Take me Home

Chap. 13 - TAKE ME HOME

It was over very quickly, but for Harry and Lucius, the whole process of the ancient druid magic seemed to go on for ages. First, Severus had made James drink his potion so he could sleep. Then, Lucius had placed James in the middle of a large red circle drawn by Erin, who was an expert in this sort of ancient magic. Lucius had told everyone to stay back, and after taking a deep breath and concentrating hard, he started the incantation with the help of Erin.

A red light had surrounded James, and the wind had swirled around him violently, but James' body continued to be inert on the ground. At this point, Harry had gripped Draco's hand, and the blond boy had tried his best to soothe Harry's worries.

When the red light faded, Lucius fell to the ground, exhausted. Severus had quickly taken Erin in his arms and brought her back to the castle so she could rest. Draco had run to Lucius to help steady him. Harry, Dumbledore, Sirius and Remus had run to the aid of James, who was still in a deep sleep.

"So, what now?" Harry asked Dumbledore. "He's going to be all right, isn't he?"

Dumbledore gave him a sad but hopeful look, and Harry worried. But the optimistic cloud that surrounded the others helped to calm Harry down.

One day passed, and James was still trapped in a deep sleep. No one wanted to call it a coma; no one dared to even think about the possibility that the incantation had failed. But on the second day, they couldn't pretend it was just a normal thing. Erin and Severus tried to find a reasonable explanation, and means to wake James up. Harry, who was expected to throw a tantrum, only sat by his father's bed and took his hand.

"He'll wake up," Harry kept telling himself. "He won't leave me. I know he won't."

"Harry," Draco called to him softly.

"He'll wake up, right?" Harry looked at Draco hopefully, as if he was expecting Draco to know the answer.

"He will," Draco said, even though he wasn't sure. After all, that was what Harry wanted to hear. Draco put a hand on Harry's shoulder and squeezed it. "Father and Erin did the incantation. My father knew what he was doing very well, and so did Erin. We have to trust them."

"What about Snape? He hates my dad. He'd love to see him dead again," Harry said bitterly.

"Snape wouldn't do something like that," Draco stated. "Besides, think like a Slytherin. Even if he hates your father, he would never do something against him in front of a bunch of witnesses who could incriminate him easily. He isn't stupid, you know? Perhaps your father is just... resting for a lot longer than we expected. Father did say that James wouldn't wake up right away."

"But can I really trust your father?" Harry asked sulkily.

"Yes!"

Harry looked at Draco seriously. "Really? Just because he showed us a little weakness? What if all that drama was an act?"

"It wasn't, Harry. Please, don't say that."

"But how can you be so sure? We don't know that! Your father is a snake!" Harry exclaimed, angrily. "As far as we know, he could be acting just to get to do this! Just to make my father trust him and then..."

Draco looked at Harry with a bitter glance. He understood Harry's feelings, but he wouldn't allow or tolerate those harsh words about his father. Lucius was trying to be a better person, so he deserved a second chance. Harry had to understand that.

"You don't know what you're talking about!" he exclaimed, upset. "My father tried his best!"

"Come on, Draco! Not so long ago he was still a bad guy!"

"What he was feeling wasn't an act, Potter! He wasn't lying about the hell he went through! You don't know him like I do! I lived with him long enough to know when he's acting and when he isn't!"

"And when did he tell you the truth?"

Draco felt his anger rising. It had been there all along, just waiting for an opportunity to come out. Lately he'd been holding himself in check for Harry's and Lucius' sake. Listening to Harry woke his anger up, and he just let it out, "Don't you fucking say those things about my father! You know nothing about him! You don't know what it's like to be a Malfoy, to bear this burden! You never met my grandfather. You don't know what he was capable of!"

"He isn't an innocent man, Draco! He tried to kill me!"

"SHUT UP!"

But Harry didn't. He was hurt, and he wanted to let it all out. Unfortunately, he was taking out on Draco, who just happened to be there. If only Harry wasn't blinded by his pain, he'd realise what he was doing to Draco, how much he was hurting him, and he'd stop.

"Your father is nothing but a liar! He tricked my dad! I can't believe we actually let him perform the spell! He was Voldemort's pawn. I think he still is! You know what Lucius is capable of. Look what he did to you! I'm sure you remember the memories you showed me about your childhood. He fucking took your dog away from you - a bloody child - and he killed him in front of you to teach you a lesson! What kind of person does that to his own son? And how about the things he did to your mother? He treated her like scum! He never let her take care of you the way a mother is supposed to. He fucking left you alone in a bloody forest full of dangerous dark creatures! Tell me again, Malfoy, if I can really trust him!"

While Harry kept bringing Draco's worst memories out in the open, Draco covered his ears and muttered over and over for Harry to shut up. But since Harry kept accusing his father of many things - things that were true and therefore stung even more - Draco lost his mind and hit Harry. Harry fell down, and he stared at Draco as though he had gone insane. Draco didn't feel sorry for him. His fury was too big to care for whatever Harry was feeling. Instead of apologising, he just pulled out the same old expression that he used to wear when he hated Harry.

When Harry came out of his shock, he stood up and attacked Draco until they were both rolling over the floor, trying to hit each other. It was a very upset Lucius who found them and broke them apart.

"What the heck is going on?" Lucius asked, casting a spell that tied their arms.

"Potter thinks you put James in a coma on purpose!"

"Tell Malfoy to stop worshipping scum like you! He thinks you're a saint!"

Lucius raised his eyebrow. "And what kind of stupid fight is that? Of course I'm not a saint, but I also didn't do anything against James. When I did the spell, I was only trying to help him."

"Well, it didn't work!" Harry shouted.

Lucius was very aware of that, but he wouldn't show weakness in front of anyone, not anymore. "This was a very complicated spell, Potter, and your father knew it. I warned him, he still wanted me to do it. So he hasn't opened his eyes yet, but that doesn't mean he won't. You shouldn't fight with Draco because of that; it's not his fault. If you want to blame someone, blame me. And you," he looked at Draco. "What's with you? Don't you love this stupid boy? Didn't you fight with me because of him? Now you're going to fight with him because of me?"

Draco looked down. His eyes still had traces of his indomitable fury. He didn't dare to look into his father's eyes, or into Harry's. When the spell Lucius cast on them wore off, he left the room without a word. Harry, who was now regretful of the whole thing, thought about going after him, but Lucius stopped him.

"Let him be. It isn't really him. It's the damn poison or whatever it is. Didn't you notice his eyes? They were different. Leave him alone. If you go after him, he'll attack you even more, and I know he'll hate that when he comes back to normal."

Harry was surprised at Lucius' words. It was a very awkward situation to be hearing advice from a person whom he had always hated, and that had hated him back with the same intensity. Lucius was a rare avis. Harry felt no compassion for Lucius, and he wanted to let that be clear, but as he stared at him, he noticed how pale and tired the older man looked, and Harry pitied him. Maybe Draco was right. Maybe Lucius was innocent this time, and the elder Malfoy really loved James. It was very difficult to believe him, but Harry desperately needed some friendly words.

He looked at the door where Draco had just gone through and he sighed. He had been so immersed in his own pain that he hadn't realised how much he had pushed Draco. Draco had his own problems to deal with, and he had forgotten about that. He had no excuses. He loved Draco; therefore, he shouldn't have yelled at him or said those horrible things about Lucius. Draco was finally winning his father's love. What right did Harry have to spoil things for him?

"I didn't mean to make him upset," Harry heard himself saying. "I..."

Lucius sighed, distressed. "I know, Potter. Some things can't be helped. You're both under a lot of stress. It's just normal that something like this happens." He looked at James' peaceful face. "You should rest. I'm sure your father wouldn't like you to be so stressed over for him. James will wake up when he's ready. It was a very complicated spell. Very complicated indeed... Get some sleep."

"Like you care," Harry muttered.

"You father does. Isn't that enough? He asked me to take care of you if something went wrong."

"He asked you?" Harry smirked. "My father was crazy, but not that much."

"Ha-ha. For your information, he did ask me." Lucius made a face. "Well, I suppose you're right. He really is insane, isn't he? To ask such a thing for me..." Harry smiled at Lucius for the first time, and the older Malfoy felt a lump in his throat. Harry's smile reminded him too much of James'. "He'll be all right, Potter. He has to because..." Lucius paused as if he was thinking of what to say. "He just has to come back from wherever he is."

Harry felt Lucius' sincerity in his words. It was unbelievable, not to say disturbing, but Lucius did care for his father. Harry caressed his father's hand softly, thinking of a way to make him come out of his coma, when it hit him. His eyes suddenly brightened up, and he exclaimed, "There's a way to call him!"

"And what's that?" Lucius asked doubtfully.

"There's this spell... the Daydream Connection spell. I used it to talk to Draco once. It worked."

"You did?" Lucius seemed very surprised. "You actually reached Draco through the spell?" Harry nodded. "I sure am stunned. That spell is very difficult, and very dangerous. It's quite hard to make two minds share the same space at the same time. It requires a high degree of..."

"Love," Harry finished for him.

"I'd say guts, actually. But yes, the right term is love. I can't believe you did it. You really talked to Draco?"

"Yes, I did."

"So you want to try with your father," Lucius glanced at James and then back at Harry. "You want to enter his mind."

"No, not me. You. You're the only who can do it, if you're love is true."

Lucius sniggered. "Yeah, sure." He couldn't believe he was having this conversation with Harry Potter. "Like I'd do something like that - to enter James' mind... It's too dangerous. It wouldn't matter if my love was true if his wasn't."

"Well, I understand. But it's our only shot, right?" Harry squeezed his father's hand. "The spell is the only way to reach him. You said mind... but I don't call it that. I call it heart. Two hearts that are so connected that nothing can be an obstacle. It's a soul mate's spell."

"Exactly. I can't do it."

Harry looked deeply into Lucius' eyes. "You're the only one who can, actually. I don't like you, but my father does. He saw something in you. Draco said you like him, too. Even though I'm afraid of the consequences, I think it's worth a shot. Don't you? Unless, of course, you have doubts about your... love for him... or maybe it's just a lie."

Lucius crossed his arms, unsettled to have his emotions analysed like that. "It isn't so simple."

"Are you afraid to know the truth?" Harry's question had a hidden challenge in them.

Lucius didn't like Harry's insolence, but he liked that Harry looked suddenly wiser than him even less. "What truth?"

"That you really are soul mates. If you do the spell, you won't even have to wear that stupid True Love ring."

Lucius stared at him flabbergasted. "How do you know about that?"

Harry only smiled mysteriously. "Look, Malfoy, I... I don't trust you, but I noticed the way my father looked at you, and I saw love in his eyes. I also saw the way you look at him, and I know you care for him. I think... that you can do the spell successfully. I just don't know if Erin will be up to it, with her baby and all."

Lucius was very confused about Harry's words, but he was also touched. "You really think I can do it?"

"Yes."

Lucius gazed at James and he held the urge to caress his face. "I'll do it then. But only because... he's the one with a clue about Draco's illness."

Harry hid a smile. "That's the only reason."

Lucius didn't say anything, but Harry spotted a very important sparkle in Lucius' eyes.

--------------------------

Severus entered his room very upset with the latest events. Not only did the moron not wake up yet, but now his wife would have to perform another complicated spell that would require a lot of her energy. When Lucius had suggested entering James' mind, Severus had been more than just shocked. It wasn't like Lucius to care so much about someone. But then he remembered something that Erin had said to him a long time ago about Lucius, and her words finally sunk in. Lucius' long lost lover was James Potter. His shadow - as Erin had called it once - was Potter.

To find out that Lucius Malfoy - the heartless bastard - was gay and in love with a Potter was more than a shock to Severus, but he got over it. The only thing that mattered to him was the safety of Erin and their baby.

"Erin, would it make any difference if I say that I think it's too risky to perform another difficult spell in such a short period of time?" Severus asked as she got out of the bathroom. "I'm not saying this just because of me, but because of the baby. It isn't safe."

Erin smiled at him just like she always did. Severus was very weak to that smile, but he tried not to let himself be swept away this time.

"I couldn't say no to Lucius. You know I can't resist true love when I see it, right?" she said.

Severus grunted. He knew what Erin thought about Lucius and he didn't like it. "You're just doing it because you think he's devilishly handsome," Severus grimaced.

Erin chuckled as she sat next to him and kissed the tip of his nose. "Are you jealous?"

"Jealous?" Severus snorted. "Of course not!"

She looked at him with amusement. "Aw! You're so cute, Sevvie!"

"Don't call me that!"

Erin made a face. "You might say you don't like it, but we both know better."

"Erin... I'm serious. I don't want you to do the spell."

Erin sighed. "I know. But for one thing, you know I don't take orders from you. For another, I have to."

"No, you don't!" Severus objected. "Let someone else do it."

"Who?"

"I don't know! Lupin maybe?"

At the mention of Lupin's name, Erin looked suddenly sad and worried. "No, Remus can't do it. He isn't in the right mood."

Erin was very worried about Remus, because his pain was obvious to everyone. She didn't know exactly what had happened between Remus and Sirius, but she had a pretty good idea, and her instincts were usually right. It was annoying not to be able to see the future as clearly as she saw someone's past. Something bad would happen soon. She felt it, but she couldn't do anything about it, because she didn't know exactly what would happen, or to whom.

Another thing that was bothering her was Alex. She hated to admit it, but maybe Severus was right about him.

"What's wrong, Erin?" Severus asked.

"I... I sense something wrong in the air these days," she said seriously. "I need to ask you to do something for me."

"What is it?"

"Could you... watch Alex for me?"

Severus frowned. "Why? Did he do something suspicious?"

"No. It's just the way he looks sometimes... He has such a dark expression. It reminds me of my father."

"Then you finally agree with me that he doesn't look like what he seems?"

Erin didn't want to lose hope on her brother, so she just said, "Keep an eye on him."

"Do you want me to watch him... or to spy on him?"

Erin took a while to answer, and when she did, she was very sad. "Spying would be better."

-------------------------------

There was a scream coming from Draco's bedroom, but in the Prefects' dormitories, everyone was too immersed in their own dreams to care. Draco woke up panting, his heart beating fast. He covered his face with his hands and took a deep breath to calm down. He wasn't in Voldemort's domain, he repeated to himself. He was in his room, safely guarded by Dumbledore, his father and the others.

But that didn't matter, because Draco knew with a frightening conviction that soon he would be taken away from Hogwarts. There was already someone there for that purpose only. Voldemort's spy was just waiting for Draco to be completely taken over by what he believed was a controlling potion a lot more efficient than the Imperius curse, and a lot more difficult to break free from. Draco had seen everything in his dream, and he didn't know what to do.

He knew he didn't have any time to lose, so he tossed the blanket away, got up from the bed and wrote down on a piece of parchment everything that had happened in his dream. Then he ran to the Slytherin common room and entered the sixth years' dormitory.

"Blaise," he whispered as he sat down by Blaise's side. "Blaise, wake up."

Blaise muttered something in his sleep and then gave his back to Draco.

"Blaise, come on! There's no time." Draco shook him until the other boy opened his eyes.

Blaise stared at him with surprise. "Draco? What the fuck...?"

Draco covered Blaise's mouth with his hand to keep him quiet. "There's no time. I came here to ask you to do me a favour. It'll demand a lot from you, though, and I'll understand if you don't want to do it, but you're the only one I can count on."

Blaise's eyes flickered. "What is it?"

"Tonight I'll be kidnapped," Draco muttered sadly.

"WHAT?"

There was a mumbling from the other beds, and Draco held the urge to squeeze Blaise's throat. "Shush! Keep your voice down! I don't want anyone else to know about this."

"Then explain things to me in a way that I can understand. What the hell are you talking about?" Blaise asked angrily. "If you're going to be kidnapped, then why aren't you in Dumbledore's office, or with your beloved Potter? Are you delirious or something?"

"I can't go to them. Harry would try to save me, and things would get really messy. I'm afraid of hurting him. I can't meet him."

"But Draco... You aren't making any sense."

"It's too late for anyone to help me," Draco said sadly. "Soon I won't be myself anymore. Time is up for me. But I can't let anyone know. They'd try to help me, and they'd only make things worse. I brought you this." Draco took a piece of parchment out of his pocket and handed it to Blaise. "Give this to my father when I'm gone. And this," He handed Blaise another letter. "This is for Harry."

Blaise looked at him confused. "Draco... I don't get it. How do you know what's going to happen?"

"I've dreamed about it. What I have... It's some sort of a poison, in a way, but it's more like Imperius. It was designed to be stronger than Imperius, and more effective. Don't ask me how I know this, or even if I'm right. All I know is that Voldemort will use me against Harry. And the thing is, I won't care, because my only goal will be achieving power at all cost. I know how stupid Harry is, so I know he'll come after me. If he does that, I'll betray him. That's why I need your help. In this piece of parchment I wrote down the location to my cure. Once the healing potion is done, you'll be the one to give it to me."

"But if you won't be yourself, you won't accept anything from me."

Draco licked his lips nervously. "That's why you'll join Voldemort with me."

Blaise opened his eyes wide, but this time he didn't shout, no matter how much he wanted to. "Fuck, Draco. No, I won't do it! I'll give this to your father, and I'll keep an eye on Potter for you, but I won't join that... that... thing."

"I'm sorry, Blaise, but you're the only one who can meddle in among the Death Eaters without suspicion. It's the Slytherin in you. You can deceive anyone, even me. If you stay by my side and make me believe you're just another Crabbe, I won't suspect you, and I'll let you be by my side all the time, making your job easier when the time comes. You'll also prevent me from hurting Harry if he comes after me."

"I can't do it."

"You can."

Blaise smirked. "And since when do you trust me so much?"

"Because I saw you with Finnegan, and I know how much you care for him. I know how much you've changed. I also saw you in my visions. But the thing is, I don't know how things will turn out... I can only hope. Do it for Seamus. He's not a pure blood. Voldemort will target him more than the others."

Blaise looked the other way. He loved Seamus, and that was another reason why he should stay. His lover would never understand if Blaise just took off. Besides, Blaise knew that if he did what Draco was asking him to, he'd have to leave Seamus without a word. Seamus would hate him. He wouldn't understand. And then he would be all alone again.

But then again, Draco had a point. Seamus' family was a target. Blaise sighed, frustrated with his dilemma.

"I can't do it," he repeated weakly.

Draco sighed. "I understand."

Unfortunately, Blaise still cared for Draco. They had been friends once, and he had loved Draco before he got together with Seamus. He couldn't let Draco face all of that alone. And as a bonus, he'd be able to spy for the Order and help in defeat Voldemort. Then Seamus would be all right.

"I'll do it," Blaise whispered, not quite believing himself.

Draco smiled. "Thanks. I know that what I'm asking for is very difficult."

"Damn right it is!"

"You can tell Seamus if you want to. I can't ask you to lie to him."

Blaise shook his head. "I can't tell him. He wouldn't be able to hide things from Potter, unless, of course, you explained everything to Potter in your letter."

Draco smiled bitterly. "I explained most of it to Harry, but I know he won't understand."

"The same goes for Seamus."

"Still, it's better if you let him know."

"He'll hate me anyway," Blaise said thoughtfully. "I won't tell him. If I do, he'll be in danger. I can't put him in danger. It's better if he doesn't know anything."

Draco smiled sadly. "You really love him."

Blaise flushed slightly, and then shrugged. "Just tell me exactly what I have to do."

In a spontaneous moment, Draco hugged Blaise. "Thank you."

Blaise smiled. "Don't thank me. For this huge favour, Draco, you'll owe me a big one."

"That's fair enough. This is what we'll do..."

--------------------------

Lucius felt a pang in his heart for no reason, and he wondered if he should call the whole thing off, but he was already in the middle of the magical circle, and Erin was already intoning the ancient incantation. Lucius felt his mind floating and then spinning at a remarkable speed, until he landed somewhere in James' mind.

He stood up and dusted himself off, looking around for any sign of James. He was amazed by what he saw.

He was standing in what looked like a blank space. At his left, there was only darkness and thunderbolts. At his right, there was a peaceful landscape, full of trees and different kinds of flowers. Lucius frowned as a bird landed on his shoulder.

"What the fuck, Potter," he muttered, shooing the bird. "Your mind is really fucked up."

Unsure of where to go, he decided for the peaceful landscape. It could be a trick, but the left side didn't look so good, even for a person like Lucius - who had known darkness his entire life. He had walked only a few steps when the wind started blowing stronger, messing with his hair. He cursed aloud, and as he entered the right side, he spotted a little boy crying under a tree.

Lucius didn't like children, but since he was there to help James regain consciousness, he walked towards the child. When the boy looked up, Lucius realised it was James at the age of eight. He felt uncomfortable, but he knelt beside the child even so.

"Who are you?" asked a sobbing James.

"Malfoy," Lucius answered. "What are you playing at, James?"

"Playing?" little James bit his lower lip after answering, "I'm not allowed to play anymore. I'm not allowed to do anything."

Lucius frowned. James' tears were softening his heart, but since he didn't know what he was fighting against, he kept his shield on.

"Why not?" he asked.

"Because I won't let him," answered a cold voice behind Lucius. It was definitely an adult's voice this time.

Lucius turned around slowly, already with a sneer on his face. James was dressed in all black, and something dangerous was sparkling behind his eyes. But far from being scared, Lucius was rather excited with James' dark version. The soft James Potter was always difficult to handle, but this one was more familiar to his world. He was used to that kind of look, and it'd make it easier to fight against James if he had to.

"Hello, Malfoy," greeted James with a sneer.

"Well, hello there, Potter. Nice place you have here. It's very... symbolic."

"Thanks. It's nice to see you here, too," James said. "You got here just in time to see me break this stupid kid's soul. I know you like that sort of thing. Pain mingled with pleasure, right? There's nothing better than to break someone. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about."

The boy winced at the words, and he clutched his fingers on Lucius' cloak.

"Oh, I do know," Lucius smirked back. "But I'm sorry to inform you that I won't let you break this boy."

James smiled evilly. "Right. Like you could do anything to stop me. You have no power here. I'm surprised to see you, but you won't mess with my plans. In fact, I thought you'd be happy. Once the darkness takes this whole place, a new James Potter will be born; a stronger and wicked one."

Lucius made a bored expression. "Sure, whatever. You know, I like this dark version of you. I really do. You don't scare me, and I think we finally match. But your dark side will cause too much trouble and I can't allow that." He stared deeply inside of James' dark eyes. "This is so you. I should have known you'd pull something like this. You're such a show-off, Potter. Your dark side is fighting against your sweet, innocent good side. Thunderbolts all over... It's really cute, if it wasn't so bloody annoying and terribly cliché! Please... You can do better than this."

James fumed and the little boy gripped Lucius' cloak even harder.

"This isn't a game, Malfoy. I'm very serious. If you don't get out of my way, I'll make you."

"Don't be an idiot. I could take you down in a second, James. I know more dirty tricks than you," Lucius stated very seriously. "I have an idea about what this is all about. Ever since your missing soul came back, all of your lost memories were re-activated as well, or at least most of them. More importantly, it allowed you to remember the person who betrayed you. Am I right?"

The adult James flinched, but it was the little boy who cried for Lucius to stop.

"You remembered Peter Pettigrew," Lucius pointed out, trying hard to ignore the boy behind him.

"Yes, that's right." James' eyes became darker. "I remembered that bastard and I'll kill him when I wake up."

"No! He was my friend," said the little James. "He wouldn't do that."

"He already did!" shouted James, enraged. "He screwed up your life! He sold you out to Voldemort!"

"Yes, he did. He deserves to die. But killing part of your soul won't do you any good. Besides, I worked hard to put your soul together, Potter! You won't screw this up! I won't allow it. Get a grip on yourself. The kid is terrified enough. Just kiss and make up. Then this stupid symbolism you've hidden yourself into can disappear and we can go back to our delightful reality."

"Shut up, Malfoy! Why do you care anyway? I thought you'd like me this way. Why do you care for a stupid and weak boy that does nothing but hide behind you?" James asked, upset.

"I care because this boy is you, James. He's a part of you that I fancy. I can't let you kill this part of your soul. He represents what's good in you. I do like your dark side. In fact, you were never like your goody-goody son. You're conceited; sometimes even wicked. I don't remember Harry being in a real fight with Draco or anyone, but I remember when you and Severus fought until you drew blood. You were a coward when you left me. You have many flaws, and you know what? I like you just the same. You weren't always fair, but you at least tried to be. And... You always try to do what's right. Not that you were always right..." Lucius made a pause, and then he went on, "But I like everything about you. Well, not everything. I hate this symbolic shit you're in, but anyway, I won't give up on you."

"Malfoy..." James whispered, his eyes a little less dark.

Lucius was feeling emotional after his speech, so he thought he should add something else so James wouldn't feel like he was the most important person in the world for Lucius. "I'm also doing this because I can't stand to fail. Can you imagine your son's face if you come back the way you are now? No can do, Potter."

For a moment, Lucius really thought his words had touched James, but the brunette only smirked.

"That was a very sweet speech, Malfoy. But it didn't make any difference to me. All I want is revenge."

Lucius sighed. "I really put a lot of effort into that speech."

"If that was all you could you, then-"

"Actually, I do have something else to say," Lucius said, cutting James off. "I know what betrayal feels like. I know you're hurt. The memory of Pettigrew's betrayal is a shock. You trusted that slimy rat. He was one of your best friends. But do you know what, Potter? You aren't the first one who has ever been betrayed by a friend, and you won't be the last."

"I don't give a shit! I just want to destroy him! And if you don't get out of my sight, I'll destroy you, too."

"Luc, let go. Go away," muttered little James.

Lucius stared at him, dumbfounded. "I thought you didn't know who I was."

"Just go away, Luc. Save yourself. It's too late," said little James sadly.

"You heard the kid, Malfoy. Give up and leave!"

Lucius faced the other James with a sneer and the conviction that he'd stay and fight with. "I'm really sorry, Potter, but I have to protect your chastity." Lucius turned to the boy and said, "Go hide somewhere. This is for grown ups." Then he turned his attention back to James. "Shall we begin?"

James shot a green light in Lucius' direction that missed him by inches. Lucius smiled mischievously. Rather than being scared, he was feeling excited.

"Is that the best you can do?"

"GET OUT OF MY WAY!" James shouted furiously, shooting another ray of light in Lucius' direction.

Lucius ducked many times and he was hit twice, but only superficially. He didn't want to hurt James, but pretty soon he'd have to fight back or James would get the best of him.

"Stop this madness, James!" Lucius shouted, losing his patience after the tenth shot.

"NO! You don't know what it's like! You have no idea how I feel!"

"What the fuck are you talking about? I know bloody well! Did you forget about my father?"

James shook his head. "You don't understand! I can't let that bastard live!"

"So we'll kill him. But you have to come back to normal! You're divided. Undo it, Potter! Unite yourself. Do it for your son!"

"NO!" James shot a ray of light at Lucius, and the blond fell to the ground.

Little James, who had been hidden until that moment, got out of his hideout and stepped in front of James, blocking him from Lucius.

"Don't hurt him!" he pleaded. "I love him. He's my home. Please, don't hurt him."

James seemed taken aback. "You... love him? That man is nothing but a liar, a filthy snake!"

"I don't care. I love him. If you want me, take me. But don't hurt him anymore."

"Hey, kid! What are you doing?" Lucius asked panting.

Little James smiled at him. "I'm saving you." He got even closer to the older James.

"No, wait!" Lucius shouted. "Don't go near him! He'll hurt you!"

"I'm not afraid anymore, Luc. You came for me. I know what to do now," said the child.

Even older James seemed stunned by the assurance of the little one. Light and dark became one. Lucius didn't know what exactly happened, but after a period of chaos, there was only peace and one James left. He held his breath as an adult James turned around to look at him.

"Potter?" he asked with a frown.

James smiled. "I thought we were on a first name basis."

Lucius couldn't help but smile back. His James was back. James helped him stand up, and Lucius winced as he touched his left arm.

"I'm sorry," James said apologetically. "I swear I didn't mean to..."

"Oh, you did. But look at the bright side. This wound isn't exactly physical. I'm convinced that the moment I wake up, my arm will be as good as new," Lucius sneered. "If not, I swear I'll wound yours."

"Luc..."

Lucius saw the sparkle in James' eyes, and he knew where that was going. James would start apologising and so on. He wasn't in the mood for talking anymore, so he silenced James with a kiss. James didn't object to it; he melted in Lucius' arms, and deepened their kiss.

"You came for me," James said after he regained his breath. "You came to help me."

"Don't get too excited," said Lucius with his usual drawling voice. "It was your son's idea."

"But you came just the same."

"I had to. The brat wouldn't leave me alone."

James rolled his eyes. "You're really hopeless, Lucius. But I know you love me."

Lucius frowned, his heart beating fast. "I never said anything about love. You're so bloody conceited!"

"You're here, aren't you?" James hugged him, and Lucius closed his eyes. "That's enough proof for me."

"So, what happened to your dark side?" Lucius asked.

James tensed. "It's here, but it's tamed. For now. Were you afraid?"

"Don't be ridiculous! I told you I wasn't afraid! Didn't you hear me?"

"Did you mean all those things you said to me?"

Lucius stared into his eyes and answered, "Yes. But so what?"

Lucius didn't want to make a big deal out of it, but James knew now what was deep inside his heart, because for that moment, their hearts and minds were connected. He had many battles ahead, and the desire to kill Peter was still strong; but knowing that someone cared that much for him made his heart lighter. Lucius would probably never say that he loved James, but it didn't matter. He knew for sure what Lucius felt for him, and that was enough for him.

"Luc?"

"What?"

"Take me home."

Lucius felt something warn running through his body, filling his soul. He took James' hand in his and smiled.

"I don't really know where home is," he said softly.

James stroked his face and smiled. "Then we'll find it together."

-----------------------------------

Alex was almost in the middle of the Dark Forest when he heard Remus' voice asking him to stop. He turned around with a heavy sigh. In his arms he was holding an unconscious Draco Malfoy.

Remus was the last person he wanted to see. He didn't want Remus to think of him as the traitor that he was. Alex' mission was to bring Draco to Voldemort once the time was right, and in exchange he'd have a cure for his werewolf condition. It was that simple. Alex would finally be able to live a normal life. But he had to spoil everything by falling in love with Remus.

"Remus, please leave or I'll have to hurt you," Alex said.

Remus shook his head, feeling his heart sinking deeper and deeper at the obvious betrayal. He couldn't help but think that love really wasn't for him. First Sirius had broken his heart and now Alex.

"Leave the boy, Alex," Remus ordered, pointing his wand at Alex with trembling hands.

Alex smiled sadly. "I can't do that. Besides, I'm actually doing you a favour. This Draco Malfoy isn't the one you know now. When he wakes up, he'll be a totally different person. He'll have no memories of his feelings for Harry Potter."

"You knew about them?" Remus asked, astonished with the revelations.

"Of course I knew. I could smell them all over each other."

"What do you mean he will be a different person?"

"Lord Voldemort tested a new type of controlling potion on him. It's said to be more potent than Imperius. It's like a poison that eats your heart and your most beautiful life memories to turn you into a heartless bastard with no soul. Like I said, I'm doing Hogwarts a favour by taking this boy away. When he wakes up, he'll only have the desire to kill Harry Potter."

"I don't believe you! How could you, Alex? You betrayed all of us!"

Alex felt bad about it. Everyone at Hogwarts was so nice to him. There was also Erin to think about. His beloved sister had trusted him. He really loved her, but once she knew the truth, she would understand. And it wasn't as if Erin would be so surprised. After all, Lestrange was their father.

"He promised me the cure for my werewolf blood. He said I could be only human again," Alex explained as if that was enough to redeem him.

"Alex... There's no such thing!" Remus exclaimed. "How could you believe him? You know he's a liar!"

Remus couldn't believe Alex had fallen for such a cheap trick. Everyone knew the deal - once a werewolf, always a werewolf. There wasn't a cure for it; there were only ways to soften their natural aggression towards human beings. He should have known Alex would do something like that. After all, Alex had always had a dangerous glint in his eyes. Sirius had warned him about it. Sirius... Remus became even sadder by thinking of him. His destiny was to be betrayed.

"Even if there was a cure, you shouldn't have sold your soul to Voldemort like this!"

"Perhaps I did sell my soul to the devil. But the devil has been a part of me ever since that werewolf bit me."

"No! I don't see it that way!"

"You hate your werewolf side, too, Remus!" Alex shouted, losing his composed face. "Everyone is afraid of us. Why do you think your precious Sirius can't be with you? It isn't just because you're a man, although that is a huge problem for him. He can't love you because you're not a normal human being!"

That was like a slap in the face, and Remus felt the pain all through his body, knocking him down and making him out of breath.

"Sirius never cared about my being a werewolf," he stated, trying to sound more secure than he really felt.

"He didn't trust you in the past because you were a werewolf. Or did you forget about that?"

Remus felt another pang in his heart. He couldn't deny that. It was true. Sirius had suspected him in the past.

"So instead of fighting me, why don't you come with me? I don't really care about Voldemort. I learned from a very young age that my only concern in this world is with myself. I don't need anybody else. No one really cared for me."

"What about Erin? She loves you," Remus reminded him.

Alex nodded. "Yes, but Erin will understand my feelings. Come with me, Remus. Once we got the cure, we'll go away together. I love you. I didn't think it was possible for me to love anyone, but I love you."

Remus gulped at those words. No one had ever said that to him. Still, he couldn't forget that Alex had Draco in his arms, and he was planning to hand him to Voldemort.

"If you love me, then leave Draco here," he pleaded.

"Draco won't be the same anymore. If he stays the way he is now, he'll hurt Harry Potter. Do you want that?"

Remus didn't, but what else could he do? He couldn't let Alex take Draco away. That would tear Harry apart.

"Come with me, Remus."

Alex had such a tender look in his eyes that Remus didn't resist. In the end, he did the unthinkable. He lowered his wand and nodded. Yes, he would join Alex, but not because he believed in Voldemort's fake promises. He'd join Alex because that was the only way to save him. It was also a way to spy for the Order. It was a crazy idea, but it didn't matter. Remus had lost Sirius. He had nothing else to lose. He might still do something good for Harry. Perhaps his meaningless existence would finally be good for something.

He walked towards Alex and smiled. If Alex noticed that Remus was only trying to be a martyr, he didn't say.

----------------------------------

Severus cursed for the tenth time that night. He had lost Draco. Alex had taken him away under his watch. He still couldn't believe it.

Erin was devastated, but after the shock she had fallen into a deep concentration as if she was planning her next step. Severus didn't like that at all. He'd failed with Draco; he wouldn't fail with Erin. He would protect her at all costs. If Erin knew that, she'd probably tell him that she wasn't a damsel in distress, and that she knew how to take care of herself very well. But she was now pregnant with his baby. He couldn't allow her to do something foolish.

"Headmaster, I don't understand! We could have stopped Alex!" he exclaimed, upset. "Lucius will be very pissed when he wakes up."

Dumbledore looked sad, but not at all regretting of the fact that he'd prevented Severus from stopping Alex.

"Everything happens for a reason, my dear friend. This was supposed to happen. That was why I let Alex stay in this castle. Deep down, I was hoping that his love for Remus would make him change his mind at the last minute, but..." Dumbledore sighed as he stared at the stars. "Everything happens for a reason..."

Severus snorted. "It's a rather romantic idea, even for you, Sir. You really don't believe in foolish things such as this!"

"I don't like how things turned out, Severus," Dumbledore said seriously. "But the truth is that we don't have a cure for Draco's condition. If he stayed here, he'd have caused us many problems. I know this sounds cruel, but at least now he won't hurt Harry, as I know he'd have. And I do believe that Voldemort won't do anything against Draco now. That's something positive."

"Of course he won't do anything against Draco!" Severus exclaimed, losing his temper. "He's already done it! He poisoned Draco with this new form of a controlling spell, and then he took him away under our noses! He must be laughing his heart out! He'll use Draco as a weapon against Potter! How can you say that something like this was meant to be?"

Dumbledore stroked his beard thoughtfully. "You forget that Draco isn't the only one who left. We have two very important allies pretending to be on Voldemort's side now."

"Remus Lupin and Blaise Zabini? This is the joke of the century!"

"Well, even the smallest one may change the course of the future (*). Don't underestimate them. I think they will be essential for our victory, as much as Harry is for the salvation of our world. You forget that you were once very important for the Order."

Severus bit his lips and he clutched his fists. "No matter how important I was, I couldn't save the Potters."

"No one expected Peter Pettigrew to do what he did," Dumbledore said sadly. "I didn't see that coming... No one did. We didn't expect Sirius to put Peter as a Secret Keeper at the last minute..."

Severus knew that that day didn't haunt only him. Dumbledore and many others felt guilty about the attack at the Potter's house.

Even though Severus wasn't so sure of the future, he trusted Dumbledore.

"I don't want to be around when Harry finds out about Draco..." Severus said.

"Let us hope that James will be there for him in time... But if he isn't, I want you to keep an eye on him."

Severus frowned. "Me?"

"Yes! You're the one who has been trying to keep Harry out of trouble ever since he arrived here. You don't fool me, Severus. You try hard to dislike him, but the truth is that you do like him. You see a lot of yourself in him."

Severus looked the other way, annoyed. "That's ridiculous."

Dumbledore hid a smile. "Even so, I want you to make sure that Harry doesn't do anything foolish."

Severus sighed. Dumbledore was, as usual, annoyingly right. Against his better judgement, Severus had learned to like the boy. And it wasn't just because Harry reminded him of Lily, but because Harry had a light of his own that was hard to ignore. But he'd rather die than confess something like that.

"I'll try my best to keep him out of trouble," Severus said. "But you know how he is..."

Dumbledore smiled. There wasn't any doubt that Harry would try to go after Draco. All they could do was try to keep him safe at Hogwarts.

"Are we going to tell the Order about Remus?" Severus asked.

"Only certain people. We'll have to tell Sirius and James. I won't allow any more misunderstandings between them."

"Headmaster, what do you see for the future?"

"Ah, Severus, you know I can't predict the future."

"You could have fooled me..." Severus muttered.

"I know a lot about people's feelings and human nature. Well, most of the time I do. But the future... I'm not sure about it. I have a few visions, but they are never clear to me. Draco's part in all of this is vague. But I'm sure we'll find a way to bring him back to us unharmed. We just need to have a firm hold on Harry."

That was a huge problem to Severus, because he knew better than anyone else that Harry Potter was very hard to hold down.

There wasn't much that Severus could do now, though. He could only pray for the best.

TBC...

(*) The line isn't mine; it's from Lord of The Rings, by J.R.R. Tolkien! I just love this quote.