Going Home by Swamygliders

For the first time in several days, Severus was sitting behind his desk. Not for the same reason, this time instead of grading or doing some other school related work he was watching a small twelve-year old standing in the corner sniffling. If anything, this was worse than the spanking had been.

All he wanted to do was rush over there, embrace his child, and tell him everything was alright. He had to steel himself though, and make sure the full ten-minute punishment was fulfilled. He couldn't back out now; it would send the wrong message and confuse Harry.

So he waited, and as soon as the ten-minutes was over he got up and walked over to the corner as calmly as he could. Although, he would never admit it to anyone, or Merlin forbid Albus, the old saying this hurts me more than it does you was indeed true.

Slowly the man crouched down behind the boy and gently placed a hand on his shoulder so he would turn around. As soon as the child did Severus found himself with his arms full of a small boy and his hands slowly caressing the boy's back.

"It's ok Harry. All is forgiven. Just promise me you will never do anything like that again. When you wake up with a problem, come to me, don't sneak out into the night."

Through small sobs, Severus heard many such promises to be good and to never be bad again. The man smiled and remembered his many promises to Albus after a punishment and how long they lasted; not long at all.

"Shhh, calm down now Harry. Don't you want to go see how Ginny is doing? Don told me she was asking about you. I think she might have a small crush on you."

Severus saw the small bush as Harry buried his head into his soft robes while nodding. Again Severus smiled, Harry was so much like Lilly in so many ways; it was kind of scary sometimes. Shaking that thought out of his head Severus pulled Harry back from him a little and wiped away the small tears that he found. He then rested his hand gently on the boy's cheek.

"Promise me Harry, no more sneaking off into dangerous situations, ok?"

Harry started to nod, but Severus stopped him.

"With words Harry. I understand why you nod, but I want you to use your words more."

"Ok daddy. I promise I will never do anything like that again. My bottom's still sore and I don't like standing in the corner."

Agin Severus smiled. "Does it now? Well, if it is still sore at bedtime I have some cream we can rub into it to make it feel better. How does that sound?"

Harry started to nod, but stopped himself. "Ok daddy."

"Come on now, I think your friends are waiting for you in the hospital wing as well for you."

Before Severus could get up though, Harry stopped him with a small hand on his arm.

"Daddy?"

"Yes child."

"Do...do you have to tell them that you spanked me?"

By now Harry's face was red as a tomato and he was shuffling from foot to foot.

"No Harry, it will be up to you what you tell your friends, but Don, Albus, and Minerva already know. It was hard hiding it from them when they came and saw you sleeping on your stomach."

If possible Harry's face became even redder than the Weasley's hair making the man before him smile a little more.

"Don't worry Harry. They won't say anything to anyone. They certainly never told anyone when I was spanked."

Harry's eyes widened as he looked up at Severus. "You...you were! Who?"

"Who do you think Harry? Albus did a number of occasions, and I think even Minerva did once."

"You? Why?"

Severus smiled and shifted just a tad bit uncomfortable the way this conversation was going.

"Let's just say that I had a bit of a dangerous streak as you do. You will have to ask Albus more about this if you want to know more though. Those are some memories I rather not remember if you know what I mean."

Harry nodded. "Ok daddy."

Severus finally got up off the floor glad that the conversation had ended for now. Even though, it had been a long time ago it still made Severus feel all squirmy inside when he thought of how Albus had taken him in hand.

Severus held out his hand and Harry took it softly. Then walking over to the floo Severus threw in the floo powder and called to the hospital wing. Very gently Severus tightened his hold on Harry's hand and they both stepped through the floo.

Up until now Severus had given Harry a stomach soother to help make the journey easier for him. While that was a good temporary solution, it would never help long term of getting Harry use to travail sensation. So, this morning he had asked Don what the best way to wean Harry off the potion. The Healer had told him though that it would be better to just stop giving it to him altogether and let his body adjust naturally.

Reluctantly, Severus had agreed. Well that is after much convincing.

So, now Severus and Harry were in the hospital wing and Severus was bent over a dry heaving Harry trying to calm him down so a panic attack would not follow. Gently the man rubbed the boy's back and whispered soft words in his ear much to the shock and amusement to the other people present in the wing. As soon as Severus noticed he had an audience he glanced up at the faces and let a scowl grace his face. Quickly the nosey patients and family members looked away except for two who were just too gob smacked to take the warning.

Unfortunately, one of the two had been Draco his godson. The other the youngest Weasley would have found out soon anyway, but Draco...he had not really wanted to deal with explaining himself to the boy just yet...or well ever. Plus there was the danger of if he said anything to his father.

Sighing Severus got up from his kneeling position and led Harry over to the bed where his friends had gathered. Patting Harry on the shoulder he gave a quick glace at the twins and then set off to see what the hell his godson had been doing in here in the first place.

Quickly he strode over to the boy and took hold of his arm, not harshly, but none to gently ether. He then led the boy into Poppy's office which she gladly gave up for him. She knew that look on his face and to be quite honest she would rather not cross him when he was like this.

As soon as the two were in the office Severus closed the door and placed a silencing spell around them so no one outside could hear them.

"You are not to tell your father what you just saw or anyone else."

It took a few moments, but finally Draco recovered enough to nod his head.

"Yes, Uncle Sev."

Severus nodded his head and knelt down before the boy. "Now tell me Draco, why are you here? Are you injured?"

Draco blushed and looked down at his feet while he shook his head. "No, I just keep having nightmares and I thought Madam Pomfrey could give me a dreamless sleep so I could have at least one good nights rest."

Severus sighed. "I'm your Head of House Draco why did you not come to me?"

"Father says nightmares are for babies and I should suck it up. I didn't want you to tell him that I was still having them."

Gently this time Severus led the boy over to the couch near the door and sat him down. He then pulled up a chair of his own so he could sit across from Draco. As he sat down he studied the boy in front of him. For a while now he had suspected that Lucius was not the kind parent he showed to others. No, scratch that, he had known that Lucius was not a kind parent he just didn't have enough evidence to really do anything. If Draco had any injuries or told him anything then it would be a different story.

It had not worked last year, but maybe now with a few gentle prods he could get some information out of Draco. Last year, he had been all ready to take Draco in, but now he had Harry. He could still find Draco a safe home to go to though. Anything was better than the current situation the boy was in.

Gently Severus reached forward and placed a hand on the boy's knee.

"Draco, I promise you I won't tell your father anything about your nightmares. Ok?"

The boy nodded and put his head down so he was looking down into his lap as if he knew where the conversation was going to turn. Sighing Severus removed his hand from the boy's knee and placed it on Draco's chin lifting it so that he could look nowhere else.

"Are you ready to answer those questions I asked you last year?"

Roughly Draco puled his chin away from Severus's grasp and looked over towards the door.

With another sigh Severus got up from his chair and moved to sit next to Draco. Very gently Severus placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, but pulled back slightly when Draco flinched at the sudden touch.

"It was bad this summer, wasn't it?"

Slowly Draco nodded. "He called a Healer to the house so that when you made all of us have our yearly physical nothing would come up."

"I see. You know Draco, if you tell me what happened I can have you removed from your father. I can make it so that he will never touch you again."

Draco's eyes flicked up to meet Severus. "You...you mean I wouldn't have to become a Death Eater when I turn sixteen?"

"No Draco."

"What about Mother? Would she leave too?"

Severus sighed yet again. This was the part he dreaded. He knew that Narcissia loved her son very much and Draco loved her as well, but he had tried to get her to leave so many times it was hard to count them all. She was just too afraid to leave though, and had opted to stay leaving her son at the hands of his Father.

Slowly the man shook his head. "No Draco, your mother is very set in her ways. She wants to stay with your father, but you have a choice. Don't base yours from hers. She will always love you and will understand if you decide that you wish not to go back home."

Draco sat there for more than a few minutes just staring at the door thinking. Severus knew what a hard decision this was so he let the boy just sit there. He knew that he would snap out of his trance; eventually.

Finally, Draco turned to look at Severus again. "Can I talk to her before I decide anything?"

Slowly Severus nodded his head. "Yes Draco, I can go floo her right now. Your Father is in a meeting with the board of governors so he won't be around to answer."

"Ok."

Before getting off the couch, Severus placed a gentle hand back on the boy's shoulder and did not remove it this time when Draco flinched. He then walked over to the fireplace and called Draco's mother to come through. Before letting her step through though, he explained what was going on and basically guilted her so that she would agree to let him to take Draco from their home.

When the stern woman came through the floo Severus walked back over to Draco and gave the boy a small nod. "I will be outside, if you need anything let me know."

He then turned back to Narcissia. "I need you to promise me Narcissia that whatever you see or hear here is completely confidential. You must not tell Lucius anything, if you do you not only put my life in danger, but also Draco's."

The woman gave a tight nod before sitting down next to her son.

"I need you to swear on your magic, Narcissia."

That caught the woman's attention as her head swooped back up to look at the man and narrow her eyes. She was more offended than anything that Severus did not trust her to keep a secret.

"I swear on my magic that I will not reveal anything I learn today to anyone."

Severus nodded and left the room. He didn't want to take a chance that Draco would blab to his Mother about Harry, and it was also for Draco's safety. If Lucius found out that Draco was planning on leaving Draco's life would be in danger more than it already was. Lucius could be vindictive when he wanted to be.

After firmly shutting the door behind him, he quickly sent a patronus to Albus just to let him know what was going on. He would have surely felt Narcissia's presence, and he didn't want him to worry that it was a Death Eater invading the school. With that done he looked over to the bed he had dropped Harry off on and was glad to see not only all the kids talking and having fun, but the parents were also keeping a close watch over what was happening.

Quickly he spotted Harry between his two best friends across from the twins playing Exploding Snap and was proud to see that Harry was wining. Not wanting to spoil the interaction by interrupting them Severus stayed where he was near Poppy's office and waited to hear the silent knock that would inform him to come back in.

Soon enough, the knock came braking Severus from his musing and watching his child. Reluctantly, he turned and entered the small office. When he entered, he saw Draco was sitting on the couch with some tears in his eyes and Narcissia standing near the floo.

"I have to go now Severus, please take care of my son for me and find him a good home. I should have done this sooner, but I couldn't bare to lose him. Thank you for everything."

With that, the woman disappeared into the floo while Draco jumped off the couch and ran towards the floo begging his "mummy" not to leave him. Severus caught Draco though before he reached the fireplace and held the boy close to his chest. It seemed the sense of abandonment was too much for the boy.

"It will be ok Draco. Try to calm down, you're going to be fine."

Draco's sobs only increased as did his yelling for his mummy. Being prepared as always Severus reached into his robes and pulled out the extra strength calming potion that was meant for Harry. Draco was more in need of this potion now. Quickly he uncapped the top, and gently he forced it down the boy's throat. Not used to the effects of the potion and being exhausted cause Draco the fall right asleep. It was really for the best though, he would be able to carry him better and it would allow Don to do a quick physical scan.

Carefully he lifted Draco into his arms and groaned when he realized that Draco was at least two stones heavier than Harry. At least his parents, never starved him. Hoisting the boy up a bit higher and casting a weight altering spell Severus moved out of Poppy's office and started to move Draco next door into the private room where Draco would now be staying. For the boy could no longer stay in the Slytheran dorms, when Lucius found out everyone would be hexing the poor boy right and , when they found someone to take him in they would have Draco come to their home for a few days to let the worst of it pass.

Ignoring the stares he received from the children still out on the bed Severus carried Draco into the new room and gently set him down on the bed not bothering to cover him with a blanket knowing that Don would be redressing him in a moment anyway. As soon as Severus set the boy on the bed, he reached down and pulled the pendent from his clothing so that he could call Don. He then sent a Patronous to Albus asking him to contact a trustworthy social worker and start the proceedings.

With all that done Severus sighed and sat down in the chair next to the bed. The next moment Don came bustling in closing the door behind him.

"You were finally able to get him to talk?"

Severus shook his head. "No, but his mother asked me to find him a new family and that was all I needed to hear to evoke my Head of House and godfather responsibilities."

Understanding Don nodded and picked up the hospital pajamas on the dressers. "Would you like to assist me or would you rather I fetched Poppy?"

Severus stood and took the pajamas from Don setting them on the bedside table. "I would like to help."

"Ok then Severus. Can you start undressing him? Everything but his shorts, I want to grab some things I think we might need."

Severus nodded and set to work taking off the boy's robes and uniform. After getting the boy down to his shorts, Don came in with a few potions and creams in his hands. Severus turned to look at the Healer with raised eyebrows.

"Do you think all of that is necessary?"

Don shook his head. "I don't know, but I would like to be prepared instead of not having something I need right away."

Severus nodded and sat back down in the chair next to the boy's bed. He might have never been that close to the child, but no one deserved to be alone while they went through anything like this.

Absently Severus noticed Don move and start to scan the boy with his hands. Looking up at the Healer Severus then noticed the small frown that was planted on his face. Sighing just a little Severus looked back down at the boy and to where Don was continuing to scan. Just a few minutes later Don reached for some of the potions and a few creams.

"It seems the Healer his father called to heal him was not the best in his field. He did heal him, but just enough so that nothing would be noticed on a light start of term scan. He has some internal damage that needs to fixed immediately."

Don looked down at Severus. "I'm going to need you to leave for this. You brought Draco to me last year and I know he would not like you seeing him without his shorts."

Severus gave a small nod and gave one last glance at the sleeping boy on the bed before he got out of his chair. He then turned to Don who was now busily readying the boy to heal him.

"Can you tell me when he is awake? I would like to speak with him some more and I know Albus would like to talk with him about his new home situation."

Don gave a small nod as gave the man a pointed look. "Go on now and see how Harry is doing. I will keep you up-to-date with Draco's progress."

With that Severus left the room quietly closing the door behind him. When he entered the outer room, he saw Harry looking at him with a hint of confusion from the bed they were all resting on. Sighing slightly Severus walked over to the boy, his friends and the parents of his friends. All of them were looking at him with interest and Severus could not help but sigh again. He was going to hate this conversation. If it were just Harry he would be fine, but it was not.

To avoid some awkwardness he pulled up a chair and sat just far enough from the bed so that he could not be touched by anyone sitting on it.

"Daddy?"

Severus looked up and cringed a little as he saw the Weasley parents give each other a smile and a knowing look, but then he looked over to his child and again saw the concern in his eyes.

"Yes child?"

"What happened to Draco? Why were you caring him?"

Severus sighed, let Harry ask him the questions he rather not answer in front of others.

"Well Harry, I can't tell you everything as that is information only Draco can devalue, but I can tell you he will be fine."

Harry nodded while the other children except for the twins, and the older two were looking on in wonder at Snape being nice to Harry. Yes, they had heard that Snape had this side to him and some had even seen him caring for Harry before, but it was still new and amazing to them.

Breaking the tense silence Arthur cleared his throat pointedly to gain the Professor's attention.

"Professor Snape, may I have a word with you...in private?"

"Of course." Severus then got up from where he was sitting and followed the man over to an unoccupied spot in the hospital wing where they could talk.

Not wanting to waste time Arthur jumped to what he wanted to speak with Severus about. "Thank you for saving my daughter last night."

Severus held up a hand to stop the man. "I didn't do anything, but find them. The real person who saved your daughter is Harry there. All thanks should be directed towards him."

Arthur nodded thoughtfully. "And how really is Harry? I mean he is in a sling, and it seems that he can't sit comfortably."

Severus hid a small smile behind his hand as he pretended to cough at Arthur last statement. Then, composing himself once more Severus cleared his throat.

"He is fine, they were able to get all the poison out of his arm and I fear it is my fault he cannot sit very well."

Arthur raised his eyebrows at Severus's statement. "You spanked him for saving Ginny?"

Severus shook his head. "No, I disciplined him for both sneaking out of his bed after curfew and then putting himself in danger when he should have gone for help."

The man nodded in agreement. "I'm sorry it seems I still do not know the full story, and it is probably a good thing I don't."

The Professor nodded his head exception his apology. "Is there anything you would like to know about what happened last night? Harry told me everything this morning."

"Not about last night, but I do have one more question."

Severus nodded. "Go ahead."

"That was Malfoy's child I saw you carrying, was it not? Is he ok?"

Sadly Severus shook his head and then looked seriously Arthur. "That unfortunately is not a simple question. I told the children that he will be ok, but it will take time...like Harry."

Severus watched the man as the last part of his statement sunk in. First, the slight glimmer of shock and then the sudden realization sank in as he thought about all the times he had seen the child with his Father.

"Is he being removed?"

Severus nodded his head. "We have to be careful though, as you know his Father has high connections. Albus is looking for someone to take him in as we speak, but it has to be a family that will be able to protect Draco and themselves."

Arthur nodded and gave a quick glance over at his wife. "We'll take Draco in if he wants us. Bill is an expert dullest is and curse breaker, Charlie handles dragons so nothing is a challenge to him, Percy, I hear, can defend anyone when he wants to and as you know the twins can fend for themselves. We would need to strengthen our wards a bit, but we have been meaning to do that anyway. I know we are not the richest family, but we can provide him with a loving, supportive family, and that's what matter isn't it?"

To be quite honest Severus was a tad bit shocked the man in front of him was offering to take in the child of someone who had made his life misery for the last ten years. The offer was genuine though, he could see it in the man's eyes. Even though Albus was looking for a home for Draco to stay in since Severus was his godfather, the final word decision rested in his hands and Arthur's proposal sounded like the perfect solution. He knew that there would be a little animosity between the youngest Weasley boy and Draco at first, but he also knew that once they all saw everything Draco had projected last year had been a mask they would be fine.

"Let me talk to Albus and let him share what he thinks and then when Draco wakes I will let you know what his decision is. You should also talk to your children and wife about what they think. Though you and Molly might be welcoming, some of your younger children might not like the idea."

Arthur nodded. "All right then. How much should I tell them and should Harry be there as well?"

"Harry can hear whatever you tell your children. You should not tell them much though, just the basics. That Draco has been hurt badly and cannot go back home. Also, tell them that sometimes people say and do things out of character just so that they can stay safe."

"I will go speak with them then. Are you going to Albus now?"

"Yes, Don is going to contact me as soon as Draco wakes so if you see me rush in do not worry."

With another nod from Arthur, the two started to walk their separate ways. Slowly Severus started to walk to Albus's office while Arthur when to speak with his children about adding another member to their family. They both hoped with all their hearts that this would work out.

An hour later Severus was back in the hospital wing followed by Albus. The man wanted to speak with the Weasley's about going by tonight and setting up stronger wards and see how Draco was doing.

Coincidentally Don was just emerging from the room where they had placed Draco and had motioned for Severus to come see Draco. Walking over to the now ajar door Severus stopped to speak with Don.

"How is he doing?"

Don sighed. "He is healing, but it will take some time. The deeper I scanned the more I found. It seems that the Healer who tended to him didn't actually heal anything, but suppressed it. Magic can do weird things, and this is one of them. I've never seen this happen before. It seems that he has a deep infection in his lungs, but symptoms that should have shown would not have for at least a few months and by that time he would be really sick. The same with his other injuries. Instead of lash marks on his back, there are cuts in the muscles inside his back. It is very strange, but I have healed all the injuries I feel comfortable to now. Tomorrow, I can heal the rest. Has Albus been looking for a place for him to stay? I don't really feel comfortable leaving him here in the busy Hospital wing."

Nodding Severus pointed with his head to the people over his shoulder. "The Weasley's offered to take him in and I think they would be good for him. They would provide him with everything he has not had in his short life. I want to ask Draco what he wants first though, I don't want to force anything on him."

The Healer reached out and patted Severus on the shoulder. "Then, you should ask him now, he just woke up. He is still pretty upset about his mother."

"Thank you." With that Severus followed Don back into the small room. It would have been nice for this to be a more private conversation, but he understood Don felt that some calming magic might be in order to calm Draco down.

Coming over Severus carefully sat on the edge of Draco's bed near the top as Draco looking at him wearily.

"Hi Draco."

"Hi Professor."

"Draco, you know better than that. You have been calling me Uncle Sev for years."

Draco blushed and look down to his lap fiddling with the quilt a little.

"Mother left me."

Severus reached out a placed a gentle hand on the boy's knee. "She was doing what she thought was best for you. She knew that if she would have run too it would have put you in more danger. This way we can hide you with a family and keep you as safe as we possibly can."

Draco nodded, but still looked troubled about the whole affaire. "Who would want me?"

Giving the boy's knee a small squeeze Severus continued as gently as possible. " The Weasley's have asked whether you could live with them."

That caught the boy's attention and his head whipped up so fast Severus could have sworn the boy would get whiplash. "Even after everything I said last year?"

"Yes, it was them who brought up the idea and before you ask I have already set up an account with the Headmaster to set up a monthly fond for them so that the extra cost will not be a burden."

Even though Draco did not openly show it, he was quite frugal with his money and was very concerned on how much the family spent on him. Severus supposed it had to do something with how his father spent money right and left with no concern. Draco really was opposite from his father in every way possible.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes Draco, the money will be coming out of my account and you know that I have the means for it."

"Your taking care of Potter now though? What about him?"

Severus gave the boy a small smile. "Yes Draco I am, but I don't want you to concern yourself with that. I have plenty to spend on both you, Harry and myself."

Draco nodded. "I guess I'm ok with that if they are."

"They are Draco. Would you like to speak with them yourself?"

Draco shook his head. "I'm really sleepy can I talk with them later?"

"Yes you can. Do you want me to stay with you until you fall asleep or would you wish I left?"

The boy blushed as Severus stood to lower the top half of the bed so Draco could lie down.

"Could you stay?"

"Of course, I can Draco. Now, lie back, and close your eyes. I'm right here."

Slowly Draco obeyed his godfather's words and closed his eyes. After just a few minutes, Severus let out a small breath in relief as he finally saw the boy's chest rise evenly in sleep. The man then turned to Don who gave him a small nod.

"I think that is as close to a yes as you're going to get. Let's go warn the Weasleys just what they have gotten themselves into."

Severus got up as he nodded. With one last glance at the boy on the bed, Severus sighed and followed Don out of the room to speak with the Weasley's and their children.

As they both reached the family Severus noticed that the Granger girl was still in the group of children. He supposed it was ok for her to be here he knew how close she was to the family and would likely be spending more time with them as her parents were muggles.

With a nod to Arthur Severus sat down in the chair he had occupied earlier and prepared himself for the conversation ahead. He was going to have to prepare this family to welcome the real Draco, but without revealing anything too personal about the boy. He then felt the hand rest on his shoulder and the calming magic that came with it. With a glance over his shoulder, he gave a grateful look to the Healer who just smiled in response.

After taking a deep breath, the Professor gave a look to the two adults and saw them sending each other small glances of worry or pity; he couldn't tell.

"Are you two sure you want to do this?"

Both shared another glance and nodded. Molly was the one to speak though. "Then, Draco accepted to come live with us?"

Severus was about to answer, but a shout from the bed interrupted him.

"What do you mean a dirty, filthy Slytherin is coming to live with us?"

Looking over Severus saw the youngest Weasley boy's face all red with fury as he shot angry glances at both his parents. The children around him seemed to be trying to calm him down, even Harry was patting his shoulder trying to get him out of his stupor. Severus opened his mouth to scold the boy, but again he was cut of by an angry voice; this time it was Molly who was doing the shouting.

"Ronald Weasley! What did we just finish telling you?"

Ron crossed his arms and looked away ignoring his mother. Fortunately, or rather unfortunately for the boy he was sitting rather close to his mother, so she stood up and garbed her sons chin none to gently so that he had no choice but to look at her.

"Do not ignore me young man! Answer me or else you will find yourself with a sore bottom."

Severus saw the young boy blush as he started to open his mouth to answer his mother. No doubt, he was embarrassed that she had implied the type of punishment he would receive if he did not comply.

"You just told us that it doesn't matter what house anyone is in and that we should treat everyone equally, but Muuuuum it's Malfoy!"

"No buts young man. He is a human being and deserves to have a loving family. I want you to be at least civil to him when he comes to live with us or else I will not hesitate to take you over my knee. Is that understood?"

Ron looked down at his lap as his mother let go of his chin. "Yes ma'am."

"That goes for the rest of you too. No pranks, no teasing and teat him as you would family. I want you to welcome him, he has been hurt and needs all the support we can give him."

Molly was met with chorus of nods and a few yes ma'am. Satisfied she nodded and looked back over to Severus.

"I believe you might have wanted to tell us something more?"

Severus nodded. "Yes, I wanted to tell you a little about Draco; I mean the real Draco. You see the Draco you all saw last year is merely a mask. He is not that snobby rich kid you all became to know him as."

The man took a small breath and looked almost pointedly at Harry. "When we fear something or someone we have a tendency to adapt to how we think they want us to act. We play the role we assume has been laid out for us and hide who we really are. I hope that you all get to know the real Draco. If at first he does act the part he played all last year, know that he is only doing so because he is afraid or uncertain. Treat him kindly and he will eventually let his guard down."

All the children in front of him nodded again except for Harry who was looking at him thoughtfully. He would have to talk with him later in private.

Just as Severus thought the conversation was over one of the twins spoke, maybe Fred?"

"Can he brew with us tomorrow?"

Ginny gave her brother a blank stare, but the rest seemed to know what he was talking about, and the older children along with his parents gave him looks of approval.

"That would be a great idea, but I think he will still be in bed. Maybe next week if he agrees."

Severus then looked over at the two elder Weasley's. "I was hoping that Draco might be able to go to your home and rest for a few days if that is ok with you?"

"That would be fine Severus. I actually think that would be a good idea, it would give us a chance to get to know one another better."

The Professor nodded. "I was thinking that as well. I have to warn you though Draco is not the most touchy feeling child. Don't hug him unless he invites it."

Severus could just imagine the woman giving the boy a bear hug the moment she saw him just as she used to do to him. Luckily after a year or so she had taken the hint, and she doesn't run up to hug him anymore.

It was unfortunate, but true that Draco just was not use to physical contact. Both his parents had not shown him much affection. Yes, his mother loved him, but not experiencing the small touches or hugs herself she just didn't know how to give them to Draco.

Molly gave a small nod. While she hated Severus telling her how to handle a child when she had so much experience he was obviously just trying to help.

"Is there anything else we need to do paperwork wise?"

Albus had been sitting in the background letting the adults and children work things out among themselves, but now he again made his presence known.

"I have taken care of most of the paper work all that needs to be done is for both you and Draco sign the paperwork in the presence of a social worker. I have contacted a trustworthy social worker and if you want she is wiling to come by today. If that is so I need to talk to you in private more about all the procedures."

Arthur looked over at his wife, and she gave him a small nod.

"We would like to do everything today, but I think Draco should be there when we sign the papers. I want to make sure he is ok with everything."

Albus nodded and then turned to Don. "Do you think he will sleep for the rest of the day or will he be up for lunch?"

"He hasn't been sleeping so I expect he will sleep through lunch. He might wake up sometime later this afternoon though."

The Headmaster nodded. "Maybe after he wakes up we can move him back to the Burrow and we can take care of all the technical aspects there. I believe Severus and I were going to go over today to help strengthen your wards."

Molly and Arthur nodded while Bill pipped up.

"I can help with the wards as well if you need me. I've been working at Gringott, and the Goblins are willing to help. Nothing is stronger than wards set by Goblins."

Albus thought for a moment. "If you think they will agree then that would be a very good idea. Today, Severus and I will set some up so that Draco can go home and then tomorrow they can come and set theirs."

Bill nodded. "I should go and set that up with them. You know how long it can take to bargain with a Goblin."

When Bill saw Albus nod, he got off the bed. He came over and kissed his sister's forehead and then hugged all his brothers including Harry and Hermione.

"I'll see you guys soon. No more getting into trouble."

With a sharp look at the twins, the eldest Weasley left through the floo to head to Gringotts.

After his brother left Charlie got off the bed. "I should be going as well. I left a baby Dragon down with Hagrid last night and if you don't want another Norbert I should probably go get him sooner rather than later."

Most looked at Charlie with confusion except for Albus who had a twinkle in his eye, Harry, Ron, and the twins who looked a bit guilty, and Severus who was looking at the young man incredulity.

Recovering form his shock after a moment Severus looked over at Harry. "So there was a Dragon here at Hogwarts last year. It appears that I owe Mr. Malfoy an apology and someone owes an explanation."

Albus reached out and patted the younger man on the shoulder. "Now, now Severus. I shall tell you later of what happened, but for now what is in the past is in the past. Am I right?"

Sighing Severus nodded. "You are right Albus, but you will tell me what happened. Understood?"

Smiling Albus nodded and absently noticed the look of relief on both Harry and Ron's face. He may act like an old coot most of the time, but when it came to the safety of the castle, and it's students Albus knew everything that went on. There was nothing more important to him then the safety of his students and if he had truly thought that the baby dragon posed a danger he would have stepped in immediately.

Brightening Albus clapped his hands. "Now, I believe it is time for a little lunch! Why don't you children go and look at the end of the hall here and see what the house elves brought you? Mrs. Weasley and Mr. Potter please stay here for a moment though so that Madam Pomfrey can give you a once over."

All the children jumped to comply with the Headmaster, and Charlie quietly moved to the door so that he could avoid any further questions about the dragon he had picked up here last year. As everyone was jumping to do as they were bid, Madam Pomfrey came out of her storage closet hearing her name being called. Coming over to the bed the Headmaster vaguely gestured to the bed and Poppy nodded understanding at once.

"Go hop into the other bed Mr. Potter and I'll be with you in a moment."

Harry nodded and jumped into the bed next to Ginny's. While he did so Poppy began running scans over the young girl just making sure that she had not missed anything earlier. Fortunately, this also gave her a few moments to explain to the girl what had happened to her, for no one had told her anything yet. After her scans showed what she had expected, Poppy sat down on the side of the girl's bed.

"Dear, has anyone told you what happened last night?"

She very well knew that no one had, but the child did not know that, and sometimes it could be disconcerting if she jumped right into what happened.

When the small first year shook her head, the Nurse gave a small nod in understanding. She then began to explain all of the happenings of last night. It all went well until that is Poppy began explaining how Voldemort had tampered with her mind making her forget things of controlling her actions. The poor girl started to panic and at the slight mention of seeing a Mind Healer and it seemed as if she began to shut down. Her whole body became ridged, and her eyes became glassy.

Fortunately, Don had stayed near by in case this happened. While the Mediwitch was a wonderful school nurse she did not have the natural ability of calming magic. Quickly the Healer came and sat on the other side of the bed and gently placed one hand on the girl's forehead and one on her chest pushing her gently down onto her back as he did. Carefully the man sent as much calming magic into the child as he thought she could handle and was greatly relieved when the color in the girl's cheeks started to return. While this was all happening, Albus had to almost restrain the distraught parents from trying to go and comfort their distraught child. He really did understand how hard it was for parents to see their children hurt, but he also knew how important it was for the Healers to do their jobs.

When Ginny was calm enough Don took over explaining about the Mind Healer she was going to have to see. Unfortunately, his hands were full with all his patents so he had to refer her over to someone else, but despite all the guilt he felt he thought it might be for the better. Sometimes girls felt more comfortable talking with Woman and vise versa.

Eventually, the first-year girl was nodded her head and understanding everything the Healer was saying to her. He had assured her no one thought she was crazy, something her brothers had told her led her to believe that anyone who saw a Mind Healer was. He also had to assure her a few times that it was quite normal to see someone after such a traumatic event. After those assurances though, the poor girl had calmed and finally relaxed back into her bed.

With the child relaxed Albus gave a small nod to Molly indicating that she could give her the tray of food that the house elf had brought her. Happy to be able to finally do something for her child she picked up the tray and settled down on the side of the bed that Don had vacated for her.

"Do you want some soup Ginny?"

Seeing that the smallest Weasley was now in good, capable hands Poppy and Don turned to Harry's bed. Don had talked with the Healer who had performed the surgery, but he really wanted to see for himself that the incision was healing nicely.

The two walked over to the bed that Severus was already sitting on comforting the small boy. It seemed that they were having a serious conversation. Don heard a few mentions of Draco so he placed a gentle hand on Poppy's arm to hold her back so that they could finish their conversation.

In just a few minutes, Severus noticed the Healer's presence and waved them near.

"Don, Harry has a question about Draco, maybe you would be the best one to answer him."

The Healer nodded and came over to sit on the other side of the bed.

"What is your question Harry?"

"When is Draco going to be all better?"

Don gave a small smile at the innocent question. He knew form what he had heard last year Harry would not have cared one bit how his rival healed, but things change when you find out that you have more in common then you knew. Although, this was something that you never wished to have in common with anyone.

"Everyone heals differently Harry. He will heal in time, but let's focus on you right now. Ok?"

Harry reluctantly nodded.

"Now, let Poppy do her scan and then the House Elves brought you something to eat. You don't have to stay in bed, but I thought you might want a little space from your friends."

Another nod came from the boy, and he shifted his bottom on the bed a little causing Don to give a small smile.

"I also assume it's more comfortable than a hard chair."

This time Harry's nod was not reluctant or small; it was large and vigorous causing everyone near to smile.

"That's what I thought. Now, hold still for a moment so Madam Pomfrey can cast her spell."

Harry did as he was told and Poppy cast the simple diagnostic spell over Harry. After just a few moments Poppy looked up from the paper the spell had created and nodded to the Healer.

"Everything looks fine. A little magical exhaustion, but he will recover by tomorrow."

Both Don and Severus nodded happily. Don the reached forward and started to undo the sling gently.

"Do you mind if I have a quick look Harry?"

Slowly Harry shook his head so the Healer continued to unwrap his arm. Then, very gently he rolled up the sleeve and pulled back the bandages so he could take a quick look at where the Healers had operated. Don was pleased it looked pink and healthy. With a small smile Don then wrapped it back up, rolled the sleeve back down and put it back in the sling.

Don looked up and smiled at the boy. "It looks great Harry. You'll only have a small scar no one will ever notice."

As Harry gave another nod Severus came over and placed his tray of food on the waiting lap.

"Try to eat everything here Harry and don't forget to drink all your milk first."

"Yes daddy."

As Harry began to eat Don turned to Severus. "I spoke with Pam today. She said that she would like to come over sometime this afternoon to go over Harry's schoolwork. He still needs to catch up and missing yesterday and today is not helping. Also, it will give you some time to go over to Burrow with Albus to set up the wards."

Severus gave a small nod. "That sounds like a good idea. Thank you for thinking of everything Don."

The Healer just smiled at Severus. "Go now, I see Albus beaconing you over so you two can leave. I'll stay here and make sure Harry eats enough."

The man gave another nod before turning back to Harry. "I'll be back later Harry. Pam will be by soon so that you can study some."

Taking another bite of his food Harry nodded. Seeing the small nod Severus turned and started to walk to Albus who was already heading to the floo with Arthur.