A new term begins.

A/n sorry this took a while; my brain had a meltdown.

There wasn't much of summer left after the trial, but Harry spent what little he had relaxing with his father and Draco. Ms. Tinsdale had promised Harry that she would not come to get his deposition for Petunia's trial until after school started so that Harry could start the new term on the right foot.

It was two day before school was supposed to start, Harry and Draco where outside by the lake with the Kensington's who had invited them out for a picnic. Severus had agreed to let the boys go because he knew they needed sometime outside school and he needed to finish his start of term preparations. Harry had taken Grace out with him so she could get so fresh air as well. The little pup had run around for nearly twenty minutes sniffing at everything she found, marking several trees, and digging around in Hagrid's pumpkin patch until she finally fell asleep on the blanket Lucretia had brought out for all of them to sit on.

It was a warm sunny day and Harry was really enjoying himself, it was the first time that summer he'd really felt able to relax and laugh with his friends. Myridia had asked the house elves to pack them sandwiches and as usual the house-elves had packed enough food to feed a small country. They had also made some interesting combinations, there was the traditional peanut butter and jelly or roast beef with cheddar, but they had also made several kinds Harry had never heard of before including a sardine and pickle sandwich that Lexi claimed to be delicious.

Drue was sitting away from them all as she ate fresh meat of some kind. Harry personally didn't want to know what it was because he'd never be able to eat it again if he did. As a half demon Drue and Lexi both needed fresh blood at least once a day, fortunately Lexi had gotten something for breakfast that had taken care of his craving. Myridia was also turned away from Drue, eating a completely meatless sandwich. Harry was having a turkey sandwich when something occurred to him, "Myridia?"

Myridia turned to him, "Yeah."

Harry took swallowed the food in his mouth, "You said elves don't eat meat, but demons need it to survive."

Myridia nodded, "Yeah, so?"

Harry pointed to Lexi who was sitting near the lake skipping stones, "So if Lexi is part demon and part elf how does he eat? He needs meat to survive as a demon, but as an elf he doesn't accept meat."

Myridia rolled her eyes, "Harry you ask the weirdest questions, but the way it works is that humans, veelas, and demons all eat meat. It's only elves who avoid it so the other parts of Lexi sort of counter act that. People who are one-third Elvin blood or less don't have the natural aversion to meat that full blooded or half blooded elves do and can eat just about anything, although many of them are vegetarian. It's all about personal preferences."

Harry nodded, and looked around once more, "Hey, where's Draco and Lucretia?"

Myridia snickered into her hand and pointed towards Hagrid's cabin, "Over there."

Harry turned around and saw the two of them holding hand while walking along the edge of the forest. Harry also laughed at the sight, "Well it's nice to see them both so happy."

Myridia smiled and nodded vigorously, "Yes, Lucretia hasn't really dated much."

Harry raised an eyebrow in surprise, "Really, but she's part Veela I would've thought the boys would be throwing themselves at her."

Myridia groaned, "Yeah they did, and that's just the problem. Guys wanted to date her because they thought she was pretty or because she was part veela not because they liked her just for who she was you know? And a lot of them didn't understand the word 'no' very well. That guy I told you about who got us expelled was just one of several bad relationships she's had over the years. But Draco seems different, I think he really likes Lucretia for who she is and that's something she really needed."

Harry smiled, "Yeah he does, in fact he defended her when I joked that he was just flirting with her because she's pretty."

Harry blushed as he told Myridia this, but instead of getting mad she just shook her head at him, "Well I think it's good for both of them. What's that?"

Harry turned around and saw a small white object flying towards them. Harry gave a broad smile and held up his arm, "Hedwig, it's my owl Hedwig I haven't seen her much since we got here." Hedwig flew down and landed on Harry's outstretched arm, Harry stroked her feathers just as Grace woke up. Grace whined and walked over to the owl obviously confused, Harry sighed, "Hedwig this is my new puppy Grace, Grace this is my owl Hedwig." The two animals regarded each other quietly for a moment, then Grace walked over and sniffed at Hedwig's feathers. Hedwig stiffened at this, but she tolerated it. Grace gave a long sniff and then yipped playfully at the owl and bounded backwards obviously waiting for Hedwig to follow.

Hedwig looked between Harry and Grace for a moment, Harry jerked his head towards Grace as a way of saying 'go ahead'. Hedwig flew towards Grace, but stayed low so she was flying at the same height and speed Grace was running, Grace gave a delightful bark obviously thrilled to have a new friend to play with.

Myridia starred at them, "Well there's something you don't see every day."

Harry was about to respond when he heard Sev's voice coming behind him, "Harry! Draco! I want a word with you." Harry turned and waved his father over to their spot. Harry was still using his crutches so he couldn't get up and down easily on his own especially on grass and he knew there was no way Myridia could lift him up since the two of them basically weighed the same. Draco caught sight of Severus and began walking towards him with Lucretia the three of them arrived at basically the time.

Severus pulled two envelopes out of his pocket, "Boys I have your O.W.L. results, Albus gave them to me directly rather than sending an owl." Both boys took the envelopes, Harry read eagerly,

Harry James Snape as achieved,

Astronomy A

Care of Magical creatures E

Charms E

Defense against the dark arts O

Divination P

Herbology E

History of magic D

Potions E

Transfiguration E.1

Harry smiled he hadn't done too badly, and he was really surprised he'd done so well in potions. He was happy that Severus had all ready agreed to let him into the class even though he hadn't gotten an outstanding, Severus had explained earlier that he'd had students before whom he felt had great potential in potions, but didn't get the right grade so he had let them in provided they helped Severus after class and did a little extra work.

Severus smiled at Harry and then turned to face Draco, "Now Draco how did you do?" Draco nodded, "Pretty good I got O's in Potions, DADA, and Transfiguration and I got E's in Astronomy, Arithmancy, Herbology and Charms."

Severus smiled, "That's very good, you've both done exceptionally well. I'm proud of you." Harry and Draco beamed at the praise. Severus cleared his throat, "Which classes will you be taking,"

Harry studied it carefully then said, "I want DADA, Potions, Charms, Transfiguration, and Herbology."

Draco piped up, "I think I'll take DADA, Potions, Astronomy, Charms, and Transfiguration."

Harry snickered, "You do realize we will be in almost all the same classes?"

Draco nodded, "Yeah, but what can you do?"

Severus smiled, "That sounds good, and I think a trip to Diagon Alley is in order. Also Harry we can look into the vaults Sirius left to you."

Harry sat up straight, "really?"

Severus nodded, "Yes, I asked Albus if Kingsley could come with us for the day to help us check out the vaults." Harry opened his mouth to protest, but Severus held up a hand to silence him, "Harry I know your glasses pick up dark objects, but there are certain dark arts items that will not show up as such even with magical detectors like your glasses and I would feel better if we had a trained auror with us just to be safe."

Harry nodded, "Yeah that makes since."

Myridia tapped Severus on the shoulder and said, "Ah Professor, I'm sorry to have to do this, but do you think my siblings and I could come along to. With all the negotiations and things going on we sort of forgot about our school supplies."

Severus gave her a small smile, "I suppose it wouldn't hurt, have you received your O.W.L.'s yet?"

Myridia raised an eyebrow, "We're from America, we took them last year."

Severus smacked his head with his hand, "Oh that's right, I'd forgotten American students take their equivalency tests a year before we do here."

Harry was confused, "Why?"

Myridia said, "We have 8 years of school instead of seven so we take our tests half way through school so our teachers can tell what we've learned so far and were we're going."

Draco smirked, "That makes sense. I think it's kind of stupid to have N.E.W.T.'s one year after the O.W.L's."

Severus spoke up, "I happen to agree with you Draco, but there is nothing we can do to change it. Ms. Kensington you and your siblings are welcome to come along." They all thanked Severus as he stood and helped Harry to his feet, "now there is one more thing we need to discuss, Harry you can not floo with your crutches." Harry nodded he knew that it would be very difficult for him to even fit into a standard fire place and even if he could he'd probably break his neck or something else getting out of it. Severus continued, "I don't feel comfortable apparating with so many people and the knight bus is not something I'm inclined to take so there really is only one other option. We have to use a portkey." Severus pulled a small gold bracelet out of his pocket,

Harry immediately went pale Severus noticed this and put a comforting hand on his son's shoulder, "Harry I know you're scared, but this is the only way. Albus personally charmed this so it is safe and if it makes you feel better I'll hold you the entire way."

Harry swallowed, "It'll be safe right?"

Severus nodded, "Yes"

Harry nodded, "O.k." Severus kept an arm around Harry as everyone grabbed hold of the portkey.

Harry felt the usual tug on the navel that came with traveling by portkey, and he also felt his stomach lurch. Even though Severus' arm was around him Harry could still hear that high cold voice saying, "Kill the Spare" He could see the flash of green light as it hit Cedric and he fell to the ground. Then with a jolt they stopped Harry instantly bent over and began to throw up.

Severus kept an arm around Harry so he wouldn't pass out and held back his hair, Severus gently stroked Harry's back and as he emptied his stomach and waited for him to stop. Harry was shaking, he could feel tears falling out of his eyes Severus pulled him into a hug and allowed Harry to cry it out, "it's all right Harry you're safe now."

Harry sniffed and wiped his eyes, he noticed that they had landed in a side street that wasn't busy and the others had moved away to give him some privacy, "Thanks."

Severus nodded, "That's what I'm here for Harry. Are you ready to go?"

Harry leaned back onto his crutches, "Yes, I feel better now."

Severus ruffled his hair lightly, "Good, but if you need to leave just say so."

Harry nodded and they moved back to the others Lexi spoke first, "So where do we start?"

Severus cleared his throat, "Well Harry, Draco, and I need to visit a few Gringotts vaults first which could take some time so why don't you four go get fitted for your uniforms and cloaks."

The Kensington's nodded as Drue said, "Yeah that sounds like a good idea so you'll meet us at Madame Malkins?"

Severus nodded, "Yes Draco and Harry need their clothes altered and Harry basically needs a whole new wardrobe. Nothing the Dursley's gave him is suitable for a human to wear." Harry blushed even though he knew his father was right, he'd been wearing a bunch of Draco's old clothes for most of the summer and he did need some things of his own. Plus he was really sick of only wearing other people's hand me downs.

The Kensington's headed to the left while Harry, Draco, and Severus went right into Gringotts. Sure enough Kingsley was there waiting for them Harry walked up and shook his hand, "Hi."

Kingsley gave Harry a smile, "Hello Harry good to see you again, now how many vaults do we have to look through."

Severus walked over and shook Kingsley's hand as well, "Three, shall we start?" Kingsley nodded.

Harry handed the three keys to Sirius vaults to the goblin and they headed down, the first vault was number 536, Harry opened it and gasped, the vault was the size of a large apartment and there was nothing in it but gold. Basil, Methos, and Falcor assured Harry that there was nothing dark in here or anything hidden behind anything else just piles and piles of gold. Severus saw Harry's shock and said, "I'm not surprised, the Black's were an incredibly wealthy family they own several valuable properties and the rights on various potions. I don't think there's anything else in here, but will have Kingsley scan it just to be safe."

Harry finally managed to find his voice, "What am I going to do with all this?" S

everus smirked, "whatever you want." Kingsley scanned the vault and assured them it was safe Harry was about to take out money for their shopping spree when Severus stopped him, "Harry you are my son and as such I will provide for you and Draco I have more than enough money to pay for everything both of you need for school."

Harry raised an eyebrow at him, "You make that much just from being a Hogwarts professor?"

Draco laughed out loud at this which caused Harry to jump slightly; he had forgotten Draco was there. Draco said, "Harry, do you honestly think that uncle Sev's only source of money is from teaching? He's a Potions MASTER he makes and sells specialty potions to dozens of shops and private citizens he's even created new ones which he gets paid for every time someone buys one."

Harry turned towards Severus with a shocked look on his face, but Severus only smiled and nodded, "It's true Harry, the only reason you haven't heard about this before is because as a death eater there are certain prejudices held against me and anything I do. Therefore, I had to keep my identity a secret to the wizarding world as a whole."

Harry finally closed his mouth, "Wow, that's wow. Well now you can tell everyone." S

everus shook his head, "No, even if I could convince the Wizing Gammot that I was not a death eater not everyone in the wizarding world would believe me and many would stop using my potions, which in some cases could be lethal to those who have trusted my works for so many years."

Harry swallowed hard he didn't think it was fair for his father to be judged so harshly for something he didn't willingly do, especially since he had been found not guilty of the charges by a court of law. Before Harry could remark Severus said, "Come on let's head to the next vault." They shot off for vault 412 Harry opened this one and could not see how big it was because there were so many books inside it. The vault was full of books more books than even Hermione could read in an entire life time. Basil, Falcor, and Methos were going crazy pointing things out to Harry. Many of the books were dark and many more were cursed, also there were several books hidden behind other books on the shelves.

Harry relayed all the information he was receiving to his father and Kingsley, Kingsley summoned all the books Harry pointed out as being either dark or cursed and placed them into a bag designed to hold dark objects then he preformed the scan and to Harry's surprise discovered two dozen more books that were cursed, but cleverly disguised so you wouldn't be able to tell what it was unless you used spell on it.

Harry walked over to one of the shelves and with Severus and Draco close behind he picked up one of the books and opened it to find what looked like records for various properties. Severus looked over Harry's shoulder, "They are records of all the Black properties I know some accountant who could look this over for you."

Harry brightened, "Yeah that'd be great, these others look like the same things."

Harry pointed every book on that shelf looked just like the one Severus had picked up Severus smirked, "Yes I'm not surprised these records undoubtedly go back to when the properties were first bought, which knowing the Blacks was probably centuries ago."

Suddenly Draco's voice rang from across the room, "Hey check this out!"

Harry and Severus headed over to were Draco was standing Severus got there first, "What is it?"

Draco held up the book, "A journal there are thousands here going back to forever. Look at this one." Draco pulled an old cracked book off the shelf he held it carefully so he wouldn't damage it further and opened it to the last page.

The ink was old, but legible Harry gasped when he saw the date January 3rd 1278! Harry gasped, "Dear Merlin, can you imagine what these records mean? All the new things we can learn about our own history and experiences. I can finally know something besides goblin rebellions about the wizarding world's history."

Draco smiled, "yeah, this stuff is amazing, we should get these restored and read through them or maybe we could donate them."

Harry's face brightened, "Yeah like give them to the Hogwarts library or a museum or something so that everyone could read them if they like."

Severus smiled at the two boy's enthusiasm, "that sounds like a good idea we'll look into it when we get back out."

Harry headed over to the next shelf and opened it there was a list of names and dates, "this looks like some kind of family tree."

Severus walked over, "I'm not surprised. Pureblood families usually want to prove there lineage, in fact it used to be required for children to be purebloods in order to attend school so they would keep records as far back as possible to prove that they were in fact purebloods and not just a wealthy family that claimed to be, which did happen in several cases by the way."

Harry gently put the book down, "we could probably do something with this to, have them restored and stuff at the very least it'd be interesting to see how far back the records go."

Severus nodded, "yes, but we don't have the time to go through these now so we should move on." Harry was reluctant to leave he was amazed by all the history and information available at his fingertips and he wanted to explore as much as he could, but Severus was right they didn't have time.

The next vault was 347 the Blacks had been exceedingly paranoid and had strewn their vaults throughout Gringotts so that they would be harder to find. The next vault reeked of darkness before Harry even opened it and when he did Falcor, Methos, and Basil nearly went crazy there were thousands of dark objects and it took Kingsley nearly twenty minutes to gather all the items Harry pointed out and there were still nearly 50 more left that Kingsley had to find. Inside this vault was all sorts of items jewelry, staffs, pensieve's (some still had memories in them) Kingsley insisted on taking these because there was no way to know what the memories were of or what would happen when they were viewed. Some wizards were known to put spells on pensieve's so that no one else could view their memories.

Harry said, "You know, since Krecher is mine and I can tell him to do anything I could order him to catalog everything in these vaults. Krecher would love it because he's crazy about the Black family and I would love it because it would keep him out of my hair."

Severus shook his head, "That's not a bad idea Harry, but Krecher is too dangerous to be left unsupervised amongst all these things, even the ones that aren't obviously dark could potentially be dangerous when in the wrong hands."

Harry nodded, "well it was just an idea."

Harry was about to turn to leave when he felt like something was calling to him Harry turned and felt a strong sensation coming from the back of the vault he headed back there surprising Severus, "Harry where are you going?"

Harry shouted back, "I'll tell you when I get there." And continued to move Severus followed him until Harry felt the pulling sensation stop. Harry looked around for a minute trying to see what had brought him here and then he saw it. Hidden behind an old chest of draws was a staff it was old and dusty, but for some reason Harry couldn't imagine leaving it behind. Harry reached out to touch it when Severus grabbed his arm, "Harry NO! It might be jinxed Kingsley!"

Kingsley came over, "What's wrong?" Harry explained about the feeling he had towards the staff Kingsley checked it twice under Severus' insistence and said that the staff was not cursed in any way Harry reached out for it and felt familiar warmth like he had the first time he'd held his wand.

Suddenly the staff began to glow everyone else in the room gasped, Harry turned, "what? What's wrong?"

Severus swallowed hard than spoke, "Harry this is a wizards staff it only used by mages."

Harry turned to his father and raised an eyebrow, "A what?"

Severus sighed, "A mage is someone who is exceedingly powerful so much so that, they can not use a wand after a certain age. When a wizard reaches 16 or 17 they come into their full powers and when that happens to a mage their power is too strong for a wand and can't be focused through it anymore so they have to use a staff like this one. It was traditional for mages too make their own staffs and it is almost unheard of for another mages staff to bind to someone else. This is amazing there haven't been any mages born in nearly two hundred years."

Harry groaned, "Great, just what I needed something else to make me different."

Severus grabbed Harry's shoulders and turned him so he was forced to look his father straight in the eye, "You are not different Harry you are special. You are powerful, but you never use it to hurt others. You are wise beyond your years and you are an incredible person. The Dursley's were fools for making you believe that your abilities make you bad in some way. They only said those things out of fear and because they were jealous. You have skills they don't understand and never will have, but that doesn't make them wrong. Nothing about you is wrong in any way shape or form do you hear me?"

Harry could feel the tears falling down his face no one had ever said something like this to him before, "Yes I understand, thank you."

Harry pulled Severus into a hug. While Draco muttered, "Potter what have you done? You've taken our surly old potion master and made him into a sympathetic softy. I never thought I'd live to see the day." Harry and Severus both laughed lightly at this. Severus muttered a cleaning charm on the staff then they took it and left.

As soon as they arrived back outside Harry got a good look at the staff. It was beautiful, it had been made of red wood so it was dark rich color, there were runes inscribed all over it. As well as numerous jewels in order to give the bearer better control and strength when using their powers it was lovely. Severus knew Harry couldn't carry it with his crutches so he shrunk it and Harry placed it in his pocket next to his wand.

Kingsley left with the bag of dark objects saying he had to get them someplace they could be properly dealt with before too much time lapsed. Harry, Draco and Severus said good-bye and headed to Madame Malkins. As they walked along people got out of the way to give Harry more space because of his crutches, but other than that he didn't get much attention the full extent of Harry's injuries weren't known to the wizarding public so no one recognized Harry because of his crutches and the changes in his physical appearance since the charms Lily had placed on him had worn off. Lucretia, Lexi and Drue were all done being fitted by the time Harry and the others arrived, but Myridia was still being fitted Madame Malkin was having a hard time fitting clothes to her because of her wings.

Severus flagged down an assistant and told him they needed clothes for Harry. The assistant a young dark haired man that looked just out of Hogwarts lead them over to the racks and told them to pick what they wanted and then it would be altered to fit Harry perfectly. Harry just stood there staring for a moment then started picking things out. Severus and Draco moved to help him. Harry choose several pairs of regular jeans and shorts, but he also picked out slacks in dark gray, khaki, and black. He grabbed some sweaters black, dark green, and deep red, as well as t-shirts and three belts. Harry turned red as he grabbed several packs of boxers and a new set of pajamas. Finally he found some simple long sleeved shirts and a few dress shirts in dark purple, blue, and basic black. Draco also choose a few items for himself, a couple pairs of pants black and brown, a few shirts in various colors and some robes.

Severus also had Harry pick out a few suits and an extra pair of new dress robes Harry also bought himself a nice faux leather jacket that he could wear in the muggle world. Madame Malkin practically fainted with joy when she saw all the clothes Harry had, "Oh how wonderful you'll look positively smashing in all this now get up here and I'll tailor it for you." Harry stood on one platform while Draco took the other. By this time Myridia and the others were done Madame Malkin started with their school robes and cloaks then moved onto the others. Harry was glad Severus had insisted on having the clothes altered when he tried on one of the dress shirts and found that it dangled off his arms like wings.

It took about fifteen minutes to alter everything, Harry once again found himself thanking their magic because all those clothes would have taken about an hour or more in a muggle shop. Finally Harry and Draco were both done Severus paid for everything refusing to let Harry even see the receipt because he knew the young man would feel guilty for how much Severus had spent on him. The assistant shrunk their things and they went out into the alley once more.

The next stop was Flourish and Blots, everyone got new inks and fresh parchment along with the books they'd need for the N.E.W.T. classes. Harry was surprised that most advanced classes required multiple books and he ended up buying about three for each class. Harry also found some books on Mages he decided to buy so he could learn more about himself and what was going to happen when he reached his full powers. The Kensington's also bought extra books on magical creatures and various laws that pertained to them in Britain. Harry figured they wanted to know what they could and could not legally do.

They stopped by the apothecary where Harry got some more unicorn horns and griffin claws along with several other items he needed. When they had picked up everything they needed Harry asked Severus if they could go into Weasley's wizard Wheezy's Severus groaned loudly, but he agreed.

The shop was full of people when they arrived, Fred was demonstrating a new product, "You see just pop it in and you get new dew." Fred ate a small orange candy and his hair instantly turned from ginger red to violet and it was spiked to boot.

Harry walked over to one of the stacks, but before he could reach it George spotted him, "Oi, Harry!" Harry turned as George walked over to him and gave him a slap on the back. Harry flinched lightly he was still a little jittery when it came to physical contact. George saw him and flushed, "Sorry."

Harry shook his head, "It's o.k."

George smiled and said, "So what do you think of the place?"

Harry grinned at him, "it's brilliant."

Harry was standing in front of a shelf that was marked, 'defensive mechanisms' George explained what everything did and insisted Harry take samples of a lot of it and refused to let him pay, "Harry mate you're our silent partner, your money is no good here."

Harry turned and saw a sign hanging above the door, "What's that?"

George looked over and said, "Oh that, why don't you take a look."

Harry walked back to the door where Severus was standing (the shop was small enough for him to keep an eye on the children from there) and looked up reading out loud, "This shop is dedicated in loving memory to Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs. Our hero's and inspiration; Marauders forever."

Harry gave a small smile at the sight of this, he knew Sirius would have loved it and he couldn't wait to tell Remus. It would mean a lot to him as well, Harry and the others all picked out various prank items which Severus groaned at the sight of, but paid for none the less then he said, "Come on now you lot we've got to get back to school."

They headed back to the street they'd come in on and portkeyed out again it was not a pleasant experience for Harry, but at least this time he didn't throw up at the end. The Kensington's each thanked Severus for taking them out and headed back to their rooms, while Harry went back to the dungeons with Draco and Severus. Grace came running up to them barking thrilled to see Harry again, Severus had had Dobby bring her in before they left. Harry scratched her ears and headed towards his room with all his things while Severus flooed Dumbledore to tell him about Harry's new developments. Dumbledore said he would look into it and get back to them in the morning. Meanwhile Harry was unpacking his things. Harry put all his new clothes in the wardrobe (he would be staying with his father during the school year because he wasn't ready to move back to Gryffindor tower and the stairs would be too hard on his legs for a while). He placed his books in his trunk along with his potions ingredients and the pranks Fred and George gave him.

Harry spent the next morning reading up on mages, there was not a lot of information because they were rare and reclusive people. Mages were strong magical beings who could tap into the natural world around them and learn to manipulate the very elements themselves; they could control the weather to an extent, something that normal wizards couldn't do. Some mages could manipulate matter itself and pass through walls or even fly without a broom! Harry didn't think he'd ever be able to do that, but he was interested in learning to use the elements. However, he knew it wouldn't happen until he hit seventeen because his powers wouldn't come until then. Dumbledore promised Harry he'd discuss this with Harry later, but right now he'd have to wait until after the welcoming feast.

Hpsshpsshpsshpsshpsshpss

Harry and Draco met up with Ron and Hermione just inside the entrance hall right before the feats, Hermione ran up and gave Harry a hug, "oh Harry it's so good to see you, you look a lot better."

Harry grinned, "Thanks, I think."

Hermione blushed, "I just meant you looked like you were getting better and..."

Harry laughed Hermione, "It's o.k. I know what you meant I was just giving you a hard time." Ron came up and clapped Harry on the shoulder. Harry shuddered as Grace barked, the young pup was very protective of Harry, she had grown a lot in the last couple of months and was now up to Harry's knee. She refused to leave Harry's side.

Ron smiled at the dogs antics and said, "Good to see you mate. How's things going?"

Harry grinned, "I'm all right."

Ron grinned as Harry turned to see something he'd never expected to see before Hermione was shaking hands with Draco, "Apology accepted Draco, and yes I am willing to start over fresh."

Ron gaped at her like a fish, but Harry gave him a look that said, 'don't start' Ron rolled his eyes, but grudgingly stuck out a hand out and said, "Well I suppose if Harry and Hermione are willing I will be to truce?"

Draco shook his hand, "Truce and like I told Hermione I just want to apologize for all the things I've said and done to you guys, I did it because my father made me behave a certain way not because I truly meant it."

Ron nodded, "Come on let's get in and have something to eat I'm starving."

Harry rolled his eyes, "What else is new?"

The four of them sat down at the Gryffindor table, the Slytherin table was no longer safe for Draco. As soon as they were seated professor McGonagall lead the first years in with the Kensington's following in the back as the new students they also had to be sorted. Dumbledore stood, "Welcome to another year at Hogwarts first of all I would like to introduce our new defense against the dark arts professor Nymphadora Tonks." Tonks stood her blue hair bouncing on her head and tripped slightly on her chair; causing many of the students to laugh, but soon applause broke out. Tonks sat down banging the table slightly as she took her seat. Dumbledore continued, "I would like to remind you all that the forbidden forest is off limits to all students, also I would like to remind you that all Weasley Wizard Wheezy products are banned from the premise. As you see we have some new students with us waiting to be sorted this year Myridia, Lucretia, Lexidius, and Drusilla Kensington they are quadruplets. Myridia is part elf, Lucretia is part veela, Drusilla is part demon, and Lexidius is a mixture of all of the above, I expect them to be treated with as much respect as any other student. Now on with the sorting."

Professor McGonagall placed the sorting hat on the stool and it began to sing,

Welcome, welcome one and all

To Hogwarts hallowed halls.

So step up and I will tell you

Which will give you all?

You could be a Ravenclaw

Were those of wit and learning dwell

You may belong in Gryffindor

Were the brave and daring stay

Or you could be a Slytherin

Were the ambitions and cunning

Have their say.

Or perhaps in kindly Hufflepuff

Were hard workers are welcomed best

So place me on your head and I will

Allow you to pass the test.

The hall broke out into applause and professor McGonagall stepped forward, "Due to their special circumstances the Kensington's will be first. Drusilla Kensington."

Drue stepped forward her horns glittering in the light many of the younger students shuddered at the sight of her, Harry couldn't really blame them, but he also felt sorry for Drue. The sorting hat was placed on her head after a few minutes it shouted, "SLYTHERIN!" Harry wasn't really surprised he couldn't think of anywhere else she'd really fit in. The hall broke out into polite applause as Drue sat down at the Slytherin table, but many of the students moved away from her in fear.

Professor McGonagall said, "Lexidius Kensington." Lexi rolled his eyes at the use of his full name, but he sat. It took the sorting hat a long time to decide with him, but it finally said, "HUFFLEPUFF!" The hall clapped again as Lexi sat down, but like Drue people moved away from him.

Lucretia was next, the hat didn't take too long with her, "RAVENCLAW!" the applause was louder for Lucretia sat and Draco growled as several of the boys at the table moved closer to her until she flashed a ball of fire at them.

Myridia was last, "GRYFFINDOR!" The hall burst into applause as Myridia sat down next to Harry and the others. Harry leaned over, "It's a little strange that you're all in different houses." Myridia shrugged, "not really, we may be quadruplets, but you should know better than anyone that we have separate personalities and identities." Harry nodded as the sorting continued in the end Gryffindor got 12 new students (including Myridia) Hufflepuff got 14, Slytherin got 13, and Ravenclaw also got 12.

Dumbledore clapped his hands and the feast appeared Myridia grimaced slightly at the meat that appeared on the table, but she didn't seem too upset with it, Harry figured she was probably used to it because of Drue and Lexi. As usual Ron dug in like there was no tomorrow, Harry got some roast beef and mashed potatoes along with a few other things. The others started talking until Seamus asked, "So Harry what's with the crutches?" Harry turned red, no one knew what had happened Severus and Dumbledore managed to keep it out of the papers by some miracle.

Harry swallowed hard and said, "My uncle hurt me."

The students sitting by all gasped and Seamus dropped his spoon, "oh, Harry I'm, I'm really sorry I didn't know."

Harry shrugged, "Now you do." The rest of the meal was unusually quiet afterwards Ron and Draco helped Harry get up and he headed back to the dungeons with Grace following obediently behind him. Everyone gave him funny looks, but no one asked him where he was going.

Harry and Draco got back before Severus, he still had to talk to Slytherin's, Draco could tell Harry was upset so he put an arm around him. Harry sighed and leaned into the other boy. It took Severus an hour to come back and when he saw Harry and Draco he could tell something had happened, "What's wrong?"

Harry sniffed, "Seamus asked about my crutches and I told him the truth."

Severus sucked in a breath and walked over to Harry and Draco, "Harry, I know it isn't easy for you, but as things come out people are going to ask. Just remember that you don't have to tell anyone anything and that you can always tell them to piss off."

Harry snickered as Severus pulled him into a hug, "It'll be o.k. Harry remember no matter what I'll always be here for you and Draco."

Harry nodded and Severus helped him up so he could go to bed Draco stayed up a little longer and talked to Severus about classes tomorrow. Harry's crutches made it harder for him to get around so he got tired a lot faster than he used to. The next morning Harry got up early and showered and shaved before heading off to the great hall. Once again Grace followed him; she refused to let Harry out of her sight unless he was leaving Hogwarts.

Harry sat down at the Gryffindor table and Professor McGonagall gave him his schedule, "Here you are Mr. Snape."

Harry smirked as the other students who were there turned and stared at him, Neville spoke up first, "Harry why did professor McGonagall just call you Mr. Snape?"

Harry grinned, "Because that is my name, Professor Snape is my father."

Neville nearly fainted, "What?!"

Harry sighed, "I found out at the end of last year he and my mum got married when they graduated Hogwarts. When my mum got pregnant with me she wanted father to quit spying, but she wouldn't tell him why. He said 'no' so she left and married James Potter she used an old spell to make me look like James Potter so no one would guess the truth. It'll never wear off completely so I look like a combination of father, mum and James Potter." Neville sat back silent too stunned to speak, word spread down the line and soon enough the whole hall was talking, instead of waiting for everyone Harry ate quickly and started to leave. It took him several minutes to get up on his own without Severus or anyone else to help him, but he managed it.

Harry went back to the dungeons and grabbed his books then he went to class Grace moved to follow him but he snapped his fingers at her, "No Grace, potions isn't safe for you the fumes will make you sick." Grace whined, but she stayed in Harry's room regardless. Harry went to class and sat down near the front for once, after a few minutes Draco, Ron, Hermione, Lucretia, Lexi, Drue, and Myridia came in. Myridia sat next to him and said, "You wouldn't believe what I just heard in the halls people are saying the strangest things."

Harry turned around to face her, "Really?"

Draco spoke up behind, "Oh yeah, apparently uncle Sev's had you locked up in the dungeon all summer he's been brainwashing you to think you're his son and now he's planning to turn you over to the Dark Lord as some kind of virgin sacrifice."

Harry burst out laughing and Drue said, "Well according to the Slytherin's you're all blood traitors and Voldemort." Draco and Ron shuddered at the use of his name, but Drue just sighed at them, "Voldemort is going to capture you and after your dead (which will take a very long time by the way) he's going to put your heads on a pike in his dungeon as trophies."

Harry snorted, "Yeah right and Hagrid's going choreograph the Russian ballets next performance." Everyone laughed at this as the rest of the students came in after a few minutes Severus made his usual dramatic entrance from outside the class room.

Severus glided forward with his robes billowing behind him until he reached the front of the room, "well, I see that you have all made it into the advanced class. Let me be clear that this is the most difficult and most potentially dangerous class you have had so far and if any of you don't think you can handle it I suggest you leave now."

No one moved, but some people looked like they wanted to Severus flipped the black board and said, "This is the potion we will be starting on. I feel I should warn you that many of the potions this class makes is used in the hospital wing so if I believe there is even the slightest thing wrong with your potion I will not accept it, there are lives at stake here."

Severus gestured to the board Myridia got up to get their ingredients because she knew Harry wouldn't be able to carry them on his crutches. The two of them worked well together and for the first time in ever Harry actually enjoyed a potions class. Charms was next Professor Flitwick had them start from the beginning, but they had to do the spells silently. By the end of class Harry's head hurt and he was exhausted.

No matter where Harry went whispered followed him and people gave him funny looks, of course this could also be because the Kensington's Ron, Hermione, Grace, and Draco went everywhere with him. Still by the time dinner was over Harry was more than ready to go back to the dungeons it had been a very long day and he couldn't wait to tell Christen all about it tomorrow. Christen had been out of town on an emergency for St. Mungo's and had to miss two sessions with Harry. Harry didn't like not being able to talk to him, but he understood why he had to leave. Harry really wanted to talk him because Ms. Tinsdale was coming at the end of the week to get Harry's deposition for Petunia's trial which was scheduled for October 21st, but Ms. Tinsdale said the date could change in the mean time Harry had other things to worry about.

A/n that's it for now, next chapter I'll start on Petunia, I know I said I would in this chap, but I got a little distracted.

1 Harry Potter and the half blood Prince, page 102.