The Lives of the Lost

by DracosVessel

Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy are both lost in their own separate lives ever since the war. They each have their own story that spins more and more out of control. While Harry is trying to regain sight of who he is, Draco is struggling with a drug addiction. When Harry agrees to help Draco recover, their stories become one. (SlashFic; Substance Use/Abuse; Sequel has been posted.)

1. Prologue

Prologue

Today is Tuesday, May 2nd, 2000. It is also the second anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts. This day has become something of a demented holiday in the Wizarding world. Many people wishing to celebrate the victory and mourn the loved ones lost to the cold grip of death. Although, not all who are considered lost are dead. That is where our story begins. With the lives of the lost.

There are a lot of people who are struggling to recover from the war. The friends and family of those who were killed are the majority of the victims. However, we're only focusing on two specific lost ones.

Harry Potter was relieved after Voldemort had been defeated. He was glad to be rid of the burden and the responsibility of being the Chosen One. However, unfortunately for Harry, that relief and happiness did not last long. The loss of Fred, Lupin, and Tonks – and all the others who perished that day – pierce Harry every day. He wakes up every morning, heavy and exhausted with guilt. No matter what any of his friends tell him, he allows a fog of blame to cloud around him.

Of course, Hermione has been desperately attempting to reach Harry and pull him out of the darkness that he's lost himself in. Ever since Ron left to pursue his new career, Harry and Hermione have been on their own. While Hermione is choosing to hold her head up high and cling to Harry, Harry chose a different path – anger, resentment, and isolation. This is often how he responds to overwhelming situations. His friends understand this, but it doesn't make it easier for them to watch their friend cut himself off from everything and everyone.

Draco Malfoy, on the other hand, chooses the opposite of isolation. He attempts to drown out the pain and regret with loud music, women, and firewhiskey. Every night is spent at Ego – an appropriately named nightclub that is exclusive to elite Slytherins – usually accompanied by his long time best friend, Blaise Zabini. They occupy the sitting area, ordering drinks, while watching everyone on the dance floor until the night fades into day or until Draco gets invited to a woman's flat.

Blaise has no interest in the scene or any of the other people. He only cares about Draco – his best friend of which he's been secretly in love with for many years. So, of course, he can't help but be concerned about his close friend, despite continuously going along with his behavior. It has always been far too difficult for Blaise not to indulge Draco in whatever it is he desired. Although, it's quickly getting to the point where he'll have to learn how to say no, before he is forced to watch his friend slip so far away that he becomes a complete stranger.

So this is where it all begins. Two boys. Two lives. Two stories. Two journeys that slowly become one. Two lost souls that struggle to find their way out of the darkness. And now they invite you to join them on their travels. Step inside, follow along, and try not to get lost.