Hey Readers

Heres the next chapter and I hope you all really like it, sorry its been a while coming. I want to say a big thanks to nightwing7, Russetwolf1618, tammywammy9, hotflower901, missfairy88, R and geetac for reviewing since my last chapter - appreciate it all.
Hope you like some of the reveals on this chapter. Enjoy.

Harry Potter – Black Manor

They only had one more day left until they were due on the Hogwarts Express and Harry still had no idea what Draco and his Slytherin friends were doing coming to his house. They had been healing in one of the spare rooms for almost twenty four hours; each time he went up to speak with Draco he was asleep curtesy of Dipsy, although he found it rather annoying she was only doing what he asked besides he knew he shouldn't begrudge them healing. Pressing down his desire to question his rival about his motives Harry spent the remaining time hanging out with Mason and explaining what happened downstairs. As he expected his ward was full of questions about their guests. Some of Mason's most awkward questions were in regards to his and Draco's history. Harry tried to gloss over some of the nasty words and things they've done to each other over the years, as he felt bad mouthing off about Draco who was technically a member of Mason's family.

"I thought that Dad said he, Remus and you were my only magical family alive. Why would he lie to me?" Mason sighed looking rather downcast.

"In his mind he didn't lie to you. Sirius never really got along with his family, you see they openly practised dark magic and hated muggles with a passion. Your father was nothing like them. Draco is the son of your dad's cousin. I know for a fact that he hasn't considered any of them family for a long time." Harry rushed to explain hoping to elevate the obvious pain that was building up behind Mason's eyes.

"Oh. I see." Mason rasped out before clearing his throat and continuing more forcefully. "When Draco wakes up I want to meet him then. I respect Dad's decision with them but he's still family and I at least want to see for myself."

Harry was full of a mix of emotions mostly happiness that his ward had the same individuality that Sirius had, which he was sure would only develop further as he grew.

"Of course you can mate. I just want to speak with him first, after all he was in line to be a death eater not long ago. Something has changed and I want to make sure its safe first. You okay with that?" Harry inquired carefully still feeling awkward sounding like a parent.

"Yeah, that's fine. I can understand that." Mason beamed at him.

With the count down on for the return to Hogwarts Harry wanted to go back to the Weasley's shop so that he could collect Mason's presents. Besides if he didn't, he had a sneaking suspicion that Fred and George would try busting in to 'save him'; he had promised to return straight away and instead he was playing host to three Slytherins.

Around lunch time Harry and Mason used the floo network to journey to the Leaky Cauldron so they could walk down together and meet the Weasley twins. As they walked down the street the stares of distrust and anger that he'd received of late as Lord Regent Black were missing instead they got star-struck wizards and witches parting in the street as though they were royalty.

"What's wrong with everyone? Why are they staring at you like that Harry?" Mason requested understandably confused.

Harry sighed. "Remember that book you read about wizarding history from the 20th Century?" Harry questioned as a passer-by wearing a large mouldy trench coat tipped his hat when they passed.

"Well yeah, it was one of my favourites." Mason grinned happily a distant look in his eyes as though he was recalling the book in question. Harry was very familiar with this expression; any time he asked Hermione about an essay question she would get the same look before answering him.

"I'm sure you remember that there were a few chapters about what happened between Voldemort and me in there. Unfortunately a lot of people still hail me for defeating him the first time." Harry revealed trying through sheer will power for his blush to disappear.

After a few moments of silence Harry glanced at Mason curious as to why he didn't respond. He was slightly taken aback by the wide Sirius-like grin on his face.

"Don't worry, to me your just Uncle Harry." Mason smiled, somehow picking up on Harry's concern with ease.

Harry just smirked and tussled Mason's black hair in response as they approached the twins new shop front. When he was around Mason's age he normally hated when people did that to him but almost instinctively he had done it to his godson; however instead of flinching away as he would have, Mason only grinned wider and seemed to move into his hand as though receiving comfort from it.

As Harry was about to reach for the handle, the door swung open to reveal a relieved yet exhausted looking Fred Weasley.

"About bloody time Harry." He sighed exasperatedly grabbing Harry's wrist and dragging him inside, leaving a shocked Mason standing behind him.

Fred continued dragging Harry into the back room refusing to let go of his hand as though afraid he would turn to smoke and disappear again.

"Harry!"

Harry only had a second warning before an anxious George Weasley slammed into him, enveloping him in a tight embrace. When the shock of George's tackle faded away he realised that Fred had let go of his hand so he used it to return the upset Weasley's hug.

"Don't you ever do that again Harry." George whispered forcefully sending a shiver down Harry's spine.

Harry tried to push George away from him so that they could talk but George just tightened his grip to prevent him moving at all.

"Come on let's leave these two alone." Fred murmured.

Harry assumed that he was talking to Mason and knew that his godson would be safe with Fred until he could calm George down.

"George? What's wrong?"

"What's wrong!? Why did it take you so long to get back? That Lord Black prick swore to me that you would be back here straight away! And why haven't you been answering any of my letters?" George fumed pulling away from Harry and staring impatiently at him.

Harry tried not to grimace as he was being reprimanded by one of his close friends; obviously asking 'what's wrong' was a bad question to ask.

"I'm sorry George but I haven't got any of your letters. Where did you send them?" Harry asked gently, patting Georges arm softly in what he hoped where calming motions. He hoped to avoid the reason why he was late as the last thing he wanted to do was lie to George even if it made him feel better.

"At first to the Dursley's and when you didn't answer after five letters we went over there to save you from the bastards but you weren't there! I then went to Dumbledore to see if he had moved you somewhere safe and neglected to tell us anything but he was at a loss as well. Finally after that pounce Lord Black showed up I sent a letter making sure that you would come in case he went back on his word but again…no response." George ranted his face so red it was almost as bright as his hair, although Harry wasn't sure if it was because he was still upset or because of a lack of oxygen.

Feeling that George wanted to move away most likely to start pacing, Harry reached out and took told of George's wide and surprisingly muscular shoulders.

"George? I want you to look at me." Harry whispered waiting until George's hypnotic blue eyes locked to his own green ones before continuing. "I'm fine. I'm sorry about your letters and not answering but it wasn't on purpose, I swear and see I'm safe and sound."

"Safe? You live with Lord Black! How are you safe?" George scoffed

"You really don't like the new Lord Black do you?" Harry inquired desperately fighting a smirk.

"Of course not! He's the head of one of the darkest families in British history and he took you away!" George's face glowed with that last comment except Harry doubted it was because he was angry or out of breath.

"You really…care about me, don't you?" Harry muttered getting lost inside George's daze.

"Y-yes I do…you know like Ron or Hermione." He stammered gazing down at the ground with a slight frown.

"Right…of course."

Harry was slightly surprised by the feeling of disappointment that swelled up within him. Over the years if there was one person he could count on from the moment he jumped on the Hogwarts Express it was the Weasley Twins, especially George. Ron seemed to get rather jealous of Harry even though he'd never flaunted his wealth; in their fifth year some Slytherins stole Harry's backpack when he wasn't looking and set fire to it. As Harry was busy dealing with Umbridge at the time and organising DA lessons, he couldn't be bothered dealing with the pyromaniacs any more than to sling a few curses in their direction. Rather than sticking up for Harry against the Slytherins Ron fumed over how easily Harry was able to purchase replacement supplies. When Harry bite back in defence that financial wealth wasn't everything, the emotional red head refused to speak with him for a month. If it wasn't for a particular nasty howler sent from Mrs Weasley, Harry had a sneaking suspicion that they wouldn't have finished the year on speaking terms.

With Hermione Harry rarely had huge fights with the brilliant witch other than when she hinted that homework should be his first priority and Harry waved her off in an effort to concentrate on Quidditch tactics or play exploding snap with Neville.

"If I explain everything to you about where I've been and why you should trust Lord Black, would you feel better?" Harry offered seeing a brief flash of doubt on the taller man's face.

"You can try." George mocked playfully rolling his eyes obviously doubting Harry stood a chance of doing that.

Harry just chuckled. "Okay can you go out and get your brother and Mason for me. This will be easier if I only have to say it once and Fred deserves to know as well.

"Fine. But when I get back you have a lot to explain and that prat Lord Black will have to answer to me, no matter what you say." George glared in warning before walking out of the room leaving Harry alone.

"Kreacher!" Harry called.

Instantly Kreacher appeared in front of him with a slight pop sound.

"Evil Master Harry called for poor Kreacher?" the house elf muttered.

Harry snorted out a supressed giggle as he took in Kreacher's new appearance. "Oh I see Dipsy got you a uniform already. Rather impressive really, especially when she's got three bedridden people to look after."

Kreacher folded his arms across his chest and glared so intensely that Harry couldn't see his eyes anymore. The irritated house elf was wearing a black collared shirt and black shorts both of which had the Black crest emblazoned upon it and he was even a pair of soft black leather shoes.

"Kreacher is being horrified when Dipsy gives Kreacher these clothes." He snarled picking at the Black family emblem on his right leg. "House elves don't wear clothes we wear spare linen from around our family's house. It's the sign of house elf enslavement!"

"Oh give it a rest Kreacher. I have a job for you. I need you to go back to Black Manor and collect the enchanted Black cloak for me."

Instead of answering, Kreacher murmured something dark under his breath before leaving with another pop. Harry didn't particularly care that Kreacher wasn't a fan of the new uniforms, they looked fine and well-crafted especially with the silver lining that Dipsy had put on the shirt and pants.

"Alright Harry here we are, you'd better start explaining before George blows a gasket." Fred chuckled before receiving a playful punch in the arm from his testy brother.

Harry smiled involuntarily as George returned to his spot next to Harry. They were so close that he could feel the heat that radiated from the twin's arm. In the past he had dreams similar to this, where it started out being so close before developing further. Shaking his head to clear the pleasurable thoughts from it, Harry turned his attention back to the present.

"Don't worry all will be explained in….Oh excellent timing Kreacher." Harry exclaimed as the insolent house elf appeared by his other side holding the requested cloak.

"Master surely wouldn't be doing something so stupid as show his identity!" Kreacher gasped.

Harry just rolled his eyes at Kreacher's attitude and took the cloak from his outstretched hands. "Not that it's your concern Kreacher, but yes. I want them to know."

Kreacher moved away from Harry's side to circle Fred occasionally poking him with his finger as though he was trying to determine something.

"This wizard looks like he being from the blood-traitor Weasley's…"

"Don't call them that!" Harry snapped coldly.

"Master don't tell them anything. Master shouldn't be trusting anyone with his secrets especially filthy Weasley's, almost as bad as mudbloods." Kreacher cringed as though he had eaten something fowl.

"Kreacher, I swear that if you use the words mudblood, blood-traitor or even insult my friends I will give you clothes." Harry promised secretly enjoying the panic look in the mean house elf's eyes.

"Kreacher is sorry Master Harry, Kreacher wants to keep working for House Black until Kreacher dies even if Master Harry has dirty blood."

"Go. I want you to go to the Dursleys' and collect everything that belongs to me, especially look for letters. I'll meet you back at the Manor to get them off you." Harry ordered watching the old house elf bow and disappear.

"W-wasn't that Sirius's old house elf?" Fred asked cutting through the tension that hung in the air after Kreacher's departure.

"Yep. But it would be easier to explain if you just watch."

After receiving a comforting nod from his godson, Harry flung the enchanted cloak around his shoulders and started to feel the illusionary magic take hold.

"Y-your Lord B-Black?" George stuttered imitating Kreacher's wide and shocked expression as his eyes trailed over Harry's fake appearance.

Harry chuckled at the boggled faces of his two friends before answering. "Yep."

Deciding to take pity on the twins Harry launched into a short explanation of what happened to him since his birthday; from getting the Gringotts letter, finding out about his godson and collecting him from Remus's protection and becoming Lord Potter-Black.

"Wow. That's gotta be the best prank ever!" Fred cheered before howling with laughter and holding onto his sides.

"It wasn't a prank I wasn't trying to lie to you, I swear." Harry flustered feeling slightly guilty for not telling them then and there. His guilt only doubled at the thought that they would have felt better that he wasn't living with a stranger, who as Sirius was the only light sided Black, was most likely dangerous.

"Doesn't matter…" Fred chuckled pointing a shaking finger at George's blushing face. "…in fact that probably makes it even better."

When Harry gave him a curious look Fred just waved his hand dismissively and said "Inside joke milord."

"I'm so sorry Harry, if I knew that you were Lord Black I wouldn't have…well…" George started sheepishly rubbing the back of his head.

"…called him a prat?" Fred butted in with an innocent smile.

"No…I wouldn't have…" George tried again throwing a warning glare at his twin.

"…oh I know, you wouldn't have threatened him?" Fred suggested.

"No! I wouldn't have…"

"…growled like a dog cause you thought Lord Black wouldn't let you see, your Harry…"

"Enough Fred!" George barked. "I…wouldn't have been so mean, I'm really sorry Harry."

Harry's heart melted when he noticed the torn and upset expression on George's face.

"It's okay George, I should have told you sooner. I'm sorry too." Harry beamed at George giving him a playful nudge. Although what Fred had said about George calling him, his Harry, suddenly flashed back into his mind causing him to look away awkwardly as if George himself and been the one to declare it. Deciding to brave another look at George, Harry turned and couldn't help smiling at the now startling and effervescent grin that George sent him. It was that kind of smile that Harry was used to seeing at one George's face.

"I, George Septimus Weasley, do hereby pledge loyalty and protection to Lord Harry James Potter Black and the Noble and Ancient House of Potter. So do I swear it, so mote it be."

Harry gasped as he watched George whip out his wand and pledge himself to him before Fred followed suit. He had read a bit about it in Phineas's journal and wasn't just surprised that George and Fred did it but that they did it without even having to think about it.

Seeing Harry's shocked face, George giggled and grabbed Harry by the shoulders staring deep into his eyes once more. "I'm always going to be on your side Harry and now everybody will know it."

Harry was suddenly filled with an overwhelming warmth from George's words that spread quickly throughout his body, making him feel as though he was standing next to the large Gryffindor fireplace. In the past he had trouble knowing who was truly on his side with absolutely zero alternative desires; now though he was sure that he could count on George no matter what and of course Fred as well.

"Master Harry sir!" a shrill voice called out.

Harry turned to see a distressed looking Dipsy appear next to him pulling on her bat-like ears. Like Kreacher, Dipsy was wearing her new Black family uniform which was a black dress and shoes both adorned with the family crest.

"What's wrong Dipsy?" Harry asked bending down to the elf's height.

"Master, the intruders have awoken and are calling for you. Dipsy came as fast as possible." She rabbled quickly looking around the room with her large doe eyes.

Harry gave Dipsy an encouraging smile. "Don't worry Dipsy, we are on our way. Can you take those parcels in the corner and take them back to the Manor for me? You can place them in Mason's room." He pointed to the corner near the fireplace where he had placed his godson's presents.

"Of course Master Harry." Dipsy bowed low before clicking her fingers apparating both herself and the parcels back to Black Manor.

"What kind of parcels are they Harry?" Mason asked his face full of confusion.

"We'll talk about it later mate I promise. When we get back I want you to head back to your room and wait for either myself, Kreacher or Dipsy to come and get you. I'm still not sure about their intentions and I'd rather be on the safe side." Harry explained before nodding to the fireplace, watching Mason nod obediently and step forward and floo back to their home. Now that Mason had left, Harry was able to focus on the concerned looking Weasley twins.

"Intruders? What did the house elf mean by intruders?" Fred hollered.

"Erm…well just after I got back from visiting you two Draco, Parkinson and Zabini appeared on my front door step. That's why I was so long in returning." Harry revealed hesitantly not sure how the Weasley's would take it.

George's face grew dark. "Why didn't you summon the order to take them away. All three have parents in Voldemort's inner circle. And since when has Malfoy been Draco?"

Harry ignored the bitterness in George's expression as well as his last question. If the three were awake then he needed to get back and sort them out, if they are there to help Voldemort with whatever plan has been devised than he won't hesitate to get them locked up. "I know but something didn't seem right and besides Dr-he swore a wizarding oath not to hurt Mason or myself."

"I'm coming with you then." George declared stubbornly with his jaw tense.

"Coming? There's really no need…" Harry started before drifting off seeing the look on George's face.

"No need? You are kidding, right Harry? You've got three Slytherins with ties to Voldemort running around your home. And you're telling me that there's no need!?" George groaned running his hands through his hair.

Seeing that he wasn't going to convince George, Harry reluctantly agreed that he could come with him.

"I will floo back first and you can follow in a little while. I'll need to get Kreacher to alter the wards to allow you access and Fred you are welcome to come as well." Harry explained.

George nodded. "Fine, I'll wait a few minutes to give the elf time. But promise me something first. You won't go to see any of the mini-death eaters until I'm there."

Harry was a little uncomfortable with George's sudden protective nature. Looking back he could see that George was always a little protective when offering advice and assistance however it was never this intense.

"Okay. I promise." Harry swore.

With George looking much more content in their agreement, Harry flooed back to the Black Mansion.

Black Manor

Harry strode out of the fireplace at Black Manor and summoned Kreacher. A small pop announced the elf's arrival and if judging by his expression he was a little upset from their earlier conversation.

"Did Master summon Kreacher here to dismiss poor and innocent Kreacher?" Kreacher croaked looking up at Harry expectantly.

Harry sighed and knelt down so he could speak with Kreacher face to face. "No Kreacher. Look, I'll be honest with you about why I threatened you, so you know where I'm coming from." Harry paused until Kreacher nodded slightly. "Kreacher I have no current intention of firing you and I'm happy for you to continue being a Black house elf, like you want, until you die. However I hate bullying, so when you call my friends and people I consider family horrible names I will obviously be upset. As long as you don't use those words or anything negative about anybody's upbringing or blood status, you won't have to worry about your position in the Black family. Do you understand?" Harry asked.

"Yes Kreacher understands Master Harry." The small elf huffed although Harry smirked when he noticed a small smile on his face. "So if Master Harry didn't want to fire Kreacher, what does Master want?"

"Are you able to alter the goblin wards on the property to allow my friends from earlier in

"Does Master mean those two stupid W…" Kreacher started before Harry shot a glare at the elf. Sensing the warning from Harry, Kreacher cleared his throat. "…Kreacher meant to say… stupendous. Yes, stupendous wizards." He insisted smugly.

Harry was torn between mirth and annoyance; he didn't like anyone making fun of the Weasley's especially the twins but he found it somewhat funny that Kreacher thought he had gotten away with that.

"Can you please just change them? They are coming over soon and I don't want them to be hurt by the wards."

"Fine. Kreacher will go do as Master Harry commands."

Harry watched Kreacher go before leaning against the wall and waited for his friends to arrive. Thankfully it was only a few minutes later before Harry watched both twins walk out of his fireplace one at a time with their wands drawn.

"Where are they Harry?" George growled tensely.

"They've been in a bad way for a while; I doubt we've got much to worry about, besides they aren't armed. You got here fast; Kreacher could only have just finished lower the wards seconds ago, from what I've read they take more than a simple incantation to change." Harry groaned at his obviousness. He was just trying to lighten up the mood a bit and change the topic, after all he wanted to speak the Malfoy not curse him five ways to Sunday.

"W-well…we knew that you'd get that elf to grant us entry straight away so…I guess we just timed it right." George replied subtlety moving his arm behind his back.

"That's about fifteen percent true anyway." Fred giggled as his brother gave him another death stare.

Harry just smirked. "It doesn't matter let's head up and see what the Slytherin's story is."

The two red heads just nodded in confirmation before Harry lead them through his new home giving them a quick tour as they headed to Malfoy's temporary home in one of the vacant rooms. Once they arrived at their destination Harry whirled around with his arms out to halt their progress.

"Now before you can go in I want you to know something. We are here to listen to why they came here and what they want. If I think that they are a risk I will summon the order to get rid of them. However I know Mason wants to meet Draco, since he is his last living blood relation." Harry lectured seriously. He promised that he would try and let the two talk if Draco proved himself innocent of deatheater activities and not being a threat, he wouldn't let Mason down.

"What about the blonde git's mother? Technically she's blood as well right?" Fred asked cocking an eyebrow.

"Yes however as she has proven her loyalty is to the deatheaters and Voldemort I wasn't even considering her." Harry sighed rolling his eyes thinking that should have been self-explanatory.

"You should be thinking the same about Malfoy Jr." George sneered darkly as he glared heatedly at the door as though it had offended him greatly.

"As always your opinion matters to me but I know it would mean a lot to Mason so I have a more complex decision to make."

Obviously sensing the tone in Harry's voice both Weasley boys promised only to step in if one of them got out of hand. Harry couldn't help notice the slight reluctance from George when he followed his brother's lead. Realising that it was probably the best he was going to get considering the relationship between the two families Harry turned back to the mahogany door and pushed it open.

Inside the rather empty spare room was a large closest in the corner and three single beds each with having a resting Slytherin between the sheets. Out of the corner of his eye Harry noticed the twins take in the room with widened eyes; the room was probably just smaller than their living room back at the Burrow but if the size didn't give away the wealth of the owners then the ornate looking black and grey rug in the middle of the room or perhaps the green silk curtains that hung across the windows certainly would.

Zabini and Parkinson were certainly looking a lot better since Harry had seen them last; Blaise had a lot more colour in his face and his bruising was lightly while his female companion still had a few visible cuts on her face and arms they were clearly a lot further healed and thankfully for her no longer looked a tad green.

However it was the middle bed that was supporting the weight of a difficult blonde that caught his attention the most. Malfoy's nose had been healed and some of the bruises had faded completely however the large bags under his eyes and the black hand print on his forearm said he wasn't one hundred percent yet. There was something about Malfoy though that wasn't sitting right with Harry, he just looked weaker than he'd ever seen him.

"Greetings Lord Black." Draco croaked when he noticed Harry walking in. He was surprised to hear his voice so dry and raspy.

"You as well Draco. Now that you've finally gained consciousness perhaps you can inform me as to why you and your two friends decided to come here. While I have yet to make a formal announcement, I would have thought everyone knew I was on the light side after my little deal with Dumbledore."

Harry could see curious expression on George's face when he used his rival's first name again but he didn't care. As Draco was no longer a Malfoy he shouldn't use the family's name, according to Phineas's journal the head of the Malfoy family could legally hold Draco accountable for attempted line theft.

"Of course to business first. I must formally beg for your forgiveness firstly for arriving the way we did, even though we had zero options it was still out of line. Please accept my apology on behalf of my friends and myself." Draco humbly answered as he dropped his head in what could have been seen as a small bow.

Harry stood at the foot of his archenemies bed staring Malfoy completely gobsmacked. Never in the six years that Harry had known Draco, had the young Slytherin ever apologised or even been kind to anyone, yet here he was for the second time saying sorry and being humble. To say it made him feel extremely uncomfortable was an understatement.

"Umm…" Harry responded until a slight nudge from Fred brought his thoughts forward and he cleared his throat. "What I mean to say is…yes I will accept your apparently sincere apology as long as you get to the point and answer my other questions."

"Thank you milord." Draco whispered before raising his head back up. "Before I answer, can I ask why two sons of House Weasley are behind you?"

Harry swallowed the desire to snap back in favour of playing this situation smart, he was meant to be a powerful Lord it would be foolish to snap at an honest question.

"Their personal business is just that…personal. However as you swore an oath not to hurt the members of my house while you are here, I will say that the twins are publically aligned with House Black."

He couldn't help but smirk at Draco's spluttering response. "T-They've s-sworn to you-u?"

"Correct Mr Malfoy." Harry said pleasantly "Now enough stalling please answer my questions or I will have to kick you out."

"Sorry milord. As I said before, we have been banished and had nowhere else to go. As I still have a family connection to House Black, it seemed a logical decision to try and come here."

Harry could feel the troublesome duo tense next to him at Malfoy's words. "What do you mean banished exactly?" Fred asked from his left.

"We have been cut off from our families and everything that comes with that. The family magic, money, house etc. Which is another thing we should speak about…" Draco paused before turning his attention to the twins. "…you shouldn't call me Malfoy anymore. At least for the time being I am legally and magically just Draco."

"How do we know your not lying Malfoy! It is after all what you do." George spit out viciously.

"Feel free to ask Dipsy, she's been taking care of us and would know although she has already explained it to Lord Black." Draco shrugged pointing to the Black elf standing over Parkinson's head muttering to herself.

"Is that so?" Fred chuckled. "And pray tell, when were you going to share this piece of information with us Lord Black?"

"I wasn't keeping it a secret however if you'd feel better I can ask Dipsy."

"I think it's a good idea, if you wouldn't mind…"

"Dipsy." Harry sighed. He frowned as he noticed the large black bags that hung under her eyes and the weary smile she went him. "Are you okay?"

"Oh Master H-Black shouldn't worry about Dipsy, just need some rest after Dipsy heals Masters guests." She murmured as she rested her hand against Parkinson's forehead and without saying a word a blue light shot from her hand and straight into the female Slytherin.

"For the sake of my friends, are you able to confirm what M-Draco is telling us? Is he truly no longer a Malfoy?" Harry asked dragging the healing elf's attention back to him.

"Yes of course Dipsy can do that for Master. During Dipsy's first scan of the three guests, Dipsy discovered that each had been disowned from their family." At her last words the elf looked a bit upset.

"How did you know though Dipsy? Could he fake it?" Fred suggested moving closer to Parkinson's bed.

"No Master's friend. One of the first things Dipsy did was scan their body and their magical cores. A magical core for a wizard or witch is their magical essence and when someone is connected to a powerful family they're core is stronger than the average wizards. Dipsy noticed that all three's core had been damaged severely, shattered in the case of Draco. It is seen normally seen when the victim is disowned or breaks a wizarding oath as both result in the family's magic being ripped forcefully from their body."

Harry shivered at the mere thought of someone ripping out a part of his core, of who he was; besides it sounded rather painful.

"Err thanks Dipsy please continue what you were doing…" Harry said before turning his attention back to Draco. "Fine, now that everyone's is now on the same page I want you to answer the question I asked before you passed out. Why would your father do that as you were his only heir?"

"If you would rather I'm happy to give you my memories of the event. That way you know that I'm telling the truth." Draco offered without even a hint of his old swagger or cockiness.

"Done." George smirked.

"I'm sorry Lord Black but until Draco has recovered properly, retrieving a solid and stable memory for viewing is unlikely." Dipsy pipped up giving Harry an apologetic look.

"It'll be fine; I think it would be a great idea." George pipped up clearly not caring how it would affect Draco.

"Dipsy strongly suggests that Master Black does not use Draco's memories. Dipsy did not mean it was just bad for Draco, but the memory could collapse with Master Black and his friends still inside."

Harry wasn't sure exactly what would happen to him if that were to happen however it didn't sound like a great idea to risk.

"In that case Draco it appears as though you'll just have to speak and tell us what happened."

"As you wish Lord Black. I was summoned before the Dark Lord to complete my initiation and become a deatheater like my p…like Lord and Lady Malfoy however I refused to go through with it. My parents were furious and banished me to prove themselves to him and that they wouldn't accept my disgrace."

Harry heard the pause when Draco started to call the Malfoy's his parents before quickly correcting himself. He may have hated Draco at school for the past six years or so but he would never wish anyone to suffer like that; having your once loving parents toss you to the side and out of their life forever just so that they could worship a psychotic dictator was rough.

"What about the other two?" Harry said trying to get Draco's mind a little further away from his horrendous parents.

"Along with Katie Bell from your house, the three of them were my initiation - I was asked to punish and kill each one. When I first hesitated my aunt placed a dark curse upon Pansy, causing her blood to rush out of her body. I was watching one of my best friends die in front of me, it was then that I made my decision."

"Whoa, are you telling me that Katie Bell is…in Voldemort's hands?" Fred rushed out, Harry could tell that he was panicking. Not many people knew during school but Fred and Katie were dating for a few years until the twins left school.

"She was apparently kidnapped because her aunt had refused to Voldemort's demands. My house elf took her to St. Mungo's ward and contacted Dumbledore." Draco revealed.

Harry could see the pain and an unasked question in Fred's eyes. "You don't need to ask, go and check on Katie. We'll be okay." Before Harry had even finished speaking Fred had rushed out of the room.

"Did I miss something there?"

"None of your business!" George hissed at Draco's question.

Harry rolled his eyes at his friend's childish actions. "Please continue Draco."

"Right well after I was disowned in front of the Dark Lord and his inner circle, all four of us were sent to the dungeons until the next wave of initiations where we would be the proof of their desire to join his ranks. Once we were trapped in the dungeons the Malfoy house elf came and healed Blaise and Pansy up so they weren't going to die. I convinced her to help us escape and she did willingly even to the level that she rounded up my belongings and gave them to me…I owe her everything."

"Why would she help you? You weren't a Malfoy anymore." George glared suspiciously.

"True. However house elves can act on their own accord if their magical bond to their family had been strained enough. My family for generations were mean and even abusive to their house elves so she was able to act as she saw fit. I'm not sure why she helped us to be honest, while I never abused them myself, I never helped them when my father struck or injured them."

An uneasy atmosphere washed over the room at his words due to; Draco looking uncomfortable staring down at his hands and George still wearing a scowl.

"I thought you said that all three were awake, Dipsy?" While one Slytherin was enough trouble at least for now, Harry mainly brought the others up just too slice through the tension in the room.

"Mistress Pansy is having problems fighting off a dark curse in her blood and had an reaction just before Masters arrived so Dipsy placed her under a sleeping spell. Whereas Master Blaise is just asleep naturally."

"So err…Draco. What are you plans for Hogwarts? When you arrived you only had your trunk with you, do you have your supplies as well as Pansy and Blaise's in your trunk?" Harry asked.

"Actually no. It appears that I have another favour to ask of you Lord Black."

Albus Dumbledore – Hogwarts.

It was the last day of peace before his students were to arrive for the new school year and Albus found himself pacing nervously up and down his office. He had barely a moment to concentrate as he was still being forced into the role of 'Headmaster of Hogwarts and Leader of the Light'; between meeting with the Order members and organising teaching plans with his staff, solving his problems had taken a bit of a back seat as much as he hated to admit it. With Potter taking control of his families power and hold within the community, it was almost a certainty that his plans would fail and be exposed no matter how hard he tried to cover his tracks. The only thing that could save the situation was if he was able to convince Potter to give him control of his family's seats in the Wizengamot; with the additional votes and powers he would be able to pass new laws that would favour him.

Suddenly his fireplace roared to life as it expelled a tall hooded figure that dusted off their navy robes and bowed lowly to the headmaster.

"Good day Professor Dumbledore. I'm sorry for coming uninvited however I bring important news from the Ministry." The man greeted Dumbledore in a sickly sweet voice.

"As long as you bring good news McLaggen, I will forgive your interruption. I'm tired of waiting for results." Dumbledore sneered as he took his place behind his desk, waiting for his minion to deliver his message.

"I've looked further into the Regent Lord Black as ordered and discovered only one chance for you to take over the Black family." McLaggen revealed keeping his deep hood covering his face.

Albus sat a little straighter in his chair at hearing this news. Becoming Lord Regent Black would not only grant him power over the Black seats in the Wizengamot but also the family's vaults within Gringotts and access to their ancestral magic. Perhaps things were finally looking up for him. "And that is?"

"You must overthrow the current Lord Regent."

Dumbledore hummed in understanding not taking his eyes away from McLaggen. Christopher McLaggen was one of the most well respected and powerful solicitors in wizarding Britain so he felt relatively comfortable with the accuracy of the information but something else was digging away at his calm exterior. Yet again it appeared that Harry James Potter was another barricade to achieving what he wants. The easiest option would be to kill him but he can't yet as he needs to kill Tom first. If he knew that Sirius had a will planning this all out, he would have waited to find a way around it before having him killed.

"I see." Dumbledore sighed before continuing his voice growing louder and more strained. "Do you have any idea how long I've been developing my plan? Just how long I've been weaving my strategy?"

"No sir." McLaggen said calmly.

"The answer is decades McLaggen. So you can probably understand that my patience has worn rather thin. The reason I'm telling you this McLaggen is because I want you to fully comprehend that if you do not have a plan without the possibility of a single problem, I will follow through with my threat last month…I will kill your wife and son in front of you."

Albus smirked when McLaggen gulped at his words. "Now what do you need to make this work?"

"The b-blood of any Black will w-work but preferably we need Heir Mason Black for this too be perfect."

"Perhaps with him coming to Hogwarts this year it could be a useful opportunity however it would raise less suspicion if he went missing outside of Hogwarts grounds." Albus said stroking his long white beard, deep in thought.

"Is Lupin still trusted?" McLaggen inquired. "We could send him over and…"

"Save yourself the bother McLaggen. As you should well know, I don't offer many second chances. I'm afraid Professor Lupin won't be apart of the cause any further." Albus chuckled. He didn't even feel remotely bad at Lupin's fate; not only was he withholding extremely important information but he failed to retrieve the Potter and Black chests. He brought about his current situation on his own.

Harry Potter - Black Manor.

"Actually no. It appears that I have another favour to ask of you Lord Black."

"Oh and what is that Draco?" Harry asked cocking his eyebrow wondering what else the blonde wizard would ask of him. After knowing Draco for years, he knew that whether he was a Malfoy or not, he would always try and press the situation to his advantage.

"Thanks to my house elf I have almost all my possessions in my trunk however Blaise and Pansy don't have anything. I have some money in my trunk that hopefully would be enough to cover the expenses however we would need safe passage through Diagon Alley. Would you be willing to help us with that?"

Harry tried not to look too closely at Draco's pleading silver eyes so he could focus on the boy in front of him. Though before he could answer George beat him too it.

"Tell me Draco, after all these years why should we trust you. This all could just be some elaborate plan to trap us." George snarled giving Draco a cold stare.

He could understand why George was being so protective and cautious over Draco's intentions; after all he had been tormenting them for years, between that and the rivalry of the Malfoy and Weasley families that had been going on for centuries, things were bound to get heated. Harry couldn't help but be slightly impressed that Draco hadn't reacted to George's verbal onslaughts; the old Draco certainly would have fired back taunting insults but something about this new boy in front of him seemed very different.

"Draco why do you three need to go at all; Dipsy can take your measurements for uniforms, potion ingredients would be exceptionally easy and books for all three of you anyone can collect." Harry reasoned.

Draco smiled warmly up at Harry from his bed. "Actually it's because we need new wands."

"What do you mean 'we'? You said that you've got all your things in your bloody trunk." George asked.

"Well since you asked so nicely Weasley, it comes back again to being disowned. A wand connects to their owner via their magical core. In my case, because the Malfoy's family's magic has been removed from my core my wand won't work as well for me anymore. When we left Malfoy Manor I had to use my wand in a few situations and each time I grabbed it, it was cold and felt awful when I tried to cast a spell." Draco explained trailing off at the end as though remembering the feeling that overcame him.

Harry judged the sincerity of Draco's words trying to find a hint of deception, when he found none he turned his attention at the redhead next to him.

"What do you think George?"

"You know that I don't trust Mal-Draco whatsoever but…I know that you'll make a fair decision." George answered slowly not taking his blue eyes away from the Slytherins.

Harry bit his lip. "Very well Draco. I'll help you get into Diagon Alley to get your school supplies."

He knew he might regret this but going with his gut instinct had proved to be an effective method in the past, why not now.

"Thank you milord." Draco grinned at him.

"I'm going to go try and organise us some Order members to try and help guard us during our shopping trip. I'll be back in a moment." Harry sighed walking out of the make-shift infirmary.

He wasn't sure leaving George and Draco in the same room was a brilliant idea but he wouldn't force George to leave and he trusted him. With Draco having no wand and George knowing that he shouldn't do anything, what could go wrong? Besides contacting an order member wasn't the only thing he hoped to achieve, he wanted answers and he wanted them now.

Draco – Black Manor

Draco watched Lord Black stride out of the room and out of sight before turning back to Weasley and his ever present scowl.

"Aren't you going to follow Lord Black?" Draco asked pleasantly watching as Dipsy applied some green cream onto Pansy's face.

"No, he doesn't need a babysitter especially when the threat to him is still in this room. Besides there's something I want to get clear right now."

Draco was shocked at the forcefulness in the redheads tone; while he had never been on speaking terms with any of the Weasley's throughout school, unless it was too quickly insult them, the twins had the reputation of having a bubbly personality always a grin on their freckly faces. Somehow the Slytherin smirk looked rather out of place on his face.

"What would you like to talk about?" Draco asked. It was clear that the wizard before him was upset and considering he was brandishing a wand near his face and Draco was unarmed, he would have to careful word his responses.

"Talk isn't the word I would use. What will happen now is, I will lay the rules down for you and all you're going to do is sit there and listen." George paused obviously waiting for Draco to agree. With a shrug Draco just nodded which seemed to be enough. "Firstly, when Lord Black returns, all three of you will perform another wizarding oath that will align yourselves to the Black family and that you will keep its secrets. You will tell him this was your decision. Secondly you are not to be alone with Lord Black; if I find you that you have I will happily curse you. Finally you should know that I won't trust you no matter what." George spat the last part of his rant obviously furious over something.

Draco sat on his rather comfortable bed and considered the Weasley's so called rules. Aligning himself to the Black family was easy enough and helped himself out, so Draco would happily do that. Although being ordered around and being told that he wasn't allowed to speak with his future head of family privately was irritating, he could work around that – so he'd agree with that as well. However the third part and the dark, bitter tone that was used to deliver it said that something was being withheld from him. Suddenly it struck him as to why George Weasley would dislike him.

"Is this about what happened during the Triwizard Tournament?" Draco inquired a knowing look on his face.

The low growl from the tall wizard was enough to confirm his thoughts, as the angry Weasley didn't wish to talk Draco decided to keep going.

"I couldn't help notice that you never told Potter what you found out. It definitely wasn't to spare me the embarrassment, so I find myself asking why?" Draco teased trying to control the cocky smirk that wanted to cover his face.

"Why?" George fumed. "It's called compassion and I didn't want to make things weird for Harry."

"Perhaps, or maybe the real answer is that you didn't want competition."

Draco had come to terms with his infatuation for the wizarding world's hero a while ago. It started out in during their third year. It was during the Quidditch match between Hufflepuff and Gryffindor when the pitch was swarmed by dementors. Draco watched from the Slytherin stands, as the raven haired seeker fell from his broom, quickly heading for the ground. While he didn't realise it at the time, only when he looked back on the event did he see the symptoms; his heart began beating rapidly against his ribcage, his hands were twisting nervously in front of him. He just hoped that his fellow Slytherin's hadn't noticed the scared look on his face as his supposed rival was about to be injured…or worse. Even though they had yet to call him out on his actions of that day doesn't mean they weren't planning on it; Slytherin's were known for using secrets to their advantage and waited until the perfect moment to strike.

After spending the holidays after third year to work out his feelings, Draco decided that for the sake of himself and his family and it would be easier and safer if he buried any positive feelings for Potter that he might have. Whenever he thought how toned Harry was becoming after years of flying practice or the blinding jealously that he felt when the harpy known as Ginny Weasley got to close, he would catch himself and throw up the Malfoy mask; it was something he learnt early in life from his father, if your underlings and enemies can't judge your emotions they can't use them against you. Other than a few slip ups Draco survived without anyone learning his secret…well almost nobody.

George stepped closer and pressed the tip of his wand into Draco's chest. "Harry would never go for you Draco."

"So I'll take that as a yes. You've got feelings for him as well." Draco's smile vanished as he realised the current situation. In Potter's eyes George Weasley was a close friend while Draco was still an enemy whose parents had tried to kill him. If he seriously wanted to change things he would have to be fast and smart.

"For the last time. Draco…stay…away or I won't be responsible for my actions." George threatened his hand tightened on his wand.

"May the best man win." Draco declared holding out his arm to shake however George just gave him a disgusted look and left the room.

Draco leant back in his bed listening to Blaise snoring next to him as he worked on his plan to capture Potter's heart.

Harry Potter – Black Manor

On his way to contact the order Harry decided to take a small detour and speak with his ward; after all Mason had a good point about Draco, they were technically family and he deserved to know. Once Harry got to Mason's bedroom door he knocked upon the wood and waited for a response.

"Yeah. Come in." Mason called granting Harry permission to enter.

Harry pushed on the door to see his godson sitting on the ground with his head in a large tome. As Harry walked into the room, Mason lifted his head and grinned at him.

"Did you get to talk with Draco?" Mason asked his eyes shining with excitement.

"Okay yes I did mate…but I-"

Mason snapped his book closed and placed it to the side so he could stand up. "So can I go talk with him?"

"I've got to go contact the Order, he's requested that I help him and his friends buy new wands…" Harry started to explain until he noticed the slight pout on his ward's face. "But I guess since he has sworn an oath not to do anything and with Dipsy and George still in the room it should be safe…okay you can go speak with him." Harry sighed rubbing his temples softly.

Harry was trying to remember just when his life went from complicated to downright crazy when the giggling form of Mason slammed into his chest, slightly winding him.

"Thanks Uncle Harry." Mason whispered squeezing Harry around the middle.

Harry smirked before he hugged him back. He wondered if this warm and protective feeling he felt in his chest was how it was for families who actually loved each other. The only family he could remember hugging or being shown any kind of niceness was when he had hugged Sirius once in greeting. It was in that moment when Harry knew that no matter what happened next everything would be okay, for he finally had his own family in Mason.

He broke the hug and stared into Mason's eyes. "You can go talk to him if you want but if George isn't there, I want you to come back and read some more." Harry instructed.

"But you said that Dipsy was there too." Mason huffed his earlier pout returning in force.

"Yes she is currently there but I'd feel better if George was there as well." Seeing Mason was about to argue that point, Harry cut back in before he could. "If you'd prefer, you can wait for me to finish contacting my friends and then I can take you in too see him."

Mason rolled his eyes and folded his arms against his chest. "Fine. You win."

"You do know that I'm only doing this to keep you safe, right?" Harry asked as he watched Mason walk over to his bedroom door.

"Yeah…I know." Mason said as he opened his door and with a final smirk and a quick wave he was gone from sight.

Hey Readers,

Hope you all liked this chapter.

As usual please feel free to review and/or add this story as a favourite so I know if I should keep going.

Thanks for reading everyone.