Totally forgot in the first chapter but disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters or this world. All of it belongs to J.K Rowling. (A/N at the end.)

(sort of fillery and fluffy, some interesting realizations, and a whole lot of strangely OOC Harry. I wonder why it's happening.)

Harry pushed open the doors to the much too frequented hospital wing and glanced around the room. It was empty. 'Madam Pomfrey?' Harry asked the room at large. Bustling out of her office door to the right came Poppy Pomfrey. She looked at Harry and her eyes widened.

'Merlin you're pale. Come, come, let's get you looked over.' She said. She recognized the symptoms right away, she knew what was coming.

Harry followed her to the bed and he sat down. Madam Pomfrey waved her wand in a complicated pattern along his body and her face shifted into a pitying smile. 'I assume you are already aware of your condition Mr. Potter?'

Harry looked down to his knees. 'Yes, Madam Pomfrey. I just needed to make sure.' He glanced back up at her to see a rare, tender, motherly expression on her face.

'Let me look at that arm of yours so we can bring your missing chunk back.' Harry dutifully removed his T-Shirt for the matron as she eyed the wound curiously before bustling back to her office and returning with an acid green-tinted potion. 'Drink up, it'll bring the missing flesh back in a heartbeat. Remember that any injuries issued by a werewolf after the bite has been administered will leave permanent scarring. Professor Lupin is a fine example of such wounds.' said Madam Pomfrey. Then, the matron noticed deep scarring on Harry's back. Once Harry had finished downing his potion he watched as his bicep regrew to its previous (yet still somewhat pathetic) shape.

'Thanks, Madam Pomfrey' he said.

'It is my pleasure.' She paused, glanced back at the scars, and then turned to look Harry in the eyes. 'Mr. Potter, these scars on your back. Where do they come from? I've never had to treat you with your shirt off and I haven't noticed them before.' Harry blushed and ran his hand through his hair in a perfect imitation of James.

'Er- they're old. Sort of a long story.' was all he said.

Pursing her lips, the matron waved her wand over the scars and blew some fine golden dust off of her palm in the air behind Harry's back. Waving her wand in a Circle pattern the dust took shape in the image of a belt. Madam Pomfrey, having dealt with abuse in the past, knew not to bring it up straight away. She was going to have a word with Albus.

Calming herself slightly she said 'Well, Harry, just understand that your condition has no impact on who you are or what you are able to do. In fact, being you, you may be able to convince the world of a new stance on lycanthropy. For now, however, you must know that your magical abilities and your primary senses will be enhanced. You will find a great help in Professor Lupin. As I recall he was a good friend of your father's and I'm sure he'll be able to explain certain matters better than I..' She took a deep breath before continuing. 'I will have a word with the headmaster about your living arrangements. The Weasley's love you like a son, I'm sure they'd be able to take care of you.'

Harry snapped his head up. 'No! I can't live with them.' 'They'll leave me the second they find out.'

'Harry,' the matron said sadly, 'they will think no different of you. Do not push them away.'

Suddenly a thought graced Harry's mind. 'Madam Pomfrey, what if I could live with Remus? Or, er… Professor Lupin.'

The matron smiled and nodded her head. 'Yes, yes that would work quite nicely. You have the Potter fortune to fund yourself and himself, and it could serve as a prime example of how it is possible to lead a normal life as a werewolf. Yes, that is a splendid idea. I'll broach it to the Headmaster.' Harry nodded his thanks before his eyes glazed over.

Harry thought that his trust vault being referred to as a family fortune was a bit excessive. It was enough for seven years of magical education with gifts on the side. Not a fortune.

'Harry, there's a family vault. Separate from your own. It dates back centuries.'

'Oh. Is it really a fortune?'

'I remember it making me fairly uncomfortable. Which ended up fueling your father's love for me in the process.'

'I don't really need more money.'

'And you don't want any more, either. I'm proud of you for that.'

Madam Pomfrey was getting up to leave when she jumped at the sight of Albus Dumbledore, Remus Lupin, and a shaggy black dog already standing there.

'Good afternoon Poppy. Yes, Harry's living arrangements are in need of some modification. But Remus and Sirius here will be able to take care of such things.'

'Sirius? As in Sirius Black?' the Matron said, horror-struck.

'Yes, he's innocent you see. The real culprit escaped late last night so we haven't got much to confirm the events. Severus refuses to tell the truth to the Ministry so until Pettigrew is caught, Sirius remains a fugitive.' said Remus.

'We'll get him up on a bed, he's been in Azkaban Prison for twelve years for Merlin's sake!' the matron commanded. It was a testament to the dedication Madam Pomfrey had for her profession that she accepted such a crazed tale so quickly. The health of her patients always took precedence over such trivial things as the law.

Padfoot dutifully hopped into the bed next to Harry's and shifted in the ragged form of Sirius Black.

'I must say, Poppy, it's been far too long.' quipped Sirius.

'Shut it Black before I rethink my decision.' replied Madam Pomfrey.

After a full hour of rigorous diagnostic spells, inordinate amounts of potions, and many complex healing runes (apparently they can be used for more than wards) Sirius was looking well and truly alive, though still quite thin.

'That's the best I can do for now. Harry, we'll meet in private once you are settled into your new living arrangements with Professor Lupin here. Do not send an owl. Letters can be intercepted. This information must be kept a secret from the wider world. Only entrust this knowledge to those you trust with utmost clarity. Do you understand?' Poppy waited for Harry's nod before continuing. 'Now, some information you need to know at present. Your pale complexion will remain for a few days. Typically lasts for three days. If you are still unnaturally pale after the three days give it another just in case but no more! After four days you must come visit me. I stay here year-round so I will always be available. Your appetite is going to soar over the next few months. You're likely going to grow quite a bit, and gain a significant amount of muscle. I'm sure you've already noticed your senses have changed.' Harry nodded again. 'They are only going to get more potent the more you use them. I recommend practicing things such as cooking and meditation. By meditation, I really just mean focusing on your surroundings with your eyes closed and building a mental picture of the world around you without having to see it. Believe it or not, there are many gifts that come with the bite. Professor Lupin will be able to supply much more detailed information at a later date.' She smiled softly at the boy she'd seen far too many times in her infirmary. 'These are going to be a trying few years for you. One never truly gets used to the transformation or its side effects. Never forget that you are still Harry James Potter.' She patted his shoulder and hoisted him up off the bed. 'Run along now. The feast is about to begin. Believe me, you'll need it.'

Harry turned around to see Sirius meld back into Padfoot and slide into step with Remus. The halls were, as expected, empty. All the students had already begun filtering into the Great Hall and Harry knew that would only lead to more stares. Bracing himself and taking multiple deep breaths, Harry turned up to find Remus looking down at Harry with concern.

'Sorry Professor. I'm just worried Hermione'll figure me out like she did with you.' said Harry.

Remus smiled fondly at the thought of his best student. 'Well, you best tell her first then.'

Harry sighed and nodded. 'Alright, best get this over with. C'mon Padfoot.' Harry leaned forward and pushed the enormous Oak doors open. As expected, every face swiveled towards Harry and Remus. Many gasps and shrieks marked the Hall's occupants noticing Padfoot. Harry's lips tipped into a small smile at the thought of his Godfather eating at the Gryffindor table. Shaking himself, Harry strode towards his house table with Padfoot at his heels. Remus strode down the center aisle towards the staff table. Conversation sprouted up again as the school lost interest in Harry Potter and his new dog.

Spotting Ron and Hermione at the far edge of the table, Harry began the long walk up the aisle between the Gryffindor and Hufflepuff tables.

' air 'ou are 'arry!' exclaimed Ron through a dragon-sized helping of turkey. Swallowing at Hermione's glare he said, 'Where've you been all day? First, you sleep in 'till the afternoon; now you show up with Sir- er, Padfoot like nothing happened!'

'Well to be honest nothing really did happen. I just went to talk to the Headmaster to secure Professor Lupin a job for next term, and then took a stop to the infirmary to heal that gash you all pointed out earlier.' said Harry as he began to pick out his favourites from the offerings present.

'Gash!?' Hermione screeched. 'You looked like you got splinched!'

'Splinched?' Harry asked mentally.

'Wizards can learn to compress themselves across long distances. It's called Apparition. It's essentially teleporting, though you cannot travel internationally. All countries have anti-apparition wards surrounding their borders so as to avoid illegal activities. You can learn it legally when you turn 17.'

'Legally?'

'If you take after your godfather you'll be able to apparate at fourteen. They can't track it if you learn it wandlessley.'

'Wandless magic?'

'Harry, how do you think the animagus transformation is performed? Many light charms, as well as basic transfiguration, can be accomplished wandlessly. And, contrary to popular belief, anyone can learn it. The power level only affects how quickly one can master it.'

'You know, come to think of it, I think I've apparated before! See, one time, Dudley and his gang of degenerates were chasing me, and when I realized I had no way out I suddenly appeared at the top of the building. Actually… Hang on… All accidental magic is wandless! People must just forget they can perform it all because we all get so used to wands! Aunt Marge! That was wandless. I wasn't really in control though. Blimey. Oh, and one time, my teacher was tearing into me over my homework in primary, when all of a sudden-'

'HARRY!' Yelled Hermione.

Harry jerked back and focused on her. 'What?'

'We've been trying to get your attention for a good three minutes, mate. Your eyes got all out of focus and you just stared at Hermione with this thoughtful look on your face.' said Ron. He didn't seem happy at the fact that Harry was staring at Hermione but he didn't know why he cared.

'Harry you are extremely pale. Are you sure you're alright?' enquired Hermione.

'I'm fine! Honest. I fell in the woods last night alright?' At his friends' doubtful faces Harry corrected, 'Well… it was a nasty fall. But honest to God I only tripped. Madam Pomfrey patched it up AS-YOU-CAN-SEE.' He intoned by turning and lifting his sleeve to show his friends the unmarked arm.

'Harry? What were you thinking about while looking at Hermione?' Came a small voice across from Harry. Looking around his gaze landed on Ginny Weasley who must have sat across from him while he had been spacing out speaking mentally to his mother.

'Oh, Hi Ginny.' replied Harry brightly. Trying to will his face into a pleasant smile. It must have worked because Ginny blushed before her face turned serious. With newfound determination, she pushed forward.

'Is there a voice in your head?' She said it so quietly, that only Harry, with his heightened hearing, could have possibly heard it over the bustle of the Great Hall. Hermione narrowed her eyes in confusion, ready to ask Ginny to repeat her question.

'Oh she's good.' said Lily mentally while analyzing Ginny through Harry's eyes.

Ignoring his mother's antics Harry formed his face into a nonplussed expression and said 'Where'd you get that idea?'

Ginny Weasley is an incredibly impatient witch. And while she respects people's privacy, the look on Harry's face as he gazed at Hermione was all too familiar to her. She knew for a fact that Harry had never looked at Hermione in that way. She wasn't worried about that. She knew that look because it was how she spent her entire first year. She looked deep into Harry's eyes and focused on what Tom had taught her. Reaching out with her mind to see if this was the truth. Suddenly she was absorbed in darkness. Looking around frantically she tried to figure out where she was.

'You're a legilimens?' came a woman's voice from being Ginny. She whirled around and stared at the most beautiful woman she had ever seen. Standing before her, boasting Harry's beautiful eyes and a crown of thick red hair was Lily Potter.

'I er… I didn't expect Harry's mind to be protected… erm- Mrs. Potter?' said Ginny anxiously.

Lily Potter laughed. She didn't seem mad.

'Please, call me Lily. Say, did you learn that through the diary?' asked Lily.

Taken aback at the woman's knowledge Ginny nodded.

Lily smiled. 'Well, at least the snake gave you some interesting abilities. I take it you hide your power yes?'

Ginny shook her head. Finally trusting herself to speak 'I don't hide it. Not at all. I'll be in classes and I just get everything the first try. Like I've already learnt it. But I don't have any knowledge beforehand. It's sort of like muscle memory I suppose. Legilimency is the only thing I can consciously do. Oh, and parseltongue.'

Lily nodded her head absent-mindedly. 'Alright well, I'd say we can go back out.' And with that, Ginny felt as though she was shot back out into the Great Hall staring up at a decidedly confused Harry Potter.

'Alright? You just started glaring at me and then jumped a bit and looked all shocked.'

Ginny just gaped at Harry. Never, in all of the time she had spent this year gently prodding open other students' minds had she found one so well protected as Harry's. But what truly made absolutely zero sense whatsoever was the fact that Harry was not aware of the attack. Tom had always made it quite clear that those with powerful Occlumency shields could nearly always sense an immature mental attack like that of Ginny's. While she hated the man more than anything, Tom was almost always right when it came to magic. Something was different about Harry's shields. They were certainly not Harry. Then, Harry's eyes acquired that glazed unfocused look about them once again.

'Bloody hell, here we go again.' muttered Ron from her left.

Then, Harry started roaring with laughter. His friends unanimously jumped. None of them had ever heard Harry laugh this… exuberantly. He pounded his palm on the table as tears began to leak from his eyes. 'Blimey, she got you good Ginny!' Harry said after finally calming down. Taking shaky breaths Harry looked at the others, recognizing their looks of concern and apprehension Harry's mood began to sour again. As if recognizing Harry's mood swing, Padfoot jumped up onto the bench to seat himself next to Harry. This had the intended effect as Harry burst out laughing at the sight of the Great shaggy black dog sitting at the table eyeing the immaculate Hogwarts cooking with barely contained glee.

Using his wand, still shaking with laughter, Harry swished then flicked and started bringing over multiple boneless offerings. Piling them onto the plate in front of the dog. It was a feast fit for a King. Harry continued to roar with laughter as Padfoot slowly tilted his head towards Harry in shock before devouring the food in front of him.

Hermione's jaw dropped while everyone else began to laugh along with Harry at Padfoot. Harry had just performed a non-verbal incantation without even thinking about what he was doing. He just raised his wand, barely focusing on the task at hand, practically squinting due to his uncharacteristic laughter, and performed a perfect levitation charm. 'Harry! How did you do that?'

'Hmm Hermione?' Harry asked, taking deep breaths to steady himself. Why was he constantly grinning? It was almost as if someone was constantly whispering jokes to him while no one noticed because he just didn't seem to calm down. Naturally, Hermione had no idea that this was in fact, exactly what was happening. Mentally, Lily Potter was making random observations of those around Harry that stood out to her through his peripheral vision. Harry's mum was certainly the wife of a Marauder, for the comments she was making were equal only to Sirius Black in his prime.

Ignoring Harry's odd behaviour Hermione said, 'You just performed a non-verbal levitation charm!' She couldn't keep the awe out of her voice. She knew Harry was a talented wizard under all... Whatever it was. But non-verbal incantations are N.E.W.T level magic. Which is exactly what she told him.

Harry glanced from Hermione to the feasting dog to his left, fighting back another round of laughter Harry turned to face Hermione and shrugged. 'Reckon I did then. Seeing as Padfoot is happily eating a five-course buffet. Didn't realize I was doing it, to be honest.' Hermione just gaped at him.

Ginny, sitting across from Harry, was growing increasingly more concerned. Then, she noticed something that made her shriek. 'Harry! Your scar! It's not there!' Harry turned to her.

'What?' asked Harry. He looked to each of his friends in turn.

'Blimey Ginny's right!' exclaimed Ron. Harry brought his hand up to his forehead and traced the spot where his scar had been. They were wrong. Harry could feel the difference in texture, and the bump on his skin.

'No, I can still feel it.' he said. Lifting up his fringe to show them all.

Ginny noticed first, 'Oh yeah… it's really faint though. It used to be all red and scabbed like it had only been there for a few days or something..'

'Is it really starting to heal?' Harry asked. He sounded overjoyed. 'I absolutely despise the thing' he said in answer to the confused looks he was getting.

'How come?' asked Ron.

''cause, everyone always gapes at it and recognizes me everywhere.' said Harry darkly.

'Surely that's not that bad though is it? I mean, at least people notice you.' muttered Ron.

'I'll be the first to say that being recognized and awed everywhere you go is not all it's built up to be. It's fucking annoying is what it is.' Harry spat back, though it lacked any punch. It wasn't really meant for Ron and he knew it.

Ron laughed. 'Yeah, I reckon it does get annoying after a while.'

'Try the first time.' muttered Harry under his breath.

A disgruntled bark from Harry's left brought Harry out of his fame-pondering and he realized the food from the feast had vanished. The whole Hall turned to the Head Table to await Dumbledore's parting speech. The most peculiar thing happened then. A doe Patronus appeared in front of Dumbledore's podium. Dumbledore leaned forward as the doe stuck its muzzle near Dumbledore's ear as though relaying a message. That seemed to be exactly what its purpose was; because as the doe backed away from Dumbledore, he nodded. Harry assumed it was magically encoded to only be heard by Dumbledore himself because he would have been able to pick up on it otherwise. What shocked him, even more, was when his mum let out a mental gasp that rang through his head.

'Ow, mum! You just gave me a brain freeze.'

'I'm sorry Harry, it's just… well… That's my Patronus.'

'WHAT!?' Harry yelled aloud. The entire Hall had been silent and upon Harry's exclamation, every head snapped to Harry. His friends looked at him with ever-growing concern.

Harry, for his part, found the whole thing somewhat amusing. His tendency to forget where he was while talking to his mum had already led to some rather hilarious events. His curiosity took over his brain once more as he went back to unfocused staring.

'Are you sure that's your Patronus? The very same?'

'I've cast that charm more times than I can count. I'd recognize it anywhere. I used to conjure it for you as a baby because you could dance around with it. It would've been my animagus form too if I had finished my transformation before I got pregnant with you.'

'Well, you certainly didn't cast the charm. How can someone share a Patronus with you?'

'Well, I suppose in theory you could have the same Patronus if your life is dominated by that person. I mean every waking emotion and action is spent for them or with that person in mind.'

'So a married couple would have a shared Patronus?'

'Well, no, because then that would mean that the relationship is one-sided. If both individuals had the same Patronus that would mean that only one was devoting their life to the other. And even so, complete and utter devotion can slip easily into obsession, which is not inherently bad, just look at your father for proof of that, but obsession can corrupt the soul. We studied it in the department of mysteries.'

'What's the department of mysteries? And if you and dad loved each other so much, why didn't you swap patronuses or something. If dad was so obsessed with you throughout school, why was his Patronus not a doe? Remus said it was a stag.'

'But Harry you're missing why me and your dad were so perfect for one another. Our patronuses complimented each other. His was that of a stag. The proud, strong, constant defender. Mine was a doe, cool and collected, but still willing to defend those she loves at all costs. Just like the stag. There are many similarities and differences. I do not know why your Patronus takes the form of a stag. I'd hazard a guess that that is not your true Patronus form, but is instead created by the memory you use to produce it. When you cast the Patronus to save yourself and Sirius, you were thinking of your father. Though it is not proven, I am sure the intent behind the casting interferes with the form of the Patronus.'

Harry noticed how she failed to answer his question about the mysterious Department but thought against bringing it up. She could hear and read his every thought, either way, so he knew that she knew that he knew she had avoided the topic.

'You know, you're a really smart mum.'

'You've missed far too many birthdays so I'm glad you're making it up to me'

Harry was brought out of his conversation being shaken from both shoulders by Ron from across the table.

'Mate, honestly, what the hell is going on with you? You're as pale as a ghost and your scar has faded, and you keep unfocusing your eyes and just staring into space. You just looked at me for a good five minutes!' said Ron, looking for all the world as if he had just been slapped across the face.

'Sorry, I'm just… really tired. Last night was exhausting.' replied Harry. This was not entirely a lie. He was exhausted. Assuming it had everything to do with his being bitten, Harry passed it off as expected but seeing as none of his friends knew of his affliction and Harry wished to keep it as such, they were not going to get an explanation as to why Harry had slept twelve hours, only to be exhausted mere hours after having woken up. 'I reckon it has to do with the potions Madam Pomfrey gave me for my arm. I had to heal a lot of flesh really fast.' he made up on the spot.

Hermione's face instantly cleared of all anxiety as she put on her teaching mask. 'Yes, actually, that makes a lot of sense. I'm just glad there isn't anything wrong.'

Padfoot made a sound that, to Harry, was all too reminiscent of a snort. Elbowing the dog harshly in the rips, Padfoot started to feign sneezing all over the clean plates. 'Ohhh, Padfoot! There must have been something in the food! I'm terribly sorry. I didn't realize you were allergic to so many things!' said Harry in mock embarrassment. Padfoot turned and glared at Harry. Winking, Harry turned back to his friends. Hermione's comment rung inside Harry's head. "Glad there isn't anything wrong." Oh if only they knew.

'Yes, if only they knew. If only my son could tell them so that they could know.' Lily said mentally in a singsong voice.

Scowling, Harry turned back to the Headmaster who was now just finishing with his end-of-year speech. He announced that Gryffindor had won the House Cup and the Quidditch Cup this year. The table was going berserk. Padfoot, who had dearly missed end-of-term feasts, was running up and down the table barking like mad. Fred and George took an instant liking to Harry's companion and joined in the charade.

Soon, the school was draining out of the Great Hall and everyone was making their way back up to their common rooms. Harry was very much aware of the stares he was getting from Ginny. Hermione seemed to have taken the Hospital Wing bait and Ron had long ago learned that Hermione was usually right. But Harry knew that the person most difficult to convince would-be Ginny Weasley. The girl who had been possessed by Voldemort himself. The girl who had likely learned many things from the mind of a disturbed teenager. Harry knew that of all people, Ginny was the most likely to refuse in backing down from Harry's excuses.

'Whatever, at least we aren't as close as I am with Ron and Hermione. I would rather not lose her as a friend but I don't know how I'd survive losing Ron.'

'I like Ginny though.'

'Well, I'll think of passing it on. I'm just saying that-'

'I think you should start to think about branching out and making more friends in general Harry. Just look at the feast tonight! Your little group was off to the side all anti-social. Ginny is the first non-trio member who's sat down in ages.'

'Trio? Who's calling us "The Trio"'

'You're three kids in a friend group. Therefore, a trio.'

'Oh, I thought you were giving us some sort of title.'

'Mm. Alright, I'm off to sleep. Goodnight sweetheart.'

'Sleep? How are you supposed to sleep.'

'Believe it or not Harry, we are two separate people.' Her final statement was met with thoughtless silence.

Harry found that he really liked his mum. After years of little bits of information and stories he had come to picture her, but never figured out her personality. She was kind and loving, incredibly understanding which was likely influenced by her constant access to Harry's mind, but also funny and sarcastic. It was no wonder his prankster father had loved this woman. Harry loved her too. Though, not in the same way.

Saying a quick goodnight to the girls, Harry and Ron trudged up the steps to the third-year boy's dormitory. Climbing into bed Harry instantly fell asleep.

When Harry woke up it was to the sound of an ear-splitting racket. Though to others, the sound of Hermione's chastising voice was merely shrill and a bit loud. To Harry, it sounded like a banshee.

'OI HERMIONE, WILL YOU PLEASE SHUT IT!' Harry yelled back across his bed to where Hermione was telling Ron exactly how to fold his shirt.

'Well, good morning to you too Harry. You better get up, the train is leaving soon.' Hermione replied in a much quieter, docile tone.

'Mum? You up yet?'

A non-committal grunt came quietly from the back of his mind.

'Well, when you're up for it, do you know any instant packing charms? We've got to leave in the next…' Harry glanced down at his battered old analog watch. One of the only muggle devices small enough to still function around magic. 'TEN MINUTES! BLOODY HELL!' Harry jumped out of bed, stripped to his boxers, and just as quickly pulled on some comfortable muggle clothing.

'Well, that's a wake-up call I suppose.' Lily thought, yawning. 'Packing charms? Yeah, I've got one. "stipant cincinno". It'll pack all your belongings and lock them in. No one but the caster can access the items, even if the trunk is open. Sort of creates a shield around your stuff.' She said through yawns.

'I'm sorry but it makes absolutely no sense that you can yawn.'

'You know, in my eyes, I'm standing in your mind. I have a body and a brain too. They aren't, real per se, but they feel real.'

'Huh.' Was becoming one of Harry's regular responses to his Mothers' speeches. Truth be told, he had no idea how the whole situation worked. Most of the time he forgot the reason she was there. That her imprint was to represent the monster he had inadvertently become. That he lived a cursed life.

Walkins to his trunk Harry pointed his wand and said 'stipant cincinno'. All of Harry's clothes, potions ingredients, quills, parchment, and whatever other positions flew into his trunk in a great big unorganized mass. 'Didn't work quite as well as I'd hoped.'

Hermione had been watching the entire situation. Housekeeping spells such as the one Harry had just used were not taught until seventh year. They were instructed to those students on the assumption that many of them would be moving out of their family homes and would need the everyday knowledge. True, Hermione had read up on many of them, but how on earth had Harry known of them? She could remember clear as day the sign-out sheet for the book in question and the initials HJP were nowhere to be found. Granted, Harry had not performed the charm to perfection. He had completely forgotten to actually think about what he'd like to do with the objects in question upon uttering the incantation. Though it was still an odd sight to see Harry using a relatively complex spell.

Harry slammed the lid of his trunk down and forced it closed against the mound of clothing and various wizarding object. Flipping the clasp he cast a quick featherweight charm and lifted his trunk off the ground.

'HARRY!' yelled Hermione. Harry nearly jumped out of his own skin. He had forgotten about those around him.

'Hermione!' Harry said back in mock outrage. 'What?' he asked.

'You just cast another non-verbal charm!'

'What? Oh. Huh.' was all Harry said as he walked past Hermione. Hedwig flew down and was about to land on Harry's shoulder when she gave an indignant hoot and flew off. Harry couldn't understand this new behaviour in Hedwig. Ever since he had gotten bit his bird just never seemed to look at him the same way. Just another consequence on the long list of consequences of being a werewolf. Still though, Harry's forehead was completely clear of that strange presence it had had his whole life. Shrugging mentally Harry continued down the stairs, not entirely surprised to find Padfoot waiting for him, wagging his tail and barking in greeting.

'Hey Pads.' said Harry as he gave the dog a nice rub around the ears. The dog's eyes fluttered closed and Harry laughed. 'You're pathetic.'

After another five or so minutes Ron and Hermione came barreling down the stairs. 'WE'VE GOT TO GO! COME ON RON!' Hermione was frantically yelling at Ron and was pulling him by the hand out the portrait hole.

'I know you're hiding something Harry. And believe me, I'm going to find out what it is.' said Ginny from behind Harry.

Harry paled and looked at her. 'I knew you would see through my excuses. But I'm not ready to tell people right now. Please Gin, just let it go until I'm ready.' Harry pleaded with the youngest Weasley.

Ginny was taken aback at how distraught Harry looked. How completely and totally lost his eyes felt as they gazed into hers. This was what Harry was hiding. He was terrified, ashamed. Of what she could not know. She had already tried Legilimency and didn't fancy another chat with Harry's mother (?). She nodded and said 'Alright, but we're here for you. Do remember that.'

Harry nodded and looked at the floor. Now was one of those times his mum was talking about.

'You should sit with us today on the train. I know we aren't exactly best mates or anything but… Could always use more friends. Plus, we're the only two kids in the school who can say they've fought off Voldemort and survived.' He smiled up at her. 'Welcome to the club. Only one member so far but with you that makes two and the more the worse in this case so take it or leave it, Weasley.'

For the first time ever, Ginny Weasley laughed about the Chamber of Secrets. No matter how horrible her first year was, how awful and alone she had felt this year while everyone had avoided her like the plague, Harry Potter could find a way to joke about possession and a near-death experience.

'Total prat.' she said, shaking her head grinning. 'Come on, we don't want to miss the train.'

'Oh shite, right.' Harry all but ran out the portrait hole. Ginny was hot on his tail. They ran down the many marble staircases, all of which had blessedly remained fixed in the fastest way down. Bursting through the entrance hall Harry and Ginny sprinted down the sweeping lawns of the Hogwarts grounds. Coming to the open gate to the village of Hogsmeade, all of the carriages were already gone.

'Harry I really can't run this much!' wheezed Ginny.

Harry stopped running and frowned. He wasn't breathing very heavily. He hadn't even broken a sweat. For the sake of keeping up appearances, Harry doubled over and feign-wheezed with his hands on his knees. 'C'mon… Gin. We need to get to the train.' Harry said between fake wheezes.

Ginny nodded. Her face flushed from running. She shakily rose to stand straight when her knees collapsed. Harry rushed over to stop her fall. A long loud whistle sounded out in the distance as the sound of hundreds of pounds of iron slid over the magical railway back to Kings Cross.

'Well shite.' said Ginny. Her eyes were closed as she continued to breathe rather heavily while Harry let her down to lie on the ground. Harry joined her and together they closed their eyes and faced the pale blue late June sky. 'What're we going to do Harry?' wailed Ginny from beside him.

Harry hadn't really thought about it. Truthfully he hadn't been briefed on what he was supposed to do when he arrived back in London. Padfoot had run off to the train ahead of Harry so there was no comfort to be found there. Harry had been out of the tower too early for him to have been seen by either Remus or Dumbledore so for all he knew, there was no plan. The last time something like this had happened, Ron and Harry had taken Mr. Weasley's modified Ford Anglia and flown their way to Hogwarts. It had been rather boring as Ron was focused on driving and they couldn't enjoy the luxuries of protected flight.

As if responding to Harry's thoughts a blaring horn came from the depths of the forest. Followed by the sounds of a roaring motor engine and the combined crunches of thousands of fallen twigs being crunched under the wheels of what was undoubtedly Mr. Weasley's flying car.

Harry Potter is not a reckless student. He does not do things he should not do. All of his adventures were out of necessity. Hermione needed saving from the troll, Norbert needed a better home, the Philosopher's Stone needed to be protected, Harry and Ron simply had to get to school, and Ginny needed to be rescued from the Chamber of Secrets. So when Professor Severus Snape would chastise Harry for being a reckless arrogant prat "Just like his father", Harry always found that sentiment to be unfounded. Nothing but feeble attempts at holding up a long-dead grudge. (literally) But right now, with the odd pressure having been removed from Harry's forehead, he found that maybe Snape was right. Maybe he was a reckless git. Because the idea of flying back to London in the Ford Anglia was incredibly appealing.

'Hey… Gin… I've got an idea but it's mad.' muttered Harry conspiratorially.

'What's coming from the forest Harry.' Ginny sounded worried. She clung to his exposed forearm and Harry yelped jumping back. A sweltering burn mark was forming on Harry's forearm. Ginny's eyes widened in shock and looked up at Harry. 'I swear to god I didn't mean to! I don't even know how it happened!'

'Harry, check her hand for me.'

'Gin? I know you didn't mean to, you look too distressed for it not to be an accident. Can I see your hand please?' Harry tried to ask as nicely as possible while trying not to wince. She nodded and held out her hand. On her index finger was a beautiful silver ring. If he had to describe it he'd have to say it was overall "too much". Harry didn't know much about jewelry but it was incredibly large and… well… too much. Being spurred on mentally by his mother Harry asked, 'Erm, Ginny, do you know what that ring is made of?'

Ginny looked from Harry to her hand and back up to Harry. 'It's a family heirloom. Fine silver. Goblin silver if I'm remembering my mum's long talk about it. I absolutely despise the thing. It's just…' She made a gagging sound and Harry laughed. 'But it's a family heirloom so it's got to be worn by the first Weasley female for seven generations.' She sighed and rolled her eyes. 'I mean honestly,' she looked up to the heavens. 'It's beautiful and all, but could you not have gotten something a little less…' She waved her finger in the air towards the sky. She sighed and looked back down at her hand. 'I'm not supposed to take it off, I've been told it's important so…' She shrugged.

'Silver, Harry. Werewolves can't touch silver. That's why she burned your arm.'

'I'm allergic to silver? How am I supposed to handle sickles? Or silverware! I mean, it's in the name isn't it?'

'Most wizarding items that contain silver have impervious charms cast on them when they're made. Goblin silver is different. In that, it doesn't harm werewolves. So either Ginny's not remembering her mother's speech, or the facts haven't been passed down correctly.'

Harry was brought out of his conversation when Ginny asked, 'What do you think of it?' she was glaring at the ring with her nose scrunched up as if it had personally offended her.

Harry chuckled before his face turned into mock seriousness. 'Do you want my honest opinion?'

'Yes.'

'The honest truth, nothing but the truth and only the truth?'

'Yes Harry get out with it I won't be offended.' She paused and finally looked up at him apprehensively. 'Unless you say you like it.

'Fuck no it's hideous. Well I suppose it's objectively beautiful but to me, it looks like a bright flashy piece of… well… too much.' said Harry

Ginny laughed prettily and then jumped at the loud crash that preceded an increase in volume of the coming car. Harry had been subconsciously tracking the car with his hearing but had to admit that he had lost a bit of focus while talking to Ginny and his mum. Finally in a flurry of leaves and falling branches came the thoroughly beat up 1962 magical (and apparently sentient) Ford Anglia. It honked once and both doors opened.

'Well, I take it we've been invited?' asked Harry

'Harry James don't you dare.'

'Hush mum. This'll be fun.' said Harry out loud.

Ginny turned to him and glared. 'You are going to explain what is going on with you right now or I'll tell mum you've been possessed.'

Harry sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. 'You know I'm not being possessed because you spoke to her.'

Ginny flushed. 'Well, for all I know that could have been what Tom did to me if someone tried to invade my mind last year!'

Harry conceded the point. She deserved to know. At least, she deserved to know about his mother. Ginny was likely terrified for Harry and the thought that maybe he was falling for the same traps she had, over a year prior. He owed her an explanation. Not the whole truth, heavens no. But a partial truth. He just hoped she wouldn't see through it.

Ginny was terrified for Harry. From what she could tell Harry was falling for the exact same traps she had over a year prior. Of course, all of this had to happen to Harry. Just when he got his godfather back he got possessed. All of this was her fault. If she had been paying attention sooner she could have noticed the differences in Harry's personality over the course of the term. She hadn't been paying much attention to him (on Hermione's orders) to try and alleviate the crush she had on him. She could have noticed the signs of what she had gone through. Harry had been acting strange all day. Had he succumbed to possession faster than she had? What was the whole story? She was wrenched out of her thoughts by Harry's voice.

'Listen, Gin, I'll explain everything but if we want to get to Kings Cross before your mum notices we're not on the train we have to leave now. After what Ron put the car through last year I reckon it isn't keen on letting us drive it.' Proving his point the car made a spluttering cranking sound as a huff of indignation. 'Right, see? So we'll have plenty of time to talk. I'll explain everything I can about what's happened to me. Is that alright with you? Please we need to get back to London.' pleaded Harry. He knew he was lying. He was certainly not going to explain everything but that didn't change the fact that he was still going to tell something.

She stared at him appraisingly for a second before nodding. 'Let's get a move on. Mr. er, Mr. Anglia, could you take us to Kings Cross station faster than the Hogwarts Express please?' asked Ginny. The car merely flapped its rear doors open and closed in response.

'Oh, and make sure we aren't seen. Keep the invisibility booster up for us.' added Harry. The car honked and Harry and Ginny hoisted their trunks into the back seat before taking their positions in the drivers' and passengers' seats respectively. The car shuddered before it began to float off the ground. Then, without Harry's input, the car shot forward and began to fly south, high above the clouds.

'Alright. Now, let me explain.'

A/N: Thank you for reading!

Right, so another chapter is done and over with. The next 3 are heavier, not necessarily in length but in the story and emotional content. This chapter was pretty lighthearted and it's mostly because Harry hasn't really had time to process the bite yet. We're all well aware that he's unhappy but because he's still surrounded by his friend and the familiarity of the castle, adding on the fact that he really likes his Mum's presence, he just hasn't let the full repercussions sink in. "OOO Harry and Ginny in a car alone together, I bet the relationship is going to start now!" No. They need to actually become friends first. There's no way the Hinny here is just going to suddenly appear like it did in the books. And I'm sorry but Harry is a dumb boy. It's like one of Harry's funniest traits is how bad he is with girls. Also, Ginny at this point in canon is still the Blushing awkward around Harry girl. She only lets go of the awkwardness when she really goes on a roll talking. Plus if any of the readers are guys, you all know how inept we are. Especially at age 14. I absolutely despise GoF Hinny. It's so awkward and let's be real, we love awkward Harry. But not in a relationship.

Oh yeah, if you think Remus has taken this whole situation rather well, there's a reason for that. He's hiding his true sentiments quite well for the sake of Harry. It will be explored somewhere in the next two chapters.

Anyway, the next chapter is a lot more interesting in my opinion, but we had to leave school so.

The fine golden dust Madam Pomfrey uses to figure out the weapon used to form the scars on Harry's back is an idea taken from The Crimes of Grindelwald when Newt is tracking Tina in Paris. It outlines footprints and evidence left behind by creatures and people so I figured it could be used to show what had left such an effect on Harry's back.