A/N

Another one in the books and one step closer to this being completed. This chapter sees this story break the 200K mark. I'd say around another 4 or 5 chapters and this will be done.

Anyway, Follow, Favourite and Review as always. You guys are wonderful.

TBR

Chapter 17: Changes

His eyes fluttered open, the stark whiteness of the room and sheets he was wrapped in confusing him. The usual dark colours that were his preference were nowhere to be found as his sleep-addled mind cleared itself, the blissful ignorance of hardships shattered as the skin on his arm pulled tightly and the events of the night before fell heavily on him. He awoke immediately, sitting up, eyes wide only for a gentle grip to seize his wrist and still his frantic motion.

"It's okay," Tonks assured him quietly.

Harry nodded as he took a steadying breath, meeting her concerned gaze. She had not slept, the dark circles around her eyes telling him that much. Peering to his left, his father dozed, his own features showing little peace.

"How long was I out?"

"About seven hours," Tonks explained. "A lot has happened."

Harry frowned, the revelation setting him further on edge as he gestured for her to explain.

"Fudge came and tried to arrest you for murdering Charlie," she sighed. "Leo stopped him and has been taken to Azkaban."

"Shit," Harry seethed, readying to get out of bed.

Tonks drew her wand and cast a privacy ward. It was nothing elaborate but would suffice for now.

"Harry, wait," she urged worriedly. "I think he planned it, or Arcturus did at least."

He narrowed his eyes waiting for her to continue.

"When he was gone, Arcturus said he was going where he needed to be and that he'd taken steps to make sure he'd be fine."

Harry growled and stood, stretching his aching muscles as he shook his head.

"Unbelievable. Did you know about this?" he questioned Sirius.

"About what?"

"Any plans involving Leo and Azkaban?"

Sirius shook his head, vehemently denying any knowledge or involvement.

"Neither did Cass. She's not happy."

Harry nodded as he sat on the edge of the bed, trying to take stock of exactly how he was feeling. Remembering how Charlie had died brought a wave of sadness, but more than that, anger. He was not foolish to believe that that it would merely abate over the course of the night, but he expected to feel something else, or even numbness. He'd rather feel nothing than the pain he was experiencing. He was only grateful that he had taken the Dreamless Sleep lest he was subject to witnessing his brother be murdered time and time again. And yet, he was even more angry in the light of day than he had been the night before. A festering anger that was threatening to consume him if he did not harness it.

He took several deep breaths, the back of his mind whispering that he could not and would not let these slights pass. Both Fudge and Voldemort had come for him and both would rue their decisions, Voldemort for the death of his brother and Fudge for his transgressions against House Black. He could not allow either to enjoy their liberty. He would take it from them in blood and misery.

"Where is Grandfather?"

"I imagine he'll be here soon," Sirius offered.

Harry shook his head.

"I will go to him. I'm sick of the way things are being planned."

He turned his attention to Tonks and took her hands.

"Go and get some sleep, Dora. I'm going to get cleaned up and have a word with my Grandfather. You don't need to be there for that."

She gave him a sad smile before pulling him into her arms, relishing his affections. She could have lost him and she wouldn't have any idea what she would have done.

"Thank you," he whispered in her ear, "for being there for me."

Tonks nodded as she smiled, the exhaustion setting in as she turned and exited the room.

"Is there anything else I should know?"

Sirius snorted distastefully.

"Dumbledore is sniffing around."

"Well, Dumbledore is going to get much more truth than he'd like," Harry spat. "He's an incompetent liability that needs to learn his place once and for all."

Sirius nodded.

"Before any of that, I think you should get showered. You can't channel your inner Arcturus Black looking and smelling like that."

Harry chuckled unwittingly. He could always rely on his father to lighten the mood.

It took only a few moments with the healer to convince her that he was well enough to leave with a promise he would return if he felt unwell. He checked on Lily Potter and was pleased to find her still sleeping and James in a similar state as he continued his vigil over the covered form of his son. Harry had no wish to look upon the corpse of his brother. It was a difficult image to shift and he wanted to remember the smile he would see the boy adorning when he managed a new spell or simply see his brother walking towards him. Those were the moments he wanted to cherish and the Charlie he wanted to remember.

A single tear streaked down his cheek at the thought of the boy. The pain was raw and would remain so for some time, but he could not allow it to still him. He needed to press on and begin setting his own plans into motion.

"He won't get away with this, Charlie," he promised before he followed in Tonks' footsteps and left the Hospital Wing.

(BREAK)

The cold seeping into his bones had little to do with the brisk wind of the North Sea. The island of Azkaban loomed ever closer, the mere sight of it foreboding and leaving him with a sense of despair and trepidation he had experienced when the Dementors attacked during the third task.

His stay in the Ministry holding cell had been brief. He'd been processed, searched and stripped of all personal effects before being placed in the little wooden boat with two aurors and a silent companion charged with transporting him. His cuffs had yet to be removed, but the aurors with him had been amiable.

"I would love to have seen Fudge piss himself," one chuckled.

The other shot him a chastising glare but smirked, nonetheless.

"Pompous prick," he muttered. "And Dawlish has been asking for a smack for a while. Got what he deserved."

Leo snorted humourlessly. Any satisfaction he had gotten from his altercation with the Minister had faded, replaced with nervousness. He'd heard of the notorious prison and was not relishing his impending stay. Part of him wished he'd never agreed to it when the idea was put forth by Lord Black.

Flashback

The high he was feeling having got a semblance of revenge on Lucius Malfoy had yet to ebb away. He'd spent time with |Katie and her parents after and he was pleased with how it had gone. Her father was a tough man, closed off for the most part but he could understand his reticence. Katie was his only daughter and his was being a protective father.

He'd arrived back at Hogwarts and said his goodbye to Katie whom he had left at the entrance to her common room, his high fading slightly at the thought of meeting with Lord Black. He knew not what the man wanted but any favour he asked would unlikely be a pleasant undertaking.

When he entered the room, having been challenged to duel by Sir Cadogan, Arcturus was waiting for him, sipping a cup of coffee as he read through a missive.

"You wanted to see me?" Leo questioned.

Arcturus nodded and gestured for him to take a seat at the table.

"I'm becoming more concerned with my own investigations," the older man stated.

Leo frowned.

"You said you haven't found anything."

"That is what concerns me. It means that whoever entered Harry in this tournament is good enough to leave no trace nor involve anyone who suffers from incompetency. People talk, Leo, but whoever is involved in this isn't. That means they are suitably fearful for their own safety or utterly dedicated. There are few that can inspire such things and all I have deduced to be dead ends. All but one."

"Voldemort?"

Arcturus nodded.

"I have no doubt that he is behind this and as things are, I'm in the dark to his motives and next actions."

"What do you want me to do?"

Arcturus observed the teen for a few moments, seemingly scrutinising him before offering a brief, appreciative smile.

"We need information and there is one place we can get that, a place where his most loyal servants ended up. Those he would have most likely shared his plans with or who have the best insight on him."

"Azkaban," Leo deduced.

"Azkaban," Arcturus confirmed.

Leo released a deep breath.

"It is not something I ask of you lightly, lad. The place is a hellhole, guarded by Dementors and the most miserable place you're likely to see."

Leo nodded as Arcturus stood and approached him.

"I trust you, more than I would trust anyone else to do this. All I'm asking is that, if the opportunity arises, you find yourself in there."

"Am I to kill them?"

Arcturus shook his head.

"I need information only, it would be reckless to do anything else. You've studied under Cass and their minds will be weakened so I have no doubt you will be successful."

Leo pondered the task for several minutes. I was not something he would be pleased with, but if it helped and kept Harry safe, he would do it.

"Aye, I think I can manage."

Arcturus gripped his shoulder and squeezed appreciatively.

"Thanks, lad. I will ensure everything you need will be in there for you and will get you out as soon as possible. To that end, I'll need your wand. You still have a spare?"

Leo nodded.

"How will I get it?"

"Arrangements have been made with an acquaintance. He will make sure you get it along with anything else you need."

With a sigh, Leo nodded as he handed over his wand. If he was to be in Azkaban, he wanted his primary with him, just in case.

"If and when you get there, anything the Dark Lord planned before his fall will be useful to know. That along with who sided with him that's not common knowledge and anything else that may be useful. No matter how innocuous it may seem."

"Aye, I'll make sure I get what we need, but why are we doing this? Harry wants to leave as soon as the task is over."

"It's a contingency plan, for now. He's put considerable effort in getting Harry here, do you think he will give up? No, he will not and I refuse to not prepare for every eventuality. Know your enemies."

End Flashback

The little boat bumped into the dock of the island and was greeted by a team of guards dressed in blood-red robes. He was hoisted to his feet by his escorts and led ashore.

"Lord Leo Whelan," one announced in practiced words. "Assault on an auror and the Minister of Magic."

"We'll take him from here," a guard insisted. "The warden wants to meet this one personally."

The twisted smile he gave did little to ease his growing worry. He was not so accustomed to fear anymore but this place had a way of instilling it once again. He shivered as he was boxed-in on all sides by the new entourage, the crunching of gravel the only sound to be heard as he was escorted to a large iron gate.

"New arrival," the same guard that had spoken earlier announced.

The gate creaked and squealed loudly as it opened at a pedestrian pace and Leo found himself once more being guided forward by the dour group of men that had come to collect him. Only further silence met him as they entered the imposing fortress, the cold more prominent within the walls than on the outside. He shuddered and tried to bury himself deeper in his robes to stave it off, to no avail. The further in they proceeded, the colder it became.

"You won't get used to it, you never do," one of the guards muttered to his left.

He was an older man, pale and with strangely mismatched eyes that spoke only truth.

Leo shrugged at his words. He had no intention of being here any longer than necessary.

Eventually he was led up a set of steel stairs and into a small, spartan waiting room. A single wooden bench lined the back wall of weathered brickwork that couldn't have seen a lick of paint in decades.

"Stand still and wait until you are called forward," he was instructed. "Keep your hands where they can be seen."

Leo complied as the same guard knocked and entered an office, returning only a moment later and led his men away with a suspicious frown in his direction. He was left to consider it for a minute before the door opened and a man younger than he had expected beckoned for him to come inside.

The office itself was like the waiting room other than the desk awash with paperwork and a roaring fire on one of the side walls, of which were constructed from the same brickwork and desk the same wood as the bench outside.

"Take a seat, Whelan," the warden offered as he threw another log on the fire and rubbed his hands together. He took the seat behind the desk shortly after and gazed at the teen before him and shook his head.

"I had a visit from Lord Black several months ago. When I heard what he had to say, I thought he had finally lost his damned mind," he said ruefully.

"How do you know Lord Black?" Leo asked. This man seemed much too young to have been acquainted with him until recently.

He chuckled darkly.

"I was a close friend of his son, Orion. Often as a child I was at his home and Lord Black would be there. He was a harsh man, even then. When he arrived here all those weeks ago, it was the first time I had laid eyes on him in almost three decades. But when Arcturus Black asks for a favour, you do not say no. I suspect that is why you are here?"

Leo shrugged.

"He didn't force me into this," he denied. "I have to do this to help keep his family safe."

"He mentioned the safety of his family but was vague on the details. All he asked was that if he had someone sent here that I accommodate them and make their stay as comfortable as I can. I received his message you would arrive today and I prepared your cell for you personally."

Leo nodded gratefully.

"Care to share what it is you are doing here, Lord Whelan?"

Leo sighed. It mattered not keeping his task a secret. It was likely that soon enough the world would know of the Dark Lord's return.

"I need access to all the Death Eaters that are imprisoned here. I need to see what information they have about Voldemort, any weaknesses or anything that can be used against him."

The warden narrowed his eyes.

"And how does such a thing benefit Lord Black?"

"Voldemort is back and has his eyes set on Harry, Lord Black's heir."

The warden scratched his chin as he nodded.

"I read about the boy. Someone entered him in the tournament, but the Dark Lord is dead."

Leo shook his head.

"He returned last night. Harry managed to fight him off and that is why I am here now."

"Truly?" the man asked worriedly.

"Aye, he's back."

"Shit," the warden grumbled. "Looks like I will be putting in a transfer as soon as possible. Seeing Leo's confused look, he continued. "His most loyal and dedicated followers are within these walls. He will want them back and this place won't keep him out."

"Fair enough," Leo conceded. "Did Lord Black say anything else?"

"No, but funnily enough, not long after his note arrived, I received one from the Minister himself. He's quite keen for you to be placed in the cells with our worst offenders." He leaned forward, an amused grin adorning his lips. "Guess where that happens to be?"

"I imagine with the people I am here to see."

"Exactly," the warden confirmed. "Seems as old Cornelius has done a significant part of your job for you. It should be easier to access them from there. No human guards are permitted in the lower levels and the Dementors have little interest in them anymore. All the happiness and anything they would want was sucked out of the Death Eaters years ago. Most just sit in their cells in silence now."

"So, how do I get into the cells and out of mine?"

"It's easy enough. They are locked with blood wards," he explained as he slid a vial of red, viscus liquid towards Leo. "This is some of mine so will open any of the doors. Just put one drop on the lock and you can get anywhere you need. Just don't do anything that will gain attention. No killing and stay on your level, then we should both get away with this without anyone being any wiser."

Leo nodded.

"The lower levels are unpleasant. The toughest of prisoners eventually break down there but I will try to get you out regularly for a period of time. Other than that, you're on your own. I told Lord Black I will not involve myself in anything that is likely to see me on the other side of one of the cell doors."

"Aye, I understand."

"Good, I will lead you down there myself."

The warden stood and Leo followed, exiting the room. The duo made their way through the darkened halls and to an elevator guarded by two aurors on duty.

"Lord Whelan to cell 4135," the warden explained to the two men.

The aurors saluted as they removed their wands and pressed them against the bars of the contraption. A series of clinking locks and chains rattling sounded before the door opened to admit them. The lift moved painfully slow on its' descent, neither of them talking until it arrived at its' destination with a thud.

"This way," the warden gestured as he began walking down the narrow corridor.

Leo nodded and followed the man, glancing into cells as he passed. Many were empty but the ones that weren't contained people, most slumped in a corner in threadbare clothing, some muttering incoherently but the others were silent. Gaunt stares were returned to him, eyes devoid of life and it sent a shiver down his spine. He certainly did not want to end up in such a state.

"Here we are," his companion announced, opening the door to a cell.

Inside was empty other than a thin mattress topped with thin blankets and a pillow that wouldn't suffice.

"The stone in the bottom left is loose," the man explained purposely, pointing to an unassuming slab of brick where he had indicated.

Leo nodded and stepped inside, cringing as the cell door slammed behind him.

The cold was worst here, more unbearable than the Russian winters he had endured during his years of schooling. This was unnatural. The coldness here did not only freeze your skin, it seemed to turn your very soul into ice.

As the warden's footsteps faded, he approached the slab in the ground and pulled it away from where it rested. Reaching into the resulting hole, he removed a sizable, jute sack and opened it. He could see very little, the only light being provided by a sconce in the corridor so, when he reached in and felt the familiar warmth of his wand, he breathed a sigh of relief.

Immediately, he transfigured the bed into something more suitable and placed notice-me-not charms upon it. Though he had been assured people did not come down here, he would not risk being caught because of such an amateur error.

He emptied the remaining items onto the bed to find a rather considerable amount of chocolate that would be indispensable during his stay. He tore into the packaging of a large bar and took a bite, basking in the warmth that spread throughout him, lifting his mood considerably.

The only other thing in the sack was some ink, parchment and quills and a small, handwritten note.

Leo,

The writing tools have been enchanted. Anything you write using these will be duplicated on the parchment that I have. Keep me updated with your findings and we will have you out as soon as possible.

A

With a flick of his wand, the note smouldered into ash and blew away into the wind. Left with only his thoughts, he began planning his next move. Harry was relying on him, as were the rest of the Blacks and he had no intention of letting them down. He had done his research on those he would find here, and though he was not looking forward to their company, it could prove to be a necessity if he found anything useful.

"Time to get on with it," he sighed internally.

(BREAK)

Harry arrived at his rooms and entered to find a subdued Cassiopeia sitting at the table, sipping tea. Her eyes snapped in his direction and she crossed the distance, pulling him into her arms.

"Oh, Harry," she sighed emotionally.

"I'm alright, Cass," he assured her with an unconvincing smile. "Where is Grandfather?"

Her nostrils flared at the question.

"On business, or so he says," she growled. "Why don't you get washed up and I will make you some breakfast."

Harry nodded and went to his room to retrieve some fresh clothes before entering the bathroom and turning on the shower. The cascade of water helped settle his thoughts, but not his fury. That continued to bubble under the surface and the feeling of his brother's blood on his skin would not shift, no matter how hard he scrubbed. He dried himself off with a flick of his wand and dressed for the day knowing it would be a long one.

Cassie watched him as he picked at his toast and eggs, at a loss of what to say. There was little comfort any could give him. The only way he would feel right again is with the death of Tom Riddle and he wanted that honour all for himself. He cared not if it was selfish, it would be him that brought the man his end. Several plans formulated in his mind, some holding merit and others being dismissed as quickly as they rose.

"What are you thinking, Harry?" Cassie asked worriedly.

His grip had tightened around his fork, paling his knuckles with the pressure of his squeeze. He took a deep breath to calm himself as he met her gaze.

Before he could answer, the door opened to admit Arcturus and Sirius, the latter looking just as nervous as Cassie appeared. Instantly, the tension in the room rose as Harry shifted his attention to his grandfather, the man as calm and poised as he always was as he prepared a cup of coffee before taking a seat at the table, the narrowed eyes of his grandson not fazing him in the slightest.

"Why was I not consulted about a plan to have Leo put in Azkaban?"

Arcturus took a sip of his coffee before placing it on the table.

"I will answer your questions," he promised, "but you will answer mine first."

Harry nodded his agreement.

"What do you plan to do about Voldemort? We can go into hiding, as was our original plan, but the fact you kept certain things from us might have just fucked up that idea."

Harry deflated slightly.

"I'm sorry for keeping it from you. It didn't seem important since he was supposedly dead," he offered with a shrug.

Arcturus reached across the table and took his hand.

"I understand why you wouldn't say anything. I would not have handled it well and would probably have murdered Dumbledore for his foolishness."

Harry nodded. He had no doubt that was exactly what his grandfather would have done merely out of principle.

"So, what now?" Arcturus pressed once more.

Harry released a deep breath through his nose.

"I can't let this go," he said firmly. "I can't let him get away with murdering my brother."

Arcturus stared at him speculatively and frowned.

"And?"

"I will not spend the rest of my life hiding and looking over my shoulder for him to come and find me," Harry continued. "I will not live my life that way."

Arcturus nodded at the reasoning.

"So, this isn't some foolish, heroic undertaking to rid the world of a Dark Lord?"

Harry's eyes narrowed, flashing emerald briefly.

"I don't give a shit about the world or what anyone thinks," he hissed. "This is about him and me. He has slighted me in a way that is unforgivable and I want him to suffer for it."

Arcturus held up a placating hand to calm the teen.

"I'm a Black," Harry elaborated. "You raised me to never allow anyone to take liberties with the family or me. What kind of future Lord will I be if I don't do something about this?"

"One that lives," Cassie interjected.

Harry snorted.

"The life of a coward who does not deserve the title I will carry," he countered. "What would you do if you were me"

Arcturus sighed as he nodded.

"I would be baying for blood," he admitted. "Were I a younger man during his last rise, I too would have stood against him for the harm he caused our family. By the time I was aware of the damage, you had all but destroyed him already."

"Then it is my duty to do what you couldn't. It is my duty to do better than you could, isn't it? Isn't that what you always told me, that I should aspire to be better than you and to hope my own heir can be better than me?"

Arcturus chuckled.

"Indeed," he conceded with a smile. "So, what are your next steps?"

Harry took a moment to ponder his budding thoughts on the matter.

"He was successful last time because of the passive opposition he faced. His followers had nothing to fear for too long because they were met with only minimal force. People were running scared because there was no real protection from him and the tactics they used. Random attacks and running before the aurors arrived."

Arcturus nodded at his assessment.

"I will do the same to them," Harry continued with a smirk. "I will cause disorder in his ranks and make people think twice about joining him."

"People won't believe he is back. Fudge will do everything in his power to silence you. He will slander your name and do whatever it takes to ensure you are discredited enough that people won't believe that he is back."

Harry grinned.

"That only works in my favour. If people won't believe he is back, then his followers can't rely on legislation being passed that can help them, especially if it appears that they are being attacked by their own kind," he explained, his grin widening. "Fudge will eventually have to be dealt with. If you have any ideas, then now would be a good time to start preparing them," he finished with a look towards his grandfather.

Arcturus smiled at the idea, an idea worthy of a Lord of his family.

"The idea of Leo being sent to Azkaban was in aide of this," he explained. "I knew that if Voldemort were to come for you, you would not run, especially if he did something like he has. Leo is there to gather information from his most devout followers, those that would have been his confidants. I'm sorry for not discussing it with you, but I was not certain it would come to pass. We have been mostly in the dark about him and I needed something in place for this eventuality."

Harry nodded his understanding. He wasn't happy about it, but it made sense.

"Five steps ahead."

"Five steps ahead," Arcturus confirmed.

"So, what is our next move?" Harry questioned. "We will have to wait to hear from Leo before setting things into motion."

"Not entirely," Arcturus replied. "There is something we need to investigate at our earliest opportunity and we have been invited to a meeting with Dumbledore this evening."

"I will not work with him," Harry denied.

"Nor do I expect you to, but it would be beneficial to get an idea of what he plans. He has a spy in Voldemort's ranks so it could prove to be fruitful. Or, it may just be an opportunity for you to get some answers from the old bastard."

Harry nodded. A conversation with the man was long overdue.

"What is it we need to investigate?"

Arcturus drained the remainder of his coffee.

"I may have stumbled on another Horcrux during my time looking into the Riddles," he explained. "It's the Gaunt house in Little Hangleton where Voldemort's mother lived."

"Why didn't you deal with it?" Harry questioned. It was not like the man to leave something so vital to rest where it was.

"I think it needs to be you. The wards are strong and nothing I have ever seen before. Honestly, I was lucky to escape with my life when I prodded around."

Harry shook his head at the man in a chastising manner.

"The Gaunts were parselmouth's, just like Riddle…"

"And me," Harry added. "It makes sense he would use them to protect his Horcruxes."

"It would," Arcturus agreed. "I feel that you would have better luck bringing them down than I or anyone else."

Harry nodded.

"We will go tomorrow evening," he declared. "Today, we should get packed up and out of here. If Fudge wants me arrested, we will need to be somewhere safe. What's the best protected house we have?"

"Grimmauld Place," Arcturus answered. "No one is getting in there without my say so."

"Then get everything packed and move it over. I need to speak to Tonks and let her know what is happening."

"Be careful, Harry," Arcturus urged. "More than ever you need to be vigilant. Crouch Jr has proven that."

"Crouch Jr?"

"Barty's son. He was the one that orchestrated everything."

"Where is he?"

"Currently, he is my prisoner," Arcturus explained. "I will get what I can from him and I'm sure he will prove to be useful in other ways," he offered cryptically.

"Good," Harry declared as he turned and headed towards the door.

"Harry?" Cassie questioned. "Just how do you plan on getting people to think he's back?"

Harry smirked slightly as he drew his wand.

"I plan on using their own calling card. Morsmordre," he muttered bitterly, with a flick of his wand.

An emerald green skull with snake protruding from his wand materialised into the room, casting it in an eerie glow. Harry simply smirked before taking his leave. Tom Riddle and his followers would learn to fear their own tactics before he eliminated the man himself.

(BREAK)

He waited, listening for any shift in the sounds heard within the prison. The whistling of the wind from the outside sounded along with the occasional clinking of chains as people moved slightly were all that was apparent. For a brief second, he'd thought a scream had rent the air, but as quickly as it sounded, the echo disappeared, fading into the sound of the heavy breeze.

Certain that he was indeed alone here with no guards waiting on the outside, he approached his door and allowed a drop of blood from the vial onto the lock. It glowed ominously after a moment and released.

Carefully, he opened the door, grimacing as it screeched and he crossed the threshold int the corridor. He knew not where each prisoner he sought was located, but the two closest cells to his own were empty. The third however housed a man, his form sagged and head between his legs as he sat against the wall. Leo rattled the bars slightly and the man's attention snapped towards him, his blue eyes meeting his own across the short distance of the cell. The stare was almost devoid of life, the misery of this place reflected there.

"Did the Dark Lord send you to free me?" he croaked, his voice hoarse, weary from lack of use.

Upon recognising him, Leo opened the door with another drop of the blood and entered. Augustus Rookwood, an exceedingly gifted wizard but more with mind than might. The impression he had gotten from reading about the man was that he was a strategist, though his loyalty to Voldemort could not be questioned. He was here after all rather than denounce him.

"No," he answered simply as he drew his wand. "Legilimens."

Rookwood's eyes widened as Leo delved into the recesses of his mind. What he found was a once strong mind, most of the defences that would have taken years to erect and fortify, almost non-existent. The years under the Dementors had all but destroyed his capacity to defend himself. He felt a few token attempts at repelling him, but to no avail. Whatever remained of his ability to fight him off, crumbled under the lightest of pushes.

Once it was clear that he would meet no other resistance, he began pulling up memories, anything pertaining to Voldemort. For the most part, they were trivial events; mass gatherings of Death Eaters and the occasional brief acknowledgement of a job well done by the man himself. For the most part, he had been right. Augustus Rookwood was more a strategist, revered for his intellect and position within the Department of Mysteries.

Having not heard of the Department, Leo switched his focus to that and was inundated with flashes of strange items; Brains in jars, what appeared to be time-turners and a large stone archway that seemed to whisper to him. He shivered at that image. Whatever the arch was, was not something to trifle with lightly.

Eventually, an image of a room surfaced, a very large room covered in shelves that seemed to reach all the way to the high ceiling, all of them covered in eerily glowing orbs. He concentrated harder and watched as a robed man approached a row and meandered his way down, checking often that he was not being followed. He paused when the robed figure came to a stop, his eyes following his counterparts' gaze at one of the lower shelves. A small glass orb, seemingly no different to any of the others caught his attention, the label below it a newer strip of parchment than any other he could see.

S.P.T to A.P.W.B.D

Dark Lord and

(?)

Leo frowned and took note of the labelling of this orb and the number row it was situated; ninety-seven. He pulled himself from the memory and focused on any other that mentioned the orbs, the row or the wording of the label. He almost missed it, but it surfaced a moment later, a memory of Rookwood talking to the Dark Lord, a memory that would have once been well protected given how quiet it still was. Were it not for his training under Cassie, he would likely have missed it.

"My Lord, I have located the prophecy," Augustus informed the Dark Lord, prostrating himself on his knees.

"Prophecy?" Leo whispered to himself. His eyes widened as the information fell into place. This was the prophecy Voldemort had referred to before he and Harry had fought.

"Good work, Augustus," the Dark Lord praised. "Pray, tell me why it is not in your possession?"

"My Lord, only those that the prophecy effects are able to retrieve it. The magic is something I know little of."

"Then learn what you need to and bring it to me," Voldemort demanded.

"Of course, My Lord," Rookwood sputtered, bowing once more.

"It is of paramount importance, Augustus. I want all of your focus on retrieving the prophecy."

"It shall be done," the man reassured his master.

Leo quickly switched his focus to any other memories pertaining to the prophecy and was relieved to find that Rookwood had never found a way to obtain it. He had tried, much of his effort of the last few months before Voldemort fell dedicated to the task given to him. Ultimately, he had failed.

Leo pulled himself from the man's mind, trembling uncontrollably, just as Rookwood was. He knew not how long he had been in there, but it had affected him considerably. He was tired, his own thoughts slightly muddled. However, he had enough clarity to do what needed to be done. Rookwood opened his eyes after a few moments, but Leo gave him no time to speak. He raised his wand, focusing as best he could.

"Obliviate," he murmured, removing any and all trace of the prophecy and his visit. Augustus Rookwood slumped forward and Leo exited the cell.

Reaching his own, he noted down his findings for Arcturus and all but fell back into his bed, needing rest before he could continue with his work.

(BREAK)

He paused with his hand raised, ready to knock as the realisation set in of the conversation he was about to share with the woman on the other side. For months, they had avoided discussing his inevitable departure, both in a comfortable limbo of ignorance to what they faced or what would happen to their relationship when the tournament was concluded. He had remained steadfast in his desire to leave Britain, but when it came down to it, he could no longer trust himself to take that plunge and leave her behind. His feelings had only grown the more time he spent with her and even if the circumstances he faced now were different, he couldn't be sure he'd be able to go.

Composing himself, he knocked, smirking as he heard her stumble and curse her own clumsiness, one of the things he found so endearing about her. After only a moment, the door cracked open and he was met with the sight of her, red-haired and blue-eyed, dark circles prominent below the latter.

"Harry?" she questioned confusedly.

He offered her a weak smile. Her confusion was warranted. It had been months since he had knocked. She had rightfully pointed out he spent most of his nights within her rooms and he was "bloody well capable of opening a door himself." From then on, he had come and gone as he pleased, the smile he received whenever he simply walked in more than enough to alleviate any qualms he had about decorum or how people viewed their relationship. People would always talk; this he was well aware of and the nature of their association would always be questioned. He cared not. What happened between them could only be speculated on as both were private and not in the habit of discussing the ins and outs of their day to day lives with others. They had yet to go too far with their affections. Harry, because he couldn't bring himself to take that step when their future held so much uncertainty. She had assured him on many occasions she would hold no regrets if that level of intimacy did occur, but she did not push him. He didn't think he'd be able to decline her had she been more insistent.

"What are you doing here?" she pressed.

"Can we talk?" he returned.

Her eyes widened slightly but she nodded, stepping aside to allow him in.

"I'm sorry if I disturbed your sleep. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't important."

Tonks snorted as she busied herself with making tea.

"Not much of that happening," she sighed. "Kind of hard to sleep after last night."

Harry nodded as he took a seat on the sofa and was joined by Tonks a moment later.

"How bad was it here?" he questioned.

She released a deep breath and placed her cup on the table.

"Bad enough. It's not that keeping me awake though. I saw the memory you gave to Lord Black."

He could only nod in response. There wasn't anything he could really say.

"I'm scared, Harry," she admitted. "I know you better than you think I do. I'm scared that you're not going to let this go and I'll lose you."

"You're not going to lose me," he denied automatically, taking one of her hands in his own.

"You can't promise me that," she muttered.

His grip tightened around her slightly, comforting her little.

"What would you have me do, Dora?"

"Honestly?"

He nodded.

"Run, hide or anything that I know will keep you safe," she offered hopefully.

His lips curled downwards as he shook his head.

"If I thought that would work, I'd do that for you," he replied sincerely, "but he won't stop coming for me. He put together this whole elaborate plan to get to me and my brother was murdered because of it. I can't live my life looking over my shoulder, waiting for him to get to me and I can't just let what he has done go. You can call me stupid for wanting him to pay for what he did to Charlie, but I couldn't live with myself if I let him. I'm a Black, Dora, I was raised this way."

An errant tear ran down her cheek as she nodded her understanding. She knew he wouldn't simply let it go without repercussions.

"What are you going to do?"

"I've not really gotten that far yet," he chuckled. "I have some ideas, but the less you know, the better. You're an auror. I won't put you in a position that will compromise your duty."

"I want to help you."

Harry shook his head.

"The best help you can give me is to keep yourself safe. He will learn about us and there's a strong chance he will try to get to me through you. I want you to move into one of the Black properties with your parents. It's well protected and will keep you safe when you're not at work."

She hadn't really considered this; her mind having been focused on Harry and what he would do.

"Please, Dora," he continued.

She nodded her agreement and he sagged in relief.

"Thank you."

"Are you leaving?" she blurted out.

Her tone was almost desperate, her eyes filled with panic at the thought.

"We're staying, for the foreseeable future. We'll be moving into Grimmauld Place."

She swallowed audibly as another tear escaped, the heavy burden of uncertainty that had weighed her down lifting considerably.

"What about…" she paused mid-sentence and shook her head.

"What about…?" Harry urged.

"It's selfish," Tonks muttered.

"You're allowed to be selfish," he prodded gently.

She offered him a sad smile before her gaze dropped to her lap. She was feeling vulnerable. Harry had seen her in this state and it made his stomach clench.

"What about us?"

This is what it all came down to. The conversation they had both avoided no longer being skirted around. He gave her a weak smile as he took every part of her in.

"What is it you want?"

She looked up at the question, her eyes full of worry, her reticence to speak her own wishes prevalent.

"The only thing I want is you," she whispered.

His heart followed the action of his stomach, the desire, the need and the want he could see reflected in her pools warming him in ways he'd never experienced. This wonderful woman had come into his life, cared for him as he had for her, both exposing parts of themselves none had been able to before, their defences breached with little resistance, defeated by both merely being themselves. He wanted nothing more than to preserve her, hide her away from the horrors the world had to offer, keep her whole and happy. However much he wished this, it was not something he could do. She was no maiden in a tower waiting for a prince to rescue her and he himself was no such man. Perhaps this was why he had fallen so hard for her, this strong, fierce and beautiful woman. She was no delicate flower that would wilt under adversity but would thrive in it, a woman just as protective of him as he was of her.

"As do I," he answered.

She choked in relief as he opened his arms to her and she fell into them.

"I don't know what will happen, Dora. I just know that whatever I do, I want you with me. Always."

"I love you," she mumbled into his chest, stiffening as she uttered the last syllable, as did the boy that held her.

For a moment, neither breathed, both stilled by her declaration. Harry swallowed deeply as he pushed her gently away and looked into her widened eyes, full of trepidation at what she had said.

"I love you," he returned sincerely, brushing a loose slock of hair away from her face and tucking it behind her ear.

She swallowed deeply as she searched his gaze, looking for any sign of uncertainty. She hadn't meant to say what she had. Her heart had spoken before her mind could comprehend the words that escaped her. It felt right. He needed to know just what she felt for him, even if his feelings weren't reciprocated. To hear him return the sentiment with such sincerity, both warmed and frightened her. She was not one to allow herself to feel anything deeply, her experiences in life of her hope being shattered causing her to be cautious and even aloof with others. With Harry, it was different. He unwittingly chipped away at the walls she kept up and now, they were little more than dust.

"Do you mean it?" she asked.

"I wouldn't say it if I didn't," he assured her. "I don't know when it happened, but I can't imagine you not being in my life."

"Me either," she returned, resting her head against his chest once more.

He sighed contentedly as he tightened his grip on her.

He worried about the future, about what was inevitably coming but he would not deny either of them the chance at the happiness they gave each other. He was uncertain about many things. Being with her was not one of them. They spent the next few hours on that couch, revelling in one another and what each had gifted, something that neither had been able to share before until they had met.

(BREAK)

Arcturus sent the final trunk through the floo to Grimmauld Place and gave the rooms a final cursory sweep, ensuring that nothing else had been left behind. Cassie had taken her own belongings, still refusing to speak to him and only himself and Sirius remained behind, waiting for Harry to return.

"Are you not even going to try to stop him?" Sirius questioned worriedly.

Arcturus sighed deeply as he took a seat at the table.

"Do you think he would listen?"

Sirius joined him, taking a seat opposite his grandfather as he shook his head.

"No," he conceded. "That doesn't mean I have to like it. I lived through the last war and saw what he was capable of."

Arcturus nodded.

"You have seen what Harry is capable of," he countered. "I don't like it any more than you do, Sirius, but Harry is but a man. He needs to make these decisions himself and I will support him with whatever he chooses to do."

"Even if it gets him killed?"

"It won't come to that."

"You don't know that," Sirius returned heatedly. "How can you allow him to go against Voldemort?"

Arcturus deflated.

"Because I believe in him," he whispered. "Because he would never forgive himself if he didn't nor me if I tried to stop him. He will be Lord of this family soon enough and he will do what he wishes. Regardless of my own wishes to keep him out of it, any measures I take would be temporary. You know as well as I do what he is like. He will not be able to live with himself if he does nothing."

"But he would live."

"Would he?" the older man bit back. "Voldemort will come for him and won't rest until Harry is dead and you know it. He has proven himself able to reach even those under the Fidelius. No, it is much better this way."

Sirius frowned questioningly and Arcturus released a deep breath.

"Tell me, what did people do during the first war when their lives were threatened by him?"

"They hid," Sirius answered.

"And what happened to them?"

Sirius swallowed deeply.

"Most were killed."

Arcturus gave him a pointed look.

"People ran and hid and yet, they still died. There were few who opposed him and he damn near succeeded because people were to weak and cowardly to stand against him. Wizarding Britain was on the brink of collapse because of it."

"The Order never gave up," Sirius pointed out.

Arcturus leaned forward and rested his elbows on the table.

"And what exactly did the order do? They waited for attacks to happen, most finished even before they arrived. They were a reactive force and mostly, ineffective."

Sirius reluctantly nodded his agreement.

"Do you think Harry will be so passive? Do you think he will sit idly by whilst the Dark Lord exerts his will?"

"No," Sirius conceded.

"He will be proactive. He will take the fight to them, something that did not happen last time and he will be successful."

"How can you be so sure?"

"Because he was raised by us. He is a Black. You saw what he is capable of," he reminded his grandson. "How many of those bootlickers will be able to stand against him?"

"None, I doubt. But they are cowards, they won't fight on even footing?"

Arcturus laughed.

"I don't believe Harry plans on giving them that opportunity. You heard him yourself, he plans on teaching them to fear their own tactics."

Sirius balked slightly at the realisation.

"He's smart," Arcturus said proudly. "He is not foolish enough to engage them on an open field."

"Bloody hell," Sirius grumbled. "What are we going to do?"

"We are going to help him in any way he needs us. We will be there for him."

Sirius nodded as the door opened, putting an end to their conversation. Harry entered the room and looked between the two men.

"Is everything gone?" he asked.

"It is," Arcturus confirmed.

"Good," Harry declared as he took a seat. "I'm having Tonks and her parents move into Druella's old place. They will be safe there," he announced, giving his grandfather a challenging stare.

Arcturus met the gaze unwaveringly but nodded his agreement.

"What's next?"

"We have the meeting with Dumbledore," Harry replied. "See if the old bastard has anything worth knowing."

"He will try to get you on side," Arcturus pointed out.

Harry shrugged.

"The he will be disappointed. I won't work with him. He's proven himself as untrustworthy as Tom as far as I'm concerned."

Sirius clenched his jaw and nodded.

"As far as he will be aware, we are going home. There's no need for him to know about my plans and what I'm doing," Harry added with a grin.

Arcturus snorted in amusement.

"What about James and Lily?" Sirius interjected.

Harry sighed as he dragged a hand through his hair.

"They've not proven themselves trustworthy to me. I feel for them but they were only Charlie's parents. I don't even know them."

"They won't stand with Dumbledore," Sirius said confidently. "You might not be able to trust them, but you can trust they want Voldemort dead."

"And what use can they be to me?" Harry bit back. "The Potters are a shadow of what they once were. They have little to offer me."

"Not quite," Arcturus interjected. "I have plans for them."

"Don't be dismissive of them," Sirius warned. "Despite your feelings towards them, Lily is a very intelligent witch and James a damned good fighter. They could be useful allies."

"Then use them as you see fit. Just keep them out of the loop on what I'm doing."

Sirius released a deep breath as he nodded. He understood Harry's resentment towards the pair and not being able to trust them, but he knew they could both prove to be useful in many ways.

"Are you coming to the meeting?" Harry questioned him.

Sirius shook his head.

"I don't want Dumbledore to even think I'd entertain the idea that I will join the order again. I don't want to be around him at all if it can be helped."

Harry nodded.

"Grandfather?"

"I will be there to support you," Arcturus confirmed.

Harry frowned at his words.

"It is a perfect opportunity for you to practice handling situations you are not comfortable in," he explained. "It will be your responsibility as Head of House to deal with people you'd rather avoid."

"Shall we get this over with then?" Harry replied having checked his watch.

Arcturus stood and gestured for him to lead the way.

"We will floo to Grimmauld Place when we are done," he assured Sirius.

Sirius nodded as his gaze swept around the room a final time before he vanished through the fireplace.

"Are you ready for this?"

"I have to be."

Arcturus grasped him firmly on the shoulder.

"You are a Black, Harry. Handle it like a Black."

He could only nod as they exited the room, mentally preparing to face the revered Albus Dumbledore.

(BREAK)

Only having brought essentials to the castle, it took only a few minutes to pack everything in her trunk and for her to have vacated the rooms she had been allocated. She ignored the patronus received by Dumbledore to attend a meeting with him later in the evening, opting to leave the castle and meet with her parents instead. Before heading to their house, she went to her flat, a place she had barely been in since she signed the tenancy agreement a little over a year ago.

She entered and found it in the disorganised mess she had left it. Clothes and a myriad of other things were strewn about her living room, causing her to grimace at her own untidy and chaotic manner. She had kept her rooms at Hogwarts immaculate since Harry had been spending time there. The last thing she wanted him to think was that she was lazy and unclean.

She shook her head and waved her wand, all her personal items arranging themselves neatly into another trunk she had never fully unpacked.

The state of her bedroom was no better. More clothes were left haphazardly draped over the lamp and across the bed that she had never made. She repeated her previous actions, sighing as she took a final turn around the space to ensure she had gathered everything. She didn't feel anything at leaving this place. She hadn't spent enough time here to build any memories of note and no fondness had been developed. It had been a place for her to sleep after a long day of work, her first step into independence from living at home.

She shrunk the three additional trunks and placed them in her pocket before closing the front door behind her. She gave a cursory glance to her surroundings, her wand ready to be used the second it was needed.

Nothing was amiss, the courtyard to the block of flats quiet as always and she apparated away, appearing a moment later a short distance from her parent's house.

She entered and found them sat at the table, her mother serving dinner on the two plates that had been arranged.

"Dora," her father greeted her warmly, standing to give her a hug. "What brings you here?"

The words stuck in her throat. She didn't know where to begin with explaining everything that had happened.

"Voldemort's back," she announced, settling on the thing that everything else revolved around.

Complete silence followed what she said, both Ted and Andromeda staring at her wide-eyed.

"Don't be daft," Andromeda finally spoke. "He's been gone for thirteen years.

Tonks shook her head almost desperately.

"He came back last night, mum. He killed Charlie and tried to kill Harry."

Her tone was bordering on furious, willing them to believe what she was trying to tell them. Andromeda was silenced by a look from her husband as he helped his daughter into a chair.

"Why don't you start from the beginning, Dora. Explain everything that has happened."

Tonks nodded and told the story of what had happened the night before, most of which would appear to be ludicrous. Had Ted Tonks not met Harry in person, he would believe the whole tale to be an embellishment. That aside, he knew his daughter. She would never say such a thing unless she was certain.

"I saw the memory myself. I saw Harry fight him and Charlie die."

The final words were choked, the memory of the events having taken their toll on her. She had needed to be there for Harry, had been strong for him. Now, she let her grief flow. She had almost lost him and still might if the Dark Lord had his way.

"Not only does the Ministry balls up the final task, now this," Ted spat, throwing the morning's Daily Prophet edition on the table.

Tonks glanced at the headline.

Disaster Strikes During Final Task

What followed was a rather accurate account of what had taken place at Hogwarts, though for once, the paper had not pointed fingers at who was to blame. Conveniently, they had foregone the fact that it was the Minister that had arranged the inclusion of the Dementors.

She shuddered at all that had transpired, her mother and father both watching her worriedly.

"I'm scared, mum," she whispered.

Andromeda cleared the space between herself and her daughter. Pulling her into her arms, she shared a concerned look with her husband.

"Shh, Dora, it will be okay."

"You don't know that," Tonks whimpered.

"Harry will be fine. There is no way anyone, not even You-know-who can get to him inside the Black wards."

Tonks sniffled as she shook her head and wiped her eyes.

"Harry's going after him. He says he won't spend his life hiding."

Andromeda knew not what to say. Harry had been raised by her grandfather, the most stubborn of men. If that is what he had decided, he would not be swayed.

"Bloody men and their stupid pride," she cursed. "What is it he's planning on doing?"

Tonks shrugged.

"I don't know exactly. He didn't really say much."

"What are you going to do, Dora?" Ted broke in. "We will support you no matter what."

She offered her father a watery smile.

"What can I do?"

"Run or hide?" Ted answered. "The Dark Lord will do whatever is necessary to get to Harry if what you've said is true."

"Harry said as much," Tonks sighed. "He wants us to go into hiding, just for precaution."

"We don't have anywhere we can hide," Ted returned. "Getting this place warded sufficiently would cost much more than we have."

"Harry has a house we can stay in. He said we can move into Druella's place," she added, looking towards her mother.

Andromeda's eyebrows rose. She had been to the house several times as a child. It had been the home of her mother that had been gifted to the Black's as part of her wedding dowry. She would spend part of her summer there as a child with Bella and Cissy. It was a nice property and very well protected.

"We would be safe there," she conceded. She was not at all keen on leaving her home but she certainly didn't want the Dark Lord to come for her, her husband and daughter. The fact that she had married a muggleborn was insult enough to the man. Adding Dora's relationship with Harry would only push them higher up the list.

"I'm sorry," Tonks whispered.

"You have nothing to apologise for, Dora," Andromeda insisted.

"What are we going to do, Andi?" Ted asked, his features etched with worry.

Andromeda sighed.

"If it will keep us safe, then I think we should do it."

Ted nodded as he stood from his seat.

"I'll start getting everything packed," he declared before placing a kiss on his daughter's head and taking his leave.

"How is Harry?" Andromeda asked when her husband was gone.

"As well as can be expected," Tonks answered. "Honestly, I've never been more terrified in my life seeing the memory of him fighting that monster."

Andromeda placed a hand on her knee and rubbed it comfortingly.

"He came back, Dora, that's all that matters."

Tonks nodded.

"He was amazing."

Andromeda noted the smile that adorned her daughter and stood, busying herself with making tea for the pair.

"How are things between you going?"

Tonks narrowed her eyes as her mother as she continued casually going about her task. She was digging for information but that didn't stop her smile widening as she thought about her time with him earlier in the day.

"Dora?" Andromeda broke in questioningly, placing a mug in front of her.

"Sorry, I zoned out."

"Love does that to you," her mother replied, taking a sip of her brew.

Tonks flushed and tried to hide it by taking a sip of her own, scolding her tongue in the process.

"Shit," she swore."

Andromeda chuckled.

"It does that to you to. Makes you do silly things when you're not focusing."

Tonks sputtered incoherently as her mother raised a delicate brow in her direction.

"He does know how you feel about him?"

Tonks ducked her head bashfully as she nodded.

"I told him today. It just came out."

"And what did he say?"

Tonks smiled again.

"He told me he loves me and there's nothing else he wants than to be with me," she admitted shyly.

"It's serious then?"

"I think it always has been. I was just too scared to see it."

It was Andromeda's turn to smile.

"I'm so pleased, Dora. If anyone deserves it, it's you."

Tonks shook her head.

"No one else will like it. The Black heir with a disgraced half-blood auror."

"And what do you think Harry will do to anyone who dares say that"

Tonks snorted.

"Even when you were here at Christmas, I could see the way you felt about each other. When you came home from the ball, I could see it then. I was so scared you were going to get hurt, but I couldn't bring myself to say anything. You were just so happy."

"Harry would never hurt me," Tonks denied. "He told Lord Black he would sooner give up his position than stop seeing me."

Andromeda was surprised by the brazenness of the teen. Had any dared given such an ultimatum to the man she grew up with, he would have flayed them for their daring.

"And what did Lord Black have to say?"

Tonks shrugged.

"He didn't. He told me I'm worthy of Harry."

Andromeda could not be more pleased for her daughter. For years she had shut herself away from the world because of how she was treated. She had been turned away from her family for her own choices. She had her doubts that Dora would be welcomed by any of them if they were ever to cross paths. Harry had done so immediately and it seemed the others were following his lead. From what she knew of the boy, he would make a fine Lord. She may no longer be part of the family but that didn't mean she ever stopped caring about them, even her sisters.

Their conversation was cut short as Ted entered the room, perspiring from the effort of packing their things.

"All the essentials are done," he announced. "You just need to check if there is anything else we need to take then we can leave."

Andromeda nodded and exited the room. For her daughter, she would accept the offer from the Blacks. Harry, she had no doubt, wanted to keep them all safe as best he could and she would not worry her daughter by refusing to leave. This was her home and always would be but she would give it up in a heartbeat to keep her daughter safe and happy.

(BREAK)

Ash he reached the gargoyle that guarded Dumbledore's office, Harry braced himself for the impending meeting. He took a deep breath and stepped onto the spiral staircase, the stone construct having allowed him entrance. Arcturus gave him a final nod of encouragement as they reached the door, the necessity to knock all but eliminated as the voice of the man bid him to enter.

He did so and found himself confronted by the sight of a dozen and a half or so witches and wizards seated around a table, their attention shifting to him. Few he recognized but most were unknown to him. However, if this is what Dumbledore had gathered to oppose Tom Riddle, then wizarding Britain was in more trouble than he first thought.

"I'm pleased you could join us, Harry," Dumbledore greeted him from the head of the table. "I would like to offer my condolences for your loss."

Harry returned the gesture with a slight nod of his head, the remorse he heard, genuine. Had it not been his ire would have been provoked.

"Why have you asked me here?" he questioned. He had no desire to mingle unnecessarily.

"I thought it would beneficial to meet after the events of last night. All of those you see before you fought against the Death Eaters in the previous war or are people with whom I trust implicitly."

Harry frowned at the people staring at him expectantly.

"I don't see how that concerns me in any way. But I'll assume this is the not-so-secret Order of the Phoenix?"

Many of the assembled people began to mutter unhappily but Dumbledore remained unperturbed by his observation.

"The very same," he answered with a slight bow.

Harry shook his head.

"I'm still none the wiser as to why my presence is required."

"I was hoping you would be able to give an account of what happened last night. Just how did the Dark Lord return?"

Harry's lips curled in distaste at the question as he shrugged.

"How he did it? I have no idea. When I arrived, a man was there claiming to be Voldemort. All I know is that he murdered my brother and ran like a coward."

He noticed the majority of those gathered flinch at the use of moniker and he shook his head in disgust.

"You plan on opposing him yet you piss your pants at the mention of his name."

"You wouldn't understand," an angry voice retorted.

His nostrils flared in response.

"He came for me when I was a boy and I survived. He came for me last night and it was he that fled," he returned evenly. "Why not ask your resident Death Eater here how last night went for him," he added, nodding towards a quiet Severus Snape.

The man shot him a look of utter loathing as he nodded.

"The Dark Lord is quite indisposed and will be for some time," he drawled.

"So, you can kill 'im," another voice broke in.

Harry found himself looking at a squat man, his appearance filthy and even from where he stood, he could smell the alcohol and tobacco permeating from him.

"You're very much mistaken, my smelly friend," he replied. "I'm going home. Your minister has made it quite clear that he plans on prosecuting me for the murder of my brother. I am no longer welcome in your country."

"It's your country too," a redheaded woman piped up. "You were born here."

"And I left and made my home elsewhere. There is no benefit to be had in me staying here."

"So, you would turn your back on your brother after he was killed in front of you?" a shabbily dressed man questioned him as he shot to his feet.

Harry knew this man. He had been around a lot when he was a child and still lived with the Potters.

"My brother was murdered by a mad man who you are all afraid of and yet, you expect me to stick around and kill him?"

Many had the decency to look sheepish.

"What reason do you have to look to me?" he added.

All turned to face the headmaster who had been content to sit back and watch the conversation unfold in front of him.

"I was hoping to discuss that with you in a more private setting once this meeting is concluded," Dumbledore explained.

"Fair enough, so what else is there to discuss?"

"Strategy," Alastor Moody answered before any other could.

Harry snorted.

"From what I can gather, you sit on your bloody thumbs and wait for them to attack before you do anything. And even then, you waste your time trying to apprehend them when they more than happy to cut you down where you stand. Pretty stupid strategy if you ask me."

Arcturus nodded his agreement as the Order members muttered irritably.

"Our role is much more than being a reactionary force," Dumbledore responded defensively. "Not only do we intervene where possible, but we also guard places of import and gather needed intelligence."

"And die in the process," Harry returned.

Dumbledore sighed and shook his head disappointedly.

"Two wrongs do not make a right, Harry."

Harry snorted.

"I saw what those animals are capable of. They mocked a fourteen-year-old boy as he was tortured. They deserve no consideration and should be treated as they do others. Perhaps then they may reconsider their actions or at the very least be on the receiving end of them."

Again, the order members muttered amongst themselves, some making disparaging comments towards Harry's method.

"You would really kill these people, Harry?" Dumbledore asked.

Harry leaned forward, a satisfied smirk forming.

"I killed at least four of them last night and would have finished them all without a flicker of regret."

A few more staunch supporters of the headmaster protested his declaration, angry at him for the way he had defended himself and his brother. Dumbledore said nothing, but visibly deflated.

"You're telling me you would have been throwing around Stunning spells in my position?" he growled addressing the order members. "You go ahead and see how that works out for you when the time comes."

"We seem to be drifting away from the purpose of our gathering," Dumbledore intervened.

"There is no purpose of our gathering, Dumbledore," Harry retorted. "If you want to go head to head with them, then that's your business."

"So, you won't help us?" a redheaded man questioned.

"Why would I do that, Mr Weasley?"

"He killed your brother," the man pointed out.

"He did, but me going up against him won't bring Charlie back," he replied quietly. "I am the heir of Black. I will not put myself in any position that will be detrimental to the continuation of my family. I certainly wouldn't work with people who aren't willing to aide me in the ways I'd need."

"We would share a goal, Harry," Dumbledore tried.

Harry shook his head.

"An enemy of my enemy is not necessarily a friend. Already, you and yours have attempted to vilify me for my actions in a life or death situation. I can assure you, my methods would never change to suit your ideals. I was raised to end a threat against me, not take the moral high ground so that people like you may look towards me with a modicum of respect. So, with all due consideration and based on what has been discussed, you can all get fucked," he declared as he stood.

Dumbledore held up his hands to quell any vocal anger at his words.

"I would still like to discuss certain things with you in private, if you'll consent?"

Harry shrugged.

"Nothing you have to say will change my mind, but fine. If I can help you get justice for my brother in any way, then I will help you to that extent."

Dumbledore nodded gratefully and began dismissing the order members.

"Perhaps, Moody and Shacklebolt should stay," Harry interjected. "The aurors will need to be aware what they are up against. Fudge seems to be to keen on blaming me rather than doing his bloody job and keeping his people safe."

The two men nodded and remained seated. Harry couldn't care less about what Fudge was doing. He would be dealt with soon enough. Moody and Shacklebolt however, were Tonks' friends. He wouldn't leave them entirely blind to the threat they faced. Moody, he knew, had fought in the previous conflict and could perhaps provide him with beneficial input. Shacklebolt was a well respected auror, one whom Tonks held in high regard. He could understand his presence here, even if he did not agree with the practices of the order.

Only a few minutes later, after Dumbledore bid farewell to the stragglers, he was left alone with the three and his grandfather who had been content with watching the meeting unfold.

"What is it you have to say, Dumbledore?" he asked.

"There are things that need to be discussed, mistakes I made," the man answered, looking every year he had lived.

"You've made plenty of those," Harry returned.

Dumbledore nodded his agreement.

"I have but one in particular has proven to be dire. Have you ever wondered why Tom came for you?"

"Because James and Lily were stupid enough to involve themselves with you," Harry bit back.

"No," Dumbledore denied as he shot a furtive glance towards the two aurors. "A prophecy was made, a prophecy I thought referred to Charlie."

It took considerable effort for Harry to maintain his composure. He wanted nothing more than to drag the man to his feet by his beard and pummel him. His brother had been targeted for nothing. Harry had never put any stock in prophecies and such. Divination was practiced by charlatans or worse, those who fancied themselves as people that could truly see into the future.

"I'm aware of it," he replied. "Not that I buy into that crap."

"How did you learn of it?" the headmaster questioned, alarmed.

"Tom mentioned it," Harry shrugged, "and I certainly won't be risking my life because some bloody gibberish spouted by a loony."

Dumbledore released a deep breath.

"In most instances, I would agree with you. However, it was I that witnessed the prophecy being made."

That did surprise Harry but it was Arcturus that spoke before he could.

"So, you must have spoken about it," he accused furiously. "If not, how did the Dark Lord discover it."

"To my own peril, we were overheard by another who reported it to Tom, though he only heard the first half."

"Fucking hell," Arcturus spat. "This bastard doesn't even know the full prophecy and he's acting on it as though it was Merlin himself that brought it to him."

"That it why it is paramount he doesn't learn the full contents," Dumbledore replied. "Your life is in danger and will only become more so if he were to discover it."

"Row ninety-seven, the Department of Mysteries," Arcturus announced, causing the older man's eyes to widen.

"How did you learn of this?"

"When something threatens my family, I make it my business to know about it."

"It is imperative that none learn of the contents," Dumbledore continued his vitriol.

Arcturus shook his head.

"Harry himself has pointed out he does not buy into this shit."

"But Tom does," Dumbledore countered. "Enough that he thought a boy of barely a year old would be his downfall. He will never stop coming for you," he added apologetically to Harry."

"Then more fool him," Harry shrugged.

Dumbledore sighed.

"If it were a possibility, I would encourage your course of action. I fear however, that it is only you that can stop him. The prophecy is very clear on that."

"Bullshit," Harry growled.

"I wish it wasn't so, my boy. I would urge you to listen to it."

"I'm not bloody interested in a prophecy. If he comes for me, so be it but I will not actively go against him. It is both foolish and there is to be nothing gained from it."

"Then you have doomed thousands to suffer whilst he still breathes."

Harry snorted.

"Guilt doesn't work on me, Dumbledore. As far as I'm concerned, this conversation is over. I will never trust anything you have to say and your plan of action is pathetic and will only result in more death. As a favour to my brother, I will fetch the prophecy only to prevent you doing something stupid to protect it."

"What about Tonks?" Shacklebolt questioned.

"I have explained myself to Dora and she understands my choices," Harry answered the man. "She speaks very highly of you both and I would ask that you watch out for her when she is on duty."

"She'll never be safe, lad," Moody returned. "He will go after her to provoke you."

"She is safe and will continue to be. I will never let her come into any danger but I will not have her locked away either."

Moody nodded before Kingsley could speak.

"Is there nothing I can do that will change your mind, Harry? You could continue to reside within the castle and perhaps assist Alastor with teaching."

Harry shook his head.

"Someone who practices the Dark Arts as ardently as me will never be welcome within the school whilst you are in charge. You made that quite clear over this whole year. Once you see the memory, you will begin to understand how far down the path I've gone. The only differences between Tom and myself is that I have no desire for power nor have I or will I maim my soul."

Dumbledore paled at the mention of what Voldemort had done to his soul and gave a dismissive shake of his head to Moody who was seemingly going to question him on it.

"We will continue our fight, Harry as best we can. I can only hope that you will one day realise how important you are in bringing an end to him and that you will do what is right when the time comes."

In lieu of answering the man, Harry conjured a vial and added the memory of what occurred in the graveyard to it, omitting certain details he did not want shared. After handing it to Dumbledore and nodding farewell to the two aurors, he exited the office with Arcturus in tow.

"You're just going to let him leave?" Kingsley questioned.

Much to his surprise, Dumbledore was smiling, his eyes twinkling merrily.

"I have a feeling that Mr Black will be much closer than we think," he replied.

"He made it quite clear that he is leaving, Albus," Moody countered.

"Indeed, he did. Harry, however, has proven himself a better man than I first thought in some ways. In others, he is exactly what you would expect of someone raised by the Blacks. Tell me, Alastor, do you expect someone such as Harry to simply let the murder of his brother go without punishment?"

Moody shook his head.

"Aye, I thought the lad would jump at the chance to have some revenge."

"Indeed," Dumbledore agreed. "He simply does not want to work with us. I fear that there is too much animosity towards me for him to swallow his pride to work with us directly. I have no doubt that he has plans of his own."

"That could be dangerous, for all of us," Moody pointed out.

"Perhaps more dangerous to those he views as enemies," Dumbledore said quietly. "Alas, all we can do is wait and see what he does. My observations may be all wrong, but I hope not. We will need him. One day, it will be Harry that has to put an end to Tom."

"You both keep saying that name," Kingsley interjected.

"My apologies, Kingsley. Perhaps if we watch the memory Harry has helpfully provided, any questions you have will be answered."

Both aurors nodded their agreement and Dumbledore stood, approached the pensieve and emptied the contents into the stone bowl before himself and his companions entered.

They emerged several minutes later, each contemplating what they had just witnessed. It was Moody that broke the silence.

"Mark my words, Albus, whatever that boy decides to do will be trouble."

Dumbledore could only nod his agreement.

What he had seen was beyond anything he could have imagined. Not only did Harry hold his own against Tom, he defended himself more than adequately against the Death Eaters present.

"I won't be the one to stand in his way," Kingsley declared angrily. "They deserve everything he does to them."

He was disgusted by the display. He was a junior auror during the last war and admittedly witnessed very little of the escapades carried out by the Dark Lord and his followers. What he had seen upset him. The way in which they taunted poor Charlie Potter, laughing at his tortured form. He cheered internally when Harry arrived and put them in their place. The one thing he would never forget, is the look that adorned Harry's features as he held his brother's body in his arms. It was a look of promised vengeance and Kingsley Shacklebolt could only feel that whatever he did would be justified in his eyes.

(BREAK)

Having left Dumbledore and his cohorts to their own devices, Arcturus followed Harry as he purposely strode through the corridors of the school, heading towards their ow empty rooms. The meeting had not gone exactly as he had thought it would and he was left confused and a little confused. He held his tongue until they entered, Sir Cadogan bowing towards them respectfully.

He took a seat, trying to discern just why his heir had taken the course of action he had. Harry's expression was unreadable, almost challenging him to question what he had done. Seeing the silence he was met with was unyielding, Arcturus decided to break it.

"Before I say anything, I would like you to explain what happened in there," he requested calmly, though his words belied what he truly felt.

"Entirely what I intended."

Arcturus frowned and waved him on.

"He was never going to accept that I was leaving, nor would he believe it," he sighed. "I've shown him too much of myself over the year, unintentionally of course, but enough for him to question the authenticity of my intentions at least."

Arcturus said nothing, his frown still in place.

"The Karkaroff incident," Harry clarified. "He only provoked Charlie and I almost took his hand for something quite minor. Dumbledore would never believe I would allow someone to do what they've done and walk away from it."

Arcturus nodded slowly. Evidently, Harry had put much thought into this.

"Just how did I come across in there?"

"Like a bloody amateur," Arcturus spat causing Harry to smirk slightly and nod.

"Exactly. If I give him the impression that I am inexperienced in certain ways, he will believe that he can predict my moves or my reactions, even manipulate me to a certain degree. Let him think that. It will be me that benefits from his naivety."

What Harry had done became clear to the older man and he grinned proudly.

"Whatever happens, he will know that it is me behind it. He is less likely to try to intervene if he knows what I am doing is in aide of bringing Tom down. We will never be allies, but we don't have to be enemies. He will be helping me with whatever he has the order doing and I will do things our way."

"You crafty bastard," Arcturus whispered. "I think I taught you too well."

"Officially, I won't be here and Dumbledore won't be inclined to give me up, not if he believes so much in the bloody prophecy."

"You've essentially tied his hands. He knows that if he wants the Dark Lord dealt with, he will at the very least have to allow you to do what you need to and even vouch for you if needed."

"Exactly," Harry confirmed with a smile.

Arcturus shook his head in amusement. He was ready to throttle the boy only moments ago but now, he could happily hug him. He had orchestrated a move shrewd enough that even the Blacks of old would be proud.

"I knew I made the right choice the day I named you my heir," he offered sincerely.

Harry bowed, revelling in the pride of the man.

"There is one thing, however. I think we should retrieve the prophecy. I don't like the idea of the Order members guarding it at the risk of their own life. The only other person that can get it is Tom and he certainly won't be forgiving of anyone being there."

So, you do believe it?"

Harry shrugged.

"Both Tom and Dumbledore do. Between them, they are many things but they aren't stupid. If they both believe it was about either myself or Charlie so firmly, then I have no reason to doubt them. I have no interest in it personally but I'd rather he didn't get it, even if I only want it to spite him."

Arcturus nodded his agreement.

"We will go tomorrow, before we set out on our other venture," Arcturus reminded him.

"Tomorrow," Harry agreed.

"And I've arranged for you to do an interview with Skeeter. The press has been suspiciously quiet on everything, but it won't last long. I want you to tell them everything. Cast doubt on anything that Fudge might say."

"Do you think that's a good idea?"

"I do," Arcturus replied. "It's best to get ahead with that rather than let him build up any steam. It won't be for long. I will deal with Fudge personally soon enough."

Harry wasn't keen on the idea, but nodded nonetheless.

"We should head to Grimmauld Place, the sooner we are out of here, the safer I will feel."

"Yeah, I don't like the idea of being here anymore. It just reminds me of him."

Arcturus gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze in sympathy.

"I am truly sorry for your loss. From what both yourself and Leo told me, he was a fine boy."

Harry nodded gratefully as he began walking towards the fireplace, only to pause as he took a handful of floo powder.

"Bollocks," he cursed, eliciting a questioning look from his grandfather. "Rasputin is still in the forest."

"Well, I won't be going in there to get the beast."

"Me either," Harry sighed. "I can't just leave him there though. Leo would never forgive me."

"I don't see what else you can do. He's not exactly friendly."

Harry rubbed his temples as a headache threatened to plague him, pausing as an idea came to him.

"Professor Hagrid," he muttered.

"Who?" Arcturus questioned.

"The Care of Magical Creatures professor. Charlie said he likes dangerous animals. Apparently, he hatched a dragon a few years back. I could always ask him to put some food out for him until Leo comes back."

"Sounds like a bloody maniac," Arcturus muttered.

"I don't have any other ideas," Harry grumbled.

"Alright, you go and see this Hagrid and meet me at the house when you are done. Your ring will take you there."

"I will."

"And be careful. Too many things have happened so don't take any unnecessary risks."

"I won't," Harry assured him as he made his way towards the door.

Arcturus waited for a minute after he had left before he followed suit. There were two other people he wanted to talk to before he left. Harry would likely be unhappy with him, but it needed to be done. He would never admit it to any, but he was hurting much more than he was letting on.

He arrived at the rooms of James and Lily Potter and knocked, not entirely sure what he hoped to achieve.

"Lord Black?" a red, teary-eyed Lily greeted him.

"Lady Potter, I was hoping I could speak with yourself and your husband."

Lily nodded and stepped aside to let him in.

He entered the room and was met with the sight of a pale and sombre James Potter sat at the table, nursing a glass of Firewhisky. Arcturus couldn't blame the man. He had suffered much these past twenty-four-hours.

"Apologies, they've just been to collect Charlie," Lily choked.

"No apologies necessary," he offered sympathetically. "Again, you have my condolences for your loss."

James gave him a nod of acknowledgement before taking a sip of the liquor.

"What can we do for you, Lord Black?" he asked.

"For me? Nothing for the moment. I just wanted to let you know that we are leaving tonight and would like you to forward any funeral arrangements you make so that Harry may attend."

"Of course," Lily replied sadly. "Would you be able to give him something, please?"

Arcturus nodded and Lily left. She returned a moment later carrying a sealed roll of parchment and handed it to him.

"We really are sorry about everything," she whispered, her eyes full of unshed tears.

James rose from the table and put an arm around his wife.

"We don't expect his forgiveness but we would like to at least try," he offered sincerely. "We've lost both of our sons and we might not deserve it, but we'd love to have some kind of relationship with Harry."

Arcturus released a deep breath, a rare feeling of compassion stirring within him. He didn't know if it was the familial bond he shared with the man or just that their suffering had gone beyond what they'd reaped, but he couldn't deny them the chance. That wasn't his place after all.

"I can't speak on his behalf, it is for him to decide what he will allow. He's a good man and despite everything he's been through, he's a much better person than he should be. Give him time, be patient and be honest and he might just come around eventually," he offered.

James nodded gratefully before turning away and entering one of the rooms. He came back a moment later clutching a silvery cloak that he held out to the Black Patriarch.

"Could you give this to him? It is a family heirloom that both I and Charlie would want him to have. It has been in our family for generations and I'd like it to stay that way."

Arcturus took the cloak, feeling the almost-liquid texture flow through his fingers. He knew what it was immediately but frowned. What James was offering should not be a possibility. Invisibility cloaks did not last more than a decade or so. This felt as though it had recently been crafted.

"Generations?" he questioned.

"I know it's not supposed to be possible, but my father gave that to me and his father to him. We even have written records of it in diaries dating back hundreds of years," James explained.

"That is some cloak," Arcturus mused aloud.

James nodded.

"The origins of it are unknown but the magic has never faded. My Great Grandfather, Henry, even had the best minds he could find study it and everyone was baffled. No one knows what it is made from or can understand much about it."

Arcturus nodded. The cloak was certainly an anomaly.

"I will pass it on," he promised. "If anything, it is a memento of his brother and he will be intrigued enough to find out more about it. The boy has a stubbornly keen mind in that head of his."

"Thank you," James replied. "We will send you an owl when we finalise the arrangements."

Arcturus bowed appreciatively and headed back towards the door.

"I will be in touch soon, as and when things start being put into motion. I would ask your assistance with something in the near future. Until then, I would lay low, don't draw any unnecessary attention to yourself. I will handle things whilst you are in mourning for your son."

"Handle things?" James asked worriedly.

"The Dark Lord," Arcturus confirmed. "You didn't thin Karry would allow him to get away with it, did you?"

This is exactly what James and Lily had been worried about. Charlie had fallen to the man and they didn't want the same fate for their older son.

"Can you not talk him out of it?" Lily tried desperately.

Arcturus shook his head.

"I cannot and I won't insult him by trying. He's no fool and I have no doubt he will be successful. He was raised to be better than me."

James squeezed Lily's hand gently to prevent her ire being shown. It would not do well to upset the man in front of them.

"We would like to help, in any way we can," James offered, Lily nodding her agreement.

Arcturus stared at the pair for a moment, scrutinising their expressions.

"Opportunities to help will arise, just don't expect it to be like last time. Harry is no passive Dumbledore and he will do things that the old relic will not agree with," he warned.

"Whatever it takes," James replied firmly.

Arcturus grinned internally. The Potters may not be what they once were but he would admit the two could prove to be very useful. By all accounts, Lily was an exceedingly gifted and bright witch and James a very respected auror and member of the Wizengamot. There was certainly something they could each offer.

"For now, not a word to anyone," he insisted before exiting the room and closing the door behind him.

(BREAK)

Harry arrived at the hut situated on the edge of the forest, a gentle plume of smoke wafting from the crooked chimney on top of the roof. It was late into the evening and the curtains were drawn, allowing only a small amount of light to be seen from the outside. He knocked and took a step back as a loud, intimidating bark sounded from within.

"Ge' back, Fang, ruddy dog," a loud, gruff voice sounded.

The door opened and the frame was filled by the largest man Harry had ever seen. He was thickly built, with shaggy long, brown hair and matching beard. He was dressed in a fur coat of sorts, one that made it difficult to discern where the garment finished and the man began. Surprising attire aside, he was undoubtedly the tallest man he'd seen, dwarfing himself by at least a few feet.

"Professor Hagrid?" he greeted the man.

"Tha's me," the man confirmed, tone laced with suspicion.

Harry noticed his eyes were red, his cheeks still wet with tears he had recently shed.

"I apologise if I'm interrupting something but I was wondering if you could do me a favour? My name is Harry Black."

The man's eyes widened at his introduction.

"O' course, Mr Black. Yeh can come in if ya like?"

"Thank you," he replied as he squeezed past the man.

The inside of the hut reflected the outside. Everything was made of wood and an open fire crackled merrily in one corner. Before he could take in anything else, a brown blur collided with his midriff, knocking the wind out of him. Surprised, he looked up and was met with the image of Ron Weasley sat in front of the fire, his eyes downcast as he held a chipped mug close to his chest.

"Hello, Hermione," he greeted the girl that had wrapped her arms around him.

She said nothing as she trembled against him, wallowing in the grief she was feeling. If anyone else had made such a bold move against him, the repercussions would be most unpleasant. Hermione wasn't to know of her social faux pas. She had been raised by muggles and did not understand pureblood etiquette. He found her rambunctious nature rather endearing and he wrapped his arms around her to offer what comfort he could.

"I'm so sorry about Charlie, Harry," she mumbled into his chest. "Dumbledore told us."

"Did he tell you what happened?"

The girl nodded as she pulled away from him.

"He said he was killed by You-Know-Who."

"He was," Harry confirmed, swallowing the lump in his throat.

"Were you really there?" she asked.

Harry nodded.

"He only died because Voldemort was such a coward," he growled.

Hermione gasped at the use of the name and Hagrid shuddered. Ron remained almost catatonic.

"Oh, come on, Hermione. Why are you scared to say his name?"

"I've read about what he did. Most wizards and witches believe he will appear if you say it."

Harry chuckled unwittingly.

"He's just a man, nothing more. He isn't the bogeyman or anything."

"The bogeyman isn't real," Hermione huffed.

"True," Harry conceded. "If you can't say Voldemort, then call him Tom."

"Tom?"

"That's his real name," Harry explained. "Tom Riddle. He was a student here."

"Riddle?" Hagrid snarled. "E's the reason I was expelled in me third year. I tol' 'em Aragog were never the monster in the chamber o' secrets."

"Chamber of Secrets?" Harry questioned.

"Slytherin's secret chamber," Hermione answered, shooting a worried glance towards Ron. "It was opened fifty years ago and again in our second year. Lots of students ended up petrified…"

"And Ginny was killed," Ron broke in.

"What was done about?"

Hermione shrugged.

"No one knows. When Ginny died, the attacks stopped. I woke up in the Hospital Wing not long after when the Mandrake's had been harvested and used to create the antidote."

Harry was puzzled. There were very things that could cause a magical petrification. Certain potions and poisons, but they would be obvious if used.

"You were petrified?" he questioned the bushy-haired girl.

Hermione nodded.

"The last thing I remember seeing was a huge pair of yellow eyes and then I woke up weeks later."

Have felt an icy chill run down his spine. There was only one creature he could think of that could have that effect, though the stare of it was fatal.

"Did you look it directly in the eyes?"

"No, I saw it in the mirror in the girl's bathroom on the second floor."

"Shitting hell," Harry cursed as he dragged a hand through his hair.

Surely, Dumbledore must have figured it out and dealt with the creature. There is no way he would have children in his school with one of those roaming around, would he?

Harry shook his head. Even Dumbledore wouldn't be that negligent.

"What is it?" Hermione asked, chewing her bottom lip.

"I'm guessing it was a Basilisk," he answered with a frown. "They're exceedingly rare and as dangerous as they come. It would be fitting if it came from Slytherin's chamber."

"A Basilisk?" Hermione probed.

"A very large and dangerous snake. The stare of one is fatal f you look directly into it's eyes and if it bites you, you are dead within a minute or so."

Hermione shuddered.

"Yeh know yeh creatures," Hagrid broke in with a beaming, watery smile.

"I know my snakes, Professor," he replied. "A creature is what actually brought me here."

"What kin' o' creature?"

"A very large and aggressive bear," Harry answered seriously. "It's been living in the forest since October."

"The centaurs 'ave mentioned it," the large man confirmed. "E's left things alone bu' e's upset them mostly."

Harry sighed.

"Well, he belongs to my friend who has found himself in Azkaban. I was wondering if you wouldn't mind leaving some strawberries out for him a few times a week?"

"O'course," Hagrid answered jovially. "For Charlie's brother, s'no bother."

Harry offered the man a grateful smile.

"Thank you, Professor. Charlie always spoke kindly of you. He said you were always there for him when things got too much."

An errant tear escaped the man as he nodded.

"E' were a good lad, me an' Fang will miss 'im."

The massive dog whined his agreement from his space in front of the fire.

"Did you say Leo is in Azkaban?" Hermione cut in.

Harry released a deep breath.

"Fudge tried to arrest me for murdering Charlie and Leo didn't take too kindly to it. He thumped an auror and held Fudge at wand point until he pissed himself."

Hermione looked scandalised by his actions and Ron snorted.

"Oh, come on, Hermione," he defended himself when the girl shot him a glare. "Fudge is an idiot and even Charlie would have found it funny."

Hermione's face relaxed as she nodded.

"How did he die?" she asked quietly.

Harry felt a stab of guilt at the question but shook it off.

"He did well defending himself. We managed to send the Death Eaters packing and Tom came back when I was helping him. He fired off a Killing Curse and Charlie jumped in front of it."

"He always did have a saving people thing," she sighed sadly.

"He was one of the good ones," Harry agreed. "I didn't know him as well as the two of you but I'm sure he wouldn't want you all moping around. What do you think he would say if he was here?"

"Probably tell us to cheer up, show us his belt and tell us it could be worse," Ron answered.

"And then suggest we sneak somewhere we shouldn't be."

Harry grinned. That sounded exactly like his brother.

"Remember those times," Harry urged. "I'll always remember him as the sweet, caring and kind boy I finally got to know. My opposite in many ways."

Hermione offered him a sympathetic smile as he composed himself.

"He was my first friend," she spoke sadly. "He didn't care I was a muggleborn or read a lot of books. He always looked out for me, even when he couldn't do much about the bullies."

"Malfoy," Ron spat angrily.

"Just keep your heads down as much as you can," Harry advised. "Things will be different when you come back. "I would suggest using your summer to read up on some defensive spells."

Both nodded.

"I'll even send you both a couple of books with some good ones in. If you get caught with them, I will deny everything," he warned.

Hermione squealed excitedly and hugged him again.

"What about you?" Ron questioned.

Harry released a long breath.

"I'm going home," he answered, "but I will never be too far away from where I am needed. You are both welcome to write to me if you'd like. I'm not Charlie, but I'd like to look out for you if you need it."

"Thank you," Hermione replied sincerely.

"Thanks," Ron echoed.

"It is getting late. Do you need me to walk you back to the castle?"

Hermione nodded gratefully and Ron stood, scratching the dog behind his ears a final time.

"Thank you again, Professor," Harry offered the enormous man. "Leo will collect him as soon as possible."

"Think nothin' of it," Hagrid waved him off.

Both Ron and Hermione bid their farewells to the man and the trio left the hut, the grounds bathed in the gentle moonlight of the Scottish evening. The trek back to the castle was completed in silence and Harry escorted the pair back up to the Seventh floor before making his way back out of the castle. He paused as he exited, looking back, basking in the majesty of the building. If things had been different, he would have been a student here. Alas, things had happened the way they had and he had no regrets for how his life had been. He did not want to dwell on the mixed year he had experienced here but he felt a certain fondness for the castle. For both better and worse, his life had changed in ways he could never have comprehended before he arrived and he knew that the coming weeks, months and perhaps years would see more of them. He only hoped that the good would outweigh the bad.