he got out.
He stared at himself in the mirror. He tried to take some deep breaths. He'd be back at the castle tomorrow. He hoped that things would just feel normal again. He turned and looked at the tattoo between his shoulders.
It was a portrait of Moony, Padfoot, and Akela with a moon in the background. It was his pack. His family. There was a snake around the front. It was small and almost blended into the design on Akela's fur. Without knowing what it was someone might think it was a collar. He'd wanted to represent Snape. He might not be family, but he'd done more for Harry this summer than anyone.
He sighed and hoped he hadn't been two optimistic with the tattoo. He wanted them to be his family. They kept saying they were going to be there for him. It was something he'd always wanted. He supposed if everything fell apart like he expected then it would be a reminder of what he'd had. No matter how long it had lasted. He planned to get one for his parents next. He wasn't sure yet. He figured everyone would go mental if they saw this so he hoped it would go unnoticed for now.
With a sigh he turned and got dressed before heading back to his room.
Harry took a deep breath and tried to lower his walls a little. He knew Draco wasn't responsible for the way he was feeling, and he didn't want to push him away just because he was struggling.
"Hey." Draco said from his bed as Harry walked into the room.
"Hey." Harry said, sitting down on his bed.
He could feel that twisting in his stomach again and wished it would stop.
"You okay?" Draco asked sitting up.
Harry nodded.
"I'll be fine. He's just throwing a fit. No one is hurt. Not yet at least." Harry said quietly.
Draco nodded his understanding before he began digging in his pocket. He held out a slip of parchment and Harry's brows creased.
He took it and read the message before looking back at Draco in confusion.
"It's from my mother. They're okay." Draco said.
Harry smiled. He could see the relief on Draco's face. It was welcome to hear any good news right now. He didn't like Lucius Malfoy, but he cared about Draco and didn't want him to lose his parents.
"I'm glad you heard from them." Harry said honestly.
Draco nodded.
"I'd hoped they'd left the country. Perhaps they still plan too." Draco said with a shrug.
"How did you get the note? Did you see your mum?" Harry asked, relaxing back against the bed.
He wanted to focus on something else. He hoped Draco would be willing to just talk to him.
"Someone bumped into me in the alley. I didn't even realize there was a note in my hand until they'd disappeared into the crowd." Draco explained.
"Do you think it was your mum?" Harry asked.
Draco chewed on his lip for a moment.
"I'm not sure. I didn't smell her perfume. I think if she'd gotten that close to me, I would have smelt it. Maybe though. I couldn't find her or father when I looked." Draco answered with another shrug.
There was a slight pause and Harry hoped Draco would keep talking. Listening to him talk was calming him.
"I asked Mr. Weasley about your Walkman. He spelled it to work without brats. Should be able to still use it at school." Draco said, holding it out to Harry.
Harry laughed.
"Batteries not brats." Harry said, taking his music player.
Draco rolled his eyes.
"Thank you." Harry said with a smile.
Draco nodded and picked at his fingernails.
"Are we still going to be able to talk when we get back to school?" Draco mumbled.
Harry smiled softly.
"Of course. You're my friend. I wasn't expecting it, but we are. I don't abandon my friends." Harry said earnestly.
Draco snorted and smirked.
"Thought you were a Gryffindor not a Hufflepuff." Draco joked.
Harry smiled.
"I don't think the houses are all that important." Harry said with a shrug.
Draco nodded and held his hand out.
"I need to show you a song I listen to. I think you'll like it." Draco said.
Harry nodded and handed back the Walkman. Draco popped the tape out and flipped it over before rewinding it. Harry smiled a little at how naturally he handled it. For someone who'd had never handled electronics, Draco was a natural now.
Draco scooted over on his bed and patted the spot next to him. Harry hesitated. He didn't feel terribly comfortable sitting on Draco's bed. Harry shrugged. He'd gotten used to sitting next to Draco to share their music.
Sitting down, he plugged in his headphones.
"I don't think things at Hogwarts are going to be like they were. Too much is changing outside. I heard this song yesterday while you were talking with your friends and I… well…" Draco trailed off and put on his headphones.
Harry followed and leaned his head back.
Guitar music started in a quick pace.
'Come gather 'round people, wherever you roam and admit that the waters around you have grown. And accept it that soon you'll be drenched to the bone.'
Harry nodded along a little.
'If your time to you is worth savin' then you better start swimmin' or you'll sink like a stone. For the times they are a-changin'
Harry bit his lip. The times were changing before their eyes. He thought about all that he had seen this summer.
He took a deep breath and kept listening.
'For the loser now, will be later to win.'
He knew they were losing the war right now. The light had already suffered losses. He hoped that things would change. Hoped in the end they would defeat Voldemort and the Death Eaters.
'The battle outside ragin' will soon shake your windows and rattle your walls. For the times they are a-changin'
Harry knew this must be the line that stuck out to Draco. The war was raging outside of the quiet world they lived in at school. They both knew it wouldn't last though. The war would come to Hogwarts.
'Come mothers and fathers throughout the land and don't criticize what you can't understand. Your sons and your daughters are beyond your command. Your old road is rapidly aging. Please get out of the new one if you can't lend your hand.'
Harry thought of the DA. They were the ones preparing for war. Despite the Order, the DA would stand to defend themselves and their world. What Harry had seen of the Order this year had seemed disorganized and unproductive. He wanted to be able to count on Dumbledore but if they couldn't be of help, he hoped they wouldn't stand in there way.
'For the times they are a-changin'
'The line it is drawn. The curse, it is cast. The slow one now will later be fast. As the present now will later be past. The order is rapidly fadin' and the first one now will later be last.'
Harry took a deep breath as he thought over the words. Draco was right. He did need to hear this. It felt like a call to arms for him. He let this past summer fade from his mind, all of the hurt he had faced. Then tried to focus on what he needed to do when he returned to school.
He'd studied hard over the summer to make lesson plans. He had lots of ideas for spells to teach them and dueling techniques for them to learn. He had also read up on swords and beginners handling of them. He would prepare the DA as much as he could. He intended to make sure they had potions on hand and portkeys if he could make them. He would not leave his friends undefended.
'For the times they are a-changin'
Harry nodded as the last of the music faded out. Draco stopped the tape and Harry pulled off his headphones.
"I want to help." Draco said quietly.
Harry turned to look at him. Draco's jaw was tense, and Harry could see the determination in his eyes. Though he didn't miss the fear there either.
"I didn't want to be part of it. I'd planned on staying out of it as much as I could, but I can't. I don't want to see my friends die. I know you're making plans. The others look to you as a leader. I will follow your lead. I can't trust Dumbledore. He turned my parents and then left them to fend for themselves." Draco said firmly.
Harry nodded his understanding. He knew the others looked to him, whether he wanted it or not. He would lead them though. Lead them to safety on the other side of this war.
"I want to see if I can get my friends to come with me. I don't know if they will, but I need to know they will have a place to go if they turn away from their families. They will be targets of the Dark Lord and even the rest of Slytherin." Draco said quietly, looking out across the room.
"I'll do everything I can. I'll make sure they have options." Harry promised.
Draco looked him in the eye and nodded firmly.
Harry stared into Draco's silver eyes for a long moment. He longed to offer some words of comfort. He knew this war was scaring him.
Kiss him, his mind supplied.
Harry felt alarm race through his body at the unexpected thought and he looked away.
He swallowed thickly and shook his head before climbing off of Draco's bed as calmly as he could.
"We should get some sleep. Mrs. Weasley will have us up early." Harry said, making his way to his own bed.
"I'm sure." Draco said with a yawn.
Harry flicked out the lights and laid down before staring at the ceiling. His heart was still pounding, and he tried to clear his mind of the thought he'd just had. He was a disgusting freak, and no one would ever want him. Even if Draco did, it would be unfair to start something with him. He couldn't be a proper boyfriend and in the end he would die.
Harry waved his hand and cast a silencing charm before rolling into his pillow and crying.
No part of his life would ever be normal.
He tried to push away his own wants. His want for normalcy. His want for family, and friends, and even maybe romance. He couldn't have them. He could teach them though. He could do everything in his power to make sure they survived.
With a deep breath he tried to calm his thoughts. It wasn't helping. His own heartache and the weight of the war and everything from this summer felt crushing. Eventually he shifted into Akela and fell into a restless sleep.