The train ride is different this year. Instead of sitting with the first years, he sits with the twins. They had stuck themselves to his side as soon as they saw him. The rest of their family was more wary. Thankful that he saved Ginny, but cautious because of all of the rumors about him. Ron insists it was his fault to begin with.

How? He is a Slytherin. Simple as that.

Once they are in their compartment, the tension in Harry's shoulders decreases a little. Not all, because that would mean he thought he was completely safe. And he's not. Even if he trusted the twins completely, he still wouldn't. He is only safe when he is alone, protected by Myrtle.

"So baby Lord,"

"How was your summer?"

Harry gets out his homework and begins to read. "Same as usual. Yours?"

"Tense."

"Our parents fussed over Ginny the entire time."

"Ginny was too quiet."

"Bill invited us to Egypt. He works as a curse breaker."

"Had our picture in the paper and everything."

"It was wicked. We were almost able to leave little Ronikinns,"

"In one of the tombs,"

"But Mum found out and had a fit."

"Little bugger deserved it."

"Went on the entire time about you and how you are the cause of all evil."

They roll their eyes in exasperation. Both of them have told Harry multiple times how annoying their little brother could be. They liked Ginny much better. Said she had a sense of humor. He takes their word for it because he has never had a conversation with her, even after he rescued her from the Chamber.

"Sirius Black escaped Azkaban."

"Who? And what?"

They share a look.

"Azkaban is where the most dangerous wizards go."

"It suppose to be the most secure prison in the Wizarding World."

"Or Wizarding UK, for those of us,"

"Who don't have an ego the size of,"

"The Hogwarts Express."

Harry snorts. "Not very secure if he escaped."

"No one knows how he did it."

"But they think he is heading towards Hogwarts."

"Why?"

They share another look. "Sirius Black is your godfather," Fred says bluntly.

"He's in Azkaban for killing twelve Muggles and Peter Pettigrew, one of his best mates,"

"And betraying your parents, his other best mates, to You-Know-Who."

"They think he is after you now."

Harry looks at them in a sort of resigned shock. He is starting to see a pattern to his school years and he can't say he's surprised. He doesn't like it, but he's not really all that shocked. He would be more surprised if Black wasn't after him.

"Black... Is he related to Professor Black?"

"It's his older brother."

Well this is going to be a fun school year. He goes back to his homework, with the occasional help from the twins. Not that he really needs it, it's all fairly simple, but it does make things easier. And quicker. He has just finished his Charms essay when the train stops unexpectedly.

"Wha-" all three of they give a violent shake as a chill creeps into their bones.

Slowly, their door is open by a figure in a black cloak. Harry shivers violently. Despair floods his system, leaving him breathless. The sheer hopelessness of his life overwhelms him. He hears a woman screaming, high and scared.

That is the last thing he hears before darkness takes him.

He wakes up to find the twins and a strange scruffy man staring down at him. He jerks away quickly, banging his head against the bench. He does not like strangers looking at him when he is helpless. Especially strange men.

"Easy now," the man says, and reaches for him.

He backs up farther, into the corner.

George places himself between Harry and the man. "It's alright Harrykinns,"

"He stopped the Dementor from taking a seat with us,"

"He's the new DADA Professor."

If they wanted to reassure him, they didn't. He has less reason to trust the DADA Professor than he has to trust Voldemort. Sometimes they are one in the same. Of course, they know that, so they are warning him at the same time as well as putting the Professor at ease.

The Professor had stopped when he backed up. Now he is looking at him strangely. Not Professor Quirrell strange or Professor Lockhart strange, but still, strange. He reaches into his case and pulls out a bar of chocolate. "Here, this helps with the effects of a Dementor."

"Dementors?" Harry asks, wanting to know just what in the world attacked him, but not feeling up to complete sentences. The name sounds familiar. Something about souls maybe?

"They guard Azkaban," the Professor tells him, "They are Dark creatures that suck the hope and happiness out of people."

Creatures that suck the hope and happiness out of people. Great. This is a wonderful beginning to the new school year. Just what he needs. Something to make him more miserable than he already is.

"What are they doing here Professor?" George asks, still standing in front of Harry. He takes he offered chocolate from the man and eats some, before handing it to Harry. The gesture makes a warm feeling in his stomach appear.

"The Ministry, in all it's wisdom, have ordered the Dementors to guard Hogwarts against Black."

"What? They want Dementors at the school?!"

The Professor sighs. "I'm afraid so. They are confined to the perimeter of the grounds, but they will be present."

They twins look at each other and Harry agrees. This year is going to be yet another level of hell. What a surprise.

The Professor goes to check on the other students and Harry gets back to work, still cold. Fred and George seat themselves on either side of him. He is grateful for the warmth and protection. He doesn't even stop to think about his caution when it comes to them and what they want. He is too tired for that. The Dementors affected him more than he originally thought.

He has to find a way to protect himself. He cannot let a weakness like this be known. It will be exploited ruthlessly. Especially since they are on the grounds. He cannot be seen passing out whenever they get too close. It will ruin him more than he already is. His House considers him the weakest link as is. No need to encourage them.

.

.

The world is a dangerous place. Beware.

.

.

The year is a strange one. And a bad one. It turns out that he can feel the Dementors, even in the castle. It doesn't matter where he is, he is always chilled to the bone. It's hard to care about anything anymore. Harder. This world never gave him much to care about to begin with.

His Divination Professor keeps predicting his death in horrible and painful ways. Every class, it seems as if she has a new method of killing him. He thinks his Housemates are taking notes. This is not helped by the thought that he keeps seeing a Grimm anywhere he goes.

For another, he can't take part in Hogsmeade weekends. Which seems like such a simple thing, but a disappointment nonetheless. Not only does he not have a permission slip signed, he doubts he would be allowed to go even if he did. For he is not allowed out of anyone's sight.

Suddenly there is an intense interest in knowing where he is. Every second of everyday must be accounted for. It is maddening. It would be even more so if he didn't know what was going on. Because no one is telling him anything. Not that adults anyways. His Housemates have made it very clear they think the whole thing is a joke. There is even the threat of giving him to Black, gift wrapped.

He is forced to spend less time with Myrtle and more time in the common room. Which means spending more time, huddling in a dark corner, trying to be invisible. It doesn't help the depression he is dealing with.

The twins, whenever he isn't confined to his prison, will not leave his side. They have appointed themselves his unofficial bodyguards and are taking their job very seriously. He has never seen those two serious about anything, but his safety. It makes him feel odd.

And claustrophobic. He is use to being on his own. To no one caring what he did or where he went. Now everyone cares, but most for the wrong reason. It makes his skin itch. It makes him want to scream. It makes him want to cry 'hypocrite' to the entire world.

Of course his two bodyguards eventually pick up on this. He doesn't understand why no one seems to think Fred and George are stupid. Yes, they are pranksters. Sure, they don't take anything, let alone school, seriously. But they aren't stupid. And they aren't dense. So they give Harry a way to be alone, but safe.

The Marauders Map.

It is a special map they found their first year that shows the location of every person in the school at any given time. It is completely accurate and completely foolproof. There's no way to trick it or hide from it. So if Sirius Black gets anywhere near Harry, he'll know.

It also shows hidden passages and corridors. The kitchen is there, various shortcuts and secret hallways. The twins accomplishments makes much more sense now. It is a major key to their success. And they are giving it to him.

His first thought is what it will cost him. But they must be expecting that, after last year, and firmly tell him not to be a git. For the next hour. The second thought is to keep his doubts to himself. His ears are still ringing from their affronted lecture about friendship and Gryffindors and trust. They give examples in fine detail, saying he obviously needs them. The next thought makes him smile, a very small and secret one. Maybe he has two friends after all.

They even offer to sneak him into Hogsmeade with them, security be damned, if it will make him smile. He tells them not to bother. The chances of being caught are too high. Besides, he would have to spend the entire time under the invisibility cloak and what fun would that be?

So they bring him back chocolate instead. Lots and lots of chocolate. He needs it.

Not only are the Dementors affecting his days, they are affecting his nights. He has always had a problem with nightmares, ever since he was little. They got worse when he came to Hogwarts. Now, they have increased to the next level. He has never been more thankful for silencing charms in his life. His nightmares are violent and nightly. Each time he closes his eyes, he sees another close death experience. Hears the woman scream. Sees a sicking green light. Lives another day at his relative's house. The last makes his back and ankle ache.

Aunt Marge had visited that summer. He hates Aunt Marge. Not only is she forever saying how useless he is, how worthless his parents were, how what he needs is a good canning, she also has a dog. A vicious one. It likes to chase Harry around and use him as a chew toy. This summer it had gotten a hold of his ankle before he was able to get away.

This isn't the first time Ripper has bit him, but it is the worse. His ankle is a series of jagged lines and pink scars. The only thing his relatives did, besides laugh, was give him a worn flannel to wrap it. So he wouldn't get blood on the floor. He had spent most of that visit with a fever because it had gotten infected.

Not enough to take him to the A&E, but enough to make his life harder than it needed to be. Dudley also developed a new game called Harry Tripping. His cousin's games had a pattern. They were never very cleverly named and they usually caused Harry pain.

It still aches when it rains.

So, needless to say, he isn't getting much sleep. The chocolate helps, somewhat, during the day, so he is eating quite a bit. Enough to make him sick of it. But he is so cold and no amount of layers or warming spells seem to help. So he eats his chocolate.

.

.

Creatures that suck the happiness and joy out of a person are dangerous to begin with. But, for a person without much joy or happiness, they can be deadly. What do you do when there's nothing left to steal?

.

.

The DADA Professor, Lupin, makes Harry uneasy still. There is something about him. Something that makes his stomach twist. Well, two things really. One is much less important than the other, in his mind. Which is ironic because really, it should be the other way around.

There is something dangerous about Professor Lupin. Something wild. It surrounds the man like a cloak. A menacing presence in the back of his eyes. He hides it well, but Harry is use to looking for threats in those around him. The mild manner man is not mild mannered at all. Not all of him. There is a flash of gold in his eyes that watches the world through the Professor's eyes.

But for all that is feels threatening, it doesn't feel threatening towards Harry. Never once does it look at him like prey. It keeps track of him, watches him, but it feels more... protective than anything else. Like it is looking out for his safety.

No, the danger is not want scares him. It is the Professor himself. He also has a way of watching Harry. But unlike the lurking presence, it does not make him feel safe. It makes him feel hunted. Analyzed. He has a way of looking at Harry as if he can't believe what he is seeing. And it isn't because he is the Boy-Who-Lived. He never even glances at his scar.

He plans on staying far away from his new DADA Professor. Just because his stare isn't like Professor Lockhart's stare, doesn't mean it is anything good. He managed to avoid one Professor. He can avoid another.

At least this Professor actually knows what he is talking about. They are actually learning about Defense Against the Dark Arts in the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom. It is a novel experience. It would be like Professor Binns actually teaching History of Magic and not just droning on about the Goblin Wars.

Still, that doesn't make the man anymore trustworthy. Maybe the danger in his eyes is safe, but the rest of the Professor is to be avoided.

So he does.

.

.

Sometimes the most dangerous things in life are the safest.

.

.

Trying to learn the Patronus charm is hard, Harry soon finds out. Harder than he thought it would be. The fact that is a Seventh year spell doesn't faze him. He can handle most spells Fred and George teach him and they are OWL spells. If he can learn Fifth years spells, surely he can learn one Seventh year spell.

He can't even ask a Professor for help. The logical choice would be Professor Lupin, but he doesn't trust that man at all. He refuses to be alone with him. None of the other Professors have ever shown him a reason to think they would help him. And Professor Black refuses to talk to him. Not that he knows if any of them know how to cast a Patronus charm in any case.

The twins try and help him, but they are learning it at the same time. They are slightly more successful than he is, but none of them have any solid results yet.

No, the problem is not power. The problem is memories. You have to have good memories to cast a Patronus charm. You have to have good, powerful happy memories. Memories that will help you throw off the despair the Dementors bring. That is the key to the spell. To battle powerful depression, you have to have powerful happiness.

What has life given Harry to be happy about?

He has no loving family to think of. The only time he has seen his parents is in the Mirror of Erised. The only memory he has of his Mother is her dying and wasn't that a shock when he realized that. He can't even bring himself to fully trust the friends he does have. He has no soulmate to hope for. He is a Freak, even in the Wizarding World.

What does he have to live for? He can't even dream. They have all turned to nightmares.

.

.

You have to pretend you get an endgame. You have to carry on like you will; otherwise, you can't carry on at all.

.

.

Everything comes to a head, as is the pattern, one day not long before the end of the year. It starts with the absence of Fred. Now, you do see the twins alone sometimes. Very rarely, but it does happen. Mostly when the two of them are causing mischief at separate ends of the castle.

What you do not usually see is a lone twin running frantically to find Harry because his twin is missing.

"What happen?" Harry asks as soon as he sees George. He knows instantly that something is wrong.

"Fred's gone. He was suppose to meet me in the common room half an hour ago. I thought he ran into some trouble, but I can't find him anywhere."

It is odd hearing George talk by himself, without any additional comment from Fred. It's not right. Harry pulls out the map. "I solemnly swear I am up to no good," he tells it. They both search the map before Harry points, "There!" The Shrieking Shack. And he isn't alone either. Sirius Black.

The two boys dash off. Harry swallows nervously. They are about to meet Sirius Black. The mass murderer. The reason his parents are dead. It isn't a very encouraging scenario. But he is determined to rescue Fred. No one hurts his friends and gets away with it. And he is slightly more convinced they are his friends. More than he was last year at least. They are very persistent.

They arrive at the Shack and slowly creep inside. The place is filled with old, dusty furniture scattered around the floor. The covers any available surface. It is easy to see how the place received its haunted reputation. It's creepy.

Looking around, Black is in the corner of the room, wand in hand. Fred is on the bed, tied up, but unharmed otherwise.

"Where's the rat?" Black is asking.

"Once again, what rat are you talking about? I don't own a rat."

"Don't play dumb with me. Your pet rat. Where is the little beast?"

Fred starts laughing at the crazed man.

Black snarls. "Think you're clever do you? Just wait until I get my hands on it."

"You know," Fred says casually, "I've been mistaken for my twin many times. Daily in fact. We make a game out of it. Even our own Mother can't tell us apart. There's only one person who can and he's a scrawny little boy everyone underestimates."

Harry looks at George, unimpressed. Really?

George shrugs in a 'Well, it's true' kind of way.

Harry rolls his eyes.

"But," Fred continues, "I have never been mistaken for my little brother before. It's quite refreshing actually."

"Your little brother," Black repeats.

"Yup. Little Ronikinns got Percy's old rat, not us. Never wanted him."

"Your little brother," Black repeats, seemingly stunned.

And that's when George acts, "Stupefy," he shouts, casting an actual stunner at the man.

"Protego," Black casts the shielding charm with Fred's wand.

George shoots a stinging spell at him, and then a tripping jinx. Black dodges the first one, but the second spell hits it's mark. But not before he hits George with a jelly-leg jinx. As the two battle, Harry sneaks into the room without being seen. Well, Fred sees him, but Fred just winks. He hides behind a broken table and waits for his chance.

He gets it when George managed to maneuver Black so his back was directly in front of him. "Stupefy," he casts and Black drops like a rock.

The three grin at each other before George goes to Fred's side. One 'finite incarnate' and Fred is untied. "Well Forge, that was easier than expected."

"And what an experience too. Just wait till little Ronikinns hears he looks enough like his handsome older brothers to be mistaken as one of us,"

"He should be honored. We are dashing good looking."

"Quite right. We had to inherit something from the gene pool."

"Besides mischief?" a voice from behind them asks.

They turn and see Professors Black, Snape and Lupin standing there. None of them looks very happy.

"Professors, what timing,"

"We seem to have caught the wizard,"

"That all the well trained and certified others,"

"At our glorious Ministry, have failed to catch."

"It wasn't even that hard."

Professor Black quirks an eyebrow at them, something he surely picked up from his partner. Said partner is glaring at them. Professor Lupin, on the other hand, can't seem to take his eyes off of a Stunned Black. Harry gets the feeling there is more going on here than he knows.

"And just what do you little dunderheads think you are doing, taking on this man," Professor Snape sneers the last word, "Do you honestly believe you are skilled enough to take on a mass murderer without being killed?"

"We managed fine," George answers with a shrug.

"Not that it was planned. Black grabbed me on my way to meet Gred."

"And when Forge failed to show up, we went after him."

"Did it not occur to you to fetch a Professor first?" Professor Snape purrs dangerously.

"With your track record?"

"No."

"My track-"

"What did he want?" Professor Lupin interrupts.

Professor Snape glares at him, but he pays no heed.

"He thought I was Ron. Wanted our pet rat."

"Pet rat... no, it can't be," Professor Lupin pales. "This rat, how long have you had it?"

"I fail to see-" Professor Snape starts, but Professor Lupin cuts him off again.

"Oh shut up. How long?"

"A while now,"

"He was Percy's before he was Ron's. He was the one who found him, so,"

"Eleven, twelve years?"

Professor Lupin pales farther. "And is he missing a toe on one of his paws?"

"Really Lupin, surely you aren't suggesting what I think you are?" Professor Black asks, "I know what my brother means to you, but it's this a bit far reaching?"

"He is. How did you know? Have you seen him?"

"We were unregistered animagus in school," Professor Lupin admits. "Peter was a rat." All three Professors look at each other. Then Professor Lupin casts "Rennervate," before anyone can stop him. Black groans as Professor Lupin walks over to him.

"Remmy?" he asks groggily, "is that you?"

"Remmy?" George and Fred snicker quietly. Harry is too focused on the pair to laugh right now.

"Is Peter alive?" Professor Lupin asks urgently, "Sirius, is Peter still alive?"

"That rat," Black growls, "a fitting form. Yes, he's at Hogwarts. I saw him in the paper. He's been playing pet for those ones brother apparently."

"Oh Siri," Professor Lupin sighs as he kisses Black's forehead.

"And what proof do you have?" Professor Snape snarls, looking furious.

"I've known him for years. I was there when he transformed for the first time. I know what that little back stabber looks like."

"How convenient. And I suppose you want us to believe you did not betray the Potters either."

"We switched secret keepers. Thought it would be safer because I was the obvious choice. Who would think that timid little Peter would be the one?"

"Yes, very convenient," Professor Snape tells him.

"It's true. I don't need you to believe me Snivellus," Black spits the name.

"What have I told you about calling him that?" Professor Black snaps back.

"Oh, so sorry little brother. I hate to offend your precious little partner. Oh wait,"

"Shut your mouth Sirius Orion Black."

"Oh, now I'm scared. Imitating Mummy now are we? Well you always were the perfect little son. Tell me, still sporting that charming tattoo?"

"At least I'm not a traitor."

"I'm a traitor? Take a look in the mirror brother mine. I'm not the one who followed the family tradition. Ever since you met Snivellus over there, you have been on the wrong path."

"Because your soulmate is so saintly, Mutt."

"Now Severus," Professor Lupin says.

"Don't you dare use that tone with me Lupin. It is not your place nor your right. I have given you no leave to use my name."

"Yes, Remmy, don't want to upset His Royal Snivellus. He might behead you. Or, more likely, poison you. The slimy snake is a Potion Master after all."

"How good of you to remember Mutt."

"He always did fight the cowards way. A stab in the back is exactly his style."

"And a fight with unfair odds, four against one, was always yours."

"Slimy little worthless Freak! You always were a Dark bastard, even from the start."

"And I suppose you are the symbol of all things Light, being a Black."

"At least people wanted me. Poor unwanted Snivellus, having to beg for what he needs. Burden to those around you. No one loves you. No one cares about you. All you have are the scraps everyone has thrown away. Did Mummy and Daddy not love you?"

Harry covers his ears with his hands. He starts to shake. His breathing picks up, coming in and out much too fast. He feels dizzy. He knows what is happening, but doesn't know exactly why. This isn't his first panic attack after all. But why is he having one now? But as the fight continues, the words blur in his ears, replaced by white noise. And then, suddenly, it is not his Professors fighting, it is his Uncle.

His Uncle is yelling at him, telling him want an unwanted burden he is. How no one could ever want or love him. He is a worthless waste of space. A useless boy. A Freak. He falls to the floor, curling himself into a ball, making himself a smaller target. The next thing he knows are gentle voices.

"Hey baby Lord,"

"It's alright,"

"It's fine,"

"You're safe,"

"We have you,"

"We have you,"

"It's alright now,"

"The stupid men have stopped yelling,"

"Just breathe now,"

"In and out,"

"In and out,"

"In and out, that's it,"

"Good job,"

"Keep it up baby Lord,"

"You can do it,"

"Just listen to us,"

"You're doing great,"

"In and out,"

"In and out,"

Harry uncurls enough to see the twins looking down at him in concern. He offers them an unsteady smile in return. They grin at him.

"Our little Harrykinns is back,"

"With us. We knew you could do it,"

"Good job, baby Lord."

"Baby Lord?" Black asks.

Harry looks up to see the adults encased in purple bubbles. Professors Black and Snape are in one and Professor Lupin and Black are in another. Both bubbles are as far away from each other as they can get. Harry isn't sure how they got like that.

"In his second year, the school found out he was a parselmouth,"

"And decided he was the next Dark Lord,"

"Obviously as his right hand men, it is our duty to defend him," the last is more of a warning than anything else.

Black stares at him and Harry shrinks back from the gaze. It is far too heavy for him to bear.

"Wait, Harry, is that you?"

Professor Snape snorts. "And so the Mutt finally recognizes his godson. It took you long enough."

"But, but, you're a Slytherin. Both of your parents were in Gryffindor."

Harry shrinks back even farther, away from him. He shouldn't be surprised. What does it matter? Just another person who is disappointed in him. They always are.

"Since the child is always in the same House as their parents," Professor Black says, looking pointedly at his brother.

"Yeah, but I didn't want to be Dark."

"Oh for Merlin's sake Sirius!" he yells, clearly done, "How many times have I told you that Slytherin does not mean Dark and that Dark does not mean evil?! I don't know why I bother because you have such a thick skull, it'll never get through. And let's not even start on family pressure and expectations and giving into them because you will be killed otherwise. Oh no, let's not consider that at all. Let's rush headlong into danger instead, leaving everyone else to fend for themselves.

"Because you are a brave, strong and courageous Gryffindor. You can do no wrong. Always on the side of the right and just. Never thinking things through. Never mind that the mindless prejudice pushes Slytherins away from you. Never mind that the only place they feel welcome and safe is the Dark because the Light already hates them. Never mind that you cause a riff at such a young age that no one can cross it without drowning in the gulf below. That the Light has actively caused people to go Dark because that is the only place they are accepted.

"No, obviously not because Gryffindor means Good and Slytherin means Evil. Clearly they should just go ahead and kill all the Slytherins as soon as they are sorted. They are going to go bad anyways. What is the loss?!" Professor Black is breathing heavy by the end of his rant. Professor Snape lays a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"But why should you care?" he repeats, "you never have before."

Black just stares at his brother as if he has never seen him before. "Reggy..."

"Don't call me that," Professor Black says harshly, "you lost that right a long time ago. Only my big brother can call me that and he has been dead for years. He was dead before he graduated Hogwarts."

There is an awkward silence. Harry fights the need to squirm. Don't talk. Don't move. Don't remind them of your presence. Pretend you do not exist.

"Well as fascinating as this is,"

"We found Pettigrew," the twins say.

The adults turn and look at them. They wave the map around triumphantly.

"Is that the Marauders Map?" Black asks excitedly, "you found it?"

"Maybe,"

"What's it to you?"

Black grins, "I never did introduce myself. I am Padfoot and this," gesturing to Professor Lupin, "is Moony."

Fred and George look at each other excitedly, eyes large. Harry knows how much the two of them have looked up to the makers of the Map. And now here they are, right in front of them. In any other case, he thinks they would be on the ground, bowing to them. But they hold back, because of him. It is an appropriate analogy, he thinks, because he is always holding them back. He is the burden they insist on carrying.

"And what, exactly, does that piece of parchment prove?" Professor Snape asks dryly.

"It is a Map of the school and the grounds. It shows everyone on it and their location at any given point. We made it while we were students," Professor Lupin answers, stopping Black from speaking with a gesture. Black pouts.

"And so many more things make sense now," Professor Snape mutters, "Where is the rat?"

"In Gryffindor Tower, with Ron." The two look slightly sick at the thought.

Black nods. "That's where he was before when I tried to get him."

"Well come along now. Let's get this over with. Mr Potter, you may end the spell now."

Harry looks surprised. He did this? How?

"Our powerful baby Lord,"

"Doing magic all by himself now."

"We're so proud." George wipes away a fake tear.

"Concentrate and say 'finite incarnate'," Professor Black answers, showing Harry the movement with his wand. He points his wand at Professors Black and Snape's bubble first and then the other, successful each time.

Professor Black nods approvingly. As if that was a hard spell.

Professor Snape leaves with a billow of his robes, the rest follow. But then he freezes when they reach outside. "Lupin," he snaps urgently, "did you take your potion?"

He pales, "Not today," he admits before looking at the others, "Run."

Professors Black and Snape obey, grabbing all three students before running. Professor Snape is the one who grabs Harry, which he finds strange. He never thought the Professor would want to touch him. Something really bad must be happening if he is. He keeps up with the man's long strides easily, but the twins aren't so lucky. Professor Black is dragging them more than anything. He wants to ask what is happening, but doesn't think they'll answer. They are too busy.

But then a long, lone howl fills the air and answers his question. Werewolf. The two Professors curse and run faster. But it is no use. Professor Lupin, the wolf, is on them in moments. The three are pushed roughly behind the Professors as they raise their wands. Harry has the horrible feeling that if something doesn't happen soon, they are all going to die.

He peeks out from behind and meets a familiar stare. That's it. He darts out from behind his two Professors, evading the attempts from all four of them to grab him.

"Potter, get back here," Professor Snape orders and he hears the fear in his Professor's voice. It's odd. He didn't think his Professor was afraid of anything. Not because he is an adult. He is aware that adults can be afraid, just like children can. But sometimes Professor Snape doesn't seem human. It's as if nothing can touch him. He is the rock in the middle of the storm. Unmoved. But here and now, facing a werewolf, with his partner beside him and three students behind him, he is afraid.

But Harry isn't.

He now knows what the danger is behind Professor Lupin's eyes. This is the thing that watches him. This is the creature that has never felt like a threat to him, despite the obvious threat it poses. A werewolf who considers him one of his own. He has to. There is no other way to describe the look the wolf gives him. Pack.

So he is not afraid. "It's alright," he tells the wolf, "it's fine. I'm safe. They'll protect me."

"What in blazes name are you talking about Potter," Professor Snape snaps.

The wolf growls angrily.

"It's alright," he reassures, "Professor Snape is just a bit grumpy. He doesn't mean any harm." Harry hopes he's right. He has to be right. The Professor might hate him and like to make his life miserable, but he doesn't mean any harm. Not permanent, physical harm. He is a snake. His Professor will protect him, even if he doesn't like him. Isn't this situation proof of that? He's even protecting Gryffindors right now. You don't get much more dedicated than that.

Not that he trusts the man, just his principles.

The wolf whines and gets down on all four legs. It crouches like it is going to pounce. Harry feels his heartbeat pick up. He might trust the wolf not to harm him, but he has no good experiences involving dogs. He's secretly afraid of them, after dealing with Ripper for so long. But the wolf wags his tail instead, like a puppy who wants to play.

He takes a step forward and so does the wolf. When they are close enough to touch, the wolf gives him a sniff and then licks him, torso to hair. Harry giggles. He didn't even know he could giggle. He never has before. But he does now. The wolf barks happily and nudges Harry with his nose again. Harry wraps his arms around his neck and the wolf gives him a good shake. He is then swung up, so he is securely on the wolf's back. He screeches with laughter. This is the most fun he has had all year.

He grins at the others, waving happily. The twins return his wave, snickering. Slightly hysterical snickering, but still, snickers nonetheless. His Professor's reactions are less enthusiastic. Professor Black is staring at him, as if he has grown two heads before groaning to himself.

Professor Snape sighs, "Only you, Potter, would be able to tame a werewolf."

Harry shrugs. "I'm Pack apparently," he tells them, not seeing what the big deal is.

This just makes the twins laugh even harder.

He gets the distinct feeling he is missing something, but doesn't know what. And he's not sure he should ask either, not with everyone acting the way they are.

"Perhaps it is time to come down now?" Professor Black suggests, now looking faintly amused.

Harry shifts and the wolf growls.

Professor Black raises an eyebrow. "I suppose not. Are you planning on keeping him all night then?" he asks the wolf, "You realize he is a boy and not a cub? Little boys need to be in the castle where it is warm and not out in the cold. Add to the fact your cub has severe trouble with Dementors, who are patrolling the grounds, I might add. How are you going to protect him then? I highly doubt you can cast a Patronus charm in this form."

Professor Snape has not taken his eyes off of Harry and the wolf the entire time. He still looks scared and Harry wonders why. The wolf doesn't seem to like the Professor too much either, but he won't attack him. Not unless he tries to hurt Harry.

The wolf growls, seemingly offended by Professor Black's questions. Harry knows he has a point, but he feels no real desire to get down. He feels... safe up here. Safety isn't something he has a chance to take for granted, so he is going to take advantage of it while he can.

A Grimm comes along then, barking happily. It's the Grimm he has been seeing all year. And he gets the distinct feeling that he is laughing. Oh. Animagus. Padfoot. Right. He doesn't wave at Black, not sure how he feels about him. He may not have betrayed his parents, but he is still an adult.

"Are you coming willingly? Or do I have to put you on a lease?" Professor Black asks snidely.

Black growls, but comes to stand beside his brother.

They then turn towards Harry again. He shrugs at them. "I'm fine up here," he tells them.

"Unbelievable," Professor Snape draws, "Potter you cannot stay up there all night."

"Moony is safe though."

"Safe? In what world do you live in, pray tell, that you classify a werewolf as safe?"

Harry swallows and then says boldly, chin up, "The one where he makes me feel safer then any person I have ever met, including any Professors, student or ghost. The one where everyone else uses me or hates me or disapproves of me. The one where I am a symbol and not a person and therefore everyone thinks they can do as they like and judge me as they want. In what world? This one."

He is sure Professor Snape is about to put him in detention for the rest of his school career. He will be serving them until he graduates. Longer, if he can get away with it. It is common knowledge in Slytherin. You do not disrespect Professor Snape.

But the Professor merely raises an eyebrow at him. "A bit melodramatic, are we?"

"Not from where I'm sitting."

"Hmmm, I see." And that's all he says on the matter. "None the less you are the only person safe around the wolf. And the point of Dementors is a valid one. Or have you simply been eating that much chocolate for the thrill of it?"

Harry blushes. "No Sir."

"Well then, say goodbye to your pet wolf and let us be off. I suggest leaving him in the Shack. Merlin knows he'll probably stay if you tell him to."

And so Harry, shocked he is still in one piece, does. He is sad to leave the wolf, but his Professor does have a point. The idea of Dementors terrify him. He gives a long, tight hug to the wolf and walks away. "Good bye Moony," he whispers.

Moony howls in return.

.

.

The world is a strange place. And it keeps getting stranger from here.

.

.

Harry will forever remember the Headmaster's face when the nights events are revealed to him. He has never seen the old wizard so shocked before. It rather ruins his image of omnipresence. Not that Harry ever believed it before, but still. It is a look he doubts he will ever see again.

Things go rather smoothly after that, all things considered. Within the week Pettigrew is arrested and Kissed and Black declared innocent. It causes quite a stir among the students. No one knows everything that happen besides those who were there and the students have been sworn to secrecy on the matter.

Not that Harry was planning on telling anyone. Some of the things that were said was highly personal. For one, Professor Snape really would kill him. For another, he has never cared for gossip. For too long he has been the center subject of it all.

Professor Lupin does not finish the school year. Not only did they get lucky that Moony was fond of Harry, the students finally figured it out and wrote home about their werewolf Professor. Needless to say the parents weren't happy.

Harry is sad to see him go because of Moony. He is still wary of the man, no matter that he now knows why he looked at him like he did. Because he is Harry Potter, son of his best mate James Potter. Prongs. Apparently he looks just like James, only he has Lily's eyes. That was the most anyone ever said, if they even bothered.

He is going to live with Black, who is his soulmate. That explained why he believed Black so easily. Two names on his wrist. Sirius Black. Peter Pettigrew. And he finally knows why he has both. No more questions. He also mentioned that Black has Professor Snape's name on his wrist, as well as his own. Which explains a few things as well.

He has major doubts about Black personally. Not only does he not know what to think about the man in general, he has spent the last twelve years in a prison famous for making the inmates go insane. Sure, his animagus form helped. But how much? The Ministry is paying for his Mind Healer, as well as offering him a large amount of money for compensation.

One good thing he did though, was give both him and the twins a present. Two new copies of the Marauders Map. The Headmaster had kept the old one. These ones were keyed specially towards the boys and only they could use them. They also returned to them if lost or stolen and were made nigh indestructible.

The idea is to use them for pranks and that will surely be done in case of the twins, but Harry plans to use his for security. He is learning that he can never have too many safety nets in place. So many people out there want to either hurt or kill him. Just because, in the end, Black wasn't after him, doesn't mean he is going to get lucky again. That's not the way his luck works.

And then, predictably, at the end of the year, he is sent 'home', with more nightmares than ever.

.

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No one looks beyond what they expect to see. They go through life, blind to all but their expectations. After all, if they open their eyes, they might get involved with something they don't want to.

.

.

This summer is the worst yet.

More chores.

More nightmares. Strange nightmares. Nightmares that made no sense. Except they did. They made a horrible kind of sense, if one made certain assumptions. Which he did. The nightmares made his scar ache.

More pain.

He is numb by the end of it.

.

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Where does one nightmare end and another begin?