Dead Pond

by Hawzey

Son of Voldemort and Bellatrix. Mortimer was content in his own little world. That is until an old man with the shiniest eyes appears. Now he has to adapt into this new and strange world. With no one to really 'guide' him, Mortimer must now navigate his way and find his own footing. Hopefully the year goes smooth. . . Going on year 4.

42. Chapter 42

AN: This wraps up book tree (three) Follow/Fav/Review.

"Do you hear that?" Sirius whirls his head towards the door.

Lupin does the same, and in a fit a panic said. "Someone's coming!"

"Hide." Groused Sirius, motioning his body in jitters. "I need at least one person to tell Harry the truth."

"Sirius -"

"Go now!" Sirius fiercely orders, leaving no room for protest. To Blacks relief, Remus complies, preforming a Disillusionment Charm.

"You are so dead." Mortimer growled. More promise than threat, he stays still for a moment when he hears something distinct, something familiar, very dear to him.

"Master! I'm here, Master!"

Mortimer's pupils constricted into pinpoints. Tobey... and he wasn't alone. Would they be able to hear him? Assuming Sirius was too dumb to place the silencing Charm, he shouts. "No - don't come in!"

Quickly turning towards him, Black stuffs Mortimer's mouth with an odious piece of cloth. "Shut up! Tying it securely around his mouth.

The opposite of what he told them not to do, he muffled and attempted to make as much noise as possible. A surprise Mortimer had not foreseen - He expected a teacher, preferably, Professor Snape - Heck, he'd be grateful if it was Dumbledore. . . A wild card would've been Draco and maybe some of his housemates.

But the golden trio?

No, he didn't expect that at all. Tobey hanging over Potter's shoulders, no less - Stunned, he couldn't seem to shake the image off.

"Mortimer?" Questioned Potter, his head tilted. He could see Granger and Ron standing from behind, they were just as shocked, if not more.

An eruption of things happening all at once.

With Sirius Black taking out Mortimer's very own wand, he yells. "Expelliarmus!" He takes a step closer to Harry. "I didn't think you'd come and help your friend." He sneers, eyeing Mortimer before turning back to him. "You father had done the same - for another snake." A chuckle. "Brave of you, really. It makes things much easier."

Hearing the mention of his own father, Harry's body tenses up and puts himself in an attacking stance. As the room becomes silent, neither one of them said a word, and with that silence, Mortimer watches from behind. He could've gotten out of the chair and attack him from where he was positioned. The loose ropes, he'd be able to put an end. Then again, curiosity... would Harry go through with it?

His questioned answered when Harry ran forward.

Though, he was not so successful as both Ron and Hermione held him back. "No Harry!" Scared, Granger yells out. "Don't do it." Harry's hatred glare for Black, there was something murderous about the small glint between his pupils, it terrified his friends.

"If you kill Harry, you have to kill us to." Ron said defiantly. Brave as he was, he was having trouble standing up straight, the petrified fear in his bones, Mortimer could see the redhead shaking. Sirius must've noticed it too as he stares down at the trio. Attempting to intimidate the crook, Ron clenches his fists. "That's right! You heard me, you'll have to kill all three of us!"

Shaking his head, Sirius lowers his hand, only slight. "There's only going to be one murder here tonight." His cheesy wide grin raises his hand to the small group.

Persistent, Harry tries breaking free from their hold, his eyes never leaving Black. "And why is that?" He spat. "Didn't get enough last time? Didn't mind murdering those innocent muggles? Slaughtering Peter Pettigrew? Gone soft in Azkaban?"

"Stop it, Harry!" Hermione, struggling to hold him back. "You're making things worse."

"Who cares?" He snapped. "He killed my parents!" Pushing her with he left arm, he was able to get loose from Hermione's hold. At the same time, manages to break from Ron as well.

Sitting back and watching the show, Mortimer could appreciate that. Harry certainly has the fighting spirit down - not the actual skill to do so - but with enough drive and effort, he'd at least get one punch before Black actually kills him.

An assortment of calamity soon follows. With Harry running straight towards Black. Hermione screamed while Ron yelled back, paralyzed they were left dumbfounded that all senses to intervene quickly shuts off.

Surprisingly, Black doesn't raise the wand, the man didn't even fight back. Harry, balling his hand into a really tight fist, hits Sirius on the side of his head, enacting Black to fall backwards and down against the wall.

As Potter continued to hit Black, the two fought over the weapon. In a turn of events, Sirius arms flew back, releasing Mortimer's wand as it slid right across the room.

This was his chance.

Mortimer began ignoring everyone in the room. The loud noises and screams coming from Hermione and Ron, his eyes were completely focused on his wand.

"Hold still, Master." Tobey whispered in his ear. "I will save you."

Nodding, Mortimer appeared collected. Whilst Black grabbed a hold of Harry's throat. Mortimer was more absorbed in untying of the distasteful flavor of musk around his mouth.

Coming out from the shock, Ron and Hermione decided to finally act. The rush Black, with Ron throwing himself on top of Black, Hermione had swinged her foot while Harry grunted in pain from the chokehold. Jamming their bodies together, they fought for control. And then, out of nowhere, Crookshanks thrusted himself into the match. Unexpectedly, the cat had begun to sink its claws and teeth into Harry's arm, piercing his skin.

His mouth no longer clogged; Mortimer spits out the rag. "You are free." Claimed Tobey.

Smiling, he turned over to Tober. "Thank you..." A relief that was met short when a horrifying thought emerges. "And Draco? Do you know what happened to Draco?"

"He is unharmed."

Bobbing his head, Mortimer looks over to Harry, who was able to toss the cat away. "Tobey," he said quietly. "Get my wand."

The snake was not one to waste time, without a word he slithers and avoids being trampled by the giant humans. Until he was able to reach the other side of the room, he grabs his master's wand and crawls straight up, settling on his lap.

"Get out of the way!" Harry erupts, pushing and shoving his friends away, going to retrieve his very own wand.

The room pauses.

He points it directly between Black's very own heart. "Going to kill me, Harry?" He whispered, his tone wasn't a teasing one, but one that resembled one of heartbreak.

The two of them breathing heavily, they were fixated at other. None could move, "You killed my parents..." Accused Harry, his voice shaken, along with his body.

What is he waiting for? Kill him! Thought Mortimer, he had Black where he wanted, this was his chance. A small flick of concern hits Mortimer. He can't do it...

"I won't deny it." Appearing hurt, his face softens. "If you knew the story - the truth - then you'd understand."

"Story?" Shaking his head, Harry snarled. "There is no story! You sold them out to Voldemort, and now you've brought Mortimer to finish me off. That's all I need to know."

"No, Harry -"

"Are you expecting us to fight?" Harry tightening his wand, his eyes watching Mortimer, for a moment. "Is that why you kidnapped him? Cause he said 'no'? You're going to force us to fight?"

"Listen!" Barked Black. "You have to listen to me - You'll regret it if you don't - Try and understand..." Waving his hand to get his attention, there was grave importance in his tone. "I'm trying to -"

Harry wasn't listening, he was through talking. "I understand - more than you know." His anger seeping his core, his eyes water at the rage of just having to listen to this old murderous villain. "You didn't have to hear her..." he spoke softly yet threatening. "Didn't hear her trying to stop him from... from killing me..." Spitting in bitter anguish as he recalls. "You did it, you caused their deaths. You took them away."

For a minute, no one said anything, nobody moved. Not even Mortimer. To say that he felt bad for Potter was quite an understatement. The Dark Lord - Voldemort, was a cruel man, many families that were destroyed. For what? Power? Mortimer felt shame for the actions of his parents, the people he has to be around, the person he has to pretend to be. Mortimer might never know what it means to be loved by a parent, but Harry... is reminded every day. The fact that he's even alive, is living proof the love his parents have for their son was undying. Not even, Voldemort could kill it.

As he laid on the floor, the annoying cat, Crookshanks, attempts to defend Black, one last time. Landing softly on his chest, if Harry was going to kill him, he was going to have to go through the gingery feline. "Get off..." Sirius seemed defeated, and near accepting.

However, the cat didn't move.

Harry was done talking when he offered nothing return. Damn both of them. Hermione was crying when she lets out a sob. Ron, was speechless, more so confused as he took note of Mortimer's presence.

Lifting his wand, it was time to say... goodbye.

"Expelliarmus!" Shouted a noise from the corner of the room.

Lupin, undoing the spell, comes out.

If the emptiness in his heart couldn't get any deeper, seeing Lupin stand nearside Black, he felt completely shattered. Harry didn't understand what was going on, what he was seeing. It left him feeling cold... and angry. "That's enough." Lupin muttered. "Sirius? Where is he?"

Sirius' eyes continue to look at Harry, while he rests there, he uses one finger, pointing it towards Ron.

A choke, Ron's expression turns into shock. Watching Lupin help Black from the floor, his wand still pointed at them, Harry was left speechless, frozen in time as he saw the familiarity they were sharing. Hermione broke down, betrayed by her own professor. "I don't believe it! You - and Him!?"

"Hermione -"

"I didn't tell anyone! I didn't tell -" She yammers, stuttering in frustration.

Now, Mortimer was really confused. "Master?" Tobey said. "We must leave quickly; it is not safe."

He agreed, though, leaving would mean Sirius gets to walk free. "I need to get rid of them..."

Gently hitting Mortimer on his cheek, Tobey shrilled. "No, no, no - The tall one... he's not safe! His scent, dangerous, bloody..."

As Professor Lupin tries calming down the wailing girl, she warns them. "Harry! we can't trust them - He's been helping Black getting into the castle, he's out to kill you... He's a werewolf!"

"What?" Ron cried out. "A werewolf? A bloody werewolf!?"

"You've been helping Black all this time!" Hermione accuses. "He's your friend and you're helping him!"

"You're wrong." Lupin denied. "I haven't been helping him - Not at first, just let me explain -"

"How do you know he was here?" Cutting off Lupin, Harry's wand remained defensive.

"The Marauder's map." Lupin responded plainly, wanting to ease the situation, he puts his wand back, showing a sign of surrender. "I've been watching it all day - "

"And how do you know how it works?"

A sad smile played across his sweaty face. "I helped write it - Moony, that was my nickname in school..."

"You -"

"It doesn't matter." Waving his hand, he went back to explain. "I was watching the map because I thought the three of you might try and sneak out to visit Hagrid before the Hippogriff was executed. I was right, wasn't I?" He said, kicking some dust from the floor. "Regardless, as I watched you cross the grounds and enter Hagrid's hut, a name appeared..."

"What?" Questioned, Harry. Frowning he couldn't take his eyes away as he studied Lupin.

"Not yours," Lupin murmured, he peers over his shoulder. At which time, everyone else had done the same.

Directing their sights on Mortimer.

"But his," Finished Remus. "I spotted Mortimer's name next to Draco's, not far from them was a name I did not expect. Moving very fast towards him, it was labeled Sirius Black. Watching in horror as their names collided against each other. I ran to go help. When I reached the two of them, I confronted Black." He laughs a little. "I wouldn't listen at first. But he asked me to look at the map again - and if I still didn't believe him, then he wouldn't resist me." Nodding at his decision, he explains. "I did and found four names. You and your friends."

"Three of us! Not four." Shouted Ron, holding the rat that continued to twist around. "There was only three of us."

Lupin didn't seem to mind his words but stood still and reached his hand out. "Do you think I could have a look at that rat?"

Stunned by the request. "What?" Weasley didn't budge, only asks. "What does Scabbers have anything to do with this?"

"Everything." Lupin implores. "Please, may I see him?"

Holding the rat closer to him, seeming to be frightened for his pet rat. "What does he got to do with any of it?" He repeats his previous question.

Irritated, Black just wanted to get it over with. "It isn't a rat."

"What do you mean!" Now, Ron was the one getting angry. "Of course, he's rat."

Lupin talking quietly. "No, he isn't. He's a wizard."

Black also added with. "An Animagus by the name Peter Pettigrew..."

Drowning out Lupin's long and irrelevant explanation of events. He'd go on and repeat everything he had told Mortimer. While he told the trio his life's tale of how the shrieking shack was built to house Remus when he turned into a werewolf. The reason why had cuts and bruises the next day - Everything that would explain why things happened the way they did.

Going further in depth about being a student, the friends he's made, leading to the birth of the marauder's map. Listening closely, Mortimer has learned that Black, Pettigrew and Harry's own father, James, were illegal animagus. Having journeys of their own, it wasn't until the tale turns dark as they speak about Snape.

A prank that went too far. Mortimer did not blame Snape nor the hatred he had towards Lupin.

Hearing everything at once, Mortimer relaxes his body, a sigh. It was time to get out of these cuffs and leave with Black.

"So that's why Snape doesn't like you..." Harry, seeming to have forgotten who the real enemies were, asks. "Because he thought you were in on the joke?"

"You'd be correct." A dark, deep, angered voice fell from the wall.

Pulling off the cloak, Professor Snape appear from thin air. Just how many Professors were involved!? Was the whole staff in on it? Was Professor Flitwick hiding inside the trunk, McGonagall transfigured herself as vase? Mortimer couldn't find the proper words just to describe the whole situation. This is really messed up...

As everything goes into chaos in a matter of seconds, their reaction towards Snape was met by instant hostility.

"I found this near the Womping Willow..." Holding Harry's cloak, he tosses it on the ground. Directing his wand, he kept his eyes straight at Lupin. "Thank you, Potter, for leading me right to them."

Potter felt frightened and taken aback by his mannerisms. He seemed collected but about ready to explode should he meet resistance. "If you're wondering how I knew..." He tells, his dark eyes seeming to gleam at his victory. "Young Malfoy was able to tell me everything. How Black maliciously attacked him, tied him up and left him near breathless inside a broom closet." His jaw clenched once he spotted Mortimer. "I believe you've traumatized him Black, and I see you've captured another."

Mortimer had stayed quiet throughout the whole thing, his only concern now was getting Black, and anyone who stood in his way. With Professor Snape here, things have changed. Maybe if Black provokes him enough, Snape could finish him off.

As everyone went back and forth. Lupin was desperate in trying to convince Snape to listen. While Hermione pleads to reason with him. Words that were thrown at Snape had no effect on him. His decision was already set in stone. His idea of letting the dementors have a go at Black. The scene was swiftly becoming a dangerous one as everyone shouted over each other, becoming more and more tense as Lupin was gagged and bound. With Harry refusing to move, Snape doesn't hesitate to snap at the boy. Even after all that rubbish, Harry still found a way to defend the enemy. Has everyone forgotten about him? That not long ago, Sirius was the one trying to murder him over a belief that was proven wrong. Were they really this stupid or have they simply forgot?

All this for a rat...

A move that no one saw coming, Hermione yells out. "Expelliarmus!" Snape suddenly lifted up and thrown against the wall, he was knocked out cold.

As everyone looked for the source, everyone was shocked to find the bushy haired girl. She herself couldn't believe she had just done that.

Both Ron and Harry were at a loss for words, neither made a sound.

"You shouldn't have done that." Said Black, looking at the children, but more specifically, Harry. "You should've left him to me."

Realizing what she's done, Hermione, covered her mouth and whispered to herself. "We attacked a teacher, I attacked a teacher," She shakes and whimpers. "We're in so much trouble." She couldn't take her eyes off Snape's unconscious body. At the same time Black was helping Lupin get out of the bounds that were placed over his body.

With Snape out of the way, Mortimer was again left alone with his own thoughts. Viewing Ron's trembling state as Lupin asks for the rat again, Ron tries to reason with everyone. "There's millions of rats out there! How would he know which ones he's after? He's been locked up in Azkaban! He could be crazy."

As Lupin and Black explained to the trio about Pettigrew's escape. Mortimer kept his role as the audience member, having listened enough, he turns off the noises and reserves himself. "Master, why are we still here? We must leave."

"I know," Mortimer said bitterly. "just hand me my wand, I will strike when the time is right... and then we can leave." Eyeing slowly as Ron offers Lupin the rat.

Mortimer wasn't expecting much from it, instead focuses on Tobey, watching his little pet as he crawls down to the floor, with his wand resting between his sharp teeth.

"Ready, Sirius?" Lupin mutters from a distance. To Mortimer, it was all white noise when Tobey slither right behind him.

"Together?" Sirius said anxiously. Feeling Tobey coming near, Mortimer can almost feel the weight of him.

"I think so." Holding the rat tightly, he uses his free hand to point his wand at him. At long last, Mortimer felt the long pulsing magic of his wand.

A breath of relief, Mortimer had what he wanted. Felt what he needed. All while everyone else was too focused on what a bloody rat was doing.

A flash of blue, white light bursts in the air, grabbing everyone attention. Frozen in midair, the rat squirms and wriggles around, thrashing and shaking it fell and began to transform. Growing human arms and stretching very thick legs, a short man with a thin hair and a balding spot in the middle. It caught everyone by surprise, even Mortimer who had stopped moving because he too couldn't believe his eyes.

They were right.

The fat fidgeting little man started to play pretend. Acting so casual but squeaking all the way through. "My friends! My dear old friends! How I am so relieved you've found me."

But Black, repulsed by the sight of him, tapered against Peter, using Snape's wand. Lupin didn't react in the same way, in fact, remained composed throughout Peter's pleads. After all that, Pettigrew still found a way to try and blame Black for everything. Claiming he was still insane, yet his words were brushed to the side. He was just a coward who wanted to save their own skin.

"Come on Sirius!" Peter uttered, the sweat falling from his forehead, he looked guilty beyond a doubt. "Remus? We're friends, you wouldn't hurt your friends, right?"

Seeing as how Black and Lupin were no longer listening, Pettigrew went towards the children. First towards Ron. "Ron! Yes - my dear good friend. Haven't I been a good pet?"

Ron appeared sickened and ready to throw up, "I let you sleep in my bed!" he makes a gagging noise.

Then, to Hermione. "You! Clever girl - sweet girl," he crawls, "you won't let them hurt me, right? Help me?"

But she seemed revolted as she backs away.

Finally, he makes his way to Potter. "Harry! Harry! You look just like your father - "

The mention of his father was enough to send Black in a frenzy. "You don't get to speak to Harry! You don't get to talk about James to Harry. How dare you -"

Shaking, and desperately trying to get the boy's attention he goes on. "H-Harry! James wouldn't have killed me. J-James understood, he'd show mercy."

But Harry seemed appalled, tongue-tied he wasn't sure what to think anymore.

"You! Young Black - Mortimer. Tell them, will you?" Peter whispered, shuffling through the floor. "The Dark Lord - tell th-them they have no idea the weapons he has! Th-that your father forced me -"

As Pettigrew came closer to him, he stops in his tracks, letting out a scream when Tobey suddenly slithers right in front of Mortimer's feet. Hissing loudly that even Crookshanks had ran away. "Foul, disgusting human!" Mortimer hears Tobey say.

At which, Peter began to sob. A real cowering baby, Mortimer's never seen anything more pathetic in his life.

Coming back to reality, Harry stood in front of Pettigrew as Lupin and Black were ready to end it all. "No! You can't kill him." Coming up with an idea, Harry suggested. "We can take him to the castle, and he can go to Azkaban, just don't kill him... it isn't right."

While Black made it clear he didn't like the decision, he nevertheless respected it. Tying Pettigrew, they did the same to Professor Snape, who remained numb.

But one thing still remained.

"Right, so what do we do about him?" Sirius asks.

Everyone turning to face Mortimer who sat back calmly. Watching them the entire time, he never once interrupted them and hadn't said much at all.

"I say we obliviate him." Sirius purposes. "I might've been wrong about his involvement but he's still a snake."

"Sirius - " Lupin scowls, disapproving in his friend's behavior. "He's innocent, he hasn't done anything wrong."

Glaring Mortimer, he retorts. "Still, he knows too much. We can't risk it. Who's to say he won't go running to his lot and tell everyone you're werewolf, or Harry helping us..."

The exchanging glances they shared was one Mortimer won't forget. It was a silent agreement, while no one agreed to his decision, neither fought it either. They were thinking the same thing and in some weird sense, Mortimer was rather hurt.

"Right." Lupin said nervously, coming to face the tied-up boy. "I would like to apologize for the misunderstanding. Isn't that right, Sirius?"

Elbowing the man, Sirius grumbled under his breath. "Right... Sorry about all that." Yet, sounded superficial. "About kidnapping you, almost trying to kill you... I only wanted to protect Harry. But you won't have to worry any longer."

Though, Mortimer wasn't so forgiving, in fact he didn't react at all. He instead plays with the wand hiding on his back.

Hermione was rather concerned, noting how Mortimer didn't even look at any of them. "Mortimer?"

Ron was too repulsed, too disgusted about Pettigrew's true identity, he couldn't find it in him to insult him. That's when Harry, starts making his way towards him. "I-I'll untie you now."

---

He wasn't going to do it; he wasn't going to be able to do it. Sirius Black was about to walk out a freeman, untouched and no consequences, he was going to live another day.

All because Potter couldn't find it in him. Weak, he was too forgiving, letting not only Black live, but Pettigrew as well.

What felt worse was the small pain in his chest. Potter was willing to let Pettigrew go, but him? No. He couldn't have that... he needed to be obliviated.

"Idiot." Mortimer mumbled. His head lowering, no one could see his cold expression. Why is he still alive? Why couldn't you just kill him?

"Mortimer, Black isn't the enemy." Harry began, walking closer to him. "Peter Pettigrew... He will pay, he's going to Azkaban."

He wasn't listening. I knew he wouldn't be able do it... A small smile tugged his lips. I was hoping - But that's ok... I'm going to fix this. . . I'm going to fix this. He repeats to himself, hardly paying any mind to Potter.

"Mortimer?" Harry questions, his voice morphing into nervousness, disturbed by his lack of reaction.

Pushing Harry aggressively against the ground, Hermione screams back while Ron lets out a curse. Before Sirius could run after them, Mortimer directs his wand at the older Black and casts. "Aqua Percutiens!"

Instantly, a long swerve of water emerges from the end of his wand. His target clear, Black was forcefully hurled out of the room. Losing his balance, he topples down the flight of stairs, hitting the ground with a booming sound.

Mortimer wastes no time in disarming Lupin. His expression was stoic, "Expelliarmus." he casts.

The wand flying from Remus's hand, he did not expect Mortimer to follow it with another attack. "Stupefy."

Seeing Remus slam against the wall, Hermione wailed in response. "Stop it! Mortimer - Don't -" Her body in a panic, she hesitates to attack. But rather, Ron decides to take aim. "Expel-"

Ron was unable to finish the spell as Mortimer rushes. "Petrificus Totalus."

Instantly, both Ron and Hermione stiffen at the spot, darting their eyes around in full fledge fear.

Harry, still trying to recover, rubs his head. Seconds after, lets out a terrible gasp, his friends were frozen. Remus, in a comatose state, the spell he had casted around Pettigrew slowly weakens. The chains around him grows fader.

"Young Mortimer!" Pettigrew triumphs, quickly shuffling his body like a worm. "Yo-you did it! Oh! How I just knew it - Come, set me free, I'll -"

"Flipendo." Hurling Pettigrew on the other side of the room, the portly sobbing man whimpers in pain. Soon, starts to shake and recoil as he hears Mortimer's footsteps walking in his direction. "I wouldn't let you serve me, much less speak to me filth."

He tsks in disappointment. "Calling you a rat is an insult to real rats, at least they offer some use..." He whispers coolly. "You peg me more as a roach... a real nuisance, disgusting to look at - skittering around where you're not wanted." Tapping his chin lightly, he chuckles as Pettigrew tries distancing himself away. "But you at least have to admire their persistence. They could be squashed at any second, yet they still find the drive to go out into the world." Grimacing, he lets out a scoff. "A coward. That's what you are - A repulsing, loathsome, gutless, double-crossing scumbag. You don't deserve to lick the dirt I stand on. Why my father thought to let you join... desperation? I rinse myself from you."

"Immobulus." A high pitch whine, Pettigrew was rendered motionless. The murderous look in Mortimer's eyes, he sets them beyond the door where Sirius laid. He can clearly here Potter shouting at him. However, he was treated as an insignificant little maggot when he is brushed aside, pretending he wasn't in the room.

His sole focus was on someone else.

Hearing the elder Black groan, Mortimer couldn't help but smirk. Watching him as he attempts to compose himself, "What a nasty fall." Mortimer teased, taking his first step down. "You should be more careful... I wouldn't want you too hurt - not yet. . ."

"Mortimer!" His name was being shouted from above the room. It was Potter, his wand gripped tightly around his hand. "Get away from him!"

"Not now Potter." Mortimer said softly. Without looking back, he quietly casts a Calloportus spell.

The door slamming shuts, he could hear Potter banging and trying to open the door.

Dragging his feet, his matted hair concealed his expression that Mortimer wasn't able to tell if he was coherent enough. "I told told you, you were dead."

"Stupid boy..." Sirius rasps, clenching together his hands, he looked just about ready to attack, with or without a wand.

"Fine..." Somewhat disappointed, Mortimer merely stares down and watches the tattered man. "Have it your way."

Getting to his feet, Mortimer had no time to react when he was instantly thrown down to the floor as Sirius collided against him.

His body was being crushed under his weight. They were both fighting for the wand, hitting and prying of the desired weapon. Mortimer tried to stay out of the way once Black's fist challenges his face. Truthfully, Mortimer had no skill with his hands, not when it came to a fist fight, especially one against someone much older than him. Regardless, the electricity running through his blood, Mortimer wasn't afraid to use the advanages that were present.

"Tobey!"

A sizzling uproar, Tobey slithers from thin air to attack Sirius, sinking his teeth inside his shoulders. Letting an angered scream, Mortimer was able to punch Black straight in the nose and clung on to his wand. "Incedio!" he expels out in rage.

Jets of fire bursting out, Sirius scrambles to his feet, rapidly trying to avoid the deadly fire that approaches him. Stumbling on the ground, Mortimer watches as Sirius makes his way through the house, plunging towards a trap door, leading to a very long and deep dark tunnel.

Curious, Mortimer begins to follow. Right on his tail, Mortimer points and yells various spells.

Unsuccessful, Sirius manages to avoid most of them, without a weapon to defend himself with, Black was forced to run. And Mortimer was enjoying every second of it.

Stretching out the tunnel, Mortimer could feel the air hitting him as he reaches the outside grounds, the brightly lit moon shining above him, he lets it guide him further to the pathway. Looking up, he was amazed to have found out the passage to the shrieking shack led him to a hole under the womping willow. Even more surprising when the tree did not immediately attack, in fact, he didn't think the tree had noticed him.

Carefully, inspecting the area, he could spot Sirius from a distance. The old fool was running straight into the forest grounds. Fine by him, this way, he could at least bury the body behind a bush or something of the sort.

It might've been dark and near impossible to see, but the dimness environment provided great cover for him. He didn't want Sirius to see him or know just how close he was.

"Where is he?" Mortimer said a sharp tone.

Flicking his tongue for a few seconds, Tobey focuses. "I smell him - to your right."

Taking the critter's answer, Mortimer attentively paces on the woodland ground, making crunching noises as he steps on the leaves and a bunch twigs. There was no telling where he might've gone. For all he knew, he could be right, "Behind you!"

However fast he said it, Mortimer was slow to react, and Black had jumped in surprise. Wrapping his thin arm around Mortimer's neck, he was forced to drop his wand. They fought for authority as Mortimer began kicking back, trying to catch him off balance. Sirius was struggling to maintain his grip. Hearing the boy, he was making choking sounds, coughing and breathing heavily for breath.

"Any final words, Spawn?" Black grinds out, tightening his arm around his neck.

Grunting and violently thrashing, he manages to loosen his grasp. "Tobey!" Mortimer croaks.

Another attack from the snake, he instantly glides out from his master, biting Sirius on the ankle, he screams out at the sharp pain.

It was just what Mortimer needed as Black fought off Tobey, he wastes no time in trying to look for a weapon. With it being so dark, Mortimer couldn't find his wand underneath the endless sea of leaves and so instead goes after something else. Not the same as a wand but just as similar to one. A stick, a rather big, heavy stick that he uses to club Sirius from the back.

Screw magic.

A cry at the startling hit, Black instantly falls to the ground. Just how he wanted, Mortimer didn't give him a chance to recover as he thwacks! The heavy end of the branch makes contact with Black's left leg. Smiling once Sirius' body goes into a fetal position, his arms trying to protect his head. Beating and whacking him with all his strength, Mortimer's movements become more rapid, more barbaric as he starts cursing at him, striking him until he grows weary.

His body getting tired, Mortimer breathes through his mouth. Panting heavily as his chest goes up and down, covered in sweat, his arm goes limber. Until he finally drops the bloody club. "You know..." he huffs, taking another intake of air. "the last person who choked me was turned into a pile of ash."

Wiping his forehead, Mortimer composes himself thoroughly, clearing his throat. Cracking his neck, and shaking his body, the adrenaline that was going through his body, he's never felt so free, so good. "I was going to make this fast and give you a quick death." Brushing his nose, he sniffs as he fixes his shirt. "But I guess beating the death out of you will have to do.

A barely audible groan and there goes Black. A pathetic sight, Mortimer couldn't help but tilt his head in fascination. Not long ago, he was afraid but now, watching Sirius try and gather his bearings, it was almost kind of funny. Bending down, Mortimer goes and retrieves his wand for nearly a minute. When he does, he kicks Black one last time, this time however, he doesn't react.

There was one thing remaining. How will he go about it? Killing him. How does a wizard kill another wizard? Countless spells and hexes, which one would be appropriate? He could always choke him... Yet, death by asphyxiation was a method done by muggles, wasn't it? Then again, a dark part of him wanted to know what it felt like. To wrap his hands around that pencil neck of his, slowly take his time as he suppresses the incoming air going through his lungs. Would his eyes pop right off if he squeezes hard enough? Will he turn blue? How long would it take? These questions alone had Mortimer shaking at the thrill.

From a long distance, a howling sound thunders on all sides of the forest. First it growled and then roared. A loud rippling effect, the animals react, running across all different directions, trying to get as far away as possible.

It was also enough to wake Sirius from slumber. His bloody eye widening, Black pays no attention to the blood dripping from his mouth. "You have to let me go - Harry... he's in danger!"

"Aren't we all?" Mortimer responds, hardly the reaction he would expect. "You only have yourself to blame. Coming here, putting your Godson in danger. Now look at him, he's about to be meat on a slab for a starving werewolf, and it's all your fault."

The guilt written all over his face says it all. Defeated in his own faults, Black doesn't move, the arrogant grin that once tormented Mortimer was nowhere to be seen. A small laugh, he shakes his head. "What's wrong? Snake caught your tongue?"

"Idiot boy!" He spits out in crimson. Ignoring the fact that Mortimer's eyes had suddenly turned red, glowing in the dark, Black snarls. "There's no time for your petty vendetta! I have to go, now!"

"I agree." Lifting his hand to reveal his wand, he leers down, savoring Black's injured face. "It's time for you to go."

Mortimer beams and faces it right between his enemy's eyes. Black couldn't seem to move, fate sealed tightly, there was no talking out of it. Sirius could tell, it was the same expression his cousin often sported after a long day of terrorizing people. "Tell Harry. . . I'm sorry."

Just as he was ready to end it all with a simple severing charm. There was a loud screeching noise. It was one but soon, became multiple as the skies suddenly turned dim. Darker than normal, the moon was blatantly covered with a murky somber mist, eating away any life that might've been there.

A huff, Mortimer could see his very own breath appear. This wasn't normal.

A sense of familiarity, Sirius stays where he's at. A long shiver creeping down his spine, his eyes dart upwards.

"Dementors." Saying it at the same time, they abruptly stare at one another, bearing similar expressions, it was fear.

A swarm of dementors, wafting high in the air, they let out a cry that sends both Blacks into a fit of brimming dread.

"Master, we must move." Tobey, crawling up to neck brings Mortimer back to reality. Taking in the situation, he listens. "Let them take him and leave!"

Putting his wand away, Mortimer curses, already sprinting away once Sirius gets to his feet.

Running, Mortimer's sights were dead set forwards. Afraid if he looks back, he will no doubt freeze on the spot. Even as he fled, he could hear the same panicking motions coming from behind. Without a glance, he knew Sirius was following him. Darting away from the dementors or in a bid for his life, he was hindering right next to him. Speedily running, whilst Black limped all the way through, his right left leg had been severely injured, Mortimer believed he broken a bone or two.

The shrieks grew louder and closer, they couldn't be out run. A sharp demeaning old voice wailing right above, Mortimer could recognize it immediately.

Oh no... It was starting again. The voice was beginning to make its way to his ear sockets.

In a beat a sweat, he shakes his head to stop it from reaching him. However much he ran, he was unable to rid himself from it. Covering his ears, Mortimer avoids smacking into a few trees that were in his way. Don't listen, don't listen, don't listen!

He says it over and over again.

Nearly tripping and clumsily stumbling on his feet, he races, while simultaneously avoids getting a heart attack. Forgetting about Black, he cares only for himself. Every part of his mind that was shouting at him to get away from those soul sucking creatures. Their shouts calling to them within hearing to flee and not look back, were dashing throughout the wide-open woods, rushing towards anywhere that could lead them to a potential building or someone that could help. The dementors hadn't fully reach them yet, but they were coming closer, and their skeletal cloaked bodies were flying over the ceilings, hissing, swirling and descending on the two. Mortimer pushes his way through each obstacle.

Landing in a different part of the forest, Mortimer stops to catch his breath, panting he uses his mouth to get in as much air as he can.

Viewing the new location, he found himself standing on the side of the lake. The large body water, there was no movement beyond. Though the air was getting colder.

Turning around, Mortimer quickly points his wand towards a jumble of bushes that were shaking radically.

It was Black.

The man had turned himself into a dog just to catch up with him. Now, that he here, Mortimer watched him as he turned back into a human, flatering and tripping down, his injuries had gotten worse.

Tailing from behind was a wide blanket of fog that made it entirely hard to see. With Black's presence here, a cold dread begins to form in the pit of his stomach. The dementors were here, and they were surrounding them. Feeling them out as the foul demons encircle them, greedily weighing their options, wanting to feast.

"Get behind me." Mortimer uttered defeatedly.

Surprised when Sirius listened to him, he seemed rather dazed, out of his mind he appeared mindless and fragile.

Raising his wand, he wipes his eyes, trying to get a grip. His legs were shaking, along with the rest of him.

"Yo-You have to... to. . ." Sirius was trying to tell him something, but he was coming in and out from whatever faze he was going through. It was as though his soul had already been sucked out. "the charm!" He jerks upwards. "the charm..."

His sentences were inaudible. To Mortimer, they ravings of a nutcase, mumble jumble that meant nothing.

Attempting to shake off the increasing voices, he gazes the dementors orbiting around them. At some point one of them was confident in approaching them.

"Aqua Percutiens!" A solid stretch of water whips the boney figure back.

The fog getting thicker, it was harder to see, the sky no longer visible, he was left only to guess where the next dementor will strike.

"To your left." Instructs Tobey.

Swiftly taking aim, he flogs another dementor, shooting straight into the air. "More on your right, and another on your back."

Feeling exhausted, Mortimer fought to stay awake. With the lake being so close, he was able to manipulate the water better and form some sort of barrier between them and the dementors. Any one of them coming near, he was able to send them flying.

The yells - her cries - increasing, he wants to quit, wants to stop fighting. "Master, to your side."

An additional smack, the noises of his attacks were harsh whips being flanged. Peering over shoulder, Sirius laid over the ground. The idiot had lost consciousness, leaving him to fend for his own.

I could always leave him...

"Left."

One more, he issues a lash on a group of three. Yet, for the ones thrown back, a herd came from behind. Overwhelmed by many, Mortimer wasn't sure how he was still able to progress any proper thoughts.

Belting five more, Mortimer could no longer keep up. His cover becoming weak, he was starting to grow tired. Tobey trying to talk him out of it, kept encouraging to fight.

Honestly, he didn't think he had any left in him.

Though, the muffling shrieks that echoed around him was just enough to stir him awake. Fear gripping him tightly, his shoulders tense up when a collection of those creatures speed down towards the two. Clenching his jaw, Mortimer focuses, marking his wand at the lake, he gravitates the water to form a ball above him, quickly, he fires, shooting them like bullets. It was enough to cause them to retreat, dodging and hissing at him.

Falling to knees, Mortimer stares into space. His vision was becoming a blur. I have to keep going...

Going through his trunk of memories, he tries recalling what Lupin said regarding dementors. The only way to defeat a dementor was. . .

Hitting his head, Mortimer tries to remember. To defeat a dementor is...

A charm? What charm? His thoughts were clouded by the unbearable squeals of voices that were telling him how useless he was. Stop it! Charm, charm - What bloody charm did Lupin say!?

"In front of you, master." Tobey urges rapidly.

Tossing his hands in the air, he angrily shouts. "Glacius!"

A rather large wall of ice forms, foolishly the foul screaming creature slammed itself in front of it. But none of that matter, their determination to eat outwieghted his will to progress.

Mortimer could feel his body going numb, his breath shaking, losing all his senses he forgets where he was, who he was...

The voice was now whispering in his ear.

It was telling him to come home.

Home?

He didn't have a home. At least he didn't think he did.

It was now urging him to stop fighting, there was no reason to. If he lets go, there'd be no more pain. No one to ever hurt him. He'd be at peace. His worries would be washed away and replaced with something far better. It sounded like heaven. Maybe he should stop fighting... It was an easy decision that there was no reason to think it any further.

So then why hasn't he? Why is still pondering over his answer?

Lowering his eyes, his feet were no longer touching the ground and he could longer feel anything. No noise, no smell, touch, nothing. It was like floating in thin air, as he if had turned into nothingness.

---

Trudging, Mortimer found himself traveling through a long empty hallway. Bright and blinding fluorescent lights hanged above the ceiling.

Noting he wasn't wearing any shoes. He was simply dressed in a white shirt with matching joggers, his plain white socks traveling deeper up when he looks around for a sign of life.

He walks pass a few rooms, none of them had any doors, making it easier for him to see inside.

Nothing, there was no one inside.

Confused, he leaves and goes to the next room. One after the other, they were uninhabited. All he found were empty tables and chairs that were neatly placed. A small television on top of the room, showcasing on a random channel, he seemed to be the only one here.

"There you are." Coming from his right, he was startled by the person. . . reptile?

Hybrid-type-figure waiting at the end of the corridor. Even more surprised when he realizes it was Tobey - only not Tobey. It was a human body with the head of Tobey. . . wearing a suite. . . and a lab coat...

Mortimer's eyes widened, and his brows rose up, his mouth partially open as he tried to find his voice. "Tobey?"

"Actually, it's Tobias."

Visible wrinkles appear on his forehead. "Tobias?" Jiggling his head, he thought it might wake him up

"What's going on? Where am I? And when did you grow limbs?"

"Come, Mortimer, you're late." Turning away, Doctor Tobey pulls out his clipboard and begins writing down notes.

Without little choice he follows. The room they have entered was just like the rest. Colorless, even the furniture held no distinct qualities other than boredom. "Have a seat and so we can begin."

"Begin what?" Slumping down on the nicely soft cushion, he relaxes.

"Consoling." Checking his watch, "You're due for a session." Tobias said.

"Am I dead?" He questioned suspiciously. "Why are am I here?"

"I told you; we need to discuss some of the issues you're going through. You are having trouble adjusting to your new home, correct?"

"Hold on -"

"Let's talk about school, I've noticed you've been rather reserved. Having trouble making friends?"

"Excuse me?"

"And your dreams, would you like to discuss the dreams you've been having?"

"What?"

"Tell me, why are you so keen to avoid discussing matters involving your time in -"

"Stop talking!" Mortimer abruptly yells out, getting up in his heated state, he gestures around the room. "You aren't real. None of this is real! This is nothing but some bizarre dream I'm having, for all I know, I could be dead - my soul sucked out already."

"Is that what you want?" 'Tobias' questioned, if he had. any eyebrows, he would've raised one of them. "To die?"

For a moment, Mortimer didn't say anything. The obvious answer should be no... But he hasn't said it, he didn't fight to defend his point. Lowering his hands, he gazes away, returning to his seat. "I think that's what they would've wanted. It-It would probably be for the best. . ."

Jotting down on his clipboard, Tobey asks. "What about Draco?"

Rubbing the back of his neck. "Draco will be fine. He was doing well before I came, so losing me probably wouldn't mean much."

"And your aunt?"

Biting the inside of his lip, he was rather reserved, unsure on how to answer. "Would dying fix anything?" Added the snake.

"Probably not... but it'll make things a lot less complicated. The world would only need to worry about Voldemort and not what he's son is up to." Mortimer argues, his presence here has certainly shifted things for Potter. It was the very reason he has tried to avoid him. The mess Potter tends to involve himself in, he didn't want to be seen as a cause for it.

"It's not what's bothering you now, is it?"

"No."

"Then?"

"What do you want me to say? You want me to say it? I'm not happy."

He grows tired of finding reasons to continue on, there was no point, everybody was the same. They recoil at the sight of him. They see what they want to see, and nothing is going to change that. The face he wore was not his, not entirely. Catching his own reflection at times, he hated how he looked, hated his eyes, his hair, his nose, his very own skin. Despised how much of a resemblance he had with him. It only aggravates him more when Dumbledore or any other wizard points it out. Some would say it like it was a curse, something to be ashamed of while others praised it, to be proud that he came from such a profound wizard.

Why couldn't he be some else?

There are times where he wanted to tear out at his own face just so he can appear different. He felt so out of place, slowly accepting the idea that he may not really belong here. Mortimer remembers the happiest time in his life. The hospital, it was where he could hide from corruption and horrors of everyday life. Being confined in the world of bland, cheerless, stability, he welcomed it fully. Receiving three meals a day, being monitored, being controlled, being held in room with a bunch of children who were on the same boat, it was the only time he could honestly say, it felt like home. The only downside were the psychologists who'd tell the children they want them to get better.

The sad thing is, he didn't want to get better. Orphanages hardly ever offered any compassion when it came to its children. There was simply too many of them that they were either neglected or simply cast aside to make room for the more 'suitable' children, one's who had more of a chance of being adopted. With Mortimer's background, he knew he'd be at the lower tier, a target for others to pick on.

Fearing it so, he stopped trying a long time ago, he was better locked up there than being stuck in a crummy old house, waiting for someone to notice him. He wasn't going to fool himself in believing there was a family out there for him, it was a stupid idea. Better a loon than an orphan...

Granted, he was a lot saner than the others, those who were prone to fuss and throw tantrums. Mortimer didn't talk to objects or harmed himself, nor had he ever considered hurting others, he was merely... quiet. Maybe a little too quiet, but that wasn't a bad thing, was it?

It doesn't matter. He no longer had to worry about being placed there. He had a family of his own, one's that seemed to deeply care for him.

"It's not enough for you." Tobey said, sitting composedly in his chair. "You want more."

"More what?" He answered in a hush tone. "I don't know what you mean."

His tongue flicks for a few seconds. "I think you do -" Tapping what would be his chin, do snakes have chins? "You could say it was the very reason why you attacked Black."

Calling out to his strange therapist, he stood up and moved to the front of the room "I don't have to answer to you, you know? You're a bloody snake, a pet; my pet. It's you who should be listening to me when I tell you to - shut your trap."

Undisturbed by his command, not-Tobey, continues on, "You're scared," Folding his human hands together. "The thought of murder... feels strange, doesn't it?"

Mortimer stops his movements, wondering whether to actually be truthful, or simply lie to keep himself calm and stay detached from any unwanted emotions. Somehow his response wasn't really needed as the figure wearing the reptile-like face, nods as he already knew the answer. "It makes you - What's the proper word? Good? I noticed when you were about ready to cut Black open. Why is that? Was what he did such a terrible thing that it deserves the cruelest of punishments?"

Mortimer wasn't sure what he was dealing with at the moment. The things he was thinking about in that time was the very definition of insanity. He wasn't sure he wanted to start talking about it yet. He didn't trust himself at the moment and so many of his thoughts about the future had changed drastically in the last few weeks, he was nothing but rattled.

"Or maybe, you were using it as an excuse." Tobey flicks a piece of dust resting on his thigh. "Yes..." Bobbing his head. "That seems logical. Even after the whole misunderstanding, you were still quite determined. Can you explain it?"

His eyes registered the sight of his pet in the chair, waiting for him to say something. After an uncharacteristically subdued moment of sedately, his feet carried him partway back to the couch without any acknowledgment. He really didn't want to talk to anyone now, even if this was just a dream. However, the presence of someone in the room, he was somewhat comforted. He felt as though he was stuck in a paradox. He couldn't admit it out loud - He wanted to die, but he didn't want to at the same time... He wanted help, a solution of some kind that could help him from feeling so, empty, but he didn't want to have to ask for it. He was a contradiction, and he was so lost in it.

"I think we're done here." Checking his watch one last time, Doctor Tobey tsks. The scribbling of his inky pen as he jots down additional notes, Mortimer sat there watching him, air sighed slowly in and out from his lungs as he tries to relax. Unaware that his body was completely tensed, the emptiness he could feel at his back, he wanted to go away.

It was no use though, none of this was real, and by the time he'd wake up, he would be forced to face the consequences of his actions.

His head was hanging down and his arms rested on his lap. In the end, he just closed his eyes and willfully went away, looking for momentary peace that he had felt when he realizes the time, he had first contemplated murder.

---

The sky was full of leaden gray clouds, heavy with the certified rain and the flicker of future thunders. A small roll of lightening punctures the sky occasionally as the rumbling drum thumped in Mortimer's ears once the wind became a lot louder around the castle. It was there when he decides to fully open his eyes.

Pressing his head further into the pillow, he notices he was at the hospital wing, warmly wrapped underneath a blanket. He breathes out, shutting out the noises coming from the other side of the room. Their footsteps continued, maybe it was his imagination, but he swears he could hear Professor Snape talking. No matter, at least he was no longer surrounded by the dementors. Yet, Mortimer doubted he could fall back asleep now that there was shouting going on.

The potions must've contributed to his sleepiness however, failed to stay in a light doze before the sounds of arguing people woke him back up. The voice of another person, one much younger than the rest, met his ears. It was probably some student there for a potion.

Mortimer groaned and struggled to sit up as the voices came close, taking time he didn't want to grow light-headed again. How mortifying would it be to faint in front of Madam Pomfrey. It'd be nearly as bad if he were to throw up while trying to get up.

He tries to recover his expression for once. All of his masks were jumbled for a moment as he recalls what had happened hours prior before arriving here. He remembers playing the cool, collected, calm Hogwart's student. Still, he was too dizzy to look for the right one. He settled for a drowsy expression; eyes half-lidded with wariness that tribble down the spine of his back.

"You've got the wrong man!" Shouted the nameless voice. "We're not confounded!"

"Minister! Professor!" Hearing what sounded like Madam Pomfrey. "I must insist the two of you leave! Potter is my patient and should not be distressed." She yells.

So that's who was making all that commotion. Potter here meant that his gang wasn't far of. Listening closely, Mortimer sat there in silence, the curtains were closed around him, but he didn't to see. He could imagine the scene unfolding.

Drawing Harry's furious face as he roars in a fit of irritation. "I'm not distressed! I'm trying to tell you all what happened - Just listen, I -" His sentence cut off by someone's intervention.

"That's enough of you." It was Pomfrey that had put stop to it. "Now, minister, I ask that you leave. These children need my care."

Doors opening, Mortimer furrowed as he keeps up with ruckus. "Professor Dumbledore!" Pomfrey exclaims in protest. "Is this not a hospital wing? Have I no control over my own workplace?"

"Apologies Poppy, but I must speak with Mr. Potter and Miss Granger. You see, I've been speaking to Sirius Black -"

It was there that Professor Snape had interrupted the headmaster. Not believing a word of what Potter was fumbling on about. Eventually, the old man convinces Madam Pomfrey to leave, angrily of course. Soon, Snape leaves under Dumbledore's firm orders, by the sound of voice the man was fuming, Mortimer could almost see the smoke emitted from his nostrils. And after the professor departs, Fudge soon followed. "The dementors should be arriving by now... I'll meet you upstairs Dumbledore."

Commotion set aside; Mortimer could no longer hear them once they were left alone. For a while they whispered, talking quietly, he wasn't able to get a word in. Suspiciously, he thought of what Dumbledore could be telling Potter. It had to something to do with Black, he was sure of it, what specifically, there could be countless things. His worry now was what the old man was telling Potter and whether it involved him.

While he didn't particularly like Black, he was somewhat relieved he didn't fully murder the guy. Beating him to a pulp seemed to be enough for Mortimer, at least for one day. Rubbing the back of his neck, he sat there with a grim expression. Calm as can be and uncertain about his fate as of now, he recalls what Dumbledore had mentioned. That he and Black had talked prior to coming at the hospital wing.

The hatred Black might have against Mortimer, there was a small chance he could've told Dumbledore the truth.

Mortimer wasn't sure how much time has passed since things got quiet. And left to ponder on his own thoughts, he supposed going back to sleep would do him well. He was still rather torpid about the dementors and weak from the taxing use of his magic.

Eyes preparing to close.

The curtains Woosh! open. In the absence of his view, there was no need to guess, no need to look as Dumbledore entered, only to close the curtain once more.

Mortimer didn't want to be the first to talk. Wanting to be a few steps ahead, he'd let Dumbledore ask his accusatory questions. As if Mortimer did not know it'd be a way for the old man to catch him incriminate himself. His mind screaming at him, the old man couldn't be trusted, just like the rest of the professors here, they'd only lie to him. There were things Mortimer didn't know and because of them, he was blinded by what was real and what were simply lies to keep him on a tight leash.

After what felt like hours to him, the old man had decided to grace him with his voice. "We seem to always end up here, don't you find that peculiar?"

"What do you want?" Mortimer dulls out, his head lowered he pay him no mind.

"I understand you've had a terrible ordeal, but I ask - mind your manners when speaking to an elder." As polite as he sounded, there was something eerie in the way he appeared when Mortimer finally takes a glimpse.

Dumbledore checks his watch, "We have only four minutes..." Mortimer didn't know what that meant, four minutes before what? Opting to mute himself, he lets the old man continued "I had interesting conversation with Black."

Playing with the sheets of the blanket, he traces the patterns on the blanket.

When Mortimer showed no interest, Dumbledore asks. "Would you like to know?"

He didn't understand why the old man was trying to drag this out any further. It was obvious why he was here, but he was in no mood to hear his self-inspiring speech. It was getting old at this point, to Mortimer it was all white noise.

Mortimer shrugs.

"He gives you his thanks, said you saved his life."

For a while, Mortimer stayed silent. He didn't show an ounce of emotion, but he was very much surprised. It was the last thing he expected Black would tell Dumbledore. Was he lying? Was he just saying that to get a reaction out of him? What was the motive in telling him?

"You should be proud, you managed to hold the dementors off longer than any student would have. Your magic has certainly grown in the upcoming months since your little. . . accident - Should I say? Nevertheless, I couldn't help but notice the injuries..." Rubbing his bearded chin inquisitively. "- he's suffered. I doubt the dementors would be able to inflict such violent attacks."

But once again, Mortimer says nothing. Scratching his cheek, he looks around coolly, wishing the old man would leave him alone.

"Mortimer?"

Putting his head in the sand, he avoids answering for he saw no point in dancing the old man's tune. "What do you want me to say? That I, did it?" Sitting up he puts a hand over his chest. "That I was one who did that to him? Is that what you want to hear?" A long sigh, he stares at hands. "I nearly had him - Almost killed him... Had the dementors not shown up..."

"Truly?" Dumbledore questions, his tone staying neutral.

Mortimer wasn't going to answer. He wasn't about to let Dumbledore know why. Instead gets a little sidetracked. "You claim to hide things in order to free me from my suppose 'burdens'. But all it's done is cause problems. I don't get to have a regular 'childhood' if people like Sirius, Potter - Not to mention Professor Burbage -"

"Professor Burbage?"

"Oh! She didn't tell you?" Quite surprised she hadn't, the looks she gave him made him suspect she'd go to the highest authority. "She's under the suspicion that I had cheated on my test. Me - A cheater. But that wasn't enough for her. Adding insult to injury, I happen to be world renown prankster because I apparently decided to take muggle studies as a joke."

A long sigh, there was no chance for him to recover. "As long as they both exist, I will always be the suspect. I'm the villain in this story. So, I played the part - Yes. I would've killed Black without a single thought. And do you know why? It's because I'm a bad person."

"I'm a bad person." He repeats in whispery tone. A bad person... Mortimer said it mostly for himself rather to the old man. Perhaps, Black was right, he was merely someone's spawn doing his parent's bidding. The indignity of it all, he felt no hint of remorse for it. But after what Lupin had said, and having seen Pettigrew, alive and well, Mortimer wasn't sure what to believe anymore. He hates waiting for what Dumbledore will say and hates how much the old man enjoys speaking in tongues, never seeming to get straight to the point.

Pausing, he stares right into Mortimer's own-colored ones, remaining unbiased as he reasons. "Revenge is never a good look."

Mortimer however was unfazed by his words, he snorts. "What you call revenge, I call even. I was only paying him back for what he did." Remembering the battered look on his face as he crumbled in the ground.

"He didn't succeed."

"He was going to have me obliviated." Mortimer retorts. "And they we're all going to let him do it." Gritting his teeth, recollecting how Potter and his group just stood there mindlessly. They didn't even stop to think that perhaps he could be trusted enough - That he wouldn't run to the slytherin house and tell his mates Black was wandering right under them and Lupin was a werewolf. Besides, it wasn't like they would believe him, they hardly ever do in these kinds of situations.

"He touched Draco." Mortimer said bitterly.

Pressing his lips tightly, he couldn't tell what the old man might think of him. "This bother's you so?"

"It's one thing to come after me." Mortimer explains, steering his eyes aways, he could almost see the outlines from behind the curtains as the sun hits the room. "But Draco? He had nothing to do with it. He shouldn't have been sought and Black should've never had laid his filthy hands on him."

"I can admire that." Dumbledore nods, clasping his hands together. "You are very protective of him."

"Why wouldn't I?" Mortimer doesn't falter on his answer. This was the only time he's spoken truthfully. "He's a lot of things... I won't mention them - You can already guess what's being said about him - But he's also my family and I will do anything to protect them even if that means getting my hands dirty."

Emotionless, Dumbledore looked off to the side. "While I can understand the reaction." Clearing his throat. "I in no way condone this kind of behavior. What you did was very cold, ruthless. You walk a dangerous path, just like. . ." He cuts off.

"Just like Tom." Mortimer finishes for him. He should be ashamed to hear the comparison, recoiling at the very thought of ever being him for a day. Yet, he felt none of that. "The thing is, I doubt he'd choose... primitive measures... to get his point across. Me? I'll use anything. I'll use my wand; I'll use a bloody stick. I'll get rid of anyone, pureblood, half-blood, muggleborns - I don't care. They're all equally terrible in my eyes." Sagged half-way in his sitting position, there was no anger, nor joy in his response. Impassive that equaled the old man's very own expression. "I have no interest in achieving Tom's dream world and I don't care about the kind of blood anyone carries, as Bellatrix would. I'll go after anyone who threatens me. I'm not going to hold back... I won't let them push me around anymore."

"Listen to yourself, my dear boy..." Dumbledore disputes against the boy's declaration. His face hardens, trying to make sense of this. "You are speaking out of anger. I understand your frustration - "

"No, you don't." Mortimer said coolly, folding his arms he leans back, resting his head on the golden bed post rails. "I've been beaten and made fun of, scowled at - made to feel so little. And I never fought back. I thought if I did, I'd prove them right. That I'm just as violent and awful as Bellatrix. I let them make me feel like I wasn't worth living. I wanted to die." He confesses. "I should've let her kill me that day. . ." Chuckling, he felt so utterly pathetic. "And someday. you're going to wish she had..."

His eyes glowing darker, Mortimer glances away from the old man. There was not an ounce of emotion, he seemed to off, so distant, whatever word Dumbledore had prepared for him, it'd be useless against his determination. "Peter Pettigrew got away. I fear he may be the one who will bring back your father, are you aware?"

"And just how did you figure that out?"

"Trelawney."

Rolling his eyes, Mortimer didn't want to hear this nonsense. However, Dumbledore stood firm with his statement and went on. "She made prophecy - The servant will break free and set out to rejoin his master. The Dark Lord will rise again with his servant's aid, greater and more terrible than ever he was..."

"And you think Pettigrew will be the one?"

"It certainly fits, don't you think?"

He wouldn't spare the old man a second glance. "It was inevitable... with or without him, Tom was bound to show his face. Like I told you in the beginning, you don't have to worry about me getting in the Potter's way of fulfilling his chosen duties."

"And what about you? I suppose you'll be hiding like everyone else who's feared him, you're giving up?"

"I'm not giving up." Mortimer answered, ruffling his flourishing hair. "You want reassurance, is that it? You want to know if I'll fight for the light? Fight for you? Fight for Potter?" He nearly bursts out in laughter but suppresses himself as he proceeds. "I don't care about any of you people. What I want is for Draco and Aunt Cissy to be safe."

"And your uncle?"

Gripping his hands. Honestly, Mortimer could care less about what happens to Lucius. There was a twinge of resentment for the elder Malfoy. The fool joined a cause out a superiority complex, because he thought he was better than everyone else. It's because of him, his family was in a risk of danger. They wouldn't be safe, they'd only be living in fear, they were condemned by both sides, they were stuck. "...He'll know the cost of his actions, and whether he likes it or not, he is going to pay them."

One last look, Mortimer appeared unconcerned by Dumbledore's troubled manner, his eyes no longer twinkled but were replaced by something more alarming. "Now, leave me alone. I don't want to talk to you anymore."

"We have one minute -" Staring off, it was getting closer.

Raising a brow, Mortimer didn't know exactly what he meant. Relieved once the old man began to move, sliding the curtain slightly.

Getting ready to leave, spares him a final glance, one with concern. "Dwell not further in the past..." He said quietly. "I've seen far too many people go down because of it, good people. I'd hate for you to fall victim. You show great potential, do not waste it."

With no indication of interest, Mortimer gives him a single nod before laying down. He could hear his own heartbeat; it was slow and surprisingly calm. Odd, yet comforting, by now he'd probably be freaking out over what Dumbledore had said. His father was alive, and Pettigrew was playing a major role in it.

He wasn't sure if he was to blame. Had it really been his fault that Pettigrew got away? Or perhaps, his presence might've not even matter because this is how fate intended it to be.

"We did it!" Excited and out of breath, he could hear Potter and Granger speaking to Dumbledore.

So, Potter managed to smuggle Black out of the castle. Interesting. With him walking free, what did this mean for him? Would Black want revenge against him? Will he retaliate? Mortimer didn't think too much about it, he was more concerned about Dumbledore's announcement. The dark lord was coming, he was coming, and Mortimer was probably a dead man.

Once they had caught their breath, they instantly ran back into bed, appearing as though they have never left. During which time, Mortimer played with a tiny bite-size dust bunny resting near his shoulders, listening and waiting for what might happen next. It was always best to stay quiet, you tend to learn more while listening and in doing so, Mortimer was unprepared by what follows next.

"He didn't disapparate!" Snape's booming, angered voice vibrated the walls of the hospital wing. "You can't possibly apparate or disapparate inside this castle." He curses. "Potter! This has something to do with Potter!"

The other person talking sounded more frightening when he tried calming the professor. "Severus be reasonable. Harry had been here all along... locked up -"

"Out with-it Potter." His heavy footsteps marching. "What did you do?"

"Calm yourself, Professor Snape!" Pomfrey's clanking heels, she intervenes when his voice grew louder.

"They helped him escape! I know they did!"

Though, nobody would ever believe him. "Enough! You're talking nonsense!" The third person talking sounded as though he's heard enough.

"You don't know Potter!" Growing erratic, Mortimer can only imagine what he's face might look like.

Regardless, Mortimer nonchalantly shifts around, finding a more comforting position, patting his pillow for a few seconds when he lays snugly on it. Listening only to Professor Snape's roaring, blaring voice as he accuses Potter of having something to do with Black escaping as the elder man had suddenly disappeared from existence.

Mortimer had no interest in hearing the rest. His head free from any worries he might've had, he was able to go back to sleep. For the first time in his life, he was able to fully snooze without dreaming, unconsciously smiling, he couldn't wait for the school year to end.

---

Discharged in the following morning, Mortimer began making his way down towards the Dungeons. He didn't tell anyone he'd be leaving, rather wanting to surprise them.

It may have only been a day, but that alone was enough to have them talking in his absence. Some believing he got beat up and left for dead somewhere inside the school. Others said he had gone off to meet up with death eaters in order to declare his manifesto onto the world. It varied from him being dead to him straight up murdering.

Neither sounding good.

Turning the corner to the right, he nearly stumbles against another body. "Sorry Sir, I wasn't watching where I was going -"

"Don't worry, Mr. Black, it is I who should be apologizing."

A small gasp, Mortimer lifted his eyes to meet Professor Lupin. Holding a suitcase and a jar containing a grindylow, he was pale and disorderedly with his appearance.

Continuing to stare, Mortimer was still rather weary about approaching the werewolf. However, it wasn't compared to the soreness he felt, recalling Lupin's trickery as he stood by and let Black take him.

The man notices his nervy stare. "You won't have to worry about me any longer. As you can see, I'll be leaving the school shortly."

Good. Mortimer didn't trust him. To see him leave, he was relieved. "I wish you well... Professor." Speaking softly and bidding him adieu.

"For what it's worth..." Lupin, clearing his throat, carried a look Mortimer described as embarrassed. "I really am - truly - sorry for what I've put you through. And I know, nothing I say will ever convince you otherwise. But I just thought you should know."

Not bothering to hide his disdain, he glares. "You let him knock me unconscious, drag me out of the school, tie me up to a chair, let him interrogate me, insult my existence and, worst of all, near obliviate me. And you're sorry? Forgive me, if I find the apology utter gob shite."

"You have every right to be upset." Nodding, his cheeks become rather flushed, now that he thinks about it. "It was wrong of me and there are no excuses. Truthfully, I was just as curious as Black was. I needed - wanted, really... To know what your intentions were. I've seen you staring at your surroundings, and I can tell, you're not very happy here, are you?"

"It's none of your business." Folding his arm, Mortimer flared a nostril.

"It isn't." Lupin agrees. "But I was very concerned. Seeing how attracted the dementors were with you and the boggart. . . It makes me wonder the kind of experience you had in the non-magical world. Was it any better? Or maybe..." He reluctant for a short second but went on to say. "Worse?"

Mentally kicking himself, Mortimer did his best to avoid appearing distraught. "Better, worse, it's doesn't matter. I left the past behind me when I moved into the Malfoy's. They've been nothing but kind to me. Far better than anyone would expect."

"Is that to say you weren't treated fairly with your previous guardian?"

His hands squeezing into fists and his body was stiff, Lupin was crossing a thin line. "You're no longer a professor, that isn't actually your concern now, isn't it?"

Quiet, he shifts his body, averting his eyes briefly before going back to the boy. "I suppose you're right... My apologies." Getting a better hold of the hefty jar. "I'll take my leave then... All the best wishes."

"To you as well." Mortimer said impassively. He decides not to wait for him to leave. Instead, walks away and goes down the steps that will lead him to the dungeons.

Approaching the syltherin common room, he stops only briefly to check his eyes. He had concealed them just as he left the hospital wing. For a good measure, he inspects them again.

Feeling it was safe enough to go in, he was taken aback as he was immediately bombarded by his own house.

He was unable to keep up with the barrage of question. Most of them wanting to know. "Is it true?"

"Is it true you fought of the dementors!" One yelled, out from the back.

Another behind him, asked. "Did you really fight against Sirius Black?"

"How many were they?"

"Did you really kill him?" Yells another.

"Weren't you afraid?"

All these questions, and more, Mortimer was stunned beyond belief. Where was all this coming from? How was he going to answer. Who was touching his bum?

"Alright! Out of the way!" A female voice quickly pushing and shoving her way. "Black's friends, coming through!"

Finding Mortimer, both Daphne and Tracey stood right beside him, "As you can see! Mortimer is alive and WELL." Shouting so that everyone from the back could hear. "Ya hear that? ALIVE AND WELL!" Smirking, she carries on. "And now that we know you are indeed alive and well... it's time for some of you..." Eying a group of sixth year slytherin, she lifts her hand. "to pay up!"

A jumble of groans, some of the slytherin students began emptying their pockets, approaching Greengrass they handed her small numbers of galleons and sickles. Which quickly grow into an incredible amount once everyone began walking away, broke.

Baffled, Mortimer studying everyone. "Did you make a bet on my life?"

Daphne was never one to hide things from him, only because she took joy in seeing his reaction. "Of course, I did. Everyone was saying you were good as dead. But I know you, you're too stubborn to die. So, I thought... why not make something out of it." She shrugged, counting her winnings.

Smiling, Tracey was more than happy to know he was fine. "If it makes you feel any better, we're really glad you're safe."

Frowning, no it didn't make him feel any better. "Where did this even come from?"

"Draco." Daphne answered, shuffling the coins around. "He told us what happened."

Lifting an eyebrow, he asked suspiciously. "And what did he tell you?"

Shivering, Tracey blurts out. "He said Black had attacked him! Grabbed him and locked him in a broom closet."

Nodding, Daphne added. "And that you later came and went to go help but were attacked as well."

"It was brave of you to rescue him." Davis, showing admiration would go on.

"But stupid to go after him." Daphne mused over. "We heard that dementors were seen around the castle again. Did you really fight them?"

Halting for a few seconds, he decides not to answer. He thought it was better to leave it at that. He'd let them think that's how the story ended. More worried about how his cousin was doing, he questions firmly. "Where's Draco?"

Gesturing her head, Greengrass replies. "The dorm. He hasn't gone out as much. We think he's still upset."

"Upset?"

Forcefully nodding, Davis said softly. "They wouldn't let him see you. Professor Snape insisted you were doing fine, but Draco didn't believe him -"

She didn't get to finish as Mortimer walked past them and quickly made his way upstairs.

Opening the door, he was found Draco laying down on his bed. "Draco?"

Hearing his voice, Draco abruptly got up. "Mortimer! You're here! And you're alive!"

Playfully, he shoves his shoulder back. How dare he doubt him. "Of course, I'm alive - idiot - Nothing could defeat the incredible and powerful Mortimer Black."

"Shut up, will you." Laughing, he starts to roll his eyes. "I-I'm glad you're doing alright." His tone turning serious. "I was worried about you. When he took you, I didn't want to imagine the kinds of things he might do."

Hearing him sound so helpless, Mortimer tried to assure. "You were worried? I nearly had a heart attack when he tied you up. I would've murdered him for it."

"Didn't you?" Draco asks. Careful, he seemed rather concerned. "What happened after... after he took you?"

He wasn't sure how to fully explain it in depth about everything that happened. Mortimer recalls the small tid bits, starting with Black. How he been dragged to the shrieking shack where was questioned by both Black and Lupin. Stupidly, the two men initially believed Mortimer was working with an old school mate by the name of Peter Pettigrew. The bafflement of the trio coming to his rescue and the chase against Black that soon followed. Ending with him losing consciousness after fighting against the dementors.

"Black is still alive?" His tone was on the nervous side of things.

"Yes." Mortimer answers in a rather letdown manner. Yet, there was something he's been eager to find out. "Have you told anyone? Aunt Cissy? Does she know?"

Truthfully, Draco had conceded with him. "I was getting ready to - I had the letter written and everything."

Pursing his lips, Mortimer felt a bit confused. "What changed."

A sigh, Draco lowered the collar of his shirt to reveal his neck. It was Tobey, tucked neatly around his neck. "He did."

While Tobey began to scan the room, Draco appeared annoyed. "He wouldn't let me. Kept shredding every letter, breaking my quills - Which you owe me a new set - and scarring off any owls that came near. He was relentless and eventually, I gave up."

Smiling, Mortimer gently presents his hand towards his fearless little pet.

In one swift motion, Tobey had slipped right out of Draco's shirt and right into the comfort of his master's arm.

"Where's Black now?" Wondered Draco.

Looking fixedly on his silent reptile, he answers. "Don't know. When I woke up, I heard he managed to escape."

Draco didn't appear to be happy about that. More so, shaky, this couldn't be the end. "Aren't you afraid he might come back for you?"

"No. I don't think he will." Undoubtedly, there wasn't an ounce of hesitance. "If he knows what's good for him, he'll know to stay away."

There was a silent moment, Draco, taking in the information. Mortimer, thinking of the future, there was a strange pit in his stomach, telling him to start preparations. Pettigrew was on the run...

Giving Draco a halfhearted glared, he walks towards the end of his bed, just before sitting down. His expression lacked any emotion, but remained its serious nature, it was important Draco knew. "I have to tell you - The dark lord, he's growing stronger, and I think..." He remembers the old man and Trelawney's suppose prophecy. "I think Pettigrew is planning something. I think he might want to bring him back."

It took him a while for Draco to process what Mortimer had said that he merely stood there in the middle of the room, just listening to the stillness the very room created. Maybe it was best to start simple. Holding his breath, he waits for Draco to say something. "Where did you hear that?"

Taking a second to explain, it sounded implausible. "Dumbledore told me."

"And you believed him? You know, he's not known to make a lot of sense. He could be lying."

"What reason would he have for it?"

"I don't know!" Tossing his arms in the air, it was clear that Draco was refusing to even consider the idea. "Just give me a minute -"

"Denying it isn't going to make it him go away. He's coming." Passive, he lets Tobey roam over his arm and up to his neck.

"Will you stop saying that!" He buried his hands through his silver hair. "He's dead. Father said -"

"You believe someone as strong as the dark lord can be defeated by one single spell? Have you considered the dark magic he's surrounded himself in? The things he's done for power. How many people he's murdered just to get to it?"

"What's the point of telling me this?"

There was a moment of suspension before Mortimer went silent and a pulse later, a reply came through. "I'm trying to make you understand what's at stake. I need someone I can trust when I say, I am not going fight his war, or anyone's. I rather let them destroy themselves."

His voice turning cold at the insinuation. "Are you going to run away?"

"No." Straight away, Mortimer tells him. "I only want to make sure we all come out of this alive. You and Aunt Cissy."

"And Father, right?" Draco adds. In Mortimer's haste, he probably forgot to mention the older Malfoy.

Pressing his lips into a thin line. Curse this boy's affection. "Right."

Folding his arms, he paces around the room. "So, what do you suggest? It sounds like you've been thinking about this for quite a while."

"I don't have every detail written down. But - " He announces in his best pitch voice. "I have decided to bring Theo into our duo, so now, we make three."

However confident Mortimer sounded, his proposal landed dully around the general area of the room, Draco retreated back into his bed, Mortimer blinks. "Are you sure he can be trusted? You do know his father is high supporter of... you-know-who." Mortimer watches him recoil.

"You know Theo more than I do. But one thing we can both agree on, Theo has never liked him. Any chance to go against him, Theo will do it, I'm sure."

"What do you plan on telling him? 'My dad's the dark lord and I'm going to fight against him and his army - Won't you join me?"

Taking a minute to really think about it. It was a concern that could pose a problem in the near future. Much as he hated to admit, he was going to need all the help he can get. Mortimer needs people he can trust. In fairness, they'd probably want the same. The concern of betrayal is always there. He thought it was best to let Nott know about his parentage. In spite of that, he wouldn't tell Nott all the details straightaway but in due time. "I need time. I'll tell him everything regarding the dark lord... anything beyond that, no."

"It sounds to me like you're starting something that could potentially get us in deep shite..." Draco smirked just to show he was in fact, very much interested.

Agreeing with the statement, this could very much get him killed, both of them. "Very deep. I get if you want nothing to do with it. Just don't go mouthing off."

"Are you kidding?" Draco scoffed. "It sounds like you're going to start building your own army... Of course, I'm in."

"Wonderful."

With that settled, Draco got up quickly. Running towards his trunk, he began digging. "Here - Professor Snape gave me your wand. I've been keeping it safe while you were resting."

Thanking him, Mortimer lets out a breath in relief. Touching it gently, he feels the magic quickly pulsing through his veins. It felt good. "Thanks."

"Did you hear what Professor Snape said about Professor Lupin?"

"No what?"

"He said he was a werewolf! Can you believe it, a werewolf. Did you see him transform when you were with Black?"

"No. I don't think I'd be able to handle the excitement of being mauled by a werewolf."

"There'd be nothing left."

"A couple of limbs, perhaps..."

"Wait till father hears about this."

And every parent, he guessed.

---

In the upcoming days, Mortimer would receive his test results. While he didn't entirely fail, he was satisfied to know he wasn't a complete idiot. What he found surprising was his Outstanding grade in Muggle Studies when he was sure he'd get an Acceptable. Nonetheless, he had successfully passed his class and the worry of failing has all but diminished.

Nearing their end of the school year, he has spent his final days sitting beside the great lake. The sun brightly shinning today, it made the atmosphere more welcoming. Birds returning to the skies and trees springing back to life, it was the perfect weather to be outside. Watching the giant squid raising three of its huge tentacles, this would be the last time he'd see it before leaving.

Reflecting on the year - he's been doing that a lot lately - he's learned a few things about himself. He knows he's not strong. Not as collected, not as smart as some might believe. If everyone could see him, they'd know he was a but a simple boy. A tiny baby trying to pose as a grown up. But he was very much aware of his own issues and just how much it's affected him during the course of the term.

He nearly lost his magic because of it, because he was scared. He had no idea on how to combat the truth about himself, about the past. How to deal with the anger and embarrassment of the bitter old woman and the things she's done. The one memory that threw in various of hurdles, one's he not prepared for. How can he just let it go? It was easy to tell someone to simply 'get over it' but how could he?

It was hard being happy. To hide his issues and fake his happiness for the sake of others. How can anyone do it? He resents it. Resents being forced to fabricate his emotions and not knowing how to deal with his pent-up feelings. He'd look like a freak for not fitting into their kind of normal.

His thoughts were in a mix of jumble. It may have been a long time since then, however hard he may try, part of him still thinks of her. The Boggart made that perfectly clear.

Taking out his wand, he twiddles around with it before pointing it directly at the lake. Soon, a long, beautiful stream of water soon evolves right into the air, wielding it however he pleased. Swirling it into funny patterns, he was careful in his movements. Focusing on how something so simple as a wand, could produce something so magically stunning.

Chuckling to himself, he waves the water back and forth, up and down, and makes it spin around. Twirling it for a couple of seconds, progressively increasing the speed until -

"Woah... I didn't think you could do that..."

Just as the Potter spoke, his concentration was broken. The water spilling everywhere onto the grass and near his feet, Mortimer shuffles, letting out a small curse.

Potter was standing near his right, not far behind him was Granger, though she was more hesitant to come any closer. "What do you want now?" Appearing none too pleased, Mortimer leans forwards in his seat, letting out a huff.

"I..." Potter cautioned, knowing from his tone that he was trying to come up with something that wouldn't entirely piss him off. "It's about Sirius."

"And what interest would I have with him?" Placing his wand back into sleeve, he pats down some of the water that had splotched over his legs. Mainly doing it to avoid looking at them. "He's no one to me. And if you're here to obliviate me... I want to see you try it."

"No, hear me out." Shaking his head, he holds his arms to show he wasn't carrying anything. "Peter Pettigrew escaped, I heard a prophecy -"

"Dumbledore already explained it to me. Pettigrew is gone, and the dark lord is coming..."

"So you know?"

"Yes. Now kindly, piss off."

Hermione had moved around Harry, huffing, trying to get something out of the way. "Why did you decide to hurt him when he was unarmed."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Yes, you do." She pressed, glowering at him as if she was still in the middle of processing what she had witnessed. "You attacked Sirius... you were going to. . ." Clasping her mouth shut, she couldn't go on.

"Kill him." Harry finishes. Now that the subject has been brought up, he was curious, near concerned, but mostly, upset. "Even before that... you had already planned on doing it, weren't you?"

One thing, Mortimer didn't want to do was lie. Denying it will probably make him appear more guilty, therefor, untrustworthy. Besides, it wasn't a secret that Mortimer hated him. "What if I have? It was clear you weren't going to do it. I only took the initiative and finish what you couldn't."

"But he was innocent!" Harry shouts after Mortimer had brushed him off. "You saw everything! It was all Pettigrew. He's the one who betrayed my parents, he was the one who murdered all those innocent people. It was him you should've gone after. You could've helped us bring him in, and Sirius would've been free. But no - you went after him instead and now he's gone. You could've killed him..."

Rolling his eyes and tried to hide a smile. "I didn't. . .sadly..."

"How can you say something so vile?!" Hermione yelled, frizzled, her hands seemed to be shaking. "He was only trying to protect Harry! He was no danger to anyone."

But he only waves her away. "He may not have been your enemy, but he is most certainly no friend of mine. He made the mistake of coming after me. I merely taught him a lesson and I'm sure by now, he's learned it. So next time I see him, he'll remember well to stay the hell away from me."

Harry was tense, seeming to hold something back. "You were ready to end it, but then you suddenly stopped, you saved him from the dementors, why?"

Hmm... Mortimer wasn't entirely sure either. "Maybe I wanted to be the one to finish him off. I don't usually like to share..."

"You're disgusting." Hermione shrieked, watching her reaction was amusing to say the least. "I thought you were different from the others, that you didn't care at all about blood status. Maybe Ron was right, you were only pretending and now with Pettigrew gone, your precious lord will be brought back. Maybe you really were working with him all along."

Lacking in interest in what Granger may have thought him, "Funny you say that, because I actually thought the same of you. However, I seem to recall you calling me a death eater's son." Tapping his chin, he tightens his lips, resembling as though he was thinking hard. "The shoe seems to fit the crime, don't you think?"

She didn't respond. Her face flushed when she remembers the day. Her own words being thrown at her, she was shy to say anything in return.

"No? Nothing? Well then, guess we have an understanding."

"We don't always have to fight!" Harry reasoned. "I don't know why; Dumbledore says you're nothing like the Malfoy's. And I believe him. You could've killed me anytime, you could do it right now, if you really wanted to."

"Harry!"

As much as Mortimer would enjoy plowing goody two shoes straight in the face. The fact remains, Potter was not his enemy. He was no one to him, what he had between him, and Voldemort was for them to battle it out. Mortimer had no plans in getting involved. He prefers having them kill each other while he watches from the sidelines. He's only worry was getting Draco and Aunt Cissy out before things can get really worse.

He'd hate to think of anything happening to Potter. With him gone, who'd be there to stop him? Dumbledore? The man was too old and besides, the belief that Harry should be the one to vanquish all evil, who was he to stand in the way.

"Well?" Harry pushes further, waiting how the slytherin will respond.

"You may have a point." He answered truthfully. It pains him to say. "As I've told Dumbledore, and anyone who will listen, I don't plan on joining Bellatrix or that pathetic little club of hers. What I want is for Draco and Aunt Cissy to be safe."

"He's more likely to join them... "

"He won't."

"You don't really know him then."

"I know him more than you." Mortimer defended, massaging the back of his neck, he frees a bothersome breath. "I'm aware of his spoiled... nature... and he isn't the easiest to work with, but he's the only family I got." He grumbles out, a little shy to express the affection he had towards the pompous brat who happened to be related to him. "And I will do anything to protect him."

"You'll only be wasting your time."

"Time I'm willing to waste." He argues. "I'm sure you have relatives out there who are equally hard to deal with. If they were in danger, can you honestly say you wouldn't do anything? No matter how foul or rotten they may be?"

For once Potter stood there in silence. Stunned when he offered no counter. The small, wrinkled forming on his brow, he thought about it. Maybe he did have some distant relative he couldn't stand. In spite of that, there was possibility Potter understood.

A nod. "Yeah." Harry said in a way that seemed upsetting.

"Glad we understand each other." Satirizing his voice, he peers to his right, watching the lake. "Is there anything else you want to pry in? Want to know my favorite color? My hobbies? Or perhaps, you want to know where I keep my underwear?"

"N-No! Nothing like that!" Harry takes a few steps back. "I-I..." Finding his train of thought, he was weary to ask. "Sirius wrote me a letter... Says he was planning on hiding in his family home..."

Mortimer listens, resigning when Harry spoke in a quiet tone. "But can't, he's been locked out and you carry the name, I thought maybe you could help."

He was about to laugh. He's got to be joking. After everything that's happen between them... Did Potter honestly think he'd be a tad interested in helping the old fool? Even Granger knew better than to talk. Chewing on her bottom lip, even she was aware of how ridiculous it sounded.

Staying composed, Mortimer restrains himself from doing any mocking. "Technically, my aunt is the one who owns the Black properties. She's holding onto it until I come of age. I'm still a minor."

"Can't you convince her to... I don't know -" Ruffling through his messy hair. "Give it back?"

Folding his arms, he frowned at the idea. "That would mean relinquishing my right to the Black house. Something she'll never allow considering she's adamant I continue on the line."

"What?"

"By right, I am the last Black." Mortimer stated with a hint of malice, obviously, he hates the idea of having to follow certain rules just for the sake of one stupid name. "Reason being, Bellatrix, handing me her surname instead of Lestrange's. Sadly, I am expected to continue on their traditional values, whatever that means..."

"Can't you do something about it?" Harry asks as he takes a step forward, sounding quite desperate, Mortimer wanted to say no just to see his expression crumble at the denial.

Looking towards the bright sky, he wouldn't be cruel. He thought about it. "I'm sure Aunt Cissy has placed permission on specific members - Maybe my presence alone can reveal itself..."

His upper eyes lids lift up, revealing his widening green eyes. "You'll help?" His pitch suddenly grew at the spring of hope.

Mortimer looked at him, long enough that he nearly went to speak again before Mortimer shakes his head. "I want two things."

The mention of bargaining had Hermione thinking on her feet. "Harry, don't do it -"

"What is it?" A foolish move, Harry knows but the urgency of Sirius' letter depends on it.

Surely, Mortimer wouldn't ask for anything too out of reach. "How did you manage to smuggle out Black out of the castle?"

Then again, there was an off chance that he might... There was slight tick creeping down his neck, reluctant to answer. "How will I know you won't run off to Snape, or Malfoy, and tell them?"

"I could promise you I won't... but that's up to you to decide if you'll believe me."

Trying to save her Harry from making a mistake that could very well get them in serious trouble, she out of turn speaks out. "He can't be trusted Harry! You saw what he did to Sirius!"

"Yeah..." Mortimer snickered. "Look at what I did - I let him live." Finding her thoughts on him strangely funny, he couldn't help but poke a little.

There was a long stare off between the three of them. Hermione fidgeted her entire body, biting her lip as she fretted over Harry's next move. At the same time, Mortimer was the opposite, he stayed composed and tilted his head ever so slight. To be honest, Mortimer gained nothing out of it, sure, he might get a few answers about what exactly Bellatrix had told him to make Black want to hunt him down. But Potter had more to lose, the fact he was approaching Mortimer, and no one showed how desperate he was.

Tightening his hands, Harry appeared as though he regretted his decision when he answers. "Buckbeak. We managed to save him before they could execute him. We snagged him and flew above the castle's window where they were keeping him locked."

Quite the unexpected answer, Mortimer took it in, noticing how a few flaws. There was something they were leaving out in their story. "And?"

"What do you mean and?" Messing with his hair, Harry puckered his forehead.

Mortimer did not appreciate his snarky tone; pretending he knew nothing. It was almost insulting that Potter had thought it'd be that simple. "There's more to it and unless you don't convince me otherwise... deal's off, Potter."

"Harry please listen!" Pleading with him, Hermione rushes next to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. Straining herself further, hoping to reach him one last time. "We can find other ways to -"

"No, Hermione." Brushing her hand away, he shakes his head in an exasperating manner. "The longer he's out there, the more chances of them finding him will only get worse. He can't stay a dog forever."

"Pettigrew did." Mortimer threw in, rolling his eyes when the two of them gave him a glowering look.

"A time turner." He whispered.

A brazen gasp, Hermione couldn't believe it. "Harry! No one is supposed to know!"

Ignoring her protest, Harry releases a deep breathe, almost as though he had let loose a burden secret. " - Hermione was given a time turner over the summer. It's how she was able to attend all those classes, how she'd be in one place for one minute and suddenly pop into another."

Mortification quickly spreads across her face, so much so, she had to shield herself using her hands. Avoiding any direct eye contact with either of them, Mortimer turns his attention on to Potter.

Nodding, he was satisfied, only slight. He thought there'd be more to it, but the short answer was enough to convince him. "Interesting. . ." He said plainly.

Harry's shoulders went rather lank. Having expected Mortimer to say more, but thankful when he didn't probe. "What else?"

Looking away, Mortimer held a finger to his lip. "The other part doesn't pertain you. I want Black to answer a few questions for me."

"About?"

"Nothing that should concern you."

Now it was Potter's turn to show his displeasure. Unsatisfied and disgruntled, he places his hands on his hips. "Thats not very fair."

"Boo Hoo." Mortimer motioned his hands to appear as though he were wiping tears from his eyes. "Have Black meet me at the train station tomorrow."

"What?"

"You heard me Potter. . . He wants his house back; he's got to come and get it." Turning his back on them, Mortimer walks away.

"So that's it?" Hermione speaks loud enough for anyone to hear. The sneering facade remained until Mortimer saw it, Hermione's peerless innocence was made rotten by her own biases. A different person he had met back in their first year. "No idle threats? Throwing out insults?"

He couldn't seem to understand where the hostility was coming from. Was his behavior really all that bad? "I'm not one to gloat, Granger." He inclined his head in a confused way before speaking. "Are you so insecure with yourself you need to put other's down to make yourself feel better? I bet you didn't have any friends before coming to Hogwarts."

"You don't anything about me!" She screeched out, stomping her feet, Hermione leaned a little closer to the point he thought she might actually attack him. "And i'm not the one trying to trick Harry into luring out Sirius. You want to finish him, don't you?"

Seeing the lack of improvement between him and the muggleborn, Mortimer thought it was a good time to return to Draco. As he starts to walk again, "I can see your still upset about the freezing charm - Don't take it personal, I just wanted to get a few moments alone with Black. Don't worry Granger, I'll make room for you next time."

"Are you threatening me?"

"I'm only reminding you - I won't holdback just because you're a girl. I'll duel anyone who tries to hurt me." He said it so casually, calm that there wasn't a glint of doubt in his piercing stare.

It sent a shiver down their spines.

His mouth curving into a smile, Mortimer's expression abruptly turns shy when he clears his throat. "Well... i'll see you guys later!" Waving, he heads back into the castle, without looking back he doesn't pay them any mind, brushing off the uneasiness that was eluding from their stiff bodies.

---

The arrival of the Hogwarts express, everyone was eagerly waiting to rush in. They still had an hour before the train would depart. In the meantime, Mortimer decided to say his farewells.

"Where are you going?" Draco stopped in the middle of the conversation he was having with Blaise to ask.

"Saying goodbye to some friends." Mortimer replies. The suggestion he made with his eyes; Draco didn't oppose this time.

"Alright, but hurry back. I don't want you getting lost."

Waving him off, Mortimer strolls throughout the station. Gliding and avoiding any shoulders, he travels for at least three minutes until he is called.

"Mortimer!" Look at the pair of waving arms, Mortimer found Ginny and Luna waiting for him near the side of the wall, holding their trunks and small bags, they quickly rush towards him.

"Guess this is it, huh?" Mortimer said, sounding partly gloomy. He would have to wait three months before he'd see any of them again.

Luna's trembling lip, she hugs him tightly. "I know you're upset we didn't capture any foppish flagae..." Genuinely upset, her face grimaces. "The fault is mine, I didn't bring the proper nets, oh - and the cheese spray..." Raising her fists in the air. "How could I forget the cheese spray!"

"Yeah..." Mortimer gave her a half smile. "Can't forget the cheese spray."

Giggling from behind Ginny, stood by Mortimer, talking in a faint manner. "Are you going to be bored as I am over the summer?"

There wasn't much time to think on it as he had already made a few plans. Though, didn't think to tell her. "I have a few things in mind. But for the most part, I'll probably spend it kissing the rears of the most Prestigeous of wizards."

Sighting his sarcasm, Mortimer was privy towards the crowd he was forced to surround himself with, and he absolutely hated it. "I guess I really shouldn't complain either." Remarked Ginny, biting her lip, near shy.

"Nah, still better than having to deal with your brothers."

Elbowing him on the stomach, Mortimer apologizes before laughing it off. "You know, you could always stop by at the burrow. Mum wouldn't mind, she was very happy to have met you."

"Thanks, but I'm in enough trouble with my aunt. After the whole running away thing, I wouldn't be surprised if she locked me inside my room for the rest of the summer."

Rubbing the back of her head, Ginny nods. "How are the eyes?" She asks discreetly.

Losing his smile, his face becomes serious for a moment. "Same as they were when you first saw them."

Tilting her head, her worry was easily read. "Has Dumbledore not found an answer yet?"

"No. I was actually on planning on doing a little research over the summer. Maybe Malfoy's got some dastardly book of evil spells that could explain this junk." Mortimer narrated in humor, pointing at his left eye.

With Luna laundering in background, she took both Mortimer and Ginny's hands and began to lead them to walk in a circle. "What are you doing now, Luna?" Wondered Ginny.

"We're walking... duh." Luna softly answers. "Mortimer, grab Ginny's hand so we can complete the ring."

A sigh, he complies, taking Ginny's small hands into his. "Now what?"

"Now..." Taking a moment, she stares up. "We think!"

Sometimes Ginny and Mortimer worry about Luna, the ideas she's got floating in that strange head of hers. "How is this helping Mortimer think?"

"The ring of thoughts and reflections!" Luna pipped, continuing to rotate them. "Daddy sometimes does it when he's in the middle of writing an article. He said it's the best way to gather perspective."

Sealing his lips tight, Mortimer let's Luna move him in the same pattern for a full minute. "Anything yet?" Asked the ravenclaw.

Ginny had closed her eyes, opening only one. "No." She said deeply. "How about you, Mortimer? Any revolutionary thoughts?"

He was feeling something alright... dizziness. "Uh let's see. . . No." Frowning, he kept his eyes forward.

"Oh, I'm sure they're coming." Squeezing their hands tighter, she remained hopeful.

From the weird looks they were getting from everybody passing by Mortimer was glad to be going home. His face had gone red from the embarrassment of Luna having to make them do this in public.

"Uh, Hey guys. . .?"

A voice cutting in their ritual and Mortimer snaps his head to the side.

Potter was standing in front them, a disturbed look on his face. Ginny instantly freezes, covered in red, Mortimer could hear her say 'Oh God no.. .' As the Weasley girl turned around, she quickly says goodbye to Mortimer before deciding to run away.

"I'll write to you later!" She screams out, covering her face.

Leaving only Luna and Mortimer, she had instead smiled, strangely enough to make Potter uncomfortable. "Secrets. . ." She whispered eerily, her eyes glowing.

"What?" Taking a step back, Harry wasn't sure who to be weary of.

"Don't listen to her." Mortimer, coming to stand in front her, shields Potter from having to face Luna "She was just leaving."

"I was." Bopping her head Luna, peeked from his shoulder. "Remember to write me." She whispers in his ear. "I'll send you slumgullion bites for the spirits."

Nodding, he was able to finally breathe once Luna had dallied away. "You were saying Potter?"

Clearing his throat, he appeared nervous. "I-I found your dog..." Side stepping, a large furry looking dog appeared, sitting down obediently as it waits.

Sirius Black.

"And you have..." Finding himself grinning, Mortimer was amazed to have found him so compliant. "Thank you. . ."

"Padfoot." Harry said. "Hope you don't mind... I've already named him."

Clearing his throat, Mortimer gestures his hand at the dog. "Right, let's go Padfoot."

At his command, the beast leaves Potter's side pacing down towards him.

Just as Mortimer was about to take his leave, Harry had stopped him. "Remember your promised."

Nodding, Mortimer wasn't one to go back on an oath. "He'll write to you once I get him inside."

"Do you think I can stop by the compartment, later?"

"Sorry Potter..." Shaking his head, Mortimer wasn't too sure about the idea. The fact that they were speaking in public was suspicious enough, he didn't want to add anything more.

A long sigh, Harry nods. Leaning down, he pets Sirius one last time, giving him the saddest of looks. Even Black was nervy to depart as he began to whine.

The loud howling whistle, students began to board the train. "That's our cue to leave. You better go Potter."

Stubborn he was, Harry didn't listen but repeats to Mortimer. "Please -"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah - I won't kill him, I promise." He rolled his eyes as he starts making his way towards the train's entrance.

Black following him, some of the children let out frightened gasps and jumping noises. The size of the huge dog had everyone stepping back in fear.

"We'll get a private booth, so we won't be disturbed." Mortimer spoke softly, but just loud enough for the dog to hear. "We have a deal. Go back on your word, I won't hesitate to bring in you in, got it?"

A bark, Mortimer continues to walk.

"There you are!" Somone was speaking to him but paused to let out a squeak! "What the hell are you doing with a mutt!" Rotating his head, he saw Draco standing from behind, mid step, he didn't come any closer.

In response, Sirius growled. "Stop it." Mortimer snapped. Facing Draco, he quickly says. "I found him... thought he'd make a good companion."

Draco didn't buy it, not even a second. "You don't even like animals!"

Thinking fast, he comes up with. "You're right. The thing is though, I found him injured and I just couldn't leave him there."

Giving Black a certain look, the dog began huffing and whining, appearing as though he was in pain, he grumbles and starts to limp his left leg. "See?"

"Mother isn't going to let you bring that..." Pointing a weak finger at him. "Into the house."

"I won't have to. I have an idea."

"You're not planning to keep him, are you?" The blonde asked, dreading the very thought of the huge beast running around.

"Whaaat?" Mortimer stretches, snorting out. "Me? No. Tobey's already a handful... and besides, it's only until he's fully recovered. After that, I was going to release him. Now if you'll excuse me..."

"Aren't you going to sit next me and Theo? So, we can talk about that thing."

"Right..." Scratching the top of his head. "The thing..." Eyeing the dog carefully. "I'll get in touch with him once we arrive at the manor. Padfoot's rather anxious at the moment and a compartment filled with people might stress him out even more."

"Padfoot?"

"Yeah. We'll talk more later."

"Wait -"

But Mortimer didn't let Draco finish and kept going down towards the end of the train. Once he was able to find an empty compartment, Mortimer immediately closes the doors and pulls down the curtains.

As Mortimer made sure no one was following or watching, Sirius had transformed himself back into his human form. "Relax, we weren't followed."

Swirling his entire body, he saw Black sitting near the window, still wearing his awful baggy clothes. "Your dog senses told you that?"

"Shut it." Black grouses, leaning back he closes his for a second. The bags under his eyes, the man appeared as though he hasn't slept well in weeks. He was thin and also weak from having to run off constantly. This was probably the first time he's been able to fully relax without having to worry about anyone coming and interrupting them.

As Mortimer continued to stare, leaning his body back against the compartment's doors, Sirius kept his eyes shut, but opened his mouth to say. "Don't think I haven't forgotten what you did to me in the forest. I plan on returning the favor sometime later."

"I wouldn't want you to forget. It'd be too boring if you were to give up." Mortimer confesses. "I could use a target practice." Cracking his neck, he relieves some of the tension hidden inside his neck.

"You can most certainly try... I may be wandless but don't think for one second I won't attack." Slack his body back in seat, he relaxes and breathes out. "I'm doing this for Harry. Now will you sit down? I heard you had some questions."

Shaking his head, Mortimer walks over to sit across the mangling mutt. He didn't Black was capable of being so civil, but there was always a first for many. Organizing his thoughts, Mortimer was none too sure where to begin. There were so many questions he wanted to ask, it was hard not to tell them all at once.

One thing Mortimer was dying to know. "What did she say. . . about... about me..." The question was pretty basic and probably easy to answer. However, what he was really looking for wouldn't be easily explained by just a few words. What really had him sitting on the edge of his seat was knowing if Bellatrix had ever once thought of him during those lonely years. Has she ever said his name? Imagine how he looked like now that he was grown? Picture what it'd be like to hold him? Did she at all cared? Missed him?

Being a mother, perhaps it's changed her...

As much as hoped, Mortimer wasn't going trick himself into believing the impractical. "As you'd expect anyone crazy in Azkaban to be." Black mutters, his head leaning back. "Rambling stuff of nonsense - I didn't actually believe her, not at first."

"What changed your mind?" Feeling something move inside his shirt, Mortimer shifts his neck a little.

A noise of disgust, Sirius scrunches his face as Tobey's head peeks out. "Ugh - Slimy bugger that thing is - Shove that thing back inside its cage before I toss it out myself."

Replying in a form of a sizzle sound, Tobey was fearless to display his dominance. "Fight me! Mutt! I fear no enemy. I will crush your bones and swallow you -"

The declaration of threat went unfinished as his master softly puts a hand over his peeping scaley face. "He'll escape if I do that. Tobey takes his job very serious."

"Job? What job could a piece of leather have?"

"Guard duty." Mortimer shrugs. "Harmless really. If you try anything... he'll remind you to watch yourself."

"I'd like to see it try." He sneered, eyeing his little pet in contempt.

"As much as I would enjoy seeing your failed attempt to best my creature. I came here to find out about Bellatrix."

"Aw, what's wrong? Missing mother dearest?" Sirius mocked. "Her gentle touches and caresses gotten you somber from her time away?'

Scoffing, Mortimer could see Black just wanted to rile him up. "I want to know what she said to convince you to escape. You said you left to save Potter. Which you could've done without dragging me in and yet you still decided to. Why?"

Watching Black becoming a little rigid, he groused, looking away as he appears to shuffle through his memories. "I've learned of Pettigrew's location months before. But I didn't know about you until the day before I decided to escape." Pressing his lips thinly, his expression was rather maddening. "I'm not sure what made Lestrange talk. Normally when they take her out of her cell, she walks without saying a word, laughing from time to time, but never talking."

Without interrupting him, Mortimer gestured him to go on. "I'm not sure why she decided to speak then. She knew nothing of Pettigrew nor was there any indication of her knowing what I knew." Closing his eyes, he hands tightened, reliving her words.

"What did she say?" Curious to know more, he folds his hands together.

"A secret." Nodding and staring off to the distance. "We went back and forth - She, reminding me of my failures and I, calling her Lord good as dead. While we both sit here and rot in our cells, the Dark Lord will forever be dead and forgotten and Harry will go on and live a better life, even if his parents weren't here to see it."

"Then what happened?" He said softly, there was so much more he wanted to hear.

"She said, 'My Lord will never die for part of him still lives on.' At first, I didn't understand - I mean, you should've seen her. Bella was violent. . . but beautiful. Now, she's just violent." His forehead furrows deep in thought. "If my Lord doesn't finish Potter, his kin certainly will."

Shutting his eyes, Mortimer could see Sirius' face distorting in anger. "I called her a liar, a filthy liar. It couldn't be true. Her and Voldemort?" The picture itself causes Black to gag. "Why? How? It's unnatural..." He finally opens them, only to direct them towards Mortimer. "Seeing you here... I guess I was wrong. But I must say, you look nothing like her. Maybe the eyes but then again, they're darker than they should. Hair - too short to tell. Hmm - I take it you inherited her bloodthirsty tendencies."

Biting down his words, Mortimer denied himself the idea to respond with a snarky remark. "You decided to escape then?"

Returning to his previous sullen expression, he nods. "After she said that, and thinking about Pettigrew, I feared he might somehow reach out to you, get you to hurt Harry. I wasn't about to let that happen."

"It meant nothing in the end. Pettigrew got away -"

"That's because you went chasing after me!"

"Only after you! Decided to tie me up and kidnap me from the dungeons!"

After blaming each other and going back and forth, the two would become quiet.

"We're never going to agree."

"No... we are not."

Rubbing the side of his temples, Mortimer sighs and sits back, hearing the rapid wheels of the express running through the trails. "I don't trust you and you don't trust me."

Nodding, this seemed to be the only thing they had in common. Sirius would share his face. "I don't like you and you don't like me."

Another bob of his head, they were gaining some sort of common ground. He dared to say. "Maybe there's more to agree on."

Lifting a brow, he appeared curious. "Such as?"

Staying composed, he muses over the small notion, gazing at the older Black. "We both want my father dead."

Though, Black didn't seem to believe him in the slightest. "Now why would you go on and say something like that?"

Sighing, Mortimer didn't expect much from him. And he most certainly thinks he'd believe at an instant. But this was something he wanted to get of his chest. "You're a Black. They were once only known to always reside in the house of Slytherin. Yet, you were placed in Gryffindor. It changed things. You are proof that not every Black is dark. I want to be the one to continue that." Playing with his fingers, he exhales. "I get tired of hearing the same thing over and over again. The things people expect me to do, to follow. What I want is to be left alone. I want nothing to do with Potter or with him. I want live and die like everyone else, without being reminded of who's nut sack I came out from."

For a second, Mortimer expected Sirius to accuse him of being fraudulent, immediately calling him a straight liar. Stunned when he didn't, there was a small glimmer of hope. But again, Black dwelled in silence. At least, in Mortimer's eyes, gave Black something to think about.

Granted, he didn't need to be fully accepted, he only meant to plant seed of doubt, or consider the idea that Mortimer was harmless and in no way a threat to Potter. "Never in my life did I ever think Pettigrew would betray us. . . He was our friend, we protected each other, did everything. And what does he do? He spits at us. Insults James, Remus and me. For what? For someone who'd treat him like a mere toy that can be easily disposed of. Where's the reward in that?"

This was the first time Mortimer's has seen Sirius so open, he didn't want to interrupt. "I've been wrong about many things as of late. I'll never trust you. In fact, I most certainly think I might hate you. But I promised Harry I'd try. He seems to see the good in you, thinks you are not Voldemort." That's when Mortimer saw it, the sadness in Black's smile when the familiarity hits the older man. "He has his mother's heart. . .

For the remainder of the train ride, the two wouldn't say much. Instead, would stare off towards the view side windows. With Sirius watching the landscape fields and Mortimer deciding to read about in-depth charms, the animosity shrinks with time. It was still there of course, but their attempt of acting civil was agreed for the sake of the plan. Once and a while, the Trolley witch would knock on the door and offer refreshments and snacks. At which point, Sirius would instantly return to his Animagus form.

Mortimer would end up buying loads of treats, nearly emptying the cart, she was more than happy to oblige. Noting Black's lanky figure, he assumes the man hasn't eaten much as he should. Then again, he was talking about an escaped convict, they usual aren't the sort to be welcomed by any shop.

Gobbling down and stuffing his face, it took strength for Mortimer not to gag in response. After hours of sitting and dallying around, a question emerges from Black's mouth. "Remus mentioned something back in the shrieking shack, said you were raised by muggles... Is it true?"

Turning the page of his book, he doesn't look up and yet, answers. "It is."

"That doesn't sound like Bella."

"I hear that a lot. And honestly, I'm just as lost as everyone else." Mortimer casually told, skimming down the words. "I've only just been introduced into this world. Like Potter, I knew nothing of witches and wizards, everything about magic was only heard of in children's tales. I was a bit overwhelmed when I found out I was related to them."

"If only she knew... She'd scream to know you were living your life around their culture. How was it by the way? Living with muggles and all that.

A small grip around the cover, Mortimer nonchalantly plays it cool. "Fine."

Tossing a handful of popcorn down his mouth he muffles, spitting out small pieces of his chewed snack. "Fine?"

Nodding, there wasn't much else to add. Setting aside his feelings towards everything that's happened to him in the last couple years, he replies. "Just fine. It was as you'd probably expect, boring."

"Who raised you?"

Turning the page, Mortimer gave him a quick glance, before sighing. "I agreed to help you get inside Grimmauld Place and you in return, answer a few questions. Nowhere did it state that we have to tell each other our life's story or suddenly become best friends. I help you in and then I leave, that's it."

"Touchy, aren't we."

"Annoyed, more like it." Pressing his lips together, he asks. "Why did you tell Dumbledore I saved you?"

Swallowing down his food, he wipes it with the helm of his sleeve. From the wrinkles forming from his smudged forehead, he was thinking. "I thought of telling Dumbledore. Ultimately, you did in fact saved me from getting the dementors kissed."

"I didn't. I collapsed as they were coming. Someone else came and finished them off. I thought maybe it was Lupin, but I remembered he had turned..."

"You mean... you didn't summon the Patronus Charm?"

Oh. . . Feeling a tad embarrassed, Mortimer rubs the back of his neck. So that's what the charm was called. Feeling his cheeks become warm, he felt silly for forgetting a simple name. To be fair, on that particular day, when the lesson was being taught by Lupin, he wasn't in the best of moods. He must've wiped off the day entirely from his memory as he couldn't recall what was being said.

"You thought..." Laughing his head off, Mortimer saw the color draining from Black's face as he realized that was no the case. Confirming it was all a fluke. It was no wonder why Black would come to his defense. He thought Mortimer had been the one to conjure the charm. The spell that was only accomplished by those with a pure of heart...

Something Mortimer didn't think he had. "You thought, I can't be all bad if I can conjure a real corporeal Patronus, right?"

At this Sirius began to stiffen his body, finding himself in a fit of anger. "You tricked me." He seethes under his breath.

"I - " He scowles at his idiocy. "didn't do anything. You assumed I was the one casted the damn spell. Well, tough." A small simper spreading across his lips and Mortimer nearly falls from his seat in hilarity. "Who ever did it, just be thankful neither one of us were kissed."

Saying nothing, every now and then, Black would send him curious glances while Mortimer did his best to ignore it. Focusing more on the pages he was reading; he wasn't at all worried of Black attacking him. Tobey remained vigilant, his dark slits focusing only on the man sitting in front of them, he never once blinked, always ready to strike at a times notice.

Following another hour, Black had finished everything he had picked up. During the small period, no one else had courage to enter into his compartment. Witnesses and the word going on about Mortimer bringing a giant dog inside the train had everyone stepping back. Maybe he should bring Black more often...

Feeling the train slowing down, it was Mortimer's cue to get up. "Right, do your weird dog thing and follow my lead. Got it?"

Brushing the boy's commanding voice off, he rolls his eyes and mutters to himself. "I got it. . . git. . ."

The train coming to a full stop, they arrived at the station. Every child and student leaving and running off towards their loved ones, Mortimer gathers his own items, wandering around until he finds Draco.

Still weary of the dog, Draco stayed a few feet away. "Mother's waiting for us. . ." Eyeing the dog again. "Shouldn't it have a leash on it?"

Looking down on his side, Black remained calmed, panting and sticking his tongue out. "He's harmless." Waving his hand, he signals Black to move.

Knitting his eyebrows together, trying not to appear nervous but failing at it. "You explain that to her."

"I will." A firm nod, Mortimer began marching down the pathway. Having Black follow him around, people gasped, jumped and some had even screamed in surprise when they found the enormous black furry dog pacing from behind.

For a moment, his eyes somehow found Potter's. As the two passed at each other there was a pause of clarity. A nod from Potter, Mortimer returned the gesture. Settling aside personal feelings of each other, they came to understanding. Neither would go back on their word. With the chosen one out of sights their time was broken in matter of seconds as Mortimer travels further, returning to what was supposed to be his luxurious, high-class - and dull - life.

And then, he finally spots her.

The first thing Mortimer did, when his eyes met Narcissa's, was to hug her. In a full tight embrace, her face brightened, in relief. "Oh, my dear, nephew. I've missed you terribly."

Taking in her warm sweet scent, Mortimer didn't resist the affection.

"I hope you came here with the intention of coming home..." Sounding hopeful, yet nervous, he could study her expression, holding an impartial expression. As if she didn't want to get her hopes up, should Mortimer decide he didn't find their home suitable for his needs.

And it hurt him to see her think this way. "I am - I'm sorry for running away."

Brushing his head back, she smiled before embracing him once more. "We will never speak of it again. What matters most to me is that you are right where you belong, with us."

Coughing, they turn over to watch Draco standing not far from them. "Mother."

Letting go of Mortimer, she quickly grabs Draco's soft little cheeks. "My sweet boy." Kissing all parts of his face. "I've missed you so very much."

"Mother! Stop. People are watching!" He cries out, blushing harshly, the embarrassing amount spilling all around his body, Mortimer couldn't help but laugh. "Mum!" He shrieked, causing Mortimer to guffaw out further.

Humiliation achieved, by the time Narcissa liberated her tight grasp around her son. Draco did his best to recover, however couldn't seem to shake those reddish cheeks. To save face, he blurts out. "Mortimer has something he wants to say."

Surprised, Narcissa's eyes expand. "Oh? And what would that be?" Eyeing Mortimer, she asks.

Both his aunt and cousin fixate their sights on the smirking boy.

Placing his hands behind his back, Mortimer swayed his body back and forth in a playful manner. Proclaiming deep with courage and without worry. "I got a new dog."