A/N: Here we go again! This one isn't so long, only eight pages, but I
felt the need to put it up. The weekend will give you guys the next part.
Hope you all enjoy! ~Sylvia
Tom and Matthew entered King's Cross Station the next day to pick up Harry. They had received a letter from Hogwarts saying that all student departures had been delayed for twenty-four hours due to a disturbance. It had been for the students' safety, but Tom had still wanted to go straight to Hogwarts and find out what was going on. These Muggle attacks were everywhere. He wanted to know if any had happened at Hogwarts while Harry was there. "Don't worry so much, Tom!" Matthew said, bounding along side the older man with all the energy of a teenager. "Harry is coming home today!" Tom smiled at Matthew to show him that he wasn't really worried, just a bit uneasy.
Neither man saw him in the muggle portion of the station and went towards the barrier. Matthew hit it at high speed, and made a sickening sound as he ran into the bricks there. Matthew fell backwards onto the ground. A stationmaster came over to check that he was all right. Matthew nodded and waved the man away, saying that he had not been watching where he had been going. Tom gave him a hand up and turned to stare at the wall. The barrier was closed. He checked the clock. The train had already arrived. They should see the Muggle-borns coming out, as well as a few wizarding families who maintained Muggle fronts while traveling. Matthew raised a hand and muttered a word. Both men casually leaned against the wall and slid through the barrier. What they found there surprised them, or what they didn't find there. Matthew spluttered when he saw the sign still hanging in the window, stating that the Christmas arrival had been the day before. Tom went pale. Harry was missing. He was not there, and he was missing. Was he back with the Dursleys? Did Dumbledore keep him? Snape? Was he all right? Was he in any danger? Both men Apparated straight back to their home.
"I'm going to check those Muggle relatives of his." Matthew told Tom. "Write to Snape. We need to find out what happened, and if Harry was involved. Stay here in case he comes here." Tom nodded and reached for parchment with a shaking hand. "We'll find him, Tom." With that reassurance, Matthew disappeared to Little Whinging. Tom sat down and started writing out a message to Snape about Harry and what had exactly happened at the school. He included a copy of the message they had received that had been sent to Mr. Riddle. He paused at the address on the letter. Riddle. No one should know that name at Hogwarts, unless Severus had told someone, or sent the letter himself. No student names had been mentioned, just that their arrival would be late. Tom guessed it was a form letter. He sent it off, begging the owl to go as fast as she could.
Snape looked up as an owl flew into the room. He had been reading a novel next to his fireplace, enjoying the peace and quiet. Because he no longer had any family, he often spent the Christmas holidays at Hogwarts. Many professors stayed due to students staying as well, so Severus was not always alone. He accepted the letter from the owl and saw frantic writing before his eyes. He scanned the letter and found the copy. No such thing as the notice about the train had been sent. This meant that Harry was missing. "Oh, dear. Frantic parental figures." Snape muttered to himself. His least favorite part of his teaching career. He tucked the letter into a pocket in his robes and went to the fireplace. Some Floo powder and a shout later found him on his way to the Riddle Manor.
Tom was pacing when Snape stepped out of the fireplace. The man whirled and sighed when he saw Severus. "Tell me Harry is right behind you." Snape frowned and shook his head. Matthew came into the room.
"He's not at the Dursleys, Grangers, or Weasleys." He said as he collapsed into a chair. "It's unlikely he'd be anywhere else willingly."
"Someone has him then. But why?" Tom moaned.
"Let's go talk to Dumbledore." Snape said quietly. "He may be able to help, or even know where Potter is." Tom shook his head in denial of the request.
"He'll take Harry away and protect him to death." He said in objection. Snape looked over to Matthew and saw acceptance of the idea. He mentally pleaded for the man to help him. Matthew rose from his seat and stood in front of Tom.
"Tom, he can help Harry. We've already done all we can. Dumbledore may be able to do more." Matthew told him, coaxing Tom to agree. The older man hesitated for a few seconds before nodding his agreement.
"He can't have Harry, though. I won't allow that." Tom told them testily, daring either man standing before him to deny his charge.
"No, he can't." Snape agreed with Tom, pulling out some Floo powder. He handed some to Tom and Matthew. Matthew called Nellie and explained where they were going and why, and what to do and whom to call should Harry return to the house while they were gone. Green flames shot up into the fireplace and all three men were gone to Hogwarts.
Malfoy grinned to himself as he paced about his study. The Muggle attacks were going wonderfully. While he could not attack the Muggles himself, nor could his closest Death Eaters, the rest were more than eager to follow directions from the more experienced of the group. Malfoy had found himself physically ill when he had tried to attack the Muggles. He didn't know why that was, for he still thought their screams sounded like music. He just couldn't do the acts of torture himself.
His grin had grown wider when he thought of the boy currently locked in his dungeons. He had sent a spy to intercept mail at the Riddle home when it was apparent that Michael Riddle was no longer there. While the spy could not open the mail, he had brought back a vital piece of information after seeing a crest on one of the envelopes. The boy was at Hogwarts, and undoubtedly coming home for Christmas. It had been easy after that, lifting some stationary while visiting his son for an afternoon and then sending out the note saying that student departures were delayed. One of his newest Death Eaters, who could blend in with Muggle society, volunteered to go and capture the boy. He had been successful. Michael Riddle was now available for any type of entertainment he saw fit, and Malfoy couldn't wait to start. But for now, he was letting the boy think. Wonder what would happen to him. Where his uncle was and why he hadn't come for him yet. If he would live. While the boy held up well in the pitch blackness, he knew it was only a matter of time before the cold got to him, as well as the dark and no contact with other humans, before he broke him.
Down in the dungeons, Harry ate three more Playful Pantomimes. Thankfully, the things worked for a while, and he had an Endless Pocket of them. Not that they were endless, but he was going to be able to be Michael Riddle for a long while. As long as no one found out that he was Harry Potter, he had a feeling that he was going to be all right. He felt the candy take effect and sighed with relief. Every time they stopped, he replaced his disguise. It had been hard to keep track of time here. There was no daylight by which to measure the passing of days, and sleep was almost impossible. He was too tense, too afraid of what was going to happen in a situation in which he had no control. There were no meals, either, but plenty of water. Harry guessed that the person, whoever he was, wanted him alive, but weak through lack of food. He was happy that the candy was still in his pockets. And he had a few Pumpkin Pasties in that pocket as well. He could survive with only a little nourishment. After all, he had survived near starvation before. He could do it again, and then make it home to Tom and Matthew. Maybe even in time for Christmas. He shivered lightly and pulled his robe closer.
Harry had redefined patience several times since the start of all of this. He had thought that whoever was holding him here would have at least come to see him and tell him why he was there, but that had not happened. He would doze off and jerk awake again, only to experience the same thing twenty minutes later. Of course, he couldn't be sure of the times. He just knew that no one had entered the cell since he had first been brought here. Harry hugged his knees to his chest and sighed. He hated the dark. When he got home, he would ask Tom to rig up some lights in his room so that he could see in the bedroom at night. Maybe some Muggle nightlights. Around ten maybe. He thought that that many should provide enough light to read by. Or signal a ship from outer space. Harry held out his hand and whispered a word. "Lumos." A small ball of light appeared from his hand and glowed. Harry looked around. Nothing had changed. He sighed and said, "Nox" and the light went out. He hesitated using his magic, because magic required physical strength to do and Harry was starting to lose his physical strength. He could feel the slight shakiness in his hands when he moved, and he had a headache from not eating. Sips of the potions hidden in his robes helped the physical symptoms, but he had no idea how long he would be here. He didn't want to waste them.
Harry's hands flew to his head as his scar suddenly came alive with pain. He pressed against it, willing it to stop, wondering why it had started. Something was going on and he didn't like. Matthew and Tom's assurances had helped him believe that Tom was still Tom, but his scar was telling him that Voldemort was still there somewhere, and possibly trying to get out. That was the only reasoning he could find. He was even more surprised to hear the wards being removed from his door. He stood and closed his eyes, hoping to acclimatize them to the light before he was blinded. The door opened and Harry's eyes hurt even with the lids closed. He blinked them rapidly a few times before he truly opened them. Two figures stood in the doorway. Torches suddenly flared to life above his head. He chided himself for not looking up, but Harry had not wanted to see if there were, oh, bats, skeletons, or rats hanging out in the rafters above him. He could almost hear Professor Snape commenting about Gryffindor courage. He shoved thoughts like that out of his mind and pulled up his Occulmency in hopes of keeping thoughts private in case this person would try to read his mind. His eyes adjusted to the light and he turned to face the men. What he saw almost made him to drop his jaw.
Malfoy and McNair stood there, with both of them smiling at him. He waited, not exactly sure he knew how to react to this situation. His patience was rewarded. "Hello, Master Riddle." Malfoy said, moving forward. "I hope that you've been enjoying your stay here." Harry wanted to act like the teenager he was, groan, and roll his eyes. Malfoy, however, was expecting Michael Riddle, for some reason, and Harry decided to give it to him. It seemed, however, that Malfoy had forgotten his wand less talent or had not been aware of it, as he advanced on Harry with an almost predatory smile.
"The accommodations leave something to be desired, Malfoy." Harry returned, snapping into Michael Riddle easily. "May I ask why you requested my presence?" Harry pulled himself up to his full height and affected the air that he had often seen Voldemort use when addressing the Death Eaters. "I am sure that my uncle is not very happy right now." The now Michael Riddle told Malfoy. Malfoy shook his head.
"Amazing that the Dark Lord sends his nephew to Hogwarts." Malfoy said conversationally, reaching out to touch the patch on Michael's school robes. "Ravenclaw?" Michael smirked.
"Better than Gryffindor." He said. Perhaps Malfoy had just been playing with him. "Hufflepuff would have made me ill. Slytherin, for some reason, was denied to me." Malfoy had actually looked interested for a second, nodded, and placed a hand on Michael's shoulder. The boy's face remained impassive as Malfoy's grip became painful. Michael did nothing more than tighten his jaw.
"Well, Master Riddle, you must be wondering why you are here?" He again resisted rolling his eyes and sighed.
"I believe that I asked you that question." Michael said, straining to remain polite with this man carefully finding all of the possible pain receptors in his shoulder. Good thing Malfoy didn't know that he had been under the Cruciatus Curse more than once in his life. This was like a walk in the park compared to the other pain that he had found himself experiencing in the past.
"Well, Master Riddle, the answer is very simple." Malfoy told him, moving his thumb to a new spot. Michael stood very still, knowing that a few more seconds of stimulation on that nerve would cause all the pain receptors to shut down. He thanked whatever powers were looking out for him as that happened. He also mentally thanked Tom for making him study that book on Anatomy. "Your uncle is obviously very fond of you, am I correct?" Malfoy asked. Michael looked up at him and raised an eyebrow, going for his best Snape imitation.
"I would like to think so." Came out a bit colder than he had wanted, but still served its purpose. Malfoy almost looked pleased at the answer.
"Well, Master Riddle, this is going to be very easy then. You know that he is the Dark Lord?" Michael wanted to hit him for his stupidity. Of course he knew that Tom was the Dark Lord!
"I do believe that my uncle has retired from that capacity, but yes, I do know that." He told him. He longed to reach out and push the hand off him.
"How better to get revenge on the Dark Lord than destroy the one he cares most about?" Malfoy said, his smile growing wider. Harry's scar twinged painfully again, increasing in intensity until it almost split wide open. Michael's hands clenched but nothing more. He could not reveal that he was Harry Potter through his scar. He could not reveal that he was not Michael Riddle. Malfoy wanted Potter dead just as much, if not more, than Riddle. Why did it always seem that Malfoy wanted him dead because he had changed the Dark Lord? Michael's eyes unfocused a bit as the scar peaked in pain again when Malfoy reached up with his hand to pat his cheek. At least, that's what Michael had thought he was going to do. With first contact, Malfoy pulled back, hissing in pain, while Michael fought to correct his vision. Michael thought quickly, to his first year at Hogwarts, when Quirrell had been unable to touch him when he had carried the Dark Lord. Had the spell reactivated this summer when Tom and Voldemort parted ways? Or had Malfoy had something different about him? Whatever it was had caused the man great pain.
Malfoy moved forward in anger and tried to hit Michael. The minute the hand connected, and Michael felt it connect, the pain increased in his scar and Malfoy pulled back, again hissing in pain. He shook his hand as though he had been burned. Malfoy nursed his hand for a minute while the Death Eater, Michael was sure that that was what they were being called, stepped forward to check on his apparent new Master. Michael whispered a word and waved his hand, silently sending some pain-killing potion to his mouth. He thanked Tom over again for teaching him that particular spell.
Malfoy stood again and pointed his wand at Michael. "Crucio!" He snapped out, throwing the curse at Michael with all of his strength. The boy's eyes widened when it hit him, but he did not drop to the ground in pain. His eyes widened when the curse glowed for a few minutes and then dissipated. "That's impossible!" Malfoy said, almost sounding like a spoiled child who had finally had his toys taken away. Michael looked surprised enough that Malfoy did not even think that the boy had something to do with the throwing off of the curse.
Michael felt the necklace that Tom had given him warm slightly, as though saying that he was protected. He thanked all of his lucky stars that he had found he had in Divination by name and thought back to the meaning of the rune that hung around his neck. Cherished one. He sighed and watched Malfoy raise his wand again. "Imperio!" He heard. Once again, a light surrounded him, stayed for a few seconds, and then disappeared. It had not even affected him in any way. Malfoy's anger grew and he raised the wand again. The scar on his forehead flared again as Michael readied himself for Malfoy's next attack, which he knew was going to be the Killing Curse. He tried to dodge, but saw a green light surround him, hover, and then disappear. "Not possible." Malfoy said to himself as Michael's eyes turned to him.
"I'm sorry, Malfoy, but did you say that you were going to destroy me?" Michael asked in a surprised tone. Malfoy snarled at the boy, but did not attack, knowing that if he touched him physically skin to skin, he would suffer. The spells were not working. Malfoy motioned towards the Death Eater.
"Have some fun with young Master Riddle here." He told the man. The well- muscled arms protruded from the arms of his robe as he advanced on Michael. Michael looked for a way out, knowing that they had re-locked the door and re-warded everything. The man pulled back and swung towards Michael. Michael ducked, but the fist still managed to find some area of his body to hit. He was even more surprised than Malfoy when he felt nothing at all and the man moaned in pain and cradled his injured hand to him. Michael idly wondered what kind of protections had been used on that necklace and thanked them over in his mind a thousand times. Malfoy's rage took on near personification. "This is not over yet, Riddle." Malfoy snapped out, pushing the Death Eater in front of him and out the door. The locks and spells were in place before Michael could open the door. The torches extinguished and he leaned against the wall, wondering what in the world had strengthened the charms on him so much as to protect him from physical injury.
Snape stepped out of his fireplace with Michael and Tom right behind him. He started off towards the door, paused and turned around to the two men currently staring at his quarters. He wanted to do as Potter did and roll his own eyes, but decided against it and smirked. "I think that it may be best to bring Albus down here." Snape told them. Matthew nodded while Tom shrugged. Dumbledore was not on his favorites list right now. Snape motioned them both to the couch and ordered some refreshments. He pocketed a Calming Draught just in case, and called Albus from the fireplace.
"Yes, Severus, what is it?" Dumbledore's face said from the flames.
"I need to speak with you about Harry Potter." Severus said. Dumbledore actually looked surprised. "I was wondering if you could meet me in my rooms?" Albus nodded and started coming through. Snape motioned for Tom and Matthew to ready themselves. Albus stood and brushed soot off his robes and then registered who was sitting on the couch.
"Riddle! Severus, run!" Dumbledore said, pulling out his wand. Tom sat still, while Severus stood in front of Tom.
"Albus, put the wand down." He said in his firmest voice. "I would like to introduce you to Tom Riddle and his personal physician, Matthew Wellen. These men are Potter's guardians." Snape managed to do something that no one had been able to do in years. Stun Albus Dumbledore into complete silence. Matthew stood and looked Dumbledore over.
"Hello, Headmaster. Professor Snape said personal physician, and I am he. I am also a psychologist, and that's where the two different names for one man come in. Are you familiar with the ailment of split personalities?" Albus allowed himself to be guided to a seat, a cup of tea with some Calming Draught pressed into his hand. A sip later found him able to speak once again. He still had his wand, and it was still trained towards Tom.
"Yes." He answered shortly.
"Well, Voldemort was Tom's other personality, released in childhood by a traumatic event. Voldemort took over, locking Tom Riddle away. A year and a half ago, Voldemort came back through Harry's blood. He and Harry battled. Something happened to Voldemort in his head. Now, Tom is back and has firmly locked away Voldemort into the dark recesses of his mind." Matthew paused. "Are you following everything, sir?" He asked.
"Yes, I am. Is there a chance Voldemort could come back?" Dumbledore said, eyeing Tom warily. Matthew shrugged.
"He could. But then he could also be gone forever." Matthew told him truthfully.
"He won't be back without a fight." Tom said. "I like it here and have a reason to stay." Dumbledore looked over at him. He sighed.
"What is that, Tom?" Tom smiled.
"Harry." Dumbledore looked perplexed. Matthew and Tom explained the condition that they had found Harry in, which caused even more confused looks from Dumbledore. They all guessed that he didn't know what Harry had gone through. The details from the summer, the advanced lessons, the potions, the dueling, the wand less talent, and football with Muggles all came out.
"Michael Riddle and Harry Potter are the same person!" Dumbledore said. Both men nodded proudly.
"When you sent Snape to us, he found us out. Harry had a panic attack when Severus figured out who he was and refused to come back. Severus told us, Harry included, that all he found there was two boys and their uncle, and that he expected to see Harry back at school in September, who knew where the boy was during breaks." Albus looked up to Severus, betrayal clear in his eyes.
"Had you seen what I had seen, Albus, you would have done the same thing." Snape assured him. Albus nodded absently.
"Why are you coming to me now?" He asked, taking more tea.
"Harry is missing, and we were hoping that you could help." Matthew said. Albus looked thoughtful. Tom was ready to bite his nails or throw things, he wasn't sure which, in the five minutes it took Dumbledore to respond.
"I will help you locate Harry." He said. "Hermione and Ron sent letters saying that Harry had just disappeared. After we get Harry back," Tom mentally thanked him for not saying if. "I would like to see this wand less magic of his." Tom reached out and took the man's hand in gratitude, tears of relief threatening to overflow.
"Thank you, Headmaster." Albus stared at the warm blue eyes staring into his own and nodded.
"Of course, Tom. Let's go find Harry, shall we?"
Reviews:
HoshiHikari4ever: Here you go! You guess so well. Thanks for reviewing!
EriEka127: Thanks for reviewing. Glad you liked it!
Kaye: Thank you! It's starting. I haven't figured out whether it is more fun reading it or writing it!
Jules: You called me brilliant! (hug) Thank you! Here's more.
Blueberrie: What a cute name! Here you go. Thanks for reviewing.
Trallgorda: I'm glad you liked it, sis. What is familiar? And what do you mean, "usage and syntax"? (puts up fists and bounces) If you care to point out mistakes, I may consider changing them, just to annoy you. Thanks for the wonderful comment about my content though.
Fyre: I absolutely loved your review! In answer to your first comment, don't worry. It will be. Grandfather definitely. And old. Sorry, but for me, once someone is dead, that's it. I hope you're not too disappointed. Only some of the Death Eaters could attack, while others directed the attack. They had tried attacking, but found themselves physically ill. So now they're like directors of the attacks, calling out suggestions and the like. Was my reason good enough? Harry had been told to wait at the station. He listens to Tom and Matthew because they explain the reasons for them giving rules and so on, instead of Dumbledore, who generally just says "for your own safety" type things. He had sent Hedwig home, who had been waylaid, and he had no real way to contact anyone. He figured that if anything happened to them, they would be there as soon as possible, or Snape would come and find him. He had only waited a few hours, like two and a half, not many, because the train had come in rather late. Thanks about Snape and the tabby. Harry's personality just screamed tabby for some reason. Thank you for reviewing.
Prd2bAmerican18: Thank you! Here's more! Thanks for reviewing.
David M. Potter: *bows* Thank you! He panicked. What would you do if someone just came up to you and put a gun in your back? I, personally, would do whatever he said until I found an opportunity for escape. Harry saw none. I know you want Harry to find a girlfriend, especially Ginny, but that is not the direction in which this story is going. My other story, however, will have such an event later on (although it's not Ginny), if you would care to read that. It's not quite there, but it will be.
Csferosha: Thank you! Here's the next chapter. The next should be out 2 Feb.
Death-TheOnlyTrueFreedom: Thank you!
Eav: Thank you!
MarsMoonStar: Thanks for reviewing.
Resggal: *evil laughter* Thanks.
Hermionegreen: Here you go! Thanks for the compliment.
Nikole Riddle: Hexed whom? Thanks, I'm glad you like my story.
Anyone not listed above: Thank you!
~Sylvia
Tom and Matthew entered King's Cross Station the next day to pick up Harry. They had received a letter from Hogwarts saying that all student departures had been delayed for twenty-four hours due to a disturbance. It had been for the students' safety, but Tom had still wanted to go straight to Hogwarts and find out what was going on. These Muggle attacks were everywhere. He wanted to know if any had happened at Hogwarts while Harry was there. "Don't worry so much, Tom!" Matthew said, bounding along side the older man with all the energy of a teenager. "Harry is coming home today!" Tom smiled at Matthew to show him that he wasn't really worried, just a bit uneasy.
Neither man saw him in the muggle portion of the station and went towards the barrier. Matthew hit it at high speed, and made a sickening sound as he ran into the bricks there. Matthew fell backwards onto the ground. A stationmaster came over to check that he was all right. Matthew nodded and waved the man away, saying that he had not been watching where he had been going. Tom gave him a hand up and turned to stare at the wall. The barrier was closed. He checked the clock. The train had already arrived. They should see the Muggle-borns coming out, as well as a few wizarding families who maintained Muggle fronts while traveling. Matthew raised a hand and muttered a word. Both men casually leaned against the wall and slid through the barrier. What they found there surprised them, or what they didn't find there. Matthew spluttered when he saw the sign still hanging in the window, stating that the Christmas arrival had been the day before. Tom went pale. Harry was missing. He was not there, and he was missing. Was he back with the Dursleys? Did Dumbledore keep him? Snape? Was he all right? Was he in any danger? Both men Apparated straight back to their home.
"I'm going to check those Muggle relatives of his." Matthew told Tom. "Write to Snape. We need to find out what happened, and if Harry was involved. Stay here in case he comes here." Tom nodded and reached for parchment with a shaking hand. "We'll find him, Tom." With that reassurance, Matthew disappeared to Little Whinging. Tom sat down and started writing out a message to Snape about Harry and what had exactly happened at the school. He included a copy of the message they had received that had been sent to Mr. Riddle. He paused at the address on the letter. Riddle. No one should know that name at Hogwarts, unless Severus had told someone, or sent the letter himself. No student names had been mentioned, just that their arrival would be late. Tom guessed it was a form letter. He sent it off, begging the owl to go as fast as she could.
Snape looked up as an owl flew into the room. He had been reading a novel next to his fireplace, enjoying the peace and quiet. Because he no longer had any family, he often spent the Christmas holidays at Hogwarts. Many professors stayed due to students staying as well, so Severus was not always alone. He accepted the letter from the owl and saw frantic writing before his eyes. He scanned the letter and found the copy. No such thing as the notice about the train had been sent. This meant that Harry was missing. "Oh, dear. Frantic parental figures." Snape muttered to himself. His least favorite part of his teaching career. He tucked the letter into a pocket in his robes and went to the fireplace. Some Floo powder and a shout later found him on his way to the Riddle Manor.
Tom was pacing when Snape stepped out of the fireplace. The man whirled and sighed when he saw Severus. "Tell me Harry is right behind you." Snape frowned and shook his head. Matthew came into the room.
"He's not at the Dursleys, Grangers, or Weasleys." He said as he collapsed into a chair. "It's unlikely he'd be anywhere else willingly."
"Someone has him then. But why?" Tom moaned.
"Let's go talk to Dumbledore." Snape said quietly. "He may be able to help, or even know where Potter is." Tom shook his head in denial of the request.
"He'll take Harry away and protect him to death." He said in objection. Snape looked over to Matthew and saw acceptance of the idea. He mentally pleaded for the man to help him. Matthew rose from his seat and stood in front of Tom.
"Tom, he can help Harry. We've already done all we can. Dumbledore may be able to do more." Matthew told him, coaxing Tom to agree. The older man hesitated for a few seconds before nodding his agreement.
"He can't have Harry, though. I won't allow that." Tom told them testily, daring either man standing before him to deny his charge.
"No, he can't." Snape agreed with Tom, pulling out some Floo powder. He handed some to Tom and Matthew. Matthew called Nellie and explained where they were going and why, and what to do and whom to call should Harry return to the house while they were gone. Green flames shot up into the fireplace and all three men were gone to Hogwarts.
Malfoy grinned to himself as he paced about his study. The Muggle attacks were going wonderfully. While he could not attack the Muggles himself, nor could his closest Death Eaters, the rest were more than eager to follow directions from the more experienced of the group. Malfoy had found himself physically ill when he had tried to attack the Muggles. He didn't know why that was, for he still thought their screams sounded like music. He just couldn't do the acts of torture himself.
His grin had grown wider when he thought of the boy currently locked in his dungeons. He had sent a spy to intercept mail at the Riddle home when it was apparent that Michael Riddle was no longer there. While the spy could not open the mail, he had brought back a vital piece of information after seeing a crest on one of the envelopes. The boy was at Hogwarts, and undoubtedly coming home for Christmas. It had been easy after that, lifting some stationary while visiting his son for an afternoon and then sending out the note saying that student departures were delayed. One of his newest Death Eaters, who could blend in with Muggle society, volunteered to go and capture the boy. He had been successful. Michael Riddle was now available for any type of entertainment he saw fit, and Malfoy couldn't wait to start. But for now, he was letting the boy think. Wonder what would happen to him. Where his uncle was and why he hadn't come for him yet. If he would live. While the boy held up well in the pitch blackness, he knew it was only a matter of time before the cold got to him, as well as the dark and no contact with other humans, before he broke him.
Down in the dungeons, Harry ate three more Playful Pantomimes. Thankfully, the things worked for a while, and he had an Endless Pocket of them. Not that they were endless, but he was going to be able to be Michael Riddle for a long while. As long as no one found out that he was Harry Potter, he had a feeling that he was going to be all right. He felt the candy take effect and sighed with relief. Every time they stopped, he replaced his disguise. It had been hard to keep track of time here. There was no daylight by which to measure the passing of days, and sleep was almost impossible. He was too tense, too afraid of what was going to happen in a situation in which he had no control. There were no meals, either, but plenty of water. Harry guessed that the person, whoever he was, wanted him alive, but weak through lack of food. He was happy that the candy was still in his pockets. And he had a few Pumpkin Pasties in that pocket as well. He could survive with only a little nourishment. After all, he had survived near starvation before. He could do it again, and then make it home to Tom and Matthew. Maybe even in time for Christmas. He shivered lightly and pulled his robe closer.
Harry had redefined patience several times since the start of all of this. He had thought that whoever was holding him here would have at least come to see him and tell him why he was there, but that had not happened. He would doze off and jerk awake again, only to experience the same thing twenty minutes later. Of course, he couldn't be sure of the times. He just knew that no one had entered the cell since he had first been brought here. Harry hugged his knees to his chest and sighed. He hated the dark. When he got home, he would ask Tom to rig up some lights in his room so that he could see in the bedroom at night. Maybe some Muggle nightlights. Around ten maybe. He thought that that many should provide enough light to read by. Or signal a ship from outer space. Harry held out his hand and whispered a word. "Lumos." A small ball of light appeared from his hand and glowed. Harry looked around. Nothing had changed. He sighed and said, "Nox" and the light went out. He hesitated using his magic, because magic required physical strength to do and Harry was starting to lose his physical strength. He could feel the slight shakiness in his hands when he moved, and he had a headache from not eating. Sips of the potions hidden in his robes helped the physical symptoms, but he had no idea how long he would be here. He didn't want to waste them.
Harry's hands flew to his head as his scar suddenly came alive with pain. He pressed against it, willing it to stop, wondering why it had started. Something was going on and he didn't like. Matthew and Tom's assurances had helped him believe that Tom was still Tom, but his scar was telling him that Voldemort was still there somewhere, and possibly trying to get out. That was the only reasoning he could find. He was even more surprised to hear the wards being removed from his door. He stood and closed his eyes, hoping to acclimatize them to the light before he was blinded. The door opened and Harry's eyes hurt even with the lids closed. He blinked them rapidly a few times before he truly opened them. Two figures stood in the doorway. Torches suddenly flared to life above his head. He chided himself for not looking up, but Harry had not wanted to see if there were, oh, bats, skeletons, or rats hanging out in the rafters above him. He could almost hear Professor Snape commenting about Gryffindor courage. He shoved thoughts like that out of his mind and pulled up his Occulmency in hopes of keeping thoughts private in case this person would try to read his mind. His eyes adjusted to the light and he turned to face the men. What he saw almost made him to drop his jaw.
Malfoy and McNair stood there, with both of them smiling at him. He waited, not exactly sure he knew how to react to this situation. His patience was rewarded. "Hello, Master Riddle." Malfoy said, moving forward. "I hope that you've been enjoying your stay here." Harry wanted to act like the teenager he was, groan, and roll his eyes. Malfoy, however, was expecting Michael Riddle, for some reason, and Harry decided to give it to him. It seemed, however, that Malfoy had forgotten his wand less talent or had not been aware of it, as he advanced on Harry with an almost predatory smile.
"The accommodations leave something to be desired, Malfoy." Harry returned, snapping into Michael Riddle easily. "May I ask why you requested my presence?" Harry pulled himself up to his full height and affected the air that he had often seen Voldemort use when addressing the Death Eaters. "I am sure that my uncle is not very happy right now." The now Michael Riddle told Malfoy. Malfoy shook his head.
"Amazing that the Dark Lord sends his nephew to Hogwarts." Malfoy said conversationally, reaching out to touch the patch on Michael's school robes. "Ravenclaw?" Michael smirked.
"Better than Gryffindor." He said. Perhaps Malfoy had just been playing with him. "Hufflepuff would have made me ill. Slytherin, for some reason, was denied to me." Malfoy had actually looked interested for a second, nodded, and placed a hand on Michael's shoulder. The boy's face remained impassive as Malfoy's grip became painful. Michael did nothing more than tighten his jaw.
"Well, Master Riddle, you must be wondering why you are here?" He again resisted rolling his eyes and sighed.
"I believe that I asked you that question." Michael said, straining to remain polite with this man carefully finding all of the possible pain receptors in his shoulder. Good thing Malfoy didn't know that he had been under the Cruciatus Curse more than once in his life. This was like a walk in the park compared to the other pain that he had found himself experiencing in the past.
"Well, Master Riddle, the answer is very simple." Malfoy told him, moving his thumb to a new spot. Michael stood very still, knowing that a few more seconds of stimulation on that nerve would cause all the pain receptors to shut down. He thanked whatever powers were looking out for him as that happened. He also mentally thanked Tom for making him study that book on Anatomy. "Your uncle is obviously very fond of you, am I correct?" Malfoy asked. Michael looked up at him and raised an eyebrow, going for his best Snape imitation.
"I would like to think so." Came out a bit colder than he had wanted, but still served its purpose. Malfoy almost looked pleased at the answer.
"Well, Master Riddle, this is going to be very easy then. You know that he is the Dark Lord?" Michael wanted to hit him for his stupidity. Of course he knew that Tom was the Dark Lord!
"I do believe that my uncle has retired from that capacity, but yes, I do know that." He told him. He longed to reach out and push the hand off him.
"How better to get revenge on the Dark Lord than destroy the one he cares most about?" Malfoy said, his smile growing wider. Harry's scar twinged painfully again, increasing in intensity until it almost split wide open. Michael's hands clenched but nothing more. He could not reveal that he was Harry Potter through his scar. He could not reveal that he was not Michael Riddle. Malfoy wanted Potter dead just as much, if not more, than Riddle. Why did it always seem that Malfoy wanted him dead because he had changed the Dark Lord? Michael's eyes unfocused a bit as the scar peaked in pain again when Malfoy reached up with his hand to pat his cheek. At least, that's what Michael had thought he was going to do. With first contact, Malfoy pulled back, hissing in pain, while Michael fought to correct his vision. Michael thought quickly, to his first year at Hogwarts, when Quirrell had been unable to touch him when he had carried the Dark Lord. Had the spell reactivated this summer when Tom and Voldemort parted ways? Or had Malfoy had something different about him? Whatever it was had caused the man great pain.
Malfoy moved forward in anger and tried to hit Michael. The minute the hand connected, and Michael felt it connect, the pain increased in his scar and Malfoy pulled back, again hissing in pain. He shook his hand as though he had been burned. Malfoy nursed his hand for a minute while the Death Eater, Michael was sure that that was what they were being called, stepped forward to check on his apparent new Master. Michael whispered a word and waved his hand, silently sending some pain-killing potion to his mouth. He thanked Tom over again for teaching him that particular spell.
Malfoy stood again and pointed his wand at Michael. "Crucio!" He snapped out, throwing the curse at Michael with all of his strength. The boy's eyes widened when it hit him, but he did not drop to the ground in pain. His eyes widened when the curse glowed for a few minutes and then dissipated. "That's impossible!" Malfoy said, almost sounding like a spoiled child who had finally had his toys taken away. Michael looked surprised enough that Malfoy did not even think that the boy had something to do with the throwing off of the curse.
Michael felt the necklace that Tom had given him warm slightly, as though saying that he was protected. He thanked all of his lucky stars that he had found he had in Divination by name and thought back to the meaning of the rune that hung around his neck. Cherished one. He sighed and watched Malfoy raise his wand again. "Imperio!" He heard. Once again, a light surrounded him, stayed for a few seconds, and then disappeared. It had not even affected him in any way. Malfoy's anger grew and he raised the wand again. The scar on his forehead flared again as Michael readied himself for Malfoy's next attack, which he knew was going to be the Killing Curse. He tried to dodge, but saw a green light surround him, hover, and then disappear. "Not possible." Malfoy said to himself as Michael's eyes turned to him.
"I'm sorry, Malfoy, but did you say that you were going to destroy me?" Michael asked in a surprised tone. Malfoy snarled at the boy, but did not attack, knowing that if he touched him physically skin to skin, he would suffer. The spells were not working. Malfoy motioned towards the Death Eater.
"Have some fun with young Master Riddle here." He told the man. The well- muscled arms protruded from the arms of his robe as he advanced on Michael. Michael looked for a way out, knowing that they had re-locked the door and re-warded everything. The man pulled back and swung towards Michael. Michael ducked, but the fist still managed to find some area of his body to hit. He was even more surprised than Malfoy when he felt nothing at all and the man moaned in pain and cradled his injured hand to him. Michael idly wondered what kind of protections had been used on that necklace and thanked them over in his mind a thousand times. Malfoy's rage took on near personification. "This is not over yet, Riddle." Malfoy snapped out, pushing the Death Eater in front of him and out the door. The locks and spells were in place before Michael could open the door. The torches extinguished and he leaned against the wall, wondering what in the world had strengthened the charms on him so much as to protect him from physical injury.
Snape stepped out of his fireplace with Michael and Tom right behind him. He started off towards the door, paused and turned around to the two men currently staring at his quarters. He wanted to do as Potter did and roll his own eyes, but decided against it and smirked. "I think that it may be best to bring Albus down here." Snape told them. Matthew nodded while Tom shrugged. Dumbledore was not on his favorites list right now. Snape motioned them both to the couch and ordered some refreshments. He pocketed a Calming Draught just in case, and called Albus from the fireplace.
"Yes, Severus, what is it?" Dumbledore's face said from the flames.
"I need to speak with you about Harry Potter." Severus said. Dumbledore actually looked surprised. "I was wondering if you could meet me in my rooms?" Albus nodded and started coming through. Snape motioned for Tom and Matthew to ready themselves. Albus stood and brushed soot off his robes and then registered who was sitting on the couch.
"Riddle! Severus, run!" Dumbledore said, pulling out his wand. Tom sat still, while Severus stood in front of Tom.
"Albus, put the wand down." He said in his firmest voice. "I would like to introduce you to Tom Riddle and his personal physician, Matthew Wellen. These men are Potter's guardians." Snape managed to do something that no one had been able to do in years. Stun Albus Dumbledore into complete silence. Matthew stood and looked Dumbledore over.
"Hello, Headmaster. Professor Snape said personal physician, and I am he. I am also a psychologist, and that's where the two different names for one man come in. Are you familiar with the ailment of split personalities?" Albus allowed himself to be guided to a seat, a cup of tea with some Calming Draught pressed into his hand. A sip later found him able to speak once again. He still had his wand, and it was still trained towards Tom.
"Yes." He answered shortly.
"Well, Voldemort was Tom's other personality, released in childhood by a traumatic event. Voldemort took over, locking Tom Riddle away. A year and a half ago, Voldemort came back through Harry's blood. He and Harry battled. Something happened to Voldemort in his head. Now, Tom is back and has firmly locked away Voldemort into the dark recesses of his mind." Matthew paused. "Are you following everything, sir?" He asked.
"Yes, I am. Is there a chance Voldemort could come back?" Dumbledore said, eyeing Tom warily. Matthew shrugged.
"He could. But then he could also be gone forever." Matthew told him truthfully.
"He won't be back without a fight." Tom said. "I like it here and have a reason to stay." Dumbledore looked over at him. He sighed.
"What is that, Tom?" Tom smiled.
"Harry." Dumbledore looked perplexed. Matthew and Tom explained the condition that they had found Harry in, which caused even more confused looks from Dumbledore. They all guessed that he didn't know what Harry had gone through. The details from the summer, the advanced lessons, the potions, the dueling, the wand less talent, and football with Muggles all came out.
"Michael Riddle and Harry Potter are the same person!" Dumbledore said. Both men nodded proudly.
"When you sent Snape to us, he found us out. Harry had a panic attack when Severus figured out who he was and refused to come back. Severus told us, Harry included, that all he found there was two boys and their uncle, and that he expected to see Harry back at school in September, who knew where the boy was during breaks." Albus looked up to Severus, betrayal clear in his eyes.
"Had you seen what I had seen, Albus, you would have done the same thing." Snape assured him. Albus nodded absently.
"Why are you coming to me now?" He asked, taking more tea.
"Harry is missing, and we were hoping that you could help." Matthew said. Albus looked thoughtful. Tom was ready to bite his nails or throw things, he wasn't sure which, in the five minutes it took Dumbledore to respond.
"I will help you locate Harry." He said. "Hermione and Ron sent letters saying that Harry had just disappeared. After we get Harry back," Tom mentally thanked him for not saying if. "I would like to see this wand less magic of his." Tom reached out and took the man's hand in gratitude, tears of relief threatening to overflow.
"Thank you, Headmaster." Albus stared at the warm blue eyes staring into his own and nodded.
"Of course, Tom. Let's go find Harry, shall we?"
Reviews:
HoshiHikari4ever: Here you go! You guess so well. Thanks for reviewing!
EriEka127: Thanks for reviewing. Glad you liked it!
Kaye: Thank you! It's starting. I haven't figured out whether it is more fun reading it or writing it!
Jules: You called me brilliant! (hug) Thank you! Here's more.
Blueberrie: What a cute name! Here you go. Thanks for reviewing.
Trallgorda: I'm glad you liked it, sis. What is familiar? And what do you mean, "usage and syntax"? (puts up fists and bounces) If you care to point out mistakes, I may consider changing them, just to annoy you. Thanks for the wonderful comment about my content though.
Fyre: I absolutely loved your review! In answer to your first comment, don't worry. It will be. Grandfather definitely. And old. Sorry, but for me, once someone is dead, that's it. I hope you're not too disappointed. Only some of the Death Eaters could attack, while others directed the attack. They had tried attacking, but found themselves physically ill. So now they're like directors of the attacks, calling out suggestions and the like. Was my reason good enough? Harry had been told to wait at the station. He listens to Tom and Matthew because they explain the reasons for them giving rules and so on, instead of Dumbledore, who generally just says "for your own safety" type things. He had sent Hedwig home, who had been waylaid, and he had no real way to contact anyone. He figured that if anything happened to them, they would be there as soon as possible, or Snape would come and find him. He had only waited a few hours, like two and a half, not many, because the train had come in rather late. Thanks about Snape and the tabby. Harry's personality just screamed tabby for some reason. Thank you for reviewing.
Prd2bAmerican18: Thank you! Here's more! Thanks for reviewing.
David M. Potter: *bows* Thank you! He panicked. What would you do if someone just came up to you and put a gun in your back? I, personally, would do whatever he said until I found an opportunity for escape. Harry saw none. I know you want Harry to find a girlfriend, especially Ginny, but that is not the direction in which this story is going. My other story, however, will have such an event later on (although it's not Ginny), if you would care to read that. It's not quite there, but it will be.
Csferosha: Thank you! Here's the next chapter. The next should be out 2 Feb.
Death-TheOnlyTrueFreedom: Thank you!
Eav: Thank you!
MarsMoonStar: Thanks for reviewing.
Resggal: *evil laughter* Thanks.
Hermionegreen: Here you go! Thanks for the compliment.
Nikole Riddle: Hexed whom? Thanks, I'm glad you like my story.
Anyone not listed above: Thank you!
~Sylvia