Whatever It Takes by SanctuaryAngel

Within an hour, the other occupants had returned to Grimmauld Place upon Harry's request which turned out to be a somber affair. Neville and Luna had returned first, with the Ravenclaw sporting a rather whimsical pastel rainbow dress – earning a not-so-subtle glare of disapproval from Severus. Ron, Hermione, and Ginny followed shortly after. The group piled within the newly decorated sitting room, as Kreacher decided to fill the table with blueberry muffins and assorted sandwiches with the smell of hot chocolate wafting from the large flask in the center of the room. Severus proceeded to cradle his own mug of tea in his hands, as he waited for the teenagers to finally get settled, wincing occasionally due to the discomfort of his oozing wound. Harry was careful to notice because he knew others likely wouldn't. Hermione and Ron were still slightly uncomfortable regarding the sick man and didn't quite know how to handle his deterioration as Harry himself had grown used to. He and Severus exchanged mutual glances, as Harry drew in a sharp breath to inform everyone of what he had overheard.

Harry sat on the end of the couch next to Luna and Ginny, as everyone turned to look at him, waiting anxiously. "So, I know we haven't heard of any activity lately regarding the Death Eaters since the Quarry, " Harry bit his lip, "But I went to Hogsmeade earlier for a quick visit – "

"POTTER!" Severus was definitely annoyed as his hand holding the mug shook causing a bit of his tea to spill over his cloak. He cursed under his breath.

Hermione's eyes widened, "You went by yourself?! Please tell me you used to Cloak?"

"There weren't many people around – The place was desolate. I went alone, " Harry avoided looking at Severus, knowing full well he would be shooting murderous glares his way, "Just, never mind that. I think the Death Eaters are going to attack again soon. I overheard a conversation between Pansy and Blaise."

"Those two idiots?! Why am I not surprised, " Ron scoffed, ignoring Severus' piercing glare. After all, they were his Slytherins, despite being on opposite sides of the court.

"Are you absolutely sure it was them?" Severus interjected, icily.

Harry nodded, "I only heard the conversation, but I am sure it was those two. I recognised their voices and they referred to each other by name. They are not actually Death Eaters, are they?"

Severus leaned forward in his chair, "Not last I am aware of. Nor are their families, but they are closely tied to families who are. And what, pray tell, did they discuss?"

Finally, Harry locked eyes with Severus, "Well, they know about you for one. A Death Eater named Merek told Pansy that you were…sick. He must have noticed at the Quarry."

Severus' lip curled into a venomous sneer, "Merek Selwyn is indeed a Death Eater…And it doesn't surprise me that they did. What else?"

"They mentioned another traitor, which I could only guess was Draco Malfoy. I thought that maybe he had something to do with it, but it seems he doesn't want to be involved in any of that. According to them, anyway."

"That is correct, Potter. I assure you; he wants no part of it, " Severus took a sip of his tea, eyeing each teenager carefully, despite a few disapproving glances from Ron and Ginny.

"How,/i> can you be sure of that?" Ron questioned, as he redirected his questionable gaze to the Potions Master.

Severus looked at the Weasley male with a steely gaze, "Draco, is in fact, my Godson. I still remain in contact with them. But above all else, I do not want you targeting them, am I making myself clear?"

Godson? I had no bloody idea. That explains a lot.

"Okay, fine. But either way, they could be targeting him too – " Harry explained, "Also, something else that you all need to be aware of...I think they are watching his house."

There was a collective grumble amongst the teenagers and a few of them glanced nervously at each other.

Ginny looked startled, "But the wards should be cloaking them?"

"I know, but it's possible that they discovered its approximate location. Or maybe they spotted one of us coming here, or walking across the street to apparate, " Harry responded, as he threw up his hands, "I don't know. I'm just telling you what I heard."

Hermione was exasperated, "Well, maybe they followed you, Harry? You should not have gone to Hogsmeade – "

"That decision of yours was exceedingly reckless, Potter. What if they spotted you? You could have been easily ambushed – " Severus' nostrils suddenly flared up in simmering anger, sitting up straight in his chair.

"- You can't seriously expect me to hide in here forever, sir, " Harry responded in disbelief.

"That's what your mutt of a Godfather said before he foolishly ran into danger and got himself killed, despite his warnings to stay put!" Severus hissed, "We need no repeat of such feats of stupidity. Least of all from you, Potter. Have you learned nothing?!"

"You wouldn't understand! Turns out you didn't learn a damn thing either!" Harry snapped.

Severus' eyes flashed murderously, "I BEG YOUR – "

"- I don't want to hear it! You've made your bloody point, now LISTEN to me!"

Everyone except Harry and Severus shifted uncomfortably in their seats, not daring to intervene between two tenacious individuals. Ron and Neville exchanged wide-eyed glances while Hermione sat there in horror. The only one who barely blinked was Luna, who looked at each Harry and Severus, expecting the tirade to continue.

Harry was the only one who ever dared to respond to the Potions Master in that way, and the Gryffindor couldn't care less. The others may have been too timid to speak up, but Harry sure as hell wasn't.

Harry shot Severus a furious glare, before feeling Ginny's arm clutch him in a vice-grip of warning. Rage was bubbling inside of him, and he did his best to quell that feeling. He would not expect any less from him and taunting the memory of his Godfather was not something he would stand for. Severus – Snape - was infuriating and condescending and he very well knew it. He knew how to antagonise and push Harry's rage buttons and it took every ounce of strength to keep himself from racing up to him, grabbing him by his collar, and shake some sense into him. But he knew that would do neither of them any favors at this point. Severus knew he was striking a chord and he was expecting Harry to lash out. No, he will not give him that satisfaction. He knew how easily Harry's anger would spill over the boiling cauldron and if this was one of his other 'tough lessons' scenarios, then he was definitely going to have words with him later.

After a short pause, and still glaring furiously at the unruly Gryffindor, Severus narrowed his eyes, "…Continue, Potter."

Gritting his teeth to quell his simmering rage, Harry continued, "Look, I think we should consider scouting Hogsmeade. Or at least, ask around to see if they've noticed any strange activity. They mentioned not meeting there again so they don't intervene with whatever might go down there. Obviously, something is about to go down."

"And walk back into the dragon's den? Are you mental?" Ron shot a dangerous look at Harry, "You know I'm all for catching these lunatics and given their new fixation with Polyjuice Potion, what's to say with what you overheard, was a trap? Was it even them?"

"For once, I agree with Mr. Weasley's rather – acute - assessment. Those Death Eaters will do absolutely anything to draw you out. They will taunt you and provoke you until you submit. They were likely waiting for you to finally show up, " Severus exclaimed, still seething. He looked at each other teenager individually, "As with the rest of you. You must remain cautious. Even safe places can be compromised."

Harry's stomach lurched at that idea.

"I think we should go and see Aberforth at Hog's Head, " Neville chimed in, "We can warn him and be on the lookout for anything suspicious. If anything goes down, he'd be one of the first ones to know."

Hermione tilted her head, "That's not such a bad idea." She looked at Severus nervously, who glowered at the idea. He definitely calculated their intentions, "Sir, we'll be quick – "

"I will highly advise you that it is a terrible idea. I wouldn't imagine any less from you Gryffindors, " Severus eyed Luna dully, "The Ravenclaw, ironically, remains passive."

Luna shrugged, nonchalantly, "Well, unfortunately, I'd have to agree with them, Professor Snape. I mean, I'm all for waiting, but we'd be unable to form a logical plan of attack without further details. Minus Gryffindors, we likely won't accomplish anything quickly enough. We have no Hufflepuffs within our company and the only Slytherin we have with us – you of course – should be using their cunning and resourcefulness to logically send the Gryffindors in their place. Besides, sir, you are noticeably ill, so it'll be risky for you to go, so conclusively, I think it's a good plan."

Wait, what? Harry blinked several times.

Ginny snorted under her breath, while Hermione went wide-eyed again. The room went silent for a few short moments, as all occupants watched Severus in horror. The Potion's Master, however, remained apathetic as he glared at Luna with such intensity that Luna herself barely blinked. Harry couldn't help but be amused by this. Had they still been at Hogwarts, they would have all scored detention for a month, at the very least.

Well done, Luna.

Eventually, after a short pause, Severus raised an eyebrow, "Very well. Although Miss Lovegood does raise a few valid points, I do, however, take your safety very seriously. Despite what you may presume. I suspect you all to take initiative – Merlin forbid – at any sign of danger. You are to see Aberforth and only him, and make your way back here at once."

"You're actually okay with letting us go?" Ginny asked, cautiously.

Severus sighed, as he lightly pinched the bridge of his nose, "I am not. Except for Miss Weasley, the rest of you are of age. Technically, I cannot keep you here against your will. But heed my warning, that the danger is still imminent. Much to my disapproval, I cannot be seen there, therefore I am unable to accompany you this time," He took a last glance at Harry and the teenager nodded in silent understanding. Because it was Aberforth that caught him eavesdropping on the Prophecy that fateful night in Hogs Head. There was no way he was going to risk taking Severus with them, for fear of Aberforth spilling his whereabouts to the Aurors who were stationed at Hogsmeade. It was far too risky.

Even if Harry were still mad at Severus for his rude retort earlier about Sirius, even Harry wouldn't stoop that low to put him in danger like that.

"Well, I think only a few of us should go, " Harry suggested.

"I'll go with you, Harry. He knows me well enough, " Neville offered immediately.

Hermione nodded, eagerly, "I'll go too. And make sure we don't stay longer than necessary."

"I'll stay if you don't mind. The smell of Hogs Head makes me want to barf and if that bloody goat of his chews on my jumper one more time, I'm going to lose it, " Ron grimaced.

"Right, then that's settled then. Ron, Luna, and Ginny stay here. We won't be long, " Harry quickly pinched a cheese and pickle sandwich square from the pile on the table and stood up. He glanced at Severus who had leaned back into his chair and tapped his fingers agitatedly against the armrest of his chair, watching the Gryffindor intently on the way out.

Harry didn't waste any time as he departed Grimmauld Place with Neville and Hermione at his heel and hastily apparated beyond the new wards placed at Hogsmeade. They did their best to avoid any Aurors, as they still could not trust their true identities, and slipped into the alleyway off the High Street leading them towards the familiar Hogs Head. Pushing through the old wooden door, a small bell chimed as the three of them piled through. Much to their relief, the place was empty. An odd smell wafted under his nose, as he looked at Hermione who shared the same look of mild revulsion.

Neville wandered ahead to the bar, to look around for the younger Dumbledore brother. But soon enough, heavy footsteps emerged from the hallway leading to the spare rooms and Aberforth appeared holding a dirty cloth, which Harry hoped was not used on those drinking mugs at the bar.

Aberforth didn't look entirely pleased by his new guests, and huffed under his breath, "Didn't think I'd see you lot again."

"Hi Aberforth, " Neville greeted, earning a nod of acknowledgment from the elder.

"Neville Longbottom, "Aberforth stared at the three of them, "So. What brings you here? Harry Potter, I sure hope you have a good reason to show up here, even though those nasty Death Eaters are still on your tail."

Aberforth motioned for the trio to take a seat at the table in the corner while he joined them. Harry tapped nervously on the table, "Actually sir, that's kind of why we are here."

"Is that so?" Aberforth huffed, tossing the cloth on the table, and steepled his fingers as he rested on the table's edge.

"We're here to find out if you've seen anything, well…suspicious around. Preferably recently, " Hermione asked.

"As opposed to the blasted Aurors taking over the village? I prefer to keep myself away from the public eye, so to speak."

"Taking over?"

"Ever since that attack at Godric's Hollow, the Ministry has stationed Aurors here to keep an eye on things. Some of them look a bit shifty. I don't trust them."

Harry nodded, "Yeah, I wouldn't either. They were using Polyjuice Potion to kidnap Muggleborns and Blood Traitors."

"That doesn't surprise me. Those vile cretins, " He looked at the trio with disgust, "But to answer your question, no I haven't seen anything else worth noting. As you can see, it hasn't exactly been booming with business since the attack on Hogwarts. No one dare come by here anymore."

"What about any other students?" Neville asked.

"Honeyduke's opened up again a few days ago, but it's been barren, like every other shop front here. Although, I did notice a pair of students wandering around in the last few days."

Hermione stated, "Are you able to recognise them, sir?"

Aberforth paused in thought, "Male and female. The male was tall and dark-skinned – quite a handsome lad - and the female had brunette hair and a pug-like nose. No offense to her or anything. They both looked a little too smug like we didn't just survive a ruddy war."

Harry and Hermione shared a worried glance. Well, that was almost a total confirmation. He didn't know anyone else who would fit that description, and as for the male, Harry was sure that wasn't Dean. He looked back at Aberforth, "Did you hear them saying anything?"

Aberforth shook his head, "They were too far away for me to tell. But all I know is that they've been here twice in the last two days and I know for certain they don't reside here."

"Anyone else with them?" Neville asked.

Aberforth looked at each teenager, a little frustrated, "Look, everyone is looking over their shoulders now. It's still not safe. I have better things to do than spy on a pair of students likely minding their own business. I prefer to keep to myself if you don't mind."

"Would you let us know if you do see anything odd? The sooner we stop this the better," Harry sighed. This conversation was obviously nearing its end and it was clear that Aberforth did not want to talk to them any longer.

"It's not your job to stop. Haven't you done enough? If my blasted brother had a little more decency, he wouldn't have been so giddy priming a child to do his dirty work. If I were you, I'd watch your back. I hear Severus Snape is still prowling around. And I am almost certain he is behind the kidnappings. Mark my words, if I ever see that filth with my own eyes again, I will kill him myself, " There was glimmering malice in the man's eyes, that had Harry feeling incredibly uncomfortable. He – they - knew full well that Severus wasn't behind the attacks but they had to give him the benefit of the doubt to protect him. He wasn't the enemy.

Harry clenched his jaw, growing annoyed with the older man before them, "I'm sure there are others more violent we should worry about." He nudged Hermione and Harry stood up from the table clearly wanting to end this discussion. "We best be going."

Aberforth nodded, almost pleased, "You best do that, Mr. Potter."

Harry, Hermione, and Neville filed out of Hogs Head looking rather bewildered, making their way down the barren alleyway in a bid to stray away from any potential eavesdroppers.

Hermione lowered her voice, "I don't know about you Harry, but I don't think I trust him anymore."

Harry nodded, biting his lip, "Yeah. I'd have to agree."

"Maybe he just wants to keep to himself? Go back into being a recluse like he did before Hogwarts got attacked, " Neville whispered.

"Yeah, but surely he still cares about the threat?"

"Maybe that's precisely why he doesn't want to be involved. So, he doesn't end up a target, " Hermione responded. "Also, he is accusing Snape on a whim because he wants to point the blame on someone seemingly obvious. That's never a good sign."

Harry sighed, "Yeah, that's why I didn't want to stick around any longer in there." He frowned, deep in thought, and shook his head as if he were responding to himself.

Hermione noticed his hesitation, "Harry, what is it? What's on your mind?"

"I – " Harry lowered his head, so he couldn't be overheard, "– What if, and I know this is going to sound crazy, but what if we…approach Draco? Ask him directly?"

Hermione's eyes grew wide. "Harry – "

"- Just listen. If Draco is actually not involved and is still in hiding, then maybe he can help us put a stop to this?"

"That is absolutely bonkers, Harry, " Neville looked uncertain. "But you can't be sure. We can't trust him, even though he turned against Voldemort at the last minute."

"Snape said so and I trust his word about him. Don't you?" Harry responded.

"Yeah, but Draco may have been lying to him about that. We may never know, " Hermione still looked extremely worried.

"Look, I don't fully trust Draco either. But he could be valuable to us."

"What makes you think he'll ever work with us? Or want to?" Neville chimed.

"If he is being targeted, and by the sounds of it, has no one else left to turn to, then that may be more of an incentive to ask, don't you think?"

"I really don't think this is a good idea," Hermione shook her head, "And there is no way we are going back to Malfoy Manor, no…" She looked upset. He didn't blame her. After what happened at Malfoy Manor once they were caught by Snatchers, it was hell for all of them, especially for Hermione. There was no way she was willing to venture back in there.

Harry placed a reassuring hand on her forearm, "We won't be going there. Maybe I'll ask Snape and see what he thinks. Besides, his mother saved my life and lied for me. The least I could do is offer them a chance to work with us. Lucius is in Azkaban, so at least we don't have to deal with him."

Hermione nodded, "Alright. Let's go home. We've already been here far longer than necessary."

The three of them hastily darted away from the wizarding village and made their way back to Grimmauld Place to find Severus playing wizards chess with Ron to kill some time while they returned. Upon walking into the sitting room on the first floor, it was definitely a strange sight. Harry paused in his tracks as Severus claimed one of Ron's bishops, leaving the Slytherin looking incredibly smug. Ron grumbled frustratingly under his breath.

How the hell did Severus convince him to play against him? Maybe it was his way of making sure they didn't leave. He looked over at Ginny who watched the game with amusement, on the couch beside Ron. Or maybe she baited them to it.

"I never thought I'd ever see the day, " Neville followed Harry into the sitting room and sat down. Luna had since left their company, so it was the two Weasleys and the Head of Slytherin left behind, "So who is winning?"

Ron looked glum, "Take a wild bloody guess." He moved a chess piece.

Severus smirked.

The man immediately took one of Ron's knights as he turned to observe Harry, "Good. You're still in one piece, Potter. Discover anything mildly useful?"

Harry slumped down in the chair, "Aside from confirming that it was Pansy and Blaise there, in which they were sighted a few other times. But Aberforth wasn't particularly too helpful."

"That doesn't surprise me in the slightest, " Severus narrowed his eyes, regarding the teenagers carefully before him, "He will only assist if it directly concerns him. Were you seen?"

Hermione stepped in as she shook her head, "No. Well, we didn't see anyone else there. The place is rather deserted."

Severus paused, as he further ponded their next move. His baritone voice had its own sense of finality, "I will inform the Minister directly, so he can make the appropriate adjustments. If Death Eaters have posed as one of the Aurors, then I fear we may not be able to discover their true identities until it is too late, " Severus sighed as he abandoned the game of chess and stood up from his chair, "Furthermore, he must be informed of what we know. Vague, but better than no news. I will not be long. Stay put until I return, is that clear?"

There was a collective nod, and with a sweep of his robes, the Slytherin left their vicinity.

Harry turned to Hermione, "I'll have a chat with Snape later about…You know."

"Say what?" Ron leaned back into his seat, with his arms crossed over his chest.

Harry and Hermione exchanged worried glances, as Harry turned to Ron, "Draco."

"That git? What's he up to this time?"

"Well, the thing is, he's not up to anything. As far as we know. You heard Snape. He's done with them, " Harry sat back onto the couch, "But I was thinking that maybe we could use his help."

Ron looked mad, "That pretentious idiot? Hell bloody no, Harry!"

"Look, I know it's a far reach. But he did come through in the end, didn't he? What if the Death Eaters kill him? I know he's an absolute tosser, but I wouldn't want to wish him dead, either."

"I didn't think you gave a damn about him."

"I don't. But if he's in danger too, then – " Harry sighed, "We can at least try and help?"

"He's right, Ron. We can't be heartless. Leaving him as a target is rather cruel, " Hermione bit her lip, "Surely even he doesn't deserve that."

"He did pretend not to recognise me at Malfoy Manor, remember? I don't know if you noticed, but he was scared out of his mind, " Harry reminded them. He surely could not forget, "His mum protected me by lying to Voldemort's face on the night I went to my death."

Ron didn't say a thing, but he clearly looked unsure about the idea. Harry knew it would not have sat well with the others, and the idea of extending an olive branch to his former rival irked even him. But he wanted to continue to do the right thing, then Draco had a chance to help them set this right. If he is hurt or killed, then Harry would feel guilty for not doing enough. He didn't want to become friends with Draco – he knew that would not be possible. They were simply far too different. But they can at least extend some sort of civil truce. Draco and his mother must also be hiding away, much like he and Severus were. Wouldn't it be easier if they could work together, even briefly, and set this right? Harry didn't care about Pansy or Blaise. He cared about the other Death Eaters who want nothing more than to frighten them and everyone else that Harry knows. Poor victims snatched from their homes in a bid to instill fear and terror in the name of their fallen Dark Lord. No one was safe. People were still captured, families are torn apart, and tortured in front of each other, scarring them for the rest of their lives.

They still had no idea where Lee was taken, nor Dean's parents. Who else would be added?

They will not rest until they've ripped everyone else apart. They have to stop this somehow and if that meant reconnecting with old enemies, then it would be a benefit to everyone towards a common goal.

Hermione left shortly after with Ron to check up on the other potion brewing away at Hogwarts, with Neville making a stop to visit his parents at St. Mungos. Ginny had stayed with Harry for a while but eventually ventured home back to the Burrow. Severus had returned a few hours later in the evening – much to Harry's increasing worry – and slumped back into his usual chair in the sitting room, looking exhausted. His face was pallid and gaunt and he was clearly devoured of all energy. Harry took a seat in the opposite sofa chair by the fire and observed the man closely as he watched Severus close his eyes briefly, and shiver slightly. Harry withdrew his wand and added further flames to the fireplace.

"…Are you alright?"

There was a slight wheeziness to the man's breathing, but after a minute, he finally opened his eyes again and looked at Harry warily, "Long or short version? Mind you, I'd rather not express either as they would likely contain expletives I'd rather not repeat."

"…Severus?"

The Slytherin simply raised an eyebrow.

Harry inhaled sharply, "Look, I'm not sorry for getting mad at you earlier about what you said about Sirius, but I am sorry about hassling you earlier about seeing my parents, " Harry paused to see the fatigued and defeated look upon Severus' face, "I didn't want to force you to go. That was…unfair."

"I don't regret what I said, as I merely proving a vital point and common sense for your benefit, " Severus looked away upon the mention of Sirius and pinched his nose. "I appreciate the apology, but it is not necessary, " He tilted his head, looking back at the Gryffindor, "Your unwavering ability to do the right thing can often cloud your judgment upon another's needs. Nevertheless, I do understand your wishes. I admit I was a little taken aback by the request."

"I didn't mean to throw you off guard, " Harry responded, "I just genuinely thought it would help."

Severus' expression remained passive, "Perhaps, I will consider it. For a later date once it is somewhat safe to do so. But I cannot promise anything."

"I know. I understand, really, " Harry pulled his legs up to his chest, curling up on the sofa.

Severus raised his chin to observe the Gryffindor carefully, "…Are you alright?"

Harry's heart jumped in his chest, as he shook his head slowly, "Usually I would lie and say yes, but you would see right through that, wouldn't you?"

"Naturally. However, you are easy to read, therefore it doesn't take much effort to speculate, " Severus leaned forward in his chair slightly, with a look of dismay upon his face and sadness deep within his dark eyes, "Harry, I must be clear with you. There really is no easy way for me to say this, however…I do not know how much longer I have left - Could be weeks or months. With that in mind, I want you to…go forth and create a life for yourself, despite what happens. Continue to make good choices, regardless of the odds that appear stacked against you. You are worth more than you perceive yourself to be."

Harry was suddenly tearful, "No one has ever really told me that…" That hit him unexpectedly hard. He really didn't anticipate that at all, but the sentiment made him sad and he spoke the next few words feeling as if a bubble was rising within his throat, "…We will fix this."

"But if not, I want to thank you for putting faith in me that I never expected from anyone. Especially from you, after everything you've endured… " Severus' eyes seemed to glaze over and he drew in a gentle breath, "I realise I spent many years resenting you severely and treating you unfairly and that alone is another regret of mine. The things I said and did, I can never take back. And yet, you still fight for my life. No one has ever shown kindness quite as you have. Admittedly, I never expected this to happen."

Harry offered a small smile, "I never expected this either, in all honesty. I just wish I had known the truth sooner. It's just unfair that we never got that chance before."

"Unfortunately, many paths were never meant to be. "

"And yet, here we are. I think we defied enough odds; don't you agree?"

"Indeed, we did, " Severus' mouth twitched into a small smile.

Regarding the man with a soft curiosity, Harry bit his lip, "I didn't realise Draco was your Godson. I didn't know you had…"

"…Family?" Severus raised his eyebrows, "I no longer have any blood relatives left. Aside from my estranged Muggle father who left many years ago, Draco is technically, the closest I have."

Harry frowned, "I had the impression you and Draco were close."

"Were. He grew distant once he accepted the Mark. Since then, we have not been close. He did not take kindly to my…defection. He feels like I betrayed him and his family."

Harry clenched his jaw, "I'm…sorry."

"Don't be. I was unable to sway him away from such a choice because unlike myself, he faced death if he refused. I am not worthy of being his Godfather because I was unable to help him when he truly needed it."

"That can't be true. I'm sure you would have done everything you could. With a family like the Malfoys, I suppose his fate was set in stone."

"He was punished for the mistakes of his father. No child should have to endure that."

Harry noticed Severus' hesitation, yet silent realisation, as he watched the man avert his gaze painfully away. Was that guilt? Did Severus feel guilty for treating Harry with unfair disdain, because of the actions of his father?

Harry often wondered if the man ever regretted that decision to consistently mock Harry because of how badly his father had treated Severus all those years ago. Harry was always made to feel guilty and felt that there was nothing else that he could do to convince him that he really wasn't his father. But that was in the past now, right? He knew Severus had now started to realise that Harry was his own person, and he was not the arrogant, spoilt, and pretentious man his father was. He was a far cry from that, and so very much the opposite. In a way, he was glad Severus had finally come to realise that. Harry was not coddled, or lavished, or loved by his family. He was deprived, abused, and left forgotten for the first eleven years of his life. He was starved, hurt, and neglected. Even though Severus may never fully understand that perhaps he had more in common with the Slytherin's upbringing after all.

Blood does not always mean family, in any situation. Aunt Petunia was Harry's blood relative, but he never perceived her as family. Yet he always saw Molly Weasley as the closest person to a mother he had ever had, and she was far perceived to be family more so than his deranged Aunt.

Given the hallucinations Severus must have seen on the first ritual night, he was sure that he had his own hardships and psychological hurdles with his own father. Images of a young Severus huddled in the corner with a towering father overhead sent chills down Harry's spine. It reminisced of some of the darker nights Harry had endured with his uncle Vernon. Given that flashback, Harry realised he could further relate to Severus. No child deserved to endure that with any of their family members.

Harry gently cleared his throat, "Severus, I was thinking earlier if there was a way to, well…ask for his help? That is if he really is against their cause."

Severus frowned, "I don't think he would take kindly to such an invitation. He is very set on his ways. However, next, I see him, perhaps I can mention it. I can't guarantee he'd be thrilled, but I do know for certain that he wants the threat to dissipate. He, and his mother, do not feel safe."

"I owe Narcissa, too. Did I mention she lied to Voldemort for me? If she is an Occlumens, she did bloody well."

Severus seemed surprised, "Did she, now?"

Harry nodded, "When I went to the forest, to my death…After I came back. She asked me if Draco was alive and I nodded. She then turned to Voldemort and announced that I was dead. She saved me."

Severus looked taken aback, "I had no idea. That is rather…admirable of her. She never informed me of such a feat."

Harry snorted lightly, "I doubt she would have. She'd probably hate to admit it. But the point is, I owe her. If Draco has more information, then it would be logical to ask, don't you think?"

Severus gave a single nod, "I will attempt to contact him, if that is, you are certain. Draco may be my Godson, but he has often made terrible decisions without confronting me. I am doubtful of how much he is willing to share with me in this instance. He and I got off on the wrong foot previously."

"Then I'll go and see him myself – "

Severus raised his palm upwards to halt him, "- That will not be necessary, Harry. I will speak with him first and inform you, and we'll go from there."

"Thank you."

Severus glanced at the old antique grandfather clock in the corner of the room. It was close to midnight. He looked at Harry, with a slight narrowing of his eyes, "Time for bed, Gryffindor."

Harry snorted, "Yes, Da- "

Oh, crap.

His mind had wandered back to father and hadn't realised it was about to slip out.

He shut his mouth so quickly, he almost bit his tongue. His face flushed with embarrassment. Severus stared at him; eyes widened at the remark. Yup, he definitely caught that. What the hell was I thinking?! If it weren't him in the room, he would have yelled out the harshest expletive he could muster.

Severus then seemed to hesitate briefly but changed back to his usual passive deadpan expression once again, "Bed."

Harry shook his head, completely beside himself, and rose from the couch. The Slytherin, however, didn't do so effortlessly. He struggled a little, still devoured by the energy and strength to push himself up. Harry took a step closer and outstretched his arm towards him. Severus finally looked up at Harry, defeated, and clasped his forearm tightly pulling the unwell man back onto his feet. They walked together up the next flight of stairs making sure Severus was able to get to his room without further accidents, before leaving him there for the night and heading upstairs to the fourth floor towards his own room.

Harry got dressed and slumped into his bed drifting off to sleep immediately. That was definitely one of the quickest, and for once, didn't involve him staring at the ceiling for hours on end before he slipped into a peaceful slumber. No nightmares that night much to his relief, but he did have an odd dream of being drowned in his bedroom, as it was filling up with Bertie Bott's Every Flavoured Beans. He wasn't sure how long he slept, but he was being gently prodded awake by Severus in the pitch black of the night. Was he dreaming? He didn't recall having a nightmare, so this was rather startling.

"What – "

"Excuse the rude awakening, but the Headmistress will be here shortly. Something has happened, " Severus lowered his voice, which was welcoming since his usual booming tone would have caused him heart palpitations. The man was slightly breathless – how quickly did he climb up those stairs? Harry sat up and swung his legs over the edge of the bed and reached for his glasses on the bedside table.

Harry's heart, although, did begin to race, "What happened? What time is it?"

"Two-thirty in the morning. She sent me a Patronus a few minutes prior – " They heard the front door open and Severus immediately withdrew his wand defensively. Once they heard the familiar voice of McGonagall calling their names, he breathed a sigh of relief as he turned to Harry, "…Follow me."

Harry grabbed his wand at his bedside, still in his pajamas as with Severus still in his day clothes from that evening – Did he even sleep? - and followed him downstairs to where they greeted McGonagall in the kitchen.

"Ahh, there you are – " She looked deeply concerned. She wore a simple grey and navy robe; likely in her bid to look decent enough to leave her quarters in such disarray at this odd hour. Her greyed hair was mostly up in a messy bun, leaving a few straggled strands hanging down the side of her face. She looked at the attire of both men before men, before making her acute judgment, "Good, you haven't left. There's been an incident."

"At Hogsmeade?" Harry asked.

McGonagall frowned, "How did you – "

"Never mind that Minerva, what happened?" Severus motioned for the others to take a seat. He clearly didn't fancy staying on his feet for any longer than necessary, because his effort of subtly leaning against the doorframe did him no favors.

"An Auror was found dead in the center of the village overnight, " The Headmistress looked sickened, "They found his, err…head on a pike by the well…It was one of the Aurors that we had stationed at Hogwarts a while ago. Edward Blackmore, I believe…The Minister has sent more Aurors to scout the area. They can't find the rest of him – "

Harry's stomach lurched. Yet Severus remained composed, "Is that the only death?"

She shook her head grimly, "A family was also attacked in Hogsmeade. A single father and his young child were found dead in their home. His wife had already passed in the Second War. A half-blood family. This is absolutely horrendous."

Harry threw his hand over his mouth, too shocked to say anything.

"I was deeply concerned that you were both there, hence the emergency message, Severus, " McGonagall looked exhausted, "…I had to inform you both. This is deeply unsettling."

"We can't trust those Aurors, Professor – " Harry swallowed thickly. There was really no telling which one of them was on their side, "And Kingsley could also be in danger – "

"Minister Shacklebolt is well aware of the situation, Mr. Potter. But I'm afraid there is not much else we can do – "

There was a loud CRASH just outside the front door of Grimmauld Place. Immediately, all three of them stood up and withdrew their wands, exchanging worried glances as they turned to the front door in silent anticipation.

Another CRASH reverberated, shaking the front door this time. Someone was definitely trying to break in.

Severus arched his head upwards, as he spoke with a hurried whisper, "Upstairs, now."

Harry and McGonagall made their way towards the stairs, with Severus rallied behind them as they traveled towards the first floor. Any further up and they will likely get cornered. Severus stood in front of them facing the descending stairwell, with his wand arm outstretched and ready, but Harry took a step forward to stand beside him as a fortified front. If Severus' magic were indeed losing power, they would surely be in deep trouble.

There was a final CRASH when they heard the front door finally snap off its hinges causing Harry to flinch. There was an agonising silence for a while, which was very unnerving. Eventually, careful footsteps sounded below, creaking every weakened floorboard that existed on the ground floor, which told Harry exactly where in the house they were. Apart from the startling screeches of Mrs. Black's portrait, the scathing voices indicated that they definitely had more than one enemy in their midst. He could not recognise the voices but judging by the darkened sneer Severus had plastered on his face, it was obvious to him that he did. But everything happened so quickly that Harry could not fathom the situation fast enough.

Before Harry could even finish blinking, a blinding flash suddenly exploded in front of them, throwing them completely off guard. No one had any time to activate a Shield Charm, as the three of them stumbled backward as they recoiled from the harsh magical flashbang, backing up at the beginning of the ascending stairwell to the next floor. Severus suddenly grabbed a fistful of Harry's shirt, and pulled him roughly behind him as the Potion's Master began to fire an assortment of spells at the enemies below. McGonagall followed Severus and immediately, chaos rang throughout Grimmauld Place.

Severus fired a non-verbal curse, blowing a hole in one of the adjoining walls below, with splintering wood exploding anywhere. Their first masked Death Eater below retaliated with a purple beam of a curse that Harry had never seen before, which shot painfully close over Severus' head, hitting the wall behind the odd trio. Harry glanced beside him to see the wall begin to disintegrate and melt away as if it were penetrated with acid. Severus cast a non-verbal Shield Charm and their second attempt backfired and hit the floor beneath the feet of the second Death Eater. The floor began to disintegrate beneath them.

There was a sound of a crack behind him and two of the Death Eaters from below had apparated behind, trapping them in the middle. McGonagall turned swiftly on her feet and began to duel the offenders behind them in a flurry of golden tendrils from her wand. The Death Eater retaliated sending curses upon every available surface, blowing holes into the walls around them. Harry managed to compose himself and joined McGonagall's side in attacking the Death Eaters determined to flank them.

Harry swung his wand up in a sharp upwards motion to cast a non-verbal Expelliarmus, but the enemy predicted that immediately and cast another Shield Charm, knocking Harry off his feet as if someone had pulled the rug out from underneath him. Still clutching his wand, he fired a non-verbal Incendio on a whim and hit the legs of the Death Eater who attacked him. He watched as the flames burned the man's legs, as he tumbled to the floor.

"NOT a fire charm! You'll burn the bloody house down – " Severus' deep voice bellowed behind him. He didn't miss a beat.

Whoops.

Ignoring his own blunder and scattered miscalculation, Harry scrambled to his feet and watched his Head of House duel with such finesse and power despite her elderly frame, that it took all but a few more seconds to send the two Death Eaters sprawled to the floor. It was actually rather fascinating to watch, but he did everything in his power to prevent himself from becoming too distracted. Harry turned to find Severus had disappeared downstairs, likely trying to drive the others away.

Grimmauld Place was not exactly the ideal dueling ground, as it was far too cramped and small to fight without the increased risk of injuring another ally unintentionally. He couldn't keep track of the Death Eaters that had infiltrated the property because some kept reappearing elsewhere within the house, further confusing them. It was all getting very frustrating.

Severus slashed at one of the enemies below with his familiar Sectumsempra, causing him to crumble to the floor in his place. But as he was occupied with him, another Death Eater reappeared behind the Slytherin and flung his wand arm back, ready to strike. Harry was on the staircase and had seen what was about to happen.

"Glacius impedimenta!" Harry shouted the freezing charm that Severus had taught him and watched as a ball of ice formed at the tip of his wand and with a sharp movement, he fired it at the opposing Death Eater. The ball of ice was hurled through the air and hit the enemy square in the chest. Frost encompassed him, freezing him to the spot from head to toe, unmoving like an ice sculpture.

Severus turned around immediately to find his sneak attacker incapacitated, and Harry as the caster. He didn't say anything, but the pleased look he had on his face at the feat, told much. But as soon as they heard a worrying THUMP in the floor above, Severus and Harry exchanged panicked glances as they raced upstairs. First floor…Second floor…Third floor…They passed an unconscious Death Eater on the way up, but eventually, they found the Headmistress dueling an enemy on the third floor. A curse shot by McGonagall's arm, creating a horrible gash along her left shoulder, leaving the elderly witch to yelp in pain. Severus was breathless, once they finally reached the correct floor. McGonagall was able to finally render her enemy unconscious but she turned to clutch her injured shoulder. She looked incredibly frazzled.

Behind them, another Death Eater scrambled to his feet, with another right behind them. But as Severus turned to fire another spell, a few harmless white sparks spilled out of the end like a sparkler. Both enemies fired spells simultaneously when they hit the wall beside them, causing a small explosion that rocked that very floor.

Harry didn't remember much after that, because he was struck by a piece of debris that hit him square in the back of his head. Everything spun around him as his vision blurred, and an intense ringing in his ear caused a wave of vertigo to hit him. Harry remembered hitting the floor and strained to listen as the familiar pop of apparition sounded twice, letting him know that those Death Eaters had escaped.

Harry groaned as he managed to roll onto his side but his efforts were practically useless. His vision was still blurry, but he could hear the scrambling of two people close by. He could barely hear their panicked voices amongst the frustrating ringing within his ear. But eventually, he felt himself being pulled onto his back and sat slightly upright. Instead of expecting his back against a wall, he was pulled back on something softer. Or someone. Through squinting eyes, he could see a tangle of shredded and dust-filled black robes around him, as he could see the familiar pale and bleeding hand of Severus holding him steady around his torso, and one stabilising his head in place. Any sudden movement caused Harry to feel sick. He knew he had sustained a concussion and Severus had sat him up to avoid the risk of him choking on his own vomit.

But Severus was there. And Harry felt safe.

"It's alright, remain still… " Severus' voice was gentle and reassuring, but Harry couldn't help but detect a slight shakiness in his voice. Harry felt a cold compress on the back of his head. Severus must have ushered a mild cooling spell for his head injury.

Harry murmured, "Are they -?"

"- They are gone."

Harry breathed a sigh of relief. What had happened, though?

"Severus is he – " McGonagall was still here.

"A concussion, by the looks of it. No other visible injuries as far as I can tell. Harry will recover, but he must remain still for the moment – " Severus looked worryingly at McGonagall and noticed her bleeding shoulder, "Minerva…"

McGonagall knelt down beside the pair, ignoring her own wound, and placed a hand on Severus' shoulder with a stricken expression, "Never mind that - Your magic -"

"– I know. It's been a recent and unfortunate…Hindrance, " Severus responded, frustratingly, "I – "

McGonagall squeezed his shoulder further, as her voice lowered, "- I am aware, Severus. About everything. "

Severus flinched and Harry could feel him tense up and the man's heart beating furiously within his chest. His eyes darted from Harry and back to the elderly witch, "Of course you know." Harry felt the arm around him tighten gently. It was a small comfort.

McGonagall offered a smile at Harry and then back at Severus. She must have caught on to Severus' first-name basis with Harry only moments ago. She slowly stood up, hearing a few crackles emanate from her old bones and brushed away some of the debris from her robes.

She drew in a deep breath, "I must re-activate the wards immediately, so no more enemies attempt a last-minute attack. We need no more surprises tonight. Stay put, you two." McGonagall hastily dashed down the stairs to set up magical barriers once again.

The comforting hands holding Harry further tightened once she disappeared from view and he could hear the shaky breaths from Severus in distress. "…I'm so…My shield charm failed and I couldn't…"

Harry grabbed the man's visibly tremoring wrist suddenly, "You didn't know it was going to happen. It's okay -"

"It – is – not – okay!" Severus' wavering voice was a mixture of anger and despair. It tore Harry's heart to shreds. He was clearly and deeply affected by this mishap. Even worse than that day when he accidentally struck Harry.

"…Don't be upset."

That must have been the final thread to snap because Harry felt a single tear fall and drop onto his shirt as Severus further enveloped him into an embrace, resting his forehead on top of his messy, debris-filled hair. They both sat together on the floor in comfortable silence.

Harry didn't slacken his own hand on the man's wrist, but instead, squeezed it gently, silently regarding the wary man in his company.

They were both safe and alive, and that was enough.