Disclaimer: Not mine except for some OC's.

Summary: *h/d* At Hogwarts over the summer, Harry and Draco form a forced friendship. Everything gets complicated by a mysterious bond, House Elves, Squibs, obsessed Quidditch players, dark creatures, and one fishy Evangelist.

AN: I tend to call this fic a Gen containing lots of slash with Harry and Draco as the main pairing. If you don't like slash please leave now.

Also some of you were a bit confused about this fic. This fic IS, or rather was, Harry Potter and the Dragon of Bad Faith. I am rewriting it to fit new canon as well as change a few other things. Because so many things have changed you will need to read the new version if you plan on following along.

I should also note that this is going to be a very long (over 600 pages in Msword is my guess) story so if you don't enjoy lengthy fics then you shouldn't read it.

This was a painful chapter to write. Not only because I hate angsty!Harry but because I had to delete so much Sirius out. Every time I hit the delete key I felt like I was killing Sirius over and over again. Reviews will cheer me up. :D

Reviews are answered at the bottom.

PLEASE R & R

***

"Ummm. Lemon Drop. No, that's not it. Lemon Cup? No? Hmmm.how about Lemon Licorice?"

The gargoyle smirked, then pursed its lips and made a loud smacking sound.

"Oh.Lemon Kiss! Thanks."

The gargoyle swung open to reveal a passageway with a set of moving stairs. Harry step up to it and waited as it lifted him up to Dumbledore's office door. During the journey, Harry wondered why Dumbledore wanted to see him. Probably another little talk about I should be especially careful now that Voldemort has risen. Harry decided. Dumbledore had given him similar lectures throughout the year.

Harry finally reached Dumbledore's office door and before he could knock, the door opened to the fatigued face of Mrs. Weasley. Harry quickly glanced about the office and saw that there were others in the room as well. Professors McGonagall and Snape sat next to each over, McGonagall wearing a somber smile, Snape surprisingly without his usual sneer and looking rather grim. Hagrid sat on a corner stool and looked around quite bleakly, not meeting Harry's eyes. Dumbledore too looked on with unusual unhappiness and motioned for Harry to take a seat. This isn't looking good, Harry thought. Harry complied and noticed the portraits even avoided eye contact. Definitely not good.

"Chocolate, Harry?"

Harry turned to Dumbledore, holding out a dish of foiled covered chocolates.

"No thanks. So.what's wrong?"

Dumbledore sat the dish down glanced to the others. "Shall I?" he asked the adults, who nodded and murmured in assent. "Right, then."

Feeling a sudden bout of anxiety, Harry began to massage his scar. Dumbledore reached into a drawer and Harry was surprised to see him pull out a much-abused piece of lined Muggle paper.

"Harry, as you have guessed I do not bring good news. We have been recently informed that your Aunt Petunia an automobile accident. She, ah, died instantly."

Five sets of eyes latched on to Harry, waiting for a reaction. Harry sat in his chair, his face blank, revealing nothing. "Dead? Who-oh of course, Voldemort. Who else..." Harry suddenly let out a sharp bitter laugh, his eyes became wide and bright. "I don't know why I didn't see this coming."

"No, Harry, no." Dumbledore shook his head. A wave of protests erupted from Mrs. Weasley and the assembled professors.

Harry ignored them and continued in a high, slightly hysterical voice. "I wonder who will be next.Hermione." Harry slowly nodded. "Yes.she's the muggle born. Oh and then Ron followed by the rest of the Weasleys." He turned to a weepy Mrs. Weasley and looked blankly into her eyes. "I'm very sorry. It seems that I have marked your family for death. It's nothing personal, really. Obviously being connected to me is-"

"Stop it, Potter!" It was Snape's sharp voice that finally ended Harry's tirade. "The Ministry's top Aurors investigated the accident. The Dark Lord was not involved in-"

"And how do they know for certain? They don't, do they?" screamed Harry, bringing the room to a still. "That's what I thought!"

Harry lifted from his chair and laid his palms on Dumbledore's desk. Glaring down at the old wizard, he asked, "So how many more are going to have to die before you let me do anything? We both know what that prophecy said. It's him or me. You can't protect me forever, Professor. So how many more?"

Dumbledore met Harry's angry gaze with sad and somber eyes. "Harry, listen to me-"

"No! I have listened to you quite enough, thank you! Be still, Harry! Hang tight, Harry! All in good time, Harry! I have been still. I have hung tight. And I have waited. What has that gotten me? A dead aunt, that's what!"

"Harry-"

A very loud clatter arose from outside Dumbledore's office door. Everyone turned to stare at the door as three ghostly figures floated through it. Peeves, an annoying Poltergeist, appeared to be in a heated argument with Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor house ghost. Behind them was Professor Binns, looking thoroughly disgusted at having to be in such company.

"I'll tell them!"

"No! Me! You are going to mess it up!"

"I get to tell! I found out fir-"

"Now is not the time!" Dumbledore roared at the specters.

"I'm telling and you can't stop me."

"Oh, I can't, can't I. We'll just see about that! Besides, you couldn't string two coherent words together with a needle and thread!"

"Enough you two!" Professor Binns growled with a passion many thought the normally bland History of Magic professor was incapable of exhibiting. Binns turned to Dumbledore with a remorseful smile. "I must apologize for this interruption but if you will allow me to take a moment of your time you will find it's very important."

Dumbledore gave a single exasperated nod. With a disgusted sneer to Peeves and Nearly Headless Nick, Professor Binns floated to Dumbledore and began whispering in his ear. Dumbledore looked extremely surprised. "You are sure?" He softly asked the ghost, who firmly nodded.

"Alright then."

Without a backwards glance to anyone else, Professor Binns floated from the room, dragging the two still bickering ghosts with him. Dumbledore sat back in his chair; a look of uncertainty passed his face. "Harry." began Dumbledore. "It would seem that your aunt is not as gone from this world as we thought."

"What are you talking about?"

"Petunia Dursley is haunting Privet Drive."

Harry's jaw dropped and everyone started talking at once.

"But she's a muggle!" cried Mrs. Weasley.

"That's impossible!" exclaimed Hagrid.

"Albus, are you sure?" asked McGonagall.

Dumbledore silenced them with a raised hand. "Professor Binns has seen her himself."

"B-but.but," stammered Harry, his anger replaced with confusion. "Nearly Headless Nick told me that only wizards could become ghosts." His eyes widened and looked as though they might pop out of his head. "Petunia was a witch?"

"No, your aunt was definitely not a witch, not even a squib. Though it's exceedingly rare, it's not completely unheard of for a muggle to become a ghost. Given the right circumstances."

Harry fell into his chair and stared down at the carpet. Aunt Petunia was a ghost! That certainly softened the blow but she was still dead. Dead because of him. Dead because some madman couldn't leave him or those close to him alone. Harry suddenly felt very sorry for all the times he wished unthinkable horrors to befall Petunia. With Harry himself behind the wand inflicting the terrors. His eyes stung and Harry realized he was about to cry. He bit his lip as hard as he could to quell the impending tears. Once he had managed some bit of control, he looked up and said, "I want to see her...right now."

"And she wishes to see you. That's why she called the other ghosts to her through the Ghosting Network. But arranging a visit will take a bit of time."

"A visit?" asked Harry. "Am I not returning to Privet Drive?"

"No," Dumbledore said as he fingered the muggle paper before him. "Your Uncle has requested that you not come to Privet Drive this summer."

"Requested? Ha!" Harry said bitterly. "He knows I'm dangerous to his family."

"Harry, if your aunt was truly murdered by Voldemort she will know. All ghosts know how they died and who was responsible, if anyone."

"Even if appears to be merely an accident?"

"Even then," said Dumbledore.

"So when can I see her?"

"Well, I think it would be best to have the meeting when the remaining Dursleys are not around. Give us some time to get them out of the house and we shall take you then. In the meanwhile, we have made arrangements for you to stay at Hogwarts for the summer. There are other students staying as well, so you won't be terribly lon-"

"And you are welcome at The Burrow anytime," Mrs. Weasley quickly interjected. "Of course we would love to have the entire time but we all think that it would be safest here at Hogwarts."

Yes, let's keep Harry safe. We all know he can't take care of himself. He's a danger to himself and everyone else. Just look at what happened to Sirius. Weary of it all, Harry feigned tiredness and despite his protests, was quickly ushered to the infirmary where he was given a dreamless sleeping draught.

Nine hours later he woke in the same room where Ron slept. Mrs. Weasley sat softly snoring in a chair next Ron's bed. Madam Pomfrey quickly walked in and smiled at Harry.

"Thought you might be up."

Harry pulled on his glasses and squirmed as Pomfrey attempted to take his temperature.

"I wasn't sick you know!"

"Now Harry, you should know as many times as you have been here, that everyone gets their temperature taken regardless."

Pomfrey examined the thermometer and seemed satisfied.

"Can I leave now?" Harry wanted to be alone and forget the last few days ever happened.

Pomfrey looked thoughtful.

"It's still early, so I suppose. I am sure you would like to have a last night with your friends. But not until after you eat something." Pomfrey nodded towards a round table where a small feast magically appeared.

"I'm not hungry!" Harry protested as his stomach gave a traitorous rumble. Madam Pomfrey smirked and gestured to the table once more before leaving. "Eat, then you can leave." She called out. With a frown Harry tumbled from his bed towards the table. He must have made much noise as he could hear Mrs. Weasley rise to comfort Ron, who began wailing.

"Sorry, Mrs. Weasley." Harry said as she tucked a sleeping Ron back into bed.

"Not a problem, Harry."

Mrs. Weasley joined Harry at the table and helped herself to a piece of spotted dick and a glass of pumpkin juice. "I do hope that you will visit the Burrow this summer. I realize that Ron currently isn't exactly ideal company for teen boy but we all miss you and-"

"Of course I'll come."

Mrs. Weasley was delighted. "Just send an Owl and we will come for you."

"So you are taking him home then?"

"Yes, other than being three years old there is nothing wrong with Ron. Can you imagine how cranky a toddler would be stuck in a hospital all summer?"

Harry managed a weak smile and Mrs. Weasley turned a loving gaze to her sleeping son.

"It will be so good to have a baby in the house again."

Harry got the distinct impression that she wasn't entirely displeased with the present situation.

***

Draco Malfoy was completely miserable in his green silk pajamas. The night had been unnaturally chilly for a summer night and the dungeons only added to the cold. Dismayed, Draco found that he was too hot under the covers and too cold over them. In such situations before, Draco would merely sleep nude under the covers, but he quickly broke out of that practice in the middle of his fifth year when Pansy Parkinson had taken to sneaking into his bed at night in laughable attempts at seduction. Draco, when he was fortunate enough to catch a wink or two, was an extraordinary heavy sleeper and he shuddered to think of the many ways the girl had probably molested him as he slumbered on. But not any more. Draco thought, a pleased smile stretching his face.

With as resigned sigh Draco emerged from his bed, stepped into his slippers and quickly glanced at the grandfather clock across the room. Only 3:20 in the morning. Great, another sleepless night. Perhaps I should have taken Snape's sleeping potion after all. After a quick trip to the toilet, Draco quietly crept into Slytherin common room thinking he might take in a little mindless Muggle television. To Draco's surprise he found that he was not the only one with such ideas. Does that man ever sleep? He thought, astonished to find Snape sprawled on a couch watching a rerun of Keeping Up Appearances. Snape turned to Draco with a tear of laughter rolling down his sallow face.

"Oh that Hyacinth! What a crazy old bat, she is!"

Uninhibited glee gushed from the Potions Master. Snape may have been Draco's favorite teacher and Draco may have been Snape's favorite student but even he had never seen this side of the man. It was downright creepy. A commercial break flipped on the television and Snape turned to Draco, his voice still tingling with amusement.

"Another sleepless night, I presume?"

"I was too cold, then too hot, then too co-."

"Would you like-"

"No, I am trying not to depend on it so much. Been more than six months. Time to lay off a bit."

"Yes." Snape said approvingly. "We must not rely on magic so much. Even the greatest wizard is as weak as a newborn Muggle baby if he cannot survive without magic."

Draco was unsure of how to respond so he merely nodded in agreement. Keeping Up Appearances returned to the TV.

"Well then," Snape said before turning back to the show. "I think you might benefit from a walk. Perhaps a little exercise will tire you out. Here 's a permission slip if Filch or McGonagall give you any trouble."

Draco moved quietly away from the Slytherin dungeons. To be perfectly honest, he would much rather be curled up in his soft bed than roaming the castle late at night, but it was rare, even as a Prefect, for Draco to have such freedom and he intended to take full advantage of it. Unfortunately Hogwarts at 3:30 AM was about as exciting as watching the grass grow. As a last resort, Draco walked up to the Astronomy Tower in hopes that he might catch some students snogging.

However, the place appeared to be completely deserted and Draco sighed in frustration. That's when he saw it in the corner of his eye. The floating face was right beneath a window with pale moonlight casting an eerie glow over the face's plains and angles.

"Potter," said Draco, with far less vitriol than he had intended as he noted the lighting bolt scar. Draco crouched down and looked at the sleeping face. The slightly warped air surrounding the Harry's face told Draco that the rest of him must be under an invisibility cloak. Draco noticed that Harry's face was lined with red streaks.

The wonder boy's been crying, thought Draco. No doubt over his dead aunt. Snape had told him all about Harry's little tragedy. A tragedy that complicated Draco's life in more ways than one. The solution was so simple that Draco was ashamed that he hadn't thought of it before. He pulled out his wand and whispered a few words. With much caution, so not to awaken Harry, Draco pulled back hood of the invisibility cloak. A tuft of blaringly white hair flopped out. Success. Draco didn't dare check the eyes but he had no doubts that when Harry opened them in morning they would be a dull black. Draco sadly realized that his feelings hadn't changed at all. But at least now he wouldn't be reminded.

As quietly as he could, Draco left the Astronomy Tower. It was going to be a hell of a summer.

***

The Great Hall was gaily decorated in red and gold, proclaiming that, for the sixth year in a row, Gryffindor had won the House Cup. The Gryffindor table was especially rambunctious as they congratulated themselves and playfully teased the other houses. The Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs looked quite envious but the Slytherins glowered with great animosity. The laughter died when Snape swooped to their table and admonished them for taunting the Slytherins and their unsportsmen-like behavior.

"Those bloody prats deserve it!" Dean declared, after Snape had left. He continued much louder, making sure his voice carried over to the Slytherin table. "You would think they would be used to losing by now, wouldn't you?"

"Losing? I thought that was the Gryffindor area of expertise. What is it now? Eight times that the Hufflepuffs have beaten you at that dumb muggle game." A cool drawling voice rang out. The Gryffindors turned to see Draco Malfoy smirking at them. He and the rest of the Slytherins were looking very smug. Pleased chuckles sprang from the Hufflepuff table and several Gryffindors looked down in shame. However, Seamus jumped to his feet, anger reddening his cheeks. "Well, we beat your arse at Quidditch every time and that's the game that really counts."

"Right on!" Dean asserted, jumping to his feet as well. "Never caught the snitch, have you, Malfoy?"

Draco shot Dean a filthy look but did not answer. McGonagall abruptly appeared and all it took was a stern look for everyone to settle down. As soon as she was out of earshot Dean and Seamus began a not quite hushed conversation about the ineptness of the Slytherin Quidditch team, the recent strain on their friendship forgotten.

Several minutes later the Gryffindor table was once more in an uproar when Ginny and Mrs. Weasley arrived. Ron, perched on his mother's hip, shyly smiled at the gawping Gryffindors. After a few seconds of shocked silence several girls flocked to Ron who was absolutely ecstatic at the attention. Colin Creevy jealously watched Ron clapped his hands at Pavarti Patil, who bounced him up and down.

"Lucky little bugger! I guess that's the way to get the girls to notice you," Colin said dolefully to Seamus and Dean. They firmly nodded as a seventh year fought for Ron's attention by making the silverware dance.

"I hope you don't mind us joining you." Mrs. Weasley began as she took a seat at the table. "I just thought you all would like to say goodbye to Ron before we leave today."

"Not at all!" Lavender Brown squealed, reaching to squeeze Ron's cheeks. "He's so adorable! I am going to have at least ten children!"

Ginny rolled her eyes at the group of cooing girls then turned to Dean and Seamus. "Have you seen, Harry? I have something for him."

"Another valentine?" Colin asked, the envy in his voice evident to everyone but Ginny.

"That's none of your-"

"Ermininny!" Ron shrieked as Hermione appeared at the doors to the Great Hall. He leaped from Pavarti and clumsily ran to her, excitedly throwing his arms around her legs before grinning up at her. Even though she was still extremely mad at Ron she could not resist his cherubic smile and lifted him up for a big hug. She carried him to the Gryffindor table and pointedly stared at the gaggle of girls who had renewed their doting attention. The message clear. Three years old or not, Ron was hers, so hands off. After greeting Mrs. Weasley, Hermione cast a worried glance up and down the table.

"Has anyone seen Harry? I'm a bit concerned about him."

"Not since yesterday. He wasn't in the dorm when we woke up this morning," Seamus quietly said, intensely studying the prongs on his fork.

Hermione gave him a sharp glare before continuing, "Something isn't right. I can tell."

Mrs. Weasley miserably shook her head. "It's so sad. Granted they weren't worth much but he hasn't much family to spare."

"What?"

"You mean he hasn't told you?" Mrs. Weasley looked surprised. "I thought he would.he needs his friends right now."

"Tell me what?" Hermione asked, distraught.

"Well." Mrs. Weasley tentatively began. "His-It really isn't my place to say. He will tell you soon I'm sure." She gently patted Hermione's hand to soothe her but it caused Hermione to grow even more concerned.

"There he is!" Ron cried out, his arm pointed towards the entrance where Harry awkwardly stood. Harry's face flushing as hundreds of eyes stared at him. He quickly rushed to the Gryffindor table and slide in a seat next to Hermione and Ron.

"Harry! What happened to your hair? What's up with your eyes?"

"I don't know," Harry said angrily. "I was like this when I woke up. Nothing l do changes it back."

"Let me try," said Hermione. She pointed her wand at Harry's head and flicked it a few times. Nothing happened.

Hermione frowned in frustration and slammed her wand against the table.

"Perhaps its time for a new wand, my dear," said Mrs. Weasley, taking out her own wand and quickly transforming Harry's hair and eyes back to their original color. "Sometimes we need different ones as we age."

Before Mrs. Weasley finished her words Harry's hair and eyes was back in their white and black state.

"Looks like it's a time-protected charm," said Mrs. Weasley. "You'll have to wait for it to wear off."

"So where have you been? I have been worried sick. Seamus said you weren't in your bed this morning," Hermione whispered.

"So you are talking to Seamus again?"

Hermione frowned. "Never mind that! I know something is wrong."

Harry really didn't want to talk about it but knew he could not avoid the subject forever. "We'll talk after the feast."

Hermione was about to press for information when Dumbledore stood at the head table and called everyone to attention. His speech went mostly unnoticed by Hermione who focused on staring at Harry. Soon Dumbledore finished his speech and mounds of food instantly appeared on the long tables.

"Now Harry-"

"Not now, Hermione." An indiscernible look passed Harry's face and Hermione decided to let it go, for now.

Several minutes into the feast a large tawny owl flew into the Great Hall and dropped a small envelope into Harry's dish of apple cake. The owl gave a remorseful squawk before fluttering off. Several students watched with interest. It was rare to receive a letter during the Leaving Feast. Harry crowded over the letter, trying to hide it from Hermione's prying eyes.

Harry,

You will still need to pack your things, as you will not be staying in the Gryffindor Tower over the summer. I will meet you in the common room at exactly 4 o'clock.



Professor McGonagall

"What's that?" Hermione inquired.

"Just last minute instructions."

"Oh?"



"Tatos!" Ron squeaked, his blue eyes wide as food instantly appeared on the table. Ron dove into a huge bowl of mashed potatoes and immediately proceeded to build a mountain with them. Everyone laughed with the exception of Mrs. Weasley who made a halfhearted attempt to reprimand him. A small smile curved her lips as she wiped his hands clean. Hermione attempted to transfigure a napkin into a bib. She was ultimately unsuccessful and Mrs. Weasley took over the task, making a red bib with a cartoon lion on the front. Hermione gently tied it around Ron's neck.

"So you have forgiven him?" Harry asked.

Hermione gave Harry a cutting look. "Not by half, but it's hard to be mad at him when he is like this." Hermione's face turned grim and she coolly continued. "Mark my words. In 90 days he will be wishing he were three years old again."

"Look!" Ron exclaimed. He held his bib up to Hermione and Harry. The cartoon lion was licking bits off bits of the food that had fallen on the bib. Ron excitedly dumped a goblet of pumpkin juice on to the bib. The lion let out a tremendous roar, which only served to encourage Ron. Bowls of various puddings were soon to follow and in short time both Ron and Hermione were covered in food.

"I should have known he would be a little brat," Hermione said, attempting not to smile as she playfully tousled Ron's hair.

Soon the Leaving Feast ended. Hermione and Harry bade heartfelt goodbyes to the Weasleys with promises to visit soon. Mrs. Weasley had coax Ron off Hermione. It was only after she promised Ron a big box of chocolate frogs that he released his grip and agreed to go home. Hermione was a little teary as the redheaded family headed to Dumbledore's office where they were to take a portkey to The Burrow. As soon as the Weasleys were out of sight she turned to Harry and looked at him expectantly.

"What's wrong, Harry?"

Harry shifted uneasily on his feet. "Well-"

"Harry!"

They looked up to see Ginny Weasley running towards them. "I almost forgot to give this to you." She said breathlessly as she shoved a small package towards Harry. "I have to go, the portkey is set to go off soon. I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am. I'll write to you." She called out as she hurried back down the corridor.

Harry slipped the package into his pocket and turned to Hermione whose brow was wrinkled in concern.

"Well it's about the Dursleys."

Hermione's worry quickly morphed into anger. "What have those bastards done now?"

Harry gave a strangled unhappy chuckle. "Nothing, just died."

"What?"

"My Aunt Petunia is dead. I'm to stay at Hogwarts for the summer."

"Wow." Hermione was shocked. "How did it happen?"

"Car accident." Harry said blankly. "I found out yesterday. There's more.Petunia is a ghost. She at Privet Drive."

"But how? She's a muggle!"

"I don't know. Professor Dumbledore said that muggles can become ghosts too but it's really rare."

"Hermione, if have could have a moment of your time," said McGonagall, suddenly appearing behind them. She raised an eyebrow at Harry new appearance but refrained from commenting on it.

Harry was glad for the interruption and they quickly said their goodbyes, promising to meet up at the Weasleys.

***

Harry marveled slightly over the amount of things he had accumulated over the past year and wondered if it would all fit. With a determined grunt he pulled out his trunk and worked on packing his possessions. Harry paused when he got to his Quidditch posters. On his favorite one, Oliver Wood, former Gryffindor Quidditch team captain and now Keeper for Puddlemore United, expertly blocked a quaffle then turned to wink at the viewer. For the first time that day, Harry felt happy. He carefully laid it in his trunk so that it would not get smashed.

Despite the amount of stuff to packed, Harry fit everything into his trunk-thanks to a few shrinking charms and was finished in less than an hour. Noticing that he still had an hour and a half before his meeting with McGonagall, and with thoughts of Quidditch in his head Harry passed the time by writing a long letter to Oliver, though in the end, less than two paragraphs were devoted to Quidditch.

Shortly before 4 o'clock Harry rushed to the owlery to give Hedwig Oliver's letter. To his surprise, it was Dumbledore and not McGonagall who was waiting for him when he returned.

"All ready to go?"

Harry grabbed the handle to his trunk, which he had left in the common room. "Yes, Everything is packed."

Dumbledore made no move to leave and stared at Harry warmly. Harry squirmed and waited for instructions.

"Are you fairing well?" He finally asked after several seconds of silence.

"Sure."

"I know it's been a rather trying week for you, with the news of your aunt's passing and the situation with Ron."

Harry immediately felt ashamed. Ever since learning about his aunt's death he had thought very little about Ron's condition. Harry kicked himself. He hadn't even expressed his suspicions about Draco to anyone.

"Umm, Professor, about Ron."

Dumbledore quirked an eyebrow. "Yes, Harry?"

"Well, I noticed that Draco Malfoy has been watching Ron and Hermione a lot lately. It's pretty odd. Everyone knows-"

Dumbledore held up a hand and Harry stammered to a stop. "I am well aware that Draco does not hold friendly feelings towards Ron and that he has attempted many times, in the past, to cause trouble for you and your friends. However, I have no doubts that the magic that transfigured Ron sprung from an entirely different source."

Harry froze at Dumbledore's words. "Voldemort?"

"No, the person who transfigured Ron holds no ill will towards him. If I am correct in my beliefs than the situation will rectify itself before the summer ends. And if it doesn't, I am told that the mandrakes are especially potent this year. The restorative potion will do the trick if all else fails."

"So it was an accident?"

"Of sorts."

"Well who was it? You obviously know."

"I know nothing. I only have suspicions." Dumbledore smiled. "Now then, ready to see your new home? I must say I am a little jealous."

The subject was now closed.

Harry was astonished when he realized that Dumbledore had led him to the entrance of Slytherin dungeons.

"I'm staying in Slytherin?" Harry asked, puzzled.

Dumbledore gave him a mysterious smile. "Not quite. I must leave you here. The password is Snake's Fang."

At Dumbledore's words the entrance slide open. Harry stepped through and it quickly closed behind him before he could even say goodbye. He cautiously walked into the Slytherin common room. He had last seen it during his second year when he and Ron had polyjuiced themselves into Crabbe and Goyle to find out if Draco was the Heir of Slytherin. The room had changed drastically since then. The walls appeared to be made of plaster and were painted a light gray. Couches of various shades of gray and green were littered among tables made of glass and steel. There seemed to be two focal points in the room. One was a huge television that took up most of the wall it was pressed against and the other was a large bay window that looked out to a lush green field where two dragons, one blue and one gray, lay sleeping. Harry knew there was no way the window could be real and he spent several minutes staring at it.

"They battle sometimes."

Jayne Devon suddenly appeared at his side and smiled up at him.

"What?"

"They fight and we bet on them." Jayne pointed to the gray one. "Lost 20 galleons on Starbeam last week."

"Starbeam?"

"Yes, that's her name. The other one is Moondust." Jayne sneered. "Pansy named them."

"What are they doing here?"

"Its an illusion of course. Draco created it when he transfigured the room." Jayne looked appreciatively around the room. "Its nice, isn't it? Looks like something out my aunt's interior decorating magazines. Much better than the rest of this place."

"I happen to like Hogwarts-."

Jayne waved a hand dismissively. "English wizards and their musty old things. So I take it you are staying here too?"

"Yes. Dumbledore said that some other students are staying."

Jayne nodded and pointed to three students milling by a fireplace. Harry recognized the only boy in the group, Jeffery Higgins, a short blond American Ravenclaw who was poised to take over the seeker position now that Cho Chang was leaving. Feeling Harry's stare, Jeffery looked up and waved at them.

"Some of us have no place to go this summer while our parents work for the Ministry. So here at Hogwarts we stay. I expect it will be very boring. They will probably make us study the whole time."

"Everyone take your seats and listen closely."

They turned to see Snape stomp into the common room carrying a large painting of some sort. He appeared to be in an exceptionally foul mood. Harry and Jayne quickly sat down on the nearest couch. Snape took several seconds to glower at the assembled students, his eyes briefly softening as he peered at something over Harry's shoulder. Harry started to look behind him when Snape harshly continued.

"I am expected elsewhere tonight so I am going to make this quick. In his infinite wisdom, Headmaster Dumbledore has given me the task of babysitting you children for the summer. This causes me no small amount of inconvenience. Do not think that because you are on break that the rest of us are afforded the same leisure. You will not let yourself become a nuisance to me or any of the other professors that remain at Hogwarts. Are we clear on that?"

Snape did not pause for an answer.

"The rules for the summer are the same as during the school year with a few exceptions. Most of Hogwarts will be blocked off as it is being cleaned. Stay out of those areas. Meals will be at the same time as usual however we will dine in the Minor Hall. To get to the Minor Hall go to the sculpture of grapes in the Great Hall and pluck a grape. The entrance should then appear."

Snape suddenly smiled at the group of students. "You should consider yourselves most fortunate as you will be given a great advantage over your fellow students. I have already obtained your schedules for next year and the tentative lesson plans. As such, starting in one week, you are to study for your upcoming classes for at least 2 hours every weekday in the library. Madam Pince is aware of this and will be checking on you. Those of you entering your fifth and seventh year must study for additional 10 hours a week in preparation of your N.E.WT.S. and O.W.L.s."

No one attempted to suppress their groans at the rule. Snape's smile vanished quickly.

"Now, despite my strong reservations, the Headmaster has decided to treat you all and allow you visit Hogsmeade any day of the week as long as you inform a professor beforehand, go in groups of three or more, and return before the sun sets. Failure to do so will cause your Hogsmeade privilege to be revoked not only for the summer but for the school year as well. Also-" Snape looked thoroughly disgusted. "An occasional field trip might be arranged if you behave."

Snape sneered at the suddenly happy students. "Just remember," He glared at Harry as he continued, "If any of you so much as put a toe out of line your time here will feel more like prison than summer camp." Snape abruptly broke his stare and picked up the painting he had carried in. "Now about your living arrangements. The Slytherin common room will serve as your common room over the summer as it is the closest to The Aquarium."

Harry and Jayne exchanged confused glances. The Aquarium? Harry mouthed to her. Snape began walking around the room and tapped the wall in random places.

"You are to treat the Slytherin common room as you would your own. You will keep it and your rooms clean. The house elves are not your personal servants and have much work to do over the summer. You will not damage anything and you will stay out of the Slytherin dormitories as you have no business in them." Snape continued his taping and stopped when a loud splash of water sounded out. At that spot Snape hung the painting. Harry could see that the painting depicted an underwater scene. Several fish floated in and out. The painting seemed out of place and gaudy in the simple elegance of the Slytherin common room. Snape continued.

"Because Hogwarts gets extremely hot over the summer and most of you are not skilled enough to master a simple cooling spell, we are housing you in the coolest part of Hogwarts. Now leave your things and line up here before this painting. This is the entrance to your rooms and you must pay careful attention to my instructions."

Harry and Jayne were first in line, not do to eagerness but because they had been the closest to the painting. Snape reached into his pocket and pulled out a small piece of parchment. He examined it closely and something about it must have greatly pleased him as his lips curled in a strange yet knowing smile. A satisfied glint entered his eye and Harry felt nervous.

When everyone was lined up Snape continued. "Now this painting will take you directly to your room. In each room there is a painting of a shell lying on a beach. When you wish to return to this room you are to touch the shell." Snape looked at his scrap of parchment again. "Potter, you are assigned the silver fish. That will be your fish for the remainder of the summer. Now grab it."

"Huh?"

"Too many bludgers to the head? Grab the silver fish."

Harry pressed his fingers against the canvas where the silver fish lazily floated about and suddenly found himself immersed in a world of blue and green swirls. The sensation of cold water surrounded him and bold strokes of color swam and flickered before his eyes. Panicked, Harry gasped for air only to find the metallic taste of paint. He faintly heard the raspy amused voice of Snape.

"Forgot to tell him to take a deep breath."

I bet. Harry bitterly thought as he attempted to calm himself. Before another thought could register Harry was roughly dumped on a hard lacquered floor. Wincing in pain, Harry massaged his back and pulled himself up. That was ten times worse than flooing.



After calling Snape every foul name he could think up, Harry looked at his new surroundings. He gaped at it with impressed awe. It was a large room, almost as big as the Gryffindor common room and was lit by a huge skylight framed in silver. The walls were white with lustrous silver flakes embedded in it. Harry gingerly picked a flake off the wall and examined it under his fingers. Fish scales. Two king sized beds with white duvets sparsely threaded with silver were pressed against a far wall. Next to each bed was a very large wardrobe and in front of one of them sat Harry's things. There was a trunk in front of the other wardrobe as well. Must be rooming with Jeffery.

Turning away from the unfamiliar trunk, Harry explored the rest of the room. Chairs covered in a similar fabric as the bed were scattered throughout the room. A large sitting area lay before a wall completely covered by a heavy white curtain and two white marble tables loaded with books were positioned in the middle of room. An investigation revealed that they were there the study materials for his N.E.W.T.S and classes. Harry quickly moved away from them with a scowl. Just then a loud tapping came from behind the white curtain and Harry curiously pulled it open. So that's why this is called The Aquarium.



Instead of the familiar Hogwarts grounds there was a mermaid smiling at him behind the glass pane. Harry grinned back and waved as several other merfolk crowded in front of the glass. After a few minutes of waving and smiling they swam off leaving Harry to watch as fish and other sea creatures drifted past. It wasn't long before the novelty wore off and Harry found himself slightly bored, and wondering what was keeping Jeffery. Realizing he needed to use the bathroom, Harry glanced about the room with a concerned eye. Knowing Snape, he would put me in the only room without a toilet A-ha! Harry had almost missed the door as it meshed so well with the walls it was practically invisible.

Harry was equally impressed with the bathroom. It matched the bedroom perfectly and best of all it had a huge bathtub that rivaled the one in the Prefect's bathroom. I definitely could get used to this. Harry thought as he washed his hands. Harry was contemplating if he had time for a bath when a loud crash and disgruntled grunt came from the bedroom.

Inside the bedroom Draco Malfoy threw a perfunctory glance around the room. "Not bad, not bad at all." He mused aloud. His eyes stopped at an open doorway where Harry Potter stood, the Gryffindor wearing a very irate frown.

"Oh, now that's bad." Draco said before cursing Snape.

AN: Hoped you liked it. Previews of the next chapter: Snape gives Harry and Draco an assignment that vexes them both. Questionable loyalties are revealed. Harry learns something very surprising about Draco.

And now the reviews:

liatli-1228: Of, course he is! Though you already know that now, LOL. And don't you worry. There will be lots of smut. You'll have to wait for it though.Thanks for reviewing!

Empress of the Eclipse: I pretty much already answered your review in my LJ. Yes...you're going to see more the transfer students. Ihopethey turn you off too badly.

Azhure: Thanks for the review!

Protect Jade: Thanks! Yup this chapter wasn't too easy on Harry. It wasn't easy on me either as I hate angsty!Harry. But it had to be done.

VelvetBlood: Yes, the bond thing is way overdone. I hope I have put a creative enough spin on it. I guess we'll see at the fics completion. Thanks for reviewing!

ForestEyes: Thanks!

sk8er_girl: Thanks. I too like fics that don't only focus on the pairing. Nearly every character has a subplot going. I just hope it doesnt get too plotty.

kellyerielf: Thanks. I hope you like the reworked version. Though its essentially the same plot so much has changed. I hope those who read the old version don't get terribly confused.

Wyntre de Romanov: Thanks for the great review and for adding me to you favorites! No need to read the original. This is pretty much the same as that one except for a few important things have changed.

yonniegrl244: Thanks. I am glad your enjoying all my fics! I just updated Repetitions yesterday and Fallen Stars will be updated in less than a week.