Faith Chapter 32: This Winter Sorrow, a harry potter fanfic

A/N: Hello! A bit of gore and death on the way. Hope you enjoy it!

DISCLAIMER: I own none of it, although I sure wish I did.

Chapter 32: This Winter Sorrow

Harry tossed and turned on the bed, his brow wrinkled in a deep frown as sweat began to form at his hairline. Sirius dozed next to him, a forgotten book laying open in his lap, one of the pages bent at an odd angle. A light snore came from the animagus – Harry whimpered slightly, shivering under his charmed blankets.

Harry wearily put one foot in front of the other, his head hanging low, his eyes nearly shut. He was so tired. The pain in his feet was white hot, increasing more and more with every step. The muscles in his legs felt like water, and his head pounded in time with each breath he took. His throat was dry as sandpaper, which made swallowing a whole new area of torture for him.

He shivered, the chill waking him from his walking daze. He blinked slowly, his brain not functioning properly. He frowned and looked down, then shook his head and looked up. He was no longer on the lit up road. But I was just…on…it…He closed his eyes and bit his lip – his shoulders slumped, defeated. He couldn't remember the last time he'd seen the road. He'd been too far away in the pain, trying to fight it off, trying to keep himself sane. He opened his eyes and looked around, squinting in the darkness, blinking away the bursts of color in his eyes.

A growl whispered past his shoulder. He froze, turning slowly to look behind him for the owner of the sound. There was only blackness. Harry caught a whimper in his throat – he took a step back, then another, then another. A second growl emerged from the darkness, louder this time, closer.

Harry turned from the direction of the sound, panic burning away all weariness from his limbs and mind. What did the man thingy say? He started to walk quickly into the black, the temperature seeming to drop with every step he took. What did he say? Harry began to pant, jogging slightly now, the skin between his shoulder blades itching. He said – he said, Harry frowned, his teeth beginning to chatter, he said…to find the road to take you home…picture…picture…

A third growl nearly swept Harry off of his feet. He clamped his hands over his ears, whimpering. I wanna go home, he hiccupped and shuddered. A wind began to whip around him, making his clothes snap and swirl. He clutched at them, his eyes wide, the tears drying quickly on his face.

The darkness around him was solidifying…it was moving, and it was cold. Harry shuffled back slowly, unable to take his eyes off of the mass in front of him. It bucked and swirled, faces appearing and disappearing, mouths open in screams or supplications; hands reached out to him, only to change into snapping jaws and sharp, sharp teeth.

He shook his head slowly, tremors running through his body, "No. Oh no, please no." He placed a hand out, palm facing the darkness, never noticing that he was shaking like a leaf. "Please go away. I'm really not very good to eat, I swear. I'm – I'm all dirty, and thin. There's not a lot of meat on me. It'll be tough and stringy, not – not nice and plump like a good monster like you would enjoy…" Harry you sound like a complete loon, he gulped, backing away quicker as the mass in front of him began to advance.

A hand wrapped itself around his ankle, jerked and pulled him to the ground with a scream. Something flew over his head, cawing, screaming at the monster in front of him. Harry put his arms up over his head, shielding his face and eyes. Something soft and ticklish began to fall on him; he cracked open an eye and looked down – bird feathers, big shiny black ones, nearly blanketed him.

The cawing and screaming were still going on – but quieter now, further away. Harry risked a peek at them; a giant crow was dive-bombing the mass that had been hunting him, the bird's beak was wet with Harry assumed was blood. He stared at them, mesmerized. On one level, all he saw was the crow and the monster. On another, he thought he sometimes saw a wild haired woman with a sword attacking a great, hideous beast with long, hairy arms.

A scuttling sound to his left made him whip his head around, paling when he made out the new creature. It was an enormous spider, its multitude of eyes focused on him, completely black except for a diamond shaped white patch on its back. Before Harry could begin to panic, however, the image shimmered and a young, dark skinned man was squatting a few feet away from him, his dark eyes laughing.

"Who-who-who –,"

"Are-are-are you?" The young man tilted his head, staring at Harry without blinking. "I-I-I am Anansi."

Harry flushed and the young man laughed.

"A bit touchy on the pride side, aren't we?"

Harry struggled to sit up, his face warm. "It's not nice to make fun of people." A loud roar and an answering scream made them both jump and look over – the monster was flailing about, trying to hit the crow with its arms, but kept missing. Harry sucked in a breath and scuttled a few feet away, terror rushing through him.

A warm breath on his cheek made him jerk around; the spider was right next to him now, the many eyes tracing his jaw and cheek. One of the eight legs was poised to strike, ready to pin him down and hold him for Merlin only knew what. Harry whimpered. "Shh, pretty boy. Shh, shh, shh. You should know better to run from one monster to another."

The leg drew back and all Harry seemed able to do was watch. It blurred – then something hit him hard in the side, making his ribs scream with pain. His new attacker and him rolled several times, before the other person lunged to its feet, whipping out a strangely colored sword, the skin on its back flapping.

"I thought you were a non-violent selkie?" Harry's voice was dazed and soft.

The creature looked down at him, its eyes unreadable. "Well, I lied." It turned to face the spider, leveling its sword at it. "Now, Anansi, go away. We've had this conversation how many times before? You leave the mortals alone, and their irritating little priests leave us alone, you getting me here?"

The spider hissed and reared back onto its last four legs, its mandible snapping loudly. The selkie shifted and glanced back at Harry, its own eyes wide. "Kid, listen. You really need to start running now, ok? And why the hell did you go off the paths? I mean, I told you…" A roar made the selkie cut his lecture short and return to the angry insect in front of him.

"Damn it all to the fires of Hades you miserable little wretch!" The selkie didn't have a chance to test his skills against the god; the crow dived at the spider, driving it back. "Get! Get back to your own lands, you miserable little punk. Go one, get!" The spider was slowly driven back, the ferocity of the crow too much for it. The spider took one last look at Harry, then turned and fled, disappearing into the dark.

The crow landed with ease, watching it go with unreadable golden eyes. She turned and looked at Harry, who shivered. The selkie lowered his sword and backed away, not about to stand between the crow and the human.

"T-Thank you?" Harry shuddered, sitting up finally and wrapping his arms around his middle.

The crow cocked its head to one side and then began to waddle over to where Harry was laying. He tried to hold himself in place, and not flinch away as the massive beak got closer and closer to him.

"The seal is right, little boy. You are far from where you should be."

"I – I'm sorry." He eyed the sharp tip; there was still dark colored fluid dripping from it.

The crow clacked its beak softly, tilting its head to one side as it studied him. "Foolish mortals, foolish times. First no hounds…now lost boys…" Harry jerked his head up, his mouth opening. "Off to bed and sleep, little boy. Leave such dark matters to your betters. GO!" The crow lunged at him, making Harry's blood freeze. He stared at the plunging beak for one horrified moment, time slowing to a crawl. I wanna go home! The thought thundered through his head.

A force wrapped itself around his middle and jerked. Harry gasped, unable to scream, his hands flying to the invisible pressure, scrambling to try and get it off. It pulled and his world went black.

qpqp

Harry jerked awake, his breath catching in his throat as his hands scrabbled around him. A heavy weight sat itself next to him, hands coming up to rest on his shoulders, shaking him gently. Harry whimpered, still more asleep than awake – the hands paused before tightening fractionally, not letting go.

"Harry, hey kiddo, it's me, Sirius. I'm here, I'm here." Harry slowly stopped struggling, the last vestiges of sleep finally leaving him.

"S –," he coughed and brought an arm up to wipe at his face. "Sirius?" He let the blurry, dark figure pull him into an embrace, his godfather's familiar, spicy scent washing over him. "Sirius." The dark haired boy clutched at the animagus, shaking slightly. Was that a dream, or was that…real? He shivered again and buried his head into the older man's robes, pushing the lingering images away. I don't wanna deal with it now. He sniffed and tried to even out his breathing. Sirius is here – and that's all that's important.

"I'm here, lad. I'm here." Sirius' buried his face in his godson's hair, wrapping wiry arms around the thin frame, trying to warm the chilled skin. He stroked the bony, far-too-thin back and rocked the boy gently, a rush of emotion going through him when Harry buried himself deeper into his arms. Oh Harry-lad, I'm so sorry. He closed his eyes briefly, guilt and self disgust washing through him, easily overwhelming the joy of having his godson in his arms. Sirius you don't deserve him, the animagus pushed the voice away, refusing to think about how much it sounded like James. He pulled back slowly, whispering a spell to illuminate a dim light.

Harry winced at the sudden flare, his sensitive eyes making the sudden intrusion feel like a knife through the skull. He glanced up at his godfather, noting the expression on his face. "Sirius? What's wrong?"

The animagus' face smoothed instantly, a warm, caring look replacing the worry. "Nothing's wrong, Harry. Everything's fine." Sirius eased Harry back onto the pillows, fussing with the covers, but not meeting the younger man's eyes.

Harry caught the older man's hand, holding it gently, tugging to get Sirius' attention. "You're worried." He tried to hold the man's gaze, but the animagus fidgeted with the bed and avoided looking at him.

"No, no, Harry. Well, sure, yes, I'm worried, I mean. But nothing's wrong. You – you were just asleep longer than we expected, that's all." Now Sirius looked up at Harry, brushing back the boy's bangs, letting his fingers linger on the pale skin. "That's all."

Harry bit his lip and eyed Sirius warily. There was something off with his godfather, and he couldn't put a finger on what it was. "How long was I asleep?" He decided to ask instead.

"Two days."

"Two days?!" Harry felt his mouth drop open in shock as he struggled to sit up more in bed.

Sirius nodded, a touch grim. "Madam Pomfrey was starting to get worried. I mean, you woke up fine just after the potion –," he broke off suddenly and looked away from Harry, clearing his throat. "Yes, you woke up fine, then went back to sleep. Then, you just…wouldn't…wake up." Sirius returned his gaze to Harry, who finally noticed the dark, heavy bags under the man's eyes.

"Oh." The younger wizard let out a long breath, flopping back in bed. "But…I'm fine, right? I mean, there's nothing…wrong…with me, is there?"

"No! Everything's just fine, Harry. Really. Poppy's looked you over from head to toe," Harry turned a touch green, which caused Sirius to chuckle lightly. "Oh, your modesty is safe, silly. But she's looked you over, and can't find a thing wrong. Okay?"
Harry closed his eyes briefly, relieved. "Yeah, Sirius. Okay. Good." He opened his eyes and focused them on the far wall as a sudden thought came to him. "Good." I have to be well…it's the only way to go back.

Remus snuck into the Hospital Wing, tiptoeing past a few slumbering students. He cast a look over them; mostly third year students by the look of them. He hid a smile behind his hand…if he guessed right, all the children were there for a rather – disastrous Potions Class, in which third year Gryffindors had decided to rebel against Severus' teaching style and purposely make the potion incorrectly. The resulting explosions had sent even the Potions Master to the ground for cover. Severus had not been pleased…especially since a large portion of his ingredients had been hit by the exploding cauldrons, thus ruining them for any other use. Remus had been told that students could hear the irate Potions Master screaming at the classroom three halls away.

Remus turned back to the room, slipping past the last of the sleeping students carefully. He reached the screened off hallway and slipped behind it, the material whispering slightly as he passed. Remus hadn't seen Sirius since that morning when he'd left Harry's side to get some proper sleep in a real bed. Sirius had refused to leave, so Remus had left him in the room, a book to keep him company. Oh Sirius, you foolish man, the werewolf paused outside of Harry's door, listening carefully. He could make out quiet murmurs from the room, one of which sounded like Harry's voice. Remus' face lit up and he opened the door – never noticing the pair of eyes that were watching him from the corner of the hall.

"Harry! You're awake!" Remus hurried over to the edge of the bed, leaning down to give the dark haired boy a hug. Sirius' face was lit up, and both the boy and the man were flushed with laughter.

"Remus!" Harry's eyes were bright and clear.

The werewolf pulled up a chair next to Sirius. "How are you feeling?"

Harry made a face. "I'm fine, Remus. Really."

Lupin chuckled, "I take it Poppy's been here a number of times?" He leaned back in his seat, folding his hands over his stomach.

Harry rolled his eyes and huffed slightly. "A number of times? I think she's cast every single medical spell known to mankind on me in the last hour. And she keeps coming back to check for, 'just one more thing, dear'." The older wizards laughed at the disgruntled boy.

"Now, Sirius," Remus pointed a finger at the other man, a wicked smile sliding across his face, "you haven't let Poppy wear Harry out, have you? I'm sure Draco will want a word with him, and he'll be quite vexed if Harry falls asleep while he tries to talk to him."

Sirius rolled his eyes as Harry perked up. "Draco? How is he? I bet he's been a bit hard to live with…"
"Hard to live with? Are you loony? The boy's been on a three-day tear! The only people that can get close to him without him snapping has been Severus and Ginny!" Remus sighed, shaking his head mournfully, but the twinkle in his eyes gave him away.

Harry smiled, blushing a bit. "He – has he…" he gestured at one of the empty chairs.

Sirius shook his head, which caused Harry to deflate a bit. "Hey, there kiddo," Sirius leaned forward, reaching out to pat Harry's knee. "It's not like he didn't want to. Severus flat refused him, that's all. Said you needed your sleep and he needed to concentrate on his studies." Harry nodded slowly, perking up slightly. That makes sense, of course. There're three thousand things that needs to be done…and Draco can't sacrifice his studies for the OWLs for me. It isn't fair to ask him to…or to assume that he would. He sucked on his lower lip briefly, missing the look that passed between the two older wizards.

"Right. Got it." Harry glanced at Remus through his lashes. "But he's coming soon, right?" His hands twisted nervously in his blankets.

Remus smiled at Harry and winked. "Tomorrow after classes, if he doesn't show up before breakfast that is. I know he's been pestering Poppy day and night about you, so when she went to bed, he started to pester me, since he couldn't find Sirius."

Harry and Sirius laughed quietly. "Good, good," Harry smoothed out the comforter in front of him, not looking either man in the eye. "I want to see him too."

"I want to see him too." Sirius echoed, causing Harry to glare at the animagus and swat at him. "Oh Draco, my love, my heart," he continued, making Harry gape at him before taking the pillow out from behind his back and whacking the animagus with it. "Oh Draco, how I love thee, let me count the ways…"

Sirius was a shaking mass of laughter after both Harry and Remus were finished with him. Harry's pillows, on the other hand, had to be completely re-stuffed. The remaining Marauders left a little while later with Harry smiling in his sleep, peaceful.

They didn't stay long enough.

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It was the mattress shifting that next brought Harry out of the light doze he was in. Nightmares had plagued him all night long…at least I hope they were nightmares. He'd gone to bed happy, completely at ease with his godfather and Remus in the room. When he'd woken up from the first nightmare he'd been alone – don't be so selfish, he'd chided himself even as he shook. Sirius has been sitting by your bedside for three days. He and Remus need a little time alone together. Don't be so bloody greedy. He'd stared at the shadows in his room, licking his lips nervously as they seemed to move when he wasn't looking at them. Needless to say, he'd had a problem falling back asleep.

He cracked his eyes open a slit, taking in the fuzzy, blond figure at the edge of his bed, then relaxed and opened them fully, a wide smile transforming his face.

Draco was perched at the edge of his bed, the blond hair disheveled and dark bags under his eyes, but his gaze was clear as he watched Harry carefully. He reached out and touched Harry's cheek, his mouth quirking up into a half smile. "Hey scar-head." His voice was a touch raspy and soft.

Harry wrinkled his nose at the blond, a small chuckle escaping him. "Hey ferret." Draco's smile became a little fuller. Harry tilted his head into Draco's touch hesitantly, a slight blush creeping over his cheeks.

The skin around Draco's eyes wrinkled and the gray eyes lightened. "I'm glad you're back," the blonde's voice was gentle and a strange expression passed across his face too fast for Harry to read. "You had us worried. Especially Severus."

Harry shifted uncomfortably, looking away from the other boy briefly. "I – it had to be done. And besides," he risked a glance at Draco, "I learned a good many things by being in there longer anyhow." He gave the blond a hesitant half-smile, his hands fluttering nervously over his covers.

Draco sighed and shook his head, slipping his hand down to rest above Harry's heart. "Yes, but you risked so much. I don't know –," the door opening silenced him. The boys tensed and looked over, but relaxed when they saw it was only Severus entering.

The Potions Master looked at both of them, before his gaze finally rested on Harry. "Mr. Malfoy, Mr. Potter and I need to – have a little chat." Harry paled slightly at the Potions Master's tone. He knew that sound…the older wizard was not happy with him.

Draco glanced at Harry, taking in his pale face and frowned slightly before turning back to his godfather. "No, sir, I think I'll be staying."

Severus raised an eyebrow at the blond, but Draco held his ground, jutting his chin out stubbornly, his gray eyes becoming icy. The older wizard finally bent his head fractionally, knowing when a Malfoy had dug in his heels, there was no moving him. "Fine, Draco, you may stay, but," he leveled a look at the now grinning boy, causing the grin to fade slightly, "I'll not have a word out of you. This conversation is between myself and Mr. Potter, are we understood?" Draco nodded swiftly and moved to a seat next to the bed, taking one of Harry's hands into his own.

Severus looked down at their joined hands for a moment, a soft expression flying across his face before it hardened. He conjured a chair at the edge of Harry's bed and sat gracefully, flipping his robes straight and steeping his hands in front of his face. He looked at Harry for a moment, his eyes unreadable. "You, Mr. Potter, are a very difficult boy." Harry squirmed, his hand tightening on Draco's fractionally.

Severus sighed and dropped his hands to his lap. "Would you care to inform me why exactly you chose to drink the entire vial rather than the one sip I proscribed?"

Harry bit his lip and grimaced. He opened and closed his mouth a few times, words failing him. He took a deep breath and let it out in a gush. He hadn't wanted to tell the Potions Master this, but…"I – it hurts so much, getting there and getting back, that fifteen minutes is barely enough to see anything at all. I mean, I get to see what perverted new thing Voldemort's up to, yes, but I hadn't had the chance to actually explore. This time I did, and I think I found several things that were extremely important." Harry dropped his eyes to his covers and picked at a piece of lint, trying not to see how Severus blanched at his mention of the pain that the potion caused.

Severus sat for a moment and then leaned forward, his eyes dark. "Mr. Potter – Harry. Do you have any idea the risk you took last night?" His voice shook slightly, and Harry was shocked at the intensity in the older man's voice.

Harry risked a glance up, his stomach giving a small lurch at the pained expression that was on the older wizard's face. "I –," he blinked a few times. "There was no other way," he repeated softly, his free hand tracing patterns on the quilt. "The Headmaster has no more spies in Voldemort's ranks when he really needs them the most. I am the last option left."

Severus pinched the bridge of his nose and grimaced. "Potter…you are well on your way to driving me mad, do you know this?" Harry blinked at the Potions Master, his eyes wide. Severus looked back up at the younger boy. "You are never to do something as stupid as that again, do you understand me? If, if you have concerns about staying in the Otherworld for longer than a quarter of an hour, you will bring up your concerns with an adult before you decide to something so foolish again. Understood?" Severus' tone was harsh.

Harry looked at Draco, who was also leveling a stern glance at the dark haired boy, no help from that corner I guess. He sighed explosively and ducked his head. "I – alright. I understand. I won't take that much again without consulting someone first."

"Without consulting me or Madam Pomfrey first."

Drat, caught. Harry nibbled on his lower lip before finally nodding. "Alright. I won't take that much again without consulting either you or Madam Pomfrey first." Draco's hand tightened around his, a thumb sweeping across his palm, sending a jolt through Harry – it tickled, but didn't tickle. Harry glanced at Draco, but the blonde's face was calm and focused on the Potions Master.

Harry turned back in time to see Severus' face clear minutely. "Good. I'll hold you to your word, Mr. Potter." He stared at the younger wizard for a long moment, his face unreadable.

Harry looked down to where his and Draco's hands were clasped, a strange, foreboding creeping up his spine. Somehow, he traced the various lines and calluses on their hands, I don't think I'll need very much anymore. He swallowed a suddenly heavy lump in his throat, the bitter taste of fear heavy on his tongue. Flashes of his dreams flew past his minds eye – no, I think not.

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Several Weeks Later

Harry frowned as he flipped through his charms book, a tickling sensation irritating his nose. He skimmed over a marked area, one hand poised over his notes as the other came up to wipe at his nose. He went to reach for his book again but stopped when he saw the blood on his hand.

"Damn it," he swore softly. He reached into his pocket and withdrew an already bloodstained handkerchief. He pinched his nose and tilted his head back, happy he was in the Library and not in his private room in the dorms. Professor Snape would be flooing in right about now, he bit back a sigh and closed his eyes, relaxing as best he could in the hard chair.

He was alone for once – something he'd had to carefully arrange for weeks. It's not that I don't like being around everyone, he flushed guiltily, shifting in his chair. It's just – sometimes they can get so loud. Noise had been bothering him ever since he'd taken the potion again. When he'd woken and Sirius had been there at his side, he'd thought everything was going to be okay. But I was wrong…

Just after the Head Nurse had let him out of the Ward, light had begun to bother his already sensitive eyes. A quiet Potions class was uncomfortable for him now – and he'd taken to avoiding the Main Hall as much as he could, relying on Dobby's faithful presence to bring him food in the mornings and at night. It didn't help, however, that the mere thought of food made him queasy. I wonder if I'll ever get better? He opened his eyes and focused on the ceiling. Is it bad that I don't even seem to care anymore if I will or won't?

He brought away the cloth from his nose and sat up gingerly, poking at the offending appendage suspiciously; his luck held, it didn't begin to bleed again. He was beginning to have nosebleeds on a regular basis – which he'd been able to hide so far, but he didn't know how long his luck was going to hold.

He carefully swiped at his face, cleaning off the blood as best he could without a mirror. He stuffed the handkerchief into his pocket and reached for his book again.

"Harry?" His shoulders slumped and he sighed, giving up on studying for the time being. He looked up and then smiled. Draco was emerging from the shelves, his book bag bumping against his side as he walked, the sunlight from the stained glass windows painting his face a dozen different colors.

"Hey," Harry leaned back in his chair, flipping his textbook closed, watching the play of light on the fair skin.

Draco's expression suddenly clouded as he walked up to Harry, dropping his pack to the ground carelessly. He reached out and tipped Harry's head back into the light, his other hand coming up to trace over the other boy's lips. "What happened? Why is there blood?"

Harry reached for his face, but his hand was batted away by Draco. Blast and damn, Harry closed his eyes and sighed. "It's nothing, Draco. Really."

A wet cloth was suddenly dabbing at his face, which caused Harry to sputter indignantly and open his eyes. "Quit moving," the blonde's face was creased in concentration. Draco made a few more swipes at Harry's face, then leaned back. "There. Now," he tapped the dark haired boy's chin gently, "what happened?"

Harry stared up at Draco, thoughts flashing through his head. "I –," he sighed. "It was a nose bleed." He decided to settle on the truth.

"A nosebleed?" Draco frowned and picked up his book bag, rummaging around in it. He pulled out a small notebook. He made a notation. "How long did it last?"

Harry rolled his eyes but a fond smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "Just a minute or two."

"Mm. Good." Draco flipped the notebook closed and put it away, avoiding Harry's grab for it. A wicked smile suddenly appeared on his face as he leaned closer to Harry. The dark haired boy squeaked as he was suddenly and soundly kissed. "There. Hello."

Harry blinked owlishly up at the smirking blond. "Hello." He knew his face was probably flaming red – he still wasn't used to this; it always seemed like a dream to him, at least until the blond proved it otherwise.

Draco reached out and brushed his cheek, chuckling quietly. Harry ducked his head, embarrassed. It just made Draco laugh even more and lean in again.

"Oh ew, get a room." They jerked apart and turned to face a smirking Ginny, Blaise and Neville. She winked at Harry, how looked toward the ceiling and sunk down in his chair. Blaise and Neville laughed at him while ignoring the deadly glare cast their way by Draco.

"Horrid timing as always, you gits." Draco slid off of the table and brushed at his robes before sitting in the chair next to Harry.

Ginny snorted and made her way to one of the open seats, easing herself down into one of them, stretching out her knee as she did so. She rubbed at it fitfully, but the dull ache just throbbed in time with her heartbeat.

"Alright there Gin?" Blaise guided Neville into the last open seat before perching on the arm of his chair, resting one hand on the sandy haired boy's shoulder to steady himself.

She looked up at the sable haired boy and shrugged. "There're good days and bad days. Today was – a little rough." They all grimaced.

The mood in the school for the last month had been decidedly hostile towards Slytherins. Professor Flitwick had even taken House points from several students, while Hagrid had done the unthinkable – he'd sent some Gryffindors to detention with Filch. Harry had had a long laugh when he'd heard about that – and he'd also owled the half giant a sack of candy he'd gotten from Hogsmead, since he'd been forbidden to go 'tromping about' after dark, as per the orders of one grumpy Professor Snape.

Sirius had at first wanted to help Harry evade Snape's rules – but had suddenly changed his mind a day later. Harry was a little worried about his godfather – Sirius had been acting oddly ever since he'd taken the potion.

Harry supposed his godfather's increased paranoia came from the fact that Harry had been the most popular target for the school – even if he was in a crowd of Slytherins, someone would find a way to push or trip him, or otherwise launch small missiles at his head. He'd gotten very good at blocking charms because of it.

Ginny had been mostly avoided by the majority of the students – except by the Weasley's. Ron and especially the twins were quite vigilant in their persecution of her. She hadn't had to use her new cane yet – but the youngest Black was on guard. Maddie, another fourth year, had taken to walking with Ginny everywhere, as well as a number of fourth and third year boys.

A small rustling had them all alert and wary – but it only turned out to be Sasha and Seamus arriving. Oddly late, for them. Sasha was flushed and Seamus was straightening his robes – the rest of the Slytherins exchanged raised eyebrows and small, sly smiles.

"Ah. Hello. Sorry we're late." Seamus stuttered, nearly tripping as he came to a stop. Sasha glared at him once over her shoulder and smoothed her robes down with a flick of her hand.

"Good of you to join us." Draco barred his teeth at Sasha's glare. "What you do in private with," he ran a look down Seamus, raising an eyebrow archly, "others is none of our business. Just don't be late again."

Seamus gaped at the blond, looking back and forth between the two Slytherins. "You – you – you –," he sputtered, blinking rapidly, his face flushing.

"Oh Draco," Sasha sneered back at the blond, resting one hand on her hip, "at least I've found one who can dress himself."

"Hey!"
The Slytherins looked at each other for a moment and then began to laugh – including Harry. Seamus stared at them for a long moment, and then just stood there shaking his head, muttering about insane Housemates and wondering what the house elves had slipped into the pumpkin juice that morning.

"Oh Seamus," Neville finally leaned forward to see around Blaise, a few chuckles still escaping him, "it's all a joke."

Seamus glanced at the sandy haired boy and then finally grinned, winking at him good-naturedly. "Ah, I know, Nev. It's good to see you all laugh though. That's for sure."

That sobered the group slightly. "Well," Harry spread his hands out in front of him, a strange smile on his face. "We're the ones that need laughter the most I think. Makes everything – else – go down smoother." Draco reached out and brushed Harry's cheek gently, causing the dark haired boy to smile at him. They all looked down for a moment, silent.

"Unfortunately," Seamus sighed, breaking the quiet, "I can't stay for very long. Ron and the rest have gotten uppity lately. The House is now supposed to arrive for daily 'meetings' after classes – it's bloody annoying, it is." Seamus made a face at the memory. "They sometimes go on for hours…everyone complaining about what this 'horrid Slytherin' did to them, or what that 'Death Eater in training' did the day before to them…it's sickening."

Seamus paused and rubbed his temple as the rest stared at him, taken aback. "It just doesn't make sense. The older students saw through it at first, you know. The seventh years would just blow Ron off. But it's the first and second years that this drivel is really getting to." Seamus' expression turned grim. He looked up at Draco and Harry. "And it gets worse. Ron's started to use the firsties and the second years to spy on the older years…it's how he's getting everyone to show up to the meetings now."

Draco's head snapped up and his eyes narrowed. "This is – rather disturbing. You mean to tell us that he's actually managed to organize an intelligence ring in his own dorm?"

Seamus snorted and crossed his arms over his chest. "Hardly. He's using the younger kids to watch the older students – they tell him what the older students are doing, and if they're not at the meeting, he tells McGonagall what they've been up to. He even told the Professor that he caught two seventh years with a copy of a test – which I don't know if that's true or not, but," he shrugged, his face troubled, "McGonagall certainly was angry. Both of the seventh years are being kept behind a year for it."

The Slytherins exchanged worried glances. "Well, at least it's only Gryffindor…right Seamus?" Neville bit his lip and peered at the other boy.

Seamus shrugged helplessly. "I don't know. I hope it's just Gryffindor that's under this – madness. I really do. It's getting horrible…" he shook his head and uncrossed his arms, adjusting his book bag. "Look, I really got to go. The last thing I need is Ronnickins getting on my case. I'll see you when I can." He turned to Sasha, biting his lip. He reached out and touched her arm; she looked up at him through her lashes and smiled briefly. "I'll see you, alright?" She nodded. He glanced at the rest of the group once more before turning sharply and walking away.

The Slytherins let out a slow collective breath. "This is bloody irritating," Ginny finally said, leaning back with a huff in her chair.

Harry cast her a wry look. "They're getting too big for their britches."

"Especially today," she grumbled, fussing with her robes – they were her second best set. Her favorite set had to be sent off to a professional cleaner just after lunch, much to Ginny's disgust.

A group of Gryffindors had 'accidentally' started a food fight when Harry and Ginny had passed by the Great Hall, eventually covering the two Slytherins in pumpkin juice, strawberry sauce and mustard. Exactly how the food that they'd been throwing got outside of the hall, none of the Gryffindors were fessing up to. But the result had been…messy…to say the least. Ginny had not been amused, while Harry just bore it. Professors Snape and McGonagall had nearly fought it out in front of the students – Snape wanted every single Gryffindor to be punished while McGonagall was attempting to be fair to the students. Albus finally had to separate the two of them.

"Did you and Seamus find out any information about the McVir clan?" Harry turned to Sasha, who conjured a chair and pulled it up to the table. She took out a thick stack of notes and flipped through them.

"Yes and no." She flipped through a few more pages before setting a pile to one side. She tossed her hair back over her shoulder and frowned, skimming down the pages. "We took the information you gave us Harry," she glanced up at the dark haired boy, "and then I got in touch with a cousin of mine that's in the Ministry. We found that the McVir clan was a highly reclusive, distant branch of one of the many clans in Ireland. They've managed to hide their entire holdings from the muggle officials of Ireland – so I presume some of the best preserved old ritual sites remain mostly intact."

Harry leaned forward, his eyes dark and focused. Sasha skimmed down a few pages, a line appearing between her brows. "The McVir Clan genealogy was surprisingly easy to locate – but ever since the Ministry instituted the self-updating family trees in one of the government libraries a century ago, it makes sense. The Erin that you described, Harry, we believe is Erin Ludmilla McVir, the only granddaughter of the clan. All the other children were male." She looked up and bit her lip. "My cousin was rather concerned when he saw the tree; all members were listed as deceased, but the little girl – her name was misty and hard to read. Cousin Herbert didn't know what to make of it."

Harry's eyes gleamed as he placed his elbows on the table – only to jerk them off when Draco poked him in the side. He sent the blond an exasperated glance – but kept his elbows off the table.

"Now," she continued, "this is where we hit our dead end. Aside from names, dates and marriages, there's nothing about the McVir clan in the wizarding world. We have no idea where their family holdings are, if they banked with Gringotts or if they even came to England at all."

"Did you check the muggle news?" Harry asked before Draco could open his mouth. They all looked at him oddly. "Well," he said a touch defensively, "you said they kept their holdings secret from the muggle world. Now that the family's gone, it would stand to reason that the spells that guarded the land are gone as well."

Sasha pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes. "Yes," she drew the word out, nibbling on her lower lip. "Yes. Maybe." She lapsed into silence.

"And?" Draco tapped an impatient finger on the table. "Anything else?"

Sasha shook herself from her daze. "We've been looking into the Lord of Annwn myths…there really isn't a lot here at Hogwarts for us though. All we have is sketchy myths and gothic horror stories at best. We're still trying to weed out fact from fiction."

"What about Professor Flitwick?" Ginny tapped a finger against her chin, her eyes narrowed in concentration.

Sasha shrugged. "I've found that he's not very responsive to Slytherins…especially me."

"Well," Ginny began, straightening in her seat. "Maybe I could ask the Professor for more information."

Harry and Draco exchanged a glance. "Gin…" Harry began.

"Oh no. Don't start up with that 'you're too young for this' nonsense." She shook a finger at them, her eyes hard. "Professor Flitwick still adores me – I can't do anything wrong in his eyes. I can ask him the secrets to the Philosopher's Stone and he'd probably try to explain it to me as best he could. So shush!" She settled back into her chair. "I'll get what Flitwick has, information-wise. And that's that."

Draco and Harry exchanged another glance, but merely shrugged. "Alright Ms. Black," Draco smirked, ducking a wad of paper Ginny threw at him. "If you say you can do it, then by all means." Ginny grinned at him before leaning back in her seat, letting the other's conversations flow over her. Neville and Blaise now took over, with Sasha making brief notes on a clean piece of parchment. Harry and Draco would go after the boys – Ginny was only really there because she'd maneuvered her way into coming with Blaise and Neville. I want to do something to help. She bit her lip and narrowed her eyes in concentration, absently stroking the head of her cane as she thought. Anything.

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Hermione plastered herself against the wall, trying her best to breathe quietly through her mouth. She could feel various creatures crawl and brush against her skin, but she held back her shudders and shrieks. They're just insects, Hermione, her logical side pointed out calmly. There's less than a five percent chance that…

Footsteps echoed in the hall; Hermione flinched, then huddled down further behind the tapestry. She was tucked in a nook between two statues that she hoped weren't animated in any way, they better not be…The footsteps came nearer – Hermione peeked out of the small hole she had created, hoping she wouldn't be seen. Hermione! Destroying school property? She pushed away the teasing voice; it sounded far too much like Harry for her. At least the Harry I remember.

She turned her attention back to the hall. She watched Lavender walk past her hiding place briskly, never even glancing her way. Hermione let out a small, relieved breath, then eased out of her hiding place, creeping along the wall behind the other girl, scuttling from nook to nook as silently as she could. The other Gryffindor never once looked back.

After continuing down several more hallways, Lavender finally came to a stop at a nondescript door that led outside. Hermione slipped back around a corner, hoping she'd be able to hear what Hogwarts' resident gossip was up to. She settled herself on the ground, clutching her robe around her body tightly. It was chilly in the hallway – windy as well.

"You're late." Hermione didn't recognize the voice, but it sent shivers down her spine. She bit her lip and risked a peek around the corner, but all she could see was the back of Lavender's head. And her great fat arse.

"I'm sorry sir. I thought – I thought I might have been followed, so I went to the Library for a while. Please forgive me." Lavender's voice was contrite – but she's a big, fat liar. Hermione held back a snort of derision – she knew where Lavender had been; right in the middle of the dorms, making out with Ron on the Common Room couch. Great fat cow, Hermione snarled mentally. You can have the git.

"Really? How – odd. You smell nothing like books." Hermione grinned wolfishly. Ha! So there!

"I'm – I'm sorry…"

"You should be." There was a crack and Hermione nearly yelped. She clapped a hand across her mouth, that – that couldn't have been. Hermione's eyes were wide as she began to tremble. This is…I don't think this is… "Quit your sniveling, little girl. Or else I'll make sure you never receive your precious little gift, do you understand?"

"Yes, s-sir." Lavender's voice was watery, and Hermione could hear the other girl sniff and hiccup quietly.

"Good. Now…" the voices hushed dramatically, and no matter how hard Hermione tried, she couldn't make out everything they were saying. She only managed to catch snippets here and there.

"…goes to the Library daily…" She frowned.

"Health seems fragile. He's been sick…" Her eyebrows shot up.

Who are they talking about? Hermione edged closer to the corner, sucking on her lower lip. A pebble near her hand scraped across the ground – Hermione froze, listening intently. They continued talking. Oh thank god. She carefully moved the pebble out of her way and risked a peek around the corner.

"Potter needs to be separated…" the man's voice came through clear before dying out again. Hermione's eyes nearly popped out of her head as she ducked back around the corner. Why are they talking about Harry? Her eyes darted around wildly. What is going on here –

"The Dark Lord will be pleased with your report, Lavender." Hermione gasped – she couldn't help it. The man's voice rang in her ears as time seemed to stop for one, long moment. "Wait – what was that?" Hermione cursed silently and scrambled to her feet, giving up all attempts at stealth as she fled. She could hear the man's voice shouting, and Lavender's sudden shriek, but she didn't stop – she couldn't. Please don't catch me. Please don't catch me! She never ran so hard or fast in her life.

The Dark Lord, Hermione couldn't believe it. She took a corner hard, nearly running into a suit of armor. She pin wheeled away from it and took off again. Lavender's in league with Voldemort. Oh god. She could feel her lungs burning and the muscles in her legs turning rubbery. She was headed for the dorms when she changed her mind. I have to tell the Headmaster! She skidded to a stop in an intersection of halls, panting. But…she bit her lower lip, remembering the look the old wizard had given her in the Hospital Wing. But he – he won't believe me! I'm just – just one more Gryffindor who's been tormenting his precious little Boy-Who-Lived! She ran a hand through her hair, her mind spinning.

If I don't go to the Headmaster, whom do I go to? She focused on the ground, pressing her lips together. Harry. She looked up, her eyes blind to the walls around her. He – I – she took a deep breath and let it out slowly, her eyes hardening. I have to try. He can hate me forever…but I have to try.

She came back to herself and started, looking around wildly, but saw no signs of pursuit. She bit her lip and smoothed down her hair hastily, Lavender doesn't know it was me who was spying. She fanned her face, hoping the redness would soon fade. She glanced once towards the Headmaster's office, but then turned in the direction of Gryffindor Tower, keeping her pace slow and determined, a pleasant smile on her face. Please let him believe me.

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Lavender whimpered as she watched the fox disappear into the shadows of the forbidden forest. The animagus had been extremely upset with her. She touched her side hesitantly, her hand coming away bloody. She closed her eyes, tears slipping down her face, making tracks in the dust and the dirt.

Just one last thing to do, Lav. Just talk to Michael and set the plan into motion. Then He'll give you the reward and no one will ever make fun of you again. She bit back a sob as she pushed herself to her feet, wiping away the tears and the snot with her good hand. She drew her wand and checked the time. You have an hour, Lav. Hurry it up. She glanced around the hall, her eyes lighting on a mirror. First, lets get cleaned up.

It took precious minutes, but she made herself presentable. She cradled her arm against her side and plastered a happy smile on her face – it didn't meet her eyes, but it was of little matter. She straightened her robes one last time and headed off to the Ravenclaw dorms. She was able to catch one of the second years before they darted away into the dorms. She handed the child a note and moved to a shadowed part of the hallway across from the entrance, huddling in the darkness. She didn't have long to wait.

"What?" Michael Corner stalked outside of the dorms, drawing himself up short when he saw Lavender waiting there for him. "What are you doing here?" He hissed, grabbing her elbow and pulling her away down the hall and into an abandoned classroom, glancing over his shoulder to make sure no one had seen them.

"Let go of me you bloody bastard!" Lavender stomped on his foot, tearing herself away from him, hugging her arm close. He stared at her open mouthed, completely gob smacked. "It's time you fool," she snarled, tears sparkling in her eyes as she stroked her arm gently. "I've received word."

"From the Lord? But the messenger…what did he do to you?" Michael reached out to her, but she pulled away, two tears spilling over her eyelids as she struggled to remain impassive to the pain.

"Leave it, Michael. Just – leave it. There was an incident and I deserved it. I'm leaving after I talk to you. I'm not coming back. The Lord will need me once he gives me the Sight…I'll be his most prized advisor, just wait and see." Her eyes gleamed as she began to rock from side to side slowly, her gaze glazing over. She shook herself, her eyes clearing slightly. "You need to go ahead with the plan. Meet the fox before the rise of the new moon every month at the door that points true north. Watch Potter, and wait for the signal. It's beginning."

Michael's eyes widened and he nodded swiftly. "Oh Lav," he reached out for her, but let his hand drop before touching her sleeve. "This is wonderful news." They shared a look, Lavender smiling slightly at him before looking away. "Will you –," Lavender looked back to him. "Will you put in a good word for me with our Lord?" Michael's eyes were dark and haunted.

Lavender nodded silently as Michael's shoulders relaxed minutely. She frowned suddenly and flicked her wand, shivering at the time. "I have to go. I must meet him at the edge of the forest." She moved to the door, pausing before she opened it. "Pluck one or two of them off of the tree. The waters need a good stirring up. The world is almost ripe to pick, but He needs to give them one more little push." Her hand tightened on the door, sweat breaking out on her skin. "The snake has to be at the lake before curfew. Someone will meet you there." She glanced back over her shoulder, her eyes dark. "Don't fail us, Michael. The plan must work, do you understand?"

He nodded and she continued to look at him for a moment. "I'll remember you – when all this is over." She opened the door and slipped out silently, quiet as a shadow. Michael let out a gusting breath, passing a hand over his face, his eyes wide. It's begun. A slow smile started to spread across his face. It's begun. He shook himself, a frown creasing his face. I must find the others. He bit his lip and slipped from the room – there was no sign of Lavender anywhere in the hall. He stopped for a moment, his eyes tracing the empty hallway before shaking himself and getting to work.

He ducked inside of his dorm, catching a few pairs of eyes and jerking his head to one side. They slipped out of the dorm; Michael murmured his orders to them, making sure to catch and hold each pair of eyes. One of his recruits headed towards Hufflepuff, while another headed towards Gryffindor. Michael looked at Terry, who nodded once and took off towards the Library. Michael waited in their meeting room, the precious seconds ticking away inside his head. He stared at his wand, his eyes wide and blank. I will not fail, he let out a long, shaky breath, his grip tightening on his wand. I will not fail. He brought the slender wood to his lips, murmuring an old prayer his mother had taught him years ago. Please don't let me fail…

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Maddie hurried towards the Slytherin dorms, glancing over her shoulder repeatedly, I knew I should have gone with Ginny to the dorms. She bit her lip, shifting her book bag higher onto her shoulder, trying to shake off her unease.

She hadn't meant to be the last Slytherin out without an escort. Draco and Pansy are going to kill me. She shivered and wrapped her robes around her middle tighter – the wind was howling now, and the temperature in the castle had dropped dramatically. Looks like winter's going to linger this year.

She stopped at one of the large windows, peering out into the night. She rubbed at the glass pane, wiping the condensation away to get a better view. A scrape along the flagstone made her back tense and she glanced out of the corner of her eye carefully. There was nothing. She let out a gusty breath – it was probably nothing, she hitched her back up again and started along down the hall, the uneasy feeling growing inside her. Just the tapestries flapping in a breeze or something. She looked back over her shoulder again, the skin between her shoulder blades itching madly. You're just freaking yourself out Maddie…

"Maddie Silver, long time no see." She whipped her head around, stumbling to a stop in the middle of the hall. Her heart began to pound in her chest as she watched Michael Corner and a group of others stand in front of her, blocking her way.

"M-Michael. Hello." She glanced around at the others, a chill working its way up her spine. They were from every House except Slytherin. "Wh-what do you want?" She hugged her book bag close to her side, berating herself for stuffing her wand in it instead of keeping it in her pocket like she normally did.

The fifth year smiled at her, but it didn't reach his eyes. "You, of course. Get her," he pulled out his wand and pointed it at her, the students around him springing into action. She dug for her own wand, adrenaline spiking through her, but her arms were caught, pulled tight behind her back by a muscular Hufflepuff boy. Her bag was ripped from her shoulder, nearly pulling out a clump of hair from her head. A Gryffindor third year dumped the contents, poking through it carefully before finally looking up at Michael and shaking his head. She struggled against her attackers, tears coming to her eyes. "Leave me alone!" She sobbed, trying to kick at the person behind her. She connected with something solid, causing the person to curse and jerk her arms harshly. She cried out again, hoping someone, anyone would hear her.

"Shut her up!"

"Michael, we're running out of time!"

The tall, black-eyed boy nodded in agreement. "Yes, we are," he nodded, his eyes dark and unreadable. "Stupify!" Maddie sagged in her captor's grip, the strength of the boy behind her the only thing keeping her upright. She rolled her eyes, tears slipping down her face as Michael approached her.

"You should feel honored," the boy murmured, reaching up to touch her cheek, a wild light in his eyes. "You're helping the Dark Lord further his plans." He pulled out a small, sharp knife. Maddie whimpered, her eyes rolling wildly, screaming inside her head. "Shh, now. This won't hurt…much."

He reached for her arm, turning it over and exposing the soft underside to the light. He drew the sharp blade down over her skin, causing tiny rivulets of blood to seep from the cuts. He eyed his work critically and nodded before taking the knife and carefully wiping the handle off and then placing Maddie's limp hand around it. He spell bound the knife to her hand and nodded, turning to the Gryffindor still kneeling on the ground. "Good. Jack, her wand." The boy handed Michael the slender piece of wood. Michael pocketed it. "Alright. We need to get her to the lake immediately." The Ravenclaw checked the time and cursed quietly. "We don't have a lot of time."

The Hufflepuff hoisted her into his arms while another Hufflepuff girl covered her over with a Ravenclaw robe. The group then began to hustle for the exit, a pair ranging out in front of the main group, guiding them away from any other stray students.

Maddie felt tears slip down the side of her head and disappear into her hair. They exited the castle and swiftly made their way down to the edge of the lake. She looked at the castle from her prone position – it looks so pretty. The wind whipped around them, its icy fingers slipping through their cloths and making them shiver. There were two shadowed figures at the water's edge…Maddie rolled her eyes back to the castle. Somebody please help me. More tears ran down her skin as she was dumped to the ground. Somebody please! I'm so scared… A foot connected with her middle, making her gasp for air. She rolled her eyes, trying to get a look at her new attackers.

They were wearing masks. Maddie felt her eyes grow wide. Oh Merlin no! No!

One of the tall figures stared down at her, a nasty chuckle escaping him. He pointed a long, pale wand at her, "Crucio." There was a sick, twisted light in his eyes.

For one long second pain ruled Maddie's mind. It ripped through her body, making her muscles twist and shudder, her bones creak and ache. She convulsed on the ground, dirt getting into her hair and on her face. Then her world went dark.

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Lavender stumbled as the fox pushed her roughly. She had met him at the edge of the woods, where he had backhanded her again for being a few seconds late. She touched her cheek gently, feeling the slight swell, anger and fear rising in her – no matter what he did, the Lord will make everything right. He will. She ignored the blood trickling down her side, and the sharp burning pain that tore through her with every breath. I've done my part. Now I get my reward.

The animagus had apparated to a large manor by the seaside. The brine in the air reminded Lavender of seaside vacations with her parents when she was little. She'd stumbled after the animagus until they'd reached a small, side door, where he'd then thrown her in front of him, parading her along the halls like a prisoner. When I become the Lord's advisor I'm going to make you pay…Lavender bit back another yelp as the fox prodded her along again.

They passed a number of people on their way to wherever the fox was leading her. Lavender peered up at the passing Death Eaters, a chill running up her spine when they refused to acknowledge her presence. I'm just as good as any of you, she balled her good hand up at her side. I'm going to be better than all of you soon.

Finally the fox prodded her down a long, dim hall. There was only one doorway at the very end, guarded by two, silent Death Eaters. The animagus had her pause and wait outside while he entered and spoke to someone. Lavender jiggled from foot to foot, biting her lip nervously. The fox peeked his head out and looked at her, then grabbed her arm and hauled her inside.

The room she entered was a windowless, gray chamber. Lavender's eyes grew large at the bodies displayed against the wall, the occasional moan slipping from the victims' throats. Her brought a hand to her mouth, bile burning in the back of her throat. They…the Lord would only do such things if these people deserved it. She began to tremble, her face pale. They have to be traitors, or – or enemies that have slaughtered the faithful… "So. This is our little fly on the wall." She jerked and closed her eyes briefly before turning to face owner of the sibilant voice.

Voldemort regarded her over his desk, stroking the head of the most hideous man Lavender had ever seen as though he were a beloved pet. "My Lord," Lavender fell to her knees, ignoring the pain the action caused her. "I – I've done what you've asked me to do. Even now, the others I've recruited for your cause are following your orders…"

The Dark Lord looked at her, his eyes glowing in the dim light of the room. "Good, my child. Good. And now it's time for your…" he glanced up at the fox, "reward. Would you like that, child?"

Lavender's eyes grew large as her breath sped up. "Oh yes, my Lord. Yes!"

"Lovely." Voldemort stood and moved around the desk, picking up a wand. "You've been waiting a long time for this, haven't you?"

Lavender nodded eagerly, her eyes following him devotedly. "Tell me again why you want the power of true Sight, child?"

Lavender bit her lip, watching his wand eagerly. "If I have the Sight, then no one can make fun of me anymore. If – if I have the Sight," she looked up at the Dark Lord, her eyes wide and wild. "If I have the sight, everyone will pay attention to me. They'll have to – if they want their true futures read."

Voldemort considered her for a long moment, his eyes shining. "Oh child." He reached out and touched her head gently, a smile sliding across his face. "You've been such a good, little girl." Lavender smiled up at him through her tears, her mind bubbling with joy. "But there's no such thing as true Sight." Lavender's face fell, her mind whiting out. Voldemort leaned down so that his mouth was right next to her ear. "You've been a very good little puppet."

Lavender began to shake her head back and forth. "No, you – you promised. You said…"

Voldemort chuckled, and the sound broke the damn in Lavender's mind. She began to sob, throwing herself at the Dark Lord's feet. "Ah, innocence." He stood and shook the girl from his foot. He took a step back, dismissing the animagus with a flick of his wrist. "Go, meet the others at the lake. There're things to be done." The animagus bowed deeply, his eyes lingering on Lavender briefly before he spun and left the room. Voldemort's lip curled back into a sneer as Lavender's sobs continued. He leveled the wand in his hand at her, the unfamiliar wood bending easily to his will.

"Crucio."

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"Harry!" The dark haired boy jerked his head up from his desk, blinking stupidly at the textbook in front of him. Wha…he turned to the door.

Ginny burst into his room, her eyes wide and her face pale, tear tracks evident on her face. "Oh god, Harry! Come quick!" He knocked his chair over in his haste to follow her.

The Common Room was full of commotion. "What's going on?" Harry nearly had to yell in order for Ginny to hear him.

The auburn haired witch merely shook her head and grabbed his arm with her free hand, pulling him to Draco's side. The blond looked awful, while Pansy was openly weeping on Millicent's shoulder.

"What's wrong?" Harry came to a stop at Draco's side, looking around at the chaos wildly..

The blond looked up at him, his eyes bloodshot. "Maddie Silver has been convicted of killing Lavender Brown. The Aurors are on their way to the dorms to search for her."

Harry's legs gave out from under him. Draco pulled him to the couch just in time. The dark haired boy placed his head in his hands, sliding his fingers into his hair. "What?"

Draco's hands tightened into fists as he stared at the cold fireplace blindly. "Hagrid found Lavender this morning. She was by the lake. Aurors were called in…there was blood, and they found Maddie's wand." Draco broke off, turning his head to the side. Pansy wailed on Millicent's shoulder – Maddie was her second cousin on her mother's side. They'd grown up together. Millicent patted the blonde's back gently, tears slipping down her own face as well.

Ginny's sob made Harry sit up and look over at her, concerned. "She –," the young witch sniffed and wrapped her arms around her middle, shivering miserably. "She didn't come back to the dorms last night with me. I told her to head back with me before I left the Library, but she was f-flirting with this-this Hufflepuff boy. She told me that she'd be fine, so I left with Laura and I meant to go back…" she began to cry again, covering her face with trembling fingers. Harry reached for her and she dove into his arms, clutching at his robes. He petted her hair, making soothing noises. He looked at Draco.

The blond shrugged. "She wasn't a spy for Voldemort. Her family has been neutral for hundreds of years. I don't…" Draco shook his head, his eyes somewhat glazed over. "She's fourteen for Merlin's sake!"

"What – how…" Harry trailed off, biting his lip and grimacing.

Draco's face grew grim. "Brown was tortured, put under Crucio and then killed with the Killing Curse." Harry closed his eyes, his face paling as he lowered his head to Ginny's hair. Oh Lav, I'm so sorry.

The door to the Common Room burst open, causing the students nearest it to scream and jump away. The older students surged to their feet, drawing their wands and pointing them at the crowd spilling through the broken door. Harry placed Ginny behind him, hiding her from the sight of the Ministry officials. "Get out of the way!" Aurors swarmed into the room, some knocking over the younger students in their haste.

Percy Weasley sauntered into the Slytherin dorm, a sneer plastered across his face. "So this is the snake pit, eh?" Harry made to go for the red head, but Draco caught his arm, shaking his head intently. The dark haired boy glanced at him and subsided, barely, tension still strumming through his body.

"What is the meaning of this?" Severus Snape stormed into the room, his robes billowing as the Headmaster followed at a more sedate walk. "Get out of my House, Weasley you insolent brat! I'll not have you scaring my students –,"

"Your precious little Death-Eaters-to-be, you mean." Several of the Aurors nearest Percy sniggered.

Severus stalked up to the Ministry underling, his face a mask of rage. "How dare you…"

"You'll get out of my face, Snape, or I'll haul you down to Azkaban with that Silver bitch as well, do you understand?" Percy snarled back into the Potion Master's face. The red head flicked a hand at the Aurors. "Go get the girl."

"She's not here, I've told you Percy…" Albus stepped forward, but the younger wizard waved him off. Three Aurors shouldered students out of their way as the made for the girl's dorm. They disappeared down the dim hall. A pounding was heard, then a shriek. All of the Slytherins exchanged a confused glance. Harry looked at Draco, who shook his head fractionally. She wasn't here last night, he mouthed. Harry frowned.

Minutes later the Aurors emerged from the darkness with Maddie, whose clothes were dirty and stained. "Professor!" The young girl sobbed, tears streaming down her face as she fought the large adults that had a hold of her. "I didn't do it! It was –,"

"Stupify!" Percy's spell hit the girl hard, nearly knocking her out of the Aurors' hold. The fourth year held Snape's gaze for a long moment, before her eyes rolled up into the back of her head.

"Mr. Weasley!" Albus chided, a harsh light coming into his eye as he approached Percy. "She's only a child, and deserves her right to speak her side of the story!"

"She's a Slytherin, a known confidant of Ginny Nobody and Harry Potter. She was seen trading insults with the late Ms. Brown by a number of other students. She is guilty, as I'm sure her own wand will attest to." The red head snapped his fingers at the Aurors, who drug the small girl's body from the dorm. His gaze turned and landed on Harry; the hatred in his eyes almost palpable. "Corrupting little girls to torture your enemies now, eh Potter?" Percy's voice was soft and deadly.

Harry paled and took a step forward, his grip tight on his wand. The Aurors that were left whipped out their own wands, leveling them at the small, dark haired boy.

"Go ahead, Potter. Show them your true colors," Percy sneered at him. Harry shook wildly, wanting nothing more than to wipe the insolent expression from the red head's face.

"Get out of my House." The Potions Master's voice could have chipped steel. Percy flinched, breaking his staring match with Harry to look over at the wrathful professor. "Get out!" Percy's eyes widened and he took an involuntary step back from the venom that was in the lanky man's tone.

"This isn't finished," he hissed at the Potions Master, casting one last look at Harry, before sweeping from the room. The Aurors filed out behind him, all of them eyeing Harry warily before leaving the room.

Silence reigned in the room for a long moment after the men had left. "And so it begins," Albus' voice was sorrowful. Severus shook where he stood, his eyes riveted to the broken door to the dorms. "Come, Severus," the Headmaster touched the Potions Master's arm gently. "We must contact her parents."

The Potions professor shook his head abruptly, sense coming back into his eyes. He turned to Draco. "Keep them together." His gaze swept across the older students. "Be on guard at all times. Gryffindor will not take this gently." Silent and grim nods answered him. He drew himself up to his full height, squaring his shoulders. He nodded briskly at the Headmaster and they quickly left the room.

Once they were gone, noise slowly started to return to the room. "The nerve of him!" Harry's knuckles were white.

"What – what are they going to do to her?" Ginny's miserable voice made Harry snap out of it and look down. The younger girl had fallen onto the couch, her eyes dull. Harry sat next to her, hesitantly drawing her back into his arms.

"Shh, shh, Gin. Professor Snape and the Headmaster will sort it all out. You'll see. She'll be fine." He looked up at Draco, his eyes haunted. The blonde's grim face confirmed his worst fear. "She'll be fine." He rocked her gently as she began to cry once more.

qpqpqpqp

Maddie Silver Given The Dementor's Kiss! The Tuesday Reporter, the Middlefield Times, Witch Weekly and even The Quidditch Reporter all boasted the same headlines. Draco threw down the papers, disgusted. He rested his head in his hands, staring blankly at the carpet by his feet.

The wizarding world was in an uproar – and it was leaking into the school daily. Reporters had converged on the castle immediately after the arrest – so far only the Daily Prophet had been handling the sensational news with any attempt at decorum and fairness.

Harry had not taken the news well, and had retreated into his room. Ginny had gone into hysterics; they'd had to call Madam Pomfrey to the dorms to administer a calming draught, since Professor Snape had been away at Maddie's hearing and subsequent Kiss. The Professor had been gone all day – doing what exactly, Draco didn't know. The blond felt a rising wave of helplessness…what do we do now? He closed his eyes and sighed. Merlin, please. What do we do now?

He heaved himself off of the couch and made his way to Harry's room. He knocked on the door softly. "Harry?" He knocked again. "Harry?" He repeated, a little louder. Worried, he tried the handle. It was unlocked.

He entered the room slowly; it was dark and it took him a minute to adjust his eyes. "Harry?" He called softly, glancing around the room. His eyesight finally adjusted and he found the dark haired boy in a chair facing the fire. He crossed the room and knelt at the boy's side.

Harry turned dark eyes to him, his expression pained. "It's begun," he whispered. Draco nodded silently. "I should have –,"

"Shh…" Draco stood and pulled the boy out of his seat, taking his place and drawing the other boy close. "There was nothing you could have done."

Harry shivered, curling into the blonde's embrace, wrapping his hands into the fine robes. "But –,"

"No." Draco kept his voice firm as he tightened his hold on the smaller boy. "It was out of our control. There was nothing you could have done about it."

"I hate them sometimes." Harry's harsh tone surprised the other boy. Draco sat silently for a moment.

"So do I."

"How could they? She was only fourteen!" Harry snarled.

Draco clutched at the boy in his arms. "I know. But they are scared, and are looking for someone to blame." The blond buried his face in the messy, dark hair. It was the truth, Draco knew it, but he didn't have to like it one bit.

"Damn it all to hell," the tension in the smaller boy suddenly left. Draco pulled back slightly to see Harry fumble for something from his pockets. A handkerchief. Draco pulled Harry back to look at his face – his nose was bleeding again. Worry rushed through the blond, how long has this been going on? He helped Harry lean back against his chest, stroking the fine hair out of the other boy's eyes. Ah, Harry… "Do you want me to get Sirius?"

"No." The other boy's voice was muffled. "He's wid Ginny."

Draco just held Harry tighter, resting his cheek against the silky hair. Good. Because you're mine, and I hate to share.

End Chapter 32

Review Responses:

Dragenphly, Robbly , hjlavery, Kristine Thorne , Lady FoxFire , Sowen, darkangelgep, Bosson12787, kraeg001 , The angelic vampire , deb-sampson , Relle, cheatachu82, lynntownsend, walker-of-the-shadow-path , sak, Leandra52, GEmory , MoonFire1, dramanerd13, SeparatriX , Yue Lian , Tara6, Ralna Malfoy , tinkita, Jewely, jammies2000, SithelfJen , The Lady Reaper of the Shadows , FroBoy, starangel2106, Jazzylady, ???, darkmoore, Redrum, I-like-chickens , CJ Black, Diana, coriander, Dailynn , Tenshi-Chikyuu , stardust, ChibiGyouza , Skycat, azntgr01, SlytherinHeadGirl , jaxnjinx , jammies2000, insanechildfanfic, Celeste Jacobs, Elebereth, Madame Moony, Quidditchjunkie, CharlieTheOtakuNymph , FluffyBookwurm, emeraldgreenleaf, AmunetIfe, Moonfairyhime, ArchAngel Of Fire , Xyverz , Musicstarlover , SparkySparkles, TheDragonsMuse, Undead Qween, ArchAngel Of Fire , Sei Silver , Delfeus, Morcana, Molly, Linden Winter , llama-schuttig , MistressCoCoLoVeR , Bob, faer, vyul, Kaori, buta-chan , december jewel, ANON, TheDragonDancer, sheep dawggy , Sera Luanma , FF9 Zidane , Angedelamorte, Dani, pera, Kateri1, Liber Creperum-Liber Diabolus , Ted, Constance Malfoy , ddz008, sugur-pum-faerie, ChristinaLupin01442, Lo26, raven :THANK YOU ALL FOR THE WONDERFUL REVIEWS!!!!

Mr. Happy Java Man: Thanks for the in-depth review! I do have chapter 32 mostly written, but some things that happened in the last chapter (like that damn selkie) came outta no where, so I'm going to have to go back and rewrite some things. But it shouldn't take me too long. It's the chapters after that which may take a while…they're still in my head and not on paper, heh. Thanks again!

TanisaFyre: Happy (Belated) Birthday to you! Happy (Belated) Birthday to you! Happy (Belated) Birthday dear TanisaFyre, Happy (Belated) Birthday to you!

usually immaculate aristocrat: Not black, no, but deep, deep red, so I just call it auburn ./shrug. Hope that helps! I'm glad you're still enjoying the fic, thanks for the lovely review!

Celebony: Thank you for reviewing! I adore your stories as well!

AAAA TaZZ: The first myths I read about them were welsh myths, that's all. I'm glad you're enjoying the fic!

Athenakitty: asap! The gang is going to be better prepared for Harry's troubles this time around…but the question is, is Harry going to let them see them? The cane will be acting up here and there and yes, the lord of Annwn will get a heads up. I'm glad you're still enjoying the fic! Thanks for sticking with me!