Chapter 8. The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Anissa and Harry were heading to Charms class when Harry noticed the girl slumped against the wall. He slowed down, pointing her out to Anissa. With a nod they moved out of the flow of traffic and went to check on her since everyone else passed her by like she was not even there. Harry could never leave someone if they were hurt.

"Are you okay?" asked Anissa.

There was no response from the girl, so Anissa tapped her shoulder. With what looked like tremendous effort, the girl slowly raised her head. Her eyes were dull, and her skin had a greyish tint to it. They only caught a glimpse of her face before she crumbled, and Harry jerked forward to catch her before she hit the ground.

"Woah! Anissa, get her other side, we need to get her to Poppy!"

As quickly as they could, while completely supporting the girl's dead weight, the duo hurried to the hospital wing. They got many strange looks, but no one offered to help. It disgusted Harry that no one cared. Bursting through the doors they yelled for Poppy as they staggered to the first bed.

"What is going on out here?" demanded Poppy angrily as she charged out of her office.

She did not allow such disturbances in her ward, and everyone knew it. Her face instantly changed into one of concern when she saw the small girl hanging in their arms. She quickly ran over to them and started her scans as soon as they laid her down on the bed.

"Oh Merlin, what happened?"

"We found her in the Charms Corridor slumped against the wall. She looks completely exhausted. Is she going to be alright?" explained Harry.

Poppy looked worried as she read the parchment that appeared after her scans. Ignoring the duo, she rushed into her office and came back a minute later with some potions. She must have Floo-called the headmaster as he suddenly came out of her office followed shortly by McGonagall. She looked at the duo, giving them a quick eye scan for any injuries. They just shook their heads, letting her know that they were okay.

"What has happened, Poppy? You didn't say much." asked Albus. Poppy gestured to the occupied bed, her face grave as she answered.

"Emily Dawson has been drained to magical exhaustion. I am trying to encourage the speck of it I found to grow. She has been almost sucked dry of her magic, Albus."

Minerva gasped, a hand placed on her chest, and Albus looked stricken. Harry shared a worried look with Anissa. This was bad. If you used up all of your magic, you would die, but how did this happen? It took a lot to rid yourself of all your magic.

"The castle would have informed me if a student had performed magic strong enough to cause this. Besides, she would have passed out long before she had gotten to this state. No. This had to have been done to her." Albus turned to Harry and Anissa, his usually twinkling eyes very serious.

"You two found her? Tell me what you saw and did." As they informed the headmaster of the day's events, Madam Pomfrey and Minerva talked quietly by the girl's side. "Thank you for your help. You have just enough time left to get to Charms and get your assignment for today. Here is a pass."

Out of nowhere, Albus produced a piece of parchment and held it out to the two teenagers. Anissa took it with a thank you, but Harry was looking intently at the girl. He wanted to help, to use his healing powers. Harry hated to see others suffer.

"Did you have something you wanted to ask, Harry?" inquired Albus as he placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, causing him to flinch away.

Albus internally sighed, they were not quite there yet, although Harry had stopped flinching whenever he raised a hand. They would get there eventually. Albus smiled at Harry, he knew that Harry had been learning from Madam Pomfrey and was always helping those in need and would want to help here as well. And his assumption was correct.

"I'd like to help, Grandpa. I could try with my magic." offered Harry. He hated to see anyone hurt because he understood their pain.

"No, Harry. We don't know if whatever did this to her could leach off anyone who tries to help. I'm sure Madam Pomfrey would accept your help though in other ways."

Albus looked at Poppy, who nodded with a smile. Harry had taken to the training like a fish to water and she would love his help. Harry smiled back and moved towards the bed, but Minerva stopped him.

"You still have classes to attend, this does not take precedent over your studies. You can assist her during your breaks and over the weekend. If your grades drop, then this privilege will be revoked."

Harry nodded in understanding. He would never jeopardize learning as much as he could, even if he was already miles ahead of the rest of his classmates. He talked with Poppy for a couple minutes, then joined Anissa to head to the end of Charms class.

The whole way there, they tried to figure out what could drain all the magic from a person like that. Meanwhile, deep below Hogwarts, a sinister rumble ran through the foundation and a low pulse of Dark magic swept through the Chamber of Secrets.

News of the attack on the Hufflepuff girl flew through the school and speculation was rife. Some Gryffindors started blaming the Slytherins, the usual scapegoat for when bad things happen, and surprisingly it was the Hufflepuffs that slammed those accusations down.

Harry was glad the students were sticking together and not letting this incident reopen the old House prejudices and rivalries. They needed to stick together for support and to watch out for each other. That was the only way to keep safe from whatever attacked Emily Dawson.

Harry spent most of his time after classes in the hospital wing with Poppy, except for his nightly appointment down in the Chamber of Secrets with Salazar. He also set up a time, twice a week, that he was available to help anyone who needed it with their homework. Just like he had last year.

Poppy had to kick Colin Creevey out a couple times during their lessons, as he kept trying to take pictures of Harry to show his little brother how the 'Adventures of Harry Potter' books were right about him. Harry had been dumbfounded when he heard there were children's adventure books written about him.

Harry was annoyed with Colin's constant attention, but he decided to just ignore him. He was learning about the intricacies of magical cores and how different things affected them and he was determined to learn it all so he could assist Poppy when he was finally allowed.

He soaked the knowledge up like a sponge, applying his prior lessons from Salazar to these lessons and breaking them down to understand them better. He wanted to help any way he could since Dumbledore would not let him use his healing magic yet. He wanted to be prepared for anything.

When Poppy had taught him all that she could, after many sessions, she sent him off to bed. She promised to call on him if he was needed. They had been at it every night for over a week and there was nothing else they could do but revise and discuss, so Harry's schedule would go back to normal, baring another incident.

Harry entered the Ravenclaw common room, yawning hugely. He paused when all the conversation in the room stopped, and he found himself with every eye focused on him. He looked around nervously – what had he done? – until Anissa stood and came to his side.

"Everyone is wondering how Emily is. Madam Pomfrey still won't let anyone in to see her." Harry internally sighed in relief as he looked around at the worried and expectant faces. He smiled at the show of support for another House.

"Emily is going to be fine. Her core is stable after many treatments and she is resting, which will rebuild her core strength. In a couple of days, she will be walking the halls again."

Cheers rang throughout the room, some of Emily's friends hugged each other in tears. Harry knew it was hard not knowing how your friend was doing. He nodded at the thanks he received as he made his way to his room. He was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

The next day during break, the Golden Trio decided to spend some time outdoors. Which meant sitting under their favorite tree by the lake. A few minutes later, and Harry was restlessly shifting as he sat there. Draco and Anissa were sitting next to him talking quietly. Harry's gaze wandered to the Forbidden Forest.

The attack on Dawson made him think about the unicorn that was attacked by Quirrellmort last year and he wondered how she was doing. Maybe Zypher would know, thought Harry. He decided he would go check for himself. Standing, he turned to Draco and Anissa, who looked up at him curiously.

"I'm going to check on that unicorn I helped last year,"

"Don't get caught," said Draco as he laid down and closed his eyes. Anissa glared at Draco then looked at Harry with pleading eyes.

"Do you think I could come too? I'd love to see her."

"We can always ask Zypher. After what happened last year, she might be too shy. We may only see her from a distance." said Harry.

"Zypher? I'd get to meet him?" Anissa was now excited. She had been jealous of Harry when she heard about him meeting the alicorn. "The way you talked about him, he sounds marvelous, and I'd love to make his acquaintance."

"Do you want to come too, Draco?" asked Harry, not wanting to exclude his brother.

Draco snorted. "Hardly. Go do your touchy-feely girly things."

Anissa scowled and kicked Draco's leg, getting a yelp, before they left. Harry mentally called out to Zypher and hoped he would answer. It was the first time he had tried calling out to him with his magic.

It would be easier to find the unicorn with Zypher as a guide than wander through the forest alone. They walked behind Hagrid's hut to keep out of view of the other students and saw Zypher standing just inside the tree line. Anissa gasped at the beautiful horse.

"Gorgeous," she whispered. Harry smiled and nodded. Zypher was a beautiful animal. Once they reached him, Harry bowed respectfully.

"Zypher, my friend. How are you?"

~Harry. I am well, thank you. I was wondering when you would call on me. I had hoped you would.~

Zypher eyed Anissa curiously and Harry turned to bring her forward for introductions.

"Excuse my rudeness. This is my sister, Anissa. Anissa, this is my friend, Zypher."

Anissa curtsied and Zypher nodded back. He looked to Harry for an explanation.

"I wanted to ask for your help in finding the unicorn I helped last year. I wanted to check that she is doing well and offer help if anything is needed."

Zypher chuckled. ~Hagrid was right about you. I expected you to have come sooner, but I hear you have been busy with the things that are happening in the castle. Follow me.~

Harry smiled, grabbed Anissa's hand, and followed the alicorn into the forest. It was a peaceful walk, the sun shining through the trees and Zypher's protective presence was comforting. It did not seem like they had walked long when Zypher slowed to a stop.

~She is on the other side of the hedge. Go slowly, she is easily spooked. I will go first so she will know she is protected.~

Harry could understand why the unicorn was easily spooked, after what she had experienced. He still had nightmares about that night in the woods. She would have it worse, he was sure, seeing as it had happened to her. As Zypher proceeded them through the hedge, Harry explained things to Anissa as they carefully followed.

The meadow was beautiful with green grass and colorful flowers covering the ground. The sun brightened everything, but nothing was as beautiful as the two unicorns grazing in the center. Anissa's gasp caught the unicorn's attention, and she poised to flee, the other unicorn hurrying to her side.

She paused when she made eye contact with Harry, her huge soft eyes staring intently, then slowly moved towards him when she felt his familiar magic spread across the meadow. Harry had a huge smile on his face, and tears sprang to his eyes as he watched her make her way towards him. Just behind the approaching female unicorn was her baby.

She had not only survived her Dark encounter… she had thrived. Harry was very happy for her and his heart swelled at the sight. He had hoped she was still alive, but this was even better. She stopped a foot away from him and they stared at each other. Her big, deep brown eyes looking into his soul.

"You look well. I'm happy for you," whispered Harry, his eyes flicking to the pure golden foal, looking him over for any deformities or wounds, but he looked perfect, right down to the little swirl of hair on his forehead where his horn would eventually grow in. "He's beautiful."

The unicorn looked at her baby and huffed, then the foal timidly came forward, keeping his mum between them. Harry dropped to his knees and held out a hand. Slowly, the foal came forward and sniffed him. Harry chuckled when he snorted at the feel of Harry's magic.

Anissa stood frozen in awe at how close the two unicorns were. The contrast between the pure white of the mother and the gold of the foal was mesmerizing. She knew she would never have this opportunity again and wanted to soak it all in. Harry drew all animals to him, even the ones that normally did not trust men, and she was happy to have a chance to be a part of it.

She was startled when the mother turned to look at her, then made her way over. Anissa carefully lifted her hand like Harry had and got a snort of breath on her palm. She raised her hand slowly and placed it on the mare's nose. A huge smile covered her face at the softness.

"Thank you," she whispered. "Your baby is perfect."

The unicorn bobbed her head, then turned back to Harry. She nuzzled his head and nipped his hair which made Harry chuckle. He could feel her joy at him being there. Harry looked up at Anissa, his eyes shining with happiness.

"Are you okay with staying here for a bit longer? I don't want you to get bored and I'm sure Zypher wouldn't mind taking you back if you'd like to leave."

"I'm not leaving. I'll never get this chance again. What are you going to do?" asked Anissa.

Harry smiled as he stood up, and seconds later another unicorn foal stood where Harry once was. He took off running and jumping around the meadow, the foal looking after him with yearning, and with a prod from his mother, the other foal eagerly followed.

Anissa laughed as she sat and watched the two play together. It was quite magical to see them glistening in the sun. Zypher settled down next to her as the mother grazed and kept watch. It was the most magical thing Anissa had ever experienced.

"That was incredible," Anissa said an hour later, as they walked with Zypher back to the castle.

"There are many amazing animals here," Harry agreed.

They said their goodbyes – Harry promising to visit again soon – and left Zypher at the forests' edge with a thank you. They headed off to find Draco and share their adventure with him. It was one that Anissa would cherish for the rest of her life.

Harry and Anissa worriedly rushed to the hospital wing. They had been informed shortly after they entered the castle that Draco was in there, severely injured. Why could they not catch a break? Draco did not deserve this!

They burst through the doors, much to Poppy's displeasure, and rushed into the room. Frantically searching the beds, they spotted Draco's blond hair and rushed to his side. Anissa gasped and Harry's fists clenched when they saw Draco's face. At least what they could see of it. It was just like earlier this summer.

His face was extremely swollen and bruised. Bandages were wrapped around one side of Draco's head and on many parts of his body. Whoever did this had better have been expelled, Harry thought angrily. Trembling, Anissa reached out and gently twined her fingers around the bandage covering Draco's hand. He weakly squeezed Anissa's fingers, and she released a shaky sob in relief.

"Oh Draco! Who would do something like this? Are you sure he'll be alright?" whispered Anissa, tears were streaming down her cheeks.

"He'll be fine, Anissa. I'll make sure of it." said Harry.

Harry had been through worse, and he had been able to heal from it. Draco would too. Between Harry's and Draco's magic, along with Poppy's care, he would be fine. A soft whisper caught their attention. Harry leaned closer to Draco and heard one word… Zabini. Harry was livid. They had passed Zabini outside laughing with his goons.

He had not been expelled, nor did it look like he had been punished in any way. If they were not going to punish him, Harry would! Zabini could hurt him, but no one, NO ONE, hurt his family! Harry turned and walked out of the infirmary, the beds shaking as he passed by.

Harry called over his shoulder, "Wait here for Sirius. I'll be right back."

"Oh dear," Anissa sighed. "Prepare for some company, Draco. Zabini's in for it now. I haven't seen Harry that mad in a while. You've come to mean a lot to him, to both of us."

Draco squeezed Anissa's hand. They meant a lot to Draco too.

Harry stormed down to the dungeons. His mind furiously going through the things he would like to do to the prat for what he did to Draco. Saleena was fuming along with him, but she reminded him to also control himself. As much as he may want to, he could not kill the boy.

She knew just how powerful her master was, had been awed when she had first felt it. She knew what he was capable of and what he hid from everyone else. By the time Harry arrived at the seemingly empty corridor, he had a plan to teach Zabini a lesson he would never forget. He grabbed the first Slytherin he saw and demanded that Zabini be brought out to him.

"Why should I –"

One look at Harry's face and the Slytherin promised to get Zabini and ran to the common room entry. He did not want to get in the middle of whatever was going on between Potter and Zabini. He wanted to live, and Potter looked ready to kill.

Everyone knew that Zabini had it out for Potter for supposedly turning Draco against him, but it looked like he had finally gone too far. The door materialized and with a quick scared look back at Harry, the Slytherin hurried inside. It was not long before Zabini strutted towards Harry, an arrogant smirk on his face.

"Lose your way, Potty?" jeered Zabini.

"I'd like a word, Zabini,"

"What's wrong, Potter? Your pet Slytherin not up to your standards so you've come for a new pet?" Zabini laughed at his own wit.

Harry was steaming. How dare Zabini make jokes about Draco's pain. "We can do this here or in private. Either way you're going to be hurting. Choose."

Harry voice was soft and menacing, but Zabini was clueless to the danger. He smirked and shrugged. He was sure Potter would not do anything that would get him expelled and he was sure he was smart enough to be able to protect himself from anything Potter could do.

"I'm fine right here, Potter. Say your piece then leave."

"If you insist," whispered Harry as he started gathering his magic.

Zabini rolled his eyes and huffed as Potter simply glared at him. "If you're not going to –"

Zabini's eyes widened. He could not move! He could not speak! Potter had not even cast a spell! Now he was scared, and he watched Potter with wide frightened eyes. Harry knew what it took for Draco to look the way he did, Harry had endured that kind of abuse his whole life. Draco did not deserve that. He had already endured enough.

Zabini watched in horror as Harry's eyes ignited with black flames before they moved over every part of his body as if memorizing it. Everywhere Harry looked, Zabini's skin tingled and his fear increased. There was no soul in Harry's eyes, no kindness or mercy, just pain and death.

Harry finished by looking directly into Zabini's eyes and he could see the fear on Zabini's face, and he smiled menacingly. Oh yeah, he should be afraid. Harry had pictured every kick and punch needed to equal Draco's injuries. He saw broken ribs, a punctured lung, a cracked femur, internal bleeding, a concussion, and many other things.

Harry's magic poured off him, Dark and dangerous, straight at Zabini. Harry's hair whipped in a nonexistent wind and his eyes blazed brighter. When Harry's magic hit him, Zabini screamed. Not that anyone could hear him.

Bruises started forming all over his body. His nose broke and he was jerking from all the magical hits he was taking. Zabini received everything he and his goons had done to Draco and Harry was ruthless. Zabini had no remorse for what he had done, so Harry did not have any either.

After Zabini passed out, Harry turned his head, looked right into the shadows where he knew Severus was watching from, then turned and walked away. He had a brother to go and heal. Zabini's unconscious body crumbled to the ground behind him.

Severus Snape watched Potter and Zabini from deep within the shadows. When a scared third year had burst into his office and told him that a livid Harry Potter was outside the common room demanding Zabini, he had exited into the corridor and stood in the shadows to watch.

The professors had not been able to prove who had beaten Draco under the tree on the grounds, although they all knew, so his hands had been tied in punishing the culprits. Somehow – Severus was not sure if Draco could even speak yet – Harry had found them out and was here to enact his vengeance. As was his right as the head of House Potter under which Draco was now a member.

Severus was livid too, how dare his Snakes attack someone from their own House. And not only that, but Severus's own godson and ward as well. His mind had frozen when he had seen Draco lying comatose on the hospital bed. Pain, fear and fury lanced Severus' chest equally. He had almost lost Draco once. He never wanted to feel that way again, but here they were.

Severus had already thought of a worthy school punishment for the trio for their next slightest infraction, but he decided to see what punishment Harry meted out, then decide if he needed to add more to his own. Besides, Harry had the right to seek vengeance for someone under the protection of his House.

Severus shook his head in disgust as he listened to Zabini's arrogance. Where was his self-preservation? Harry's voice gave him the chills and he had been tortured by the Dark Lord, but Zabini was completely clueless and kept taunting him.

Severus watched as Harry simply stared at Zabini, Harry's hair whipping around his head, and wondered what he was doing. There was no emotion on Harry's face to give him a clue to what he was thinking.

Severus was about to step forward and intervene but froze when he felt Harry's magic filling the corridor. It was very Dark and angry… it was his Obscurus. Severus' eyes snapped to Harry in panic, hoping he was wrong.

Severus was worried that Harry was going to lose control over the parasite in his anger, not that Severus could not blame him. Severus' magic was screaming that he was in immediate danger, but Severus could not have moved even if he wanted to. Harry had frozen everything around him.

Shocked, Severus helplessly watched as Zabini's body began jerking and bruises formed all over him. He knew Zabini was screaming, his mouth was wide open, but he could not hear a thing. This show of violence shocked Severus, but at the same time, Harry's complete control impressed him.

Then Zabini's nose broke, and blood shot out and hit Harry's shirt. Harry did not even twitch, he just kept staring at Zabini. It was eerie to see Harry, who was always so kind and compassionate, showing no emotion. It was like he felt nothing about what he was doing. Severus could not even imagine what his own face looked like right now.

Severus received another shock when Harry turned and looked right at him. Severus was blown away that he even knew he was there. When Harry turned and quietly walked away, Zabini's body crumpled into a heap on the ground.

Severus snapped out of his shock, realizing he could now move, and rushed forward. Ignoring the mess the boy was in, Severus cast a quick diagnostic spell. He sighed in relief when he saw Zabini's heart beating. Killing the boy would have sent Harry to Azkaban.

Severus looked down the empty corridor. He never thought that someone as gentle and friendly as Harry Potter, who would give everything he had to help another, could be so ruthlessly remorseless as well. Now he knew. He should have known though. The Potters were warriors, known to be ruthless to their enemies when provoked.

Severus would have to tread carefully as he talked to Harry about his vengeance during their next session brewing the goblin potions. It eerily reminded him of the Dark Lord. That darkness, the feeling of power, was easy to get sucked into, Severus knew. The feeling of invincibility and rush of pleasure it gave you was addicting.

At least Harry had been able to control his Obscurus. He could have easily destroyed the entire corridor like Harry had that unused classroom his first year. Severus levitated Zabini and headed towards the hospital wing. Looks like there would be another 'unexplained' injury for Madam Pomfrey to take care of.

Harry woke early to get ready for the coming Quidditch match. They would be playing against Slytherin, and it made Harry nervous. Sure, he wanted to win, but he also wanted Draco to win his first match as Chaser. He did not want to think what Alexander would say if he did not catch the Snitch.

At eleven o'clock, the whole school made its way down to the Quidditch stadium. Anissa wished him good luck as he moved off to enter the locker room. They had already left Draco at the Slytherin locker room with their good lucks. The team pulled on their blue Ravenclaw robes then sat down for Alexander's pre-match pep talk.

Harry wondered if the Slytherins did this too, and Draco was sitting there listening to Flint's pep talk. As they walked out onto the Pitch, a roar of noise greeted them. The teams lined up opposite each other around Madam Hooch. She asked the captains to shake hands, then everyone got ready.

"On my whistle," said Madam Hooch. "Three… two… one…"

Fourteen players rose toward the sky with a roar from the crowd. Harry flew higher than the rest, squinting around for the Snitch. He knew he had to wait for the right time before he caught it, but he had to make sure the Slytherin Seeker did not catch it first.

He watched the action below and could see just how good Draco was. Pride rushed through Harry, that was his brother. The teams were evenly matched, and it was going to be hard for anyone to score. He was so busy watching that he almost did not see the heavy black Bludger pelting towards him.

He dodged it by a centimeter, and he felt it ruffle his hair as it passed. He looked back to watch John give the Bludger a powerful whack in the direction of a Slytherin Chaser, but the Bludger changed direction in midair and shot straight for Harry again.

Every time one of the Beaters hit the Bludger away, it came right back at Harry. He had to zoom around the stands, drop suddenly and twirl around like a ballerina. What was going on? Harry was confused and worried. Bludgers never concentrated on one player like this, it was their job to try and unseat as many players as possible.

"Slytherin leads, sixty points to twenty!"

When Harry heard the commentator, he realized he had not been paying attention and he needed to find the Snitch, and fast, before the Bludger really hurt him. People were now starting to realize that something was wrong. Most of the spectators were watching Harry do some amazing acrobatics to avoid the rogue Bludger.

Then it started to rain, which made seeing the Snitch even harder. There was no light to shine off its wings, so he had to look for movement instead. Harry began a kind of roller-coaster ride around the edges of the stadium, squinting through the silver sheets of rain.

A whistling in Harry's ear told him the Bludger had just missed him. He had not seen it! He sped off, the Bludger trailing right behind him, and frantically looked for the Snitch. There! Right behind the Slytherin Seeker! He was just about to turn when...

WHAM!

He had been still for too long and the Bludger had caught up to him. It smashed into his elbow and Harry felt it break, the pain piercing his mind and making him gasp. Dazed by the searing pain he lay forward on his broom. One thought was firmly screaming in his mind: Get the Snitch!

Harry dived for the shimmering ball. He saw the Higg's eyes widen as he headed straight for him, but he paid him no mind. With one arm tight against his body, Harry took his remaining hand off his broom and made a wild snatch.

He felt his fingers close on the cold Snitch just as he passed the other Seeker. Elation and relief filled him, combating the pain. Now though, he was only gripping the broom with his legs, and he was heading straight for the ground. He knew he would not be able to stop himself.

Harry vaguely heard a female scream from the crowd as he tried not to pass out. With a splattering thud, he hit the ground and rolled off his broom. His arm was hanging at a very strange angle, but with his other hand he lifted the Snitch into the air. He faintly heard the whistle and some shouting.

"Aha," he weakly said. "We've won." And he fainted. When he came to, still lying on the field, rain falling on his face, he saw someone above him.

"Oh, no, not you," he moaned.

"Don't worry, Harry. I'll fix you right up." said Professor Lockhart.

"No!" Harry said, but it was too late.

Lockhart was twirling his wand, and a second later a flash of light hit Harry's arm. A strange and unpleasant sensation filled Harry's arm from his shoulder to his fingers. He did not dare look to see what had happened. When people gasped, and he heard Colin's camera clicking madly, he knew it was something bad. His arm did not feel like an arm anymore.

"Ah, yes. Well, that can sometimes happen, but at least the bones are no longer broken. Madam Pomfrey should be able to tidy you up." said Lockhart.

"Are you kidding me?!" Harry's eyes popped open at Sirius' voice. "You removed his bones, you moron! Get away from my godson!"

"He'll be alri –"

Lockhart was cut off by Sirius' fist in his face. He did not even look at the whimpering fool as he scooped Harry up and marched off. Harry heard Colin's "Wow!" along with his camera clicking madly. Madam Pomfrey was not pleased at all when he was brought in.

"You should have come straight to me!" she scolded, holding up the limp remainder of what used to be a working arm. "You're going to be in for a rough night, Harry. Regrowing bones is a painful process. You'll have to stay the night."

Harry groaned then went to change into the hospital pajamas that Madam Pomfrey gave him. Sirius helped him shove his arm through the sleeve and then into the bed as Pomfrey got him a beaker of Skele-Gro. It burned Harry's mouth and throat as it went down, making him cough and splutter. Sirius had to help him gulp down some water after.

"Who banished his bones?" asked Poppy.

"That idiot, Lockhart," growled Sirius.

"I should have known," Poppy walked off tut-tutting about inept teachers.

"You may see him in here later. I might have broken his nose." Sirus called after her before turning back to Harry. "Congratulations on the win." Sirius tucked Harry's blanket around him. "That was some catch you made."

"Thanks. I want to know who fixed that Bludger. It wouldn't leave me alone." said Harry.

The door to the infirmary burst open at that moment and the rest of the Ravenclaw team arrived to see Harry. They were still in their uniforms and soaked from the rain, but they all had huge smiles on their faces. Anissa and Draco came in right behind them. Harry smiled when he saw them.

"Unbelievable flying, Harry," said Gary.

"Never seen anything like it, you were amazing," added Lisa.

They had brought sweets and bottles of pumpkin juice to celebrate. They were gathered around Harry's bed, and were all talking animatedly about the game, when Madam Pomfrey came storming over.

"This boy needs rest, he's got thirty-three bones to regrow! Out!"

The team apologized and quickly cleaned up the mess and left. No one wanted to gain Madam Pomfrey's wrath. They were in the infirmary too often to get on her bad side. Anissa gave him a hug then Draco clasped Harry's good hand.

"Very good game, Harry."

"Thanks, Drake, you as well. I saw some of your moves. You were amazing. I'll see you guys tomorrow, yeah?"

Since there was not a thing Sirius could do, and he was not allowed to stay the night, Sirius left with the others after giving Harry a kiss on the forehead and telling him to get better. He promised to let Saleena know what happened.

Harry winced. He forgot about Saleena. She would have felt something was wrong beyond the excitement of the game and was probably worried. With his last thought, he sent her a message that he was alright.

Later that night, Harry woke up suddenly with a yelp of pain. His arm now felt full of large splinters and pain shot through him. He realized that was not what had woken him up when he felt someone sponging his forehead.

"Thank you, Poppy, but I was sleeping," murmured Harry.

"I's sorry, Harry Potter sir."

Harry sat up quickly, "Dobby? What are you doing here?"

Dobby was looking at Harry with sadness, tears running down his long, pointed nose.

"Harry Potter bes back to school. Dobby warned Harry Potter. Why's Harry Potter not heed Dobby? Why's Harry Potter not goes home when he missed the train?" he whispered.

"How did you know I missed the train?" Harry quickly connected the dots. "It was you! You stopped the barrier from letting me though!"

"Indeed, sir," Dobby nodded vigorously, ears flapping. "Dobby thought Harry Potter would bes safe, Dobby never dreamed Harry Potter would bes finding another way to school. Harry Potter must go home! Dobby thought his Bludger would bes enough to make –"

"Your Bludger?" said Harry, his anger rising. "You made that Bludger try to kill me?"

"Not kill you, sir, never kill you!" said Dobby, shocked. "Dobby wants to save Harry Potter's life! Dobby only wanted Harry Potter hurt enough to bes sent home!"

"Oh, is that all? Are you going to tell me why you wanted me sent home in pieces?" growled Harry.

"Harry Potter bes too good. He needs be going home, now that things bes happening at Hogwarts, now that the Chamber of Secrets bes open once more –"

Dobby froze, horrorstruck, then grabbed Harry's water jug and cracked it over his head. He sat there crossed eyed, muttering, "Bad Dobby, very bad Dobby."

"Dobby. The Chamber was already open. I opened it last year. The monster that wreaked havoc on the school before is no longer a threat."

Dobby stared at Harry with wide adoring eyes. "Harry Potter has defeated the monster? Harry Potter bes the most brave, the most –"

"Enough Dobby. Since it can't be the monster, what is threatening the school?" asked Harry.

"Dobby can't, sir. Dobby mustn't tell! Go home, Harry Potter!"

"I'm not going anywhere!" said Harry fiercely. "My family is here, and I have to help those who are already hurt."

"Harry Potter risks his own life for others!" Dobby moaned in miserable ecstasy. "So noble! So valiant! But he must save himself, Harry Potter must not –"

Dobby froze, his bat ears quivering. Footsteps were coming. With a light crack, Dobby was gone. Harry slumped back on the bed when Poppy came into view. She checked on Harry, re-tucked his blanket around him and smoothed her hand over his head. Harry fell asleep again with more worries and questions.

The next morning, Harry was awoken by familiar voices speaking softly by his bedside. He smiled softly as he realized who was visiting him. He could feel a warm heavy weight on his chest and knew that Crinkle was keeping him warm, along with Slibhin draped across his neck. He was about to open his eyes when he heard Draco speak.

"You know, it's not fair that everything comes so easily for Harry. I have to study and practice hard to get things to work for me, and Harry just thinks it, and whatever he wants happens."

"And he's worked extremely hard for it," Anissa defended him, her voice sharp. "It hasn't been easy for him. He's struggled as well. Things only became seemingly easier after he got that extra help from Salazar. Which he's promised to teach us."

"What do you mean?" asked Draco.

"Harry spent hours, if not days, locked up in a dark cupboard at the Dursley's. He did the only thing he could to stay sane. He went into his mind and created a place where he could be safe. He didn't realize what he was doing, not until we read about Occlumency in one of the books we bought before we came to Hogwarts, 'The Mindful Book of Meditation'. Salazar has helped him make it stronger. Besides, Harry has a near-eidetic memory."

"They kept him in a cupboard?! Harry never talks about his life before Hogwarts, and no wonder." Draco heaved a sigh. "I shouldn't be surprised with all that he had shown me, that actually explains a lot. Building a mindscape where everything is well-kept does make it easier to bring things forward so you can have a near-eidetic memory. Salazar must have helped him a lot. That takes hard work to accomplish."

"Actually, he had it before I even met him." said Anissa.

"Really? How can you tell he had it before if you didn't know what it was until you read about it?"

There was a beat of silence before Anissa spoke and Harry held his breath, anxious about what she might tell them. She was probably deciding what to say, so Harry opened his eyes to see Draco and Anissa sitting next to him. What he had not expected to see was Severus standing against the wall silently watching the duo with a troubled expression on his face.

Harry inwardly sighed, he had not wanted Severus to know about that part of his life, but he was about to. He did not want the pitying looks or to be treated differently. He should probably be furious at Anissa for giving away his secrets, but weirdly enough, he was not.

"Harry taught himself to read and write by listening in on the lectures given at his cousin's primary. Hogwarts is his first real school experience."

Severus blinked, then scowled. "Excuse me?" He could not believe what he had just heard. There was no way.

Anissa looked at Severus solemnly. "You have seen the way Harry behaves around others. How precise he is about every detail. I'm sure you've guessed some of what he's been through. How can a child raised by that family, learn to read and write if he wasn't allowed to attend school?"

"Harry didn't go to primary?" Draco asked appalled.

"No, I didn't." Harry whispered. "The Dursleys weren't going to waste the school's precious time, or their hard-earned money, on a freak."

The three whipped around at Harry's voice. Anissa looked apologetic for speaking out about something Harry did not like anyone knowing about. He gave her a small smile and reached out to squeeze her hand to reassure her he was not angry. Draco was family and Severus was becoming a close friend and confidant to Harry.

"It's okay, Anissa. They were bound to find out sooner or later. Though I had hoped for never."

Anissa winced. Harry looked back and forth between Draco and Severus. He sat up, dislodging Slibhin and Crinkle from their places and gave them each a thankful pet. Harry shook his head as he watched Crinkle and Slibhin pranced out of the infirmary, their job done. Harry took a breath before he continued.

"My aunt would send me out to do my outside chores early in the morning before the neighbors were awake so they would not have the displeasure of seeing me. Then, after I made breakfast, I was to leave her alone while Dudley was in primary, so I would sneak to the school down the block and sit under the window and listen to the lessons. I scrounged up small bits of paper and a broken pencil from the bin that I brought with me to use. As the teacher explained, I would peek through the window to see the numbers and letters she would write so I could understand and practice along with the others.

Later, when I was done with my inside chores and making dinner, I would repeatedly practice what I heard, trying to memorize everything quickly in case I was caught and was no longer able to go. Sometimes I was able to snatch Dudley's old workbooks from the bin before I took them out. I would practice with those and the discarded newspapers. Once, Petunia threw a dictionary at me when I asked her about a word I didn't understand. She shouted at me for asking too many questions, but I kept the book. I learned a lot from that dictionary. I didn't even know my name wasn't freak, until Dudley called me Harry once when he was kicking me when I was five."

"Harry," Draco breathed, horrified at what he was learning.

He was beyond shocked at what Harry had been though, but also amazed at what his brother had accomplished with no help or structure. He was sure there was so much more that Harry would probably never share with them, but he was glad to know anything Harry was willing to give him.

"It's okay, Draco. It was a long time ago. I've moved past it."

Draco nodded, letting the subject drop, but Harry noticed Severus giving him an indecipherable look. He could not keep eye contact and knew Severus would not let it go that easily. Knowing this subject made Harry uneasy, Anissa was quick to change it, and they spent the rest of the evening talking about Potions.