“Ha! So there’s a truth? Knew he was hiding something! Evil little-“

“Sirius, we already know you don’t like him and with reason. May I continue reading now,” Lily said calmly.

The sensation of someone running their fingers through his messy hair slowly brought Harry out of his slumber. The touch was comforting and oddly familiar. Harry let out a groan as he leaned into the touch. His arms and legs felt weak which confused him. He tried to move his limbs but they just wouldn’t obey. Why couldn’t he move? Harry groaned again in annoyance. He didn’t like this…not one bit. After a moment Harry felt like something was missing. It didn’t take him long to realize his necklace had been removed.

“Excuse me, what now? Why did you remove it? He has a bad enough time not having outburst with the bloody necklace and you go and remove it!” James cried irritated.

“Maybe they found another way. Let’s just wait and see before you go killing everyone,” Remus reasoned. James huffed.

“I think he’s finally waking up.”

“No, you do?” Sirius rolled his eyes. “Genius!”

Harry groaned again as he slowly opened his eyes. The dim lighting in addition to his poor eyesight made it impossible for him to make out whose face he was looking at. He blinked a few times and saw another blurry face come into view. A cool hand touched his forehead sending a chill down Harry’s spine. The bed he was in was firm and unmistakably one belonging in the hospital wing. Harry tried to lift his arm to find his glasses but his arm still refused to move. Whoever was looking down at him seemed to notice his problem because the next thing Harry knew his glasses were slid on his face bringing everything into focus.

Including the faces of Remus and Sirius.

James, Lily and Remus burst out laughing.

Sirius huffed and crossed his arms, “I don’t see why you are laughing Moony. No one said I was the one to say he was waking.” Remus promptly stopped and glared at the other two.

“Hello Pronglet,” Sirius said with a smile as he continued to run his fingers through Harry’s hair. “You gave us quite a scare…again. We were ready to jump in after you. Do you want me to go as grey as Moony here?”

Remus glared at Sirius crossing his arms. Sirius was trying hard to hold his sniggers.

“Hey!” Remus cried in offense. “I am not that grey! Take that back!”

“Yeah, take that back!” Remus said poking Sirius with each word.

Sirius looked at Remus and shrugged his shoulders. “What can I say?” he asked innocently then looked at Harry and winked. “The truth hurts.”

“So true,” Sirius sighed.

Harry closed his eyes and let out a sigh. He knew his guardians were trying to lighten the mood but right now all he wanted was to sleep. “If you two insist on fighting like teenage girls I’ll have to ask you to leave,” Harry said softly. “I’m really tired.”

“Teenage girls,” James laughed. He received two glares. The laugh intensified.

The mood instantly changed from playful to serious. Remus gave Harry’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze. “We know you’re tired, Harry,” he said sincerely. “We know the last thing you want is to talk about what happened today but this sort of exhaustion, magical and physical, on your body is impossible to accomplish. Did you have another outburst while underwater?”

Harry nodded. “I had two,” he admitted. “The first one was absorbed into the necklace but the other wouldn’t go. I somehow used it to fight off those things.” Harry opened his eyes and looked at the shocked faces of Remus and Sirius, suddenly feeling extremely worried. “What’s happening to me? This was supposed to be under control but it’s getting worse.”

“YES! WHAT’S HAPPENING?” James and Lily cried together each shaking one of the remaining Marauders who looked quite scared.

“Dunno,” Sirius said shakily, “If you want I can read.” He said prying the book from Lily and reading.

Sirius pulled Harry up into an embrace and held him tightly. “Try not to worry about it,” he said sincerely. “We’ll talk to Dumbledore. Maybe he can make a stronger necklace for you. Once this Tournament is over we’ll do everything we can to help you control this more, that’s a promise.”

“See, we’ll do everything,” Sirius said pointing at the passage.

Harry tried to pull himself free but could only squirm in Sirius’ arms slightly. “But what if it happens again?” he asked in frustration. “What if someone’s around when it happens? Don’t you understand? I’m a danger to everyone here! I used the outbursts to help me yesterday. I had an unfair advantage! I shouldn’t be in this Tournament! It’s not fair to everyone else!”

Sirius gently rubbed Harry’s back trying to calm Harry down as he sat down on the bed. He looked over his shoulder to Remus for help but only saw a helpless look on his friend’s face. Neither of them knew what to do to help their charge. “I know you’re scared Harry,” Sirius said finally. “These outbursts scare me too but not because of the remote chance of someone else getting hurt but of what all of this is doing to you. Poppy has been giving you potions ever since you were brought up here. You should be bouncing off the walls by now. Remus and I will do everything we can to help you through this.”

“Yes, they will,” said Lily, “Stop worrying about the others Harry. You’re the only one getting hurt here.”

“I think Harry has “worrying about others” as a default mode,” Remus said grimly.

“Padfoot’s right…for once,” Remus added as Sirius lowered Harry back to the bed. “Try and get some rest, Harry. We’ll talk to Dumbledore and get this straightened out by tomorrow morning. Hopefully you’ll be able to move by then.” He reached out and gently squeezed Harry’s arm. “Try not to be so hard on yourself. We all know you can’t control these outbursts yet.”

Harry nodded and watched his guardians leave. He knew they were right but he couldn’t help but feel he had somehow used these outbursts to help him in the lake and not just during his battle with the underwater creatures. He had somehow managed to push his body beyond its limit and was feeling it now. Harry let out a sigh as he closed his eyes. Yes, he couldn’t control when the outbursts had come yet but he had controlled the second outburst once it came. Perhaps Professor Dumbledore had been wrong in using the necklace to suppress the outbursts. Perhaps he needed some time without the necklace to learn how to deal with it properly.

Professor Dumbledore would never allow that.

“Well, he should!” James said angrily.

“Professor Dumbledore can’t just think about Harry,” Lily reasoned, “He has to worry about the other students too. Worrying about Harry is those two over there jobs,” she finished nodding towards Remus and Sirius.

Would Sirius and Remus? They had disagreed with the necklace in the first place. Focus on getting through the Tournament first. Sirius had mentioned that he and Remus would help him after the Tournament was over. Now all he needed to do was last until June and he would be fine.

If only it was that easy.

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The following morning Harry woke up to Professor Dumbledore, Sirius and Remus talking quietly at his bedside. He had instantly felt the necklace around his neck again and let out a sigh. He was now able to move his arms and reached up to touch it. It was cool and smooth to the touch but felt slightly larger than it originally had. Harry opened his eyes to see three blurry faces looking at him from their chairs to his right. Sunlight filled the room alerting Harry that it was indeed morning. Cautiously he moved his legs a little, relieved that he could in fact move them. It seemed that all his body needed was a night’s rest.

“Good morning Harry,” Professor Dumbledore said pleasantly. “I trust you are feeling better.” Harry nodded in response. “Remus and Sirius have voiced your concerns about your outbursts. I must admit that I never anticipated you to have two in such a short amount of time. The necklace you wore yesterday hadn’t been prepared for such an overabundance of magic and overloaded. The necklace you are currently wearing can hold significantly more magic and is also charmed to alert me whenever it pulls magic from you, if that is all right with you of course.”

Harry blinked a few times in order to process everything Professor Dumbledore had just told him. “Er—okay,” he said hesitantly. “What about learning to control this? I know I have to wait until after the Tournament but do I have to wait until September since I can’t work on it at home?”

Squinting, Harry could make out a thoughtful look on Professor Dumbledore’s face. “You do have a point, Harry,” he admitted. “It would be best for you to work on this during the summer when you are not surrounded by your classmates. Let me see what I can do about the underage law. After all, considering what you’ve been doing the last two summers having a summer without magic would feel rather strange.”

Lily raised an eyebrow as she eyed James superiorly. James ignored her.

Professor Dumbledore rose to his feet and moved closer so he was leaning over the teen. “You gave Madam Pomfrey quite I scare I’ll have you know,” he said pleasantly. “She could not understand how you could be radiating heat until Fred Weasley mentioned a heating charm that you had used last year during a Quidditch game. Rather ingenious on your part however, we believe that charm was the reason the Grindylows sought you out. They could feel the heat you were giving off.”

“Yeah, that’s what I though,” Remus said grimly and Lily nodded.

“Typical,” Harry muttered.

“Indeed,” Professor Dumbledore said in an amused tone. “I should warn you, Harry. Madam Pomfrey insists you spend at least another day here and will not take no for an answer. She has some strange belief that you haven’t been taking care of yourself and will collapse the moment you leave the hospital wing. Any idea why that would be, Harry?”

“Because she overreacts about everything?” Harry offered.

“Yes, she does Harry,” James said in a suffering voice, “And she keeps muttering about Quidditch being a dangerous sport. Honestly I have no idea how anyone could think that!”

Remus and Lily stared at him and Lily tried to reason, “Hum, the bludgers.”

“Nothing wrong with them,” James said confused.

“You play it from enormous heights hanging only by a stick,” Remus said with an “isn’t this obvious tone”.

“Perfectly safe,” James said evenly.

“I give up,” Lily cried, “Quidditch nut!”

“Honestly, sir, I’m fine. There is really nothing to worry about.”

“I disagree, Harry,” Professor Dumbledore countered. “I’m afraid I can’t allow this to continue. I know you have quite a bit on your plate but you can’t ignore what your body needs. You need to eat and rest, Harry.

“YES!” the four cried.

You need to take better care of yourself.

“YES!”

Your friends have mentioned you are always the last one to bed and the first one up in the morning. I have noticed you occasionally skipping meals. I understand the Tournament is stressful and I apologize that I couldn’t prevent your participation but you can’t work yourself into exhaustion because of it. To prevent matters from going out of control again, we—your guardians and I—have agreed that once a week you need to come here and be examined by Madam Pomfrey. If she does not believe you are taking adequate care of yourself, she will do it for you.”

“Finally! Someone is taking some action. Though maybe he should have phrased it a little better,” Sirius said.

“How so?” Lily asked.

“Well, he sounds like Harry is being a naughty boy and Harry was just trying to be ready to compete. He does have a three year gap with the other champions,” James said.

“And if someone would know what a reprimand from being naughty sounds it’s those two,” Remus said nodding knowingly.

Harry stared at Professor Dumbledore completely horrified. Why was he getting an ultimatum? So what if he didn’t sleep as many hours as everyone else or eat as much as Ron! What right did Dumbledore have? He was the one to force this Tournament on Harry in the first place! Harry slowly sat up and stared at Dumbledore angrily. “Let me get this straight,” he said through his teeth. “You expect me to participate in this bloody Tournament but not do what I need to do in order to survive it? I am three years younger than everyone else! I have three years less knowledge! I never wanted to be a part of this!” Harry didn’t notice the objects around them start to shake. He was too angry at Dumbledore to notice anything else. “You did! You decided not to fight against my involvement! Now suffer the consequences!”

“Told you he should have phrased it better,” Sirius said in a singsong voice.

Windows shattered as Harry rolled over and buried his face in his pillow. His entire body was shaking uncontrollably. Remus and Sirius were immediately on their feet and at Harry’s side, pushing Dumbledore out of the way. Remus was gently rubbing Harry’s back while Sirius was muttering words into Harry’s ear. Neither of them paid any attention to Dumbledore who quickly repaired all of the broken windows.

Remus looked directly at Professor Dumbledore with narrow eyes. He was angry and rightfully so. “I think you’ve done enough, Headmaster,” he growled. “We would appreciate it if you would leave.”

“Yes, no one messes with my cub! Not even the Supreme Mumgwump!” Remus said crossed.

James launched himself at Remus hugging him, “I am so proud of you Moony! You finally stopped defending Dumbledore’s every move!”

“Well, hum, yeah… er… he’s not perfect,” Remus said blushing.

 

Dumbledore let out a sigh and walked out of the hospital wing. Remus pulled out his wand and enlarged the bed Harry was lying in. He then sat down on the bed and returned to rubbing Harry’s back. Sirius hurried around the bed and sat down with his back resting against the headboard as he started running his fingers through Harry’s hair. Both of them looked up and each other for a moment before returning their gazes to the shaken teenager.

“It’s okay Harry,” Sirius said softly. “Dumbledore’s gone now. It’s just us.”

Harry slowly pulled his head out of the pillow and turned his head towards Sirius’ voice. “I’m sorry,” he said in a wavering voice. “I didn’t mean to do that. I—I just couldn’t take it anymore. I can’t be the person he wants me to be. I can’t be perfect.”

“Oh, Harry. No one expects you to be,” Lily said sorrowfully.

Sirius grimace, “Actually, they do,” she glared at him, “Not that he should be. But that’s a fact. The Wizarding World expects their hero to be perfect. It’s sad, but there’s nothing we can do other than ignore it,” he finished shrugging.

“You know Paddy,” Remus said patting Sirius’s shoulder, “Sometimes you astound me.”

“I know. I am so smart,” Sirius said puffing his chest.

“And then you go right back to where you started,” Remus shook his head.

Sirius slid down on the bed and wrapped his arms around Harry so the teen was resting his head on Sirius’ chest. “No one expects you to be perfect, Pronglet,” he said sincerely.

“Contradicting yourself Paddy,” James said arching his eyebrow. Sirius shrugged.

 

“Dumbledore’s just worried about you, we all are. I’ll admit I wasn’t too pleased with the way Dumbledore told you. We just want you to take better care of yourself. Please do this for us, all right?”

“See, even old me knows that Dumbledore should have phrased it better. You okay Moony?” Sirius said turning to Remus who had just smacked his own head.

“When I need a muggle recorder I never have one!” Remus cried.

“Why would you need one?” James asked confused.

“Sirius just said he’s old,” Lily explained. James nodded then his face lit up in a smile.

“We could use a Pensive!”

Remus smiled, “Yes!”

“NO!” Sirius cried, “No one is going to use a Pensive. We will just forget my lapse in good judgment.”

“Nah,” James shook his head, “Not a chance. Pensive it is!”

Harry nodded slowly as he closed his eyes. He didn’t like it but he would agree to weekly checkups to make Sirius and Remus feel better. “I’m sorry if I scared you,” he said quietly. “I didn’t think it would happen again.”

“Again?” Remus asked instantly. “This has happened before?”

Harry nodded again but kept his eyes closed. He was starting to feel his exhaustion returning. He could only assume it was because of what had happened to the windows. “In Potions,” Harry admitted. “Colin Creevey showed up to pull me out of class for the Wand Weighing. I was so frustrated with it all and the cauldrons started shaking. I’ve tried to keep my emotions under control since then but…”

Sirius tightened his arms around Harry. “Don’t worry about it, kiddo,” he said softly. “I can understand you being afraid of something like that happening again but keeping everything inside is not the solution. I think that was why this happened today with the necklace on. This wasn’t a regular outburst, Harry. This was all of the pent up emotions you’ve been forcing yourself not to feel.”

“Yep, never good to hold feelings in,” James said knowingly.

“I have to agree,” Sirius said, “But there is also no need to broadcast all your feelings all the time.”

“Meaning?”

“That I don’t need to know how much you love Lily’s eyes, Lily’s hair, Lily’s toes, Lily’s fingers, Lily’s breath etc, etc, etc..” Sirius rolled his eyes and Remus continued for him.

“Lily’s smile, Lily’s frown-“

“Okay. I get it. You people obviously do not know what’s good in life!” James said annoyed and didn’t notice that Lily had gone as red as her hair.

“It may be easier not to deal with things, Harry, but in the long run suppressing emotions will only hurt more when they are forced to the surface,” Remus added. “Is there anything you want to talk about with us? It would probably be better to get it off your chest now.”

Harry shook his head. “I’m good,” he said and he meant it. He felt more relaxed now than he had felt in a long time. Harry didn’t know if it was because he had finally released some of his anger or if it was because he felt safe right now. All he knew was he liked this feeling. “I’m just tired,” he added sleepily.

“I can imagine,” Sirius said with a smile. “I should tell you, Percy Weasley was here for a while after you were brought up here. He wanted to make sure you were all right but he had to get back to work. Apparently his boss has been rather ill of late. Yeah right. That man has never taken a day off in his life for something as minor as an illness. Barty Crouch is up to something.”

“Now Sirius,” Remus warned. “I’ll admit Crouch’s methods were harsh back in the day but it is possible that he’s changed. He lost his wife and son because of it all.”

“He did?” Lily asked shocked.

Harry partially opened his eyes and looked at Remus. “What happened to them?” he asked sounding half awake.

“Crouch’s own son, Barty Crouch, Jr., was caught with a group of Death Eaters,” Sirius answered for Remus. “He did give his son a trial but it was more for show than anything. He basically disowned the boy then sent him to Azkaban.” Harry shivered at the thought of the wizarding prison. “The boy ended up dying a year later in prison. Crouch and his wife were allowed to see him before he died then she died a short time later because of her grief. Crouch lost everything. He was a shoe-in for Minister before the entire scandal. People didn’t trust him anymore since he couldn’t even keep his son on the right path. My being found innocent didn’t help matters for him either. The only reason Crouch is still employed is because there’s someone in the Ministry who pities him and everything he’s lost.”

Remus winced, “That must have been a blow. You build your carrier on catching Dark Wizards and it turns out your own son is one.”

“Still, as a father he should have been trying to defend his son not chuck him in Azkaban. Even if the guy was guilty. He should have let someone else do it,” James said horrified.

“Crouch was too ambitious,” Lily said shaking her head, “Didn’t you hear Sirius. He gave him a trial just for show. I bet he wanted to let everyone know he didn’t spare even his own son. That’s so horrible.”

Harry covered his mouth to hide a yawn. “From the sounds of it he’s paid for what he did to you, Midnight,” he said as he tiredly rubbed his eyes. “He lost his family. I don’t know what I’d do if I lost you two.”

“You’re not gonna!” Sirius cried fiercely.

Remus gently pulled Harry’s hand away from his eyes with one hand while he brushed Harry’s fringe off to the side with the other. “Back at you, cub,” he said softly. “Get some sleep. Poppy will have our heads if we keep you up any longer. We’ll stay until you’re feeling a little stronger, all right?”

Harry nodded as he closed his eyes and buried his face in his godfather’s chest. He could hear Sirius’ calming heartbeat lulling him to sleep. All of his worries from just a day ago seemed to vanish. He knew his guardians would do whatever was necessary to help him work everything out and that was all of the reassurance that Harry needed to know he was exactly where he wanted to be.

“James, what are you doing?” Sirius asked slowly. James had put his ear on Sirius’s chest.

“I want to see if your heartbeat is calming!”

Lily and Remus rolled on the floor laughing.

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True to their word Sirius and Remus were at Harry’s bedside when he awoke in the late afternoon. As Harry sat up, Remus called Madam Pomfrey over for a checkup. Sirius handed over Harry’s glasses allowing the teen to see everything in focus. He watched Madam Pomfrey wave her wand around before ordering Harry to drink two awful tasting potions. Harry cringed as they slid down his throat. Why did potions have to taste so bad?

Madam Pomfrey declared that Harry was making a swift recovery but would need to stay in the hospital wing for one more night in order to attend classes tomorrow. Harry tried to protest but Madam Pomfrey wouldn’t listen. He felt better and knew staying in the hospital wing any longer was unnecessary but arguing with Pomfrey was just as pointless. The woman was impossibly stubborn.

Sirius and Remus stayed with Harry talking about nothing in particular until Ron and Hermione came to visit after classes. Hermione of course brought all of the schoolwork from the classes Harry missed much to Harry’s annoyance. Ron and Hermione ate dinner with Harry in the hospital wing, filling Harry in on everything that had happened since the second task which wasn’t much other than rumors to what had happened to him after he had been pulled back under. They ranged from Harry being attacked by the giant squid to fighting for his life against a creature only Hagrid could love.

It was all so ridiculous Harry had to laugh. It was amazing how out of control a simply Gindylow attack could become in only a few days. When Harry was finally released from the hospital wing many of the teachers had to step in and send the pestering students away. Harry was healthy enough to attend classes but his ankles were still a little sore making walking long distances difficult for the next few days. He made a point to leave early from meals just to arrive on time to classes.

When Friday afternoon arrived, Harry couldn’t wait for the weekend. All of the teachers had been extremely lenient with him concerning arriving at class on time and schoolwork giving Harry the feeling that Professor Dumbledore had something to do with it all. Harry knew he had been wrong to take his anger out on Dumbledore. It wasn’t the old man’s fault someone had gotten past his protections to enter Harry in the Tournament. These outbursts weren’t Dumbledore’s fault either. He knew he needed to apologize but it seemed that the Headmaster was doing whatever possible to avoid Harry. Harry didn’t know whether to be grateful or scared by this. Dumbledore could just be giving Harry time to cool down or he could actually believe that Harry blamed him for everything.

“I think that it may be a mixture of both,” Lily said, “Dumbledore must feel responsible for Harry being in this situation since it was his protection that was overridden.”

“Shoddy protection,” James mumbled.

With only one class remaining for the week, Harry, Ron and Hermione left lunch early for double Potions, walking at the normal slow pace. By the time they reached the classroom they noticed that there was a large crowd huddled by the door laughing and whispering. As they walked past, Harry saw Malfoy handing a magazine over to Pansy Parkinson. Whatever they were reading it wasn’t good.

“Oh, great!” Sirius growled, “All we need Snape and Malfoy!”

“Serves the old fool right,” Malfoy drawled. “My father always said Dumbledore was an idiot. No one ever seemed to believe him.”

“That may be because your father is an idiot!” James huffed.

Harry bit his tongue and entered the classroom and sat down in his usual seat near the back of the dungeon. He could only assume that Rita Skeeter had published another article criticizing Professor Dumbledore. For some reason Rita Skeeter seemed to have it in for the Headmaster of Hogwarts which only made Harry feel worse. Dumbledore had more to worry about than the messed up life of a fourteen-year-old. Sitting there deep in thought Harry finally realized that he didn’t think of Professor Dumbledore as his Headmaster. He thought of the man as the grandfather he never had, the grandfather who had all the answers and solved all the problems.

The rest of the class filed in as Professor Snape started writing the ingredients for the day’s potion on the board. Harry started pulling out the ingredients for the Wit-Sharpening Potion they would be brewing today. After he made certain everything was out, Harry started preparing the potion. Several of the Slytherin students were still whispering and snickering. Professor Snape ignored this of course and started hovering over Gryffindor students, taking points off wherever he could.

“Potter, move to the table in front of my desk,” Professor Snape hissed as he passed Harry and Ron and continued walking towards the front of the room. “Merlin forbid you endanger your classmates in your ‘fragile condition’.”

“How rude,” Lily huffed.

Several Slytherins snickered at the comment as Harry packed up his things and slowly walked to the designated table where Snape was waiting for him. He got back to work trying to ignore the whispers he knew were being directed at him. Why did Professor Snape always have to signal him out? What had he ever done to deserve this?

“You may have the sympathy of everyone now, Potter, but if I catch you sneaking into my office one more time—”

“Hey, Harry never sneaked into your office,” Sirius cried outraged. “He should have! He should have put some dungbombs in your desk but he didn’t!”

Harry quickly looked up at Snape in confusion. What in the world was the man talking about? “I never broke into your office, sir,” he said quietly. “I would never do that.”

Professor Snape’s eyes narrowed. “Don’t you dare lie to me, Potter,” he hissed. “Where would you get Gillyweed and the other ingredients except from my private stores?”

“Hum, the store,” Remus said slowly.

Harry desperately tried to keep his anger under control. This is all just a misunderstanding. It has to be. “I bought it at Hogsmeade, sir,” Harry said as calmly as he could. “I paid twelve sickles for it. I still have the receipt. I can show it to you if you’d like.”

Snape looked at Harry for a moment but his eyes seemed different now. They weren’t filled with hatred but something else. Harry couldn’t figure out what it was. “Very well,” Snape said at last. “I will hold punishment until you hand over your receipt. Mark my words, Potter, if you are lying to me I will know.”

“Yes sir,” Harry said and returned to smashing his scarab beetles. He suddenly stopped as he remembered Snape’s entire accusation. “Sir, what were the other ingredients, if I may ask?”

Professor Snape stared at Harry skeptically for a moment before leaning closer so no one would hear. “Powdered horn of a Bicorn, shredded skin of a Boomslang,” he said quietly. “Not commonly used items.”

Harry knew those ingredients. He remembered when Hermione had stolen them in second year.

“Hermione!” James said impressed, “There is more to you than meets the eye!”

 

 “When added with lacewing flies, leeches, fluxweed, and knotgrass it makes the Polyjuice Potion,” he said more to himself than to Professor Snape. Suddenly it all made sense. Voldemort wouldn’t send someone here unless they had a way to disguise themselves. What better way than the Polyjuice Potion? “The spy,” he whispered in shock. “He’s here. He’s really here.”

Snape grabbed Harry by the arm and pulled him towards his office. “Potter, my office, now,” he hissed and pushed Harry towards the door. “If anyone moves you will have detention for a month.”

“Oi! Unhand my son!” James cried.

Harry entered the dimly lit office and collapsed in the nearest chair. His ankles were starting to throb in pain. He couldn’t believe he didn’t think of something like that before. He knew what the Polyjuice Potion could do. All anyone needed was a few strands of hair and they could turn into anyone. They spy could be anyone and Harry would be none the wiser.

“But wouldn’t someone notice?” Lily asked, “I mean, to impersonate someone twenty four- seven with people that know this person they are bound to make a mistake.”

“Unless it’s someone that isn’t around all those people all the time,” Remus said with a pensive expression.

“Trelawney. She never leaves her tower and all they’d have to do is act nutty,” James said.

“Nah,” Sirius shook his head, “What good is a spy that never leaves the Tower. I bet it’s one of the foreign gests. No one knows them.”

“The people that came with them do,” Remus reasoned, “The only other one that is unknown is Moody.”

Sirius laughed, “Right, paranoid Moody being caught and impersonated. Yeah, because that would so happen!”

Lily and Remus shrugged but James was looking worried.

The Potions Master noticed Harry seemed to be in a daze and tilted the teen’s face upwards so their eyes met. “Talk!” he ordered. “What ‘spy’ are you talking about? Who’s here?”

Harry slowly blinked his fear filled eyes. “This summer I had a dream of Voldemort and Pettigrew,” he said in a shaky voice. “Voldemort was telling Pettigrew about a faithful servant at Hogwarts so he could get me. He needs me for something, I think. That’s really all I remember. When I woke up my scar hurt like it did during my first year; when he was here for the stone.”

Professor Snape sneered at the teen. “Did it ever occur to you to tell someone about this?” he spat.

“Hey, he did tell Moony and Padfoot!” Lily cried outraged.

“I did,” Harry said, confused that Professor Snape didn’t know. “I told Professor Dumbledore, Sirius and Remus after I woke up. That was why Sirius and Remus were so upset about me being in the Tournament. They thought it had something to do with my dream.”

Snape released Harry’s chin and walked over to the fireplace. Harry looked up as Snape threw a fistful of glittering powder into the flames. “Headmaster!” Snape called into the fire. “A word is needed…now!”

“Such a polite person,” Remus snorted.

Harry bowed his head and suppressed a groan. He really didn’t like the tone Professor Snape was using and had a feeling that Professor Dumbledore was about to be on the receiving end of a few things he probably shouldn’t be hearing. Snape showed no emotion but by how stiff he was standing Harry could tell he was upset. Harry couldn’t help but feel guilty. It hadn’t even crossed his mind that Dumbledore hadn’t told anyone else about his dream.

Dumbledore clambered out of the fireplace and brushed the ash off of his robes. He took one look at the scene and let out a sigh. “Severus, I thought I made myself clear,” Dumbledore said with a hint of warning in his voice.

“You did, Headmaster,” Professor Snape said coolly. “What you neglected to mention was the presence of a spy for the Dark Lord here at Hogwarts. I had to have Potter put it together that the spy has been stealing ingredients for the Polyjuice Potion. How are we supposed to protect the boy if you don’t tell us what we need to know?”

Professor Dumbledore glanced over at Harry before returning his gaze to Snape. “And have my staff accusing each other of being the spy?” he asked evenly. “Voldemort doesn’t know Harry saw him discussing his plans with Peter and I would like to keep it that way. I did what I had to, Severus. We can discuss this more later. I do believe you have a class that is currently lacking supervision. I would like a word with Harry if you don’t mind.”

“Besides, how does he know Snape isn’t the spy uh? He dos have access to Polyjuice and all you have to do is act unpleasant towards everyone,” James said.

“James,” Lily started.

“You can’t be a hundred percent sure he isn’t,” he cut her. She shrugged.

Professor Snape stormed out of the room without another word, his robes billowing behind him.

“How does he do that? It must have taken a lot of practice,” Remus mused.

“Maybe he put a charm to have wind blowing up his arse all the time,” Sirius suggested.

“Really, Sirius, that would be a waste of charm,” Lily huffed, “It’s in the stalk he does. You know how models have that weird way of walking that they have to practice. Snape must have stood in front of the mirror walking until he perfected his stalk.”

“I like how you think Lily,” James grinned.

As soon as the door closed again a tense silence filled the room. Harry bit his lip as he fidgeted in his seat. He knew he was in trouble. He knew he had just made things worse for the Headmaster. Staring at the floor, Harry waited for the inevitable scolding. The only thing was it never came.

Dumbledore pulled up a chair and sat down next to Harry. For a long moment nothing was said although both felt the need to say something, anything to break the silence. Professor Dumbledore finally reached out and rested a hand on Harry’s shoulder. “This is not your fault, Harry,” he said sincerely. “You had no way of knowing of what I had—or more precisely had not told the staff.”

“Yah, exactly. Harry doesn’t know how to read minds,” James huffed crossing his arms.

“I’m sorry,” Harry said; his voice barely above a whisper. “I just keep causing so much trouble.”

“That couldn’t be further from the truth, Harry,” Professor Dumbledore said as he gave Harry’s shoulder a squeeze. “I must repeat that none of this is your fault. I will admit I can only sympathize with what you are going through right now and since that is the case I may not handle everything correctly. I know it may have appeared I did nothing to get you out of the Tournament and I know you feel I am the one to force this pressure on you but I do not expect you to be perfect, Harry. No human can be. We all make mistakes, even me.”

“They talked to you?” Harry asked nervously.

“You bet we did!” Sirius said forcefully.

“It was more like they talked at me,” Dumbledore corrected. “Have you ever seen a werewolf when they believe a member of their pack is threatened?”

Lily shook her head.

 Harry shook his head. “It can be quite frightening,” the Headmaster confessed with a smile.

Remus blushed and duck his head but Sirius lifted it with a finger on Remus chin, “Don’t be ashamed of standing up for those you love,” he said scowling and James and Lily nodded.

 “Both Sirius and Remus think of you as their son and will do what they feel is necessary to protect you, even from me.”

Harry looked at Dumbledore in alarm. He never thought Sirius and Remus would go that far and actually threaten the Headmaster of Hogwarts. “I’m sorry sir,” he said instantly. “I never should have said anything to them—”

“Yes you should!” James cried, “Harry, listen to me because I will tell you this only once. You will not withhold information from Padfoot and Moony no matter what you may think. You will always tell them when something is bothering you. Do I make myself clear?”

Silence.

“I’m sure he heard you,” Sirius said softly patting James crossed arms.

“—nonsense Harry,” Professor Dumbledore interrupted calmly. “You can’t ignore the way you feel. If you can’t talk to your guardians than whom can you talk to? I know you care for them as much as they care for you. I also know you would probably do the same thing if the situation was reversed.”

Harry had to look away from the Headmaster’s knowing gaze. He had to admit he would do anything if Sirius and Remus were in danger. It seemed strange to feel that way for people he had known for only a short matter of time. He had dreamed of people caring for years and now that his dream had come true Harry couldn’t imagine his life any other way.

“I never expected you to push yourself this hard, Harry, although I probably should have,” Dumbledore continued. “You have always been determined to figure out a mystery. I can only continue to apologize for the mistakes I have made and hope you will forgive me one day.”

Harry rubbed his eyes underneath his glasses as he slowly shook his head. “Professor, I don’t blame you,” he said honestly. “I’ve been meaning to apologize for my behavior. I never should have taken my frustration out on you. You were right. I haven’t been taking care of myself. I’ve been so caught up the Tournament, my schoolwork and learning to swim to worry about anything else.”

Dumbledore let out a tired sigh. From the looks of it Remus wasn’t the only person who had forgotten who Harry had grown up with. “I am so sorry, my boy,” he said sounding old all of a sudden. “There are times when it seems impossible for you to have the past you’ve had with the fine young man you are turning out to be. You face challenges head on, rarely acting someone your age normally would but years older. I can only assume that is a result of the years you spent with the Dursleys.”

Harry nodded. With all of the chores he had and how harsh his relatives had been it was impossible to remotely enjoy his childhood. He had been more worried about receiving the next meal to even ponder on playtime. “When you are treated like a house elf there is little time to enjoy the pleasantries normally given to children,” Harry muttered bitterly as his gaze fell to the floor.

Groans and muttered threats were heard from all four teenagers.

“What can I do to help you, Harry?” asked Professor Dumbledore. It was clear that Dumbledore was desperate to repair their once close relationship.

“Nothing,” Harry said softly. “I have realized that I don’t think of you as my Headmaster; I haven’t for some time. Ever since last summer the majority of the staff has treated me differently than everyone else because they finally learned of something I had come to accept as normal: my family’s hatred of me. Do you honestly think the Dursleys hid how much they despised me? The entire neighborhood knew. Some of the neighbors even encouraged it since I was such a ‘delinquent’. This has happened in other families and is probably happening to other students in this very school.” He looked over at Dumbledore blue eyes that were oddly vacant of any twinkle. Harry’s face displayed no emotion but there was plenty of pain in his eyes from the memories of everything that happened at Number 4, Privet Drive. “Sirius rescued me from my prison,” he said evenly. “Who is there to rescue them? Does anyone care? Would anyone have cared if I hadn’t been the-boy-who-lived?”

“Of course they would,” Remus said firmly, “It’s just that people don’t want to see bad things so they have a tendency to overlook the signs. That’s why you have to ask for help. Or if you know someone that you suspect is being abused you have to tell someone.”

He and James were looking straight at Sirius.

“What?”

James sighed, “That goes for you too Padfoot.”

“My situation was never as bad as Harry’s. My parents never hit me.”

“Verbal abuse can do as much damage as physical. Sometimes even more because people can’t see the bruises and therefore it’s more difficult to be figured out,” Lily explained. “For instance, I never dreamed that you didn’t have a perfect life until James told me today.”

Sirius just shrugged. He’d always known he was a disappointment to his family. Even before he got that Howler in the Great Hall for being sorted into Gryffindor. He could relate to Harry about not thinking you were worth loving. He vowed to make sure he made Harry feel very much loved.

Dumbledore winced at the comment. “Harry—”

“—forget it,” Harry said as he stood up and stepped out of Dumbledore’s reach, ignoring the stinging pain from his ankles. His hands were clenched into fists as he desperately tried to push back the frustration he could feel rising. He couldn’t get emotional now. He couldn’t let it happen again. “This has to stop, sir. I can’t continue to think of you as a grandfather with all the answers. I deny whenever anyone claims I am given special treatment but I know that’s not true. Professor McGonagall, Hagrid, Professor Sprout, Professor Flitwick and you treat me differently. It isn’t fair to everyone else.”

“Is anything about your life fair, Harry?” Professor Dumbledore asked patiently.

“No!” Lily cried, “And I think that after all you went through you deserve a little special treatment,” she huffed.

“What is this really about?”

Harry looked over his shoulder at the Headmaster. What was this really about? “I need things to go back to the way they were,” he admitted. “You saw what I did in the hospital wing. I can’t afford to get angry any more. I can’t…I can’t allow myself to feel…”

“HARRY JAMES POTTER! DON’T THINK SOMETHING AS STUPID AS THAT!” James cried angry.

Dumbledore was instantly on his feet and within two strides was at Harry’s side, pulling the teen into an embrace. “Don’t you even think that for a moment,” he said firmly. “I know you’re frightened, Harry, but you can’t allow your fear to push you away from those who care. We will help you through this. I give you my word.”

Harry didn’t return the embrace. He knew he needed to pull away and keep his distance but his body seemed to refuse to move. He needed Dumbledore to only be his Headmaster again. It had been so much easier when he only had himself to blame for everything. He needed to go back to that for everyone else’s safety. Why couldn’t Professor Dumbledore see that?

“Because, unlike you Dumbledore knows this is not you’re fault,” Remus growled and took a piece of parchment from his pocket and a self inking quill. “Must have talk with Harry about his overwhelming guilt,” he wrote and put the paper back in his pocket. James just shook his head at his friends note taking habit.

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The next day was a Hogsmeade visit but Harry elected to stay back. He hadn’t even gotten out of bed before Ron and Hermione reluctantly left without him since Harry convinced him he would probably be in bed for most of the day anyways. Dobby popped in a few times with cold compresses for his ankles while Harry worked on schoolwork since Harry needed to have gaps between the times he iced his ankles. It was painfully boring but he figured the sooner his ankles healed completely the better.

Dobby had also brought Harry enough food to feed a small army or maybe just Ron.

“Or Padfoot,” James told Lily knowingly. Sirius ignored this and kept reading.

 Harry ate what he could, knowing he would be having his first checkup in a few days. By mid-afternoon Harry had completed the majority of his work and crawled back under the covers. His feet were propped up with the cold compresses wrapped around them making it difficult for Harry to lie down any other way than on his back. He had nearly fallen back asleep when he heard a pop then felt someone checking the cold compresses before tucking him in. He knew it was Dobby.

The sound of the door opening followed by two people entering made Harry want to groan in frustration. Just when he was about to fall asleep Ron and Hermione had to return. “Who are you?” Ron asked curiously.

“Dobby, sir,” Dobby said quietly. “Dobby is making sure Mr. Harry Potter’s feet are healing. Dobby has been helping Mr. Harry Potter all day. Mr. Harry Potter is very kind wizard, much better than old family. Many elves want to help Mr. Harry Potter but Mr. Harry Potter calls for Dobby so Dobby is here.”

“You seem to care a lot about Harry,” Hermione said gently. “How well do you know him?”

“Mr. Harry Potter free Dobby from old family,” Dobby said happily. “Mr. Harry Potter visit Dobby and other elves many times when Mr. Harry Potter’s wolf and dog were here. Mr. Harry Potter happy with Mr. Harry Potter’s wolf and dog. Mr. Harry Potter not happy any more.”

“Then his wolf and dog should get their buts back there,” Lily scolded.

“I resent being called wolf,” Remus said and looked at Sirius.

“What? I am a dog!”

“Why would you think that?” Ron asked in confusion.

“Dobby can not say,” Dobby said nervously. “Headmaster Dumbledore tells Dobby to help Mr. Harry Potter when Mr. Harry Potter needs help. Dobby is Mr. Harry Potter’s elf. Dobby can not speak ill of Mr. Harry Potter. Dobby would punish himself for hours of Dobby spoke ill of Mr. Harry Potter.”

“Harry wouldn’t want you to do that, Dobby,” Hermione said uncomfortably.

“No he wouldn’t,” Lily nodded.

“Dobby knows this,” Dobby said uneasily. “Mr. Harry Potter is kind and forgiving to all house elves. It is an honor for Dobby to help Mr. Harry Potter so Dobby must punish himself when Dobby is bad. Mr. Harry Potter doesn’t like it when Dobby punishes himself. Mr. Harry Potter has even ordered Dobby to not punish himself.” Dobby moved over to the head of the bed and smoothed out the covers. “Mr. Harry Potter needs his rest. Mr. Harry Potter work hard all day after Mr. Harry Potter’s friends leave him.”

“You know,” James said fondly, “I like Dobby and how he cares for Harry, but that Mr. Harry Potter thing does get annoying,” he finished rolling his eyes.

It almost sounded like Dobby was accusing Ron and Hermione of abandoning Harry but he vanished with a pop before Ron or Hermione could say anything. “Come on Ron,” Hermione said softly. “Dobby’s right. Harry needs to rest. He’s deserved some peace and quiet.”

They left the room allowing Harry to finally open his eyes. He knew he would have to talk to Dobby about his protective nature. He had tried to convince Dobby that they were friends but Dobby wouldn’t listen. Dobby had been horrified by the suggestion making it the last time Harry had brought the idea up. Harry still thought of Dobby as a friend and that was what mattered.

Harry did manage to fall asleep only to be woken by Dobby, Ron and Hermione for dinner. They ate in the dorm room much to their enjoyment. Dobby provided whatever they wanted which was more to Ron’s benefit than anything. Ron could out-eat most of the Gryffindors any day of the week. As Harry and Hermione finished, they simply sat on the bed and tried to focus on anything than watching Ron eat. It could be quite repulsing after a while.

The main discussion that night had been the article the Slytherins had been reading before Potions. Apparently Rita Skeeter was continuing on her mission to discredit Professor Dumbledore. She blamed everything that had gone wrong in the Tournament (especially the involvement of a fourteen-year-old and the injuries he sustained during the second task) on Dumbledore’s ‘incompetence’. Harry had to wince in regret after hearing this since he had basically done the exact same thing only a week ago. He made a mental note to have another talk with Professor Dumbledore. He could only imagine what the Headmaster was going through.

For the rest of the weekend Harry stayed in the dorm, only leaving when he absolutely had to. Dean, Seamus and Neville had quite a shock the first time they saw Dobby appear but quickly grew accustomed to seeing the house elf pop in every few hours to check on Harry. Once Harry had finished his school work he had started reading ahead in his books since there was nothing else really to do other than have Ron beat him at chess. By the time Monday arrived walking was much easier for Harry. He only felt a dull ache if he was on his feet for a long period of time.

Madam Pomfrey had been startled to find Harry in better condition during his checkup but didn’t hesitate in reminding Harry that he still needed to gain more weight. Harry simply rolled his eyes in annoyance. Madam Pomfrey had been telling him that for years. The weekly checkups continued until Easter when Madam Pomfrey relented on the checkups to be once every other week. It wasn’t exactly what Harry wanted but it was a start.

“You just do what Madam Pomfrey says Harry James Potter,” Lily said sternly.

Since Harry had no knowledge of what the third task may be he was left only with his schoolwork. The fourth year students were still receiving quite a bit but it was nothing compared to over Christmas holidays when Harry had schoolwork and the clue for the second task to worry about. The lack of worry was a welcomed feeling for Harry unfortunately it wasn’t meant to last. In the last week of May, Harry was corned by Professor McGonagall who informed him to be at the Quidditch pitch and nine o’clock that night to be told about the third task.

That night Harry met up with Cedric and walked towards the pitch. They talked about nothing in particular until they reached the Quidditch stadium and stopped in their tracks, staring at the pitch in shock. Their once smooth and clean cut pitch was now full of long, waist-high walls of green that went in various directions. It almost looked like a maze.

“What?” James cried, “NOOOOOOOO! My pitch! My beautiful, beautiful pitch!”

“Calm down James. It’s just a Quidditch Pitch,” Lily said softly in what she thought was a soothing tone. James stared at her for an instance then started shaking his head, rocking back and forward and moaning, “No, my pitch!”

“Wrong thing to say Lily,” Remus said rubbing James’s back.

Harry and Cedric met up with Fleur and Viktor who were already in the middle of the ‘maze’ with Ludo Bagman. “Good evening,” Bagman said cheerfully. “Right to business, the third task is quite simple to explain. In the center of this maze once it is fully grown will be the Triwizard Cup. The first champion to touch it will receive full marks. There will be obstacles provided by Hagrid

 

“Provided by whom?” Lily asked shocked.

“Hagrid,” Sirius said faintly.

“NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!” the four cried.

and some of the other teachers that you will have to pass but nothing too dangerous.

“Have you met Hagrid?” Remus cried angry.

“I think Bagman received too many bludgers to the head,” James growled.

 The champion who is leading in points—” Bagman turned to Harry, “—will enter first followed by Mr. Diggory, then Mr. Krum and finally Miss Delacour. All of you will enter from different spots in the maze to ensure you all have a fighting chance. It should be fun, don’t you think?”

“No,” Sirius said annoyed.

The three male champions shared a look before returning their attention back to Ludo Bagman. Harry and Cedric personally know of Hagrid’s love for dangerous creatures and Viktor had heard plenty from Harry. Well, at least I won’t have to face a Basilisk. The third task also wasn’t until June which gave Harry time to learn as much as he could to defend himself.

“If there are no questions I suggest we head back to the castle,” Bagman said happily.

Harry moved to follow Bagman but felt a hand on his arm. Looking up, Harry saw Viktor Krum with a nervous look on his face. Obviously the Bulgarian had something on his mind. “Something wrong, Viktor?” Harry asked curiously.

“I need to speak vith you,” Viktor said softly.

“Harry?” Cedric called, noticing Harry wasn’t following. “Are you coming?”

“I’ll just be a minute,” Harry said than turned to Viktor. “What’s on your mind?”

“Shall ve valk?” Viktor asked then smiled when Harry nodded. They left the stadium and walked towards the Forest in silence. It was clear that Viktor didn’t want to risk anyone overhearing them. This made Harry a little uneasy. What in the world could Viktor possibly want to talk to him about? “I am curious,” Viktor said at last. “Is there anything between you and Her’mion’e?”

The four burst out laughing.

Sirius wiped tears, “Oh, that was a good joke.”

That had been the last thing Harry had expecting to hear. “Excuse me?” he asked in confusion. Apparently Viktor was more interested in Hermione than he originally thought. I guess I’m not the only one keeping secrets this year.

“Her’mion’e talks about you a lot so I vas vondering if you two vere serious,” Viktor clarified.

“Nope, they’re Harry and Hermione,” Sirius said.

“That got old even before you were born Padfoot,” Remus groaned.

Harry held back a grin. If Sirius could see him now.

 

“Oh, Harry. I so can! Well not exactly see, but read.”

“Viktor, I love Hermione,” he said and noticed how Viktor’s face fell. “She’s my best friend—” Viktor’s face changed to a look of confusion. “—she was one of my first friends and is like a member of my family. I would do anything for her.” Harry enfolded his arms across his chest as his eyes narrowed at Viktor. “I would also do everything in my power to defend her, especially against anyone who would hurt her.” They stared at each other for a moment before Harry grinned at the Bulgarian. “Viktor, I just want Hermione to be happy,” Harry said sincerely. “If she’s happy with you then I’m happy for the two of you.”

Viktor smiled, appearing to be relieved. “I am glad,” he said. “I vould hate—”

Harry noticed something moving behind Krum in the Forest and quickly pulled Viktor around with his left hand while flicking his right wrist and grabbing his wand. “Slowly back away,” he said quietly to Viktor as he took a step back. Fighting one of the many creatures in the Forest wasn’t something Harry really wanted to do tonight.

“Excuse me? Harry, Krum is older than you,” Remus said, “It’s supposed to be the other way around. He protecting you. GET BEHIND HIM!”

Everything Sirius and Remus had taught him flashed through his mind at an amazing speed. He knew he needed to get away from the threat but he needed to do it gradually. Many creatures would attack him if he ran. Harry also knew he couldn’t take his eyes off of the danger in case it wast to strike. Never turn your back on an opponent. Never give them the chance to attack.

The only problem was the being making the noise wasn’t some vicious animal but a man who appeared to be drunk. Harry glanced over at Viktor in confusion before looking back at the man and realized it was Mr. Crouch. He looked horrible. He looked like he had been in the forest for days. His robes were ripped and stained with blood, there were scratches on his face and his usual neat hair definitely needed a washing. Cautiously Harry took a step forward and could hear Mr. Crouch muttering about Weatherby, Dumbledore and Durmstrang. He sounded like he was out of his mind.

“Crouch? Drunk? I don’t think so?” Lily said skeptically.

“Harry, vhat are you doing?” Viktor whispered.

“Yes, what?” James shrieked.

“Mr. Crouch?” Harry asked hesitantly as he took another step towards the babbling man. “Mr. Crouch, are you all right?”

“…send owls to Karkaroff and Madame Maxime, Weatherby,” Mr. Crouch continued saying, ignoring Harry’s questions. “We need to have the same number of students from each school…will you do that Weatherby?” Crouch suddenly fell to his knees.

Harry hurried to his side. “Mr. Crouch!” he shouted. “What’s wrong? What happened to you?” There was no answer. Harry noticed Mr. Crouch’s eyes were acting funny. It was almost like the man was on the verge of passing out but couldn’t for some reason. Knowing that the man needed help, Harry turned to the Bulgarian champion. “Viktor, run to the castle as fast as you can. Find a teacher, any teacher. Mr. Crouch needs a healer. Tell them I’m out here. That should be enough for them.”

“And leave you alone?” Lily cried.

Viktor looked skeptical. “Harry, are you sure?” he asked.

“Dumbledore!” Mr. Crouch cried as he grabbed Harry’s arm. “I…need to…see…Dumbledore…”

“GO!” Harry shouted to Viktor and watched the eighteen-year-old run towards the castle

“No Victor! Come back!” Sirius yelled.

for a moment before returning his attention back to Mr. Crouch. “Help is on the way, Mr. Crouch. Dumbledore’s coming.”

“…stupid…I’ve been...so stupid,” Mr. Crouch said weakly. “I…did it for…her…but…I couldn’t…control him.”

“Couldn’t control who? What did you do?” James asked.

Harry honestly didn’t know what to do. He knew he couldn’t allow Mr. Crouch to become upset no matter what. He needed to keep the man calm. Hopefully Viktor wouldn’t be long. Being stuck out by the Forest with a man who lost his mind was a little on the creepy side. Mr. Crouch was now a liability. He would have to protect the man as well as himself if any creature were to see them.

“…my fault,” Crouch continued muttering helplessly. “It’s all…my fault...I must…warn Dumbledore…Bertha dead…my son…my fault…Harry Potter…the Dark Lord…must tell…Dumbledore…”

Harry’s eyes widened in alarm. Voldemort? Hurry up Viktor! He reached out to touch Crouch’s shoulder when his head screamed in warning. Without a second thought, Harry tackled Mr. Crouch as a flash of light flew just above him. They were being attacked. Pointing his wand at Crouch, Harry muttered a “Stupefy” before hurrying to his knees. He kept one hand on Mr. Crouch’s chest to serve as reassurance that the man was still there.

“Harry, protect yourself! Stupefy whoever is attacking not Crouch!” Sirius yelled.

 

A flash of red light shot out of the forest flying directly at Harry. Reflexes taking over, Harry cast a strong defensive shield that absorbed the spell. Knowing he was at a disadvantage, Harry looked around and Hagrid’s hut. He quickly fired off red sparks toward it as a call for help. Please be there Hagrid, Harry silently pleaded. I need help.

“Hagrid RUN!” Lily begged.

Luckily Hagrid was in his hut and came running out just as another spell came out of the forest towards Harry and Mr. Crouch. Harry fell to the ground as the spell once again flew above them. “Harry!” Hagrid shouted as ran towards the two.

Harry looked up as Hagrid reached him, pulling the teen to his feet with one movement. Hagrid gave Harry a quick look over before pushing him behind his large body, shielding the boy from any danger. “Mr. Crouch needs help,” Harry said quickly. “I don’t know who’s out there—”

“Oh, thank you Hagrid,” Lily sighed relieved.

Hagrid instantly looked over at the forest as he grabbed Mr. Crouch by the robes. “Back up Harry,” he said firmly as he stood up and started backing away, dragging Mr. Crouch with him. “Stay b’hind me no matter what. Understan’?”

“Yeah,” Harry said nervously as he started to walk backwards. Looking around Hagrid’s large body, Harry noticed another flash of red light and ran around Hagrid before casting another defensive shield with as much power as he could. “Hagrid move!” He heard Hagrid moving faster as he again started walking backwards while trying to keep the shield up. His breathing quickened while he started to sweat. He could feel his strength leaving as he staggered, nearly tripping over his own feet.

“The shield is draining. He shouldn’t have cast it. It would take more than a stunner to knock out Hagrid,” Remus said knowingly.

A flash of red light flew past his head towards the forest. Harry looked over his shoulder to see Professor Dumbledore running towards him with Professor Snape and Viktor. He couldn’t help but let out a sigh of relief. Returning his attention to the forest, Harry waited until he felt a hand on his shoulder before lowering his wand and nearly collapsing back against the body behind him.

“Hagrid, take Barty to the hospital wing,” Professor Dumbledore ordered as he sank to his knees and wrapped an arm around Harry. Hagrid left, carrying the unconscious Mr. Crouch without another word. “Viktor, please go back to the castle for your own safety,” Dumbledore continued as he stood up with Harry in his arms. “Severus, I need you to round up the teachers. We must search the forest as quickly as possible.”

Harry let out an exhausted groan. He still had his wand clutched firmly in his hand as his head rested against something firm. It felt like someone was carrying him and moving very quickly. His head felt so cloudy. Sounds seemed to muddle together. Someone was speaking but he couldn’t make out what they were saying. Harry tried to pull himself out of the sea of confusion he was currently in but wasn’t having much success.

He was vaguely aware of something being poured down his throat before complete alertness returned. His eyes opened completely as he looked around only to see that he was in the hospital wing and being lowered onto a bed by Professor Dumbledore. Harry shook the remaining murkiness out of his head before looking around and seeing Mr. Crouch lying on a nearby bed appearing to be in a deep sleep.

“Is he all right?” Harry asked nervously as he sat up on the bed. “I had to stun him so he didn’t run away or anything.”

“Madam Pomfrey is doing everything she can, Harry,” Professor Dumbledore said evenly. “May I ask what were you thinking when you sent Viktor to the castle instead of coming yourself?

“Yes! What?” James said angry, “You are so grounded young man!”

You know Hogwarts better than he does. You could have found someone a lot sooner.”

Harry’s gaze fell as he shrugged. Dumbledore’s tone was enough for Harry to know he was in trouble. “I didn’t think it was fair to leave him with someone who wasn’t entirely there,” Harry said softly. “Viktor doesn’t know Mr. Crouch at all. Sirius and Remus have told me enough about him that I figured I could maybe try to help him.”

Dumbledore rested a hand on Harry’s shoulder. “You took a large risk tonight, Harry,” he said, “and I am proud of you. When you realized you were in danger you let Hagrid know you needed him. That quick thinking saved you and Mr. Crouch from whoever wanted to cause you harm. However, until the grounds and the castle are searched completely I must insist you spend the night in my guest quarters for your own safety.”

“But what about Mr. Crouch?” asked Harry as he looked up at the Headmaster. “What if they weren’t after me this time? Mr. Crouch was talking about how it was his fault, Voldemort and me. He may know something someone didn’t want him to repeat.”

“Let Dumbledore deal with Crouch,” Remus cried exasperated.

Professor Dumbledore looked at Harry in the eyes for a long moment before glancing over at Mr. Crouch. “That may be true,” he admitted then returned his gaze to Harry. “I will secure the hospital wing for the night to protect Mr. Crouch but I still want you in my guest quarters. It’s certainly the last place anyone would look for you.”

Harry had to admit Dumbledore did have a point. No one would look for him there because no one other than the teachers knew where it was. Looking around again, Harry noticed that no one else was in the hospital wing. “Is Viktor okay?” he asked.

Dumbledore nodded. “Viktor is fine,” he said pleasantly. “Professor Karkaroff retrieved him not too long ago. Now if you’re feeling up to it, I’ll take you to your quarters for the night before joining the rest of the staff in their search.”

Harry followed Professor Dumbledore out of the hospital wing and waited while Dumbledore cast a few protection charms on the hospital wing. Once that was complete, Harry walked with the Headmaster to the entrance to his office, through his office and to the sleeping chambers. Harry wasn’t surprised to see a pair of pajamas waiting for him on the bed. He bid Dumbledore goodnight then changed and crawled into bed. Staring at the ceiling, Harry mentally went over everything that happened. What had happened to Mr. Crouch, someone who was supposedly ill? This entire school year was just one mystery after another. At least one thing never changes.

“Well, it should,” Sirius huffed and crossed his arms.