A/N: I finally have the long chapter I have been intending on writing. The chapter itself is 13,609 words! Hmmm…another chapter posted in August. I'm on a roll…

I apologize now if this chapter seems rushed or area's that were glossed over. My mind was going nonstop and it was difficult to keep up with typing, I'm not sure if I succeeded in keeping up.

One last thing…Tala Prince you are amazing! I know this chapter was a 'fill in the blanks' and I greatly appreciate your patience and willingness to proofread for me and to fill in the blanks. Hopefully in future chapters there won't be many blank spots to fill in. You have been a great and tremendous help.

Shadowz101…thank you for your comments as they have helped and have given me something to keep in mind for future chapters of this story as well as for other stories that I am also working on.

Okay I get it…on with the story…..

Chapter 102

"Merlin! I was right." Harry softly whispered. He knew that Snape was right as well.

Harry quickly took off at a run to the seventh floor, to the Room of Requirement. He had to something to figure out first and then he would go to Snape. Harry did not slow down and nearly ran into the blank wall. He skidded to a stop and then paced back and forth three times thinking 'I need a safe, secure and protected place for an adult wizard that needs medical attention'.

Harry stopped pacing and opened his eyes to see a door in the middle of what was once a blank wall. The door reminded Harry of a Hospital, Muggle and Magical alike. Wasting no more time, Harry quickly opened and walked through the door. There was a small lounger type of couch, a gurney, a fireplace with a low fire burning to just keep the chill of the cold air from soaking bone deep. There were several portraits along the walls that gave off a safe, serene and tranquil atmosphere. The last Harry noticed were the most basic supplies; water, pain relieving potion, various different slaves that Harry had no clue as to what each was for, bandaging and things Harry didn't know what they were or what for.

"DOBBY!" Harry called desperately.

-POP-

"What do Harry Potter need Dobby to do?"

"Dobby, I need you to answer some questions that I know will make you uncomfortable and I apologize for that ahead of time. It is extremely important that I ask the questions and get answers. Depending on your answers, I might have a favor to ask you that I am sure will be frightening."

"Ask Dobby questions."

"Do you know the entire layout of Malfoy Manor?"

"Dobby does." The elf answered with a slight tremble.

"So you know every inch of the Manor including any and all secret rooms?"

"Dobby does, Harry Potter. Dobby knowings everythings about Malfoy Manor."

"Okay, now I have a favor to ask you. Dobby, I need you to go to Malfoy Manor and check every single centimeter of the place. Especially all secret and hidden rooms."

"Why Dobby needings to do? Dobby checkings for what?"

"Not what but who. The who is a wizard not a what and he will be in bad shape and in desperate need of medical attention. It is extremely important for you to find this wizard and bring him here to this room. I will be here most of the day.

Even if I am not here bring the wizard here and then find me. But, do not say anything about the wizard you will have brought here. I will know what it is about and will meet you here right away. Can you do this, Dobby?" Harry calmly asked with a very serious timber to his voice.

"Who's this wizard Dobby lookings for?"

"Your former Master, Lucius Malfoy. The wizard that has been around for years is not Lucius Malfoy and instead an impersonator. Dobby…"

"Dobby beings scared but Dobby finds old Master and brings here."

"Thank you Dobby and I know that Narcissa and Draco will be eternally grateful for your assistance and especially Lucius."

Dobby gave Harry a low bow and then was gone a second later. Harry considered leaving the Room of Requirement and informing his friends that were in Gryffindor House or wait. After serious consideration, Harry chose to remain in the room and would explain everything later.

As lunch was coming to a close Harry was feeling quite hungry. He nearly called Dobby but stopped himself in time as to not interrupt Dobby's lifesaving search. Harry mentally kicked himself as he should have thought of Kreacher first. After shaking his head, Harry called for Kreacher.

"Master Harry calls Kreacher." The elf said in a raspy voice while giving the wizard a low formal bow.

"Kreacher I would be eternally grateful if you would please bring me something to eat and drink. I would have gone to lunch and would go now, but I have to stay here as it is important. An adult wizard's life depends on it."

"Kreacher return with food for Master Harry." Kreacher said respectfully. Though the elf wanted to know what wizard's life depended on his Master Harry remaining in the strange room, Kreacher knew that it was not his place to question any Master or Mistress. Mainly since his Master Sirius and Master Harry had not given the elf direct permission to ask them any question that came to mind.

Kreacher returned to the room so quickly that it did not seem like the elf had even left. It was plain as day to Harry that Kreacher had left as the elf had quite a bit of food with him. Harry could hardly see more than Kreacher's legs and feet and the very tips of the elf's ears.

"Kreacher that is a lot of food." Harry said in shock but not in a reprimanding tone.

"Master Harry tell Kreacher he has to remain in strange room…a wizard's life depends on it. Kreacher bring Master Harry food to for many meals."

"Thank you Kreacher. I had not thought about that. It could take a while before the wizard is brought here."

"Master Harry need Kreacher for more?"

"Not at the moment, but if I am in need of your excellent service I will call."

Kreacher actually smiled and filled with a joy that one of his Master's had given him the highest praise known to elves. After a moment longer, Kreacher returned to Grimmauld Place.

Harry passed the time thinking about a lot of things. His mind couldn't stay on just one thing, things kept coming to mind and it was becoming aggravating to say the least. It wasn't until his stomach started grumbling that Harry's mind closed off all the thoughts. Harry did not feel like getting up so he summoned the food and beverage to him.

Harry had just finished his dinner when a popping, cracking noise echoed throughout the room. Harry also heard whimpering and groaning. He quickly turned around to see Dobby with a frightened look on the elf's face and in Dobby's eyes. Harry then noticed the form of a man near the elf.

The man looked quite ragged, pale almost ashen and rather frail as though he hadn't had a decent meal in at least a decade. The man's hair was wild, bushy almost and sparse and the color had an iridescent but clear appearance. The man's eyes were glassy and hazy looking in the dim light from the nearly dying fire. There were several bruises, cuts, scars, scrapes and other wounds covering all skin that was exposed. The clothes were dusty, grimy, wrinkled and looked and smelled as though the clothes had been on the man for a really long time.

When the man groaned again, Harry sprang into action. As he ran towards the man and Dobby, Harry summoned a pain relieving potion. The instant Harry reached the man he carefully poured the contents into the man's mouth. A few minutes after Harry administered the potion the man's groaning subsided. Harry levitated the man and floated him over to a gurney that the room had provided. Harry was not sure what to do next so he conjured a chair, placed close to the gurney and sat down and watched the man.

The seconds ticked by turning into minutes, the minutes turned into hours. Harry had fallen asleep in the chair. His body was leaning to the left side of the chair, his head hung at an odd angle. Harry had been a sleep for quite a few hours having fallen asleep around 2:00 AM and it was now nearing noon.

"Harry Potter." Dobby croaked as he gently shook the wizard.

Dobby had to repeat Harry's name several times as well as gently shake the wizard before the wizard returned to consciousness.

Harry moaned and groaned as he sat up. His joints and muscles were stiff, sore and tight due to how he had slept and where. For a second Harry was quite confused as to where he was and why and then the tone of urgency in the elf's voice processed. Harry blinked several times and then quickly reached the gurney.

"Sir…"

"The light hurts." The man said in a low, soft scratchy, hoarse voice.

Harry quickly dimmed the lighting until the wizard was able to open his eyes and keep them open.

"Where am I? How did I get here? Who came for me? Who are you?"

"My name is Harry Potter and you are in the Room of Requirement at Hogwarts. Before I answer the how and who questions, I have some of my own."

The wizard nodded in understanding as well as giving Harry the go ahead.

"What is your name?"

"Lucius Abraxis Malfoy."

"I am sorry for this, but I will need you to prove it."

"I am married to Narcissa formerly Black, we have a son named Draco Abraxis Malfoy. Narcissa and I were going to have another baby after Draco, we were hoping for a girl. Before I could find out and act accordingly I was attacked. I do not know how much time had passed but by the time regained consciousness I was in one of the cellars and…the things I heard happening to my family…"

Harry gave the man saying that his name was Lucius Malfoy some water with a little something extra, something to coat and sooth the man's throat.

"Unfortunately I need more information. I will ask a question and depending on your answer I will or won't know if you are telling me the truth."

The man nodded in response instead of speaking.

"What relationship did your family have with Harrison and Elizabeth?"

"My father and Grandfather had a contract with the Potter family as the Potter's owns Malfoy Manor and the property the Manor rests on. After Harrison and Elizabeth passed either my father or Grandfather stopped making payments on the house and property and by the time I became the Head of the Malfoy family no adult Potter was around to take over. And by then the payments were severely behind. I did not then nor do I now know how to bring the payments current."

"Thank you Merlin." Harry softly breathed out. "Mr. Malfoy, I discovered that someone has been using polyjuice to portray you. I recently acquired the concrete proof I needed and called Dobby to find you and bring you here. I would tell you more about your family but I think first a Healer is in order. Relax, I will not move you. I will have to leave so that I can bring Madam Pomfrey to you."

"Dobby stays here and making sure you's okay while Harry Potter is gone."

"Thank you Dobby." Lucius said almost too low for anyone to hear.

"I will make it quick, Mr. Malfoy." Harry said as he headed towards the door and paused.

"Kreacher." Harry called urgently.

-POP-

"Master Harry requires Kreacher' help?"

"Yes and it is really important." Harry said and then added quietly, "I need you to go to Potter Manor and find Muri and then bring her here. I need her to do something for me."

"Kreacher bring Muri to Master Harry."

About a minute later Kreacher had returned with Muri.

"Kreacher tell Muri that Master Harry needs Muri."

"It is true Muri. The wizard over there needs to be bathed, clothed in fresh clean clothes, injuries need at least basic treatment and most importantly, Muri, I need you to document everything, every bruise, cut, gash and scar visible regardless of how much the old injury has healed. And lastly, neither of you are to tell anyone about the wizard on the gurney or anything that happens or is said in this room. Kreacher please assist Muri with anything she needs."

"Muri do as Master says. Muri would like Kreacher's help."

"Kreacher will help Muri any way Kreacher can."

Harry did not have to verify that Kreacher and Muri would keep everything to do with Lucius Malfoy a secret. He knew that they wouldn't and trusted both elves. Harry then left the Room of Requirement to get help.

Once Harry stood in the corridor and securely closed the door, he took off in a dead run through the castle towards the infirmary. As he reached the doors to the infirmary, Harry skidded to stop. Harry quickly went further down the hall until he found Snape.

"Mr. Potter what could possibly bring…Potter…"

"A few questions sir and then I will tell you what I have discovered and have done."

"Waste no more time Mr. Potter."

"Who the bloody hell is Amon Velius? And what happened that now has you questioning Lucius Malfoy?"

"How do you know that name?" Snape said gravely and pale as can be.

"Bloody hell! It's that bad? I'll answer that question after you answer my other question, sir."

"Back when the Malfoy's were expecting their first child Lucius confided in me. It seems he had known for a while that I had a change of view on things. Lucius informed me that if a baby girl was born to him and his wife they were going to flee and go into hiding.

"Lucius was prepared to have his left arm amputated at his elbow if need be to ensure that his family would be safe. I had told him to give me a little time to see if there something else I could do. He changed, he was different. I didn't get the opportunity to tell him that Dumbledore had made arrangements for him and his family for should he need it regardless of a boy or girl born to them."

"Narcissa and Draco have been abused by Amon Velius just as you have been arguing with Amon Velius. Confirmation in a sense landed in my lap that Lucius Malfoy has not been out in the open for at least a decade. I know the exact location of Lucius Malfoy.

I called upon Dobby to help out. Lucius Malfoy at this moment is in the Room of Requirement and in desperate need of a Healer. I promised you that I would I tell you first. I am now going to retrieve Madam Pomfrey and take her to the Room of Requirement. You are more than welcome…no that I could stop you though…not that I would for that matter." Harry said prior to leaving Snape sitting in his chair dumbfounded.

Harry quickly left and ran back towards the infirmary. He did not stop and slow down but barged into the infirmary.

"Mr. Potter, this is the infirmary and you do not just barge in like…"

"Madam Pomfrey, I apologize for the unacceptable intrusion but it is a matter of life and death. I would bet my Gringotts Vault's that it is a matter of life and death. I desperately need to follow me to somewhere within Hogwarts. Please do not ask me any questions as I am afraid I will not be able to answer them at the moment." Harry said pleadingly.

"Alright Mr. Potter, I will follow you. Fortunately, I have no patients to tend to at the moment." Poppy said knowing that the wizard was not lying and she truly did feel as though someone's life was in the balance.

Poppy moved as fast as she could to keep up with Harry. As they blew through the doors to the infirmary they nearly bowled over and through Snape. Snape did not say a word as it was not necessary to do so. Harry knew exactly why Snape was there.

Despite the fact that Harry did not use any of the passageways, the trio reached the seventh floor in next to no time. As they stood facing a blank wall, Harry glanced around in case someone was near and would hear what he was going to tell Pomfrey. Though Harry did not see any extra witches or wizards around he still wasn't quite comfortable saying anything just yet. Harry quickly, silently casted 'Homenum revelio' when nothing happened Harry then casted 'Muffliato', silently of course.

"Sorry about all of this, Madam Pomfrey but I have to be sure that we are not overheard. There is a wizard that is in desperate need of medical attention and I have no doubt that his life depends on it. Before I reveal to you the identity of the wizard there's something that has to be explained.

Though the wizard needs medical attention and his life very well may depend on it, what I have to explain is important. It will enable to tend to him more efficiently. For the past twelve and a half to thirteen years this wizard has been held captive in his own home…" Harry began as gently as he could and without being insensitive. He only paused due to the intake of breath of Snape had taken and the murderous look in his eyes.

"Continue, Mr. Potter." Snape demanded.

"He has also been tortured throughout the time he has been held captive. And I have no doubt that he was kept in a dark room. There wasn't much light…but it caused him severe pain though he only said that it hurt. He has several injuries some are fairly recent and by the looks of some of the scars…a decade or so old. He's…"

"Mr. Potter, I realize that this wizard is and has been severely injured…I must insist that you give me his name. I will let you finish explaining his condition and what you have done so far to help him."

"Just keep in mind that I have already said that the wizard has been held captive in a dark room in his own home for a little more than a decade. The wizard's name is Lucius Malfoy."

"If Lucius Malfoy has been as you say…then who is the one..?"

"Amon Velius had been using polyjuice for the past decade or so to maintain the appearance of Lucius Malfoy."

"Why is that name frighteningly familiar? I know I have heard that name before." Poppy muttered with a faraway look on her face giving the impression that she was in deep thought.

"Professor…"

"Amon Velius was the only Death Eater that was in the inner circle…the true inner circle. Most of…the Dark Lord's ideals came from Amon. The Dark Lord did, however, downgraded most if not all of Amon's suggestions, ideas and ideals. No one ever considered the possibility of going up against Amon. In all honesty, Amon was and is the one that we all feared and not the Dark Lord's wrath.

There were quite a few things that went on in Amon's mind that made the Dark Lord ill and cringe at times. I know all of this as I was second behind Amon. I, as well as all Death Eaters, believed that Amon had been eliminated by the Dark Lord. All could sense that Amon wanted to overthrow the Dark Lord so that he, Amon, could take over." Snape explained as much as he was willing to explain.

Harry and Poppy could tell there was quite a lot more to Amon Velius but knew to not push Snape for more information.

"Alright, Mr. Potter, what else do I need to know about Lucius' condition?" poppy

"He's extremely pale, his hair is an iridescent color but yet clear, his eyes are watery and like a hazy film of some sort. He's extremely thin and clearly dehydrated. When Dobby first returned with Lucius…Lucius looked like someone straight out of a Muggle concentration camp. All I have done is given Lucius pain relieving potions. I have no clue as to what anything else is.

I summoned Kreacher to get Muri and bring her here. Muri is a house elf…one of my house elves. Before leaving, I told Muri and Kreacher to carefully clean Lucius up and to put him in different clothing as well as to tend to some of the wounds…just basics and for Muri to document every single wound, every wound regardless of the state of healing or healed." Harry quickly explained.

"He's going to need quite a bit. I will do all that I can to help Lucius Malfoy. I will tell you now that he should be treated at St. Mungo's, but he will remain here in my infirmary. I realize the safety issue that is in play concerning Lucius Malfoy." Poppy said with a sincere note in her voice.

"Just give me a second and we will go on inside." Harry said as he began to pace in front of the blank wall. Harry knew that the door appeared when the sound of gasps sounded from behind him and bouncing off the walls in the corridor.

Harry pulled the door open and motioned for Pomfrey and Snape to enter. Poppy quickly bustled to Lucius' bed in full medi-witch mode. Snape had just stepped inside and froze in place at the seeing the condition of his best friend. Fortunately Snape was inside the room just enough so that Harry was able to securely close the door.

"Mater Harry, Muri and Kreacher did as you said. Muri has list of all injuries the wizard received." Muri said the instant she spotted Harry.

"Thank you Muri. Hogwarts' nurse will need the list so she will be able to provide the correct and proper care Mr. Malfoy needs." Harry said gratefully.

Muri handed the list of injuries and the state of each injury to Pomfrey. Muri joined Kreacher and Dobby where the two had moved to so that they were out of the medi-witches way.

Poppy looked over the list and gasped while clutching her chest. The medi-witches heart broke more and more as she read each injury on the list. Her eyes began to fill with tears but she fought the desire to cry as she had to be in full capacity to treat Lucius Malfoy as he deserves to be treated. After Poppy finished going over the injuries Lucius had sustained she tucked the list away and then proceeded to perform a diagnostic spell to determine in detail what injuries need the most attention and which injuries have priority.

"Mr. Potter, you have done well. As much as I want Mr. Malfoy in the infirmary he will remain here for the time being. His injuries and condition will not permit him to be moved by any means. I will need the help and aid of the three elves that are currently present. I will not be able to be here around the clock and if I have patients in the infirmary I will have to tend to them.

I am officially asking you, Mr. Potter, for your permission to borrow your house elves. I understand that Kreacher accepts you as one of his Masters', Dobby is dedicated to you and Muri clearly is your house elf."

"Um…sure…if they so wish to remain and help…"

"Dobby stay and helps Dobby's old Master."

"Muri will remain as well."

"Master Harry, Kreacher is wonderings if he may continue to do Kreacher's duties at home as well as helps here?"

"Of course Kreacher." Harry said smiling.

"Very well. Dobby, Kreacher and Muri I truly appreciate your help. Thank you." Pomfrey said while facing the three elves. "Mr. Potter under the circumstances I recommend that no one else knows about what you have discovered and uncovered, for now that is. Especially his family as he is not in any condition for them to see him. Mr. Malfoy will need the support and encouragement of his family as well as the relief they will surely feel and express and so much more that will be positive for Mr. Malfoy. Once Mr. Malfoy has improved a great deal or he wishes to see them it will be arranged at that time." Pomfrey said in a tone that said it was an order rather than a recommendation.

"I fully agree with you Madam Pomfrey. Those in this room are the only ones that know. I knew that once Mr. Malfoy was brought here that he would not be in any condition for much if anything at all and felt…feel…that it would not be in everyone's best interest to be informed of the situation as of yet. I at least wanted you to be able to examine Mr. Malfoy and treat him before anyone, especially his family to be informed." Harry said.

"Very wise Mr. Potter." Pomfrey commented. "Also I approve of your decision and action. Now, I need to go to the infirmary and get several things for Mr. Malfoy. Both of you may remain for now, but once I return I will insist that both of you leave. As it is I am sure too many questions will be asked to your whereabouts."

"Understood and you are quite correct about the questions." Harry said.

Poppy nodded and left the room after being informed on as how to get the door to appear to allow her access.

"Mr. Potter, what have you told your friends or anyone as to your suspicion?" Snape inquired once Poppy left and speaking for the first time.

"I've only told Hermione about my suspicion and what I discovered, but I have not seen anyone other than you, Madam Pomfrey and the house elves." Harry replied.

"I know Madam Pomfrey said to not tell anyone, but I do not see there being any issue of any kind with you telling Miss. Granger. Since she knows everything else, she should be privy to this. Miss. Granger has shown that she will not speak about it." Snape said matter of factly.

"I was thinking about telling Hermione regardless of what Madam Pomfrey said. Like you said, she has shown that she will not speak about it and since she knows everything else she should be privy to this. And don't worry about Kreacher, Dobby and Muri they will provide the upmost care for Mr. Malfoy and they will not repeat anything you and I have said to anyone."

Madam Pomfrey came through the door quickly but so quickly that she did not close the door securely. Her arms were full of several small containers, though it looked as though some if not all of the containers were about to fall not one fell.

Harry seeing ahead a dilemma soon to be a problem, he quickly conjured a metal table as he had seen in Muggle hospitals and sent it right where Poppy would need it.

"Thank you, Mr. Potter."

"No problem Madam Pomfrey." Harry said reassuringly. "Would it be alright if I were to check on Mr. Malfoy myself from time to time?" He asked.

"I do not see a problem with that, as long as it does not cause suspicion as to what you are doing."

"Of course Madam Pomfrey. Thank you and I will go now and, if need be, explain something to keep my friends at bay as to where I've been for the past several hours." Harry said as he headed towards the door.

Harry had not gone far when he heard the door to the Room of Requirement open and shut once more. He was not worried as he knew that it was Snape leaving. Harry was sure that Snape was reluctant to leave his best friend, but was just as sure that Snape would never show it or admit to it if asked. With a heavy but relieved sigh Harry paused, standing in front of the portrait of the Fat Lady before giving the password.

Harry walked through the portrait hole thinking about what he would say if asked where he had been all day. As he reached the end of the short hallway of sorts, Harry came to complete stop. He had not come up with anything to say and all of his friends in Gryffindor were sitting, scattered around the common room waiting for him.

"Harry!" Hermione screamed in relief. "Where have you been all day?" Hermione asked with a hidden question within that she knew only Harry would only catch.

"Taking care of something that I am not permitted to say for now." Harry replied with the first thing that came to mind.

"Harry…'come one you can tell us." Ron insisted.

"Ron…I want nothing more than to tell all of you but I am under strict orders not to say anything to anyone."

"Is it that bad?" Neville asked with a hint of concern.

"Yes and no. I can't say more than that. I promise all of you that once I am allowed to say something I will find all of you immediately and tell you as soon as we can meet up in a private location."

"Harry…couldn't we all go to the Room of Requirement now? You could tell us and no one would be the wiser." Ron said with a tone of excitement.

"No." Harry said calmly after a short pause.

"Why not?" Ron asked in a loud disgruntled way.

"Because." Harry replied.

"Ron, stop being a daft git." Ginny scorned. "Harry said he can't tell anyone right now but when he can he will. That should be enough for you. It is enough for the rest of us and it should be for you too. If Harry tells us and one of us for some stupid ass reason ends up making a comment about it…Harry's trust will be questioned if not worse. Harry has been trusted with something obviously important and clearly there is a safety issue at hand. That alone is why I am not asking or pestering Harry nor will I pester him about it." Ginny said.

While all but one was focusing their attention on Ron and Ginny, Hermione was keeping an eye on Harry. Hermione felt a twinge of discomfort at seeing the pained look on Harry's face while Ginny told her youngest brother off. Though Hermione refrained, she wanted nothing more than to get up and give her cousin a hug.

"Thank you Ginny." Harry said softly succeeding at giving nothing away.

"No one ask Harry another thing!" Hermione growled, more so at Ron than anyone else that he waited up for Harry to return. "Harry has had a long day and I do not doubt that it was stressful and all of us should be more respectful. Instead of hounding Harry, we should be letting him get up to bed and get some sleep." Hermione lectured.

"You're the one that spoke first the instant Harry entered the common room." Ron said whined in irritation.

"I was relieved that he was alright and once he answered my question I left it alone. It may not have been the answer we wanted to hear but it is the only answer we'll get. I'm not trying to get Harry to go somewhere else and badger him into telling us something he is under strict orders to not tell anyone anything at this time." Hermione answered defensively with a biting tone in her voice that she was feeling horrible about. She knew the only reason why Ron was insistent about knowing what had happened all day was because he wanted to be included in what had happened.

"Looks like I am not the only one that has had a long stressful day, Hermione." Harry commented coming to her side and rescue in a way that no one would see what it really was.

"It has been a long day for all of us. It has had its stressful moments and moments full of worry. Bus seeing that Harry is fine…I'm going on up to bed." Ginny said as her mental and physical fatigue became more apparent in her voice.

Fred and George shrugged their shoulders and headed on up to their dormitory. Neville, Seamus and Dean followed Ginny and the twins lead. Neville, Seamus and Dean took a few steps back towards the middle of the common room. The three boys grabbed Ron and dragged him up the stairs to the fourth year boys' dormitory as he had made no indication that he was going to head up on his own.

"He's really feeling that left out?" Harry asked once the four boys had gone through the main door to the boy's dormitories.

"It seems so. I think he suspects that there is something going on and he just wants to help." Hermione said the only logical possibility that came to mind.

"I hate not telling him and Ginny." Harry said exasperatedly. "I'll give it a day or two and consider the possibility of telling Ron and Ginny."

"Harry, don't risk being trusted with…"

"Hermione I'm the one that alerted other individuals of…the situation. It wasn't like I was brought into it. It's just the best course of action."

Hermione glanced up towards the dormitory doors before looking back at Harry and quietly saying, "Did you manage to find a way to find Lucius?"

"Yes. Pomfrey made it clear as day to not say anything as you can figure as to why. He's in the Room of Requirement for now. He is not in any condition to be moved by any means at this point." Harry said just as quietly as Hermione had asked.

"Wouldn't it be best for Lucius and Pomfrey if Lucius was in the infirmary?"

"Well, yes but it would do more harm than good to move him right now."

"There has to be a way to get him to the infirmary."

"I agree and I am certain that there is a way…"

"But, we need the book?"

"Yes, I have no doubt that there is something in the book that will help. Although, it would be nice if one of those out of nowhere in a different langue that I can't understand would happen. I know that once Lucius is in the infirmary and under strong security that Pomfrey will give me the go ahead to tell certain individuals, particularly his son." Harry said stopping himself from saying 'and possibly his daughter'.

"We can find a way to finish this discussion tomorrow. We should get going as everyone will begin to suspect that you've told me…that is if no one has already begun to suspect."

Harry nodded in agreement and then he and Hermione made their way up the stairs and separating company when they had to go in different directions.

Sure enough the instant Harry entered the fourth year's dormitory the air around and the look on Ron's face indicated that he suspected already. Then again Harry had a feeling that Ron had been suspecting for some time.

"Look, Ron, I will see if I can tell you and a few select others. I really feel horrible about not telling you. I want to but can't. I hope that you can understand that. I know that once I am able to tell you that you will understand why I can't tell you." Harry said honestly.

"I do understand Harry. I…"

"You want to be included as you feel that you could help."

"Well…yeah."

"I meant it and mean it Ron; I will see if I can tell you and a few select others. If I am able to you and the others will have to be extremely careful and not mention anything about it in public. In other words no mention of it at any point unless we are in the Room of Requirement as it will guarantee privacy without unwanted ears getting a juicy tid-bit."

"Sorry for earlier. The trying to get to you tell me…"

"Don't worry about it Ron. I don't want to be and I do not mean to be rude, but I really need to get bed and get some sleep."

Ron shrugged his shoulders in a form of acceptance and said nothing more on the subject. Ron had figured that if Harry got some sleep he would be able to get up early and ask if it would be alright to tell a few select witches and wizards what happened. Ron doubted that he would know what happened the following day but he hoped never the less.

xxxXXXxxx

A few days had passed and Harry had not been able to check on Lucius. Despite Hermione's help in trying to clear some time so that Harry could, their friends still insisted on hanging out though in waves it wasn't all of their friends at once.

Harry began to consider getting up extremely early or finding a way to stay up past everyone in Gryffindor to check on Lucius. Harry had been receiving cryptic updates on Lucius' situation but, Harry wanted, needed to see with his own eyes. He just did not feel like getting up so early or staying up so late so Harry decided to ask Madam Pomfrey if it would be alright for him to tell a few select friends.

With a decision in mind, Harry stood and started to leave the Gryffindor common.

"Harry…"

"I just have to ask Pomfrey something and check on something else concerning a certain book." Harry said hoping that no one would follow him.

"Ron stay right where you are." Ginny and Hermione barked at Ron as he made to get up and follow Harry.

"Harry does not need assistance to ask Pomfrey something." Ginny added.

"And, do you really want to be in Professor Snape's presence?" Hermione asked with a smirk on her face.

"No. What does Snape have to do with the book?" Ron countered.

"At the moment, the book is in his possession…or well a copy of it is." Harry replied.

"And why does Snape have it?" Ron asked unsure if it was a good idea for Snape to have anything to do with the book.

"We're looking into things and trying to figure out other things. I haven't glanced through the entirety of the book but on the contents page a section for potions is listed." Hermione explained truthfully though vague.

"I really don't think that is a good idea without you or Harry there. Wait a second, how can Snape do anything with the book other than hold it for you?" Ron asked confused though the confusion was fading and being replaced by a variety of emotions. "Can Snape see the text within the book?"

"Yes." Hermione answered after exchanging a glance with Harry.

"How? Sirius couldn't. How is it that Snape is able to? Wait a second…Hermione…"

"Not now Ron." Hermione said quickly as a group of fellow Gryffindor's joined them in the common room. "I'll tell you…I haven't said anything to you because I fear how you will react and…I'll explain once we can find a secluded location. I promise and Ron, please don't do anything rash."

"I may not be as smart as most in this school but I think I know what it is. Not wanting to assume, would you mind going to the Room of Requirement and explaining?"

"Ron…I would, it's just…I believe that the Room of Requirement is in use at the moment. At least that is the impression I got from Harry the night we all waited up for him…when Harry had been unreachable all day."

"Ron be patient. I can't imagine that the Room of Requirement will be needed for long, at least I hope not. Hermione said that she'd tell you, accept it as it is. You do not need to know everything that is going on with your friends every second of the day or instantly after you figure out something having to do with your friends." Ginny lectured in an identical manor as her mother would.

With everyone distracted with the discussion between Hermione, Ron and Ginny, Harry took the opportunity that presented itself and slipped out of the portrait hole. A few steps away from the portrait, Harry pulled out the invisibility cloak and draped it around his body and over his head. He had full intention of speaking with Pomfrey and Snape, but Harry could not resist the wide open window of opportunity to check on Lucius. Harry still looked around to see if anyone was in the hallway before taking off to the Room of Requirement.

Harry wasted no time once facing the blank wall to do what he had to do to gain access to the Room of Requirement. Once inside and the door securely closed, Harry pulled off his invisibility cloak and proceeded on further into the room. Harry was doing his best to be quiet and at seeing that Lucius was sleep, Harry silently casted a charm to ensure that his movements did not disturb the sleeping wizard.

Harry sighed in relief once he was close enough to truly get a look at Lucius. The wizard looked loads better than the last time Harry had seen him. All Harry could think was that Pomfrey had done wonders, performed a miracle.

Lucius' hair was tame and starting to look the normal color of platinum blond and not as sparse as before. The wizards' coloring wasn't as ashen as it had been. From what Harry cold see, it looked as though the injuries that had been rather recent when Dobby had brought Lucius to there had healed quite well.

"Master Harry." Muri said quietly but excitedly.

"Muri, can you tell me what exactly Madam Pomfrey has been using to help Mr. Malfoy?" Harry inquired just above a whisper.

"The wizard dressing in all black has been making things. Muri not knowing what, but it helping."

Harry smiled. He had a feeling that Snape had indeed looked at the section containing potions in the book. Harry knew this without a doubt as well as that Snape had brewed some of them if not all of them. Harry was pulled out of his musings from a rustling nearby. Harry quickly looked in the direction to only see Lucius Malfoy stirring.

"Mr. Malfoy, how are you today?" Harry asked hoping that Lucius would be moved to the infirmary soon and that his family would be informed.

"Better than I have in a long time." Lucius replied. "So, you are Harry Potter?"

"Yes, sir, I am."

"I know that you explained a bit when was first here…would you mind explaining again how I ended up here? I do not recall what you said previously." Lucius requested.

"I don't mind at all. I have an object that shows where the inhabitants of Hogwarts are at all times, with the only exception being this room. Every time it seemed as though you were here…several can a test to seeing you on grounds the past three and a half years…the object that I have was not showing me that it was you, but someone else instead. Eventually I began to wonder if the person we'd been seeing was actually you since I kept seeing the other name. Then quite recently I had all the solid proof I needed.

The object showed the other name in the potions classroom with Snape so I sprinted all the way there. Though to my eyes, I saw you leave the object did not reveal your name. No matter how many times I looked at the object and back up to the retreating form of, what looked like, you. I immediately called for Dobby and asked him if he'd return to Malfoy Manor and look for you and once finding you to bring you here." Harry explained. "Oh, I did not quite explain it as much detail the first time."

"My family? Why haven't I seen them?"

"Madam Pomfrey, and I, felt that it would be better once you've improved a bit before informing them and having them brought to you. Mainly, she and I would rather that you are in the infirmary under security protections first. You haven't been in any condition to be moved by any means so far."

"I need…I want to see them. I don't quite have me strength back yet…"

"I will do what I can Mr. Malfoy to help speed things along." Harry said with a small smile.

"How are my wife and Draco doing? How have they been doing?" Lucius inquired needing to know. "I heard bits and pieces but mostly just a lot of yelling and magic flying about."

"Um…I do know some of what your wife and son have gone through, but I…I don't know if now is the right time to tell you…"

"Mr. Potter." Snape said informing the young wizard of his presence. "I believe that now would be alright to tell Lucius. He asked all day yesterday. Poppy wouldn't say anything directly about Narcissa and Draco. All Poppy would say is to wait for you to show up and ask then. I assure you both that I have something on hand to administer for should it be needed."

"The short version is that your wife and son have been abused, severely abused. My cousin Dudley was sorted into Slytherin and became friends with Draco. Not everyone knows that Dudley and I are related. Anyway, one day Dudley discovered the abuse…he saw an injury on Draco and got in touch with me and my friends.

My friends and I have been helping Draco ever since and I know I can say that your son and I are friends now. Not best of friends as there is a past, a not so good past that cannot be erased without the passing of time. As for your wife I have the understanding that the abuse mostly consisted of verbal abuse, though there has been the use of magic used on her. I know that it sounds as though I am insensitive…your wife and Draco would be better at explaining how things have been for them." Harry explained.

"You only mention Draco…"

"Your daughter is alive though your wife and son do not know where she is." Harry said quickly.

"You have a suspicion, don't you?"

"Yes, I do but I am not going to say anything about it to anyone…just yet that is."

"You want to have the facts first. Very wise Mr. Potter." Lucius said with admiration apparent on his face.

"I am surprised at how well you have taken the news Lucius." Snape said with a hint of confusion.

"Just because I have not broken down does not necessarily mean that I am taking the news well. I do not believe that I have the energy or strength to break down just yet." Lucius clarified.

"Both of them are doing great now, well your wife is a little depressed. She wants to find her daughter but is worried at the same time of finding her."

The three wizards were deep in their sporadic conversation that they did not hear the sound of the door opening or closing.

"Ah, good Mr. Potter you're here finally. Mr. Malfoy can be moved to the infirmary now. I have made the finishing touches on the security room for Mr. Malfoy. Professor Snape has found something that will make it possible for us to move Mr. Malfoy, but seeing as the book is yours and your blood connection I feel you should be the one to say the incantation. I would allow Professor Snape to attempt it but…I think it best that you are the one to do so." Madam Pomfrey explained and instructed.

Harry shrugged in response once calming from the startling realization that someone had entered the room.

"I understand Madam Pomfrey." Harry said verbally to ensure that Poppy knew he did understand what she had said. "I do think that soon should see if anyone can say the incantation and have it work correctly." Harry added.

"Mr. Potter, once Lucius is set up in the infirmary I need a word with you. And I also need a word with Miss. Granger."

"Wait are we doing this now?" Harry asked suddenly concerned for Lucius' safety after everything that had been done to ensure said safety.

"Yes, Mr. Potter, we are moving Mr. Malfoy now. Do not worry all Heads of House have informed their students that they are not to leave their houses for an undisclosed amount of time. And to ensure that no one leaves all possibly ways have been placed under spells to prevent anyone from succeeding in attempts to leave. Not a single entity is in the hallways."

"Even the ghosts?" Harry asked not quite believing that the ghosts could be contained.

"Yes, even the ghosts." Poppy answered. "Miss. Granger assisted with that. I do not know what she did or how she did it, you will have to ask her."

"This has all happened quickly. I couldn't have left Gryffindor House more than ten or fifteen minutes ago."

"Your Head of House must have arrived to inform your housemates that are going to be sequestered shortly after you left. I can see another question brewing in your mind, the Hogwarts House Elf's have been instructed to only go to the houses of Hogwarts with food and do their cleaning duties. They are under strict orders to not roam around as they normally do so but they also know that the restrictions will be lifted sometime today."

"I think that covers everything then…wait, what about visitors? I mean uninvited, unscheduled visitors?"

"In short, Mr. Potter, Hogwarts and property are on lock down. No one can come on grounds until the extra security measures have been removed." Snape answered quite bluntly but not in a rude manner.

"Professor Dumbledore knows why Hogwarts is on lock down?" Harry asked, yet another question that came to mind.

"No and he was rather reluctant to put Hogwarts on lock down." Snape said chuckling as he remembered how insulted Albus had been when told he couldn't know why at this time.

"I suppose I should talk to him after Mr. Malfoy has been moved." Harry muttered more to himself than to anyone else in the room. "Well, in order to do this I will need to see the book." Harry said somewhat sarcastically.

Snape thrust the book into Harry's hands with a sneer in place.

Harry said nothing and opened the book where it had been marked. He still had to look through to find exactly what the other two had been talking about. Not much time had passed by the time Harry found what Snape and Pomfrey had been talking about and read,

'Incantation: 'Defensiva sanitatum tegmine'.

Meaning: to place in stasis or suspended animation; to safely move one severely injured without causing added or undue pain or discomfort; providing a protection shield for the injured; containing healing properties that only work on injuries sustained during transportation.

Not recommended to apparate injured while concealed by this magic; not recommended to enlist a house elf to transport injured while concealed in this magic as either would cause a counteracting result.'

"This is brilliant and all but does the incantation automatically include levitation of some sort? If not, can we use a levitation charm or spell without causing a counteracting result?" Harry asked no one in particular.

"There is only way to find out." Lucius muttered.

"Sir…the risk of causing you added or undue pain and or stress is not worth it." Harry argued.

"What I am referring to is the first question you asked. See if this incantation includes some sort of levitation." Lucius explained. "And I appreciate your concern."

"Mr. Potter, one step at a time. If some sort of levitation is not present we will deal with it then." Snape growled out with impatience, wanting to get his best friend to where he needs to be as quickly as possable.

"Here we go." Harry said softly within a sigh.

Harry set his stance, pulled out his wand, pointed it at Lucius and clearly said, 'Defensiva sanitatum tegmine'. A wispy silver-white jet of magic with gold sparkles shot form the tip of Harry's wand and encased Lucius Malfoy.

"Lucius." Snape said concerned after a faint gasp could be heard.

"I'm fine Severus. I just didn't expect…"

"You didn't expect what?" Severus asked with a bit of a frown.

"I can't move beyond breathing. It's a weird feeling to be honest." Lucius answered shakily. "As for the second question, I do believe that levitation is incorporated as I do not feel the bed beneath me…"

"Mr. Potter, see if you can move…" Poppy began but stopped.

Before Pomfrey could finish her suggestion, Harry had already made the attempt. Harry had slightly moved his wand hand, while keeping his wand trained on Lucius, receiving the result of Lucius floating away from the gurney.

"Well, it looks as though Mr. Potter will be directing Mr. Malfoy to the infirmary." Pomfrey muttered stating the obvious.

"So, shall we be on out way then?" Harry asked anxiously. "I want to get Mr. Malfoy to the infirmary sooner rather than later. Besides, I need to speak with Professor Dumbledore and should check in with my friends. With the help of Hermione and Ginny I was able to slip out unnoticed at least not immediately. Speaking of…"

"Well, since Mr. Malfoy will be in the secure confines of a private room within the infirmary I see no problem with you informing your friends. I will leave it to you as to how many of your friends you inform."

"I want my son and wife informed…"

"I will make sure that Draco is informed. As far as Mrs. Malfoy…"

"I will inform Narcissa personally." Snape volunteered.

With a look from Poppy all talk and discussion ceased. The procession left the room with Poppy leading the way and Snape bringing up the rear with Harry and Lucius in the middle. The way to the infirmary was clear and eerily quiet. There was no incident along the way to the infirmary to Harry's relief.

"Professor Snape, I and Hermione will find you later today. I want to explain everything to Professor Dumbledore and…" Harry began but stopped at the sound of someone entering the infirmary.

Harry, Snape and Poppy all stepped out to see had entered.

"Professor Dumbledore." Harry said suddenly feeling quite nervous. "I was about to go to your office and explain everything. Professor Snape and Madam Pomfrey could have explained but you'd want to hear it from me any way."

"Well, I am here and the school is still on lock down. Now is as good a time as any." Dumbledore drawled impatiently.

Harry took a breath before conjuring a comfortable chair to sit in while explained everything. Once sitting, Harry conjured three more chairs. One for each of the adults standing in the room.

"I'll be right back Professor, there is one thing that I have to do first and then I will tell you everything." Harry said before quickly slipping through the security surrounding Lucius Malfoy.

"Is everything alright?" Lucius inquired.

"Yeah…Professor Dumbledore is just out there waiting for me to explain everything. I just thought that you'd like to move more than just breathing." Harry answered with an explanation.

"I would appreciate that greatly." Lucius said in his trademark drawl.

Harry pointed his wand at Lucius and focused on the immediate task and then said, "Finite Incantatum." The result was instant.

Lucius smiled his thanks to Harry as the young wizard headed back out to the infirmary.

Once Harry sat back down in the chair he began the story. Harry had begun with Draco for two reasons. One being that Harry felt it was the best point to begin and secondly, to drag out the story. Harry finished after nearly an hour of when he had started. The next several minutes passed in silence, a silence that made Harry feel quite uncomfortable. All Harry could think of was how he could get out of the infirmary.

"I would like to speak with Lucius Malfoy alone." Dumbledore said after a long silence.

"When exactly would you like to speak with Mr. Malfoy? I do need to tend to my patient, he has recently been moved, Headmaster." Poppy said without shielding her annoyance from anyone.

"Now. I wish to speak to Lucius Malfoy now, Poppy." Dumbledore said wanting to know for himself, to know for certain that they now have the real Lucius Malfoy.

"Very well." Poppy said reluctantly. "Do not take long and do not upset my patient."

"It will not take long Poppy and I see no reason as to why your patient would become upset." Dumbledore snapped as his irritation at his actions being questioned became more evident.

"One moment Headmaster, I have to tweak the security to allow you access." Poppy said quickly as she made her way to the secure, hidden enclosure.

"Harry prior to putting Hogwarts on lock down, Sirius arrived needing to speak with you. He said it is urgent and strange. He is in my office and cannot leave. I do believe that you will be able to gain entrance to my office without any problems."

Harry nodded in acknowledgement as he watched Dumbledore slip inside the secure room then he stood to leave but was stopped by Snape.

"Mr. Potter, I suggest you send your personal house elf as well as the house elves that are loyal to you to retrieve those you wish to inform and whoever needs to know while the school is on lock down."

"I intended to do just that." Harry said with a small smile and then continued on his way out of the infirmary.

Harry wanted to take some time to think of what he was going to say to everyone. He knew that it was important to tell at least Draco, but wanted to know what Sirius had to talk to him about that was strange yet urgent. Decision made, Harry headed to the Headmaster's office.

Harry had no trouble gaining entrance to Dumbledore's office.

"Sirius what is so urgent and strange as you put it to Dumbledore?" Harry asked the instant he entered the office and spotting Sirius.

"How the hell did you just do that? I thought that Hogwarts was put on lock down."

"Hogwarts is still on lock down. As for how I am able to move about is another story, though I think that you should be with Narcissa when she is informed of something and I do believe that it will be soon. You and Narcissa are family, I am sure that she will insist on you being present anyway." Harry said informatively. "Why are you here?" Harry asked in a confuse manner.

"Oh, right. The Black Family Tree Tapestry…I do not recall why I was in that room, but any way I was in there and something caught my eye. There was an odd shimmering in one area. It wasn't a huge shimmering but it was quite bright. Upon further exploration I found the shimmering to be coming from where the Malfoy's are on the tapestry…"

"The shimmering…shimmering between two identities?" Harry asked with suspicion thick in his voice.

"I do not think that I could have described it better. What you said works but it was…is different."

"Mercedes Johnson-Malfoy?" Though Harry was certain that Mercedes Johnson was the daughter Narcissa had given up for adoption all those years ago, the wizard had to be sure.

"Yes. Harry…"

"Mercedes is the daughter that Narcissa secretly gave up for adoption. Since hearing the name Mercedes Johnson and realizing that was the name listed below Draco's with small words stating that she was adopted. Bloody hell! Narcissa is so desperate, so determined to find the daughter she gave up and misses…the glamor Narcissa put in place is beginning to wear off. Add in the fact that Mercedes is in relatively close vicinity of her brother…I'll just add it to the list of things I have to inform people of…"

"Harry just tell me everything." Sirius said with a pleading note in his voice.

"Have a seat…actually…I'll send Kreacher for you. I've already explained this once today and I do not feel like explaining it two more times. On second thought I know something that will be easier and quicker."

"Harry what are you talking about?"

"Kreacher. Muri. Dobby." Harry called instead of answering Sirius' question. "Kreacher, I need you to take me and Sirius to the Room of Requirement, or well just outside of the room. And then I need you to assist Dobby and Muri with retrieving Ron, Ginny, Fred and George Weasley, Hermione Granger, Violet McKinnon-Black, and Neville Longbottom from Gryffindor House.

After you bring them here, I would like for Kreacher to go to Slytherin House and get Draco Malfoy and Dudley Evans and for Muri to go to Ravenclaw House and get Mercedes Johnson." Harry said quickly hoping that all three elves understood what he had said.

All three elves nodded as Kreacher moved over and grasped Harry and Sirius. Though it was rather fast, Harry was relived at seeing the blank wall as it clearly let him know that the elves had indeed understood what he had said so fast. Before Harry had the chance to set up the room he wanted the Room of Requirement to be all those he wanted from Gryffindor were there and a second later Kreacher and Muri had returned with the students Harry had instructed each to retrieve.

"Harry…what is going on?" Ginny asked worriedly and a bit scared.

"I will explain everything once inside." Harry said while keeping an eye on Mercedes without it being obvious that he was.

Harry took his eyes off of Mercedes so he could set the room he wanted. While walking back and forth in front of the blank wall, Harry thought 'I need a secure place, comfortable furniture for a lot of people, a calming environment and if anyone is upset, angry or might be in a rash state of mind they, he or she will not be permitted to leave until calm'.

The wall did not immediately provide a door for the group to enter. Harry continued walking back and forth thinking the exact same thing. Finally after several minutes a door appeared. The only thing that harry thought was that it took longer to create what he wanted. Once the last of the group entered the door shut of its own accord.

The room was full of plush armchairs providing enough for each of them to have a seat. The chairs were only large enough for one person to sit in. Ten of the chairs were arranged in two groups, rows containing five each. The chairs were staggered and spaced just enough in a wide arc of sorts, so that all could see adequately. The wide arc of the rows reminded Harry of story time in the early school years though then he had never been part of it and always off to one side away from the rest of the students. This time he felt part of it though had not ever thought he would be the one telling the story.

The last two chairs were a distance from the two rows of chairs, facing the rows. There was a calming effect, the feeling and sense of tranquility. Harry could also feel magic vibrating throughout the room and strongest at the doors. With a nervous smile Harry faced the group he had arranged to be there and instructed each where he or she would be sitting. Harry made sure that it was clear that Sirius would be sitting in one of the two chairs that sat alone from the ten other chairs. Harry insisted that the taller wizards or witches take the seats in the back row or take the far edges of front row instead of assigning them to a seat.

Harry took his seat next Sirius once everyone else had taken theirs. A few minutes passed in silence aside from breathing and a few sighs from Harry.

"Just give me a moment. I need gather my thoughts so that I will be able to explain things in the correct order." Harry finally said breaking the silence though only temporarily.

It took Harry longer than he had wanted but was grateful that no one prompted him to speak. Harry pulled out the Marauder's Map, tapped while he quietly said 'I solemnly swear that I am up to no good'. Harry quickly looked over the map concentrating mainly on the infirmary and was relieved to discover that all the security measures taken to protect Lucius were working quite effectively as his name did not appear on the map.

"I have this map that shows everyone, where ever they are in the castle with the exception of being in this room and certain security measures." Harry said while holding up the map and then handed it to Neville. "I am letting you all take a look at the map so that you can see for yourselves and then I will explain."

It took some time before the map made the circuit and was returned to Harry. Some had taken quite a bit of time looking over the map for various reasons, for this Harry was grateful as it gave him more time to gather his thoughts. Despite the extra time Harry received it still felt as though it had not been enough time to think.

"So, not too long after becoming aware of the abuse Draco had been enduring his father seemed to be frequently showing up on campus I started to check this map. My reason for doing so was to know where Draco's father was at when on grounds. Being informed of Draco's father on grounds and in the company of Snape a first when I would check the map…Lucius Malfoy did not appear anywhere. And then I was finally informed of Lucius on grounds not long after he arrived. When I would check the map for Lucius Malfoy's name it was not listed on the map." Harry began before taking a break.

"What name was listed on the map?" Mercedes asked curiously but wary.

"I will get to that." Harry replied. "This continued to happen for some time. When it was known to the eyes that Lucius Malfoy was on grounds I would check the map and never his name there anywhere near where Snape would be, but a different name leaving the vicinity of the Potions classroom or wherever it was known where Snape was. As this continued I began to have a suspicion.

I started to suspect or wonder if Lucius Malfoy was actually coming on grounds. I also wondered if Lucius Malfoy had truly been around the past twelve and a half to thirteen years."

"Have you found out?" Draco asked nervously.

"I realize that there are going to be questions as Harry explains, but I think that we should let Harry explain and then it there are any question they can then be addressed. The fewer interruptions there are the less time it will take Harry to get through this explanation." Sirius stated with a suggestion thrown in.

"Thank you Sirius." Harry said before turning his attention back to his friends. "I began carrying the map with me at all times and would check periodically. Usually I would not arrive where Lucius was supposed to be arguing with Snape and actually see with my own eyes that Lucius was on grounds. At least until a few days ago that is. Some of if not all of you know that I was nowhere to be found all day.

I woke up earlier than I wanted to but got up any way. Once dressed and in the…Gryffindor common room I checked the map to find the name I'd been seeing instead of Lucius Malfoy's name. This time I actually could hear the individual's voice and I must say that he sounded exactly like Lucius Malfoy. Snape even addressed him as Lucius. Also, I saw said individual leaving the Potions classroom." Harry had to stop for a moment and take a breath.

"Harry…I know wait until you are finished, but what name did you always see?" Mercedes asked once again. Only this time she felt fear more than anything else.

"Amon Velius. The name I always saw instead of Lucius Malfoy's name. There is no record of the family name…getting ahead here…my eyes saw Lucius Malfoy leave the classroom but the map showed differently. No matter how many times I looked up to see the backside of Lucius Malfoy and looked down at the map to see the name Amon Velius leaving.

I was frozen in place for a moment. After accepting what I had seen, I headed straight for the Room of Requirement. I had the room become a hospital room of sorts. I called for Dobby, asked a few questions and then asked Dobby to find Lucius Malfoy and to bring him to me in the Room of Requirement and to not tell anyone." Harry paused to glance in the direction of Draco.

Everyone noticed this and also glanced in Draco's direction with the exception of Dudley who had been keeping an eye on his friend.

"Draco, are you alright?" Mercedes asked worried and scared for the boy.

"I can't say at the moment." Draco said barely above a whisper.

"Maybe we should take a break for a little while." Violet suggested.

"No." Draco said quickly.

"I know you want to know all of what Harry has to say, but since he's been the one talking the most I am sure he could use a break. It has been a while after all and I for one could use something to eat and drink as I feel a bit parched. I can't imagine how Harry feels at the moment." Violet said with understanding but also a little annoyance.

"Violet has a good point. And I am not just saying that because she is my daughter." Sirius said in a serious tone that resonated with pride for his daughter.

"A compromise." Harry said quickly. "I can easily ask a certain three elves to bring refreshments and while we enjoy the refreshments I can continue." Harry said with an authority tone to his voice.

No one protested openly, but Harry could see protest in the eyes of several of his friends. This did not bother Harry in anyway as he understood their need and want to know the rest of what he had to say at least in the regard to Lucius Malfoy. They were all in for surprise for what all exactly he was going to tell them.

"Dobby. Kreacher. Muri."

"Master Harry calls us?" Muri said with a worried look in her eyes.

"It's alright Muri, no one is injured. I called the three of you to ask if you would please gather and bring some food and drinks to all of us. It doesn't matter what you bring, we are in need of nourishment."

All three elves smiled and disappeared. Within a few minutes the elves returned with quite a bit of food and beverages. The elves had brought so much with them that not one of the witches or wizards could name or describe, though they really didn't care it was food after all. The moment the food had entered the room everyone's stomach growled as though reprimanding them for the neglect.

Once all the food was gone and stomachs full everyone settled back in to hear or tell the remaining of the explanation.

"I will not go into the details so please do not ask me. I had just finished my dinner when Dobby returned with Lucius. In all honesty I wasn't completely sure that it was indeed Lucius Malfoy. He was in pretty bad shape when Dobby brought him to me. I gave him some pain relieving potion and levitated him to the gurney that was in the room. I do not know what time it was, but he became conscious and coherent. I asked him a series of questions that only the real Lucius Malfoy would know. I had to be certain."

"Why not have had him taken to St. Mungo's if he was in such bad shape?" Ron asked as though St. Mungo's would be the obvious place and most practical.

"I had thought of that Ron. The problem with that is there has been and still is an imposter…Amon Velius is still in disguise as Lucius Malfoy. I…I am unsure as to Lucius' safety. Madam Pomfrey has been tending to Lucius while he stayed in the Room of Requirement as he could not yet be moved."

"Lucius was moved earlier…the reason for the lock down." Mercedes muttered.

"Yes." Harry confirmed. "Madam Pomfrey and Snape had to be sure that Lucius could be moved safely without anyone seeing what was going on. Also, they had to be sure that Lucius was in a secure, safe section. The security measures taken are quite effective as he does not show up on the map and you cannot see the area where he is being kept when in the infirmary unless the security charms, spells and I don't know what else has been keyed to your magical signature…." Harry was interrupted before he could continue.

"He's using polyjuice." Mercedes stated rather than asked.

"Yes he is and he has enough of polyjuice potion brewed and quite a bit of hair to add to it, to last quite some time. Depending on how often Amon is out in the public, he could have enough of it to last until the end of the year. With any luck he'll be caught long before the end of the school year." Harry explained.

"Who is this Amon Velius? Other than an abusing bastard, how bad can he be if his name isn't mentioned anywhere?" Neville inquired.

"Amon Velius is worse than you could imagine or would want to know." Sirius answered. "I grew up hearing about him. There was a lot of talk in my younger years before I left my home at sixteen."

"If we don't know what Amon Velius was like how will we be able to get a handle on how he is? I mean how can we fight him?" Ron asked feeling sickly and it showed on his face.

"I doubt that underage students will be allowed to face Amon." Sirius said with a worried frown.

"Harry, Hermione and Dudley should be granted exceptions." Ron said smugly. "I mean they have the power and magic of Merlin and Morgan le Fay." He quickly added in a bashful way.

"I am sure that with enough FULLY TRAINED ADULT wizards working together Amon could be caught or taken out." Sirius said in a flat tone successfully hiding how he truly felt about the subject.

Before another word could be said about Amon something odd was starting to happen.

"Mercedes is something going haywire with your magic?" Violet asked nervously as Mercedes hair kept changing between two colors.

"What do you mean?" Mercedes asked with alarm clearly present in her voice.

"Your hair…magic is shimmering all around you." Violet answered unsure of how to explain better.

"Change of direction." Harry whispered. "Bear with me…" Harry said as an idea had come to him. "Mercedes trade places with Violet for a moment." Harry said with a feeling of what would happen.

The girls moved and the flickering between the hair colors became more rapid and the shimmering of magic became even more present. Harry didn't have to say anything, Mercedes switched places with Ginny, then Hermione and lastly with Neville. Each move closer to the end where Draco sat the more Mercedes' hair flickered as well as the magic shimmering around her increased.

"Um…Mercedes is there something you haven't told us about you?" Ron asked as he moved just a little bit further away.

"Everyone just relax. I can assure you that Mercedes has no clue as to what is happening."

"What is happening?" Mercedes cried.

"Your glamour is fading." Harry replied.

"My glamour? What are you talking about?" Mercedes asked as tears created from fear began to overflow her eyes.

"Not long after you were born a glamour and notice-me-not charms had been placed on you for your protection." Harry explained though a bit cryptically.

"My birth mum did that? Why?"

"She was desperate to protect you from harm. She saw no other alternative but to place the glamour and notice-me-not charms on you and give you up for adoption. Now that you are in close vicinity of your older brother and another relative that is on grounds the protections your mother placed on you are fading." Harry explained in a way that did not cause him to blurt it out.

"Harry are you saying that Mercedes is…" Draco began but could not finish the thought.

"Mercedes is by blood a Malfoy heiress." Harry said bluntly but with care.

Silence filled the room. Some were letting it sink in, some were in complete shock. This lasted only for a short amount of time. Everyone, except a small handful began to talk at once. Harry tried to get everyone to settle down but to no avail.

"SHUT IT!" Sirius bellowed after a well casted 'Sonorus'.

The room once again filled with silence.

"I wanted to have said the last part differently. I know that there is more the two of you want to know as well as several others, but I do not really have more to say on this. You will have to seek the information from your mum." Harry said directly to Draco and Mercedes.

"Does my mum know? When can I see my parents?" Draco asked in a rush.

"I have no idea if your mum knows or not. As far when can you see them…as soon as you are able to calm down and hall ass to the infirmary. I do not know if the school is still on lock down." Harry replied.

"Mercedes…" Violet said worriedly in a questioning tone.

"I…I don't know what to say or think." Mercedes said softly.

"Dobby." Sirius called.

"I is called?" Dobby squeaked.

"We need to know if the school is still on lock down. If you do not know it would be greatly appreciated if you would find out." Sirius stated with an unspoken request to find out in his voice.

"Dobby already knows, sir. Hogwarts still on lock down."

"We all can't go to the infirmary." Ron commented.

"Of course not." Hermione said as though it was obvious in a faintly biting tone.

"Harry and Dudley should go with Draco and Mercedes to the infirmary." Violet stated in a manner of fact tone. "Sirius should as well, seeing as he is family and I am sure that Draco's mum would appreciate a family member nearby that she can rely on for moral support and just support." The witch added.

"Draco…" Ginny began.

"It's fine." Draco said somewhat distantly.

Everyone in the room suddenly jumped. Muri had appeared in the room with a rather loud 'pop'.

"Muri sorry to startle you's. Mr. Black a witch is here askings for you. Don't want to hear anything until you's there, sir."

"It's alright Muri." Harry said reassuringly.

"I will take that as Narcissa is here on grounds. Dumbledore must have left his personal floo open." Sirius muttered as he stood and headed to the door.

Harry was relieved that Sirius had been able to leave without any problems. Harry was confident that the rest of them would be able to leave without any problems as well. For a moment he remained sitting in his chair thinking that the whole thing could have gone better than it had though it had gone alright. Harry could not describe it as good as it didn't go how he intended it to go.

"Harry, it won't matter if we all leave at the same time, do you?" Violet asked pulling Harry out of his thoughts.

"It should be fine, as long as we get going now. I am sure that the lock down will be removed soon." Harry replied as he stood up.

"Master Harry, Muri is thinking that your friends should return the way they left. 'Cept for those going to see Mr. Malfoy."

"I agree." Fred and George said.

"No argument here." Ron said truly alright with the idea.

The rest were in agreement but did not say anything.

"And we know that we are sworn to secrecy. Although, I do not feel that any of us would want to be responsible for any harm to be done to Mr. Malfoy or worse to happen." Hermione said in more of a warning tone.

Before another word could be said, the elves gathered the students from Gryffindor and returned them to their house. Harry, Draco, Dudley and Mercedes let the room together in complete silence. The silence remained as they made their way to the infirmary. The route to the infirmary was taken slowly. Though Draco wanted to see his father he was also nervous about the reunion. He was also still in a state of shock knowing that Mercedes is his long lost sibling. It was difficult to wrap his mind around it. Draco did realize why he felt a connection to Mercedes that was platonic in every sense.

As the four entered the infirmary they could hear voices. The voices consisted of Narcissa, the school nurse and Headmaster and Sirius.

A/N: I hope I described the reaction Mercedes and Draco had to the bomb shell. I have not been in that situation before nor have I known anyone that has been through something like that. I did my best and hope that it worked. If not I apologize for that.