Archive of Our Own ^beta

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

It was late October and quite cold, even for the season. In Godric's Hollow, a two-story cottage had a warm fire burning in the sitting room where a man and woman sat, each quietly lost in their readings. In the corner of the room, there was a playpen where a toddler sat playing and babbling to his stuffed animals, completely content.

Lily Potter looked up from the thick book she had been studying for the past several days and set aside all the notes she had made. She was surrounded by charms books and old texts that she had located several weeks ago. "James, I think I found a way," She said softly. She had been looking for a charm to ensure her family's protection for weeks and she believed she had finally figured out a way to do just that. Unfortunately, it would not work on all of them.

James Potter looked at his wife and went to stand beside her. She looked exhausted. She had dark circles under her usually bright green almond-shaped eyes. Her skin was pale and her long dark red hair was pulled messily into a ponytail. She had been doing her research nonstop for over a month. "Lily, I don't know why you are putting yourself through this. We are completely safe now." James insisted for what seemed like the umpteenth time.

Lily sighed. This was a familiar argument between them. He believed they were safe under the Fidelius Charm and she wanted extra insurance that they were. "Voldemort won't stop looking for Harry. He will not stop until he finds us and kills him." She said firmly. "If that does happen, I want to be sure that Harry will survive it."

James ran his hand through his messy hair. "If Voldemort does somehow find us, which I do not believe will happen; there would be no way to survive the killing curse." He said slowly, wondering if she had forgotten that fact.

"Why do you think I've been researching these old books?" Lily snapped. She shook her head and rubbed her eyes tiredly. "I'm sorry; I'm just really stressed and tired." It didn't help that her husband obviously thought she was ridiculous for doing the research.

James sat down and put his arm around her. "I know you are. I also know this is scary. But we are safe. Only one person knows our location and Voldemort would never think that we would make Peter our secret keeper. It's the perfect plan." He said confidently. He thought his best friend Sirius Black was brilliant for thinking of it. Voldemort would go after Sirius who was already prepared to lead the evil wizard on a wild goose chase, thus ensuring that Albus and the Order would have more time to find and destroy the objects that would weaken Voldemort.

"I agree it is a good plan but Voldemort is a very powerful wizard and I think a backup plan is in order," Lily said stubbornly. She would not take chances with her son's life. She looked over to the playpen where Harry was now happily playing with blocks. As soon as she and James had heard that Voldemort had targeted Harry, she started devouring all the old books on protection charms that she could find. What she had finally discovered was quite ancient and not something many people knew of unless they researched deep into this type of magic. She was determined to not only make it work but to make it even stronger.

James shrugged and leaned back against the sofa cushion. His eyes glanced at the extensive notes that were littered all around her. Whatever she had been researching, it was obviously quite in-depth. "So you said you found something?"

Lily nodded. "It is an ancient magic. Sacrificial magic. It calls on love and sacrifice for the ultimate protection against the one doing the cursing. I plan to enhance it with a spell and potion to make it even stronger and to be sure that it will protect Harry from Voldemort. In doing so, it will also protect the one who casts it although in a slightly different way." Lily hesitated for a moment. She knew how crazy this all sounded. "That person will have to enchant an object with a special potion, something that they will be wearing. A necklace or bracelet would be best and I think I know just the right object. The spell will protect Harry from any curse Voldemort casts and the caster will be consumed into the enchanted object. Any curse, which will likely be the killing curse, will rebound on Voldemort and hopefully be strong enough to either destroy him or greatly weaken him so that he can finally be killed." She held back a sigh at the look on her husband's face. He must think I am completely mental, she thought tiredly.

James stared. "Wait, what?" He asked with wide eyes. "Cursed into an object?"

"No, not cursed. Protected." Lily corrected him. "There will be a spell and potion to release the caster out of it. Whoever is with Harry after the attack will be able to make the potion and help him say the right words that will do just that. Harry has to be the one to say them for it to work as he will be bonded to the magic and the caster." Harry should be able to repeat the words as long as someone helped him, even if he didn't know what they meant it would still work.

James shook his head in disbelief. "This sounds too dangerous and complicated. Why does the caster have to be transported into a charmed object?"

Lily glanced down at her notes. "It's the only way to make it work." She looked back at James and tried to explain. "The bulk of the magic will be used to shield Harry and it will be connected to the object. For a time, the caster and the object will become one which is why the caster would be consumed into it. It will be extremely powerful. After the curse is cast and Harry is safe, the object will automatically find safety in our vault at Gringotts where it will stay until Harry is safely residing with his guardian. I will also have to bind a letter to the object explaining what we did and what to do next. I mean, Sirius will be his guardian if the other person doesn't…" She paused and a look of grief flashed across her face. "The only thing is…"

"What?" James prompted.

Lily's eyes filled with tears. "I can't find a way to make it work for all of us! It would protect Harry and whoever is with him and says the spell. It wouldn't protect both of us." She said in frustration. "Even if we both incanted at the same time it would only take one of us and I don't know which one. The object will only connect to one person's magic and then connect to Harry, shielding him."

James was quiet for a moment. He didn't understand how this could work and honestly, he didn't think it would. But he didn't want to fight about it. "Then it will protect you and Harry." He said easily.

Lily shook her head. "What about you?" She whispered, her eyes filling with tears. "If Voldemort finds us, chances are you won't survive it."

James took her hands in his. "Lily, I want you and Harry safe. If that means invoking the spell, even if I do not survive it, then so be it."

The tears spilled over. "No, I have to find a way for it to protect all of us. Harry needs his father."

"He also needs his mother. And Harry needs to survive and live a long happy life, as do you. If you believe this magic will ensure that then be ready to cast it in case Voldemort does find us." He met her emerald eyes with his hazel ones. "If I do get killed, promise me that you will be happy. That both of you will enjoy life to the fullest. I would want you to find someone who will love you and Harry as much as I do." He said earnestly.

"James, I can't even think that way," Lily said looking away from his gaze. She didn't want to think about anything happening to her mischievous, fun-loving husband. They had started dating in their seventh year of school, much to her surprise. She had not even liked him for most of their school years. She remembered how surprised she had been to learn that James had been made Head Boy. Then one day he found her in the library and it was the first time she realized he had done some actual growing up.

Lily was sitting in the library, studying her charms text when someone sat across from her. She looked up briefly, rolled her eyes, and returned to reading.

"Yes, my day is going well, thank you for asking," James said as he took out his transfiguration book. "And how is your day going?"

"It was going just fine," Lily remarked.

"Ouch," James winced. "You really don't like me do you?"

Lily glanced up and looked at James thoughtfully. He had mellowed a lot since fifth year when he had been at his worst. They had been partners in some of their classes in their sixth year and had worked quite well together. From what she could see, James wasn't the bully he once was. He was playful and fun-loving, smart when he wanted to be, and had a confidence about him that she actually admired. Before it had been arrogance but now it appeared James Potter was maturing. "I like you," She said finally.

James's hazel eyes brightened. "Yeah?"

"I like you now," Lily said. "You've changed…for the better, I might add." She smiled.

James smiled back. "Well, I'm trying," He admitted. Sirius had moved in with his family and after seeing the pain his friend was going through it had changed how James viewed certain things. He still enjoyed a good prank but not to the point of embarrassing someone, other than a certain Slytherin occasionally but he wasn't about to tell Lily that. "You still seem sad." He noted.

"What do you mean?" Lily asked.

"I noticed last year too, your eyes don't sparkle like they used to," James said softly. He hesitated. "I know you aren't friends with-"

"We've gone our separate ways," Lily interrupted, not wanting to hear his name. It was painful enough when she saw him during classes or in the hallways. Fifth year he had looked sad and resigned and last year he appeared even more closed off than usual. It was like he had completely buried his emotions. Not that it is my business anymore, she thought sadly. She missed him…a lot. All she wanted was for him to tell her he wasn't going to join You-Know-Who.

"I can't say I understand why," James said carefully. "But you're obviously unhappy that you two aren't friends anymore. I just want you to know if you need someone to talk to, I'll listen. And I'll try not to say anything bad about him." He added hastily.

"Hmm, maybe you do deserve that Head Boy badge after all," Lily teased him.

"Yeah, it shocked me too. Sirius is sure it must be a mistake," James laughed. His gaze landed on her charms book. "I wish I was a natural like you are, I still struggle some in that class."

"It's my favorite subject, along with potions…" Lily trailed off. She cleared her throat and nodded at the book James was holding. "Transfiguration isn't the easiest for me, to be honest."

James drummed his fingers on the table. "Here's a deal, I'll help you with Transfiguration if you help me with Charms."

Lily tilted her head as she studied his hopeful expression. "All right," She said finally.

James gave her a brilliant smile. "So what are you having trouble with most in Transfiguration?"

Lily smiled at the memory. They had tutored each other and quickly became friends. Halfway through the year, he had asked her to be his date on a trip to Hogsmeade and she had agreed.

Before James, she had cared for someone else but he had chosen another path, a darker path that she would not be a part of. When he had called her a horrible name in anger she had been very hurt and upset but knew it was out of humiliation and had believed that he had not meant it. However, finding out what path he had chosen to follow had confirmed that he must have meant it and believed exactly what he had called her. She had been devastated at losing someone she had not only been best friends with for so long but had started to feel more than friendship for. In moments when she was truly honest with herself, she knew she had been in love with him. However, she had not even gotten the chance to tell him of her new feelings before their friendship fell apart. In time, James had helped heal her heart and she had seen there was more to him than being the spoiled arrogant bully he used to be. Although a part of her heart had closed off, James had managed to find a place for himself there as well. They were happy and content, especially with their precious son.

"No, I mean it, Lily. I want you to promise me that you will be happy and open to finding love." James insisted. As an Auror, he knew there was a possibility of him being killed and now with Voldemort after them, the possibility was stronger, although they had never really talked about it. He hated the thought of her being sad and a widow for the rest of her life. They both were still so young, only twenty-one. He had been meaning to tell Lily this for a while and figured he might as well do it now. He knew she would want the same for him if their roles were reversed. He said as much to her.

"Of course, I would," Lily said automatically. She looked at James with a serious expression. "If the worst happens and that monster finds us, promise me you will get away. Harry and I will be protected so all you will need to do is find safety."

James gaped at her and then he rolled his eyes. "You really are tired. What do you think I'm going to do? Invite Voldemort in and then run out the door?"

"Yes," Lily nodded and her eyes were serious. If Voldemort found them there wouldn't be anything James could do except get himself killed. If he got himself to safety, as Harry was the one who was Voldemort's main target, then he could help Harry invoke the spell to help her return and they would all be reunited. She narrowed her eyes as James shook his head.

"Gryffindors don't run like cowards," James scoffed playfully yet he meant it. He had never run from a fight in his life and wasn't about to start now, especially when the threat was against his wife and son. Besides, although he was serious about wanting Lily to move on and be happy if he didn't survive, he still thought she was worrying for nothing. He wondered if being stuck in the house was making her have cabin fever as it was to him. If only Dumbledore didn't have my invisibility cloak, he thought ruefully.

"Some self-preservation would not be amiss," Lily glared at him. She could tell he wasn't taking her concerns as seriously as he should. She also knew he would have to fight that pride of his to get himself to safety in the face of danger. "There would be nothing you could do anyway. Harry and I would be protected so all you would need to worry about is getting yourself out of the house." She said, hoping to convince him. Harry began to fuss just then so Lily stood up and went to get her son. "Hush little one." She crooned softly as she held him. Harry immediately stopped fussing and relaxed in his mother's arms.

James watched them with a smile. Harry looked a lot like him yet had Lily's beautiful eyes. He thought about what Lily had said and knew he could not just run. He was an Auror, fighting evil wizards was what he did. He could never just run away from a fight. Besides, what if the ancient magic Lily was relying on didn't work? It sounded pretty unbelievable to him; he had never heard of anything like it before. He couldn't tell her that though as it would hurt her feelings, especially after all the research she had done into it. If it would give her peace of mind to think he would find safety during an attack then that was all that mattered.

"Well?" Lily sat back down next to him, Harry on her lap with the soft blue blanket she had made him. She looked at him, her emerald eyes apprehensive.

James ran his hand through his son's hair as Harry's eyes began to close sleepily. "All right," He said finally. He knew he had made the right decision to lie to her when Lily visibly relaxed.

"Thank you, James," Lily smiled at him as she patted Harry gently on the back.

"What object do you plan to use?" James asked curiously, hoping to distract her so she wouldn't catch on to his deception.

Lily smiled a little. "The necklace my parents gave me when we graduated from Hogwarts. Remember? It is of a doe. I had written to them and told them that I finally had mastered the Patronus Charm so they thought it would be a fitting graduation present." She looked down at Harry. "It is time for bed little one," She said softly as Harry gave a big yawn.

James sat back as Lily went to put their son to bed and sighed. Lily was a powerful witch, there was no denying that. But this ancient magic didn't sound like something that could work. He was an Auror and knew of all sorts of spells and had never heard of anything like it before. Besides, he doubted the need for any other plan than the one they were already doing. Voldemort couldn't find them here. They were completely safe and Albus and the Order of Phoenix were getting closer to destroying Voldemort every day. Lily was simply overreacting. They were well protected here, he was sure of it.

A Week Later

Lily held her son close as she stood in his nursery. She knew without a doubt that James was dead. She had heard him shout for her as Voldemort blasted his way into the house and instead of finding safety as he had promised her, James had tried to fight and Lily could only listen in horror as the killing curse was cast followed by high-pitched laughter. A wave of grief went through her but she had to put it in the back of her mind. Voldemort was coming to find them now and due to the Fidelius Charm, she couldn't apparate. Their secret keeper must have betrayed them. Lily took a deep breath and looked down at her son, their identical eyes connecting. She was prepared for this, had known that no matter what precautions they took Voldemort wouldn't give up on finding a way to Harry. "We won't be separated for long if this goes the way I hope. You will be protected," She whispered to her son. "I love you, little one."

Harry blinked and put his tiny arms around her neck. "Mummy." Hearing Voldemort right outside the door, Lily kissed the top of Harry's head, tears falling.

The door burst open and the monster known as Voldemort entered, his red eyes glowing in triumph. "You and your husband should have joined me when I gave you the chance," He said in a smug voice. He gave her a considering look. "You still can, you know. All you have to do is prove your loyalty to me by stepping away from the whelp." He offered in a mock generous voice.

Lily's eyes flashed. "Never!" She hissed and then began chanting. "Amare et custodiat semper," She repeated it over and over under her breath, channeling all her magic even as Voldemort laughed in a high cackling laugh and called her a fool. She met his red eyes defiantly and held Harry even tighter all the while still chanting as the necklace she was wearing started to heat up and glow. While chanting, she concentrated on how much she loved her son. How she had felt when she first held him in her arms, how her heart swelled with pride when he said Mummy for the first time, rocking him before bed, feeding him, playing with him. Her heart was filled with love for her child. As she heard Voldemort start to cast the killing curse she moved to put Harry down in his crib and then there was a flash of green light from the curse and she fell to the ground. Thinking she was dead, Voldemort stepped over her and cast the same curse on Harry and before Lily felt herself slip away, the glow of the necklace becoming even brighter and swallowing her up, she heard the monster's cry of rage as the curse rebounded.

/

The power behind the killing curse and the even stronger power behind the protection spell caused instant destruction, the house exploding. All that remained were piles of rubble and bits of furniture, everything else had been desecrated. All except for a crib with a baby who lay crying, a lightning bolt cut on his forehead. As soon as the curse had rebounded, a shield from the necklace had risen and protected Harry Potter. The necklace that had been on the floor after the creature had cast the curse was now residing in the Potter's vault along with a letter, waiting to be discovered.

TBC:

Disclaimer:  I do not own Harry Potter. All characters belong to J.K. Rowling.

Severus Snape had not had a good feeling when Albus Dumbledore had summoned him earlier that day. As soon as he had entered the Headmaster's office and saw the all too innocent look on Dumbledore's face, he knew he was not going to like whatever it was he was about to hear.

"Good morning Severus. Would you like a lemon drop my boy?" Dumbledore asked cheerfully, holding out the small tin he kept on his desk.

Severus sat down. "Albus, how many times have I ever accepted a lemon drop?"

"Zero," Dumbledore said thoughtfully.

"Then why do you keep offering?" Severus asked exasperatedly.

Dumbledore tilted his head. "So I take it you don't want one?"

Severus rolled his eyes. "How can I help you today Headmaster?"

"I have a favor to ask of you," Dumbledore said as he chose a lemon drop for himself. A childish look of delight crossed his face as he popped it in his mouth.

"And that would be?" Severus asked a little impatiently. He was hoping to have a somewhat relaxing summer as the Dark Lord was currently keeping himself hidden away except for a few death-eaters. He had been severely weakened from the battle at the ministry as well as angry and humiliated at being bested by the boy who lived once again. He wanted time to regroup which gave Severus a small reprieve.

"I need you to collect a student and escort him somewhere," Dumbledore said, his blue eyes bright and twinkling.

Severus narrowed his own dark eyes. The last thing he wanted was to see any of the brats during his summer. It was bad enough that he currently ran into some of them during the Order of Phoenix meetings. "Who?"

"Harry," Dumbledore answered, anticipating the potion master's reaction.

Severus didn't disappoint him. "Absolutely not! I do not want to see that spoiled brat before I have to when school starts back up! No Albus," Severus had stood up during his rant.

"Sit down Severus," Dumbledore said quietly. "I only need you to take him to the Burrow for the summer. I need someone powerful to take him just in case of trouble and to double-check that the wards around the Burrow are strong enough. You are exceptional at placing wards so I was hoping you could do it. It won't take you long to get Harry and drop him off at the Weasley's."

"Why can't you do it? Or Arthur?" Severus gritted his teeth.

"I have to go to the Ministry. There is chaos and panic now that they admit Voldemort is back. Also, Harry and I did not leave this past school year on the best of terms. He was quite angry with me and rightly so. Arthur is busy at the Ministry as well. I need someone who I know will protect Harry to no end if anything should happen. I trust you to do that," Dumbledore said earnestly.

Severus closed his eyes. Old lemon drop-loving coot, he thought irritably. "You do remember I am pretending to still be a faithful death eater? If I am seen with the boy and not cursing him or taking him to the Dark Lord, it may raise suspicions," He said sarcastically.

Dumbledore merely smiled. "You are an excellent spy Severus. I trust you can do this task undetected. Besides, didn't you say Voldemort is away and nursing his wounds, so to speak?"

Severus smirked. "Yes, he is. Bellatrix and Pettigrew are the only ones allowed around him as he is using them as caretakers."

Dumbledore nodded. "He doesn't know what to do next. He didn't get the prophecy and couldn't kill Harry or myself. He must wonder how he is looking in front of his followers."

Severus inclined his head. "With him on…vacation there have been rumblings about him being bested by a teenager yet again," His smirk faded. "Isn't it early for Potter to be away from his relatives? You normally wait until the end of summer to let the brat be with his friends."

"Severus, the child is far from a brat," Dumbledore sighed. "Yes, it is earlier than I usually allow but I think he needs to be with his friends after the year he had. It's been a couple of weeks so the wards are strengthened and with Voldemort out of commission for the time being, I believe it is the right thing to do."

Severus rolled his eyes. "Of course, coddle the boy," He huffed, choosing to ignore the fact that Potter had been through a terrible ordeal. "I suppose it is safe enough, I doubt the Dark Lord even has the strength to plan anything regarding Potter this summer."

Dumbledore looked satisfied. "Good, good. Now, will you take Harry to the Weasleys?"

Severus sighed. Why did he even bother protesting? "Fine. I'll take the brat to the burrow."

Dumbledore frowned in disapproval. "Severus."

"Just because you don't want to see him as the spoiled arrogant impudent child that he is, is not my problem." Severus lifted his head. The brat was just as vile as his father had been. He had been relieved when he had realized that fact when the boy had started school. That way he could protect him in secret without actually caring about him. It was easier that way. Besides, Potter sneaking into his pensive was enough to prove once and for all that he was exactly like his father. He probably had already told all his friends what he had seen. Rule-breaking and insufferable were the only traits of that particular child.

/

That is how Severus found himself taking an injured Potter to his manor. He actually had two homes, one in Spinner's End where he had grown up, and the manor he had inherited from his maternal grandmother. Spinner's End was known to death eaters so he dared not take Potter there, never mind that he hated that house. He could have taken Potter to Hogwarts but he knew Poppy was away visiting her family and that Potter would most likely not wish to be seen like this by any of the professors still residing in the school. So that left Snape's manor which was safe and fully warded. No one could come in without his permission, not even the Dark Lord himself. Of course, he did not know about the manor. Even the Ministry did not know about Snape's second home.

He supposed he could have taken Potter directly to the Burrow as planned but he didn't know how much Potter's friends knew about the abuse and he knew Molly Weasley would smother the boy, which may be overwhelming for him. He knew in his own youth he didn't want people to see him after he had been abused by his father. It felt strange to have something in common with this particular child.

"Where are we, Sir?" Harry asked as he tried to steady himself. Apparition and floos were not his preferred method of travel. Once he felt his stomach settle back down he realized that Snape still had a hold of his arm.

"My manor," Snape said, letting go once he was assured Potter wouldn't get sick or faint. "I will treat your injuries here before taking you to the Burrow."

Harry followed him up the stone path to the elegant mansion feeling relief that his friends wouldn't see him battered and bruised. When he thought what Mrs. Weasley's reaction would be to seeing him right now, he shuddered. "So that's why you showed up to the Dursleys? So you could take me to the Burrow for the summer?"

"No Potter, it was to invite myself over for afternoon tea," Snape gestured for Potter to sit down on a chair in the sitting room. "Wait here and touch nothing." He glared warningly before leaving the room.

Harry scowled slightly at Snape's back. As if he would go and snoop around or something… Oh. He winced as he remembered that was exactly what he had done with the pensive. He really should apologize for that but he was afraid to. He didn't want Snape to get that angry with him like that ever again. He had been ashamed of his father's and godfather's behavior as teenagers. He hadn't even told Ron and Hermione about it, he was so ashamed.

Snape returned with several vials and stood in front of him. Merlin, he looks awful, Snape thought. Potter's cheek was a deep purple and swollen. He was too skinny and had dark shadows under his eyes. He held out the first vial. "A general pain relieving potion," He said.

Harry tossed back the vial, gagging slightly at the bitter taste. His eyes met Snape's sneering face.

"So sorry I couldn't adjust the taste for you," Snape said sardonically.

Harry couldn't help glaring at him. "If you did that Sir, then it would lessen the potency of the potion." He felt a moment of satisfaction at the surprised look on Snape's face.

"My goodness, you finally have grasped first-year potion knowledge," Severus sneered, covering his surprise. He didn't think Potter knew anything about potions.

Harry said nothing, not wanting to get into an argument especially when he was feeling so weak and vulnerable.

"Hold out your arm." Severus pointed his wand and moved it up and down Potter's hurt arm murmuring a healing spell. He then picked up a bruise balm. "Turn your head so I can put this on your cheek."

Harry hesitated. "I can do it."

Severus struggled to keep from snapping at him. "The bruise is quite severe and I need to make sure that no further damage was done. I know how much to put on so just let me do it!"

Severus scooped out the balm and raised his hand to Potter, noting his flinch. "I do not intend to cause you more pain. I will not hit you," He said evenly. He ignored the flustered look on Potter's face and gently rubbed the balm in his cheek also feeling to see if the cheekbone was fractured. He nodded to himself as he felt nothing more wrong and saw that the bruising was already starting to fade. He ran his wand over the boy running a more thorough diagnostic that would detail Potter's health history from when he first landed on Petunia's doorstep. His eyes darkened as he read it over.

"What's that?" Harry asked, his eyes closing for a moment as exhaustion threatened to take him over.

Severus looked up at him. "We will discuss it later. Are you hungry? Do you feel you could eat something?" The boy had been starved.

Harry frowned at the seemingly random question but shook his head. "I'm hungry but more than that I'm just tired." He admitted.

Severus nodded. He handed him two more vials. "Drink," Was all he said. He was surprised when Potter did not question what was in them but obediently downed the potions. "The first one was a nutritive potion since you haven't eaten in a while and the second was a sleeping draught. You need to rest before you completely collapse."

"What about the Burrow?" Harry asked sleepily as the potion began to take effect.

"After you sleep and eat a decent meal." Severus watched as Potter's head rolled back and he quickly caught him and carried Potter to the sofa. He snatched off his glasses and covered him with a green blanket. "You never do anything by halves do you Potter?" He grumbled.

He sat down at his desk where he could keep an eye on the sleeping Gryffindor as he read through Potter's health report again, this time more slowly. Obvious neglect, starvation, dehydration, overwork, physical abuse, and most of this started from the time Potter was a toddler. He'd also been burned as a child and had broken bones in the past. This was a far cry from the spoiled, coddled life he had deluded himself into thinking Potter had. He had assumed that Petunia would take pleasure in raising the hero of the Wizarding world. That it would have made her feel important and be a way for her to weasel her way into the magical world she had so desperately wanted to be a part of when she was a child. He remembered when he and Lily had found out that Petunia had written to the Headmaster asking if she could attend Hogwarts too. Obviously, Petunia's jealousy had grown even stronger as she got older and now had become pure hate. Hate for anything magical and hate for her nephew. I should have known, he scolded himself. Petunia had treated Lily so cruelly when they were young. How could I have deluded myself into thinking she had changed?

Because it was easier to believe that, A voice whispered in his head. Just like it was easier to believe that Potter was exactly like his father. That way you didn't have to care.

Severus scowled as his misconceptions of Potter's life became clearer. Potter had not been loved or cared for since the night Lily had died. Even Severus, with his own abusive past, at least had his mother to love and care for him as best she could. He sighed. Even the boy's attitude and his need to run off into dangerous situations made some sense. Why would he rely on adults when he had been so hurt by them in the past? And how had no one at school seen this? Minerva was his Head of House she should have seen something. And after all the times Potter had been in the infirmary, Poppy should have seen something as well. And I should have seen something, Snape thought angrily. He knew the signs as many of his Slytherins came from abusive homes. He had even taken action when he saw the traits in students that weren't in his house. So how could he, with the one boy he had sworn to protect, have failed so miserably? He had remained so bitter and jealous of James Potter that he had neglected to see what was right in front of him. He had been told by the Headmaster and Minerva that Potter was not like his father but it had been easier to believe that he was. That way he could protect Potter for Lily and feel like he was getting revenge on James. How petty and childish I have been, he thought shamefully as he rubbed his hand over his face. I'm no better than Petunia.

Of course, there was one other person who should have seen the signs and if said person had had any idea of what was going on in that Dursley house, he would have to answer to Severus.

Severus got up and threw floo powder into his fireplace. "Albus Sodding Dumbledore! Get in here now!" He hissed.

There was no answer and he remembered that Albus would be at the Ministry all day. He scribbled a note and went through the floo to leave it on the Headmaster's desk. "He better not have known," He muttered to Fawkes who was sitting on his perch. He looked at Severus with sad yet understanding eyes. Snape went back through the floo to his manor and observed the boy on his couch. He would have to let Molly know some of what happened if she was to be taking care of him for the summer. Potter would need to have three meals a day and plenty of fluids and rest, as well as take a nutritive potion every day for a while. He didn't doubt that Potter would get plenty of food as Molly Weasley was forever cooking and trying to feed everyone she came in contact with. However, as Potter's stomach had shrunk he would have to start eating small amounts so he didn't get sick. The concern was that Potter couldn't get lost in the shuffle of all the Weasleys coming in and out of the Burrow.

Severus gazed at the sleeping boy on his sofa, who looked much younger than his almost sixteen years. The boy would also need to talk about the abuse he had suffered as holding that in was unhealthy. He knew he was close with his friends but an adult would be better. The wolf would do, Severus thought grumpily. He knew Lupin was off grieving for the mutt but was sure he would return for his best friend's son.

The problem wasn't just the muggles' abuse but also the events at the ministry. Potter was abused at home, had been tortured when the Dark Lord had returned, had seen a classmate's death, fought against the death eaters at the ministry, and watched as his godfather was killed. Severus would suggest to Albus the idea of a mind healer. If the boy wasn't broken yet, he would be soon. No one could handle all that on his own. Lily would be devastated if she knew all that had happened to her son.

Severus's eyes softened as he thought of Lily. His first friend and the only woman he had ever loved. He had been the one to tell her she was a witch. He chuckled to himself as he remembered how insulted she had been at first before he had told her that magic was real. Meeting her was still one of the best days of his life and he remembered it fondly.

"Watch me, Petunia!" Squealed nine-year-old Lily Evans as she swung high into the sky.

"Lily, what are you doing?" Twelve-year-old Petunia asked impatiently. "I told you I wanted to go home. The swings are for babies!"

"They are not!" Lily protested. "They're fun, watch this!" Once the swing reached the highest it would go, Lily jumped off and instead of falling she merely floated to the ground slowly. She grinned at her shocked sister, pushing back her long dark red hair.

"You shouldn't do that Lily Evans!" Petunia cast a quick look around; grateful no one was around to have seen. "I've told you before; you have to stop doing strange things!"

Lily sighed. "It's not strange, it's neat." She said, though her voice was uncertain.

Petunia shook her head. "Let's just go, okay? I have better things to do than babysit."

Lily frowned with disappointment. "Tuney, wait," Lily called. She picked up a flower that had fallen from a bush, the petals already browning in color.

"What's so great about a dead flower?" Petunia asked snidely.

Lily held the flower in the palm of her hand and concentrated. The flower whitened to its original color and the petals began opening and closing. Lily grinned and looked to her sister for approval, her emerald green eyes sparkling.

Petunia was staring at her in shock. "You're even weirder than I thought," She said as she backed away.

"What?" Lily asked in confusion.

"Doing things like that!" Petunia hissed, nodding towards the flower in Lily's hand. "Don't you know what it means? You're a freak!"

Lily's face fell.

Unbeknownst to the sisters, a boy had been watching them from behind the bush where Lily had gotten the flower. He had noticed the pretty redhead float to the ground and knew instantly that she was like him. She was magical. He had been really impressed when he had seen what she had done with the flower. But now he was angry, angry at the older sister for calling her a freak. He knew what it was like to be treated with such disdain by a family member and it upset him that this girl, who was clearly already a talented witch, was having her spirit crushed. Taking a deep breath, he stepped out from behind the bush.

Petunia noticed him first and scowled. "What are you doing weirdo? Spying on us?" Suddenly her pale eyes widened and she gave a mean smile. "I've seen you around before. Your dad is that mean old drunk." She snickered.

"Tuney, don't be so mean!" Lily admonished her sister. She looked back at the thin boy who had a pallid face, black hair to his shoulders, and black eyes. She recognized him too, seeing him walk down the road occasionally in mismatched clothes that were too big for him. "Hi," She said with a sweet smile.

Severus's eyes softened. "Hi," He responded.

Petunia grabbed Lily's hand and began to pull her away. "Don't talk to him. He's strange and comes from a bad family."

Lily pulled her arm away. "Knock it off Tuney! I'm tired of you being so mean all the time." She snapped.

Petunia rolled her eyes. "Fine then, talk to him if you want to. But I care what people think of me so I am leaving. And I'm telling Mum and Dad about those strange tricks you are doing. They may want to know that their youngest is nothing but a freak!"

Lily's eyes filled with tears and suddenly a tree branch broke and almost fell on Petunia. The older girl screamed and glared at Lily. "Did you do that with your freakiness?"

"She didn't do it," The boy said quietly, staring at the blonde with contempt.

Petunia gasped. "So you're like her!" She spat out. "I should have known!" She turned and ran, leaving the two younger children alone.

Lily stared at the branch on the ground. "Did you really do that?" She asked in a whisper.

The boy nodded. "I didn't mean to though," He admitted. "It's hard to control it when I'm angry." He looked at the confused-looking girl. "My name is Severus Snape."

"Lily Evans," Lily tilted her head to the side. "What do you mean by it being hard to control? What is hard to control?"

"My magic," Severus explained. "I'm a wizard and you are a witch."

Lily's eyes darkened. "I'm not a witch!" She said defensively. She made as if to leave.

"Wait! It's not an insult, honest!" Severus said. "It's not like what you read about in fairytales. It's what we are called in the wizarding world."

Lily paused and turned back around. "Wizarding world?"

Severus grinned and nodded. "It's real. My Mum is a witch and has told me about it, including the school we'll go to. Hogwarts."

Lily looked at him for a moment and there was a spark of trust in her eyes. "So I'm not a freak?" She clarified.

Severus shook his head as he plopped to the ground and stretched out his legs. Lily sat on the green grass next to him.

"You're special," Severus told her. "You have magic, like I do."

"My parents have never mentioned it and Petunia doesn't have any," Lily said.

"Well, not everyone is magical. Those who do not have magic are muggles. They're ordinary whereas we are special." Severus told her. "And when we are eleven we get to go to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

"So the stuff I do, it's magic?" Lily asked eagerly.

"Yup. It's accidental magic although you seem to have good control of it." Severus grinned. "See, kids usually can't control the magic they do as it is tied to their emotions."

"And parents don't get mad?" Lily asked. "I've tried to hide it at home but I know my parents have noticed."

Severus's face darkened. "They shouldn't get mad," He said in a low voice. "Kids can't help it. But some parents do, especially if they are muggles." He looked at her in alarm. "Your parents haven't been angry at you have they?"

Lily shook her head. "No, only my sister has," She giggled. "So both of your parents are magical?"

"Only my Mum," Severus answered. "My dad is a muggle."

Lily could see pain in her new friend's eyes. "Does your dad not like magic?" She asked hesitantly.

"He doesn't like much of anything," Severus answered. Especially me and my Mum, he thought bitterly. The only thing his father liked was his alcohol and slapping his son and wife when he was in a bad mood. "Since he's a muggle but my Mum is a witch that makes me a half-blood." Seeing her curiosity, he explained about pure-bloods, half-bloods, and muggle-borns.

"Does it make a difference, being a Muggle-born?"

Severus hesitated, remembering some of the things his mother had told him. He looked at Lily and decided that it wouldn't matter. Lily was already showing herself to be powerful. "No, it doesn't make a difference," Severus answered finally.

"Good," Lily said in relief.

From then on they were best friends, meeting at the park to talk about magic, their families, and dreams for the future.

Severus sighed. He had ruined it all by calling her that horrible name during their fifth year. He had been so humiliated at being bullied by Potter and Black in front of practically the whole school that his temper had exploded. He had tried to apologize to her but then she had asked if he planned on becoming a death eater. The look on her beautiful face when she realized he did still pained him. He had wanted to tell her it wasn't because he believed purebloods were better especially as he was a half-blood himself, there were other reasons he had joined. Lily had told him they were obviously on different paths and she couldn't be friends with someone who joined a group that killed people like her and like her family. She had backed away from him, grief in her emerald eyes. She had told him goodbye in a trembling voice and walked away from him.

Severus glared down at his left arm where the tattoo was hidden under his sleeve. He had been so foolish and so full of anger. He had wanted to tell her that he wouldn't join but the older Slytherins had already told the Dark Lord about him and how adept he was at potion-making. He had felt it was too late to back out even if he had not taken the mark yet. So he had watched Lily walk away, knowing deep inside that he would regret his decision.

And regret it he had. He had become a death eater thinking he would find acceptance and power so that no one could ever hurt him the way his father had or the way his classmates had. He never wanted to feel so powerless again. He was not aware of what he was signing up for until he had already taken the mark. The Dark Lord was already insane and would torture his followers whenever the mood struck him. He would have them go on muggle-killing sprees for no other reason than entertainment. Severus had been disgusted and wanted out almost immediately but didn't know how without getting himself killed. He finally went to Albus for help, knowing if anyone could help him it would be the Headmaster.

Albus had helped him but also had asked him to become a spy for the Order of Phoenix. Severus had not wanted to stay a death eater but knew that if it would help the Order then it would be a way to make up for his horrible decision to join in the first place. Besides, he wanted the monster gone. His spying was kept secret from the Order at the time and then had come the fateful day that he and another junior death eater had overheard the prophecy. Severus had scoffed at the idea as he did not hold divination in high esteem yet his fellow death eater couldn't wait to tell the Dark Lord, hoping he would hold them in higher favor. After telling the Dark Lord and acting like he was hoping this would make himself more important as a follower he quickly let Albus know. Albus told him to keep his eyes and ears open, as at that time they did not know if the Dark Lord would take the prophecy seriously. Unfortunately, he had. When Severus heard that the Potters' son had been targeted he had felt true fear run through him. He had gone to Albus, begging him to protect them. Albus had assured him that he would do what he could to hide the Potters' and Severus had relaxed a little.

But then came the night that his dark mark had faded. Before he could find out what was going on, Albus had contacted him telling him that the Potters' had been attacked and Lily and James killed. Their baby had survived somehow and Albus had figured it must be some sort of sacrificial magic which he used to make protective wards at Petunia's house. Severus had gone to Godric's Hollow and stared at the mess of rumble that had once been Lily's home. There had been nothing left, the bodies declared desecrated.

He had been devastated. While deep in his grief for his lost friend Albus had asked him to help protect her son. Severus agreed out of his love for Lily and regret for the choices he had made in his life. He would also continue to keep tabs on the death eaters who were still free, in case the Dark Lord wasn't gone for good. And he had kept his promise, although he had treated Potter so horribly. Part of it had been an act as he had to appear to the children of death eaters that he hated the boy who lived. Most of it though had been because Potter so much resembled his school tormentor that it had been easy to pretend it was James he was insulting. Except for those blasted eyes. Those eyes were her eyes.

His floo flared to life and Albus stepped out. "You wanted to talk to me, Severus? How did everything with Harry go?"

TBC: 

Disclaimer:  I do not own Harry Potter. All characters belong to J.K. Rowling.

"Ronald! Language!" Mrs. Weasley called up the stairs. Her face had reddened with embarrassment when everyone in the Order heard her son shout. Not that she could blame him, hearing that Harry was staying with Severus concerned her too. She had heard how awful Severus had been to Harry from her children. Yet she suspected there was more to Severus Snape that he kept hidden.

"Mum! Have you heard? The Headmaster is making Harry stay with Snape!" Ron hurried down the stairs with Harry and the twins right behind him.

"Ron!" Harry hissed.

"Yes Ron, I just found out. And it is Professor Snape," Mrs. Weasley looked at Harry in concern. "It is…surprising. I'm sure you will learn a lot from him Harry, he is a very knowledgeable wizard." She said as if trying to sound encouraging.

Harry nodded and tried not to look nervous about staying the summer with Snape. So far he had been pretty decent but what about when lessons started? He remembered their occlumency lesson and couldn't help but shudder a bit.

"Hello, Harry. Sounds like you will be having a busy summer." Mr. Weasley said with a kind smile as he walked up to them.

"Yes Sir." Harry smiled at the rest of the Order members as they walked by but when he saw Remus he brightened. "Remus!"

Remus barely looked at him, instead seeming to look over his head. "Hello, Harry. How are you?" He asked in a distant voice.

"Fine," Harry bit his lip. "How are you?"

"It's been rough Harry," Remus said shortly. His voice wasn't unkind exactly, but it was clear he wanted to keep walking past Harry.

"I know…I'm sorry." Harry said softly.

Remus glanced at him briefly. "It wasn't…it's not…" He sighed. "I'll see you later."

"Oh, okay. Maybe we can talk later?" Harry asked hopefully.

"I'll be busy this summer but I will see you when school starts. I'm taking over the Defense position again." Remus gave him a small smile this time.

"That's brilliant." Harry tried to smile back but it was hard. Remus was acting different and it didn't take a genius to figure out why.

"That's great!" Ron said, his concern for Harry's summer plans momentarily pushed aside. "We were wondering who would take that position."

"Congratulations Professor!" The twins chimed in.

"Thank you." Remus smiled at them. He glanced back at Harry and the smile faded a bit. "I'll see you later Harry. Have a good summer and try to pay attention and work hard this time in occlumency, all right?" He patted Harry on the shoulder absently and walked past him with Tonks following. She flashed Harry a sympathetic smile.

Harry stared after them as they disappeared into the fireplace. He blames me, Harry thought numbly.

"Mr. Potter, it is time to go," Severus said, coming to stand beside him. He had been watching their exchange and there was no other way for Harry to interpret Lupin's attitude.

"Why can't he stay longer? Or come to the burrow for lunch?" Ron asked loudly, narrowing his eyes at Snape.

Severus glowered at the annoying Weasley and was pleased when the boy gulped and stepped back. "We have training to start and a schedule to keep. Not that I need to explain myself to you, Mr. Weasley." He said snidely.

Ron scowled but didn't say anything more.

"I'll see you guys later. Soon, hopefully," Harry gave all the Weasleys a small smile and followed Snape to the fireplace.

They stepped out into the living room at Snape Manor and once again Severus helped to steady Harry as he stumbled out. He didn't say anything about it this time.

Harry stood in the middle of the room, his mind replaying Remus's words. Pay attention and work hard this time in occlumency he thought with a sick feeling. Remus blamed him for Sirius's death. Harry really shouldn't be surprised he felt that way, after all, Harry blamed himself as well. He had just thought that maybe he and Remus could talk about Sirius and grieve for him with each other. Maybe share their favorite memories of him…

"Potter."

Harry looked up in surprise. He had forgotten where he was for a moment. "Yes sir?"

Severus hesitated. He wasn't good at comforting, especially with Harry Potter. "You may have free time until lunch which will be at one. If you would like to fly, you may do so. Just do not go past the wards."

Harry's face lit up. "Really? Thanks, sir!" He hurried up the stairs to get his firebolt.

Severus went into his study to make a schedule for them to follow. Occlumency would be every other day as it would be too much for Potter if they did it every day. The days they did not do occlumency they would practice dueling in the afternoons. He put down that breakfast was at eight, lunch at one, and dinner at six. Lights out was eleven. He added time slots for studying and free time. He sighed and put down the parchment. It was bad enough that he was stuck with Potter all summer but now he actually felt sorry for him. Felt sorry for the boy hero who broke the rules, snuck around, and snooped in his pensive. But despite being annoying, the child didn't deserve all he had been through. And he didn't deserve the way Lupin had snubbed him.

Severus called for Cora and asked her if after lunch she would take Harry's measurements and then put in an order for all new clothes. It wasn't hard to imagine that those horrible muggles hadn't provided at all for the boy.

When lunchtime rolled around Severus levitated the parchment detailing the schedule to set beside Harry's plate.

"We will begin occlumency tonight," Severus informed him. He thought it best to get the first lesson over and done with. He would have to approach it more carefully, especially if any memories of the Dursleys came up.

"Okay," Harry said glumly. He was looking forward to learning to duel but not to occlumency. He was hopeless at it anyway and didn't see the point. But he had to try. He didn't want Voldemort to trick him through his mind again. He didn't want to be responsible for another person's death.

"After lunch, Cora is going to take your measurements for new clothes," Severus continued.

Harry was startled. New clothes? "That is not necessary sir. I don't need new clothes."

Severus's eyes roved over what Harry was wearing. "Is that so?" He eyed the clothes in distaste.

Harry gritted his teeth. "It is. Besides, I don't have enough money with me right now. I would have to go to Gringotts."

Severus gave a dismissive wave of his hand and continued eating his pasta. "That will not be necessary Potter. I will be paying for them." He said curtly. Potter was his responsibility for the summer and it shouldn't be up to a child to buy their clothes that was what guardians were supposed to do.

Harry's mouth dropped open. He was going to what? "No, that's okay. I can pay for clothes if I want to get them." He insisted.

Severus put down his fork. "Let me make this clearer, as you seem to have trouble understanding. I do not care if you want new clothes, you will be getting new clothes. I will be paying for them as you are in my care for the summer." He glared at Harry.

"You do not have to do that sir. I have enough money. If you want me to get new clothes I will. I just have to make a trip to Gringotts."

Severus stared at him. "You are in my care for the summer," He said slowly. "That means I am your guardian, unofficial as it may be. Therefore getting you the supplies you need is my responsibility and I do not want to hear another word about it. Now finish your lunch, you can't afford to miss a meal." He continued eating.

Harry picked up his fork and swirled it in his pasta. He ate a few bites as he thought. Why would Snape want to buy him new clothes? Maybe the Headmaster had told him to do it? But still, Snape said he was using his own money to buy them. If the Headmaster had told him to buy Harry new clothes wouldn't he provide the money? It didn't make sense. Snape had always hated him so why would he buy him anything? After all the Dursleys are his guardians, hate him and they never bought him anything. After he finished his meal he pushed away his plate and tried again, despite knowing he would upset his teacher. "Sir, you don't need to buy me anything. I can take care of myself." He said quietly.

Severus felt his temper start to rise. He could understand that Potter wasn't used to having someone take care of his needs but how many times did he need to repeat himself? "Potter enough. I am buying you new clothes. End of story." He said firmly.

"But-"

"I said enough!" Severus snapped. "You are a child and your guardian should be providing you with clothes, food, and school supplies. And for the time being, I am your guardian."

"I'm not a child!" Harry shot back. "And I can provide for myself, I always have before." He said stubbornly.

"You shouldn't have had to!" Severus stood up. "Cora will meet you in the sitting room. Do not give her any trouble or else. Go now." He ordered.

Harry stood up slowly.

Severus nodded once. "Go. You may start on your lines afterward."

That distracted Harry. "What lines?" He demanded.

Severus smirked. "You don't think I have forgotten that you called me a git earlier do you?" Having said that, he swept from the room.

/

"Young Master, you's needs to stay still!" Cora frowned as she waved her hands in front of Harry.

"Sorry." Harry was having trouble not fidgeting. He felt embarrassed having a house elf take his measurements. House elves didn't need wands so she was using her hands, waving them over him and then making notes on a parchment.

"Tis okay young master. Cora is almost done." Cora smiled at him fondly. "Do you's have any favorite colors Young Master?"

"You can call me Harry."

Cora rolled her large eyes. "Favorite color's Young Master?"

Harry sighed and gave a rueful chuckle. He shrugged. "I like most colors I guess. Wait no pink. Um, and nothing with lace or anything like that," He said quickly, thinking about Ron's dress robes for the Yule Ball during their fourth year.

"Cora is finished!" Cora looked at her list thoughtfully. "You's is red and gold and Master Snape is green and silver. You's would look good in all those colors!"

Harry's eyes widened. If she only got him clothes in those colors he would walk around looking like a decorated Christmas tree! "No, wait-"

Cora popped away.

Harry closed his eyes in defeat. Wonderful. He had thought that if he was going to be getting new clothes, he could get rid of his awful hand-me-downs but now he thought it best to hold on to them. He went up to his room and sat down to begin his lines. Only he would get assigned lines during the summer. He looked down at the parchment Snape had given him. I will treat my guardian, Professor Snape, with respect and not argue about clothes any longer was written on the top. Two hundred lines were pretty tame for Snape, especially considering that Harry had called him a git. He figured the lines could serve as a distraction as he didn't want to think of the occlumency lessons coming up after dinner. He smiled a bit remembering how he had actually enjoyed cleaning the Dursley's attic for the same reason, a distraction. He frowned slightly when he remembered the box he had found which was in his wardrobe. He hadn't looked through it since he had found it. He would do that after his lines. He remembered that he hadn't finished checking to see if there was anything else in there and he still needed to cut Aunt Petunia out of the picture he had found.

Harry worked on his lines and was just finishing the last one when he noticed it was almost dinnertime. He shook out his hand and stood up. A loud pop had him startled.

"Here is your new clothes Young Master! Oh, and Cora will be getting rid of your old ones now." Cora clapped her hands and his wardrobe opened and before Harry could stop her, the rags that had served as his clothes were gone. Several large packages appeared on his bed. Cora beamed at him and then popped away.

Harry looked helplessly at his empty wardrobe. If what he thought was in those boxes actually was, he was doomed. Hesitatingly he opened the first box. T-shirts, dress shirts and jumpers. Nice ones. And while some were indeed in red and some in green there was no silver or gold. There was blue, black, white and tan. They were the nicest shirts he had ever had. The next box held dress pants and jeans. The third box made him blush a little as they were undergarments as well as socks, dress shoes, and sneakers. There was even a nice coat for when it was winter. He couldn't believe it. It must have cost a lot, Harry thought guilty. He had never had someone spend so much on him before. He held up a dark blue shirt. It would be nice to have clothes he wasn't embarrassed to be seen in. He changed into a blue t-shirt and a new pair of jeans. It felt good to have clothes that fit. He put on his new trainers and smiled at the perfect fit. He had tripped a lot growing up from wearing Dudley's old shoes. He looked at the last of the old clothes on his bed.

"Um, Cora?" He called out.

Cora popped into the room. "Yes Young Master?" Her eyes widened happily. "You's be looking wonderful Young Master!"

"Thank you Cora." Harry smiled at her. He pointed at the old clothes on his bed. "Can you get rid of those as well? It's the last of…my old stuff."

Cora beamed. "Cora would be most happy to!" She waved her hand and the clothes were gone. She waved her hand again and the rest of the new clothes were put appropriately away. "Dinner's in five minutes Young Master!" She popped away before Harry could thank her again.

/

Severus walked into the dining area at the same time as Harry and looked approvingly at what he was wearing. "Sir, thank you for the clothes," Harry said feeling a little shy.

Severus nodded. "You are welcome, Mr. Potter."

"I have to admit I was nervous, Cora acted like she was going to only get me clothes in red, gold, green, and silver," Harry admitted.

Severus felt his lips twitch as he fought back a laugh. "Cora can sometimes have a sly sense of humor."

"She banished my old clothes. I wasn't sad to see them go." Harry continued. He dug into his pot roast, not noticing that Severus was watching him thoughtfully. "I mean, I know they looked awful. It's a relief to not have to wear them."

Severus kept silent, wondering if Potter was even aware that he was opening up about his past. At least he was a little bit in talking about how it felt to have been made to wear such degrading garments.

"These though are really nice so thank you." Harry finished as he happily continued eating. "Your food is really good; I may not fit these clothes much longer."

Severus snorted at the skinny teenager. "I believe you have some time before that would happen, Mr. Potter."

Harry looked a little affronted but didn't say anything. They finished their dinner in silence and then retreated to the study. Severus stood in front of his desk and regarded Harry for a moment. "The mind is made up of many thoughts and emotions. Occlumency is being able to hide your true thoughts and emotions, almost like putting up a protective shield to guard them. Once truly accomplished you can hide your memories and emotions under falsehoods so that whoever is trying to break into your mind will not find or suspect anything. This is how I can spy successfully. I bury my emotions and true feelings and feed him false thoughts and memories so that he does not suspect anything."

Severus pulled out his wand. "We will start slow. Clear your mind. Box away your emotions for the moment. You will feel me in your mind so try and push me out. Are you ready to try?"

Harry nodded, trying to clear his mind and make it blank.

"Legilemens!"

He was watching as Cedric fell down dead, he was being stared at after talking in Parseltongue, he was falling off his broom after seeing the Dementors in the sky, and he was seeing Voldemort being brought back into the graveyard.

Harry fell to the ground, trying to catch his breath. It was worse than he remembered.

"Merlin, you're just as bad as ever," Severus muttered as he waited for Potter to get up. "Did you even try?"

Harry shot Snape a dark look as he got back up. "I'm ready." That was all he said.

Severus raised an eyebrow and lifted his wand to cast the spell.

He was watching in shock as Sirius fell through the veil, he was breaking everything in the Headmaster's office, he was watching Remus walk away from him, he was writing with a quill that cut into his hand.

"Excuse me? What was that?" Severus practically yelled. Had he really just seen a blood quill being used on a student?

Harry was panting on the floor. "What was what?"

"The quill Potter," Severus said with gritted teeth.

"Oh, that." Harry got back up and gave a little shrug. "Umbridge. That happened in the detentions I had with her."

Severus's face darkened with fury. Did she use a blood quill? A blood quill? Even he would never do that despite how much he detested most of the dunderheads he taught. "As I never heard anything about it, I imagine you didn't tell any of the Professors?"

Harry shook his head. "No sir. I kind of thought Professor McGonagall knew about it actually. She said to stay out of trouble and to keep my head down."

Severus closed his eyes. Idiot child. "I assure you she did not know. If she had, she probably would have transfigured that toad of a woman into an actual toad. If she didn't, I would have if I had known."

"You would have?" Harry asked in surprise.

Severus scowled. "Yes, Potter! Believe it or not, I do not believe in abusing students like that!"

"Yeah, you just abuse them verbally," Harry said sarcastically. His eyes widened when he realized what he had said. He took a wary step back. Snape's face was whiter than usual, his dark eyes flashing.

"Let me see your hand." Severus ground out. "Now!"

Harry held out his hand where the scars were still visible. Severus looked at it for a moment and then began stalking out of the room. "Stay there Potter!"

Harry stood nervously in the middle of the room. He couldn't believe he had said that out loud. And he really couldn't believe Snape hadn't struck him down with a hex on the spot. While it was true Snape had been verbally cruel, at least he had never made him write in his own blood. He had also saved his life, defended him from the Dursleys, healed his wounds, and bought him new clothes. No wonder he hates me, Harry thought guiltily. Snape must think I'm an ungrateful brat.

Severus returned to the study, attempting to keep his anger under control. He really had no right to be angry as he had been verbally abusive to Potter. Part of that was for his spy role but most of it was because the brat looked so much like his bully of a father. "Hold out your hand." He said, trying to keep his voice even.

Once more, Harry held out his hand and watched in shock as Snape applied salve to the scars. He felt his hand tingle and watched with fascination as the scars faded a little. They weren't gone completely but were much lighter than before. "Wow. I didn't think anything would heal those scars." He remarked.

"I'm not one of the most renowned Potion Masters for nothing Potter," Severus said stiffly. He handed the small jar to Harry. "Put more on tonight and if in the morning you can still see them, put another application on."

Harry took the jar, feeling even guiltier. "I'm sorry for what I said, sir."

"There is truth to what you said, Potter. Believe me; I know that I am unkind with my words." Severus replied bluntly. "However, I would never use a torture device such as a blood quill on a child." He turned his back on Harry. "We are done for the night. Remember to practice clearing your mind before you go to sleep. Good night Potter."

Harry clutched the jar of cream. "Good night Professor. And I really am sorry."

Severus dropped into his chair after he heard the boy leave. The child was rude and impertinent. He also had a point. Severus knew full well that verbal abuse could be just as painful as physical abuse, the scars invisible to see. He had always justified it as it being part of his cover as a spy as well as the fact he had never physically hurt a student, though he had come close when Potter had snuck into his pensive. He was surprised that Potter had apologized so sincerely and so easily. Severus had always had a hard time apologizing. It reminded him of Lily, as his apology to her had not gone well. That had been a horrible day.

He sighed as he prepared to retire for the night. He was too tired to think anymore. Hopefully, the dueling tomorrow will fare better.

TBC:

Disclaimer:  I do not own Harry Potter. All characters belong to J.K. Rowling.

Harry woke up the next morning after a restless sleep. It had been hard to sleep with dreams of the Dursleys and Sirius plaguing him, as well as he was still feeling guilty for what he had said to Snape. Not that he believed he was wrong; Snape had been verbally cruel to all the students, aside from the Slytherins. Harry understood that Snape was undercover however he also understood that Snape hated him, so obviously he meant all the cruel things he said right? Harry sighed and saw the small jar of cream for his hand on the table next to him. He picked it up and put some more on the back of his hand. He watched as what remained of his scar faded completely away and smiled. No trace of Umbridge's cruelty was visible. Curious, he put some on the lightning bolt on his forehead. He watched in the mirror for a minute but nothing happened, the scar remained. Oh well. It was worth a shot.

Harry noticed it was almost eight so he quickly showered, dressed, and slowly made his way downstairs. He was a little nervous to see Snape. He hoped the man wasn't mad at him, especially as they would be dueling later and he was sure Snape knew some impressive hexes he could send Harry's way.

Harry slid into his usual seat and kept his eyes on the plate of eggs and bacon on his plate. He started eating, not saying anything as he figured that way he wouldn't risk setting the potions master off.

"No greeting Potter? My, your manners are appalling. Let me start then. Good morning Mr. Potter."

Harry sighed. So much for not setting Snape off… "Good morning Professor." He said politely.

Snape rolled his eyes and buried his face in his morning paper. "Did you sleep well?" He asked after a moment. He knew the answer as he had caught a glimpse of the exhaustion in Potter's eyes.

"I slept fine," Harry lied, taking a sip of his pumpkin juice. He was a bit startled when Snape slammed his paper down on the table and glared at him.

"Do you need to write lines about not lying Potter? Because I will be more than happy to assign them to you," Severus threatened.

"Why does it matter? I mean, what do you care if I sleep okay or not?" Harry asked in frustration. Why did Snape even ask? The Dursleys never did.

Severus was just as frustrated. Why was the boy having such a hard time grasping this? Years of neglect, his mind answered. "I am your guardian. Just like making sure you have proper clothes, inquiring as to whether you slept well or not is part of my responsibility. Now answer the question honestly. Did you sleep well?"

"No," Harry said shortly. He focused on his breakfast, ignoring the exasperating sigh from Snape.

"Was it nightmares again?" Severus asked.

Harry looked up and noticed that though Snape looked impatient there was a touch of concern there as well. "Yes," He admitted finally. "I know it makes me sound weak but-"

"Nightmares do not make you weak. Potter, I would be shocked and wondering if you were human if you did not have nightmares. You have been through much in your young life. Too much," Severus said firmly. "Would you be comfortable telling me what your nightmares consisted of?"

Harry fiddled with his glass of pumpkin juice. "The Dursley's and Sirius. And you."

"Me?" Severus repeated with a feeling of guilt. He was supposed to be helping the boy not giving him additional nightmares.

"Well, not nightmares of you. Those were just of the Dursleys and Sirius. I'm just still feeling guilty for what I said last night."

Severus worked to not let his mouth drop open. Potter was still worried about that? He had already apologized for that comment. "You do not need to feel guilty. Rude as what you said was, there is truth to it. I am often not kind with my words. The truth is, sarcasm and snarky comments work for me," Severus gave a little shrug and then smirked at the shocked look on Potter's face.

Harry grinned a little. "Yeah, I guess you, sarcasm and snarky comments go together just like Dumbledore and lemon drops."

Severus couldn't help but snort at that before he focused on the main topic. "Between the Dursleys and Black, which of them is more prominent in your dreams? Or are they both the same?"

"It used to just be the Dursleys but then after Volde-" Harry paused when he saw Snape's expression. "After You-Know-Who came back and Cedric's death, it began alternating. Now Sirius is in there too."

"Understandable," Severus said in his matter-of-fact way. "Potter, with the life you had with the Dursleys as well as your grief over losing Black, you need to talk about it. You will not heal until you do and the nightmares will certainly not stop until you do."

"You sound like you know from experience," Harry said lightly. He didn't want to talk about it. He'd rather just put it out of his mind.

Severus took a deep breath. He did not particularly want to go into his past. He knew that was hypocritical as he was trying to get Potter to do it. "I have seen and experienced terrible things myself; I do know what it is like to be plagued with bad dreams."

Harry looked at Snape curiously. "Did you talk to anyone about them?"

Severus looked down at his plate. When he was younger he had talked to Lily about his childhood. As an adult he had Albus to talk to. "I did. I still do. It helps to have someone who will listen and let you talk things out. Someone who will also help you face your past." He watched Potter silently to let him think that over. "When you feel ready, I will listen."

Harry felt surprised and a little touched. He nodded. "I'll think about it, sir."

Severus also nodded, glad Potter hadn't outright refused. "I believe you have homework to start. When you are finished with it, go ahead and leave it on my desk in the study so I may check it over. If I find your work lacking you will be doing it over. Is that understood?"

Harry sighed but nodded. No one had ever checked over his homework before. No one had ever cared to. He had a feeling he would be doing a lot of rewrites. "Sir? May I write to my friends?"

Severus stood up as the dishes vanished. "You have free time every day Potter. You may do as you wish." He left the room.

/

The afternoon of dueling was tiring. Harry realized he still had a lot to learn and also that Snape was quite powerful and fast, throwing stinging hexes and moving gracefully no matter what Harry threw back at him.

"You can't just keep throwing your shield up. Fight back!" Severus ordered, sending another stinging hex to Potter.

Harry only just missed as he jumped out of the way. "Expelliarmus!"

Severus dodged it with ease, sending his own Expelliarmus and grasping Harry's wand. "You need to move faster, cast faster. There is no time for hesitation when you are fighting for your life. You know this. You fought in the graveyard and at the ministry."

"It was different. I didn't know I would have to fight like that. Most of the stuff that has happened to me just happened. I didn't plan it. I think I'm more of a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants kind of person." Harry said with a shrug.

Severus clicked his teeth together. "You cannot count on your sheer dumb luck to save you all the time Potter! You need to be able to fight! Skillfully."

"I'm trying!" Harry insisted.

"No, you are making excuses. No excuses. Just do it!" Severus snapped and sent his wand to him before casting another hex.

Harry yelped and glared at his professor. He tried to fight back but all his hexes never hit their mark. Snape was too good and he moved too fast.

Harry threw up a shield and called for him to stop. "Can't we take a break or something?" His body was throbbing from the stinging hexes being thrown at him.

"What dedication you have. Of course, when you are fighting death eaters or the Dark Lord and ask for a break, I'm sure they will accommodate you." Severus said sarcastically. The boy showed promise in dueling, a lot of promise actually. But Severus knew Potter could do even better if he worked at it.

"That's different! I'm supposed to be learning right now, aren't I? It's not a real fight!" Harry defended himself as he scowled at Snape. "Of course, look who I'm talking to. A professor who can't teach worth a –" Harry stopped and wiped his hand over his sweaty forehead.

"Watch it, Potter," Severus warned, his eyes flashing. "Unless you want your free time taken up by writing lines and scrubbing cauldrons. Am I understood?"

Harry gritted his teeth. "Yes."

"Yes sir," Severus corrected him.

"You don't have to call me sir, Professor," Harry said without thinking. His eyes widened and he took an uncertain step back.

Severus's eyes were flashing dangerously. "You really are a disrespectful brat aren't you?" He snarled. "And you would learn if you just paid attention! The same goes for my potions classes. You hardly ever try!"

"Why should I?" Harry couldn't control his temper anymore. "You hate me! You hated me the moment you saw me! No matter what I do you will think the worst of me. So really, why should I bother? It's just like at the Dursley's, no matter what I did or how well I tried to behave I was never good enough! You both are the same!" With that, Harry ran out of the room before tears could fall without his permission. He knew he was probably in major trouble for shouting at Snape but right now, he couldn't care less.

/

Severus needed a calming draught after that little display and summoned a vial, quickly downing it. He sunk down on the couch. This was the problem. The child kept so much inside with all his anger and hurt that it was no surprise that he would explode with it. Severus hadn't meant to be so hard on him during the dueling, especially for the first lesson but every time Potter learned and got better it meant a stronger chance that he would survive this war. As for the rest of what Potter had said, they would have to discuss that soon.

Severus decided to let the boy be and not force him to continue any more dueling today. They had done enough. Besides, his temper couldn't take more of that insufferable child or his cheekiness. He rubbed his temples for a moment and then summoned Cora.

"Yes, Master Snape?"

Severus accioed two vials to him and handed them to Cora. "Could you see that Mr. Potter takes these? This one is a pain reliever and this one is a calming draught. And please tell him that I expect him to be on time for dinner."

"Of course Master Snape!" Cora popped away.

Severus felt more relaxed and decided to read over Potter's homework that he had left on his desk. I can always take any leftover frustration out on that at least, Severus smirked as he summoned his favorite red quill.

/

Harry was in his room pacing back and forth. He was torn between still feeling angry and feeling nervous about how he had spoken to Snape. He couldn't believe his professor hadn't followed him upstairs and yelled at him or hexed or something. If he had done that at the Dursleys…Harry jumped when Cora popped into the room.

"Here Young Master. Master Snape said to take these and that he will see you at dinner." Cora said as she handed the vials to Harry. "Pain reliever and calming draught," She gazed at him expectantly as she waited for him to take them.

Harry stared at the vials for a moment and then quickly drank them down. Cora nodded in approval, took the vials, and disappeared. The pain he felt from dueling faded and he felt himself relax enough to stop pacing and sit down. He sighed as he looked around. He had put the few pictures he had of his friends on his desk and the photo album of his parents on his nightstand. It made it feel like this was really his room, even if it was just for the summer. Unless Snape kicks me out, Harry thought uneasily. He wondered if that happened if he would have to go back to the Dursleys. Although Snape had said he would never have to. Harry's eyes roved over his pictures again and he sat up suddenly. He had forgotten that he had one more picture to put out. He went to his wardrobe and took out the box from the Dursley's attic, returning to sit on his bed as he opened it. He knew it was almost time for dinner so he quickly ruffled through the box to take out his Mum's picture. He wondered if there was a frame in the manor he could use. He put the box back, taking the photo with him downstairs. He never noticed that a letter had fallen from the box and floated under his bed.

/

Harry approached the table cautiously. The food was already out and his professor was merely sitting there waiting for him. Snape raised an eyebrow and nodded towards the seat Harry always sat in.

"I trust you are feeling better?" Severus asked as he scooped some mashed potatoes onto his plate.

"Um, yes sir. Thanks for the potions." Harry said as he served himself some roast chicken.

"You are welcome. I had already planned on giving you a pain reliever after our lesson but thought the other potion would be helpful as well." Severus said evenly.

"Yeah, it was," Harry admitted. He cleared his throat. "I'm sorry for earlier. I mean, I meant some of what I said but I shouldn't have said that way."

"No, you shouldn't have. Like it or not I am the adult and you are not to speak to me in that tone. I am due some respect as your guardian and as your professor." Severus said sternly. "Even if you are angry with me. Understood?"

Harry nodded. "But you speak to me like that." He pointed out.

"I believe we have discussed that I am a sarcastic and snarky man," Severus said stiffly. "I am not kind or fair. However, I will try harder to control my tongue when speaking with you." He hesitated. "This is your home for the summer and I would like you to feel comfortable here."

Harry gave a sad smile. "I do feel comfortable here actually. I mean, my room actually feels like my room and not like a guest room if that makes any sense."

"It does," Severus said after a moment. "One thing I would like to discuss. I do not want you to think of me as being like those muggle relatives of yours."

Harry shook his head. "I kno-"

"No, you did make a point. I treated you unkindly for something you cannot help, just as they did." Severus said quietly. "Your relatives hate magic therefore they automatically hated you. You never had a chance with them they were so deep in their hate," He sat back. "You remember what you saw in my pensive?" He asked levelly.

Harry flushed and nodded. He hated thinking of what he had seen, of his father and Sirius acting like major bullies and being so cruel.

Severus hated thinking about that day too. Unfortunately, he could still remember it as if it were yesterday…

Severus was reviewing the answers he had put down on Flitwick's test in his head as he walked across the grounds when he heard laughter.

"Hey there Snivellus," Sirius smirked as James laughed.

Severus immediately dropped his bag and went for his wand but was seconds too late as Potter called out, "Expelliarmus!" Defenseless, he faced his tormentors. Just leave me alone, he thought desperately. He lunged towards his wand that lay several feet away but apparently Potter had been watching for that.

"Impedimenta!" James smirked as Severus was knocked off his feet, falling to the ground with a thud.

Severus struggled to get free of the hex so he could get up but he couldn't. "You just wait!" He spat at Potter and Black. Someday, he thought. Someday I will be powerful enough so that you never treat me like this again, so that no one ever treats me like this.

"Leave him alone!" Lily stalked through the small crowd that had formed to watch and glared at James and Sirius.

"Something wrong Evans?" James asked innocently.

"You know there is Potter. Leave Severus alone. What has he ever done to you?" Lily glared.

"Hmm," James said somewhat thoughtfully. "It's more the fact he exists, you see."

"You're an arrogant git," She told him coldly. "You think you are so wonderful but you are just a bully. Now leave him alone!"

"Sure, I'll do that." James grinned. "If you agree to go out with me."

Lily laughed. "Go out with you? I'd rather date the Giant Squid!" She snapped.

Sirius snickered when James's face fell. "Tough luck Prongs," He said. He noticed Severus crawling to his wand. "Oi!"

Severus cast a quick hex and a shallow slash appeared on Potter's cheek. An instant later there was a bright flash and Severus found himself hanging upside down in the air, his robes falling to reveal his pale legs.

"You should wash your underwear Snivellus!" James, Sirius, and the rest of the crowd erupted into laughter at the grey hue of the upside-down boy's underpants.

Severus shut his eyes in humiliation, tears starting to form. They're that color because they are old and have been washed with dark colors! He wanted to shout to defend himself. His clothes may be ugly but they were clean for Merlin's sake!

Lily sucked in her breath at the sheer cruelty of Potter and his friends. "Let him down," She said dangerously as she took out her wand.

"Ah Evans, don't make me hex you," James said though he appeared a little nervous now. He exchanged a glance with Sirius and took a step back. Evans was a skillful witch, everyone knew this.

"James, let's just go," Remus Lupin said softly. "Enough is enough."

"This is funny!" Peter Pettigrew protested.

James shrugged. "Fine, I'll let him down." With a flick of his wand, Severus fell to the ground, hard.

Severus winced from the impact and then quickly got up, wand out to defend himself. However, Black decided to cast Locomotor Mortis and he fell to the ground again, stiff as a board. I hate them, he seethed. I hate them so much. Hearing the laughter from his fellow peers, he felt even more anger. He hated all of them! Hate and anger were consuming him and he almost found relief in it. He soothed himself with all the curses he would learn and create to get back at everyone.

"Leave him alone!" Lily said hoarsely. "This is your last warning!"

James sighed and released the curse. He smirked. "Good thing Evans was here Snivellus."

Completely caught up in feelings of hate and darkness, Severus spat out something he would forever regret. "As if I need any help from anyone, especially mudbloods!"

Lily stared at Severus in shock. Her temper flared and she glared at Severus. "Have it your way Snivellus!" She snapped.

"Apologize to Evans!" James demanded Severus, pointing his wand at him.

"Shut up Potter! You're just as bad!" Lily turned and walked away, tears falling from her eyes.

"I wouldn't ever call you that!" James called after her. He turned to Snape with an angry look.

Severus didn't care what Potter and his friends did to him now. All of the anger and hate had fled him as soon as he had seen Lily's expression when he had used that foul word. Never again, he promised himself. I'll never call anyone that word again. He hadn't meant it; he hadn't even realized he had said it until it was too late. Merlin, Lily would hate him now and he would deserve it. No excuse, he scolded himself. No excuse at all for using that word.

Severus pushed the memory of that horrible day away and focused on his ward. "You look so much like your father that I assumed you were just like him. I never even gave you a chance to prove me wrong. I treated you as if you were him. It was…wrong of me," Severus admitted gruffly. He really wasn't good at apologizing even if he was wrong. "As you know, we did not get along and the way I was treated made me bitter and angry. I am not good at letting go of grudges but even so, I should not take them out on you."

"I'm not my father," Harry said softly. "I would never bully someone like that. Especially as I know what it feels like to be bullied. When I was younger, Dudley and his friends played Harry Hunting." He gave Snape a shrug.

Severus felt a flare of anger. Harry Hunting? Did not one adult see this and try to stop it? "I know you are not. Well, now I know," He admitted. He had already been made aware of that fact by the few things he saw during their occlumency lessons. Unfortunately, when the pensive incident happened, Severus had forgotten everything except how humiliated he felt by a Potter yet again. He had lost track of the fact that this was Lily's child too. He shuddered to think of what she would say if she knew how he had treated her son.

Harry felt relieved that Snape was admitting he wasn't like his father had been. "I was pretty angry when I saw your memories," Harry said slowly. "I couldn't believe my father had been like that. He and Sirius reminded me of Malfoy and his friends. I never told anyone what I saw." He didn't notice the surprised look on Severus's face. "Well, I did confront Sirius and Remus about it."

"May I ask what they said?" Severus asked curiously.

Harry rolled his eyes. "That they were fifteen and idiots and everyone was an idiot at fifteen."

Severus snorted. "I see."

"It made me wonder what my Mum saw in him," Harry continued his voice soft. "She didn't seem like she was a bully too."

"No, she was exceptionally kind. Well, except for those who angered her," Severus smiled a little. "She was never afraid to stand up against bullies. I deeply regretted what I called her."

Harry frowned. "That was a horrible name to call her. She was just trying to help you!"

"Yes, I know. I regretted it as soon as I uttered the foul name. I was being humiliated in front of practically the whole school and then being scorned because a girl was the one defending me." Severus grimaced at the memory. "I lashed out."

Harry considered this. He supposed he could understand that to a certain degree. Suddenly he remembered the day when Snape came and got him at the Dursleys. The way he and his Aunt had talked to each other… "You knew my Aunt didn't you?" He blurted out. "I forgot but when you came to the Dursley's you two talked like you knew each other. So if you did, then that means you must have known my mother before you attended Hogwarts," He looked eagerly at Snape. "Am I right?"

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Severus closed his eyes for a moment. He needed to correct Harry's misconceptions. "I highly doubt you forced them to go to the ministry with you. They knew of the danger and went with you not just because they were your friends but because it was their fight too. The Weasleys are already considered 'blood traitors' and Miss. Granger is a muggle-born. They are in danger no matter what."

Harry was quiet for a moment. He supposed that was true.

Severus leaned forward. "You do know the reason you take the blame for everything don't you? You were raised to. Your relatives blamed you for things that were not your fault and that programmed you to believe that anything bad is because of you. It is not."

Harry nodded. "I'm trying to believe that, really. And I appreciate you helping me deal with things. Whoever your friend was taught you well," He offered a smile.

Severus looked away. Should he tell him? He took a deep breath. "It was your mother Harry." He said finally.

"What?" Harry thought he must have heard wrong. Snape had said he barely knew his mother before Hogwarts.

Severus sighed. "Lily was my best friend until our fifth year. We met when we were nine and I saw her doing magic. I told her that she was a witch and all about Hogwarts. Petunia hated me and blamed me for encouraging Lily in her freakishness, as she put it. She was most unkind but also jealous that she had no magic of her own."

Harry was more than surprised. "You said you only occasionally saw my Mum at the park!" He accused.

"It is hard for you to talk about your past, just as it is the same for me to talk about mine," Severus said firmly.

Harry wasn't sure if he should feel angry or not. "It's just…strange. You hated my Dad but were best friends with my Mum?"

Severus leaned back in his chair. "It is ironic I suppose."

"No wonder Mum was so angry at my Dad in your memory. I get angry whenever Malfoy tries to bully Ron or Hermione." Harry mused. He frowned. "But then how could you hate me so much if I am also Mum's son? I mean, if you were best friends?"

Severus closed his eyes. "It does not make sense. I told you I treated you unfairly because you look like your father. My bitterness and anger got twisted through the years and I took it out on you. I also have tried to protect you for Lily, my only true friend. Now, however, I will protect you for you."

Harry was surprised and touched. He wondered about something else. "What about at school? I mean…"

"We will have to keep up appearances that we despise each other. It will only be an act, Harry. We will work it out, all right?" Severus said seriously.

Harry nodded slowly. He understood. He didn't want to put Snape's life in jeopardy. "Okay. Will you tell me what my Mum was like as a kid?" He asked eagerly.

Severus inclined his head. "Yes, after we finish our lesson."

Harry rolled his eyes good-naturally and quickly dodged a stinging hex. "Hey! We aren't doing dueling today!" He protested.

"You must always be prepared." Severus deadpanned. "Good reflexes by the way."

Harry felt pleased with the praise as they stood and prepared to continue Occlumency.

"When I go to the death eater meetings, I am pretending. My thoughts are pretending. They have to pretend to want to be there, pretend to hate the Headmaster, and pretend to hate you." Severus began.

"Pretending? So you really don't hate me?" Harry interrupted.

"Now that I know you…no, so thank you for making my job harder by being somewhat likable," Severus said in mock annoyance.

Harry grinned. "Sorry sir."

Severus rolled his eyes before continuing his lecture, although he couldn't stop a small smile from forming.

/

Harry flopped into a chair, tired from the occlumency lesson. He had been able to mostly push Snape out of his mind but it had been tiring and emotionally draining.

Severus called for Cora to bring them some tea and biscuits. He eyed Harry. "All right?"

Harry nodded wearily. "Yeah, it just can get intense."

"Yes," Severus agreed as Cora brought them a tray of tea and biscuits. "Thank you, Cora."

"You's is welcome Master Snape." Cora beamed and popped away.

"Interesting memories you had tonight," Severus said somewhat snidely. "The basilisk was certainly larger than I had thought it would be." His stomach had clenched when he had seen a twelve-year-old Harry Potter poisoned by the basilisk.

Harry nodded. "Yeah, that was a close one." He said. "If it wasn't for Fawkes, you wouldn't have had to be forced into letting me stay here." He said jokingly.

Severus scowled. "Not funny," He said sternly. "I am not forced into doing anything, I am glad you are here and I want you here." He stirred his tea. "And I see I was right that you had been in Hogsmeade your third year." He said with a raised eyebrow. "Exactly how many times have you used that cloak to wander around where you should not be?"

"It wasn't fair that I couldn't go and anyway, it turned out that Sirius was innocent," Harry shrugged. "I was in more danger in my dorm room with Scabbers."

Severus gritted his teeth at the mention of the traitor who had led the Dark Lord to the Potters. "At the time, you did not know that." He pointed out to Harry. "Sometimes the rules that are put in place for your safety may not be fair but as long as you come through this war alive, that is all that matters."

"Do you really think I will?" Harry asked quietly.

"Look at me. Yes, I do believe you will," Severus said with feeling. "You are a strong wizard already, brave and you are not fighting alone."

"Thanks," Harry said, feeling a little surer of his survival.

"Never mind your sheer dumb luck," Severus smirked.

Harry rolled his eyes yet laughed. "Yeah, I don't know what I would do without it." He brightened. "So you were going to tell me a story of my mum as a child?" He asked.

Severus nodded slowly. "Yes. I first saw her and her sister at the park near my house and when she jumped off the swing she was on, she floated slowly to the ground. She then picked up a flower that was on the ground and made the petals open and close in her hand. I knew she was magical and already a strong witch. Although, she was offended at first," He chuckled. "She thought I was insulting her but then I told her about the wizarding world and Hogwarts and she was fascinated."

Harry leaned forward, soaking in everything he was hearing about his Mum. While he had heard a lot about his dad over the years, no one ever talked much of his mother.

"She kept questioning that it was real, that I wasn't making it up," Severus rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Of course, Petunia was telling her that I was lying to her."

"Of course," Harry made a face as he thought about his hateful aunt.

Severus continued, telling Harry about one afternoon when Lily had once again questioned magic being real.

"Lily?"

Lily turned, her eyes red from crying to see Severus walking towards her.

Severus stopped. "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

"It is real, right? You haven't been playing a joke on me?" Lily asked anxiously as stepped closer to him. "Petunia says you've been lying to me and that there isn't a Hogwarts. Please tell me it's real." She said. "If it's real, then it means I am not a freak or weird like my sister tells me I am."

"It's real for us," Severus assured her. "Not for her but you and I will receive the letters."

Lily smiled brightly and Severus found himself smiling back. He usually had no reason to smile but being friends with Lily had changed that.

"I wish Tuney wouldn't say such mean things," Lily sighed as she sat and stretched out on the leafy ground, staring up at the trees.

Severus lay down next to her, looking up at the clear sky. "She's jealous because she's not special," He said bluntly.

"Severus, don't be mean." Lily sighed.

"I'm not. She's being mean, treating you the way she is." Severus said, his mind going to his father. "They shouldn't try and make us feel like we aren't normal just because they are jealous of us."

Lily didn't say anything for a moment. "How are things at your house?"

"The usual," Severus said in a flat tone.

"Oh."

"My parents argue a lot, but that's the usual for our house," Severus continued. "My dad doesn't understand…doesn't want to understand…" He trailed off. "The important thing is that before we know it, we'll be on a train to Hogwarts and we'll only have to be here during the summers."

"I'll miss my family," Lily sighed as she looked up at the sky. "But I really want to go to Hogwarts."

"I think she didn't want to give up on her sister changing," Severus said. "But that was just who she was, wanting everyone to be happy and get along. You're like her in that way," He said thoughtfully. "You have her compassion, her kindness."

Harry smiled slowly. "I wish I could have known her," He said wistfully.

Severus shut his eyes for a moment and then gazed at Harry sadly. "I wish you could have too," He said softly.

/

After finally finishing the final draft of his Transfiguration essay, Harry stood up and stretched. He had to marvel at how much had changed so far this summer. It was the first time he had felt like he had a parent figure around. He loved the Weasleys and knew they thought of him as family but it wasn't the same. Here with Snape, it was kind of like they were a family. Snape was his guardian, at least for the summer, and surprisingly fit the role rather well. There had been some arguments but from what he saw of the Weasley's that was pretty normal. Besides occasionally arguing, Snape made sure he ate well, did his homework, got enough sleep, and took care of him when he was hurt or sick. Snape was also teaching him to defend himself and could actually be a very good teacher. Harry had to smirk at the thought of what his friends at school would think if he told them that. Harry had been surprised yet pleased that he was learning a lot during their potions lessons as well. He wasn't the best at potion making but Snape had admitted he was showing much more promise than he did at school.

That had brought up the issue of how things would be at school and Snape had said again that he would have to act like he still hated Harry. He said that any unfair points he took he would make sure the Headmaster or McGonagall discreetly gave him back and that although he would act like Harry's homework was the worst in front of the class, he would grade it fairly. Any detentions he assigned would be a way for Snape to be able to talk with Harry and check up on how he was doing. It didn't sound too bad but Harry still wished Snape wasn't a spy so that he wouldn't have to pretend at all. Also, he didn't want Snape's life to be in danger.

Harry grinned when he remembered how that morning Snape had asked him what he would like to do for his birthday, which was coming up soon. Harry hadn't known what to say as he wasn't used to actually celebrating his birthday and Snape had merely rolled his eyes in amusement and said he would figure something out.

Harry was making his way to his room to get his Firebolt when he felt a prickly sensation in his scar. He stopped walking and automatically focused on occluding and trying to put up the protective shields in his mind that he had been working on. "Sir?" He called out, turning around and going towards the study. "Severus?"

Harry found Snape standing in the study, holding his left arm and grimacing. He looked up and saw Harry and immediately he relaxed his face. "Are you occluding?" He asked right away.

"Yes, as soon as my forehead started to tingle," Harry said, looking at Snape in concern. "He's calling you isn't he?"

Severus nodded. He had been hoping the Dark Lord would stay hidden away for longer. He hoped that he was being summoned because he was needed to make potions and not to start attacks. "You need to start keeping your shields up all the time. Minimal shields," He instructed Harry. "Let's get you to the Weasley's and then I will go."

"I don't need to be babysat," Harry said indignantly. "I can stay here." He hadn't written to or heard from Ron since their argument so he wasn't sure he really wanted to see him yet. It would be easier when Hermione was around as she could usually make Ron see reason. Plus he wanted to be at the manor so he could see that Snape was okay when he got back.

Severus hesitated. His manor was safe, safer than the Weasley's and Cora was here if Harry needed anything. He looked at Harry's worried gaze and felt touched by the concern. He realized Harry wanted to be here so he would know immediately when Severus returned. "All right," He said finally. "Cora is here if you need her. Stay in the manor while I am gone. Floo the Weasley's if anything seems amiss or if I am not back by morning, understood?"

Harry nodded and watched as Severus summoned his robe and mask. Harry looked away as seeing those items brought back images from the graveyard. "Please be careful," He whispered.

"I will." Severus tucked the robe and mask into his pocket, not wanting to put it on in front of Harry. He threw floo powder down and his last glimpse before disappearing into the flames was of Harry watching him with worry in his eyes.

/

Severus apparated to the house where the Dark Lord was hiding out and greeted him appropriately. "It is good to see you, my lord." He said respectfully. He was satisfied to see that the creature still looked weak.

"Severus," Voldemort hissed. "I require your potion expertise. My strength is coming back but too slowly. I need to be restored to my full power and strength right away!"

Severus nodded respectfully. "Of course my lord, I will start work on strengthening potions tonight." Of course, he wouldn't make them that potent…

"Yes, you will. You will bring them to me the next time I call you." Voldemort said, narrowing his red eyes at Severus. "Any news of Harry Potter?"

Severus's face distorted in distaste. "No, my lord. It is summer and the brat is with his family."

Bellatrix, who stood close to Voldemort, snorted in disbelief. "Why can't you just go get the boy and bring him here?" She asked in a whiny voice.

Severus gave her a condescending look. "His home is protected from death eaters, I believe you know this." Well, real death eaters anyway, Severus thought with an inward smirk. He kept his true thoughts deeply hidden, however.

Bellatrix glared at him.

"Stop this! It is bad enough that my followers are beginning to think I am weak because of that boy!" Voldemort hissed angrily. "I must destroy him as soon as possible. I will make sure he suffers first as he deserves to." He added maliciously.

Bellatrix's face lit up. "Please Master; may I help make him suffer? I would make you proud, I assure you."

"Of course, my dear Bella. Everyone who I am pleased with will have a chance to make that boy beg for death." Voldemort said, his eyes showing his anticipation for that day.

Outwardly Severus nodded in approval but inside he was screaming. You will touch that boy over my dead body! He thought furiously.

"What are Potter's plans for the summer dear Severus? I understand he usually goes somewhere or to his little friend's house?" Voldemort stared at Severus.

"I have not heard of any definite plans yet my lord," Severus said smoothly. "I believe after the ministry incident Dumbledore wants him to stay where he is to make sure he is protected."

"You believe or you know?" Voldemort asked casually. Too casually. "If Dumbledore trusts you as much as you say he does, then why do you not know for sure?"

"He does trust me, my lord. The last time I spoke with him he was clear in his wish for Potter to stay just where he is with his family. If I hear any different, I will immediately let you know." Severus said in a steady voice.

The rest of the death eaters began arriving and soon Voldemort was standing in front of them. He had batted Bellatrix away when she had tried to help him stand as he was shaking slightly. "My... loyal ones," Voldemort whispered. "I have heard some displeasing things. That my own followers think I am weak. That they are thinking that Potter is stronger than me."

The Death Eaters voiced their protests, pledging their loyalty to their master. "I can see it!" Voldemort hissed. "I can see your doubt! So let me show you just how weak I really am!" Using all his power even though he was still recovering, Voldemort cast the Cruciatus curse on everyone in the room at once. Not one of them was safe from his fury.

"And an extra reminder to you Severus, I want those potions and I demand that you find out Potter's exact plans for the rest of his summer!" Voldemort used the last bit of strength he had to cast curse after curse at the potion master before collapsing back in his seat and panting, his magic practically gone from overexerting. He quickly sent everyone away, except for Bellatrix and Wormtail as he did not want his followers to see how truly weak he really was. He probably shouldn't have cast those curses at Severus as he needed the man to make him his elixirs but he had wanted to show he was still powerful, still someone to be feared. It was humiliating that he kept being bested by that boy and he knew his followers were starting to doubt him. The sooner he killed that brat, the better.

/

Severus occluded against the pain that was ripping through him, against the cuts forming and bones breaking. Once released from the curses, Severus thanked him for his mercy and stumbled away. He was able to Apparate to his old home in Spinner's End but before he could floo to his manor, everything began to go dark and he collapsed onto the floor and passed out.

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

After Snape disappeared into the green flames, Harry struggled with what to do next. He wished he could stop Snape from going. He didn't see why Snape had to risk his life like this. What was the point? Whatever information he found out couldn't be worth his life.

"Young Master, Master Snape is very's strong. He will's be fine." Cora assured him. She had been watching Harry stare at the fireplace.

Harry glanced at her. Despite her words, he could see similar concern in her eyes.

"Would Young Master like Cora to make you something to eat?"

Harry shook his head. "No thank you. I'm not hungry right now. I'll be up in my room." He hesitated. "Will you let me know when he returns?"

Cora nodded. "Of course I will Young Master. Now's you's stop your worrying, okay?"

Harry gave a small nod and went upstairs to his room. How could he stop worrying? He knew how crazy and cruel Voldemort was and he doubted he was any different to his followers. Harry knocked a book off his desk in frustration. It wasn't fair! He had finally found what felt like a real home and a real guardian. Harry shut his eyes. He couldn't lose another person he cared about, not like he had lost Sirius. Harry didn't think he could survive the pain of another loss.

Harry sat down on his bed and his foot bumped against the book he had dropped. He bent down to pick it up and saw the corner of a piece of paper sticking out from under his bed. He picked it up and saw it was an envelope addressed to his guardian. He frowned. Where had this…oh, it must have been in the box he had found in the Dursley's attic! He vaguely remembered that he had thought he'd seen something else in there. Merlin, that day seemed so long ago to him now. He had been meaning to check the box but had kept getting distracted by the events of the summer. Well maybe this will distract me until Snape gets back, Harry thought as he pulled out the letter.

To the Guardian of my son, Harry Potter,

I assume that you are reading this Sirius and you better be taking care of my baby. Have you fed and changed him? Calm down Sirius, I'm just kidding. I know you are taking good care of my son. What I am about to tell you will seem crazy but I beg you to finish the letter and follow its directions. Despite your plan to change secret keepers, I was still worried that Voldemort would find his way to us. I researched for weeks for a way to ensure Harry's safety and I believe I found it. If it worked then there should be a necklace with this letter. I plan to enhance an ancient sacrificial magic to protect Harry. The incantation I plan to use will bind me to the necklace and together we should be strong enough to protect Harry from the killing curse. The magic it creates should be strong enough to rebound on Voldemort and hopefully kill the monster. Believe me, I know it sounds unbelievable but the caster and necklace will become one to provide Harry with the ultimate protection. Enclosed is the potion and incantation to bring me back. Make the potion, pour it over the necklace, and help Harry say the spell. Help me reunite with my son Sirius. If I could have made it work for James as well you know I would have. I only hope he is reading this with you as he promised me he would find safety if Voldemort did find us. Please hurry, I promised my baby we would not be separated long.

Lily Potter

What the – Harry read and re-read the letter. His mother did what? This wasn't possible! Harry stared at the letter blindly. It wasn't possible, right? There was a list of ingredients to make a potion and an incantation enclosed. Harry got up and went to his wardrobe and took out the box, pulling out the necklace. Harry frowned. It still felt warm to the touch. He stared at it. Could his mother really have bound herself to this necklace? Obviously, Sirius never got this as he never got the chance to be Harry's guardian. But the Dursleys had. The envelope had been opened which meant one of them had read it, his Aunt most likely.

Harry stood up and started pacing. If his Aunt had known there was a way to bring his mother back, then why didn't she say anything? She couldn't have hated her own sister that much could she? Maybe she didn't think it was legit. Harry clutched the necklace tight in his hand. His eyes widened as he remembered that when his wand had connected with Voldemort's, he couldn't remember seeing his mum. It wasn't because he had been in shock; it was because Voldemort hadn't killed her! Harry stared at the necklace. Could it really be?

It couldn't hurt to try the potion, could it? It couldn't hurt, Harry kept saying to himself as he ran downstairs. He knew he wasn't allowed in the lab without Snape's permission but he was sure Snape would understand. Harry rummaged through Snape's shelves and soon found that Snape was out of a couple of ingredients that he would need. He sighed in frustration as he remembered that Snape had been planning an errand to pick up ingredients the day Harry had returned early from the Weasleys.

Harry read through the potion list, noting that there were comments in the corners. From what he could gather, his mum had taken parts of different awakening potions, including one called Wiggenweld Potion, to create a stronger one. It looked complicated and Harry wished Hermione was here, she'd be able to make it. Snape would be able to as well if he believed the letter to be true. It has to be true, Harry thought. And Snape had been best friends with his mother; of course, he would want to try! He wished Snape would return soon, not only because he was worried about him but also because then they could get started. Wanting to at least begin, Harry got all the ingredients out that Snape had and then went into the library to find out more about the two ingredients he was missing. He picked up a large book, The Potion Ingredients Lexicon, and began searching. He had only been reading for a few minutes when he felt another burn in his scar, and he dropped the book with a wince. He felt intense anger, pain, and then exhaustion, and frustration. He held his hand to his scar and bit his lip to keep from crying out. He was about to go back to the lab to see if there was more of that cream Snape had put on his scar the last time it had hurt when the pain began to fade. Deciding he could handle the pain, he went back to searching the book.

Harry read that Horklump Juice was sold at a place called Mr. Mulpepper's Apothecary in Knockturn Alley and wrote down that he needed a pint of it. The other ingredient was a sprig of mint. Harry read the different places it could be found and was relieved that the forbidden forest at Hogwarts was one of them. He was glad Snape had the rest of the ingredients as looking for Sloth Brain Mucus didn't sound fun at all. He drummed his fingers on the table, impatient for Snape to get home. How long can it take for Voldemort to discuss how much he wants to kill me? Harry thought with exasperation. Snape had told him Voldemort was still weak from the Ministry. I hope he is suffering, Harry thought with feeling. That monster had taken so much from him; Harry couldn't bear it if he took anything more.

Harry rubbed his eyes, wondering what time it was. He got up and wandered into the sitting room, intending to doze on the couch while waiting for Snape. He found Cora already in there, looking nervous.

"Cora?"

Cora looked at him in surprise. "Master Harry, you's should be asleep!" She said. "It is late!"

Harry frowned and cast a tempus. Five a.m. He couldn't believe it was almost time to get up! Wait, Snape had said if he didn't return by morning to go to the Weasleys. "When he goes to these meetings, has he usually returned by now?" He asked Cora.

Cora nodded. "Usually, yes," She said worriedly. "Since the monster's return, the meetings haven't taken days like they used to."

Harry felt sick thinking of the horror the death eaters caused over those days. It was bad enough thinking of what they could accomplish in one evening. "How does Severus get back here without them finding out about the manor?" He asked curiously.

"He goes to his old home, in Spinners End and then floos here." Cora explained. "Master Harry, you's looks so tired, you should go to bed. If you like, Cora will wake you when Master Snape returns." She offered.

"But you said he should be back by now," Harry said uneasily. His eyes widened. "Earlier my scar hurt and, I think I felt Voldemort causing his followers pain to the point he was exhausted." Without thinking and moving so fast that even Cora couldn't stop him, he grabbed some floo powder and threw it down. "Snape's house, Spinner's End!"

/

The floo spit Harry out and he stumbled a bit before righting himself, his wand in his hand. It was dark so he cast a Lumos while he took a few tentative steps, his foot bumping into something. Harry looked down and gasped. Snape! He crouched down. "Severus?" He held his wand to his guardian's face. Snape was unconscious and there was a grayish tone to his skin. "Sir?" He inhaled when he saw all the blood. "No," He whispered. "No, please." He put one of Snape's arms around his neck and hoisted him up, letting Snape lean heavily on him. "You'll be okay," Harry said in a shaky voice as he practically carried Snape into the floo. He managed to throw down the floo powder and call for the manor.

"Cora!" Harry yelled as soon as he exited the fireplace. He laid Snape on the ground. "Help!"

Cora appeared beside him and began waving her hands over Snape. Her eyes widened and she popped away without a word.

"Cora!" Harry pressed his hands to one of the many wounds that were bleeding heavily. "Please wake up!" He begged Snape. "I don't know what to do!" His mind raced, trying to think of any healing spells but nothing was coming to him. He wondered if a standard healing potion or pain reliever would help but as he didn't know exactly what had happened to Snape he didn't know if it could be harmful to him.

Thankfully the floo came to life again and Dumbledore and Poppy walked through.

"Move aside Mr. Potter," Poppy said briskly as she began waving her wand over Severus.

Harry stood up shakily. "Please help him" He pleaded.

Dumbledore squeezed Harry's shoulder and then began helping Poppy. "Should we take him to the infirmary?" He asked the Mediwitch.

Poppy shook her head. "It would be too dangerous to use the floo or apparate with him right now. His injuries are severe. I will carefully levitate him to his bedroom and finish healing him there." First, she incanted several healing spells and the wounds stopped bleeding. She then levitated him and she and Dumbledore took him into Severus's bedroom. Harry discreetly followed; wanting to make sure Snape would be okay.

Once Severus was laid on his bed, Poppy ran more diagnostics. "I will need several potions. If Severus does not have any in his lab then I will need to get them from the infirmary," She announced gravely. "He has lost a lot of blood and several bones are broken. There is some internal damage as well. He has also been under the Cruciatus curse."

Harry flinched and felt a wave of fury towards Voldemort.

"Cora will gets yous what you need!" Cora had stood aside after she had notified the Headmaster and Healer about her Master's condition.

"I need a blood replenisher, strengthening solution, Tonic of Sinew, and a strong pain reliever," Poppy said as she waved a life charm around Severus that showed his stats and would let her know if he started to worsen.

Cora popped away and a few seconds later was back, handing over the potions.

Harry watched as Poppy worked. Dumbledore was also watching with a concerned expression on his face. After several minutes he cleared his throat. "Poppy? How is he?"

Poppy stepped back and waved her wand over Severus again. "He is slowly starting to heal. His body has been through a tremendous shock, however, and he needs to be able to rest." She turned to face Dumbledore and Harry. "He had a lot of curses cast against him but I have healed all the open wounds and the broken bones, as well as the internal injuries. I am going to put him into an induced sleep until his vitals are more stable."

Harry bit his lip. "How long will that be?"

Poppy hesitated. "A few days at least, maybe a week. He will need nutritive potions spelled into him daily, which I will do myself. I don't see any reason to move him to the infirmary and I know he would rather wake up here. I will come back later today to check on him." She gestured to the charm she had used that was showing Severus's vitals. "This charm will stay on and monitor him and if there are any problems, I will be alerted instantly." She paused. "I don't anticipate him getting any worse however, if you even suspect something is wrong, floo me immediately even if his stats appear normal."

Harry stared at his guardian, and although he looked better than earlier he was very pale. He gently took Snape's hand, which was cold to the touch. It's my fault, he thought grievously. He goes to those meetings to help me. Everyone gets hurt because of me.

"Harry," Dumbledore touched his shoulder. "He will be fine. Severus is a fighter and is very stubborn, in case you haven't noticed."

Harry looked up and saw Dumbledore giving him a small smile.

"There has to be something I can do for him," Harry said hoarsely. "I have to be able to help him."

"Of course, you can help him," Poppy said matter-of-factly. "You can sit and talk to him or read to him. A lot of studies have shown that even in an induced sleep, the patient can hear you."

"Harry, would like the Weasleys to come and stay with you?" Dumbledore asked. "Or you could go stay at the Burrow…"

"No!" Harry said quickly. "I don't want to leave here, and honestly I think it would be better if they weren't here." He smiled ruefully. "I don't think Severus would want to wake up to find his home overrun with Weasley's." Never mind that he didn't want to deal with Ron right now…

Dumbledore chuckled. "I suppose you are right." He glanced at Severus. "With his injuries, it's amazing he was able to get back to the manor."

Harry's eyes widened and he shook his head at Cora, who looked like she was about to say something. She frowned at him and he looked pleadingly back at her.

"I will return this evening," Poppy said as she collected her things.

"Thank you, Poppy," Dumbledore said softly.

Before leaving the room, Poppy looked at Dumbledore seriously. "He can't go on like this Albus," She said. "If You-Know-Who had been at his full strength…" She shook her head and left.

Dumbledore sighed. "I thought Voldemort was still too weak," He said almost to himself.

"He is," Harry said.

Dumbledore looked at him in surprise. "What do you mean Harry?"

"I think I felt it when Voldemort began casting curses," Harry admitted. "My scar hurt so much and I felt anger and hate but then it turned into exhaustion and frustration."

Dumbledore looked thoughtful for a moment. "He probably wanted to prove he was still strong, still in control of his followers." He said finally. "Any strength he had gained so far this summer he most likely used up, which is good news. It means he won't be ready to try anything else for a while longer."

Harry nodded and then slowly started to take his mother's letter out of his pocket. "Sir," He began.

"If you need anything Harry, floo me at Hogwarts, and if I am not there Cora should be able to locate me." Dumbledore smiled at the house elf. "I need to make contact with the other Order members and check in at the Ministry."

"Wait," Harry watched helplessly as Dumbledore left the room and then he heard the floo activate. He sighed in frustration.

"You's need sleep Master Harry," Cora said. "Would you's like breakfast first or sleep first?"

Neither, Harry thought. With Snape out of commission, that meant he had to do the potion himself and it would be time-consuming. Plus he had to sneak out of the manor and to Diagon Alley without Cora noticing. But he couldn't just leave Snape, could he? Snape had been there for him when he was sick. Harry slumped into a chair by Snape's bed. What if this letter was some sort of hoax or trick? How could his mother have achieved what she did without anyone else knowing? Wouldn't Dumbledore have known something? He had seemed to be quite aware of the protection his mother's love had given him. Besides, wouldn't they have seen her body or lack of?

"Cora, do you know anything about the night my parents died?" Harry asked suddenly.

Cora's eyes were saddened. "I's heard all about it Young Master. How's that evil wizard went to your house and killed yours parents. How you were the only one who survived. You's was the only thing left of that house!"

"What do you mean?" Harry asked sharply.

Cora gazed solemnly at him. "The whole house was completely destroyed, a piles of rubbish was all's that was left. Except for you's in your crib."

"So...my parents' bodies wouldn't have been found?" Harry asked slowly.

Cora patted him on the back with her tiny hand. "It was a huge explosion Young Master. Theres -" she hesitated. "There's was nothing to find after." She whispered. "I's sorry Young Master."

Harry smiled at her. "I'm okay. Thank you for telling me."

After she left Harry mulled that over in his mind. So there would have been no body of his mother which means…it could be true. Harry stared at Snape, wishing he was awake to advise him. Snape would help him.

Harry thought about writing to Hermione and getting her to come here now but he was hesitant to do so. If this was some sort of trick he couldn't risk putting his friends in danger. Not again. And also if this turned out to be false, well…Harry didn't need anyone to see his embarrassment. Besides, even if this was for real, what if it had been too long to bring his mother back?

"Young Master, sleep or breakfast?"

Harry glanced at Cora. "I'd just like to sit here for a while and then I will go and, um, rest. Oh, and Cora thank you for not telling the Headmaster that I went to Severus's old home. I don't think it would have gone over well."

Cora frowned. "It was dangerous, Young Master. You's should have let me do it." She shrugged. "I's is not obliged to tell the Headmaster everything," She smirked slightly. "Master Snape, on the other hand…" She grinned and popped away.

Harry groaned. Snape would lecture him for a week when he found out. But Harry wouldn't mind being lectured if it meant Snape was awake and well. "I'm so sorry," He whispered to the sleeping professor. "I never wanted anyone to get hurt because of me." He gave a sad laugh. "If anyone had told me at the beginning of this summer that I would feel at home with you, I would have laughed in their face. But I do feel at home here, and I sort of feel like," Harry blinked back tears. "I feel like we are family, you know? We even can understand each other's pasts; we were both hated by family members for our magic. And you've protected me since I started Hogwarts and I've never thanked you." He wiped his eyes. "I mean, you were a total git to me," He laughed. "Although there were times I know I was a brat but all of that doesn't matter. Not anymore. Besides, no family is perfect right?"

Harry rubbed his tired eyes and sighed. "I found a letter from my mother and…she's not dead Severus!" Harry said excitedly. "She performed some sort of protection spell and somehow is bound to a necklace that she charmed. She thought she would be released right away by Sirius or my dad but I was placed with Aunt Petunia…" His voice trailed off. "I think she might have known," He said in a darker voice. "The letter had been read and it had to have been her. If I find out she did know…" He shook his head. "I have to try and do the potion and spell to release her. I just hope it works. Just think, in a few days she could be here with us! She was your best friend and I know the friendship may not have ended well," Harry thought back to the memory he had seen in Snape's pensive. "But she cared about you and friends forgive each other." He thought about how he had easily forgiven Ron fourth year and Hermione was always forgiving Ron, he thought with a smirk. "I was hoping we could do the potion together. I'm afraid I'll mess it up but it can't wait. If the letter is real, she's been trapped too long already." Harry sat quietly for a few minutes before getting up and exiting Snape's room.

/

Harry went into the library to get more books on potions. He took it into Snape's room and began studying the books against the list in the letter. He wanted to make sure he had the steps down correctly. His mother hadn't written what the potion was called and Harry once again wondered if that was because it was too ancient to be in any recent books, plus as he had noticed before it looked like she had taken certain ingredients and steps from different potions and put them together to create one special potion. He re-wrote the ingredients and instructions in his notebook; he had to break down the steps more so he could follow them more easily.

Harry rubbed his eyes tiredly. His stomach was growling and he was physically and emotionally tired but he kept reading. His head started to pound and at first, he was worried it was Voldemort and made sure he was still occluding. It only took a moment for him to realize it was just a regular headache so Harry dismissed it. He needed to get into the lab and begin the potion so that it would be ready as soon as possible. He glanced at Snape's vitals which looked steady and then gathered his books.

He ran into Cora who looked at him curiously. "Did you's get some sleep?"

"A little," Harry lied. "Um, can you leave a sandwich or something in my room? I need to finish some…homework and then I'm going to eat and get more rest." Lies, of course. He would be in the lab but he didn't want Cora wondering where he was. He felt bad lying to her but he didn't know how she would react to what he was doing and he couldn't risk anyone trying to stop him.

"Of course Young Master," Cora smiled at him. "And don't you's worry, Master Snape will's be fine."

Harry nodded and waited until she left before heading to the lab. He wished he could get to Voldemort now, while he was weak but Snape had explained that he was keeping himself well protected for that reason, never mind that Bellatrix and Wormtail were guarding him. Wormtail he could probably take on but Bellatrix…Harry would love to take her on but she was as ruthless as her master and he knew he needed much more training.

He gritted his teeth when he remembered that he would have to go to an apothecary to buy some Horklump juice and hoped Snape had some Polyjuice potion on hand. It wouldn't be safe for him to go to Diagon Alley without a disguise. The sprig of mint he could get at the forbidden forest at Hogwarts and it was the final ingredient he needed so he could wait on that. This potion would take at least several days to make, with him having to still find ingredients and the time it needed to simmer. If he had to make Polyjuice potion as well, it would take over a month! He began searching through the shelves.

"Yes!" Harry cried when he found several vials of Polyjuice potion already made up. He supposed it made sense as a spy for Snape to always have a quick disguise on hand.

Harry had managed to complete the first steps to the potion, and he groggily left the lab to let the potion have time to simmer. Tomorrow he would need to go to Knockturn Alley and he grimaced at the thought. He didn't want to go there but for his mother…he would do anything. He had pocketed a vial of Polyjuice potion that had been labeled as eighteen-year-old, male.

Instead of going to his room, he went back into Snape's room and glanced at his vital signs. Everything still looked the same so he figured that was a good thing. He sat back down in the chair and sighed. He was beyond tired at this point. "Don't worry Severus. Hopefully, when you wake up my Mum will be here." He smiled at the thought. "Won't you be surprised," He said. "Hopefully you'll be so happy to see her that you won't mind some of the rule-breaking I've done and plan to do." He leaned his head back and closed his tired eyes. "Everything will be fine," He mumbled. "Mum will be here and you will be well. And I'll do whatever I have to do to destroy Voldemort so that he can never hurt any of us again. Everything will be fine."

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Harry had only managed to get a couple hours of sleep during the night, he had been too anxious at the thought of going into Knockturn Alley. He knew there would likely be death eaters milling around and if they found out he was there, well, he didn't want to think about what would happen. He went downstairs and straight into Snape's room. He wasn't surprised to find Madam Pomfrey there, checking over her patient. "How is he this morning?" Harry asked anxiously.

"The same," Poppy answered as she ran her diagnostics. She saw Harry's worried expression. "No need for worries Mr. Potter, this is a good thing. He is healing and he is not getting any worse."

"Good," Harry murmured.

"You look tired Mr. Potter, perhaps you should sleep some more," Poppy said with a frown as she gave Harry a once over. She looked ready to start running diagnostics on him.

Harry stepped back. "I'm fine, I've just been worried," He told her.

Poppy's face softened. "I know this is hard, but he is going to be all right," She said gently. She patted him on the shoulder as she walked by him. "I'll return later this evening."

"Okay, thank you," Harry responded. He looked back at Snape, noting his color looked better. "I have to run an errand but I'll sit in here with you when I get back," Harry told him. "Maybe I could read to you," He grinned a little. "Perhaps Quidditch Through the Ages?" If Snape could hear him talking, he was probably mentally rolling his eyes.

Cora suddenly appeared next to him. "Did Madam Pomfrey leave?"

"Yeah," Harry nodded. "She said he would be okay, that he's just still healing."

"Cora is happy to hear that," Cora said with relief. "Woulds you be wanting breakfast now?"

"Actually, I'm going to visit the Weasleys at the Burrow," Harry lied, trying to sound casual. "I'll eat there. I shouldn't be gone too long though."

"Is it safe for Young Master?" Cora asked worriedly.

"The Burrow? Oh yeah, don't worry." Harry offered the house elf a smile. "I'll be back soon."

Cora gazed at him for a moment and then nodded and departed the room, which Harry was grateful for. He wasn't going to floo to the Burrow but to Diagon Alley. From there he would find the apothecary in Knockturn Alley. There was no way he was going to floo directly into Knockturn Alley again. Harry made sure Cora wasn't around and then took a swig of the Polyjuice potion. He coughed, grimacing as he put the vial in his pocket. He had forgotten how disgusting this potion was. He held onto the mantel as he began to change. Well, at least I'm taller, he thought as his height changed. He looked in a mirror to see that he looked slightly older, with short, sandy blonde hair and light brown eyes. He quickly transfigured his glasses to a different shape and color. There. Now there was no trace of Harry Potter. He smiled and activated the floo.

/

Harry strolled through the Leaky Cauldron, feeling free now that no one knew who he was. It was nice not being pointed at, stared at, or whispered about. He gave a friendly smile to Tom, who owned the Leaky Cauldron and was going to say hi when he remembered that Tom wouldn't know who he was. He walked down the familiar street of Diagon Alley, wondering if he would see any of his schoolmates. He hesitated a bit when he reached the stairs that would lead him to Knockturn Alley. Here goes nothing, he thought.

He went down the stairs and entered the dark, shadowy shopping area. He tried to look like he was undaunted by the area or the dodgy-looking witches and wizards. He passed Borgin and Burkes and was reminded of how he had ended up in that unusual shop before his second year. He made sure not to make eye contact with anyone as he walked, although the people shopping seemed to be doing the same thing. It wasn't like Diagon Alley, where everyone was laughing and calling out to each other.

To Harry's relief, he found Mr. Mulpepper's Apothecary easily and stepped inside. It was dark and cold inside and had a horrible smell. Harry shuddered slightly as he saw all the jars that held slimy-looking ingredients, blood, and strange-looking creatures. So gross, he thought.

"Can I help you?" A tall, thin man with a sullen face asked.

"Yes, I need a pint of Horklump juice please," Harry said confidently. His confidence wavered slightly when the man stared at him for a moment before going to one of the shelves behind the counter. He came back with a large vial and set it on the counter.

"Three Galleons."

Harry handed him the money, grateful he still had some leftover from fifth year. He was going to thank the man but once he took the money, he turned away and ignored Harry.

Okay, so politeness is not an asset here, Harry thought as he hurried out of the apothecary. He walked through Knockturn Alley, eager to leave the dreary place. He paused in the shadows and took a quick sip of potion from his flask, practically gagging as he did. So disgusting, Harry grimaced. He was almost to the stairs that would take him back to Diagon Alley when he stopped and stared. Malfoy. Both Malfoy's! Lucius is supposed to be in Azkaban! Harry thought angrily. There was another man with them and Harry tried to act casual as he stepped closer, pretending to look in the window of Borgin and Burkes. He wished he had thought to bring his invisibility cloak…

"It must be nice to have the money and influence to get yourself out of prison," The man was saying with a smirk.

"The Dark Lord wanted me out, he needs his loyal supporters during this time," Lucius said hotly. "He sent out a few people to…convince Fudge that I should be freed." He gave a mean chuckle. "However, I also made sure to give Fudge enough money so that he wouldn't turn against me again."

Harry inwardly seethed in anger. Everyone knew Lucius was a death eater and that he had tried to kill Harry and his friends at the ministry battle!

"I imagine the public isn't happy," The man said.

"The story is that I was there to help the poor, dear children," Lucius said in mock sweetness. "The teenagers were simply confused as to who was actually attacking them."

The man laughed.

Harry noticed Draco looked fairly smug and he wanted nothing more than to punch him. He wanted to punch both Malfoy's. Just wait until I get rid of your Master, he thought viciously. He just wished he knew how to accomplish that.

"There is talk, you know," The man said a little nervously. "Not me, mind you, but others are worried they are backing the wrong leader. I mean, after the ministry and how strong Potter seemed to be – "

"That brat is not strong at all!" Lucius spat out. "The Dark Lord is merely getting ready for his next move. Potter did nothing!"

"But they say he was possessed by the Dark Lord and was able to best him."

"You are sounding unloyal," Lucius said dangerously.

"I told you, this is what I am hearing!" The man protested. "I am loyal, of course."

"Potter is a weak coward," Draco muttered. "Anyone who believes differently is a fool!"

"That's right son," Lucius said proudly. "See how smart he is?" He asked the man. "He will make a wonderful death eater. I'm going to try and convince the Dark Lord to let him take the mark this year."

"Isn't he too young?"

Draco scowled at him but didn't say anything.

"True, most do not get the privilege of taking the mark until they graduate from Hogwarts," Lucius said. "However, I believe he is ready. Of course, the decision rests with our Master but I am hopeful he will agree."

Harry turned away, not wanting to hear anymore. He felt sick to his stomach. Lucius was free and Draco may be taking the dark mark soon! It was madness! He stomped up the stairs and began making his way back to the Leaky Cauldron. His thoughts were on the conversation he had heard and he wasn't paying attention to his surroundings. "Oof!" He bumped into someone. "Merlin, I'm sorry," He said and looked into the dreamy and beautiful eyes of Luna Lovegood. His own eyes widened and his heart began to beat a little faster.

"It's okay," Luna said as she stared at him. She was wearing her usual Butterbeer cork necklace and a pair of Dirigible plum earrings that he remembered her telling him kept the Nargles away. "You may have been tripped by Nargles though, you should watch out for them." She cautioned in her dreamlike voice. "They are tricky little creatures, Harry."

"Yeah, I –" Harry stopped and quickly felt his face and hair. He hadn't changed back so how did she know? "How did you know it was me?" He asked in a whisper, looking around to make sure no one overheard them. He took his wand out of his sleeve and cast a silencing spell around them.

Luna tilted her head to the side. "Your expression and your eyes, even though they are a different color," She answered. "You look different but you're still you. Are you changing your look permanently?" She asked curiously.

Harry shook his head. "No, I just needed to get something and didn't want to be recognized. Safety issues, you know." He looked around. "Are you here by yourself?" He asked in concern. With Lucius Malfoy free, it wasn't safe for any of his friends.

Luna shook her head, her long hair flying. "My Dad is here with me."

"Good," Harry said in relief. "Luna, Lucius Malfoy is free. So be extra careful okay?"

Luna frowned slightly. "Why is he free?"

"Because Fudge is a coward," Harry muttered.

"He probably got infected with Wrackspurt," Luna said knowingly. "They make a person's brain go fuzzy."

"Then he's been infected with them for a while now," Harry said, thinking of how Fudge had refused to believe Voldemort was back. With some regret, he realized he needed to get back to the manor to check on Snape and do more work on his mother's potion. "I'll see you at school Luna." He said softly.

"Are you all right?" Luna asked with concern in her voice. "How has your summer been?"

"Not too bad, actually," Harry said with a small grin. He had a guardian, a place he could actually call home, and his mother may be coming back… He wished he could tell her everything but in case it was some sort of trick, he wouldn't risk putting her in danger.

Luna was studying him, almost as if she could see through him. Harry shuffled a bit under her intense gaze and she gave him a rueful smile. "Be careful," Luna said.

"What?"

"Whatever you are up to, be careful," Luna told him. "Promise?"

Harry gazed into her eyes and nodded. "Promise," He said. "I have to go. Have a good rest of summer." He said softly.

Luna moved to let him pass. "I'm glad you're not changing your appearance permanently," She said with a smile. "You're better as you."

Harry threw her a smile over his shoulder and hurried to the Leaky Cauldron.

/

Harry returned to the manor, hoping Cora wasn't around as the Polyjuice potion had not faded yet. He walked quietly to Snape's room and peeked inside. No one else was in there so he quickly entered and sat next to Snape. "I got the potion ingredient I needed." He said softly. "The last ingredient I will need I can get at Hogwarts." He thought about mentioning seeing Malfoy but in case Snape could hear him; he didn't want to risk getting him upset. "I'm going to do the next step in the potion and then I'll read to you," Harry said as he yawned. Lack of sleep was starting to catch up to him. He ran his hand through his hair and realized that it was back to normal. He had just changed his glasses back when Cora came in.

"Young Master?"

That was close, Harry thought as he smiled at the house elf. "Hi Cora," He said.

"When dids you get back?"

"A few minutes ago," Harry answered.

"Dids yous have fun at the Weasley's?" Cora asked as she inspected the charm around Snape.

"Huh? Oh, yeah. Lots of fun," Harry said as he stood up. "I have to work on, um, some homework I didn't finish," He said.

"Okay. Woulds yous like lunch?" Cora asked.

Harry was surprised. It was lunchtime already? "Sure, could you leave a sandwich or something in my room again? I need to get some books from the library."

"Of course, Young Master," Cora frowned slightly. "Afterwards yous should gets some more sleep." She wagged a long finger at him.

"I will," Harry said absently.

/

For the next few days, Harry kept busy by continuing his mother's potion, sitting with Snape and reading and talking to him, and trying to find more information on the protective spell his mother had cast. He was worried, anxious, excited, and scared all at once. He was barely able to sleep and only touched a bite of food here or there, though he led Cora to believe he was eating normally. He had to eventually put a slight glamour on himself so that Dumbledore and Pomfrey wouldn't suspect anything when they visited Snape, as his skin was pale and he had dark circles under his eyes. He also didn't respond to his friends' letters, not wanting to reply until he had tried the potion.

Finally, on Wednesday the potion was ready except for the sprig of mint. Early in the morning, as he got ready, he realized with a start that it was his sixteenth birthday. Being reunited with my Mum is the only present I want, he thought wistfully. That and for Snape to wake up. Once he was dressed he got the supplies he needed and then stopped by Snape's room.

Harry stood by his bed. "I had hoped you would be awake by now," Harry said softly. "I'm going to attempt the spell to bring my mother back. I haven't told anyone else about it, you're the only adult I really trust anyway…" He sighed. "You have to wake up soon. I miss our talks and dueling practice, and I'd even put up with a full day of occlumency lessons if it meant you were better." He ran his hand through his hair. "I don't know what's going to happen when I attempt this, but if it goes wrong and something happens to me I just want to thank you. Thank you for helping me this summer with training and homework. Thank you for listening to me talk about my nightmares and fears and grief, and for sharing stories about my mother. Being here, with you and Cora, has been the best home I ever remember having. I feel cared for and like I am more than just the boy-who-lived-in-a-cupboard," Harry whispered. "And more than the boy-who-lived or the boy-who-faces-a-prophecy," Harry placed a letter on Snape's nightstand, explaining what he was going to do as well as everything he had just told Snape. "Just in case you wake up while I'm gone or…I don't come back," He reached out and gave Snape's hand a gentle squeeze before exiting the room.

Harry knew there was a possibility that the potion and spell could blow up in his face, literally. He exited Snape's room and hoping Cora didn't hear him; threw the floo powder into the fireplace and whispered, "Gryffindor Tower, Hogwarts."

/

The common room was dark and almost eerily quiet as Harry was used to it being noisy. Harry cast a Lumos and walked through the room, opening the portrait to leave.

"Hey! Who's there?" The Fat Lady exclaimed fearfully. She focused her eyes on Harry as he shut the door and frowned. "You! What are you doing here?" She huffed.

Harry ignored her questions and headed down the staircase. He could hear several of the portraits wake up and start talking to each other, some even calling out to him. Knowing he probably didn't have much time until Dumbledore was alerted to the presence of a student in the castle, Harry didn't waste any time. He hurried out of the castle and made his way to the forbidden forest.

/

Severus slowly opened his eyes and grimaced at the aching muscles in his body. He moved gently, wondering why he felt so weak and sore. Slowly the memory of the death eater meeting came back to him and he winced when he remembered the unbearable pain he had been in. The last thing he could remember was being in his home in Spinner's End…Cora must have found me, he thought, knowing how worried his house elf got. Or perhaps Albus had. He wondered how long he had been out. Severus's eyes suddenly widened. Harry! Had Harry seen him in such a terrible condition? "Cora!" He tried to call loudly but it came out as more of a whisper. He cleared his throat.

"Master Snape! Yous is awake!" Cora squealed when she appeared in the room. "Young Master and I were so worried! There had been so much blood…" She said tearfully.

"Harry saw me in that condition?" Severus asked guiltily. He had not wanted Harry to see him that broken and hurt; the child had been through enough as it was.

Cora nodded. "He found yous first."

"Harry found me?" Severus asked hoarsely. He frowned. Had he managed to floo to the manor and just didn't remember it? "Where did he find me?" He asked suspiciously.

Cora began twisting her fingers together nervously.

"Cora?"

"At your old home in Spinner's End," Cora admitted. "He jumped into the floo so fast, I's could not stop him!"

Severus closed his eyes, trying to control the flash of anger he felt. Harry would have had no way of knowing if other death eaters had been there or even the Dark Lord himself! "Is he okay?" He asked. Once he got his strength back, he would chastise the boy properly. Gryffindor recklessness, he thought.

"He's was very worried about you and that's why he flooed there," Cora said in Harry's defense. "He was so scared when he brought you back."

Severus sighed and some of his anger faded. He had not wanted to cause Harry more distress.

"He has been so busy, doing his homework and sitting in here with you." Cora continued. "He doesn't eat nearly as much as he did," She added.

"He sat in here with me?" Severus asked in surprise.

Cora nodded. "He talked to you and read to you." She pointed to a pile of books on his nightstand.

Severus grinned a little when he saw the Quidditch book, as well as some potion books. No one had ever done anything like that for him before. That child has too big of a heart, he thought. Even if it is a foolish and reckless heart…

"Could you check on him, Cora?" Severus said just as Poppy came into the room.

"Ahh, you're finally awake! How are you feeling Severus?" Poppy began running scans on him.

"A little sore but otherwise fine Poppy," Severus answered as he began moving his arms and legs, remembering hearing them snap from the curses thrown at him. "How long have I been asleep?"

"Five days."

Severus's mouth dropped open. "Five days?" He asked incredulously.

"You were hurt badly, Severus. I induced your sleep so that you could fully heal." Poppy said matter-of-factly. "The fact that you have woken means your body has finished healing."

"Five days Poppy? For Merlin's sake," Severus mumbled. "You do know I have a child to take care of?" He snapped.

"And he needed you better," Poppy said unapologetically. She handed him a pain reliever. "This should take care of the rest of the soreness. Your wounds and broken bones have all mended nicely," She said in satisfaction, ignoring the disgruntled look on the potion master's face. She took back the vial. "Now that I am convinced you are truly all right, I can tell you I've been worried about Harry. He refused to go to the Burrow or have any of the Weasleys here and he has looked exhausted from the short times I have seen him."

Severus frowned in concern. "Cora mentioned he hadn't been eating much either," He said. He was about to ask Poppy to run a diagnostic on Harry once he woke up when a loud pop startled them both.

"Young Master is gone!" Cora cried, wringing her hands together.

Severus looked alarmed. "What? Are you sure? Did you check everywhere?" He began to get out of bed, despite Poppy's disapproving look.

"Of course I's checked everywhere!" Cora said indignantly. "I's checked outside too. He is gone!"

"Severus." Poppy pointed to the note on his night table.

Severus snapped it up and read it quickly. He had to read it again as he couldn't believe what the note contained. The first part was about a letter he had found from his mother and the next part was the gratitude he felt to Severus. He narrowed his eyes, not understanding what letter Harry could be talking about. Someone must be tricking him, he thought worriedly. Using the child's mother to hurt him or lure him into a trap.

He noted that the boy had written he was going to Hogwarts to get a sprig of mint from the forbidden forest. Severus scowled as he grabbed his wand and transfigured his pajamas into clothes. When he got a hold of Harry he was going to ground him until he was forty and then set him to scrubbing cauldrons for the rest of the summer!

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Severus tucked his wand up his sleeve and started walking out to the sitting room. That child had pulled some crazy stunts before, but this? In the past, Harry had not had anyone to really answer to when he acted so recklessly. Well, now he had someone to answer to, and answer he will, Severus thought determinedly. His body still ached a bit but he was able to ignore that in his concern and anger over Harry leaving the protection of the manor.

"Severus you are still recovering!" Poppy protested as she and Cora followed him.

"I am just going to retrieve Harry, inform him that he is grounded until he has a long white beard like Albus, and then I will rest," Severus said, his voice sounding calmer than he felt. And what he felt was fear. It was a sense of fear that he had not felt in a long time. What if a death eater managed to get a hold of him? He was going into the forest and there were already dangerous creatures that lived in there. He closed his eyes for a moment. The blasted boy had managed to worm his way into his usually cold heart and he couldn't let anything happen to him. He may not be Harry's father but, well, he felt like a parent to the child. He wasn't even sure when the change occurred, but it had.

"Severus, you should stay here and I will go and get Mr. Potter." Poppy continued, although she had to admit it warmed her heart to see how much Severus cared about Harry. The boy would benefit from someone like Severus who was strict yet caring, though not many people saw the caring part.

"No," Severus answered simply. The note Harry had left showed the boy was not thinking clearly and Severus couldn't just sit and wait. If something was wrong or if Merlin forbid, something had happened to Harry he had to be there to help him. If this was a trick by a death eater to lure the child out…

"So stubborn," Poppy grumbled as they stopped in front of the fireplace.

"Cora can come with Master Snape. Cora wants to help!" Cora offered, her large eyes filled with worry. She cared so much for both Master and Young Master. They were her family.

Severus shook his head. "Stay here in case we miss him and he returns. If he does, do not let him out of your sight. He is not to leave the manor." He told Cora who nodded determinedly.

Severus and Poppy entered the fireplace and Severus threw down the floo powder, stating their destination. Cora watched them disappear into the flames, hoping Young Master would be found safe and sound.

/

Why did I not bring my invisibility cloak? Harry berated himself as he made his way to the Forbidden Forest. He felt sick and dizzy from his lack of sleep and food and his panic over doing this potion was rising. What if he did it wrong? What if his Mum was stuck in the necklace forever because of him? Or what if I am completely crazy for believing this could be possible? He glanced down at the necklace. Even though it was a chilly morning, especially in the forest, the necklace remained warm.

"Arry? What are yer doin here?" Hagrid called as he watched the teen pause at the entrance of the forest. "Yeh can't go in there!" He cried out in alarm. He began walking towards his favorite student, Fang by his side.

Harry glanced apologetically at him for a second and then disappeared into the forest. He realized that Hagrid knew this forest like the back of his hand and would try to find him, but Harry also knew that he was faster and could hide easily if he had to. He would do whatever it took to complete this potion.

Harry wasn't sure where the sprig of mint would be but he knew what it looked like. He frantically looked as he walked deeper into the forest. He could vaguely hear Hagrid calling him but ignored it as he searched. I should have paid more attention in Potions and Herbology, he thought ruefully. He had thought about trying the infirmary or greenhouse first but didn't want to risk wasting time if it wasn't there. And he couldn't risk a professor stopping him and questioning him. He took out his wand and cast a lumos so he could see more clearly. If he couldn't find what he needed, he knew he would completely lose his mind. The potion he had made would only be effective for a short time before it would become completely worthless, according to his mother's notes on the potion. He had to finish it soon or he would lose his chance. He didn't know if any of the adults would believe him about his Mum, even with her letter. And he didn't want to wait for them to figure it out. He wanted his Mum back now and then they could return home to the manor.

His thoughts traveled to Snape as he searched. He wondered if he could get him to stop spying. It was too dangerous! And he thinks I'm reckless and foolhardy, Harry thought in exasperation. He couldn't lose the man now; he cared about him and wanted him to remain his guardian. It was strange as before this summer, Harry would never have thought that possible but it was the truth. And he cared about Cora and hoped she wouldn't be too upset when she found him gone. His goal was to bring back his Mum and take her to the manor before anyone realized he was missing. Snape will be so surprised to see Mum, Harry thought drowsily. They were best friends after all. His eyes flitted over some plants and widened. There! He snatched the ingredient he needed to complete the potion and was about to add it to the vial when he stopped. He didn't want his mum to return in the forest, it was dark and creepy. He looked around warily. The last few times he had been in here had not gone well for him. Visions of Voldemort attacking him and giant spiders chasing him raced through his mind. Although, Umbridge being carried off by centaurs had been fun to witness. But no, it was not safe to perform the spell here. He turned around and began sprinting, heading back towards the castle.

/

"I got your Patronus Severus. What is going on? Should you even be out of bed?" Professor McGonagall looked at her colleague in concern as she met up with him and Poppy in the Entrance Hall. "Albus told me what happened to you."

"No, he shouldn't be," Poppy answered with a huff. "I told him I would come here and retrieve Mr. Potter."

"Potter is here?" McGonagall asked in surprise.

"Something is wrong with Harry, the note he left makes no sense," Severus said in frustration and the worry in it was unmistakable to McGonagall and Poppy. "We need to find him. His note said he-"

"Professors!" Hagrid lumbered into the castle, out of breath. "It's Arry!"

"Where is he? Is he okay?" Severus demanded. He didn't know what was going on but he would not be able to relax until he knew the child was okay. Merlin, who would have thought he could care so much...

"He disappeared into the forest. I couldn't find him in there." Hagrid said shaking his head. "I called to him but he just ran faster."

Severus gritted his teeth. "I am going to get him and bring him to the infirmary." He informed Poppy, who nodded and said she would be there waiting for them.

Severus led the way outside and started on the path to the forbidden forest. Grounded for life, scrubbing cauldrons for the rest of his Hogwarts years, five thousand lines…he was telling himself as he struggled to keep his temper and worry under control. What was the child thinking?

"There he is!" Hagrid said in relief.

Severus stopped and watched the boy stagger out of the forest. He looked awful and ready to drop from exhaustion at any moment. "Harry!" He called.

Harry looked up at him, his eyes widening and he broke into a huge smile. "You're awake! You're okay!" He stumbled forward a few steps.

"Mr. Potter, you have violated several rules!" McGonagall said sternly, though her tone was laced with anxiety. "Come with us now. You have caused enough worry."

Harry, shaky and pale, shook his head. "No, I have to finish this. You don't understand."

Severus looked at the boy in concern. He didn't know what Harry was trying to do and wondered if he was having a breakdown, stemming from what happened with his relatives as well as still grieving Black. Or was he being possessed by the Dark Lord? No, that wasn't possible. The Dark Lord did not have enough strength to possess Harry right now. "Harry, enough of this! Come inside the castle now." He said in his best detention voice. He was about ready to stun the child and levitate him inside.

"Mr. Potter, you are well aware of the fact that the forbidden forest is off limits -" McGonagall began.

Harry snorted as he put the last ingredient into the vial. "Right, unless you have detention in there as an eleven-year-old," He said sarcastically, too tired, hungry, and stressed to care how much trouble he was in.

Severus moved forward to grab him but before he could a protective shield went up around him. Harry didn't seem to notice as he began to pour the now-completed potion over a necklace. What is he doing? Severus thought in exasperation. Why is there a shield around him? It did not appear to be a regular Protego…

Severus and McGonagall immediately had their wands out and were trying to break through the shield to get to Harry.

"What is going on?" Professor Dumbledore had finally arrived and was taking in the situation. He too pointed his wand at the shield but even he could not penetrate it.

"Potter has gone mad!" McGonagall sputtered, unsure as to what was happening. She looked pleadingly at Dumbledore. "Something is wrong with him. He needs help!"

"He has made some sort of potion but I am unsure as to which one and what he is trying to do," Severus said, his eyes trained on the teen. What was it Harry's letter had said? Something about a potion Lily had left instructions for? He frowned in thought.

The four adults watched as Harry emptied the vial over the necklace. He held it tight in his hand and could be heard whispering, 'Mum Esse Liberum Et Revertatur' over and over again. He dropped the necklace and stared at it, his heart pounding. Please work, he pleaded silently. Please come back.

Severus's heart constricted painfully as he heard him ask his mother to return. He was confused as to what Harry thought he was doing and was about to try and break the shield again when the necklace on the ground began to glow.

"What in the world -" McGonagall started but then she stopped.

The necklace grew brighter and brighter until everyone had to avert their eyes. When it finally began to dim all of them looked back and gasped. The shield had disappeared and Harry was kneeling on the ground and lying next to him was a woman wearing jeans and a light blue sweater, long dark red hair flowing loose, and when she opened her eyes they were emerald green, and the necklace now hung around her neck. She turned to the side and slowly pushed herself up, her eyes meeting identical green ones. They widened.

"Mum?" Harry whispered, slowly reaching a hand out to her.

"Harry?" Lily responded, sounding shocked and confused. She took his hand and Harry threw himself into her arms, tears pouring down his face. "Shh, it's okay little one," She automatically soothed, her mind trying to catch up on what had happened. Slowly she noticed that they were not alone. Standing around them were Albus, Minerva, Hagrid, and Severus. They looked older than she remembered and they were staring at her in shock. She held more tightly to her son, who was shaking and crying. She didn't understand, she was supposed to have returned when Harry was still a baby! What had gone wrong? She remembered invoking the spell when Voldemort had tried to kill her after he had killed her husband. James. A surge of grief went through her. She didn't know why she hadn't been brought back when Harry was still a baby but she knew without a doubt this was her son. My little one…

"Lily?" Severus asked in a slightly choked voice. Was it possible? She was really here?

"How – what?" Minerva stammered, glancing at the headmaster. "Albus?"

Dumbledore shook his head, shocked himself. He didn't know how it had happened but somehow, Lily Potter had managed to return. He studied Lily and Harry and realized how exhausted they looked. "We need to get them to the infirmary." He finally said. "Poppy needs to look them over."

"How do we know that's really Lily?' Minerva whispered to Albus.

"I believe it is, but we will check to be sure," Albus answered quietly.

Lily tried to get up, pulling Harry with her but both their magical cores were drained and she couldn't do it. "I've got Harry," Hagrid offered, giving her a teary smile as he lifted Harry. She nodded and started to stand once again before she was lifted effortlessly up herself. She stared into Severus's dark eyes. "Sev?"

"It's okay Lily," Severus said gruffly, hardly able to believe he was holding her in his arms. He couldn't believe he had almost stopped Harry from completing whatever he had done to bring her back.

"Harry?" She whispered weakly.

"He will be fine, as will you," Severus said smoothly.

As soon as they got to the infirmary and after Poppy had recovered from her shock at seeing Lily, she and Severus immediately began gathering potions and running diagnostics. Harry and Lily's magical cores were drained but that would heal with potions and rest. Harry was beyond exhausted and had clearly not been eating well so Severus spelled nutritive potions into both of them with a small amount of dreamless sleep. Both mother and son needed to sleep well so that they could fully recover from the strong magic they had been a part of.

Dumbledore stood next to Lily and waved his wand. "Identitatis Revelare," He incanted in a low voice.

Above Lily a mist appeared and then the words Lily Marie Evans-Potter.

"It's true. I can't believe it!" McGonagall said in shock.

Dumbledore was shocked as well, yet tears misted in his eyes as he looked upon mother and son. He didn't know how it happened; all he knew was that he was beyond happy that it had. What this could mean in their fight against Voldemort remained to be seen.

/

Harry was asleep and Lily was not far off. Severus was pulling a blanket over Harry and gently taking his eyeglasses off, putting them on the table next to the bed. She kept her eyes on her son as she felt the pull of exhaustion begin to shut her eyes. Severus then covered her with a blanket as well.

"I was supposed to return sooner, right away," She murmured, only half conscious. "Why didn't Sirius help him bring me back? Where is he? The spell should have been reversed sooner."

"What spell Lily?" Severus asked softly but she had already fallen asleep.

Severus sat in a chair in between the beds so that he could keep an eye on both of them. He ignored Poppy's admonishments to at least lie on an available cot. His mind scrambled to try and make sense of what had happened. It doesn't matter, he thought as he looked at Harry sleeping peacefully and then Lily. All that mattered was that two people he cared deeply for were here and they were safe. He had failed both of them in the past and was determined to not fail them again.

/

Sometime later, Lily woke up groggily and her eyes immediately fixed on Severus, who was sitting next to her in a chair. He had his head laid back and was sleeping, a potion's magazine lying on his lap. On the other side of Severus was Harry, who was still sleeping soundly on the infirmary cot. She couldn't believe it. Her son wasn't a baby anymore! He was such a handsome young man. He looked much like James although she could detect herself in his features as well. What had happened? Why was I not brought back sooner? She wondered. She wanted to talk to her son. She wanted to know everything. Everything she had missed. A tear trickled down her cheek. She must have done something wrong. How could she have miscalculated so badly? However, the important thing was that Harry was alive and well. And she was sure Sirius had given him a happy childhood, just as she and James had hoped if something had happened to them. James. She wished he was here. If only the protection charm would have worked on him too. If only she could have had more time to figure out how to make it work. Why didn't you save yourself, James? She thought drowsily. Why didn't you keep your promise to me?

Her tired emerald eyes settled back on Severus. She couldn't believe he was there. She wondered why he was at Hogwarts and if he was still a death eater. Although if Voldemort had been destroyed that night like she hoped he had, then there wouldn't be any death eaters anymore. Unless there was someone else had taken over as the next dark wizard? She struggled to keep her eyes open, wanting to figure things out. Severus obviously was concerned about her and Harry. Why else would he be sitting here? And she had seen the concern in his eyes when he brought her into the infirmary. She had seen how carefully he had covered Harry with a blanket. She sighed as sleep began to win and her eyes started to close. The only thing she knew was that she felt safe and content here with her son and her childhood best friend. The answers to her questions would just have to wait a little longer. But that was okay, there was plenty of time for that. There was plenty of time to catch up with her friend and plenty of time to get to know her son. It may have taken longer than she had thought it would but she was finally home where she belonged.

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Lily slowly woke up, feeling warm and comfortable in her bed. It took her a moment to remember where she was but soon the previous day's events caught up with her. She yawned and stretched, feeling completely rested. Dinner last night had been nice; they had all avoided any heavy talk and kept it more casual. She had asked about Harry's classes and he had asked about her own school days. Severus had remained mostly quiet as if he didn't want to interfere with them talking. He had seemed to just enjoy being in their company.

However, today she wanted to catch up more on what she had missed. She wanted to know more about her son, including all of his school adventures. She wanted to know more about Severus turning away from the death eaters and speak to Remus. She also needed to get a new wand. And she wanted to face her sister, who had much to answer for. She sighed, figuring she wouldn't be able to do everything in one day. She had to take things one step at a time.

Lily peeked into Harry's room after getting dressed, smiling softly as she saw him still sound asleep. He was buried under his comforter, with only his dark messy hair visible. I love you so much, Lily thought fondly as she gently ran her fingers through his hair, careful not to wake him up.

She headed downstairs and found Severus already up, drinking coffee in the dining room as he read the paper. He stared at her as she sat down across from him.

"Good morning Sev," Lily said, pouring herself a cup of coffee. She gave him a quizzical look. "Is something wrong? Why are you staring?"

Severus shook his head. "I apologize. It's just…you're really here." He set down the newspaper. "It's still surreal." He admitted.

Lily gave him an understanding smile. "I suppose it is for me too. When I checked on Harry, part of me expected to see a baby. Instead, I see an almost grown man."

Severus chuckled. "If it makes you feel better, he sometimes is immature like a baby." He offered.

Lily rolled her eyes. "Most men are," She countered teasingly. Food suddenly appeared on the table and she filled her plate with eggs and toast.

Severus bit back a grin and instead handed her a letter. "This came for you a little while ago." He also began filling his plate.

Lily opened the letter and read it, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Albus wants to see me. He wants to go over what we will tell the ministry about my being alive," Lily frowned. "I would think we would just tell them the truth."

Severus leaned back and regarded her thoughtfully. "It's not a charm that has ever been done before or one that is even known about." He said. "Albus may be concerned with how the ministry will react."

"What will they do? Run spell experiments on me?" Lily scoffed. She paused when Severus didn't respond right away. "I was kidding. You don't think they would do you?"

"I don't know what they will do," Severus admitted. "Minister Fudge is under a lot of pressure because he didn't want to believe that the dark lord was back. Now that he cannot deny the truth any longer, he is desperate to stay in control. It's difficult to say how he will react to how you survived the killing curse." He tapped his fingers on the table. "I know you are upset with Albus, you have every right to be. But at least hear him out and see what he is thinking on this issue."

Lily nodded. "All right, I wanted to talk to him more anyway. I also need to get a wand; perhaps he can help me with that." She glanced at the time. "I'll floo to his office after breakfast. If Harry's not awake when I go, will tell him where I am?" She didn't want her son to worry about her not being here when he woke up.

"Of course," Severus said, a tiny smirk crossing his face. Lily was too busy buttering her toast to see it. "Don't worry about rushing through your meeting. I'll keep him busy."

/

"Harry, I was wondering if you could help me," Severus said pleasantly. Lily had already left and Harry had just finished his breakfast.

Harry looked up from the Quidditch book he had just picked up to read. "Sure. With what?"

"I need to prepare some ingredients for potions for the infirmary and I haven't cleaned my cauldrons since before my…incident," Severus said. "I'm afraid I'm still recovering so if you wouldn't mind…"

Harry stood up. "I don't mind at all. Are you okay?"

Severus waved a hand airily. "Of course, Poppy just told me that I should get more rest but knowing of all the work I need to do in my lab…"

"No, you should rest. Just show me what you want done," Harry said, wanting to help his professor. He knew he had left the lab in a bit of a mess when he had made his potion.

Almost two hours later, Harry almost regretted offering to help; the ingredients that needed to be cut and sliced were some of the most disgusting ones that Snape had. And the cauldrons that Snape had indicated needed to be cleaned were covered in thick layers of filth, it was taking forever!

Harry sighed as he reached for another cauldron, taking a glance at where Snape was sitting and reading a potion's journal, looking decidedly relaxed. Which is the point, Harry reminded himself as he began scrubbing. Snape had almost been killed at that death eater meeting and instead of staying in bed once he had woken up; he had hurried after Harry and then been helping him and his mum adjust. Snape did need to take time to rest. Harry smiled with relief after the last cauldron was finally clean. He washed his hands and wiped them dry with a towel. "Finished!"

"Very good, thank you, Harry," Severus looked up from his potion's journal. "There is some parchment on the counter, would you mind cataloging my ingredients for me? I want to make sure I have everything I need for the upcoming school year."

Harry's heart sank. Cataloging potion ingredients was so tedious!

"I understand if you don't, you've already helped me enough," Severus said kindly. He started to stand up, wincing slightly.

"Severus, no. Sit down and rest. I don't mind," Harry said quickly, guilt settling in. Don't be so selfish, he scolded himself. He didn't notice the slight smirk on Snape's face.

Almost an hour later, Harry was finally finished. He shook out his hand, which was sore from all the writing. "Done," He said wearily, handing Snape the list he had made.

"Wonderful," Severus said brightly.

Too brightly.

Harry frowned and looked at his professor suspiciously. Severus had been too pleasant all day. And the work had been like…detention!

"You sneaky Slytherin!" Harry burst out. "This was a bloody detention!"

"Language," Severus said, suppressing a smirk. "I don't know what you are talking about. You were merely helping me."

"No, this was a detention for the risks I took going to Knockturn Alley and doing the potion alone," Harry accused. "You lied about needing to rest."

"I did not lie, Poppy has told me to get more rest," Severus said with a shrug.

"You acted like you were in pain or something," Harry glared. When Snape just stared back at him innocently, Harry sighed. "Fine. I guess I deserved it."

Severus sighed and stood up and put his potions journal in his pocket. "I want you to understand something. I'm not mad that you made the potion, after finding that letter I wouldn't expect you to do anything else than work to get your mother back." He said. "However, going to Knockturn Alley was dangerous, despite the precautions you took. You need to try and rely on the adults in your life for help and guidance, though I know that is difficult after being let down so many times."

"I didn't want anyone to tell me to wait or risk them dismissing the letter as a prank or something," Harry muttered. "I wouldn't have been able to wait, Severus."

"I do understand that," Severus said in a gentler tone. "But I also believe the Headmaster would have helped. He would have been too curious not to," He added with amusement.

"Maybe I went about it in the wrong way, but…" Harry braced himself. "I'm not sorry for any of it." He waited for Snape's temper to erupt.

To Harry's surprise and relief, Severus merely nodded. "I'm not asking for you to be sorry. I just want to know that you will ask for help, and that you will give the adults in your life another chance. And that you will never again go to Knockturn Alley until you are thirty."

Harry slowly grinned. "Yeah, okay. It's definitely not one of my favorite places to be anyway."

"I should hope not," Severus said darkly.

"So is my detention over?"

"I didn't exactly mean for it to be so long," Severus admitted. "Cleaning up yes, but when I asked you to catalogue the potion I fully expected you to protest and figure it out. When you continued to work I figured, why not let you finish? It was really like an extra study session." He said thoughtfully.

Harry shook his head, feeling more amused than he would have liked to. Snape said that like it was a good thing. "It was a bloody detention."

"Language."

Harry turned and saw his mum enter the lab. "Oops. Sorry, Mum." He grinned sheepishly. "How was the meeting with Dumbledore? He's still in one piece right?"

Lily grinned a little. "Of course. Why ever would you think otherwise? I'm sorry that it took so long; I talked with Filius as well. It was nice catching up with him. Oh!" She pulled out a wand that was made of willow, ten and a quarter inches long. "I got a new wand! Albus had already contacted Ollivander and he was able to procure me a new one."

"Albus usually keeps on top of things," Severus said as he admired her new wand.

"Usually, but definitely not always," Lily said with some bitterness.

"Did he have any thoughts on what to tell the Ministry?" Severus asked.

"Yes. He doesn't want us to tell them the truth. He thinks it best that Voldemort be kept in the dark about how far the protection charm went," Lily said. "So apparently I was in a coma until this summer."

"A coma?" Harry asked doubtfully.

"Yes, I was hidden away for my protection after being seriously injured after the explosion. You were put with your relatives for your protection," Lily said, sarcasm in her voice. She gave a wry smile. "I just woke up and we were reunited."

"I believe people will question that," Severus said, leaning back in his chair. "Although, they would question the real story as well. I do agree with keeping it a secret."

"Albus said he would only inform the Order members about the truth," Lily said. Her face relaxed. "It was good talking with Professor Flitwick; he was always my favorite professor." She effectively changed the subject.

"That is because you had him wrapped around your finger," Severus rolled his eyes. "Your mother was his favorite student; she could do no wrong in his eyes." He told Harry.

"That's not true," Lily protested with a laugh.

"No? When any student was late to class they lost points but if you were, he ignored it," Severus teased.

"You would be late to class?" Harry asked his mother with interest.

"Maybe once…or twice but because I was finalizing my homework," Lily defended herself with a laugh. She glanced around. "You two have been doing some cleaning?"

"I've been helping Severus," Harry said sweetly. "Madam Pomfrey insists he gets more rest."

Severus narrowed his eyes.

"Sev, what are you doing up then?" Lily grabbed his arm and began leading him out of the lab. "You should be lying down or at least sitting with your legs up." She lightly scolded.

"No, that is not necessary, I feel fine –"Severus protested.

"Nonsense, I heard about what injuries you suffered," Lily said in a stern voice. "You shouldn't neglect your health."

"I could read to him," Harry offered, trying hard not to laugh. "Shall I get my Quidditch Through the Ages book?"

"Don't even think about it!" Severus snapped. The utter cheek of the boy! He had to admit though; he did feel some pride in Harry's little manipulation.

Lily pushed Severus down onto the couch and then glanced from her son's amused face to Severus's annoyed one. "All right, what's going on?"

"Harry was just showing his Slytherin side," Severus said smoothly, stretching out his legs to rest his feet on the coffee table.

Harry made a face. Now that was just cruel.

/

Lily flipped through the clothes catalog, marking the clothes she liked. It would be too chaotic for her to be seen out in public so she was ordering clothes, wizarding, and muggle. She was curled up on the sofa as she ordered, also observing Harry and Severus's Occlumency lesson. She had never tried to learn that particular skill herself but found herself quite interested in it. However, seeing how pale Harry was getting after each exercise made it hard to watch without interfering. Especially since Severus would make Harry talk about the memories that he accessed, clearly trying to help Harry through them. She wanted to help too but she had to admit Severus was doing a good job.

Finally, Severus called a halt to the lesson, looking tired himself. They joined Lily on the sofa and Severus called Cora for some biscuits and tea. "That could have gone better, although I admit we've both been distracted the last few days," Severus commented. "You need to practice occluding daily and read the book I gave you."

"I know, I'm sorry," Harry said despondently.

"Harry, I know you tried your best," Severus said, handing him a cup of tea. "Overall, you have been doing very well. This is a hard skill to learn, even for adults."

Lily handed her son a chocolate biscuit. "So when you found out about Hogwarts, how did you take it? What subjects did you look forward to most?" She asked, wanting to distract him.

"Hmm well, I had been looking forward to Potions, until our first class," Harry mused, giving Snape a small grin. "After that, I dreaded it."

"Oh really?" Lily gave a mild glare at Severus.

"I'm always intimidating my first class, I want my students to take the subject seriously," Severus said easily. "You were oversensitive."

Harry's mouth dropped open. "Seriously?" He adopted a lower voice to imitate his professor. "Ah, Mr. Potter. Our new…celebrity." He returned to his normal voice. "Then you ask me questions I couldn't have possibly known."

Severus waved a hand dismissively. "I do believe Miss Granger knew the answers."

"Then why didn't you call on her?" Harry asked pointedly. He grinned. "Admit it; you were looking forward to making a fool out of me." He could joke about now, now that he knew Snape and after everything the man had done for him.

"Wait, what were the questions? Do you remember?" Lily asked curiously.

Before Severus could answer, Harry spoke up. "What would I get if powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood, where to look for a bezoar, and what would was the difference between monkshood and wolfsbane," He grinned at the shocked look on Snape's face. "When I didn't know the answer, he said it was a pity and that clearly, fame isn't everything."

"Severus Snape!" Lily scolded. "Those are rather advanced questions for a first year's very first potions class."

"Yes, I know, that is why I asked them," Severus said, still staring at Harry in surprise. "I can't believe you remember all of that, you weren't even paying attention."

"Yes I was, I was taking notes," Harry informed him.

Regret filled Severus's features. "I wasn't aware of that," He said quietly. "Even so, I was deliberately unfair to you then. I do apologize for that." Especially knowing that Harry wasn't even allowed access to his books while living with the muggles.

"You don't have to apologize," Harry frowned. "You've already done that and more than made up for -"

"I doubt that I have, but I hope someday that I will," Severus interrupted.

Harry sighed with exasperation. He was able to laugh about it now, he hadn't meant for Severus to get upset with himself. He looked at his mother for help.

Lily met his gaze before focusing on Severus. "So, you are like Professor Duncan was?" She asked in amusement.

"What?" Severus looked startled.

"Who's Professor Duncan?" Harry asked.

"Oh, he substituted for Professor Slughorn, our potion's professor, for a few weeks while Slughorn was dealing with a family situation," Lily took a sip of her tea. "Everyone hated Duncan, he was a git."

"Mum!" Harry laughed.

"I am nothing like that man," Severus huffed. "We were third-year students and he would ask us N.E.W.T. level questions!"

Lily raised an eyebrow.

"My questions were challenging yet appropriate," Severus said, a glimmer of humor coming into his eyes. "Miss Granger knew the answers, after all."

"Hermione knows the answers to everything," Harry laughed. "She's brilliant."

"I look forward to meeting your friends," Lily said softly, hating that she had missed so much of his life.

"I should write them, I haven't answered their latest letters," Harry murmured.

"Albus mentioned that he wanted to have a get-together with those in the Order so that I could see everyone again. I expect you will see your friends then," Lily said with a smile.

Harry perked up. He couldn't wait for his friends to meet his mother.

/

"I have somewhere I need to be tomorrow," Lily told Severus after dinner. "I won't be gone long; you'll keep an eye on Harry?"

"Of course. Do you have another meeting with Albus?" Severus asked curiously.

Lily looked away. "No. There's just someone I need to see." She said vaguely.

Severus's eyes narrowed in thought as she walked away.

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"So Harry, are you excited for the school year to start?" Dumbledore asked cheerfully. He had been keeping Harry company while Severus and Lily were out, popping in unexpectedly.

Harry fiddled with the hem of his shirt. "Sort of."

"Only sort of?"

"Well, I'm not looking forward to Severus having to act like he doesn't like me during class," Harry admitted.

"I see," Dumbledore said. "The keyword is act, Harry. You know he will not mean it." He said kindly. 

"Anymore, at least," Harry gave a small grin. His grin faded. "I'm also not looking forward to being away from Mum," He admitted.

"I do believe I can help with that, my dear boy," Dumbledore said, his blue eyes twinkling.

Harry looked at him curiously but before he could ask how, his mother and Snape flooed into the sitting room.

"Good afternoon Albus," Lily said as she stood next to Harry, putting her arm around his shoulders.

"Albus, I didn't know you were coming by today," Severus said. "I hope you haven't been waiting long."

"Not long at all," Dumbledore assured him. "Were the two of you running errands?"

Lily glanced at Severus and bit her lip. "Sort of," She hedged. She didn't want to go into what she had done at the Dursleys. She would tell Harry eventually but didn't feel now was the time, especially in front of the Headmaster. She also was afraid she wouldn't be able to control her temper if she once again confronted Albus about the living arrangement her son had had to endure.

Dumbledore was looking at them curiously so Severus quickly changed the subject. "Was there something you needed Albus?" He summoned Cora to bring them a tea tray and a Butterbeer for Harry.

"Actually, yes. I have a favor to ask of you, Lily." Dumbledore said as he settled himself down on the sofa. "Filius has been talking about how he wants to spend more time with his family. He had two more grandchildren this past year."

"He wants to retire?" Severus asked in surprise.

"No, not exactly," Dumbledore answered. "He doesn't feel ready to retire yet he does desire to spend more time at home. So I thought of a solution that I believe should suffice if you agree Lily. Filius will teach the fifth through seventh years and you will teach the first through fourth years."

Lily's eyes widened. "You want me to teach Charms?"

"Yes. You were the top of your class in Charms and have proven how adept you are in the subject," Dumbledore said with a nod toward Harry. "You are patient, which is always a positive attribute in teaching."

Harry choked on his Butterbeer. "It is?" He glanced over at Snape and began laughing.

Lily bit her lip, trying to conceal a grin.

"What are you trying to say, Harry? That our Professor Snape lacks that particular trait?" Dumbledore asked innocently.

Severus crossed his arms. "I am quite patient, otherwise I would have turned the majority of the students into Flobberworms by now."

"Sure," Harry snorted. He straightened up and offered an innocent smile at his professor's glare. "What? I agree with you!"

Lily cleared her throat. "So Albus, you really want me to teach? Will the Ministry approve?"

"They already have," Dumbledore said brightly.

"You've told them I'm back already?" Lily asked in surprise.

"Yes, there was no reason to wait. I stuck with our story that you had been in a coma and I took the responsibility for keeping it a secret." Dumbledore shrugged. "Cornelius Fudge was a bit upset with my supposed lie but after a little maneuvering and after the bad light he has been painted in, he is more than happy to do something that will make the wizarding world happy. And embracing the mother who saved her son, who in turn saved the wizarding world, is an intelligent step for him to take."

"Ah, so I have been accepted for political reasons," Lily said in amusement.

"As far as the ministry is concerned, yes," Dumbledore conceded. "For me, it is because you are the best for the job. Never mind that it will keep you at the castle where you will be safe and near your son."

Harry's eyes brightened and he looked at his mother hopefully.

"Filius will move to an unused classroom and transfigure it into an office as well as sleeping quarters that are smaller, as he won't be there as much and you can take over the main office and quarters. He will remain Head of House but when he is not there, Aurora Sinistra will take over his duties." Dumbledore peered anxiously over his glasses at Lily. "What do you think?"

Harry was anxious as well, hoping with everything he had that his mum would agree. He wasn't ready to be separated from her and it would be beyond amazing if she lived at the castle during the school year.

"I would love to do it," Lily replied happily.

Harry breathed a sigh of relief and when his mum looked at him questioningly, he explained, "I'm happy that you are going to be at the castle. I didn't want to be separated from you."

Severus snorted. "You wouldn't have been. She was already planning to live at the castle."

"You were?" Harry asked his mother.

Lily looked at him in surprise. "Did you think I would be separated from you after just being reunited with you? I didn't know where I would stay in the castle, but I would work in the kitchens as long as I could be near you." She said sincerely.

"Lily, even if the teaching opportunity hadn't come up you would have been more than welcome to stay at Hogwarts," Dumbledore cut in.

Lily clapped her hands together. "I need to get planning. I can't believe I'm going to be teaching!" She turned to Severus. "Any tips you can give me?"

Harry once again choked on his Butterbeer. "Merlin, don't ask – er, I mean…" He trailed off at the dark look Snape was giving him.

"I suggest you be sure you are ready for our dueling lesson this evening," Severus said ominously.

/

The next day, Lily sat on the sofa, going through some papers that Filius sent her so she could start reviewing for her new teaching career. Her mind was only half on it as she was watching an Occlumency lesson Severus and Harry were having. It looked intense and Lily wondered if she should try to learn the skill as well. She frowned as Harry almost fell to his knees, shaking. Severus caught him before he could fall.

"I'm just as hopeless as at the beginning of summer," Harry said in frustration.

"No you are not," Severus disagreed. "However, this just shows how important keeping up the lessons is. It's been almost two weeks without a lesson and you still have a ways to go." He sighed when Harry's face fell. "I am not criticizing you. This is a hard skill to truly master, remember? You are still strong in our dueling lessons."

That seemed to perk Harry up.

"I wish you would have mentioned that you were having nightmares," Severus said quietly.

Nightmares? It took everything Lily had not to interrupt their lesson and demand answers. She pretended to be reading while she listened closely.

"It's no big deal," Harry mumbled.

"If you don't talk about it, the nightmares will continue," Severus said. "Have you at least written in your journal?"

"No, but I will," Harry promised. "It's just a stupid dream."

"I doubt your mother would think so," Severus smirked. "You may as well tell as she has been listening to our conversation."

Lily flushed as Harry turned to look at her. She sent Severus a glower. "Tattletale," She muttered. She moved over to make room for Harry so he could sit down next to her. "What is your nightmare?"

"It's stupid," Harry said, yet gave in when his mother stared at him. "I failed in getting you back," He whispered.

"Oh Harry," Lily sighed and hugged her boy.

"I know, it's so dumb because the potion worked," Harry said. "I guess I just can't help wondering what if it hadn't, what if it had been too late?"

"You would have gotten through it," Lily said, smiling. "You seem to have a wonderful support system." She glanced at Severus and then focused back on her son. "But Harry, you did succeed and I am here. I will always be here for you."

Harry bit his lip. "What if someone tries to hurt you? Voldemort or his followers..."

"I can handle myself," Lily said. "I'm sure when the news breaks he won't be very happy that he was tricked, although he won't know just how well he was tricked." She winked and Harry broke into a smile.

"Hogwarts will be safe for both of you," Severus spoke up. He stared at Harry. "As long as you abide by the rules of course."

Harry grinned a little sheepishly.

"All right, I've heard enough hints about dangerous situations you've been in," Lily said as she glanced between them. "Start with your first year. I want to hear about them all."

Harry looked a little uneasy. "All the dangerous situations?"

Lily nodded firmly.

Severus reached out a hand and several vials flew to him. He set them down on the coffee table and leaned back on the sofa.

"What are those for?" Harry asked.

"Calming draughts for your Mother, I have a feeling she might need them," Severus said with a smirk.

Lily made a face. "Funny. I think I can handle it." She turned to Harry. "First year." She said encouragingly.

"Okay, um let's see." Harry thought back. "I remember my scar hurting right before I was sorted. I thought it was Severus but it turns out it was Quirrell. I'll get back to that though. I guess my first flying lesson turned out to be a little dangerous. Hermione said she was sure I was going to crash into the ground but I pulled up at the last second." He saw his mother's frown. "Draco Malfoy had stolen Neville Longbottom's Remembrall and flew up into the air and threw it. I just wanted to catch it so it wouldn't break. I thought I would be in trouble since Madam Hooch had left and told us we couldn't fly without supervision but Professor McGonagall saw me and put me on the Gryffindor team as seeker."

"Rewarding disobedience," Severus drawled.

Harry shrugged. "It wasn't deliberate disobedience."

Lily looked amused. "Go on."

"Um, well that night Malfoy challenged me to a duel at midnight, which I accepted and Ron volunteered to be my second."

"Excuse me?" Severus said, raising an eyebrow.

"Wait, nothing I say can get anyone in trouble right?" Harry asked quickly.

"Well," Severus started to say. 

"No one gets in trouble," Lily said with a glance at Severus.

Severus sighed and nodded.

"Okay so Ron and I snuck out that night and we got joined by Neville and Hermione; Hermione was trying to talk us out of the duel of course. Anyway, we reached the room where we were supposed to meet Malfoy but the little ferret never showed up. Instead, Filch was there, Malfoy had obviously tipped him off. We evaded him though but ended up on the third-floor corridor where we sort of met Fluffy but –"

"You encountered Fluffy that early in the year?" Severus asked hoarsely.

"Yeah, but we escaped."

"Who is Fluffy?" Lily interrupted.

"Fluffy was Hagrid's three-headed huge dog who was protecting a trap door that led to the Sorcerer's Stone," Harry explained. "Professor Dumbledore was keeping safe at the castle, protected by enchantments and charms."

"Four first years facing that creature," Severus muttered. "Unbelievable."

"I guess the next time I faced danger would be Halloween," Harry said thoughtfully. "See, our Defence teacher, Quirrell, was working with Voldemort and he let a mountain troll inside the castle. My friends and I sort of encountered it."

Lily's eyes widened. "What do you mean by sort of?"

"Um, we sort of fought it," Harry swallowed nervously. "It was no big deal, really."

"No big deal taking on a mountain troll?" Lily asked incredulously. "May I ask how you came to face it?"

"Oh, see, Ron had hurt Hermione's feelings and she spent the feast in the girl's bathroom crying. We realized she wouldn't know about the troll so we went to warn her," Harry explained. "Unfortunately, the troll had already found her. I jumped on its back and shoved my wand up its nose and Ron cast the levitation charm on its club, making it drop on the troll's head which knocked it out."

Lily just stared at him.

"It wasn't that big of a deal," Harry insisted.

"Why didn't you tell an adult about Hermione?" Lily asked.

"An excellent question," Severus said, remembering how incensed he had been about the incident.

"Everything was happening so fast and…well, we didn't think the troll would be there. Quirrell had said it was in the dungeons." Harry shrugged.

"Merlin, a mountain troll," Lily breathed.

"After that would be the Quidditch game where Quirrell was trying to jinx me to fall off my broom," Harry continued. "Thankfully, not only did I have a certain potions professor countering the jinx but Hermione caused a distraction which stopped Quirrell." He grinned at Snape.

"Miss Granger set my robes on fire?" Severus demanded. He had always wondered about that.

Lily had been horrified at hearing what Quirrell had tried to do but hearing Severus caused her to erupt into giggles. She supposed it was mostly to release stress after hearing her son's stories but she couldn't seem to stop.

Harry was still grinning. "She thought you were causing my broom to act like that, she was trying to help me." He explained.

Severus rolled his eyes. "Wonderful detective work you three had done. I was trying to protect you."

"I know that now," Harry said. "Next would be the dragon."

Lily sat up straight. "You fought a dragon too?"

"No, Hagrid had received a dragon's egg and my friends and I were there when it hatched."

Severus and Lily both stared at him.

"It was fine," Harry said quickly. "Except Norbert, that's what Hagrid named him, kept setting the hut on fire. And then he bit Ron and it turned out to be a poisonous bite so we convinced Hagrid that he couldn't keep Norbert and arranged with Ron's brother to take Norbert to Romania. See, his brother, Charlie, works with dragons there and he had his friends pick up Norbert. We just had to get him to the top of the Astronomy Tower at midnight." Harry fidgeted slightly in his seat, wishing his mum and Snape would stop staring at him like that.

"How did you get a dragon to the top of the Astronomy Tower without anyone seeing it? I understand it was late but still," Lily murmured.

"We used my invisibility cloak."

Lily gave a start. "You have your father's cloak? How?"

"I got it for Christmas my first year," Harry said. "I found out later that Dumbledore was the one who gave it to me."

Lily took a deep breath. An invisibility cloak for an eleven-year-old? Given to him without any restrictions? She shook her head.

"You can have it, Mum," Harry offered.

"No Harry, James would have wanted you to have it," Lily said gently. "I just think eleven was a little too young to be given such a cloak."

"Yeah, I may have gotten into a little mischief with it," Harry said with a lopsided grin.

"Shocking," Lily grinned back. "Your father got into some mischief with it as well."

"Shocking," Severus muttered. He cleared his throat when Lily leveled him with a mild glare. Merlin, he'd almost forgotten how fierce she could look. "Continue." He said to Harry.

"Well, after that we got into trouble for being out after curfew thanks to Malfoy, that prat. The joke was on him because he got detention too." Harry said with satisfaction. "McGonagall didn't believe him that we had a dragon."

"Yes, it appears he was telling the truth for once," Severus said dryly, raising an eyebrow when Harry looked at him guiltily.

"Yeah well," Harry said. "We were given detention in the Forbidden Forest at eleven at night with Hagrid to find an injured unicorn and -"

"Detention in the Forbidden Forest?" Lily asked in shock. "Have the rules changed since I was in school? The forest is off-limits to students for a reason! And are you telling me that you got into trouble for being out after curfew yet the detention was set deliberately after your curfew?"

"You can take that up with Albus," Severus said snidely. He had been horrified when he had heard that Harry and his friends had been in the Forbidden Forest and that Harry had encountered the Dark Lord. He had shouted quite a bit at the Headmaster, furious that while he was trying to secretly protect the child, he was sending him into such a dangerous place.

"I have a feeling I will be taking up quite a few things with Albus," Lily said in frustration. "So what happened in the forest?"

"Well, Voldemort was using Quirrell as a host and drinking the blood of a unicorn to sustain himself. He was dressed in a dark cloak, which is why I didn't know it was Quirrell when he came at me but a centaur saved me in time."

Lily stared at her son for a moment. "Sev, I think I will have a small swallow of a calming draught."

Severus didn't say anything, just handed her a vial.

"Do you want me to continue?" Harry asked uncertainly.

"Yes, I'm good now," Lily set down the vial after taking a small swallow. "Continue."

"Um, I ended the year going after what Fluffy was hiding with Ron and Hermione. See, we found out it was the Sorcerer's Stone that was being kept hidden and we were sure someone was after it. We thought it was…" He looked apologetically at his professor.

Severus waved a hand dismissively. "I suppose it would make sense that you and your little friends thought it was me after it."

"Right. Anyway, we got past Fluffy and had to pass all the tests that were set up to protect the stone. I wouldn't have been able to do it with Ron and Hermione. Ron got injured though and Hermione stayed with him so in the end, it was just me who went to see if the stone was safe. Quirrell was already there and I was shocked, I had had no idea it would be him. He had acted so fearful and naive all through the year…and he wasn't alone. The back of his head contained Voldemort's face. He wanted the stone and was using the Mirror of Erised to find it. He ordered that I look into the mirror and I saw myself in the reflection, holding the stone. Then I felt something in my pocket and knew that somehow, I had the Sorcerer's Stone. I tried to lie about what I had seen but Voldemort knew I was lying. He ordered for Quirrell to seize me but when he began choking me, it was like my skin burned him. So I grabbed his face with my hands and he began to disintegrate. I let go and stepped back and then Voldemort left his body and flew right at me. I guess I passed out because I woke up in the infirmary."

Without even being asked, Severus handed Lily the vial of Calming Draught. "Take a big swallow this time."

Lily did so and then took several deep breaths.

"It was because of you that I could defend myself against Quirrelmort," Harry said after a moment. "You sacrificed yourself to save me and it protected me once again. They couldn't touch me."

"Oh Harry," Lily whispered, reaching out for her son and hugging him fiercely. "I love you so much."

"I know," Harry said, relaxing in his mother's arms. It was amazing how safe he felt in her arms.

Severus was just about to quietly exit the room to give them some time alone when Lily pulled back with a rueful laugh. "You were right to bring the calming draughts Sev. I can't believe all this happened in your first year." She shook her head at her son. "Unbelievable. What happened to Voldemort after that?"

"He was severely weakened, even more than he already was, and fled to try and regain some power or find someone else to help him," Severus spoke up.

Lily rubbed her temples. "I see. All right, what about your second year?"

"Second year started with a slightly crazed house elf and a flying car," Harry began.

/

"I guess we shouldn't have gone through all five years in one night," Harry said, as he stared at the empty vials. His mother was sound asleep on the couch, knocked out after downing the last vial after he had finished his fifth year. 

"In hindsight," Severus agreed, rubbing his eyes tiredly. There had been many escapades that he had not known about and felt like downing some more calming draughts himself. He had already taken a few swallows.

"At least you stopped her from flooing to the Headmaster to hex him," Harry chuckled. His mother had been furious about all that had happened to him at Hogwarts and after hearing that he had had to compete in the Triwizard Tournament had headed towards the Floo. "Although I was worried she would turn and hex you instead when you stuck her feet to the floor."

Severus smiled to himself. Lily could be a force to be reckoned with when she wanted to be. Thankfully he had been able to talk her out of confronting Albus, for the time being anyway. "You didn't tell her about entering my pensive," He said lightly.

"I didn't know if you would want her to know what I saw," Harry admitted. "I thought it should be your decision. Plus she looked a little frazzled as it was."

"Yes," Severus agreed, thinking about why she had been so upset, about all the dangerous situations Harry had been involved in and his face turned serious again.

"Uh, are you okay?" Harry asked timidly.

Severus eyed him sternly. "You were smart to make me agree not to hold you or your friends accountable for any information I learned tonight."

Harry swallowed. "Right."

"Stealing my ingredients, making Polyjuice Potion, using a time turner -"

"The Headmaster suggested that," Harry pointed out quickly.

"I always knew he was senile," Severus muttered.

"It helped to save Buckbeak and Sirius…" Harry trailed off, a sad look coming into his eyes. He glanced at his mum. "I shouldn't have told her about the night Voldemort returned. I thought she was going to really lose it."

"Hearing in detail what you went through," Severus shook his head. "You were immensely brave Harry. I just wish you hadn't had to experience any of the horrors you have had to face."

Harry stayed quiet, knowing Severus had to face horrors too. If only he could convince him to stop spying. Maybe his mother would be able to.

"It is a lot for Lily, to hear of all the close calls you have had," Severus sighed. "She wants the best for you and to hear that you haven't had it… We all failed you." He murmured.

"You've protected me," Harry said after a moment. "And yeah, we didn't get on before but now; you've been great to me."

Severus gave him a withering look. "I have not. I lose my temper too quickly, I'm snarky -"

"Sarcastic, strict," Harry finished with a grin. "And I'm insufferable, foolhardy -"

"Cheeky, reckless," Severus finished easily.

Harry laughed. "Exactly. See, no one's perfect. And I honestly don't know how I would have held up this summer without you, after losing Sirius and dealing with the Dursleys. Trust me, you haven't failed me."

"Thank you, Harry," Severus said quietly.

"Do you think she'll be all right?" Harry asked as he gazed worriedly at his mother.

"Lily is one of the strongest people that I know," Severus said confidently. "She will be fine."

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"Did you get your results? How did you do?" Hermione asked eagerly as soon as Harry stepped out of the floo.

"Merlin Hermione, let him breathe," Ron muttered, shuffling his feet.

Harry met Ron's eyes and offered a grin, to which Ron responded with one of his own. Maybe they could just ignore their fight and be friends again, without talking about their argument. Harry would be fine with that if it meant that everything went back to normal. "How did you do, mate?"

"Seven O.W.L.'s," Ron said proudly. "No Outstandings and failed Divination and History of Magic, but I don't count those classes as anything important," He shrugged. "Mum was pleased. You?"

"Basically the same," Harry admitted. "I did get one O, in Defence Against the Dark Arts."

"No surprise there," Ron said, punching him on the shoulder. "So we both did all right. And Hermione did amazing."

Hermione blushed. "I did okay."

"Oh stop," Ron rolled his eyes. "Ten O's and one E, in Defence Against the Dark Arts."

Harry grinned at Hermione. "That's amazing, congratulations!" He looked at her in exasperation. "You aren't upset about getting an E are you?"

"No," Hermione insisted.

Harry laughed. "Oh, I've been made Quidditch Captain." He shared.

"That's great Harry!" Hermione beamed.

"Congratulations! Wow, so you're my Captain... well if you let me back on the team," Ron joked.

"Harry dear, how are you?" Mrs. Weasley asked as she greeted him with a hug when she walked into the room.

"I'm fine Mrs. Weasley," Harry said.

"And your mum and Severus?"

"They're fine too," Harry said, noticing Ron making a disgusted face. He chose to ignore it.

"Did you have breakfast already?"

Harry nodded.

"I'm glad you are being taken care of now," Mrs. Weasley said fondly. She fixed a stern look at him. "Did you receive your O.W.L.'s?"

"Yes Ma'am," Harry said. He was used to Mrs. Weasley acting motherly, though in the past it had made him feel a pain of longing for something he couldn't remember ever having. Now, he had his very own mother. "I did pretty well, like Ron."

"Wonderful!" Mrs. Weasley smiled and patted her son on the shoulder. "I'm very proud of all three of you. We'll be leaving soon, as soon as Arthur gets here. I'm not risking going to Diagon Alley without him. There will be Aurors there too, thank Merlin."

"Mum thinks You-Know-Who will be hiding in Flourish and Blotts," Ron joked, not noticing his mother was still in hearing distance.

Mrs. Weasley swirled around, her eyes flashing. "Florean Fortescue disappeared, as have a lot of people who probably thought they were safe. They certainly didn't go on a holiday. Do you think security is a laughing matter, Ron? Perhaps you should stay behind and -"

"No!" Ron said hastily. "I wanna go, I want to see George and Fred's new shop!"

"Then start showing some maturity!" Mrs. Weasley snapped. "Otherwise you'll not only stay here instead of going shopping, you'll stay home instead of going to Hogwarts!"

Ron's mouth dropped open as he watched his mother walk away. "Blimey, you can't even make a joke around here anymore," he muttered.

"What was that about Florean Fortescue?" Harry asked.

"Oh," Ron said, exchanging a look with Hermione. "He's missing. Bill told us this morning. He said, well, he said it looked like he had been dragged off."

"Why?" Harry asked weakly. "Why him?"

"No one knows," Hermione said.

Harry felt sick, people were getting hurt and it was up to him to stop it. It was his responsibility and he had no idea how he was going to win.

"Shouldn't Snape know? He's a spy, isn't he?"

Harry glared at Ron. "He hasn't seen Voldemort since the monster almost killed him. Voldemort is weak and relies mostly on Lestrange and Pettigrew, so who knows what is going on."

"Besides, we don't know for sure that Fortescue was taken by death eaters," Hermione said hopefully. "Maybe he just decided to leave and did it quickly, to avoid the death eaters."

"Maybe," Harry said quietly. Voldemort may be weak right now but that didn't mean he wasn't sending his death eaters out to hurt and kill people. And it would keep happening, people would keep getting hurt until he could destroy Voldemort. If I can destroy him, Harry thought with a sigh.

They rode to the Leaky Cauldron in a special Ministry of Magic car, which Ron couldn't stop raving about.

"Don't get used to it," Mrs. Weasley lightly admonished her son. "We only have these because of Harry. We will also be meeting up with more security once we get there."

Wondering what Aurors would be there, Harry was beyond happy to see that the only one waiting for them outside the inn was Hagrid.

"Harry!" Hagrid practically shouted as he swept him into a crushing hug the second Harry was out of the car. He was oblivious to the shocked stares of the nearby Muggles. "How are you? How is Lily doing?"

"She's -"

"I'm so happy for you Harry, so happy!" Hagrid sniffled as he let him go.

Harry massaged his ribs as he grinned at Hagrid. "Mum's doing great. She's going to be teaching Charms! Did you know?"

"Heard bout' that Harry," Hagrid beamed.

"You're so lucky Harry," Hermione sighed as she joined them. "Your Mum will be a Professor so if you need any extra tutoring she can help you as can Professor Snape. I wish my parents were Professors."

Ron had joined them and scowled. "Harry's parents are not Professors, just his Mum!"

"Ronald Bilius Weasley, if you dare start -" Hermione said angrily.

"I'm not!" Ron quickly protested. "I was just pointing out -"

"Well, don't!" Hermione snapped.

Harry sighed and turned his attention back to Hagrid. "So you're our security?"

"Yes, the Ministry was set on sending a bunch o' Aurors but Dumbledore convinced them that I'd do," Hagrid said proudly. "Though, there will be some Aurors blending in but we don't anticipate any trouble." He clapped his large hands together. "We should get goin' – Molly, Arthur, after yeh."

Diagon Alley had certainly changed. All the colorful window displays were now hidden behind Ministry of Magic posters, giving advice on security and showing photos of Death Eaters that were on the loose. Harry stiffened when he saw a poster of Bellatrix Lestrange sneering from one of the apothecary stores. Some stores had closed down, their doors boarded up. There also appeared to be some shabby-looking stands that had been put up along the street, with seedy-looking wizards selling stuff.

One gave them a twisted grin as they passed, an armful of Amulets on his arm. "Would the lovely young girls like one? Protect their delicate necks?"

Harry and Ron immediately blocked Hermione from his view as Mrs. Weasley put her arm around Ginny and hurried past him.

"If I were on duty, I would -" Mr. Weasley muttered.

"Now, now we are in a hurry dear," Mrs. Weasley said as she consulted her list. The sooner they got the children's supplies, the sooner they could go back to the safety of the Burrow. "We'll do Madam Malkin's first, Hermione, Ron, and Harry need new robes."

"Molly, dear we don't all need to go to Madam Malkin's," Mr. Weasley said. "They can go there with Hagrid and we can go to Flourish and Blotts and get all their school books. We'll save time that way."

"I don't know," Mrs. Weasley murmured, looking around anxiously. She wanted to finish this trip as soon as possible but she also didn't want them to separate. "Hagrid?"

"Don' worry Molly, I'll keep them safe," Hagrid assured her.

Mrs. Weasley hesitated for a moment but then gave in and the group separated.

"I better stand guard outside, migh' be a bit of squeeze with all of us in there," Hagrid said as they stopped outside Madam Malkin's shop.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione entered the little shop and at first thought it to be empty but soon they heard a familiar voice complaining behind a rack of colorful robes.

"I'm not a child Mother. I do not see why I can not do my shopping alone."

A voice Harry recognized as Madam Malkin spoke up. "Now dear, your mother is quite right. It simply is not safe to be out alone no matter your age."

"I wasn't talking to you and watch where you're sticking that pin!"

A grumpy-faced teenage boy with a pale, pointed face strode from behind the rack to examine the handsome set of green robes he was wearing in a mirror. He noticed Harry, Ron, and Hermione in the reflection and his light gray eyes narrowed.

"I wondered what that horrible smell was, a Mudblood has just walked in," Draco Malfoy said with a smirk.

Hermione sighed as Ron and Harry whisked their wands out and pointed them at Malfoy. "Stop. He's not worth it." She hissed at them.

Madam Malkin was glaring at Draco. "There is no need for language like that!" She snapped. "And I do not want wands drawn in my shop either!"

"Like they'd dare do magic outside of school," Draco sneered as his mother appeared next to him.

"Put those away," She said coldly. "Or else."

"Or else?" Harry asked just as coldly, stepping forward. "Or else what? Going to get your fellow Death Eater pals to hurt us?"

"Please do not say such things," Madam Malkin said nervously.

Harry kept his wand up and stared at Narcissa Malfoy.

"I don't know why you are so upset, after all, you should be grateful," She gave him a fake smile. "My husband did try to help you, children, after all."

"That's a big fat lie!" Harry snapped. "He should still be in Azkaban along with you, your son, and your insane sister!"

"Harry," Hermione said softly, putting her hand on his arm.

Draco made an angry move towards Harry but stumbled in his long robes and fell to the floor, causing Ron to snicker loudly.

"Don't talk about my family like that Potter!" Draco snarled as he stood up.

"Now Draco, we should give Potter some understanding," Narcissa said. "He still is grieving poor Sirius's death, isn't he?" A smirk crossed her face and it was all Harry could do not to hex her where she stood. "Now be a good boy, and put your wand down. You wouldn't want your dear Mother to hear about this, would you? Perhaps I should visit her and have a...chat. As a mother to a mother."

"You won't get near her!" Harry hissed, understanding the underlying threat. He grinned slowly. "So how does it feel to know your Master is such a failure? He didn't kill my mother, and he's failed to kill me I don't know how many times and -"

"Shut up!" Narcissa hissed. She glanced over at Madam Malkin, who had a frightened look on her face and pasted a fake smile back on her own face. "You must be confused, not surprising with having to watch your godfather die right in front of you. You must feel horribly guilty that you weren't able to save him." She turned to the store owner. "Such rude customers that you allow in this shop, I believe my son and I will shop at Twilfitt and Tatting's instead."

As he was leaving, Draco deliberately knocked into Harry. "Have a good day Potty."

"Become a death eater yet, ferret?" Harry responded with a hateful look.

Draco's eyes widened in surprise before they narrowed into a glare at the trio and he hurried after his mother.

"Honestly Harry, you shouldn't have baited them like that," Hermione scolded as she looked through a rack of robes.

"Me? She baited me!"

"Yeah and so did her prat of a son," Ron added with a scowl.

"Yes, and you responded which lets them win," Hermione said impatiently.

Harry huffed but didn't say anything as they got their robes and Madam Malkin happily ushered them out of her shop.

"Get what you needed?" Hagrid asked when they joined him.

"Yeah," Harry said. "Did you see the Malfoys?"

"I saw them," Hagrid said. "They wouldn' dare make trouble here. Don' worry bout' them. Yeh didn't speak to them did yeh?"

"Um..."

"Spoke to them and these two raised their wands on them!" Hermione scowled.

"Harry! Ron! What were yeh thinkin'?" Hagrid scolded.

"They started it," Ron said as he glared at Hermione. "Snitch." He muttered.

Hermione merely crossed her arms across her chest.

Hagrid shook his head. "They're dangerous, yeh know that!"

Harry struggled to keep his temper and was relieved when he saw Mr. and Mrs. Weasley and Ginny heading their way. Without another word, he went to meet them across the street, ignoring Hagrid calling to him to wait.

"Everything all right?" Mr. Weasley asked in concern when they all met up. He noticed the frown Hagrid was giving Harry.

"Yes," Harry said shortly.

"Good, then we can go to the Apothecary and Eeylops on the way to Fred and George's shop. Everyone stick close now."

"Especially you Harry," Hagrid said, still frowning at the way Harry had walked off.

Suddenly feeling guilty, Harry offered Hagrid an apologetic look. "Sorry. I will."

In the Apothecary, Ron watched in confusion as his mother handed him a basket and began dumping ingredients into it. "Mum, I'm not taking Potions this year." He protested.

"Of course you are," Mrs. Weasley said briskly.

"Snape only lets students continue who got an O on their O.W.L.S., I got an E," Ron reminded her.

Harry grinned. "Oh, I forgot to tell you. He changed his policy. Students who got an E are allowed to continue Potions, although they will be on probation until they prove they are taking it seriously."

"What? Why did he do that?" Ron whined. His eyes narrowed. "For you?" He asked sarcastically.

Harry frowned. "No, he changed the policy before I even got my results. Dumbledore's been after him to accept more students into his N.E.W.T. Classes."

"Oh," Ron muttered. "Mum, how did you know about it?"

"A letter came with your O.W.L. Results," Mrs. Weasley said.

"This means we can still apply to be Aurors," Harry said to Ron after Mrs. Weasley had walked away to help Ginny pick out her supplies.

"True," Ron sighed. "Fine, I'll take potions. It figures though, I thought I was free of the greasy git."

Harry clenched his teeth together and ignored Ron as he picked out the ingredients he would need.

"Potions are important and it's good that you are continuing," Hermione said, holding her bag of purchased ingredients. "It should be very challenging this year."

"It's challenging every year," Ron complained.

After stopping at the Eeylops Owl Emporium to buy treats for Hedwig and Pigwidgeon, they headed to the twins' joke shop, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes.

While the rest of the shops in town looked dull and empty, Fred and George's windows practically glowed with dazzling displays that popped, flashed, glowed, and bounced. They did have a poster on the right window but instead of warnings and cautions, it was emblazoned with flashing gold letters.

WHY ARE YOU WORRYING ABOUT
YOU-KNOW-WHO?
YOU SHOULD BE WORRYING ABOUT
U-NO-POO-
THE CONSTIPATION SENSATION
THAT'S GRIPPING THE NATION!

Mr. Weasley and Mrs. Weasley were staring at the poster in horror while Ron and Harry began snickering. Hermione looked disapproving while it looked like Hagrid was trying to hide his laughter.

"Are they trying to get themselves murdered?" Mrs. Weasley cried in frustration.

"Oh come on Mum, this is brilliant!" Ron said with a grin.

They walked in and found that the shop was packed. Harry could hardly get near the shelves, so he just stood and looked around. There were Skiving Snackboxes, a nosebleed Nougat, trick wands, and boxes of different quills which came in Self-Inking, Spell-Checking, and Smart-Answer. A space cleared in the crowd and Harry wandered over to where a group of kids were watching a tiny little wooden man slowly ascend the steps to a real set of gallows. Harry read the box – Reusable Hangman – Spell it or he'll swing!

"Look at this," Hermione said, holding up a box. "Patented Daydream Charms. A simple incantation and you will enter a highly realistic thirty-minute daydream. Not for sale to under–sixteens. This is rather extraordinary magic!"

"And for saying that, you get one free!" Fred beamed at her as he walked up to them. "Hey, Harry! What do you think of the shop?"

"It's brilliant!"

"Thanks," Fred said happily. "Come on, I'll show you around. Over here, we have Muggle magic tricks. For weirdos like Dad who are fascinated by Muggle stuff. People seem to like them...George, look who's here!"

"Harry, good to see you. Having a tour? Come over here, this is the real money maker items. Shield hats, cloaks, and gloves."

"This one is cool, Instant Darkness Powder. Quite handy if you want to make a quick getaway." Fred said enthusiastically. "And these here are Decoy Detonators, you just drop one and it will run off and make a bunch of noise so you have a diversion if you need one."

"Handy," Harry said, impressed.

George grinned. "Here," He tossed a couple of detonators at him. "On the house."

"You don't have to do that," Harry protested, pulling out his wallet.

"You don't pay here Harry," Fred said firmly. "It's thanks to you we have this shop, you gave us our start-up loan. Take whatever you like and the only payment is to tell people where you got it. You can advertise for us." He grinned.

Harry grinned back. "All right. Thanks."

"Looks like Ginny found the love potions," George commented, directing their gaze to where Ginny stood with a bunch of giggling girls by a table holding bright pink products.

"Looking to potion someone Ginny?" Fred asked with a wag of his eyebrows.

Ginny flushed. "No, of course not." She leveled a glare at her brothers. "They probably don't even work anyway."

"Oi! We take offense at that," George sniffed. "They work for twenty-four hours, give or take a little."

Ginny shrugged and wandered over to a cage where several round fluffy balls of pink and purple were rolling around, squeaking adorably.

"What are those?" Hermione asked as she and Ron joined them. Ron's arms were full of merchandise.

"Those are Pygmy Puffs, they're quite popular," George said, his eyes narrowing when he saw all that Ron was holding. "That will be three Galleons, nine Sickles, and a Knut. Hand it over."

"What? But I'm your brother!" Ron protested.

"Fine. I'll knock off the Knut."

"But I still don't have enough money!"

"Then put everything back," Fred said briskly. "We have a business to run."

"Git," Ron muttered and started to make a rude hand gesture that was quickly spotted by Mrs. Weasley.

"Ronald, you finish that gesture and I will jinx your fingers together!" She snapped.

"Mum, look at the Pygmy Puffs!" Ginny said excitedly. "I want one. Please?"

"You want what?"

"Look how sweet they are," Ginny said as she led Mrs. Weasley to the cage.

Harry briefly wondered if Luna would like one. He had a feeling she would and he gazed at the round fluff balls thoughtfully.

"Harry, look," Hermione hissed, gesturing towards the window.

Harry turned and watched Draco hurrying down the road alone. He narrowed his eyes. "Where is his mummy? She wouldn't let her precious baby out of her sight would she?"

"Probably gave her the slip," Ron snorted.

"But why?" Hermione wondered out loud.

That's what Harry would like to know. No way that little ferret was up to anything good. After all, he was hoping to become a death eater. Merlin, what if he already has? Harry thought in alarm. "We need to follow him." He said with determination.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"How? No way he won't see the three of us following him." Ron said. "Ahh," He said approvingly when Harry removed his Invisibility Cloak from his bag.

"Harry, no way," Hermione glanced over at Mrs. Weasley. "It's too dangerous. Especially for you."

"We'll be invisible Hermione," Ron said.

Hermione sighed and ducked under the cloak along with Ron and Harry. Luckily, everyone else was too busy examining Fred and George's products to notice that they had disappeared. The trio squeezed their way through the doorway.

"Where did he go?" Harry asked in frustration, though he kept his voice quiet. Hagrid was standing near the door, humming to himself.

"There he is," Hermione whispered. "He just turned left."

"He's going into Knockturn Alley," Ron said with a gulp.

"I don't think we should go -"

"Hermione, we have to know what he is up to," Harry insisted, ignoring the part of his brain telling him this was a bad idea.

Knockturn Alley was mostly deserted, most of the shops didn't appear to have any customers.

"There he is, in the corner next to Borgin and Burkes and it looks like he's with...oh Merlin," Ron gulped.

"Who is that? He looks familiar," Hermione said, keeping her voice low.

"Fenrir Greyback. You've probably seen his wanted poster in Diagon Alley." Ron said, his voice tense.

Greyback. Harry knew that it was Greyback who had turned Remus into a werewolf when he was only five years old. This man was dangerous and was known for wanting to turn as many people into werewolves as he could. He allied himself with Voldemort, although he was not technically a death eater.

"We should go," Hermione whispered nervously.

"Wait," Harry maneuvered them closer, ignoring the alarmed looks on his friends' faces. "We should find out what they are up to."

"So will you help me?" Draco was asking Greyback impatiently.

Fenrir Greyback sneered at the pale, blonde teenager. "Do your mummy and daddy know you are asking me to help you?"

"Of course not," Draco scoffed. "They wouldn't approve of my plan or of my asking the likes of you for help."

"The likes of me?" Greyback growled.

"What a git, doesn't he realize he is talking to a very dangerous murderer?" Ron whispered with a shake of his head.

Draco cleared his throat. "I just meant...well, they wouldn't approve of my idea. But it's a perfect plan to prove myself to the Dark Lord so that he will make me a death eater. And you'll be rewarded, of course."

"It's a foolish idea," Greyback said. "The person you are after will see you coming a mile away. As much as I hate to admit it, he is very powerful. You'd do better to leave it to the Dark Lord to make the plans."

"But he's weak right now," Draco said in a whiny voice.

Fenrir Greyback gave a mean laugh. "You're lucky lad, that I am not a real death eater. Otherwise, I would take you to him and let him know what you just said."

Draco paled.

"I could find a way to let him know," Greyback mused then chuckled darkly. "But I know how he feels about my kind. The same way your parents do, the same way you do." He leaned forward and bared his teeth. "You think I'm beneath you, but just wait. Someday I will have an army of my own and then, boy, you will bow before my kind."

"You're mental!" Draco drew out his wand as Fenrir took another step toward him. "Try anything and I will hex you! If you don't want to help me, fine. I'll find another way to achieve my goal of proving my worth to the Dark Lord."

Greyback rolled his eyes and yawned. "Run along home little boy. You're boring me." His eyes darkened. "And don't ever try to contact me again. You're nothing Malfoy. Nothing except dinner to the likes of me," He snapped his teeth together, which sent Draco running out of the Alley. Greyback looked around suspiciously, sniffing the air before disappearing into the shadows.

"Oh Merlin, I thought he would sniff us out," Ron said in a shaking voice as the trio hurried out of Knockturn Alley.

"I'm surprised he didn't hear my heart pounding," Hermione breathed out.

"We better get back," Harry said. "I wonder what Draco wanted to do to prove his worth to Voldemort?"

"It can't be anything good," Hermione said. "The Order should know, shouldn't they?"

"Uh, how are we going to tell them without telling them we were in Knockturn Alley?" Ron asked sarcastically. "My parents would flip."

"Yeah, so would mine," Harry murmured. He flushed. "I mean, Mum and Severus would flip." He ignored the disgusted look Ron was giving him.

Hermione continued as if Harry hadn't said anything strange. "Still, it's important for them to know right? That Draco has been in contact with Fenrir Greyback and is planning something?"

"Maybe we can say we overheard him at Madame Malkin's?" Ron suggested.

Harry was about to agree when the three of them bumped into a wall. Only it wasn't a wall.

"Well now," Hagrid's voice boomed as he tore off the Invisibility Cloak. "We've been lookin' everywhere for you three." His voice was full of disappointment.

"We, uh, just stepped out for some fresh air," Ron said weakly.

"Using the cloak?"

"Well yeah, for protection," Harry tried to smile but had a feeling it came out as more of a grimace. "We wanted fresh air but didn't want to risk any death eaters seeing us."

Hagrid was still looking at them suspiciously. "I was standin' right here. Yeh couldn't have said somethin'?

"We didn't want to bother you or anyone else," Hermione spoke up. "It's really crowded inside the joke shop. We just wanted a moment away."

Hagrid's face softened a bit but before he could say anything else, the door opened and a very worried and angry Mrs. Weasley stepped out. "WHERE have the three of you been? Do you have any idea how worried we were? How dare you leave without one of us with you!"

Harry winced. He had a feeling Mrs. Weasley wouldn't buy their story as easily as Hagrid. He knew for sure his mum and Snape wouldn't.

/

Harry sat at the dining room table with Cora as Mrs. Weasley, his mum, and Severus talked in the living room. He sighed.

"Is Young Master in trouble?" Cora asked in concern.

"Probably. I usually am," Harry said with a wry grin. He ran his hand through his hair. "My friends and I did something kind of stupid and even though nothing bad happened, it could have."

Cora wagged a long finger at him. "Young Master needs to take better care of his safety. Cora would be heartbroken if something happened to Master Harry." Tears filled her eyes at the thought.

"So would we," Lily said from the doorway where she stood with Severus. Both their expressions were livid.

"Nothing happened," Harry sighed.

"No? So you didn't draw your wand on Narcissa Malfoy and Draco?" Severus asked, disapproval clear in his voice.

"How did...Hagrid tattled on me?" Harry frowned. Hagrid must have told Mrs. Weasley about that. He must have really upset the gamekeeper for him to do that.

"Maybe Cora should make some tea?" Cora asked, wringing her hands together. The tension in the room was pretty thick.

"Yes, that would be lovely. Thank you, Cora," Lily said as she sat down across from her son. She raised an eyebrow at Harry. "Why don't you tell us what happened, starting with Madame Malkin's?"

"We got new robes."  Harry hedged. 

"Do not be cheeky!" Severus snapped. "You know what she is asking about."

Harry slumped in his seat. "There may have been words said, wands drawn. But it was their fault! Draco called Hermione a Mudblood as soon as he saw us and then his mother was saying how Lucius tried to help us at the Ministry and we should be grateful." He shook his head. "She brought up Sirius and how I must feel guilty for getting him killed...she made a threat of meeting with you, Mum. It wasn't an outright threat but..." He shrugged. "What was I supposed to do?" He fiddled with his teacup that suddenly popped onto the table, along with a plate of biscuits.

"Hmm, walk away?" Severus suggested with a touch of sarcasm in his voice as he poured himself and Lily a cup of tea. "Leave the shop and wait until they left before going back in?" He understood how difficult it would have been for Harry to do those things. But the teenager had to learn to control his temper, otherwise it could cost him his life.

"Those are very hurtful things that the Malfoys said," Lily said quietly. "I understand you and your friends being upset. But Severus is right, you three should have walked away. You of all people know how dangerous they are, especially Narcissa. She is death eater, if she had made a move to attack you, to take you to Voldemort..." Lily took a deep breath. "I couldn't bear it Harry, if something happened to you. It would destroy me." The last sentence was said hoarsely, as she fought back tears at the thought of losing her son again.

Harry felt horrible, guilt settling in his stomach. "She wouldn't have tried anything, not with Lucius trying to act like he's a good guy and all."

"We don't know what she would do if provoked," Severus spoke up. "She is protective of her family and if she thought she could get away with it, no doubt she would take you straight to Voldemort. Anything to put Lucius back in his favor."

"Okay, I didn't think but the things she said-"

"Were meant to be hurtful. Were meant to provoke you," Lily interrupted. "As difficult as it is, you have to ignore it. Words are a powerful weapon and if they know they can get a rise out of you, they will use it just as they use their wands in a fight."

"There is a reason we have been practicing Occlumency," Severus said impatiently. "Occluding would have helped you to not get upset, to control your temper. Did you even think of trying to do that?"

"No," Harry muttered, feeling stupid. Why didn't I do that? He scolded himself. Losing his temper during a fight could be disastrous.

"You will work on it and do better," Severus said firmly.

"I will," Harry promised.

Lily reached across the table and grabbed Harry's hand, giving it a warm squeeze. "We know you will." She leveled him a firm look. "Now, where did you, Ron, and Hermione go when you were supposed to stay with an adult?"

"Um..." 

"Harry."

"Well..." 

"Harry."

"Uh..." 

"Harry!"

"You're going to get mad," Harry said unhappily.

"Too late," Severus grumbled.

"Harry, you can tell us anything. If it makes us mad, we'll get through it," Lily said. "What reason could be so important that you would risk your safety?"

Harry bit his lip and drummed his fingers on the table. "Okay, we saw Draco through the window of George and Fred's shop. I wanted to know what he was up to as he was all alone."

Lily sighed while Severus's eyes darkened. "Where did you follow him to?" He asked in a dangerous voice. He had a pretty good idea where the Malfoy brat would go.

Harry swallowed. "Um, Knockturn Alley? We were under the invisibility cloak!" He added hastily, leaning back when both his mum and Severus's eyes flashed with anger.

"You went there again? I thought we discussed this," Severus said, trying to control his temper. "I could understand why you would risk it before, you did it for your mother. But just to follow Draco Malfoy?"

"He's up to something!" Harry insisted. "He met with.." He trailed off, thinking that mentioning who Malfoy had met with would not help the situation.

"Just tell us," Lily said firmly. 

"Okay, just let me finish before you kill me okay?" Harry pleaded. "He met with Fenrir Greyback and wanted him to help him with something. Some plan he has to prove his worth to Voldemort so that he can become a death eater sooner. Greyback wouldn't help him but Malfoy has some scheme he wants to accomplish and it can't be anything good!"

Lily stared at him. "Can I kill you now?"

"Are you insane?" Severus hissed at Harry. "Will you ever learn to take your safety seriously? Do you have any idea what Fenrir Greyback would have done to you and your friends if he had discovered you? He attacks whether he is in wolf form or not!"

Harry winced. That did not paint a pretty picture.

"Maybe there is a spell I can create that will give you a good jolt anytime you try to enter Knockturn Alley," Severus mused. "You obviously can't keep away from there."

"Don't you think it's important to know what Draco is up to?"

"It's certainly suspicious and I now wonder what the little twerp is planning," Severus agreed. "Finding out is not worth your life, however. Or the lives of your friends. All three of you could have been killed."

"You were told to stay with the adults," Lily said with a shake of her head. "You were told not to go off on your own. I have to admit Harry, I'm.." She hesitated.

"Mad? Furious?" Harry asked glumly. This feeling was awful. Now he understood why Ron and Hermione hated getting scolded by their parents. It was horrible to know he had let them down.

"Disappointed," Lily said softly, her eyes showing the pain that admission caused her. She didn't want to say it but it had to be said. For his own good.

"Oh," Harry could feel tears welling up in his eyes and he abruptly stood up. "I – I should go to my room."

"Harry, sit back down," Severus said, his voice more gentle than it had been during the discussion.

Harry obeyed but avoided making eye contact with either adult.

"I love you, Harry, nothing you could ever do changes that," Lily said. "It doesn't change even if I am disappointed with your decision-making. I'm still proud of who you are."

"Right," Harry said, still looking away.

Lily shared an exasperated look with Severus and stood up to go over to her son. She sat down next to him and put her arms around him, pulling him into a hug. "I mean it. I think you are an incredible young man. An impulsive one perhaps," She teased. "But incredible."

"I'd add occasionally foolish to that but all in all, I have to agree," Severus spoke up.

Harry relaxed into his mother's arms. "I'm sorry."

"Still," Severus gave Lily a pointed look.

"Still," Lily agreed. "There are consequences for what you and your friends did. I know Mrs. Weasley is dealing with Ron as well as Hermione since she is staying with them. Despite summer being almost over, they are on restriction and will be doing a lot of chores from what I heard her muttering to herself as she was flooing away."

Harry sighed. "So I'm on restriction as well? I can't see my friends?"

"Not until school starts, which is soon anyway," Lily said, a small smile on her face at the sorrowful look on her son's. "Also no flying."

"And I have plenty of cauldrons that need cleaning," Severus bit back a laugh as Harry's face grew even more despondent. Teenagers, honestly.

"I could use help cleaning and organizing my classroom," Lily added. "We'll be going to Hogwarts a day before school starts."

Harry's face brightened. He loved Hogwarts and didn't mind helping his mum with her classroom at all.

Severus winked at Lily when Harry wasn't looking. "Mr. Filch could probably use some help getting the castle ready for the students."

Harry's mouth dropped open. "What? No way! I'd rather scrub cauldrons and cut up disgusting ingredients for the rest of my life!"

"Duly noted," Severus smirked.

Harry's emerald eyes narrowed. "You're having me on." He accused. 

"Maybe." Severus took a sip of tea.

/

Harry spent the last days of summer cleaning cauldrons, helping re-organize Severus's lab, and helping his mum plan her classes. Even though he couldn't see his friends or fly, at least he got to spend time with his mum and Severus. They even spent the evenings playing chess and Gobstones. Severus was actually really good at the Gobstones, rarely getting squirted in the face by the putrid liquid. He told Harry that his mother had been Captain of the school Gobstones team during her fifth year.

Finally, it was the day before school started and time to go back to Hogwarts. Harry was so excited, he could hardly sit still at breakfast. He couldn't wait to have the castle almost to himself, and then tomorrow he would see his friends. He had decided not to go on the train ride to school to avoid the questions and looks he knew he would get. He wanted to put that off as long as possible. But despite knowing he and his mother would be the topic of conversation, he still couldn't wait to see everyone.

"You do remember I will be acting like I usually do in class?" Severus interrupted his thoughts.

"Yeah," Harry said with resignation.

"It's just an act, I won't mean any of it," Severus continued. "Unless I think you aren't paying attention to your work, then I might mean some of it."

Harry mentally rolled his eyes and reached for the pumpkin syrup to pour over his waffles. "Yeah, I figured that."

"I will also have to act like that in the hallways and Great Hall, even today. Not all the professors are Order members." Snape continued. "We can't risk talk of any suspicious behavior getting back to Voldemort.  As for your mother, I will ignore her in front of others."

"Should be a fun time for all," Lily teased as she joined them for breakfast.

"You look excited," Harry commented.

"I am. I can't wait to set up my classroom," Lily said happily.

"Which I'll be helping you with," Harry grinned.

"I could use some help in my classroom too," Severus smirked.

"I will get to wander the castle before it's full of students won't I?" Harry asked pleadingly. "And maybe fly the in the pitch? I'll have it all to myself."

"No you won't," Lily said.

"No?" Harry's face fell. He supposed the no-flying punishment stood until tomorrow.

"I'll be using it too," Lily grinned at him. "A fly in the early evening sounds wonderful."

"Brilliant!" Harry exclaimed. "Can we go now? My trunk is all packed."

"Let us finish our tea and you finish your fruit bowl," Lily pointed her fork at his plate. "It will hopefully counter all the sugar in the syrup you drowned your waffles in."

"Yes Mum," Harry grinned. He couldn't believe how normal this felt, having breakfast with his – well, with his Mum and Severus. He had always imagined his friends having a nice breakfast with their families before leaving for school. He had been the one to make breakfast for his Aunt, Uncle, and Dudley and was lucky if he got to have any of the leftovers. Of course, he made up for the lack of breakfast on the Hogwarts train, by eating from the trolley. But now he got to enjoy a real family breakfast of his own. Only for him, it was better because he got to have his Mum and Severus at Hogwarts with him. As for Severus having to pretend to hate him, he was sure he could handle it. After all, it's not like he hadn't had a lot of practice over the years, he thought in amusement.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Harry shot to his feet, his wand in hand although before he could do anything the seventh year was thrown backward and his wand flew to the Head Table where Dumbledore caught it, a severe look on his normally kind face. Thick ropes formed, binding the Slytherin's hands and feet before he could recover from being knocked back. Harry looked and saw all the professors' were now standing with their wands out. His Mum was still standing but she was holding her arm and her face was etched in pain.

Harry ran up to the table. "Mum, are you okay?" He gasped when he saw her arm was cut up and bleeding.

"Sit down Lily," Severus said tensely. Once she had he began to trace her wounds with his wand, muttering an incantation. "Vulnera Sanentur," He repeated as the bleeding began to stop and the cuts began to heal.

Lily winced but otherwise didn't move as Severus healed her. "I'm okay, Harry." She said, her eyes darkening as she looked across the room to where the boy who attacked her still lay on the floor, shouting to be released. "I didn't expect this, but I suppose I should have," She sounded frustrated. "Obviously I need to refresh my defense skills, I'm out of practice."

"Lily, none of us were ready for a student to attack you," Minerva said as she watched Severus heal her arm. "Otherwise that curse wouldn't have gotten through to you at all. Our shields were just a tad too late."

"You're healed," Severus said as he wiped the remaining blood off Lily's arm. His eyes seemed darker than usual. "Have Madame Pomfrey look at you anyway," He said as he rose, his hand lingering briefly on her arm. "I'm sorry," He said quietly.

Lily looked at him in confusion. "Sorry? For what?" He didn't answer her, he was already heading down to deal with his student, a dangerous look on his face.

"Maybe because it was a Slytherin?" Harry suggested as he examined his mum's arm. There was no evidence that it had been cut up and he wondered what that spell was that Severus had used to heal it.

"You all right Lily?" Remus asked anxiously.

"Yes, I'm fine," Lily said.

Remus sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "This shouldn't have happened." He said and he gave Harry an almost reproachful look. "Your mother needs to be protected." He admonished.

"Remus!" Lily snapped and Remus looked at her in surprise. "If you are blaming my son..."

"I'm not!" Remus shook his head. "I'm sorry... I just think we all should have been prepared for something like this."

"I agree," Harry said quickly, not wanting his mum to fight with Remus. He was determined that Remus would forgive him for Sirius so that they could get along like they used to. "Maybe you should have a bodyguard or something." He suggested to his mum.

"No thanks," Lily rolled her eyes, a small smile on her lips. "I can defend myself. I'll just have to be more on guard than I thought I would. Maybe I'll sit in on some of your Defence classes as a refresher course," She joked to Remus who grinned in response.

Harry saw that Severus was dragging his student, still bound, out of the room with Dumbledore following them. "What will happen? He'll get expelled won't he?"

"I believe so, yes," Minerva said as she went to stand at the podium. "Settle down everyone, please." She said loudly and waited until the students had quieted. "Professor Potter is just fine, however, acts like Mr. Jenkins just demonstrated will not be tolerated. Now, as the Headmaster is busy dealing with our errant student, I will finish the introductions. As most of you will remember him, Professor Lupin is back teaching Defence."

Applause rang out loudly, except for the Slytherin table of course.

"Now that we have had enough excitement, tuck in!"

Harry hovered by his mum's chair worriedly.

"Harry, you can sit up here if you want to," Lily offered. She grinned at the horrified look on her son's face. "Really, you can go back to your seat. I am okay."

"I know," Harry hesitated but when he saw Severus returning, he relaxed. His professor would watch out for his mum, act or no act.

"The Headmaster is contacting Mr. Jenkins's parents," Severus said as he sat down. "He will be expelled and a report will be made to the Aurors for him attacking a professor. They will decide if further action will be taken."

"Good," Harry said before heading back to his table.

"I'm so sorry, Lily," Severus said softly.

"Severus," Lily said in exasperation. "Just because he was a Slytherin doesn't mean -"

"That curse he cast at you is one I invented," Severus said quietly. "His parents are death eaters, he would have learned it from them."

"I see," Lily was quiet for a moment. "It's still not your fault. Unless you told him to cast it at me," She gave him a subtle teasing nudge.

"Lily," Severus frowned. "This isn't funny."

"Severus, it is not your fault," Lily said firmly.

"Is there anything I can do for you?"

"Forgive yourself."

/

"Well, that was an eventful feast," Ron said as he dropped into a chair by the fire. The common room was filled with Gryffindors who were tired from the train ride and full from the dinner.

"I can't believe that happened," Hermione shook her head. "I'm glad your mum is okay."

"Yeah, me too," Harry said. "I think she should have a bodyguard though."

"Not a bad idea," Hermione nodded. "You should have one too."

"He has us," Ron said dismissively, causing Harry to grin.

"I have never heard of that spell before," Hermione said as she stretched out on the small sofa. "The one Jenkins used."

"Me either," Harry said. "And Se – er, Snape used some healing spell I've never heard before to heal my mum's arm."

"You should ask him, uh, I mean, ask your mum," Hermione said, glancing around. "I'd like to learn about it."

"Snape healed her? That was nice of him," Lavender said in surprise. Several students had gathered around the trio.

Harry had a moment of panic. "Yeah well, he was seated next to her. Dumbledore or McGonagall probably made him do it."

"Yeah, Snape wouldn't help anyone willingly who wasn't a Slytherin," Ron yawned. "He's such a git."

Despite appreciating that Ron was helping to cover why Severus healed his mum, he knew his friend meant what he was saying. And Severus having to stay in his role of hating him wasn't going to help change his mind. Harry couldn't help but feel apprehensive about potions class tomorrow.

/

Harry snuck out of his common room early in the morning, under his invisibility cloak. He needed to hurry as everyone would be getting up soon. He headed to the kitchens, where the house-elves were busy making breakfast. They began squealing in excitement when they saw Harry.

"Is Dobby here?" Harry asked.

"Master Harry?" Dobby bounced forward, wearing several colorful sweaters. "Master Harry has come to see Dobby!" His eyes shined with happy tears.

"Hey Dobby, good to see you," Harry grinned. "Can I talk to you for a second?"

"Of course Master Harry!" Dobby nodded and followed him to the corner of the kitchen. "How can Dobby help you?" He asked eagerly.

"You've heard that my Mum is back, right?"

Dobby nodded. "Dobby and the other house-elves are so happy for Master Harry."

"Thanks. Did you hear that a student attacked her last night?"

"Yes Master Harry," Dobby frowned. "Dis disgraceful for a student to try and harm the wonderful Mistress Lily Potter."

"I was hoping you could maybe keep an eye on her, without her knowing. Without anyone else knowing," Harry said quickly. "I don't want her to be attacked again. Can you do that? Like in her classes and when she walks through the corridors?"

"Yes Master Harry, Dobby is most honored to protect Master Harry's mother!" Dobby beamed.

"Thanks," Harry said in relief. "But make sure she doesn't um, get hurt or anything while you protect her. Like no sending Bludgers at her in an effort to help her, you know what I mean?"

Dobby nodded solemnly. "Dobby promises."

/

"Essays forward!" Severus barked out as soon as he walked into the dungeon. He glared as his students quickly began turning in their summer assignments and picked up the pile, rifling through them. He sneered as he just glanced through, able to tell already who had actually put time into their essays. Steeling himself, he raised his narrowed gaze to Harry. "Well, it appears there is a perk to Potter having his Mummy back. She obviously looked over his homework as the sentences seem complete and the spelling is correct."

Draco and his friends began laughing.

Despite knowing that this attitude was coming, Harry felt a little stung. He narrowed his own gaze and stared at his professor, trying to look defiant. "Thanks, I'll be sure to let her know you said so," He said in a sarcastic tone.

"Watch it, Potter," Severus warned. "You wouldn't want to lose points already would you?"

"No," Harry smirked slightly.

"No, sir," Severus said pointedly. He was relieved to see Harry's eyes held some amusement in them. He turned around to walk to the front of the classroom.

"You don't have to call me sir, Professor," Harry couldn't help but use the same words he had used over the summer when he and Severus were still struggling to get along. He fought to keep from laughing as his professor spun back around.

Severus didn't know whether to be amused or angry at Harry repeating those words. Imprudent, cheeky...He hid the smirk that wanted to spread across his face. Not wanting to break his act in front of the students, he stalked up to the boy and loomed over him, arms crossing across his chest. "You really are a disrespectful brat aren't you?" He sneered, saying the same words he had said months earlier.

Harry bit his lip to keep from grinning. The change was subtle, on the surface Severus was acting like he used to but now, Harry could see the difference. While the professor's eyes were glaring at him, they didn't have that look of loathing in them like they used to. If he wasn't mistaken, there was a hint of laughter in them. He shrugged.

"Detention Potter!" Severus snapped. "See me after class."

/

Severus waved his wand, shutting the door behind the last student and warding it before turning on Harry. "Are you insane? What was with that little stunt?" He demanded.

Harry grinned widely. "I know, I'm sorry. I couldn't help it."

"Well, try to!" Severus snapped at him. "This is a delicate situation. It's hard enough to have to treat you that way without you egging me on."

Harry's grin faded. "Sorry. I just, I needed to know that you were still you." He shuffled his feet.

Severus stared at him as if he thought he had gone insane after all. "Did you think someone was using Polyjuice as me?"

"No," Harry said. "At first, it felt like it used to. You know, you hating me. Then I could see that you were holding back some amusement and I knew you were just pretending." He explained.

"Harry, you knew I would be acting," Severus said in exasperation. "Why would you think for an instant that I hated you?"

"I didn't, it just...brought back memories I guess," Harry admitted. "Stupid of me, I know."

"No, not stupid," Severus sighed. "I treated you deplorably in the past, it is not surprising for you to feel insecure."

"I'm not insecure," Harry said in an insulted voice.

Severus raised an eyebrow. "Of course not," He said in an amused voice.

/

"Welcome to sixth-year Defence," Remus greeted the class, an easy smile on his face. "It is good to be back. As you know, this is a NEWT level class, it will be challenging but I imagine you are up to the task. Some of the topics we will be learning defence against Dementors, which I believe some of you know how to already," He smiled at Harry, looking almost proud.

Harry grinned back, happy that Remus was looking at him like he used to. Maybe he wasn't angry with him anymore?

"We will also be learning about the Imperius Curse and you will be writing an essay on how to resist it and you will be learning how to do nonverbal magic." Remus continued. He smiled at the interested looks he was being given. "So what is the advantage of a nonverbal spell? Harry?"

Harry hadn't been raising his hand but tilted his head to the side in thought. "Well, your opponent would have no warning about what type of magic you are about to do so you would have an advantage. At least for a moment."

"Correct. Very useful in dueling," Remus said pointedly. "Something you'll want to pick up on as soon as possible. Feel free to read ahead as we aren't starting it yet." At some groans of disappointment, he shrugged. "I suppose you could see a little demonstration. Harry, come on up."

Harry walked up, his wand ready. "Do you want me to -" Before he could finish asking if he should try to cast something non-verbally, he was thrown backward without any warning. He fell hard to the floor and slowly picked himself up, eyeing Remus warily.

"You always have to be ready," Remus said sharply.

"I thought -"

Harry yelped as a Stinging Jinx hit his arm, immediately producing a red, painful mark. "Hey! Give me a moment!"

"Do you really think Voldemort is going to give you a moment?" Remus asked sarcastically.

Harry frowned but noticed when Remus barely flicked his wand and quickly shouted a Protego. Whatever Remus had cast bounced off his shield. He had thought Remus wanted him to try and cast a nonverbal spell, not defend against it.

"Nonverbal Harry," Remus criticized.

Harry gritted his teeth. "How do I do that sir? We haven't been taught how yet," He said somewhat sarcastically.

Remus paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. He stared at Harry. "This is the attitude that gets others hurt," He muttered. "Sit back down, Potter."

Harry returned to his seat, feeling stung. Remus had seemed back to normal...but no, he still blamed him. He slumped in his seat, feeling hurt and guilty. He avoided Remus's gaze for the rest of the class.

"Harry, are you okay?" Hermione asked in concern as they gathered their things.

"I'm fine," Harry shrugged, trying to pretend he wasn't bothered by what Remus had said.

"What is Remus's problem?" Ron asked, looking back at their professor perplexedly.

"Probably just nerves, first day back teaching," Harry said casually, although he didn't believe that for a second. No, Remus still blamed him for Sirius's death. He still thought Harry wasn't trying hard enough to beat Voldemort.

He sighed at Hermione's concerned expression. "It's no big deal. Please don't say anything to my mum or Severus." He pleaded.

"Why not? If it's no big deal?" Hermione asked suspiciously.

"Because... well, you know how overprotective my mum and Severus are and I don't want to cause any problems with Remus working here," Harry said quickly.

"True. Snape would probably try to get Remus fired again," Ron said. "Like before."

"No he won't," Harry said, irritated.

"Harry," Remus called as the trio was about to leave. "May I speak with you for a moment?"

"Sure," Harry said reluctantly, walking over to his desk.

Remus fiddled with the essays on his desk. "Listen, I'm sorry if I was harsh earlier. It's just that I expect more from you. Everyone should expect more from you. We're all counting on you, you know."

"I know," Harry said quietly.

"So I was thinking, perhaps I could give you extra lessons?" Remus suggested. "I know you have been training with Severus but now that school has started, he has his Head of House duties as well as Potion Masters duties, plus teaching. I thought perhaps I could help by training you in extra defence."

"Brilliant!" Harry said enthusiastically. "If you're sure?"

"Of course, Harry." Remus gave him a small smile. "I want to help you work hard and do your best. We'll need to figure out what evenings work best for you, I don't want to interfere with your studying."

"I can spare a few evenings a week," Harry said eagerly. "Since I'm captain, I can schedule Quidditch practice around my own schedule."

Remus paused. "Quidditch captain?"

Harry nodded. "Yeah, I was made captain. I'm pretty excited about it."

"Harry," Remus said in disapproval. "Do you really think playing Quidditch is a good use of your time? The time you could spend training?"

"I -," Harry bit his lip. "It won't take up that much time. Not really. And I wasn't able to really play last year because of Umbridge. I've missed it."

"Well, it's up to you," Remus said stiffly. "I'm a little surprised...it seems rather selfish...your mum knows about it?"

"Yes," Harry said curtly. He tried to hide the hurt that he was feeling. Why did Remus have to make him feel bad about himself all the time? "She's excited for me. Severus too."

"Hmm," Remus shook his head slightly. "Not for me to say, I guess. I'll send you a message about the lessons."

"Thanks, sir," Harry said, happy to make his leave. Suddenly he wasn't so sure he wanted extra lessons from Remus.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Severus approached the monster, still looking feeble as he sat, his red eyes narrowed. He made sure his thoughts were carefully Occluded as he bowed down, pretending to show respect.

"Severus," Voldemort said softly. Bella and Pettigrew were the only ones with him, as was usual since his battle with Dumbledore at the Ministry.

Severus was extremely pleased to see that the creature still looked so weak.

"Do you know why I summoned only you?"

"I would imagine you had questions about Lily Potter's return," Severus answered smoothly. He and Dumbledore had already discussed what he could tell Voldemort about Lily as well as Harry. "As well as asking about the potions you need. I do have one ready." He held out a vial full of a potion that he had deliberately made less than full strength.

"Bella, if you would," Voldemort said, nodding towards the vial. His eyes focused on Severus. "The news that Lily Potter survived does not make me happy. Not at all. You obviously would feel different, would you not?" He looked a little amused. "Have you ever gotten over your feelings for that muggle-born?"

"She's filth!" Bella spat out.

Severus kept his expression impassive but deep inside he seethed. "I had not thought about her in years, my lord. She means nothing to me now."

"And you knew nothing about Dumbledore keeping her hidden?"

"No master," Severus said. "Apparently he kept it a secret from everyone."

"Hmm," Voldemort looked furious. "I have been made to look the fool again. I failed to kill her and her brat. Tell me, is the boy...happy to have his dear mother back?" Sarcasm dripped from his tone.

"The little pest is clearly beside himself with joy," Severus sneered. "He is undoubtedly even more obnoxious in school now. As if he was not coddled enough by the professors as it was."

"So she is teaching at Hogwarts," Voldemort said, already having heard that news. "What about during the holidays? Where will she stay?" He demanded.

"According to Dumbledore, the blood wards are still in place at her sister's home with both of them there," Severus lied easily.

"I heard she was attacked at the Great Feast," Bella said gleefully.

"Yes, she was hurt," Severus smirked. "Not that badly, unfortunately. I had to go along with having the culprit expelled, Dumbledore was insistent on that."

"Is there anything else you can tell me?" Voldemort asked in irritation.

"He does not have anything to tell," Bella scorned. "Some spy."

"The brat is receiving extra defense training," Severus announced. Dumbledore had already approved letting Voldemort know that Harry was getting the extra help, it wasn't like Voldemort wouldn't have guessed that anyway.

"Is he? And by whom?"

Severus scowled. "Remus Lupin."

Voldemort gave a weak-sounding laugh. "Ah, the wolf. I suppose I should be quivering with fear."

Pettigrew and Bella snickered.

Voldemort waved his hand dismissively. "It is no matter for now. I am not worried about any training that the brat is receiving. Once I am back to full strength, I will show everyone my power. No one will ever question my strength again when I kill the boy in front of his mother." He smiled in anticipation. "And then I will kill her and there will be no doubt in anyone's mind who the most powerful wizard is!"

"Oh, master!" Bella cried. "I can't wait!"

"And you, Wormtail?" Voldemort chuckled. "Are you looking forward to facing the friend you betrayed?"

"I look forward to it, master," Pettigrew said faintly.

"Severus, I must say I feel that I am not recovering as fast as I should be," Voldemort said with fake casualness.

Severus tensed slightly. "I am making you only the strongest of potions, my lord."

"They need to be better!" Voldemort snapped. "I have things I need to be doing and I can't if I am still this weak! Perhaps you are not paying enough attention to my potions, hmm?"

"No, my master, of course I am," Severus said quickly.

"Are you sure? With your duties to Dumbledore," Voldemort practically spat the name. "Perhaps my potions are getting less than your best. I need my strength back, Severus. Immediately."

"I will research more and see if there is more I can do to strengthen your potions even more."

"Yes, you do that," Voldemort said sweetly before his face turned angry. "Helping me should be your number one priority, do you not agree?" He hissed.

"Of course, my lord. It is."

Voldemort waved Severus away. "Continue to keep your ears open and do not slack off in making the rest of my potions."

"Yes, master."

"Oh, Severus?"

Severus turned and was struck down with a Crucio by Bella, who was cackling with delight. She held it until Voldemort told her to stop.

"Just a little reminder of what happens to those who disappoint me," Voldemort said with an eerie grin. "To those who are not completely loyal to me." His eyes darkened.

Severus clumsily got up to his feet, twitching from the curse. "Yes, my lord. Thank you."

"Go."

/

Lily and Harry were pacing Snape's sitting room as Dumbledore sat in the sofa chair, a somber look on his face.

"What do you think Voldemort wants?" Harry asked for the tenth time.

"My guess is an update on things as well as his potions," Dumbledore answered calmly for the tenth time.

"What if he is hurting Severus?" Harry bit his lip as he paced. His big fear was Voldemort finding out that Snape was a spy. "Isn't there anything we can do?"

"All we can do is wait," Lily said, putting a hand on Harry's shoulder. She glanced at Dumbledore. "Although I do not see why Severus should still spy. It is too much of a risk and his life is too important."

"It is and has always been Severus's choice," Dumbledore said. "I do not force him to spy if that is what you are thinking."

"I do not think that," Lily said quietly. "But I fear he is spying because he thinks he deserves the pain that comes with it, deserves the danger."

"You would need to talk to him about that," Dumbledore said gently.

"Oh, I will," Lily said with soft determination.

The floo flared and Severus stepped out, his face pale but otherwise he appeared fine.

"You're back!" Harry said in relief, hurrying over and hugging him. "Did he hurt you?" He asked worriedly.

"I am fine," Severus said, patting him on the back.

Harry pulled back, relief on his face. "We were worried."

"I can see that," Severus said lightly.

"Harry, could you go and prepare some tea? I think we could all use some," Lily said, her eyes on Severus.

"Sure," Harry said agreeably, heading to Snape's kitchen.

"What curse was used on you?" Lily demanded to know as soon as Harry had left the sitting room. She waved her wand to cast a diagnostic. "Crucio? Anything else?"

"No, just one round of Crucio courtesy of Bellatrix," Severus said as he sat down. "I already took a pain reliever at my home in Spinner's End." He always stopped there before heading back to Hogwarts or his manor after meeting with Voldemort so he could tend to whatever injury he had been caused.

"What did Voldemort want?" Dumbledore asked.

"He spoke of his displeasure that Lily is alive," Severus looked pained. "I had to pretend...that I agreed." It had made him sick to act like he didn't care about her, that he wouldn't mind seeing her hurt. "He knew about the attack at the Feast, which I assumed he would. Death Eater children, like Draco, write home frequently to keep their parents informed." He took a deep breath. "He mentioned wanting to kill you but first kill Harry in front of you."

"Never going to happen!" Lily hissed in anger, only calming slightly when Severus took her hand into his.

"He wanted any new information so I told him that Lupin was giving Harry extra defense training," Severus continued.

"You told him that?" Harry had re-entered the room with a tray.

"He would have already assumed that the Headmaster would have someone training you," Severus explained. "This way I give him information that is not dangerous for him to know."

"Oh," Harry said with a sigh. He poured the tea and handed out the cups.

"Thank you, little one," Lily said.

"He also is upset that his potions aren't working fast enough," Severus smirked slightly. "He wants me to focus on making a stronger one that will restore his full strength."

"I see," Dumbledore said. "What was the Crucio for?"

"A reminder of what will happen to those who disappoint him, who are not loyal to him," Severus frowned. It bothered him, he had to admit, that the dark lord used the word loyal. Why would he?

Harry froze and stared at his mum and then Severus. "Does he suspect that you're a spy?"

"I doubt it," Severus said, taking a sip of tea. "He would have had Bellatrix torture me more than one round of Crucio." He wasn't certain that was true but he didn't want Harry and Lily to worry. It did worry him that perhaps the dark lord was beginning to suspect something. After all, he could only pull off the weaker potions for so long. Eventually, he would have to make the potions properly for him or he would be killed for failing.

Apparently, Dumbledore was thinking the same thing. "He will expect to have a potion that works the next time he summons you."

"Yes," Severus agreed.

"But then he will be strong again," Harry protested. "We can't let that happen!"

"If he isn't pleased with my potions, he has other brewers in his circle," Severus said. "He considers me the best potion maker -"

"Because you are the best," Lily interrupted.

Severus couldn't help the small smile that graced his face and inclined his head. "Thank you. However, he will go to someone else who will make the correct potions that will help him."

"Can't you just poison him?" Harry asked.

"It would simply postpone the inevitable," Dumbledore spoke up. "He can not be killed, not permanently as we now know. He would eventually find a way to come back."

"So when do we deal with him, once and for all?" Harry asked in frustration.

"The time will make itself known," Dumbledore said vaguely.

Harry sighed and turned back to Snape. "Are you sure you are okay? Maybe we should get Pomfrey."

"Madam Pomfrey," Severus said. "And no. One round of the Cruciatus isn't going to cause me any lasting damage."

"But I know how much it hurts," Harry said as he remembered the horrible pain of the unforgivable.

"I know you do," Severus said quietly. "I assure you, I am fine. Receiving the Cruciatus is common in death eater meetings, even if you are on his good side."

"You shouldn't be spying," Harry blurted out. He watched warily as anger flashed on Snape's face before settling into resignation.

"I am doing what I need to do, what needs to be done," Severus said. "And that is the end of it."

After Harry and Lily left and were walking upstairs, Harry sighed. "Why can't he stop spying? It's too dangerous."

"He has his reasons, I'm sure," Lily said quietly. "It is his decision. However," She added when Harry frowned at her. "I fully intend to talk with him about it."

Harry started to grin. "He's pretty stubborn."

Lily smiled. "So am I."

/

Severus was stalking down the corridors, smirking to himself as students hurried out of his way. He stopped as he saw a second-year Gryffindor throwing his wand up in the air and catching it as he laughed with his friends.

"Do you think of your wand as a toy, Mr. Ramsey?" Severus asked in a low voice.

Albert Ramsey froze, terror, filling his young face. "N – no sir."

"No? Then why are you flinging it about so carelessly? Your wand is not only your means of defense but it is a weapon, Ramsey. You could accidentally cause an injury, wands can be unpredictable." Severus lectured severely. He noticed Lily standing nearby, leaning against the wall and watching with mild amusement on her pretty face. "Detention in my classroom after dinner, perhaps while washing cauldrons the muggle way, you will realize the importance of your wand. And if I ever see this foolishness again, you will only be allowed your wand during your classes. Am I understood?"

"Yes sir," Albert whispered, shaking slightly.

Severus turned and walked away, stopping in front of Lily. "Did you find that funny, Professor Potter?"

"Only how completely terrified of you the students are," Lily said, shaking her head.

"You think I was too hard on him?" Severus raised an eyebrow.

"Not at all," Lily said. "He needs to learn to take care of his wand and respect it." She looked out the window where first years could be seen walking in, talking excitedly to each other. She grinned and turned back to Severus. "They were having a flying lesson. I was watching for a bit. Brings back memories." She said with a mischievous look.

Severus cleared his throat. "Flying lessons were not a problem for us, as I remember." He said primly.

Lily broke into laughter. "They weren't for me but our first lesson I seem to remember you having a bit of a problem."

Severus rolled his eyes yet grinned a little as he remembered.

"Up!" Eleven-year-old Severus snarled at his broom.

Lily bit her lip to keep from laughing. They were having their flying lesson and Slytherin and Gryffindor had been paired together. "Maybe if you spoke more…nicely to it," She suggested.

Severus looked at her impish expression and scowled. "I am," He said.

"You sound like you want to kill it," Lily said.

Severus took a deep breath and controlled his emotions. "Up!" He said firmly, yet in a softer tone. He grinned when the broom flew into his hand.

Their instructor told them to mount their brooms and push off so that they were hovering a few feet above the ground. Lily did as instructed and beamed when she succeeded, happy that she had been able to do it. She glanced over and saw Severus was also hovering in the air but his broom was bucking beneath him. She couldn't help but giggle at the exasperated look on Severus's face.

"It's not funny," Severus grumbled as he tried to control his broom.

Lily swallowed her laughter. "Sorry. Um, try relaxing. I think you are trying too hard."

Severus finally managed to get the broom under control and sighed with relief. He heard snickering and saw Potter and Black were laughing at him.

Lily also heard and turned her broom to face him. "Stop that!" She snapped at them.

Sirius rolled his eyes. "You were laughing at him too," He pointed out.

"We're best friends so we can laugh at each other," Lily said, tossing her long red hair over her shoulder. "You two, however, do not have that privilege so knock it off."

Severus smiled at the protective tone of her voice. What would he do without Lily? "Let's just ignore them; I don't care what they think." And he didn't. He only cared what Lily thought. Besides, he didn't need those Gryffindors to like him. He was making new friends in Slytherin and was already being recognized for his potion skills by his professor and Head of House. A natural, Slughorn had told him proudly. So far, Hogwarts was turning out better than he had dared to hope.

"I got the hang of it," Severus said.

"You did," Lily agreed. "Eventually," She teased, linking her arm with his. "I was hoping to talk with you," She said casually.

"Oh?" Severus said as they walked. "What about?"

Lily took a deep breath. "Your spying."

Severus stopped, pulling her around to face him. "There is nothing to talk about." He said firmly.

"Sev," Lily sighed. "There is."

"No Lily," Severus shook his head. "Please respect my decision on this. And please respect my desire not to talk about it."

Lily looked at him. "All right, Sev. I'll respect it." For the moment, she added silently. But they would have a conversation soon, whether he liked it or not.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"Aguamenti!" Water shot out of Luna's wand and quickly put out the fire. "Harry," She breathed as she saw the burns on his arms, his shirt singed. She dropped down next to where he was kneeling on the ground.

Harry gasped with pain, he had been burnt before, by the Dursleys, but this really hurt. "I'm okay," He managed to say. His arms and chest hurt horribly.

"Harry," Remus knelt next to him, his eyes wide with shock at what he had done. "I'm so sorry," He whispered.

"You should be, Professor," Luna said softly. "Your grief is twisting up everything inside you and will destroy your relationships with the ones you love if you don't deal with it."

Remus shut his eyes, a tear dropping down his cheek.

"Can you walk?" Luna asked Harry worriedly.

"Yeah," Harry stood up. He stared at Remus with a betrayed look before letting Luna gently lead him out of the classroom, leaving Remus still kneeling on the ground with regret and sadness on his face.

"Why did you come to the classroom?" Harry asked as they walked slowly to the infirmary. His arms were in agony and he realized that his legs had been burned as well.

"I just needed to get to you," Luna said. She eyed him as they walked. "Nargles told me you needed me." She said vaguely.

Harry smiled to himself.

"Professor Lupin is invested with Wrackspurts," Luna said. "His brain is too fuzzy for him to see how he is acting." Her normally gentle eyes hardened. "I can't believe he hurt you like that, though." They approached the infirmary.

"What happened?" Pomfrey demanded as soon as she saw Harry's singed clothes and burned skin. "Have you been dueling with someone?" She motioned for him to sit on a cot.

"I was, um, training," Harry said.

"You have burns on your legs too," Pomfrey frowned as she cast a diagnostic. "Who were you training with?" She asked huffily.

"Professor Lupin," Luna spoke up. "And he wasn't training, his back was turned when the Professor cast flames at him."

Harry shook his head frantically at her. "They need to know how he has been," Luna said softly. "He can't get help otherwise."

"Mr. Potter, I need you to change into a hospital gown," Pomfrey said as she summoned vials and jars.

Flushing, Harry glanced at Luna who gave him a small grin.

"I'll go get your parents," Luna told him.

"You mean his mother," Pomfrey said as she handed Harry a gown.

"His parents," Luna said in her dreamlike way as she left the room.

/

Severus stalked to the Defence classroom. Oh, he was angry. How dare Lupin attack Harry like that? And from the look on Harry's face, more than he or Lily had known had been going on. He had left Lily hovering over Harry who was covered in burn paste. The burns would heal but the hurt Lupin had caused emotionally...

Remus looked up as Severus entered. "Whatever you want to do to me, I deserve." He said quietly. Still, he was taken off guard when he was suddenly flying across the room, hitting the wall and sliding down, shaking his head, slightly dazed. He looked up to see that Severus had his wand pointed right at him.

"You deserve an unforgivable," Severus snapped. "You attacked him, wolf! You burned him!"

"I just wanted him to focus on training," Remus said in a pained voice.  "I wanted him to do better -" He was cut off by Snape, only this time the potions professor didn't use his wand.  He simply punched Remus.

"He is a child!" Snape yelled.  "He is working hard and training but he is just a boy.  And he needs to be allowed to be just a boy.  He also needs love, compassion, and understanding.  He does not need you to blame him for Black's death!  To make him feel that his only worth is in defeating the dark lord!"

Remus held a hand to his throbbing eye, which was sure to blacken from Snape's punch.  But he knew he deserved it.

"You know, I greatly disliked James Potter but Black was worse, I hated him. But you, you're the worst of them. At least they cared for Harry, they both died trying to protect him." Snape continued. 

Remus looked shattered.

"You know what's funny Lupin? I always thought it was the wolf in you that was dangerous," Severus said thoughtfully. "But it was the human in you that hurt that boy. That tore him down verbally and that physically attacked him."

"I never meant to hurt him," Remus said hoarsely.

"But you have, over and over," Severus shook his head. "What gets me is that Harry kept silent about how bad your treatment of him was. He's the child and yet he was the one protecting you. I don't know how many times you need to hear it, but Black's death was not his fault. He was tricked by a more powerful wizard and the adults around him failed him. If you want to blame someone, blame us. Blame Dumbledore. Blame me. Blame Bellatrix. Stop blaming a teenager who misses Black just as much as you do."

Remus stood silent, tears shamelessly pouring down his face.

"Remus."

Lily entered, looking more calm than she had when she heard what had happened. Her green eyes were serious as she looked at him. "You need help and I insist that you see a mind healer. I've already talked to Albus and he agrees that if refuse, you will be let go of your position here. Take some time and Albus will find someone to fill in while you do. You will not be allowed to see Harry again until I think you are ready." She said firmly.

Remus shut his eyes, nodding. "I'm so sorry," He said in barely a whisper. "Please tell Harry how sorry I am. I'll work this out, I'll get better. I promise."

"I hope you do, Remus," Lily said carefully. "I hate to see you hurting, you were always a good friend to James and me. However, I must say this. If you ever hurt my son in any way again, it will be the last thing you ever do. Do you understand?"

Remus nodded dejectedly. He deserved that. How could he have hurt Harry like that? Merlin, what would James and Sirius think of him?  What had he become? 

Lily studied him. "I wanted to curse you until all you felt was pain when I saw what you had done to Harry," she admitted. "But I can see you're in pain already. Get help, Remus. Get back to who you used to be, I miss my friend." She turned and walked out, Severus following her. They passed Albus who was headed into the classroom.

Dumbledore watched them go and then turned to his former student.

"I've made such a mess of things," Remus said brokenly.

"You have," Dumbledore agreed, putting his arm around Remus. He gave him a small smile. "But we'll fix it. You'll get the help you need to work through your grief and anger. Poppy has recommended a completely trustworthy healer."

Remus nodded. "I'm so sorry Albus. About Harry..." He gave his former Headmaster a pained look. "And not being able to teach."

"Just take care of yourself," Dumbledore said as he led Remus to his office so he could pack up his things. "I had a thought that perhaps the students would enjoy a certain Auror as a substitute teacher."

Remus gave him a tentative smile. "Tonks will be thrilled."

/

"Was Harry asleep?" Severus asked as they walked back to the infirmary.

"No," Lily gave him a small grin. "Luna is with him. He's in good hands."

"At least she's a Ravenclaw," Severus breathed. "Although, an odd one."

Lily softly punched his shoulder playfully before the grin faded from her face. "I was planning on hurting Remus," she said suddenly. "I really was. I didn't even care if I got into trouble for it, I was planning on having him writhing in pain."

Severus grabbed her hand, squeezing it. He didn't let go.

"But I knew Harry wouldn't want me to do anything like that," Lily gave a sad laugh. "My kid would be more mature about it and want to help Remus, not hurt him."

"Harry's capability for forgiveness and compassion is remarkable. I still can't believe it took me so long to see it," Severus said.

"All that matters is that you see it now," Lily said softly.

/

That evening, Hermione and Ron burst into the infirmary. "Harry! We just heard you had an accident!"

"What happened?" Ron asked. His eyes widened when he noticed Luna holding Harry's hand. And Harry looked, well, pretty happy despite being covered in paste.

"It wasn't exactly an accident," Harry said. "Well, I think it was, he didn't mean to hurt me, I don't think so anyway but..."

"What? Who are you talking about?"

"Remus."

Hermione gasped. "Remus hurt you?"

"He threw a powerful fire spell when I wasn't ready," Harry said quietly. "He was mad at me. He didn't think I was trying hard enough during our lessons."

"Your back was turned when he threw that spell at you," Luna spoke up.

"You were there?" Ron asked in surprise.

"I went to get Harry," Luna said simply.

"She knew I needed help," Harry said, giving her hand an affectionate squeeze. "Nargles," He explained with a grin.

"Oh," Hermione looked between Harry and Luna and then a slow smile spread across her face. "Oh! I see."

Ron stood still, looking surprised.

"Wait," Hermione shook her head. "Remus threw a spell while your back was turned? He could have killed you!"

"Yeah, I know," Harry's grin faded. "He's been difficult but I thought if I kept trying hard enough, he would forgive me."

"Forgive you?"

"For what happened to Sirius," Harry said, grief filling his voice. "Remus has never forgiven me."

"Why didn't you tell us this?" Hermione demanded. "Why didn't you tell us about how Remus was acting? You acted like everything was fine!"

"Harry thinks he has to deal with things on his own," Luna said. Her eyes normally held a dreamy look yet now were sharp and serious as they locked on Harry's. "You don't, you know. You have family and friends and me."

"Wait, are you two..." Ron looked between them. "But I thought..." He looked from Harry to Hermione, confusion on his face.

"You thought what?" Hermione asked suspiciously.

"He thought you and Harry were falling for each other," Luna said matter-of-factly.

"What?"

"You thought Hermione and I..." Harry's eyes widened as Ron's attitude suddenly made sense. "But she and I are just friends!" He began laughing. And here he had been worried that Ron might have feelings for Luna!

Hermione rounded on Ron, her brown eyes flashing. "This is why you've been such a git for the past couple of months? Because you thought Harry and I were...were becoming a couple or something?"

Ron took a step back, his face flushing. "Well, yeah. I mean, I thought..." He said weakly.

Hermione crossed her arms. "And why would that bother you so much?"

"Well..."

"Yes?" Hermione gave him an expectant look.

"BecauseIlikeyou," Ron mumbled quickly, his words blurred together.

A flash of amusement crossed Hermione's face, her eyes brightening. "I'm sorry. I didn't get that."

Ron sighed. "Because I like you, okay? I was jealous because I like you. Happy now?"

"Yes," Hermione leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek. "You prat."

Harry shook his head, a huge grin on his face. "Really mate, you should have just asked me outright."

Ron gave him a challenging look. "You could have told me who you liked. You kept it a secret."

Harry was now the one flushing from embarrassment. He couldn't make himself look at Luna. This was not the way he wanted to find out if Luna had any feelings beyond friendship for him. Merlin, this could turn into a very humiliating moment.

"It wasn't a secret to me, I was just waiting for Harry to say something," Luna said innocently.

Harry blinked. "So...do you, um..."

Luna sighed and exchanged a knowing look with Hermione. "Boys."

"Tell me about it. Especially these two." Hermione snorted.

Luna turned to Harry. "Yes, I like you. I thought you knew, especially when I said yes to going flying with you."

"Right," Harry felt his face break into a wide smile. "And because you'll be my date to Hogsmeade tomorrow?"

Luna smiled sweetly. "Yes."

/

Saturday, while most of the students were at Hogsmeade, Severus was busy brewing when his lab door slowly opened. He stiffened slightly, preparing to blast whoever thought to interrupt him and enter his lab without knocking.

"Sev?' Lily poked her head in. She noticed he was in the middle of a complicated potion and bit her lip. "I'm sorry, I'll come back." She offered.

"No, come in." Severus relaxed and continued his stirring. "Harry is still in Hogsmeade?"

"Yes. I hope he is having fun especially with it being his first date with Luna," Lily said, her eyes brightening. "I can't wait to hear all about it."

Severus gave a low laugh. "He may not want to share all the details."

"Why wouldn't he?" Lily tilted her head to the side. "Well, if he doesn't I bet Hermione will. Apparently, it's a double date, with her and Ron." She confided.

Severus pinched the bridge of his nose. "The fascinating world of teenagers." He drawled.

"All right, all right." Lily laughed. "I just want him to have a good time, especially after what happened with Remus..." She trailed off, still angry at her friend for hurting her son. She did hope he would receive the help he needed so that the Remus she had known would return. Harry's burns had healed and Poppy had released him from the infirmary early that morning but she knew emotionally it would take time. "So, do you need any help?" She asked a little hesitantly.

Severus's eyes flew up and he briefly studied her face. He nodded towards some ingredients next to him. "Finely diced." He said. He smirked a bit. "You do remember how, of course."

Lily gave a mock glare as she stood beside him and began expertly dicing. "Such a funny man." She smirked back and then focused on her work. "I've always enjoyed potions, as you know. It's so easy to just get lost in the process."

Severus nodded in agreement and they worked silently for a few minutes.

Lily handed him what she had already cut up when he made a motion for it. She watched him as he concentrated on putting in the ingredients at the exact right time, his dark eyes focused. She had always told him when they were younger what great eyes he had, they were so dark and deep. "What happened to using that hair elixir I got you? It was great for protecting your hair when around potions." She blurted out without thinking. Working so much with potions made one's hair very oily and she had given him an elixir when they were in school to keep his hair protected against it. Severus actually had very soft, smooth hair.

Severus looked surprised for a moment. He had stopped using that elixir after he had said that hateful word to Lily back in school. He couldn't care less what he looked like to anyone else, she had been the only one he had hoped to impress. "I don't have any." He finally said. "I haven't used it since-well, in a long time. Didn't see the point."

"You should get some, your hair is so silky." Lily handed him more ingredients.

Severus raised an eyebrow. "Silky? Just what every man wants to hear." He said sarcastically although his eyes held an amused gleam.

"Sorry, I meant manly." Lily rolled her eyes and snickered.

"Incorrigible," Severus muttered as he poured the finished potion into several vials. He levitated the vials into his cabinet and then faced Lily. "Thank you for your help."

Lily smiled and hopped up to sit on the counter, ignoring his scowl as she did. "You're welcome."

Severus leaned against the counter and looked at her thoughtfully. "So why are you really here? I doubt it was just to help me with potions."

"Must you always be so suspicious?"

"Yes."

"Such a Slytherin," She took a deep breath. "Sev, I think you should stop spying."

Severus stared at her. Stop spying? "This again? I can't." He said, turning away to clean up his workstation. "We need any information we can get. Plus it is my way to contribute to this war as well as try and make up for -" He stopped.

Lily's eyes widened slightly and she jumped down from the counter. "You think spying is the way to make up for what? Calling me a Mudblood? Becoming a Death Eater? So putting yourself at such a high risk as well as getting tortured is the only way, is it?"

Severus glared at her. "Yes, it is!" He hissed. "It is the only way to redeem myself, if that is even possible! It is also the way for me to protect your son! Before, I protected him for you but now, I protect him because I can not stand the idea of anything happening to him!"

"There are other ways to protect him!" Lily snapped. "You already have been by getting him away from the Dursleys and training him during the summer, as well as teaching him Occlumency!" She shook her head, trying to control her temper. "You already have redeemed yourself, Severus." She said quietly. "Harry has long since forgiven you for the way you used to treat him and I forgive you. You just haven't forgiven yourself."

Severus looked away, his anger fading. "We need the information given at the death eater meetings." He said curtly.

"So far all Vold – err, Tom," Lily amended when Severus winced and rubbed his left arm. "All he wants is potions to get stronger. And from your last meeting, it sounds like he is starting to suspect you. He almost killed you this past summer." Lily took a step closer. "Please, Severus. At least consider it. There are other ways to contribute to the war. Please." She looked at him pleadingly.

Severus made the mistake of looking into those green eyes. He could never resist them. "You and Harry are too much alike. He also tries to get his way with that puppy dog look."

Lily slowly smiled, feeling victory in the air. "So…you'll stop?"

Severus sighed. "Why does this matter to you so much?"

"You really have to ask?" Lily asked incredulously. "I don't want to hear that you have gone to a meeting and been tortured again or killed." She said, reaching out and squeezing his hand briefly. "I care about you and so does Harry. Don't you see that?"

Severus cleared his throat. "Yes well, I care about you both as well." He said gruffly. "I will discuss this with Albus and see where he stands on this issue. Does that make you happy?"

Lily nodded. "Yes." She said firmly. Albus would agree, he was already concerned about Severus's standing as a spy. As he had said before, the choice was Severus's. She watched as Severus finished up the potion and bottled it, wondering if he would ever be able to accept what she and Harry felt for him.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Harry shuffled into the kitchen the next morning, yawning. He'd been more tired than he'd thought. He paused at seeing his mum pouring herself a cup of coffee. She looked exhausted and he wondered if it was his fault. She was probably up all night thinking about me hunting for Voldemort's weapons, he thought guiltily. He'd been rude last night as well. "Mum?"

Lily looked up and immediately stood and crossed the room to hug him. "Harry," She murmured.

"Mum? Are you okay? Are you," Harry hesitated. "still mad at me?"

"No, little one. I'm not mad at you," Lily said soothingly. She pulled back and sighed. "I was just scared. I love you more than anything, you know that right?"

"I know," Harry nodded.

"And I will do whatever it takes to make sure you stay safe," Lily said seriously. She and Severus had decided they weren't going to tell him about his scar being a Horcrux until they knew how to fix it. He had too much on his shoulders as it was. "Which means no more trips with the Headmaster."

"But if I can help -"

"You can help by obeying me in this," Lily interrupted. "You are not to go anywhere without my permission, or Severus's. Promise me."

Harry sighed. "I promise."

"Thank you. Do you want to eat in the Great Hall or here?"

Before Harry could answer, a letter came flying out of the floo and into Lily's hands. With a curious expression, she opened it and as she read it, frowned.

"What is it?"

"It's from Remus," Lily said quietly.

"Oh," Harry fidgeted. "Um, what does he say?"

"He's asking for permission to talk to you," Lily answered. "There's an accompanying note from the mind healer he has been seeing, saying he thinks it would be good for Remus to start making amends to you."

Harry didn't say anything, remembering all the times Remus had blamed him for Sirius's death. Did this mean Remus didn't blame anymore?

"Harry? I don't care if it would be good for Remus, what do you want to do? If you don't want to see him or aren't ready to yet then that is completely fine," Lily said.

"I," Harry cleared his throat. "I think I would like to see him."

"I won't allow you alone with him," Lily cautioned.

"That's fine," Harry said.

Lily studied his face for a moment and then nodded. "Okay. I'll arrange a time for him to visit."

They decided to go to the Great Hall for breakfast and after Lily walked Harry to his table, where he was greeted happily by his friends she continued on her way to the head table. She sat next to Severus, whose eyes looked as tired as hers. They had been up most of the night researching together.

"How are you? How is Harry?" Severus asked, taking her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze before pouring her a cup of coffee, and then refilling his own cup.

"He's fine," Lily said. "Obviously I didn't tell him anything yet, about...you know."

Severus nodded his understanding.

"I received a letter from Remus, he wants to see Harry," Lily told him.

Severus put down his cup of coffee. "He does, does he?" He asked coolly.

"His mind healer wrote as well, said he has been making progress," Lily sighed. "Harry agreed. But I want us near. I'm not trusting Remus to be alone with him. Not yet, anyway."

"I completely agree," Severus said. "If that wolf says anything to hurt him..." He said darkly.

"His tongue will find a new home in a potion's jar," Lily said seriously.

Severus gave a low, appreciative chuckle. "I love it when we are in sync."

/

A couple of days later, Harry absently played with Luna's hair as he waited for his friends to finish eating lunch. It was a Saturday and he would be seeing Remus later. To say he was nervous was an understatement. He was also hopeful. He wanted the old Remus back.

"Harry?" Luna asked softly. "Aren't you going to eat more? You've hardly touched anything." She and Harry usually traded off eating at each other table's, the houses not seeming to mind or even notice anymore.

"Hmm? Oh," Harry looked down at his almost full plate. "Guess I'm not very hungry."

"You're nervous," Luna said. "You shouldn't be. I believe Remus really cares for you, he just let his grief and guilt overwhelm him."

"Why would he feel guilt?"

"Why would you?" Luna countered.

Harry sighed and pulled her closer. "I don't know. I just want him to be the Remus I remember."

"I'm sure he will be, Harry," Hermione spoke up. "The mind healer wouldn't think he was ready to see you otherwise."

"Besides, your mum and Snape will hex him if he acts like he did before," Ron said as he shoveled food into his mouth.

Hermione watched him in disgust. "Can you at least chew, please?"

Ron rolled his eyes.

/

Harry was making his way to his mum's quarters, where he would be seeing Remus when Draco, Crabbe, and Goyle suddenly stepped out in front of him. Malfoy had been looking at him with hatred even more than usual since it became clear to everyone that Severus did not hate Harry anymore. He had been able to drop his act now that he wasn't spying anymore, although a lot of the students were confused about the change. He had also been seen holding his mum's hand so rumors were running around about them being a couple. Harry just smiled when someone asked him about it. It was none of their business, in his mind. Apparently, the Slytherin students were really confused and the children of death eaters didn't know what to do.

"He's only pretending, you know," Draco said almost conversationally.

Harry blinked. "Am I supposed to know what you are talking about?"

"Severus. He's been a family friend for years. He's only pretending to like your mum, to not support the dark lord." Draco smirked. "You want to know the truth? He can't stand your Mudblood mother."

Harry's temper flared and it took all his occluding skills to resist grabbing his wand. Not allowed to hex him, not allowed to hex him...

"Nothing to say, Potty?" Draco sneered.

"I have better things to do than listen to your pathetic lies," Harry said in a bored voice in a near-perfect imitation of Snape.

Draco's face darkened. "You going to see your wolf, Potter?" At the surprised look on Harry's face, Draco gave him a smug smile. "Yeah, I hear things. Doesn't he despise you now?"

Harry shrugged. "Not more than I despise you, I'm sure." He smiled brightly before stepping around and continuing on his way. Not giving Malfoy the reaction he wanted was actually quite satisfying. Maybe not as satisfying as turning him into a slug would be but still, it felt pretty good.

/

"You walked here by yourself?" Severus asked in exasperation when Harry entered his mum's quarters.

"Uh, yeah," Harry said, suddenly remembering he wasn't supposed to. Which he thought was kind of ridiculous. He wasn't a little kid. "I'm sixteen, I can take care of myself."

"Yes, but you know we don't want you walking the castle alone." Lily frowned. "Especially after the attack in Hogsmeade."

"I'm sorry," Harry said. "Nothing happened, well except for Malfoy trying to get me to lose my temper."

Severus hesitated. "Did you?"

"I turned him into a slug. He's still in the corridor."

"What?" Both Lily and Severus shouted.

Harry began laughing. "Kidding! I didn't react in anger, which seemed to tick him off."

"Oh," Lily said in relief. "Good. You did well."

Severus ran a hand over his face. "I should turn you into a slug for that, brat."

Harry snickered, which faded when there was a knock on the door. He bit his lip and shuffled his feet. "Should I, um, get it? It's probably Remus so -"

"I'll get it," Lily said, heading to the door and opening it. "Hello, Remus."

"Lily," Remus stepped inside. "It's so good to see you." He hesitated and then hugged her.

"I'm glad to see you, Remus," Lily said with a soft smile. As long as you don't hurt my boy again, she added silently.

Remus cleared his throat. "Hello, Severus."

"Lupin," Severus said curtly, his eyes hard as he stared at the man.

Remus sighed and then looked at Harry, a smile spreading across his face. "Harry, it's so good to see you."

"Hey, Remus," Harry said, stepping forward to hug him.

"You two can talk here," Lily said. "We'll be in the kitchen." She tugged on Severus's arm.

Severus scowled. "We will?"

"Yes," Lily insisted, pulling him with her. They would be close enough to hear and make sure Remus didn't say anything he shouldn't.

"So strange to see that," Remus chuckled as he and Harry sat on the sofa. "I used to see them talking and studying together when we were in school. Well, until fifth year anyway."

"Yeah, they've gotten past all that," Harry said. "I'm happy they are together."

"You mean as friends?" Remus asked.

"No, they're dating," Harry said.

Remus blinked. "Oh."

"Is that weird for you?" Harry asked. His dad had been one of Remus's best friends after all and even though Remus had never seemed to share the same hostility towards Snape as Sirius had...

"I – no, it's not," Remus said after a moment. "They deserve happiness and as long as you're good with it," He chuckled. "If Sirius were here, he would be going ballistic right now."

Harry lowered his eyes. "Yeah, he would."

"Harry," Remus said softly. "I'm so sorry for how I have been treating you the past few months. So incredibly sorry."

Harry stared at his hands. "I'm sorry too. For Sirius, I shouldn't have -"

"No, Harry," Remus interrupted. "You have nothing to be sorry for, you were trying to save your godfather. You were immensely brave at the ministry, fighting the death eaters."

"If I hadn't gone, if I hadn't fallen for Voldemort's deception..."

"He would have found a way to get you there. He would have found a way to lure Sirius out of hiding just to use him against you." Remus said. "And Sirius, there was no way he was going to sit back if there was even an inkling of you being in trouble. He loved you."

"I loved him too," Harry whispered, tears filling his eyes.

"I know. So did I," Remus said. He took a deep breath. "Harry, the reason I treated you so badly was because I was angry."

"At me, I know. I -"

"No, not at you," Remus interrupted. "At me. I knew Sirius was getting restless at Grimmauld Place and I knew, deep inside, that he would eventually leave and actively join the war. I should have kept a better eye on him, I should been able to stop him. But the truth is, I couldn't have. I know that now. But I blamed myself for failing him. But even more, I was angry at Sirius."

"You were?"

"He was a great wizard and a wonderful friend, but he could be impulsive and reckless." Remus gave a sad smile. "I thought, if he had been more responsible while fighting instead of taunting Bellatrix then he would still be alive. But Sirius could be a big kid at times and he treated that duel like a game. Especially when he saw that you were okay when you were fighting beside him."

"He called me James," Harry confessed.

Remus's eyes widened. "He did?"

"I deflected a spell from Lucius and he said, 'Nice one James,'" Harry wiped his eyes. "Do you think he only saw me as my dad or something?" He asked quietly.

"No," Remus said firmly. "He may have gotten caught up in all the excitement that night and slipped by calling you James but he loved you for you. He talked about you all the time, saying how your parents would be so proud of you and how more mature you were than James was at your age." He gave a small grin. "Sirius also said how more mature you were than him as an adult."

Harry laughed.

"He saw you for you, Harry," Remus assured him. "I promise. He loved you for you. So do I," He pulled Harry into a hug and they sat for a few moments, just holding each other and remembering the person they both missed and loved.

"I'm glad we talked about this," Harry said as he pulled away and tried to wipe the tears from his eyes.

"Me too," Remus said. "And I really am sorry about how I treated you. Especially when I cast that spell at you. Merlin, it kills me that I hurt you. I never meant to. I took the anger and grief I was feeling and turned it all on you. I shouldn't have done that. I didn't even realize I was. I'm so sorry."

"It's okay."

"No, it's not even close to okay. I'll regret it for the rest of my life," Remus said, pain in his eyes. "Instead of dealing with my own emotions, I focused on your training because I knew I couldn't survive losing another person I loved. When you tried to follow Sirius into the veil, I -"

"What?"

Remus and Harry looked over to see Severus and Lily looking at them in shock and horror.

"You tried to follow Black into the veil?" Severus asked in a deceptively calm voice.

"I didn't know," Harry said quickly. "I didn't understand that he was gone. I thought I could pull him back or something. Remus grabbed me and wouldn't let go."

"Oh, Harry," Lily breathed. She immediately went and pulled him up and into a hug.

Severus shook off the fear that Harry had once again come so close to death. "Well, we are lucky Lupin was there to stop you." He said slowly.

"I didn't know what would happen if I followed Sirius into the veil," Harry said. "I lost it when Remus said he was gone. I even tried to -"

"Tried to what?"

Harry cleared his throat. He hadn't even told his friends about this. "I went after Bellatrix. I tried to Crucio her."

Lily froze and Severus sucked in his breath sharply while Remus just looked incredibly sad.

"I couldn't do it," Harry continued, not looking at any of them. "I mean, I cast it but it didn't hurt her. She mocked me, told me I had to mean it, to want to watch her in agony. I just wanted her to pay for killing Sirius, which wasn't enough, I guess." He fiddled with the hem of his shirt before finally raising his eyes to the adults in the room.

"It's okay, Harry," Lily said softly. "Frankly, it's understandable. And I'm not the least bit surprised that you couldn't cast it right. You're too good to enjoy watching someone suffer. Even someone like Bellatrix."

"I heard about what she did in Hogsmeade," Remus said, anger flashing in his eyes. "Tonks was furious that they weren't able to catch her. Or Pettigrew."

"It was impulsive of her," Severus said. "The dark lord wouldn't have tried that unless it was better planned. He wouldn't have risked us preventing Hogsmeade trips for Harry unless he was sure he would have succeeded."

"So no more Hogsmeade trips?" Remus gave Harry a sympathetic look.

"I'm also not allowed to go anywhere by myself in the castle," Harry complained. "It's annoying."

"Forgive us for trying to keep you safe," Severus rolled his eyes.

"How long is this going to last? Until I graduate?" Harry sighed.

"If it has to," Severus responded, resulting in Harry now rolling his eyes.

"We are doing everything we can Harry," Lily said.

"Yeah, looking for Voldemort's weapons," Harry murmured. "I sort of think I should still be able to help."

"I sort of think you shouldn't," Lily said easily. "Once was more than enough."

"You know about the -" Remus started in surprise.

"Yes, he knows that Voldemort has weapons hidden out there to aid him," Lily quickly interrupted. She didn't want Harry to know about Horcruxes yet.

"And you helped with one?"

Lily sat back as Harry told Remus about his adventure with Dumbledore, feeling a knot form in her stomach. Her son was a Horcrux and she and Severus needed to find out how to destroy it without destroying Harry. She caught Severus's eye and knew he was thinking the same thing. The sooner they could help Harry, the better. And then finally, they could destroy the monster that sought to kill her child.

TBC: 

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

A day after meeting with Remus, Harry walked with his mum and Severus and met with his friends at the entrance to the Great Hall for breakfast, noticing the grin on Ron's face. He could see some amusement in Hermione's eyes although she had a disapproving frown on her face. "What's going on, guys?"

Lily and Severus were looking at them curiously as well.

Luna wandered up. "I think it looks wonderful," She said in her dreamy voice. "All the tables should be decorated in different House colors."

"What?" Severus went into the Great Hall, where the room was filled with laughter and his eyes sought out the Slytherin table, which looked painted in sparkling red and gold. He sighed. His students looked furious.

Lily looked over his shoulder and bit her lip to hide her smile. Okay, that was funny. Whoever had done it shouldn't have but still, it was pretty funny.

Harry began laughing. "Oh, that's brilliant. Who did it, Ron?" He asked eagerly.

Severus spun around and glared. "Yes, Mr. Weasley. Who did it?"

Ron's eyes went wide and his smirk faded. "Uh...did what?"

Severus's eyes darkened and he stalked over to the Slytherin table, trying to cancel whatever spell had caused it. He scowled when nothing worked.

"I'm sorry Severus," Professor McGonagall said as she walked up to him, frowning. "The Headmaster and I tried to undo it but apparently some special compound was used. If they were still in school, I'd say it was the Weasley twins who were responsible."

"I'm sure they are," Severus huffed. "Someone here probably got the compound from their joke shop."

Professor McGonagall nodded ruefully. "Most likely."

Severus glared at the other students who were still laughing, although no table was laughing as much as Gryffindor. He glowered at the lions until one by one they went silent and stopped looking over at the Slytherin table. Slightly appeased, he turned to his snakes. "Do not give them the satisfaction of knowing this bothers you," he told them.

"Aren't the Gryffindors going to get into trouble?" Theo Nott whined.

"I do not know who is responsible for this, although I will try to find out," Severus said.

"It was probably Potter," Draco spoke up. He glared at his Head of House. "And of course, you won't punish him." He said sarcastically.

"Harry did not do this," Severus said coolly. "And do not presume to tell me what I will and will not do, Mr. Malfoy."

Scowling, Draco looked away.

"Don't worry Draco, we'll get trounce those stupid lions in the Quidditch match later today," Zander Vaisey said, who played Chaser for the team.

Severus sighed and went to the Head Table, sitting in his usual seat next to Lily.

"Are they all right?" Lily asked, glancing at the Slytherin table.

"They have been humiliated in front of the whole school," Severus said in a frustrated voice. "So no, they are not all right."

"I'm sorry," Lily said quietly.

Severus shut his eyes for a moment. "No, I am sorry. I should not have snapped at you."

Lily didn't say anything, she knew Severus was just concerned for his Slytherins. Now that they knew he was not on Voldemort's side, they assumed he didn't care for them but she knew he did. Thoughtfully, she stared at the Gryffindor table. Most of them were grinning and laughing, looking over at the Slytherin table now that Severus wasn't glaring at them. Harry, however, wasn't laughing anymore. He looked worried and kept glancing up at the Head Table, looking from Severus to her. She gave him a reassuring smile and wink as she flicked her wand, murmuring a charm and suddenly the Gryffindor table had little green snakes in the pattern, and they moved continuously all around the top of the table. The Gryffindors squealed in surprise and as the rest of the room noticed, the other students began laughing.

"You did not have to do that," Severus said, a twinge of a smile on his lips.

Lily shrugged. "It will fade in an hour. Besides, they don't look that upset." It was true, many of the Gryffindors were laughing while others seemed to think the charm was impressive, especially the first years. Only a few upper years looked annoyed. "The House rivalry has always gone too far. It's supposed to be for fun, a healthy competition. Instead of an all-out war."

"It's always been like this," Severus said softly. "Worse now, with Voldemort's return."

Lily nodded sadly. The wizarding world needed to be rid of Voldemort, but first, she and Severus had to deal with Harry's Horcrux.

/

Later that afternoon, Harry stood with Luna as the match was beginning to start. He had found out it was Dean and Seamus who had ordered the compound that had decorated the Slytherin table. Everyone was still talking about it, as well as the snake pattern on the Gryffindor table. The Gryffindors had been speculating who had done it, although Harry had known right away it was his mum. He wasn't mad, he had thought it was a pretty brilliant charm. Most of the Gryffindors had actually been amused by it. Now, though he needed to focus on the match.

"A kiss for luck?" Harry asked Luna with a grin as he prepared to join his team in the sky.

Luna leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips, her eyes bright. "I get a kiss for luck too."

"What do you need luck for?" Harry asked curiously.

"Professor McGonagall asked me to do the commentary for the game," Luna beamed.

"Uh, really?" Harry scratched behind his neck. "Huh." Slowly he grinned. If nothing else, this game would be interesting. "I think that's great." He pulled her close and kissed her. "Good luck."

Harry flew up to join his team, hovering near Ron.

"Hey," Ron frowned. "Is – is Luna going to do the commentary?" He was watching as Luna sat at the podium, next to Professor McGonagall.

"Yup," Harry smirked.

"Oh," Ron bit his lip as Madam Hooch threw up the Quaffle. "This should be fun."

It didn't take long for Luna to start talking as the game started. "And there's Ronald Weasley, the Gryffindor keeper. He's getting much better, I think because his girlfriend Hermione is in the stands and he wants to impress her. Oh, Ginny got the Quaffle from Caldwell, did you know she's dating Dean Thomas now? I think they make a very cute couple..."

"Miss Lovegood, stick to the game please," Professor McGonagall said curtly.

"Hmm, all right. Oh, there's Malfoy hovering near Harry. See, instead of trying to find the snitch himself, he'd rather Harry do the job for him. Not a sign of a very strong seeker, if you ask me, of course, he's only a seeker because his father bought his place on the team..."

Harry bit his lip to keep from laughing at the furious look on Malfoy's face.

"Oh, dear, now the chaser from Slytherin has the Quaffle...what's his name again? Ugaoo?"

"Urquhart!" McGonagall said loudly.

"Right. Of course... oh, I think Harry has seen something. See how Malfoy is following him? Look at Harry fly, he really is a natural. He's such a good player...and kisser, if you want to know..."

"Miss Lovegood!" McGonagall snapped.

Merlin's beard, Luna! Harry thought as his teammates snickered. He didn't even want to see the looks on his mum's or Severus's faces. It was bad enough that he could hear laughter from the stands.

"Oh, I suppose we should check the score...hey, does anyone else think the clouds look like little baby Hippogriffs? I do, I think they -"

"The score is seventy-forty to Slytherin!" McGonagall snapped into Luna's megaphone.

"Is it? Uh oh, Katie Bell was almost hit by a Bludger, sent by Penguin Derrick..."

"Peregrine Derrick!" McGonagall said wearily.

"Right. And now Malfoy is trying to knock Harry off his broom. Thankfully Harry is too good of a flier to fall off but isn't it just like that little ferret..."

"Miss Lovegood!"

Finally, after Gryffindor and Slytherin were almost neck and neck with the score, Harry caught sight of the snitch and after faking Draco out, he sped towards the golden prize. His hand curved around the snitch as he pulled up just in time before hitting the ground. The spectators burst into applause and cheers.

"Way to go, Harry!" Ron cheered as he flew next to him. "We won!"

Harry grinned as he and his team flew to the ground. His teammates began surrounding him with congratulations, pounding him on the back.

"Take that, Slytherin!" One of them yelled.

"It's nice to know your girlfriend likes your kissing," Dean Thomas teased as the other teammates made loud kissing noises.

"Oh, shut up," Harry said good-naturedly.

After changing, Harry headed out to the stands and was met by his mum and Severus. He sighed when he saw the smirks on their faces. Please don't comment on it, he thought fervently.

"Miss Lovegood certainly did an entertaining job, didn't she, Harry?" Severus chuckled

"A good kisser, hmm?" Lily raised an eyebrow, holding back a laugh.

Harry groaned, his face flushing. "Please don't make fun of me," He begged.

Laughing, his mum obliged him and hugged him. "Congratulations Harry! That was a great match!"

"You did extremely well," Severus agreed with a small smile.

Harry looked at him a tad uncertainly. "I'm sorry." He said, realizing Severus must be disappointed that his House had lost.

Severus sighed. "You do not have to apologize for winning, Harry. Obviously, I always hope for a Slytherin win, it is my House. But that does not mean I'm not happy and proud when you win."

"Really?" Harry perked up.

"Really, you ridiculous child," Severus said in exasperation.

"Sev, you have such a way with words," Lily teased. She turned back to Harry. "Go on. Celebrate with your friends. And thank Luna for the enlightening commentary." She chuckled.

Blushing furiously, Harry went to find his friends.

"How did I do, Harry?" Luna asked brightly as he approached.

Harry stared at her for a moment before breaking into a grin. "I thought you were brilliant." He watched as her eyes lit up and pulled in her for a kiss.

"Knock it off, we have a game to celebrate!" Ron said with his arm around Hermione.

Walking to the Tower together, where Dean and Seamus were for sure already getting a party started, they were interrupted when Malfoy suddenly swooped in front of them, his goons Crabbe and Goyle behind him. His silver eyes were flashing as he glared at Harry and then at Luna.

"You have some nerve, Loony..." Draco sneered.

Harry stiffened. "Don't call her that...you little ferret."

Draco's face went red with anger. "You must think you're so special, don't you Potter?" He spat out.

Harry sighed. "What's your problem this time? I mean, besides losing to Gryffindor yet again."

Draco positively glowered at him. "Professor Snape looking proud of you...after winning against his own house!" He shook his head. "I don't know how you got him to turn towards your side. Hey, maybe he really does like your mud-blood of a mother." He smirked. "It's the only reason he acting nice to you. Professor Snape doesn't care about you."

"Sod off, Malfoy!" Ron shouted. "And don't use that foul word!"

"Mudblood?" Draco said with relish. "Your mother is inferior, Potter. Just like you."

"And yet she outsmarted Voldemort," Harry smirked, stressing the name. He watched Draco flinch. "How is your Master doing these days?"

"Shut up!" Draco pointed his wand at him. "You'll get what is coming to you, Potter. Just wait."

Harry gave an exaggerated yawn. "Are you finished yet?"

Draco gave a low growl and began to cast. "Confri -"

"Color Intensionem Et Rubeum Auri!" Harry shouted, remembering reading about this spell from one of Severus's books.

Draco backed up, looking at him warily. "What did you do?" He demanded as those around him began laughing. Even his own friends were snickering.

"Merlin, that's great!" Ron snickered.

"Harry," Hermione tried to sound disapproving but she was smiling.

Luna giggled. "I like it. It sets off your eyes," she said to Draco innocently.

"What?" Draco conjured a mirror and stared at his reflection in horror. "Change it back, Potter!"

Harry grinned at the former blonde, who now sported red and gold hair. "It will wear off," he said with a shrug. "In like a day or so."

Draco was clearly seething and Harry hid a smile.

"You can laugh now Potter, but I won't forget this," Draco hissed.

"Of course, you won't, you'll remember every time you look in the mirror," Harry snickered.

"I can't wait to see you killed," Draco spat out before stomping away.

"Evil git," Ron muttered.

"Harry, aren't you supposed to walk away from Malfoy's taunts?" Hermione asked, still looking amused.

Harry shrugged. "Oops," he said.

/

"You know there is to be no hexing students," Severus scolded, pacing back and forth in front of the errant person sitting in front of him. "Stop laughing! Even if it was just a change of hair color, it is against the rules. You know this, so why – stop laughing!"

Lily was bent over in mirth, tears practically coming out of her eyes. "Oh, but his hair...a Malfoy with red and gold hair..." Her giggles continued.

Severus crossed his arms across his chest. "How are you going to scold your son when you can't stop your giggling?" His lips twitched slightly at the thought of young Malfoy in Gryffindor colors. The Slytherin table he had been disgruntled with but the hair on Malfoy...well...that was amusing. The little nuisance had had it coming for years.

"I know, I know," Lily tried to get herself under control. "He should have walked away. But I believe Minerva has already scolded him for the hex. And at least he didn't physically attack him this time."

The door opened and a sheepish-looking Harry entered. "Hi."

"Well, if it isn't Hogwart's own hairdresser," Severus said snidely.

Harry cleared his throat. "Um, I know you're probably mad but...well, at least I didn't attack him this time."

Severus shook his head. "Like mother, like son."

"He was being a prat, it was in defense!" Harry protested.

"Defense against what?"

"He started to cast the blasting curse at me," Harry said. Professor McGonagall had been about to take points from him until he had told her that. She had looked shocked and then angry, then half-heartily finishing her scolding. Thankfully, she hadn't taken points or given him a detention.

All amusement fled Lily and she stood up. "He what?"

"I cast my spell before he could cast his," Harry shrugged. "Then he said -" He hesitated.

"What did he say?" Severus asked in a low voice.

"He couldn't wait to see me killed," Harry said in a low voice. "He's a bloodthirsty little thing, isn't he?" he tried to joke after a moment.

"I will be having words with him," Severus said through gritted teeth. Draco was obviously too far gone if he was ready to kill a student, in front of witnesses. The boy was following in his father's footsteps, all right.

"This is why I don't want you wandering the castle alone," Lily said seriously.

"I wasn't, Ron, Hermione, and Luna were with me," Harry said. "We were on our way to the Tower."

"Maybe you need more... how about a house-elf?" Lily suggested, looking at Severus.

"There is that one that Harry knows, Dobby," Severus said thoughtfully.

"Uh," Harry bit his lip as Dobby popped into the room.

"Professor Snape Sir called for Dobby?" Dobby asked cheerfully, decked out in his colorful sweaters and mismatched socks.

Lily was staring at him with a bemused expression.

"How would like to shadow Harry, discreetly, to make sure he is safe?" Severus watched as Dobby hesitated. "Is there a problem?" He asked in surprise. He knew how fond of Harry the elf was.

"Dobby is already shadowing somebody," Dobby said, looking dejected. "But Dobby wants to help keep Harry Potter Sir safe too!"

"Who are you shadowing?" Severus asked with a frown. Had Dumbledore assigned him to somebody?

"Mistress Lily Potter," Dobby beamed.

Lily's mouth dropped open. "What?"

"Dobby keeps Mistress Lily safe, yes he does! Harry Potter Sir asked and Dobby is happy to do it!"

Lily and Severus both stared at Harry.

Harry coughed. "Uh, well after the welcoming feast I was worried so I asked Dobby to keep an eye on you." He shrugged.

Lily smiled softly. "You're a good kid, Harry. I appreciate it, I really do. But I think now it would be best if Dobby watches out for you. If Dobby doesn't mind, of course."

"No, Dobby does not mind at all, no ma'am, Dobby is proud to protect Harry Potter," Dobby rambled.

Severus rolled his eyes while Lily laughed. He was impressed with Harry, it was a good idea to have had extra protection for Lily. But it was Harry who needed it, he was the goal for the dark lord. If Harry had someone extra looking out for him, then he and Lily could focus on finding an answer to destroying the Horcrux in Harry.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"Malfoy should have been expelled," Ron grumbled as he put a huge scoop of mashed potatoes on his plate. It was dinnertime and Harry had just told him and Hermione about the new restrictions that have been placed on Draco.

"He almost was," Harry said as he watched in amusement as Ron flooded his potatoes with gravy.

"Geez, Ron. Save some for other people," Hermione looked at his plate distastefully. "Why don't you just pour some gravy in a cup and drink it?"

Ron shrugged. "I like it like this," he said as he shoveled in a mouthful.

"I think what Malfoy tried to do was completely horrible and disgusting but..." Hermione glanced to the small table in the corner of the Hall where Draco sat alone, eating his food. "I have to admit, I feel a tiny bit sorry for him."

"What?" Ron exclaimed, spraying bits of food out of his mouth.

"Ew, Ronald!" Hermione glared.

"Maybe Ron should go eat with Malfoy," Harry joked.

"Did you hear what she said?" Ron asked Harry while pointing at Hermione with his fork. "She feels sorry for that prat."

"I said a tiny bit sorry," Hermione huffed. "His whole life has changed. The scars on his face will never heal, his friends aren't standing by him and he has been disowned by his father."

"Hmm, when you put it that way..." Ron said thoughtfully. He shook his head. "Nope. Still don't feel sorry for him."

Harry chuckled and gave Hermione an understanding look. "Don't worry, I feel the same," he admitted. "I hate him, I hate what he tried to do but..." he shrugged. "You're right. His entire life has changed." His gaze went to Malfoy. "Well, it looks like someone is standing by him," he commented as he watched a girl sit next to Malfoy. He didn't know who she was but at least it looked like the little ferret had someone in his corner.

/

Harry knew something was going on, something big. He could tell by the tense way his mum and Severus acted. When he asked them, they just said everything was fine and not to worry. But Harry didn't believe them, he knew something was wrong. While his mum was at a teacher meeting, he ventured into her office. It's not like he wasn't allowed in here or anything. And if he happened to be looking for a quill and rifled through some papers... Harry glanced curiously at some notes. It looked like ingredients for a potion. There were scribbles all over, some words crossed out and, the word Horcruxes...right next to his name. What is a Horcrux? Harry wondered. He looked at another piece of parchment and saw something written about destroying a Horcrux... Harry snapped his head up when he heard the door open. He quickly shuffled the papers back to how they had been and sat in the chair in front of Mum's desk, taking his charms book out of his backpack and pretending to read.

"Harry?" Lily asked in surprise as she entered.

"Hey, Mum." Harry smiled, hoping he looked casual. "I had a question about the water-making charm we are learning about."

"Oh, I hope you weren't waiting too long," Lily said as she peered at the chapter her son was reading.

"I wasn't," Harry said, hoping the guilt wasn't clear on his face.

/

Harry entered the common room after Quidditch practice, feeling tired and sore. The room was mostly empty so he plopped into the chair by the fireplace. Practice had been intense as they had a game against Ravenclaw coming up. Ron was exhausted too but had gone to find Hermione, who had said she would be in the library researching Horcruxes. He had told them about looking through his mother's papers and Hermione had volunteered to research what Horcruxes were. After another moment, he called "Dobby?"

Dobby popped in. "Yes, Mr. Harry Potter sir?"

"Dobby, could bring me and my friends a snack? And something to drink?" Harry asked hopefully. He was too tired to go to the kitchens. "Please?"

"Of course, Mr. Harry Potter sir!" Dobby popped away just as Hermione and Ron came into the room. "Did you guys find anything?" he asked eagerly.

"No," Hermione said regretfully.

"Really? Nothing?" Harry asked incredulously.

Hermione threw up her hands. "I know, it's ridiculous! I couldn't find one single explanation of what Horcruxes do! We even looked through the restricted section -"

"There are some really disturbing books there," Ron made a face.

"But the only mention was in an introduction to Magick Most Evil that said a Horcrux is the wickedest of magical inventions and it should not be spoken of," Hermione huffed. "Why mention it at all then?"

Harry slumped in his chair.

"Just ask your mum or Snape," Ron suggested for the umpteenth time.

Harry shook his head. "They obviously don't want me to know."

"Plus you have to admit you were snooping," Hermione pointed out.

"Yeah, I don't want to have to do that if I can avoid it," Harry grinned wryly.

"You could ask the Headmaster," Hermione said after a moment of thought. "He would surely know, wouldn't he?"

Before Harry or Ron could respond, Dobby popped back into the room with a tray filled with biscuits, fruit, and a pitcher of pumpkin juice.

"Food!" Ron said happily.

"Thank you, Dobby," Harry said gratefully to the elf.

Dobby gave him a toothy smile. "You is welcome, Mr. Harry Potter sir!" He popped away.

"I was hungry," Harry said to his friends sheepishly. "From practice."

"Me too," Ron said before stuffing a biscuit into his mouth.

Hermione sighed but did take an orange from the tray and started peeling it. "So will you ask Dumbledore?"

"Yeah." Harry poured himself some pumpkin juice. "I want to know what is going on so hopefully he will tell me."

/

Dumbledore smiled brightly as Harry entered his office. "How are you today, Harry?"

"I'm fine, sir," Harry said, sitting in the chair in front of the headmaster's desk.

"Your scar is not troubling you?"

"No. I just had a question and hoped you would tell me the truth," Harry said softly.

"Of course, my boy. What is the question?"

Harry took a deep breath. "What is a Horcrux?"

Dumbledore stared at him. "Where did you hear that word?" He asked after a moment.

"I saw some papers on my mum's desk," Harry admitted. "Only for a few seconds but..."

"Why haven't you asked your mother or Severus?"

"I don't want them to think I was snooping."

Dumbledore raised an eyebrow.

"Okay, I might have been snooping," Harry sighed. "But I didn't get a chance to see much. Just something about Horcruxes next to my name and what looked like notes about a potion."

Dumbledore sighed. "I'm not supposed to tell you." He admitted.

"Please? Don't I have a right to know, if it concerns me?" Harry asked pleadingly.

With a resigned sigh, Dumbledore explained about Horcruxes and how Voldemort had made them to make himself immortal.

Harry felt sick. "So he can't be killed until these Horcruxes are destroyed," he said slowly. "And once they are, he's mortal again? I still don't see why I have to be the one to kill him."

"I believe there are only two more Horcruxes. I'm fairly certain one is Nagini. The other Horcrux is one Voldemort made unintentionally. He isn't even aware of it. And he must be the one to destroy it." Dumbledore's eyes flickered to Harry's scar.

"What?" Harry whispered. His hand went to his forehead. "My scar? It's a horcrux?" Suddenly it made sense, the connection with Voldemort, the visions, feeling what that monster was feeling, the Parseltongue... "So I have to let him kill me," Harry said flatly.

"Maybe not," Dumbledore said. "Your mother and Severus are determined to find another way. A way to destroy the Horcrux without you having to die."

"Can they?" Harry asked hopefully.

"If anyone can, they can," Dumbledore said after a pause.

"But you don't think so?" Harry realized.

"I have not been able to find anything but Lily and Severus are sure they can," Dumbledore said.

"If they can't," Harry said slowly. "Will you help me get to Voldemort without them knowing?"

"Harry," Dumbledore said sadly. "Your mum and Severus would never forgive me."

"Maybe not. But if it's the only way for Voldemort to be destroyed," Harry blinked back tears. He didn't want this. He didn't want to face Voldemort again, he didn't want to die. But if it was the only way for his family and friends to be safe, he would do it. "Please. If it comes down to it, I'll do it. I'll let Voldemort kill me. But they will never let me do it, so will you help me? If it comes to that?"

Tears shined in Dumbledore's eyes. "Yes, my boy. I will."

"And you'll look after them? Mum and Severus? And my friends? If I have to leave them..." Harry broke off, unable to continue.

"You have my word," Dumbledore promised.

/

"Basilisk venom can destroy a horcrux. It destroyed the diary," Snape murmured as he scribbled in his notebook. They were in Lily's quarters, continuing their research.

"Right, basilisks," Lily said as she read through another text. "Wasn't Harry pierced by the basilisk fang? His second year, I believe?"

Snape froze. "Yes, he was," he said slowly. "In his arm."

Lily looked up at Severus. "Do you think it could have damaged the Horcrux in him?"

"I don't know," Snape said. "Fawkes healed him but the venom...it could have. Not enough, as Harry still has the connection to the dark lord but perhaps..." he jotted down more notes.

"It's not like we can just stab his scar with a basilisk fang," Lily said.

"No, not without killing him," Snape agreed.

"Unless," Lily bit her lip. "If we could adjust the protection charm I used when Voldemort cast the killing curse. I mean, if it could protect Harry from being killed -"

"It could protect him from being killed while we destroy the Horcrux," Snape finished. He glanced at Lily. "It would be risky."

"I know," Lily said, rubbing her temples.

Snape summoned a headache potion and handed it to her.

"Thank you," Lily said as she took a swallow. "This is the problem. Anything we try could end up either killing Harry or permanently hurting him."

"I know," Severus said quietly. "It's not like we can test any potions or charms on someone who is host to a Horcrux."

Lily looked at Severus with worry and grief in her eyes. "It's like when I did the charm to save Harry when he was a baby. I didn't know for sure it worked, I just had to believe it would. I knew it was either try the charm, or Harry would die."

"So we try the charm now while destroying the Horcrux otherwise..."

"We could take Harry and run but -" Lily smiled ruefully.

"Harry wouldn't allow it," Severus finished. The boy was too brave and noble, he would sacrifice himself to save the wizarding world. "He would find a way to get to Voldemort."

Lily shuddered. "No, that can't happen," she whispered. Her baby anywhere near that monster? No.

"We use the protection charm or a variation of it, and also a riving potion from the coma we'll have to put him in. We'll have to tweak it but...once we destroy the Horcrux, we give him the potion, and as long as the protection charm works..." Severus mused. "We should be able to revive him."

"I'm so scared of losing him," Lily said in a pained voice.

"So am I," Severus reached out and took her hand. "But we can do it, Lily. And Harry is a fighter, I believe he will pull through."

"If I lose him..." Lily shook her head. "I won't survive it."

"We won't lose him," Severus said in a determined voice. "We will make this work."

/

"Harry, we need to talk to you," Lily said, gesturing for him to sit on the sofa. Harry had begged to be able to go to the last Hogsmeade trip before Christmas, even offering to take Polyjuice Potion so no one would know who he was. Lily wished she could let him go, but it was just too dangerous after the last attack. She and Severus were going to tell him and she hoped he would understand.

Harry sat, noticing their very serious faces. "Is this about my Horcrux?" He asked quietly.

Lily froze and Severus's mouth dropped open. "What? How did – you -" Lily stammered.

Harry watched them with a frown. "Isn't that what you wanted to talk to me about?"

"No, were were going to tell you that you couldn't go to Hogsmeade," Severus said slowly.

"Oops," Harry bit his lip. Well, he was an idiot.

"How did you know about the Horcrux?" Lily asked.

Harry hesitated. "Does that matter?"

"We would like to know," Severus said.

Harry fiddled with one of the pillows on the sofa. "I may have seen something on your desk about it." He told his mother.

"Were you snooping?" Lily asked suspiciously. "I thought you were in my office because you needed help with your homework. Did you go through the papers on my desk?"

Harry shrugged.

"A verbal answer would be appreciated," Severus said sternly.

Harry felt a burst of anger. "Yeah, I was. I deserve to know, don't I? It's my scar!"

"Harry - "

"I went to the Headmaster to ask what a horcrux was," Harry continued.

"Did you?" Lily murmured.

"Yeah, Hermione couldn't find anything in the library about it. I deserve to know what's going on! I'm the one who has to let Voldemort kill him!"

"First, lower your voice," Severus said, glaring at him. "You do not need to shout at us. And second, we were going to tell you everything. And third, Voldemort is not going to kill you."

"He has to," Harry said. "Unless you found another way? Dumbledore said you were looking."

"We have been. We didn't want to tell you yet. Not until we had another solution," Lily said. "Facing Voldemort is not an option, however."

"If nothing else works, I won't have a choice," Harry said, shaking his head.

"We can leave, we can hide -"

"I'm not going to run and doom everyone else," Harry scoffed.

Lily gritted her teeth. So like James. She understood it but she couldn't, wouldn't stand by and watch her son be killed by Voldemort. "We have another way. At least, we believe so."

"What way?"

"We want to destroy your horcrux with a Basilisk venom," Severus said. "We will use a variation of your mother's protection charm and a reviving potion as we will have to put you in a deep coma-like state." He paused. "It's not a hundred percent, it's not like we can test it."

"So I could die," Harry said softly.

"No, the protection charm will protect you," Lily said firmly. "Like it did when you were a baby."

"But there is a chance it won't."

Severus took Lily's hand and squeezed it. "Yes," he admitted.

"Okay." Harry breathed.

"Harry," Lily said brokenly.

Harry stood to hug his mother. "I trust you. And I trust Severus," he said. He took a deep breath. "So when do we do this?"

"We need to prepare the potion and work more on the charm," Lily said. "I think it won't be until after Christmas. There is still some research to be done as well."

"We also need a Basilisk fang," Severus said.

Harry gave them a wry smile. "I think I can help you there."

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

"Merlin, I can't believe you faced this as a twelve-year-old," Lily said as she circled the basilisk skeleton. Harry had brought them to the Chamber of Secrets and she couldn't imagine a child facing this creature.

"He shouldn't have," Severus grumbled as he bent down to pick up a couple of the Basilisk's fangs and put them in a knapsack.

"I had to," Harry protested. "Ginny had been taken and everyone thought I was the heir of Slytherin." He looked around and shuddered slightly. He'd had nightmares for weeks after this incident.

"You should have let an adult handle it," Severus said firmly.

"I did bring Lockhart," Harry said innocently.

"Yes, and we all know how competent he was," Severus sneered.

Harry shrugged sheepishly.

/

"It could work," Dumbledore said, leaning back in his chair. "I didn't even think about the fact that Harry had been infected with Basilisk venom before," he said thoughtfully.

"Do you think it could have damaged the Horcrux?" Lily asked eagerly. If the Horcrux was damaged, then perhaps it would be easier to destroy. She and Severus had wanted to get the Headmaster's thoughts on it.

"It may have," Dumbledore nodded. "We can't know for sure, of course. Not until..." He hesitated.

"We try it," Severus finished. He glanced at Lily. "It will work." It had too.

Lily took a deep breath and nodded. "Then we should be ready to do it after the Christmas holidays are over."

Dumbledore nodded. "We can do it in the infirmary. Poppy and I will be there in case we are needed." He looked over as Fawkes gave trill. "Yes, my friend?"

Fawkes flew to Severus, landing on his shoulder.

"Albus, if your bird tries to eat my hair again -"

"Wait," Lily whispered. She transfigured a quill into a small glass jar. She held the jar up to Fawkes and two tear drops fell from the phoenix's eyes and into the jar. "Thank you," she said softly. After stabbing the Basilisk fang into Harry's scar, they would need to work fast to heal him. This would ensure he would heal.

"Brilliant," Severus breathed, reaching up to pat the phoenix on its head. "Thank you, Fawkes."

/

Harry finished telling his friends everything and watched the expressions of shock and horror on their faces.

"Oh, Harry," Hermione whispered.

"So Dumbledore wanted you to just go and let Voldemort kill you?" Luna asked incredulously.

"Yeah," Harry said. "He didn't think there was any other way but Mum and Severus believe there is."

"How dangerous will it be?" Ron asked, his face uncharacteristically serious.

"There is a chance it won't work the way they hope it will," Harry admitted. "I mean, they're going to stab my scar with a basilisk fang so if the protection charm doesn't work..."

"You'll die," Hermione said, horrified.

Harry nodded reluctantly. "It's either try this or let Voldemort kill me."

Luna put her arms around him. "It will work," she said fiercely. "I know it will."

"Yeah, Snape doesn't tolerate failure," Ron said with a shaky smile.

"Is there anything we can do?" Hermione asked anxiously. "Any research they need help with or -"

"No," Harry said gently.

"When will this happen?" Luna asked.

"After the Christmas break," Harry told her. He glanced at Ron. "You can have my Firebolt if I don't make it." he joked.

"That's not funny," Ron scowled.

Harry sighed. "Sorry. I'm just trying to lighten things." He looked at his friends. "You know you guys mean the world to me, right?"

"Oh, Harry," Hermione sniffled.

"Best friends anyone could have," Harry said honestly. He looked at Luna. "Luna," he felt overcome with emotion and hugged her to him. He didn't know how to put into words what she meant to him.

"I know," Luna whispered to him. "I'm falling in love with you too."

Harry felt his eyes fill with tears and he blinked them back. She always knew him so well.

"So what do we do?"

"Play Quidditch, go to classes..." Harry shrugged.

"Classes! How are we supposed to concentrate on classes?" Ron demanded.

Hermione rolled her eyes. "Like you ever concentrate? Just sleep through them like you usually do."

"Oi!" Ron said looking offended.

Luna giggled and Harry chuckled. What would he do without his friends?

/

Harry grinned as he, his mum, and Severus flooed to the manor to begin their Christmas holiday. "Wow!" The manor was decorated beautifully for Christmas, with wreaths, garland, and flowers

"Merlin," Severus's eyes widened.

"Do yous like it?" Cora asked, beaming. "Master Snape never cared to decorate for Christmas before but now that he has a family, Cora finally got the chance!"

"It looks wonderful, Cora," Lily smiled.

"Cora left the tree alone so yous could all decorate together," Cora said.

Harry's eyes brightened and he hurried to the living room to gape at the tall and full Christmas tree. There were boxes on the ground filled with ornaments, lights, and garlands. "Brilliant!" He glanced at Snape. "Is this okay?"

"I suppose," Severus sighed.

"Oh, don't be such a Grinch," Lily teased, flicking her wand. Garland floated up out of the box and flew to Snape, encircling him. "Look how festive you are!" She laughed.

"Hilarious," Severus made a face. He narrowed his eyes at Harry, who had burst out laughing.

"If all your students could see you now," Harry said, his eyes filled with mirth.

Severus smirked as he subtly flicked his own wand, the garland moving to and circling around Harry and Lily, tying them together.

"Hey!" Lily protested.

"Much better," Severus chuckled. He had never imagined his home decorated for Christmas and filled with laughter. It was more than he could have ever hoped for. And even with the Horcrux issue hovering over them, they were going to enjoy their first Christmas together.

They spent the evening decorating and Harry stepped back and surveyed the tree. "There. All done." He said in satisfaction.

Lily put her arm around him. "It looks beautiful," she said. "Wait, one more thing." She tapped her wand against one of the lights and suddenly the whole tree seemed to glow even brighter, the colorful lights even more vibrant.

"Wow," Harry breathed.

Severus entered the room, a tray floating behind him. "I believe this tree could rival the ones at Hogwarts," he remarked as the tray, which held mugs of hot chocolate and biscuits, set on the coffee table.

"It's even better than the ones at Hogwarts," Harry said, eagerly picking up a mug of hot chocolate. He took a sip. "Ouch!"

"Blow on it first," Severus said in exasperation.

"Right," Harry grinned as he sat on the sofa. This was already the most amazing Christmas he had ever had. His mum was here and Severus, it was like he was a normal kid celebrating the holiday with his parents. He wasn't going to let himself think about after the New Year when they would get rid of the Horcrux. No, this was a time to enjoy being together.

Lily picked up a mug and sat next to Harry. "Sit with us, Sev. This is the best part."

"What is?" Severus asked, although he obliged her and sat next to her.

"Nox," Lily said and the lights in the room dimmed. All except for the tree.

"Oh," Harry breathed. It was even more spectacular with all the lights off, the tree glowing brightly. His mum was right, this was the best part.

/

Harry put presents under the tree that he had gotten for his mum and Severus. He glanced over as Lily entered the room. "I just sent Hedwig off with the gifts we got everyone," he said.

"Good," Lily smiled. "Are you going to put out milk and biscuits for Father Christmas?" She grinned at the withering look Harry gave her.

"I'm sixteen, you know. I know the biscuits and milk are really for the parents," Harry scoffed.

Lily shrugged. "If you say so."

Harry hesitated. "Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt." He gave a mock glare as Severus snickered.

/

Harry woke up early, yawning and fumbling for his glasses. Snow was falling outside his window and he perked up. It was Christmas morning! He noticed a stocking on the foot of his bed and he reached over to grab it. Dumping it out on his bed, he smiled at the candy, a new set of exploding snap cards, an apple, an orange, and a galleon. He grinned and hopped out of bed, putting on his dressing gown and slippers. He paused as he noticed a pensive sitting on his desk. Curiously he approached it and entered.

Harry stood in the living room at Godric's Hollow, the same room his first birthday had been in. He grinned as his father entered, holding his baby self.

"See Pronglet? Father Christmas came and brought you presents!" James told his son excitedly.

Lily entered and beamed at her baby. "Merry Christmas, little one!"

Baby Harry clapped his hands and then reached out for the tree. "Bah!" He said happily.

"The tree looks pretty, doesn't it?" Lily reached out and took her son into her arms.

James rubbed his hands together. "Let's help him open his gifts!"

"You're more excited than he is," Lily teased as she piled up some pillows and then propped Harry against them to help him sit up. Both she and James then sat next to him and helped him unwrap his presents.

Harry watched with a smile, happy tears in his eyes. He chuckled as his baby self threw a wadded-up piece of wrapping paper at his father's face.

"Oi!" James laughed, tickling his son and making him giggle. "Not a bad aim, Pronglet."

The floo flared and Sirius and Remus stepped out, wrapped presents in their hands.

"Merry Christmas pup!" Sirius grinned.

"Look, they're still in their pajamas. I told you it was too early to come," Remus said.

"Nah, it's fine," James said with an easy grin.

"I was just about to put some coffee on," Lily said.

Sirius transformed into padfoot and ran around baby Harry barking, causing him to giggle.

"Remus, did you bring a muzzle for the dog?" James joked.

"Aw Prongs. You ruined his Christmas gift from me," Remus laughed.

Padfoot blurred back into Sirius. "Very funny," he huffed, his sparkling with humor. He picked up Harry and swung him around. "Time to fly, Harry!" he sang out, causing the baby to giggle again.

Harry withdrew with tears in his eyes and a smile on his face. Just like when he viewed his first birthday, this left him feeling warm and happy. To see his dad and Sirius especially...they had all been so happy.

He ran downstairs and gazed at the presents under the tree. He had put his gifts for his mum and Severus under there last night but now there was a pile. Hedwig must have already delivered the gifts from his friends. He took in the sight with a happy smile on his face.

Cora popped into the room. "Merry Christmas, young master!" She beamed.

"Merry Christmas Cora," Harry said.

"Would yous like some cocoa?"

"That would be great," Harry said.

"Cora will prepare a tray," Cora said before popping away.

"Merry Christmas Harry!" Lily walked down the stairs and enveloped him in a hug.

"Mum, the pensive," Harry hugged her back. "Thank you so much."

"You're welcome, little one," Lily whispered. She had known Harry would love seeing that memory.

Harry pulled back. "Can we open presents now?" He asked, not caring he sounded like a child. "Where is Severus?"

"Right here," Severus said as he came down the stairs.

Cora popped back in. "Cora has cocoa and tea as well as sticky buns," She said as she put the tray on the coffee table.

"Thank you, Cora," Lily said. "Harry, you want cocoa? Sev, tea?"

Harry nodded.

"Yes, thank you." Severus sat down and accepted his cup of tea.

Lily clapped her hands together. "Let's get started!"

"I know what these are," Harry said as he handed his mum and Severus each a present. "It's from Mrs. Weasley." he sat back with a smirk.

Lily opened hers. "Oh! A sweater!" She held her up. It was emerald green with a gold L on it.

Severus slowly unwrapped his gift and grimaced slightly as he held up a black sweater with a green S on it. Mrs. Weasley had made the S look like a snake. "Interesting." He managed to say.

Harry coughed to hide his laugh. "Want to try it on?" he asked as he opened his own sweater, done in maroon with a gold H on it.

"No," Severus folded the sweater and put it next to him.

"You should. We can all wear our sweaters and take a picture," Harry continued before laughing. "I bet I could sell copies to students and make a lot of money – hey!" He protested as his sweater rose up and fell on his head.

Lily laughed. "Perhaps we should continue."

As they unwrapped their presents, Lily and Severus received books and new lesson planners from their colleagues and Harry received sweets, and Quidditch-themed gifts from his friends. Well, except Hermione who sent a study guide she had made herself. It reminded him of the homework planner she had made last year only this one was even more thorough. N.E.W.T.s are next year, you know, Harry could practically hear her say. Harry fiddled with the planner. He hoped he was here to take N.E.W.T.s... No, don't think that way, he scolded himself.

"Harry, you okay?" Lily asked, worried.

"Yup, I'm fine," Harry put down the planner, next to the new golden broom compass Ron had gotten him. He picked another present and his mouth dropped open when he saw who it was from.

"Harry?" Severus leaned forward, his dark eyes concerned. "What's wrong?"

Harry raised his eyes. "Nothing. It's just...Dudley sent me a present!"

Severus relaxed. "Ah. I see."

"We sent him one," Lily said. Harry had suggested making a basket out of Honeydukes sweets, thinking that his cousin would get a kick out of them.

"I know, it's just..." Harry bit his lip. "No Dursley has ever given me a present before," he said quietly.

Lily pursed her lips, feeling a fresh rush of anger at her sister.

"Well, except when I was like seven and there was a huge box wrapped under the tree for me." Harry gave a humorless chuckle. "I was so excited to finally have a Christmas present but when I opened it, it was empty. The Dursleys thought that was pretty funny."

"Little one," Lily whispered, her heart hurting for her boy.

Severus clenched his fists, trying to keep his temper under control. He had to resist the urge to pay another visit to Vernon and Petunia.

Harry opened his gift from his cousin. A huge smile spread across his face as he held up a model of a beautiful white owl. "It looks like Hedwig!" He exclaimed.

Lily relaxed slightly. "That was thoughtful of your cousin."

"I'll write him and thank him," Harry said happily.

Lily fiddled with the wrapping paper next to her when Severus reached over and took her hand, squeezing her hand. She met his eyes and knew he felt the pain she did at hearing more of the cruelty her sister had bestowed on her son.

Harry got up and handed each of them a present. "These are from me," he said, feeling a little nervous. What if he had picked wrong?

Lily opened her present first. "Oh," she said softly at the beautiful gold necklace with a lily flower pendant. "It's beautiful. Thank you!" She opened the other present, which was a fancy set of quills. "This is wonderful!"

"I got you the same thing," Harry told Severus as he opened his own set.

"This is very nice, Harry," Severus said as he admired the quills.

"Well, since you're professors," Harry shrugged. "The ink changes to different colors."

Severus opened his other present from Harry. It was a set of vials that were engraved with S.S. on each one. "Thank you, Harry!" he exclaimed. "I needed new vials and these are perfect."

Harry smiled in relief. "I'm glad you guys like your presents."

"We have one for you," Lily said, summoning a small present.

"It's from both of you?" Harry asked as he opened it. His jaw dropped. It was a practice snitch and it was autographed by the players of the Chudley Cannons! "This is brilliant! Thank you!" He first hugged his mother and then Severus. "I love it!"

"Yes, we thought you would," Lily said in satisfaction, happy to see the joy on Harry's face.

His mum and Severus had gotten him more gifts, like a chess set and new gloves for Quidditch. Finally, there were two gifts left, from his mum and Severus to each other.

Lily opened hers first at Severus's insistence. "It's lovely!" She gasped, pulling out the emerald green cloak.

"I'm pleased you like it," Severus said, smiling softly as he watched her try it on.

"Oh, I love it. It's so soft and the color is so vibrant. Thank you, Sev," Lily bent down to kiss him. "Now you open my present."

Severus obeyed and his eyes widened at the copper cauldron inside the box. "Lily," he said as he admired the cauldron. "This is...I've always wanted one! You shouldn't have!"

Lily beamed. "It's the latest, it also is self-stirring and it gets hot faster than the previous copper cauldron did." He stood up and held her, kissed her. "Thank you, Lily," he murmured.

"You're welcome," Lily said softly, smiling.

Harry coughed. "Should I leave?" He asked teasingly.

"No, brat," Severus tossed a bow at him. "Come here."

Harry stood up and both adults were engulfed in a hug. "This is such a wonderful Christmas," Lily said.

"And it's just starting. We still get to go to the Weasley's for dinner." Harry said cheerfully, chuckling at the at the distasteful look on his face.

"Weasley's," Severus breathed.

"It will be fun," Lily admonished with a grin.

"You can wear your new sweater!" Harry suggested to Severus mischievously.

"Imagine spending the rest of the day without your tongue," Severus said lightly as he banished all the wrapping paper with a flick of his wand.

Lily chuckled at Harry's horrified face. "Why don't you take all your new things up to your room?"

"Okay," Harry hesitated. "Thank you for everything, this was the best Christmas I've ever had." He hugged his mum and then Severus before gathering up his presents and heading upstairs.

"It was the best for me too," Severus said quietly.

"I just hope we get more," Lily whispered.

Severus held her. "We will."

/

The rest of Christmas vacation was wonderful but too soon it was over and Lily and Severus were ready to destroy the Horcrux that resided in Harry's scar.

"Did you tell your friends that we were going to destroy the Horcrux today?" Lily asked softly. They were in the infirmary, which was carefully warded so that no one could interrupt the process. Dumbledore and Pomfrey were standing in the corner of the room, ready to be of assistance if needed. It was a Friday afternoon so Harry would have time to recover over the weekend. If he survives, she thought with grief. She mentally shook her head. No, he would survive.

Harry shook his head. "I couldn't," he said thickly. "I wrote them each a letter in case I don't..."

"Stop right there. You will make it through this," Severus said sternly.

"But in case..."

"Hush, now," Lily said, putting on a brave face. "You heard Severus, you will pull through this."

Harry nodded and took a shaky breath.

"This potion will put you into a coma-like state," Severus said. "I don't want you awake when I pierce your scar with the basilisk fang."

"Yeah, I don't want that either," Harry tried to joke. He shifted his feet. "I love you both. And no matter what happens, if I don't make it I don't want you blaming yourselves or anything. And no following me if I die." he said firmly.

"What?" Lily's mouth dropped open. She and Severus had discussed that, as Lily knew she would not be able to survive losing her son.

"Did you eavesdrop?" Severus asked suspiciously.

"No. I just know you two." Harry shrugged.

Lily turned away to hide her tears, she didn't want to break down now. Not when she needed to be strong and focused.

"I think you are an exceptional young man," Severus said softly. "I do love you, Harry." He handed Harry a vial.

"I love you too," Harry whispered hoarsely before downing the potion that would put him in a coma.

"You'll be okay, little one," Lily said as she turned back around, more composed. She ran her hand through his fringe. "We'll get through this. I love you."

"I love you," Harry slurred as the potion took effect. He went unconscious.

"Ready?" Severus glanced at Lily.

"Ready." Lily said and began chanting the charm "Amare et custodire, redire ad nos," Over and over again, her eyes never leaving her son. " Amare et custodire, redire ad nos..."

With a deep breath, Severus plunged the Basilisk fang into Harry's scar, blood immediately pouring down his face as the scar burst open. Severus could actually see bone. A gray mist floated out of his scar and floated above them for a moment.

"Merlin," Poppy whispered in horror.

Dumbledore clutched his wand, watching intently.

Everyone in the room watched the mist tensely as they waited before it finally faded to nothing. Severus quickly began healing Harry's forehead, muttering spells and pouring Fawkes's tears onto the scar, also spelling a blood replenisher and pain reliever into him.

Lily kept saying her charm over and over, holding Harry's hand. Once the wound on Harry's forehead began to heal, she stopped and spelled into her son the reviving potion. Both she and Severus watched anxiously.

"Harry?"

"Baby, open your eyes."

Nothing.

Lily felt a surge of grief run through her. "We failed," she cried. "Oh, Harry." She whispered.

TBC:

Disclaimer: All recognizable characters and settings belong to J.K. Rowling.

Harry looked around in confusion. It was misty and he had no idea where he was. He blinked as a black dog and stag appeared through the mist and stared at him. Suddenly the dog began towards him and Harry squinted through the haze. Was that...could it be..? The dog blurred and Sirius stood in front of him.

"Harry!" Sirius said happily.

"Sirius?" Harry's eyes widened and he threw himself into his godfather's arms. "Sirius! I've missed you so much!"

"Aw, pup. I've missed you too." Sirius wrapped his arms around him.

"Sirius, I'm so sorry," Harry said in a pained voice.

"Harry, you have nothing to apologize for," Sirius said gently.

"Yes, I do. It was my fault," Harry said with tears in his eyes. "If I hadn't been so stupid -"

"Pup, you were tricked," Sirius said. "It wasn't your fault. I don't want you blaming yourself, okay? It was war and unfortunately, casualties happen in war." He sighed. "I should have been more careful when dueling Bellatrix."

"Wasn't your fault," Harry mumbled against his shoulder.

"It wasn't yours either," Sirius replied softly.

Harry's gaze went to the stag, which blurred and James Potter now stood before him. "Dad?" he whispered in shock, pulling back from Sirius.

"Son," James held out his arms and Harry ran into his embrace. "Ah, look at you. So grown up. And such a looker!" he said teasingly as he finally held his boy.

"I'm told I look like you," Harry said with a grin.

"Exactly," James smirked.

"Such arrogance, Prongs," Sirius chuckled.

Harry laughed and looked between them. "I can't believe I'm here with both of you! Mum would -" he paused. "You know about Mum?"

"Yes, I know her charm worked," James said gently. "I'm grateful for it. Of course, your Mum has always been brilliant. I should have..." he sighed. "I should have trusted her and the charm more. If I had run like she wanted me to, we would all be together. You never would have been with Lily's horrible sister."

"The Dursley's," Sirius growled.

"It's okay, I'm okay," Harry assured them. "Severus took me from them." He bit his lip. Would they be mad?

James squeezed Harry's shoulder soothingly. "It's okay. I know what he has done for you. I'm glad for it, Harry."

"I guess Sniv -err, Snape wasn't as bad as we thought," Sirius said grudgingly.

"He's not, he's been really good to me and Mum," Harry said softly.

James nodded. "I know."

"You're not mad?"

"Of course not. All I want is for your mum and you to be safe and happy. And I know Snape will take care of you and protect you." He gave Harry a wry smile. "I'm not a fifteen-year-old idiot anymore. I know he's a good man."

"So pup...you and a Ravenclaw, hmm?" Sirius grinned at his godson.

Harry flushed. "Yeah, Luna is amazing. She gets me, you know?"

"I know. We're happy for you," Sirius said warmly. "You deserve all the happiness in the world."

"I wish..." Harry broke off, feeling emotional.

"We know," James said quietly. "But neither of us really left you, Harry. We're in your heart, right?"

"Yeah, you are," Harry said thickly. "Mum let me some memories. My first birthday and Christmas. We all looked so happy."

"We were." James grinned. "You were the cutest baby."

"You really were pup. Well, except for once when I was babysitting you and you spit up peas all over me. I didn't think you were so cute then," Sirius joked.

Harry laughed.

Sirius tilted his head as if listening for something. "It's time." He told James. He looked at Harry. "You can return now, the Horcrux that was in your scar is destroyed. You're free from it."

"Really?" Harry asked excitedly. His face fell. "I miss you both."

"We're always with you," Sirius hugged him. "Have a full and happy life, pup."

"Be happy. Tell your mum I will always love her, that I want her to be happy, that I'm sorry I didn't run that night." James pulled Harry in for a hug. "Thank Snape for me, for taking such good care of you and your mum. I love you, Harry, and I'm so proud of you."

"I love you too," Harry said, tears falling from his eyes. "Both of you. So much." Suddenly the mist grew thicker and he couldn't see his dad or Sirius anymore. Everything was dark and he looked around in confusion until he heard voices, and someone crying. He sighed and opened his eyes, looking at the two adults hovering over him blearily. "Mum?" He mumbled.

Lily began laughing and crying, bending down to hug him. "Yes, little one. I'm here."

Severus was shaking, tears in his own eyes. He had been scared, more scared than he had let on. It was risky what they did but now, the Horcrux was gone. Destroyed. He spelled away the blood so he could get a better look at the scar. He gasped slightly.

"What?" Lily followed his gaze. "It's practically gone," she whispered. The scar was now very faint.

"What?" Harry started to sit up but was quickly pushed down by both his mother and Severus.

"Do not move yet, Harry. I want Poppy to look at you," Severus said firmly. His eyes warmed as they met his green ones. "You are an incredible kid, you know that?"

Harry grinned.

/

While Poppy fussed over Harry, Severus, and Lily stood back with Dumbledore.

"Congratulations," Dumbledore smiled. "You did it. You found a way for him to return."

"I was so afraid," Lily whispered. "So afraid it wouldn't work."

Severus took her hand. "But it did." He eyed Dumbledore. "And he didn't have to face that monster to do it."

"No," Dumbledore admitted. "I'm sorry, I really thought there would be no other way. But now only one Horcrux remains and then Voldemort can finally be defeated."

"Nagini," Severus said.

"Yes," Dumbledore nodded. "We destroy her, then Voldemort can be killed. For good."

"Good," Severus said as he stepped closer to Harry. He was more than ready for that monster to be gone. "How is he, Poppy?"

Poppy stepped back. "Perfectly fine." She said in satisfaction.

"Can I see my scar?" Harry asked. Pomfrey conjured up a mirror and he stared into it. You could hardly see it, Harry thought happily.

"I suggest he gets a good meal and then turns in early tonight," Poppy said. "Make sure you rest this weekend."

"He will," Lily said as she looked at her son fondly. She grabbed his hand. "I was so scared you wouldn't wake up."

"I'm fine. And I got to see Dad and Sirius!" Harry said excitedly.

Lily stared at him. "You saw your Dad?"

Harry nodded eagerly. "And Sirius. Sirius doesn't blame me and Dad said to tell you he wishes he had run that night. That he should have trusted the charm would work. He loves you and wants you to be happy."

Lily gave a sob.

Harry looked at Severus. "He said to tell you thank you. For taking care of mum and me."

"He did?" Severus's eyes widened slightly.

"He said he knows you're a good man and that you will protect me and mum." Harry smiled. "They said they're always with me."

"Of course they are," Lily said, kissing her son's cheek. "I'm so glad you got to see them." Oh, James, she thought with a smile. Thank you.

/

The next day, Harry eagerly waited for his friends to visit. His mum had said she would invite them so he could share what had happened.

The door opened and Lily entered, followed by Hermione, Ron, and Luna. "Here they are," Lily said. "I'll be in the kitchen making some snacks."

"Thanks, Mum," Harry said.

"What's going on, mate? Why didn't you sleep in the Tower last night?" Ron asked, plopping down in a chair.

"Last night, Mum and Severus destroyed the Horcrux in my scar," Harry announced.

"What?" Luna gasped.

Ron's mouth dropped open.

"What? Last night? How could you not tell us?!" Hermione cried, tears forming in her eyes. "We're your best friends, we should have known you were having the Horcrux destroyed."

"Yeah, what if you hadn't -" Ron swallowed. "What if you hadn't survived, mate? We never would have been able to tell you goodbye," he whispered.

Harry shut his eyes for a moment. He'd been so excited to them, he hadn't thought that they might be hurt he hadn't let them know beforehand. "I'm sorry. I couldn't – I just couldn't say goodbye," he said hoarsely. "I left a letter for each of you in case..." His gaze flickered to Luna, who was looking at him sadly yet with her usual understanding in her eyes.

"It's okay, Harry," Luna said after a moment. "The important thing is you made it, the Horcrux is no more." She reached out to touch his cheek. "You made it," she said again before hugging him.

Hermione sighed and nodded. "That is the important thing. Your horcrux is gone and look, your scar is barely even noticeable!" She said as she reached over and pushed up his fringe. "I want to hear all about your mum's protection charm and -"

Harry just laughed, his arm around Luna as Hermione rambled on.

/

A week later, Harry sought out his mum who was in Severus's office and he bounded in enthusiastically.

"What do you look so excited about?" Severus asked, raising an eyebrow as he leaned back in his chair.

"I saw a notice for Apparition courses in the common room," Harry said. "It's a twelve-week course and costs twelve galleons." He looked at his mother hopefully.

"Ah, it's that time is it?" Lily said with a smile. "I remember those lessons." She glanced at Severus and snickered.

Severus frowned. "What?" He asked. He and Lily's friendship had ended a year before they had had their apparition lessons. He didn't think she had noticed him during their lessons.

"I saw you during one of the lessons," Lily said. "You apparated and left both of your arms behind."

Harry began laughing.

Severus flushed. She had seen that? "I don't remember." He said stiffly.

"Liar," Lily scoffed playfully.

Severus narrowed his eyes at her.

"Be careful mum, that's the face he makes when he hands out detentions," Harry teased.

"Brats, both of you," Severus huffed. He looked at Harry. "You get to take the lessons but you won't be able to take your exam until your birthday."

"Yeah," Harry sighed. "Not fair I have to wait. Hermione is already seventeen and Ron will turn seventeen in March!"

"They may not pass right away," Lily told him. "Not everyone does."

"Did you?" Harry asked curiously.

"Well, yes.' Lily admitted. "But your father didn't. Neither did Sirius. They got it on their second try. Remus did it the first time, however."

"I did," Severus said. "But it is a difficult skill to learn. Patience is key to achieving it. If you let yourself get frustrated and angry, you will hinder your progress."

Harry nodded. "Patience got it."

"Almost an adult," Lily said fondly. "But you'll always be my little one."

"Mum," Harry groaned. He glared as she and Severus started laughing.

/

"Hello everyone, my name is Wilkie Twycross." A thin, almost transparent man said cheerfully. "I am your Ministry-Apparition Instructor for the next twelve weeks. My goal is to prepare you for your Apparition test which some of you may be ready to take by the last lesson." He started to speak again but was interrupted when the doors to the Great Hall opened and Draco Malfoy walked in.

Suddenly there was a lot of whispering and pointing.

"Why is he still here? Is he even safe to be around?"

"He's a monster now!"

If Draco heard them, he didn't show it. He just crossed his arms and watched the instructor.

"I think that is enough, be quiet or you will not take this course!" McGonagall said loudly.

Everyone settled down at that.

Twycross coughed. "Now as I am sure you know, it is usually impossible to Apparate or Disapparate within Hogwarts. Your Headmaster has temporarily lifted this enchantment for this room for an hour so you can practice. Take my advice and do not try to Apparate outside the walls of this Hall. Now, each of you place yourselves so that there are five feet of space in front of you."

Everyone began jostling as they separated from one another. Once everyone was done, Twycross waved his wand and old-fashioned wooden hoops instantly appeared on the floor in front of each person. "It is important to remember the three Ds when Apparating." He continued. "Destination, Determination, Deliberation. Your first step is to fix your mind firmly on the desired destination, which is the inside of your hoop. Concentrate on that destination now."

Harry stared at his hoop, gazing at the round patch of the floor inside it.

"The next step is to focus your determination to occupy the space you are concentrating on. Let your desire to enter it flow from your mind to every part of your body."

Harry glanced around and saw some students staring at their hoops so hard it looked like they were in pain. He bit back a laugh, then noticed his mum and Severus looking at him sternly so he focused back on his own hoop.

"Last step, on the count of three you will turn on the spot, feel your way to nothingness, make sure to move with deliberation. On my say so, now...one -"

Harry shared an alarmed look with Ron. They were supposed to try to Apparate already?

"Two..."

Harry took a deep breath and fixed his thoughts on his hoop.

"Three!"

Harry spun around too hard and fell over. Groaning with embarrassment, he looked around and was mollified that he wasn't the one. Poor Neville was flat on his back. Ron, however, had apparently made some kind of leap into his hoop and looked ecstatic until he saw Hermione giggling at him.

"All right now," Twycross spoke up. "Try again. Adjust your hoops..."

The second try didn't go any better and neither did the third. However, on the fourth try, there was a scream and everyone looked around in panic to see Susan Bones shaking in her hoop with her left leg standing five feet away from where she had started.

"Wicked!" Ron exclaimed. "Oomph!" he said as Hermione hit his arm.

Harry watched as his mum, Severus, and McGonagall rushed over to Susan and with a spell, reunited her with her leg. Poor Susan was crying as they tried to comfort her.

Twycross didn't look surprised as he continued his lecture. "Splinching, also known as the separation of body parts, happens when you are not determined enough. You must focus on your destination, and move without haste but with deliberation. Watch!"

Twycross stepped forward, turned on the spot, and vanished, reappearing on the other side of the hall. "Don't forget the three Ds." He said before telling them to try again.

No one else managed to do anything for the next hour and Twycross ended the lesson. "We'll try again in a week."

Everyone broke into excited chatter as he left, taking the hoops with him.

"I think I felt a tingling in my feet the last time I tried," Ron said enthusiastically.

"Uh, it was probably from landing too hard when you leaped into your hoop," Hermione teased.

"Funny," Ron made a face.

"Did you enjoy your lesson?" Lily asked as she and Severus fell in step with them.

"I kept falling," Harry sighed.

"Because you weren't paying attention," Severus said.

"Yes, I was!" Harry protested.

"No, you kept looking around at your peers," Severus said pointedly. "You have to be completely focused on what you are doing."

Harry had to admit he was right. "I'll try and do better next week. But I prefer flying as my method of travel."

"Shocking," Lily said with amusement.

Harry laughed.

/

Harry was chatting happily with his friends while eating breakfast when an owl swooped over him and dropped a letter on his plate. Wondering if it was from Dudley as he had written to him to thank him for the owl figurine, he opened it.

Soon, Harry. I found a new potioneer and my strength is returning. Our connection seems to be gone. Most interesting, isn't it? Soon, Harry...

Harry froze.

"Who is that from?" Ron asked before taking a big bite of eggs.

"Harry?" Hermione asked in concern.

"Voldemort," Harry whispered.

Ron choked on his eggs while Hermione gasped.

"He sent it? What does it say?" Hermione asked.

"That he's getting stronger and it will be soon," Harry stood up, feeling shaky. He turned towards the Head Table.

Lily was laughing over something Professor Flitwick said when she glanced over and saw Harry standing, his face pale and eyes full of fear. She nudged Severus and then stood up and headed toward her son.

"Harry, what is it?" Lily asked anxiously when she reached him.

"What's going on?" Severus asked as he approached.

Harry handed his mum the note and watched as she and Severus read it. Lily gasped while Severus's eyes darkened.

"Oh, Merlin," Lily breathed. She glanced around, aware they were being stared at. "Let's go to our quarters, Harry." She said quietly.

"I'll ask Albus to meet us," Severus said in a low voice.

Lily guided Harry out of the Great Hall.

TBC:

Disclaimer:  I do not own Harry Potter. All characters belong to J.K. Rowling.

Fifteen years later...

Harry still remembered his first time on platform 9¾. The excitement of leaving the Durleys and going to Hogwarts. The wonder of the wizarding world. The energy as students and parents bustled around, the steam coming out of the scarlet engine, the owls hooting to each other. He remembered feeling sad when the train brought him and his friends back after graduating from Hogwarts, knowing that part of his life was over. Of course, he still had visited his parents at Hogwarts but had had no reason to come to the platform, until his younger sister began her years at Hogwarts. Now he was here again not only to see his sister off for her fourth year but to see his son off for his first year at Hogwarts.

Not that life had gotten boring after Hogwarts. It had gotten better as he had become a big brother a year after his mum and Severus had married and eventually a husband and father. He was now an Auror along with Ron, while Hermione worked at the ministry, and Luna worked as a Magizoologist. His life was exciting with work and full of the adventures that came from raising a family.

"Dad, are you sure there isn't some sort of test when you get sorted?" Eleven-year-old Jamie asked.

Interrupted from his thoughts, Harry looked down at his son. "What?"

Jamie sighed impatiently. He had his mum's blond hair, which was unruly like his dad's. He also had his dad's and grandmother's emerald green eyes. "For the sorting. You said there wasn't a test!"

"There isn't," Harry assured him.

Jamie scowled and turned to glare at his aunt. "I knew you were lying!" He accused.

"Rosalie, are you causing trouble?" Lily asked her fourteen-year-old daughter as she, Severus, and their youngest son walked up to them.

Rosalie, who had long dark red hair and her father's dark eyes, gave her mother an innocent look. "No, of course not." She said sweetly.

"She said there was a test to get sorted!" Jamie huffed.

Lily shook her head in amusement and put a hand on her grandson's shoulder. "Jamie, there is no test. You know that, we've told you before."

"I'm just making sure," Jamie grinned up at her.

"Perhaps Rosalie was sorted into the wrong house," Severus remarked. "She is actually a hidden Gryffindor."

"I am not!" Rosalie protested. "I'm a Slytherin!"

"A snake with the heart of a lion," Harry grinned.

Rosalie stuck her tongue out at her brother and laughed. 

"Can't I ride the train with them?" Everett asked his parents pleadingly. He had begged every year since Rosalie had started Hogwarts but now with Jamie going, he wished he was starting Hogwarts too.

"Sorry sweetie," Lily said to her seven-year-old son. "Not just yet."

"Your time will come soon enough," Harry told his little brother. "And you'll get to see Jamie at school. You'll get to see him sorted." He reminded Everett. As Lily and Severus were professors, Everett lived at the castle during the year, flooing to the Burrow during the day where Molly Weasley taught school for pre-Hogwarts students.

Everett sighed and nodded. "True."

"I'll tell you all about it," Jamie promised him.

"I've told him about it," Rosalie said.

"Yeah, but I'll be sitting with Gryffindors and they are more fun," Jamie smirked. His eyes brightened. "Aiden!" He called to his best friend who was also starting his first year.

Aiden Ronald Weasley waved back. He had his dad's red hair and freckles and his mum's brown eyes. "We're going to Hogwarts!" He shouted excitedly as he ran up to them.

"They know that, Aiden," Hermione said exasperatedly as she and Ron approached the group, with their nine-year-old daughter, Sophia.

"Hey, mate." Ron greeted Harry cheerfully. "Can you believe this day has finally arrived? Our boys starting their first year?"

"No. Let's just hope they don't get into as much trouble as we did our first year," Harry chuckled.

"We all hope that," Severus drawled.

Hermione looked around. "Where is Luna and Pandora?" She asked Harry. Pandora was Harry and Luna's five-year-old daughter.

"Luna is picking her up from a sleepover. They should be here – ah, there they are," Harry smiled as he saw his wife and daughter walk towards them.

"Hi everyone," Luna said with a smile, letting go of her daughter's hand so she could run to her father.

"Daddy!" Pandora squealed as she ran into Harry's arms. She had inherited her grandmother's red hair and her mother's pale blue eyes.

"Did you have fun at your sleepover?" Harry asked as he held her.

"Yes. We played with our dollies and played gobstones and ate chocolate frogs all night!" Pandora said excitedly.

"I can tell. You're still high on sugar." Harry said in amusement as Pandora wiggled down to go hug her grandparents. His eyes suddenly lit up and he shouted, "Teddy!" He called to his godson.

Teddy Sirius Lupin jogged over to them. He was a Metamorphmagus like his mother and his hair was blue today. He was entering his fifth year and he and his parents were close with both the Potter's and the Snape's. "Hey, Harry!" He said happily.

"Excited for your fifth year to start?" Harry asked after hugging him.

"Not really. I have O.W.L.s this year." Teddy grinned. He glanced at Lily and Severus. "You'll go easy on my grading, right?"

"Do we ever?" Severus raised an eyebrow in amusement.

"No." Teddy laughed.

"I'll talk to them for you," Rosalie told Teddy, batting her eyes at him. She'd had a crush on him for years. "Get them to give O's."

"Thanks, Rosie." Teddy ruffled her hair and grinned when she blushed. "I better find Mum and Dad. I'll see you kiddos on the train."

"What was that?" Severus demanded after Teddy left, staring at his daughter.

"What?" Rosalie asked innocently.

"You were batting your eyes at him," Sophia giggled.

"I was not!" Rosalie gasped.

"Oh yes, you were," Lily said, eyeing her daughter knowingly. She knew Rosalie had a crush on Teddy.

"I was not," Rosalie insisted as she blushed.

"You better not. You're too young for crushes." Severus said firmly. He was absolutely not ready for his daughter to start liking boys and dating. Nope, not even close to ready.

"Really Dad? And at what age did you fall for Mum?" Harry asked cheekily.

"Hush, young man," Severus gave him a mock glare.

Harry grinned as he watched his family talk and laugh with each other. He thought of all he had gone through to get here, to this moment. The Dursley's abuse, the threat of Voldemort and he knew he would go through it all again if he had to, to get what he had now. A family he adored and friends he knew he could count on for anything. Three parents, Lily, Severus, and James, had shown him what true love and bravery really were. Siblings that he had never thought he would have and a wife, son, and daughter who were his whole world. And as he watched his son and sister board the train, he thought about how life was good. And with kids entering Hogwarts, he knew the real adventure was just beginning.

The End.