Everyone knew that Harry didn't grow up in the most loving home, but no one knew the extent of the abuse he suffered. If he is ever going to escape the abuse and learn to heal he needs someone to help him, but who can he trust? Warning: contains themes and scenes of abuse. If you can't handle that, don't read it.

Harry Potter is broken and ready to give up. Severus finds himself in the unusual position of wanting to help. Draco, Luna and a secret organisation called The Shade all have their parts to play too, because the balance of magic is faltering, and that means far worse things than just war. AU Snarry / SSHP