A/N: This chapter is dedicated to MONI! Thank you thank you for your BMFS Trailer! It was soooo AWSOME!

Internal Conflict

After Silas and Severus' chess game, Harry had spent the rest of the morning and the beginning of the afternoon with Sirius. They talked mostly of Quidditch and what he had missed. Then after a late lunch, Sirius turned into Padfoot and spent the next several hours with Boy. With no other people around, Padfoot had been able to coax Boy into walking around the sitting room.

He wouldn't touch things, afraid he'd be punished for it, and he wouldn't leave the room, afraid he'd meet other people, but Sirius was determined to get Boy to leave the room and explore the house before school started. The biggest step toward progress Boy had made in the weeks since Severus and Remus had left the house was that Boy now talked to Padfoot. He often said things like, "No. We can't do that. We'll get in trouble." But still, he was talking and that was very good.

It was hard work, being with Boy, and Sirius was grateful for Gabriel's invitation to duel when the time was up. They fought hard. Sirius usually lost more times than he won. He was still rusty from all those years in Azkaban, but every day he got better. Gabriel was not merciful and Sirius really had to work for every victory.

Now Gabriel was feeling good. He felt a comforting exhaustion from working hard and his muscles were pleasantly sore. So with a final bow, he ducked back in and allowed the Host to surface. Harry returned and found Sirius bound and gagged in the corner. He felt his godfather's annoyance and determination and hurried to his side.

"Are you alright?" He asked, carefully untying him since he didn't know the spell to release him.

"Just peachy." Sirius grumbled. "Gabriel could have untied me before he left."

"I'm sorry." Harry blushed.

"Not your fault." Sirius shook his head and managed to shake off the rest of the ropes. "Come on. I'm starving."

Harry smiled and followed his godfather from the room.

xXxXxXx

Silas was still asleep when Harry went to bed. Gabriel was tired, but he wasn't about to leave his post when Silas was unconscious. Someone had to be awake at all times, in case something happened. Granted, they were at home and nothing could really attack them there, but it didn't hurt to be prepared. Gabriel sat back and planned his spells for the next duel he had with Sirius. It was midnight when he sensed a disturbance and he slipped Out.

It was a tapping at the window that had caught his attention, and he made his way toward it. He wondered if it was a letter from Remus or Severus, but was careful in case it wasn't. A strange owl flew in and perched on the chair. Gabriel stared at it. The bird stared back, but quickly grew impatient. It lifted a leg and shook it, drawing Gabriel's attention to the letter. The bird was certainly haughty enough to be from Severus, Gabriel smiled a bit. He cast a few spells and determined that the bird and the letter were spell free. Curious, he took the letter and the bird hooted angrily before flying out the window.

Dearest Shadow,

You were quite right in suspecting the World Cup to be a possible target. That was some show. It seems interesting to me that the aggressors would flee the scene upon the arrival of the Mark of their fallen Lord. It was almost as if they feared it. In any case, there were a relatively few number of deaths. Only three. And all were wizards from other countries. The Ministry is in an upheaval trying to smooth over the damage done. Find a Daily Prophet if you want to know more. In fact, pay attention to page three. You're name was mentioned.

As for the information in your last letter, I sympathize completely. Had I been Sorted into the Lion's Den, Merlin forbid, I would want to keep my distance from my Housemates as well. It is inarguable that yours is the loudest, most intrusive House the school possesses. I personally prefer a calmer atmosphere at home, but to each his own. If you ever wish to escape into sanity, feel free to write me. I know a few comfortable hiding places in the Pit.

Well, Shadow, the school term is upon us. This will be my last letter. However, if you should wish to continue to correspond in school, I'm sure we can manage something. I wouldn't mind meeting privately face-to-face. There are some things that are better left off paper. You know where to find me.

Farewell,

Serpentine

Gabriel read the letter twice, shocked. He knew Shadow must be Silas, but who was he writing to and why? Why hadn't he said anything? How had Gabriel not noticed? He put the letter down grimly and stared out the window. If Silas was able to hide this, what else was he able to hide? He felt a shifting in his mind and he knew the Core alter had finally awoken. Just a little too late, Gabriel smiled humorlessly.

What are you doing? Silas asked. Gabriel had flipped the letter over so he had no idea what had happened.

"We need to talk. I'm coming back In." Gabriel answered and climbed back into bed.

It was easy to slip behind the sleeping Host. He appeared in the sitting room in front of Silas, who was regarding him curiously. His silver-to-blue eyes were not yet guarded and Gabriel wasn't quite sure how to keep it that way. He wasn't angry with Silas, just worried and disappointed. He had thought the Slytherin trusted him by now. He also didn't approve of Silas keeping things that potentially involved all of them secret.

"Gabe? What happened?" Silas asked, knowing something was wrong.

"What will it take to get you to trust me?" Gabriel asked lowly.

Silas regarded the Gryffindor and began to suspect what had happened. He decided the best thing for now would be to maintain silence. He crossed his arms and waited.

"Silas, answer me. Why don't you trust me?" Gabriel insisted. "Have I ever let you down?"

"Well, you did run off into three confrontations that put our lives in danger. The second one was after manipulating me into helping you when you knew I was against it."

"Sy…" Gabriel sighed with exasperation, running both hands through his hair violently.

"I understand that it is your nature…"

"It is my nature to protect us and other people." Gabriel interrupted and stalked over to Silas so there was less than three feet separating them. "I trust you to guide us and keep us safe, but you have been communicating to someone in Hogwarts without telling or consulting me.

"Despite the actions I have taken, these letters alone equal my recklessness. Not to mention sneaking past Severus at the World Cup. You are as equally willing as me to put us at risk if it suites you. So don't give me crap about not trusting me, Silas. At least you know when I take risks. You've tripled the possible danger by keeping Harry and I in the dark.

"When were you planning on telling us? What would happen if we were approached at school? You would just take over and keep us ignorant? How did you manage that, by the way? I haven't noticed missing time, so it had to have happened when I was sleeping, but that is a bit convenient. How could you insure your letters came only when I was asleep?"

"Enough." Silas sighed and uncrossed his arms. "I didn't tell you because I didn't see the point. Yes, it is someone from Hogwarts. They are keeping me informed of what is going on, but the letters are infrequent and specific. I wanted to get a feel of the atmosphere in the world myself, and that is why I went out during the World Cup. I didn't hear you complaining."

"I'm complaining now." Gabriel growled.

"Do you want to read all our letters?" Silas narrowed his eyes. "I have risked nothing. I have been careful and gained a lot of important information in return."

"Yes. I do." Gabriel slipped Out again and followed Silas' instructions to find the hidden stack of letters. There were six. The one arrive that night was number seven. Silas had even made copies of his replies, both to help him keep his stories straight and to show whoever found out about the correspondence that he was in control. Gabriel read silently. "The person is Slytherin."

They are. Silas sighed. But that doesn't mean…

"Who?" Gabriel interrupted. Silas remained silent. "Sy…"

No. That's not important right now. I will tell you if you ever need to know.

"What is this really about?" Gabriel demanded, putting the letters back where Silas kept them. He leaned back in the desk chair tiredly, his arms hanging limp at his sides. He could go back to bed and return to the soul room to face Silas, but he thought the Slytherin might give more ground if he wasn't in his face. So he stayed where he was. He wasn't usually so circumspect and it was really, really annoying not to confront Silas to his face, but this was more than a mere battle of wills; he was genuinely worried about Silas.

What do you mean?

"Why did you start this? It isn't a good idea to admit that things aren't what they seem with us. Especially with someone in Slytherin."

They aren't all evil or Death Eaters in training. Silas defended.

"No. But a good portion is, Sy. We both know it. This person could give our enemies information unintentionally, even if they really were innocent."

I have not given them any damning information. Silas retorted.

"No, but you've brought close scrutiny our way. I thought that was to be avoided. This person is going to question your behavior and be amazed at your acting skills. These letters sound nothing like Harry. They are completely you. And you wanted to keep it secret and to yourself…" Gabriel had been mostly talking to himself, but an idea hit him. "That's the point, isn't it? This was something for you. Something separate from all of us. A step toward independence and acceptance of your place among us."

Gabriel, don't be ridiculous.

"But I'm not." Gabriel shook his head, feeling both sympathy and worry. "It must be hard. Being the Core, yet always hidden. Never having a chance to express yourself or interact with others. Severus is just now reaching out to you and before you had no one for so long." He stood and strode to the bed. Harry took his place and continued to sleep as he dropped back In. Silas was facing his bedroom door. His arms were wrapped around his chest defensively. Gabriel felt bad. He wanted to help, but he didn't know how. "We should tell Harry."

"No." Silas refused. "It will hurt him."

"He'll find out eventually, Sy. It would be better if we told him. And it will give you a bit more space to act on your own."

"Not yet." Silas said softly. There was a hint of pleading in his voice.

Gabriel's eyes softened and he went to the Slytherin's side. Silas stiffened, but Gabriel ignored it as he brought his arms around his friend in a loose embrace. When he felt Silas relax, he squeezed slightly and let him go. "You didn't have to keep this secret. It's dangerous, but if you really want it, then I won't stop you."

"Gabriel…" Silas couldn't look at him. He had no idea what to say.

"You have a letter to write. I'm going to sleep." Gabriel flashed a smile and went to his bedroom, softly closing the door behind him.

Silas stood staring at the closed door for several minutes before he shook himself and went Out. The room was bright from the still fat moon. It had been full not two days ago. The curtains on the window in front of the desk had been thrown open, the glass wasn't closed all the way and a cool breeze stirred the papers. It was quiet. Everyone was asleep. But he wasn't alone.

He could feel Harry, sleeping restlessly, disturbed by their coming and going. Gabriel was sleeping as well, still and warm in his mind. Boy was sleeping more peacefully than he had in a long time and even the chill from Demon's door seemed distant. Everything was good. So why did Gabriel's words hang over him, cling to him, and make him want to hide?

He was good at hiding. It wasn't something he was unfamiliar with, but it had been a long time since he felt he needed to hide when no one else was with him. Feeling that now, when he was alone, meant he wanted to hide from himself, and he couldn't allow himself that luxury. He had to be calm and rational for the others. He couldn't blind himself to a potential weakness or it could mean their destruction. So what did he want to hide from?

Was Gabriel right? Was his continuing to write to Draco a sign that he was tired of watching from the background, that he wanted more independence? He really didn't think so. He had no interest in attending Hogwarts openly, making friends, or even dealing with Harry's growing circle of family. Severus he could tolerate just barely, but Sirius and Remus were not the same.

He resented Sirius for not getting them out of the Dursley house sooner. He resented the fact that when he was free, he didn't once try and explain himself or the truth. Only when he couldn't avoid it did he reach out to Harry. Sirius wanted the idea of a godson, but had not been willing to have any real connection to Harry. Just because he now wanted a relationship didn't seem justification for forgetting Sirius had not come for them and taken them from the Dursley's or even tried to warn them about Pettigrew when Sirius knew the murderer was with Ron.

And Remus… He was too afraid of what others thought of him. He didn't want to think on his own. He wanted people to tell him what to do and how to help. He couldn't stand up to his friends when he was younger and his fear of rejection was still a huge weakness. He was easy to manipulate and that kind of adult was a danger; seemingly an authority, but one who would potentially allow anything, which wasn't good for a child or teenager. The best example was when Harry had to ask him to check on Neville. Even though they knew Remus was beginning to love their friend as a son, the werewolf had no idea that Neville needed him. He just wasn't reliable and Silas couldn't trust him.

So he wasn't interested in forming relationships with anyone; as it was, he barely tolerated the connections Harry had made. He was happy sitting in the back and not being noticed or being forced to do things being Host would require. Like homework that was too easy or putting up with nosy Housemates.

Instead, he could focus on more important things, like the plan Voldemort was hatching for Hogwarts this year. He had always enjoyed going off and studying whatever he wanted at night, free of the scrutiny of others. This was just more of the same. His communications with Draco had been nothing more than study. Gabriel wasn't right. He didn't want independence or acknowledgement. He was free and satisfied as he was.

He shoved his thoughts away, certain he'd get no further if he continued. To distract himself, he went to the desk and lifted Draco's last letter and read it carefully. As he read, his attention focused. This was perhaps the most subtle letter Draco had ever written. If he was reading it right, there were several hidden messages.

First, Draco was confirming the black-robed attackers from the World Cup really had been Death Eaters. But why were they afraid of the Dark Mark? Because they might get caught? That didn't seem right. Maybe they are afraid of Voldemort himself, but why? Unless… The majority of Death Eaters were not helping Voldemort return. They went in hiding or denounced Voldemort's claim on them. Essentially, they became traitors. If Voldemort ever came back, they'd be severely punished.

So who set off the Mark and why? To show their loyalty, to prove they were different than the others? He remembered Winky struggling, remembered hearing Gabriel down two people with his wide beam Stunner. Someone they couldn't see. Winky was Crouch's elf. And he knew from Draco's letter and what Sirius could tell him that Crouch Jr. had been a Death Eater and had escaped with the help of his parents.

But no one knew Jr. was even alive; he was essentially invisible. Invisible… Silas remembered Winky's struggles and his feeling that it was important. A wild thought came to him: Crouch Jr. could have been fighting against Winky. He could have been the one who set off the Dark Mark. But why? To scare the others off? To warn them that Voldemort would return?

He remembered the vision. Voldemort had returned because he learned something from Bertha Jorkins; a witch who works for Crouch. He could have learned of Crouch Jr. He learned he had a loyal follower besides Wormtail and came back for him. He had said in the vision that a loyal follower would join them soon. Did he mean Crouch Jr., then? It seemed likely.

Silas shook his head. This was all guesswork and he could be very wrong. He needed more information before he could be certain of what was going on. His eyes returned to Draco's letter and he found the next part was just as interesting. Draco had called Slytherin House his home. He could mean it completely innocently, but Draco was a Slytherin and Silas didn't think the blonde meant it that way.

Draco was trying to tell him something. Maybe about his alliances. There was a possibility that Draco wasn't interested in following in his father's footsteps. He had begun this communication, and with the Boy-Who-Lived no less. But it could be a trap. Severus was a spy for the Light. Was Draco trying to become a spy for the Dark? Frowning, he read on.

Draco had closed with a discrete request to meet with him in person. He was hinting that he had something important to say that he couldn't put on paper. But with Voldemort focused on Hogwarts yet again, could he afford to let himself go off alone with a boy that calls himself the Slytherin Prince. If he rules in Slytherin, and many Slytherins were Death Eater supporters, then…

But that wasn't exactly right. Voldemort wasn't back yet. There were technically no Death Eaters anymore except for two: Wormtail and Crouch Jr. The others were merely former Death Eaters. And they were afraid of the Dark Mark and possibly Voldemort. Was this a hint that they could be turned away if the deal was sweet enough?

Silas sighed. He had much to consider. In fact, he had so much to think about, that he wasn't sure what to write in return. Would he continue this at Hogwarts? They couldn't continue writing letters by owl. That would be too obvious. But meeting face-to-face, as Draco had requested, was dangerous. In any case, he didn't have to decide now. He just wouldn't confirm either way in his reply. If he needed something from Draco once they were at school, he'd think of a plan then. Decided, he began to write.

Dearest Serpentine,

I will indeed acquire the Daily Prophet. I appreciate the good advice. I'll try to continue to keep track with the news before school. Communicating will be difficult now that our correspondence had come to an end, but I am sure, should the need arise, something can be done. Until then, we will have to wait and be watchful.

Fare you well,

Shadow

xXxXxXx

The rest of the week passed very quickly. Severus always arrived early in the morning and took Silas upstairs to play chess for two to three hours. Silas never won. Harry would spend the rest of the day with Sirius, playing and continuing his study into the Animagus Potion and Transformation. After lunch, Padfoot and Boy would spend time together and then Sirius and Gabriel dueled. Sirius was becoming harder to defeat, but still was losing more than he was winning.

Gabriel and Silas didn't mention the letters again. Gabriel did read Silas' response and had nodded, saying nothing. Silas was thankful. Every night Harry communicated with Ron, Neville, and Hermione. It seemed that life at the Burrow was very hectic. Mr. Weasly and the older boys were always rushing about. Things would be busy for awhile after all that had happened at the World Cup.

Silas did get a hold of the Daily Prophet and found that the reporter Rita Skeeter had found eye-witnesses that Harry Potter was at the World Cup and that he had been heroically trying to warn people. Several witnesses claimed that had The-Boy-Who-Lived not warned them when he did, they would have burned alive in their destroyed tents.

Harry had blushed hotly at this and groaned. Silas agreed. This was going to make returning to school difficult. He only hoped the Professors would prevent anything truly uncomfortable from happening. Hopefully they would block fan mail and keep any non-students or staff from entering school grounds. Gabriel didn't see why it was a problem. Fans or hero worship wouldn't hurt them and he felt they were just wasting their time worrying about it.

September first came and Harry found himself nervous about returning to Hogwarts. He was happy that he'd get to be with his friends again, but he had decided that he should tell them a bit about what was going on with him. He couldn't keep it secret from them anymore. It wasn't fair. If Hermione understood everything, she never would have made the choices she had in the first place. But he was really nervous about it.

Gabriel agreed that he should tell them, but Silas was very much against it. He didn't see why they needed to know; it didn't involve them. Gabriel had argued, saying if they were friends with Harry, then they were partially involved already. Harry, hating to get his alters upset, had offered a compromise. He'd tell them, but only so much. The problem now was what would he tell them? He sighed.

"You alright, kid?" Sirius asked worriedly. They were sitting at the dinning room table having breakfast.

"Yeah. Just nervous." Harry smiled and resumed eating.

"About what?" Sirius cocked his head. "I thought you liked Hogwarts."

"Things are different now. The Headmaster knows about my condition and… And I'm planning on telling Ron and Hermione. But I don't know how much I should say."

Sirius frowned and put his fork down, "That's a tough one. Did you ask Snape?"

"No." Harry looked down at the table. "I haven't seen him since the World Cup. He always leaves after playing with Silas."

Sirius knew it hadn't been Snape's intention to neglect Harry in favor of Silas. He had just deemed Silas as more needy at the moment. He would have wanted Harry to ask him to stay if he needed to talk about things, but Sirius wasn't about to say that. Harry probably knew it anyway, and he didn't mind Harry coming to him for advice for once. Harry asked him about being an Animagus and they played games together, but he never asked for advice like he did with Snape and he was glad he was finally getting a chance.

"Well, Harry, I think you should tell them a little and see how they react. If they react well, tell them more." Sirius said and nodded. Yes, that was good advice.

Harry smiled at his godfather, sensing the man's pride and pleasure at helping. Encouraged, he decided to ask more of his questions. "But what is a little bit? Telling even a little is telling them everything, isn't it?"

"Well, yes. If you tell them about your condition to start with. I think you should start at the beginning. Tell them about the abuse and work up from there depending on their reactions."

"Oh." Harry bit his lip.

Sirius' eyes softened and he reached across the table to hold his godson's hand. "I know it's hard. I didn't have the best home life either. I was embarrassed and ashamed, but after my friends knew I felt a lot better. Talking helped the memories become distant, less intense, because they now stood between me and the memories instead of keeping them locked up inside."

Harry nodded and squeezed his godfather's hand. "Thanks, Sirius. That's a good idea." He sighed. "I'd have to tell them anyhow. If I started with my condition, they'd ask how I got this way. Might as well start with the bad stuff."

"That's the spirit." Sirius laughed. He stood from the table and stretched. "You ready to go? It's getting to be about that time."

"Yeah." Harry called for Omi. The elf appeared and Harry knelt so he could hug him. "Thank you for looking after us all summer. I had a great time and thank you for my birthday present."

"You's very welcome, young sir." Omi replied quietly, tears in his eyes. "Come back safe, Harry Potter Sir."

"I will." Harry smiled and took his godfather's offered hand.

"Let's go." Sirius waved at the elf and they headed for the door.

Harry's trunk was already in Sirius' pocket. They'd enlarge it when they met up with Remus halfway. The werewolf was going to claim that he got a letter from Sirius, saying he'd hand Harry over to him alone and if he sensed anyone magical around besides Remus, he'd disappear and Harry wouldn't attend Hogwarts this year. They knew it wasn't safe for Sirius to approach the train station. Dumbledore had his Order members there waiting for any such move so they could take Sirius into custody.

"Are you going to come to Hogwarts with us?" Harry asked after they apparated to London and began walking toward the café Remus was meeting them at.

"I don't think so." Sirius sighed and ran a hand through his hair. He turned his blue eyes down at his godson and winked. "Maybe once things settle down a bit and Dumbledore isn't looking for me so hard."

Harry nodded and they made their way through the city. He had his shields up at full strength and it felt like a metal band was gently squeezing his head and chest. He felt a bit closterphobic, but he would get use to it. He had to. There was no way he could be at Hogwarts most of the year and survive without a barrier between him and the many students. It was just past ten when they reached the café and found Remus reading a newspaper at one of the back tables.

He looked up long before they reached the table and smiled, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "You two look well."

"You do, too." Sirius grinned and took a seat. "How's the school?"

"Calm at the moment." Remus looked over at Harry. "Do you want something to eat or drink?"

"No, thank you." He smiled and gave the man a hug. "I've missed you."

"I've missed you, too. I can't wait to have you and Neville back with me. Things aren't the same without you." He hugged the boy tight and kissed his wild, black hair.

"He's thinking of telling Ron and Hermione." Sirius offered.

"Really?" Remus let go to look in his face. "Have you told Severus?"

"Not yet." Harry fidgeted. He hadn't wanted to bother the man. He was so busy with school and he could feel his fatigue when he did come back Out after the chess game was over. He didn't want to add to it. But now he was starting to feel like he had done something wrong by not consulting Severus.

"What's wrong, Harry?" Remus asked.

"Maybe I should wait until I talk to Severus? I don't want him mad at me." Harry bit his lip, his green eyes wide behind his glasses.

"I'm sure he'll support you, no matter what you decide." Remus soothed. "I just thought he would have good advice for you. He wouldn't tell you what to do, Harry. This is your choice."

Harry nodded. He had thought so, too. Maybe Severus would be proud that he had made a decision and would tell him so when he told him about it later.

"Besides, I gave him advice." Sirius said with annoyance. "He doesn't need anymore."

"It's always good to have as much input as you can when you are uncertain." Remus argued and then smiled. "And you aren't known for good advice, Padfoot."

"That's not true." The man glared.

Remus must have understood that he had hurt his friend for he immediately became apologetic. "I'm sorry, Paddy. I was just kidding. I'm sure your advice was good."

"It was." Harry agreed, wanting to make them both happy again. "He really helped."

"I'm glad." Remus smiled and stood. "Why don't you say goodbye. It's time to get going."

Harry nodded and went over to hug his godfather. "Bye, Sirius. I'll miss you."

"Write to me, okay, kid? I want to know all about what's going on." Sirius hugged him fiercely. He wasn't looking forward to being alone again.

"I will." Harry kissed his cheek and waved before following Remus out of the café. The werewolf hefted his trunk and they made their way to Kingscross.

xXxXxXx

Neville stood with Ron and Hermione against the barrier to get onto Platform 9¾. The station was busier than normal so they stood against it talking innocently as they kept an eye out for a chance to walk backwards without being noticed. The older Weasley boys and Mrs. Weasley did their best to screen them and soon they were standing among the excited Hogwarts crowd.

Pigwidgeon became noisier than ever in response to the hooting of many owls through the mist and Crookshanks looked very unhappy. They decided to quickly stow their things and come back off to say goodbye. They were almost to the train when they heard their names being called.

Neville turned with a huge grin on his face, "Harry!"

The small brunette smiled back broadly and hugged Neville tightly. "Hey! I already found a compartment. I'll show you."

"Hey, mate!" Ron huffed as he dragged his heavy trunk behind him.

"When did you get here, Harry? Have you been waiting long?" Hermione smiled.

"No. Only about ten minutes." Harry showed them to the compartment Remus helped him claim that was midway down the train. "Remus brought me, but he had to go back to the school. He's the new History professor."

"That's wonderful!" Hermione gushed excitedly. "He was a very good teacher."

"He's really excited about it. History is his specialty. He only taught Defense as a favor to Dumbledore." Harry helped her stow her trunk while the other two boys took care of their own.

"Come on. I see my mum looking for us." Ron said, looking out the window. "We need to say bye. You coming, Harry? You scared them by running off at the World Cup and she'd be relieved if she saw you were safe."

"Alright." Harry bit his lip nervously. He didn't want her to be worried, but he didn't want to be yelled at either. Neville held his hand and spoke soothingly of his week with the Weasleys. It calmed him and he was relaxed enough by the time they reached the Weasleys that he was smiling.

"Harry Potter!" Mrs. Weasley said and swooped him into an angry hug. "You scared Arthur half to death by running off. What were you thinking?"

"I'm sorry for worrying you, Mrs. Weasley." Harry offered. His eyes were wide and his face red as she clung to him.

"Let him breathe mum." Fred poked her. "He's obviously okay."

"At least until you got your hands on him." George added, pulling Harry from her grip.

"Bye, Mum." Ron spoke up when it looked like she would continue to rant at his friend.

"Thanks for having us, Mrs. Weasley." Hermione smiled and hugged her.

"No problem, dear. Watch out for that friend of yours." She shot a glare Harry's way. "He needs looking after."

Harry flinched and felt tears sting his eyes. He turned his face away to hide them. It wasn't that he was hurt by her, he was just caught off guard and it had been so long since any adult had looked at him like that. It reminded him of his Aunt. He swallowed hard.

"Thanks, Mrs. Weasley." Neville offered his hand and she shook it.

"You kids be good." Mrs. Weasley sniffed. "I'll miss you."

"Bye, Bill, Charlie!" Ron waved. The train's whistle had blown and they only had a few minutes before it left.

"I might be seeing you all sooner than you think." Charlie grinned as he hugged Ginny goodbye.

"Why?" Fred asked suspiciously.

"You'll see. Just don't tell Percy I mentioned it… it's 'classified information until such time as the Ministry sees fit to release it', after all."

"Yeah, I sort of wish I were back at Hogwarts this year." Bill said wistfully, gazing at the train.

"Why?" George demanded as they were herded toward the train and a second warning whistle blew.

"You're going to have an interesting year." Bill continued, his eyes laughing. "I might even get time off to come and watch a bit of it."

"A bit of what?" Ron demanded, red faced.

Mrs. Weasley chivvied them toward the train doors and the six of them climbed on, but hurriedly stuck their heads out the window. She waved at them tearfully, "Be good, you lot. I'd invite you back to the Burrow for Christmas, but… well, I expect you're all going to want to stay at Hogwarts, what with… one thing and another."

"Mum!" Ginny cried. "What d'you three know that we don't?"

"You'll find out this evening, I expect." She smiled. "It's going to be very exciting – mind you, I'm very glad they've changed the rules –"

"What rules?" Ron, Fred, and George called together.

They didn't get an answer as the pistons hissed loudly and the train began to move. They still yelled demands to be told what was going on as the train pulled away, but Mrs. Weasley and her two oldest sons Disapparated before the train had rounded the corner. Grumbling the twins went their own way and the others went back to their compartment. Ginny went with them, but was hailed into a compartment and parted with them on the way.

When they got to their chosen compartment, Ron undid his trunk, pulled out his maroon dress robes, and flung them over Pidwidgeaon's cage to muffle his hooting. It was giving the four of them a headache in the small confines of the train compartment. Ron was muttering about his family and secrets when Hermione hushed him. They hadn't shut the door all the way and they could hear a drawling voice coming from the next compartment.

"… Father actually considered sending me to Durmstrang rather than Hogwarts, you know. He knows the headmaster, you see. Well, you know his opinion of Dumbledore – the man's such a Mudblood lover – and Durmstrang doesn't admit that sort of riffraff. But Mother didn't like the idea of me going to school so far away. Father says Durmstrang takes a far more sensible line than Hogwarts about the Dark Arts. Durmstrang students actually learn them, not just the defense rubbish we do…"

Hermione got up, tiptoed to the compartment door, and slid it shut, blocking out Malfoy's voice. "So he thinks Durmstrang would have suited them, does he? I wish he had gone, then we wouldn't have to put up with him."

"Durmstrang's another wizarding school?" Harry asked, nerviously stalling as he tried to think of a way to bring up what he wanted to talk about.

"Yes." Hermione said angrily. "And it's got a horrible reputation. According to An Appraisal of Magical Education in Europe, it puts a lot of emphasis on Dark Arts."

"I've heard of it." Ron nodded. "Where is it? What country?"

"Well, nobody knows, do they?" She raised her eyebrows.

"Why not?" Neville asked curiously.

"There's traditionally been a lot of rivalry between all the magic schools. Durmstrang and Beauxbatons like to conceal their whereabouts so nobody can steal their secrets."

The conversation continued on for a long time. Harry sat silently and it wasn't until the lunch trolley came by that they noticed how withdrawn he was. He smiled nervously as his three friends, who were now looking at him with worry. The rain had become heavier as the train moved farther north. The sky was so dark and the windows so steamy that the lanterns were lit. The dark and dreary atmosphere wasn't helping any.

"I… I wanted to talk to you about… something." Harry began softly. He looked to Neville and saw understanding in his brother's warm brown eyes.

"What is it, Harry?" Hermione asked gently.

Neville stood and sat next to his friend, holding his hand. Ron raised his eyebrows at that, but said nothing. Harry squeezed Neville's hand thankfully and took a deep breath.

"I wanted to explain… why I went off with… Padfoot this summer and why… why I didn't want you to tell Dumbledore. I realized that maybe you wouldn't have told, Hermione, if you… knew."

"Knew what, Harry?" Ron asked. He moved closer to his friend so that the four of them were almost squished up against the wall near the window.

"The… the Dursleys…" Harry looked away from them and down at the floor. "They abused me." Hermione gasped. "I lived in a cupboard under the stairs until I got my Hogwarts letter… They'd lock me in it for days if I did anything wrong, like burnt the toast or something. I did all the cooking and cleaning. My family… they really hate and fear me… My aunt was my mother's sister and she… I guess, she was jealous that my mum had magic and she never did. She thinks wizards are… abominations. She called me freak and never even told me why… I thought my parents were drunks and died in a car crash until Hagrid told me different. I didn't even know when my birthday was. I had never gotten a present, let alone a party. And for Christmas I always got Dudley's old clothes."

"Oh, Harry." Hermione covered her mouth with shaking hands. Her eyes were full of tears. "You need to tell someone, Harry. Running away… It isn't good enough. They need to be punished for what they did."

Harry shook his head jerkily. His heart was pounding as the old memories surfaced. It took all his strength to concentrate on the conversation. "Dumbledore knows, Hermione. He knew how my aunt felt about magic and how much they hated me, but he was going to send me back. That's why I had to run away."

"He wouldn't." Hermione denied, her eyes wide with shock.

"Yeah, he would." Neville stared at her hard as he wrapped an arm around Harry's shoulders. "He wanted Harry to be raised in an environment that would leave him vulnerable and sensitive to pain. Harry's important and Dumbledore couldn't afford to have him independent. That's also why he didn't want Harry to mingle too much with other students. He wants Harry to be influential and malleable and being raised in a neglectful home would give him that."

"That's ridiculous." Hermione flushed with anger. "He cares about Harry! He'd never put him in a situation where he was treated so horribly!"

"He knew, Hermione. And he was going to send me back." Harry repeated. "He cares about me, but… but he has a lot of other things to care about as well. Sometimes the needs of others outweigh my needs."

"No." Hermione shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I've… I've admired Dumbledore a lot longer than you have, Hermione." Ron said softly. "I was raised to look up to him, but… You should have seen Harry after Second Year. There were bars on his bedroom window. And his room was bare, like a prison. There was a flap at the bottom of his door and my brothers told me it was probably to slip food in. And… and Harry was moaning and crying…" He cleared his throat. "Dumbledore needs Harry to be a hero. It keeps everyone calm and trusting him. Especially now that Voldemort and his supporters are becoming more active."

"Exactly, Ron! Dumbledore needs a hero! Why would he let Harry be abused? That would only make him weak and frightened, not an independent fighter." Hermione argued hotly.

"Hermione," Neville said sharply. "…Harry was abused and he isn't weak. He was desperate to prove himself and willing to do anything for Dumbledore's approval. The Headmaster got exactly what he wanted. But most importantly of all, Harry has so little self-esteem that he didn't hesitate to risk his life for others, because he feels that other people are more important then him and that dieing is alright. He was made vulnerable so that he could be Dumbledore's weapon and not ever have the strength to protest."

Hermione collapsed in her seat, staring openmouthed. Her eyes widened before she curled into herself and began to cry. Ron patted her back awkwardly. Harry had tears running down his cheeks as well, but he was silent. Neville hugged him and whispered in his ear that it was alright. That was when Ron really understood that Neville was Harry's friend. Neville had been there and seen things with Harry that they hadn't bothered with. He felt lacking as a friend and promised himself he'd be better.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you." Harry said hoarsely. "I really do think Dumbledore has the best of the wizarding world at heart, but… but he doesn't want what's best for me personally. I can't trust him and so I ran away. I was cared for and happy for the first time ever. I… I would have told you sooner, but… I was afraid and ashamed. There are other reasons why I didn't tell you, but… but I think it would be best if… if I told you the rest later."

"It's alright if you don't want to talk about it for right now." Neville soothed and looked pointedly at the other two across from them.

"Yeah, mate. It's alright, really." Ron jumped in quickly. "We're just glad you told us now. We'll do anything we can to help you."

"Thanks." Harry smiled weakly.

"Chocolate Frog?" Ron smiled back and offered it.

Harry took it and ate in silence. Hermione was still crying softly and Ron patted her back every once in awhile, but mostly they ignored it. Ron and Neville talked about inconsequential things, trying to ease the tension, but they were very glad when, half-an-hour later, Seamus and Dean found them. The four boys discussed the World Cup and showed the souvenirs they had purchased. Harry joined in and was looking better, but Hermione still huddled in the corner silently. At least she wasn't crying anymore.

xXxXxXx

The Entrance Hall was congested. There was a huddle of students blocking the doors as they screamed in rage at Peeves who was laughing and hitting them with water balloons that were somehow colder than the rain falling outside. Professor McGonagall came around the corner and yelled at the poltergeist. The mischievous ghost cackled at her, but eventually zoomed away. The students let out a breath of relief, but for Harry it was short lived. His head ached and he just wanted to sit down where it was warm, but Professor McGonagall turned to him and grabbed him firmly by the arm.

"Mr. Potter. I need to have a word with you." Neville stiffened and took a step forward. "You three attend the Sorting. Harry will be back momentarily."

His friends were helpless to do anything to stop it, so they said nothing as McGonagall led Harry away. Neville's eyes hardened and he turned, running for the Great Hall. Ron and Hermione called after him, but he didn't stop to explain.

xXxXxXx

"Ah, Harry, my boy." Dumbledore said kindly as McGonagall walked him into his office.

Harry was beginning to be afraid. More than anything he wished Severus was with him, or he could at least talk to his alters without pen and paper. He wondered why they hadn't come Out yet, but guessed it was because they didn't want to give themselves away more than they already had. But despite the fear, Harry still couldn't believe the Headmaster was going to hurt him; he understood that Dumbledore had other aims besides the welfare of one child, but he wouldn't actively hurt him without reason. Right?

"You may go, Minerva. Thank you for bringing Harry here."

"Of course, Headmaster. Should I attend to the announcements and the speech?" She asked, frowning.

"No." He smiled at her. "Start the Sorting without me, but I will be down in time for announcements."

"Yes, sir." She turned and shut the door behind her, leaving Harry alone.

"Have a seat, my boy. I am not angry. I was worried about you all summer." Dumbledore said gently and offered a piece of candy.

"I'm sorry." Harry said softly.

"Why did you leave, Harry?" He asked sadly. "We were all very worried for you safety."

"I didn't want to go back to the Dursley's." He answered in a quivering voice. He avoided Dumbledore's eyes and stared around the room, nervously.

"There has been supposition that you were not treated well at home." Dumbledore sighed. "Is this true, Harry?"

"Yes, sir." Harry answered meekly, staring down at his hands clasped in his lap. He concentrated on his breathing as Severus had taught him and felt some of his tension ease.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Dumbledore asked brokenly.

Harry lifted his head in surprise. The old man looked grief-stricken and Harry's first instinct was to comfort him. To do so, he lowered his barriers a bit so he would know how best to do that and his eyes widened. The Headmaster wasn't sad. He was calm. He shook his head mutely in confusion.

"If I had only known… Harry, I would never have allowed you to go back to a home where you were not safe or treated well. Surely you don't believe that of me." Dumbledore's blue eyes captured his own and he felt himself feeling very guilty for doubting the Headmaster. Of course Dumbledore wouldn't allow him to be hurt. He cared and wanted only to protect him. "I am not all-seeing, Harry, though many people think I am. And it pains me greatly that you were suffering under my care."

"I'm sorry, Headmaster. It wasn't your fault. I should have told someone." Harry assured, not even wondering why the Headmaster felt satisfied.

"Thank you, Harry." Dumbledore bowed his head tiredly. "I am very glad to know you can forgive me. I will be much more alert in my duties to you, my boy. Starting with knowing how you are. Tell me how your summer went? Was it difficult?"

"No." Harry shook his head. "I had a good time and I was happy."

"I'm glad, child." Dumbledore smiled. "Is your godfather alright? He doesn't need medical attention still, does he? I would be more than happy to give him any help I could."

"No, sir. He's fine." Harry smiled.

"Good. Are you sure you wouldn't care for a lemon drop?" He offered the bowl again. Harry hesitated, but took one. "I find that it makes me feel better."

"Remus gives us chocolate to make us feel better." Harry smiled fondly. "He thinks it a cure for everything."

"When did he tell you this?" Dumbledore chuckled.

Harry caught himself and realized that he had been about to tell him where he had stayed that summer. He had promised Severus and his alters that he wouldn't. He thought fast. "It was… well… with the… dementors…" He stumbled. "He gave us chocolate to make us feel better afterwards and when I was… feeling down during the school year… last year when we had lunch together… he'd always give me some."

"I see." Dumbledore smiled. "He is a very wise man."

Harry sighed with relief at how close he had come to telling his secrets. He looked down at the candy he was holding and raised it to his lips. He hesitated, feeling a spike of anticipation from the headmaster, but brushed it off. Dumbledore was his friend and the candy looked nice.

Chapter end. Please review.

A/N: Sorry for the cliffy. Hope you guys aren't too mad. To make up for it, I promise the next chapter will come in three days instead of a whole week. Forgive me?