A/N: I fixed up a few things in Chapter Twenty-seven: Hello Padfoot, Goodbye Neville. Mostly just the scene where Silas goes on a walk with Sirius, and also when Severus gives Harry his birthday presents. I recommend going back and re-reading it or just skimming through to those two parts. Sorry! And I hope you like the changes I made!

The End of Summer

"Are you ready, Harry?" Severus asked as he stood. They had all just finished dinner and it was time for the session with Boy. Harry smiled with a nod and stood.

"May we come as well, Severus?" Remus asked carefully. He had already told Severus that Sirius had been made aware of the situation and the man had taken in pretty well. All he had done was order him icily out of the room and refused to speak to any of them during dinner.

"No." Severus answered and turned.

"I want to help. Please." Sirius asked humbly.

"It's alright with me." Harry offered tentatively.

"Fine. But you will do as I say, no questions asked." Severus glared at the other two men.

They both agreed readily. Severus sneered and stormed from the room. Harry flashed the others a sheepish grin before jogging after his mentor. Sirius shared a worried glance with Remus before they followed as well. In the end, Remus settled at the chess set with Severus and Sirius sat in the corner with a book. Harry settled on the settee and closed his eyes. Seconds later, Boy came Out, screaming and crying and begging not to be hurt as he flung himself to the floor and then under the settee.

Sirius and Remus sat rigidly, but Severus' warning glare kept them silent and still. Boy's cries tapered off, but none of the men could forget that he was there, huddled and terrified. About forty-five minutes passed before Boy made a move. Again he placed his hand into the open and when nothing happened continued to ease out from under the settee. He rocked for a while, his breathing rough and frightened. Then he shuffled forward and grabbed the plate of cookies before scuttling back into his hiding place. An hour later, he repeated this process and retrieved the juice.

"I'm going to bring him back." Severus informed them. At the sound of his voice, Boy began to cry.

"Can I try something?" Sirius asked neutrally. He didn't want to upset Boy anymore than he was already. Severus lifted an eyebrow and Sirius took that as permission to continue. "He responded positively to me in my dog form. I wanted to see if that might help."

Severus thought about it for a moment before giving a tense nod. Sirius took a deep breath and set the book aside. He slipped onto the floor and transformed. Severus and Remus pretended to continue their game and kept their faces turned in the other direction. Padfoot stayed away until Boy calmed down and then crept forward on his belly.

Boy saw him coming and his wide eyes snapped to the two men, but they were not paying attention. He looked back at the dog. It was closer now and it was whining softly. He looked to the men, certain they were going to get up and start yelling. But they didn't. He looked back to the dog and it was close enough to lick his hand. He tensed, but it didn't hurt so he didn't move.

The dog nudged him and he pushed back. This was his hiding space. The dog licked his face and he rubbed it clean on the carpet, wishing the dog would move so he could see the men clearly. He had to act quickly if they made a move to hurt him or demanded something from him. He pushed at the dog again. It obediently shifted over, but didn't back away. Boy relaxed once he could see the men and ignored the dog after that.

At least he ignored the dog until it got up and walked out of sight. When it returned, it had an apple in its mouth. It was red and large and juicy. He was always hungry. Not as much now as he usually was, but… still… He looked over at the men. They were still where they had been. Nothing had changed. He looked back to the dog and reached a trembling hand toward the fruit. The dog took a step closer, but he still couldn't reach.

He glanced back to the men. He was shaking now. He knew he was going to get in trouble, but… but he wanted that apple. Maybe… Maybe the men wouldn't notice. They weren't making the dog attack him and they weren't yelling. They were obviously busy… But if they were busy then he really shouldn't disturb them, right? That would make them really, really angry.

He began to cry and the dog whined at him, lying on his belly submissively. Boy hugged his knees and stared at the apple hungrily. The tears stopped and he looked at the men. They still weren't looking or paying attention. He bit his lip hard and crawled forward. He froze and waited for the punishment to start. Shaking, he knelt there for several long minutes before he lifted his head and saw the dog almost within reach with that apple.

He moved forward and the dog crawled as well. They met and Boy took the apple carefully. The dog let him have it and licked his face twice. He huddled there, crouched, crying softly over the apple. He looked and the men still hadn't moved or noticed. Boy placed the dog between him and the men and carefully began to eat the apple, trying hard not to make much noise.

When half of it was gone, he gave the rest to the dog. He didn't want it to get mad at him for not sharing. He had to be a good boy or he'd be punished and that hurt and he didn't want to be hurt. The dog ate it and licked him some more. Boy let him and then the dog got up and trotted over to the men.

Boy's eyes went wide in horror and he let out a high pitched whine of terror as he slammed himself backward, away from the men and the dog. His back hit the wall and his hands scratched at it as he began to beg for mercy. He watched with wide, terrified eyes as the lighter-haired man reached down and pet the dog's head gently and slowly. The dog yipped softly and wagged its tail; its tongue lolling from the side of its mouth.

Boy stared and slowly grew quiet again, his chest still heaving. None of the men looked upset that the dog was bothering them. He wrapped his arms around him and shivered as he curled up against the wall. The dog turned to look at him and he stiffened, but didn't start crying again. The dog came over and lay beside him, licking his face again.

He found that the dog was really warm and he liked that so he cuddled up more closely. The dog made that happy yippy sound again. Boy figured that was okay. He looked and the men were still not noticing him. With a sigh of contentment and a full belly, he closed his eyes and fell asleep warm for the first time he could ever remember.

xXxXxXx

"How did it go?" Harry asked as Sirius helped him stand.

"Very well." Severus answered. "You made a lot of progress. It seems Boy reacts very favorably with Padfoot. If we can build on that, there is hope that Boy will be able to be rehabilitated."

"That's great! Thank you, Siri!" Harry hugged him.

Sirius laughed and ruffled his hair. "No problem, kiddo. I didn't really do anything."

"Sure you did!" Harry argued and smiled up at Remus leadingly. He still remembered the dark depression Sirius had sunk to that afternoon and wanted to make sure Sirius was better from that by letting his godfather know that he was needed and helped him. "Didn't he, Remy?"

"Yes. Yes, he did." Remus laughed, giving Harry what he wanted and reassured his best friend. "That was the best I've ever seen Boy behave and it's all thanks to Severus and Padfoot."

Severus sneered. Harry ignored that and went up and hugged him quickly. He knew his mentor didn't feel comfortable with such gestures, but he just couldn't help it. He smiled up into those disconcerted black eyes. "Thank you."

"Enough." He gently pushed Harry away and left the room.

Harry laughed and turned to the others. "I'm going to go write Neville. Will you come up and let me know when you're going to bed? I want to say goodnight."

"Sure." Sirius smiled and ruffled his hair again.

Harry frowned at him and soothed it back into place. He left the room to his godfather and Remus laughing at him. He ran up to his room and took out his parchment. He settled at his desk with it and lifted his quill. Hey, Nev! You there?

Yep. Came his reply after a short minute. How was your birthday?

It was pretty good. It's weird not having you here. I think Remus misses you already. How was your trip home and what did you do for your birthday?

I miss Remus, too. Gran is good. She said she was glad I'm getting good instruction and that I looked healthy and she approves of whatever Remus is doing with me. I got a beautiful plant called Mimbulus mimbletonia. It looks like a small grey cactus except that it is covered in what looks like boils rather than spines from Great Uncle Algie for my birthday. The violet rose is in a pot next to it on my windowsill.

That's cool! I can't wait to see it! My birthday was pretty good. I got cakes from Ron and Hagrid, and Hermione sent me a card and a letter. She says she's really sorry for what she did. She talked to her parents about it and they made her see it from our point of view. She never meant to betray me and she realizes that she was taking things on herself to do that wasn't her right. She is my friend and not my mother. Harry smiled, quoting her.

Sounds like she's finally coming around. Neville wrote. Maybe she'll be different this year.

They talked for almost half an hour before they both got tired and said goodnight. Harry yawned and hid his parchment away again. He took out his journal and crawled up into bed. He opened it to the next clean page and wrote about his day. Remus and Sirius came in ten minutes later. They kissed him on the head and tucked him in. Harry wished them goodnight and finished his entry when they left. When he was done, he asked his alters what happened when he blacked-out.

I questioned him about Azkaban. I was curious to learn if it were possible for the Death Eaters that are imprisoned there to escape as he did. Silas explained innocently.

Oh. Harry smiled. I was worried you two got into a fight and that you might be as upset as he is. I'm glad you're alright.

Of course he is. Gabriel laughed. He'd never let a Gryffindor get him down. That would be too humiliating.

Exactly. Silas smirked.

Harry shook his head with a fond smile at his alters' antics. Goodnight, you two. Sweet dreams.

Goodnight, Harry. Silas wrote.

Sleep well. Gabriel added.

xXxXxXx

Silas was up as soon as Harry was deeply asleep. He had missed Draco's bird the night before, but that was okay since he hadn't written anything yet. He had a little more than two hours to write one now before the eagle-owl returned again. He listened to make sure no one else was up and tip-toed to their desk. A whispered spell lit the candle and he stared down at the blank paper thoughtfully. After a few moments to organize his thoughts and analyze the possible consequences of his words, he began to write:

Serpentine,

This mystery concerning Jr. is fascinating. I have spoken to my godfather and he was not near Jr.'s cage. He was however positioned on the way to and from that particular cell. He saw Jr.'s visitors coming and going and, on the day he died, he remembered both of Jr.'s parents coming to say their farewells and that the mother looked ill; whether due to dementors or some other cause, he could not say. In any case, it looks like one or both of them had a hand in Jr.'s escape.

Another puzzle that intrigues me is the puzzle of Bertha Jorkins. She also worked in the Foreign Affairs department with Jr.'s father. Could the two be connected? And if so, are the current projects that Department is involved also being manipulated by a second party? Have the World Cup and/or the Tri-wizard Tournament been tampered with? Or could they possibly be targets?

I'm interested to hear what more you can offer to help clear up this picture. As for our little alliance, I fear I have come to the end of my wealth of stories on the subject of my life. Are there any other areas you still hold curiosity about? I do so hope to be able to continue to supply you with meaningful correspondence.

Respectfully yours,

Shadow

xXxXxXx

The week passed with no further confrontations. In fact, Silas didn't talk to any of the adults again and was feeling stronger due to Gabriel's efforts in making sure he was sleeping more. He spent most of the night practicing spells, Occlumency, and researching in the library.

He did receive his reply from Draco during the middle of the week and in it the Slytherin informed him that shortly after Jr.'s mother visited him, she died as well. As for what he wanted "Harry" to tell him about, he again asked about the validity of the friendship between the Golden Trio. He also wanted to know if he were aware that Ron and Hermione consciously kept him from the other students, telling them that he need to be alone or that he was too busy to hang-out.

Silas, after questioning Ron, discovered Draco was right. Ron and Hermione did keep him away from others. Ron did it because Harry often needed space and he kept others away giving it to him. Once he thought about, Ron did admit to remembering Dumbledore talking to him in First Year and said that as Harry's best friend he had to be on the look out for people putting undue pressure on him or letting Harry get too overwhelmed with other people that he couldn't focus on himself or his school work.

Silas told Draco this in his reply and made it clear that he didn't feel strongly one way or another about the other two Gryffindors. Admittedly they were often annoying, but were also occasionally useful. Besides, he wasn't all that interested in meeting the other Gryffindors. If Ron and Hermione kept them from questioning him about every little thing and hanging on his every word, then he was grateful.

As for Gabriel, he and Severus continued their dueling and he was making a little effort in learning Occlumency himself, though it wasn't going very far. He much preferred combat and when Sirius and Remus got involved in the duels as well, he was ecstatic. He began to learn how to fight while within a team, or even when there were multiple enemies against you.

Sirius learned a lot that week about Gabriel. At first, he was disappointed. He hadn't expected his godson's Gryffindor side to lecture him about being childish and causing more problems than he was solving with his name-calling and pranks. But as he got to know Gabriel better he had come to respect him. He found that though Gabriel was competitive, confident, and enjoyed having fun, he was not about to have it at someone else's expense. He wasn't confrontational because he enjoyed it, like Sirius seemed to; he only confronted people when he thought they needed to be shown there was a problem or when he felt he could help create solutions.

Every night Boy came Out and was coaxed and cajoled by Padfoot to be less afraid and to be bold. Slowly, Boy was showing progress. As long as Severus or Remus were not looking at him, he no longer cried or whimpered. He would sit on the floor and actively pet the dog and even ate the food and drink left to him in the open. At first, he hid whenever Severus and Remus spoke, but by the end of the week he would no longer run and hide whenever they talked to each other, albeit he would cling to Padfoot fearfully, but at least he was remaining in the open. Nothing calmed him, however, if the two men looked directly at the abused child. It always made him hysterical with fear.

Neville had a great time at the Herbology Institute. He returned home with pamphlets, several recommended Herbology books, and advice on what to do to be accepted into the graduate program offered there. This motivation toward a future where he wasn't a failure brought out qualities that had been buried for a long time. It made him confident, focused, and driven. He was also happier than he had ever been. Harry and Remus were both ecstatic for him and promised to help all they could. They didn't have any doubts at all that Neville would be successful and it was their belief in him that helped him believe in himself.

Ron was growing ever more excited about the World Cup. He wrote Harry almost every other day and usually left a few pages all referring to the wizarding sport. It always made Harry laugh, and so did Neville when Harry described Ron's enthusiasm/hysteria to him. They enjoyed the sport, Harry more so than Neville, but neither was as fanatical as the redhead.

All too soon Friday, August 7th came and Severus had to return to Hogwarts. Harry was surprised when he came down for breakfast and saw Remus' bags packed and placed by the front door as well as his mentor's. He continued on to the dinning room and found he was the last to arrive. Sirius was grinning, and Remus and Severus were both wearing robes over their clothes.

"Good morning." Harry greeted them as he took his seat.

"Good morning, pup." Sirius ruffled his hair.

Harry grimaced and quickly tried to smooth it flat again. "Why are you dressed up, Remus? Are you leaving too?"

"I am." Remus smiled. "I was only a temporary Defense teacher until Dumbledore could hire someone with better credentials, but it seems there has been an opening in my field. I am going to be teaching History at Hogwarts from now on."

"That's great, Remy!" Harry grinned happily. "Will Sirius come to Hogwarts too?"

"Not openly, but maybe as Padfoot." Remus grinned back.

"He'd be your pet?" Harry laughed.

"Hey!" Sirius cried indignantly and tossed food at his godson.

"Stop acting like an animal, Black." Severus said, disgusted. "I'm sure even you are capable of understanding what is acceptable behavior at the table."

"Shut up, Snape. It's not like it will hurt you."

"I'll miss you two." Harry interrupted, hoping to forestall yet another fight. "It will be lonely without everyone here."

"Awww, I'll be here. Aren't I good enough?" Sirius pouted.

Harry laughed and pushed him on the shoulder, "Of course you are, Siri."

"I will try and make it home every few nights for dinner." Severus said evenly. "If you have need of me at any time, have Omi come and fetch me."

"Yes, Severus." Harry smiled.

The dark-eyed man nodded and stood. Remus followed his example and the four went to the front door. The two men shrunk their bags and pocketed them. Harry hugged both of his teachers and Sirius pounded Remus on the back, wishing him luck. When they were alone, Sirius turned with a mischievous grin and swooped Harry into the air and spun him around.

"Alright! Now that it's just the two of us, we're going to have some serious fun!"

"I still have to do work, Sirius!" Harry laughed. "I promised!"

"Work shmurk! Let's take the bikes and go to town. We can eat out, get some ice cream, and see if anything fun is happening in the park. It'll be great!"

"Alright." Harry caved under his godfather's powerful enthusiasm and good cheer. "But tomorrow we have to study!"

"Fine, fine…" Sirius brushed that off and ran outside. Harry chased after him laughing.

xXxXxXx

Dumbledore stood at the window to his office. It was only about eight in the morning and the school grounds sprawled before him in a beautiful landscape under a cloudless blue summer sky. But he wasn't aware of the splendor. His mind was focused inward on a subject that he found himself lingering on more and more as the days passed; one Harry James Potter.

When Severus first told him that Harry had been severely mentally damaged, he had been absolutely terrified. How could he have made such a horrendous mistake? He knew instantly that he had been overconfident and could have possibly destroyed the world's only hope. He had known from the beginning that the Dursley family wouldn't be a caring one for Harry.

He had deemed it best that someone so important to the world be shaped by a challenging environment instead of one that would spoil him and make him complacent, petty, and arrogant. Toward this aim, he had placed Arabella Figg as Harry's watcher. Arabella was above reproach and was a Squib besides; who would be better to live in the Muggle world without raising suspicions? But he had known that Arabella's trusting nature and penchant to distraction would work in his favor to help him keep the tensions in the Dursley house hidden.

But he had kept an eye on the boy as well. He had all of Harry's school records and had interviewed with his teachers. The worst they said was Harry's bigger cousin bullied him and that he dressed poorly. There had never been any hint that the abuse exceeded neglect. For one heart stopping moment, Albus feared the worst. That he had allowed his charge to be severely abused and that Harry was too damaged to fulfill his duty to the world. He could literally taste the despair rising up in him and knew his soul to be damned.

Then Severus had told him about Multiple Personality Disorder and all at once he had realized the gift the child had been given. The condition may have been created due to horrific events that never should have happened, but it had been worth it! Now the child could have his peace and innocence remain intact and the world would receive their hardened warrior.

With this condition, Harry would not have to suffer the hardships, the betrayals, and battles that would be demanded of him. He could push all the responsibilities onto an alter more capable than he may have been whole. This could be the power the Dark Lord knows not! Albus realized the beauty, the necessity, of Harry's condition and knew he had done the right thing for Harry and the rest of the world. He had gone from the deepest despair to the height of triumph within the space of half-an-hour.

It had worried him when Harry had regain consciousness. Had the dementors ruined the perfect balance of Harry's mind? He also had to allay Remus' suspicions of the context of Harry's worst memory. It wouldn't due for anyone besides Severus to find out the truth to Harry's condition. They wouldn't be able to understand or recognize the needs of the world and what it would have cost Harry to fulfill his destiny without the protection his condition provided him with.

And then Sirius had done the unthinkable. He had kidnapped the boy; taken him right out of Albus' hands. The Order still could not find him and with the tournament coming and the influx of tourists and travelers for the World Cup, it was impossible to find the two fugitives. He could understand Sirius was unstable, that was expected after twelve years of Azkaban, but if he interfered with Harry's condition, Albus would not be able to forgive him. This was a lot bigger than the fun or happiness of one child and godfather.

"Master, the teachers are gathered in the staff room." An elf announced as it popped into the office.

Dumbledore turned and nodded at the creature, sending it away to other duties. He sighed and took a deep breath. They had much work to do to prepare for the tournament. He would think about Harry and consider his options at another time. In any case, it would only be a few weeks more before he found out just how much damage Sirius had done and could take steps to correct it and preserve Harry's condition.

xXxXxXx

Neville had been home two weeks now and things had settled into a routine. He enjoyed his mornings and his evenings, but afternoon was difficult. In the morning, he'd get up and have breakfast with his Gran, do the dishes, go up to his room and study. Most of that time was silent. His Gran talked to him some, but she didn't once critique him or bring up his past/present failings like she usually did. At first, he was uncomfortable with the way she watched him, but he was getting use to it. It was better than her shaking her head in disgust and resignation.

Things went downhill from there. It was his job to wake up Uncle Algie for lunch and the old man didn't enjoy that at all. He'd yell and rant at him for his rudeness and stupidity, but would eventually come down to eat with them. Afterward, Gran made him play chess or checkers with him for a few hours. The whole time his uncle would be talking about people he had known in the past and how kids of today were ungrateful or lazy or any number of bad things. And he'd always look at Neville like he was the prime example of today's disgraces.

Neville managed to escape by saying he had to tend his garden before the sun went down. This was his favorite time of the day. Once the sun set, he came in and took a quick shower before dinner. He was very careful not to bring in dirt with him. Gran always got so mad at him when he did, even though it was a simple matter to clean it. The smallest smudge and she would scowl at Neville and demand to know where his brain had gone to and wonder why he couldn't do the simplest things. From there, it usually went to his parents and how they'd be disappointed in him. So far he had managed to escape this lecture.

After dinner, during which Uncle Algie and Gran always talked about things as if he weren't even there, Neville did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen by hand. His Gran didn't trust him near her dishes and pots and pans with magic. Then he went up to bed after kissing his family goodnight properly on the cheek. There he was free once again. He would practice his meditation and wait until he felt the faint trembling in his parchment that let him know Harry was writing to him and they would talk for a bit before they went to bed.

He missed Harry and Remus more with every passing hour. He missed their smiles and hugs. He missed laughing and talking about things on his mind. He hated having to watch every move he made and every word he said. He hated that his fear was returning. He was afraid of messing up, especially now that his Gran seemed to be satisfied with, if not proud of, his progress. She was watching him closer than ever and when he managed not to do anything wrong or say something stupid, she'd smile faintly and nod her head in acknowledgement. She had never done that before and Neville was terrified of messing everything up again.

"Neville!" Augusta opened his bedroom door and frowned at him severely. "I've called you twice that it was time for lunch. What are you doing up here?"

Neville blushed hotly and stood so quickly that he knocked his chair over. He had been sitting at his desk thinking and had lost track of time. His Gran looked at the desk and the frown deepened when she saw there were neither papers on it nor a book open.

"I thought you used this time to study." She scolded. "It's only been two weeks and you are already avoiding your work. Professor Lupin would be very ashamed, Neville. He has gone out of his way to better you and to be so ungrateful is a shame I will not bare. You will come right back up here after lunch and do your studies. I won't see the good work you've done go to waste because of your laziness. Now. Go wake your uncle and come down for lunch."

"Yes, Ma'am." Neville said quickly, his cheeks burning with mortification, shame, and anger.

He didn't feel any better when he finally arrived with his uncle, but he hoped that if he could just escape notice the disaster from earlier would be forgotten. But it was not meant to be. His supposed slide back into bad habits had opened a flood gate in his grandmother. Augusta frowned at him when he added chips to his plate next to his sandwich and took the bowl away from him.

"I think that is enough, Neville." She said primly. "I've noticed that you have gained a few pounds since you've returned home."

"Yes, Ma'am." Neville lowered his head.

"When I was your age," Algie added from his spot and pointed with his spoon violently in Neville's direction, "I was out and about all the time. I was runnin' here and there and playing Quidditch on top of it. Why, there wasn't a single friend of mine overweight. I always said that you could tell a wizard by his build. One that is disciplined will be fit as a whistle. Why, look at me! I'm an old man and I could outrun you!"

"There is nothing wrong with respecting Quidditch from a distance." Augusta sniffed. "But I will not argue that physical health is important. What did Professor Lupin have you do to shed your weight, Neville?"

"We worked out in a training room and also dueled, Ma'am." He answered meekly.

"Is that so?" Augusta frowned again. "Well, we don't have a training room, but I'm sure I can arrange it so that you have a dueling partner."

Neville winced, but said what was required. "Thank you, Ma'am."

xXxXxXx

The next morning his Gran woke him and told him to dress for a practice duel. She had gotten in touch with a friend of hers who had a grandson about Neville's age who wouldn't mind having practice duels at all. In fact, he even went to Hogwarts and she hoped that he would continue the practice when he went to school. Neville had little hope to begin with, but as soon as he heard the boy went to Hogwarts he knew the day wasn't going to be a good one.

As he had guessed, his reputation had preceded him. Justin Finch-Fletchley was in fact in the same year as him and was a Hufflepuff. He flooed over with his grandmother and the two women shoed them out of the house to get some exercise. Neville led him out of sight of the house and turned to face the other boy.

"I'm only here because my grandmother is making me, Longbottom." Justin said with a resigned shrug. "I'll try not to hurt you."

"I didn't ask for you to be here either." Neville blushed hotly.

"Whatever." Justin sighed. "Well, I might as well make this worth something. Let's work on shields since I don't want you to blow anything up. Stand there and I'll curse you. Block them if you can." Justin lifted his wand without further warning and began firing spells.

Neville couldn't get a shield up in time and danced in place before falling back on his bottom, making the other boy shake his head with pity. Because of that, he had time to shield before the next curse. Neville just stood there and took the hexes and curses, shielding and blocking as best he could. He'd duck and dodge when he couldn't. Justin thought this funny and it became a game to see how many times he could get Neville to jump out of the way.

It happened less and less as the days went by. Neville had always been best at defensive magic and all the practice with shielding spells made him quite good. The side-effect to this was Justin got bored and, after only four days, wanted to stop coming. Gran, as expected, blamed Neville for this and told him that she was highly disappointed that he couldn't manage to keep a simple partner for dueling. He was an embarrassment. How was she supposed to act around her long-time friend now when her grandson disgraces himself so?

It was all just too much. Justin and his taunts and insults reminded him of Hogwarts and his many failures and shortcomings there. His Gran made him feel stupid for ever thinking he could do something right. He was the black sheep of the family and there was no chance that he could ever change or become someone better. He was only deluding himself that he could do anything and be good at it. His parents would be ashamed. He was worthless and clumsy and fat. He wasn't good for anything. He was just Neville Longbottom; stupid, clumsy, impossible at potions and magic.

Slowly the pain faded and his mind uncoiled from the panic attack. The voices in his head quieted and he realized he was in his bathroom. His face was wet with tears and he had a razor in his hand. Three even cuts were bleeding on his already scarred forearm. Immediately he thought of Harry and Remus. They would be disgusted with him. He was so weak! He cut again and again until he no longer thought of them or anyone. He sat numb, bleeding. At least it no longer hurt.

xXxXxXx

Harry came down for breakfast Tuesday morning worried. Sirius knew immediately that something wasn't right and asked what was wrong. Harry took his seat and worried at his lip.

"It's Neville. We write each other on the parchment you and Remus made every night and last night he didn't write."

"I'm sure nothing is wrong, Harry." Sirius reassured. "Maybe he was just busy or went to bed early because he was tired. Maybe he wasn't even home and his grandmother took him somewhere."

"I don't know." Harry shook his head and stared up at Sirius with wide, trusting eyes. "I just feel like something is wrong."

"If he doesn't write back again tonight, then we'll have Remus check up on him. I know Moony would love the excuse." Sirius grinned and ruffled Harry's hair.

The teen pouted and fought it back into place while Sirius laughed. "Why do you do that, Siri?"

"Because it's fun!" The man grinned unrepentant.

xXxXxXx

Neville didn't write again that night so Harry sent Omi with a note explaining his worry and asking Remus to check up on him. Omi came back ten minutes later with Remus' reply. He'd go first thing in the morning. Sighing happily and trusting that Remus would make things fine again, Harry went to sleep without another worry.

xXxXxXx

Remus was glad Dumbledore let him go a day early. He wanted to check on Neville. The full moon was in two days and he didn't have to be back at school for another four. It was early, but not very when he fire-called Mrs. Longbottom. The matronly witch immediately granted him entrance and sat him down at the table for some tea and cookies.

"Are you sure you won't have some breakfast?" She asked as she sat across from them. "We've already eaten, but I can put something together for you. You look a little under the weather today."

"Just a cold, I assure you." He smiled sweetly and nursed his cup of tea. "How has your summer been?"

"Just fine, just fine." She smiled. "We were very surprised at the way Neville came back to us. We are both very grateful for all that you've done."

"It was nothing." Remus shook his head. "He just needed more confidence and the rest was easy."

"I'm sorry to say that all your hard work has come to naught. That boy was here only a few days when he began to slip back into his old way of things." She frowned. "There is no excuse for letting yourself go just because you don't have a taskmaster hovering over your shoulder every moment of everyday. I had hoped he would have learned a little bit of self-discipline by now, but he's hopeless."

"I hardly believe that to be the case, madam." Remus said stiffly. "Neville is talented and kind. He's a good person and you should be proud. It is hard to be strong when every moment of everyday your only family keeps telling you what a failure you are. It gets to the point where you believe what you've been told and so you make it true."

"I don't know what you are implying, Professor Lupin." Augusta sat very tall and straight in her chair. Her face was tight with anger.

"I think you do." He said softly. "I know you love your grandson and want him to be the best he can be, I just suggest that you are going about things the wrong way. If you really want Neville to be confident, strong, and happy, you would be wise to be careful what you say to him. Your constant disapproval and expectations of his failure are constantly beating him down. You are breaking his will and self-worth and, of course, nothing good will come of that."

"That is enough." She stood. "I think it is best that you leave."

"Please, Ma'am. I'm worried about Neville. He hasn't contacted me in a while when he said he would. Let me check on him quickly before I go." Remus stood as well.

"Very well, but only because of your tutoring him. After this, you are not welcome here." She snapped.

Remus bowed his head and made his way upstairs. He knocked on Neville's door and got a bleak "Yes, Ma'am?" in answer. Frowning, he opened the door and stepped in. Neville was at his desk with a book open and was taking notes. When he finally looked up from the page, Neville's brown eyes went wide.

"R-r-remus!" He stuttered fearfully.

"Neville, I've missed you." Remus smiled lovingly and crossed the room to hug the teen. Neville was stiff in his arms, but slowly relaxed. Remus rocked him gently when the boy began to tremble. "What's wrong, Neville? Why haven't you contacted me?"

Neville shook his head helplessly and pulled away from his teacher. He had come to look on this man as a father and he couldn't bear to see disgust or disappointment in his eyes. Remus wouldn't let him hide, however, and forced his face around to look him in the eye. Neville frowned at what he saw. Remus looked tired and pale and sick. His amber eyes were flecked with gold. It must be close to the moon. Immediately he felt guilty for adding burdens to his mentor's shoulders when he already had so much to deal with.

"Neville," Remus said softly. "I love you. I'm proud of you and I don't think any less of you for becoming depressed in this house. No one would be able to live here and be content. Do you understand me? I would be disappointed if you did accept the way you are treated and weren't affected by it. You care about what others think of you and you want to make your family proud. That is admirable, especially since a lesser person would have given up by now and said to hell with it. I am here for you. It makes me happy to be able to help you and take care of you. I've never really had the chance to do that for anyone. I've never had children or godchildren and I've come to enjoy being there for you. You should never be afraid to come to me for help or reassurance."

"I'm so sorry, Remus!" Neville threw his arms around his mentor's neck and began to cry. "I… I don't know what I was thinking… It was like this summer never happened… It faded like a dream and I began to believe I was worthless and useless again… and… and…."

"Shhh…" Remus held him. "You have no reason to doubt yourself. None. You've done a lot this summer and should be proud of all that you've accomplished. I know I am. And Harry is worried about you and so is Sirius. Severus even nodded to me for good luck when I left Hogwarts to come and see you. We aren't a dream. We believe in you. It'll be okay. There's only eleven more days before school starts."

"I know." Neville sat back and wiped at his cheeks. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be." Remus smiled. "We miss you, Nev, and we'll be very glad to have you back with us soon. I know your grandmother loves you too. She honestly isn't aware of how much she hurts you. Just give her time. Once you are on your own feet, she'll see that you are independent and intelligent and she will be proud."

"I hope so." Neville sighed. "It just doesn't seem like anything I do will be enough. There will always be something lacking in me."

"That's not true." Remus said firmly. "Look at me." Neville did so reluctantly. "There is nothing wrong with you. You've done nothing wrong. You are a good person and many people love you."

"And I feel ridiculous." Neville laughed weakly. It felt good to hear those things, but that didn't make it any easier to do so.

Remus laughed with him. "Maybe so, but I can't be any more subtle. I don't have much time. I'm afraid I said a few things to your grandmother and I'm no longer welcome here."

"What?" Neville stared in shock. "You are always welcome here, Remus!"

"Maybe for you, cub." He smiled and ruffled his hair. "I want you to promise me that you'll write Harry every night and that you will not forget everything you learned no matter how hard it is. I'm here for you and if you feel like it has gotten to be too much, please floo me. I would love to talk to you."

"Alright." Neville nodded.

"And be careful." Remus wrapped his hands gently around Neville's forearms. "Don't fall back on your addiction. I know it is hard. I know, remember? It's all the sweeter after not doing it for a long time and it is very easy to go too far. I don't think I could handle it if you died, Neville."

"Remus…" Neville whispered and began to cry. "I'm sorry. I won't do it again."

"I know you'll do your best and that is definitely enough for me." He smiled and stood. "I'll see you soon and I'll be expecting a few calls."

Neville nodded with a smile, "Thank you, Remus. For everything."

"You're welcome. And thank you very much, Neville. For everything."

"You're welcome." Neville laughed.

"That's much better." Remus sighed. "My job is done here. Come. Why don't you walk me to the floo? And I apologize ahead of time if I've made things even more difficult between you and your family."

"I'll be alright." Neville promised and walked with his teacher downstairs.

His grandmother was standing forebodingly by the fire with her arms crossed and her strongest look of disapproval. Remus ignored it easily, but Neville felt anger begin to stir. How dare she treat Remus this way? Remus hugged him one last time and politely said goodbye to both him and his grandmother before stepping into the fire and calling "Hogsmeade!" As soon as he was gone, his grandmother started in on him.

"I don't want him back here again, Neville. He is very rude and I don't like what he's filling your head with."

"Funny, you loved what he was filling my head with when I first got back." Neville glared. One part of him was shocked and frightened at how he was talking to his grandmother, but the bigger part of him was furious that she was treating Remus poorly. "You were so grateful that he took on such a hopeless case and you were surprised at how much he helped me."

"That is enough! I see I am correct. A few minutes with you and you behave like an unmannered and unpleasant child." She scolded severely. "What would your parents say?"

"I don't know because they've never said anything to me and never will!" Neville yelled. "What would they say about you using them against me every second of the day? I don't think they'd be pleased! Personally, I would hope that they'd love me no matter what, but I could be wrong!"

"Go to your room this instant, young man!" She yelled furiously.

"Remus has helped me more than you ever have!" Neville finished. "He made me believe I could actually do something worth while if I worked hard enough, instead of believing that no matter what I did I was going to be a failure and an embarrassment! He was never surprised when I did things right and never disappointed when I messed up. Instead he worked with me to help me get it right, believing I could! And it is disgraceful that you are treating him so poorly when he has done nothing but help me and make me happy without asking for anything in return!"

With that, he walked calmly up the stairs and back into his room. He shut his door behind him and slid down to the floor. The shock and fear took over now that his anger was gone and he found it difficult to breathe. His hands were shaking and he was certain he was going to faint. But he didn't regret anything he had said. It had been a long time coming, really. Once he got himself under control, he made his way to his desk and took out the parchment connected to Harry.

Hey, Harry. I just wanted to let you know I'm okay and I'm really sorry about not writing the last two nights. I was just in a bad place. Being home caught up with me and I wasn't sure what to believe anymore. Don't worry, though, Remus came and set me straight. I really miss you guys, but school starts soon and I know I can hold out that long. Tell Sirius hi for me! I love you, Neville.

Later that night, Harry found Neville's letter and happily replied to it. They talked for a little bit and both went to bed feeling better than they had in a while.

xXxXxXx

In the days that followed, Neville's grandmother left him alone. She didn't look at him or talk to him. Uncle Algie picked up on the tension and for once decided to leave it be. Neville was glad for the space and returned to practicing meditating. He hadn't been able to do it when he had been so depressed.

As for Harry, he received an interesting note from Ron. It seemed his father won tickets to the World Cup. There were two extra; one for Hermione and one for him. Harry declined the invitation, explaining that he had tickets as well, but wasn't sure he'd be allowed to go. Instead, he asked Ron if he'd invite Neville.

I don't know, mate. Ron answered. I don't even think he likes Quidditch.

He'd love to go. Harry argued. And if I do go, I want to be able to see him! He's my friend too. And I wouldn't mind seeing Hermione either. She said she was sorry and if I think she means it when I see her again, I would be happy to be her friend again too.

I thought I was your best mate?

Neville and I really got to know each other last year when you and Hermione were too busy for us. And I've been writing him just like I've been writing to you. You're both my friends.

Oh. Well, whatever you say, mate. I guess I could invite him.

Thanks, Ron.

No problem. He's not too bad. And maybe the twins will prank him for awhile instead of me. Ron answered happily.

xXxXxXx

Gabriel and Silas were sitting in the sitting room. Harry had just gone to bed after talking to Ron. Gabriel was hoping he could convince Silas to use this time to rest as well. The Slytherin was pale and drawn again, and no matter what he said the Slytherin wouldn't rest.

"Come on, Sy…" Gabriel tried again.

"Later." Silas snapped. "I have to figure this out. I know I have all the pieces… The answer is right in front of me… And every time I lay down, it hovers just out of reach…"

"Is this about the World Cup? We don't even know if we're going, so why are you so worried?"

"Because I'm not sure if we should go or not." Silas sneered. "This could be a good opportunity to gather information without being in too much danger. On the other hand, if the Death Eaters are planning to go on a killing spree, we'd be better off staying away."

"Look." Gabriel said firmly, his blue eyes unwavering. "Running yourself into the ground won't help anything. Maybe the answers you are looking for will come clear once you get some rest and are able to think straight again."

Silas sighed, "I know, Gabe, but we're running out of time. The World Cup is on Monday. That's only two days and if we need to convince Severus to let us go that might not be enough time."

"That won't be a problem." Gabriel reassured. "If we need to go and he won't let us, we'll go anyway. We'll steal the tickets and go. I promise, Silas, we'll do what needs to be done either way."

"Good point." Silas smirked. "For once."

"Shut up and go to bed." Gabriel laughed.

Silas laughed as well and stood. He stretched and gave a small wave before heading toward his bedroom. He was only halfway there when he collapsed. Gabriel lunged for him and turned him over. Silas' face was taut and a lightning bolt scar appeared on his head. It looked red and inflamed. He sighed and lifted the Slytherin, carrying him to his bed.

"I hope the information you wanted is worth it." He frowned worriedly and left him to his vision. The only thing he could do was keep an eye on Harry and make sure nothing happened to the teen while Silas was unavailable.

Chapter end

A/N: This is it everybody. The next chapter has the vision and the World Cup. In chapter 30, they return to Hogwarts. We are getting back on the canon train… kinda… lol… I never expected this story to be as long as it is turning out to be. Anyway, I hope you are enjoying it and I think the chapters will come more quickly now that I have stuff to work off of again. Don't forget to review if you have time! Thanks!