Author note- This chapter is the beginning of the end. I will hopefully be wrapping up most of the loose ends in the next four chapters. There is a few things that I plan to address in the sequel. Thank you again for all the reads and reviews. It's amazing to have so many people enjoying the story. A big thank you to Estelia, Loopygirl1, and Wren22. You guys always leave such amazing comments.
Chapter 66
Gringotts
Minerva threw in a pinch of floo powder and kneeled in front of her fireplace. She couldn't believe what she'd just found on her desk.
"Spinner's End." Minerva called.
"Severus?" Minerva called when the floo stopped spinning.
She waited a moment. She hoped they were awake. It was still rather early.
"Professor?" Harry asked as he walked into the sitting room.
She gave the boy a small smile. She'd been so upset when he'd been in the hospital. It was good to see him.
"Good morning, Harry. Is Severus up?" Minerva asked.
Harry yawned and nodded. He only looked half-awake himself.
"He's in the loo. I was just making breakfast." Harry answered walking further into the room.
Minerva nodded.
"Er…Do you want to come through?" Harry asked unsurely.
Minerva pinched her lips; she didn't want to intrude on their morning, but she really needed to speak with Severus.
"Minerva?" Severus said, joining Harry in the sitting room.
"Good morning." Minerva said.
"Good morning. What can I do for you?" Severus asked.
"I wonder if I might come through." Minerva said, casting a glance in Harry's direction.
Severus nodded and Minerva closed the floo before tossing more powder in and stepping through.
Minerva waved her wand and cleared off the soot.
"May we speak in private?" Minerva asked.
Severus nodded and led her out of the sitting room and into the office. Harry sent worried looks at them but said nothing.
Minerva sighed as she took a seat in the armchair and Severus settled behind his desk.
"Has something happened?" Severus asked in concern.
Minerva shook her head. She didn't mean to worry them. It wasn't that serious. She just wanted it handled properly.
She reached into her robes and pulled the two envelopes out and handed them to Severus.
Severus studied them for a moment and looked at her in confusion.
"The boy's O.W.L results and supply list for the year?" Severus asked
Minerva nodded and folded her hands in her lap.
"The letters were sent out a little over three weeks ago. We try and make sure the students have the last month of summer to acquire their necessary supplies." Minerva said.
Severus gave her a confused look and shook his head.
"How is it that you have theirs? Severus asked.
Minerva sighed.
"They would have been delivered on July thirty-first." Minerva said quietly.
Severus got a sad look on his face and nodded.
"Both boys were at Hogwarts, so the letters weren't sent." Severus said with a sigh, bringing his hand up to rub at his temple.
"The letters are dated. I didn't realize they'd been returned. Usually once the letters are sent out, I have a week or two that I don't have much to do, other then Muggleborn house calls. We only have a couple this year and I took care of those before the letters even went out. I'd just wanted to get it taken care of. I didn't notice these on my desk until this morning." Minerva explained.
Severus nodded.
"Draco has asked a few times when he'd get his letter. Your concern is Harry though." Severus said.
Minerva nodded. She'd debated just sending them or passing them through the floo, but she wasn't sure how Harry was doing and didn't want to accidentally upset him.
Severus sighed.
"I don't think there is any getting around it. Hopefully, the date will go unnoticed. The boy says he's told someone what led to his attempt but he hasn't spoken to me or Lupin." Severus said.
Minerva nodded.
There was a hesitant knock on the office door, and Severus waved his wand to open it. Harry stood on the other side twisting his hands.
"Sorry for interrupting. I just wanted to let you know breakfast is ready." Harry said quietly.
Severus nodded and stood.
"Will you join us?" Severus said, turning to Minerva.
She nodded. It was nice to be out of the castle. It had been a long and difficult summer and any chance to get out was worth taking.
Minerva followed Severus into the kitchen and found Draco already sitting at the table, and Harry bustling around near the counter.
"Good morning, Mr. Malfoy." Minerva said politely, taking a seat.
He gave her a half smile and nodded.
"Good morning, ma'am." Draco said softly.
Harry brought another place setting and set it down in front of her.
Minerva nodded her thanks.
Harry picked at his food. His anxiety was high today. He'd talked to Sirius and Remus last night. They'd been very apologetic, but he'd not been very receptive. He was glad they were okay, but he could feel his walls coming back up with them. He'd started this summer trying to push everyone away for their own safety and part of him still felt that way. Especially with what he'd learned about himself this summer.
He also just didn't want to be hurt again. He just couldn't trust that they wouldn't leave him. He wanted to believe them but right now he just didn't.
He'd had lots of nightmares last night. Mostly ones that left him feeling lonely and afraid. It had been a restless sleep and he'd eventually given it up and cleaned most of the house. Snape hadn't said anything to him about it this morning, but he'd seemed concerned.
He was looking forward to their trip to Gringotts today, but he was also hesitant about it as well. He had no idea what he might find, and the uncertainty was stressing him out.
Now McGonagall was here and seemed stressed. He worried that something bad had happened and it was being kept from him. He hated all the secrecy.
"Do you need more of your potion?" Snape asked softly.
Harry looked up and caught the man's eye. He realized everyone else had finished there meal while he'd been lost in thought.
He shook his head. There wasn't enough calming draught or stomach soother to make eating possible right now.
Harry stood and went about clearing the table and doing the dishes.
When he was finished, he found that the others were still sitting at the table talking. Harry went back to the stove and set the kettle. When the water was hot, he made them each a cup of tea.
"Thank you." McGonagall said with a smile as he set her tea on the table.
He got nods from Snape and Draco before sitting down to join them at the table. Harry worked up his courage and turned to look at McGonagall.
"Was there another attack?" Harry asked quietly.
McGonagall got a sad look on her face before shaking her head.
"No, I'm sorry for worrying you." McGonagall said earnestly, turning to look at him.
"Minerva brought your letters. Seems they got lost." Snape chipped in.
Harry nodded. There was something they weren't saying but he let it go. He couldn't worry about other things right now. Today was going to be difficult enough on its own.
Harry nodded.
Snape held out there letters. Harry took a deep breath before taking his.
Draco also looked hesitant.
Harry bit his lip and cracked the seal on his before pulling out the folded pages inside. Something fell out and hit the table. Harry stared down at the small gold object. He picked it up and was shocked when he realized what it was. It was the Gryffindor Quidditch captain badge.
He turned shocked eyes to McGonagall.
"You made me captain?" Harry asked in surprise.
McGonagall smiled softly at him and nodded.
"You've been an exemplary player. You're also the oldest and most experienced." McGonagall said.
Harry smiled and then felt an ache in his chest. This should be Katies, not his. She'd been on the team longer.
"Will Katie not be able to play this year?" Harry asked sadly.
McGonagall got a pained look on her face and shook her head.
"No, I don't believe so. We're still not sure if she will be returning this year." McGonagall answered.
Harry sighed. It was bittersweet. He was excited to be captain, but he wished Katie was going to be there with him.
Harry set down the pin and picked up the letter.
The first page was a list of supplies, as well as the books with notes on what grades needed to have been achieved on OWLs to be in the class this year.
Harry set it aside and looked at the official Ministry copy of his OWL results.
Astronomy O
Care of Magical Creatures O
Charms O
Defense against the Dark Arts O
Divination A
Herbology O
History of Magic E
Potions E
Transfiguration O
Harry stared at the page for a long time. He'd passed everything. Somehow even History of Magic, even without having finished the test. He'd also passed Divination which didn't even seem possible. He supposed he'd done enough studying that he'd been able to answer the written parts of the test. He planned to drop it anyway. He knew he wasn't a seer.
He sighed as he stared at the E he'd achieved in Potions. He'd learned so much last year and he'd obviously still messed up somewhere. It didn't matter that he'd passed. The requirement to be in Snapes NEWTs potion class was an O. He needed a potions NEWT to study healing.
He sighed and folded the page with the book list and picked up the third sheet of paper.
We hope this letter finds you well. We understand that this has been a difficult time, and we hope you've had a safe summer. This letter is to inform you that there have been some changes put in place to help students have a safe year here at Hogwarts.
Each student will be asked to present their trunk for magical inspection. Their belongings will not be gone through unless something on the spell registers that something unsafe is within.
Note that items that will be looked for are: undeclared potions, muggle drugs, alcohol, weapons, dark artifacts, and Portkeys.
Each student will also have access to a mind Healer on staff this year. We hope to help those students that may be struggling with the current state of things.
Hogsmeade trips for the time being will still be available, but they may be cancelled depending on unforeseen circumstances. We will attempt to give as much notice as possible if this is the case.
We look forward to seeing each of you at the welcome feast.
Harry considered the list of restricted objects as he touched the portkey pendant on his necklace. He didn't know if they would search the students as well, but he wouldn't be taking off his necklace.
Harry set down the letter and looked over at Draco. He also looked upset. Harry wondered if he hadn't gotten the grades he'd expected.
Harry sighed and crammed all the pages and the badge back in the envelope before standing.
"When are we leaving?" Harry asked softly.
Snape gave him a concerned look before answering.
"Shortly." Snape said.
Harry nodded and headed out of the kitchen. He quickly realized Draco had followed him up the stairs.
"Are you okay?" Harry asked him softly when they got to the hall in front of their rooms.
Draco looked sad but nodded.
"I got captain too." Draco said softly.
Harry smiled.
"Congratulations." Harry said earnestly.
Draco shrugged.
"I don't have a broom." Draco said with a sigh.
Harry was confused. It must have shown on his face.
"I couldn't take it with me. I didn't want anyone to notice it was missing. Severus says he'll help me with my supplies, but I don't have money to get a new broom. I'm going to have to turn down the captain badge." Draco explained.
Harry shook his head and walked into his room. He threw open his trunk and dug around until he found the bag of Galleons that he'd originally given to Snape. He didn't understand why everyone had given the money back, but Remus had said it was his to spend.
When Harry returned to the hall, Draco was gone but his bedroom door was open. Harry walked down the hall and looked into the room.
Draco was sitting on the end of his bed, his head down in his hands. Harry took a deep breath and walked into the room. He didn't like seeing Draco upset.
"Here." Harry said holding the bag out.
Draco looked up and frowned.
"What's this?" Draco asked quietly.
Harry shook the bag a little and it made a slight jingling noise.
Draco's jaw tensed and he glared at Harry.
"I don't need your charity, Potter." Draco growled.
Harry took a deep breath. He knew Draco was feeling embarrassed. It must be hard to go from having everything you could possibly want, to having nothing.
"It's not charity. How am I supposed to prove I'm a better seeker and captain if you're not out there with me?" Harry said with an overconfident smirk.
Draco gave him a skeptical look.
"Are you sure?" Draco asked hesitantly.
Harry nodded.
"Absolutely." Harry said firmly.
Draco hesitantly reached out and took the bag.
"Should be enough to get any broom you want." Harry said casually.
Draco still looked hesitant.
"Maybe Snape will let you pick one out today. We can fly at the Burrow." Harry said with a smile.
He was still feeling anxious about going to see his friends, but he was looking forward to the chance to fly again.
A small smile pulled at the corners of Draco's mouth. Harry smiled back. He realized he really liked seeing Draco smile, it made something tighten strangely in his chest and his stomach felt like it was full of snitches. It was an interesting sensation. He didn't really understand it but he kind of liked it.
"Thank you, Harry." Draco said, sending him a genuine smile.
Harry smiled brightly back at him.
"Of course." Harry said with a nod.
Draco blushed a little and tucked the bag into his pocket.
"We should probably head back down." Draco said, standing from his bed.
Harry nodded.
He sighed again thinking about the disappointment of his own letter.
Draco gave him a curious look.
"Something wrong?" Draco asked.
Harry shrugged.
"One of my grades just wasn't what I was hoping for." Harry said with a sigh, as he headed out of Draco's room and walked back to his own room to collect his things.
Draco stood in his doorway with his arms crossed.
"Did you fail something?" Draco asked.
Harry shook his head as he grabbed a few things from his trunk and put them in his bag.
"Well, not that big of a deal. Just study up this year. NEWTs are two years away." Draco said.
Harry's shoulders slumped.
"I only got an E in potions." Harry said quietly, not turning to look at Draco.
"Oh." Draco said quietly.
Draco knew he wanted to be a healer and was hoping to make it into potions this year so he could do that. It also meant the career everyone expected of him wasn't an option either. Potions was required for Auror's as well. He was sure Sirius and Remus would be disappointed in him. McGonagall probably too.
"Maybe you can talk to Severus." Draco suggested.
Harry shook his head. He wouldn't ask for special treatment. Especially, not from Snape. The man was one of the few who didn't see the Boy-who-lived. He just saw Harry.
He didn't know why it was bothering him so much. He'd be dead before he ever got to become anything. He didn't suspect that the war would last another two full years. Not unless there were more Horcruxes then he thought there were.
A deep ache started to burn in his chest. He was going to have to die.
"He really cares about you, you know." Draco said quietly.
Harry felt tears sting his eyes. He thought about Snape practically tucking him into bed last night, telling him that he loved him and wouldn't leave him.
He pulled on his shields. He needed to get a grip. He had other things to do today.
He pulled his wall fully up. He knew better then to do it all the time, but he needed them up for right now.
He turned to Draco and nodded.
"Shall we?" Harry asked as he shrugged his bag onto his shoulders.
Draco gave him a concerned look before nodding and leading them back downstairs.
Severus was standing in the sitting room when the boys came downstairs. Minerva had agreed to come with them.
Draco looked concerned and Severus understood as soon as he saw Harry. His eyes were a little glassy but blank. He was occluding hard again.
Severus sighed.
Draco approached with a hesitant look on his face.
"Would it be possible for me to look at brooms while we're in the alley?" Draco asked.
Severus raised his eyebrow.
"I'm going to buy a new broom." Draco said with a soft smile on his face.
Severus glanced between the two boys before nodding. Harry had almost certainly given Draco money. He thought it was kind. He'd been worried how Draco would take the news of becoming captain. He'd made the decision before everything had happened this summer.
"Very well. Minerva, would you go with Harry to the bank while I take Draco to the broom shop?" Severus asked.
Minerva nodded her agreement.
"I'd like to keep our trip to about two hours. I suspect you won't be able to get through the whole vault. Old family vaults are…expansive. However, lingering in Diagon alley isn't advisable." Severus said to Harry.
Harry nodded back.
"That's fine. I appreciate being able to go at all." Harry said flatly.
Severus shot Minerva a concerned look. She returned it before grabbing the pot of floo powder.
"Will floo through first, please follow." Severus said taking some floo powder before calling out for the Leaky Cauldron.
Severus scanned the pub as Minerva arrived just behind him.
"Please keep a close eye on Harry." Severus said softly as the floo flared again.
Minerva gave him a worried look but nodded back.
Harry sighed as they finally made it to the bank. He'd switched back to boy-who-lived form for his trip. He felt to raw to go into public in base form. Draco hadn't commented when he shifted, and Snape and McGonagall had given him curious looks when he stepped through the floo, but had also not said anything.
Coming to the crowded alley in this form drew a lot of attention though. Attention that he wished he could avoid.
Harry scanned the goblins until he found one that wasn't currently helping another customer and approached. The goblin glared as he approached but seemed to relax a little as Harry bowed.
"I'd like to visit the Potter family vault." Harry said clearly as he set his hand on the counter showing the Potter ring, and presenting the key that Remus had given him.
The goblin studied both for a moment before nodding.
"Very well. We will have someone take you down in just a moment." The goblin said neutrally.
"Is Rokk available?" Harry inquired.
The goblin gave him a curious look before nodding.
Harry hadn't heard anything from him in a while. He hoped he hadn't said the wrong thing in his last letter. Goblins seemed to be offended easily and they did not give second chances.
Harry saw Rokk approaching from behind the goblin he was speaking with.
They spoke in gobbledygook before turning back to Harry.
"There is a matter of business that needs to be handled. Are you available to address that with the Potter family manager?" The first goblin asked.
Harry glanced over at McGonagall who was standing a respectful distance away.
Harry nodded. He didn't plan to come back to the bank before school started. He didn't know what business needed to be addressed but he'd rather not have it hanging over his head.
"Very well, Rokk can take you to Sharpfang." The goblin said coolly.
Harry bowed again.
"May your enemies fall and your gold multiply." Harry said.
The goblin bowed slightly back.
"Yours as well, Heir Potter." He replied.
Rokk gestured for Harry to follow him.
"I've got something else I need to address before we can go to the vault. Hopefully it won't take long." Harry said as he approached McGonagall.
She nodded.
"Do you want me to come with you?" She asked calmly.
Harry considered before shaking his head. He didn't know what this was about and didn't want to involve others.
"Very well." McGonagall nodded.
Harry followed Rokk down a hall before finding himself in a room with Sharpfang. The goblin looked stern. Though Harry thought they all kind of had that look by default.
Harry bowed to Sharpfang and sat in the chair in front of the goblin's desk.
"Your success in recent battle has left you head of two additional family lines. We have the paperwork here that needs to be signed. There is a detailed account of the contents of their vaults and assets. All have been transferred to your name and the lordship rings are available to you." Sharpfang said.
Harry felt like all the air had been sucked from the room. He felt panic building behind his shields. He was thankful they were already up.
"What?" Harry gaped.
Sharpfang made a disgruntled sound before laying two stacks of papers on the desk in front of him.
"You vanquished two of your enemies in battle. They were both Lords of old pureblood families which makes you lord of both houses. This is lord by conquest. You won't be able to formally use the titles until you reach seventeen. However, you are lord apparent." Sharpfang explained.
Harry shook his head in disbelief. He wished he'd let McGonagall come with him.
Harry scooted forward and looked at the papers in front of him.
One had Nott written at the top and the other had Parkinson.
Harry took a shaky breath. This was bad.
"Lord Parkinson did not have an apparent Heir. The family is rather large, and others may try and claim the Lordship if you do not accept it today. Lord Nott had one Heir but no partner or other legitimate family." Sharpfang said pointing to some other lines.
Harry was struck by what Sharpfang had just said. He'd orphaned Teddy. He hadn't known it had just been him and his father. Draco hadn't said anything about it.
Harry felt like his whole body was shaking.
"Heir Nott will likely continue to reside in the manor for the week, but he can be removed if that is your wish." Sharpfang said.
Harry shook his head. He'd done enough to the other boy. He certainly wasn't going to kick him out of his home.
"Unclaimed Lordships can result in lengthy feuds and litigation." Sharpfang explained.
Harry didn't know what to do. Teddy shouldn't be left with nothing. Neither should Pansy, though he wasn't as worried about Pansy given, she hadn't lost her immediate family. However, both families were aligned with Voldemort, and he was hesitant to not claim the lordships for fear that other Death Eaters, or even Voldemort himself would claim them.
Harry had read a lot about Lordships. It wasn't just the fortune. It offered control over the family to a degree. Voldemort had already enslaved his followers. What if this allowed him to force others to join him.
As far as he had seen, Draco was the only one of his classmates who had been forced to join at this point.
He'd speak with Draco about making Teddy and Pansy heads of their houses. He didn't know them but the way that Draco talked about them made Harry think that perhaps they could convince them at the very least to remain neutral.
Harry nodded and took the offered quill before signing both pages. He took a steadying breath when he was presented with a silver dagger. He pressed the tip into his thumb until a bead of blood appeared. Then he pressed it to both sets of parchment.
The top page of both disappeared.
Sharpfang gave him a gruesome smile. Harry nodded warily.
Sharpfang bundled the parchments up and added them to a box before holding it out for Harry to take.
"You'll find all of the pertinent paper's in there as well as the keys to the vaults and Lordship rings." Sharpfang said.
Harry shakily accepted the box and quickly tucked it into his bag.
"Rokk can take you to any of the vaults you need to see today." Sharpfang said dismissively.
Harry shakily stood before bowing.
"May your enemies fall and your gold multiply." Harry whispered, truly taking in the meaning of the words.
His enemies had fallen, and his gold had multiplied. It felt horrid.
Sharpfang gave him another smile before bowing as well.
"Yours as well Heir Potter." Sharpfang said.
Harry walked on shaking legs out of the office and followed Rokk through the labyrinth of corridors. He had not expected to be faced with this today. He was already stressed out and being forced to look at the results of the two men he had killed was pushing his ability to cope. This certainly hadn't been on his agenda.
"Are you alright, Heir Potter?" Rokk asked from beside him.
Harry shook his head.
"Just Harry, Rokk. No, I feel awful." Harry admitted.
Rokk gave him a curious look.
"You vanquished a foe. Should this not be a day of celebration?" Rokk asked.
Harry swallowed thickly. He supposed in goblin culture it should be. However, as a sixteen-year-old wizard it felt like he'd just had the full weight of two deaths laid on his shoulders.
"It's hard to explain. Perhaps we can discuss it later." Harry whispered.
Rokk nodded.
"I apologize I've not been able to respond to your latest letter. The bank has had several issues to address." Rokk said.
Harry gave him a curious look, but Rokk only shook his head. Harry let the matter drop. The concerns of the bank were not his to worry about.
Harry walked around the spacious room he had found himself in. They called it a vault, but he could have put two houses inside the space easily. Rokk had been following him around and answering questions about various artifacts. McGonagall had followed them into the vault but had become fascinated with a collection of heirloom tapestries.
Harry had collected several books that looked interesting as he had walked. He'd smiled when he found a schoolbook of his mother's. It was her potions book from her seventh year and was heavily annotated. She also seemed to have charmed it and the aura around it was beautiful.
He'd kept his eye out for anything else with her aura on it but hadn't found anything yet.
Harry's breath caught when he walked around a corner and was confronted with an armory of swords. He walked closer and looked at them in amazement.
"The Potter's have many goblin forged weapons. They are good quality. Your family has retained possession by showing good etiquette with the goblins." Rokk commented.
Harry looked at him curiously.
"Goblin's sell weapons, but it is considered good practice to return them when the original owner falls. If the weapon is not returned the proper etiquette is to pay the goblins." Rokk explained.
Harry hadn't heard that before but found it interesting. He'd need to read more about it.
"My ancestors forged a great sword for a wizard once and was not paid rightfully. It has been handed down and the goblins see this as a great slight. The sword of Gryffindor is rightfully goblin property." Rokk said.
Harry glanced curiously at Rokk before turning back to the knives and swords. He wondered if it would be practical to learn to properly use one.
"Which of these is the best?" Harry asked.
Rokk didn't hesitate to walk over and pull a long sword down. He turned around to present it to Harry. Harry took the sword and pulled it from the decretive, black leather sheath. The handle was lovely, and the blade looked sharp.
Harry nodded before studying the wall again. He picked up another sword and a few smaller knives before finding a bag that had an amazing aura around it.
"Do you know what this is?" Harry asked picking up the bag and turning to Rokk.
"It's a weapons master's bag. In battle this is carried to conceal a large number of weapons to be used by a group of soldiers. The bag has enchantments to keep it from being damaged or summoned. They weigh next to nothing and can hold immense loads." Rokk explained.
Harry nodded. It was fascinating.
"Can the bag it's self be shrunk?" Harry asked, feeling the silky-smooth fabric.
Rokk nodded.
"It can. If you look here on the side, it can also be fully opened and rolled out, so that the weapons can be displayed for quick retrieval, if there are a large number or if they are being evaluated or sold." Rokk explained.
Harry considered this for a moment.
"Which sword do you like best?" Harry asked.
Rokk considered the wall for a long moment before stepping forward and taking down a shorter sword.
"This one is an excellent sword. Well balanced and impressively embellished." Rokk said holding it out for Harry to take.
"It's yours. I'd like to gift it to you for being my friend and helping me with all of this." Harry said.
Rokk looked shocked.
"Are you certain?" Rokk asked, studying the sword reverently.
Harry nodded firmly.
"Thank you, Heir…. thank you, Harry." Rokk said in amazement.
"Your welcome Rokk." Harry said with a smile.
Rokk pulled at a small pouch on his belt and put the sword into it. Harry was amazed when the sword disappeared completely in the small space.
He loved magic.
Harry waved his hand and watched as all the other swords disappeared into the bag he was holding. He slid the one in his hand in last before shrinking the bag and tucking it into his pocket.
He didn't know if arming the DA with swords was a good plan, but he thought having other ways to defend themselves was probably for the best. Most of them could not perform any wandless magic, and if they lost their wand, they would be defenseless.
Harry walked further into the huge vault.
"There you are. Thought I'd lost you." McGonagall said walking up behind them.
Harry shot her a smile over his shoulder. He'd cast a notice-me-not when he'd seen the swords. He knew that the adults wouldn't approve of him having anything sharp. He wasn't looking to kill himself though. Not today. Not right now. He was looking for ways to end the war. Ways to keep his friends alive.
It hadn't been the reason for coming here, but the longer he looked around the more his mind floated in that direction. It was his only purpose now.
"Did you find any tapestries you liked?" Harry asked over his shoulder.
"Yes, there are some beautiful one's in there. One is over a thousand years old and has a wonderful depiction of a village near where I grew up. I hope you appreciate the tressures your family have left you Harry." McGonagall said.
Harry smiled softly.
"You'll have to show me the tapestry before we leave. I don't know much about them." Harry answered softly.
Harry stopped when he came to a chaotic pile of things. Everything else in the vault was neat and organized. This, however, looked like it had all just been dumped here.
"What is this?" Harry asked quietly as he stepped closer.
Harry scanned over the pile and spotted something that had his feet freezing in place. It was a woven rug that he recognized from pictures he had.
"This is from Godric's Hollow." Harry said in a choked voice.
Harry flinched when he felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up to find McGonagall.
"I think it's best we leave it be for today." McGonagall said softly.
Harry shook his head. This whole vault may be things from his family. These things were his parents though. This was the reason he'd come here in the first place.
"Rokk, can house elves be called into a vault?" Harry asked.
Rokk considered for a moment.
"Is it your elf?" Rokk asked.
Harry shook his head.
"He's not bound to me." Harry answered.
"You can try." Rokk answered.
Harry nodded.
"Dobby." Harry called.
With a pop Dobby appeared in front of him.
"Harry Potter, Sir." Dobby cheered before reaching out and hugging Harry's leg.
"Hello Dobby." Harry said patting the elf on the back.
"What can Dobby do for you today?" Dobby said taking a step back.
Harry scanned the pile of things.
"Could you help me organize this a little?" Harry asked.
Dobby turned to study the pile as well.
"What a mess. Some elves have no pride in their work." Dobby said shaking his head.
"House elves did this?" Harry said, as he turned to face McGonagall.
She gave him a sad look before nodding.
"Albus sent some of the elves from Hogwarts to clear out the house. People were breaking in to have something from the place where you-know-who fell." McGonagall whispered.
Harry's jaw clenched as he looked away from McGonagall. He walked closer to the pile and started sorting.
Severus scanned the alley as they made their way from The Leaky Cauldron to Quality Quidditch Supplies. The alley was packed with students and parents getting there shopping done. Severus was relieved slightly to see several order members out walking the alley as well.
He'd seen Tonks and Shacklebolt walking with a few other Auror's. He was glad the young woman had recovered.
He spotted Moody in a dark corner and gave him a nod when he caught his eye. To his surprise the man nodded back. Severus was surprised about the change in demeanor of the order to him over the summer. They seemed to have more fully accepted him now that he was no longer spying.
Draco was being rather quiet today.
When they stepped into the shop Severus could see the gleam in Draco's eyes. He knew his godson had always loved flying. He hoped this trip would help lift his mood.
"Go ahead and look around. There isn't much for me in this shop." Severus said before finding a spot near the door to keep an eye out.
Draco flitted from one display to the next. Severus smiled softly. This was good for Draco. The boy had a rough summer and focusing on something normal like flying and the next quidditch season was good.
He hoped that Harry was faring alright.
After nearly an hour Draco appeared in front of him with a broom, a bag, and a smile that could light up the room.
"Have you found everything you needed?" Severus asked.
Draco nodded excitedly.
"I got a Thunderbolt. They are really popular with professional players. It's got…" Draco started before Severus held up his hand and shook his head.
"I'm sure it's a perfectly serviceable broom." Severus said with a slight chuckle.
Draco smiled but nodded. He seemed to understand that Severus was not interested in the specifications of a broom.
"What else did you get?" Severus asked, pointing at the bag.
Draco's cheeks blushed a little.
"Um…Harry gave me the money for the broom. I picked up a few things I thought he might like." Draco said softly.
Severus rolled his eyes but nodded.
"Very well. I assume you thanked Harry for the generous gift." Severus said.
"Of course." Draco said with a nod.
"We still have about an hour. Is there anything else you'd like to do, or shall we just head back to the Cauldron?" Severus asked.
He was content to just sip a drink and wait. Being on the alley with Draco was causing him a lot of stress. He and Draco were certainly high on the Dark Lords list.
Draco shrugged.
"Flourish and blots?" Draco asked.
Severus nodded. He supposed they could walk around the book shop for a while.
They headed off and Severus continued to scan the crowd as they made their way through.
Harry followed McGonagall back through the vault. They'd sorted most of the things from Godric's Hollow. He'd found a few surprising things and tucked them into his bag. Books mostly. There had also been a box that was covered in his mother's magic that he had tucked away.
He'd also found the small collection of stuffed animals that he'd seen pictures of himself playing with. He'd vanished the rat with a sneer and embarrassingly tucked the other four in his bag. He'd never had a stuffie while he'd lived at the Dursleys. It was childish, but he wanted them.
When they reached the area where the tapestries hung, he stopped. They were all hanging in a layered fashion on the wall.
"Which of these were you talking about?" Harry asked curiously.
McGonagall walked over next to him and flipped through a few before she stopped. Harry looked up at the beautiful tapestry. It depicted a village at the foot of two large mountains. He didn't know the orientation, but the sun looked like it was setting. The colors were vibrant for something so old. He could see why McGonagall had liked it so much.
"You'll have to tell me more about it sometime." Harry said with a smile.
"Um…Maybe I can come to your office for tea…or something…If you have time." Harry said shyly.
He wanted to know McGonagall better. After seeing the pictures, he knew that she'd been important to his life when he was a baby.
McGonagall gave him a soft smile and nod.
"Any time Harry." McGonagall said earnestly.
Harry smiled back. It was a strange feeling to have so many adults being so kind to him.
They continued through for a moment before Harry stopped and turned to Dobby. He leaned low.
"Take that tapestry back to Hogwarts. Clean and repair it if necessary and hang it in Professor McGonagall's office, please." Harry whispered quietly in Dobby's ear.
The elf nodded. He was clutching a box full of socks Harry had given him. They'd found lots of clothing in the pile and Harry had told Dobby he could have the socks if he wanted them. Dobby had burst into grateful tears and Harry had just laughed at the silly elf.
When they reached the main floor of the bank Harry bowed to Rokk.
"Thank you for all of your help Rokk. I'll write you soon." Harry said with a soft smile.
Rokk bowed back.
"I look forward to it…Harry." Rokk said.
McGonagall guided them back out of the bank and Harry was surprised to find Snape and Draco approaching.
"I thought we were meeting back at the Cauldron." Harry said quietly to McGonagall.
"I thought so too." McGonagall replied.
Harry scanned the crowd in the street, and something felt off. He just couldn't place it.
"I don't like this." Harry whispered as they approached Snape.
Harry held up his hand and stared hard at Snape. He thought quickly of something only Snape would know. Something from this summer that wouldn't have been shared.
"The scar on my neck. Where did it come from?" Harry asked holding his hand up firmly, ready to cast.
The heartbroken look on Snape's face was there for only a moment.
"An electrical cord from a television set." Snape answered softly.
Harry's shoulders relaxed and he sighed.
Snape continued to approach until they were all standing together.
"What's wrong Harry?" Snape asked quietly.
Harry shook his head.
"I don't know. Something feels off. I thought we were meeting back at The Leaky Cauldron." Harry said distractedly, his eyes continuing to scan the crowded street.
"We were. I came to find Professor McGonagall. We ran across a first year that was struggling with his shopping and I thought since we were done with our outing, I might send her to see if she could help." Snape said.
Harry nodded. He knew he would have been lost without Hagrid here his first time.
"Where have you left the poor dear?" McGonagall said.
"Flourish and Blots. Blonde, blue eyes about so tall." Snape said holding out his hand.
"He came with his mother but she's a muggle and they're having a hard time." Snape explained.
"Very well. Thank you for letting me know." McGonagall said.
Harry could now see the stern professor coming through and smiled.
"Tonks, Shacklebolt, and Moody are in the alley. Please be careful." Harry heard Snape whisper to McGonagall as she passed him. His hand briefly touching her arm.
Harry could see the concern on Snapes face. It was clear from the interactions he'd seen between the professors that they were close.
Snape turned back to him and Draco.
"I trust you behaved." Snape said.
Harry nodded.
"Did you get a broom?" Harry asked, turning to Draco.
Draco smiled and patted his pocket. Harry smiled back and the three of them set off back down the alley. It was a struggle to even walk a few feet before having to stop or change course. Harry couldn't remember ever being here when it was so busy. He kept his eyes peeled for Order members.
He caught sight of Tonk's bubblegum pink hair and bright smile. To Harry's surprise she and Kingsley approached them.
"Wotcher Harry." Tonks said.
"Hi Tonks." Harry responded softly, smiling slightly.
"Everything alright?" Snape asked.
Tonks and Kingsley both nodded.
"Just wanted to let you know Mundungus is near the entry of the leaky. He's hocking all kinds of stuff." Tonks said before giving Harry a worried look.
"I think it's things from Grimmauld." Tonks said softly.
Harry saw red. This was the second time today he was hearing about people just stealing things from his family and he'd had enough.
Harry stomped his way through the crowd.
"Harry." Draco called from somewhere behind him.
He paid no mind to it. He couldn't believe Dung had stolen things from Grimmauld. The man had helped the twins last summer get supplies they couldn't get on their own. He'd seemed irresponsible but harmless. This was unacceptable though.
Harry caught sight of Mundungus and saw the table in front of him. He could see the Black family crest on a set of silver and felt his blood pressure go through the roof. Tonks was right.
"What the hell are you doing?" Harry shouted as he reached the table.
Mundungus turned and gave Harry a half smile.
"Selling my wares. What's it look like?" Mundungus said turning away from Harry to talk to someone at the other end of the table.
There were several people milling around the table. Harry felt like screaming until one man who seemed to be straightening the table turned and looked at Harry.
Harry's breath caught in his throat. The man smiled at him and his eyes roamed over Harry's body.
"Nice to see you, Harry." The man said rounding the table and taking a step closer to him. His arm shot out and grabbed Harry's arm in a vice-like grip.
"Be good." The man hissed menacingly, pulling Harry closer to him.
RUN!
It was the only thought in Harry's mind. He needed to get away. Right now.
Harry wrenched his arm away and darted back into the crowd.
He searched desperately for Snape.
Harry could feel his heart pounding as he looked over his shoulder and searched for anyone following him.
Finally, he spotted Draco fighting his way through the crowd. They were headed right for The Leaky Cauldron. He couldn't go back.
Harry shoved past a witch walking a young boy. Then he reached out and grabbed ahold of Draco's arm and then Snape's.
"Harry what…" Snape started to say before Harry turned on his heal and apparated them out of the alley.
Severus watched in horror as Harry took off into the crowded street. He sent a glare at Tonks before following Harry.
"Harry!" Draco called but the boy didn't turn around.
Several other heads turned in their direction though.
"Don't call out for him. You're drawing attention we don't need." Severus said softly and they kept moving forward.
Severus could now see Mundungus. He had quite a collection laid out in front of him. The man was a thief, and everyone knew it. He didn't know what had gotten into Harry though. It was disrespectful and he would let Sirius and Albus know but he didn't understand what Harry hoped to achieve by confronting him on the street.
He lost sight of the table and Harry, but he could hear him shouting at Mundungus. Then there were people grumbling in front of them and suddenly Harry appeared out of the crowd.
The boy looked terrified.
"Harry what…" Severus started to say as the boy latched on to his arm and forced them to apparate.
Severus could feel them tearing through the wards around Cokeworth. They were difficult to navigate. Suddenly they were all in the back garden of his home and Harry was collapsed in front of him sobbing.
Severus knelt down in front of Harry and reached out to him. Harry flinched back hard and began to scoot away from him. Terrified green eyes met his.
Severus put up his hands placatingly.
"Shhh. It's okay." Severus said softly.
Harry shook his head, and to Severus surprise, Harry jumped up and ran for the back door. Severus stood and just watched as Harry disappeared into the house.
"What the hell was that?" Draco asked from beside him.
Severus shook his head. He had no idea what had happened.
"I don't know. Leave it be. I think perhaps you should go to the Book Nook for a while." Severus said.
Draco gave him a disbelieving look.
"Just do as I say Draco." Severus snarled as he made his way to the house.
Severus stood at the bottom of the stairs and considered. He didn't want to upset the boy more, but he didn't want to leave him alone.
With a sigh he walked to the sitting room and floo called the twin's shop. George had been a constant for Harry, perhaps he would be able to help. He didn't want to see that terrified look on his face again.
He was surprised when he called the flat and found Ms. Johnson.
"They're in the shop. What can I do for you?" Angelina asked.
"I need George to come to my house." Severus said as calmly as he could.
The young woman had a concerned look on her face.
"Is this about Harry?" Angelina asked.
Severus only nodded.
She seemed to understand. Severus assumed that she was aware of what had been happening with Harry.
"I'll go get him." Angelina said before closing the floo.
Severus paced the sitting room for a few minutes, listening intently for anything going on upstairs. There wasn't a sound.
The floo flared and George tumbled out.
"What's going on?" George asked worriedly.
Severus took a deep breath.
"I'm not entirely sure." Severus said.
"We went to Diagon alley today and Harry got separated from us. He came running back terrified. I have no idea what happened. He wouldn't speak to me when we returned. I'd like you to see if he will talk to you." Severus explained.
George looked sad. Severus knew the two were close, and It was upsetting for all of them when something happened to Harry.
"If there is a threat in the alley, I need to let the Order know." Severus added.
George gave him a concerned look before nodding.
"Is he in his room?" George asked.
"Yes." Severus answered.
George nodded again and headed out of the sitting room.
Severus sighed and ran his hand through his hair. He'd thought things were going ok. Harry even seemed to be in a good mood after they'd started walking back to The Leaky Cauldron.
With a sigh he headed back to the bottom of the stairs to wait.
George could feel his heart pounding as he waited for Harry to open the door. He'd knock and not gotten any response.
He reached for the doorknob and pushed the door open.
His heart broke at the sight. Harry was balled up next to his bed sobbing hard into his knees.
George closed the door behind him and shuffled his feet a little as he approached. Harry's head came up at the sound and George could see all the tears on his face. When he realized it was George he just put his head back down.
George sat next to him but left plenty of room between them. He didn't want to invade Harry's space. Especially because he didn't know what was going on.
"Snape's worried about you." George said softly.
Harry didn't respond so George just kept talking.
"He wants to know if you saw a Death eater in the alley." George asked.
Harry shook his head and whimpered as he balled himself tighter. George could see his nails biting into his other hand.
"Shhh… Harry it's okay." George said softly, reaching out and pulling Harry's hands apart.
George could hear Harry mumbling.
"What?" George asked softly, while he held Harry's hands.
"I saw him." Harry cried.
George didn't understand until Harry raised his head, and he could see the look on his face.
George swallowed thickly and nodded.
"The guy that's been attacking you?" George asked quietly.
Harry nodded as another wave of tears fell down his face.
"I'm so sorry Harry." George said softly.
Harry scooted closer and George let go of Harry's hands and wrapped his arms around him. George fought down his anger. Where the fuck had Snape been?
Harry's whole body was shaking so bad it almost felt like he was vibrating. George tried to think of what to do. Then a horrible thought occurred to him. Had he hurt Harry again?
George took a deep breath and rubbed soothingly at Harry's back.
"Harry…Did…did he hurt you?" George asked quietly.
To George's relief Harry shook his head and clung tighter to the front of his shirt.
George sighed. They needed to know who this guy was, so that they could, at the bare minimum, keep Harry away from him. It would be better if they could actually go after him, but he'd settle for the perv never being around Harry again.
"Harry who is he?" George asked softly.
Harry shook his head.
"We can help you, but we need to know." George said softly.
"Wouldn't have helped today." Harry mumbled as he pulled himself away from George's chest.
"What do you mean?" George asked.
He let his arms fall away from Harry as he pulled away and leaned back against the bed.
"I ran off. I…I was angry, and I practically ran right to him." Harry spat.
George could hear the disgust in his voice.
"It's not your fault Harry." George said softly.
Harry just looked down at his hand's and gently traced the half-moons he'd gouged into it with his nails.
"It's always my fault." Harry whispered.
George could hear that resignation back in Harry's voice and he loathed it.
Harry sighed.
"I'm supposed to go back on Saturday with Ron and Hermione. I don't…I don't think I can." Harry said shakily.
George took a deep breath. That blank look had come over Harry's eyes. He was calmer now, but George knew he was just hiding. Harry was scared.
"Fred and I will be with you. We already told Mum we'd go with. Angie and Lee are going to watch the shop for us." George explained.
They'd made the plan after his mum had told them that Harry and Draco would be coming to the Burrow. His mum was worried about having so many kids to watch in the alley.
Harry nodded a little but still looked unsure.
"I won't let anything happen to you Harry." George promised.
Harry looked at him with sad eyes and looked over his face before nodding. Harry's head dropped and he looked back down at his hands.
"I remembered something this summer that I'd forgotten…or…I don't know. My memory has been strange this summer…I…I'm afraid to tell Snape… or anyone." Harry said softly
George considered for a moment.
"Nothing you tell us is going to change anything Harry. We love you. We just want to keep you safe." George said softly.
Harry sniffled and nodded.
"Love you too." Harry whispered.
George smiled sadly at Harry. The poor kid could not catch a break.
"Will you talk to Snape? Let us protect you?" George asked.
Harry hesitated.
"Will you stay with me?" Harry asked quietly.
"Of course." George said softly, reaching out and taking Harry's hand, before giving it a gentle squeeze.
Severus sat anxiously at the bottom of the stairs. George had gone up nearly an hour ago. He had dismissed the idea that whatever had scared Harry was a Death Eater. The boy was too Gryffindor to have fled. Whatever had happened had scared Harry and he'd run.
The door upstairs opened, and Severus was surprised to find not only George but Harry as well. The boy's face was red and blotchy. His hair was a mess, and his eyes looked glassy.
Severus stood and motioned them into the sitting room. He took a seat in his chair and watched as Harry and George sat down on the couch.
Severus looked at George and could see the worry on his face but also anger. Severus wondered if Harry had told George about what Mundungus had been doing.
"What's going on Harry?" Severus asked levelly.
Harry seemed to hunch in on himself a little.
"Are you and Draco alright?" Harry asked quietly.
Severus sighed. It had been dangerous for the boy to apparate them like that. Especially back here. Although Harry had managed to apparate four people into Hogwarts, so he supposed the boy had more skill and power at his disposal then the average wizard.
"We're both fine." Severus answered.
Harry nodded.
Harry whispered something to George and seemed to be shaking his head. George's jaw tensed.
"Do you want me to start?" George asked very softly.
Harry hesitated for a moment before nodding.
George reached out and took Harry's hand and said something too softly for Severus to hear. Severus waited patiently until George looked up at him.
"Harry ran into the wizard that's been abusing him." George said.
Severus was a little shocked by that statement. It certainly hadn't been what he'd expected.
He looked at Harry and could see that he was noticeably shaking. Severus felt the rage building up in his body. He'd been right there.
"Harry." Severus called softly, as he actively shoved down his anger.
He needed to focus on helping Harry right now.
Harry looked up at him then glanced away. Severus swallowed thickly thinking about what Harry had said about the sick fuck.
"Harry, did he touch you?" Severus asked as neutrally as he could.
He didn't think Harry had been away from them long enough for anything to have happened, but he still wanted to check.
Harry hesitated and half shrugged before shaking his head.
Severus didn't like that answer. He waited to see if Harry would say anything else.
"I'm fine." Harry whispered.
Severus wanted to roll his eyes. The boy was anything but fine. He caught sight of the exacerbated look on George's face and could tell the young man was thinking the same thing.
"Harry, you need to tell us who it is. We talked about this. We can keep you safe, but you have to talk to us." George said softly, rubbing his thumb across Harry's hand.
Severus noticed the back of his hand was bright red.
He hoped George could talk Harry into saying something. Harry was at risk of another attack if they didn't know who they were supposed to be keeping him away from.
Harry sighed and nodded.
Severus felt like he was holding his breath waiting for Harry to speak.
"After what happened at the ministry my…my memory has been doing some really strange things…my magic too. I…I've had a bunch of memories come back to me that I…I don't know. Forgot?" Harry said just above a whisper as he shrugged one shoulder.
Severus brows scrunched as he listened to Harry talk. He had no idea what this could mean. Perhaps the Dark Lord had done something to Harry's mind when he had possessed him.
"It's been hard…some of the things I've remembered are…they're pretty bad." Harry said softly.
Severus nodded.
"When we…when I came to the lab and talked, I told you the truth. I did call him Mr. F. I couldn't remember ever knowing anything else. I couldn't even remember seeing a name tag." Harry said sending Severus worried glances.
Severus nodded. He didn't want Harry to think he suspected him of lying. He didn't. He'd thought perhaps the boy was hesitant to tell him more, but he'd never thought he was lying.
"When I ran across the boggart I…I had another memory come back." Harry whispered.
Severus nodded. Harry had been terrified of the boggart. He'd never seen what it had turned into for him, but facing one's worst fear was always upsetting.
"What form did your boggart take?" Severus asked softly.
Harry took a deep breath.
"A dementor. It's always taken that form. Remus told me that what I feared was fear. The Dementor's bring up a lot of memories." Harry answered.
Severus nodded. He supposed that made sense. The boy had enough bad memories to feed all the dementors of Azkaban.
"I remembered something new that night…I…" Harry started and shook his head.
"I can't do this." Harry whispered.
Severus leaned forward and considered their options.
"Harry would you be willing to show me the memory. I know it's difficult to talk about, but do you think you can show me?" Severus asked softly.
Harry looked like he was going to be sick. He looked to George for support.
"I think you need to Harry. Please let us help you." George whispered softly.
Harry sighed and just stared at the floor for a long moment. Eventually he nodded.
"Will you see anything else?" Harry asked quietly.
Severus shook his head.
"I'll explain how to do it so that I don't." Severus said softly.
Harry nodded and looked up at him hesitantly.
Severus nodded back.
"Okay, I want you to just lower your outer most shield. I will enter your mind. It won't hurt if you're not trying to fight the intrusion. Once I'm in your mind you can pull forth the memory and I will be able to see it." Severus explained.
Harry took a shaky breath and closed his eyes. When he reopened them, he looked terrified again. They began to fill with tears and Severus took a deep breath and pulled out his wand.
"Are you ready?" Severus asked gently.
Severus knew that they did not have a good history when it came to the mind arts. He hoped that this would help him build a little more trust with Harry. He needed more instruction in the matter. Severus knew Harry was hesitant to accept help that way though.
Harry nodded shakily.
"Legilimens." Severus whispered.
Severus felt himself fall into Harry's mind. The sensation was always strange. He looked around and found that he was standing in the woods and wondered if the boy had pushed him directly into a memory.
He heard a sound next to him and found Harry and a representation of his Animagus form walking towards him.
"Is the forest your shield?" Severus asked looking around.
"Yes." Harry answered softly.
Severus nodded. There seemed to be a lot of damage and wondered what had caused it. There was also a deep hole in the middle which was certainly not naturally occurring. It was likely the cause of Harry's memory issues. It could be addressed another time. Harry's shields seemed to be encompassing the hole.
"Whenever you're ready Harry." Severus said softly.
Harry nodded and Severus felt the push and pull around him until he found himself watching something completely different.
Harry was peaking around a large silver door into what was obviously a kitchen. When Harry spotted someone moving around near the back he smiled. Severus could see that Harry was currently missing a couple of teeth and guessed he was around six. Harry ran into the large kitchen and laughed softly.
"Mr. F! I want to show you what I drew in art." Harry said happily as he waved a sheet of paper around.
Severus watched the man turn and look at Harry. Severus didn't recognize him, but he looked somewhat familiar. Perhaps an old classmate or someone he'd seen in the alley before.
The man smiled at Harry but there was something sinister in it. The leering look in his eyes.
"Let me see." Mr. F said.
Harry hopped up on a chair and put it down on the table. Severus studied the drawing. It was a well-done drawing of a dragon. Severus was surprised by how much detail the boy had added.
"Wow, what an excellent dragon." Mr. F said patting Harry on the back.
Severus watched as he took a seat next to Harry and placed a sandwich in front of him.
"Are you hungry?" Mr. F asked.
Harry nodded and smiled excitedly at the food. Severus was sickened by how thin the boy looked. He would never understand how no one had seen what was going on with him.
"Would you like to see a magic trick?" Mr. F asked.
Harry nodded eagerly. His mouth was stuffed to popping with a bite of sandwich.
Severus watched as the man performed a simple levitation spell. Harry's drawing floated up, shuffled a little, then floated back down.
"Brilliant." Harry cheered.
Severus felt revulsion grow in his stomach as he saw the man slide his hand onto the top of Harry's thigh.
Harry glanced warily down at the hand but said nothing as he took another large bite of the sandwich.
"Ricks always got a trick for you." Mr. F said.
Severus considered that.
"Is that your name? Rick?" Harry asked. His big green eyes looked up at the man curiously.
Rick's hand rubbed Harry's leg before squeezing at it. Severus wished he could reach out and snatch the man's hand away but knew that what he was seeing was only a memory.
"Yeah. Rick Fletcher." Rick said.
Harry's head swayed side to side.
"Rick Trick. Rick Trick. I'll remember that." Harry said with a little giggle.
"I'm sure you will, kid." Rick said with another smile.
Rick's hand drifted farther up Harry's leg and Harry whimpered a little.
"Stay quiet and be a good boy and I'll show you another magic trick." Rick whispered into Harry's ear before kissing his cheek.
The memory vanished and Severus found himself looking at Harry once again. Harry had buried himself into George's chest and was crying.
Severus blinked and realized he also had tears on his face.
He wiped them away.
The anger began to build again as his mind processed what he'd just seen. Severus knew exactly who this man was.
Merrick Fletcher. Mundungus's cousin. He was just as slimy and made his living as a lowlife. It explained how he'd found Harry. Not only once but multiple times. It also explained how he'd found Harry last summer. Mundungus had left his post. They all knew he was the one that hadn't shown up the night Harry had been attacked by the Dementor. Perhaps Mundungus had asked his cousin to watch the boy in his stead a different night.
Severus felt livid. It wasn't someone they trusted but it was close enough.
Severus felt sick about what he had seen. Harry's heartbroken sobs into George's chest were killing him.
Severus stood and walked to the kitchen and made tea. When he was finished, he placed two cups of black tea on the coffee table and one of Harry's calming draughts.
"Stay with him please." Severus instructed George.
George only nodded as he held Harry tight.
Severus headed out the front door. There wasn't anything he could do for Harry right now. He needed to clear his mind and make a plan.
He needed to go find Draco, who was also no doubt upset about what had happened and then being sent away.
Draco walked silently next to Severus as they walked back to the house. Severus hadn't told him what was going on, just that they were going to be out of the house for a while. They'd gone to the diner and had lunch. Then Severus had walked with him for a while talking about unimportant things. The sun was going down and they were headed back now.
Draco hoped Harry was alright. He'd looked completely broken when they'd landed in the back garden.
Severus led them into the house and Draco stopped when they passed the sitting room. One of the twins was on the couch and Harry was asleep in his arms.
Draco felt a flare of jealousy at the sight but tried to shove it down. It's not like they were doing anything. Harry was just asleep.
Severus walked into the sitting room and quietly talked to, who Draco assumed was George. He'd been the one that had stayed at the hospital wing when Harry had been there.
Draco wondered if they were together. He shook his head of the thought and made his way up to his room. Today had been exhausting and although it wasn't quite dinner time, he was ready to call it a night.
He kicked off his shoes and laid down on his bed. He stared at the ceiling and thought about Harry.
What he'd told Severus was true. He found the other boy fascinating, and he wanted to know more about him.
Learning more scared him though. Right now, he knew that Harry was damaged. That he'd been through a lot, but he wasn't sure if he wanted to know what that had really looked like. Teddy had told him some about his life with his father and it had been horrible.
Draco stomach twisted at the thought. He was glad that the man was dead.
Harry popped back into his mind, and he felt worry fill him. He closed his eyes and tried to focus on the good memories of Harry. Sitting and listening to music together, going to the street fair, looking for books in the Book Nook.
Draco smiled slightly. He hoped they'd have more days like that. He hoped when they went to the Weasley's they could still be friends. Still be friends at school. He wanted them to be more then friends, but for now he would just be happy not to lose the friendship he had with Harry.
Severus sighed as he waited for Sirius and Remus to call. Draco had been asleep when he'd gone up to check on him. George had put Harry to bed, though he'd insisted on staying as well.
Severus didn't mind, in fact given the difficulty of the day it was probably for the best that Harry wasn't alone right now. He still had some reservations about the possible relationship between them. George had been very adamant at the school that nothing had happened with Harry, and Remus had chalked it up to harmless experimenting. Severus didn't know what to think. He did know what he'd seen in Harry's mind, and it had made him physically ill. He never wanted Harry to be hurt like that again.
Severus shook the memory from his thoughts. He knew what he'd seen didn't even begin to scratch the surface of what Merrick had actually done to Harry.
The floo flared green and Remus face appeared in the flames.
"Good evening, Severus." Remus said.
"Evening." Severus replied.
Severus cleared his throat and considered what to say to Remus. He didn't want to upset them. They wouldn't be able to return for another few days. Telling them now felt wrong. So did not saying anything though.
"Where's Harry?" Remus asked in concern.
Severus sighed.
"He's gone to bed for the evening." Severus said.
Remus looked worried.
"Did something happen? Did going to the vault upset him?" Remus asked.
"I should have said no." Remus said shaking his head.
"It wasn't that. I need you to listen. First you should get Sirius. I'd like to discuss this with you both." Severus said.
Remus looked more concerned. His head turned slightly, and Severus could hear him calling for Sirius. A moment later both of their faces were in the flames.
"What's going on Snape?" Sirius asked.
Severus sighed. He explained the trip to Diagon. Sirius had been angry that Mundungus had stolen from Grimmauld, but mostly he seemed more upset that Harry was upset. Severus knew that Sirius didn't hold any love for that house or the things in it.
"So, what happened after Harry took off?" Remus asked.
"We followed but the alley was very crowded. A few minutes later Harry came running back to us and apparated us back to my house. He started crying when we got back. I sent Draco away after Harry basically ran away from me. I called George hoping he could calm Harry." Severus explained.
Remus nodded but Severus could see the worry in his eyes.
"Did you find out what upset him?" Remus asked.
Severus nodded.
"Harry ran into the wizard that has been attacking him. He said that nothing happened today. I think seeing him just upset Harry." Severus explained.
Severus could see the anger and worry on both of their faces.
"Dammit." Sirius growled.
"We need to go home." Remus said in panic.
Severus raised his hands.
"Harry is safe. You need to complete your business." Severus said.
Neither of them looked reassured by that.
Severus sighed.
"I was able to get the boy to tell me who he is. I'm not sure what the next steps should be. I'd like to speak with Albus…but I'm not sure about that just yet. Harry will have a group with him including George when he goes to get his supplies. I think the matter can rest until we've all made it safely back to the castle." Severus said.
"Who is it?" Sirius growled.
"I think we should discuss that when you return." Severus said cautiously.
He didn't know how well the pair new Merrick, but they didn't need more things to stress about right now. He was certainly not a member of the Order but they'd all delt with him a time or two when having to deal with Mundungus.
"I don't want Harry alone at all when he goes to Diagon. I know you're not going with them but make sure you tell Molly and George that." Remus said angerly.
Severus nodded. He understood the anger. He was angry at himself that this had happened. Harry shouldn't have been alone today.
He doubted George would leave Harry's side.
"I'm going to let you go. I know you probably still have things to accomplish today. Please, try not to worry. I know this is stressful, but I will take care of Harry." Severus said, standing from his seat.
Remus nodded.
"Good night, Severus." Remus said softly.
"Night Snape." Sirius said flatly, before the floo closed.
Severus pinched the bridge of his nose and went to check on the boys again.
He pushed Harry's door open. Harry was laying under his blanket, Edgar curled against his chest, and sound asleep. George was sitting with his back against the headboard gently running his fingers through Harry's hair.
"You don't need to stay. If the calming draught put him to sleep, I imagine he'll be out until morning." Severus said softly.
George shook his head.
"I promised I'd stay with him. I want to make sure he's alright in the morning." George said quietly.
George took a deep breath like he was going to say something else. Severus waited.
Severus watched as George reached out and gently pushed Harry's sleeve up. He stared at the dark black and blue, hand shaped bruise on the boy's arm.
He felt his anger coming back in full force. Clearly Merrick had gotten closer to Harry then he'd let on.
George looked just as broken up as the Sirius and Remus had.
"Did he say anything to you after I left?" Severus asked.
George shook his head and went back to combing his fingers through Harry's hair.
Severus sighed. He would need to speak with Harry tomorrow.
"I'm just across the hall if you need anything." Severus said softly, before heading back out to the hall. He left the door open a crack and made his way to Draco's room.
He knocked and when there was no response, he pushed the door open. Draco was also still asleep. He knew the boys would likely be up early because of how early they'd gone to bed.
Severus sighed as he made his way to his own room to turn in for the night.
As he laid there staring at the ceiling the memory he'd seen kept replaying in his mind. Harry's happy little face so excited to share something with the only adult that paid any attention to him. His greedy bites of the sandwich that he was just thankful to have.
Merrick's disgusting looks at the boy. His filthy hands touching him.
Harry had said that he didn't know the man had been a wizard until later. He wondered if that was part of what he'd forgotten. Merrick had obviously used magic to entertain him.
Severus huffed and closed his eyes. He took the memory and filed it away. He couldn't do anything about the man right now.
He hoped Harry would be doing better in the morning. Tomorrow was their last full day in Cokeworth, and they were expected at Mary's for dinner. He would cancel those plans if they needed to, but he knew that Harry would want to say goodbye.
He forced his mind to name potions ingredients until a restless sleep claimed him.