Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Rise of the Dark Angel	By : isabel88 Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Draco Views: 61368 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 12
Disclaimer: I DO NOT own Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling does, as such, I am NOT making any money off of this....

Chapter List
- 22
- 23
- 24
Title: Rise of the Dark Angel

Author: Mykkila09

Co-Author: Tonks-is-cool

Chapter: 23: The Middle of the End Part One

Settings: AU after OOTP: It's canon up to the beginning of the battle at the DOM when they are in the veil room, after that, it's AU and mine and Tonks.

Pairings: HP/DM; LV/SS; LM/RL; NL (CL)/LL; RL/BL

Warnings: This story will contain mentions of Violence, Child Abuse, Adult Language, Alcohol Use, Slash/Het Sexual situations and Death. Please discontinue reading if such scenes or themes are offensive to you.
A/N: here is the new chapter. Hope you guys like it.
Disclaimer: I own nothing…if I did, Ginny would have died in the CoS, Dumbledore would have choked on his lemon drops and Harry would have stood up for himself against Molly and Dumbledore.

Disclaimer 2: this story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
“Talking”

'Thinking'

|Hedwig’s mental speak|

<Sesshomaru/Fawkes’ mental speak>

Harry’s mental speak

Letter or commentary/introduction and flashback

{Parssseltongue}

~…~ indicates scene change
O.P.D.: Sunday 20th July, '14.

Last time on RDA;
At around noon, all over the Wizarding World, flocks of owls flew into homes, stores, and government offices. Each owl was carrying a Wizarding paper, and soon, people realized that it wasn’t the Daily Prophet, but rather, the Quibbler.
The owls dropped the papers in front of every person before taking back off.
One by one, each person opened the paper and they were shocked and surprised when they saw the headline:
Interview of a Saviour:

The Boy-Who-Lived Speaks Out!

While everyone in the Great Hall stared at the headline with wide and shock-filled eyes, Harry calmly served himself some lunch. And up at the Head Table, Snape did the same as well.
Even those that knew about the interview—Draco and the others—were staring as well.
“Go on,” Harry gestured to the paper in front of his friends. “I know you guys are dying to read it, so go on.”
With eager hands, Lavender snatched up the paper, sharing it between her and Parvati. That seemed to be the cue for the rest of the students as everyone else hurriedly grabbed papers.
The Quibbler was very shocked and surprised when we were contacted by none other than our Saviour, Harry Potter, for his very first consensual interview.
When asked why Mr Potter chose us, our Saviour had this to say:
Harry Potter: Well, I wasn’t going to use the Daily Prophet. Ever since I re-entered this world, that paper has been writing crap about me and everyone seems to eat it up. I got the first real glimpse of just how that paper operated when Rita Skeeter did a so-called interview of me back in fourth year during the Tri-Wizard Tournament where she twisted my every word. And then, when Cedric Diggory died and I told the then Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge that Voldemort was back, he and the paper ridiculed and slammed me. I’ve had enough of having my words getting twisted around.
I want people to hear my side of the story. From my own lips. Not from a reporter, or some so-called source, but from me. As for why I chose The Quibbler; well Luna is one of my best friends. The Quibbler belongs to her father and I trust it because she trusts him. I knew if I wanted my truth out there, my truth in my words, then it’d have to be with a paper I can trust and I just don’t trust the Daily Prophet.
Needless to say, we were grateful and pressured at the words. But, after ensuring Mr Potter that we would do as he asked and print nothing but his own words, the interview was able to continue. We were shocked by what we were told, and have no doubt that you readers will be shocked as well when you read this interview.
The Quibbler: First thing to ask; why now? What made you decide to give an interview now?
Harry Potter: I am sure you recall the interview that Ronald Weasley had given to the Daily Prophet a few weeks ago; an interview that slammed not only myself but others I was close to as well. Mr Weasley’s account to the Daily Prophet was nothing more than jealousy speaking out, and I decided to set the record straight, so to speak.
The Quibbler: Alright, so you said you were going to tell your side of the story. What exactly are we going to be talking about?
Harry Potter: We will address that horrid article from the Daily Prophet, and I will also explain a little about my relationship with Draco Malfoy and the now Corvus LeStrange. However, to understand my relationship with both boys, you need to understand who I am, and to do so, you need to know about my past; or some of it anyways. Now I know that people think that just because I’m Harry Potter, that that meant that I spent my years before, and maybe even during, Hogwarts in a life of pampered luxury. But that’s not true. In fact, it’s the opposite. See, contrary to what the Wizarding World believes, I was not pampered by my relatives. I was actually treated like a house elf, or worse.
At this, an interruption was much needed as it begged a question.
The Quibbler: What do you mean you were treated like a house elf? How is that even possible? Magical children are protected and treasured.
Harry Potter: Yes well, not me. I was raised by magic hating Muggles. My relatives, the people that were supposed to protect and treasure me, actually starved and beat me. And all because I could do magic.
The Quibbler: Would you elaborate on that? Sincerely, no offense is meant Mr Potter, but, you have to admit that it is a little difficult to believe that your family would treat you so terribly.
At this point, Mr Potter paused and it was very easy to see that whatever information he was about to divulge next would be painful for him.
Harry Potter: I don’t like talking about my childhood, but I did say I was going to talk about my past, and I feel I must to make you understand my actions now. When I said my relatives hated magic, I meant it. Every time I did something that they considered “freaky”, I would be punished. I was beaten, I was starved and I was forced to do all the chores and sometimes I’d still have to the chores, which included cooking, cleaning the house and gardening, even if I was injured. I was never really taken to the hospital to get treated because they thought I didn’t deserve to be helped; that I deserved to be beaten because of my freakiness.
I had no idea what I was doing, nor how I was doing it. All I knew was that I would get punished every time my magic did something. The end result of that was that I was severely underweight and very malnourished as I hadn’t received proper nutrition growing up and that led to me being smaller than other people my age.
Which brings me to a point.
The Quibbler: And what point is that?
Harry Potter: well, I did some research on the Founders of Hogwarts and while I was interested in all of it, it was Salazar Slytherin who really captured my interest. I wanted to know why the man who started out with the other three trying to do something good was suddenly a villain.
The Quibbler: and what did you find out?
Harry Potter: I found the truth. It was rumoured that Salazar Slytherin had a disagreement with the other three when it came to Hogwarts as while the others were happy with all magical children, Salazar wanted only pure-bloods. That wasn’t true. What I found out was that Salazar had realized that not all Muggles would be open and accepting of their child or relative having magic and that their fear might lead them to harm the child, so his intentions were to separate magical children from their Muggle parents at a young age and get them acclimated to the Wizarding World. The other three, more specifically Rowena and Helena, thought that it was wrong to take a child from its parents, and it became a big disagreement between Salazar and them and so he left. Throughout the years, the truth got twisted until it is what we know it to be today.
When I learned what Salazar’s original intentions were, I agreed with him because he was right. Not every Muggle parent is completely accepting of their child having magic. I know that there are some families that are accepting, such as Hermione Granger’s parents, as well as Dean Thomas, but then there are also some that are so terrified of the magic that they mistreat the child, hoping to get rid of the freakiness. My own family was proof of that.
Salazar had good intentions, I just think he went about it the wrong way.
The Quibbler: What do you think the right way would be?
Harry Potter: I think that instead of taking the children away outright, research should be done. Meaning, if you know a family has a magical child, then search them out and make sure that the child is in good hands; make sure that the family have no intentions of abusing their child for having magic. And if you find that the child is ok, that the family is open-minded and willing to accept the child and the magical responsibilities that come with, then leave the child with the family; just maybe check in on them once in a while. And if you find that the child is being mistreated, or that the family cannot cope with the responsibilities of having a magical child, then the child is taken away and placed with another family; preferably a magical one, but an open-minded and accepting Muggle or Muggle-born family could work as well.
The Quibbler: You are really passionate about this.
A nod
Harry Potter: I am. Like I said, I grew up with magic hating Muggles, so I know just how bad things can be.
And then I found out I was a wizard and that there was this whole other world. My whole life I’d been told that what I was doing was unnatural and evil and that I was a freak for doing it, but then, I turn eleven and all of a sudden, there’s somebody else telling me that it actually meant something good; that I was a wizard.
The Quibbler: so the new information was clashing with what you had been told your entire life.
Harry Potter: Exactly! I was completely taken aback and seriously overwhelmed. I had no idea what was the right or wrong thing to do, what the customs and traditions were. And I can only imagine how other Half-Bloods who knew nothing of their heritage, as well as Muggle-borns, felt as well.
I wish I had had someone to tell me what was going on before I entered Hogwarts. Finding out on my birthday, just over a month before school started, is not enough time! Over the summer, I did some research into other Wizarding Cultures and I found that the British Wizarding world is pretty much the only one that does something like this. The French do not wait until a child is eleven and ready to head off to Beauxbatons; once they are certain a child is magical, they approach the family to not only let them know, but to also help them with the child’s magical outbursts and at a later age, but before age eleven, the child or children are enrolled in a sort of pre-school where they learn about how to control their magic and also the customs and traditions of the French Wizarding World. When I read that tidbit of information, I couldn’t believe it. I was like, well why aren’t the British doing the same thing?
Harry paused and let out a sheepish grin.
Harry Potter: I’m sorry, I’m completely going off on a tangent, aren’t I?
The Quibbler: oh no Mr Potter, it’s of no consequence. It’s actually quite interesting to hear your thoughts on such an issue in our world. And like you said, this interview is about you, finally expressing your thoughts, your side of the story, so that others may understand. It’s not about me, so please, by all means, continue.
Harry Potter: well then, as I was saying; I wished our system was like the French. It’s so much better and people like me who are new to the Wizarding World, wouldn’t feel so overwhelmed. I mean, can you imagine; you’re just finding out that you have these magical powers and that there’s a whole secret world, and on top of that, you have to go away from your family and go to school.
Like I said, it would’ve been nice knowing about magic way before I got to Hogwarts. At least that way, I would’ve known what was going on, instead of being punished all the time whenever I had a magical outburst.
The Quibbler: it’s actually very interesting to hear your views on that issue and I assure you, while it hasn’t been something I have given much thought of in the past, it could definitely be something to look into changing. It does make better sense to approach a family a few years before the child is to arrive at Hogwarts, so that they may have a better understanding and grasp of their magic and not feel too overwhelmed when they do start at age eleven.
Now, Mr Potter, I’m afraid I need to ask. I’m still a bit stuck on you growing up with magic hating Muggles. How was that possible? Did no one know about what you were going through? And how did you end up with them in the first place? I’d assume that before placing you, our esteemed Saviour, with such people, that they would’ve done a search on the Muggles to know what they were like.
Harry Potter: you’d think that, but no. like I said, they’re my relatives. Petunia is my mother’s older sister and she married Vernon and they have a son named Dudley. And, I suppose I did try to tell Headmaster Dumbledore back in first year, but perhaps I wasn’t clear enough then. And then, in my second year, the Weasley boys had come to get me and when they did, they saw that I had bars on my windows and a cat-flap on the door. At the time, I had assumed that they had told their mother and she had told Dumbledore, but since nothing came of it, I just left it at that. I do recall trying again, I think around third year, and I think that’s when he told me that because my mother had sacrificed herself for me, it created a protection on me, one that would be strengthened as long as I was around family of that same blood; ergo, my Aunt Petunia. I honestly don’t know if Headmaster Dumbledore had researched more into my aunt and uncle before he placed me there. I know that no one checked up on me before I entered Hogwarts. Dumbledore didn’t check on me, and if he deliberately ignored my repeated pleas, then I don’t know why. You’d have to ask him.
The Quibbler: Are you comfortable giving details of what your childhood was like before Hogwarts? If you are not, then it’s fine and we can move on to other topics, I assure you there are a few, but if you don’t mind sharing…
Harry Potter: I don’t mind. I know some people might be sceptical as to what I could’ve meant when I said I was beaten and starved. So here’s the truth; for as long as I could remember, I’ve done everything for them and I had to do it right, or I’d get punished. And the punishments were even worse if I had any magical outburst.
My uncle Vernon had been the one in charge of punishments usually. Sometimes my aunt would hit, but she really left it to him. If I did magic, or I displeased him in some way, he’d beat me; sometimes with his belt, or with his fists. After a while, I guess he realized that he couldn’t continue to hit me without arousing suspicions from the neighbours, so he resorted to verbal abuse. That was something that both he and my aunt excelled at.
I was always called freak or boy, never my real name and as a result of that, I didn’t know what my name actually was until I entered Muggle primary school at the age of five and my teacher was doing roll call.
I had to cook for them, and usually, I wouldn’t taste the fruit of those efforts. And when I was given food, it would either be scraps or leftovers, or if my aunt was in a particularly bad mood, I’d get soggy toast and spoilt milk or plain water. I had to clean the house and keep it clean. If it was a mess, I’d be punished for it and then I’d still be the one to clean it. My cousin Dudley used to love to make a mess and watch me get punished for it.
As for Dudley, he had his own ways. He and his friends loved to play this game called “Harry Hunting” where he and his friends would chase me down and beat me up if they caught me. The one upside to that particular game, I learned how to move very fast.
He laughed, and while the joke could be seen, it is horrifying to think on how it came about. To hear about this is actually daunting and while I would love to stop, I can’t stop the curiosity to know more.
The Quibbler: Did the abuse continue on even after you entered Hogwarts?
Harry Potter: No. I think when I got my letter at age eleven, they were scared. See, the letter was addressed to Mr Harry Potter, The Cupboard under the Stairs…
The Quibbler: Wait, the Cupboard? You lived in a cupboard?
Harry Potter: Yes I did. The cupboard under the stairs was actually my bedroom up until that point. After the letter came and they saw the way it was addressed, they were afraid someone knew and they didn’t want to be found out. So, they moved me from there and gave me Dudley’s second bedroom, the one he had for all the toys he never played with.
After that, the abuse pretty much tapered off, or I should say it just took a different turn. By that point, the physical abuse had already been stopped and it was just verbal. After the letter came, they pretty much just ignored me. Sometimes, verbal abuse would happen again, but compared to how it was in the earlier years, it was tame. They also started feeding me a bit more, but, like I said, my body had already suffered.
So, when I got to Hogwarts, and I realized that a madman was after me, I knew things had to change. People say all the time that my magic is pretty strong and powerful, but honestly, what’s the point in your magic being strong if your body can’t sustain it or you? I knew I had to build my body to what it was supposed to be, so I started reading books on how I could do that. I exercised and I ate food that would give my body the nutrition it needed along with drinks and potions.
The Quibbler: If that’s true, then how is it we didn’t see the changes until just this school year?
Harry Potter: I guess my magic reacted and decided to put on a powerful glamour until it felt I was prepared. I honestly don’t know.
The Quibbler: So, where does things stand with your family? If they came back wanting a relationship and apologizing, would you give them a chance? And are you still living with them?
Harry Potter: Honestly, I don’t even care if they wanted to apologize or anything. I mean, I’d listen, but that’s it. If they wanted some type of relationship after all these years, it’s not going to happen. And I’m never going back there.
The Quibbler: Understandable. I have to admit Mr Potter, what I just learned about your childhood, it is shocking. The little details you have given already provided a dark picture, and I shudder to think what the more explicit details are actually like.
Harry Potter: They are not pleasant, I assure you. But, I’m over it now.
The Quibbler: It certainly looks that way. I must admit that you do not seem to be suffering from them anymore. And I do suppose it’s a good thing you have others to stand around you. Speaking of which, let’s talk about those that do stand around you.
He laughs, his green eyes twinkling with delight as I’m sure he figured out where I’m going.
Harry Potter: I suppose you want to talk about my relationships with certain people, more specifically the Malfoys and Corvus LeStrange, formally known as Neville Longbottom?
The Quibbler: Yes, that’s where I was going. The relationships with you and those young men have been a source of contention among the Wizarding folks, considering that neither of those families are accepted openly by the public. If you could please explain?
Harry Potter: That’s what this interview is about. So…explanations. I know that everyone thinks I hated Draco, but the truth is, I never did. I always admired Draco, I always found him intriguing, but because of who I was around, I couldn’t show it. My feelings for him didn’t change until about third year I think, but still I did nothing. Both Weasley and Granger, who were still my friends at the time, hated him and well, they pretty much controlled who I could be around and I knew that if I let my feelings about Draco be known, it would’ve caused a huge explosion.
The Quibbler: but it is my understanding that you are in a relationship with Mr Malfoy, and subsequently, you are no longer friends with Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger. What changed?
Harry Potter: I lost someone close to me. Back in May, my godfather Sirius Black died. Now, I suppose you’re shocked by that information and possibly confused as to why I would care considering what he is to my family, but your assumptions are wrong. I know everyone thinks Sirius betrayed my parents because of that madman, but he didn’t. He was innocent, but no one knew that because he was thrown into Azkaban without a trial. I found out the truth when he broke into Hogwarts my third year to protect me from the true betrayer of my parents, Peter Pettigrew. Anyway, he died back in May and after that, it was like a switch flipped inside of me. My losing him made me realize that life was short and that I can’t afford to continue living for someone else. I’ve got to start living my life for me. And that included telling Draco how I felt about him.
It was difficult in the beginning considering our shared history, but we had the whole summer to get to know one another without all the pressure and expectations and influence of others and we became a couple. Of course, that didn’t sit well with some people, mainly Ronald and Hermione, but that was because they believed that they knew what was best for me and wanted me to leave Draco. I wasn’t doing that and since they couldn’t accept it, I realized that I was going in a different direction than them and if they were finding my choices to not be what they like, then that was their problem.
The Quibbler: Yes, and not to be antagonistic, but I can see their point. As you said, your shared history with the young Mr Malfoy, but not only that, who his parents are must have had some factor on their reasoning.
Harry Potter: You can look at it that way I suppose. But I’m not dating Draco’s parents, I’m dating Draco. And in all honesty, I have no problem with Lord Malfoy. Well, I suppose I should say Professor Malfoy now.
The Quibbler: And how is that? Having Lord Malfoy as a professor. As I said, the rumours circulating about the man, and just who he is makes one a little cautious of being around him.
Harry Potter: I know people have their issues with Draco’s dad, and I don’t blame them. Rumours aside, the man is as Slytherin as they come and if you’re not cautious, even at first, then I’d question you’re judgement. The truth is, I was cautious around him as well, because as you’ve said, rumours. However, as I have never put much stock in what the Daily Prophet reported, especially considering how they loved to spread rumours about me, I decided I wouldn’t believe everything the paper reported. Why? Because personally, I didn’t know the man and I had no idea what he was like. Yes he’s a Slytherin, but as I have learned, being Slytherin doesn’t necessarily make you evil or a bad person.
When Draco and I got together, I learned things, things I’m not going to share. But what I can share is this: Lucius Malfoy is, or was, a Slytherin and one thing I learned about Slytherins is that they have two masks. One for the public and one for private, for just their family and closest acquaintances.
As for him as a professor, he is amazing. He’s quite possibly the best Defence Against the Dark Arts professor we’ve ever had. He doesn’t favour any student above another and actually treats us all the same no matter our House or blood. With him as a professor, I’m actually learning a lot. The difference between his teaching and previous DADA professors is that he doesn’t just teach us how to defend ourselves, but he teaches us the origins of what we are learning. How can we properly defend ourselves if we have no idea what we’re defending against? And that’s what he’s doing.
Another thing that I learned and that I actually liked and think is the best, is when he taught us that magic is as neutral as they come; it is neither good nor evil. What it all comes down to, is the intent of the witch or wizard. And that intent is what makes a spell Light or Dark. Consider for example Wingardium Leviosa. A simple spell that when taught in first year, was used to levitate a feather. Now, someone can use that same spell and levitate a boulder on someone, or they can levitate a person over a cliff or at a high enough altitude and then release the spell causing the person to drop to the ground resulting in either serious injuries or death.
There is so much I want to ask about this. I want him to elaborate, but there are other things to talk about.
The Quibbler: And your friendship with the now Corvus LeStrange? It was quite shocking to read that Neville Longbottom was actually the son of the most infamous Death Eater belonging to You-Know-Who and to hear of your continued friendship with him. Could you explain?
Harry Potter: Certainly. When he was still known as Neville Longbottom, Cory and I shared a dorm for five years. It was this summer that he found out the shocking truth. I’m not going to explain, as that part is not my story to tell, but, when he found out, he was completely scared out of his mind. And why wouldn’t he be? He had grown up believing his parents to be Aurors, and to find out that your parents are actually two of the most infamous Death Eaters? He had had no idea what was going on. So he wrote to me, scared, and asked to come over.
When he did, it was obvious he expected me turn him away, but I couldn’t do it. He was my friend before, and I decided a change in his parentage had no difference to me. He was still my friend. It took him a while to accept the truth, but he did. He’s my best friend and if anyone has a problem with that, they can answer to me.
But the one thing we realized was that, the madman that was responsible for my own crappy life, was the same madman behind his own situation. When we realized that, we bonded even more.
The Quibbler: That is a truly recommendable thing you’ve done Mr Potter. And while I must confess to the curiosity to know the full story behind that, I respect your decision to leave that part alone; as you’ve said, that part of the story is not yours to tell.
Harry Potter: Thank you.
The Quibbler: Now, I have to ask. Several times you have said “madman” instead of You-Know-Who.
Harry Potter: Because he is a madman. I don’t believe in monikers like that. I think it’s completely bollocks to give the man different names. If I don’t even like the ones they give to me, why would I tolerate those? Just like I believe the moniker The-Boy-Who-Lived is completely ridiculous, the monikers You-Know-Who and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named are the same. The man responsible for my parents deaths, for Cory’s situation, for, well not everything, but he’s had a hand in a lot of death and heartache is a madman. He deceives his followers into believing that their needs are the same as his and that he looks out for them, when in truth, he’s all for himself. All he cares about is power and he only does things that benefit him and no one else. If you don’t fit into his plans, he gets rid of you. So, to me, he’s nothing more than a complete and utter madman and that’s how I’ll refer to him.
The Quibbler: I see. Just one last thing Mr Potter. There is a war brewing Mr Potter, no contention to that, but what do you expect, or hope the outcome to be? What do you see for the future?
Harry Potter: You’re right. There is a war brewing, one that is inevitable as both sides believe their own to be superior and the right way to go. What I expect, what I hope for is very simple; a life with Draco and all my friends and family safe and happy and living their lives how they see fit without someone dictating or manipulating them. I want the people I care about to survive, but not only them, but the Wizarding World as a whole. The victor of this war will determine the future path we will have to travel. And it is a path that will have to be filled with changes if we want to avoid the life of living that has been done ever since that madman came into power. Because in all honesty, this World is in desperate need of a change.
I think the British Wizarding World should adopt the policies of the Wizarding World in France, at least when it comes to schooling. Instead of waiting until a child is eleven years old to bring them to the Wizarding World, they should be acclimated at an earlier age. The reason for that being two fold. One, so that they are not completely overwhelmed when they enter Hogwarts. And two, so that they could better understand and grasp the concept of their magic and the Wizarding World as a whole. Doing that would tie in to Salazar Slytherin’s original plans which had been to research magical children to make sure that they are not being mistreated as a result of their magic and to also make sure that the parents or guardians are equipped to handle a magical child.
That’s what I see as the future of this world. The kind of change that would make a better place and not have the British Wizarding World be the one European Wizarding World that was still stuck in the past. Times are changing, and we need to change with it.
The Quibbler: Well Mr Potter, I have to thank for taking the time to sit down and give your side of the story. I was completely honoured that you chose The Quibbler as the paper to trust for you first interview.
Harry Potter: Well if I’m satisfied with the end results, then perhaps I’ll use this paper again in the future.
At that, the interview came to a close. Having Mr Potter sit down and give this interview was an amazing experience, and something that was appreciated, considering his past views on newspapers. So, it was an honour that he chose The Quibbler as the paper for his very first willing interview.
With that said, what was discussed within the interview definitely came as a shock. And I am sure it came as a shock to those reading this as well. To learn of Mr Potter’s childhood was unbelievably shocking. To think that a magical child was placed to live in such a hell, with no contact to our world and no one to look after him, leaving him with magic hating guardians.
It begs the question: what was Dumbledore thinking? I am sure he could’ve found some place else to leave our Saviour. Why would he leave a magical child with Muggles who feared and hated magic? So much so that they abused him over it? They being his relatives did not stop them from doing so.
And if this happened to our own Saviour, what if it happened to another child? Mr Potter was right. This shouldn’t be an issue. This should not be something that magical children have to experience. If the Wizarding World in France could find a way to prevent such incidences from occurring, why can’t we? Our children are important and to prevent anyone from experiencing what Mr Potter went through, future generations especially, this should be something that we could change.
Whispers echoed in the Hall as the students split their attention between the paper and the Slytherin table.
The only ones who seemed to be unaffected—besides Harry and Snape—were Cory and Luna. The rest of the Slytherins, more specifically, the ones that Harry was friends with, although they were shocked and intrigued, they didn’t really show the extent to which the other students were. Of course that didn’t shock the others as they knew that the Slytherins didn’t show much emotion or reaction in public.
Ignoring the reactions happening around him, Harry continued to finish his lunch, striking up a conversation with Luna as he did so. Taking the cue from him, Draco and Cory did the same as well, and soon enough, so did Gabriella, Pansy and Blaise.
“Well, it is Saturday,” Draco said as he wiped his hands on a napkin, “What do you guys want to do today?”
“We could just walk around the grounds,” Cory shrugged.
“Sounds good to me,” Harry nodded in agreement.
Some minutes later, the teens finished lunch and left the Hall, leaving behind the chatter of the rest of the school.
~…~
Sometime later, when they teens were relaxed and enjoying being outside, an elf popped up with a note for Harry.
“What is it?” Pansy asked, looking at the teen with some curiosity.
Harry opened the note, briefly skimming it, before crumpling into a ball. “Dumbledore; he wants to meet.”
“Of course he does,” Draco nodded, “that doesn’t really surprise me. The article turned attention towards him, and not the kind the Old Fool particularly cares for either.”
“So,” Blaise started, brows furrowing together, “what exactly does he hope to accomplish with this meeting?”
“Well,” Gabriella spoke up, “I may not know Dumbledore, but I have lived in America and I do recognize this tactic. Dumbledore is calling this meeting for two reasons; he’s rather curious as to why you said the things you did, why you gave this interview without coming to him first so that he could make sure that you would say only what he wanted you to say, or he’s mad at the implications in the interview, and he wants to do damage control, which may or may not include forcing you to recant the aspersions you made on his character.”
Luna smiled, “Do you know what I love about Mother Nature? She is the epitome of the perfect balance of good and evil, of beauty and beast. She holds many aspects to her, and of all of them, an avalanche is quite possibly the only one that signifies that perfect balance between beauty and beast. It is a wondrous and amazing thing to behold and yet so dangerous because it’s one started it cannot be stopped until it runs its course.”
The message was understood; Harry’s interview was the catalyst to get everything going, and no matter how much Dumbledore tries, he will not be able to escape his fate.
Cory looked at his best friend, “So when does he want to meet?”
“Right now actually,” Harry replied. After staying put for a few more minutes, he finally stood up, brushing off his jeans as he did so. “Well, I’d best be going. I’ll see you guys later.”
“We’ll be at the library,” Luna told him. “So we’ll leave with you, and you can meet us there.”
Plans made, the group made their way inside. They talked, mostly Gabriella sharing some of her time in America, until they got to the turning point; while Harry headed on to Dumbledore’s office, the others headed to the library.
~…~
“You wanted to see me sir?” Harry asked as he stepped inside the office.
“Come in and close the door Harry,” Albus ordered. Though his tone was as gentle as ever, there was an edge to it.
“Is something the matter?” Harry asked as he sat down, keeping his face neutral and his shields in place.
“No my dear boy,” Albus replied, “I wouldn’t say that. I did however wanted to talk to you about that article.”
“What about it sir?” Harry asked. ‘Alright Old Man, let’s what you have up your sleeve.’
“Now Harry,” Albus leaned forward slightly to rest his elbows on his desk, lacing his fingers together and resting his chin on them. “I understand your need to circumscribe what the Daily Prophet has written about you over the past years, but was it really a wise idea to reveal the things you did?”
“Yes it was,” Harry nodded. He wasn’t going to placate Dumbledore, but he wasn’t going to be stupid either. “You may not agree with what was said during the interview, but it was the truth, my truth, and it needed to be said for people to understand where I’m coming from and what I’m about. I’m never going to please everybody sir, but I can please myself and I was quite pleased with the entire interview.”
‘The more time the boy is spending with those Slytherins, the more outspoken he is becoming. He is gaining too much backbone. I need him malleable.’ Albus fumed silently. ‘Maybe a little worry about the backlash of his words will bring him back in line.’
“I understand what you’re saying,” Albus continued, “But I do not believe in casting aspersions on others to get your own story out Mr Potter. The tales you told about your family, and by extension myself, have you no thought on what the consequences and repercussions of such actions will bring?”
‘I see what you’re trying to do Old Man, and it won’t work. I’m on to your games already.’ Harry thought. Shaking his head, he made sure his voice was firm when he spoke. “I have thought about it, and quite frankly, I don’t care. The Dursleys weren’t a family to me and they never treated me that. The world deserved to know my “family” wasn’t as loving as they had been made out to be. The fact is Headmaster, if I didn’t have more important things to focus on, I’d be hell bent on getting revenge on them.”
Albus was startled by the teen’s words, though he tried not to show it. This was not what he expected. Not at all.
“Harry, it’s thoughts like that that sent Voldemort down the path he is on now,” Albus said, hoping to change the teen’s words. He was sounding too much like another teen, or rather, too much like those blasted Slytherins.
“Well maybe if the people who were supposed to protect and care for him had done their jobs, he wouldn’t have had to go down the path he’s on now,” Harry countered.
For a moment, Albus had felt a spike of fear. The boy’s words, coupled with his blasted interview, it had almost sounded as if—ridiculous.
Seeing the Headmaster shocked and concerned at his words, Harry changed tactics. He let out deep sigh, seemingly tinged with frustration, and closed his eyes briefly and rubbed the back of his neck, “I’m sorry for snapping professor. It’s just, I really was tired of having all these stuff said about and I just wanted my own truth out there. And I’m sorry you got caught in the middle; I know you were only doing what you thought was best and that your hands were tied. I’m not Voldemort, and I have no intention of ever being him.”
The thoughts that had been there a second evaporated. The boy turning down the same path as Tom, completely ridiculous. How could he ever have thought that? Yes, he was being too outspoken and he was doing things he never would’ve before, but that could be attributed to being around the Slytherins, something he was still wary of, but he was still Harry Potter.
“I know that Harry,” Albus nodded, “Regardless of your somewhat similar pasts, I am not concerned about you travelling down his path. The difference between the both of you is the fact that Tom is incapable of love, while you are not.”
‘Incapable of love? Then I wonder what you’d call what he has with Severus?’ Harry mentally snorted.
“Like I told the Quibbler Headmaster,” Harry continued, “the madman responsible for the deaths of my parents—my childhood, Sirius, everything—he’s going to pay for it.”
Albus nodded as if he expected as much, but still, something about the article grabbed hold and wouldn’t let go. There was something there, something just below the surface that troubled him.
“Why did you tell the paper about your childhood?” Albus asked. That was one of the things troubling him; the words that spilled out and the implication they casted over everyone mentioned, himself especially, left him unsettled with a deep sense of foreboding.
Harry shrugged. “Why wouldn’t I? It was an in depth interview, one that requires questions and answers about who I am, and that includes my childhood; horrible as it was. I wasn’t going to lie Headmaster. Like I said, I just needed to get the truth out there, to show everyone that I wasn’t a spoiled, pampered prince growing up. That I had to suffer and work to get to where I am now. I just wanted to be heard for once.”
He bit his lip, looked away briefly and then spoke, his voice a little softer. “I really I’m sorry sir. I really didn’t mean to make aspersions or whatnot against you. Like I said, I know your hands were tied and you did the best that you could.”
The words banished the remaining doubts and shook away the unease and foreboding Dumbledore had felt.
‘The boy may not be as easily controlled as before, but he is still on the right path, the one that I set out for him. Still, just to make sure he does…’
“It’s alright Harry,” Albus said, “I understand. The only reason I questioned your motives, or rather, your answers, is because I do not want anyone to think that there is dissention between us. If Tom ever sensed that there was discord between us, he would not hesitate to use it against you. He’s already done it once before.”
‘No he hasn’t, but I see your game nonetheless.’ “You’re right professor,” Harry acknowledged.
“Well that is all my dear boy,” Albus said, his eyes twinkling. “I do not want to take up the rest of your afternoon.”
Harry stood up, “It’s ok professor. I get it; you were just curious and worried about the interview. You were just looking out for me.”
“I always try to do what’s best for you Harry,” Albus said.
“I know that,” Harry nodded. “I’ll see you later sir.”
“Good day my boy,” Albus smiled.
Harry gave another nod and then he left, leaving the Headmaster staring after.
~…~
After leaving Dumbledore’s office, Harry quickly made his way down to the dungeons to Snape’s office. He arrived at the door and gave three quick knocks.
“Enter,” Snape called out.
The door opened and the teen stepped through, locking and warding it behind him.
“I suppose there is a specific reason for your visit?” Snape asked when he saw the teen. “What did the Headmaster have to say about the interview?”
“What do you think?” Harry snorted as he dropped into an armchair.
“I suppose he spewed the usual, and predictable, trite about how while he admired what you did and was proud, it was also quite foolish and you should have come to him before allowing the interview to happen,” Snape answered with a raised eyebrow.
Harry chuckled. “Dead on.” He relaxed even further in his seat as he recounted the meeting with Albus.
When he was done, Snape remained quiet, though his features were pulled into a frown.
“What is it?” Harry questioned, seeing the expression on the man’s face.
“It would be prudent that from this point onward,” Snape spoke, “we proceed with extra caution when it comes to dealing with the Headmaster.”
Harry stared at the older man for a few minutes as he tried to suss out his meaning. When he did, his green eyes narrowed. “You think he’s starting to have suspicions?”
Snape gave a slow nod. “I do believe so. Albus Dumbledore did not get to the position he is today by being ignorant or stupid. If he realizes that he has lost his most valuable weapon in this war, if he knows that you have switched sides and is more knowledgeable about his own plans and his own actions, then all of this will be for naught.”
Harry’s head fell back to rest against the top of his chair. He closed his eyes in slight frustration, but he did understand what Snape was saying. Suddenly, an idea came to him and his head popped back up. “Then we’ll just have to make quick, but calculated moves to ensure that he doesn’t know the truth until it is far too late to do anything.”
Snape raised an eyebrow. “Just what is brewing in that mind of yours?”
Harry grinned and stood up. “I have a plan, but before it can be implemented, first we need to see the reaction the Wizarding World has to the interview, including the parts Dumbledore played and second, I need to talk to the others. After that, I’ll let you know.”
“Very well then,” Snape nodded, though he was curious to know just what the teen had planned.
“Good afternoon professor,” Harry said as he made his way to the door.
“Good day Potter,” Snape replied. His lips twitched in amusement as he heard Harry laugh in reply. When the door closed behind the teen, he stood up and headed to the Floo. Calling out his destination, the private floor where Voldemort was residing, he stepped in.
Voldemort’s Personal Quarters; Malfoy Manor
Voldemort didn’t look up when he heard the Floo in his private room activate. There was only one person who had permission. Everyone else had come through one of the Malfoy’s many Floos before coming to his quarters.
“Hello Severus,” he greeted, keeping his eyes on the document in front of him.
“Marvolo,” Snape nodded as he crossed the room, removing his robes as he did so. He took a seat as he waited for his lord and lover to finish up.
It took several more minutes for Voldemort to finish going through the documents. When he was done, a quick flick of his wrist had them neatly stacked and off to the side. He then stood up, rounded the desk and made his way over to his lover.
“Not that I do not enjoy your company Severus,” Voldemort smiled as he sat in the chair across from the younger man, “But I do know that this is the time when you are at school and as such, will be busy. So, what brings you by?”
Snape gave one of his rare smiles. “I have some news that I thought my lord would like to know.”
“Oh?” Voldemort raised an eyebrow.
Snape nodded and then recounted not only what Harry had told him of his meeting with Dumbledore, but also the talk he had had with Harry after.
“You were right when you told Harry that Albus did not ascend to the position he is in now, with the public and in the government by being easily fooled or led,” Voldemort acknowledged with a nod, “However, the fact that everything that is happening now, or rather most of it, is done by his supposed “Golden Boy” means that he will not see it coming. He will be blindsided by the actions taken as he is not expecting Harry, or yourself, or Remus, or any of the other players that we have on our side that he believes to be on his side to do anything of this magnitude.”
Snape became thoughtful. “I see your point. While he may be starting to get suspicious, or have doubts about Harry’s actions, his belief that his hold is strong on Harry will prevent him from seeing the truth.”
“Exactly,” Voldemort nodded. “You said that Harry has an idea?”
“That is what he told me,” Snape said, “however, he didn’t share the details. He said that he needed to speak with the others, and that he also needed to observe the reactions further before he implemented it.”
Voldemort smirked. “Hmm. The boy is up to something, and having an inkling of the way his mind works, I do believe that whatever it is, it will be phenomenal; a subtle praise to us while casting more aspersions and doubts on Dumbledore.” He nodded. “I have the utmost admiration for his Slytherin tactics.”
“As do I,” Snape nodded in agreement.
Voldemort stood up. “Very well then. That concludes our business aspect of this meeting.” He held out a hand for the younger man to take. “Tell me Severus, are you free for the rest of the afternoon?”
Snape felt a pulse of warmth at the heat in his lover’s eyes. “If you want me to be my Lord.”
“Most assuredly,” Voldemort grinned and pulled his lover close, pressing him tight against his body. He lifted a hand and tilted Snape’s neck to the side, allowing him access to nip and kiss and lick.
“Oh Merlin,” Snape moaned as he clung to his lover.
“I do love the noises you make Severus,” Voldemort whispered, “and I will enjoy extracting more and more out of you.”
The words were a promise and the husky and dark tone to them left Snape trembling with anticipation. He couldn’t wait.
“Promises, promises,” Snape taunted, his own eyes darkening even further as his body flushed with heat from the lust filling him. “One that if you don’t keep, I am sure I can find someone else to do so.”
Voldemort went still. “Do so and I will force you to watch as I rip them to shreds, starting with removing their skin from their bodies. They will suffer not a quick death, but a maliciously slow and painful one.” The red in his eyes flashed prominently. “You are mine Severus! No one else’s!”
Snape leaned in until their lips were almost touching, and then, whispered. “Prove it.”
A loud growl a second later and the Potions Master was hoisted up in the Dark Lord’s arms, as the two made their way to the man’s bedroom. His magic reacted to his emotions, opening the door as they neared and then slamming it shut behind them.
From her place in a corner of the room, Nagini watched everything and couldn’t help the amused hiss that escaped. She knew exactly what the Potions man had tried to achieve with his words. He had played on her master’s possessiveness spectacularly.
{Isss sssomesssing funny mama?} one of her babies questioned.
{It isss nothing to consssern yourssself with sssnakeling} she answered back, coiling her body around her children a little more securely. {Now ressst}
{Ok} the snake replied.
As her babies settled, Nagini tasted the air again, taking in the high concentration of the mating scent. Oh yes, the Potions Master knew exactly what he had been doing.
At the Daily Planet
While Snape and the Dark Lord were enjoying some afternoon delight, the workers at the Daily Planet were in just as much—if not more—of an uproar as everyone else; especially the head of the paper, Roosevelt Dunbar.
It wasn’t the contents of the interview that had him going—or it was—it was more of the fact that the very first time their Saviour had decided to be willing to talk, and The Quibbler had been chosen instead of them.
The biggest scoop in the world, and they hadn’t been a part of it.
“I don’t believe this!” Dunbar ranted in his office towards his top reporter, Rita Skeeter.
Rita almost flinched as the man swung his gaze towards her, but she didn’t.
“Harry Potter offered up and interview,” Dunbar continued, “the chance to interview the Saviour, a full disclosure interview and we were passed over for The Quibbler!” his eyes, and voice, darkened, “You! This is because of that mess you made two years ago, isn’t it?!”
He didn’t wait for her to answer. “We need to fix this! We need to get an angle on this story somehow. We can’t let The Quibbler out scoop of the biggest story!”
“I agree,” Rita nodded, a salacious smirk gracing her face. “And I have an idea.”
“What is it?” Dunbar asked.
“As we’ve already established,” Rita explained, “We’re not going to get an interview from Mr Potter, and I admit that that is partially my fault. However, instead of focusing on the Potter angle, we focus on something else; Albus Dumbledore. Mr Potter made several comments during his interview in regards to Dumbledore. Intentional or not, his words casted a mark on Dumbledore’s ‘pure’ persona. I say we investigate Albus Dumbledore. I believe that there is a major story just waiting to be written if we can find it.”
Dunbar went quiet as he thought of her words. It was true; when he had first read the article, he had been pissed. The first time ever the Boy-Who-Lived gives a willing interview and it wasn’t with them. Of course he knew some blame lied with them, especially Rita and her ways of writing, but still, it was the scoop of the century and they had missed out.
After getting over his anger, he had taken in the article and while had been surprised by the contents, he could admit that there had seemed to something more to the teen’s words. Especially in regards to one Albus Dumbledore. It was as if the teen was firing accusations and placing blame at the old man’s feet. But, the thing of it is, he hadn’t stated the accusations, or the blame out right. Instead, it had been buried in the undertone. You had to read between the lines to see how much he blamed the old man.
The article had, as Rita had said, cast aspersions on Dumbledore’s character; even if no one else had recognized it, it was still there. Apparently, Dumbledore’s supposed Golden Boy wasn’t as enamoured with him as they had thought.
A lot of things that Potter had made mention of in the article were unsettling to read; their Saviour, growing up in a cupboard with magic hating Muggles? Never checked on by the one who placed him there; having to suffer through years of starvation, beatings and neglect.
If the undertones in Potter’s article were real, then Dumbledore had a hand in the boy’s suffering; the article spoke as if Dumbledore knew and deliberately did nothing to stop it. And then, when you add in the school years and everything that happened under the man’s watch. Maybe the old man wasn’t as saintly and pure as he wanted everyone to believe.
Oh yes, Rita was right; there was a story there, and it lied with Albus Dumbledore. So, he gave his head reporter the assignment.
“Do it,” he told her. “Find any and all information you can about Albus Dumbledore. Search deeply into his past; there has to be something there.”
“If there is,” Rita grinned as she stood up. “I’ll definitely find it.”
Back at Hogwarts
While Snape was at Malfoy Manor, Harry had decided to go to the library where he knew his friends would be.
As he passed through the hallways, he was aware of the whispers and stares from the other students. He made sure not to focus on any of them, giving the impression that he was ignoring them, when he was really listening.
What he heard, had him smiling, though he kept it to himself. As he entered the library, he took notice of everyone sitting around, including Granger, and the way they looked up at him as he passed.
Ignoring them, he quickly made his way to his secret room. When he entered, he saw the group milling around. He was a little surprised to see Gabriella, but shook it off. The girl had gotten close to the group since school started, and while they didn’t tell her everything, they had included her in enough, and he knew her mind was strong enough to withstand Legilimency from the headmaster. Plus, since she didn’t grow up here, but in America, there was no reason for the Dumbledore to even suspect her of anything.
So, shaking his head, he immediately went over to where Draco was sitting and sat next to him, smiling when the blond shifted closer.
“So, how did it go?” Pansy asked, from her spot on the floor in front of the fireplace.
Harry shook his head, “Just as I thought. I went to see Snape afterwards and told him and he gave a word of warning.”
“What was it?” Cory asked.
“He reminded me that Dumbledore wasn’t a stupid man,” Harry told them, “and that he didn’t get to the position he was in today by being so. The man was as cunning as a Slytherin and smart enough to hide his true persona from the public.”
Blaise nodded, “I believe that.”
Draco looked up at the brunet. After staring at his face for a few minutes, he smirked. “But all that did was serve to give you an idea. What is it?”
Luna grinned. “It’s Slytherin worthy.”
“Well?” Gabriella asked, leaning forward slightly in intrigue. She was completely fascinated by this group of friends, especially Harry, and how their minds worked. To see their actions, or the results of said actions, always left her feeling awed. She knew that the six were very closely and it was an honour to even be in these private meetings and was humbled that they had not only accepted her presence, but had allowed it. A part of her knew that it was because she had been reared in America and not here to be completely influenced by either side, but she didn’t mind.
Harry let out a laugh as he told them his ideas.
“I think it’s bloody brilliant,” Cory nodded, a smile on his face. “It’ll be totally unexpected, but it’ll also push the public opinion of Dumbledore to where we want it; against him.”
~…~
On Monday, two days after The Quibbler interview had been published, the Daily Prophet released its own article.
The Saviour’s Interview: Real or Fake?

by Rita Skeeter
My fellow witch and wizards, two days ago, our counterparts at The Quibbler posted an interview with none other than our own Saviour; Harry Potter. The interview was a shock to us here at The Daily Prophet and we have no doubt it was a shock to everyone else as well.
So, was the interview just a ploy to garner attention from the masses, or was every word he spoke the truth? Either way, it is disturbing. The article comes out after an article written by yours truly was printed. In that article, former friend Ronald Weasley voiced his fears of the Saviour turning dark as he was becoming quite close to Draco Malfoy, son of Lucius Malfoy, supposed Death Eater and a family rumoured to be on the Dark side, as well as his friendship with the former Neville Longbottom, now Corvus LeStrange and the fact that Lucius Malfoy had been given the post of teaching Defence Against the Dark Arts. An article that was printed not without repercussions. [to read on Lord Malfoy’s reaction, go to pg. 4]
Although, I would have to admit that despite whatever issues I had previously had with the Saviour, I do not think he lied. However, with that in mind, the contents of the interview itself does make you wonder. First off let me say this, even I have to admire Mr Potter for his continued friendship with the former Neville Longbottom. That story however, does have me very curious. How did the child end up in the care of the Longbottoms? Did Lady Augusta know that her grandson was not really hers? Lady Augusta could not be reached for comments regarding her thoughts on this situation, but I cannot imagine it was something that was taken quite well. Her grandson instead of being her loving son’s, was in actuality the son of the people who attacked him and his wife. [for more on what happened to Frank and Alice Longbottom, go to pg. 6]
What really happened that night? How did the Longbottoms end up with a LeStrange baby? Is that the real reason why the LeStranges attacked the Longbottom home that fateful night? I am sure I’m not the only one that would love to know the answer to those questions.
But now, to the more intriguing part of Mr Potter’s interview with The Quibbler. The fact that after losing his parents, he was placed with magic hating Muggles. A child of magic being made to live with people who hated the very thing he was? Unbelievable! And then those same magic hating people, forced him to live in a cupboard under the stairs. Not a bedroom, a cupboard. This writer is aghast to learn that a child, more specifically our beloved Saviour was forced to live in a cramped, dark space for close to ten years.
How was this allowed to happen? In his own words, Mr Potter stated that no one checked up on him during his entire time at his relative’s place. The only time someone from the Wizarding World showed an appearance was to bring him to collect his schools supplies and then take him to school. Again, I have to ask, how did this happen? If Albus Dumbledore was the one to place him with his Muggle relatives, why did he not check in on the child every once in a while?
And why would he place him with magic hating Muggles, relatives or not? I would think that he would have researched the family before leaving the then young Mr Potter in their care. And if he had and he still went ahead with the placement, then what does it say about him? What exactly did he hope to accomplish? Does that mean he was aware of the abuse that Mr Potter suffered through? Did he not care?
The article went on with more disparaging remarks to Dumbledore’s character, calling into question his actions to Harry, which then prompted questions on how if he had made such horrible judgment calls with Harry, then what other mistakes had he made in the past?
Needless to say, it sparked conversations between all the students; while some of the students didn’t believe the article (most of the Gryffindors and some Hufflepuffs) others did and started questioning their Headmaster themselves (the Slytherins, who never really believed in Dumbledore anyways, and Ravenclaw, who were smart enough to accept that what both articles had printed was quite possibly the truth and that maybe Dumbledore was hiding more than he was showing).
For Harry and co. they couldn’t have been more pleased.
~…~
That same night, Albus was preparing to go to The Burrow. An emergency order meeting had been called, as those involved were disturbed by the contents of both articles from the two papers and needed to talk about it.
It was not something that Albus wanted to do, but he knew it was something that needed to be done. The last thing he wanted was for the Order to start questioning him and to resign from the Order.
So, he activated his Floo and quickly stepped in.
When he stepped out, he could hear the talking in the other room from his Order members. The Order of the Phoenix had been forced to find another place for their meetings ever since over the summer, after Sirius’ will reading and the Order’s subsequent eviction from Grimmauld Place.
Of course he had tried to get Potter to allow them to continue to use Grimmauld Place as their Headquarters, but he had had a trying time finding the teen after the will reading. And when he had finally found him, the teen had sent back an owl stating that Sirius had left him a letter explaining that he hadn’t wanted the Grimmauld Place as a use for the Order as it was filled with too many Dark curses and as it was his Godfather’s wish, he was not going to go against it.
‘Once again Black managed to circumvent my plans and I am still no closer to learning as to how or why he suddenly changed,’ Albus fumed as he made his way to where the others were waiting for him.
“Albus/Dumbledore!” echoed from the room the moment he stepped inside.
“Hello everyone,” Albus greeted as he moved to the head front of the room so that everyone could see him and he could see them.
Almost immediately, questions erupted in the room. Everyone wanted to know about the articles and the insinuations that were implied. While no one wanted to believe them, they couldn’t help but to admit that the insinuations were disturbing and almost all of them needed the reassurance that it wasn’t so.
“Quiet!” Albus ordered, without fully raising his voice.
The room went silent.
“Now I understand that you all have concerns,” Albus continued, “but they will not be addressed if everyone voices theirs at the same time.”
“What exactly is going on Albus?” an Order member called out. “These articles have everyone talking and making speculations.”
“Was The Quibbler telling the truth?” another member asked. “Was Harry Potter really abused?”
“It’s all ridiculous lies!” Molly snapped. She then turned and glared at Albus. “That boy is getting out of control! First he ends his friendship with my Ronny, after everything they’ve been through together and now, he’s going around spreading lies! And I bet it’s those Malfoys and that-that LeStrange boy. He needs to be stopped!”
At her words, a loud growl cut through the cacophony of noise, rendering the entire room silent.
All eyes turned to where Remus was sitting next to Bill, who had a grasp on the man’s arm to prevent him from attacking.
“I would appreciate it Mrs Weasley,” Remus growled out, “if you would refrain from speaking about my cub like that.”
Molly actually took a step back at the threat and also from the angry, amber glowing eyes that were trained on her form. She wasn’t the only to move; others had shifted away as they knew that Remus thought of Harry as his cub, and that to a werewolf, nothing was more important. To attack their cub, whether verbally or physically, sent the wolf in a defensive mode.
While Albus appreciated and even agreed with the woman, even he knew it was unwise to wilfully challenge a werewolf over his cub. Remus might be a calm and docile man, but they could not forget that he was still a very dangerous creature.
And he Albus could not afford to lose half his Order members—for he was sure if Remus gave into his wolf, Mrs Weasley would not the only one to suffer—because the woman could not keep her mouth shut. While normally, he would leave her be, this was not the time for it.
“Calm down Molly,” Albus soothed, or tried to anyway.
Molly, confident in the fact that Albus would not allow Remus to attack her, geared back up. “I will not calm down.” She looked over at Remus. “You may not want to hear this, but you will. You have not been around him until this summer, so what do you know? The boy’s always been an attention-seeking liar. And he’s lying again!”
“Funny how he wasn’t an attention-seeking liar when he and Ron were friends,” Bill said, drawing everyone’s attention and shocking his mother into silence as she had never thought anyone would’ve spoken up against her, least of all her eldest.
“As far as I’m concerned,” Bill continued, “Harry was right in ending their friendship.”
“What?” Molly snapped out, glaring at her eldest. Her shock hadn’t lasted long.
“Ron is nothing but a jealous arse,” Bill said, ignoring the way the words made his mother go red with anger, or was that disbelief, or shock again? “He always has been and he always will be. He’s always wanted what other people had and when he didn’t, he threw a bloody tantrum! It’s certainly not Harry’s fault that Ron’s temper, and mouth, was out of control. And what did Ron do when Harry wanted no part in catering to his childish whims and tempers? He decided to talk to the Prophet and slander Harry’s name, telling everyone he’ll go dark. So of course Harry struck back! He wanted to tell the truth. That boy’s name has been in the papers ever since he returned to our world and it’s been nothing but trouble for him. And he simply had enough.”
“How can you take his side?” Molly demanded, “After the way he treated Ron, after everything they’ve been through!”
Bill glared. “Ron deserved it!”
“What?” Molly was stunned.
“For Merlin’s sake, open your eyes mum!” Bill snapped, entirely done with his mother’s inability to see past the flaws of her youngest son; something that had always bothered him as she never seemed to have a problem to focus on the flaws of her oldest, especially the twins. Percy, unsurprisingly, was the exception.
Deep down, he knew the reason for it. Unlike him, Charlie and the twins—when they were still Weasleys—she could control the other three very easily.
Bill stopped talking and instead, narrowed his eyes at his mother. “Why did the twins disown themselves?”
The change in topic threw not only Molly, but the others as well.
“W-what?” Molly stuttered out.
“You wrote me a while back saying that the twins had disowned themselves,” Bill continued, “I didn’t believe you, but looking at the Family Clock now, I can see you were telling the truth. I never got the opportunity to talk to the twins, but I have it now and I’m asking you. What happened that made the twins turn their back on generations of Weasley family magic and traditions?”
At that point, Albus decided to intervene. If he didn’t, he was sure Molly would reveal something unintentionally and he could not allow that to happen.
“William, Molly, please,” Albus interjected, “perhaps your familial situations would be best placed aside for now. This meeting was called for a reason and we need to address it.”
“What is going on with these articles Albus?” Kingsley Shacklebolt asked.
Albus sighed. “I assure you, I was stunned as well. However, I have spoken to Harry and William is essentially correct. Harry explained to me that he was simply tired of Rita Skeeter and the Prophet slandering his name, so he spoke with Ms Lovegood and asked if her father would be willing to speak with him in an effort to quell the tide of new, and old, rumours created by Ms Skeeter.”
Albus let out a chuckle. “He also apologized for any backlash that may befall upon me, but I assured him that I could handle myself.”
“So what you’re saying is,” Arthur spoke up, “this is all just the reporters taking Harry’s words and twisting them to suit their purposes?”
“Exactly,” Albus nodded. “So, nothing to worry about.”
“So,” Arthur continued, “Harry wasn’t really locked up in a cupboard or anything?”
“Of course not!” Molly snapped at her husband. She was still reeling from the fact that Bill of all people had talked back to her, almost yelled at her…his mother!
“That part is not a lie,” Remus spoke up. When the other members looked at him, he explained. “It took a little prodding, but I had managed to get Harry to tell me what his childhood was like and he spoke the truth in the interview. In fact, he actually left a few things out.”
“Oh dear Merlin,” an Order member gasped out. “It was true? That boy was starved and beaten?”
“Yes,” Remus nodded, “but, please. Don’t make a big deal out of it. Or rather, not an even bigger deal. I’m sure Harry didn’t tell his story just to gain sympathy points.”
“Remus is correct,” Albus added on, “Harry only wanted the chance for everyone to see that his own life has been far from perfect, but that he is not letting it overrun his future. Instead, he is letting it be used a point of strength.”
Murmurs of appreciation grew from the group, and you could see the respect reflected on almost all of the members.
“So,” Albus looked around the room, “have we cleared up the issues that these articles brought forth?” When there came no dissenting arguments, he continued, “Good. Now, on a different note; you will notice that we are missing a member?”
A few looked around the room and realized that they were indeed missing someone; not just one person though, a few to be honest, although most could be explained away.
“I assume you’re talking about Auror Nymphadora Tonks?” Kingsley asked. He had wondered where his Auror was as he hadn’t seen her in a while
“That is correct,” Albus nodded, “She is currently doing a mission for me and will be unreachable until it is over. The reason for that being that it is a very sensitive mission and one that cannot afford any distractions as it could prove fatal. Any messages you may have for her, you can pass them to me and I will make sure that she receives them.”
‘This is the only way to stop anyone from questioning her absence. As it is, I have no idea where she is, yet I do believe she has met her demise. How and when still eludes me. But, the longer that knowledge can remain a secret, the better for me,’ Albus thought.
A few nodded their assent and the meeting continued for a short while longer before breaking up. When it was over, everyone headed back to their own place, while Remus decided to head to Hogwarts with Albus to check on Harry. He knew it was a school night, but Moony was agitated, and it had been too long since he set eyes on his cub.
Of course, Albus tried to dissuade him.
“Remus,” the old man stated, “while I understand your concerns,”
“It’s not just concerns Albus,” Remus cut him off. “You know that Moony has claimed Harry as his cub, as it is, with these articles and everyone’s reaction to them, my instincts are telling me to check on my cub.”
Albus frowned. He did not want the man at the school, having any kind of influence of the teen. He was still peeved that Sirius had managed to not only emancipate the boy, but to name Remus as his official legal guardian as well; something that he could no circumvent no matter how hard he tried.
With Harry having complete control and access over his vaults, all monetary gains that he Albus had made from it was suddenly gone. After the Potters’ demise, he had appointed himself guardian for the instant access to the Potter wealth. He had used the money to spend on not only himself, but to support the Order and other things he deemed necessary. But, after that wretched will reading, he had been unable to continue his habit of siphoning money from the Potter vaults.
And he knew he couldn’t go to the brat as he didn’t want him to know he was taking money from him; although, he was sure that Lupin and those Weasley twins had told him. Despite that however, the brat had made no move to ask questions or demand retribution.
‘It appears my hold on him is strong enough that he didn’t even question. He assumed that I was doing what was right and that all was well. No doubt if I had asked, possibly thrown in guilt about how the money was helping others, he would’ve given in. Unfortunately, I can’t do that now. The wolf would be too suspicious.’
“Albus?” Remus spoke up, drawing the man out of his thoughts.
Blue eyes shifted to focus on the younger man in front of him. “Remus, I understand you want to see Harry, but how would it look if I allowed his guardian on the school grounds just to see him? Especially since it’s a school night and curfew is very close? Everyone would cry favourite.”
Remus’ eyes narrowed. “That matters not. As you’ve said Albus, I am his legal guardian, and as such, I do have the right to see him if I so choose, whenever I so choose. And for you to try to deny me that right…” he trailed off and reigned himself in. He let out a deep sigh. “I’m not trying to cause trouble Albus. I really am not. With all the accusations flying around with Harry giving this interview; I just need to know what is going on his mind and how this is all affecting him. I don’t want to see him going down the wrong path.”
Another sigh.
“I’ll be quick Albus,” Remus added on. “I won’t let him miss curfew.”
Knowing there was nothing else he could do, not without making Remus too suspicious or ending up on the wolf’s bad side, Albus gave in. “Very well.”
“Thank you,” Remus nodded and quickly proceeded to the Floo. “Headmaster’s office, Hogwarts!”
The man disappeared in a flash of green flames, leaving his old mentor watching his departure.
“Albus?” Molly called as she walked into the room.
“Is there something else Molly?” Albus turned to her.
“The boy needs to be under control Albus,” Molly frowned, “telling all those lies; allowing the papers to print them. Clearly the effect of that Malfoy and LeStrange boy is to be blamed! We need to get him away.”
Albus’ patience evaporated just a little. “Maybe if your son had seen fit to hold his tongue and temper, he would be close enough to influence Harry.”
Molly flinched. She knew Ron had a temper on him; out of all her children, he and Ginny were the ones to inherit her own temper. It also didn’t help that she doted on her two youngest a bit more than the others.
Ron had made a colossal mistake when he had attacked the Potter brat, and it had cost them.
“As it is,” Albus continued, drawing the woman’s attention once more. “We should be lucky that despite your son’s blunder and the new influences around him, Harry still holds his faith within me and within our cause.”
He paused. “I would dare to say that cutting all ties with your son has been the best.”
Molly was aghast. “How can you say that?”
“Harry’s relationship with the young Mr Malfoy is beneficiary in that Lucius Malfoy will do anything for his son,” Albus explained. “As a result of this relationship, Draco Malfoy will be influenced to Harry’s side of thinking and as an extension, so will his father. As much as I had hoped to be right, Lucius Malfoy has done nothing suspicious ever since his appointment to the DADA teaching post.”
“What are you saying?” Molly asked in confusion. She couldn’t understand exactly what he was trying to tell her. In fact, she was still kind of reeling from him saying that it was Ron’s fault and that Harry ending their friendship was a good thing.
She couldn’t see that. She’s already lost the twins to the Potter brat, plus the dissolution of the marriage contract between Harry and Ginny that would’ve secured them to wealth.
“With Harry influencing young Draco,” Albus clarified. “Lucius will have no choice but to do what is best for his son.”
Although she understood what he was saying, Molly wasn’t too appeased by his words.
“If that is all,” Albus said. “I must be returning to the school.”
Without waiting for a response, he activated the Floo and disappeared.
~…~
Remus quickly moved through the halls, making his way to Gryffindor Tower. He was a little anxious to see his cub as he hadn’t set eyes on him since they had returned to school.
When he got to the portrait entrance, he asked the Fat Lady to let Harry know that he was outside and within minutes, the entrance was opening, his cub coming through.
“Remus,” Harry grinned as he stepped into Remus’ arms for a quick hug. “What are you doing here?”
Remus returned the grin as he released the teen. “Checking on you I suppose. Those articles have everyone talking and I wanted to see how it was affecting you. How are you holding up?”
Harry cocked his head slightly. “I’m good.” He gave a one-shouldered shrug. “I mean, all things considered, it could be worse, right?”
Remus nodded. He then looked around. “We’ll have to talk more, when it’s not so,”
Harry grinned in understanding. Whatever Remus wanted to tell him, he couldn’t really do it here where the walls could hear. “I get it. This is a school and privacy can only be so much.”
“Exactly,” Remus smiled and pulled him into another hug. “It was good to see you cub.”
“Same Remus,” Harry replied as he breathed in the scent of his guardian. “I’ll see you later?”
“Owl me sometime,” Remus answered, “let me know how you’re doing and we can set up a time to meet during one of your Hogsmeade trips.”
“Sounds good,” Harry smiled as he released the man. “Goodnight Remus.”
“Night cub,” Remus said and he watched the teen go before he himself turned away and hurried down the hall to the stairs. There was one other person he needed to see.
A short time later, he arrived at his destination. He gave three quick knocks on the door and waited.
When the door opened, he gave a nod and then spoke. “Professor Malfoy, I would like to speak to regarding your son’s relationship with Harry. If you do not mind?”
Lucius regarded the man in front of him coolly, before slowly stepping back, allowing him entrance.
The moment the door closed behind Remus, Lucius threw up powerful locking, silencing and warding charms.
“Not that I don’t appreciate seeing you,” Lucius commented as he walked over to his lover, “but what are you doing here?”
Remus raised an eyebrow. “What? No kiss?”
Letting out a chuckle, Lucius reached out and pulled the younger man to him. The blond leaned in, until there was only mere millimetres separating their lips and breathed out, letting his breath caress Remus’ lips. Tilting his head, he pressed and nosed alongside Remus’ chin until he got to his neck.
There, his tongue slipped out and teased along and around his lover’s pulse point, sending shivers through the younger man.
“Lucius,” Remus breathed out, his eyes darkening steadily with arousal.
Lucius’ lips joined his tongue and he sucked and licked Remus’ pulse point, as if he was giving it a French kiss. When he felt Remus’ grip tighten even more and his hips start to thrust, he pulled back with a satisfied grin.
“There is your kiss,” Lucius purred and stepped back, fully disentangling himself from his lover.
Remus glared at the blond. “You’re a damn tease Lucius Malfoy!”
“Ah,” Lucius grinned, “but you do enjoy it so. Now, will you care to explain your presence?”
Remus sighed and reigned in his arousal. “There was an emergency Order meeting tonight, and I needed to see Harry, and you I suppose.”
“I feel blessed,” Lucius deadpanned and then gestured for the other man to sit down.
Remus chuckled as he took the offered seat.
“So the Old Fool called a meeting, did he?” Lucius inquired.
“I think it was more like his followers were disturbed by the articles by The Quibbler and Daily Prophet and they needed answers or explanations,” Remus told him and then he proceeded to recant the entire meeting.
Lucius was silent for a while. “The ramblings of Molly Weasley have never surprised me. I do suspect however that she was surprised by the fact that her eldest stood against her and came to Harry’s defence.”
Remus chuckled. “She was. I think it was the first time I saw her shocked and speechless.”
Lucius hummed. “Have you eaten as of yet?”
“I’ve had dinner,” Remus replied, “but I don’t mind eating once more with you. And I have not had dessert.”
“Very well,” Lucius gave a nod and then summoned an elf, and ordered dinner, and dessert, for the both of them.
The two settle in to eat and their conversation consists of Lucius’ teaching and how everything is going with both sides of the war and their hopes for the future.
The air was comfortable and welcoming as they enjoyed just being in each other’s presence. All too soon it seemed, the dinner—and dessert—was over and it was time for Remus to leave.
“Well I must be on my way,” Remus said as he stood up.
“Must you leave so soon?” Lucius asked as he followed his lover.
“I do believe if I stay any longer,” Remus mused, a grin playing on his lips, “then Albus will be suspicious of me, if he isn’t already by my already prolonged presence. And the last thing we need is for him to be suspicious.”
Lucius knew he was right, but that didn’t mean he liked it. “Very well. If you insist on leaving.”
Remus rolled his eyes at the elder blond’s tone. Instead of replying verbally, he grabbed Lucius and pulled the man to his body and kissed him.
Lucius immediately responded, pulling Remus even closer to his body as he deepened the kiss. Keeping his hold on his lover, Lucius walked them forwards until Remus’ back was pressed against the door.
Remus moaned into the kiss, shifting his grip when he felt his back hit the door. His legs fell open, allowing the older man to settle more firmly onto him.
Their hardening cocks rubbed together, the sensations pulling a low growl from Remus and a moan from Lucius.
Holding Remus against the door, one of Lucius’ hands drifted over his body until it reached his groin and he gently, but firmly, cupped the hardened length he could feel beneath the layers.
Remus tore his head from the kiss to let out a loud moan. “Lucius…”
He could the intense pleasure dancing through his veins and he knew that he was only a short time away from completely giving in to his urges to rut and mate.
But he couldn’t.
So, with extreme great reluctance, he pulled away from Lucius’ touch and firmly pushed the blond away to create distance between them. When he looked up at his lover, a whine slipped past his lips at the sight of the normally light grey eyes darkened, and cheeks flushed, with arousal.
“Why did you stop me?” Lucius demanded, his eyes scanning Remus’ body. He made a move to step forward once again to finish what he had started. His body was aching with the need to claim his lover, to have him beneath him crying out his name in pleasure.
Remus held out a hand to stop the other man’s advances. He needed to clear his mind and having Lucius touch him right now, would not do that. “I stopped us because I need to leave. We do not need Albus knowing of our relationship until it is time to reveal to him; at the time of his demise.”
Lucius stepped forward once again, ignoring Remus’ outstretched hand, and moved close enough to rest his forehead against his lover’s. “I very much dislike the fact that you are correct.”
“In this instance,” Remus grinned, “So do I.”
Lucius leaned in and kissed him. Once. Twice. And then pulled back with a sigh as he removed the wards and unlocked the door. “Go. Before I change my mind.”
Giving his blond love one last kiss, Remus opened the door and quickly slipped out, letting it close gently behind him.
Shaking his head, he turned to leave. He had just left the hallway that led to the dungeons when he was stopped by the last person he wanted to see.
“Remus, you are still here?” Albus questioned as his blue eyes caught the other man. His gaze moved from Remus to behind him, to the entrance leading to the dungeons.
‘Why would he be coming from the direction? I know for a fact Harry is up in Gryffindor Tower, and the portraits told me the two spoke briefly and then Remus left.’
Remus held back his groan. The very thing he had been trying to avoid happened anyways.
“Yes I am Albus,” Remus nodded. “However, I was just leaving.”
Albus took a step towards the man. “I thought you wanted to speak to Harry?”
“I did,” Remus said.
“Then why are you coming from the directions of the dungeons?” Albus inquired.
“I needed to speak to Lucius Malfoy,” Remus explained, “These articles really had Moony agitated, which is one reason why I needed to talk to Harry. But, even after, he was still agitated, so I decided to speak with Lord Malfoy. As Harry is dating his son, I needed to know that my cub was completely safe.” He paused.
“And what was Lucius’ response?” Albus asked.
Remus looked thoughtful. “It was…not what I had expected. I daresay, Harry’s relationship with the young Malfoy, I believe it has an effect on Lucius Malfoy.”
That made Albus curious. “How so?”
“Well,” Remus said, “when I questioned him, he was more open to answer than I expected. He seemed calmer, more…I don’t know, but he’s different. I think the fact that Harry is with his son, is influencing him in a way no one saw.” He looked up his former mentor. “He’s not the same man he was before.”
Although unexpected, the words pleased Albus greatly. It was what he had hoped for when he and Harry had first spoken at the start of the school term; that Harry’s presence in Draco Malfoy’s life would influence the elder Malfoy and possibly, over time, sway him from Riddle’s side.
“What brought you to that conclusion?” Albus asked.
Remus grinned. “Moony could sense it. All he got from Lucius was a sense of calm and near-peace. It’s the reason why I was not afraid of being in Lucius’ presence. Moony sensed no intent to harm me, nor any lies when I questioned him on his thoughts of Draco and Harry’s relationship.”
Suddenly, Remus brought his wrist up. “Ah, I’m sorry Albus, but I must be going. I’ve already stayed here longer than I expected.”
“It’s alright,” Albus smiled, his blue eyes twinkling as he gave nod. “If what you say is true about Lucius, then I do believe it would do no harm for me to speak to him, give him options other than those he may currently have.”
‘Good luck with that Old Man. You may have options, but Lucius is not as gullible as you perceive him to be of late.’
“Have a good night Albus,” Remus said.
“You as well,” Albus replied and turned and headed back to his office.
Remus watched him go, his amber eyes glowing briefly. ‘Your end is near Albus; the time is coming when you will pay for everything you have done. And you will not be expecting the direction the blow will fall from.’
With a smirk worthy of a Slytherin on his face, Remus left the castle.

A/N 2: and that’s the chapter! Yay! J lol. Sorry…I just thoroughly enjoyed writing this chapter. So what did you guys think? Now, some of you may think they are getting away with too much, but, remember Voldemort’s words to Snape; Dumbledore’s arrogance and ego knows no bounds. He honestly believes that he has control over everything that the thought of Harry, or any of the others, betraying him will not register. Even if it did, for a fleeting moment, his arrogance will wipe it away because he fully believes they are on his side and his control over them is so strong and also that he’d see a betrayal coming (never mind that he didn’t see Sirius’). As Voldemort said, it will happen because Dumbledore is not expecting it to happen so therefore, he will be caught extremely off guard when he finally figures it out and by then, it’ll be too late for him to do anything. As for the final showdown, please remember that in this story, everyone—especially Harry—is using their Slytherin side. So this will be a Slytherin battle and victory and not a Gryffindor one; it will not be like canon.
A/N 3: The second part to this chapter, things really progress even more. I think, if I’m counting right, that there’s only about 2 or 3 chapters left; 2 and then an epilogue or maybe 3 and then an epilogue…though it’s looking more like 2 and then an epilogue…we’ll see…
Anyways...review so I can know what you thought of this chapter
Kila
- 22
- 23
- 24
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Rise of the Dark Angel