'Well, it's not as if your life could get any worse.'

Harry's mind barely registered that that thought didn't seem like his own before his vision darkened, his heart stopped its pathetic attempts at beating, his mind started to fail, and, moments later, his eyes deadened to a glassy sheen.

Harry slowly opened his eyes. He blinked. 'Huh.' He'd hoped, of course, that he might survive, but he didn't really expect it. He certainly hadn't expected to wake up completely painlessly as well…

"Ah, good, you're awake. I was worried we'd lose you to the other side for a bit. Good thing that didn't happen. Wouldn't do to lose such a… promising subject."

The man who had spoken walked closer, and it was at that moment that Harry realised it wasn't much like a man. The demon looked at his terrified face, and sighed. This defenceless child had been beaten to death by his uncle, and now, as far as he could see, was going to be spending eternity under more torture.

"Look, I know what you're thinking, and I can assure you, this is not the case."

This caused the child to pause, and he continued:

"As a matter of fact, I want to send you back Up, but first, I have a proposition for you. In order to send you back, to save your life, I want you to serve as my vessel. It will allow you to live, and in return, you must let me live also."

The child looked nervous, before asking: "Will it be better if I live? Will I be safe?"

"Yes."

He saw the man gesture, and, just as he left life in pain, his eyes opened and unimaginable pain washed through him, before his mind allowed him to fall once more into untroubled sleep.

A/N

Hi there readers. First of all, thanks for taking the time to read what I hope will be an ongoing story. So, what do you think? Any reviews will be greatly appreciated, and, if you're going to review, tell me if you want me to continue? If I get enough people (like, I don't know, 10? Something like that. This is my first story, and I have no idea how many people will see this), I will continue. Thanks, and I hope to see you seen. Bye!

- MasterHyperion-Reborn