Lots to go over to clear a few things to make sure no one is confused. First in the beginning I know its not possible, but for this story it is. This will answer everyone's questions about why. Secondly, I may have screwed up explaining a family line, but I tried my best to keep it simple. Though if there is a major problem I'll go back and fix it. Thirdly, sorry about the wait.

text = letters
text = flashbacks, thoughts, and word emphasis
§text§ = parseltongue
~text~ = diary writing

Happy Reading and Enjoy!

Dear Dudley,

I know I'm probably the last person you want to hear from. I hope you read this instead of throwing it away.

First I want to say I'm sorry. It was unfair of your mum to send you away. I'm also sorry for the treatment Marge must have given you. To be honest I did ask your mum to bring you back.

Now please don't blame or hate her. She was afraid. She didn't know what to do and didn't want to make matters worse. She truly did believe you would have a better life with Marge. And that your father would be a better person if you two weren't around us.

Dudley, your mum loved you very much. Every one of your birthdays I found her crying as she held your baby blanket. She also bought you presents for both your birthday and Christmas. Afterwards she would wait a week for you to call. When no call came she cried for three days. It caused her a lot of pain and self-doubt.

Secondly, I want us to try again. I want to get to know you and vice versa. I believe we can be friends, if not cousins, if we try. Please consider. You are the only connection I have. Your mum left to hide from your father, and before you ask no I don't know where she is. Even if she wasn't gone I still would writing this letter. Again please consider.

Your Cousin,

Harry

With instructions to make sure no one but Dudley got the letter, Harry watched Hedwig fly away. He has high hopes that Dudley would want to try and be his friend. He really wanted to have some kind of connection to Aunt Petunia.

As he sat in the Owlery listening to the owls hoot and flap their wings, he thought about the day their lives changed.

*Flashback*

Harry walked through the door feeling exhausted and hot. Walking three blocks in the summer heat was not ideal, but he really needed new books. As he stumbled into the kitchen he spotted Dudley at the table.

"I thought you and Piers were going camping." He spoke while getting a glass of water.

"Plans changed." Dudley mumbled. "Piers caught the flu from his sister."

"Oh I'm sorry. Hey, do you want to go see a movie with me?" He asked wanting to do something with his cousin.

"No. Leave me alone." Dudley growled.

Harry shrugged then put his empty glass in the sink. Things went too fast after that. He was pushed roughly from behind. Harry stumbled causing his head to hit the door frame before landing on the hardwood floor. Harry hurt his wrists trying to break his fall.

As he tried to get his bearing back, Dudley turned him over and straddled his hips. Harry couldn't defend himself against his cousin's rapid punches. Dudley's fists were wild and unpredictable. They were landing everywhere his face, chest, ribs and stomach. Harry pleaded for Dudley to stop.

"No! You are the reason I have no father. You are going to pay for what you did." Dudley yelled as he continued to hit Harry.

"Dud-Dudley, please! Please stop!" Harry cried out unable to take anymore.

"No! Bastards like you deserve this!"

Harry cried out when Dudley's fist hit a sensitive part of his already tender belly. He has never felt this much pain before. He never wants to feel this again.

"Dudley. Please. Stop." Harry gasped out as tears leaked out profusely.

"Stop begging! Stop crying!" Dudley screamed. He grabbed Harry's head and slammed it into the floor.

Harry groaned as his vision began to go dark. The thought that Dudley was going to kill him flashed through his mind. Harry would accept it if it meant that his cousin could be happy again. Even if his aunt would be heartbroken.

"Dudley! Stop!" Petunia yelled as she rushed to pull her son off Harry.

"No! He deserves this!" Dudley yelled at his mother.

Harry heard his aunt yelling Arabella's name. The next time his vision cleared he saw them pulling Dudley off together. They managed to succeed and get the older boy outside. Harry fell asleep after that. When he woke up his aunt was sitting next to him. She looked like she had been crying.

"Aunt Petunia, what's wrong?" He whispered hoarsely.

Petunia smiled weakly at him. "I was so worried about you. The doctor said you need to stay in bed for a few days. Do you need anything?" She softly asked running her fingers through his hair.

"Is Dudley alright?" Harry asked ignoring her question.

"Dudley is fine. He will stay with a friend until Marge comes."

"Why is Marge coming?"

"She's going to let Dudley live with her."

Harry sat up with a wince. He didn't like that news. He wanted Dudley to stay. Harry really wanted Dudley to like him.

"But why? I don't want him to go."

"Oh Harry." Petunia cried as she hugged him. "Dudley almost killed you. He can't stay, please understand that."

"But I don't. I don't understand. Dudley is just upset about Uncle Vernon being away. He didn't mean to do it." He replied with tears falling down his cheeks.

"You'll understand one day, Harry. I'm sorry, but Dudley is going to his aunt." Petunia kissed his forehead then stood up. "Get some more sleep. I'll bring you some soup later."

Harry nodded and laid back down. When his aunt left he rolled over and cried. This is day is really confusing, he has no idea what happened. He closed his eyes and wished that this was just one horrible dream.

*Flashback Ends*

Like he wrote in the letter, he begged his aunt to bring Dudley back. She told him no each time. She said she wasn't going to risk his life no matter how much she loved Dudley.

After a month Harry stopped asking. Instead he bravely went to Piers. The other boy was surprisingly nice to him. Piers told Harry that he couldn't help because he wanted nothing to do with Dudley anymore. Harry had learned that Piers and the others were only Dudley's friends to avoid the boy's temper. They were just as afraid of Dudley as everyone else. In the end Harry felt sorry for Dudley and wanted to be the only true friend he could count on.

He had sent letters before. Every two weeks for a year. After the first year of no replies Harry gave up. Now he was going to try again for Dudley and Aunt Petunia. Harry still wanted to be friends with his cousin.

The raven haired Slytherin left the Owlery with hope in his heart. Maybe this time he'll get a reply.

(*v*)

Severus suppressed a groan as he rolled his eyes. This year was going too slow for him. He wondered what he did to deserve this torture. Torture in the form of Gilderoy Lockhart.

The monthly teacher's meeting was suppose to be a simple review. Instead they all had to sit there and listen to the annoying ponce talk about himself. Severus knew more than one teacher including Minerva used a stinging hex on the man. Nothing worked, so now they were waiting for him to run out of air and leave. Though Severus was tempted to Crucio the man.

The irritating man left the room a half hour later, all of them let out sighs of relief. The staff meeting continued. There wasn't anything new to report for the majority. All the teachers had asked Minerva the same questions-How long did they have to put up with the youngest Weasleys and the Granger girl? And if they test certain students in each year that have high grades. Severus suspected that they wanted to see the extent of Harry's knowledge, but didn't want to single him out.

Minerva had told them that she couldn't suspend them. She explained that Dumbledore's closest allies won't approve of the suspension, even if the three were caught cheating or breaking the rules. Minerva did mention, rather happily, that the three could and would serve any detentions given to them. She did ask them not to remove too many points because the other Gryffindors didn't deserve to suffer with them.

She purposely didn't answer their second question. She knew why they asked. Minerva also knew that nothing good would come from testing Harry Potter. Dumbledore's allies on the Board will never approve of skipping Mr. Potter ahead nor would the man's allies at the Ministry let the examiners come to Hogwarts to test the boy. That man had too much power.

After the meeting Severus stayed behind with Filius and Pomona. Minerva told them about the meeting she had with Fudge, Lucius and Bagshot. She told them how Bagshot vouched for Aberforth Dumbledore to teach History. Severus saw the sadness and fury in Minerva's eyes as she mentioned Dumbledore's other crimes, including turning down potentially good teaching candidates. He too was angry to hear that Alice and Lily were forced to take other careers.

Upon hearing the news, Filius went off on tirade in Gobblyedgook. Severus although angry still chuckled at the half goblin's rant. He spotted Minerva and Pomona hiding their smiles. Severus knew Harry was going to be just as mad as Filius. He also wanted to be a fly on the wall when someone told Lady Longbottom about Alice. After all everyone knew the dour stern woman loved her daughter-in-law dearly.

When Filius was done, the four of them concluded their meeting. Severus stayed with Minerva to give her updates on Draco and Harry's progress for their Mastery. She was happy about it and informed him that Poppy was satisfied with their potions. A large sense of pride filled him at hearing that news. He ego reared it's ugly head when the thought the boys learning from the best filtered through his mind.

Severus left Minerva and went to his office. He wasn't really surprised to find Harry in the room writing in the diary. He wondered what Harry learned this time.

(*v*)

Harry completed his homework and brewing. Once he made sure his friends were okay, he went to Severus' office. After locking and warding the room against everyone but Severus, he got the diary out. He wanted to learn more about Riddle and his time at Hogwarts.

~Hello Tom~

~Hello Harry. What do you wanna talk about?~

~You and your time at Hogwarts. What you did when Dumbledore wasn't around.~

~I spent most of my time in the library or the Slytherin common room holding court. I was the Prince by my third year. In my fifth year I found Slytherin's secret chamber.~

~Secret chamber? What chamber?~

~Salazar built a chamber under the school. No one but a Parselmouth can enter.~

~Why did he build a secret chamber?~

~Salazar was having a secret affair with Godric's son. The son was sixteen when the affair started. Godric found out shortly after the two lovers bonded. Salazar built the chamber to protect his husband and unborn child. Godric had set out to kill them all for the betrayal he felt.~

~Did Godric love Salazar?~

~No. Godric was angry because Salazar ruined his chance to bind his son to a rich family. They offered Godric a lot of money for the match. When the family found out Godric was forced to pay for the broken betrothal contract.~

~Wow. What happened afterwards?~

~Godric wasn't successful. Rowena stepped in and stopped him. She also forced Salazar to pay half of the broken contract price. Salazar's husband gave birth to a son. Salazar and his family lived in the chamber until Salazar retired and left the country with his husband.~

~So the other founders didn't force Salazar out because he wanted to kill the Muggleborns?~

~What?! No. Where did you hear a stupid thing like that?~

~That's the rumor floating around. Its the answer to why Slytherins are evil question.~

~That is the most idiotic thing I have ever heard. I bet Galleons Dumbledore is behind that. After all Slytherins and Gryffindors got along well before he came to teach. You know, he's responsible for the rivalry.~

~Yes, I know. The previous Headmasters and mistresses told me the story. He did it out of jealousy of the Purebloods and their money.~

~Really? I didn't know that part. I know the Slytherins turned his friendship down.~

~That's part of the reason as well. Tom, can you tell me where the chamber is?~

~Are you a Parselmouth?~

~Yes. I found out earlier this year. I found a Parsel book in the common room. I've read it and started practicing Parselmagic.~

~You found my book. Please keep it safe. Don't let Dumbledore get a hold of it.~

~I promise it will not leave my possession.~

~Okay. The chamber's entrance is in the second floor girl's restroom. There is a snake on the faucet. Just say 'open' in Parsel. Once it's open say 'stairs' or you can slide down the pipe. Again hiss open when you reach a door with snakes on it. Be careful of Salazar's Basilisk, she might still be alive. Don't look in her eyes, tell her I sent you. She'll change her eyes to make it safe for you.~

~Thank you. I'll write to you after I explore the chamber.~

~Let me know how Midna is doing. I miss her.~

~I'll let you know.~

Harry looked up when Severus walked in. He smiled at his mate before saying his goodbyes to Tom. He sealed the book and returned it to the safe in the floor. After he replaced the wards he sat on the couch next to Severus.

"Learn anything new?"

"Yes. Apparently Salazar married Godric's sixteen year old son in secret. Godric wanted to kill them because they costed him a rich betrothal contract. Rowena stepped in to stop it. Salazar was able to live with his family in peace after that. After he retired he and his husband left the country." He explained.

Severus was baffled. "The hatred wasn't because of Muggleborns."

Harry laughed. "Nope. Tom also told me about Salazar's secret chamber. Do you want to explore it with me? Tom says there is a Basilisk down there."

A Basilisk?!" Severus couldn't believe that a Basilisk would be in the school, much less still be alive. Severus' mind then switched to the possible ingredients he could get, if it's true.

Harry saw the far off look and the small hopeful smile on Severus' face. He softly laughed as he shook his head. He had a pretty good indication of what Severus was thinking. The Slytherin knew Basilisk parts were as rare as a blue moon. Harry was going to ask Midna, as Tom called her, for skin, scales, and venom.

"Sev, when do you want to check it out?"

Severus blinked to clear his mind. "We'll go after dinner when everyone heads to their common room. Where is it?"

"Tom said the entrance is in the girl's restroom on the second floor."

"Hmm I don't know whether Salazar was crazy or a genius. I don't think anyone would think to find a secret chamber in the girl's lavatory."

"I think it was a genius idea." Harry laughed as he commented.

"I know. So was there a reason you came here other than the diary?"

Harry smiled. "Not really. Though I was thinking of experimenting on a potion to reverse the effects of the Cruciatus Curse."

Severus' eyebrows raised up. "I already made that potion."

"I know. Yours is nerves based. I want this one to focus on the mind. Neville Longbottom told me what happened to his parents."

Severus nodded in understanding. "I know about them. Lily and Alice were close, so close that Lily made Alice your godmother."

"Neville mentioned that. Lady Longbottom told him when he wrote home."

"Are you the reason Mr. Longbottom's potions have improved?"

"Mostly." Harry admitted. "Blaise is the other reason. He likes Neville but is too afraid to say anything."

"You seem to know a lot. Are you sneaking into people's minds?"

"Just Granger and the youngest Weasleys. My friends mention these things during our poker games. You know about Marcus and Theo, now Blaise and Neville. Draco has a crush on Fred and George. He won't say anything because he's scared Lucius will react badly."

That information caught Severus by surprise. He never would have thought that Draco was attracted to the male population. He'll help Draco if the crush becomes something more. Though with the recent development with the twins' defect, he didn't think Lucius would mind all that much. None of them will know until Draco says anything.

"We'll just have to wait and see."

"Yeah. So this potion. Do you think I have a chance?" Harry asked shyly.

Severus squeezed Harry's shoulder. "I honestly think you do. How are you going to get your theory?"

"I was thinking of examining the ingredients in your potion after reading some neurology books. I was hoping Lady Longbottom will tell me what the Healers had said about their condition. Though I don't want to mention this to either her and Neville in case this potion doesn't work."

"I'll talk to a Healer or have Narcissa do it."

"I should have remembered Cissy being a Medi-Witch. She mentioned that her sister Andromeda was a Healer. Do you think she would help?"

"She will if you told her why you wanted the information. She and Sirius were really close, even after Walburga disowned her."

"Dad mentioned that she disowned a lot of people after Orion died."

"Regulus told me it was her way of grieving. She really loved Orion."

"Were you and Uncle Reggie close?"

"Yes. Besides Lily and Lucius, Regulus was my closest friend. I spent a year searching for answers about his disappearance."

"Dad wants to look for answers as well."

"Have you talked to him?"

"Yes. He sent me a short letter saying that he, Moony, and Fenrir will be a Malfoy Manor. Dad did tell me to warn you that Moony and Fenrir know about our relationship. They aren't happy in the slightest."

"Wonderful." Severus grimaced. "I rather face a crazed Dark Lord than two angry werewolves."

"Don't worry I'll be there to help you." Harry assured the man with a smile.

"Wonderful." Severus drawled sarcastically.

Harry swatted Severus' shoulder. "Just for that you can face them alone. See you in the Great Hall."

The young Slytherin left the office snickering as his mate called him back. He wasn't really going to let Severus face them alone. Harry was just going to let the man sweat about it a little.

Severus groaned as he raked his hands through his hair. He didn't want to believe that Harry might follow through. Facing down two angry wolves alone sent a shudder down his spine. The prospect of Dumbledore being the World's leader sounded better. With a heavy sigh the Potion Master left his office.

(*v*)

The lavatory door was locked and warded. Harry stood in front of the small snake, while Severus leaned against the wall. Neither one had spoken a since leaving the Great Hall. Harry was excited about seeing the chamber. Severus was still worrying over seeing Remus and Fenrir.

"Who are you? What are you doing?"

Harry turned around to face a ghost of a young girl. She had large glasses and pigtails. He has never seen her before.

"Hello, I'm Harry, that's Severus. We're going to investigate the tunnel."

The ghost smiled as she floated closer to Harry. "If you die you can share my toilet. Hardly anyone ever comes in here."

Harry was shocked that a ghost was flirting with him. He looked at Severus who had a smile on his face. The young Slytherin glared at his mate before looking back at the girl.

"I'll take you up on that. After all I need to stick around to haunt a few people. What is your name?"

"Myrtle Warren." She replied with a smile. "Haunting people is fun. I think you will like it a lot. Be careful down there." She warned before floating away.

Harry turned back to the sink and hissed 'open'. Severus shifted at the hissing. Harry's was different from the Dark Lord's. His reaction to it was different and he chastised himself for feeling it. The older man locked the feeling deep inside his shields, taking care to make sure that no one could find it.

As the sinks shifted, Harry and Severus watched in amazement. They didn't truly believe that Tom had been telling the truth. Now though excitement filled them at the prospect of discovery hidden secrets.

Severus stood next to Harry when the sinks stopped moving. This time the hissing got no reaction out of him. They both used lumos maxima as they descended down the stairs. The mates made quick work cleaning up the bones and sewer slime, then cleaned away the horrid smell.

Anticipation was felt when they stood in front of a large door. Harry was hesitant, because the Basilisk could kill them the moment the door opened. The young Slytherin turned to face his mate.

"Sev, when the door opens close your eyes. Keep them closed until I give the all clear. Tom said this Basilisk has a killing gaze." He whispered.

"Don't worry I won't do anything foolish like staring directly at a Basilisk. You be careful as well. We don't know how stable the snake's mind is."

"I promise to be on guard."

Harry turned and hissed 'open'. After they stepped inside the door they closed their eyes. Harry closed the door behind them, not wanting the snake to get out.

§Midna?§ Harry called out cautiously.

§Who are you? What are you doing in my master's chamber?§ He heard the angry voice hiss.

§I'm Harry. Next to me is my mate Severus. Tom told me about the chamber and asked me to check up on you.§ Harry answered.

§Tom. I miss Tom. When is he going to visit me again?§ Harry heard the sadness in her voice.

§Severus and I are working on that. Its going to take us some time. Can we look at you now?§

§Oh yes, open your eyes.§

"Sev, you can open your eyes now." Harry spoke in English.

Severus opened his eyes and took a slow step back. The snake was larger than any of the descriptions he had read about. He also thought she was beautiful. Her scales were pitch black with a green shine.

"Harry, what did she say?"

"She misses Tom and wanted to know when he will visit her again. I told her we're working on getting him back. Before that she asked why we were down here."

§He is your true mate.§ Midna hissed. §My first master had met his true mate. You smell like them.§

§Smell like them, how? The true bond or like family.§ Harry replied in surprise.

§Both. You also have a hint of Tom in your scent.§

§Amazing. I didn't know snakes could sense things like that.§

§Most can't. Master once said that magical snakes are vastly different than common snakes. He said we are more in tune with magic than any other creature. Its because we snakes are more sensitive to it.§

§Your master sounds like a great man.§

§He is. I talk to him all the time.§

§Salazar's portrait is down here?§ Harry asked in excitement.

§Yes. I'll take you to him. Follow me.§

"Come on, Sev." Harry smiled and grabbed the older man's hand.

"What did she say to get you excited?" Severus asked as they followed the snake.

"She scent our bond and said it was a true one, like Salazar's. She also scent a family bond between me, Salazar, and his husband, along with Tom's horcrux."

"Really? So that would mean you are doubly related to Godric. Where are we going?"

"Yes I am. We are going to talk to Salazar. Midna said his portrait is down here. She talks to him all the time."

"This is more than I was expecting." Severus replied, amazement filled his voice.

"Ditto. There is so many questions I want to ask him."

"I will gladly answer any questions you may have, young man." The deep voice responded.

Harry turned to face the portrait of his house's founder. Salazar looked nothing like his descriptions. This man had chocolate brown hair and green eyes that was the same shade as Harry's. He was also bulky and tall. Severus could see some similarities between Harry, Salazar, and the Dark Lord. The things that separated them was Harry's Potter hair and the Dark Lord's Riddle blue eyes. Both Harry and the Dark Lord also had a runner's build.

"Why do we have the same shade of green?" Harry blurted out. It wasn't the first question he wanted to ask, but it was the first that popped into his head.

Salazar chuckled. "Its a trait to show our ability as a Parselmouth. No one outside of family knows that."

Harry's brows furrowed. "How can that be? Tom Riddle is a Parselmouth and he had blue eyes."

"Someone must have put a glamour on him. I saw Tom's family tree. He is a direct descended. You on the other hand, are a perfect copy between me and Godric, but it looks like you favor your Slytherin side more. What is your linage?"

"My mother is Muggleborn and my father is a Pureblood of the Potter line."

Salazar's laugh took Severus and Harry by surprise. "I'm sorry. Its just centuries later and no one bothers to teach the truth any more."

"What truth?" Severus asked.

"Muggleborns aren't muggles blessed with magic. They are born from squibs, who were disowned from their Pureblood families. Helga found out and started teaching the 'Muggleborns'. The Purebloods were outraged that their outcasts were learning alongside their perfect pure children."

"So Muggleborns are actually Halfbloods?" Harry asked still confused about this.

"Yes. Halfbloods can be Purebloods if the line goes back at least three generations. Any further they'll remain Halfbloods." Salazar explained.

"Sev, can goblins do family trees?"

Salazar chuckled before Severus could answer. "You don't need goblins. See that blank tapestry on the wall."

Harry turned to look. "Yeah."

"Sign your full name using your blood, then say ostente domui. It means reveal family in Latin."

Harry nodded at Salazar before walking over to the tapestry. He cast the cutting hex on his finger and signed his name. Severus healed the wound before he could. Harry thanked him then waved his hand and repeated Salazar's words. Seconds later lines formed and connected while names appeared.

Harry found his parents' names and began tracing. "Sev, they were cousins."

"Who was cousins?"

"James and Sirius. My grandmother Dorea was Sirius' grandfather's sister."

"You are a Black twice."

"Seems like it. My Potter grandfather Charlus came directly from Gryffindor's line through the third Peverell brother. Dorea's mother who was a Bulstrode can be traced back to Slytherin from a different line."

"What's Lily's line?"

"My grandmother was a Squib, her father was a Squib, but his mother was a witch. That line goes to Salazar's son. Though if you look here Salazar's daughter married into the MacMillan family, who had a daughter married a Black that was Sirius' grandmother, Orion's mother."

Severus didn't know what to say. His mate was a Pureblood. One who had a lot of old blood in him. All of this told him that Harry was extremely powerful, not that he didn't already suspect. He mentally laughed at the thought of Sirius' reaction to this.

"You are twice the Slytherin and twice the Gryffindor." Salazar spoke from his portrait. "And you, Severus, what are you?"

"A Halfblood. My mother married a muggle. She came from the Prince line which traces back to the Ravenclaw line." Severus explained.

"Rowena had children?" Salazar asked looking confused.

"Yes." Harry answered. "She had a daughter Helena who married a baron. They had children. Severus' family comes from Helena's son's line. Her daughter never married."

"How do you know so much about Rowena's daughter?" Salazar asked.

"Helena is a ghost here in the school along with her husband. She'll talk to anyone who will listen. She told me she received her mother's gift, her daughter received it from her."

"Ah yes the gift of sight. That's why I was confused by Rowena's continued line. She once told us she didn't want to have children, because the gift passes from mother to daughter."

"Helena told me she hated it. She was fearful of having kids, but her husband wanted a son to continue his line which was older than yours and the other founders. Helena's children were twins, the first on either side." Harry explained.

"Do you know if Helga married?"

Harry shook his head. "Sorry, I don't. I can look if you like or ask the Goblins."

"That the second time you mentioned Goblins. Why?"

"The Goblins run a bank. They control the Wizarding World's money and investments. They are also the oldest creatures apart from Centaurs. Goblins also keep track of all the bloodlines dating as far back as Merlin and Morgan. They make sure no one tries to steal someone's line."

"Hmm. What of the war between Goblins and Wizards? It started a year after I left."

"They came to a stalemate. A treaty was made. Goblins declared themselves neutral and opened a bank." Severus answered.

"Not an end I pictured."

"Tom told me he was down here. Didn't you talk about this?"

"No. I was mostly an ear for Tom's venting. I have to say I'm surprised he didn't kill everyone. When Tom wasn't venting we were working on his Parselmagic."

"Tom went insane and declared himself the Dark Lord. Severus and I are trying to find a way to help him. Do you know anything about soul magic?"

"Yes I have a few books down here. You can read them. I also have all my Parsel books down here."

"Can someone learn the Parsel language?" Harry asked.

"No one has ever tried, but I was able to make a potion for my husband. It helped him understand Parseltongue both spoken and written, but he couldn't speak it. The potion will only works on the true mate of a Slytherin." Salazar explained.

Harry beamed at Salazar. "So Sev can understand. I have to make this potion." Harry turned and ran to the shelves pulling books down.

Salazar looked at Severus. "You're my grandson's mate."

"Yes. The Sorting Hat sensed it and told us. Harry said Midna sensed it as well. Harry and I are also bonded." Severus explained calmly.

Salazar let out a low growl. "What?! He looks twelve. If I find out you forced him-"

"It wasn't forced." Severus cut the founder off. "We bonded for his protection. A man named Dumbledore wants to control and use him. Nothing intimate will happen until Harry is ready for it to happen. For now I'll be a mentor, companion, and friend."

"Sev will never force me, Grandsire." Harry spoke still pulling books down.

"All right. I'll take your word, but if I find out that that changes I will find a way to make you pay." Salazar glared at Severus.

"Understandable." Severus replied.

"Harry, the book you are looking for is in my desk. Hiss 'open' to the ouroboros."

Harry rushed to the desk. He let out a triumph cry as he pulled the book out. As he flipped through the pages he realized this was Salazar's personal journal. He looked up giving the man a shocked look.

"This-this is personal. Why?"

Salazar chuckled. "You are family. That book will only open for family. You can add your own potions in it. Tom did. You can also share that book with Severus."

"Thank you."

"Think nothing of it, child. Now you and Severus need to get going, someone might notice your absence."

"He's right, Harry. You're friends will go looking for you."

Harry nodded. "Thank you again. I'll come back and visit soon. Does Midna need me to bring her anything?"

"No there is a tunnel that leads to the forest. She hunts there." Salazar answered.

"Okay. I'll see you soon."

"I'm sure you will." Salazar smiled.

With one last goodbye Harry and Severus left. Salazar smiled to himself as he watched them leave. He couldn't believe how much the child looked like his first son. He was taken by surprise and thought his son was still alive. Oh how he missed his child. The founder was completely lost in his memories of the past.

(*v*)

"And Slytherin are ahead by forty points. Gryffindor need to catch the snitch to win." Lee Jordan announced when Marcus Flint scored.

Harry was searching the sky, while occasionally dodging the Bludgers Fred and George sent his way. After dodging another, Harry spotted the tiny gold ball near the Hufflepuff stands. He zipped towards it weaving in and out between the other players. He reached out to get it until a Bludger hurdled towards him, forcing him to turn away. Only it didn't really do any good as the Bludger continued it's attack.

Harry turned his broom towards the Slytherin Beaters. He flew as fast as his broom permitted. The seeker flew to the closest Beater, who was looking at him.

"Hit it!" He yelled as he hurdled passed. Harry turned his head in time to watch the Beater hit the Bludger. The ball flew in the opposite direction only to stop and fly back towards him.

With no hesitation the raven haired Slytherin flew back towards the stands. He needed to be away from the public to destroy the rogue ball. Harry darted into the teacher's stand. He weaved in and out between the beams as the Bludger flew behind him.

Harry drew his wand, needing the pinpoint precision. He started casting Confringo, Reducto and Bombarda. The bloody Bludger dodged every spell. With a renewed determination Harry stopped his broom in midair. He waited for the Bludger to come closer to him. When the blasted thing was several feet in front of him, Harry cast Reducto with his wand and Bombarda with his free hand.

"Damn!" He exclaimed when the Bludger dodged again.

Before Harry had time the Bludger attacked again, this time hitting his wandless arm and breaking it. With a pained yell, Harry flew back out and towards the teachers. He flew close to Severus.

"The Bludger broke my arm!" He yelled. "Help me!" He screamed flying away as the Bludger got closer.

'Harry, fly back towards us.' He heard in his head.

Harry maneuvered the broom back around. The Bludger followed. He flew as low as he could when he reached the teachers. As he passed them he heard multiple yells, then a small explosion. Harry turned in time to see the remnants of the Bludger falling towards the ground. With a happy smile, he held his broken arm close and continued the game.

Minutes later he spotted the ball again. This time Gryffindor's Seeker was next to him. At the same time they flew straight towards the ground. It was harder for Harry, who was using one hand. He used his thighs to keep the broom steady as he reached out. At five feet from the ground the Gryffindor Seeker pulled away.

Harry retrieved the ball wedging it quickly between his numb hand and body. With barely a foot from the ground he pulled the broom up and stopped it. Floating in the air he held the Snitch up.

"Slytherin wins! Harry Potter caught the Snitch!" Lee Jordan exclaims loudly. "Slytherin beat Gryffindor 240-40." Lee announced.

Harry jumped off his broom when Severus came close. He handed the Snitch to Draco who had rushed towards him. Theo took his broom.

"Come on. We need to get you to the dungeons before Poppy finds out." Severus spoke, his voice was tight and controlled. Harry just nodded and followed.

They were able to make it to Severus' quarters uninterrupted. Severus went to his personal potion cabinet. He pulled out a vial of the modify Skel-gro. One that won't effect the potions in Harry's system. Harry laid down on the transfigured bed that used to be Severus' couch.

"Drink this." Severus ordered, sitting on the edge of the bed.

Harry downed it without a word, grimacing at the taste. "Thank you. I'm sorry, Sev."

"What are you sorry for?" Severus asked. He was surprised by the apology.

"I wouldn't have broken my arm, if I had just let you and the teachers take care of it first."

"You don't need to apology for that. Whoever spelled that Bludger is at fault. Since the blasted thing was destroyed we can't use detection spells. We'll have to search people's minds."

"I bet it was them. Granger had titles of advance borderline dark spell books in her head. She reads them more than the school books. I found that out when she tried to accuse me and Draco. It was after I had saved Draco from that Mudblood mishap."

"I'll let Minerva know that I used surface Legilimens and found out. She'll search Granger's trunk."

"Will you get into trouble for that?" Harry asked worriedly.

"No, because she knows I'll be searching for the person responsible for the Bludger."

"Okay."

The floo flared a moment later rejecting an angry Poppy Pomfrey. "Severus Snape, why isn't that boy in my hospital?!" The angry woman yelled.

"I'm perfectly capable of healing a simple broken arm." He sneered with a glare. "In case you forgot, I am a Medi-Wizard. Making doubly capable of the job."

The older woman huffed and stiffen her spine. "I'm going to run a scan."

Severus stood up blocking her way. "You'll do no such thing. Now leave."

Harry watched her glare. "I'm informing Minerva about this." She responded before leaving.

"Why did you do that?" Harry asked after Severus locked the floo.

"She has been spelled by Dumbledore. Every time she scans a student she tells him and then doesn't remember. I can't remove it without harming her core. Dumbledore also has a modify obedience spell on her. She defies any orders to go to the goblins. The more you push the more agitated she gets, until she starts using spells to fight you off. So I can't get her purged. Dumbledore also has an elf checking her food, I don't know which one." Severus explained showing his annoyance.

"But she reacted like the others when Dumbledore was sent to prison. Why didn't the spell stop that?"

"He probably didn't want anyone to get suspicious. That's why I said it was modified. With the goblin problem most just think she's afraid of them. So they don't question it."

"Can't you stun her and take her?"

"No, the purging needs to be done willingly. Also I'm afraid of what will happen if she does step inside Gringotts."

Harry thought about it for a moment. "It won't be anything good. I wouldn't put it past Dumbledore to have a fail-safe. One that will kill her."

Severus nodded. "That's what I'm afraid of. So wear a shield to deflect any scans if are near her."

"Okay." Harry replied sleepily.

"Get some sleep. I'll be in the lab."

Harry nodded and closed his eyes.

(*v*)

The two weeks before Winter hols was both dreaded and celebrated. The students were busy with exams. At the end of the day at dinner they chatted loudly about their plans. The teachers were also looking forward to the holidays.

Three days before the end of the week, Harry walked out of Myrtle's bathroom. He had just left Salazar. The founder had started his Parsel-training the week after the Quidditch game. Harry had also let Midna become his familiar. Salazar told him that she needed a living master to keep her sane. Harry didn't hesitate to accept the responsibility. The Basilisk had bitten him injecting her less lethal venom in him as Harry spoke the familiar bonding spell.

His bond with Midna shared some similarities with his bond to Severus. He and Midna will have a telepathic link and they will know when the other is in danger. Harry is also safe from her deadly gaze and lethal venom. Midna was thankful to have a master again, but told Harry she wasn't ready to leave Salazar. Harry understood and had left her in the chamber.

"Are you a creeper now?" A disgust voice interrupted Harry's thoughts.

Harry turned facing Ron Weasley. "What do you want, Weasley?" He drawled.

"Why are you in the girl's restroom? Wait, do you have girl parts?" The redhead laughed.

Harry crossed his arms and grinned. "Wouldn't you like to know. Maybe that's why you are following me. You fancy me."

Weasley sputtered, face turning bright red. "No, I don't."

"Are you sure?" Harry taunted.

"Y-yes." Weasley stuttered.

Harry shrugged before walking away. "Where the bloody hell are you going?! I didn't say you could leave." Weasley yelled.

Harry was forcibly stopped and turned around. "Get your hand off me. I don't have to listen to you. You are nothing. A mindless sheep is what you really are. Go back to Gryffindor Tower, Little Sheep." Harry spoke low but still threateningly.

Weasley's face contorted into rage. "That's it, Potter, I'm going to teach you to respect your betters." He raised his fist.

Harry drew his wand and spelled a blast of air at Weasley. It sent the boy several feet down the corridor.

"Mr. Potter, detention with me Friday night." Lockhart happily informed Harry.

Harry shrugged and walked away. He wasn't in the mood to deal with the ponce. He walked to Severus' quarters, hesitating to enter. Severus wasn't going to be happy about the detention. Said man looked up from his book when Harry walked in.

"What are you doing here?" Severus asked putting his book on the side table.

"To explain before someone twists the truth." Harry calmly answered.

Severus glared and stood up. "Explain what."

"I protected myself from Weasley. Though I should have just let him hit me. He saw me coming out of the lavatory. Some words were said and I walked away. He physically stopped me, I called him a mindless sheep. He moved to hit me after saying he was going to teach me to listen to my betters. I blasted him down the hall with an air spell. Lockhart caught me, gave me detention with him Friday night." He calmly explained, not looking at Severus.

Severus closed his eyes taking several calming breaths. "Do you know if Lockhart saw the whole thing?"

Harry shook his head. "No. He spoke from behind me."

"Merlin, what were you thinking?"

"I wasn't. Okay I know I screwed up. I'm just tired of them and their attitude. Frankly I'm surprised I lasted this long." Harry didn't bother hiding the anger from his voice.

Severus let out a low groan. "Its that blasted Black blood and who knows what you got from Lupin. You need to be more careful. Its a good thing Dumbledore isn't here. Things would have been worse."

"I know. This is the last time I'll get caught. Now I need to go curfew is in five minutes."

"Good night. I'll let Minerva know what happened."

Harry nodded. He wasn't worry about this too much.

Friday night came in a blink. Harry walked into Lockhart's office and mentally groaned. The man had pictures of himself on the desk. This reveal was slowly forming a headache.

"Ah, young Harry." Lockhart smiles as he walks into the room. "Right on time. I thought I make things easy. Tonight you'll sign my photos to my fans."

Cleaning Hippogriff pens would be better. Harry thought wearily.

"Okay, sir." He responded sitting at the desk.

Harry had a large list of potions and spells running through his head. The bloody ponce hadn't stopped talking since they started, and its only been an hour. Harry really wanted to Crucio the man. Then he heard something he probably wasn't suppose to.

So with a grin he looked at the blonde man. "Wait. You mean you didn't save a town from a rogue vampire. Were you even there?"

Lockhart spluttered. "We-well of...of course I saved the town. What nonsense are you yammering about?"

Harry chuckled. "You just said he saved the town from a vampire, not I saved. You didn't do any of this, did you? All that you written about is someone else's doing. I'm so going to expose you."

Lockhart stood, drawing his wand. "So what if I took the glory for myself. No one will ever know. You won't even remember. Obliviate!"

Harry watched as the memory charm bounced off his shield and hit Lockhart. The force knocked Lockhart back against the wall. The blonde ponce slid down to the floor. Harry ran out of the room, sealing it behind him. He found Severus and McGonagall on the first floor.

"You need to come with me quickly." He told them before running back to Lockhart's office.

He warded the room after they walked in. Severus and McGonagall rushed to the fallen man to check on him.

"Harry, what happened?" Severus asked.

"He slipped up, saying he instead of I when explaining the vampire attack. I called him on it, he confessed, then moved to Obliviate me. The spell reflected off my shield and hit him." Harry quickly explained.

McGonagall turned to look at him. "Mr. Potter, need to submit the memory to the Aurors. Go to my office and wait for us. Do not speak to anyone."

"Yes, ma'am."

Severus and Minerva walked into the office an hour later. They had taken Lockhart to the Infirmary. While Poppy examined the man, Severus floo'ed Madam Bones. She was going to arrive with Rufus Scrimgeour. After Severus closed the connection, Poppy made her own floo call to St. Mungo's. The Head Healer and Head Mind Healer agreed to examine Lockhart some more. Once they showed up Minerva and Severus went to her office.

"I'm sorry for making you wait so long, Mr. Potter." Minerva apologized as she sat in her chair.

"That's all right, Professor. Is Lockhart going to be okay?"

"Physically, yes. Mentally, we don't know yet. Madam Pomfrey has the Head Healer and Head Mind Healer looking at him now."

"Madam Bones and Head Auror Scrimgeour will be arriving shortly." Severus informed Harry from the seat next to him.

"I won't get into trouble, will I?"

"No, Mr. Potter." Madam Bones answered from the doorway. Severus and Harry turned to look at her and Scrimgeour. Minerva conjured two more chairs.

"Just tell us what happened, Mr Potter." Rufus gruffly spoke after taking his seat.

Harry explained the story the way he told McGonagall and Severus. "It was a simple Protego shield. Though lately I found that it bounces spells off instead of absorbing them."

Amelia smiled. "You are truly unique, Mr. Potter. You learn in your seventh year that the advance form of Protego reflects certain spells. Now I need to ask for your memory. We'll review it and investigate Mr. Lockhart. Hopefully we'll find the real people that goes to the adventures he wrote about."

Harry nodded. "Any of you can retrieve it." He replied putting the memory to the forefront of his mind.

Scrimgeour pulled the memory, placing it in a vial Snape gave him. The Auror pocketed the vial and sat back down. Rufus knew he had to put Dumbledore's investigation on the back burner until this Lockhart mess is cleaned up.

"We need to find a Defense professor fast." Severus spoke to break the silence.

"How about an Auror? They are trained in Defense and dueling and they can used a previous professor's lesson plan." Harry suggested.

"That's actually a good idea, Mr Potter." Minerva replied. "Rufus, can you spare someone?"

"Shacklebolt. Moody is training the new recruit. I'll send Kingsley after I get back to the office." Rufus answered.

Minerva nodded. "Thank you." She turned to Harry. "Its almost curfew. Please don't say anything. I'll announce this at breakfast."

Harry stood. "Yes, ma'am." When he reached the door he turned around. "Mr. Scrimgeour?"

Rufus turned to look at the young man. "Yes, Mr. Potter."

"In advance I'm sorry for both listening and taking too long to inform you."

Rufus raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"I overheard you asking Professor McGonagall if she knew the override password to Dumbledore's office. It's mein geliebter Gellert, my beloved Gellert in German." Harry answered.

"How do you know that, Mr. Potter?" Rufus asked in a curious tone.

"The sorting hat told me when I asked Headmaster Dippet."

"Mr. Potter, how are you able to talk to him?" Minerva asked.

"Professor Dippet, Fawkes, and the hat visits me and Argus for afternoon tea every Saturday. Sometimes Ms. Pince joins us. Anyways since the lockdown, Argus put an empty frame in his office for any of the former Heads. Fawkes brings the Hat with him."

"I didn't know you talked to them as well." Minerva responded.

"Thank you, Mr. Potter. You helped us in a tremendous way." Rufus smiled at the young boy.

"Yes, thank you, Mr. Potter. Now head to your dorm." McGonagall gave him a small smile.

The four adults waited until he left. They were still in shock over his information. Rufus was doing a mental dance. He and Rookwood can finally continue their evidence search.

"I said it once, that boy is unique." Amelia broke the silence. "Does he have a future set?"

"Harry and my godson Draco Malfoy are studying for the Potion Mastery. Harry wants to work with Potions, then later teach the subject." Severus answered.

"He's not even thirteen yet." Amelia responded. She was honestly surprised by this news.

"What potion is he submitting, Severus?" Minerva asked.

Severus looked at his companions. "You can't mention this to anyone yet. Harry is still in the theory stage with this." He waited for their promise. "Harry is working on a way to reverse the effects of Frank and Alice Longbottom's condition." He took great pride in seeing their mouths drop open.

"That will be the biggest break through in history, since your Vertiaserum." Minerva whispered.

"Yes it will be. Harry wants to keep it silent until the tests succeeds. He doesn't want to give the Longbottoms false hope."

"Understandable." Minerva agreed.

"If I get my two best Aurors back I will be that boy's investor." Rufus replied.

Severus chuckled. "You'll be the first of many. Now about Lockhart, what are you going to do?"

"Destroy his credibility and image. If he still had his mind he will be in Azkaban right now." Amelia answered. "Now he will be a permanent resident in St. Mungo's Psych Ward."

"Amelia, we need to get going. I want to finish this then come back with Rookwood and Shacklebolt. Minerva, can you keep Kingsley away from Dumbledore's office?"

"Of course. I'll keep him here, Severus will help while I get Kingsley up to date with Defense. No doubt Lockhart didn't teach the students anything." She frowned in displeasure.

"I've seen the book they used." Severus responded. "It's all about pompous man. We'll use Quirrell's lesson plans. He was a decent teacher even before the Dark Lord possessed him. I'll ask Filch to get the files. The books will be in storage, I'll bring them when I come back."

"Thank you, Severus. Amelia, Rufus I'll walk you back to the Infirmary. Rufus when you come back, come through my floo, Albus put an automatic shut down on Poppy's and we still haven't been able to remove it."

"Rookwood will look into it before we leave."

"Thank you, for everything."

Severus left and went to Filch's office. The older man had found the files with ease. Severus was impressed by that. Filch told him, when asked, that Harry had helped with the filing system. Everything was by subject then alphabetical order. Severus wasn't too surprised considering Harry does the same with his books. On the way back to Minerva's office, Severus stopped by the storage room. All the defense books were put into a bottomless feather-light charmed trunk. He was surprised to see that he was the first back.

Severus settle into the previously vacated chair, he opened the folder and started reading to be sure everything was right. Twenty minutes later Kingsley walked out of the fireplace. Severus had wondered where Minerva was.

"Severus, I'm surprised to see you here."

"I'm the Deputy, Shacklebolt." He glared at the dark man. "Even if I wasn't Minerva still would've asked me to be here. In case you forgot, I have a Master in Defense." Severus' glare turned into a sneer.

"No I didn't forget. Why am I replacing Lockhart? Rufus didn't inform me."

"That ponce attacked Mr. Potter trying to obliviate him. Harry's protego reflected the spell and it hit Lockhart. The man was sent to St. Mungo's Psych Ward for further testing."

"Is Potter alright?" Kingsley asked worriedly.

"He's fine." Severus replied curtly. "Now I have Quirrell's curriculum for you to follow. The textbooks are in the trunk by the door. I didn't count them, so after Minerva gives you the roster you might need to do that, to see if you need to copy any of them." Severus explained.

"Thanks. How bad was his teaching?"

Severus scoffed. "Teaching is not the word to use. It's bad either way. I have a suggestion that might catch the students up, especially the fifth and seventh years."

"What is it? Any help is appreciated." Kingsley asked sitting in the chair next to Severus.

"Start with a five chapter review. Assign essays for each chapter just to give the students a grade for theory. During the next class day give them a test for those five chapters. By Saturday you should have covered ten chapters. Saturday you'll go over the practical portion of those chapters and use duels as a test. That will give them their practical grade. Continue doing that and you should be able to finish the first semester in a month or two. After that you can relax a bit with the second term work. Don't forget to give the big test before you start the second term. They need that grade as well."

Kingsley thought about it for a moment. "Okay, I like how that works. I'll go with that. Thank you."

"Oh good you are getting along." Minerva spoke from the door, looking and sounding amused.

Severus sneered at the older woman. "I was only giving him an easy way to get the students caught up. Though I think you and I, and maybe Filius, should be with him Saturday to be sure all the students show up."

"Good idea." Minerva agreed.

"What delayed you?" Severus asked.

"Oh I was sending letter to Lucius Malfoy and Governor McMillan. They'll be here tomorrow. We'll be discussing this recent event and finding another teacher for next year. We'll also talk about the changes we're making after the holidays." Minerva answered. "Kingsley, besides the student roster is there anything you need?"

"No, not at the moment."

"Great. I'll help you get rid of Lockhart's stuff. Don't hesitate to ask if you need any kind of help. Oh before I forget, if Ron and Ginny Weasley and Hermione Granger refuse to work or demand you give them good grades, don't hesitate to give them detention."

"Weasleys?" Kingsley asked looking confused. "Why would they do something like that?"

"Its just Ron and Ginny. Dumbledore turned them and Ms. Granger into his spies. He's paying them to get Harry. Dumbledore is trying to turn the boy into a weapon." Minerva answered in displeasure.

Kingsley gave them a shocked look. "Dumbledore told us he is going to train Harry to fight You-Know-Who. How is that turning him into a weapon?"

"Dumbledore wants Potter to die at the Dark Lord's hand, so he can kill the Dark Lord himself. He doesn't want Harry trained. He wants the boy to be a mindless Gryffindor, who will do anything and everything Dumbledore tells him to do." Severus explained with a sneer.

"That's not true!" Kingsley exclaimed.

"Yes it is, Shacklebolt. Dumbledore has been illegally using the boy's seats and stealing his money. He sent Hagrid to take the boy to Diagon to get his school things. Harry's letter and train ticket had compulsion and obedience spells on them. Last year he tried everything to get Harry re-sorted. Do I need to go on?"

"Severus, that's enough." Minerva spoke sternly. "Kingsley, Albus is not the man he portrays to the public. He tried to get someone to kidnap Draco Malfoy. He let a teacher stay in this school knowing You-Know-Who was possessing him. He hired that fraud Lockhart, a drunk Tralawney, a third year drop out, and let's a ghost teach. Recently I discovered that he forced people into other careers. He is also in love with Gellert Grindelwald, that's why the man is in Nurmengard instead of dead. I suggest you get a purge done then rethink your loyalties."

Kingsley nodded and stood up. "I'll sleep on it. Thank you." He shrunk the trunk and put it into his pocket.

"Of course. Come on I'll show you to your classroom, office, and private quarters. Call an elf if you need anything in your quarters. Good night, Severus." She said as she walked Kingsley out.

Severus nodded as he watched them leave. He left the office and went to his own quarters. It was going to be an interesting week.

(*v*)

"Mione, that thing was suppose to kill him, or at least permanently injure him." Ron angrily complained.

Hermione sighed heavily. "I know, Ron. It would have worked if the teachers hadn't destroyed it. I overheard Pomfrey tell McGonagall that Snape healed Potter's broken arm. Pomfrey was angry at Snape for that. McGonagall told her that he was well within his rights to do it."

"Great." Ron muttered. "Now what? We can't use the Potion mum sent. Its a good thing Ginny warned us about Snape watching or he would have caught us."

"We can give him something during Potions or use a spell on him during Defense."

"Defense will be wiser. The Slytherins watch his back in Potions, so does Snape. Lockhart is an idiot and we won't get caught.

"True. I'll search for a few spells and hexes. See you in the morning." She kissed him quickly and left.

"I was really hoping for that thing to kill him." Ron muttered to himself.

The couple didn't see the person in the shadows who heard everything.

For those who don't know, Midna comes from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. I'm a BIG Zelda fan. If my Muggleborn explanation is the same as another author then the credit goes to them.