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"Darlings...You will pay for this!" Heiress Daphane Greengrass hissed almost waddling into the room. Her stomach came first followed by the rest of her. It was her second trip to the bathroom since she had arrived at Hogwarts 45 minutes ago. 

Professor Theodore Potter-Nott barely looked up from the assignments he was grading but it didnt matter his husband, savior of both the magical and muggle world Harry Potter was there ready to buzz around after her every whim like an over sized house elf in mediwizard robes. 

Not that Theo could blame him. After all Daphne, their sister in everything but blood, had given them the greatest gift a person could by offering to carry their child or rather children. To find out that they would be having not one but two children had been a surprise to say the least. She fussed and grumbled about it but honestly she loved being able to do it for them. 

"Sit down and I'll rub your feet for you" Harry offered gently. 

"I promised you one child! One! But no you had to make it two!" Daphane groaned settling herself into the sofa her hands resting on her overly large stomach as Harry knelt down and removed her shoes. "And they are constantly bouncing around in my uterus as though it were their personal playground" 

"You are the best and most wonderful person in the world Daph" Harry cooed meaning every word. "You know how much we love you dont you?" 

"Of course I do, darling, its the only reason I offered to do this for you both...I just cant wait to actually meet the little terrors and be their most favourite aunty, not their punching bag!" Daphane sighed closing her eyes and leaning back into the sofa enjoying the feeling of Harrys fingers on her swollen feet. "Darling you have magic hands" 

"He really does" Theo agreed knowing from experience how good Harry was at massage. He claimed that it came from his studies as a mediwizard but Theo knew that even in third year his husband could soothe away aches like nobody else could. 

"So. Whose homework are you demolishing...Don't think I don't see the red ink bottle out professor" Daphane asked her eyes open again looking directly at him. 

"The third years. Sadly more students than ever want to take ancient runes and unfortunely only a handful of them actually understand it" Theo sighed scratching out a few lines and correcting it in his own neat handwriting. "I swear we were never this bad in third year..." 

"Well no...But we had you darling and you have been studying ancient runes since before you could talk" Daphane laughed and Harry chuckled as well continuing to rub Daphanes feet. 

"I'm pretty sure Babbling would have had to use an entire pot of red ink on my work if I didnt have you sweetheart..." his husband agreed his face shining with the pride he had for him. 

"You had a lot going on that year Harry...Dementors and...Sirius Black..." Theo said carefully and Harrys face fell a little the light in his green eyes dimming. Theo sighed looking down at the paper in front of him again his mind swimming with images of their third year. 

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Theo stared up at the grey stone manor house his heart caught in the back of his throat his hands trembling just slightly. It had been a long time since he had been home and the place looked as foreboding as ever. It was more akin to a prison than a family home with bars on the window and a wrought iron door that shone like obsidian in the fading light. 

"We dont have to be here little dove..." Rosella Zabini, his friends mother and temporary guardian, said gently from his side and though a part of Theo wanted to agree and ask to leave he needed to know where his father was. Lord Thaddeus Nott hadnt been seen for almost a year. 

The Nott family house elf Eiddy had reported that 'Masters Nott had been meetings with bad peoples in his studys' during the summer of last year and then had taken himself off to Albania a few months later. After that all sightings of him had ended. In Theos opinion if the man had fallen down a hole never to he seen again it wouldnt be a great loss on the world but unfortunately Theo knew he wouldnt be that lucky. 

Thaddeus Nott was not only an abusive father he had once been second hand man to Lord Voldemort the darkest wizard to have ever lived. The man was fanatical in his want to return the dark lord to life and power. Which would have been reason enough to have Theo want to get answers but it was more than that. Theos best friend was Harry Potter, the boy who had lived...The boy prophesied to bring about the true end of Voldemort...And Theo was going to do everything in his power to protect his friend even if it meant returning to the place he hated most in this world. 

"Its okay...Kinsgley asked us to try and get fathers location..." 

"Little Dove...You dont have to be the one..." 

"I do...Fathers wards are tied to blood magic...If anyone else even attempted to gain access to his study it would trigger a chain reaction and most likely cause everything to be lost..." Theo said grimly taking a slow step forward wishing Harry were with him now. Harry was the bravest person he knew, much to Theos continuing frustration, often running head first into danger. 

Only last year Harry had willing walked into Salazar Slyhterins legendary chamber of secrets to tame an ancient basilisk that had been petrifying students. He also had a way of looking at the world that made it seem brighter somehow. Even knowing all the darkness that was in the world Harry could find the light and bring it forward with just a smile. He could use some of that positivity now. 

His hands trembling he reached towards the door his entire body jumping when it opened without him even needing to touch the handle. For one terrifying moment he thought his father would be standing there but to his relief it was only Eiddy. 

"Little Masters!" Eiddy squeaked in what the elf would consider a whisper. "Youse father is still not homes!" 

"Good...Thank you Eiddy..." Theo whispered in turn trying to get his heart to stop thumping in his ears. 

The inside of Nott manor was a museum to the dark. It felt...Dark...Even with the wide open spaces and polished marble floors. It wasnt quite as big as Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardary but it felt larger and emptier. Dark magic was seeped into the very foundations of the place. Portraits of long dead Nott ancestors hung on the walls whispering amongst each other as they all sniffed in disapproval at the family disappointment...The weak heir to their family name. 

Their footsteps rang out clearly as they made their way through winding halls designed to confuse outsiders each step further into the oppressive manor house decorated to cause discomfort. Family portraits were gone replaced by Memento Mori...images of death. 

Rosella looked horrified as she looked at the paintings of skulls and dead animals which had been part of Theos life for as long as he had been alive. When he was young and his father had sliced at him with the slicing hex he would make him sit in this very hall staring at the paintings for hours in an attempt to toughen him up. 

"My little dove..." The woman said gently reaching out to him but thankfully not touching him. Theo had gotten better with touch in the last two years. Harry was an extremely tactile person always hugging him and holding his hand his other friends had also started to touch him more often but here in his home the place where, for the longest time since his mothers death, the only touches he had received were designed to hurt he doubted he could stand it. 

They arrived at the door to his fathers study and stopped. His heart was lodged firmly in the back of his throat as he stared at it. The faint hairs on the back of his neck were raised. The last time he had stepped foot inside was the day before he had gone to Hogwarts. His father had been in a particularly cruel mood and Theo could still feel the bite of the slicing hex on his back as the man had ranted about him not embarrassing him and that Slytherin was the acceptable house for a Nott. 

He wondered what his father would think now? Harry had started lessons on parselmagic with the portrait of Salazar Slyhtherin last year and had said that while being a little distrustful of muggles he was actually not as crazy as people believed and was open to new ideas...mostly ones that proved that muggleborn magical uses werent really muggleborns but were decendants of magical users whose none magical children had gone out into the muggleworld. 

Theo sucked in a breath steadying his nerves and then lifted his hand to a nail sticking barely out of the door. He placed his palm on it firmly and hissed just a little as the metal dug into his hand and caused a small amount of blood to seep onto the wood which grew white hot in a second. He knew better than to pull his hand away however and kept it there until the blood ward recognised him as being a Nott amd the ancient locks slid back allowing the door to open. 

The door hinges groaned with the movement and the door scrapped loudly over the stone tiles of the room beyond. A fire flickered into life in the grate and torches lit magically on the walls. Books on dark magic lined the bookshelves unseen by those that werent a Nott. 

"...how have the ministry never found this room? They have searched..." 

"Father has another office in the main part of the manor..." Theo explained squeezing his hand to stop the blood before Eiddy appeared and healed him with Elf magic. "This room only shows itself to Notts and those with them...there are runes under the floorboards..." Theo explained going over to the large black desk in the centre of the room. "It is basically like how Hogwarts in glamoured to protect it from muggles...Anyone who is not meant to be here...Won't see it...The first Nott to build the manor put them in...They did help with the construction of Hogwarts after all...Even mamma couldnt see this room unless father wanted her too...and he never did..." 

"I see..." Rosella said her lips pursing as she looked around the room. For his part Theo kept his eyes fixed on the desk and nothing else. This room held far too many memories for him and none of them were ones he wanted to remember. There were papers scattered about, his fathers scrawled and messy handwriting on most of them. Little of it made sense to him "im so sorry little dove..." 

"What?" 

"I should have done more for you...When your mamma died I should have brought you to live with me...I should never have left you with him..." 

"Its not your fault Rosella...Father would never have allowed you to take me. He hates me but I am still his heir..." Theo shrugged moving some papers aside and finding a map. It was of Albania with various areas circled. Notes had been made in the corners of the page along with cutouts from various newspaper articles about people going missing. Some suspected dark magic involved. "Hes trying to find Tom...I knew it..." He said his heart sinking "I will gather everything and give it to Kings..." His words died as pain flooded through him hitting his very core from the inside out.

"Little dove..." 

"C-cur...Curse..." He gasped blinking through the pain he was feeling before his mind went dark and he slipped to the floor in a faint the last thing he heard was Rosella shouting his name. 

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Theo woke slowly blinking at the bright light that was around him. It tool him a moment to realise where he was. The hospital wing at Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardary. His body ached all over and there was an extreme headache pulsing its way behind his eyes. He moaned trying to piece together what had happened and a voice near him gasped. 

"Theo?" 

"...Harry..." He croaked turning slowly, not wanting to cause more pain to himself. He blinked trying to get his eyes to focus and when they did he saw Harry sat beside him in a chair. There was an open History of magic book open on his lap and his eyes were rimmed with red. He was smiling though. 

"Theo! Oh thank Merlin! You're awake! I need to get Poppy..." Harry said jumping up and allowing his book to fall with a clatter. He ran from veiw his footsteps heavy on the tiled floor. The sound was enough to make Theos head pulse with pain but honestly he was glad of it. Pain at least meant that he was alive. 

He closed his eyes again allowing himself a moment to recollect his thoughts trying to remember what had happened. He had been in his fathers study that much he knew for certain. There had been a map...Some papers...

"...He was awake..." Harry said though he sounded uncertain and Theo pulled his eyes open again. 

"I'm awake...Just trying to...Remember..." He said slowly his own voice causing pain. "Head...hurts..." 

"I should expect it will Mr Nott..." Madam Poppy Pomfrey said gently her tone full of concern as she rain a diagnostic spell over him. "I will get you a potion for the pain soon dear but could you describe the pain..." 

"Everywhere...aches...Noise hurts..." Theo said knowing it wasnt exactly the best description but it was all he could manage. "What...Curse?" 

"We are uncertain but the effects were similar to those of the crucio..." Pomfrey said with a sob gasp her hand flying to her mouth. "That a child...I will get you that pain potion, dear...You just rest..." 

Harry stayed by his side silently stroking his palm while the mediwitch bustled around collecting the potion she wanted. Theo wondered why she was here during the summer holiday but couldn't focus enough because of the pain he was feeling. 

"Here you are dear...take it all down..." She said soothingly and Theo opened his mouth allowing her to pour the potion in. The best part about magic was how quickly everything worked and soon the pain was receeding and he let out a sigh. 

"Thank you Madam..." 

"Just call me Poppy dear..." She said with a smile "its still the summer holidays. I'll leave you boys to talk but I want you to rest okay?"

"Yes...Thank you Poppy" Theo smiled at her as she patted him on the cheek and then walked over to her office. As soon as she was gone Harry carefully climbed into bed next to him. 

"Poppys son, Jonathan, died because of the crucio curse...During the last war..." Harry whispered softly his head leaning against his shoulder as his arms wrapped around him. "When you were first brought in she started crying for Jonathon...Before recovering and treating you. When she had we went and had a cup of tea and she told me all about her son. He seemed nice..." 

"...I see..." Theo replied his heart aching for the gentle matronly woman. She had mentioned her son last year saying she had hoped he would have taken over as mediwizard at Hogwarts. He had known then something bad must have happened to him but he hadn't known what. "Tom Riddle and his followers have caused so much pain..." 

"They have..." Harry agreed and Theo let his arms wrap around the smaller form of his friend deciding that Harry had grown a little since the last term but not by much. 

"How did you get here?" 

"...I was already here..." Harry said with a shrug. "Snape came and fetched me..." 

"What? I thought you were with your muggle relations..." 

"I was for a few weeks. It was almost pleasant...or at least as pleasant as staying with aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon can be...Thanks for the birthday present Theo...anyway it was going alright...then aunt Marge showed up..." Harrys nose wrinkled "she kept going on and on about my parents and how they were a waste of space...She compared my mother to a female dog..." 

"Oh Harry..." 

"I got really mad with her and then she started swelling up...like a balloon..." Harry said with a blush "i didn't know I was doing it until she floated to the ceiling...I grabbed my stuff and headed outside. I didnt know what I was going to do, I was expecting them to expell me or something I thought about running away to London or something...But then weirdly I heard Luna asking 'what would Theo do?' I calmed down and sent a message to Snape with Hedwig...if anyone else would understand my feelings about my mum basically being called a bitch it would be him..." Theo could only imagine how Snape would have reacted to that. Their potions master had a fierce love and almost holy reverence to Harrys mother. "He came and fetched me half an hour later...Hedwig must have flown like the devil was after her..." 

"What else happened?" Theo said sensing that Harry wasnt telling him everything. Even with two years of their friend Daphane Greengrass trying to teach him to control his 'tells' Harry was an open book and Theo could tell when he was holding something back. 

"...its not really important..." 

"It is...Everything is important when it comes to you Harry..." 

"I mean...Its silly...There was this massive black dog...I mean...It was huge like the size of a bear...And it was standing on the opposite side of the road staring at me..." Harry whispered "silly right?" 

"...maybe but...You should always trust your gut, Harry. With Tom Riddle still out there somewhere and my father trying to find him..." Theo sighed the memory of the map of Albania coming back to him easily. He was about to ask something else when the doors to the hospital wing flew open and their other friends spilled inside followed by Rosella and Kingsley Shaklebolt. 

"Darling! Its not even school yet and youre in the hospital wing! I leave you alone for just a couple of weeks and this!" Daphane pouted tapping her foot against the floor while Neville Longbottom their Gryffindor friend hurried over to the bed with a potted plant. 

"Hey Harry...Figures youd already be here..." Blaise grinned though his almost golden eyes were tinged with concern. "What happened?" 

"Father placed a curse on his desk...I was stupid and didnt check for them..." 

"You're 13 Theo...You shouldn't have to be checking for curses in your own home" Kingsley sighed rubbing his forehead slowly. 

"You should in my fathers study...he is searching for Tom...Kingsley..." 

"We figured as much...At the moment finding him isnt a priority. Harry...I am sure you have heard about Sirius Black..." 

"Hes that criminal who escaped right? He was on the muggle news..." Harry answered while Theo felt his heart pulse slowly. Immediately he shifted in the bed focusing on Kingsley who looked uncomfortable with what he was about to share. 

"Yes...he is a wizard...He has broken out of Azkaban...it seems that he is after you..."

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"Kings...I think you're going to need to explain..." Theo said his brow furrowing as his hand gripped at Harrys tightly. Sirius Black was after his friend? The Sirius Black? Theo could remember reading about him in a book. He had murdered 13 people with a single curse and just laughed when the aurors had taken him away. He had known that Black had escaped there wasnt a soul in the wizarding world that couldnt know with the way it was being reported on but he hadnt even dreamed that Harry could he caught up in it. 

"Sirius Black was a devoted follower of Tom Riddle..." Kingsley announced. Tension pulsed around the room the just turned teenage wizard and witch looked at each other. Harry had a thoughtful look on his face his hand gripping at Theos tightly. 

"I still don't believe that" Rosella said surprising everyone shaking her head as she sat down on the spare bed and folded her arms across her chest as her eyes narrowed and her lips pursed into a thoughful frown. "I know we never really know people and the Blacks have always had their issues...But Sirius? I was a year above them at school the only person Sirius Black was devoted to was James Potter. They were always together...They were like brothers, Kings...I have always believed there was something more going on..." 

"Rosie...I was there that night...I saw the hole left behind and the way Black was laughing" Kingsley argued with his cousin softly shaking his head while the five teenagers watched the adults bicker back and forth. 

"I still dont believe it..." the woman said again shaking her head and Theo had a feeling that the pair had had this argument before. Theo kept looking at Harry trying to gauge his reaction to the news but the green eyed boy was silent his eyebrows drawn together and his lips were tucked into his teeth, the way they always were when he was thoughtful. "He betrayed his family Kings! He turned his back on the Blacks in a rather spectacular fashion if you recall! He received howlers for weeks!" 

"Rosie..." 

"No! I refuse to believe Black had anything to do with the betrayal of the Potters!" 

"Be that as it may he still killed 13 muggles and has spent the last 12 years of his life in Azkaban..." 

"Without trial! He wasn't even offered a chance to prove himself!" 

"He refused a trial...He confessed to it, Rosie...He said it was his fault...In fact it was the only thing that he did say..." 

"His fault...not that he was guilty..." Rosella argued and Kingsley sighed pinching the bridge of his nose. 

"I know you had a thing for him Rosie...Before you and Anton..." he said causing Blaises mouth to drop open as he stared at his mother who shot Kingsley a cold glance her head tilting upwards. "But..." 

"My hypothetical crush aside I will never believe that he was guilty of betraying the Potters"

"Dumbledore provided evidence..."

"Oh well there you are then of course it must be true..." Rosella said sarcastically her beautiful face twisting into a scowl. "if the second coming of Merlin said it how could I ever doubt it? Have you already forgotten he also pushed an 11 year old boy into facing the wisp of Tom in first year? Was happily going to send Harry into the chamber with a basilisk?" 

"Excuse me! As entertaining as this is..." Neville said clearing his throat. "Can we please know what this means for this year? Theo needs to know everything before he can start making his plan to protect Harry this year..." 

"Sorry little dove...Of course Kings, explain" Rosella said jerking her head at her cousin who cleared his throat softly. 

"Black has escaped. The last the guards heard of him was when he was saying 'hes in Hogwarts'. Over and over...the ministry has decided that Dementors...The prison guards of azkaban will be stationed around Hogwarts until he is caught..." Kingsley said looking almost nervously at Rosella as though knowing how she was going to react. Theo didnt blame her. He had never seen a Dementor in person but he had read all about them. They were monstrous creatures capable of sucking the soul out of a person and leaving them as only a husk. 

"You cant be serious! Those ghastly creatures around Hogwarts? Near the children? Haven't they suffered enough?" Rosella shouted jumping to her feet. "I will not allow my children to be anywhere near them!" She hissed and Theo felt himself smile at her insistence that they were all her children. 

"Rosie...You are free to take Blaise out of school if you wish but you have no legal guardianship over Harry or even Theo. They will not be in the school grounds just on the outskirts..." 

"This is utter madness!" 

"Mother...I am not leaving my friends..." Blaise said sternly but with a calm edge to his voice. Rosella sighed her whole body slumping for a moment. 

"I...Very well...I...if anything happens to a single one of these children I will lock you and that fool of a minister in a room with a host of Dementors, Kings. I swear it..." 

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"Harry, how are you feeling?" Theo asked as Harry climbed back into the bed beside him. They were finally alone with Rosella having taken their friends away only a few minutes before promising that she would return in the morning and if he were recovered enough take them both away for a holiday before school began again. 

"I should be asking you that. You were the one cursed Theo! When I get my hands on your father! I will feed him to Carpathia..." Harry spat with more anger than Theo had ever heard in his voice before. "Are you alright?" 

"Im fine Harry...my joints are a little sore but I'll be fine. How are you feeling about Black?" 

"What's one more mad man after me?" Harry shrugged before slowly rubbing his fingers up and down Theos arms as though he were giving him a massage. It felt amazing if Theo were honest and he sighed softly as the aches and pains fell away. "I dont like the sound of the dementors though..." 

"You shouldn't. They are evil things. They thrive on the emotions of others...Just by being near you they drain all happiness away leaving you with only your worst memories" Theo shuddered remembering what he had read about them. Harry mistaking his shudder for one of pain stopped his rubbing to look at him with wide eyes. 

"Did I hurt you?" 

"No...it feels good Harry...its the dementors how the ministry could think its a good idea to bring them to a school!" 

"Where do they come from?" 

"Azkaban itself. The Dark wizard Raczidian lived in his castle on the island of Azkaban where he dabbled in all kinds of dark magic. Rumour has it he was trying to bring people back to life or some other such necromancy...Instead he created the Dementors...Soulless creatures..." Theo shuddered again remembering the delight in his fathers eyes as he had told him about them. "Appearently Racizidan lived on azkaban island with a colony of Dementors at his castle. He fell in love or lust with a witch named Eliana. When she refused to marry him he ordered his creatures to attack the village..."

"At least your grandfather only excluded mine from a stupid book when my grandmother refused him" Harry said his hands continuing to work their magic on his aching muscles and Theo let out a little chuckle. 

"Yes. On balance it was the saner of the two options. Though...You're related to the hero of the story though...and Eilana..." Theo whispered thoughtfully and Harry blinked slowly his hands pausing for just a moment. 

"I am?" 

"Yes on your grandmother's line...i am unfortunely related to Racizidan" Theo sighed softly surprised when Harrys stunned face turned into a smile. 

"My family has a habit of refusing the advances of your family then?" 

"Yes it would appear so..." Theo agreed it might have only happened twice but it was odd that it had happened twice. 

"Well...Im glad that I didnt refuse your advances Theo..." Harry said and it was Theos turn to have his mouth drop open in shock. "I dont know where I would be without you. I was so scared when they brought you in Theo...You only survived because of Eiddy...She used some kind of spell to stop the damage from overwhelming you..." 

"Is she okay?" 

"Yes shes fine. Though I think she would help me feed your father to Carpathia. She really loves you..." Harry said snuggling up against him and pressing his face into his chest. "Please promise me you won't do something so stupid again?" 

"...I need to know what my father is doing...If he is trying to find Tom I need to stop him Harry..." 

"Why does it have to be you? You're 13 you shouldn't..."

"You're my best friend Harry...If my father brought about anything that could hurt you I would never forgive myself..." Theo answered not knowing how else he could explain it. Harry had been his first real friend. He had saved him that day in Diagon he had no doubt about that...Not only him but likely Daphane and Blaise as well and even Draco. If he hadnt been friends with Harry their paths would have been much darker ones. 

"You are not your father Theo. He makes his own choices...and whatever he does we will face them together...I cant lose you Theo...I cant..." Harry said and Theo wrapped his arms around him holding him as tightly as he could with his aching arms. 

"And i cant lose you Harry...Everything good in my life is because of you..." Theo said before he caught the look in Harrys eyes. He sighed softly "fine...I promise I wont do anything like that again..." 

"Good...You should rest...Im going to go talk to Carpathia for a bit...and let her out to see the moon..." 

"I'll come with you...If Black is around..." 

"I will have a basilisk with me...But fine, I'll ask Poppy if you are well enough to come...Just remember..." 

"Keep my eyes closed...I promise...".

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Theo sat on the steps of Hogwarts with his eyes closed listening to the hissing coming from Harry and Carpathia. He still shuddered a little to think that his friend was literally side by side with a 50 foot snake but he couldnt deny that the snakes hiss seemed far less terrifying than when he had first heard it. It was still throaty and deep and yet it almost sounded like a purr now. 

"Theo...You can open your eyes. Carpathia has hers closed" Harry told him gently and although every instinct in his body was telling him to refuse he trusted his friend and slowly opened his eyes. His body shook when he saw the monstrous looking snake laid stretched out in the grass. He had seen the skin but it was nothing on seeing the actual basilisk. 

She was huge her scales gleaming like polished marble in the moonlight. Her head was tilted upwards and occasionally her tongue would flick out of her mouth. Her eyes were indeed closed and Theo thought she looked more like a dragon about her face than a genuine snake. 

"Isn't she beautiful?" Harry said cheerfully running his hands up and down her back before he hissed again. Carpathia replied with what sounded like a pleased hiss of her own her body rippling just a little. Harry chuckled and then continued to stroke the snake. "Do you want to stroke her?" 

"I...um...is she...okay with that?" Theo asked softly not wanting to be rude even though his logical mind was screaming at him not to touch the creature capable of killing him with just a glance. 

"Oh yeah...she likes to be pet and you smell nice..." Harry answered and Theo was positive he almost wet himself. Nice? As in nice enough to eat?

"Is...is that a good thing?" 

"Yes...You smell like the stars and books apparently" Harry shrugged while slowly Theo approached the basilisk. His hands were shaking as he reached out and touched her. Her scales were nothing like he was expecting. He had imagined them to be wet or maybe slimey but instead they were dry and silky rather like a pearl. At first glance they looked black but when the light hit them they were iridescent like the wings of a raven shimmering with a rainbow of colours. 

"Wow...She is beautiful..." He said looking at Harry who was grinning at him. He hissed to Carpathia who replied with her body trembling under his hand. 

"She says thank you...She is very fond of flattery but then again she is the queen of serpents" Harry chuckled going around to her front and stroking her face between her nostrils and up between her eyes. The tongue flicked out as though licking him and Theo watched in amazement as Harry moved forward and pressed a kiss to her head. If it were possible for a snake to look pleased Carpathia was doing it. "Cwtshis..." 

"Why do you sometimes speak Welsh instead of parsel?" 

"Slytherin was Welsh...he spoke it to her when she was first born...She likes to hear it" Harry answered before sitting down and resting his back against the snake motioning for Theo to do the same. Theo did as he was bid never in his life had he expected to use a basilisk as a back rest but then again he was friends with Harry nothing should surprise him. Another hiss came from Carpathia and Harry responded before saying "she wants to look at the moon again she asks if you can close your eyes again" 

"Of course..." Theo agreed doing just that his head still resting on that of the basilisk. Harry hissed again and Carpathia shifted just a little under them. 

"Its been almost 900 years since she last saw the sky like this...the stars have changed apparently..." Harry whispered while the snake hissed softly. "She never thought she would see them again. She assumed she would die in her chamber"

"Im glad she didnt" Theo sighed turning his face upwards to the sky even though his eyes were closed. Harry hissed to the snake who replied. 

"She says thank you...She never wanted to hurt anyone Theo...She is very sad for killing Mrytle..." 

"She didnt kill Mrytle...Tom Riddle killed Myrtle he just used Carpathia to do it" Theo said with conviction and Harry hissed at Carpathia. For a moment there was silence and then the snake moved a little. Theo jolted as he felt something lick at his face. 

"She likes you Theo..." Harry chuckled "You are very handsome..."

"Oh...Thank you...Carpathia..." Theo said flushing at the compliment from the snake who hissed again. 

"You remind her of Salazar when he was young...He always smelt of parchment too" 

"...Right..." Theo nodded not sure how he felt about that before settling himself back against Carpathia and just enjoying the warm summer breeze on his skin for a moment. "What are we going to do about Black?" 

"I don't know...I...Do you think Rosella is right? That he didn't betray my parents? Or kill those muggles?"

"I dont know. I know the Blacks were big supporters of Tom's..." Theo said thoughtfully for a moment before an idea started forming in his mind. "There is one person we could ask...Write to Narcissa Malfoy...She is Sirius' cousin she would know more than we would..." 

"Would she tell us?" 

"Harry the woman adores you. I think she would tell you anything. The ministry are convinced of it however and we will have the dementors..." Theo sighed softly pinching at the bridge of his nose glad that his eyes were closed. Carpathia hissed softly and Harry hissed in response for a moment. 

"Carpathia says you smell worried and fearful...but you dont have to worry she is with us...Nothing will hurt her friend or the... um friend of her friend" Harry whispered his hand coming to link with his. Theo smiled and then laughed at the strange comfort he felt in having a basilisk as a strange protector. 

"Thank you Carpathia..." he whispered and Harry hissed the translation to the basilisk who let out a pleased hiss. "Let's just enjoy the evening Harry...we will write to Narcissa Malfoy in the morning..." 

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Dearest Harry. How wonderful to hear from you. I am intrigued by your question as to the loyalty of my cousin. I am in loath to speak about family matters via owl post. If you would visit me here at the manor I will answer what I can. Please come by at any time, Rosella can bring you via floo it will be open to you and heir Nott of course. Yours always in gratitude, Narcissa Malfoy nee Black" 

Theo read as Harry handed him over the missive that had come via return with Hedwig. Her script was almost as perfect as it had been while she was teaching but Theo noticed that the ink had pooled a little between 'cousin' and 'I' as though she had thought carefully about what to write. 

"I guess we will be visiting Malfoy manor" Theo hummed folding up the letter and handing it back to Harry who was sitting cross legged on the bed with Hedwig on his knee. The bird was actually preening with the attention she was getting her eyes closed and her beak slightly open. "I can see why you wanted to take care of magical creatures Harry...animals love you" 

"I know you probably think its a waste of time..." 

"Not at all. I am glad you chose to do ancient runes instead of Divination though..." 

"I figured that if I need anything divining I can just ask Luna. She's more of an Oracle than anything" Harry grinned and Theo nodded still not fully understanding everything about their young friend but he was positive that she had some form of gift be it through a daemon or just natural ability. "And I've seen you devour more than enough Divination books to know that its not an art I should consider." 

"I would consider it if it were taught by the centaurs but alas I highly doubt they would ever give up their secrets" Theo sighed just as the doors to the hospital wing opened and Rosella swept in. 

"Good morning little doves. Are you ready to get out of here? I thought we could all go to the small family home in Italy for the remainder of summer" she said causing Harrys mouth to drop open. 

"Seriously? I can come with you? Ive never been aboard before..." he said excitedly his entire face lighting up. "Until last summer I had never even been on holiday before..." 

"Then it is something we should remedy as soon as possible, little Dove..." Rosella said softly her eyes warm as they looked at Harry. 

"Rosella we...Need to visit Malfoy manor first..." Theo said and immediately the woman's face changed from soft to curious as Harry handed her the letter Narcissa had sent them. "We wrote to Lady Malfoy about Sirius Black this morning. She is his cousin and we thought maybe she would know more. We cant deal with Black until we know everything. She didn't want to discuss family matters via owl post but she said we could visit her..." 

"It was all Theos idea" Harry corrected "I just wrote the letter"

"I see. A smart move, little dove...You really are just like your mother" she smiled reaching over and ruffling out his curls which had already grown a lot since last year. "Very well we will go home and then take the floo from there...Herbert will bring your school things Harry..." 

"Thank you" Harry grinned before eyeing Theo carefully. "Are you sure youre okay?" 

"Yes...Poppy told you so herself..." Theo sighed. It wasnt the first time theyd had this conversation this morning and he didnt think it would be the last. In a way it was nice to have somebody care about him as much as Harry did but at the same time it was a reminder of how stupid he had been not to check for curses. It was a basic life lesson when living with his father. Harry accepted his words for now and held out his hand to him and Theo took it quickly half wondering if they held hands a little too much for friends but he didnt hold Blaises hand after all but Harry wasnt like Blaise he liked to be touched and Theo was more than happy to let him do what he liked. 

They went to Snapes office to use the floo. The potions master was as stoic as he normally was as Harry thanked him for fetching him from the Dursleys. 

"Just take care of yourself Harry" Snape said with a wave of his hand and Harry smiled. 

"I always try sir" 

"Try harder Harry" Snape remarked dryly his lips twitching just a little as they stepped through the floo and ended up in Zabini hall. It was a much happier brighter place than his own home. Where Nott manor favoured dark woods and heavy furniture Zabini hall was light and air with softer colours of woods and light wall hangings. There were hardly any portraits on the walls though there was a large image of Anton, Rosella and baby Blaise over the fireplace. 

"Im sure Blaise can show you around later before we depart for Italy little dove. For now we three should head to Malfoy manor and hopefully get some answers" 

"Do you think she will give us some?" 

"Narcissa said she would. She is not the type of person to make false promises little dove..." Rosella said before ushering him to the fireplace and handing over the floopowder. "Say you want Narcissas study Harry..." 

"Yes...Narcissas study!" Harry called before vanishing in greenflames. Theo stepped in next breathing deeply to calm himself before calling out the address. He hated the feeling of floo travel. Much like he hated all other forms of magical travel but still he wouldnt allow Harry to be left alone in Malfoy manor for any longer than he had to. Narcissa was okay but Draco was a prat most days and Theo hadnt completely made his mind up about Lucius yet. 

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He fell out of the floo into a beautiful cream and pink room with Lady Malfoy herself brushing the ash from Harrys clothes with a small golden handled brush. She smiled and did the same for Theo. Rosella came through a moment later and the two women gave each other air kisses before stepping apart. 

"Welcome to Malfoy manor" The blonde woman said in a light tone as she motioned for them to sit. "Shall I ring for tea? Or would you prefer a butterbeer gentleman?" 

"Tea will be fine Lady Malfoy..." 

"We're sorry for disturbing you..." 

"Oh not at all Harry, it is hardly a disturbance. As I said in my letter I was intrigued by your question in regards to my cousin. Most people accept the the truth given by the ministry as to his guilt...Tilly some tea please..." Narcissa called and a house elf dressed in a silk pillowcase appeared and then disappeared with a bow. "It seems that our former elf has been released...Draco said something about him being unhappy here...he has gone to seek his fortune in the world it seems" 

"Oh...Right..." Harry almost flushed as the elf Tilly came back with a tray and then popped out again with another bow. Narcissa gave Harry a knowing smile and then sat in the sofa opposite them pouring four cups of tea into delicate little tea cups. 

"Sugar? And milk..." 

"I take sugar and milk lady Malfoy but Theo doesnt have sugar and only has the smallest amount of milk... he says it ruins the flavour of the tea..." Harry grinned at him and Theo shrugged refusing to change his tea preferences for anyone. 

"I'm in agreement, heir Nott. My son almost has just warm sweet milk..." 

"How is Draco?" 

"Hes fine Harry completely recovered from the attack, thank you...He puffs up with such pride when he looks at his award from the school..." Narcissa smiled sipping at her own tea for a moment before sighing. "Now...To business...You must understand that Blacks are very loyal to family. It is said we rarely speak of them to outsiders...in fact the truth is...we can't it is a blood vow made..." 

"I...See...and yet you are willing to speak to us?" 

"...to Harry...You just happen to be here Heir Nott...Rosella...Sirius Black is your godfather Harry...he made a blood oath to be your guardian if anything were to happen to your parents thus marking you as his heir apparent at the point of their deaths as he had no issue of his own...By all magical laws the moment your parents died you became his son Harry and in so doing made you the heir of the most noble house of Black..." Narcissa announced and Theo blinked slowly. Nothing he had ever read about the Potters or the Blacks had included that piece of information. "It was something that upset Lucius dreadfully as he thought Draco would inherit that title..." The womans lips twitched with a small smile her eyes dancing just a little "As such I am allowed by order of my blood vow to speak to you about family matters because we are family..." 

 "Oh..." Harry uttered staring into his cup for a moment his eyes unreadable even to Theo who thought he knew his friends every expression. 

"Of course when Sirius decided to stop following the family, his mother tried to remove him from the Black family line but the removal of an elder son is not something that can be undertaken lightly and Aunt Walburga was not capable of doing more than scorching his name from her own family tree he is still in place on ours..." 

"Did he...Do you believe he betrayed my parents...And killed those muggles...?" 

"Not for all the gold in Gringotts would i believe my cousin would betray your parents Harry...The Sirius I knew was reckless, brash with some self centred tendencies that came with youth but...He loved your father Harry. He was closer to James Potter than his own brother..." 

"Did he follow Tom?" 

"No Mr Potter" A rich masculine voice said causing them all to jump. Theo whipped his head around to look at Lucius Malfoy who had stepped into the room. "I cannot say for certain who all of the dark lords allies were but I can safely say that Sirius Black was not one of them..." 

"Sirius would never have joined Tom Riddle Harry..." Narcissa assured him gently her hand coming to rest over Harrys. 

"So why is Dumbledore so convinced he did?" Theo asked his brow furrowing as he tried to piece things together and failed. "He gave evidence to the ministry..." 

"That I cannot answer, Heir Nott. At the moment...However I can make some inquiries..."

"Why would you help Lord Malfoy? Forgive me but when we last spoke last yule..." 

"You told me that Tom Riddle would not have cared if my son were to have died...I am inclined to agree..." Lucius said his hand going to the robe pin he was currently wearing. It was the one Harry had given him at Yule with the constellation of Draco on it.

"You should. Theos dad was pretty much his best friend and he just called him a puppy that would do anything he wanted" Harry huffed. Lucius raised an eyebrow amd inclined his head a little as if acknowledging that statement as fact. Theo wondered what his father would think of that, he doubted it would change anything the man was far too far gone. 

 "I have not changed my mind on muggleborns however..." 

"Meh...I'm getting Salazar Slytherin to start changing his mind..." Harry shrugged "and hes a lot older than you, maybe you will as well one day..." 

"Excuse me? Salazar Slytherin? You are speaking to Salazar Slytherin...?" 

"Oh yeah...Well his portrait anyway, you know the one that used to hang in the Slytherin common room? He taught me how to stop the Basilisk last year..." Harry nodded causing both Malfoys to stare at him in open mouthed amazement "He's very interested in Theos idea of muggleborns not really being muggleborns but being the decendants of Squibs whose magic finally manifested...He is thinking that it requires both sides of the family to have magical ancestors to fully produce a magical child..." 

"I...I..." Lucius stuttered while Narcissa chuckled patting Harry on the hand. 

"It appears you have broken my husband, Harry dear...I hope that I have been able to help answer some of your questions?" 

"Yes...Thank you Lady Malfoy..." 

"Please Harry, Narcissa is fine...We are family after all...What are your plans for the rest of summer?" She asked cheerfully taking a sip of her tea while Lucius continued to stare at them with his mouth open in shock. 

"I'm taking the children to Italy for the week. Harry has never been abroad...and the family were deeply disappointed that they didn’t come for Yule" Rosella answered softly Narcissa gave them a smile. 

"That sounds wonderful. You will enjoy Italy Harry, Theo..." 

"I hope so...um...Is Draco here?" 

"He was doing his summer work. The school allowed those petrified to complete their school year and exams at home...Tilly" 

"Yes Mistress?" The elf in the silk pillowcase said appearing at her side with a low bow. 

"Is my son still in the library?" 

"Yes mistress" 

"Will you inform him that Harry and Theo are here in my study?" Narcissa asked politely and the elf bowed again before popping away. Lucius was still staring at them as though they had three heads but his eyes were once again calculating. 

"How is it that you are able to speak with Slytherin? If I recall the painting you spoke of he merely hissed at people" 

"He...Speaks Parsel sir" 

"And you are able to speak the language of snakes Potter? That is not a trait common with your house..." 

"Yes sir...we believe it happened after the night Tom came to kill my parents. Some kind of magical transference..." Harry shrugged looking at Theo who nodded "it was how Theo was able to figure out it was a basilisk last year...I could hear it in the walls of the castle but nobody else could. Theo worked out that it was either a Runspoor or Basilisk and when he talked to Myrtle about her death it confirmed that it was a basilisk" 

"I see...You are a useful man to have around Heir Nott" Lucius said his eyes looking Theo up and down and causing his insides to twist uncomfortably. Thankfully the man turned his attention back to Harry again. "And Slytherins portrait has deemed you worthy of further conversation?" 

"We have weekly meetings about genetics and about parseltongue sir, it was part of his deal in helping me stop his basilisk. Personally I think he just enjoys having somebody to talk to...He spends a great deal of time moaning about the wizards and witches of today and how it was done so much better in his day..." Harry said almost fondly as he rolled his eyes a smile curving his lips. 

"I see..." Lucius said his eyes narrowing even further as he continued to stare at Harry as though trying to work out exactly what he was. Thankfully they were spared any further conversations by the arrival of Draco who swept into the room gracefully but Theo could tell he had been running at some point. 

"Potter...Nott...Madam Zabini..." the malfoy heir said stiffly glancing between his father and mother and then the tea tray on the table. 

"Malfoy..." Theo and Harry replied with a nod while Rosella inclined her head. 

"Heir Malfoy" 

"What are you doing here?" 

"We came to talk to your mum and see how you are" Harry said softly with a bright smile. "So how are you?" 

"I'm fine Potter as I have told you in the owls you have sent" Draco answered drily but Theo could tell that the blonde was almost pleased by the concern Harry was showing him. 

"I just wanted to see for myself..." 

"Why? Are you a qualified mediwizard?" 

"Maybe one day" Harry shrugged causing the blonde to blink and ask. 

"You want to be a mediwizard?" 

"Well with the amount of time Theo and I spend in the hospital wing at Hogwarts Ive gotten to know Poppy pretty well..." Harry grinned brightly. Theo was surprised himself Harry had never expressed an interest in being a mediwizard before but he could see how it would suit his friend and his caring nature. "It is useful and Poppy isnt getting younger..." 

"You are a Potter...Surely you'd never need to work again? Unless the Potter vaults arent as full as people are led to believe..." 

"Draco. It is rude to discuss such matters!" 

"I dont know what the state the Potters vaults are in. According to Daph' I dont get access to them until I'm 17 I only have access to the trust vault" Harry said remembering the lessons Dapahne had given him well from first year. "But no matter what state they are in...I cant sit around all day when I'm older...It would drive me spare..." 

"You don't even stay still in your sleep Harry" Theo agreed with a chuckle that surprised him in the presence of the Malfoys. But that was the power of Harry he could always make him feel comfortable no matter where they were. 

"Sorry we're not all vampires like you" Harry said sticking his tongue out at Theo who rolled his eyes. It wasnt the first time Harry had compared him to a vampire in the three years of their friendship. He couldnt help how he slept. 

"You do spend an awful lot of time sharing a bed" Draco said thoughtfully "i dont even know why you have two in the dorm." 

Both Theo and Harry coloured at the words. They werent said cruelly but Theo could see all three adults turning to look at them. Rosella was amused, Narcissa was completely nonpulsed while Lucius had a carefully blank expression in his face. Theo cleared his throat a sudden thought coming to him.

"Lord Malfoy...Have you heard from my father recently? My house elf has reported he hasn't been seen for a while..." 

"I last heard from him last summer..." Lucius answered causing Theo to wonder if the man was one of the bad peoples his father had had in his study. "I have had no correspondence with him since..." 

"I see..." 

"Heir Nott...Be careful around your father should he return...he would be only too eager to explot your...association with Mr Potter..." Lucius warned softly the actual concern in his voice surprising to everyone in the room except maybe Narcissa who was smiling approvingly at her husband. 

"He encouraged my friendship in the last owl he sent...but that was in first year..." Theo said softly and Lucius gave a nod looking at his own son. 

"I imagine that he did Heir Nott...He is convinced that the dark lord is still out there..." 

"We all are Lord Malfoy. He will come back one day..." Harry announced gripping at Theos hand and staring at the blonde lord who looked less dignified now and somehow looked pale which clashed with his blonde white hair. "...I have to stop him..." 

Theo closed his eyes his breathing quickening at that soft declaration. He was trying so hard not to have Harry fulfil the prophecy made about him but Harry was Harry and he would run head long into it regardless because he cared about his friends. 

"You are a child...how will you stop him?" 

"I dont know Lord Malfoy but he wont stop coming for me or my friends until I do. There was a prophecy made you see...Its why he killed my parents." 

"A prophecy?"

"Yes sir, it said that somebody was coming that had the power to stop him he decided that was me..." Harry shrugged slowly "He isnt back yet though Lord Malfoy and you can make your own choices..." 

"You say that like it is easy, Mr Potter...you do not know the tortures he can inflict...The powers he has..." 

"I dont...I was a baby when he was around last time...But do you want your son to suffer those same things?" 

"Oh and who would protect us? You?" 

"Hogwarts..." 

"It is a building..." 

"It is a building that loves all those that it has taken in...I dont fully understand it but... Slytherin said that Hogwarts would always shelter those that genuinely ask for it" Harry said pausing for a fraction and Theo had a feeling that it hadn't been Slytherin who had said that but Carpathia. "When you think about it its a building created by four of the greatest wizards and witches ever, its embedded with their magic...It changes all the time...Do you really think its only a building of stone?"

"The dark lord is the heir of Slytherin..." 

"By blood yes..." Harry shrugged "but he disappointed him...I am his chosen heir..." 

Chapter Text

"Harry...What did you mean about Hogwarts protecting those..." Theo asked once they were back in Rosellas reception room at Zabini Hall. Having left the Malfoys in a state of shock. Theo had zero idea if Harrys words had really gotten through to Lucius Malfoy but he had stunned him enough he had needed to sit and have a cup of tea with them. 

Theo could understand what the man was feeling. Harry had decided to drop a lot on him all in one go but he was also interested in what he had meant and how it could help. He could well and truly believe that there were magical shields on Hogwarts that could protect it but Harry made it sound as though the building itself would somehow get up and fight if the need arose. 

"Carpathia mentioned it. She told me to ask Slytherin about it because she didnt fully understand it but she thinks that ties in with the bloodlines of the founders...Its why I had to tame Carpathia in Slytherins chamber...Hogwarts herself had to recognise me as being his heir over Tom" Harry shrugged confirming Theos earlier suspicions while frustrating him that Harry hadn't told him everything. Sometimes it could be very annoying not to have all of the information when he was trying so hard to protect his friend. "I told Lord Malfoy Slytherin said it cause it sounds a bit more impressive then a snake saying it...At least to somebody like Lord Malfoy" 

"My ancestors helped build Hogwarts they wrote extensive notes but I've never heard anything like that" Theo said.softly sorting through the things he had read positive that he had never read anything about that. 

"I doubt it was something they wanted to be known...I am going go ask Slytherin when school restarts I promise" Harry promised before sighing "do you think lord Malfoy was genuine? He seemed...Different then at Yule...Is it possible he is changing...?"

"I think Lucius Malfoy is doing what he has always done looking out for whats best for Lucius Malfoy..." Rosella broke in reminding them both that she was in the room with them "I do believe you impressed him little dove and gave him a lot to think about. At the end of the day no matter what he else he is he is a husband and a father. But at least we have an answer about Sirius Black..." 

"But the guards said he kept saying 'hes at Hogwarts'...that had to be about me...isn't it?" 

"Is it though? If he was aware enough to figure out how to break out of Azkaban then he must have known you would have already been there for two years already...Why not break out before? Its completely possible that he meant somebody else completely" Theo reasoned lightly his brows furrowing "the ministry is just hammering the facts together and making them fit..." 

"But who else could he mean?" Harry wondered and Theo shrugged his mind drawing a complete and utter blank. 

"I dont know Harry...much like last year it is a mystery" Theo said with a sigh running his fingers through his hair before brushing it away from his eyes. 

"Its lucky I have my own Sherlock Holmes as my best friend then isnt it?" Harry said his face shining brightly and his eyes so full of trust that Theo knew that no matter what it took he wouldnt let him down. "How are you feeling anyway Theo?" 

"Im fine Harry..." Theo answered holding up his hands and flexing his fingers as if to show his friend for certain that all of the aches and pains had completely gone. "You will be the first to know if that changes...The effects of the curse have worn off though I promise..." 

"I hate your father Theo...I hate him so much" 

"I think, little dove, we are all in agreement on that score" Rosella said before clapping her hands together "now though I want us to put all dark thoughts aside! If you children are to be forced to face Dementors next year the last week of your holiday will be filled with only fun things! We will go to Italy and amuse ourselves...Now run along and find the others little Doves i will prepare the floo for international travel!" 

"I still cant believe im going abroad!" Harry grinned at the woman "thank you so much for taking me" 

"It is my pleasure Harry, who knows maybe you will enjoy it as much as Wales last year" 

"Wait till you taste Geleto Harry" Theo sighed happily his mouth already watering at the thought of the frozen treat while he and Harry headed out of the reception room to find Blaise and the others. 

"What's that?" 

"Italian Ice cream..." 

"I should have guessed...You always get that smile on your face when thinking about ice cream!" Harry laughed rolling his eyes in a fond way and Theo shrugged hoping that Harrys first trip aboard would be a fun one. 

Chapter Text

The Zabinis family home in Italy was located on the outskirts of town of Amalfi. It was set in the stunning mountains offering amazing views of the crystal clear water. From the balcony you could see the beautiful pastel coloured houses of the town and Theo knew just from looking at him that Harry was bewitched. His green eyes didnt know where to look first and he was bouncing up and down. 

"Wow! Its so beautiful!" He gasped for about the 50th time since they had arrived clinging to the balcony and just staring everywhere that he could. Given everything the teen had learnt in the last few days it was good to see him looking so relaxed and carefree. "I cant believe Im here! Oh...I dont know Italian..." 

"Its okay Harry...Blaises family speak English..." Theo replied as he emptied out his and Harrys trunks into the cupboard. Rosella had given them a double room while Neville was sharing with Blaise and Daphane had her own room down the hall. Theo had barely even shrugged when the woman had asked if they would mind. Everyone knew that they shared a bed on occasion now thanks to Draco and it wasnt that much of a big deal though there had been a look in her eyes that had caused him to have butterflies in his stomach for some reason. 

"But it would be more polite to at least say hello in italian right? Do you know it?" Harry asked bouncing over from the window and dropping himself down onto the bed giggling light heartedly when he bounced. 

"Ciao...But Blaise will tell you my pronunciation is horrible..." Theo told him flushing with embarrassment at not being perfect at something. Spoken languages had never been his strongest achievement even though he could read in a fair few. It had been one of the many things that had disappointed his father. 

"Ciao?" Harry repeated his accent sounding strange even to Theo still his nose was wrinkled in concentration as he tried it out a few times showing how much he wanted to get it right. "Couldn't they just speak Parsel? Carpathia would love to see this..." 

"Harry...A 50 foot basilisk is not something you can sneak into the country. They have laws about that sort of thing..." Theo said carefully knowing that Harry was joking or rather he hoped so. Actually the more he thought about it the more he grew worried that Harry would try and sneak a 50 foot basilisk out of Hogwarts. 

"I know and shes happy in her chamber at Hogwarts but...She was so happy to see the moon yesterday..." He sighed getting up and bouncing to the balcony again and gazing at the view "when I leave Hogwarts I will have to find somewhere for her so she can see more than a dungeon..." 

"I would suggest Nott manor...There are plenty of grounds she could slither around in but I wouldnt want her to suffer that place..." He said with a shudder and Harry came back over to him his arm wrapping around his waist his head resting on his shoulder. 

"I wish you didnt have to suffer that Theo" 

"I know..." 

"Darlings are you decent?" Daphane asked knocking on the door and not even waiting for an answer before sweeping in already dressed in a swimsuit sunglasses perched on her nose. "You're still unpacking? Why not just ask Herbert or one of the other elves! Time is wasting! We need to go swimming! Do that later! Come on!" 

"Fine...We're coming..." Harry grinned pulling off his tshirt and looking down at the black shorts he was wearing. "See already ready. Come on Theo..." 

"I'll be there in a minute..." Theo said picking up Harrys tshirt and starting to fold it until Harry grabbed his hand and pulled him out of the bedroom. The house was only one floor so it wasnt long until they were out in the back garden with the pool. Neville and Blaise were already in the water having a race and Daphane was soon jumping in with a shriek that could pierce the eardrums of any passing bird.

"I swear you are part Banshee!" Blaise grumbled scooping up some water with his hand and splashing the girl with it while Neville laughed floating on his back his eyes closed as he just floated in the water. Daphane let out a huff and started splashing him back her tongue poking out of her mouth before she splashed Blaise back. 

 "You should make sure you're wearing lotion Harry the sun is stronger here than in Wales" Theo told him softly when he saw that Harry was practically dancing to go join them in the water. 

"Yeah...I can already feel it. You put it on me and I'll do you?" 

"Ill just leave my tshirt on..." Theo said with a shrug. He'd done so last year in Wales not wanting his friends to see the scars on his back from his father. It was a thing he hated about the shared bathroom at Hogwarts as well always making sure everyone else had left before going for his own or making sure he was up early enough nobody else would be in. In his heart he knew that Harry would only care because he would be upset Theo had suffered it at all but it didnt stop him from being ashamed of the scars he carried. "But Ill do you..." 

"Okay...but you will come in?" 

"Yes..." He nodded picking up the bottle of full day sunscreen lotion and quickly rubbing it into Harrys back and shoulders not wanting him go get burnt. Even with potions prevention was better than treatment. 

"You always take such good care of me" Harry grinned looking at him from over his shoulder his green eyes even brighter in the summer sun. "Always protecting me...Even from the sun" 

"You're my best friend Harry...Its my role to protect you" Theo smiled with a shrug and Harry let out a chuckle nodding slowly. 

"I know and its mine to protect you...You're mine Theo...My best friend...come on...Let's go swim..." Harry cried once the lotion was absorbed and Theo gave a nod. His heart was doing the strange flip flop thing it did sometimes when Harry smiled at him but he ignored it deciding to just have fun with his friends. 

"I wish my home had a pool" Neville sighed softly still floating on his back his eyes closed "grandmother wont have one says they are a waste of time" 

"We have two..." Daphane announced brightly "the outdoor one we use for an ice rink at Yule" 

"The Dursleys have a bath and a seperate shower" Harry chuckled rolling his eyes as bobbed up and down in the water. "I never even dreamed i would know anyone with their own pool. It still feels like I'm gonna wake up back in my cupboard...ouch! Neville you pinched me!" 

"Yup. Just proving it isnt a dream!" The Gryffindor chuckled and Harry grunted rubbing his side before splashing at him. Neville laughed and splashed him back. Theo watched from the sidelines as it desolved into a full on waterfight with Blaise and Daphine joining in. 

"This looks fun!" A new female voice said cheerfully and Theo turned to see Blaises older cousins, Aurora and Lucia, coming out from inside the house followed soon after by their parents Angelo and Emilia. "I know two of your friends Blaise but not the others...You will introduce us yes?" 

"Harry and Neville..." Blaise said pointing with a thumb at Harry and Neville who had both grown slightly apprehensive at the new comers Harry having found his way to Theos side as he peered at them from under his wet fringe. "Harry, Neville these are my cousins Aurora and Lucia Mignano and their parents my aunt and uncle...Emilia and Angelo..." 

"We have heard about you from Blaise!" Lucia said taking off his tshirt and jumping into the water a huge grin on his handsome face. Theo had grown used to the loud Italian during his friendship with Blaise but it was clear that Harry wasnt sure what to make of him. He was two years older than them having turned 15 at the start of summer. He was also aware of how good looking he was and had a confident easy air. His bright sea blue eyes were shining from under long black eyelashes as he studied Harry. "Harry Potter the boy who can make Theodore Nott spend time away from his books! Blaise is most impressed with you! We all thought Theodore was born with a book clasped in his hands! But i can see why! You are very cute! Those eyes!" 

"Lucia! Stop being...You!" Aurora scolded with the air of an older sister as she too joined them in the water. "Forgive my brother Harry he is an idiot and somebody told him he was attractive so now he will flirt with anything with a pulse!" 

"It is not flirting! I am only telling him the truth!" 

"Idiota! Gli farai credere che non sappiamo come comportarci!" Emilia hissed at her son before smiling warmly at Harry and Neville. "Ciao Harry e Neville benvenuti in Italia!"

"Um...Ciao...Um its nice to meet you! Sorry I dont speak iltalian!" Harry said with a bright blush pressing himself as close to Theo as he could without knocking him over in the water. 

"You will learn! You will love it here! We will show you so much you will not want to leave!" Emilia promised brightly and Harry gave a nod still looking bewildered. It was strange for Theo to see his friend look so nervous when Harry was literally the person who had walked into the chamber of secrets with only the word of a half insane portrait to tame a basilisk and it made him want to protect him even more. 

Chapter Text

"You study at Beauxbatons?" Harry asked Aurora as they all lay on the sun loungers a little later enjoying the afternoon sun. Harry had warmed to the 16 year old witch more than he had her brother who was still doing everything in his power to attract his attention. Theo had scowled at the other boy a few times but it had only earned him a laugh. 

"Yes and my brother...Unfortunately..." Aurora sighed rolling her pretty eyes her lips pulling up into a pained smile. "He is as much of an idiot there too, though we are thankfully in different houses. Lucia is in Ombrelune while I am in Papillonlisse. We thought about attending Scuola di stregoneria di Aradia but Nonna wanted us to attend Beauxbatons..."

"Aradia is the Italian school of magic Harry" Theo told him seeing the confusion in his friends face "Aradia school of sorcery its on the island of Capri" 

"Oh right...Sorry I was raised in the muggle world I still dont know much about the wizarding world and Hogwarts doesnt really talk about the other schools"

"It is no problem Harry...Some of my closest friends are from non magical families" Aurora smiled patting him on the hand "they too get confused. I will try to be better in my explanations" 

"Thanks..." 

"We should plan what we are going to do tomorrow!" Lucia announced loudly running over and almost jumping onto the lounger Harry was sharing with Theo. "You have to see as much of Italy as you can!" 

"...I'm looking forward to it...Ive never been away from the UK before" 

"I will show you all the best places Harry! Theodore you can come too stop glaring so much your face will stay that way!" Lucia laughed flicking him on the nose hard "what things do you enjoy doing?" 

"Um...History?" Harry said softly colouring and to Theo he looked as though he would willingly walk into a duel with Tom Riddle right now rather than deal with Lucia Mignano. "I like learning about things" 

"No wonder you and Theodore are such good friends. We should take the boat to Capri there are some ruins there...There is also a beach that only witches and wizards can go! It is beautiful just like you!" Lucia grinned in what he knew was an attractive way dimples forming in his cheeks and Theo found himself wanting to grind his teeth or maybe even hiss at him like an angry cat. 

"Lucia! smettila di fare pressione al ragazzo! è qui per divertirsi, non per essere infastidito da te!" A sharp weather worn voice called out and Theo let out a breath looking up to see Ernesto Zabini coming out of the house. His short white hair and overly tanned skin stood out like a beacon in the summer sun. Theo had always liked Ernesto whenever he had met him in the past. He was a quiet man compared to his grandson spending most of his time tending to the gardens or reading but he knew when to shut down Lucias more wild side. 

"nonno! Non gli faccio pressione. Cerco di essere gentile!"

"Sembra un coniglio spaventato! E Theodore sembra pronto a ucciderti!" Ernesto growled when he finally reached them using his wand to cast a spell at Lucia who shrieked loudly and jumped in the pool again thankfully leaving them alone. "Theodore it is wonderful to see you again!" 

"Lord Zabini" 

"You have forgotten my name? It has not been so long!" Ernesto laughed reaching out to shake his hand. The man had never cared for his title even as one of the most powerful italian lords still active in the italian ministry which was another reason Theo had always liked him. His kind blue eyes moved over to Harry and he held out his hand again. "It is nice to finally meet you Harry. I am Ernesto" 

"Harry...Harry Potter its nice to meet you, sir..."

"No! No formalities you are Blaises friend! We are family. My wife is looking forward to meeting you ah here she comes!" Erensto laughed as Margherita Zabini came almost running out of the house complaining that Ernesto had left her at the floo. 

"Nonna!" Blaise called as he ran over to his grandmother sweeping her into a tight hug causing her to laugh and slap him playfully on the cheek. 

"You are getting so big my little bambino!" She said cheerfully "we missed you at Yule!" 

"Sorry, nonna...Things got a little bit crazy at Hogwarts...Come and meet my friends Harry and Neville" Blaise said staying close to his grandmother as he walked her around the pool to where Harry and Theo were sitting. "You remember Theo..." 

"Of course! How could I forget! You are growing so handsome!" The small elderly witch said immediately reaching out to pinch at his cheek. "And this must be Harry! It is so nice to finally meet you! Blaise has spoken of you often!" 

"Ciao" Harry said as his cheek was also pinched and then patted. "Um Lady Zabini..." 

"Margherita! No titles!" She corrected with a playful pout in the same way her husband had. "Titles are for the halls of court not a beautiful sunny day with family, Harry" 

"Right" Harry said still flushing as he pressed against Theos side once again. Theo could understand his friends feelings. Growing up neither of them had had many people who genuinely liked and wanted to spend time with them so having a whole host of people that seemed genuinely happy to have them around was overwhelming.

"Harry do you want to go for a walk and look at the garden?" He asked gently when Ernesto and Margherita settled in talking with Rosella and Blaise and their other children and grandchildren. Harry nodded smiling thankfully getting up and holding out his hand. Theo took it without question and together they slipped away to the peace of the garden. 

"Wow...Blaises family are different from what I imagined" Harry chuckled as they stepped into a wonderful rock garden that over looked the town. It smelt amazing with all the flowers and the faint scent if the sea. "I sort of pictured them to be like the Malfoys...A little more reserved..." 

"I doubt any of them know the meaning of the word reserved Harry. It can be a little overwhelming" Theo agreed as they came to a bench in the centre of the garden and sat down. "I had forgotten how loud they can be. They mean well and are lovely people...but..." 

"We're not used to people actually liking us are we?" Harry chuckled echoing Theos own thoughts from earlier as he studied one of the flowers that was closest to them. 

"No. We're not. Father wouldn't talk to me unless he was berating me..." 

"Same for me with the Dursleys...Lucia is a bit...much to handle..." 

"He knows hes attractive Harry he must get lots of attention at school" Theo huffed his stomach churning with something unpleasant and Harry let out a laugh his head coming to rest against him. 

"Hes not all that good looking. You're better looking, Theo...and you make me feel...Calm...and happy whenever you're around" he said softly surprising Theo but stopping the unpleasant churning. "This is a beautiful garden..." 

"Ernesto tends to it all himself..." Theo nodded looking around at all the brightly coloured flowers their faces pointed to the sun. 

"He will get on well with Neville then...Should we go back? Is it rude to sneak off?" 

"I think we're fine here Harry...for as long as you want..." 

Chapter Text

The next few days were spent in utter bliss. Rosella or some cobination of the Mignano/zabini family must have had a word with Lucia as even though he was friendly he wasnt as overly flirty helping both Theo and Harry relax a little more around him.

 Their first full day there they did travel by the Zabinis private boat to Capri and spent a full hour dolphin watching before transfering to a small row boat and going into the blue grotto, a sea cave which looked absolutely magical with bright blue water that seemed to shine on the walls of the cave. Harry was extremely disappointed to learn he couldnt swim in the water due to the tides. 

When done with the water they went to the ruins Lucia had mentioned the Villa Jovis which had been built by the emperor Tiberius who they found out had been a wizard. Harry and Theo had asked the tour guide so many questions the man had gotten a little flustered and then mentioned some books which would tell them more. Of course Theo had then gone to the nearest bookshop to buy every single one. 

Their second day was spent exploring Amalfi itself, first with the adults and then with Lucia, Aurora and their friends who treated them all like normal people though a few others in the wizarding town did do a double take at Harrys scar until Lucia warned them off sharply in italian sending them scuttling away and warmed the young italian to both Harry and Theo more than his flirting did. Theo ate more than his fair share of Gelato much to Harrys amusement when he got stomach ache. 

On the third day they met more of the extended Zabini/Mignano family and spent the day on an exclusive beach that only magical people could reach. Harry finally got to build sandcastles with the younger children the way he had wanted to on the beach in Wales, absolutely delighting in just being free from the prophecy and the looming threat of Tom Riddle and Sirius Black or whatever it was going to happen at Hogwarts that year. 

The fourth day which was sadly their second to last as they still needed to go to Diagon for their school supplies Narcissa and Draco Malfoy turned up. The blonde looking uncertain that he would be welcome but after an impromptu Quidditch match with Lucia and Blaise he soon looked a lot happier even if he was shocked when Margherita kept pinching his cheeks and telling him he was too skinny. 

They hiked Sentiero degli Dei...the path of the gods which was still enjoyable even with Draco half heartedly complaining for the 4 mile trip and then almost collapsing into a bench when he reached the end fanning himself with his hands while Narcissa rolled her eyes and cast a cooling charm on him a smile twitching at her lips. 

Their last day saw them all just lazing pool in the Zabini home and eating an overabundance of good food. Harry had quickly become more comfortable around so many people but he would still float back to Theos side when he needed a breather even if it was because the younger children had tired him by constantly wanting piggybacks and to be spun around until they were dizzy. 

Theo had learnt quickly that Harry responded far better to the younger children being nice to him than adults. When adults were nice to him he was always watchful closed off as though waiting for them to show their true colours. Harry knew how to handle people like Lucius Malfoy being cold or downright cruel but nice he didnt know how to deal with nice. Theo could completely understand that as he too found himself waiting for the blow that never came. With younger children though Harry became the best big brother in the world and Theo himself found himself swept up into some of their games even though his heart had almost stopped when one of the girls had tried to take his tshirt off and exposed the scars on his back. 

Nobody had said anything Harry had just pulled his tshirt back down and gently scolded the girl for being too rough but they had once again gone to the safety of the rock garden away from the noise until they were both ready to go back again. 

It was a different summer from last year but it was just as fun filled and Theo felt that they were more than ready to take on the dementors and anything else that might come their way. 

"This week has been amazing..." Harry sighed as they settled into bed on their last night his head resting on Theo's shoulder. Tomorrow they were heading back to the UK and Theo half wished they could just stay here in the warmth away from whatever danger was coming for them. "Blaises family is so nice...Even Lucia"

"They are...Its a shame they mostly go to Beauxbatons instead of Hogwarts" Theo agreed knowing having a few of the Mignano siblings around would have made his job of protecting Harry easier. Merlin he would even be happy for Lucia to be there if he could keep his overly flirtatious nature in check. 

"I'm glad Blaise came to Hogwarts" Harry sighed sleepily his hand trailing up and down his back. A habit he had developed since seeing his scars even though he never asked about them. 

"Me too...His name was down for Beauxbatons but he decided on Hogwarts in the end" Theo replied thoughtfully knowing in his heart that Blaise had gone to Hogwarts for him and for Daphane. He was a good steadfast friend who was becoming more like a brother to him every day. 

"Back to reality tomorrow...Diagon Alley and then...Hogwarts...Sirius Black and Dementors..." 

"I'll figure it out Harry" Theo told him knowing he couldnt let Harry down. "I'll look after you" 

"I know..." Harry smiled rubbing his nose against his shoulder. "But you know I want to look after you as well Theo" 

"You do Harry more than you know...Come on we should get some sleep. Im sure we wont be up as early as last year but you just know Daphane will be wanting to make the most of our last morning".

"Yup...Good night Theo..." 

"Night Harry" 

Chapter Text

Theo woke groggily the next morning shaking his head when he realised that Harry had wriggled around and was now spread eagle at the bottom of the bed the covers thrown off his body and his leg resting on the footboard and his head almost hanging completely off the bed. He wasnt completely sure how he had managed it but often woke in strange shapes and positions. Shifting him was never a good idea as he was such a light sleeper he would jolt awake and always looked like he was half waiting to be shouted at until he realised where he was.

 Yawning, unsure what had woken him but knowing now that he was awake he wouldnt be able to get back to sleep, Theo carefully got up from the bed and popped out his muscles before heading to the small ensuite bathroom and taking off his sleep shirt. He threw it into the hamper in the corner of the room. Unable to bare looking at himself in the mirror and seeing the crisscrossing scars he hurried through his shower and the rest of his bathroom needs before wrapping a towel around himself and heading back out to get ready for the day surprised to see that Harry was awake and had repositioned himself on the bed. Flushing just a little from the stare he was receiving from his friend he hurried to the drawer and pulled out the tshirt he hadnt packed the day before. 

"You dont have to hide them from me" Harry whispered from the bed as Theo pulled his tshirt down covering his back as quickly as he could. "You know that dont you?" 

"Yes Harry. I know..." He answered sitting on the bed unable to look at his friend. He had known that they would talk about it at some point but he hadnt wanted to ruin Italy with talks about his father. "...He didnt start until mother died...He probably knew she would kill him if he did or maybe it was because he realised he was stuck with me...His worthless weak son..." 

"You are neither worthless or weak Theo...Youre amazing...Everything we've done is because of you" Harry said movinh on the bed until he was wrapped around him. Anybody else and Theo knew he would had stiffened at the touch but with Harry he relaxed into it his eyes closing as he pressed against him. "I...Really hate your father Theo...I hate him so much it scares me sometimes. I dont even think I hate Tom Riddle as much as I do your father..." 

"...He isnt worth your hate Harry" Theo said even though he knew he hated his father just as much if not more. 

"He hurt my best friend, hes worth every ounce of hate I have" Harry growled his hand moving up and down his back in a soothing way. The pain had long since physically faded but sometimes he imagined he could still feel the cutting of the slicing hex used, sometimes he wondered if it was nerve damage but there was never anyone he could ask without having to show his shame, still with Harry touching him he didnt feel any pain. "I wish I could take it away for you...Help you the way you are always helping me but I only add to your trouble dont I?" 

"In what way?" 

"Sirius Black coming after me or whoever it is he thinks is in Hogwarts. I've pretty much piled it all on you..."

"Harry...dont be an idiot..." Theo laughed shaking his head as he turned his face into his chest moving the arms of his friend until they were practically hugging. "You really have no idea what you do for me do you? How much you have saved me just by being my friend. I told you last year that I could have easily turned to the dark magics to take back the power my father stripped away from me but since meeting you and becoming your friend I have zero interest in it...My father told me I was worthless...Pathetic...You tell me almost every day how amazing I am..." 

"Because you are amazing Theo...Im constantly amazed at how your mind works. You can remember everything you have ever read...How you have that much knowledge is scary for me sometimes I can barely remember what we had for breakfast yesterday" 

"You had cornetto dipped in coffee...You hated it so much but you refused to spit it out because that would be rude" Theo hummed remembering the face Harry had pulled when Lucia had convinced him to try it. 

"Coffee is disgusting" Harry said and Theo knew he would be pulling the same face now even though he couldnt see it. "Its so bitter. How anyone drinks it...Burgh...Tea is so much better"

"You are a true English man Harry." Theo laughed before sighing "my father was most violent when I made mistakes so I tried to be perfect to have all the answers...it didnt work because my father was often wrong but believed himself to be right..."

"People like that will never be happy Theo. But at least when we stop Tom Riddle for good it will be, in part, because your dad was an utter piece of crap and didnt see how amazing you are..."

"...hmm...I like that thought Harry...that will be the best kind of punishment for him" Theo said smiling at the idea wondering how Harry didnt realise just how much he helped him daily just by being himself. 

A knock sounded on the door half a second before Daphane came in. 

"Darlings! Its our...Last morning!" She shrieked Blaise and Neville stumbling in behind her looking half asleep. "Surely you dont intend to spend whats left of an amazing holiday in bed!" 

"We're coming Daph'..." Harry said squeezing Theo around the middle before moving away. Theo scowled at the look.that was on Blaises face but the boy held up his hands saying

"Hey dont look me I didnt drag you away from your snuggle fest" 

"We werent snuggling"

"Really? Looked like it from here..." Neville piped up with a huge grin and Theo wondered if it was cruel to miss first year Neville who could barely look at them without flushing. 

"Are we at least allowed to dress before being dragged out?" 

"Who's stopping you?" Daphane said plopping herself down into the bed. "Come on! Time is wasting Darling" 

Chapter Text

"So Harry are you wishing you could stay with us?" Lucia asked after they had finished their most luxurious breakfast of the trip. Which was saying a lot given some of the breakfasts they'd had this week. 

"mi è piaciuta molto l'Italia..." Harry said carefully in italian. He had been a devoted student all week often sitting with Margherita and having her teach him something she had absolutely delighted in pressing kisses to each of his cheeks when he had gotten it right. His accent was still a little off but it was better than Theo's. "grazie per averci permesso di trascorrere le vacanze con voi...And I hope we will see you again soon..." 

"Awww! You were almost perfect! In just a week! If you stayed a little longer you would practically native! If you marry me you could stay forever!" 

"Im thirteen..." Harry said blushing to the roots of his hair while pressing into Theos side a little more. 

"Meh! In the future you can marry me!" 

"Oh? And what about Gino at school? And Paula?" Aurora said smacking her younger brother on the back of his head while rolling her pretty eyes. "Are you having a whole army of husbands and wives?" 

"That would be the dream!" Lucia laughed dreamily sinking back against his chair as though picturing it. "Harry can be the main husband...I would even let you have a lover if you like..." 

"Thank you for your very generous offer but when I marry it will only be to one person and for life" Harry laughed having gotten better at handling the older teen in the last week knowing he never meant harm with his flirting. 

"Shame...well they will be very lucky" Lucia purred and for some reason he winked in Theos direction. Theo scowled at him until he laughed and walked away. As he left Theo was sure he heard him muttering "Spero che se ne renda conto prima o poi, Harry. Ma temo che sia troppo ottuso in queste questioni..." 

"It is so sad that you could not have stayed longer. But we are friends now!" Aurora said brightly ignoring whatever it was her brother had said. "You will write to us often and we will write often! You must take care of yourselves. I do not like that Hogwarts is having those nasty creatures so close to the school!" 

"Nor do I" Ernesto agreed from the other side of the table where he had been reading a newspaper. He shook his head his kind blue eyes grave. "What is the British ministry even thinking?" 

"Very little as usual" Rosella growled from where she had been talking with her sister in law. "Cornelius Fudge is an absolute joke of a minister..." 

"I have had dealings with him. I have always thought him an idiot. You will take care of yourselves. All of you. Stay away from the dementors as much as possible" Ernesto said his eyes focusing on each of the Hogwarts students in turn. His face was filled with so much grandfatherly concern that Theo was positive that there was a lump in the back of his throat. "If there is trouble you will send word...I will also be looking into why Sirius Black may have broken out. I have been writing to Lord Malfoy"

"Oh? Has he heard something?" Theo asked his brows furrowing as he inched forward in his chair. He had hoped that maybe Narcissa would have told them something when she had came but she had simply shook her head and told him to enjoy his holiday. 

"He will be meeting with you in Gringotts this afternoon. The goblins have some private rooms they make available and are more discreet than wizards. As for what he has to say he would not tell me via owl. Although our correspondence had been hidden in veil of secrecy he is justifiably worried that his old allies would hear of him helping Harry Potter" Ernesto answered and Theo gave a nod. He could well understand the secrecy from the Malfoy Lord. Even if he is was merely making a few inquries into Sirius Black he was taking a big risk in helping Harry while Tom Riddle was still out there waiting to return. In a way it proved that he was making a choice. "I have no such quirms. I never supported the so called dark lord when he was in power last i will not be supporting him when he returns. You will have my support Harry...Always..." 

"And ours" Their daughter and son in law said together while Harry stared at them stunned for a moment. 

"...Thank you Ernesto, I would rather not have any of your risk your lives" 

"And why are our lives more important than yours Harry? You...You are a child and yet you have declared that you will fight..." Ernesto said slapping his hand on the table causing the plates and cups to rattle. "I will not stand by and allow a child to fight alone"

"Ora sei la nostra famiglia Harry. Ti staremo accanto..." Margherita said gently patting him on his cheek before turning to Theo and doing the same "anche tu. Sono così felice che tu sia così felice ora, Theodore...You are a better man than your father. Remember this" 

"Prometto che ci proverò" Theo whispered his own eyes prickling with tears and Margherita smiled patting his cheek again. 

"So we are the newest members of the HPPL...".

"Actually the name has changed. We are the order of the basilisk now" Daphane said primly from where she had been sitting in the sun determined to get as much of it as possible before heading back to the UK. "Darling Harry disagreed with the original name" 

"It made me sound so stuck up" Harry pouted before brightening when they heard younger voices coming from the inside. 

"fratello Harry! Siamo venuti a salutarti. Non vogliamo che tu te ne vada!" Stella said loudly running over to them and jumping into his lap. "Why cant you stay! We can play more!" 

"I have to go back to school. But we will see each other again" He told the girl hugging her around the waist as she wound her arms around his neck and started sobbing into his chest. "Thank you for letting me build sandcastles with you all. I had a lot of fun" 

"We can have more fun! If you stay" Maximus her brother said also coming to stand beside him his eyes pleading and just as tearful. 

"We will see each other again" Harry said hugging him as well. Theo watched his friend as he picked up both children and spun them around the best he could until they were shriek laughing through their tears. 

More of the Mignano/Zabini children came running over and their last hours in italy were spent amusing them. Of course they were all crying again by the time they headed to the floo that would take them back to the Zabini England manor. 

"Ready to face Hogwarts Harry?" Theo asked in a whisper. 

"If youre with me always Theo...".