Manipulation, formerly titled Sacrifices

by ms.gringotts

former title Sacrifices. HPSS bond. Albus tries to control the pair. Voldemort tries to kill them. Vampires & werewolves help and hinder them. Main theme is manipulation. Don't read if your gonna whine later! Violence and slash. HPSS and other pairings

24. AN OATH

The drama I lead is enough to make the best of people stand and sigh…..

First after several viruses more dangerous than the common cold my pc died a slow agonizing death a month ago. I am not made out of money and I don't want to go into credit debt so I had to wait until I got enough cash together to get another pc.

Second I broke three fingers on my right hand while jumping on a trampoline. So I have been typing with my left hand and it has taken me for ever to get the chapter done. Anyway I just wanted to let you know I don't want you to think I've lost interest or anything stupid like that…

Now for the nitty gritty!

For all of those readers that are having problems following the story I (DRUM ROLL PLEASE) have added cues. I apologize from the bottom of my heart for past confusions, THANKS FOR BEING UNDERSTANDING AND READING ANYWAY!

Lastly,

Warning character death! And no it isn't Harry, Remus or Sirius… sigh…

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CHAPTER 24. AN OATH.

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Lucius was not a kind man so yes he would have killed the Weasleys if that would have guaranteed Draco's safety but he doubted that the Dark Lord would be satisfied with simply having his son before him. He could not risk his heir's life; the Dark Lord was not worth it. So while Harry fought the Death Eaters at Diagon Alley, Lucius was dragged back from the Weasley home to be tortured for his failure and treachery.

Lucius had forgotten what being a Malfoy meant but seeing the Vampires during the Tournament had reminded him of the glory his family had lost. His blind faith in the Dark Lord was soon replaced by the certainty that his family's destiny did not lie with Voldermort.

Now as he neared death there was nothing he would still not do to survive.

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The next day at Voldermort's stronghold…

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As Lucius slowly neared death he only had one regret and that was that he would not see his family's rise to power. He felt his insides boiling and cried out in pain, all coherent thoughts except for one were gone from his mind. He ached for mercy but he would not plead for it. Only word came to Lucius's mind and it was "possession".

Peter Pettigrew stood next to his Master, his rat like face twisted in disgust, why didn't the Wizard die? Why couldn't he just die! Unable to stand the screams he clutched his hands and bit down on his nails. Die! Die! Peter shouted inside but Lucius wouldn't…the Wizard held on for hours.

The Dark Lord needed to break down the wards surrounding the Malfoy home, unfortunately Lucius was not cooperating, but that did not matter the Dark Lord loved to hear the screams. When Lucius finally was too weak to fight off the spells, Voldermort ordered his Death Eaters to take the Wizard's broken body to Malfoy Manor and bring down the wards, he warned Pettigrew to make sure that the Wizard lived long enough to see his son and wife captured.

Hours before at Malfoy Manor

Draco waited for his father to come back but he feared the worst. He did not get along with the Wizard and he sometimes down right hated him but the only thing Draco ever wanted was to be like him. Lucius was a giant in his son's eyes, a master of the Malfoy name and the youth feared he would not be able to live up to his father's expectations. Hours ticked by and Draco wanted to sigh in frustration but Malfoys did not show frustration so he sat straighter and waited. He had written to his Godfather, Severus Snape but he hadn't received a reply yet and that along with his Father's absence had him on edge.

Narcissa held little hope of ever seeing her husband again. Lucius had been blinded by Lord Voldermort's promises of a Wizarding World where the pure blood families of old would rule as they once had. Even she had known how impossible that was but Lucius had not listened and had joined the Dark Lord. How wrong he had been! She wondered how long she would wait before she would give up on Lucius…she looked at her son; he emulated his father and knew that in his cold heart there was a place for the older Malfoy. Would Draco be able to handle what she feared, would she? Too afraid to say anything that might disturb the small flicker of hope she remained silent and waited…

At half an hour past ten they were completely immersed in their musings when they felt the wards around their home come crashing down. Mother and son immediately drew their wands ready to defend themselves. Narcissa wasted no time and called on her own family's shielding wards to protect them, if the Manor's wards were down that could only mean the worse.

Narcissa called her personal elf, "Kiddy!"

"Yes Mistress!" a little runt of an elf she had brought with her after she had married apparated in the room and bowed to her.

"Who's outside?"

"The Master with Death eaters!"

"What?" Narcissa asked shocked.

"He brought them here!" He couldn't have! His father would never betray them, Draco thought desperately.

"Don't know, the Master is hurt!" Kiddy said twisting her hands agitatedly.

"Then it's not him casting the curses?" Draco asked relieved.

"No, the Master is hurt!"

"We must get him!" Draco said running to the door.

Narcissa grabbed her son and pulled him back. "No! He may not be alive anymore!"

"What are you saying? " Draco said trying to pull away from her.

"He would never bring them here alive!" Narcissa shouted at her son desperately. "We stay put! If they break my shield around the room or if you open that door we are lost!" She whispered, there were still no cracks but she had to think fast her strength lay in defensive magic and not offensive magic.

Think Narcissa! Think! Think! She had to save her Family! Yes her family! She thought desperately. She had to save her family and her family could help her! She panicked momentarily, he might not want to come to her aid, there was no link between them other than belonging to the same family…looking at Draco she breathed deeply and pushed her panic aside...she would try for his sake.

"Lady!" Draco pleaded trying to pull away…his father could not be dead he couldn't! He was Lucius Malfoy!

Narcissa had to make her son understand. If Lucius was dead then it was up to her to keep their son alive. "The wards were set with his own blood…I'm sorry…"

Draco stared at his mother in disbelief!…he wouldn't cry, he wouldn't cry, he wouldn't cry he wouldn't cry, his father deserved more, he wouldn't cry, he wouldn't cry, he wouldn't cry! His nostrils flared and he allowed his mother to pull him towards her.

"Kiddy get the other elves I want the property protected do you understand I do not want the house to suffer any damage!"

"Yes Mistress!" With an evil look in her eyes the elf disappeared! Elves were forbidden to harm any Wizard but that didn't mean they would stand by and see Wizards destroy their home when they had been ordered to protect it. Kiddy hated all wizards except for the family she was bonded to and thanked her mistress for allowing her the chance to give some of the abuse she was subjected to back. That she was getting back at Wizards that had never done anything to her did not matter, they were wizards and as such they must have at one time hurt an elf.

"The house! How can you worry!" Draco accused, how could his mother be so unfeeling.

"It's your inheritance! I will not have it used as a bone fire to celebrate your father's demise!" Narcissa took a deep breath and concentrated on her family's magic and whispered a spell she had been thought when she was a child, "Protecti Hermanu, Black Protecti Hermanu Black." She chanted her voice breaking slightly when she began feeling the cracks in her shields. "Protecti Hermanu Black, Protecti Hermanu Black" she continued more urgently than before.

His mother seemed to be calling on some kind of force or being but Draco wasn't sure. Minutes ticked by and the blasts continued but then something happened and her mother shivered violently….she stumbled and Draco caught her. "…he's come," she whispered and grabbed Draco close to her…outside the noise changed. Draco could hear blasts but not directed at the double doors. It almost seemed like there was fighting, but who was fighting?

"Who's here Lady?"

"My protector!"

"Who!"

"Sirius Black."

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……earlier at Potter Manor right after the Vampire bonding ritual

Sirius tried not to make a sound as the Prince's guards deposited him unceremoniously on the bed. He dragged himself across it reminding himself to bite the bastards the next time he changed into his animagus form. He lay breathing hard, the son of a bitch had torn the skin off with the first 20 lashes and had started on the muscle after that, Sirius knew he would be all right but that did not make the pain any less now although he had to admit that he had been able to stand the whipping because of his vampire strength. No mortal could take that much pain. Ignoring the two Vampires who stood by the door he drifted off to sleep.

…Sirius dreamt of a particularly ugly rat with beady eyes…the rat was bent on hurting his little cousin. His little cousin who was the prettiest little girl he had ever seen was crying and she was asking him to get rid of the rat! He wanted to do it but he was too tired… she insisted… and the more he tried to ignore her the more she called him…Merlin she wouldn't be quiet!

Sirius woke with a jolt and pulled himself from the bed, he felt awful. His back had stopped bleeding but it was extremely sensitive to any movement. He looked around and wondered who had woken him and then realized that the voice that had roused him was in his head. Great he was going nuts! He stood rubbing his eyes hoping the voice would stop but it just got worse, a voice was calling him to help slay…a rat? Slay a what? Sirius rubbed his eyes again and wondered what the hell was going on? Damn it! He needed to rest! The Vampires stepped closer and looked at him as if he were mad. What was happening!

He walked to the dressing room grabbed a shirt and gingerly put it on while the chanting rang in his head. He tried to push it out but the only thing he could see was his pretty cousin, his pretty---wait a minute! Narcissa! The rat! Peter Pettigrew! Narcissa was being attacked by Peter Pettigrew! He stood still and concentrated on the call! Yes it was his cousin Narcissa and she was calling him to protect her! Sweet Merlin he was Narcissa's protector! He had always wondered who he had gotten stuck with? Well now he knew! No wonder his Mother had always laughed at him every time he said something bad about Narcissa! The bitch must've known he was Narcissa's protector! Damn woman! He went back into the room bedroom, "Follow me!" he ordered the two guards. He was walking to the door to get more help but the calling spell was too strong, moments later the Black magic apparated him and the two Vampire guards in Malfoy Manor.

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Sirius arrived to see an army of house elves protecting precious vases and statues and furniture while a particularly small elf was protecting a painting of a very young looking Narcissa and Lucius from a Death Eater vent on destroying it, the Death Eater wouldn't quit so the elf blasted him against the opposite wall. The Death Eater did not get up and the elf moved on to the next atatcker. The elf's viciousness reminded him of his late mother's own elf.

Sirius didn't wait to be seen and blasted two of the seven wizards attacking the double doors. Peter Pettigrew saw Sirius and quickly scurried out of the way and apparated from the Manor. Sirius cast a killing curse but missed the rat by an inch. More Death Eaters apparated within The Manor but he didn't care, Peter had gotten away and he was going to take it out on someone…when the other two vampires apparated seconds later they found Sirius blocking the double doors and a small army of elves indirectly fighting off Death Eaters vent on destroying the Manor. Malfoy was barely breathing there was more blood on the floor than inside him anymore. Between the Vampires who had not fed, one very pissed off Black, and a band of determined house Elves they made quick work of the Death Eaters.

Fifteen minutes after the battle Sirius turned the knob, the door clicked open without any resistance and Sirius stood face to face with his little cousin Lady Narcissa Black Malfoy and Draco Malfoy. He stepped aside as Narcissa and Draco ran to Lucius who was minutes away from death. Moments later Lucius opened his eyes long enough to see his son and wife safe. He whispered, "the… oa…th," and then closed his eyes for the last time. Sirius stood by and cast a diagnosis spell on the Wizard but there was nothing that could be done not that he would've done anything anyway he was there for Narcissa not Lucius.

"I remember father I won't forget." Draco whispered brokenly.

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Happening on another plane

Lucius was having trouble focusing. He was very close to anchoring his soul but the frightened eyes before him retreated every time he tried to advance. Lucius pleaded trying to get close, trying to convince the other essence that he needed help but it was useless. Lucius knew he was almost gone so his mind quickly made a launch but the green eyes panicked and with one strong push managed to pull away from him. Lucius had been beaten back but he would not give up… he soon found someone else…someone weak enough and close enough for him to trap… try as he might this being's essence was unable able to shake him off. With one last breath Lucius left his body and his essence entered the other's.

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at the Ministry

Fudge was furious! He was getting blamed for things he had no control over! How dare they! He had tried to do the right thing but everything seemed to always come out wrong! Not even his wife was on his side! The Witch cared nothing about his problems so long as there was enough money in her Gringotts account. His own friends were deserting him! EVEN RITA WAS AVOIDING HIM!

He sat in his office way past office hours trying to think of a way out of his present predicaments. The Vampires at the Tournament had caused quite a stir! Dumbledore was asking for the Ministry's support against Potter and Snape and he would gladly give itif it weren't for the fact thatthe boy and the Ex Death Eater had gained support in the Wizarding Community after the attack on Diagon Alley! Didn't Dumbledore get it! His hands were tied!

If only Lucius were here to help him sort out this mess! If only Lucius were here, thought Fudge wearily. Minutes later Fudge stood up to go home but his knees give out as he a pair of gray eyes flashed before him.

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back at Malfoy Manor

Narcissa apparated a cloak, covered her Lord's body, and looked up at her cousin. "You came." Sirius didn't say anything but shrugged. His back was hurting, all the fighting had opened up his injuries…oh well nothing a night's sleep wouldn't heal.

"Thank you."

Sirius nodded. "How did it happen?"

"As far as I know Voldermort called him on the day of the Tournament and he did not answer the call…fast enough."

"Is that all?"

"Probably not." She answered looking down at her husband's body. She was about to move away when a movement in the corner of her eye caught her attention. She turned quickly and was just in time to see a Death Eater pointing his wand at her. She shouted a shielding spell and the Death Eater's blast bounded off and struck him instead. Sirius and the Vampires reacted quickly and flew at the Death Eater knocking him to the floor where he was pinned to the ground. Draco pulled the mask off and was shocked to find the face of Bella Lestrange staring back at him.

"Bella!" Narcissa looked incredulously; the Death Eater was her sister. The witch struggled to free herself but she was slammed against the floor.

"Sister!" the Witch laughed insanely.

"WHY?" Narcissa would have expected anyone but her own sister, her own sister!

"He betrayed the Dark Lord he was never a believer! He used him!" Bella furiously clawed at the Vampires.

"You are insane!" Draco could not believe his own Mother's sister had participated in his father's death.

"It's only me now! I'm his most loyal follower! Me! Do you understand?"

"What of Pettigrew you bitch!" Sirius shouted.

"Peter! That rat! He is nothing! He lives in fear of him! Not me he is everything to me! I WORSHIP HIM!"

Sirius's mind was working a million miles a minute. This was his chance to prove his innocence! He finally had proof!

"Pettigrew is alive?" Narcissa asked in shock.

"Not for long!" Bella laughed evilly.

"Why?" Narcissa asked.

"He failed! I'll be the only one! Me! His most loyal!"

"His only follower!" Draco taunted.

"You fools! There are thousands and thousands of us! We are everywhere! Everywhere!" the witch screamed insanely struggling against the Vampires.

"Kill her Sirius." Narcissa whispered enraged.

"As much as I've loved to do so, I need her alive…for now." Sirius said grabbing Bella by the hair and looking into her eyes.

"Call Moody he's the new head of the Aurors."

"No! She tortured Lucius! Kill her!"

"Call the Aurors now!"

"No! I want her dead! Aurors are fools, she'll escape!"

"You are a widow Narcissa, you are a Black again! Call the Aurors! That's an order!"

"Don't shout at her!" Draco said raising his voice.

"I will shout at her as I please dear little cousin!" Sirius whispered giving Bella's hair a twist while looking at Draco. Bella looked at Sirius with a maniacal smile so he twisted again. "Your father is dead and your mother is under my authority. I'm the head of the Black family and you are fatherless. You are about to get your first lesson in obedience so pay attention!"

"My Godfather won't allow it!" Draco shouted bravely.

"Your Godfather?" Sirius gave Bella's hair another twist. The witch finally whimpered in pain and Sirius smiled coldly.

"Severus Snape." Narcissa whispered.

"Severus!" Sirius exclaimed "Well, well dear old Sev! Are you in for a rude awakening… but we won't get into that right now. Do as I say Narcissa!"

"Lady don't-" Draco protested. "He's a fugitive!"

"He's the head of my family and my protector. I have to."

"You were always weak Narcissa! You make me sick!" Bella shouted struggling to break free. Sirius just smiled and did something he had wanted to do for a long time, he struck her.

"Make it good Narcissa!" Sirius ordered. This was his only chance. Everything had to come out just right.

"You have no right!" Draco protested angrily.

Sirius spared Draco a glance, "Draco you will be head of your house one day soshut up and learn! Secure her! She is vicious!" he finished pushing a dazed Bella towards the Vampires. "Feed on the live ones, if you want and then dispose of them! The ones already dead leave for effect! Be quick about it!" The Vampires who had ignored Sirius only a few hours earlier now moved quickly to do his bidding. The Princeling was beginning to prove himself worthy of their Master and Clan.

Draco opened his mouth and then shut it again. He stood back and watched how his mother who had never cried in public began doing so as she called on Auror Moody and then Minister Fudge. One of the Vampires dragged three Death Eaters to another room while the other Vampire secured his Aunt with a devil's snare. After checking and double checking to make sure she wasn't going anywhere he joined the first Vampire in the other room.

Draco looked away and found Sirius watching him, "Don't look away Draco from what your father used to boast that's your legacy in there." Sirius said pointing at the locked doors. Draco ignored Sirius and walked to where his father lay.

House elves ran to and fro putting things back and repairing the scorch marks on the walls.

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Moody arrived ten minutes later with ten Aurors and found a disconsolate Narcissa kneeling before her husband's body and the Manor in shambles. When he saw Sirius the old Auror immediately ordered his apprehension but when Narcissa told them everything that had happened they released him reluctantly

There was no need for exaggeration or half truths. The dead Death Eaters in the house, Lucius body, Draco's testimony and Bella's deranged accusations cleared any doubts anyone might have had regarding Lucius loyalty to the Light and gave proof that Peter Pettigrew was not dead but very much alive and serving the Dark Lord.

Moody was still suffering from the embarrassment of being trapped and impersonated by whom he now knew to be Pettigrew during the Tournament and was more than willing to listen to any proof that might lead to the capture of the fiend that had made the attack on Hogwarts possible. When Fudge flooed to the house looking more flustered than usual he immediately went to Lucius body, took his hat off and with great ceremony said good bye to a Wizard he had always looked up to. When he saw Sirius standing in the corner with two Wizards he began to order his arrest but was cut off mid way when Bella broke into another insane tirade.

"Let me go! The Dark Lord is coming! He will kill you all! Lucius thought he could outsmart him and spy! He was a fool he died a traitor's death! Damn you all! Damn you Peter! Damn you! You think you can stand at his side Peter! You are a traitor you killed the Potters! You killed them to please my Master! I will kill for him! I will kill for him! I will kill for him! I will kill you all!" Bella ranted struggling to free herself from the snare.

"WHAT'S THE MEANING OF THIS!"

"Peter Pettigrew led the attack on Malfoy Manor Minister." Moody explained walking over to him trying his best to ignore Bella's insane screaming.

"But Sirius Black killed Peter Pettigrew and muggles." The Minister interrupted looking from Sirius to Bella.

"I don't think that's what happened the witch must be questioned but it appears Black is innocent of both charges." Moody answered gruffly.

"Sweet Merlin! Thirteen years…" the Minister was seeing his career fly out the window…but wait a minute he hadn't been in office when that had happened! This could be good for him; if Black was innocent he could take the credit for righting an injustice. He rubbed his forehead and looked at Sirius, the Wizard stood next to two other wizards waiting for a decision. "Release him," his mind told him.

Sirius had never felt this close to victory he had to be smart. Later he'd get back at the fools that had so readily put him in that hell-hole but for now he had to be careful and patient. He was too close to lose now.

"WHO ARE THEY?" the Minister asked a little too loud trying to stay calm.

"They are friends Minister and they are leaving as am I." Sirius announced trying to block out Bella's continuous ranting. Moody who had had enough cast a silencing charm on her. Bella continued screaming mutely.

"That's not possible Black. It may be that all proof points to your innocence but until we investigate you must be detained." His mind shrieked at being disobeyed. Release him! It thundered again!

"I will not be detained! I spent thirteen years in Azkaban I will not go back there not even for a day." Sirius spit out vehemently.

"Not Azkaban! But surely you understand." The Minister tried while Moody signaled for his Aurors to draw their wands. Sirius and his two guards tensed.

Narcissa who knelt before her husband wanted them all to go away, to disappear. Her grief was becoming intolerable and she needed to be alone. "Minister I ask you to show some degree of leniency. My cousin came to my and my son's the future Lord of Malfoy's aid. He and his friends did away with a number of Death Eaters and captured a known supporter of Lord Voldermort at great risk to his person surely he can be allowed to remain free if he agrees to appear before the Ministry in let's say two days time."

"Lady." Moody said uneasily. He was an Auror and a hard man but to see such a woman prostrated before her husband's body pleading for her cousin made him uncomfortable.

"Auror Moody, Minister …surely you can make an exception." She said looking at both Wizards tears rolling down her cheeks. Draco remained silent through out the whole exchange; he was in complete shock unable to tell if his Mother's tears were real or not. He looked over to Sirius his cousin stood watching everyone cautiously while the Aurors stood around waiting for an order. The Vampires stood on each side, thinking of how to get their Princeling out of this one. Merlin only knew what their Prince would do to them if they went back without his mate. Minutes ticked by until the Minister finally spoke.

The Minister closed his eyes trying to block out the demand for Sirius's freedom but it didn't work moments later he agreed reluctantly. "Very well but he must swear a Wizard's oath that he will appear before the Ministry in two days time to hear the final decision on the Auror's findings."

Moody nodded reluctantly and ordered his Aurors to stand down, "Remove the bodies and run a magic diagnosis on the property. Lady Malfoy we will try to be quick would you like us to help you with… Lord Malfoy." Narcissa sighed in relief and nodded, she had done her duty. "Yes could you…could you move him to the Blue room please…I don't think I c…can cast the spell." Moody nodded and levitated Lucius and followed Lady Malfoy and Draco out.

The Minister eyed Sirius coldly and before walking out whispered, "You've done a service that will be repaid."

Sirius nodded and fought hard to contain the smile that was slowly spreading across his face. The two Vampires next to him sighed inwardly in relief. They would not be skinned and staked today.

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Fifteen minutes later Sirius and Narcissa stood in the Blue room while Draco walked over to his father's body. The Aurors had left along with Fudge and Moody, they would be back tomorrow for the funeral.

"You were of great help…I will come for you tomorrow." Sirius said to his cousin.

Narcissa nodded. "I'm pleased… Lord Black." She said stumbling over the title. "With your permission I will try to contact Lord Snape. He is Draco's Godfather; there are things I wish to discuss with him." she requested.

"Don't worry about Snape I will get a hold of him." Sirius offered dryly.

"Thank you Lord."

Sirius cleared his throat not knowing how to go about it. "Your son will need you. Don't do anything-"

"I won't. I give you my word. But I need to be alone."

"Very well." Sirius sighed; there wasn't anything he could do.

"Draco I will stay with your father tonight you will go with your cousin. You will come back tomorrow at 2pm for your father's parting."

Draco could hear his mother speaking to him but he was having problems concentrating all he could see was his father's body. He picked up a lifeless hand and turned it over the skin had been split open, there were many cuts like that. He must have been tortured for a long, long time.

Narcissa looked at her son she wanted to cry with him but she couldn't break down, Draco needed her strong. "Draco!" she raised her voice sternly but he still did not answer. Determinedly she walked to her son and grabbed him by his arm and pulled him away. "Go withLord Blackfor tonight."

"Lady?"

"Go with him! I will stay with your Father and prepare everything for tomorrow." Draco looked at her rebelliously but before he could say anything he felt Sirius's hand on his shoulder and all four apparated from the Manor

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Narcissa heard them leave and slowly sank to her knees. In the eerie quiet of the manor she pulled the robe from Lucius body and closed her eyes. Her fingers slowly travelled to his face as tears slowly slid down her cheeks. She traced his brows, and then moved to his lips, she remembered the first time she had seen him. She had been nine and he had been eleven.

She frowned when she remembered how he had ignored her…and then quickly smiled… of course he had ignored her! At eleven he had only had eyes for his broom!

She had set out to catch him and after more charms and love potions than anyone could point a wand at he had finally asked her to marry him. She had been the happiest woman in the world but she had never shown it. Her husband was a cold man and had always kept his feelings in check even when it came to her. Still she had loved him and had never stopped wanting him.

She had gone to a seer once, and had asked her if he would ever love her. Her answer had been "You will be loved by another." But had she cared? No. Even now she still she loved him. She blinked her tears away but found more filling her eyes…she lay her head down and cried her goodbye.

Hours later she rose from his side and reminded herself to move slowly. "Malfoy's hurry for no one," she thought detachedly.

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half an hour earlier at Potter Manor…

Harry's Grandfather had been waiting to be visited by his Grandson but since the boy had not made an appearance he had grown impatient and had gone looking for him. He found him in the ballroom.

He arrived in time to see Black, his late son's friend being dragged away after the bonding ceremony. He had never been too fond off Sirius and now that the Wizard was a Vampire he could only think that not much of an improvement had been made.

He looked for Harry and found him next to Severus Snape. The Older Wizard stood close to the youth watching over him without seeming to do so. He sized up the Wizard; he seemed capable enough and committed to protecting his Grandson that he had been a victim of his late son's spoiled behavior seemed to be a bizarre twist of fate. Behind Harry stood another friend of his son's, Remus Lupin, the werewolf. Remus's stance seemed relaxed but the ghost knew better, werewolves were loyal but unpredictable and oh so dangerous.

He finally settled all his attention on Harry and did not like what he saw, Harry's face was almost chalk white…indeed he could very well pass off for one of the bats that were now crowding his ballroom. The boy was too slight for his liking it was like looking at a mirror, a spiteful one. The boy carried the marks of all the ill-treatment he had suffered on the inside and on the outside. How old was he? Myrtle had said seventeen, he did not look it. He wore glasses like his son had and the older Wizard wondered why? He had made sure his son's off spring did not inherit the gene that would make it necessary for him to wear glasses. He looked too young and too weak and worst of all too kind. In this day and age kindness could only get you killed.

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Harry shifted a little bit, he was being watched… part of him was used to it but the other part knew this time it was different. He tried not to fidget and half turned his head, and that was the first time he saw his Grandfather. Myrtle had told him about him and although Harry had wanted to see the Ghost he was afraid of the meeting. He had been ill and he supposed the ghost would understand but the Wizard that stood before him did not seem the understanding kind.

The Wizard was about forty and stood exactly six feet. He was lean and seemed very strong. He had his arms clasped behind his back and he wore a cape similar to the one Harry had on. Harry had always been told that he looked like his father and yes he had his features but now that his Grandfather stood before him he knew that it was not really his father he resembled but his Grandfather. It was like looking at a mirror, except that this reflection seemed much healthier and sure of itself. Harry felt a sudden need to talk to him but he knew that that was impossible now. His Grandfather seemed to understand because he nodded and a single thought reached Harry, LATER. Harry nodded back in agreement...The ghost remained a couple of more seconds and then exited the ballroom. The only living creature the Vampire was worried about was his Grandson everyone else could just drop dead for all he cared.

Minutes later a thunderous noise was heard but the Ghost ignored it…if there was any fighting or danger he would know about it soon enough. For now he had things to do…

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Moaning Myrtle poked her head through the wall, what was going on now! When she saw the sentinels she quickly went to tell Sirius but was surprised to see the bedroom empty. Knowing that she would need some sort of help she stopped in the Kitchen to warn Dobby about the new guests.

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The sentinels spread their wings they stood over six feet tall and their wing span was twice as much. They were a male and a female who wore their demon faces and bared their fangs at those in attendance. Severus stepped closer to Harry as did his Godfather and Remus, the wizards were ready for anything; Cecilia bared her fangs at the two winged Vampires and coiled itself ready to strike. The Potions Master had been unable to speak to the Prince but he knew the visit had something to do with Harry's promised loyalty to the Vampires He wondered what other things the old bat had done behind his back.

The vampires waited for their Lord and Lady to appear…minutes later a thunderous uproar was heard and a bolt of lighting struck the middle of the ball room, when the smoke cleared Harry and the wizards finally lay eyes on the most elusive King and Queen of the Vampires.

The pair stood regally surrounded by ten other vampires all heavily armed their personal guard most likely, thought Severus. The monarchs were over six feet, slender with an almost wraith like appearance. They wore their hair long, the queen's was midnight black and the king's blond with a tinge of red… they dressed in mediaeval clothing, the Queen was all in white and the King in black. The Prince who vowed before no one got on one knee as did the rest of the company. Severus took Harry by the arm and granted the Lord and Lady half a bow.

Remus was considered weak by his race but he would not shame werewolves by vowing before Vampires so he remained standing.

Harry looked over to his Godfather and noticed the gold in his brown eyes and understood that Remus like Sirius was doing what he thought was right. Harry held the vow a few more minutes and then slowly very slowly stood and looked straight ahead; Severus had a connection with them not him. The Monarchs moved away from their entourage and stopped along the way to beckon the Prince to join them.

"Be careful Harry I sense danger." Cecilia said slithering around his feet agitatedly.

"Thanks I will…." Harry whispered in parseltongue. "Cecilia is warning us against danger." Harry said through the bond.

Severus nodded and moved his hands underneath his robes and dislodged his wand. Lord Gustavus and Remus who were watching Severus for any cue followed suit.

Harry was watching the pair when he felt the hair on the back of his neck stand on end, he saw a pair of gray eyes in his mind and heard a voice crying out in pain. Closing his eyes, he blocked the screaming but the screams and the gleeful sensation that came every time he caused pain would not disappear.

Severus knew something was happening Harry was distancing himself from something or someone and it wasn't him that only left another, Voldermort.

"Are you all right?" Severus asked through the bond sensing Harry's stress.

Harry looked up at Severus and shook his head. "Voldermort is at it again…"

"I thought so. Do you think you can manage?"

"I'm doing better than last time. I think I can do this."

"Good. I have to concentrate on the Vampires they are notorious mind readers."

"Will they try to read me?"

"I don't think so…not just yet anyway. We both have things to worry about. Concentrate on keeping the Dark Lord out and I'll deal with the bats."

"All right." Harry said and concentrated like Severus had thought him.

…………………

The Vampires remained prostrated as their Lord and Lady walked slowly by they seemed almost overwhelmed by the presence of the Monarchs and stole glances at their passing figures. These Cold blooded creatures who only knew death and cold manipulation loved their Sovereigns.

The King and Queen finally reached Harry's party, "Introduce us." The King ordered Prince Alessander while he looked at Harry.

"Yes Majesty this is Lord Gustavus Gribaldi, my son's Godfather…." the Vampire paused as the old Wizard stepped forward and gave both of them a deep vow which he held until he received a small nod of acknowledgement. "This is Professor Remus Lupin. One of my son n law's Godfathers." the Prince continued.

"A Professor of what?" The Queen asked in a soft measured voice. Remus eyed both creatures warily before he took a step forward to acknowledge their presence. "The Dark Arts." He answered.

The Queen nodded. "How interesting! You did away with a most fearsome Vampire… Professor" The Queen paused over the word almost mockingly.

"Yes I did." Remus responded.

"We'll have to keep an eye on you Professor." The King observed dryly and then turned his attention to Severus. He was anxious to get to the reason for their trip quickly.

"Your Majesty this is my heir in the Wizarding World, Lord Severus Atticus Snape." The Prince explained.

"The likeness is extraordinary Prince." The King observed. Yes they both looked alike but the eyes were different the Prince's eyes were cold while his son's were dark pools that seemed to give nothing away. Not even hate, thought the King

Severus said nothing but vowed to both in turn. "You were a professor until recently." The King inquired and Severus nodded but did not add anything.

"What of Lord Snape?" The King prompted. "Potions" Came the short reply.

"How good is he Prince?" the Queen asked.

The Prince answered with two words. "The Best". Both the King and Queen seemed to consider this before the King asked "Any other specialties we should know about?" asked the Queen. "He is gifted in mind disciplines." Both nodded in understanding. The Prince did not use the words best and gifted lightly, no doubt the wizard was a master at both. Good to know.

Severus frowned at the Princes's forwardness with information he considered vital to his and Harry's survival but what could he do? Make sure that the Prince is never told anything of importance ever again that's what! His mind answered.

The Monarchs quite slowly moved on to Harry who was busy arguing with Cecilia. The snake had picked up on her Master's edginess and was acting like a mother hen or so Harry was telling her when he felt the Vampires staring at him. He met the stares and oddly enough was not nervous by their presence in all truth the only thing he was worried about was his Godfather and now the turmoil in his head. The calming potion Severus had given him had made him more focused. Unfortunately that meant that he was also more sensitive to what was going on in his mind and that made it more difficult for him to tune out the voice and emotions he was experiencing.

"This My Lord, My Lady is my son in law Lord Harry James Potter Snape."

Harry bowed to both of them for what he thought was an adequate amount of time and stepped back. Harry could feel the screaming and the exhausted sense of battle in him. He felt life slowly ebbing away… disappearing from within… the cries in his head brought him such sick joy. He …looked around angrily wanting to curse someone for having been so stupid. Harry tried to hold on to his sanity as a kaleidoscope of emotions each stronger than the last echoed through his mind.

"Are you what everyone says you are Lord Potter Snape?" The King asked curiously wondering what was going on in the youth's head.

"I don't know what people say Your Majesty." Harry rubbed his scar distractedly trying to ignore the mayhem in his head. Severus could feel the confusion and noticed the gesture but remained detached for both their sakes.

"That you will save the Wizarding World." the Queen answered.

"Pardon!" Harry lowered his hand to his side and began petting Cecilia distractedly. She had slithered up his leg and now half hung from his arm. The snake somehow comforted him and he clung to her like a life line.

"…from whom we're still unsure…" the King added meaningfully.

"I'm sorry but I don't really know what it is that you are referring to." Harry did not want to have this conversation he wanted to be left alone. He wanted to talk to his Godfather he wanted to sleep for a little while. He wanted the screaming and the pleading and to stop, his scar was aching and he did not want to be around anyone right now. He wanted everyone to just fucking die!

"Bastards! They are baiting you don't listen to themmmmmm!" Cecilia hissed.

"Easier said than done!"

"You said something?" The King asked, had he heard right? So the rumors were true! He was a parselmouth!

"I was speaking to Cecilia." Harry answered exasperatedly petting the hissing snake.

"Who?" The Queen asked again, knowing full well whom Harry was talking about.

"Cecilia…" Harry said holding the snake closer.

"You speak to snakes"

"Yes."

"You're a parselmouth."

"Yes."

"Nosey aren't they?"

"Enough Cccccelia." Harry reprimanded the snake impatiently.

"A most unsettling gift."

Harry did not need anyone telling him that he had a dark gift! They of all creatures had some nerve. He looked up angrily, "If you say so." Yeah all dead! Every single one of them, Harry thought again.

"You will join us for the celebration of the Prince's new mate Lord Snape." The King invited Harry.

Severus felt Harry's temper rising but he did not interfere he had to start letting Harry handle things himself.

"Lord Potter Snape, you mean." Harry answered coldly, "The only Lord Snape here is Lord Severus Atticus Snape." Harry said petting Cecilia one last time before he put her down. The snake hissed in protest but Harry ignored her, the Monarch's were watching him closely but he didn't care.

Lord Gustavus was uneasy to say the least; the Prince was playing a dangerous game. The King and Queen had not just come to see Alessander's bonding ceremony that much was obvious. The bats were practically licking their lips as they spoke to Harry.

"Yes Lord Potter Snape…" The Queen amended smiling sweetly and then focused on Severus who wanted nothing more than to bleed the bitch. "Lord Snape we hope to maintain contact now that you and the Prince have sorted out your differences."

Working hard to remain calm despite Harry's distress Severus answered frostily, "I am sure the Prince looks forward for the time when he can return to his affairs."

"Lord Snape you are his family! You are his affairs." The King added laughingly.

"I do not see how." Lord Gribaldi interjected looking at his long time friend. The Prince did not have the decency to look slightly put off by his son's negative.

"Gustavus you know that I only have Severus and his family's best interests at heart."

"You mean his bonded?" asked Gustavus angrily. Harry shot the Prince a cold stare and Remus inched himself closer to his Godson while Severus expression continued blank.

"He is part of the family last time I checked." The Prince answered coldly. He loved his friend but the old Wizard would not ruin his plans to remain by Severus and Harry's side. The pair needed them as much as the vampires would need them later.

"The Prince is loyal to those he loves and respects." The King observed.

Harry listened to the back and forth between Severus and everyone else and knew he had to control his magic. He wanted to help Severus but he couldn't and felt his head pound with gloating glee as he cast another crucio.

Severus smirked inwardly. Alessander loyal to those he loved?

"You find it hard to believe Lord Snape?" The Queen asked stepping forward.

"Such a thought is an impossibility your Majesty. I am by no means complaining but I have done well with out his loyalty and respect thus far."

"Is that why you called him?" the King asked. He was getting exasperated with the aloof Wizard.

"That was a mistake."

"An intelligent person makes the best of his mistakes Lord Snape." The Queen smiled. Quite frankly she could care less if the pair liked, loved or hated each other. The only thing she cared about was getting Harry Potter.

"How so?"

"Pledge your loyalty and his to us…" The King said turning back again to Harry. "It would be most beneficial to both of our causes. Consult it with your bonded in privacy we will have your answer before we live." The King took his Queens' hand and led her away, the Prince followed close behind.

……………..

"Prince Alessander."

"Yes your Majesty?"

"You have done well. Your son does you credit he'll make an excellent Vampire "

"Thank you your Highness."

"As for your son n law we can only say thank you…" The King offered as he extended his hand to be kissed by one of his subjects.

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Snape and lord Gribaldi vowed as the vampires walked away Harry did so as an after thought and Remus only stood quietly by. Once the trio had joined the other vampires Snape led Harry, Lord Gribaldi, and Remus from the room with Cecilia after them.

Harry was glad to leave. His head was pounding and he closed his eyes momentarilyand got the impression of a sharp pain and then a slow exhale…the gray eyes were letting go, they were almost gone…Lucius's body was finally dead. Feeling something wet in his eye. Harry wiped his brow with his bandaged hands and tiredly continued walking.

Severus like Harry wanted the night to end but things had to be taken care of first. After several more turns he came to a small library and threw open the doors. The library was far enough from the ball room or as far as he dared be…Merlin only knew what the Prince was up to…he was not surprised to find Myrtle and Dobby talking about the Vampires.

"Masters you are well!" Dobby shouted smiling from ear to ear.

Harry greeted the pair with a tired smile and sat on the nearest chair wiping his forehead. His mind was now filled with violent screeching and he tried hard to block out the torturous sound as he cringed inside.

Severus was about to begin when he finally got a good look at Harry. He was breathing hard but did not say anything but pet Cecilia absent-mindedly. The Potions Master had maintained the bond at bay because of the Vampires but now he opened himself up and reclaimed his place at Harry's side.

"Severus maybe Harry should…" Remus began but did not finish. Severus was shocked; he heard the screaming and sensed the cringing inside Harry's mind as the youth tried to block it out. Slowly so as not to startle him he moved to his side and Severus whispered his bonded's name. Harry did not answer and wiped his brow again. "Harry" Lord Gribaldi placed his hand on the youth's arm and was surprised when it was violently thrust aside.

"Harry what's wrong?" Remus asked worried.

"Please leave us!" Severus whispered. Lord Gribald and Remus were about to protest but they suspected there was nothing either one could do so they left quietly. Myrtle and Dobby looked at each other and exited the room in their own particular ways the only that remained behind was Cecilia who hissed comfortingly at her Master.

Harry was feeling alone and whimpered as another scream tore through his mind. The pain and gloating he felt was sickening. He was trying hard to remain calm and in control but he felt his hands warm as his magic reacted to his intense emotions. Another cry erupted far away but this time it was blocked before it became too intolerable. Severus used their bond and quickly built a shield around Harry's mind. Moments later Harry blinked and shakily looked around and found Severus looking at him worriedly.

"Better?"

"a… little." Harry whispered hoarsely.

"You did well."

"Funny I don't think I did." Harry said clearing his throat shakily.

"You did not lose control."

"I couldn't pull out though."

"But you were able to hold on."

"Yeah, I guess I did."

"What happened?"

"Lucius. I think he's… dead."

"You saw it?"

"No, I felt it. He was tortured for a long time…Voldermort likes to hear them scream…" Harry whispered breathing raggedly. Severus frowned but said nothing, now was not the time.

"We have to work on your mind disciplines as soon as you are stronger." Harry nodded gratefully.

"Anything else?"

"He's angry at Pettigrew and is torturing him because Draco and his Mother got away…" Harry continued. Severus touched Harrys' cheek and noticed a slight temperature and frowned. It was time for him to get some rest but he needed a question answered first.

"You heard the vampires Harry. They want me to pledge our loyalty to them. I have to give them an answer. If it were just me I could make the decision easily but it involves you…I'm…" Severus paused and looked straight into his bonded's green eyes and continued, "I'm unsure as to the choice."

"Why?" Harry asked Severus was not the type of person to consult or ask opinions least of all someone like him.

"I could lose you." Severus answered. The words echoed in Harry's mind and their meaning gave him strength.

"That's not possible." Harry sighed. "Do what you think is right, my strengths are not in strategy but I know yours are. They're Vampires but you're a Slytherin, you were a spy to Voldermort, you got one up on Dumbledore. I have faith in you…" He said calmly.

"What if something goes wrong?" Severus asked quietly.

"I think they are afraid of me. If they are, it's for a good reason… If something goes wrong… I'll deal with it." Harry said without thinking.

Severus was startled by Harry's last words but said nothing. They would have plenty to discuss later.

"We might not win but you won't lose me…" Harry whispered leaning over to kiss Severus. The Potions Master was shocked momentarily but he recovered and his lips returned the kiss hungrily.

Several minutes later Severus, his Godfather, and Remus walked to the ball room while Harry walked back to his and Severus' bedroom with Dobby, Myrtle and Cecilia. Voldermort was still not finished with Pettigrew and although Harry was no longer in any physical pain he could still sense Pettigrew's shrill fear at the hands of his Master. Harry retired to bed while Dobby stood guard in the next room and Myrtle and Cecilia remained outside.

When Myrtle felt the magic in the Manor sway she quickly ordered Cecilia to remain guarding the entrance…Sirius was back and she had to talk to him!

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Sirius apparated with Draco and the two other Vampires outside his chambers.

"Go and do what ever it is that you do…I'm going to bed." Sirius ordered his guard. His back was very sore and all that fighting had opened the skin. The Vampires nodded and walked off ignoring Draco.

"I'll get one of the house elves to show you to a room, we'll talk tomorrow." Sirius said off handedly.

"What about my Godfather you're supposed to find him." Draco said snapping to his usual snotty self.

"AND I WILL." Sirius snapped back. Sirius was not a Malfoy fan and his little cousin was a brat just like his father had been. "Go to sleep…shouldn't you be mourning or something." He mumbled stepping away from the youth.

"What I do is my business Black." Draco spit back.

Sirius moved too fast for Draco to move out of the way and a split second later the young Wizard found himself pinned against the wall by the throat.

"Listen to me little boy…I have fought to survive and to win back my place as head of my house, I am Lord of the House of Black. LORD! And I will be addressed as such. If your bratty mouth doesn't get you killed one day be you will understand your insult but until that day comes let this remind you that you do not address a Lord by anything other than his title." with that Sirius let go of Draco and swiftly sliced the youth's cheek with an elongated nail.

Draco couldn't breathe and cursed his stupid tongue, he should've known better. What in the world was wrong with him! He could hear his cousin's words and though he understood his trespass his pride got in the way and he did not apologize. The older Wizard pushed him aside like a broken toy and he felt a burning pain along his cheek. When he looked up he slammed himself against the wall, Lord Sirius of the House Black was baring his Demon Face.

"Bloody hell!" He was a Vampire too!

"Bloody hell indeed." Sirius smirked evilly inching closer to Draco.

Myrtle floated from Harry's and Severus's chambers to see if Sirius had finally made it back.

"Sirius!" The Wizard whipped his head around when he heard his name, Now What!

"Moaning Myrtle!" the youth could not believe his ears or eyes what in the world was the ghost doing here?

"Draco Malfoy!" Myrtle was equally surprised; Draco was right up there with Black when it came to picking on her during her time at Hogwarts. What in the world was the little brat doing here?

"What's wrong Myrtle?" Sirius said reining his demon back.

"It's awful! The King and Queen of the Vampire's are here!"

"What the fuck!"

"Sirius!" Myrtle protested at his use of language.

Sirius ignored her lady like protest. "BUT WHY? THEY NEVER GO ANYWHERE, VISIT ANYONE!"

"I think the Prince invited them! Any way the monarchs are being pig headed about trying to get some kind of oath from Severus."

"WHERE ARE THEY?"

"IN THE BALLROOM!"

"OK LET'S GO!"

"WHAT ABOUT HIM?" Myrtle asked pointing at Draco who was listening in shock. The Prince along with the King and Queen of the Vampires were here!

"Dobby!" Sirius called out.

"He won't come he's with Harry. He's had a long day." Draco made the mistake of snorting at Myrtle's worrisome tone over Harry and he found himself pinned against the wall a second time.

"You are pushing it little cousin." Sirius said through clenched teeth.

"Leave him Sirius. We have important things to do." Myrtle said. Sirius nodded angrily and dragged Draco to a room whipped the door open and pushed the youth inside.

"I'm bleeding!" Draco said picking himself up from the floor.

"Vlad impedimenta!" The Wizard shouted over his shoulder before he slammed the door closed and spelled it locked. Malfoys were conniving creatures regardless their age. Sirius did not want his little cousin sneaking around his Godson's Manor.

…………………

Draco stood in the bedroom and after failing to spell his way out he sat down in one of the chairs and thought of how everything he had learnt could help him survive. He would be Lord Malfoy one day…Lord Malfoy…the memories came rushing at him. His father was dead...his father had been tortured to death…he would be Lord Malfoy one day…he had to learn, he had to survive, he had to avenge his father, he had to keep his oath.

………………..

Myrtle floated next to Sirius filling him in on everything that had happened while he was gone. Sirius could feel the Prince through their bond but the Vampire was too busy with the Monarch's to worry about him and that was just fine by Sirius.

"Myrtle I want to see Harry. Do you think he's up to it?" Sirius asked pausing in mid-stride.

"I have to check. I can't get in his bedchamber but Dobby can. I'll ask him to see if he can see you."

"Do you think he might not want to…?" Sirius asked nervously…

"NO NEVER. HE'S BEEN SO WORRIED ABOUT YOU! HE LOVES YOU SIRIUS." Myrtle explained urgently. Sirius felt a lump in his throat and walked a little faster to keep up with the ghost.

"He doesn't feel well. He told Severus that he felt Lucius Malfoy die and Peter Pettigrew getting tortured for letting Draco and his son get away." Myrtle explained to Sirius on the way there.

"So what's got him worried?" Sirius asked confused. Why would Harry feel bad for those two?

"You don't understand. Harry feels everything the Dark Lord does to his victims. He actually felt Lucius pain and is now feeling Pettigrew's."

"Sweet Lord!"

"Exactly! Severus has reinforced the bond and is now shielding him but he was not able to do it at the beginning because he was too distracted with the monarchs."

"Ok. I get it."

"Here we are. Wait while I try to get Dobby." The ghost said disappearing through the wall leaving Sirius with Cecilia.

…………………..

It was a good five minutes later that a very tired looking Harry opened the door.

"Sir!" Harry walked out. Cecilia wasted no time and tied herself around Harry's leg and slithered up.

"Harry are you all right!" Sirius said hugging his Godson carefully.

"Are you?" Harry asked pulling back.

"I"m a bat now. I'll heal quickly!"

"Not because you wanted to." Harry observed quietly.

"Harry don't… No wait a minute-" Sirius said dragging his hand through his hair. Looking at his Godson he began again. "I was going to say not to worry but I guess you will... just like I will over you. So I'll say this instead…I am strong and smart enough to know what side my bread is buttered on. I'm a survivor and I don't care what life throws at me I will come out on top or die trying."

"Sir-"

"No let me finish. I'm not evil but I'm not as nice as you think. I can handle the Prince and whatever comes my way but I need to I know that you won't turn away from me now that I'm a bat. I won't hurt anyone on purpose ever again…but sacrifices will be made and I'm ready to make them."

"I understand and your still my Godfather no matter what. I love you Sir.You're part of my family."

"Thanks son." Sirius whispered feeling a lump on his throat. "Besides I'll let you in a little secret." The Wizard added nonchalantly.

"What is it?" Harry asked frowning worriedly.

"I kind of like the Prince."

"You do!" Harry asked surprised.

"I'm a masochist! Just don't tell the fucker he'd never let me live it down!" Sirius said laughing. Harry watched his Godfather and a smile slowly touched his face. That smile grew until it turned into laughter.

"WHERE DO YOU GET IT?"

"Get what Harry?"

"Your strength?"

"I don't know son…I have something to fight for and so long as I have someone or something to fight for I'll find the strength."

Curiosity got the best of him and Harry asked, "You feel something for the Prince?"

"The Prince? Hell no! Look you're bonded so I'll be blunt. The Prince is not Severus. Severus well, I still don't like him too much but I'm grateful for one thing, he cares about you and sees you as someone very, special. He sees beyond all the expectations and plans and sees Harry and not the-boy-who-lived. The Prince and I have one thing in common and its not respect or love it's lust."

"I'm sorry,"

"Don't be. I'm a practical person and I can handle it."

Harry thought about his Godfather the Wizard had lived a hard life from the time he had been a child. He had known very little happiness but he had survived everything, had it all been for nothing? Looking at the man he pushed those thoughts away. Thinking that his Godfather's life was pitiful was ridiculous. His Godfather's life was one of the most important things inhis younglife.

"We all have our purpose in life Harry, whatever mine is. I'm ok with it."

"I think I know what you mean." The youth murmured softly.

"I'm glad you do. The worst thing we can do is give up!" The words echoed and planted an idea in Harry's mind.

"I understand. I definitely do." Harry said giving Sirius a hug and a kiss on the cheek before he apparated from him.

Sirius smiled and walked back to the ball room.

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"Well Lord Snape what is your decision?" The Prince began while the Monarch's and the rest of the Clan stood by.

"My loyalty is with my family."

"Your family?" the Prince asked.

"Yes"

"A family made up of the-boy-who-lived and the Prince." The Queen listed.

"The Prince left the Snape household years ago." Lord Gribaldi intervened.

"To answer the call of his legacy." The King replied.

"What ever the reason he left." Severus said looking straight at the Prince.

"..and was invited back" the King reminded Severus much to his discomfort.

"The invitation was made to him." Severus was pulling all the stops to keep from losing his temper but the anger he felt towards his Father was nothing compared to the fury he felt towards his own stupidity.

"Come Lord Snape you are not as naïve as that." the Queen scoffed prettily.

"Lord Snape's relationship with the Prince is not for others to…" began Lord Gribaldi but was cut off by the King.

"Then why are you here my dear Sir." Cut in the Queen.

"I'm here for Lord Potter Snape."

"So are we."

The silence that followed those words was monumental.

"This is a delicate subject might I suggest we retire to the adjacent sitting room to search for a solution that will prevent unnecessary injury to any one present here." Lord Gribaldi interrupted. The monarchs smiled there was very little Lord Snape could do that would give him the upper hand in this situation so they agreed and sent their sentinels before them. One took a stand inside the room while the other one guarded the outside. Their personal guard took their place around the ball room in strategic places.

Once inside Lord Gribaldi got to the point. "I don't see what Lord Potter Snape has to do with the Vampire World."

"You do not expect one of the most powerful Wizards of our time to go unclaimed do you?"

Severus who was trying hard not to lose his patience with the Prince and the Monarchs had just about had it! "UNCLAIMED. HARRY JAMES POTTER SNAPE IS MY BONDED AND YOU WILL DO WELL TO REMEMBER THAT!" Severus said under his breath.

"Unclaimed by the Clan!" The Prince rectified.

"Your father is a Prince and you carry his legacy in the Wizarding World. It is only right that your bonded-" the Queen began.

"What is right or not is between him and I. Do not think you can dictate to us what we will do or not do."

"Lord Snape you are a Vampire and you can not deny him your legacy!" The Queen continued shocked.

"What I choose to give and deny him is our business and not yours! The Prince might have deluded himself into believing that I have need or want of the family's legacy but I assure you that I have not. I do not seek immortality, power, or wealth."

"WHAT ABOUT HIM?" The Prince asked.

Severus asked startled, "WHAT?"

"You say "our" as if he has a choice. If he does then ask him what he wants." The Kingsuggested.

"I know what he wants."

"Oh really and what might that be?" the Prince pressured.

"Nothing you can give him!... I regret having called you"

"Yes I'm sure you do Severus but call you did and here I am." The Prince said to his son.

"You would use me and my bonded to fulfill your ambition."

"It's not ambition anymore it's survival, my world's and yours."

"OH STOP! IF YOU WISH TO LIE TO YOURSELF THEN DO SO! BUT DO NOT LIE TO ME! Why did you come?"

"Because I wanted to help." The Prince bit out. His son was so angry at himthat he would take them all down just to keep him away.

"You mean help yourself Alessander." Lord Gribald interjected coldly.

"You don't know me Gustavus!"

"I know of you! Do not use your son you will regret it!" Lord Gribaldi warned his one time best friend.

"If you or any of you come anywhere near my bonded you will die and stay dead!" Severus warned darkly.

"We don't want to take him from you!" the Queen corrected offended.

"We want to help him!" Lord Alessander continued.

"Help him!" Severus repeated sarcastically.

"His power needs to be harnessed…molded…" the King Vampire whispered.

"You mean controlled." Lord Gribaldi added.

"No we mean nurtured." The Queen corrected. "By helping him we help ourselves Lord Snape. Someone with his potential we'd rather have on our side than have to worry about later! That he happens to be our Prince's son n law is an added bonus."

"My bonded is no one's bonus!"

"Let's speak plainly! Neither you nor him are safe! You have too many enemies. You have the Ministry and its Aurors, Dumbledore and his Order of the Phoenix, Voldermort and his Death Eaters ! One can not fight a war on two fronts let alone three especially if one has no army!"

"Army!" Remus snorted in disbelief.

"How do you think you will survive? So far you've only dealt with idiots!" the Queen said arranging the folds of her sleeves.

"I doubt Voldermort will make the same mistake twice! I doubt Dumbledore will give up! I doubt the Ministry will always have Fudge as Minister!" Prince Alessander added harshly.

"Enough!" Lord Gribaldi shouted enraged.

"No Lord Gribaldi! Vampires have lived on the side lines watching the Wizarding World create monsters that have dragged all of us from one hell to the next! Now we have not one Dark Lord but two counting Dumbledore and I don't know which one is more dangerous! Not only that but there's an idiot government that has remained in power through corruption! This same government has taken a special interest in your bonded Professor. Have you ever wondered why?"

"Because he survived the Dark Lord!"

"AND NOW THE DARK LORD IS BACK!" Prince Alessander interrupted.

"TELL ME SOMETHING I DON'T KNOW!" Severus shot back.

"Albus Dumbledore hides the key to your bonded's destiny." The King offered quietly.

"What!" Lord Gribaldi exclaimed incredulously.

"The Prince knows it as do we…" The King clarified.

"What destiny?" Severus pressured.

"That is what we are finding out" the Prince explained.

"You lie!" Lord Gribaldi accused.

"I do not!" the Prince smirked.

"And why tell me?" Severus asked.

"We will help you protect your bonded but in return you will pledge his loyalty to us!" The Queen bartered.

"I can pledge my own loyalty but not his."

"He is your bonded! You have the right!" the Prince pointed out sarcastically, really was his son that stupid!

"I choose not to exercise it!"

"Then we challenge you for the right!" the Queen announced.

"You challenge me!" Severus spit out. He had never hated his father so much as now.

"If you do not exercise your right as his Mate then we challenge that right!" the Queen repeated.

"YOU DARE COME TO MY HOUSE AND TRY TO TAKE HIM FROM ME!"

"IF YOU WILL NOT-" The Prince began to argue.

"I would not advice that your Highness." Came the soft voice from the entrance of the room.

All those in the room turned towards the threshold where Harry stood holding Cecilia as if she were a babe. His eyes were almost luminous and his head was cocked to one side as if listening to something only he could hear. The sentinels bared their fangs at Harry but did nothing.

"This is a conversation between your Lord and us." The Prince began.

"You will not take me by force your highness." Harry announced calmly.

"We hope not to have to use it" The Prince said.

"You will regret it if you do. You fear me. I don't know why... but you do and a lot.' Harry said walking into the room while he spoke to his Snake in parselmouth.

"He owes his allegiance, his loyalty, and his life to me! As I do to him. I will not give him up." Severus added watching Harry closely.

Remus sensed cold mindedness in Harry and allowed the wolf inside to inch forward, the beast inside howled in anticipation.

"You called your Father to help you and he did. You owe him and us!" the Queen reminded Severus.

"Owe you!" Remus protested looking from Severus to the Prince!

"Surely you don't think he came without asking for permission." The King informed them mockingly.

"You asked for their-" Lord Gribaldi could not believe what he was hearing.

"I owe my allegiance to them." The Prince said sitting straighter.

"And what about your son!" Lord Snape challenged.

"What about him Severus? He wants nothing to do with me." The Prince answered emotionlessly.

"You took advantage of the situation." Severus accused.

"You needed me and I was there! What else do you want?" The Prince challenged.

"Maybe a little honesty would have been nice." Harry said softly as he shifted Cecilia in his arms and walked to stand next to the Potions Master. Severus who had been in the Dark Lord's and Nagani's presence could only cringe as he found the scene eerily similar.

"You were there because it suited you to be!" Lord Gribaldi shouted at him.

"I helped you! You would have never survived the Tournament if it hadn't been for me and my guard! You owe us! Harry owes us! Grant us your loyalty or-"

"I will challenge you for him." The King threatened a second time.

The King knew he had to win this argument and if the Wizard was not willing to pledge his loyalty to the Vampires then they would have no choice than to make sure Harry did one way or another. The youth regardless of the show of strength was still weak from The Tournament and would be unable to fight both him and his Queen.

Severus looked at his father for a long, long time…

"If he loses I will kill you and every vampire that breathes." Harry said interrupting Severus train of thought. "You said that I will save the Wizarding World. That means that I must be pretty powerful, if I am that powerful then I am sure I can fight you off but if what the rumors say is wrong then I will die and that'll be alright because Severus will be gone too and it won't matter anyhow. But I don't think the rumors are false and neither do you…as a matter of fact I feel pretty damn powerful right now." Harry said carefully putting Cecilia on the floor and then drawing his wand from his robe. "It's up to you your highnesses you can be our very powerful ally or we can all die right here. I won't go quietly and neither will they." Harry said pointing around him at Severus, Lord Gribaldi and Remus.

"You would sacrifice your friends?" the Queen asked startled.

Harry shrugged nonchalantly. "They know what they are doing." The Queen could've kissed Harry there and then. Oh Yes the clan had to have him!

"You will lose; there are more than two hundred vampires here." the Prince commented nodding to the ball room.

"Yes I know. But I don't care. I won't pledge my loyalty not the way you want it anyhow."

"You speak of dying like going to sleep. It isn't that easy."

"I think dying is more difficult for you than for me." Harry said apparating a sofa next to Severus. Severus was at his wits end with Harry's behavior and wasted no time in taking Harry's hand firmly in his. He tried to communicate some calm to this bonded. But Harry would not be calmed and Severus could sense the echo of cold hearted emotion that was itching for a fight.

"Really?" the King said leaning back in his chair watching him closely. The King sat watching Harry and knew that all the rumors he had heard were true. This youth would save them all; he could not fight him without killing him, the boy would never yield...this had gotten out of control. He had to find a way out. "We will not settle for less than…" he began.

"…is beneficial for both parties!" Lord Gribaldi added quickly. He had to do something and fast there was no way Severus or Harry would survive a challenge by the Vampires.

"I see nothing wrong with lending support if we can become allies." Severus was not going to pledge anyone's loyalty but the Vampires were not going away empty handed he had to offer them something. Harry was ready to lay down his life because he had not been smart enough to get them out of this situation. Severus had never felt as useless as now.

"You don't?" The Prince asked skeptically.

"I don't..." Severus said calmly getting his emotions under cotrol.

"Does that mean we will not fight your Highness?" Harry asked.

The King ignored the youth's comment and watched the trio with hooded eyes. They wanted Harry, they needed him! But the King would rather have them willingly. What then…the pair did not seem afraid to fight. The Prince had as much as guaranteed their lack of support if either of them were harmed. Allies? Would it be enough? No, but it was a start. "As allies we would expect unconditional support." the Prince announced.

"We seek a more firm commitment-" the Queen added.

"I won't pledge my loyalty," Harry stated cutting the Queen off.

Severus again felt the echoes of someone else's bloodthirsty emotions in Harry's mind and spoke before his bonded said anything they might not be able to take back. "One can not force what you seek, my bonded and I see things differently but we value friendship and assure you under oath that we would never stand by and see our allies suffer any transgression without lending our complete support."

"Complete?" the King asked dryly as he clasped his hands before him. Maybe dragging Harry away was not the way to go, may be for now an agreement was enough, something to build on, something that would lead Harry to them… the youth was exactly what they had been looking for and he did not want to lose him.

"Complete." Severus agreed.

"Very well thenyou will take an oath to bind the alliance." The Prince had had very little contact with his son but he had never forgotten his stubbornness and now he was reminded of why.

"A Wizard's oath." Lord Gribaldi announced.

"We are not Wizard's." the Prince warned.

"That's quite all right my Prince, they are. We will simply add a blood oath to their Wizard's oath and that'll be that." The Queen remarked smiling.

"A blood oath?" Severus asked suspiciously. "I don't think it is necessary."

"We do." The Queen insisted. The Queen had fallen in love with the youth and now they would have to wait until they had him. She would accept her King's decision for the good of the Vampires but she would not give in in anything else.

"I'll give the blood oath." Severus stood and the King followed. Harry watched everything somewhere inside him he felt let down. He had wanted to fight to kill them all. He closed his eyes and heard Peter whimpering and smiled.

Several minutes later the blade was put up and the ceremony was over and both Severus and the King with means particular to their kind closed their wounds. As soon as this was done a loud salute thundered throughout the hall.

Severus and Harry stood side by side. Harry could tell Severus was angry but he could not tell if he was angry at him or at having had to pledge the oath to the Vampires. Harry did not say anything and petted Cecilia and placed her on the floor the snake slithered away hungrily, all the excitement had opened up her appetite.

The ghost of the old Lord Potter stood in a corner smirking proudly at his Grandson. Maybe he wasn't that weak or that kind after all!

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Sirius entered the room which was a buzz of activity and conversation. For beings that were supposed to be somber creatures they sure seemed excited about something.

"Ah here he is!" came the voice of the Prince.

Sirius turned when he heard the voice and saw his Sire walking over to him with an expression that reminded him too much of Lucius Malfoy.

"My precious you are better!" the Prince exclaimed while Sirius looked at him in disgust. "No thanks to you! My back is on fire! What's going on!"

"We have company…The King and Queen have graced us with their presence."

"Divine!" Sirius exclaimed mockingly.

"Yes it is…" the Prince whispered dangerously low. Things had not gone as he had wanted and he did not need his mate giving him any lip.

"How is everything going?" Sirius asked.

"You missed the fun. Severus has declared an oath to support us as his allies so long we do the same."

"What's fun about that?"

"Getting one over on my son is always fun."

"I thought you wanted a loyalty oath?"

"We had to adapt to certain conditions."

"Why?"

"You ask too many questions"

"And you don't answer them."

"Later Sirius."

"Very well. Ah there's Harry I'll go say hello."

"Make it quick we'll be leaving soon and I want to introduce you to our Soverigns. We are going to feed in your honor!"

"You're fucking twisted."

"And you are mine."

"Don't start. I'm trying to forget…" Sirius answered over his shoulder.

……………………………….

The Prince observed his mate until he felt himself being watched. Looking around and he met his old friend's stare and walked over to the old Lord.

"I hope you know what you are doing Alessander." Lord Gribaldi said briefly.

"Me too."

"They may be your clan but he's your blood." The old Lord said pointing at Severus.

"I've never forgotten it."

"SEE THAT YOU DON'T. I WON'T STAND BY AND SEE THEM SUFFER."Lord Gribaldi warned walking away. Prince Alessander smiled to himself. His old friend would never understand him but the Wizard cared for his son and that simple fact guaranteed his survival.

……………………

Severus stood next to Harry counting the minutes till the bats departed when Sirius approached them out of nowhere. The Mutt looked disgustingly healthy Severus thought coldly.

Harry was talking to Remus when he spotted Sirius walking towards them. "Sir!"

"Harry! I thought you had gone back to bed!"

"No, I kept remembering what you said."

"What I said?" Sirius asked confused.

"What he said?" Severus and Remus asked in unison.

"Yeah you said one should always fight" Harry whispered.

"Yeah and?" Sirius said noticing Severus and Remus listening closely.

"Wait a moment. This was your idea mutt?" Severus interrupted icily.

"What idea? I don't know what your talking about?" Sirius answered rudely.

"He challenged the King of the Vampires." Severus informed Sirius coldly.

"You did! Did they fall for it!" Sirius whispered.

"Is that all you can say? He could have been killed you idiot." Remus half shouted half whispered at Sirius.

"That does it! Stay away from Harry if you don't I will make sure the next time you change to your animagus form you stay a mutt for ever!" Severus said grabbing Harry's arm and apparating from the hall.

………………………

"How could you have said that to him?" Remus demamded angrily.

"Lay off Moony. He's old enough to make his decisions."

"He's a kid."

"Moony, Harry is anything but a kid. The sooner you get that through your thick skull the better."

"He challenged the King Vampire!"

"And he walked away!"

"Pure luck!" Remus sputtered.

"Give him some credit for Merlin's sake! You and Severus treat him like a porceline doll."

"He's been through a lot!"

"What doesn't break you makes you stronger!"

"Oh please!"

"Moony just stick it! If you can't see the truth that's your problem, Harry is seventeen and bonded, he's led a life that I wouldn't wish on the... on the Prince! And he's survived! He's strong so stop coddling him! Let him make some of his own decisions. Let his mind grow!"

"He challenged the King!" Remus repeated desperately.

"I heard you!" Sirius bit out.

"It's useless you'll never understand Padfoot."

"That's' where your wrong. I am not you, I have accepted what I am and that's why I understand Harry. He's beginning to accept who he is and with that acceptance comes inner strength, that's why he did what he did and not because of something I said. He's an adult and is acting like one! He's making his own decicions. Maybe they are not all right but at least he's trying so let him!" Sirius said moving away angrily.

……………………….

Seconds later Severus and Harry apparated in their bedroom.

"Why did you do that?" Harry protested pulling away from Severus.

"Stay here!" Severus said through clenched teeth and apparated away.

Harry tried to follow him but was unable to get past the wards Severus had cast on the room. He was locked in. "WHAT THE FUCK!" he screamed furiously.

…………………….

Severus apparated back in the ball room and was happy when half an hour later the Monarchs, their guard and sentinels departed. Half an hour after that the whole clan including The Prince and Sirius began making themselves scarce, it had been a long trip and they were hungry.

Remus and Lord Gribaldi who had heard the back and forth between Sirius and Severus did their best to try and talk to Severus but he would not listen. The Potions Master remained cocooned in his anger.

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Moments earlier at Longbottom Manor…..

Lady Longbottom sat with her Grandson who was finally awake. He lay against soft pillows looking tired but a lot better than he had been only hours earlier she needed to talk to him but was at a loss for words. Things did not look good, Fudge was being a complete fool when it came to handling Voldermort, and after the way the man had managed to alienate the Vampire Prince at the Tournament it was a miracle how the Wizarding World still stood and the comments he was now making about the werewolves making them sound like loyal pets! The man would certainly get them all killed sooner or later. She was too old for this and although she would never admit it she felt alone. Looking down at her Grandson she pushed all of those things from her mind and concentrated on talking to him.

"The healers say you will make a full recovery."

Neville smiled relieved, "How are you?" he asked worriedly. His Grandmother looked tired but unharmed and he was grateful for that.

"I'm well. Not a scratch."

"I'm relived Grand Mama."

"As am I" the older witch agreed half smiling. "I brought your parents home, they are sleeping right now."

"I'm glad."

"Me too."

"Grand Mama I thought we were dead for sure…how did we survive?" Neville asked curiously.

Mrs. Longbottom took a deep breath and recounted the story. Neville listened quietly. So Fred and George had helped them! Wow! His grand mother then told him how she had given the youths a sizeable amount of money to start their own business in gratitude for what they had done. "They refused the money at first so I told them that I would be a silent partner."

"What kind of business?"

"Some kind of joke shop, I believe." Neville couldn't help but break out in a grin. Who would have believed it! His Grand Mama a partner in a joke shop!

"Don't laugh Neville it's the least I can do."

"I'm not making fun Grand Mama I'm very happy you could do something for them." His Grandmother nodded in understanding. The elderly witch could only suspect what the family was going through. The money was nothing compared to the service they had done her. Even if Harry had been responsible for driving the Death Eaters back it had been Fred and George who had made sure that she and Neville survived long enough for Harry to save them all.

"I'm glad you helped them Grand Mama. They're really good people. Charlie just got out of the hospital he was attacked during the Tournament. Fred, George, Ron and Ginny were all expelled from Hogwarts recently."

"Ginny?"

"She's the youngest. One year younger than me."

"Oh I wasn't aware they had a sister."

"Yes just one. She's really nice. I mean she's pretty and all. Really smart and she likes plants too but she doesn't talk to them… well not like me."

"Really…" Lady Longbottom listened to her Grandson and tried to remember the girl but couldn't. Well the girl sounded interesting she'd just have to arrange a meeting. Smiling tiredly she looked at her Grandson.

"Please go to bed Grand Mama we can talk tomorrow when we've both rested." Neville said noticing his Grandmother's weariness.

"I will but first I must tell you that I have written to Professor Snape I wish to discuss several things with him concerning the war and our family's stand. I think it's time we start deciding what we're going to do about it. It's time I started talking to our friends… It's all a tangled mess we have the Ministry, Dumbledore, the Death Eaters, and Lord Snape and Harry…it won't be easy for anyone… I know you are still young but hard times are approaching and we will have to make sacrifices"

"What kind Ma'am?"

"Family, friends, power… I guess what I want to say is that we must be ready and we must be smart. There will be things that we may have to do to survive. Things we may not like but things that are necessary. I don't want to frighten you but you must know."

"Grand mama I'm ready to do what's necessary, really I am." Neville loved his grand mother and he would sacrifice anything to make sure she was safe. She and his parents were all he really had.

Lady Longbottom looked at her Grandson intently she was proud of him, so very proud. Looking into his eyes she realized how she had never told him so. Her boy had almost died and she had never told him how she felt. She looked at him and felt tears sliding down her face. "I'm so proud of you Neville." She whispered taking his hands into hers. Neville saw his Grand Mama's tears and felt a lump in his throat his Grand Mother was proud of him! He never thought she would say those words to him. He never thought…he would never let her down. "I won't let you down Grand Mama." Neville said hugging his grandmother tightly.

Lady Longbottom hugged him back and whispered, "Neville… I released the Minions that guard the family." Neville shut his eyes and hugged his Grandmother even tighter. The family's Minions had not been released since the time before Voldermort's first rising. The words, Things we may not like but things that are necessary, echoed in his mind.

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at the same time in the Weasley's home…

Fred and George had told their family about Diagon Alley, Harry, Neville and lastly about Lady Longbottom's offer while everyone sat around in awed silence before breaking out into a long series of questions that took hours to answer and clarify. The next day they all woke with a single mindedness to do their part for a war that now seemed more imminent.

There was so much to do. Fred and George would be scouting for a location for their shop while Mr. Weasley, Bill, and Charlie met with Lord Snape at eleven the next morning. Mr. Weasley was grateful for the opportunity to tell Lord Snape what he had heard at the Ministry.

Ron and Ginny were both happy for Fred and George and for Neville. Unfortunately the youngest Weasleys could not partake in any activities that might be carried outside their present home and had sat in a somber mood while the rest of the family chatted about the events in the Wizarding World. Ginny was trying to take her present situation in stride but it was proving difficult. She had spent a whole day setting up her room and had spent the second one helping her mother with the rest of the house. The house came with two house elves that waited on them hand and foot and left her with nothing to do but sit around and read…she did as much as she could but the truth was that she was bored so she had taken up clearing and grooming the green house next to the house. Ron had offered to help but after dropping two mandrakes and a money's claw he had been run off by his little sister and now sat in the library of all places. Things would change for the pair soon enough but for now they sat through a boring morning, afternoon and evening at home.

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at the same time at another Potter Manor…

Hagrid stood at the entrance of the cavern. Yup it certainly looked big enough!

"What da ya think fluffy?" Hagrid asked taking a step forward.

"grrrrr!" Fluffy's three heads growled reluctantly in unison and his hound Fang echoed the sentiment.

"Be nice! Dragon's are just misunderstood creatures!" Hagrid reprimanded his dogs.

"GR?" the beasts growled in very sarcastic manners.

"No I ain't bloody crazy!" Hagrid answered back. "Now come on we won't find it if we don't go in there."

"Gr………….gr….?"

"Now come on you big cowards! You know night time is the only time Gray Back Dragons can be seen! What did you think we were here for? A picnic! We got a job! Lord Snape wants us to check all the Potter Manors for magical creatures!"

Gr….gr….grgrgr…!" came the reluctant reply.

"No I dona need ya to guard out here an' Dragons do qualify as magical creatures an' ya know it!"

Hagrid was in the middle of half dragging half pulling and maybe half giving up on Fluffy's and his hound's help when he heard hot heavy breathing right behind him…maybe the Dragon wasn't in the cave after all…

Where was his little voice when he needed it!

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Fudge finally got home and went straight to bed. He had authorized Moody to use any kind of method necessary to get a confession from Bella Lestrange. He would be visiting the prisoner tomorrow and would take great pleasure in finding out that no real progress had been made. The bitch would be sorry for torturing him; torturing Lucius he corrected laughing aloud.

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It was an hour later when Severus apparated back into the bedchamber and found Harry sitting by the warmth of the fire. When Harry looked up at his eyes radiated a cold alien fury that made Severus hesitate.

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WELL THANKS FOR THE WAIT.

MY FINGERS ARE STILL A PAIN BUT I'VE GOTTEN REALLY GOOD AT TYPING WITH ONE HAND!

I HAVE BEEN CALLED FOR JURY DUTY SO I DON'T KNOW HOW BUSY I'LL BE ...I'LL TRY TO POST ASAP THOUGH. THANKS!