==================================================================

The espouse day, Ron, Hermione and Neville were surprised to find all the DA members, with the elision of Luna, Harry and Ginny of course, impatiently waiting for them at the Gryffindor coarse room.

`` What are you doing here ? '' asked Ron although he already knew why.

`` Because of this, mate. Now, tell us what 's amiss. '' said Lee seriously as he handed them the latest transcript of change newspapers.

`` Err ... umm -- - '' he began but was rudely interrupted by an irritating voice.

`` I knew it ! Harry 's been so weird lately. Now, I know why. '' said Zacharias with a smirk.

`` Shut up ! Let him talk. '' snapped the usually jolly twins to him.

`` Do you believe what 's written there ? '' asked Hermione shrewdly to the new arrivals.

`` Of row not ! Harry would never do such a thing ! '' exclaimed Cho positively.

`` Are you kidding ? We never believed in the papers at all. '' said Fred indignantly.

`` Yeah, we prefer to hear it from the origin. '' added George with the same incredulous expression.

`` Absolutely not ! '' exclaimed another.

Hermione leaned at Ron for accompaniment. `` What if we tell you that aside from what you 've read, Harry tried to outrage Ginny yesterday and escaped after attacking Snape ? What would you consider then ? '' A earsplitting silence filled the room.

`` Well, actually, we do not cognize for sure yet but we have think that person was impersonating him. I mean -- that 's the only coherent ground, is n't it ? '' said Neville calmly.

`` Is it ? I-I surmisal I 'm not so surely. '' said Parvati hesitantly.

`` Me, too. But Harry is not like that, is he ? '' said Padma, staring down at her shoes as she did so.

`` Clearly, too very much solitude and hanging out with nutcase unhinged his mental capacity. '' commented Book of Zachariah sarcastically but no one reacted to his taunt.

`` Ron ? '' The Gemini, unsure of what to say, turned to their youthful sidekick in bewilderment.

`` Harry was the one who risked his life to forestall Voldemort from getting the sorcerer 's rock. He saved my sister from his iniquity clutches, killing a dangerous basilisk in the process. He spared the spirit of the person who betrayed his parents when he could accept had his revenge. And most importantly, he gave us go for when everything was at its big. If those are not enough to win over you of Harry 's pureness, then I pity you. '' Ron spoke in a muted shade but everyone was hanging on to his Holy Scripture. `` I chose to trust that Harry 's not guilty. Had the place been reversed, I believe he would do the Sami for me. ``

`` Several times, Harry had been accused of lying but he was always leaven inexperienced person in the end. I have no ground to surmise that this sheath would be unlike. '' said Neville with such vehemence that astounded the others.

`` But what about the onslaught ? Many eyewitnesses attested to the fact that it was really him. '' said Zacharias in confusion.

`` No, those are mere illusions. '' said Hermione defiantly.

`` You know this whole thing is preposterous. I 'm sure dad would set things straight soon. '' said Fred confidently.

`` Hmmm .... '' began Hermione, trying to recognize if it would be wise for them to sleep with what the Order had decided. `` Helen Wills Moody told us to go along for now and see where this will leave us. But he also said we have to keep an ear and eye out for hint. If their hypothesis are correct, then a new iniquity Almighty could be emerging and using Harry to split the wizarding community. ``

`` So, are you saying that we have to make that we really believe the news program ? ! ? '' said George incredulously as if he found the mind ridiculous. `` What if Harry found out ? He 'd be mad for sure enough ! ``

`` Then we 'll simply explain. Listen, as of now we do n't know what 's going on yet so until we discover something, let 's go along with the stream but we do n't need to announce it to the all world. A ennoble silence will do. '' said Hermione patiently.

This time no one commented.

author 'S NOTE : I 'll be writing about Harry 's billet and Luna 's Recovery next. delight remember to refresh. Thanks !
Chapter 6 - Not Just a Dream


After the former DA phallus had left, the three searched the rook once more for any trial impression of Ginny 's whereabouts and procured some record book from the Restricted Area which they forgot to research earlier in their disoriented body politic. The side by side day, feeling oddly tired and spent, they made their way half-heartedly to the Great manor hall to have their breakfast. It had only been four days since the term had ended and yet it felt like years.

`` I honestly thought this was going to be our full vacation ever ... '' spoke Ron heavily as if the mere effort of speaking drained him of energy.

`` Yeah - with Voldemort gone, I had hoped that we could finally get together without the fear of being attaked. '' agreed Neville. `` A company would be nice, I guess, but just hanging out without worrying about dark wizards would be pleasant enough. ``

`` Sometimes, it 's really difficult to be friends with Harry. Things always happen to him and we always get involved somehow. '' said Ron thoughtfully. `` The only difference is that we usually do it with him but now, we do n't even have a go at it where he is or if he 's still active ... ''

`` Now, do n't say that Ron ... '' said Hermione reproachfully and twist her bushy-haired mind to preserve perusing a book they had acquired the nighttime before. It was really depressing to hear soul say it out loud. It made the unit affair seem more real. But Ron went on as if he had not heard her or if he had, he just prefer to ignore her.

`` Then, there 's the thing with Ginny. Foolish girl, I do n't acknowledge what came to her - leaving the palace like that, without so much as a note to inform us if she 's safe ! '' He paused for a piece to pour himself a drinkable. `` She really scares me sometimes. first-class honours degree, that thing with that Malfoy git and now, this. '' He had a far away look on his facial expression, then he shook his head slightly as if he was dismissing a blackball thought.

`` Hey ! feel who just arrived. '' exclaimed Neville suddenly, jerking Ron back from his momentary stupor and startling Hermione into slamming the book shut in surprise. Her eyes immediately widened with befuddlement as she identified the approaching figures.

`` Why are you all here again ? I thought we all agreed to trace for clues ? We ca n't collect much information if we 're all here. '' said Hermione in soft annoyance as she saw the one-time DA members drew near.

`` wellspring, we just found out the heavily way that the business atmosphere now is far from accommodating. We decided to conclude the shop until this solid ludicrous scam is over. masses refused to buy our stuff now just because we 're booster with Harry and some had already resorted to vandalizing our premise. '' admitted Fred ruefully.

`` The fools seem to think that we had an evil confederacy with Harry and that our ware are basically dark target in disguise. They did n't mind before though but now ... .I do n't know. People are really fleeceable sometimes. '' said George with the same dejected tone.

Hermione crossed her weapon over her chest and eyed Cho and Lee quizzically, not realizing that she presented a very eldritch image of the stern Headmistress.

`` I came here because I have nothing better to do at home and besides, Cho 's coming too so I decided to go with her. '' said Lee sheepishly.

`` And I came here for Luna. There 's something that I need to discourse with her ... if she 's okay now, that is. '' said Cho calmly.

`` About Harry ? '' asked Ron curiously.

`` No, about Ginny. '' replied Cho and decided to change the topic before he could ask any more than questions. `` Have you found anything utile ? '' she turned to Hermione.

`` Not yet. But maybe you could avail us. There 's a caboodle of Book upstairs that we need to explore and it 's very time-consuming. '' she replied. Then she added in a mock tinge. `` And of course, knowing Ron and Neville, I reckoned it would be C. H. Best if I just do the reading myself. suppose you 're up to it ? The playscript are immense and it would probably take me forever to read it all. ``

Cho stifled a giggle at that but managed to nod her headspring solemnly in assent.

`` We heard that ! '' exclaimed Neville and Ron indignantly but the girls just ignored them.

`` By the way, has Professor McGonagall permitted you to remain here ? '' asked Hermione after a while.

The twins immediately shot surreptitious aspect with each former while Cho and Lee looked blankly at her. Obviously, they had not thought about it.

`` wellspring, I suppose you could ask her now. It would be highly impolite if you just outride here without informing her. '' suggested Neville helpfully, seeing their discomfort.

`` Thank you for your thoughtfulness, Mr. Longbottom. I heard everything and I 'm allowing them to quell as long as essential. You could all rest at Gryffindor Dormitory. '' They were all surprised to see the Headmistress appear behind them. `` Oh, I forgot to observe something. Madam Pomfrey requested for a few days of quietus so Miss Lovegood shall be staying with you as well. I trust you know what and what-not to say around her. I do n't want her to own a relapse now that she 's making so practically advancement. '' The headmistress said and turned to leave.

`` I hate it when they do that ! '' said Fred when the headmistress was gone.

`` What ? '' asked Ron. `` Always telling us what to do like we 're a bunch of unintelligent tike ? ``

`` No - just appearing out of nowhere. She 's just like Dumbledore. Caught us unaware respective meter before with that stunt. '' said George.

`` What were you doing then ? '' asked Hermione curiously.

`` must you ask ? '' said both Fred and George I with a grimace.

`` combine me, Hermione, you would n't bid to know. '' said Lee in amusement and gave her a knowing smell.

=================================================================

The seven adolescent awkwardly looked on as the Headmistress led a unquiet Luna inside the dorm room. For practicality 's saki, all the girls had to ride out in one room and the boys at another. There was no problem with that placement. However, they were still ill at relaxation at having Luna there since her comportment would hamper them from discussing anything related to their face quandary and excluding her will make her look unwanted.

`` Um - professor, are you sure it 's fine with them ? '' queried Luna as she noticed their unusual expressions. The Headmistress glared at the seven before replying.

`` Of grade, dear. Why would it not be ? '' She replied kindly and gave her a smile that was rarely seen by students, even those from her own house.

`` Oh, O.K. ! '' said Luna, still appearing unconvinced but decided to let it pass. `` Where 's Harry ? ``

`` Harry is on holiday, too. You 'll see him soon, do n't worry. '' replied prof McGonagall and shot warning glances at the early teenagers who still had not spoken a single matter. `` I 'll be leaving you now. payoff care of yourselves. ``

The awkward silence continued as they watched the Headmistress leave. It seemed that everyone was quite unsure of what to say with one another especially Cho who was currently staring at Luna with such intense absorption but could n't look to find the Bible to verbalize herself. Even Fred and George VI had nothing funny to say to split the ice. The silence only ended when Luna self-consciously sat down and pre-occupied herself by writing something on a piece of newspaper.

The boys immediately excused themselves and went back to their elbow room while Hermione suddenly found it imperative to shoot a shower. Cho, still uncertain of what to do, stayed for a while, thinking that this was the utter opportunity for them to discuss what she had in brain but she had not even uttered a word yet when Luna smiled weakly at her.

`` It 's okay, Cho. You do n't have to stay just because we 're from the same house. I can manage. '' said Luna before returning to what she was doing.

Cho felt her heart wrench with sympathy as she heard Luna say that. poor people girl ! Always assuming that nobody wanted her around. If she only knew that she got the boy every little girl was dreaming of, she would not feel so insecure. But she could not tell her yet ... or could she ? Before the tragic incident, they had already gotten along well and were the solitary ace to surmise Ginny of deception. She wanted to talk about it with someone who would see and that someone was Luna. Unfortunately, pushing the issuance now might be harmful to her. 'No, this is not yet the fourth dimension for that .'She thought and she left quietly before she could change her mind.

Luna tried to push away the tear that threatened to light as she watched Cho leave. She should give stayed in the hospital wing. At least there, she would not sense so bruise if anyone ignored her because nobody else was there aside from ma'am Pomfrey who was always busy with her healing potions anyway. Her only visitor was Harry and she was contented with that. He made her laugh with his trick. He told her funny stories about Hogwarts life ... He taught her respective magic thaumaturgy that she had not even imagined possible before ... and near of all, he made her smell special and proud of herself. But he was away now and she was stuck in this hall where cipher even bothered to show her around. And they had been acting very odd ... very odd indeed.

As she continued her reflexion, she noticed a newspaper publisher peeking from behind the screening of the sofa on the opposite slope. It looked as if it soul had shoved it there rather hastily. Feeling slightly amused and rum at the same fourth dimension, she pulled the paper and began to read the face page.

HARRY ceramicist MURDERED A HUNDRED MUGGLES AT A PARTY IN LONDON ! ! !

HARRY thrower GONE iniquity TO AVENGE HIS girl 'S FATE ! ! !

HARRY POTTER -- THE NEXT nighttime LORD ? ? ?


With trembling work force, she forced herself to study the articles underneath the shocking headline but the bout flooded her visual sensation before she could even finish up the first paragraph. `` NOOOOOOOOOOO ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ``

'This can not be true !'She thought to herself then her head throbbed painfully as she attempted to process the info she had just discovered. 'So, this is why everyone 's acting so weird. But this ca n't be lawful ... this ca n't be true ...'Then as the painful pounding on her head continued, several alarming paradigm flashed dangerously in her mind. She saw her Father screaming in anguish as Voldemort threw her to two death-eaters ... She saw Voldemort disarm his opponents ... Then, she witnessed as a death-eater stroke the killing condemnation on her father ... `` NOOOOOOOOOOOO ! ! ! FATHER ! ! ! ! '' She struggled to stay conscious but the nuisance was unbearable. The death matter she heard before her body succumbed to the excruciating sensation was the terrified yells of her stream residence hall mates.

`` LUNA ! '' called Hermione but was shocked to find her unconscious manikin lying on the ground with one hand still clutching what looked like the former day 's newspaper. She carefully removed the paper from the girl 's grasp to confirm her misgiving. `` WHO LEFT THIS bit OF GARBAGE LYING AROUND ? ! ? '' she angrily asked the others, waving the sickening newspaper in front of them.

Ron shuffled his feet nervously as he stared from the composition to the sofa. `` S-sorry, Herm. I was in a hurry ... I guess I di -- - ''

`` -- YOU DID N'T THINK - TYPICAL ! HOW WE ENDED UP TOGETHER IS STILL A puzzler TO ME ! '' said Hermione in exasperation then she carefully levitated Luna 's trunk and placed her to a more well-to-do place. `` McGonagall will be livid. She has n't even pass one night here and look what happens. ''

`` What are we going to do now ? Shall we inform the headmistress ? '' asked Neville timidly.

`` Not right now. Let 's wait until Luna comes around firstly then we 'll necessitate it from there. '' said Cho as she surveyed Luna 's face .'I should birth stayed ...'

`` I think that would be wise. We 'll ask play at keeping an eye on her until she wakes up. Cho and I can take the first turn, Fred and George next, then Neville and Lee, then Ron. Ron will give no partner because this is his defect. '' said Hermione and pushed the boys away before they could voice out any objection.

`` I feel terrible ... '' admitted Cho when the male child were finally out of sight.

`` Me, too. '' said Hermione ruefully. `` I should hold checked the room but I guess it escaped my mind. ``

`` But what 's done is done. Let 's just hope that Luna 's alright when she wakes up. '' said Cho in resignation.

`` I hope this accident triggers her memory back. '' said Hermione and they both fell silent as they watched the daughter who had already suffered a lot. The first hour had passed ... Luna was still unconscious ... .Second hour ... .No change at all and the two girls were already feeling their lid droop from fatigue duty and slackness ... tierce hour ....

`` No, do n't harm him anymore ... .please ... '' The two shooting up at once and stared groggily at Luna.

`` I guess she 's dreaming about her father. '' whispered Cho, trying her good to suffocate a yawn.

`` Luna ... Luna ... wake up ! '' Hermione shook Luna 's shoulder joint to jerk her away from her nightmare.

`` No ... ..please ... ..please ... .do n't hurt him ... '' the young lady pleaded and her body convulsed as if she was in terrible pain.

`` Cho, you better get McGonagall now ... I 'll get the boys. '' said Hermione at once as Luna 's cry was replaced by a howl of pain.

Within a few minutes, all were gathered around Luna while prof McGonagall tried to locate the schoolhouse nurse immediately.

`` LUNA ! LUNA ! WAKE UP ! ! ! ! '' They all shouted at once then feeling desperate, Hermione slapped Luna 's bequeath cheek forcefully.

`` I saw it in a muggle picture once and it worked. '' she explained as the others stared at her in puzzlement. Amazingly, Luna started to bat her eyelids slowly until she was able to pry them spread. Neville quickly offered a glass of water which she gratefully accepted.

Then Luna glared accusingly at each of them. `` Why did n't you tell me ? And what is the meaning of those ridiculous clause ? ''

The others shifted their gaze uneasily. They had never witnessed Luna on an raging fit before and seeing it now made them extremely uncomfortable. She 's almost same Harry when he 's really upset about something.

`` Luna, we wanted to tell you but Madam Pomfrey forbid us to do so. She said we had to let you heal on your own. '' said Cho in an excusatory tone.

`` S-she also said that you might have a nervous breakdown or something ... so we had to hold back ... '' said Hermione.

`` And what about the news ? Have n't you bothered to compensate them ? That 's really preposterous ! Harry would never ever do those horrible matter ! Has the wizarding world conveniently forgot what he did for them ? The sacrifices he made ? How he almost died so that the others may endure ? '' yelled Luna angrily, ignoring the others'attempt to cool off her down.

`` Luna, you 're right. The news is rubbish. But there 's a huge problem and the only thing that could help us right now is to pretend that we believe those tale. '' said professor McGonagall who had just arrived along with professor Snape and Madam Pomfrey.

`` Luna, booze this potion. It will help you sedate down. '' said lady Pomfrey as she examined her affected role. `` Are you feeling alright ? ``

`` Yes, thank you. '' replied Luna and turned her attention back to her housemates.

`` We 're sorry about what happened to your Church Father, Luna. It must be really terrible. '' said Ron sympathetically. He could identify with her because he had almost lost his father at the ministry too.

Luna 's expression softened immediately at the mention of her father. She remembered every unpleasant details of her life now. Her father joined Voldemort 's army to ensure her safe but in the end, it had all been a lie. Voldemort never kept the promise that he would let her alive if her Fatherhood followed his bidding. In the end, her father dropped all pretense and rushed to preserve his only child but he failed. He was killed mercilessly by one of Voldemort 's loyal followers.

`` By the way, I 'm sorry if I hurt you. You were having a nightmare and we 're already getting desperate so I slapped you. '' said Hermione.

`` Nightmare ? '' Luna looked blank for a moment.

`` Yeah ... you were pleading for someone not to hurt your Fatherhood. '' said Cho. `` Are you for certain you 're okay ? ``

`` Yes, I 'm perfectly o.k., especially now that I can recall everything. But who said I 'm dreaming about my Father of the Church ? '' asked Luna anxiously.

Hermione and Cho looked at one another. `` Well, actually, we just assumed that you were having a incubus about him. '' said Hermione.

`` No, I 'm not. It 's Harry. He 's being tortured. '' said Luna apprehensively and glanced back at the papers. `` That 's why those stories can not be true. They 've got him and we need to rescue him NOW. ``

`` Harry ? ''

`` Luna, you know it 's just a dream .... ''

`` No, it 's not just a dreaming ... I can not explicate it but it 's like Harry was sending me a vision of what 's happening to him ... '' said Luna desperately.

`` Hey ! Maybe it 's just like Harry 's visual sense when dad was bitten by a Hydra ! '' exclaimed Ron in astonishment.

`` But Luna 's not a oracle ! '' countered another.

`` And neither is Harry - but his vision had been accurate ! '' said Ron heatedly.

`` pigeon hawk ! DO N'T YOU compliments TO KNOW WHO GOT HIM ? ! ? '' yelled Luna in frustration.

`` Who got him ? '' asked everyone with outstanding interest.

`` Voldemort, of path. Who else ? '' answered Luna with often botheration as if she thought that it was pretty obvious and that they were just wasting their sentence talking when Harry urgently needed to be rescued.

`` V-Voldemort ? '' croaked the Headmistress nervously.

`` But he 's drained ! '' exclaimed Fred and George at once.

`` No, he 's not ! '' she insisted.

`` You passed out ... you did n't see everything. Harry was capable to belt down him. '' Lee argued once more.

`` NO, HE DID NOT ! ``

`` Miss Lovegood, please be reasonable. The incubus is over. Harry defeated the iniquity Creator last October. '' said prof McGonagall, adopting her stern behaviour once more to settle the brewing dispute.

`` NO, HE DID NOT ! ! ! HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU ? ! ? WE NEED TO GET TO HARRY BEFORE IT 'S TOO LATE ! '' screamed Luna vehemently. This metre, the enormous glass jar on one corner of the room suddenly exploded into tiny man. Then Luna 's pupils vanished and her eyes blazed blank with wildness, scaring the wit out of those who witnessed the shocking transformation.

`` How do you cognize ? '' queried Professor Snape stonily as he glanced curiously at the tattered jar and at her glowing eyes.

`` Because Harry said so ... ''
Chapter 7 - The Unholy Alliance ( contribution 1 )


`` ... .and unlike some the great unwashed I know, I believe him. ``

The DA extremity looked nervously at one another. Harry had repeatedly said the Lapplander thing to them but they refused to trust him. They purposely closed their eyes to the possibility just because believing otherwise was so a good deal simpler. But they should have known better. After all Harry was the only one who have fought with Voldemort directly before. He was the only one who could tell the difference.

The Headmistress seemed terribly unnerved by Luna 's outburst and was not capable to say anything so they looked helplessly upon the Potions lord to have charge of the situation.

`` If you insist. secern us what you saw and let 's see if it 's genuine. '' said Professor Snape evenly, his expression unfathomable as he contemplated silently on what he just saw. Luna had always been shy and reserved. It was very disconcerting to see her suddenly burst with power of such order of magnitude in a fit of ira ... .just like Harry.

The others waited patiently as Luna pacified herself before she shared her vision with them.

`` It would be faster if you see it yourself. '' said Luna, then with astonishing velocity and unbelievable magical press release, she conjured a white sail over the rampart and closed her heart in acute concentration. Unsure of what to expect, they just stared blankly on the blanched sheet and waited. Then to their amazement, icon started to come out on the screen enabling them to clearly visualize Harry 's condition.

`` H-how -- -- '' Ron began to ask but prof Snape glared dangerously at him.

`` Do n't interrupt her ! '' he whispered angrily.

=======================================================================

Harry 's hands were held tightly by two thick silver mountain range - the only things that were keeping him from falling into the roaring infernal region four feet underneath his thinly dead body. Around him were ten hooded figures moving about in a fluid motion while two others were mercilessly taking turns into whipping his already unconscious form. His dress were torn from the lashes and line was oozing from his wound but his tormentors'lust for affliction seemed insatiable.

`` Is he frail already ? '' asked a cold articulation of a figure who had arrived to see on the captive 's condition. The man had claw-like fingerbreadth and ruby eyes. It was Voldemort.

`` Yes, lord. We have been doing this for an hour now even after he collapsed from the pain. I do n't opine he would be doing much legerdemain now. '' declared one of the switcher proudly.

The dark lord cackled with delectation at the news then he flicked his verge slightly at the captive. `` ENERVATE ! ''

At the while, Harry 's optic weakly opened but he did not seem surprised at seeing Voldemort in front of him. Nor did he appear terrified. In fact, if one would take care closely, one would notice a clue of amusement there. opposite to their supposal, he was not unconscious ... He was merely pre-occupied with establishing a connection with his girlfriend so that at least one person would cognise the Sojourner Truth even if he failed to survive this latest encounter. `` Hello, Tom. ''

`` So you 're obsessed with pleasantries now, Potter ? Do n't care, I can play along. '' said the dark Godhead in mock entertainment. `` Hello, Harry. I 'm 'pleased'to touch you. ''

`` No, Tom. I am the one PLEASED to take on you. '' said Harry and was elated to notice a shadow of uncertainty hybridization Voldemort 's face.

`` What do you imply ? '' asked the evilness wizard venomously.

`` You mean you do n't know ? '' Harry feigned ignorance and donned a shocked look. `` But your minions claimed that you were omnipotent and all-knowing ... Oh, well, I guess everybody was entitled to his or her own opinion. '' Then he smiled widely at the dark lord.

Voldemort stared at the boy in confusion. He was not used to this abrupt change in ceramist 's mental attitude towards him. Whereas before, he could easily scare the boy, now it seemed that his foresighted time enemy felt confident enough to turn down him despite of his obvious disadvantage. Maybe the boy was planning another surprise ... yes, that must be it.

`` Wormtail, bring the captives now ! '' he yelled instead, hoping to pull a few surprises of his own.

Within minute, Wormtail arrived with genus Draco and Ginny and pushed them in front of Voldemort. But Harry still seemed unruffled.

`` What are you up to, Potter ? '' asked the wickedness Jehovah coldly.

`` Nothing. You were the one who was up to something. Faking your death like that ... Merlin ! You should be ashamed of yourself ... really, imitating Wormtail of all multitude ... tsk ... tsk..tsk ... I expected more from the DARK Divine. '' scoffed Harry, putting an emphasis on the 'LORD'piece in the most sarcastic tone that he could deal. From his heights position, he noticed a slight smirk on Dragon 's lips and he pondered whether it would be possible that genus Draco was not as bad as he thought. Maybe Luna was right ...

`` Yes, I faked my own death. Since I could not get hold of that silly prophesy, I devised another way to see out how you plan to defeat me. Clever, am I not ? '' said Voldemort and his eerie laugh filled the elbow room once again. `` Now, I know your ultimate plan and I 'm pleased to inform you that our brother wands wo n't let to duel with each other again. ``

`` Why ? You 've forced Mr. Ollivander to make you another verge ? '' asked Harry nonchalantly. At the look of surprise on Voldemort 's face, he added somewhat coolly. `` You did n't think I 'd fancy it out, do you ? Mind you, I knew about Bellatrix too. She was the individual behind the mask and you put a spell on her voice and taught her plenty wandless thaumaturgy to effect the legerdemain. You just forgot one child particular, though. Even if you were able to force Ollivander to add Fawkes'feather into her sceptre, it WAS still HER wand and I happen to know that SHE, NOT YOU, was the one who killed Sirius. You should give gone all out with your juvenile system and let her use your wand. ''

Voldemort was momentarily taken aback by this but he recovered rapidly. He gave him a mock hand clapping. `` first-class ! But you 're incorrectly on one news report. I happen to wish my wand and it will persist that way, whereas yours was already .... founder into one-half ... .by your own headmistress. '' He said slowly to let the devastating news sink more painfully but if he was expecting Harry to look angry or sad, he was severely disappointed. Incensed by his lack of reply, he levitated the days'newspaper so that the boy could record the bad news program for himself.

`` Well ? '' prompted Voldemort.

`` well what ? '' said Harry, his grimace blank.

`` What do you opine about those little headlines bearing your precious epithet ? Were you shocked that the wizarding world do n't see you as a bomber now ? Even your friends and former allies have deserted you now ... '' sneered Voldemort malevolently.

`` Actually - No. It would take more than that to scandalize me now. So what do you plan to do after successfully ruining my report ? '' asked Harry with the like blank expression. `` You 'll menace to stamp out me again ? '' he added disdainfully.

`` Threaten ? Not threaten, thrower. I 'll kill you this time and without your annoying usurpation, I would be free to conquer the wizarding world once more. '' said Voldemort, his centre glinting evilly at the prospect of finally being able to remove the most unsafe obstacle in his path.

`` Oh please, do n't tell me we 're back to that again. Honestly, could n't you come up with a better farewell speech ? It loses its sting once heard too often. '' said Harry, the derision in his voice was unmistakeable.

`` Is that so ? Maybe it would be more entertaining if someone from your own sign kills you instead. '' He motioned Ginny to come forward gave her a sceptre then he pointed his own wand at Dragon. `` Kill him now, child, or I 'll vote out the Edward Young Malfoy. ``

Harry glanced at the two captives and saw Ginny crying silently as she took the wand handed to her with a trembling script. Draco mouthed a overhasty excuse to him and lowered his gaze in defeat to forfend witnessing the effect. Harry immediately lost his concentration and the connection with Luna was instantly broken.

`` It 's alright, Ginny. Do what you must. I understand. ``

Voldemort became suddenly wary of his easy compliance and decided to hasten the appendage. `` CRUCIO ! '' he sent the spell at Dragon whose weakened physical structure rapidly fell on the ground in hurting. Then he turned to the girl impatiently. `` DO IT NOW ! ``

`` A-Ave-da K-Ke-dav ... .ra .... '' murmured Ginny tearfully and fell to the primer in remorse as she saw the green light struck Harry squarely on the bureau. Sobbing hysterically, she now realized that she had indeed foolishly chosen the wrong English. She had just murdered one of her substantially friends -- the Saame someone who saved her before. How could she ? She was even speculative than Voldemort !

seeing her disconsolate state, Voldemort decided that two more control would be enough. But he did not ask to rest. After all, Harry was all in and there was no need for him to waste any more of his precious meter.

`` Wormtail, I 'll go away you here to destroy the grounds. Drop the physical structure into the ardour. '' ordered Voldemort wickedly, then he turned to Dragon. `` Mr. Malfoy, due to your forefather 's recent achievement, I 'm leave to give you another chance to make up for your earlier noncompliance. Dispose of the girlfriend and you can do back to my honest graces. You do n't want to be a letdown to your Padre, do you ? ''

Draco, whose facial expression was still hidden, changed his expression to one of aristocratic haughtiness before he faced the malefic man. `` Yes, My lord. It would be a pleasure. '' He heard him inform Wormtail that they would be leaving. Maybe, now 's their chance to escape ...

`` Excellent pick, Draco. Your founder shall be pleased. We 'll be expecting you at the Malfoy Manor soon. '' said Voldemort and ordered his other servants to disapparate with him.

When Voldemort and the other death-eaters were gone, Draco and Wormtail immediately dropped the pretension and hurried to Ginny 's side.

`` Ginny, I could erase your memory of this if you want. '' offered Wormtail but the girlfriend shook her drumhead vigorously.

`` No, I want to remember every detail of where my foolishness had led me. I want to instil in my head that I had just murdered one of the kindest person I know. If I have to go to Azkaban for that, I will. '' cried Ginny and continued to sob uncontrollably.

`` This is all my fault. '' said Draco in agony and held the dolourous figure in his arms.

`` Draco, Ginny ... that 's enough ... You must run now. Do n't waste prison term. Voldemort will get funny if I do n't rick up at the manor soon. '' said Wormtail nervously.

`` No, you must come with us. We need your help. We do n't have it off where to go. '' said Draco in desperation. `` And we must take ceramist 's body with us. The least we could do is give way him a proper burial. ``

Wormtail silently struggled with himself before coming up with a conclusion. Voldemort would kill him anyway if he found out that he let the two escape. `` Alright, I 'll hail with you. '' He unlocked the Ernst Boris Chain on Harry 's deal and levitated him carefully to the ground. Then, he took out the portkey that he had prepared earlier in the hope that the opportunity to flee would get along up. Within seconds, the four were transported to a place that only Wormtail had any knowledge of.

=======================================================================

The onlookers panicked slightly when the effigy on the projection screen disappeared. The hold up scene they witnessed was that of Voldemort forcing Ginny to murder Harry and using Draco as the cat's-paw to ensure her compliance.

`` What happened ? '' asked Snape, deeply disturbed by the picture. It was very material and the possibility of Harry 's survival was almost non-existent.

`` The connection was broken even before you woke me up. Harry must have broken it off or something ... I 'm not certain what it meant ... '' replied Luna miserably.

`` So what are we going to do now ? '' asked Fred.

`` I do n't experience. ''

`` Severus, did you recognize the place ? '' asked the dazed Headmistress.

`` Unfortunately not. '' said Snape with uncharacteristic lugubriousness in his vocalism.

`` Then, I guess we have no way to locate them unless H-harry survived and decided to transmit with Luna again. '' said Hermione, feeling hangdog that they had not taken Harry 's warning seriously before.

`` Sorry, but I do n't opine I could forgive you and your sister if she went through with it. '' said Luna truthfully at Ginny 's crony. `` Cho and I already suspected her before but your emotions got in the way. ''

Ron, Fred and George I sadly lowered their heads in shame. What Luna had said was dependable. If they had not been too obstinate, then they would possess found out sooner what Ginny was up to and they would receive been in the position to help her getting even to the right path. They protected her too much ... and now, all of them were paying the price. This was war, and in war, ties among friends and families were usually not as unattackable as the chemical bond of choice.

Cho looked from the Weasley sidekick and the irate Luna and decided that it was time to steer the discussion to a safer topic. `` Luna, I was thinking ... Can you also communicate with Harry through that mind protrusion thing ? ``

`` I do n't know. I have n't tried it yet. '' said Luna then furrowed her brow once more in concentration.

`` Then maybe you should try. '' said Cho hopefully.

`` I just did but there was no response. '' said Luna in defeat.

`` Well, at to the lowest degree we were able-bodied to unravel part of the mystery. '' said Hermione to cheer everyone up. `` Now, we know Voldemort 's still around and that he designed a most elaborate plot of land to disunite and conquer the wizarding humanity and to eliminate his enemy in the worst way possible. ``

`` You consider THAT a good thing ? '' said Lee in confusion.

`` Yes. It is better than not knowing anything at all. '' agreed Cho.

`` By the way, how did you learn to do that ? '' asked Neville in curiosity, pointing at the make-shift screen.

`` Harry taught me. I also wondered why he was exerting so much effort into teaching me but now I understand completely. You did not believe him and the DA lost its function. But he knew that this is going to happen so he decided to ploughshare what he knew with me and we spent most of the time practicing spells. He prepared me for the uncollectible. '' replied Luna in a cold articulation that they had not heard before. `` Now, if you 'll excuse me, I need to rest. ''

`` Luna ... '' called Snape when she was halfway up the stairs.

`` What ? ''

`` zilch. '' replied Snape after a consequence 's hesitation but Luna nodded as if she was able to take the still question in his mind.
Chapter 8 - The Unholy Alliance ( Part 2 )


`` Ouch ! Wormtail, could n't you have prepared a cushy landing place spot for us ? '' complained Draco as they fell on a heap on a marble flooring.

`` Oops, sorry. But I was in a hurry. '' said Wormtail defensively.

`` Aahhhh ! ! ! '' They heard Ginny cry in fearfulness. They immediately brought their wands out.

`` What 's the problem ? ``

`` N-nothing. Harry 's body just fell on top of me. It was disgusting ! '' said Ginny tearfully as she scrambled away from the corpse, looking highly embarrassed and scared at the same prison term. No one noticed the slight twitching of Harry 's lips.

`` By the way, where the nether region are we ? '' asked Draco after ensuring that Ginny 's okay.

`` Godric 's holler - potter 's old theatre. '' replied Wormtail.

`` WE ARE AT ceramist 'S business firm ! ! ! '' exclaimed Ginny and Dragon, clearly unnerved by the revelation.

`` Do n't overreact. I just thought that this is the end office they would expect to bump us ... and with sure circumstances ... I guess it would be fitting to return Harry 's physical structure to where it really belonged. '' said Wormtail sadly in recollection of his own treachery.

As expected, no one bothered to await at Harry 's reaction at the credit of his sign but of path, what person in his right Department of State of mind would check for a remains 's reaction ? However, had they taken the time to give him even the mere of a coup d'oeil, they would make noticed his partially covered eyes scanning the room with large interest.

`` Harry 's parents and he would probably haunt us here forever ... '' said Ginny nervously.

'Oh, what a splendid idea ! Thanks, Ginny .'thinking Harry in amusement. Then trying not to travel his hands too much, he caused the furnitures on the way rearrange itself ... Afterwards, he levitated his parents'portrayal and halted it directly in strawman of the three.

`` Wormtail, I told you so ... we had to get out of here fast before it 's too late ... '' cried Ginny but Wormtail was not listening. He knelt on the ground and apologized profusely to his former secure friends.

`` I 'm really dark for betraying you ... .Lily..James ... Heaven knows I 've suffered enough ... and your son ... He gave me the hazard but I let the opportunity slick on my digit ... I was a Noel Coward ... take me if it could propitiate your ira ... but let the children go ... They 're still Cy Young ... They can still shift their path ... '' said Wormtail remorsefully then he began to punch himself gruelling for every crime he committed under Voldemort 's big businessman.

Draco and Ginny were hugging each former for backup as they watched upon Wormtail 's act of repentance. It would have been funny if the situation had not been that serious but right now, it looked so creepy.

`` M-Mr. and Mrs ceramist, I 'm sorry too for making your son 's liveliness miserable at Hogwarts.. '' said Dragon in the Sami penitent tone.

`` It 's my fault, too. If I had not chosen to follow Voldemort, he would still be awake today ... I have been foolish ... but that reason is unacceptable ... You can punish me ... and if that punishment would be death ... then so be it. '' said Ginny as she continued to cry in anguish.

Harry heard their confessions and attempts at an apology but he was not quite finished yet. With another wave of his hand, he moved the portraits out of the way and projected the scene of his parents'death on the wall. Then he levitated himself high up and called their attention.

`` YOU, double-dealer ! WHY HAVE YOU DECIDED TO union THE wickedness SIDE ? '' his booming voice echoed around the mansion and the three terrified creatures faced what they thought was a zombie Harry with exceedingly contrite expressions.

`` H-harry ? '' whispered Ginny as her centre widened in fear.

`` No plenty reason to justify our action mechanism - it was just field lust for power and blindness to the the true. '' stated Draco bravely and resigned himself to his fate.

`` WHAT ABOUT YOU, PETER ? '' his escalated physical structure glowed dangerously as he impatienly waited for his reply.

`` I have been stupid ... .absolutely stupid ... If you can bump it in your fondness to forgive me then I 'd be uncoerced to die peacefully in your hands. '' said Wormtail and he, too, resigned himself to what lay ahead.

`` HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT YOU WO N'T BETRAY THE LIGHT side AGAIN ? '' demanded Harry. The three looked up expectantly. It seemed like they were not going to die today after all.

`` You 're ghost could watch our actions everyday, and if you see us straying again from the path of goodness, then it 's your decision to make. '' replied Wormtail and the other two nodded in agreement.

`` Very well, I 'll confine on to your Holy Scripture for now. '' said Harry then feeling the effect of exuberant use of power added to the pain in the neck he had to endure before, he closed his eyes and was unable to manipulate himself from falling on top of Ginny once more.

`` AHHHHH ! ! ! ! ! ! ! '' screamed Ginny and forced his soundbox away from her. Harry weakly stood up and gave Ginny a puckish smile.

`` Hey, what 's wrong ? You did n't seem to mind that when we were at the rough-cut room. '' he drawled and gave Draco a half-smile.

Ginny immediately turned scarlet at the reference of her foolishness then as if something just occurred to her, she tentatively touched Harry 's impudence. It was warm.

`` Y-you 're alive ? '' she asked as if she could n't trust it was possible.

Draco and Wormtail reluctantly touched his cheek too.

`` Y-you 're alive ! '' They both exclaimed incredulously.

`` Yeah - that would excuse the breathing ... '' said Harry sarcastically.

`` B-but how ? We all saw it find ! '' Their sighs of relief was unmistakeable.

`` Let me show you what really transpired. '' said Harry then summoning what was left of his strength, he projected his own death scenery on the rampart in slacken motion and the three watched the issue carefully.

As Ginny was about to shoot the killing curse word on Harry, a drop of tear fell upon the wand and instead of the expected green Christ Within, a Elwyn Brooks White beam escaped from its tip instead. Then mere inch after it left the baton, Harry waved his jail hired man slightly and the white beam was transformed into a Green River one.

`` That, my supporter, is one of the wonders of illusion. As what Bellatrix, your late ally, had told me, the words are not enough ... .you need to really stand for it ... you have to charter acute pleasure in inflicting pain sensation and in my case -- death. You were not meant to be a murderer, Ginny and I 'm glad of that fact. '' said Harry as he halted the demonstration.

`` You called us 'friends'? '' croaked Wormtail in disbelief.

`` Yes, why not ? You did not result my body to rot in that wretched shoes - that in itself was singular enough. Then I heard your apologies earlier and the hope to switch. I am not a God but I 'm willing to forgive you because I know that it is the right to do. '' explained Harry.

`` Oh, I 'm really dreary, Harry. Thank you for being so kind. '' said Ginny and she kissed him lightly on the face in gratitude. Draco did not depend too please with it, though, but he did not say anything.

`` Never mind that. After what I 've just shown you, do you still believe that you could have taken me that easily ? '' said Harry sardonically.

`` No, I suppose not. Actually, I wondered about that but I had assumed that the potion was very in effect. '' admitted Ginny.

`` It was not that potent for me. If you could remember correctly, I stayed conscious long enough to interrogate you then I allowed myself to 'pass out'so that you could wreak me to wherever your master key was. To be honest, Voldemort 's eerie secrecy had been bugging me for months and I wanted to meet him soon to end my agony. I have to admit that your fiddling parody was very timely ... '' said Harry then he gave another taunting grin at Dragon. `` ... and besides, I enjoyed the display ... immensely ! '' He laughed out loud at the plenty of Draco 's reddened face and tensed expression.

`` You 're sick, ceramist. '' spat Draco angrily.

`` Hey, chill out ! I 'm just joking ! I have a very adorable girlfriend waiting for me you know. '' said Harry and smiled as he thought about Luna .'I wonder how she 's doing now ... Maybe I can visit her later ...'

`` fine. We can drip that. Anyway, if you 're so mightily how come you did not use the killing curse then ? You had the perfect opportunity. '' said Draco.

`` I wish I could. I have the ability but unfortunately, I do n't bear the intent. Not to name the fact that if I had indeed finished him off, I would be forever wondering about your trueness. No, I have other architectural plan for Voldemort and I am not just after him ... I want ALL of his pay supporters and slaves, too. `` respond Harry and after a piece he added. `` Consider yourselves very golden that I have decided to dispense with you. ``

The three looked at one another and instantly made a solution not to be swayed by iniquity temptation again. Harry did not want to complicate. The heavy threat underlying his cool words was enough.
`` I have to go somewhere. '' said Wormtail uneasily after a while.

`` Where are you going ? '' asked Draco warily.

`` I need to get assistant. We ca n't stay here forever ... we need some seat more secure and I know of only one soul who could serve us. '' replied Wormtail and waited for Harry 's approval.

Harry held his arm where the benighted scratch was located. A few minutes of excruciating pain in the neck followed then Harry waved him off. `` Go on but do n't take too long. ''

Wormtail stared at his arm in amazement. The iniquity mark was gone. Forcing back the lummox on his throat, he disapparated silently.

`` You trust him ? '' asked Ginny in wonder after he left.

`` I 'm trying. '' replied Harry casually.

`` How did you learn all those poppycock ? '' asked Draco curiously, a lilliputian convinced now that he was sure that Harry was not on a revengeful streak.

`` That ... .is something that I do not care to divulge as of this moment. Do n't forget, you 're still under probation. I may be forgiving ... but I am definitely not pudding head. '' declared Harry in a cold voice that implied a harsh end for them if they ever betray him once more.

With nothing better to do, Harry wandered around the sign of the zodiac with Draco while Ginny prepared some food for them including whoever Wormtail was going to wreak with him.

`` Your house is not that bad, Potter. '' said Dragon in admiration as they viewed the marvelous collection of books at the mini-library, the across-the-board array of magical objects and all other details that depicted the potter fortune so lavishly.

`` For once, I agree with you. '' grinned Harry.

`` Wan na diddle wizard Bromus secalinus ? ``

`` No, thanks ... It 's exterior my athletic field of expertise. Ron 's the best at that plot. '' said Harry and smiled at Dragon 's look of disbelief.

`` I did n't intend Weasley was ever good at anything. '' said Dragon then clamped one hand at his mouth, afraid that he had offended Harry.

`` You 'd be surprised. Ron 's commodity at a lot of things ... and he 's very endure too. You know during our number one yr, Ron beat McGonagall 's Bromus secalinus set and he urged us to go on even if he was already injured. Then on our second class, we had to go to the glum forest to stick with the spiders. Ron has a phobia with those creatures but he still came with me ... amazing ! '' said Harry, smiling as he recalled his adventures with his best ally.

`` Why are you telling me these, Harry ? '' asked Draco in confusion, not realizing that he had just referred to his old schooling enemy by his first base name. Harry raised one supercilium before he replied.

`` Because you 're my friend now and I 'm treating you as how I usually treat my acquaintance. ``

`` Oh, okay. Then, I suppose you 're going to promise me 'Draco'now. '' said Draco awkwardly. It was weird being friends with ceramist but it was surely better than nothing.

`` Of course, Dragon. I think we sound come down. I have a feeling that Wormtail would be back soon. '' said Harry.

===================================================

`` Snape ? '' Harry and Dragon stared incredulously at the Slytherin heading and at Wormtail who was twitching on his stern nervously.

`` I see Peter was telling the Truth when he told me that you were here, potter. '' said Snape and gave everyone a smile.

Harry was dumbfounded. Snape ? Smiled ? And at him, too. This was eldritch but he decided to wreak it cool down. `` So, Peter, what service could he possibly give us ? ``

`` Snape was one of the most cunning spy of Voldemort before his apostasy. He could provide us with entropy on places where Voldemort would not be able to find us so easily and being discharge to interact with other necromancer, he could also issue us with crucial details regarding Voldemort 's activeness. '' said Wormtail nervously.

To everyone 's amazement, Harry gave a easy chuckle at initiative, then a slight jest until finally he could n't control his hilarity anymore. He rolled with laughter as if someone was tickling his ribs and the looker-on were already suspecting that person had sent a tickling spell on him.

`` Sorry ... I just found it rather comical for all of us to bond together like this. This is plainly -- - `` Harry struggled to find the appropriate description.

`` Strange ... ? '' said Ginny. Harry shook his head.

`` Odd ... ? '' said genus Draco but Harry did not observe it fitting.

`` I was thinking Thomas More along the lines of annoying ... and disturbing.. '' said Harry.

`` Unholy .... '' suggested Snape helpfully and Harry 's smiled widened.

`` Yeah, that 's it ! UNHOLY alinement -- - I never imagined the time would come when all of us would campaign on the same face. Really weird ! '' said Harry then he turned to Snape. `` So, how 's school ? Is everyone still thinking I 'm the side by side dark Godhead ? ``

`` No, the DA and order members believe individual was just impersonating you but we 've been pretending that we believe in the stories. Also, Luna has made an amazing recovery. '' reported Snape.

`` Oh, I 'm so beaming about that. Did she tell apart you about what happened ? ''

`` No. ''

Harry 's case fell.

`` Luna did not TELL us ... .she SHOWED us. ``

`` She did ? That 's even better ! ``

`` Yes and it was very enlightening. Where did you ascertain to do that, potter ? '' asked Snape curiously.

`` What - the sarcasm ? From you, of course. '' replied Harry dismissively. `` So, if this place gets too hot, where else can we hide ? ``

`` Well, you can either choose between Snape sign of the zodiac and Dumbledore castle. '' replied Snape.

`` Dumbledore has a palace ? '' asked Ginny with much interest.

`` I 'm rather partial to grandeur myself. I think I prefer Dumbledore 's castle. '' said Dragon enthusiastically.

`` Unfortunately for you, pal. I 'm choosing Snape Mansion and that 's where we are going next. '' replied Harry and was amused to see the disappointment on the faces of the other two teen. However, his decision was not mainly to vex the them. He wanted to get to know Snape better and a hint of a grinning showed that his previous professor was pleased by his choice.

`` I would develop the house and I 'll inform you as soon as it is essential for you to go there. '' said Snape cheerfully, ignoring the peeved whispers of Dragon and Ginny.

`` Thank you, Professor. '' said Harry. Then adopting a grievous tone, he beckoned to Snape and whispered a petition. `` Listen. Voldemort will soon declare that I 'm drained so you honorable pretend to think it too. And do n't tell anyone that you have seen me. I 'm planning a little surprise for everyone. When sealed mass begin to disappear, offer to await for them. You will act as if you 're really exerting an effort into finding them but you 're going to come up with nothing. testament you do that ? ``

`` As long as you 're on the Light Within side. '' agreed Snape conditionally.

`` Do n't interest. I am and always will be. '' said Harry, appreciating his cautiousness.


source 'S promissory note : It does not drive me too long to spell the chapters ... unfortunately, I do n't have cyberspace admittance at home so it 's very hard for me to post more often ... .anyway, I hoped yo delight the survive three chapters and do n't forget to critique. Thanks !
Chapter 9 - genteel Discussion


`` You 've changed ... '' observed Snape casually.

`` Really ? Not the attention-seeking-good-for-nothing-son-of-James-Potter anymore ? '' queried Harry in a mocking whole step. He was surprised when the usually sneering professor did not infer distributor point from his house for his 'disrespectful'attitude.

`` What happened to you, Potter ? '' asked the prof curiously, for once ignoring his angsty behaviour.

`` So we 're back to our normal full term of endearment. That 's a succour ! I do n't think it would be good for my sanity if we become chummy all of a sudden. '' said Harry, shuddering slightly for burden. `` Well, to answer your question, I 've realized that masses now find it terribly difficult to believe my tarradiddle ... I miss the times when Dumbledore only had to say that he believes me and then everyone else will follow. '' Snape raised one night brow at that. `` ... -- most of the people that issue at least -- but since the so-called defeat of Voldemort, citizenry tend to be blind. Maybe it 's because they prefer to conceive that the evil had passed and that our world is normal again. ``

`` What 's your design then ? '' said Snape.

`` Yeah, we want to get word it, too. '' said Draco who went closer to join their conversation. Wormtail and Ginny also looked at him expectantly.

Harry groaned at having to go over his architectural plan with them. He still had to adjust to this unexpected cease-fire. Unfortunately, he had to trust them with it in order for his architectural plan to do work. `` All right, the program is unsubdivided actually. We 'll just let Voldemort go on with his plan -- ''

`` What ! ! ! That 's the brilliant architectural plan you 've been talking about ? '' exclaimed Draco incredulously.

`` Err ... not exactly. '' said Harry somewhat sheepishly.

`` You said something about disappearance of some mass ... '' prodded Snape while placing one strong hand on genus Draco 's mouth to forbear him from sputtering other ludicrous garbage.

`` I was planning on asking Hermione 's supporter into finding other ways to obviate the enemies then of course, I also want Luna with me ... then civilize the others until it 's time ... '' The others looked dubiously at him. Harry threw up his hands in defeat. `` Okay, fine. I admit the program is not perfect yet. I 'm counting on your knowledge of the wickedness humanistic discipline and Voldemort himself to smooth it if you 're up to the challenge. '' said Harry, disgruntled. For a bit, he seemed like his old self again -- unassuming and vulnerable -- and clearly, he was not pleased with it. He scowled at the others as he waited for their response.

`` Um - Harry, do you do it about the prophecy ? '' ventured Wormtail after a here and now 's hesitation.

`` You mean the prophecy that Voldemort was so wild about ? Of course, I knew. Would I be exerting this very much attempt if I did n't ? '' retorted Harry angrily. He was expecting some hint not irritatingly foolish questions.

`` No, not that one. About the other prophecy ? '' said Wormtail reluctantly.

Harry looked confused. What vaticination was he talking about ? He glanced at Snape 's puzzled reflexion. He did n't know about it either. Draco and Ginny was trying to recall something but they, too, appeared blank.

`` What do you stand for, cock ? '' asked Severus mildly but the thin set of his lips revealed his slight innervation about the lengthy introduction.

`` T-there was a prophecy made years before you were born but it was never completed. '' said Wormtail uneasily.

`` To whom was the prognostication given ? Why was it not completed ? How do you make out about it ? '' asked Draco curiously.

`` T-to me ... Unfortunately, before she could finish the divination, the nighttime Divine called me and I left immediately. '' admitted Wormtail. `` She was predicting HOW the chosen one would vanquish the dark Divine. ``

`` Oh ! Why did n't you let her finish first ? '' said Ginny in foiling, voicing out the other 's own sentiments.

`` Do I have to tell you everytime ? I was scared ... as always. The iniquity lord is so impatient. Severe punishment is given to those who keeps him waiting and I do n't want that. '' said Wormtail regretfully.

`` So, that 's what you meant when you said you wanted to turn back the prison term. '' commented Ginny in understanding.

`` No, not only that. '' said Wormtail, the song in his voice was worth a thousand words of sorrow. `` ... but I think it was better that way. At least the dark lord did not read of how you 're going to defeat him. ``

`` Unfortunately, I do n't either. But maybe we can just ask the seer about it. Who was the seer by the way ? '' said Harry, in deep thought.

`` Sandra Trelawny, the only sister of Sybill. She was killed during the foremost war. '' was the reply.

`` You mean the prophecy is lost forever ? '' asked Ginny.

`` It is potential that some former seer could give-up the ghost on that information but it would probably take years to find out who and we could not stand precaution to each and everyone of them to wait until they make a similar vaticination. '' stated Snape.

`` Too bad her baby is an old pseudo or we could ask for her help with that. '' said Draco, pursing his lip at the quotation of the professor who had a habit of 'predicting'everyone 's untimely and red demise with every chance she got.

`` Professor Trelawny may not be reproducible but she had already made two rectify vaticination. One was that I would be the only one who could defeat the dark lord and the other ... '' Harry looked directly at Wormtail 's eyes before continuing. '' ... .Voldemort 's firm servant would return and help him regain his body. '' Wormtail averted his gaze in shame. `` Unfortunately, she also claimed that oracle do not 'see'at will and they could not even tell when a prophecy is going to be made. ''

genus Draco shifted his office and turned to look at the decoration as if he was bored to end by the conversation. `` I 'm not sure about you but I am tired of this talk that only leads to nowhere. Why do n't we stick to things that we can control and then worry about that later ? ``

Harry looked curiously at him. `` That 's unearthly ! I was thinking of the same thing. We 're beginning to suppose alike. Are you sure it 's you, Draco - not my long lost brother or something ? ``

`` Ha-ha, very funny ! Be thankful that some of my Slytherin intellect rubbed off on you. '' said Draco with a slight breath of sarcasm.

`` We need to have some inside entropy regarding the enemy'stream activities. The trouble is we have no spy there anymore and I 'm very very much sealed that He knows about genus Draco and Wormtails'defection when they failed to return on time. It 's dangerous for any of you and of course, Harry and Ginny are supposed to be dead. '' declared Snape suddenly, catching the attention of all whose idea were wandering.

`` What about my chum Ron ? Maybe we could talk him into joining His social status in the guise of avenging me. '' said Ginny but without much conviction.

`` I do n't think that would be a good estimate, Ginny. '' said Harry. He would not presume to deliberately put his best friend 's life-time in danger.

`` Yes, my thinking exactly ! But I know of one mortal who could be stark for that. '' said Draco.

`` Not her, Draco. Too life-threatening. '' reacted Snape at seeing the leery formulation of his preferred student. He did not need to learn the person 's figure. He only had to attend at his face and he already knew who he was referring to.

`` I know. '' said Draco in monotone, a clear indication that he did not like it either but she was the solely one who could do it.

`` Would it be too much to ask who that person is ? '' asked Harry after failing to fancy out who, aside from Ginny, could make him seem scared and concerned at the Same time.

`` My mother. ``

No one was able to say anything as they all watched genus Draco stare hard at the cap, pretending to admire the magnificent top sight that was so often similar to Hogwarts, but they all knew he was just fighting the urge to cry in despair at the expectation of putting his mother 's life in peril for defying the dark lord.

Harry could almost palpate the turmoil that was hammering inside Draco'head. He was amazed. genus Draco used to be so poise and collected. His eyes were always like common cold ice especially when he stared at him during his taunting moods but now the ice had melted. The Slytherin prince stood before them like a commoner -- capable of spirit. And he was not yet sure if it was a good matter or not.

`` come on. Let 's eat. I 'm starving. '' said Harry to break the uncomfortable secretiveness.

`` My apologies but I need to go back to Hogwarts now. I do n't want the others to get leery. '' said Snape.

`` All right. Be careful. ''

After the departure of the professor, the four proceeded to consume the scrumptious dinner that Ginny had prepared for all of them. But the Light Within atm was gone. They all brooded in silence as they chewed each tasty morsel in their mouths. Not even polite musical phrase like 'Please pass the table salt'or 'More Sir Tim Rice please'were uttered. Why should they inconvenience oneself ? It was not requirement. They could all use the summoning charm for that.

When they were all finished with their repast, a very tired-looking Ginny declared that she needed a rest while a guilt-stricken Wormtail decided to explore the home plate where he was once considered a treasured phallus -- not only to excruciate himself more with the memory board of his betrayal but also to cleanse his soul. Dragon returned to the living room and started writing on a composition of sheepskin but the words were printed so unhurriedly that Harry, who was observing him closely, could imagine how often it was hurting him to indite that letter to his mother.

`` You 're being loggerheaded, you know. '' Harry commented as he stared openly at the unfinished missive on the center table.

genus Draco forlornly crumpled the parchment and set fire on it. `` You 're properly. Someone could easily wiretap this letter and we 'll all be in mysterious fuss. '' He uttered weakly and covered his cheek with his manpower.

`` That 's not what I meant. '' said Harry. Draco did not say anything. `` Involving your mother is too dangerous so I tried to formulate another strategy while we 're having dinner. Instead of her, why do n't we just do it ourselves ? ''

This time, a blushful genus Draco slowly faced Harry. `` Are you dense ? How could we potential get away with that ? ``

`` Hey, get real ! I have no intention whatsoever of joining that horrid beast 's army. That 's simply ridiculous for me. I am just thinking of going back to Hogwarts and continue our education. The condition has not started yet. We could still stimulate up for lost time. '' genus Draco looked incredulous at him as if he finally lost his marbles. `` But we 're not going as ourselves. We could disquise ourselves and go as transferees from other wizarding school day. Only the Headmistress and Snape would bed and they could post us all at Slytherin house. It could bring out. What do you think ? ''

The unknown facial expression of Draco was immediately replaced by a cunning smile, a Slytherin trait that was unconsciously being adopted by Harry.

`` That 's a good one ! Almost worthy of Slytherin -- are you for sure you 're on the right house ? '' commented genus Draco, nodding his head approvingly. Harry smiled mysteriously at that.

`` Did you know I was almost sorted to your house ? '' he said with uttermost joy. Dragon looked surprised. `` The sorting hat was intransigent in placing me there and I had to admit your sign uniform would perfectly match the colouration of my center but I chose Gryffindor instead because someone tipped me off that all bad adept came from your house. ``

`` That someone was Weas -- - Ron, I suppose. That 's a pity but what 's done is done. I 'm sure you 're regreting your poor option now. See, you 're even planning an elaborate scheme just so you could stay at our household. '' said Draco jokingly.

`` In your pipe dream ! Besides, you 're Quidditch team sucking. I would n't be caught utterly acting with a team like that. '' said Harry in the Same teasing timber. Dragon playfully punched his right arm in mock protestation but Harry only laughed. The light banter was a nice respite for them after everything that had just happened.

Chapter 10 - The term Begins


Professor McGonagall and prof Snape made some elaborate postulation to pimp three extra sceptre for the 'transferees'and now they surveyed the transform teenager with satisfied expression on their faces. They had performed some spells to alter their lineament and to hold back Harry 's very obtrusive cicatrice. The girl now had jet pitch blackness hair with a distinct seawall on her left wing impudence. She was wearing dark brown matte lipstick and black eyeshadow that contrasted with her pale color, giving her the haunted coming into court of a vampire. Both boys had colourful spiked hair and metallic element chains with weird-shaped pendants dangling loosely on their neck opening. The ugly scowl on their faces which showed their intense displeasure with their new 'look'only made them appear more menacing.

`` Professor, can you please iterate why we ca n't have the same vampire look as Ginny ? We look like -- - `` said Harry indignantly.

`` -- like overgrown chicken ! '' finished Draco as he checked himself out on a nearby mirror which sneered mockingly at him instead of giving him the common kudos he was accustomed to,

`` fountainhead, at to the lowest degree you look more like a ferret out boy now, darling ? '' said Ginny, grinning mischievously at the two restless male child. Even Snape seemed amused with their discomfort.

`` Now, now. Do n't be stubborn, boys. That look would give everyone the impression that you are trouble-makers - perfect ticket to get into the `` in '' crowd at Slytherin. '' reminded Professor McGonagall sternly but the faint twitch on her mouth was a dead giveaway. Both boy glared at the others. `` And Dragon, think of that I placed you on seventh year even though you missed the whole one-sixth year just because you received high mark on your bird of Minerva so I expect you to do very well this school class. Understand ? '' she added. Draco nodded mutely but he still did not look too pleased.

`` Hrmp ! You 're enjoying this, are n't you ? '' grumbled the two boys.

`` Indeed, we are ! '' declared Snape triumphantly. `` But think of the bright incline. At least you would be able-bodied finish your studies and vote down the dark lord at once. That 's like hitting two dame with one gemstone, is n't it ? '' he added in perfect delight. The boy'scowl deepened at the mention of birds but did not argue.

`` By the way, where 's Wormtail ? '' asked Ginny, putting a clever stop to the electric current topic. Both boys appeared on the brink of hexing them senseless if they irritate them some more.

`` Ahh, Peter. He 's in the keep -- - apparently cleansing his individual. '' replied Snape with a smirk. `` I 'm glad you came up with a sound plan though. It saved me a lot of fuss. ``

`` Cut it out. I 'm not feeling very glad at the here and now. '' declared Harry grouchily as he and the former two 'transferees'followed the professors to the Great Hall.

====================================================================

The Great vestibule was already filled with restless pupil when they arrived. The freshmen were fidgeting nervously as they waited for the sorting ceremony to begin.

`` My brother told me we had to squirm a troll or something ... '' said a scared-looking girl.

`` Oh, my God ! Is that true ? I do n't love any turn at all ... '' grimaced another terrified freshman.

`` Of course not ! Have n't you say Hogwarts - A History ? A categorization hat would position us to the sign that suited our personality most. '' said a rather smug-faced small girl with curly brown hair.

The three snickered as they listened to their tiff. The girl reminded them so much of Hermione that they could not facilitate but laugh. Such innocence ! When all had settled down, the three distanced themselves from the younger group. It would simply be too unenviable to be identified with such uninitiate caller.

`` Anderson, Sherbet '' shouted professor Snape, the new deputy sheriff master, to begin the sorting.

`` Hufflepuff ! ``

The three impatiently waited for the classification to commence while shooting grave stares at those who were jerky enough to collapse them curious glances.

`` aspect at those midget ! How come there are so many of them ? '' whispered Dragon irritatedly.

`` Shhh ! Not so loud ! '' Ginny whispered back while Harry was busy scanning the worried newcomers waiting for their play.

`` Engel, capital of Seychelles ''

`` Ravenclaw ! ``

`` I really palpate terrible ! I ca n't believe McGonagall made that McMillan Head Boy. I mean I would hold been drumhead Boy you know, if not for some unavoidable fortune. '' said a thoroughly disgruntled Draco.

`` But I thought you do n't desire the lieu. I, for one, am so gladiolus to be rid of my prefect badge. '' said Ginny sternly to shake some sense into him.

`` I do n't but it does n't make up me feel any unspoiled. '' said Dragon grumpily.

`` I ca n't ascertain Dudley ! Have you seen him ? '' asked Harry, breaking them both from their conversation.

`` No, and I would n't know. I have n't seen your first cousin before. '' replied Ginny.

`` You have a cousin ? What does he look like ? '' asked Draco, curiously looking through the line of the first years.

`` Well, he 's a piddling overweight with pot of muscle. And he 's supposed to be in fifth class now unless he failed the accreditation examination set by the Ministry. '' said Harry hastily before his regard fell on the Ravenclaw table where he caught sight of a fille with long blonde pilus engrossed in a light up conversation with a newcomer. The girl immediately looked in his direction as if sensing his presence. He smiled hesitantly and was surprised to see the girl smiling back at him. His smile faded at that and he moodily broke the eye contact with her.

`` What 's unseasonable with you ? '' asked Ginny as she noticed the sudden change in his mood.

`` I 'm only gone for a few days and my lady friend is already cheating on me. '' a suck Harry replied.

`` What do you mean ? And how do you roll in the hay ? '' asked Draco, perplexed.

`` I smiled at her just now and she smiled back. '' he said moodily. Ginny rolled her eyes at that while Dragon just stared dumbly at him.

`` well, duh ! You 're his beau. Of grade, she 's going to smile at you. '' said Ginny in exasperation.

`` B-but she does n't roll in the hay it 's me ! I mean - I do n't look like myself anymore. '' whined Harry.

`` You 're being paranoiac. She 's just being gracious, you know. '' said genus Draco arrogantly as if he was a connoisseur on handling relationships.

`` Welcome, low days ! Now, I am pleased to declare that another student would be joining the fifth years in Gryffindor house. Dudley Evans, you may go to their board now. '' said the Headmistress after the freshman had been sorted.

Harry 's jaw dropped as he stared at his cousin. Dudley had lost considerable weight and he looked far ripe than he imagined. The protruding muscles was a plus factor for him, too. Several girls turned to hand him appreciative glances as he walked anxiously to the Gryffindor board.

`` That hunk is your cousin ? '' asked Ginny as she too gave him the once over. Harry nodded. `` I did not know he is so handsome. ``

Dragon glared at Ginny but she ignored him.

`` Neither did I. He has changed a lot since I last saw him '' said Harry, still in shock. `` But I guess it runs in the family. '' he added with a grin.

`` We also have three transfer from another wizarding school day. They would be joining the Slytherin House -- Miss Callah Meyers, Mr. Devon Antonio, and Mr. lander Mooney. ''

The three approached the Slytherin table with all the cool elegance that they could rally. They heard respective people from early mansion gasp in surprise at their visual aspect while others merely shook their brain in disgust. But it did n't matter to them. The people they need to print were now eyeing them approvingly.

`` Now that we 're all settled, may I remind you that the Forbidden forest is out of bounds to all pupil and that the mathematical product from Weasleys'Wizarding Wheezes are still prohibited in this school. '' stated the Headmistress and she looked at each student sternly to instill the warning on their mind. `` To all bookman, please be informed that Hermione farmer is the new head teacher miss and Ernie Macmillan is the new Head Boy. You may seek for their supporter if you have any problems. Your home prefects shall also be gladiola to assist you in any way they can. Let the feast Begin ! '' she said after a patch and the dinner party table was immediately laden with savoury delicacies.

`` poise getup ! '' commented Blaise Zabini, one of genus Draco 's nigh friend. `` What year are you in ? ``

`` I 'm in sixth year and both of them are in their seventh. '' replied Ginny nonchalantly.

`` That 's slap-up ! By the way, I 'm Blaise and these are queer, Crabbe, Goyle and Nott. '' he introduced themselves proudly, as if he was announcing the members of the royal family.

`` Are n't they the unity who studied at Azkaban death twelvemonth ? '' asked Harry aka Lander, concealing his curiousity with a bored demeanor.

`` How did you know ? '' Pansy eyed him suspiciously.

`` It 's all over the papers, pal. Nothing to it. Besides, it 's bally brilliant ! How was it ? '' drawled Draco aka Devon lazily.

`` It 's boring. '' said Crabbe and Goyle.

`` The parson just gave us probational free pardon so we can end up our report here - as if we care, honestly ! '' said Pansy with a smirk on her face.

`` But you have to admit, no early student here could brag about that. '' said Lander and the Slytherin idiors laughed proudly.

`` Hey, what do you do for fun here ? '' asked Ginny, munching daintily on a pumpkin cookie held between her fingers.

`` fountainhead, we usually make fun of student from the early houses - hex themselves sometimes for practice session .... '' Blaise scrutinized the three. `` ... and if you 're desirable, then we can let you in on former really slap-up stuff. ``

`` Yeah ? Like what ? '' asked Devon as if he was not yet cognizant of it.

`` ... if you 're desirable, you 'll fuck. '' replied fairy mysteriously.

=====================================================================

When the fiesta was over, all bookman were escorted by their respective home prefects to their dorm. Callah and Pansy immediately went off somewhere while the male child lingered at the common room first.

`` That Head Girl is one of ceramist 's bestfriend. She 's bad news show, I tell you. Nothing would stimulate you an outcast here faster than making supporter with her and the redhead git who follows her around. He was her young man and also a cracking acquaintance of Potter. They 're the wrong sort, understand ? '' stated Blaise while Crabbe and Goyle flanked his side protectively like bodyguard and nodded dumbly at everything he said.

Devon was annoyed by their action at law but tried hard not to let it show. To them, Draco Malfoy does not be anymore and Blaise Zabini is their new drawing card. He had to deal with that fact and besides, he did not need to finger this way. They were not a cracking deprivation on his part.

`` No one edict us around, Blaise. appearance us first why they are not suitable and then when we 'll allow you to call the shots. '' said Devon tauntingly. lander looked quizzically at him but he just gave him a trust-me-I-know-what-I'm-doing look.

Blaise looked pissed at his words but he relaxed after a moment. `` A challenge, eh ? We like that, do n't we boys ? '' again his crony nodded without a second thought. `` Watch us squash those scandal tomorrow before our potions academic session. '' he declared arrogantly.

`` Make sure you win. '' said lander with the same tone as Devon's.

`` We will. '' said Blaise with a wicked glint in his heart then he led his chum to their room.

Devon waited until they were out of learn shot before he said to Lander. `` In this house, you wo n't get any regard if you agree at once to what they are saying. But you should n't appear as if you 're defying them too. ``

Lander mutely acknowledged his comment and stared at the Slytherin common room. It still had the same rough stone wall with round, green lamps hanging on chemical chain to the ceiling. There were still no flabby and well-off sofa like in their own rough-cut way - only high-backed chairs which, from his experience, was not really satisfying to sit on. A flack also crackled merrily under a carve mantelpiece with an intricate invention that depicted a very outmoded fashion of a wizard duel. Looking around the eerie milieu, he slightly wondered if they were doing the correct thing.

`` Your common room has not changed much since my last visit. '' he commented over his shoulder.

`` You 've been here before ? When ? '' asked Devon in amazement.

`` Oh ! Um -- '' Lander silently cursed himself for being regardless but decided not to lie. `` We - that means me and Ron - came here during our 2d twelvemonth. End of storey. ''

`` How the infernal region did you two get in ? '' queried Devonshire, a little miffed that some students from other business firm were able to enter their confidential domain without his knowledge.

`` Do n't ask head because you might not want to pick up the resolution. '' replied Lander cautiously, unwilling to offend him.

`` No, I 'm bloody curious. Who was the slimy git who betrayed our oath of secrecy ? '' he asked heatedly.

Lander raised one eyebrow and his backtalk twitched in entertainment. `` As I have said, you might not want to hear the answer. The slimy git who let us in was YOU. '' he laughed at the feel of incredulity on Devonshire 's face. `` ... and I would not ask more questions if I were you. ``

`` Yeah - might as well not. I feel like an idiot ! ``

`` You were but I hope you are not now. ``

`` I wonder what that idiot Blaise is planning to do tomorrow ... ''

`` fountainhead, he better not make it too serious or that might just be the most humiliate moment of his lifespan ... ''


Chapter 11 - The Proclamation of Harry 's Death


The shock had worn off and the overpowering influence of Hermione and the rest of the sr. Gryffindors had trickled down to the least impressionable residents of their house. Unfortunately, the atm at their common room was far from jubilant. Almost two week had passed and there was still no tidings as to the whereabouts of Harry and Ginny. So much for the DA and the Order 's program - they have not learned a undivided thing yet and it was driving them crazy.

`` This is all my defect ! If I had only listened ... '' said Hermione in anguish.

`` If we had only listened, Harry might still be here with us. And if I had n't been too unregenerate ... '' said Ron with the Lapplander remorseful tone.

Neville, who was listening to their ranting, dropped the al-Qur'an he was holding with so much force that almost everybody turned to look at his direction. `` will you two please cut that out ? You 've been blaming yourselves since Harry 's disappearance. It 's not helping anybody, you know. '' he declared irritatedly. `` It 's nobody 's fault and that 's final. And if you really consider yourselves Harry 's admirer, you would be doing something constructive by now instead of whining pathetically ! ''

Ron and Hermione stared in surprisal at the fierce outburst of their usually laid back friend. They had forgotten that they were not the only when ace suffering here and Neville 's right hand. Moaning and moping would n't help them in their flow predicament especially now that the Order members have n't visited Hogwarts yet.

`` Do you have any hypnotism, Neville ? '' asked Hermione politely.

`` Why do n't you pester your father until he gives you the informations we need ? '' said Neville moodily to Ron but before he could reply, the threshold opened to reveal the creepily somber Fred and George Weasley. They looked so tire out and fallible that nobody had the heart to question them. The similitude eyed them guardedly before one of them spoke.

`` We went to the ministry to visit dad. '' said Fred mournfully.

`` And we were there when they brought the body ... '' said George VI, his voice wavering as he uttered the words.

`` B-body ? Whose eubstance ? '' queried Hermione although she already had a nagging distrust as to whom they were referring to.

`` I - I think we punter go to McGonagall now. Dad and the other member of the gild would be there shortly to discuss the -- - `` said Fred with the Saame strained tonicity. `` ... Holocene epoch umm - ontogeny. ``

`` NO, TELL US ! WHOSE BODY ? ! ? '' yelled Ron with a assortment of panic and anger.

`` WE CA N'T ! '' George yelled back before he and Fred went out hastily to go to the Headmistress'office.

Without a here and now 's falter, Ron, Hermione and Neville followed their lead and immediately grabbed the DA 's limited galleon to call on the other fellow member. Within proceedings, several other DA penis joined them at the office to expect for the arriver of the minister.

`` What 's the problem ? '' asked Parvati, who had just arrived with her sister.

`` We do n't know yet but I do n't imagine it 's good. '' replied Hermione wearily and carefully avoided the others'questioning stares for the fourth dimension being.

Luna discreetly retreated to one corner, boring her nose down a musty historical Word of God which partially shielded her from everyone 's view. One by one, the Order phallus turned up with equally serious expressions on their faces.

`` The seeking is over .... '' Professor McGonagall began. `` somebody tipped off the minister that a eubstance of a wizard was found near Tom enigma 's burial ground .... '' At this level, the professor could not ascertain her emotions anymore.

`` I sent someone to investigate the affair and -- `` Mr. Weasley sighed heavily. `` It was Harry 's body. Apparently, his body was thrown into a roaring fountainhead of fire disfiguring him almost beyond recognition. ``

`` Almost beyond acknowledgment ? T-then is it possible that it was n't H-harry ? '' asked Cho tearfully.

`` We were not for certain at first - until we saw the lightning shaped scrape which was unparalleled to him alone. '' replied the rector sadly. `` And if you do n't mind, I would rather not discuss the details of his death right now. ``

His listeners nodded fervently. Nobody really wanted to see anyway. It was just too depressing.

`` S-so Ginny really did it ... my very own sister ! '' whispered Ron almost to himself. `` I ca n't consider it ! My little sister is a liquidator ! ``

Although dull with daze, Hermione managed to explain what Luna had shown them to those who was not aware of it yet.

`` You can hate us now, Luna. '' said Fred forlornly when he noticed Luna glance at them for a millisecond.

Luna slowly looked up from her book. `` I do n't detest you. '' she said evenly before returning to her reading.

professor Snape watched the untested young lady 's reaction carefully. Her response was not natural. It seemed a little forced and out of tune. She even appeared disinterested about the current matter of the conversation. Did Harry stray from the plan and communicated with her despite of their late understanding ? Or did any of the three slip up and somehow alerted Luna to their presence ?

`` Come on - hatred us. Hex us if it would make water you feel better. We deserve it. '' argued George stubbornly but Luna ignored his plea for punishment.

Hermione felt a tiny gleaming of Bob Hope. Maybe, this was just another of Voldemort 's antic and Luna could still sense Harry 's front that 's why she was taking everything so calmly. `` You do n't trust it was really him, Luna ? '' she tentatively asked the girl.

Luna looked up again, impatient at the to-do, but Snape had caught her eye before she was able-bodied to have her scathing reply. She immediately understood the silent warning that Snape was sending her. Forcing a more sorrowful demeanor, she gradually turned to Hermione.

`` Yes, I do. '' was her simple reply that crushed the tiniest hope that Hermione 's interrogative had inspired into the others'sum. `` But no quantity of grieving would bring him back to life. There 's only one thing that we could do - and that is to finally shoot down the instigators of all this evil thing ... Voldemort and his army. ``

`` Luna is right. By tomorrow, Harry 's decease would be all over the wizard newspaper and we could soon expect Voldemort to make an explosive ejaculate back. We have to be prepared. DA would have to be reinstated to help other student learn to champion themselves. '' said the minister.

`` Warnings have to be propagated to the wizarding community through the pettifogger. And I suggest that we drop the pretense. It is utterly unfair for Harry to let them suppose he had turned evil at the last bit of his animation. '' said Neville.

McGonagall and Snape looked at each other hesitantly at Neville 's Bible. It was not part of the program but could they pick the others for thinking that way ? They simply had to agree because doing otherwise would make water everyone suspicious that something was amiss.

`` Yes, I suppose it is the ripe thing to do. We 'll let you subscribe to charge of the caviler and the student'additional training. '' said prof Snape.

`` That would be a joy, Professor. '' stated Lee, resolute in giving a very useful demurrer object lesson for the former students.

`` The Order could proceed with its normal undertaking of tracking them down and hopefully prevent any atrocities that they might be planning to do next. '' said Moody with the same heavy tone.

`` I could inform Remus to try to essay the loyalty of the werewolves once again. '' said the minister.

`` And of track we could bet on Hagrid to inform the giants about the current post. '' said Professor McGonagall.

Several more prompting were given and their heartbreak was soon replaced with a grim determination to seize evil. detail had been polished to ne plus ultra and with each progress, their agitation deepened, hungry for lineage of those who made their lives so scummy that they almost forgot to inhabit. Finally, when they felt they had already extracted all the creative juices in their creative thinker, the meeting was adjourned and each leftfield with renewed vigor.

Except for prof McGonagall, prof Snape and Luna.

`` What 's the literal programme ? '' promptly asked Luna when they were the only ones left. `` And do n't even try to fool me with your words. I know something 's going on at Hogwarts. '' she added when she noticed the unusual expression that passed between the two professors.

`` What do you mean ? '' asked Professor Snape to pick out how much she really knew. He still had no design to unwrap too much information unless he had discussed it with Harry.

`` Why is Harry parading around the Great Hall in an flakey getup and why was he in Slytherin ? '' said Luna without even batting an eyelash.

`` W-we do n't know what you 're talking about, girl Lovegood. '' denied the headmistress but to no avail.

`` Let me handle this, Minerva. '' said Snape then he turned to Luna. `` How did you find out ? Did he commune with you ? '' he asked without confirming their own knowledge.

`` No, I did not but I saw him at the Great dorm with genus Draco and Ginny. '' she replied.

`` You were able to see through the camouflage ? '' asked Snape in amazement. He could not conceive it because only a handful of highly skilled wizards could correclty discover people whose coming into court was protected by trance - not even Voldemort himself could do that.

`` Yes. So could you please tell me now ? '' stated Luna matter-of-factly.

`` Alright, Severus, kindly bring the them here. '' said the headmistress in a fag out tone.

=====================================================================

Lander and Devon were already about to log Z's on their sleeping room after a terribly exhausting and boring conversation with Blaise and his soldiery when they heard a soft knock on the threshold as if afraid of wakening anybody else up. They both looked over to where Blaise was curled up and snoring to his affection 's content. Confident that he was not bothered by the noise, they carefully opened the room access to see who dared disturb them at this ungodly hour of night.

It was Callah aka Ginny. She was anxiously rubbing a fake galleon on her hands as if her life depended on it.

`` Hey, darling ! Missed me already ? '' asked Devon confidently, wrapping his arms around her lovingly. He thought he was the reason she was there.

`` Did you finger it too ? '' she asked Lander immediately, plainly ignoring Devon 's mock reflexion of pain.

`` Yes and I chose to brush aside it. You should, too. '' Lander replied while Devon examined the galleon curiously.

`` What the hell is this thing ? '' Devon asked and lander hastened to explain while Callah tapped her foot impatiently.

`` What do you imagine it means ? '' pressed Callah with a pertain look on her typeface.

`` It simply means that they had already found out that Harry Potter was utterly. That 's very clever of Snape. He engineered it all. '' he answered with a smile. `` So, we practiced disregard it and manoeuver for bed now. The activeness would start tomorrow. ``

detent

They all turned to the door and saw the Head of the mansion approach them silently.

`` You should all come with me to the Headmistress'berth. There 's something that we all need to discuss. '' he said simply and headed for the door without waiting for their reply.

=====================================================================

The adjacent day ...

The three new Slytherins headed for the Great Hall with the loud-mouthed faggot and Blaise and his cronies.

`` Hah ! Look at those sniveling idiots. I bet they heard the commodity news program already. '' said Pansy with pure delight on her face and tried to sit beside Devon but Callah was quicker.

`` Do n't even think of it. He 's mine. '' said Callah and she glared at her venomously. pouf raised her perfectly shaved eyebrows at that but she shrugged if off and slided to the vacant chair beside Lander instead.

`` Hiya, handsome. want me to make you a Slytherin tour later ? '' she asked, fluttering her delicate lashes at him.

Lander cringed inwardly at the lot but maintained his cool. He could get information from her especially when there was no one else to warn her.

`` Sure, babe, anytime. '' he drawled in his best imitation of Draco.

Pansy flashed Callah a prideful look and returned to her food.

`` What 'good news'are you talking about ? '' asked Lander in between mouthfuls.

`` thrower 's dead. Their Italian sandwich was gone and there 's no one to pull through them anymore. '' answered Blaise, looking very proud as if he was the one who did it.

`` Oh, really ? I wonder what 's the big mint with that thrower kid. I mean he ca n't be more powerful than the nighttime lord, is he ? '' asked Callah conversationally.

fagot frowned at her ingratiation. `` No one can ever desire to be more powerful than the sinister Godhead. That ceramicist is just a pain in the neck to him, you know ... playing saviour all the meter. '' she sneered.

`` What about that Malfoy kid ? I heard someone mention his epithet on the way here. Something about that boy being the Slytherin catch or something. Where is he ? '' asked Devonshire to check if they knew something already.

`` Oh, that brat ? '' exclaimed queen as if she found the mere mention of the public figure extremely irritating to her sensitive ear barrel. `` We have no news show about him yet. shoemaker's last thing we knew he was being punished for his disobedience but now he 's disappeared with that sleazy blood traitor. I do n't bang what he saw in her. ''

`` Never speak of his name again. He 's considered taboo in our house these days. My father said that his father is now personally hunting them down including the former traitor. '' declared Blaise arrogantly, giving the impression that the topic should be concluded immediately.

Devon and Callah nearly choked on their repast but went on without commenting. lander seriously considered the information they had just unearthed. Lucius was looking for Draco, Ginny and Wormtail. That meant Voldemort and his minions knew about their abandonment already and that only have in mind that they had to be superfluous careful about their police detective work. Sooner or later, they would listen about the 'cool transferee'and they were not that stupid not to fancy things out. He just hoped that it would be later.

Suddenly, the mesa were bombarded with overexcited hooter. Newspapers and parchments were being dropped everywhere.

`` May I have the attending of everyone please. '' shouted Professor McGonagall before the student could peruse the day 's composition. All eyes turned to her at once. `` I regret to harbinger that Harry Potter is no longer with us. He perished in the hands of Voldemort and he died saving our world. delight do not let the papers deceive you. Harry remained fast to the light-headed side until his last. '' She carefully looked around the tearful and shocked faces of the scholar ... there were even some from the Slytherin table. `` Yes, it is Voldemort. In this light source, may I inform you that aside from the aegis that this castle offers, I have arranged for some very capable students to take you all to defend yourselves in typeface all things fail. It will not be graded but please try to do your best. The final mental test will be during battles against evil and unsuccessful person could cost you your life. That is all. You may go to your year now. ''

Chapter 12 - The Encounter with the Mudblood and the Weasel


`` alibi me. '' said a tiny but positive voice.

Lander and Devon knew who was speaking even before they turned around.

`` I 'm Hermione Granger, capitulum girl. '' she held out her hand politely but nobody took it. Unfazed by their discourtesy, she continued. `` I 'm wondering if you would worry to join our Defense Club this year. It 's called Dumbledore 's Army and we train our fellow member to agitate against the dark artwork -- - ``

`` We 're not interested. '' said Lander quickly before she could say anything Thomas More. Snape warned them to restrict their conversations with them to a lower limit and if possible, none at all.

`` -- B-but -- - ''

`` Did n't you hear him, you filthy mudblood ? '' said Blaise with utmost contempt.

`` mulct ! As headspring daughter, it is my duty to invite everyone else for the training but I forgot you do n't demand to train 'against'the dark arts. After all, you are all 'for'the dark fine art, are n't you ? '' replied Hermione with the Saame fervor.

`` 'Mione ! There you are ! I 've been looking for you. '' exclaimed Ron as he ran towards her then he stopped in his track when he noticed the unfriendly fellowship. `` What are you doing with -- - them ? '' he said incredulously.

`` Begging for alms, Weasel. To buy food for the savage inside your stomach. '' said Pansy wickedly. Ron turned crimson at once.

`` Actually, she got tired of you and wanted a objet d'art of our new friend here. '' said Blaise mockingly as he pointed at Lander.

`` Why, you ! '' sputtered Ron in anger.

`` semen on, Ron. Save your breath. We should not squander meter with this bunch of losers. '' said Hermione as she pulled Ron away before he lost control.

`` unsuccessful person ? Maybe it 's you, mudblood. Now that your hero is idle, no one could keep you now. Did you know he was begging for earnest life before the dark lord killed him ? '' taunted Blaise. Hermione and Ron immediately went unbending with furor and had their wands out within seconds. pouf and Blaise drew their wands too but ordered the others not to bring out theirs.

`` It 's not dependable. Harry would never do that and neither would we ! '' yelled Ron and waved his wand dangerously.

Blaise 's eyes glazed with excitement. `` You want a duel ? Come then. Let 's see how badly ceramicist had trained you. ''

`` IMPEDIMENTA ! '' shouted Pansy at Ron but he ducked in time.

`` ENGORGIO ! '' he countered and Pansy immediately started to fill out like an expand balloon and slowly she rose into the air, shrieking in fright.

`` PETRIFICUS TOTALUS ! '' yelled Blaise in fury and pointed his baton at Hermione but she was able to block it with a simpleton shielding charm.

Enraged, he tried a dissimilar tactics. He pointed his scepter at Ron and yelled `` CRUCIO '' but at the last minute, he changed his direction and the spell hit Hermione but amazingly, she did not experience any pain at all. She smiled with relief.

`` That 's against the rules, Zabini ! STUPEFY ! '' shouted Hermione at him then she carefully plucked his wand from his unmoving fingers.

`` That 's a nice one, Herm. Finite Incantatem ! '' said Ron while pointing his wand at the floating fag whose clothes were starting to rip at the side. He too pried the wand away from his finger's breadth while whistling softly.

`` Ennervate '' said Hermione to Blaise reluctantly as if she just wanted him to outride that way. `` That 's how well Harry had taught us. '' she smirked at all the Slytherin who witnessed the encounter.

`` Yeah, do n't mess up with us again or you 'll pay dearly. '' said Ron with the Lapplander half smile before the two of them left.

`` Oh, by the way, you can get your baton from the Headmistress. I 'm sure she 'll be happy to return them. '' said Hermione over her articulatio humeri then they both laughed and headed to the Headmistress'authority at once.

`` You bozos, why did n't you serve us ? '' yelled Blaise at the others after the two had left.

`` We thought you could squash those dirts as you said. '' said Lander in mock entertainment. Blaise did n't seem to appreciate his pun and shot him a piercing glare. Devon nudged him slightly.

`` Just a prank, Blaise. Besides, we did n't want to get involved. We 're just new here, you know. We could n't afford to get expelled this early. Maybe later ... '' he added and gave him a conspiratorial wink.

Blaise tension eased up at once and returned his wink which promised another worthy confrontation with the Gryffindors later in which they would emerge victorious.

`` I 'd be waiting for that present moment. Here, follow this path. It will lead you straight to the dungeon for our Potions lesson. We just have to retrieve our wands first. '' said Blaise. `` Damn those Gryffindors ! '' he muttered under his hint as he dragged the tearful fag to the office.

========================================================================

`` Hey, Ron, did you see the oath hit me ? '' asked Hermione later.

`` Yeah, I wonder why you did not get affected by it. '' replied Ron.

`` You mean you have nothing to do with that ? '' exclaimed Hermione in surprise.

`` Yeah. I 'm not that powerful enough ... .only Har -- '' Ron 's middle suddenly went full with astonishment. `` No, it 's impossible. ``

`` What 's unsufferable ? ``

`` Forget it. I 'm just not thinking heterosexual person. '' said Ron dismissively.

`` No, I heard you said that only Harry could do it. Have you really looked at the transferees ? What if one of them was Harry ? ``

`` It 's impossible, Herm. His organic structure had been found and identified properly. Do n't let our Bob Hope up again. It only hurts us more when we do that. delight ... '' implored Ron.

`` O-okay. '' agreed Hermione weakly but in her intellect she had formed her own resolution.

========================================================================

`` adept forenoon class. I think some of you know me by now but to those who do n't, let me preface myself. I am Professor Remus Lupin, your defense Against the night Arts teacher. '' he said with a warm up smile to everyone.

Lander and Devon groaned at seeing the professor. Blaise looked approvingly at them.

`` So you also find him deplorable ... that 's safe. He is a werewolf. I do n't know where this schooling is coming to. '' said Blaise in disgust.

Lander and Devon nodded in arrangement but their damaging feelings were channeled to a different level. lupin was an order of magnitude member and his solid werewolf device characteristic could identify them fast through their fragrance alone. They both hoped that the additional protection that Snape had placed on them would work to perfection.

`` I know that you are all very capable at handling complicated turn. On your seventh year, you would be performing more advanced conjuration. Most of these would seem on your N.E.W.Ts at the end of the twelvemonth so you better work harder. I understand that the Imperius whammy was shown to you during your fourth but you were not really able to exercise it. So today, we would be learning how to use and counteract the Imperius hex and for that, we need a presentation. Any volunteer ? '' prof lupine eyed the student expectantly.

Many scholar raised their manus, mostly DA members. Harry had already taught them how use and deflect that unforgivable curse although not everyone could throw off the spell as fast as he could. Professor lupin was aware of this so he felt positive enough to call on any one of them.

`` Alright, Miss Patil, delight get along here. '' he instructed. `` The conjuration is 'Imperio'and you need to digest to break dance away from the spell. ''

`` Yes, professor. ``

`` Imperio ! ''

Parvati suddenly wore a sugarcoat expression of someone being hypnotized. The professor ordered her to sing and she performed a song number in front of the year but when she was ordered to start outside the windowpane, she broke off the magic spell and smiled proudly at everyone. The class gave her a generous applause except the ace from Slytherin who were all yawn as if the presentation was boring enough to calm them into sleep.

The professor looked worried at their chemical reaction. If they refused to be thoughtful in grade, then those who were not already serving the dark lord could be easily manipulated.

`` Mr. -- - what 's your name again ? '' he called on one of the new students from the Slytherin House. Perhaps a demonstration on one of them could make them pay attention.

`` Mooney -- Lander Mooney. '' answered Lander promptly but his whole step implied that he 'd rather be watching instead of being the topic.

`` Hmm ... I wonder where you got your name. '' said the professor, smiling slightly. Lander wanted to return the smile but he donned a blank look instead.

`` You know what to do ? '' Lander nodded. `` Alright at the tally of three ... .1 ... ..2 ... ... 3 ... .Imperio ! ``

Once again, Lander felt the familiar spirit floating sensation that made him feel light headed. Then he heard the command. 'Sing for us !'

'No, not that please ... I do n't wish singing .'he thought but he knew he should follow. He opened his mouth to tattle when he realized he did not know any wizard Song dynasty yet and singing a muggle song could make the Slytherin suspicious of the purity of his blood.

`` La lalala lalalala ... .lalalala '' he hummed instead since he could not sing anything.

Then another instruction followed. 'Dance for us'

Lander inwardly groaned again and felt like hexing Lupin to make him cease those ridiculous statement but fortunately the professor changed his idea. 'No, not that one. hover your whole soundbox .'

'Fine. At to the lowest degree that one is easy .'Lander thought as he started to originate slowly from the background. He could hear the professor 's explanation as he levitated.

`` Now, see here, course of study. It would be almost unsufferable for anyone to levitate their consistency when they were conscious because nigh wizards believe that it was impossible. But with this curse, you could earn a person do almost anything because in this United States Department of State, wizards knew no bounds. They only follow the dictation. '' said the professor then he ordered him to go down and removed the spell off him.

`` Mr. Mooney pair up with Ms. sodbuster and practice. You -- '' the professor pointed at Devon. `` -- practice with Mr. Weasley. Mr. Zabini, you may do so with Ms. Patil. '' he went on until everyone in the room had a partner.

Lander grimaced as he stared at his married person. Fortunately, Hermione mistook it for disgust and glared openly at him. Devon, on the early hand, was having the time of his sprightliness. What a nice way to depart the day for him ! Making Ron do whatever he wanted but Lander noted that he particularly strayed away from making him do really embarrassing and serious things. Apparently, he took his threat seriously. It was a safe matter that Blaise was busy with his own problem to observe their want of primitivism to their partners.

The professor watched as the students performed the spell on each early but was mainly focused on the transferee who gave a monstrance a spell ago. There was something remotely fellow with the way he handled himself. He obeyed all his commands but his eyes did not have the same glass over feeling and his reply to his orders were not instantaneous. There was something definitely unusual with him.

`` That was excellent, class. Two rolls of parchment about the effects of Imperius swearword and how to counter them to be submitted side by side Mon. You may go now. '' The scholar turned to leave. `` Mr. Antonio and Mr. Mooney, please stay for a while. ``

Lander and Devon reluctantly stayed.

`` Did we perform badly, professor ? '' asked Lander courteously.

`` Oh, no, not that. On the adverse, you both performed very well. '' the professor replied then he eyed the two carefully. `` According to Professor McGonagall, you both came from Durmstrang, correct ? '' The two nodded. `` Well, I was just wondering if you 're advanced or behind our current lessons so that I could offer you supernumerary help if requirement. ``

`` Thank you, prof Lupin, but I think we could carry off. '' said Devon quickly.

`` Can you please tell me what you have taken up at Durmstrang so that at least I would have an idea ? '' inquired the Brigham Young professor kindly.

`` fountainhead, it 's almost exchangeable to your curriculum here. We learned about werewoves, vampires -- -- '' replied lander indulgently although he wondered where all these questions were heading.

`` Legilimens ! '' said lupine suddenly, almost catching him incognizant ... .but not quite. He was capable to stop the computer memory from reaching the open on clip.

`` My ! You 're a skilled Occlumens as well. '' commented the Professor then he turned to Devon.

Devon shot a nervous aspect at Lander who understood immediately. The professor was going to try to read his idea and Devon was not adept at it yet. Very slightly, he flicked his finger's breadth to screen him from the spell. The professor looked strangely at both of them.

`` Very well. I see you wo n't feature any trouble with my category at all. You may go now. '' said the professor and they both immediately hurried outside to get some clean air.

`` That was close ! '' said Devonshire, his breathing a little well-situated now.

`` Yeah, I know. We really have to be spare measured from now on. ``


Chapter 13 - Lavender 's Prediction


October 15, 1997

Several uneventful hebdomad had passed. Lander became to a greater extent restless as the days flew by. He missed Luna but they could not be seen together. They did not even have a class together so it was more difficult. He had to be contented with sending her an owl from time to clip although he never received any from her due to the wary nature of the Slytherins. It was a wonder that their kinship still survived. He has heard that a well-favored guy from her class was courting her but Luna, thankfully, brushed him off.

There was no news from Voldemort. No dark activities present. And no more tightlipped calls. Blaise and Milquetoast still did not commit them enough to reveal some useful information. Their menacing flavour were not enough. They had to know up to their reputation to get into the `` in '' crowd. Therefore, they need to be more than daring. Desperate times call for do-or-die measures.

`` Hey, Devonshire. seed on. Get up ! We 're going to hex some people tonight. ''

`` W-what ? Are you crazy ? What for ? '' asked a sleepy Devon.

`` I 've just realized something. Blaise and Pansy refuse to distinguish us anything because we have n't proven ourselves yet. Now is the right time. come in on ! '' said Lander.

`` And may I ask who shall be the sacrificial lamb tonight ? ``

`` Anyone ... we just foot a fight with anyone ... even better if we chance upon Hermione and Ron. We could make it appear like were avenging their humiliation a few calendar week ago. '' he replied. `` feeling, your lot are having a 'study grouping'meeting downstairs. If we leave at this time of night, Blaise would surely orderliness someone to come us around. Your housemates are not a very swear lot. ``

Devon considered it for a moment then lazily got up and brought out his wand. `` Okay, let 's go. ``

The two made trusted to make a lot of dissonance as they went past the whispering group at the Slytherin common room.

`` Hey, where are you going ? '' called out Blaise and eyed them suspiciously.

'Bingo !'thought Lander. `` Oh, nothing. Do n't mind us. We just want to get some freshly air. ``

Blaise nodded and whispered something to Crabbe and Goyle. As the two made their way to the Hogwarts corridors, they heard two duad of fleshy feet following them. They smiled triumphantly at one another and blatantly ignored the noise as if they had not heard anything.

'Come on. Where are the people in the region ?'Lander thought. They were getting tired from all the walk but still they had not met anybody unlucky enough to get over their path - even the caretaker.

`` Hey, you two. It 's yesteryear curfew. You should be on your bed by now. '' yelled a companion voice. It was Peeves.

`` Shut up, Peeves, or I 'll hex you beyond feeling. '' said Devon.

`` Oh, I 'm so terrify. '' cooed the poltergeist. `` I 'm going to foretell the prof. STUDENTS ! STUDENTS AT THE CORRIDORS ! ``

`` Silencio Vox ! '' said Lander and the Poltergeist lost his voice at once. He acted as if he was going to put another expletive on him and Peeves disappeared immediately in fright.

`` I wonder why he obeyed Fred and George during their flight in our fifth year. '' commented Devon as he watched Peeves make a hasty exit.

`` That was probably because he was ordered to create mayhem which was what he enjoyed doing. '' replied lander caustically.

`` So, it 's you ! '' exclaimed another representative. It was Hermione followed by Macmillan.

The two grinned at one another. 'Finally !'Nothing like hexing the promontory Boy and Head Girl to put them in the good position of the new Slytherin prince.

`` Yes, it 's us. You have any job with that, mudblood ? '' sneered Lander to take in things more realistic but Hermione did not even bristle at the nasty label. She had gotten used to it by now.

`` It 's way past curfew. You should both be in bed unless you have some business with the professors at this time of night which I doubt. '' said Macmillan.

`` We want to get some invigorated air. '' declared Devonshire arrogantly as if that simple statement settled the matter.

Hermione put her hands on her hip and glared at them. `` We 're going to inform the Headmistress about this. ``

`` Oh, no. You do n't. We wo n't let such a lowly being like you get us into trouble. '' said Lander and raised his baton slightly. Devon followed suit.

`` We wo n't sink to your level. Twenty points from Slytherin for threatening the pass Boy and Girl. '' said Macmillan and started to exit with Hermione.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' shouted Devonshire immediately and Macmillan became immobile at once.

Lander smirked at them. `` I told you we wo n't let you get us into hassle. ``

`` Finite Incantatem ! '' said Hermione to her partner and turned to Devon and Lander. `` The war is not between Gryffindor and Slytherin but if you insist then we 'll gladly bind. Stupefy ! '' she pointed her verge at Lander but it only hit the bulwark behind him.

He grinned wickedly at her before he casually waved his wand and said. `` Rictusempra ! '' It hit Hermione squarely on the chest causing her to roll on the level with laughter.

`` obstruction ! '' It was Macmillan 's bit but he was still too disoriented to aim properly. His go missed Devonshire by inches.

Devon glanced slightly at Lander as if asking license to do something. Lander nodded and prepared for what Devon was planning to do next. `` Crucio ! '' shouted Devon and Macmillan fell on his knees in pain but Lander did something to lessen the spell 's effect so they both knew that the pain was not that severe.

Lander realized that it was now time to end the 'fight'before it got out of hand. `` Infernus Galacticus ! '' he muttered softly and held the small ball of fervency carefully in his mitt. `` Do you concede ? '' he voiced out the question in the most venomous pure tone that he could muster.

Hermione 's eyes fell upon the ball of fervency then at Lander 's look. She tensed for a moment as she stared at their opposer. Her expression became suddenly unclear as she continued to gaze. It was as if her mind was working overtime but not about their flow predicament. Even Macmillan looked confused. Then without another word, Hermione grabbed Macmillan 's limb and backed away from the two.

`` Merlin ! '' exclaimed Lander softly to himself.

`` What was that about ? '' asked Devon in wonder.

`` I - I -- - '' he began but was stopped short when they both heard several loud pace heading their way.

`` Amazing ! You scared those two - incredible ! '' exclaimed Blaise and he patted their dorsum for a job well done.

`` Yeah. It was a good thing that Crabbe and Goyle 'accidentally'saw you and called us. I reckon they thought you would n't be capable to palm them. '' gushed pouf at them.

'Accidentally - Yeah, right field .'thought process Lander sarcastically.

`` And you used an unforgivable swearword ! Very impressive ! I admit I had some doubtfulness regarding your capability before but now I think you could be a worthy addition to our society. '' said Blaise solemnly.

`` It was nada, really. '' said Devon dismissively. `` We just wanted to get them back for what that daughter did to you, Blaise. ``

`` Besides, we were bored. '' added Lander and hoped that the idiots would take the clue and invite them into their slight 'study group'.

`` You 're bored ? How come you did n't tell us ? fall in us then. We 're having a party tonight. '' said faggot excitedly.

`` Where to ? ``

`` At the green room - where else ? Do n't worry. Snape does n't care. '' said Blaise. `` Go get your other Quaker, too. ``

`` That 's peachy ! We 're in. By the way, what are we celebrating ? '' asked Lander curiously.

`` The Dark nobleman 's initial victory party ! ''

========================================================================

Hermione and Ernie did not go to the Headmistress at once. Ernie had decided not to report the issue immediately and Hermione agreed. She walked briskly to the Gryffindor dormitory room to meet with the other DA fellow member there.

`` Password please. '' said the Fat Lady in the portrait.

`` Phoenix Feather '' said Hermione impatiently as the Fat Lady took her time in opening the door.

`` My apologia, but person was blocking the door so could you just give it a push. '' said the Fat Lady sweetly.

Hermione pushed the threshold and was surprised to see a number of Gryffindors staring in jolt at the fig lying on the floor.

`` What 's going on here ? '' yelled Hermione. Her nerves were already on the edge since their encounter with the fledgeling and this mint was not very welcoming at all.

`` Oh, thank good, you 're here. Hermione. Ron and Neville had already gone to fetch McGonagall. We were just having a discussion here when Lavender had some form of an plan of attack. She collapsed and her body was convulsing uncontrollably -- like she was being possessed or something. '' said teary-eyed Parvati.

`` We tried slapping her but she would n't stir. '' said Fred anxiously.

Hermione racked her mental capacity to figure out the logical affair to do when suddenly, Lavender 's body twitched violently. Then she slowly opened her dazed eyes and spoke in a muted eerie tone.

`` The one with the exponent to beat the Dark Lord had come…and the Dark Lord will tick him as his equal, but he will have power the iniquity Lord knows not ... and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives ... A terrible electrical storm would come at the time when the final battle shall be fought ... Seven patriotic allies shall be with him ... but one will not endure ... The shadow Godhead would invoke the spirits but the one would snare their psyche ... his servants shall be overcome ... he shall go by his own blade ... and his corpse shall reside at the Hydra 's chamber till the end of time ... The one with the power to vanquish the wickedness Lord had come ... ''

`` Oh, my God ! The suffer prophecy ! ''

Many oral sex wheeled around to find the ashen face of the Headmistress followed by their professor lupine, their electric current house head.

`` Please take charge, Remus. There 's something that I urgently need to do. '' she said excitedly and left without another word.

When the Headmistress was gone, Professor Lupin was bombarded immediately with questions.

`` Did she just ready a prophecy, Professor ? '' asked Ron curiously.

`` What did Professor McGonagall have in mind ? ``

`` What lost prophecy ? ``

`` Who 's the one who could vanquish the Dark Lord ? ``

However, the professor was unable to do any of their questions. He was also mystified. If Harry was dead, then who else could the prognostication be referring to ? Neville ? But that ca n't be !

`` wait ! offset thing first. '' he approached Lavender and requested some students to bring her to the hospital wing. Then he ushered the others to go back to their beds with the exception of Hermione, Ron and Neville.

`` Professor, do you think Malcolm - the one who taught us the Fireball proficiency ? '' Hermione began her endless queries.

`` Yes. Why do you ask ? '' replied lupin carefully.

`` Professor, I was just wondering ... that spell was very powerful, right ? How come no death-eater used that spell before ? ``

Professor Lupin was taken aback. He did not look that question and he was peculiar as to where Hermione was coming from.

`` Malcolm is a very talented auror. He created that spell himself and it took him days to finally overcome it. That 's why no death-eater could perform that proficiency. It was never taught to them and Malcolm denied any postulation to include it in the volume. He said he would pass on the cognition only to the worthy I. ``

`` You mean only the DA and parliamentary procedure phallus could perform that turn right now ? '' asked Ron in amazement. It never occurred to him that they could cast a charm that not even the Dark Almighty knew of.

`` Oh ! '' exclaimed Hermione. `` Professor, can you please confirm with Malcolm if he had shared that knowledge with anybody else aside from us ? ``

This time, the professor could not guard on to his curiousity any longer. `` I will do that tonight but could you please state me why you are asking me these things ? '' he asked softly.

Hermione evaded his heart and fiddled with her hands before she replied with a excruciate verbalism. `` I need to know, prof, because if Malcolm confirms that he never taught anybody else, then I have good reason to suspect that Harry is still awake. ``

Neville looked stunned. `` What made you say that ? ``

`` Remember that new boy ? He performed that spell a while ago. ``


Chapter 14 - The wolfman and the Rat


prof Lupin, Ron and Neville looked stunned at her words but carefully considered what she just told them. After all, Hermione was not known for saying anything scattered and not thoroughly pondered upon especially about something as important as Harry 's alleged demise.

`` Really ? '' asked Neville hopefully to no one in particular.

`` Come to think of it. I have noticed something unusual with the boy too. The other one was not as strong but the one called Lander seemed very powerful. '' Lupin nodded his headway thoughtfully as he tried to withdraw his past DADA academic session with them.

Ron was apparently in mysterious opinion too and he exclaimed as he realized something vital that he had purposely ignored before. `` Hey, Herm. If what you 're saying is true then maybe it was really Harry who blocked the 'cruciatus curse'that Blaise -- -- ''

`` alibi me ! What are you talking about, Mr. Weasley ? '' exclaimed the properly appalled House head.

Ron shot a nervous look at Hermione before he replied. `` Err- Professor, we - Hermione and I - had a run in with some Slytherin a few calendar week ago and one of them used the Cruciatus Curse on Hermione but it did not affect her. ``

`` This happened workweek ago and neither of you told me ? ! ? '' said the Professor incredulously. `` You know that using the Unforgivable is a very serious issue, do n't you ? ``

`` Sorry, Professor. We forgot all about it. '' said Hermione apologetically.

`` All right, we 'll talk abot this some other clip. halt here for now. I need to contact Malcolm tonight to clear this matter up before we say anything to the others. I do n't want to leave off-key Hope to certain mortal. '' The professor said sternly then he added as an after intellection. `` And yes, twenty points from Gryffindor for neglecting to inform me about that particular incident. As Head Girl and prefect, it is your duty to report any unseemly incident to the Headmistress and any professor. ``

`` Yes, sir. '' said Hermione and Ron apologetically.

====================================================================

Contrary to what he had told the bookman, Professor lupin headed straight to the one place he knew he could find some response -- Snape 's donjon. He knew something was up. He could smell out it, thanks to his werefolf instincts. He just could n't rate it. Minerva was knowledgeable but in cases like this, he had to allow Snape had more expertness. Besides, those transferees were all placed in his house. It was safe to assume that he knew their backqrounds.

He knocked cautiously on the blasted threshold. He could have easily walked in but he wanted to extend common courtesy to his feller professor. He knocked again and pressed his ear against the door to listen for any mansion of life.

There was -- - A pop and a tiny squeak.

Puzzled, and without a precaution to what Snape would think, he walked in soundlessly to investigate. That diminutive squeak was unmistakeably a rat 's and he would stake his reputation that that was not just an ordinary rat.

`` Lumos '' he uttered and there, in the middle of Snape 's place, he found a scared-looking rat who was too terrified to impress. His gaze quickly flickered to its paw and immediately noticed that one was made of shining silver metal.

Without wasting time, he shot him the spell to force him to picture his man bod and quickly followed it up with a body-bind charm.

`` What are you doing here, Wormtail ? '' he asked the thin man venomously, choosing to treat him by the name fitting for a double-dealer like him.

`` R-Remus, old booster, I w-want you to know that I 'm really sorry for what I did. '' said the man and Lupin was amazed to see actual tears falling down his cheeks.

`` It 's sort of too lately for that now, do n't you opine ? '' said Lupin, his scepter still pointed at the whine figure of speech. He would never score the like mistake twice.

`` N-no, it 's not. Harry -- - ``

`` What has Harry got to do with this ? '' yelled lupin suddenly in a fit of anger. How dare this pitiable excuse of a man speak of Harry 's name when he was the one who caused his agony ? `` Harry is dead. Are you happy now ? ``

The thin man whimpered in fright but not once did he avert his eyes from his former friend 's murderous stare. `` H-Harry is alert, Remus. I know what I have done was unforgivable but I really repent it. Please forgive me. ``

`` Because of your own selfishness, Lily and James died, Dog Star wasted twelve year of his life in Azkaban and Voldemort came back to life. I do n't consider I can ever leave that much less forgive. '' He paused for a while to generate himself time to recover from those filthy memories. `` Do you make love why I have n't killed you yet ? ``

Wormtail shook his head in despair. He knew it would be difficult to confront his old Friend after what happened but he never realized that it would be this overwhelming.

`` I do n't want to kill you yet because I want to clear Canicula 's name even after his death. I do n't want people to remember Dog Star as a murdering betrayer who betrayed his bestfriends. I want masses to consider him as the neat person he was -- - unlike you. ''

Wormtail flinched inwardly at his harsh Son but he could n't say anything in his defense. What Lupin said was dependable - he was a murdering traitor who betrayed his salutary protagonist, even endangered their son 's spirit several clock time. He did n't deserve to survive but here he was, still existing while his honorable friend had fallen. Harry ceramist had saved him before but maybe he should n't have.

`` You know why I have n't taken my own worthless life yet ? '' said Wormtail in a defeated tone.

Lupin looked at him in surprise. He was not expecting this. `` Why ? ``

`` Because I owe Harry my life and I want to be there when he needs it. He might not, but just in case, I still want to do it so that I can finally pay my debt. '' stated Wormtail unfalteringly, his meaning not lost on Lupin.

`` Wait - did you say Harry is alive ? '' asked Lupin.

Just then, the threshold 's dungeon flew open and revealed two teenage boys and a girl who were slightly panting for hint as they rushed inside the dimly lit office.

`` prof, we have something to secernate -- - '' The three stopped suddenly when they noticed the aspect before them.

`` Yes ? '' prompted lupin with one brow raised in a questioning stare.

The three teenager looked unsure at one another before Lander replied rather insolently. `` We did n't come here for you, lupine. Where 's Professor Snape ? ``

The professor scrutinized the new arrivals carefully until something clicked on his mind. `` Harry, you can cut the pretense now. I know. '' he stated and watched their response closely. It was a gamble but he was willing to take the risk.

Devonshire and Callah stared wide-eyed at him as if he had suddenly sprouted another heading on his shoulders. The prof watched with a combination of suspense and entertainment as the two silently debated between themselves on what to say or do following. But nothing could experience prepared him from Lander 's reaction. The boy casually waved his right hand and unceremoniously shot coloured sparks at him. The impact made him stagger backwards and he became instantly horrified at the musical theme that he had miscalculated in his implication. He raised his verge to disarm the boy but then he realized that the boy did not ingest his verge out. 'How could this be ?'he thought. Now that the initial electric shock had worn off, he also took bill of the fact that he did not find any bother at all.

The others just smiled knowingly at him as if attacking a professor was a common occurrence in that way. He glared at the students and summoned his most classic voice.

`` What was that for ? '' he asked Lander.

`` Sorry, prof. That 's just to make for certain that you 're really who we think you are. One can never be too careful these days if you know what I mean. '' replied Lander as he gave him a warm grinning. `` I knew it would not get hold of you long to figure that out. '' he added.

`` Actually, it was Ron and Hermione who gave me the idea. So I take these other two are Ginny and Draco, am I right ? '' replied Lupin, his relief at being correct was very evident.

`` Fortunately, yes, or you would have found yourselves in big trouble now. That was a very dangerous risk you took, professor. '' said Ginny in mild reprimand.

`` Yeah. '' Lander agreed. `` And you can expel the body-bind hex on Wormtail. He 's on our side now. He already volunteered to be turned over to the ministry after we finished the trouble with Voldemort but as of now, he 's here to help us. '' explained lander.

`` What about Ginny and Dragon ? '' said Lupin as he removed the hex on Wormtail.

`` Well, they have n't really killed anyone yet so I guess the ministry will be lenient with them. ``

`` And Snape knew of these plan ? '' asked the surprised Professor in amazement.

`` Yeah - both he and McGonagall knew. In fact, he helped us think of this particularly cunning dodging. '' said Ginny, grinning in entertainment at the recall of the usually feared Potions professor partaking in this charade.

`` Harry, we 're wasting prison term. We need to see Snape and McGonagall now ! '' said Draco as he checked his flatware watch for the time.

`` Oh, I forgot ! Professor, Wormtail, I think you better make out with us. There 's an urgent issue that we need to talk over right now. ``

`` Yes, I think we have and I think McGonagall and Snape are discussing Lavender 's prophecy right now. '' said lupine as he followed them to the Headmistress'office.

`` What prognostication ? '' asked Wormtail, eager to conjoin the conversation now that he was confident that he was safe from Lupin 's wrath.

`` I 'm not so indisputable but McGonagall seemed very excited. She mentioned something about it being the 'Lost Prophecy'. ``

`` THE lost PROPHECY ! '' exclaimed Harry, Draco, Ginny and Wormtail at once that made lupin very curious ... .very funny indeed as he allowed himself to run with the four extremely budge individual. Why was the the trip-up to the Headmistress'government agency taking so long ?


=====================================================================


`` The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord had come…and the Dark Almighty will tick off him as his compeer, but he will bear power the Dark Lord knows not ... and either must die at the mitt of the other for neither can dwell while the early survives ... A dreaded thunderstorm would make it at the time when the concluding battle shall be fought ... Seven loyal allies shall be with him ... but one will not live on ... The wickedness Maker would invoke the flavour but the one would frame their individual ... his servants shall be whelm ... he shall perish by his own steel ... and his clay shall occupy at the Snake 's bedchamber till the end of sentence ... The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord had come ... ''

The headmistress silently waited as the new reaching read the copy of the prophesy she had conjured as soon as they had arrived. Though she had always been unbelieving about the Divination teacher, she had some reverence when it came to honest foretelling. From what she had witnessed, she could safely assume that Lavender did not just come up with an elaborate hypothesis.

`` How the hell can we get laid when a 'terrible tempest'will number up ? And who are the 'seven allies'? stupe prophesy, ca n't it be more specific ? '' commented genus Draco moodily as he finished reading the prediction.

`` Watch your linguistic process, Mr. Malfoy. '' said McGonagall sternly.

`` To be honest, I 'm more come to about the 'invoking the liquor'voice ... It sounds shuddery. '' stated Ginny in deep thought.

Harry was unusually mute as the others discussed the possibilities. He was more have-to doe with about the identity element of the somebody who shall not subsist the battle. Seven allies shall be with him ... therefore, they were masses who were very close to him. Threfore, another airless supporter of his would be sacrificed again and be added to the mounting figure of casualties of war. Just another shit anatomy ... He sincerely hoped he could prevent it from happening but what if he could not ?

`` What do you recollect, Harry ? ''

`` W-what ? '' Harry 's line of mentation was broken and he immediately snapped to attention.

`` We 're discussing a very of import matter here, Potter. '' reminded Snape. `` We want to have intercourse your opinion about what you 've heard at Mr. Zabini 's party. ``

`` Oh, that. '' Harry sighed heavily. Voldemort was making his move now and he was feeling very distracted. 'Great ... just nifty .'he thought grimly. `` Apparently, the death-eater parents of some Slytherins were too damn confident for ease. Voldemort is going to launch a filthy flack on the Wizard 's celebration of his supposed defeat -- making a mockery of the Ministry and of the Order and DA as well. ``

`` Maybe we should just table the solemnisation. '' suggested Wormtail. His hands clutching his head as if it was about to break.

`` It 's in two hebdomad prison term. Do we have enough time to prepare for a counter-attack ? '' asked lupin, his lip set on a thinly line.

`` No but we can not waitress for that 'terrible storm'to fare either. It just have to adjust its schedule. I want Voldemort and his US Army to be dead on the day that they are supposed to be. '' declared Harry stubbornly, determined to end this battle once and for all. He was tired of concealment. Tired of wearing Slytherin robes and not be able to play Quidditch. And most of all, he missed Luna and his best friends.

===================================================================

Harry, Ginny, Draco and Wormtail were now at the Room of Requiments. While the order of magnitude fellow member were holding a encounter, Harry had decided to call a conference of his own. It was time for the DA members to recognize the accuracy. It would be necessary for them to acknowledge that he was still awake to impart them hope and the military capability to fight in the upcoming fight. He did not have the prison term nor forbearance to discern who the 'seven allies'were. But surely they would come from the DA or Order phallus only. They were the only one loyal to him at the minute considering that the rest of the wizarding world were still confused about what 's happening.

As he gripped his postiche galleon tightly, he noticed the tension in his three companion'faces.

`` Are you sure they would come ? They might think it 's a trick. '' said Ginny apprehensively.

`` Are you sure you want Wormtail and I to get together you ? Somehow, I get the feeling that they wo n't be overjoyed with this. '' Draco stated the obvious.

Harry only rolled his eyes in exasperation before he replied. `` We 'll see. ``



Chapter 15 - Unity of antonym


`` We 'll see ... '' repeated Harry and a strange smile formed on his lips. He waved his mitt ever slightly to his three fellow traveler who were currently too meddling scaring themselves to remark what he was doing. Then he laid his weary back on the cushions and waited patiently.

He did not have to hold back long. A rustling of social movement was soon heard from behind the doorway then it opened so slowly that any thoughtless person would find fault it on a non-existent malarkey. He could only bring in out the abstract of two forms though, both with their wand out and walking on their toes as if afraid to micturate the petite bit of sound. Chuckling softly to himself, he beckoned the two to disenchant themselves.

`` My, my ! I did n't know Helen Newington Wills has such an influence on you. '' he commented with a smile as the two showed themselves somewhat reluctantly.

`` Harry ? '' said Hermione as she approached him but Ron kept his scepter pointed at Harry.

`` We need to be certain he 's really Harry. This could be another cakehole. '' he said resolutely. Hermione nodded her head in assent.

Harry almost laughed out loud when he saw that. Hermione used to be the careful one and Ron used to be, well, a little impulsive. But he could n't blame him for that since he was still sporting his hood disguise as of that moment.

`` Umm -- - Who is Grawp ? '' asked Hermione tentatively.

`` He 's Hagrid 's 'little'brother. '' Harry replied promptly.

`` What did I see when I looked into the Mirror of Erised ? '' asked Ron but his verge was not pointed at Harry anymore.

`` You saw yourself as Head Boy and Quidditch -- - ``

Harry did not get to finish his conviction since an rabid bestfriend immediately took it upon herself to consecrate him a welcoming hug. `` HARRY ! ! ! ! ! ! I knew it 's you ! '' exclaimed Hermione, her center watering slightly at seeing her friend.

`` MATE ! ! ! ! Am so gladiola to see -- -- Where 's Ginny ? '' Ron also gave him a brotherly embrace but did not waste matter sentence questioning him.

Harry 's gaze darted to the three perplexed bod who were now wondering why the new arrivals had not reacted to their presence yet but he did not reply.

`` Oh ! Luna will be sooo thrilled ! '' Hermione looked around and a frown creased her face in an instant. `` Where 's Luna ? ``

`` Here. '' a dreamy part replied, her dirty blond, waist-length and straggly hair swaying softly as she strolled over to Harry 's side. Harry smiled at the little girl and held her hand tightly.

`` You did n't seem storm. '' commented Hermione at the look of stark serenity on the little girl 's face.

`` Why would I be ? '' replied the vernal girl nonchalantly as she became more preoccupied with Harry 's haircloth. `` You know, hon, I think this rainbow tresses of yours is quite fascinating on you. It does n't search good on Draco, though. His look is too sick. ''

Both Hermione and Ron rolled their heart at that but Harry could only shroud his amusement as he noticed the look of dead indignation on Draco 's face.

Neville soon followed Luna 's arrival. He had his verge out and Harry was impressed at the way he handled himself upon seeing him. Gone was the eternally nervous boy who could n't even care to squeak during a ticklish situation. The boy who stood before him had the mark of a soul who had entered a fight and won and would win again if the pauperization arises.

`` hello, Harry. '' said Neville calmly as they shook their hands vigorously like two brother who had just found each other after a terrible war and in a way, they were. `` I feel a bit discerning about the reason why you are revealing yourself to us right now. It 's about Voldemort, is n't it ? '' he asked with a faint smile.

Harry looked at Hermione teasingly first before he replied. `` Unfortunately, yes. I wondered how retentive it would take for someone to ask me that. '' Hermione blushed at the indirect reference to her bankruptcy to address the problem at hand but did not gossip. Luna, on the other manus, looked nonplussed.

`` See, Neville. You 're really smart than you give yourself credit for. '' she said and she gave him a warm smiling before returning to her review of Harry 's wonderful tresses.

Neville was later followed by the Weasley twins who came in as menacing death-eaters but could n't stop over themselves from hooting loudly when they saw Harry in lander 's outfit. They quickly dispatched their hideous disguise upon seeing Ron and Hermione sitting quite comfortably on the sofa.

`` Gee, Harry. I did n't know that when wizards die, they became reincarnated like that. '' said George, feigning a look of astonishment and innocence while hanging on to his own flame-coloured ignition lock for dear life.

`` Remind me not to die, my love Twin. That repulsive tomentum ! punter be dead than be mistaken for the ferret boy. '' agreed Fred, who was making a thoroughly show of staring at Harry 's hair and squinting his eye in disgust. `` It would make a great frivolity, though. ``

At the corner of his eye, Harry noticed Ginny was almost rolling to the floor with laughter while Draco was on the verge of strangling the Weasley twin. He decided that maybe now was not a good time for the twins to exhibit their rather twisted sense of humor.

`` Yeah, it would. Where are the others ? '' he asked, tidal bore to get this over with. It has been a long night and he wanted to rest.

Within a few minutes, the rest of the DA penis arrived with the exception of Lavander who was still at the hospital backstage. Some also disillusioned themselves. Some decided to be clever and threw dung bomb calorimeter inside before they entered much to the annoyance of the others who were already there. While some were too careless to go in without any mean of protecting themselves in grammatical case it was a trap. Perhaps it was a good thing that the Weasley similitude were too distracted to think of pranking those careless individuals by wearing their death-eater garb once more or they would have been scared senseless.

Harry motioned all of them to descend closer. He cleared his throat and before anyone could start asking impertinent inquiry, he began his speech. `` Please take heed carefully. All of you. I 'm not going to repeat what I have to say. I know that Luna had shown to some of you my late coming upon with Voldemort. Yes, he 's still alive. That mother fucker was too power-hungry to die that easily. The mortal you all saw expire last year was actually Bellatrix Lestrange. '' He paused for a while and took a abstruse breath. What he was about to say future might be too nerve-wracking for everyone present. blaze, to be honest, it even scared him ... a little.

`` The evil git has somehow gotten stiff and is currently under the psychotic belief that he is durable just because he thinks I 'm absolutely. How naive ! By the way, we found out that he is planning to declare his comportment to the whole wizarding Earth by creating havoc during the celebration of his supposed licking. We 're not sure about the inside information yet but the worldwide theme was that he and his hood would take up their terroristic bit a workweek before the feast to construct the tension, then it would culminate on the theatrical role of the solemnisation where Voldemort 's defeat would be reenacted. The blundering iniquity lord himself plans to make an explosive appearing on the stage, throw a few cruciatus and aveda kedavras on the ministry officials and glorify himself as the new minister. '' He paused again to glance at his attender 's reactions.

`` NOOOOOOOO ! ! ! ! ! '' exclaimed the Weasleys, clearly horrified at hearing a mere fraction of Voldemort 's plans. The others were not doing any better as they digested the entropy that Harry had just given them.

Looking at their appal expressions, Harry was almost pander that he had some unorthodox rendezvous with the Dark-Lord-who-refused-to-die and his lowly minions. Sometimes too much exposure to death-threats and undeniably vicious dark lords had its good points too. It made one immune from shockingly terrestrial emotions such as terror and scare.

`` What are we going to do now ? '' asked Neville once more.

Harry smiled at that. `` in force question. Once again, you 're showing the scoring of a lawful warrior. '' Then, with a slight apprehensive face at Ginny, genus Draco and Wormtail, he continued. `` If you can come back correctly, the sorting hat was very exigent about one thing - 1 of all the houses. Sad to say, that 's one of the things that we had 'forgotten'to do due to our personal bias and unfriendly feeling towards certain people from a unnamed mansion ... ''

`` Are you saying what I think you 're saying, Harry ? '' asked Ron incredulously.

`` You tell me, Ron. Just precisely what do you imagine I 'm saying ? '' said Harry without revealing anything.

Ron sighed heavily. `` You want us to be nice to the Slytherins. '' he closed his oculus as if the mere mention of the house was giving him serious concern. Then he added as an after thought. `` It 's okay, I guess. Some Slytherins are not that bad. ``

Harry nodded then just when all the others were pacified, he dropped the bombshell. `` What about Malfoy and Wormtail ? ``

No one said a word.

Harry waited and twitched his brow slightly as he did so.

`` I beg your amnesty ? '' Parvati ventured to break the very uncomfortable silence.

`` genus Draco ? You call that SOB who corrupted our baby, genus Draco ? '' sputtered Ron furiously. `` Since when did he become your bestfriend ? ``

The Gemini just looked at Harry with an unfathomable expression.

`` You 're brainsick to even consider that idea. '' said Hermione, her eyes blazing with ire and disappointment.

`` No, he 's not. He 's splendid. '' commented Luna, her oculus gazing dreamily at Harry.

`` It 's not that we do n't desire your sound judgement but do n't you think involving Malfoy and Wormtail would be suicidal on our part ? '' stated Ernie evenly.

`` Maybe we should just stick with the less fiendish Slytherins. '' commented another.

Harry could see that Draco and Wormtail were wincing with every blow that the members were throwing at them.

`` The lupus erythematosus demonic Slytherins do n't know enough about the iniquity Arts to aid our cause. '' Harry casually replied and braced himself for more red reactions.

`` Is that enough reason to draft the aid of the Prince of Darkness himself ? '' asked Ron heatedly.

Amazingly, Neville who had been soundless throughout the commutation, answered the interrogation for Harry. `` Yes, it is. ``

more secrecy followed. The DA 's irresolution was redoubtable and Harry struggled to end it before it became uncontrollable.

`` Please desire me on this. Draco and Wormtail have changed and they 're volition to help us. They would share with us useful information on how the Death-eaters think and fight. '' Harry could see that some were still unconvinced. Luna, sensing his temper rising, quickly took over.

`` Please be reminded that this war is not about lower-ranking family contention. We have already lost various good wiz to the dark side because of that. Anyone who decides to avail us should be regarded as a booster and not as an foeman. '' said Luna, her dreamy formula was replaced with a steely determination and a hint of annoyance.

`` B-but Luna ... Wormtail was the one who betrayed Harry 's parents ? '' protested Hermione.

`` Do n't you think I know that ? You 're asking me the ill-timed questions. '' replied Harry impatiently. `` You should induce been asking me about the Lavender 's prediction and how it could help us defeat Voldemort for the net time. ``

`` Sorry. '' said Hermione and lowered her head in defeat.

`` Do you all agree to letting Draco and Wormtail in on this ? '' Noticing the others'uncomfortableness with the idea, he added. `` flavour, I 'm not asking you to be chummy with them. I 'm just requesting for a honest treatment befitting an friend. Alright ? ``

The others were still loath but nodded solemnly.

`` That 's proficient enough for now. '' said Harry and waved his hand to unwrap the three trope who were nervously awaiting the DA 's verdict.

Wormtail, stunned at being accepted, fainted on the spot. Draco stared directly at Ginny 's crony and mouthed a silent apology and murmured a soft 'Thanks'to everyone while trying to maintain a semblance of self-regard to the Malfoy name. Ginny cried at being reunited with his brothers.

`` Now that we have overcome that particular obstacle, let me tell you about the plan that we have come up so far. The prophesy tells about a terrible storm that will mark the final engagement, then Voldemort would arouse the emotional state. Maybe Hermione could head up the research for that one. I think I 'm supposed to ensnare their somebody but as of now, I have absolutely no idea on how it could be done. I want us to be prepared just in type he raises his Army from the dead. '' said Harry, speaking in a slow manner to allow the others to soak up everything.

`` Raise his army from the dead ? '' asked a dire Colin.

Harry grimly nodded his head.

`` When will the storm be ? '' asked Cho.

`` I do n't bang and I do n't care. Let the violent storm adjust to our schedule. '' replied Harry somewhat irritably. He was tired of that 'terrible storm'thing. Draco grinned at his chemical reaction.

`` So what 's the rest of the architectural plan ? '' asked Lee.

Harry resumed his solemn expression. `` The DA has to be divided. Some would ride out to facilitate the professors protect the palace against an attack while some would come with me, Ginny, genus Draco and Wormtail to prepare for Voldemort 's coup. Who would be brave enough to occur with me ? ``

`` I 'm with you, mate. '' said Ron at once. `` I 'd better be there to control that a certain person would not be capable to hex you when your back is turned. ``

`` Now, why would I dream of doing that, Ron ? '' said Draco, detriment at being unfairly accused. Ron only glared at him in return.

Harry groaned inwardly but refused to recognise the mildly antagonistic exchange. `` Who else ? ''

Several hands shoot up immediately but Harry only chose Luna, Hermione and Neville, the honorable fighters in the group. If they were going to stop Voldemort 's plan for the feast, the light position needed the finest combatants for that.

`` Hogwarts needs you more. '' he said then he turned to the four. `` Pack some stuff. We 're going tonight. Our theater heads will allow for an ample excuse for our absence seizure. ``

`` Where exactly are we going ? '' asked Ron.

`` To Snape Mansion of course ! '' replied Harry and allowed himself a unholy grin at seeing their flabbergasted faces.




Chapter 16 - At the Snape Mansion


As their metrical unit touched the upstanding ground, the group immediately recoiled at the abhorrent sight of what Snape claimed to be his home. Anyone unfortunate enough to enroll would instantly make out it as a Dark adept 's seaport. No question about that. There were no coloured portrayal to adorn the moderate-size aliveness way, only strange-looking things hovering above them. All the furnitures were covered with repulsive Hydra skin and there were no well-fixed professorship to sit on.

They had to settle on the frigidity, marble base for that. The walls and ceilings were all Negro and their sole reservoir of light was the dimly lit fireplace. The repulsive statues guarding the spiral staircase looked quick to devour any somebody foolish enough to drift in its route. It would have been less horrific if there were at to the lowest degree some welcoming motion from their host but, unfortunately, the unsmiling nerve of their host only heightened the already creepy atmosphere of the place.

`` You call this a house ? '' said the revolt Draco finally who expected the place to be somewhat similar to a regular wizard house -- not as highfalutin as Malfoy Manor but inhabitable at least.

`` Yes and I would value it if you would prevent your unsavoury comments to yourself. You 're not here for a vacation. '' reminded Snape in an even feel, his human face devoid of any emotion.

`` I think this place is very interesting -- `` commented Harry much to the astonishment of everyone present and he could blaspheme he chanced upon a faint hint of a grinning on their host 's font. He also heard some nasty ingratiation regarding his state of judgement but he just shrugged it off. That was a pattern chemical reaction to his remark anyway.

`` For the benefit of those who can not defy a bit of uncomfortableness, let me assure you that the room upstairs are quite satisfactory and arrant with all the necessary amenities. '' said Snape in a step that suggested that he weigh those variety of masses very weak in character.

`` This definitely makes Sirius'sign warm and well-disposed in comparison. '' whispered Ron to anyone who would care to listen.

`` And this is the Training Room. '' said Snape as he led them to a mysterious opening that revealed an even more pall room filled with respective equipments that made even Wormtail shake with fright.

Ron surveyed the illogical equipments with corking apprehension. `` Harry, are you really surely we want to do this ? This looks more like a overrefinement bedchamber to me. ``

`` Weasley, if you do n't stay fresh your rima oris shut, you will receive that these cock could do worse than torture your already battered brain. '' Snape glared at Ron who promptly shut his oral cavity to avoid risking his wrath.

`` I wonder what this piddling thing does ... '' commented Neville as he stared curiously at a belittled article that looked like a harmless old hat.

`` Would you like to notice out, Mr. Longbottom ? '' said Snape with an ugly smirk on his boldness, clearly daring the boy to do something foolish.

Neville eyed the dirty old hat anxiously but to everyone 's surprise, he met the prof 's taunting regard and returned the party favour. `` Yes, I believe I would, prof. '' With that, he bravely shoved the article on top of his head word, expecting the worst.

Hermione and Ron exchanged worried glances but genus Draco, Ginny and Luna just watched Neville with growing enchantment.

Neville glanced one More at the prof and gave him a half-smile as he waited for whatever was to come.

Snape 's expression was odd. He sneered at the boy but did not voice out any sarcastic gossip that he never seem to run out of.

Harry saw this rally and smiled inspite of himself. Neville was no longer the fumbling, awkward and accident-prone boy that he used to be but perhaps the Potions prof had been too pre-occupied to notice it.

Suddenly, the hat slid down to fully spread over Neville 's face then it constricted the neck opening part in such a way that would make the wearer fall back atomic number 8 within a short couple of time.

Most of the looker panicked and hastily tried to remove the nefarious hat but to no help.

Snape stopped them with an intensely cold glare. `` You better determine this carefully. '' he informed them. Then he barraged Neville with a series of annoying motion that if answered truthfully, the hat would loosen a little to move over him time to breathe but if answered dishonestly, it would tighten some more until a syncope choking audio could be heard from inside it. Finally, Snape seemed to be satisfied and removed the hat with a spell that not one of the students recognized.

Wormtail immediately ran to the boy whose face was already turning purpleness from deficiency of air. He quickly performed some spells on him and ordered him to repose for a while.

`` This is definitely a agony bedroom. '' said Ron in a hushed note.

Hermione and Ginny were still too appalled to comment. Even Draco, who had lived in a Dark Wizards'planetary house all his life, seemed unnerved by what he saw. Only Harry and Luna seemed to take the incident in stride.

`` Now I know why he turned out to be that way. '' said Luna as she eyed professor Snape with sympathy.

`` What - abnormally pitiless and anti-social git ? '' said Harry jokingly.

`` Why did you that ? You could have killed him ! '' exclaimed Hermione angrily to the Potions Master.

Snape smirked at her. `` sodbuster, for somebody who 's supposed to be the smartest student at Hogwarts, you 're displaying a disgustingly low power to apprehend some matters. That 's what you 're here for - to learn and realize the dark liberal arts - and I 've just given you a demonstration. '' He paused to find the offensive clause that fell on the ground. `` This is a 'Constrictor'. As what you just witnessed, it will force the wearer to reveal any information asked of him and if the person 's too obstinate to abide by, the hat would tighten up itself until the soul can no longer breathe. Only someone skilled with the dark Arts could dispatch it from the wearer 's question. ``

`` So, basically, it 's just like the Veritaserum ? '' asked Neville who had just recovered.

`` Yes, Mr. Longbottom, but unlike the Veritaserum which takes a full month to organise and does n't physically harm the juicer, the 'Constrictor'is more accessible and efficacious due to the excruciating pain sensation it induces. '' Snape then regarded Neville with a slight respect. `` I must accommodate that I 'm impressed with how long you were able to endure hurting. Others usually scare and die from suffocation within a hour or two. ``

Others looked at Neville with increased respect. He was at it for more than fifteen minutes.

`` P-Professor, is there a way to go around that affair ? '' asked Ginny timidly.

`` There 's always a way to go around anything ... any spell even except the killing curse and it all boils down to MIND ascendance which I 'm about to teach you today if there are no more irrelevant questions. '' said Snape in his usual charming mode.

No one commented.

And so the stringent breeding began ...

The daily activities would usually lead off with a few minutes under the Cruciatus jinx -- Snape 's and Wormtail 's delicious way of waking them up -- then they had to try to detain under the 'Constrictor'as long as medically possible. This was immediately followed by drinking a few fall of Veritaserum -- Snape said that if they gradually consumed a large amount of that potion, they would be resistant to its core. Of course of action, an Occlumency lesson was also included in their day by day Venus's curse of 'mind-strengthening exercise'. Then, after being severely battered and abused, that 's the only time that they will be allowed to chew on a stale opus of plain sugar and a ice of water.

`` That will train you to survive if worse comes to worst. Do you think the Dark overlord is in the habit of feeding his captives ? '' spat Snape impatiently when Ron foolishly tried to sound off about the unequal food supply.

After the distasteful meal, if one could call it a meal, Snape and Wormtail would engage turns placing them under the Imperius Curse until they could throw it off instantaneously. Then, the oh-so-merciful trainors would grant them the opulence of an hour or two of rest which was not very relaxing at all since they had to read copious chapters about the 'Characteristics and Actions of a Dark Wizard'.

The 'rest'would soon be followed by another disgusting meal. Then at exactly eight o'clock, Mad-Eye Moody would arrive to torture ... err..train them some more about the Strategies and manoeuvre of Muggle Dueling just in example they were disarmed and had to resort to hand-to-hand combat.

By the end of the day, the captives err ... trainees would be too exhausted to care about anything but nap which was limited to five hours only until they would be awakened again by the Cruciatus Curse.

And that was how they spent the unhurt week.

On the one-eighth day, they were pleasantly surprised to find out that Wormtail and Snape had to deliver to Hogwarts for a curtly meeting. They were even more delighted to learn that they had the time off and they could do whatever they want as long as they stay within the mansion and never enter the 'Training room'. To top it all off, Snape had conjured some comfortable chairs so that they could eat properly on the dining mesa. They were provided with a very scrumptious meal that seemed strange somehow after being used to having cypher but stale bread and water.

`` I wonder what 's going on. '' said Ron as he helped himself to a hefty serving of the dishes lavishly laid on the table.

Hermione eyed the nutrient warily before she replied. `` Maybe they poisoned the food ... or maybe they were just testing us if we could hold in our thirst in figurehead of this fiesta. think of what we read about how the drab judgement figure out ? ``

Ron and Draco choked on their food when they heard Hermione 's statement. Neville spat whatever morsel was left in his rima oris and Ginny promptly stopped eating. Unsure of what to do, they just stared forlornly at the wonderful spread in front of them, wishing they were back at Hogwarts where they could eat to their heart 's contents without fear of any underhanded maneuvers.

`` Hey, what 's incorrect ? '' asked Harry after seeing their expressions.

He and Luna had decided to pass the cockcrow together to explore the planetary house, talk of the town about some stuff and well - whatever. They were making up for lost clock time and they just stopped for lunch.

No one said anything.

Harry and Luna took their bottom and started to sate their plates.

Still no one said anything.

`` Why are n't you eating ? Is there a problem ? '' asked Luna when she noticed that the others were not even touching their food.

`` Umm ... We have some reservations about this meal. We 're thinking that maybe it 's poisoned or something. '' replied Hermione weakly. The others murmured their own suspicions about the motive behind the variety gesture.

To their surprisal, Harry and Luna laughed.

`` Oh, is that all ? I thought it was something bad. '' said Harry.

`` Did n't prof Snape William Tell you ? '' said Luna.

`` say what ? '' asked Ginny.

`` That they are going to cave in us a practical test tonight and if we perform to their touchstone, we could go back to Hogwarts tomorrow. '' replied Harry.

`` Oh ! '' muttered Hermione and Ginny softly.

`` WHY DID YOU TELL US ? '' ranted Ron as he shoved as a great deal food as possible down his throat.

`` well, you asked ... '' said Harry, confused by Ron 's reaction.

`` Hmp ! I did n't want to eff. '' said Ron.

`` Why not ? '' asked Neville curiously.

`` Cause now I wo n't be able-bodied to enjoy the afternoon at all. I would be too busy worrying about that dreadful test. '' said Ron wearily. `` Who knows what those evil thinker have in store for us ? ``

`` Do n't interest Weas - Ron ... .No one 's going to die. '' said genus Draco, grinning wickedly at him.

Everyone just groaned and continued eating.

====================================================================

The good afternoon passed too quickly for the group 's liking. As expected, no one was capable to unlax upon learning what they were about to do that night. Right after lunch, the group practiced what they learned and tried to call up all the details that Snape had imparted to them.

By night sentence, the latent hostility was already at its gamy point. Every little thing seemed to get on their nerves. Only Harry and Luna were unmindful to everything around them. They were so engrossed on their own slight world while the others were almost tearing each other 's throats.

`` WHERE THE sin ARE THEY ? '' yelled an angry Ron.

`` HOW THE HELL SHOULD WE KNOW ? WE 'RE ALL HERE ! '' yelled an also irritated Dragon. The suspense was too much for him too.

`` IF YOU TWO DO N'T hitch, I 'M GOING TO CURSE YOU ! '' screamed Hermione at the top of her lungs while Neville vainly tried to pacify her.

`` PETRIFICUS TOTALUS ! '' shouted Ginny and genus Draco and Ron immediately froze on the spot.

`` Hey, that 's uncalled for ! '' said a blushing Neville as he removed the curse on Draco and Ron.

Ginny glared at him. `` FINE ! '' She was about to run to her room when something caught her attention.

POP !

POP !

POP !

trey cloaked physical body appeared on the other side of meat of the room.

Ginny was frozen on the spot. Another pop ... .and then another ... and another ....

`` AAAAAHHHH ! ! ! ! DEATH-EATERS ! ! ! ! '' she yelled immediately and started attacking the intruders.

The others in the group quickly spun around and joined the conflict. Soon, the place was sizzling with colorful light and electrifying curses. spurt of sparkle were grazing each of their peel, wounding them but they just ignored it.

`` CRUCIO ! '' shouted one cloaked trope and hit Neville but he was already used to the annoyance. He managed to rid himself by quickly sending a strong stunning spell to the figure.

Ron and Hermione produced a very powerful shield charm to debar mild curses while sending bolide to the enemies. Draco tackled a nearby death-eater who was trying to snipe Ginny. No one even got near Harry and Luna due to the immense power that they were radiating.

Suddenly, person summoned respective 'Constrictors'and charmed it to capture all the educatee but the hats never even lasted a minute on their heads. And the students had enough sense to extend firing spells while struggling to give way free from the 'Constrictors'.

The conflict became even more intense as more Unforgivables were hurled unrelentingly by the enemies. The group, sensing that they were dangerously outnumbered, disillusioned themselves to even the betting odds. But they were disgruntled when they noticed that the opposition could still feel their presence and were even able to transfer the charm.

`` Luna, Ginny, Hermione, combine your military posture to bind the enemies when I give you the signal. '' yelled Harry while wandlessly sending three dark-cloaked figures flying to the rampart, knocking them unconscious mind. To his former English, Neville, Ron and Draco were also ferociously attacking the enemies. They managed to disenable five More unwanted visitor.

prat their vertebral column, a bit of death-eaters were preparing to confuse a powerful piece at the son but Luna quickly saw it and launched a spell of her own. Harry followed it up by a disarmament and stunning spell then he levitated all the foeman to one side of the room.

At Harry 's signaling, the girls simultaneously conjured a magical rope to stick the fallen trespasser to preclude them from escaping.

Soon, several interloper disapparated, leaving only the unconscious mind ones behind. The smoke started to clear out, giving the mathematical group a net sight of their surroundings. The table was smashed and the stairway was broken. There were trickles of blood on the floor and some furnitures were reduced to ash. Snape 's house was a mess ! But they had managed to get fifteen enemies, not bad.

Harry looked at his admirer and noticed some underage burns and unsightly lesion but otherwise, they were all right.

`` Why did n't Snape and the others make it ? Do you think we 've been setup ? '' asked Hermione.

`` I do n't recognise. '' replied Harry simply then tensed again as he heard several consecutive sounds of multitude apparating.

Everyone immediately pointed their wand to the counsel of the sound expecting another encounter.

`` Merlin ! What happened here ? '' yelled a familiar voice.

It was Arthur Weasley, minister of religion of legerdemain, and he was accompanied by prof McGonagall and ma'am Pomfrey.

`` DAD ! '' Ron and Ginny ran to hug their Padre at once.

`` Poppy ! Quick ! '' said the Headmistress and madam Pomfrey quickly tended to the spring figures.

`` We 've been attacked by death-eaters, Professors. I think Snape set us up. '' said Hermione.

The Headmistress suddenly looked confused for a instant then her oculus lit up in understanding. `` Oh, I assume you passed your test ? ``

`` Test ? What test ? Did n't you hear, professor, we 've been attacked ! '' exclaimed Ron who was finding it difficult to embrace why the school nursemaid chose to attend to the injuries of the enemies first.

`` No, you were not attacked. Let me show you. '' said the Headmistress and she used her sceptre to reveal the faces of the intruders.

The grouping was stunned. They were all Order members !

`` I think professor Snape and I had a fragile misunderstanding. When he told me that you shall be tested this evening, I assumed that it would be quite alike to an ordinary hardheaded trial run. I never thought that he had a dissimilar idea in head. But I admit his plan was ingenious. You were caught unaware yet you were able to handle the state of affairs to your advantage. '' explained the Headmistress. `` And without any major injuries, I see. You did well. ''

Arthur Weasley chuckled softly. `` I think our members need to train too. Imagine seven tyke beating them ! ``

`` So, Professors, are we going back to Hogwarts tomorrow ? '' asked Harry who was the first to recuperate from the shock.

`` Certainly. Especially now that several Order members have to spend some time at the hospital extension. '' replied the Headmistress. Then she addressed the whole group in a low articulation. `` Kindly try to teach them a matter or two, will you ? I never imagined them to fall behind this terribly. It 's really humiliating ! ``

`` Of course of action, prof. It will be a delight ! '' replied the radical with wary grins pasted on their faces.

`` Hah ! May I have the joy of WAKING Snape up ? '' said Ron, his center twinkling with anticipation.

`` I would be delighted to prepare their repast. '' commented Hermione with a devious grin.

The Minister and Headmistress were puzzled but the rest of the group just roared with laughter.

Chapter 17 - Danger at Slytherin House


`` I hope you 're not seriously contemplating on putting 'that'plan into action at law. '' said Harry nonchalantly as he watched his bestfriend stealthily approaching the still asleep Potions lord with wand poised in mid-air, ready to awaken him up from his deep slumber through a well-placed cruciatus curse.

Ron groaned and quickly lowered his wand. `` And why not ? He used to do it to us during our grooming. '' He mumbled though without practically conviction.

`` Well, might I remind you that Snape had a plausible excuse for doing so and you, considering that he 's still lying unconscious mind and at the mercy of a stern mediwizard, are not in the military position to do so. '' replied Harry lazily as if he was explaining a thoroughly simple deterrent example to a naughty tyke. `` Besides, performing an inexcusable is a sure way to get into Azkaban. ``

Ron paled instantly and hastily hid his wand. He sighed. `` You 're no fun. ``

Harry laughed softly. `` We can do fun things later after we finish Voldemort off. ``

`` Do n't be so damn confident. '' said a weak and muffled voice.

The two immediately turned to where the sound came from and were not so surprised to see the Potions Master struggling to get up from the hospital bed despite Madam Pomfrey 's hard-and-fast instruction that he was not supposed to do so.

Harry 's middle darkened slightly. `` Please, do n't be so shit pessimistic. ''

Severus Snape stared hard at the two boys before glaring at Harry. `` I 'm just being realistic. ``

`` You do n't believe we could do it ? '' challenged Harry with a startling coldness in his voice.

The prof seemed to smell it too for he replied in a more cautiously style. `` I do. I just do n't desire you to make a pernicious fault of underestimating the foe. ``

Harry visibly relaxed and unclenched his clenched fist. `` mulct. I wo n't ''

The professor nodded in understanding and closed his eyes as if he just woke up to give his opinion on that special theme and now that he was finished, he wished for nothing but to return to his peaceable respite.

Harry and Ron reluctantly continued keeping watch on the hospitalized society members while struggling to finish all homework that they have missed while they were away. Ron kept grumbling about the unfairness of the place but wisely stayed away from ticklish topic like death and destruction. It was bad enough that it was the spirit of the month of the school 's gabfest network without discussing it during their relaxation time. In fact, he would rather quash it if possible.

Madam Pomfrey eyed the two boy impatiently as they went on with their endless chatter of Quidditch, bottom professors and unjust work lode but she struggled to preserve a tranquillize frontage as she went on with her work. Normally, she would never let them ride out but the raise alert stage forced her to endure their presence in the hospital flank. She had to admit that she needed assist to fix the safety of her patients if ever the need arises.

===================================================

Devon and Callah coolly made their way to the Slytherin keep hoping that nobody was around when they arrive. They just got back from their training and they were currently not in the modality to be pestered by nosy housemates. Unfortunately for them, the most busybodied I were still at the unwashed way and immediately looked at their guidance as they entered the place. They eyed the newcomers suspiciously and their stance clearly implied that they needed a very convert explanation.

`` Where were you ? '' demanded Blaise, his wand held at the side, ready to strike if their answer proved unsatisfactory.

`` Did n't Snape state you ? He made us do some horrible undertaking to make up for our incompetence in his course of instruction. '' replied Devon coolly, immediately reaching for his wand. He did not like Blaise 's arrogant tone and he knew the git was just itching to establish top executive over them.

`` With the Gryffindors ? '' asked Blaise in a malevolent tone.

`` Definitely not. What a crazy approximation ! Snape would never subject to such utter abasement. '' stated Devon evenly.

`` That 's what he told us. We knew better. '' smirked poof as she too eye Devon and Callah disdainfully. `` Who are you ? '' She asked with such decisiveness that the two became worried at once but tried hard not to show it.

`` Are you insinuating something, Parkinson ? '' queried Callah with the same derisive tone to hide her nervousness.

`` Our connections checked all Wizarding shoal all over the world and not one confirmed your register in their school. So I 'm asking you one last clip -- Who the hell are you ? '' Blaise 's scepter was now pointed at them. The others quickly followed. It seemed that they were not in the temper to play games tonight.

'Damn ! Where 's Harry when you need him ?'thought Draco while staring at the dingy aspect of his housemates. Four against two was not a bad odd for them but this was quite untimely. They could not afford to swash their screening so near to the concluding showdown. It would ruin their architectural plan !

`` Maybe they made a mistake, big mountain. It happens, you know. '' replied Callah in a weak attempt to salvage the situation.

`` Yeah. '' Devon readily agreed. `` And if you do n't take any other relevant affair to ask us, we 're going to sleep now. ``

`` Oh, no, you do n't. Petrificus Totalus ! '' shouted Blaise. Devonshire and Callah quickly rolled out of the way and formed a carapace to protect themselves.

Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle quickly hauled their own hex at them but none came in contact with their target.

`` Is this how you treat your housemates ? '' drawled Devon as if he found their sweat too novice for his taste.

`` No, only for traitors. '' said Blaise and sent another powerful execration at them but the two were just too fast.

`` Maximus Illusionus Reverso '' uttered a familiar articulation from behind Devon and Callah.

The two immediately froze. They knew that voice. It used to haunt their nightmares and now it seemed that the incubus had come true. The public figure slowly stepped away from the tincture and surveyed the disbelieving faces of the supposed 'traitors'of the Slytherin house. His long, silver blond tomentum swaying lazily only added to their horror. His verge was pointed at them and the cane with a serpent carved on the handgrip was held loosely by his other script.

It was Lucius Malfoy ... as menacing as ever ... and he was looking at them with so much detestation that the two knew they were in a very fragile spot.

Lucius turned to look at his young comrades and gave them a look of gross disgust. `` How pathetic ! I 've wasted so much fourth dimension in training you and you could n't even defeat two -- -- - `` His wand almost fell as he noticed the light emanating from the 'traitors'as they gradually reverted to their original appearances.

`` Malfoy ! ``

`` Weasley ! ``

The four Danton True Young opposer gasped in surprise while genus Draco and Callah cringed inwardly at the impending peril. The biz was up and all they could do now was to grin, accept it and try to hightail it unscathed.

`` fountainhead, well. What do we stimulate here ? It seems that the Dark Lord is correct once again. '' stated Lucius coldly while shooting daggers at his own son.

`` H-he knew ? '' asked Ginny wearily.

`` Of course. When Draco and Peter failed to return to the manor that Nox, he knew. He just did not make that you 'd be foolish enough to go back to Hogwarts. Surely, you do n't believe that this school could extend you protective cover from the Dark Almighty 's wrath. '' sneered Lucius. `` Fortunately, Blaise here was able to provide us with a rather interesting data about three inquisitive transferee at Slytherin home. It did not take much long to figure out that you, Draco and Peter were those three. '' He appeared very delight with himself for his clever deduction.

Draco glanced at Ginny, grateful that her face did not betray any response on the mistake on Lucius'interpretation of effect. With an almost imperceptible nod of his point, the two started to run out of the vulgar way but immediately suspend on their caterpillar track when they heard the evil laughter or Voldemort 's proper hand.

`` How silly can you get ! Certainly, we sealed the common room after you came in. Do n't fool yourself into thinking that you 're too authoritative to be taken active. '' said another familiar articulation.

It was Macnair - another Death-eater ! The man was followed by another dark-robed figure. genus Draco and Ginny paled instantly. They did not recognize the third man but he must be another death-eater to be in the party of Lucius and Macnair. 'Probably a new recruit .'they thought in dismay.

`` The Headmistress would notice the interference in the Mary Augusta Arnold Ward if you attack us now. '' declared Ginny bravely.

Lucius stared malevolently at the young duo while his two comrade only laughed at her declaration. The other four were just enjoying the show, clearly confident that Draco and Callah had no mean value to escape especially with three grownup whiz in their side.

`` We have no intention of explaining our intricate methodologies to your lame thinker but repose assured that we could bolt down you in peace without anyone outside this room being the wiser. ``

`` I 'm your son. '' stated Dragon simply, vainly hoping that the fact would make the older man lenient on them.

`` You ? An unthankful and faithless dickhead who apparently had no spinal column on his body to bear on the crime syndicate tradition ! No, thank you. I 'm quite proud to say that I have no son. '' retorted Lucius viciously that Dragon flinched at his cruel Son.

`` Family tradition ? What 's that - to be a striver to a raving maniac half-blood who acts like he owned the world but can not even vote out a one-year-old baby ? '' shouted Draco angrily. He felt Ginny 's hand reached for his in an attempt to calm him down but he refused to stir. `` Groveling at the wickedness Lord 's muddy feet, Falco columbarius ! Have you no dignity at all ? ``

`` CRUCIO ! '' Lucius exclaimed but he was astonished when the magic spell that used to make his son beg for mercy did not have a lasting core anymore.

`` Surprised ? '' Draco gloated at the looking of surprise on his male parent 's face.

`` Stupefy ! '' yelled Blaise, Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle at once but Draco and Ginny deftly dodged the jinx and sent their own, careful to aim some of their swearword on the common elbow room room access to thrust it open.

Macnair ran towards Ginny and hurled a conjunctivitis curse at her but missed by a mere centimeter. The former death-eater conjured a very powerful trance that blasted a nearby rampart

Lucius carefully assessed the situation and sensed that the two were Thomas More equipt for a minor brush like this one. Swiftly, he unearthed a wizardly rophy from the secret pocket of his cloak and expertly whipped the two traitors. The two were fast but it was very difficult to ward off all the hexes and the R-2 at once.

`` Ahh ! '' yelled Ginny as the tip of the circle violently came in link with her wand arm. Blood started to ooze out from the transgress skin and burned so terribly that her cursing ability began to dwindle. Draco saw this too and tried to cut across her but a curse sent him flying to a nearby rampart making him vulnerable for another attack.

`` Destructo ! '' screamed Pansy and aimed it at Draco but before the curse word could hit him, Ginny had screamed `` Accio Draco '' almost desperately.

`` guide this ! '' shouted Lucius as he struck the two with the whip.

It hit Draco squarely on the back as he covered his tearful girlfriend and the wand fell from his manus from the excruciating pain that followed. The encroachment made him cough up for breathe and was horrified when he saw blood line coming out of his sass. He stared at Ginny and saw that she too was having some difficultness in breathing.
He tiredly reached for his wand and braced himself for another attack. He forced himself to face their attackers and projected a brave front.

`` What now ? '' he smirked and tried to act as annoying as ever. He refused to make them the satisfaction of seeing him beg for mercy. Even another slaughter that crossed his chest and made him cough up more line of descent did not pass over the smirk from his face. 'Let it be known that Draco Malfoy and Ginny Weasley died fighting evil courageously .'he thought, resigned to the hopelessness of the situation.

As if sensing his morbid thoughts, embraced him tightly and whispered weakly. `` D-do n't make up. There 's still hope ... '' She then gripped the galleon tightly and hoped that assist would come soon.

===================================================

The headway Boy and Head lady friend have just finished making the final round for that Night and were fix to deliver to their respective residence hall when they felt the conversant burning wiz from their sac. They paled immediately when they saw who was in trouble.

`` Quick ! If Draco and Ginny needs help, then the position must be very sedate ! '' exclaimed Hermione as she dragged Ernie to the Slytherin unwashed elbow room only to be blasted away by an invisible rampart that hindered them from coming in.

`` It ... is ... very ... .grave ! '' agreed Ernie as he struggled to get up from his ungraceful fall.

Hermione nodded and was vaguely aware of early DA appendage being hurled to the ground by an inconspicuous force.

`` Whoever was in there put up a powerful ward to inhibit us from entering the room. '' commented Padma Patil who was one of the Holocene epoch victims of the unseeable force.

`` Yes and I know Harry 's not in there so we really need to exert extreme attempt to bust the barrier. Maybe the Fireball technique could exercise if we simultaneously barrage the room access with it. '' said Hermione.

`` How do you know Harry 's not in there ? '' asked Seamus. Hermione rolled her eyes at the seemingly ludicrous question but chose to keep her tongue in hitch.

`` Because trust me, if Harry 's in there, Ginny and Draco wo n't be having this job. Besides, I know that he and Ron are at the hospital wing to ascertain over the patients. '' she replied as politely as she can. `` Why do n't you inform the Headmistress of the spot while we try to snap off down the door ? '' suggested Hermione to which Seamus quickly agreed.

Hermione, Ernie, Neville, Padma, Parvati, and Colin quickly formed bolide and hurled it at the threshold at the same time. At first, they thought it did not mould but after a few more minutes, a small kettle of fish formed on the threshold.

`` At the rate we 're going, it would be lucky if we could open it before sunrise. '' whined Parvati as her fireball started to diffuse. The others were inclined to correspond but could not do much but hold on and wonder what the nether region was taking the others so long to answer to the call.

===================================================

Harry and Ron were busybodied playing Wizard 's chess when they felt the burning sensation in their pockets. Both immediately took out the falsify galleon but with unlike reactions. Ron quickly got up and started to run but Harry held him off.

`` Why ? That 's my sister ! '' exclaimed Ron and tried to break free from the iron detention of his bestfriend.

`` I know but they 've been trained well. They should take how to make out. Our duty is to guard the patients. What if someone attacks them while we 're out ? They 're quite defenseless and the rules of order could turn a loss the most powerful and versed members if we act rashly. '' stated Harry calmly but he knew his explanation was falling into deaf ears.

Ron glared at him. `` That 's my sister ! I need to avail her. If you do n't desire to help then ticket ! heap with it ! ``

`` It 's not just a whim and you know that. '' said Harry coldly but relented when he noticed the look of desperation on Ron 's case. `` expression, I 'm sure the others will aid them quickly enough. But for now, we need to guard them. If there 's an attack, then this is where we are most postulate. ``

Ron still did not seem convinced. Harry sighed heavily. `` All right, if I sense that they could not manage it, we 'll go together. okay ? ``

Ron reluctantly agreed and they continued with the biz although Ron was still too pre-occupied to keep his focus. He was continually fidgeting nervously and his oculus were darting from slope to side as if waiting for something.

`` Ron ! ``

`` What ? ``

`` Do n't be paranoid ! ``

`` I am not paranoiac ! ``

`` Yes, you are ! ``

`` No ! ``

`` If you do n't mind keeping your voice down ... The patient role need rest, you know. '' stated madam Pomfrey irritatedly.

===================================================

As the intensity of the fireballs diminished, so was the spirit of the brave protector. They were fully aware that every minute counts and it only takes a few seconds for the killing curse to be cast. Whatever was happening inside, they just hoped that Ginny and genus Draco could stall long enough to break down the barriers.

`` We 're coming ... we 're coming ... .hold on ! '' chanted Hermione furiously as if the mere mention of her thought could take a leak it come true. But her courage started to fail as the Ernie 's fireball started to flicker dangerously. Only Neville 's and hers were still glimmering proudly but they knew their strength was beginning to fade too.

Hermione snuck a glance at the threshold and was dismayed to find that the dent was still too small. She glanced at the weary fig of Ernie, Parvati and Padma trying to regain their strength and gripping their galleons tightly. She gestured for Neville to let go for a piece and they, too, called for help. After catching a few breathes, the five conjured powerhouse again for a lack of more effective things to do.

Luna, still in her nightgown and looking as if she just rolled out of her bed, ran to Hermione 's side and taking her cue from the elder girl, she conjured her own but instead of an ordinary one, hers took the shape of a dragon that swallowed all the other fireballs before forming into a very hefty fire sword. She fearlessly held the steel and traced the threshold until it fell on the primer, effectively startling all those inside into inaction.

All the DA phallus ran inside, with wands ready for engagement and seemed slightly let down to find only three death-eaters and just four Brigham Young stupid followers inside the nighttime and eery common elbow room. They noticed the two unconscious figures lying on the solid ground and all of them only had one thing in head as they glared with sodding detestation at their perennial foeman -- - 'It 's payback time !'

`` What the -- - `` shout Blaise but was quickly shut off by a furious paralyzing spell from Ernie while Neville, Hermione, and Luna took advantage of the ingredient of surprise and quickly stunned the three adult star.

Padma and Parvati evidently enjoyed hexing queer for being an objectionable squawk who took pride in spreading malicious rumour about anyone outside her household while Crabbe and Goyle ran cowardly out of the room to merlin-knows-where.

Professor McGonagall appeared with Seamus a few hour later, a short disoriented at the sudden routine of events but was quite relieved to retrieve Ginny and Dragon had some injuries but were still alive.

===================================================

`` Harry ! The others are also calling us ! Are n't we going to do anything ? '' Ron was almost hysterical now as he stared at the continous winking of the prescribed DA galleons with different names for each blink but with exchangeable location.

Harry frowned and started to worry too but this was something that he must ascertain to do according to Dumbledore. He must memorise to trust that others were also open of defending themselves and it should not always be his job to save the day. But Ron was free to do as he wishes ...

`` You may go and serve them Ron. '' he stated and averted his eyes from the piercing glare of his bestfriend.

`` You really do n't plan to help, do you ? '' yelled Ron angrily.

`` I 'm trying to make them strong. ``

`` How 's letting them die make them strong ? ``

`` THEY ARE NOT exit TO -- - `` Harry 's Son were stuck on his pharynx as he noticed various people hastily approaching the infirmary wing led by the Headmistress who was carefully levitating the battered and bloodied consistency of two soul onto the vacant beds. ma'am Pomfrey became immediately worried and went to regain some healing potion and pain-relievers from her medicine rack. She quickly administered remedy as soon as the bodies were settled.

Ron, after the jar at seeing the combat injury, took one look at his babe 's condition ( never mind the other ) and his expression darkened immediately. He glared ferociously at Harry and before anyone could do anything else, his bottled anger and frustration came out in the frame of one very warm lick on the guilt-stricken aspect of the-boy-who-lived.

`` by-blow ! '' he spat angrily and walked off.
author 's Note : Hey, sorry for the tardy update for chapter 17. It 's just that I 've been very meddlesome with employment that fourth dimension. Anyway, I 've already fixed the problem with Chapter 16 so if any of you have not read it properly yet, you may do so now. By the way, I think there will be only two or three more than chapters left.

Thank you very much for reading and please persist in to survey. Thanks again !


================================
Chapter 18 - Too smarting to observation the Obvious


'Bastard !'

The horrible sound echoed in Harry 's spike as he stared at the precipitous loss of his bestfriend followed by Hermione, probably to find out what was wrong. No one would get guessed that he felt anything but incredulity at his champion 's outburst as he struggled inwardly to prevent the instinct to flog back from surfacing beneath his calm air exterior. To others, he just appeared at sea and a trivial unnerved by the situation.

`` What 's that all about ? '' asked McGonagall as she scrutinized his face for any sign but the granitelike cheek of the boy revealed nothing.

`` Maybe he was just upset, Professor. '' He replied calmly. What he definitely did not need right then was parental advise from the mass present. He was for sure that such a little misunderstanding did not merit a full phase of the moon parliamentary law and DA meeting. There were affair that he had to sort out on his own. He noticed that Luna was just staring directly at him for a grounds that he could not fathom in his current state of mind but maybe he was just being paranoid. 'Was I mistaken ?'he thought. 'But how could we possibly hope to face a war if we did not believe in each early 's capabilities ? It would all boil down to me…and it was not fair ! I could n't possibly save them all from danger even if I already became powerful. Hell, even Dumbledore could n't save all who perished during Grindelwald 's time !'

'Calm down, hon. Ron will get around. As you 've said, he 's just upset. appear, you 're making everyone anxious .'

Harry nodded subconsciously before he realized that Luna had not spoken aloud.

`` Madam Pomfrey, will they be all mightily ? '' he asked the school nurse instead.

`` Yes, dear. Do n't worry. They will be here for a day or two to recuperate and their wounding would choose longer to heal but otherwise, they will be all right. '' replied the nurse good-naturedly.

Harry sighed with substitute and turned to the Headmistress. `` What about the Death-Eaters and the Slytherins, Professor ? ``

`` I have already alerted the Ministry. Arthur and several aurors will be arriving soon to get them. '' she replied wearily. `` I believe Madam Pomfrey can make do for tonight. I suggest you all go to your respective dorm room and rest. ``

Harry and the others nodded solemnly. They were all about to entrust when they felt another familiar whizz in their pockets.

`` What the infernal region -- ``

`` Not another attack ! ``

`` IT 'S HERMIONE ! ! ! ``

Harry swore under his breathe and led the others to Hermione 's localisation while the Headmistress and early DA members remained at the Hospital Wing. It seemed that the castle was not fasten anymore. 'Wherever she was, Ron might be there, too but why did n't he call for assistant earlier ? Maybe Ron was too mad at me right now ... maybe he thought I would not come to his rescue .'he thought ruefully.

When he reached the room access to the Slytherin donjon, he steeled himself for another battle but was horrified to instead regain Hermione slumped on the dry land, crying hysterically and with a look of complete stool and bitterment on her face. Sizing up the berth, Luna quickly instructed their friend to enquire the place as Harry attended to Hermione.

`` Where 's Ron ? What happened ? '' he asked her gently.

`` Oh, Harry ! They got him ! I 'm so sorry, I was n't able-bodied to do anything ! '' exclaimed Hermione in an anguished tone.

`` Him ? You mean Ron ? Who got him ? ``

`` Death-eaters ... Ron ran here to get retaliation but he found himself surrounded by them instead. If I had only arrived sooner ... '' said Hermione in between hiccup as she struggled to ascertain her composure.

Harry felt a gnawing guilt on his stomach as he listened to her level but he tried to force it away to be able to think clearly. Then, an alarming idea suddenly formed on his judgment ... '' Accio Marauder 's Map ! '' He shouted and within second base, the old parchment reached his hired man. He tapped it softly with his wand. `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no good. '' Slowly the crinkle and letters appeared on the map.

Harry studied it carefully to see if there were any more enemies around. He found none. 'They must make gotten what they came here for. I wonder why they got Ron ...'He looked at the parchment again and was pleased to discover Professor Flitwick heading towards their location.

`` Mischief Managed. '' he murmured softly and map went blank immediately as the petite professor entered the room access. It was time to let the prof in on their little secret.

`` Mr. Mooney, would you manage to explain what happened here ? Minerva said there has been an onrush. '' said the professor as he tried to evaluate the situation.

`` I 'll explicate later, prof ... number one, we need to fortify the Montgomery Ward. The castle is not safe anymore. '' Harry said quickly.

`` But I ca n't possibly do that alone, Mr. Mooney. It needs at to the lowest degree four solid wizards to do that and if you 're not aware yet, only the Headmistress and I are physically able as of the consequence. Maybe we could ask some supporter from the Ministry though ... ''

`` prof, we can not wait that long. It would be very dangerous. Besides, you 're forgetting that there 's a student here who could perform in that capacity ... ''

`` Yes, I know ... unfortunately, that student has already perished in the hands of you-know-who. '' replied the prof almost tearfully as if the mere reminiscence brought back some sad memories to him.

`` No, he 's not. '' replied Harry cryptically as he bent down to whisper the information on the professor 's ears.

The professor 's eyes widened for a moment then it was followed by a radiant grinning and a slight nod of understanding. `` Well ... if that 's the grammatical case, shall we commence ? ``

Harry nodded and started to focus on their most pressing job. His solitary thought was that they must not break as he poured all his Energy to augment Mr. Flitwick 's insufficiency. The refuge of hundred of students and teachers was in their hands. As the colorful light flowed from their wands to the hospital ward outside the palace, Harry felt a certain signified of fulfilment even though he was gradually beginning to conduct the brunt of such vivid magical release.

Despite the wondrous pounding in his head and spartan magical drain, he kept his compactness, barely looking at everyone else. He vaguely heard Professor Flitwick 's input that the Mrs. Humphrey Ward were potent already and that they could block. He ignored him and continued what he was doing ... .only a few more gob ... .only a few arcsecond more ... .there ... it 's finished. The castle was secure ... at least for the think of time.

He managed a weakly grin at the similarly worn-out prof before he collapsed on the ground.

==========================================

Oct 29, 1997
At the hospital Wing


Harry opened his optic slowly and was just starting to adjust to his environment when he heard a familiar drawl from a nearby bed.

`` sword lily you 're awake now, Harry. ''

Harry smiled at the familiar silvery-blond-haired boy who spoke. He was looking quite healthy and rested unlike the lastly time he saw him.

`` Nice to see you 're still alive, Draco. ``

`` I thought you 're going to miss the terminal showdown though ... '' replied the boy.

`` What do you mean ? What 's the day of the month today ? '' a surprise Harry asked. Then he frowned as a persuasion occurred to him. `` Why are n't you in disquise ? ``

The boy shifted position to be able-bodied to discourse properly. There was no trace of bodily fluid in his voice when he replied. `` It 's October 29, just two days before the you-know-what ... ''

`` WHAT ? ? ? '' yelled Harry, alarmed that he had been out for so long.

The boy ignored him and continued. `` Anyway, the night that we 've been attacked, Lucius ... '' Harry raised his eyebrow at hearing him advert to his father by his name only. `` ... performed an anti-illusion piece on us. They know. ``

`` How much ? ``

`` Not much actually. The change of mind spell only confirmed what they already knew however, they are wrong on one account. '' Draco paused for effect. `` ... .They thought the third transfer was Wormtail. ''

A tedious smile scatter on both of the boys'lips.

`` fountainhead ... that misunderstanding could be their downfall. '' said Harry then he eyed Draco carefully. `` Are you trusted you do n't want to stay away for that event ? I mean ... ''

Draco looked downcast for a minute before he replied. `` I know what you mean ... and much as I 'm not exactly jumping up and down with joy at the vista of another encounter with my father, I realize that it is something that I must do for my own peace of psyche. ``

Harry considered this for a present moment. There was something that he wanted to do right after the battle if they got favorable ... time to come plans that only involved him and Luna ... his former friends too if they wanted to ... but what about genus Draco ? What 's going to go on to him afterwards ? The boy had so much pent-up hatred in his intellect that if left to his own devices too much, he just might arise up to be the succeeding dark lord.

`` What 's your plan ... I mean after the fight ? '' he asked Draco tentatively.

The boy just shrugged his berm and sighed heavily. `` I honestly do n't know ... land up school perhaps ... then need over our family business ... drop some clock time with my mother ... other than that, I have no estimate. '' Dragon got up slowly and tried to sit on Harry 's bed. `` Before, I thought my future design were made. I 'm going to follow my begetter 's footsteps and be another loyal Death-Eater but now, everything has changed and I suddenly found myself living life on a daily basis with a very unsettled panorama of a future. Heck, I do n't even fuck if I 'm going to hold out for that. For all I know, I might not even live long enough to graduate. ``

Harry nodded thoughtfully as he pondered his reply. `` I feel the same way, too. '' He stared directly at Draco 's oculus as if trying to wee-wee up his brain about something important. `` Actually, I have some sort of a plan. If we 're fortunate enough to emerge victorious in this war, I plan to leave alone the wizarding world ... permanently. Luna has a choice to graduate first or come up with me at once. We 're planning to live a normal life afterwards ... build a school for the gift perhaps or any other 'normal'business. If you want, you may follow with us. We can embark on anew ... a life without prejudices. It 's your choice. ``

Draco stared dumbfounded at him and immediately pointed one shaking finger at himself. `` You want ME to come with you ? Are you grave ? '' Harry nodded solemnly and smiled encouragingly at his new friend to infuse the seriousness of his offer.

Draco became misty-eyed at once but he carefully hid it by turning his back at Harry and heading quickly to his own bed. `` I 'll think about it, Harry. Thank you. ``

`` Do n't observe it. That 's what Quaker are for. ''

=============================================

Hermille, Neville and Luna were all huddled at his bedside. Hermione and Neville were impatiently trying to dissuade him from pursuing his programme while Luna only listened intently at their word. Draco and Ginny were still sleeping peacefully on their beds.

`` Harry, please do n't tell me you 're severe ! '' exclaimed Hermione.

`` I already told you my plan ages ago. Why act so storm ? '' replied Harry calmly, making it obvious that he was already determined to quest after his plan and that no one could possibly make him commute his mind.

`` You ca n't possibly do that ! '' said Hermione, her side turning the same colouring as Ron 's hair.

`` Why not ? And it 's not as if we 'd lose contact, you know. You could even do with me if you want to. ``

`` Are n't you going to be an Auror ? '' commented Neville, trying to make him see sense.

Before Harry could make any intelligent reaction, Professor McGonagall came rushing inside, her eyes flooded with concern as she waved a small bit of sheepskin in front of Harry.

`` Mr. ceramicist, what is the meaning of this petition ? '' she queried as if she could not quite believe that such an idea would occur to Harry.

`` Just what I stated prof. I want to ingest the NEWTS tomorrow so that I could be considered a full-pledge wizard by the 31st. ``

`` But the twelvemonth is not yet over. You could n't possibly pick out that exam and base on balls. ``

`` Not to sound too arrogant but I believe I have learned all I need to run my NEWTs. Please, prof, this is important to me. I have n't requested for anything since I got here, please grant my request just for this once. I need something to look forward to. I need to be able to think that after the war, I have something to LIVE for. ``

prof McGonagall could not look to find an appropriate reply for that. `` I see. ``

`` In that case, professor, I would like to take the exams early, too. '' declared Hermione resolutely.

An nonvoluntary cough escaped Neville 's pharynx when he heard it. `` Hermione ? ``

`` I do n't know about you, Neville, but I am already tired of this war. I wish to live a peaceable lifetime after. Besides, is n't it unfair for the professor to educate for the newt of only one individual ? ``

`` I guess ... but I ca n't possibly take the NEWTs with you ... I do n't recollect I would exceed. '' said Neville ruefully.

`` You do n't receive to do it, Neville. You can stay here. Your family is here whereas Luna and I have none. Hermione 's parents are muggles so it would not be unseasonable if she wanted to expend more time with them in the muggle humanity. '' explained Harry, effectively shielding the disappointment he felt at his response. As a good deal as he wanted to dwell a new life sentence with his Quaker, he was also very much aware that they have their own animation to live too.

`` What about you, Luna ? '' asked Hermione to the young girl.

`` Harry would be tutoring me so I do n't demand to stay here. If I 'm ready, I would issue forth back here to take my NEWTs. '' said Luna as if it was the most obvious thing to do.

`` Hey, I could do that, too. Hermione and Harry could teach us, right ? '' said Neville excitedly.

Harry did not reply immediately. Instead, he turned to the astonished Headmistress and asked her opinion. `` Is it all right field for us to do that, prof ? ``

`` well, it 's not a normal pattern in this institution but given your sacrifices, the to the lowest degree I could to is to make an exception in your case as a token of gratitude. Yes, Harry and Hermione could take the NEWTs tomorrow if they 're fix and the rest of you could be home-schooled and film the exam at a later day of the month. '' replied the tire professor but she also seemed delight by their decision for a intellect that she did not give away to them.

`` Does that also include us, Professor ? '' asked Ginny timidly. Both she and Draco eyed the Headmistress hopefully.

`` Yes, of course. '' replied the Headmistress good-naturedly.

`` DAMN ! '' swore Harry as he remembered something.

`` Language, Mr. thrower. '' Harry mumbled a hasty apologia. `` What seems to be the problem, Mr. Potter ? ``

`` I just remembered ! How could I have forgotten ! '' Harry berated himself. `` What happened to Ron ? ``

The Headmistress lowered her head at once and Hermione became teary-eyed but thankfully, she did not give way down.

`` I can only don that Ron is being kept safe. '' replied the Headmistress nervously. `` According to our intelligence network, they kidnapped Ron to ensure a win-win post on the 31st. ``

`` What do you think, professor ? ``

`` We found out through the Slytherins that the opposition already knew of our programme to sabotage their attack on the celebration but they are still going to agitate through with it. If they win, then they would kill Ron for he no longer serves a function but if they find themselves at a disadvantage, they would use Ron to thrust the minister - Ron 's father - to trace their biddings. ``

`` But that 's horrible ! '' commented Harry and swore under his breathe once more.

Ginny was too shocked to oppose but Draco looked worry.

`` Yes, Harry. But that 's how the immorality thinker whole caboodle. ''
Chapter 19 - The Proposal


October 30, 1997


Harry and Hermione were both sitting at the diametrical destruction of a vacant classroom near the Headmistress'office. They smiled at each former for support but somehow they both knew that they did not need it. Their saying bore no semblance of nervousness or apprehension towards the too soon triton. If anything, they were more dying about Ron 's condition than anything else and the test was just a welcome diversion.

The outset written exam was story of trick. Harry glanced at Hermione and groaned inwardly when he noticed her enthusiasm. She was clearly in her ingredient and though he was n't exactly dunderhead in that guinea pig, he still felt a little resentful about her eagerness. He found it very odd. He liked Professor Binns and had utmost respectfulness for his astray cognition but his uncanny ability to put students to restless stupor was not really endearing -- he alone could pee students fall asleep through a elaborate treatment of vampire kin state of war and the violent proceeds over of the iniquity lords of the previous century. Fortunately, Harry had a more competent instructor who patiently drilled the story of deception into his wandering genius electric cell or he would n't be able to answer any of the questions.

... How did Albus Dumbledore frustration Grindelwand during his clock time ? ...

'Well, this is easily ...'Harry opinion. He and Professor had an in-depth discussion on this subject before hoping that he could learn a lesson or two from the old man 's experience.

... incentive question : In your opinion, how can You-Know-Who be defeated ? ...

'This is so wretched ! They could n't even write his name on paper for goodness'sake ! Anyway, this is light ...'He was a little put-off by the question. He could drop a line a detail tale of his encounters with Voldemort, the Resurrection of Christ at the burial site, the prognostication and his program to shell the Dark Lord ... possible tone-beginning and curses that he could employ but he restrained himself ... This was a tactical and rhetorical question that must be treated with care. Surely the professor was not seriously expecting him to answer it truthfully so he settled for a mere response that he hoped would resume his completely idea - team WORK. That should be enough.

After that came defense lawyers Against the wickedness arts. Both written and virtual trial run were as prosperous as boiling water as he had expected. There was no dubiousness in anyone 's mind that he knew more about it that the prof himself. Charms and charge for Magical tool were fairly sluttish too. He could safely simulate that his several professors for those subjects became very considerate when they formulated the test. Potions was a totally unlike affair, though. Snape deliberately made his exam more difficult than usual. It was either Snape was challenging him or he just have a high gaze for Harry 's capabilities but nevertheless, Harry did not mind at all. Apparently, Snape was somebody who would n't let up just because the student was special and he was grateful for that.

Transfiguration was also no better but Harry welcomed the challenge. No favoritism - that was an honorable insurance and he would n't be the one to ask for anything substandard.

Harry was aware that the prof were still not happy with his asking. After all, if they win the war, there would be no need to go. Unfortunately, public security was not just the absence of war in Harry 's vox populi. He wanted heartsease within himself. To be able to walk around without being mobbed ... to be able to stay in a elbow room without being goggled at just because he had the 'scar'... to be able to enjoy his youthfulness, something that he had been deprived of for so long ... a lifespan without extreme expectation. But perhaps they just did n't infer.

Hermione, Draco, Ginny and Neville must let felt the same too. Whatever happens, they would never be the like again. genus Draco would definitely continue to bear the stain of being the traitorous son of a death-eater whichever slope he was fighting for. Of course, it would temporarily be overshadowed by his contribution to the declension of darkness but once things have settled down a bit, people would return to their usual assassination err - analytic thinking of his character - whether he really turned to the light side because it was the justly thing to do or he just did it for selfish reasons.

Hermione would also be forever thought of as the 'brain'in the group - the one who had the answer to everything, another one destined to make neat thing. masses would commence to expect more excellent achievements from her - perhaps key out a therapeutic for some obscure malady or maybe make a counter-curse for Aveda Kedavra - yes, something to that effect. With all due obedience, she would most probably be able-bodied to do that someday but the force per unit area would be enough to ram her insane any day.

As for Ginny, maybe she was just tired too and a dignified safety valve would give her plenty meter to recuperate psychologically and socially. Her military action had severely damaged her family 's confidence in her and she was not fix to present that yet.

And Neville, he really did not need to go. The wizarding community of interests was his earth. If they could only incur a cure for his parents, then he would be perfectly contented to stay there and make up for lost times.

With that view, Harry finalized his response and handed it to the monitor who were plainly astounded that he had finished earlier than expected.

`` Are you sure, Mr. Potter ? We were instructed to commit you to a greater extent metre if you requested it since your case is a little unusual. '' said an elderly witch who looked a lot like Professor McGonagall except that she had a soft and charitable brass of a mother hen.

Harry smiled. `` Thank you Madam but I 'm already done. There 's no need to stretch the time. And I believe my friend does n't need it too. '' He said when he saw Hermione lazily got up from her hot seat too and handed her own solvent bed sheet which was considerably thick-skulled than his.

`` Hey, Herm. Are you sure you did n't quote the whole Word there ? '' said Harry jokingly.

Hermione eyed him exasperatedly. `` Of grade not. I just had to explain some things in point. You know they might be looking for a particular solution and I had to make sure that I covered all possibleness ... '' she paused for breath for a piece `` ... I 'm not really sure about the animagus transfiguration though. I 'm afraid I would get a deduction there because I was not able to properly draw the touch sensation since I have n't experienced it first-hand yet besides ... ''

Harry quickly decided to modify the matter before she could launche a thorough discourse of the test that he wanted to forget for the time being. `` Shh ... Hermione ... it 's okay ... You 're going to get a high score ... possibly highest even. Quit worrying. Just be thankful that it 's over. ``

`` Oh, but it 's not yet over, Harry ! '' cried Hermione in anguish, flinging her arms at him.

`` I know. But do n't concern. We 'll be capable to save Ron somehow. I wo n't let any of my bonk ones suffer in evil hired man again. '' declared Harry with a murderous glint in his eyes as he thought about the enemies who just did not know when to drop out. `` Why do n't you perch for now ? You 'll need your strength tomorrow ... for Ron, okay ? ``

Hermione discreetly wiped her tears away and went back to her way. Harry smiled at her sadly as he watched her go and subconsciously walked towards the Quidditch subject area. It was one of the things that he would miss the most when he take back to the muggle public -- the exhilaration he feels when he was flying, the mind-numbing expiation he experiences when he caught the fink mere seconds away from the hands of a desirable rival. But it was not as if he would n't be capable to fly anymore, he rationalized to himself. Perhaps there would follow a sentence when he would be comfortable enough to derive back and see the new team play, maybe give them a few bakshis or toy a game with them himself. Perhaps in a few years ...

`` Harry ... ''

He turned around and saw the fellow blond-haired Brigham Young man approaching with a broomstick held loosely at his side. He smiled as an outraqeous idea crossed his mind.

`` Accio Firebolt ! '' he yelled and the external standard broomstick rushed to his hand, pulsating vibrantly as if it was itching to be used too.

`` Accio Snitch ! '' he yelled once more and the fink he had caught during his fifth year before Umbridge banned him flew right to his waiting hand. It was just flying around the Gryffindor common room and everyone just ignored it. For some strange understanding, Dumbledore did not ask him to return the golden snitch. He just procured a new one from the store.

The blond-haired figure waited patiently as if he already knew what was going to happen next. `` Just like old time eh ? '' He raised one eyebrow as he mounted his broom.

`` Yes, but no monkey business please. '' said Harry teasingly.

`` Hey, I do n't cheat ! '' snorted genus Draco as he flew around the line of business to warm up.

`` Yeah right ! Like pulling my broomstick to prevent me from winning was definitely a effective display of sportsmanship. '' Harry replied good-naturedly

`` Those were the skilful old days ... ''

`` Nasty old years, you mean ... ''

`` Whatever ... '' Draco casually waved his hand and signalled him to begin the game.

Harry rolled his eyes as he let go of the snitch. `` Now, let 's play ! ''

The two nearly excellent aviator at Hogwarts raised their Scots heather simultaneously, almost hitting each early but their skill and upper prevented them from a very grave collision. The stoolie suddenly went up respective meters more but the two was able to follow it quite impressively. Their eyes never left the snitch. There were no other participant to conceive of, no bludgers to depend out for. It was only the problematical canary out there and only the better player would be able to capture it.

The two were accelerating Thomas More and more and anyone who were watching would not even recognize the players. They would only see two flashes of green blending through the night sky. Then, the stool pigeon changed its row, forcing the seeker to shift their tactics and centering, too. No one would catch it by just following it relentlessly. Harry went around to where he thought it was heading but genus Draco beat him to it. He laughed as Draco tried to brooch his hand around the winged ballock only to grasp empty air as the snitch escaped once more.

They were so engrossed with their game that they did not notice two female figures following their every crusade, cheering their every move.

Harry and Draco performed some antenna acrobats first as they searched for the snitch, enjoying the biz for what it was, not for house dot or Quidditch cup. Just a game. Then, they both caught sight of the halcyon flashes down below, near their limited consultation and both dove at break-neck speed, trying to outdo one another.

Harry could see it now, just a few base more and he stretched his handwriting. At the corner of his eye, he saw that Draco was doing the same matter.

`` Go Harry ! ''

`` Go Draco ! ``

Harry was snickering now as he saw the panicked formula of Draco as his fingers touched the annexe ... then suddenly his laughter vanished and his hand unconsciously went to touch his brow. His scar did not hurt anymore but he could still feel any emotion that Voldemort was exuding. He was used to feeling his choler and pain but never elation and pure joy. It was unnerving ... whatever it was that made Voldemort felicitous must be bad for the illumine side.

`` I 've got it ! You lost ! '' shouted Draco, waving the prosperous snitch triumphantly. Ginny was hugging him as if he won the Quidditch finals.

`` H-huh ! '' said Harry, caught unaware. His moment of misdirection was enough for genus Draco to trip up the ballock but it did not devil him at all. What he wanted to hump was why Voldemort suddenly felt those emotions a day before the engagement. What the hell happened ?

`` Harry, I did n't know you were such a sore loser. '' teased Dragon but his smile vanished too when he saw Harry 's solemn expression. `` Hey, what 's wrong ? ``

`` It 's Voldemort. He 's happy and I do n't fuck why. This is bad. '' replied Harry.

`` Maybe he discovered something that he could use against you tomorrow. '' stated Luna. `` Perhaps he had taken ascendance of the Heliopaths and Crumple-horned snorkacks but they were very prissy and friendly creatures. They would not obey him unless they were being threatened. ``

`` Uh-huh ! '' commented genus Draco for a deficiency of something intelligent to say.

A very uncomfortable muteness followed. Ginny and Luna stared at one another and it seemed that they reached a silent agreement for Ginny suddenly linked her arm to Draco 's and started to pull him away.

`` Come on, Drake. You need to wash yourself, you stink. '' Ginny broke the tensed stillness, wrinkling her tiny nose in disgust.

`` I do not ! '' protested Dragon in mock revulsion but followed Ginny back to the castling leaving Harry and Luna alone.

Harry and Luna sat on the dry land, ignoring the tickly Gunter Grass and dull earth.

`` I hate to think of what it could possibly have in mind. '' said Harry after a while.

Luna embraced him tightly. `` Then do n't think. It could be a artifice, you know, to confuse you and make you lose your confidence. ``

`` I guess you have a full stop there. '' said Harry and shifted his billet so he could properly hold her in his arms. `` So are you really for certain you want to come with me ? ``

`` Of class, why do you ask ? '' Luna looked at him with her tender eyes that seemed to melt down his heart.

`` zippo, just wanted to make for certain that I have n't pressured you into doing something you do n't need to do. '' replied Harry weakly.

`` Oh, hon. You know I would trace you to neverland if you tell me to. I love you with all my heart. Do n't you make bold think otherwise. '' said Luna and leaned forward to physically control her boyfriend that he really have in mind a lot to her.

The fervency in both of them ignited furiously and the kiss deepened to make up for lost prison term. It had been a hanker meter and no one was there to kibosh them. As they looked up, they caught a glimpse of the ace shining above them, the twinkle reflected in their centre. They kissed once more, this prison term Harry 's manpower started to ramble around Luna 's delicate soundbox. He could find her shudder slightly at his hint and he realized that if they did not stop now, then he would not be able to ascertain himself anymore. With neat reluctance on his component part, he extricated himself gently from Luna 's embrace.

`` Umm ... .hon ... It 's belatedly ... Maybe we should go to bed now. '' he said hoarsely as if he had trouble controlling his breathing. 'Uh-oh ! Did it come out all right ?'he thought as he noticed Luna 's mischievous smile.

`` I think so too. '' replied Luna as she led him somewhere.

`` Hey, where are we going ? '' he asked dumbly.

`` To your student residence. '' she replied innocently.

`` Umm ... Luna, should n't I be the one to bring you to your dorm ? '' he asked weakly. He did n't really want to end that Night but he did n't need to pressure her into anything.

`` Harry James Potter ! Sometimes you 're just so dumb ... '' she said exasperatedly and started to leave him in the centre of the Quidditch pitch.

Harry was stunned by her response. `` waiting, wait ! '' he ran after Luna who was walking aimlessly around the field.

`` What now ? '' she asked not looking back, still a little miffed by his reaction.

`` W-why ? '' He turned her around and saw that there were tears threatening to fall down her rosy cheeks.

`` Aaaaarrrgh ! ! ! ! ! '' she screamed in thwarting and the weeping started to course uncontrollably. `` What if something happens tomorrow ? What if I die, you die or we both die and we would n't stimulate the chance again ? ``

Harry looked around in scare and a sudden realization suddenly struck him. She was right. What if something happens that they could not keep in line ? `` calm air down, please. wait ... .please ... just wait here. Do n't get out. I 'm just going to get something. ``

Without waiting for her response, Harry quickly ran to the Gryffindor common way, ignoring the lady asking for the password. He bumped the portrayal rather forcefully and cuss under his breathe as he rubbed his throbbing forehead.

`` You did n't give the password ! '' declared the Fat Lady accusingly, rubbing her ankles.

`` I was in a hurry ! '' yelled Harry.

`` But you 're not supposed to be in here ! '' argued the portrait, glaring at him.

`` But you know who I am, do n't you ? '' he asked rather stubbornly.

`` Yes, of line, but still, you 're not supposed to be here. You do n't know the password. ''

Harry took hard breathes to settle down himself. He realized that he had to exchange his scheme so that he could get inside. `` Umm ... I apologize for barging in here unannounced. It 's just that there 's something that I must get from my previous way. It is hidden very well and I could n't just marshal it. It 's for my girl ... I hope you understand. ``

`` Is it the ring ? '' asked the portrayal as she eyed him suspiciously.

`` Umm ... .yeah. But please do n't tell anyone. It 's supposed to be a mystery. '' he said, staring at the floor in embarrassment.

To his surprise, the Fat noblewoman clasped her hands and sang in delight. `` Oh ! merlin, why did n't you say so ? I would ingest let you in immediately. '' she said and the door opened instantaneously.

Harry thanked her abundantly and quickly ran to his elbow room, ignoring the curious glances sent his way. He retrieved the doughnut and stared at it intently. He had been planning to propose after the battle but he just realized that he needed to do it as soon as potential for the next day might be too late. minutes later, he returned to where he left Luna and was glad when she saw her lying on the dope, star-gazing.

He approached her silently, relishing the beautiful picture she presented. He tightened his grip on the slice of jewelry in his script. It was a legacy from her mother. Something that was handed to him by Dumbledore, among other things, before he passed away.

`` I 'm pitiful. '' he whispered, afraid to speak in a pattern voice for it could destroy the mood of the moment.

`` For what ? '' queried Luna in a hushed tone, still refusing to look in his direction.

`` For acting like an insensitive jerk. '' he replied earnestly. He dropped to his knees and reached for Luna 's left hand. `` I just did n't have it off what to do. ``

That was avowedly. He did not fully comprehend how abnormal his juvenile biography had been until then. Heck, even Neville had more action than he did ... but not due to lack of offers though. He just did not cause the inclination to perform such a sanctified act with anybody else. It was a very serious issue for him. He believed that it should only be done at the right time by two multitude genuinely in love with each other. But what if the redress time never came ?

Draco and Ginny had already done it. He saw it when he intruded on Ginny 's mind before. Perhaps Ron and Hermione too though they never talked about it. Maybe he was just too officious to recall about it and the fact that the only person he considered doing it with was catatonic for almost a year only made it worse. He was not that naif. He had read and ogled the Playwitch mag with Ron out of curiousity but that seemed such a long prison term ago.

`` Err ... are you still mad at me ? '' he asked tentatively, kissing her hand lightly as he did so.

Luna slowly got up to look him. `` No, I 'm not mad. A trivial pie-eyed off ... yes ... but not mad. ``

Harry stared at her, biting his lower lip, unsure of what to do next. He kept on caressing her lead deal, not fully cognisant that his natural process was starting to make her feel warm and tingly all over. Luna raised one lovely eyebrow and pinched his right-hand boldness playfully.

`` Oh, Harry ! You look so adorable when you do that. How could you possibly think that I could ride out mad at you when you stare at me like that ? '' said Luna, licking her sassing nervously.

Harry tensed when he saw her apparent motion and gazed at her backtalk as if he could not believe of anything else. Then, a chirp of a passing razz brought him back to his sess. Prying his heart away from her inviting rim, he carefully slipped his mother 's bequest to one of her finger's breadth and kissed it softly.

Luna was speechless as she fixed her eyes on the magnificent azure stone etched with a flyspeck symbol of a unicorn on her ringfinger. She looked at Harry and almost melted on the touch when she saw the sincerity and warmheartedness in his eyes.

`` After the war has ended, will you hand this poor soul a chance to spend the relief of his liveliness with you, Miss Luna Lovegood ? '' Harry asked her with so a great deal emotion in his phonation that she knew it stemmed from the very core of his being.

She threw her arms around him and cried at the sheer keen nature of his proposal. `` I will. Oh, Harry ! I will. Thank you for loving me so practically. ''

`` No, the pleasure is mine. '' he replied and bent to varnish the marriage offer with a heart-felt gesture of love.

Glancing at the mavin once more, he noticed that Mars was very lustrous that night ... but Venus was brighter ... considerably brighter than on any other night. Then as if sensing their need for seclusion, the clouds gradually moved to cover the moon, effectively shielding them from the brightness. Mars was temporarily forgotten as two shadows intertwined and moved in rhythm to a symphony that they alone could hear.

Chapter 20 - Voldemort 's Proposition


October 31, 1997


After the breath-taking act that strengthened their shackle, Harry and Luna continued to lay in each other 's arms, just contented on staring at the disconnected window pane shining brightly above their headway. The sonant cushion and strong blanket that Harry conjured made them comfortable enough to refrain from going elsewhere. The Night was fading, the impending end of the world hid around the recession, but they were not afraid anymore. They had become combine and the strength of one became the strength of the former.

As they watched the sun rise gradually, they realized that they must bring back to their usual way now but both were loath to do so. They were still savoring the minute and it was intemperate to let go of the emotions that had engulfed them a few hours ago.

'Who would deliver thought that we would end up together ?'Harry mused as he stole a glance at the adorable person snuggled on his chest. 'And to think, I, myself, thought her strange when I first met her ...'

`` I thought you 're quite flaky that metre too ... '' commented Luna lazily, caressing his dresser in random style. At seeing his incredulous expression, she added. `` You 're thinking out forte, hon. But do n't worry, I 'm very much in dear with you now and that 's what matters. ``

`` True ... dead on target ... Did I mention that'I love you'already ? ''

`` I believe you did, Mr. ceramist, several sentence actually. '' replied Luna, giggling softly.

`` wellspring, let me show you once more ... '' said Harry, his optic twinkling mischievously but a loudly crack distracted him.

It was Dobby.

Harry groaned inwardly. From the spirit of the elf 's red face with ears drooping shamefully at the side, he knew that he saw something he should not and was quite abashed by his intrusion.

`` Bad Dobby ! Bad Dobby ! I am so sorry, Mr. Harry Potter. I did not entail to offend you or anything. '' said the house-elf as he repeatedly bumped his top dog on the ground as punishment.

Harry quickly put on his wearing apparel and pulled Dobby from his self-inflicted chastisement. `` Dobby, stop that ! I 'm not mad at you, just a little embarrassed. ``

`` Mister Harry not tempestuous with Dobby ? '' The house-elf slowly looked up and eyed him hopefully.

`` Hi Dobby ! What brought you here ? '' asked Luna after fixing herself.

The house-elf jumped up and down, whether it was due to panic or excitement was indistinguishable. `` The headmistress wanted you in her office now. She said you must get make. ``

`` Oh ! '' murmured Harry and quickly vanished the shock and blanket. `` We 'll go there now and by the way, you must be there, too. ``

Dobby puffed his chest proudly at his actor's line and apparated immediately to the Headmistress'role. Harry and Luna opted to walk.

The number 1 thing they noticed when they set human foot inside the castle was the large number of pupil milling chaotically around the corridors and some hovering above the fireplaces as if they did not make love how to use one. No professor was in sight, except for gentlewoman Hooch and Filch who were attempting to put some order to the pandemonium that erupted.

They never stopped to ask anyone what the hoo-ha was all about. Instead, they ran as fast as they could to McGonagall 's office.

The merging has started and all of them could find the mounting tension as they finalized their plans.

`` I have already ordered Madam hootch to transport the students to Crigod Commune immediately. We do n't want any casualties here. Harry, have you already stationed some dementors to defend the station ? Please be reminded that they should be near enough to guarantee the position yet far enough to own no effect on the the great unwashed inside. '' said McGonagall in a weary tone.

`` Yes, prof, that has been taken care of. '' replied Harry then he turned to the house-elves present. `` Kindly secure that the dark forces wo n't be capable to apparate out once the battle has begun. We want to finish this war today. ``

The house-elves nodded reverently. `` We are most happy to oblige, kind sir. ``

Harry gave them a affectionate smile of gratitude before he switched his tending to the rector. `` Mister Weasley, I 'm sure this situation is very toilsome for you knowing that they might use Ron for bargaining, are you sure you could treat today 's computer programme ? We can come up with some alternate if you ca n't. ``

The red-faced master of the Burrow shook his head furiously. `` No ! I have to do this not only for my son but for the others as well. I believe we could pull in this off. ``

Harry thought for a moment but relented. `` Very well. ``

`` And I 'm going as well. '' said a soft vocalism from a soul sitting timidly at the far end of the room.

`` Dudley ? '' Harry stared in shock at his cousin. With all that has happened, he had almost forgotten that Dudley was also in Hogwarts. `` What are you doing here ? You 're supposed to be flooing to your mom 's plate. ``

`` I know but mum said that I should stand by your side today. She said it is piddling compared to what you have done for us. '' came the reply.

`` And what about you ? What do you cogitate ? '' asked Harry shrewdly.

`` I think she 's right ... I want to avail. ``

Professor McGonagall worriedly stepped in. `` Harry, I really hope you 're not considering letting him go. He 's far too young for that and is not that adept in dueling yet. ``

Harry sighed inadvertently. `` The headmistress is right, Dud. Besides, your mum needs you more. There are lots of multitude who need protection at Crigod 's. ``

`` B-but -- ``

`` No disceptation now, please. I really take account the fact that you offered to help and that alone is enough for me. I also know you 're gifted but, Dud, you 're needed elsewhere. Do you understand ? '' said Harry in a soothe voice.

`` Oh, ok. '' agreed Dudley reluctantly and left the room as quietly as he had come.

When Dudley has left, Harry surveyed the grim but determined faces around the room. One could get into that they were all quick to face death but Harry knew they were all nervous as hell. Who would n't ? Well, it seemed that a pep speech was in rescript ...

`` I know what we 're going to do today is very difficult and I believe it 's scaring the underworld out of everyone but we have trained comprehensively. There 's nothing to fear. We are better prepared in this war now. We have more powerful allies on our side. Let me give you the betting odds : Due to our preceding efforts, Voldemort 's death-eaters have dwindled down to a measly 539
and most of them are tike. We have 317 fully trained aurors and wizards, 84 highly adequate to DA members, not to mention the bring forward DA penis who could consume on at least five death-eaters each and the other noncombatants who are most willing to aid us should the need arises. The horror-inducing dementors are also on our side of meat ... We also have some goblins ... whale .... centaurs ... house-elves ... nance ... supporting our cause. What else do we want ? Voldemort 's only hold over the wizarding is the frightening memory of the kill, straining, and chaos during his reign of terror but it 's all in the past now. '' Harry paused for a while and noticed the group relaxing slightly as they listened to his speech communication. `` We can do this ... We can win this war ... We just have to think in ourselves. Remember, we have Sir Thomas More to lose but even more to gain. ``

The chemical group applauded him warmly when he concluded his little pep talk.

`` So, are we set up for old Voldie now ? ''

==================================================================================

At the Hogsmeade Plaza


The syllabus has begun with a brief background about Voldemort, how he came into power and what he had done before the-boy-who-lived defeated him for the first time.

Then for the adjacent contribution, the ministry erected a magnified pensive ( courtesy of Harry ) that depicted what happened to the wizard 's stone, the basilisk and finally the resurrection of the dark Maker during the end of the Triwizard Tournament.

various people were instantly aghast at what they saw. They knew celebrated Harry Potter, the-boy-who-lived, but no one actually realized the horrors he must have endured to hold up up to his epithet. For a minute, they questioned the righteousness of their impression of pinning all their hopes on a youthful boy. They had unwittingly stripped him of his youth. Falco columbarius, it was rough for anyone !

This was followed by a short breath -- a demonstration of a right wizard duel and a melancholy wizard dance that involved a man and a woman swaying to a haunting melodic phrase while riding a broom handle and flying slowly around the stage.

Then the rector announced the future component of the program - the reenactment of Voldemort 's licking exactly a year ago. Everyone paused to watch. This was the moment that they have all been waiting for. They have read in the papers that 'You-know-who'was defeated but only a select few knew how.

As the reenactment was being performed, the parson and the others eyed all the entrances with trepidation. The performance was about to end when citizenry felt a sudden change in the atmosphere. Gone was the excitement and enthrallment in the hearing level. It was replaced with dread and panic as person slowly approached the stage.

It was Lord Voldemort. There was no mistaking the ruby red center that was glowing dangerously, the claw-like fingers and the malevolent stance he exuded. He walked towards the degree like royal line. People parted to give way to the newcomer. Some even fainted at the peck of his revolting typeface that seemed to go to the devil himself. His claws threatened to contract the biography out of anyone who dared stand in his way.

Following him were his most confide sidekick, swaying their robes in a dignified fashion and removing their hoodlum as if to proudly expose their face to the hushed crowd. Some of them came from the most prestigious families and their duplicity was unmistakable as they dragged a bound and bloodied teenage boy whose dress was almost unrecognizable from the cut of meat and contusion he suffered while in immurement. The red hair was the merely thing that gave his identicalness away.

Hermione fumed at the sight of his boyfriend but her good sense dictated that she should not do anything yet. It would be too dangerous to act on impulse. She glanced at the minister and was impressed with the almost ethereal calmness he emanated. It was almost as if he was not staring at his injured son but it was just an act. oceanic abyss inside, she knew the minister would care zero more than to literally tear the man who dared harm his son into miniscule pieces.

`` Fancy seeing you here, Voldemort, or is it Tom ? '' greeted the minister, devoid of any emotion.

`` Do n't ever call me that again. Where 's the boy ? '' demanded Voldemort.

Harry stepped on the stage and hastily removed the concealing charm on his face for everyone to see. `` I 'm here, Tom. ''

`` I know. '' Lord Voldemort grinned maliciously at him and he did not like it all. Something about Voldemort 's arrogant bearing made him a fiddling wary. It was as if the dark Creator knew something he did not.

As if sensing his view, Voldemort leered at him once more, baring his painfully horrific nerve in his behalf then spoke in a cold voice that was supposed to send shivers down his acantha ; only what he felt was repulsion instead of fear.

`` …neither can live while the early survives… '' The darkness lord stated. `` Do you have any idea that recently, I have been seriously harboring the thought of recruiting you ? You would accept been a worthy addition to my privileged rank and file. Together, we could take reigned the wizarding world and barf it with all the impure races but I 've changed my mind. Thanks to your pathetic and worthless Quaker here. I am now cognizant that it 's not possible. ``

Harry forced a stoical expression and glanced at the bloodied expression of his salutary protagonist and instantly felt pity for what he must have undergone. There was no touch of anger in his ally 's case, only compunction and exhaustion, and that was enough for him to understand that Ron did not bewray him purposely.

`` I 'm dreary, Harry. I 've tried but I 'm not just good enough. '' Ron managed to say, his eyes pleading for forgiveness.

`` That 's all right field, Ron. He would birth found out eventually anyway. '' He tried to lenify his Friend 's guilt.

`` I am such a buns ... '' said Ron and Harry realized he was apologizing for a unlike reason.

`` Yes, you are. But you 're still my skillful friend, Ron. ``

`` T-thanks, fellow ... ''

`` How advert ! '' mocked the dark Jehovah before shifting his regard back to Harry. `` And do you know what else I 've learned, potter ? ``

`` Well, actually no, but I 'm sure as shooting you 'd tell me anyway so better get on with it. '' replied Harry lazily, yawning for impression, as if the whole affair was too boring for him. The result he 'd been aiming for was soon visible in his adversary 's face. Voldemort was now staring warily at him though not as obvious as Harry had preferred.

`` The prophecy only stated that it is possible for you to down me but still, the probability of it taking place was only fifty percent. significance, it could also be the other way around. Tsk…tsk…tsk…what a shame ! All those age of preparation …and all for zip ! '' Voldemort suddenly laughed and peered intently into Harry 's face as if searching for a chemical reaction of some sort but failed. `` But I 'm not that cruel you know… '' Harry merely raised an supercilium at this, patiently urging him to go on. `` I will lay down you a deal. Let 's have some fun first. prefer any plot you want and I 'll let your acquaintance go if you win. ``

`` And what if I lose ? ``

`` Then I shall have your head. ``

Harry 's mind worked overtime. This was a chance to subside the measure of ancestry shed in the final exam battle. Of course, he could not really trust the shadow lord to comply with the normal and agreements but there was no harm in trying.

`` Let 's raise the wager higher then…If I win, you and your followers will be at our disposal. If you win, the wizarding public shall be yours… ''

Everyone gasped and stared at their supposed-to-be savior as if he was losing his mind. Even Voldemort eyed him apprehensively for a moment.

`` Harry ! You 're being totally idiotic ! '' yelled Hermione in foiling but Harry ignored her plea.

`` Bloody stupid Gryffindors ! '' Draco murmured under his breathing time, glaring at Harry for effect but found himself observing the event with growing fascination. Harry 's unique approach to the position intrigued him greatly.

Voldemort sneered with apparent disgust at the treasonable son of his most trusted follower before addressing his repeated enemy. `` Your craziness astounds me ! Do n't you recognise that you 're just making things easier for us ? '' stated Voldemort evenly. He was still puzzled by Potter 's sudden change of tack.

Harry ignored him too. `` So, do you agree ? ``

`` Naturally. What 's the biz then ? ``

`` Toss coin. '' He declared defiantly, daring Voldemort to deny to play the muggle secret plan but the dark Divine did not say anything except cast a suspicious eye on him, silently weighing his motif for choosing it.

The reaction of the audience was more vocal music. Some muggle-borns laughed nervously at the seemingly pathetic hypnotism while pure-blood wizards seemed curious yet highly disbelieving at the same time.

`` He lost it ! ``

`` What 's a 'Toss Coin'?

`` Harry, are you out of your judgment ? ! ? ``

`` He ca n't be serious ! ``

Amidst the ruction, Luna instantly sent a telepathic message to assure Harry .'I told you…you are really bizarre but I like it…play with his judgement. Old Voldie 's already growing uneasy. Maybe you should try my technique later…see if it works…'
'What technique ? The spaced-out one ?'replied Harry through his mind.

'Yeah, if you want to relieve oneself him really uncomfortable. That one never failed to give people the weirdy before .'said Luna in an amused tone.

Harry laughed inwardly .'I 'll keep that in mind .'

The death-eaters noticed his amusement and were extremely disturbed by it. `` Master, are you quite sure this is not a trap ? ``

They eyed Harry warily. They were no doubt coming up with their own horrific rendition of the biz - imagining it to be some variety of an exceedingly vicious and violent affaire d'honneur of some sort. After all, was n't it what they came here for ? The blood and gore ? The joy of killing, torturing and instilling fear in the spunk of those who oppose their noble vision ?

`` quiet ! '' the dark lord hissed angrily. things were not going exactly as he planned and the affair that he hated to the highest degree next to ceramicist was the desperate feeling of not being in control condition. Unfortunately, he could not back out of ceramist 's challenge now. `` Shall we lead off ? '' he spat as contemptuously as he could muster.

`` Certainly. Here is a galleon. cull the slope you want and the one who wins two out three flip wins the game. '' declared Harry, his lips curling slightly at the end in mild amusement.

Voldemort spitefully chose the 'Head'part. Harry only smirked at his choice.

`` Figures ... You always had to be the 'Head'of something, do n't you ? But unluckily for you, I 'll always be here to 'Tail'you. '' commented Harry as he calmly enlarged the coin for everyone to see. Then he addressed the interview. `` Kindly listen everyone. This is a vastly known MUGGLE game and was probably played by our old protagonist here once or twice when he was not yet occupy being the darkness lord ... ''

Voldemort nodded his head unconsciously and was horrified when he realized what he had just done. several multitude were astounded as they witnessed the natural process and realized the to the full logical implication of his Word of God. Even the death-eaters flinched at the Revelation of Saint John the Divine. They had never truly believed that the boy was telling the truth when he taunted them before of Voldemort 's questionable inheritance but here was an undisputable evidence and they were quite unnerved by it.

Harry stole a glance at Voldemort 's fume figure and decided not to overstretch his patience this early. `` Anyway, the coin has two sides - the Head and the shadow. To be comely, both Voldemort and I are going to toss it then whoever 's side appears wins that round. '' Harry raised his wand. `` On the count of three ... ..1 ... ..2 ... ..3 .... ''

Both Voldemort and Harry used their baton to toss the galleon then waited in antipation for the outcome.
The audience, too, held their breathing space as they intently observed the steadily declining swirl of the coin until it finally stopped.

Tailb

The entire light face cheered and were doing high-fives of their own while death-eaters pointed their wands ominously at them but could not really do anything.

Harry sighed with relief and grinned. `` fountainhead, I win. Sorry, Tom. '' he said though not feeling sorry at all.

Voldemort glared at him in return and concentrated hard for the second toss.

`` On the tally of three ... 1 ... .2 ... ..3 .... ''

Again, they both used their wand to toss away the galleon, but this meter, Harry felt something that he should not hold. He glanced surreptitiously at Voldemort and noticed his head furrowed in assiduity. He shifted his gaze to the galleon and confirmed with disgust that Voldemort was wandlessly controlling the galleon for it to fall down in his favour.

Head

The death-eaters immediately sent dark scratch on the sky in their excitement, shocking the humor out of those who were not capable to witness the jubilation, while the ignite side booed and tried to shove some darkness cloaked fig out of the way to get a unspoiled view, momentarily forgetting that those were death-eaters they were jostling aside.

'Damn !'Harry thought. 'This man could not even flirt decently .'

`` Looks like I won, Potter. '' Voldemort had regained his confidence in winning the second gear pass and was taking great pleasure in rubbing it in.

`` Just as I have expected ... you wo n't observe the rule of the game, Tom. You could never play a fair biz if your life depended on it. '' stated Harry, his face clearly showing his disgust at the man.

`` That 's what makes me who I am, thrower. '' sneered the night lord.

`` Fine ... If that 's what you want, then I 'll give it to you -- full blast. Do n't say I did n't warn you. '' Harry said as the air startled to sizzle with energy.

`` On the count of three ... 1 .... ''

`` Bring it all you 've got, Tom. Do n't hold back. '' uttered Harry ominously, his optic never leaving his opposition 's face.

`` ... 2 .... ''

`` I wo n't. '' declared Voldemort with the same intensity but Harry did not miss the slender waver in his tone.

`` ... 3 .... ''

The galleon was tossed for the last sentence and everyone waited with bated breath as the coined spun continuously but instead of losing speed, the galleon appeared to spin fast than before until no one could clearly predict the possible outcome of the final toss ...

========================================================

generator 'S NOTE : Hey, thanks to all who reviewed especially those who have been following my stories since the beginning ... tt would not be long now ... The succeeding chapter would be the FINAL pass then the EPILOGUE.

Thanks again and sustain on reviewing ; - )


Chapter 21 : The Final toss


The entire clear side watched with capital trepidation as Voldemort launched a full attack on the galleon, staging some highly complicated evasive action to force it to settle in his favour. With a compounding of baton and wandless go hurled at it, the defenseless coin slowly started to bow towards the evilness man while its swirling became more mad. For one horrific irregular, they had all thought that the dark nobleman would win. It was only a mere inch from the soil and the wiz saviour seemed unable to do anything but hold out one hand to maintain it from falling.

Evidently anticipating his victory, Voldemort gave a triumphant leer at Harry. `` Thank you for making things easier, ceramist, and for that, I might even let you live but I ca n't speak for your Friend though. They might even be plotting your grisly murder as I speak. Is n't it depressing that the people you swore to protect will be the ones to wipe out you from existence ? poor people kid ... tsk..tsk ... tsk ... and to think I really enjoyed the times we spent together. Perhaps we can take in a proper affaire d'honneur again some time ... if you 're still alert, that is. ''

To his surprise, however, Harry seemed unfazed by his taunts.

'' The one with the power to vanquish the nighttime noble had come…and the Dark overlord will mark him as his equal, but he will have index the wickedness Creator knows not ...

`` What are you talking about, Tom ? The game 's not over yet. '' said Harry. `` In fact, it 's just warming up. '' With that, he promptly flicked one digit and the coin swung to the other side at a blink of an eye.

Voldemort 's agitation as Harry tipped the coin was priceless. The dark lord exerted considerable power to keep the coin from falling. He barely made it in clip and now his reflection was just plain lethal. No hilarity ... No playing games anymore ... and Harry realized that, too, for he immediately enclosed the area surrounding him and Voldemort with a shield spell to protect the people from being hit by any cast or rebounded curse.

Once more, the coin was stuck in the middle, whirling in a state of lawlessness and the air began to reek of burnt metal as the final exam toss intensified. They did not know it yet but the countless turn thrown was beginning to direct its bell on the coin. The lonesome thing that was preventing it from being destroyed was its continued circular motion holding all tour at bay. Then for some peculiar intellect, all the forces applied gravitated towards the pith then shot upwards at a speed of light.

Harry looked stunned for a import, at a exit as to what could possibly be causing this uncanny occurrent, then his eyes widened in alarm as he realized what Voldemort was intending to do. He tried to deflect the flux tour from going upwards but between controlling the coin and maintaining a shield magical spell around them, he realized that he may not bear enough posture to action everything at once.

Voldemort was harnessing their combined vigor to open a portal -- a portal that would release who-knows-what-kind-of-spirits but knowing him, it would definitely not be saints and querubins. Harry 's reverence were confirmed as the once peaceful ground began to escape from tremendously at the vociferous disruption of nature 's correspondence. to a greater extent and Sir Thomas More hoi polloi were succumbing into the foolish notion that 'apocalypse'had come to end all things. And as if that was not enough, a awful storm started to brew ... with saccade of lightning forming eerie shapes in the sky.

Harry took a few indorsement to sop up everything that was happening around him. The rain had poured and the nose drops and lightning added a sealed sense of foreboding to the electric current situation. Summoning his remaining strength, Harry pointed his wand at the galleon.

`` MAXIMO REDUCTO ! ! ! '' He felt the Benjamin Rush of energy course through his scepter, blasting the coin into tiny small-arm. The exertion greatly drained his strength but he hoped it would be adequate to halt the invocation.

The grinding speech sound of exploding metal disrupted everyone 's concentration and time seemed to digest still as every unity eye followed each corpuscle that was falling on the background. Harry thought that it had gone well until he felt a stinging aesthesis on his correctly hand.

`` bet ! The boy 's baton is on ardor ! '' exclaimed one observer.

Harry promptly dropped the wand as the heat became unbearable and watched in frustration as it was consumed by the flame. Apparently, the rain was not enough to keep it from burning. 'Damn verge ! Too weak for my need… I wish I could take in my old verge back…'he thought wryly. Wandless trick was bang-up but he was also mindful that he would be overcome with fatigue sooner than he preferred.

The onlooker stared at each former, wondering who won the plot and what would materialize now that Harry no longer had a wand but nobody could bring home the bacon an acceptable answer.

`` You-know-who was obviously using some underhanded john therefore Harry ceramicist won by default. '' said an old wise man, nodding his head slightly in contemplation.

`` idiot ! Did n't you see he destroyed that damn coin suit he was losing ? '' yelled one of Voldemort 's hard worker, furious that anyone dared to suggest that his master lost.

`` Hey, hey ! look on your nomenclature, Cy Young man ! Mister Potter only did that because your master was damaging the ozone layer by directing all the zip upwards. '' quipped another one. Clearly, no one had correctly guessed what the darkness Maker was doing yet.

Voldemort, however, was quick to point his fingerbreadth on his contender. `` That 's clamant cheating, thrower ! '' he roared in fury as the energy faded gradually.

`` And what do you call that - funfair play ? '' Harry retorted angrily, pointing at the remaining beam of light. He had hoped that he had halted the summoning but he was too deep ... a small jam has already been created ... and he had no wand now.

Voldemort noticed his wand 's absence too and the malevolent smirk returned to embellish his charred backtalk. `` It would n't be long now, Potter. Just wait ... '' the darkness lord stated with stark malice then, completely ignoring the boy, he raised his work force and began chanting an antediluvian spell that no one has heard of before. His most loyal servants apparated later to imprint a human shell around him.

…ku ya ba ri no ku wes
Ti tee kumen
Ah ha….ah ha
Ti kumen ah ha….

Upon realizing that the game was over, people ran around like madmen, unsure of what to do and where to take recourse. Chaos consumed the entire piazza. Some had the estimable gumption to apparate to base hit but others seemed to forget the piddling thing called 'magic'that all enchantress and sorcerer could perform especially in multiplication of dire need.

The death-eaters outside the rotary took the commotion as a signal to hex the disorient people to their hearts'content. Trolls, titan, werewolves and other dark creatures shortly joined in the garboil. Fortunately, the sun has not fallen yet, effectively hindering the arrival of Voldemort 's most right allies -- the blood-sucking marauder and living dead. But at the rate they were going, it would not be long before it comes to that.

Aurors and Order members did not waste any time though. As soon as they noticed the new arrivals, they quickly shot red flicker on the sky to signal that it was time for the reinforcements to arrive. The majestic Centaurus were the number one ones to reply the 'call', followed by the goblins ... and there were monster and wanderer too ! They were led by a grim-faced Hagrid whom none had seen for a farseeing metre but it later became apparent that his hard workplace with the creatures had paid off.

Soon, a full-pledged battle had erupted at the still crowded plaza. troll against troll ... giants against giants ... Centaur against werewolves ... giant spider against other dark beast ... magician against wizards ...

'This war causes nothing but death and death .'Harry thought as he witnessed the battle unfold. 'Our world should not be like this. We could all co-exist and hold up peacefully .'He was sickened by the berth thus, strengthening his resolution to end the war that day.

As per agreed battle perspective, adult virtuoso tackled the death-eaters attacking innocent and defenseless civilians and the DA penis handled those in the immediate vicinity of Harry. On first glance, the musical arrangement seemed foolish and dangerous but they all agreed that although DA fellow member could handle glowering wiz, it would be very difficult for them to cast spells where there were various noncombatants in the line of fire so the Order just assigned the young shielder to find out their backs and assist the portkey makers in their job.

Professors McGonagall, Flitwick and vector ( portkey Godhead ) were the ones in charge of the production of pre-arranged portkeys that would ship the barren bystanders to various good houses. Unfortunately, its distribution was proving to be a very ambitious task for the assign DA members since death-eaters had a foul use of getting in their way. Violent encounter just could not be avoided even if they wanted to. Once or twice, each of them missed dying by a few column inch but fortunately ended up with only aching bodies, badly broken bones and severely wounded human body. nil major. No cause for alarm. It was just the usual.

brothel keeper Pomfrey, dame Pince and other volunteer healers from St. Mungo 's were the ones handling the fatal accident. There was simply no time to go to the Hogwart 's infirmary wing and they had to bring up an meanwhile clinic behind the phase. They worked extra time healing the wound and mending broken bones while professor Severus Snape labored on the mass product of healing, reviving and strengthening potions in his make-shift science lab beside the clinic. shaft Pettigrew worked as his assistant. Some ministry officials and aurors were sent to protect them from harm. Only heaven knew how many would have been short if they were not that adept in their Chosen field.

As for Harry, he concentrated on the vile creature before him who spearheaded the bit of ferocity and destruction. Hopefully, the house-elves led by Dobby were faring well in their C. W. Post. He would n't want Voldemort and his cronies to just vanish when the going gets too crude for them like what happened in the department of Mysteries.

He looked up again. The pickle was getting wider and if he did not relieve it at once, affair could become really ugly for them. 'Damn ! He was really invoking the strong drink !'He cursed himself mentally as he realized that he did not have any inkling at all on how to counter that ancient spell. He should birth paid more attention to the substance of the prognostication.


…yariks ariks …yariks ariks
ti kumen ah-ha
ah-ha ku ya ba rin …..


`` ABSOLUTO SCELLER ! '' Harry wandlessly attempted to close the yap but to his dismay, his right-down sealing charm had no effect whatsoever. It did not even reach the target.

At the niche of his eye, Harry noted that the ripe DA members seized the chance to rescue Ron. There was no hesitation in their movements. Ginny and Neville viciously attacked the death-eaters while Luna and Hermione attempted to heal and revive Ron. Draco, being the natural drawing card that he was, rapidly assigned DA phallus to strategical position while the red-headed boy was being healed. 'Good. At least Ron 's in safe hired man now .'he thought.

`` INCENDIO ! obstruction ! '' Harry furiously flung the swearing at the death-eaters within the rotary. There was only one thing in his mind. He had to offend through Voldemort 's barrier.

The death-eaters erected their own protective ward while throwing their own jinx at Harry.

`` stupe boy ! Why do n't you just gift up ? '' snarled Mcnair as he hurled a all over reductor curse at Harry but the boy only diffused the spell.

`` NEVER ! '' shouted Harry in between defensive attitude and nauseous spells. He was already worn out from all his earlier campaign but he did not want to indorse out.

`` LATIGO INFLAMORE ! ! ! '' a fire rope emerged from Rookwood 's hands and whipped Harry with it.

One eyelash collided with Harry 's cover and he almost fell over from the stinging sensation of burning flesh but he did not let it distract him from his independent target. Fuming with passion, he retaliated with an ultimate freezing charm to depict the unsavoury tool unusable.

`` You have children too, Rookwood. How would you feel if someone of your own kind offend your fry just because they happened to be on the antonym side ? '' he queried the man who used to solve for the ministry, an bureau sworn to protect the people.

`` No children of mine shall counterbalance our noble crusade. If they do, I will belt down them myself. '' Rookwood retorted in an icy tone, leaving Harry with no doubt that his commitment to his master key was above any other.

`` Merlin ! You 've really sold your soul to the ogre and for what -- a few thousand galleons ? '' shouted Harry in unbelief.

`` For tycoon, ceramist ... .and aureole ... '' It was Lucius who answered this time, eyeing Harry with so much despite that had it been possible, he would have died immediately from his withering glare.

`` Really ? As far as I can see, Voldemort was hoarding all the exponent and as for glory ... .there 's zippo glorifying about what you 're doing. In fact, you 're just disgracing your name. '' stated Harry dryly.

`` PETRIFICUS TOTALUS ! ``

`` CRUCIO ! ``

`` IMMOBILUS ! ``

`` STUPEFY ! ``

`` AVEDA KEDAVRA ! ``

The curse word from the enraged death-eaters came flying simultaneously. Harry struggled to dodge them all while shooting offensive whammy of his own but his exhaustion was catching up with him. His innate reflex was slowing down.

`` HYDROXY OXYDUS ! ! ! '' Three voices yelled at once.

Harry spun around to see who had cast the magic spell. One was Ron. There was still some trace of the torture but he seemed definitely better. Behind him were Luna and Hermione who were smiling warmly at him.

`` Glad you 're back, mate. Are you sure you 're all right field ? '' said Harry excitedly as he clapped his bestfriend on the back.

`` I 've been better but there 's no way you can crap me escape the fun. '' replied Ron, grinning from ear to ear.

`` Hey, need any help ? ''

One hand tapped Harry 's shoulder and a familiar warmth immediately flooded his hale being as he saw Ginny, Neville and Draco standing behind, ready to fight with him. He was very rosy indeed to consume such truehearted friends. He smiled and nodded. `` I could definitely use your assistance against those idiots. '' he said, pointing his fingers on the death-eaters who were still slightly disoriented after the Water shank spell.

Voldemort 's lackeys were greatly dismayed by the intrusion and conveniently forgot that they were supposed to guard their master. They each tackled one of the make headway DA penis who were more than eager to practice what they 've trained so hard for.

Harry was thankful to be away from Voldemort 's menacing and revolting presence for a while but his fleeting abatement was over. He tried every powerful spell imaginable to distract the dark Lord but nix seemed to be working. It was apparent that the ancient incantation was protecting him until he could fetch up the supplication. Getting desperate, he scanned the gang once more to take care for someone who could possible give him some relevant result but all was busy fighting or healing.

He dared to look up once more and was deeply appalled when he witnessed some apparitional figures emerging from the portal site and several more were fighting to escape from their labor. To make thing big, the storm had already escalated into a tropical cyclone and thunder and lightning were multiplying the fear factor for almost a thousand times.

'Potter .'A voice spoke softly in his head.

'... and I 'm hearing spokesperson again ... bang-up ... just cracking !'

'POTTER .'

'... the voice just would n't go away ...'

'POTTER ! ! ! !'The voice was more instant this time.

A lightning suddenly blinded him from everything and he could see nil but white ... pure white..and the voice seemed so dig ... could it be..'God, is that you ? Have you gone to admit back the bad spirits ?'asked Harry tentatively, feeling laughable yet curious at the same time.

'What the blaze are you rambling about, Potter ?'The voice roared in his head, followed by a certain smutty input about simple Deliverer blah-blah-blah ...

'Professor Snape ... ?'Harry slowly turned around saw a dishevelled prof Snape who was still carrying several containers of freshly made potions on his men. The professor must have realized what happened too and decided to help. He was mentally communicating with him and there was no doubt that too a great deal fumes and chemicals were making him a niggling cranky.

'Good. I thought we 've lost you for a mo there .'A huge sigh of relief followed then ... 'WHAT THE underworld ARE YOU WAITING FOR ? SUMMON THE DE-MEN-TORS NOW ! ! ! THEY 'RE THE ONLY ONES THAT CAN cakehole THE liquor ! ! !'

No response.

'POTTER ? ! ?'the voice inquired in an exasperated flavor yet there was also a slight tinge of concern.

'Ooops, sorry, Professor. Just wanted to make sure that it 's not old Voldie toying with my head .'

Snape 's solitary answer was a sharp and sarcastic retort. Harry smiled inspite of himself. 'Still the Sami old git ...'

'I heard that, ceramist !'

'Just kidding ...'Harry summoned the dementors, careful to leave enough turn to protect the safehouses.

Within min, the temperature dropped gloomy than before and the atmosphere became instantly subdued as several dementors glided towards Harry and waited for instructions. The few remaining noncombatants fainted and DA penis rushed over to bring their soundbox to safety.

`` It 's meter for you to fertilize. Capture those malignant emotional state ! '' The dementors bowed slightly and went on their way to hunt the wandering souls.

Soon, the plaza was filled with forte shrieking of protest by the spirits. They had just escaped their prison and were definitely agonized by the scene of being locked up once more than. Voldemort was positively black-and-blue when he saw what Harry was doing and more so when he noticed that his minions were being beaten to a pulp but for some rationality, he did not appear too concerned.

... The Dark Lord would conjure the tone but the one would snare their someone ... his handmaid shall be overcome ...

Harry then slumped on the ground in exhaustion and decided to check how the others were doing. He was rapturous to find out that they were winning. All the innocent bystanders had been led to safety. Ministry aurors had rounded up the defeated death-eaters and were currently transporting them to Azkaban. to the highest degree of the shadow creatures were slaughtered and the few survivor had fled. The dementors were having a field day and well-nigh of the tone had been contained. But he did not allow himself to be complacent. Anything could happen within the succeeding few instant and the tides could still turn against their party favour easily. His heart swelled with pridefulness when he observed that none of his friends needed any help at all except for Draco who seemed to be struggling within himself as he fought with his own father. This is going to be very interesting .'he thought.

`` founder, how could you be so blind ? The night lord has given you zero. You 've traded your soul for nothing. Is n't your family more important than that demon ? '' stated genus Draco calmly, pleading his Church Father to interpret.

`` nonsensicality ! You 've spent too much time with the mudbloods and muggle-lovers to fully comprehend the aristocracy of our movement. The Malfoy 's have always been levelheaded enough to discern where our loyalties should lie and I thought you 're just as clever but no -- you had to link with inferior people. You 're a disgrace ! '' With that, Lucius threw curses at Draco with such ferocity that no one would even think that they were related.

Dragon threw go meant to capture and not to harm his Padre while Lucius, being the heartless bastard that he was, showed no mercy at all as he hurled mighty obscure execration on his sole tyke. In fact, he did not even pause to sound out the dreaded Holy Writ when his son fell down after being hit with a particularly smutty spell.

`` How dare you humiliate me in front of my schoolmaster ! Aveda ... ... ... ... ... Kedavra ! ''

Harry suddenly went numb. He saw Draco 's heart widened with horror and sorrow as the little greens light sped towards his gimp word form.

Draco closed his optic, accepting his horrific fate. He would n't escape anyway ... he could n't actuate. He just could n't believe that his own human body and blood could be that ruthless.

Harry saw all this and felt self-reproach for the boy. He used to sense drear for himself because his parents were killed when he was still a baby but Draco definitely had it worse and though he used to be an arrogant holy terror, he did not merit this treatment from anyone especially from that poor excuse of a man.

... a terrible thunderstorm would arrive at the time when the final battle shall be fought ... Seven loyal Allies shall be with him ... but one will not survive ...

`` NOOOOOOO ! ! ! ! '' With a sudden rush of adrenaline, Harry attempted to parry the killing curse but it was too strong. Lucius must cause felt such potent hatred towards his son. Without a mentation for his own safety, Harry swiftly leapt to push him out of the way. He thought they both made it to safety device until he felt something hit him sharply at the back. As he fell on the primer coat, a eldritch persuasion occurred to him ... 'Is this how death 's supposed to feel like ?'

He sensed someone Benjamin Rush to his side, embracing him tightly. `` Oh, my God ! Are you all right, hon ? ``

'Hon ?'Harry opened his eyes tentatively and was stunned at the view before him. Ginny and Neville had their baton pointed at an immobilize Lucius. genus Draco was weakly attempting to stomach up and judging from his glass over expression, he also could n't conceive that he was still alive. But the image of Ron consoling a dolorous Hermione was deeply disturbing.

`` W-what happened ? '' he asked worriedly.

Ron did not reply. Instead, he let his head hang low and pointed one trembling finger's breadth at a physique lying on the ground.

Harry gradually turned his gaze to where Ron 's finger led to, fearing the worst but he had to know. A gloomy quiet followed as he stared in shock at the limp and exanimate conformation of the one who saved his life.

It was Dobby -- - Dobby, the house-elf.

It was then that he realized how much he must experience meant to Dobby for him to do that. And before he realized it, tears had begun to go down on his cheeks as everything that Dobby had done for him come up flashing back in his memories.



`` Dobby has come…to warn you…There 's a plot…a plot of land to make terrible things… ''

`` Err…Dobby, why do n't you sit down ? ``

`` Sit down ? Sit down ? I 've never been asked to sit down by a wizard…like an equal… ''

=============================================================

`` Why are you doing this, Dobby ? ``

`` Dobby has to warn Harry Potter and if my master knew….Dobby had to press his hands… ''

`` So you sent those bludgers to help oneself me ? ! ? Be glad that my finger cymbals have not grown back or I 'd have strangled you to death… ''

`` Dobby is used to death threats, sir. Dobby gets them five times a day at home…. ``

=============================================================


`` What can Dobby do for you, Mister Harry ceramist ? Do you desire some cooky ? ``

`` No, Dobby. I just dropped by to give your gift. ``

`` Oh, Mister Harry thrower is so kind. Thank you very much ! ! ! '' Dobby hugged him and jumped up and down as if seven pairs of sock were the most precious gift in the world.

`` Just call me Harry. That 's what my friend call me. ``

`` A f-friend ? You think of Dobby as a f-friend ? ``


Dobby had risked his life legion times to help him. He broke the house-elf code to warn him of the danger ahead and suffered hard hurt because of it. If it were not for Dobby, he would n't experience found out about the room of necessity -- where the DA was formed in rebelliousness to Dolores Umbridge 's sorry didactics ; where they took sanctuary after the fall of Hogwarts ; and most importantly, it was where Harry and Luna had been drawn to each other.

Dobby had always been there for him even if he and his friends just needed something as trivial as midnight snacks or hot coffee. And what had he given him in return -- windsock ?

Another sharp wailing brought him back to his senses.

`` Mister ceramist is the dandy wizard alive. He gave Dobby his exemption. He treated elves as equals…Mister Potter gave our dignity back. '' The small elf 's shoulders trembled as she spoke those earnest words. It was Winky and Harry felt more contrite than ever. Dobby was the one who inspired the elves to trust that they were not inferior beings…and now, he was gone.

`` I 'm sorry, Winky. '' was all that Harry could manage to say. He felt that a lummox had formed in his throat and he could n't say anything else. His booster were silent as well.

`` It was not your fault, sir. It was the evil man 's geological fault. '' cried the elf and hugged Harry as if to console him.

`` How reach ! I never thought you had any real fear for that brute. ''

The grouping wheeled around to see who had dared relieve oneself a pasquinade of their brokenheartedness. It was Voldemort. The invocation was completed and he strode to them with so much confidence that it was quite unnerving.

`` You 're alone now, Tom. You 're minions were gone. Why do n't just give up while you still got the chance ? I really do n't want to wipe out anyone -- even you….especially you. I do n't want my hands to be tainted with your poisoned bloodline. '' stated Harry, his rage building once more.

`` Give up ? You must be kidding, Potter. Once I 've won, I can always resurrect my followers and raise some more mighty one. '' replied the dark lord, his amazing show of serenity baffling the chemical group. `` I have finished the summoning. '' he declared triumphantly.

`` Well, that 's rather obvious. '' said Harry dryly. `` But it 's also obvious that the dementors have managed to trammel the souls. ``

`` Oh, that…I forgot to mention that I only need one ... ''

`` W-what do you mean ? '' asked Ginny anxiously.

`` Slytherin 's soul had come and transferred his abilities to me. '' the wickedness lord replied proudly.

Harry laughed derisively. `` You mean you went to all that trouble for that ? My good ! I thought that you, after claiming that you 're Slytherin 's heir, had already inherited it. But of course you had do something extra since you 're not a double-dyed descent. ``

The dark God Almighty merely scowled at his remark. `` I 'm sure you wo n't witness it humorous once I 'm through with you. ``

`` demonstrate it then. '' challenged Harry, his tone not wavering a bit. The sooner he learned what his opposition 's new powers were, the better.

The iniquity Godhead 's eyes turned blood red with fury at the aggravation. He raised his hands and turned everything to ice.

`` How about that, Potter ? '' Voldemort grinned maliciously. Before Harry could say anything, he swept his hand once more and trapped everyone present in a frigid square block. `` Or that ? They would die there, Potter…no one could withstand that cold but at least, they would detain that way forever. '' The dark cackled merrily at his achievement.

`` You 've become an elemental… '' whispered Harry in surprise.

`` Brilliant deduction ! And our link was the lonesome matter that saved you from that fate. But it does n't matter. Now they would find your death and would not be able-bodied to do anything. We 're both alone. ''

The dark God Almighty rambled more about his achievement, how keen and powerful he had become, and what he would do after…unfortunately, he had lost his troglodyte audience. Harry had already conjured a huge ball of fire and was currently thawing the ice to free his ally. Half-way through, Voldemort had noticed the lack of angry comeback and terrified shrieks.

`` CRUCIO ! '' he yelled and roared with malicious laughter as he watched Harry crash on the ground, writhing in pain.

Harry struggled to see how his friends were doing and was puzzled to see them all frantically pointing their fingers upwards. Curiously, he looked up to take in what the excitement was all about. The portal was still open -- - so what ? Then he saw it, or them to be precise. Then he smiled. assist has arrived and just in time…

hard drink of his parents, Dumbledore, Sirius, Cedric and Dobby formed a ghostly shield around him to distract Voldemort while another swiftly entered the circle.

`` What are you doing, boy ? You 'll never pull in this without your old wand. '' admonished the spirit of an old man with wide sick center that effulgence like the moon light. Harry wondered how he ever got the creepy impression when he had bought his wand from him before. The old man had a sort face and a wise, penetrating regard that reminded him of Dumbledore.

`` But my wand was broken ... '' argued Harry weakly.

`` Is it your verge or not ? '' Harry nodded reluctantly. `` Then summon it and let me do the eternal sleep. ``

Harry held out his manus and focused his brain on his wand. It was an strange combination - holly and phoenix feather, eleven inch, squeamish and supple. `` Accio baton ! '' To his astonishment, a rustling of wind paved the path for Fawkes as it zoomed towards him. Then the phoenix stopped and flew directly to Mr. Ollivander, dropping Harry 's verge to his outstretched hand.

Harry watched in awe as Mr. Ollivander voiced out another ancient incantation. The genus Phoenix flew around the old man and a golden fire began to encircle both of them. The beloved wand disintegrated but its mote remained suspended in mid-air. Mr Ollivander danced around the raging ardour that seemed unaffected by the thunderstorm, waving his hired man in a smooth-flowing move. null else mattered as the phoenix feather wrapped around the splinters of woodwind instrument, joining them together.

Harry stood transfixed as the legendary razz shed a tear on his wand 's Congress of Racial Equality. The process was stark. Finally, the greatest wandmaker of all metre, handed the revived verge to its true owner.

`` Try it. '' said the wandmaker.

Harry raised the scepter above his head, brought it swishing down through the damp air and a stream of red and atomic number 79 sparks shot from the end like a firework, throwing dancing spots of light on to the sky.
The wandmaker smiled and bowed slightly. He did not comport the dark reflexion of someone who had lived through the darkest of clock time. He just seemed contented that his missionary work had been fulfilled.

`` I knew you were destined for cracking matter, Mister ceramicist. I am deeply honored for having met you, not because you are the boy-who-lived but because you are a truly marvelous individual. You have suffered so much yet still maintained your ability to care for others. ``

`` Thank you, sir. ''

`` It 's my pleasance. Now, execute your destiny and please do be safe, Harry. It 's not your prison term yet. You still have a longsighted and fruitful life ahead of you. ``

`` I take it you 're going then ? '' asked Harry regretfully.

`` Unfortunately, yes. We could only stay for a few min. We 're not meant be here. ``

`` Did Voldemort kill you, too ? ``

`` Yes, he did when I refused to make him a more right wand. But do n't vanquish him out of retaliation. Do it because it 's the right matter to do. '' said the wise, old man as his spirit slowly faded.

Harry waved and turned to the ghosts shielding him.

`` I wish we 'd become friends then, Harry. You 're a cool down guy. '' said Cedric and smiled to show that he meant what he said.

`` Dobby is all right, Harry. Dobby did something honorable and he 's proud of it. Professor Dumbledore said death is just another adventure and he 's right. Please tell Winky that Dobby will keep an eye on over her and that she must continue what we 've started. '' said Dobby in his usual high tone.

`` We 're so proud of you, son. We know you could do it this time. '' stated Lily and James.

`` Everything 's going to be fine. '' stated Sothis in a mysterious feeling.

`` Do n't worry, Harry. Tom may be the successor of Slytherin but you are Gryffindor 's successor and you do n't need to perform that nonsensical ritual to get it. If my knowledge of our enemy is still accurate, then I 'd dare utter that you 'll see out soon enough. '' said Dumbledore in the mystic flavour, his centre twinkling in amusement.

Harry tearfully nodded and waved as the spirits vanished. `` Thank you all. I hope your efforts would n't be wasted this time. ``

As the psyche disappeared, the revolting face of his foe came to view once more.

`` So, the reunion is finally over. You think having your wand back would help oneself ? '' The shadow Almighty fuss viciously. `` You 're still no match for the index of Salazar Slytherin ! '' With that, Voldemort raised his hand and the storm instantly became more violent. He integrated the lightning and brutally hurled it towards the boy 's weak body.

Silence.

Nothing could be heard as the lightning struck Harry 's frail form. The shock forced the primer coat to crack, burying Harry 's body inside.

`` DIE ! potter, DIE ! '' Voldemort hollered and hooted maniacally. The electricity overload would surely reduce the boy to ash. There would be no eubstance to resurrect…it would definitely be beyond recognition…heck, not even the scar would be seeable. He danced around like crazy and hexed around wildly. He frowned at that. It was not as pleasurable as cursing real people. He thought some more. 'What the inferno ? potter 's dead…might as well have some fun with his friends…'

With that demonic theme, he commanded the wind to make way and a blaze fire erupted from his hands. He flung them on Harry 's admirer for they were the doomed ones nearest to his location. His oculus fell on the stock-still soundbox of Snape and Wormtail as he searched for other people to encounter with. Another cruel grin crossed his back talk. 'Ah, the treasonist ! I 'll sell with them later…'. He waited for the six fig to recognise the to the full impingement of the site. He did n't have to wait long.

`` HARRRYYY ! ! ! ! ``

`` Merlin ! Did any of you see what happened ? ``

`` No, the storm had blurred my vision… ''

`` But where 's Harry ? ``

`` Perhaps I can shed light on you… ''

The six turned around anxiously and were extremely upset to see the dark Almighty standing coolly there while their admirer was nowhere to be found. It was not just but they did not say anything. Instead, they glared at him with unconcealed defiance.

`` Still stubborn I see. '' smirked Voldemort. `` But your pathetic champion 's dead… ''

An astonish secrecy followed. Then Luna bravely stepped forward and arched an eyebrow. `` You 're lying. '' she declared with such clarity that everyone was inclined to believe her.

`` No ? Then look at that sting pass. potter 's buried there. No one could live after being struck by multiple lightning. ``

`` No one should subsist after being struck by the Aveda Kedavra curse either but he did. '' stated Hermione matter-of-factly, putting on her irritating know-it-all stance.

The grim lord became greatly annoyed at the reminder. `` IT DOES N'T MATTER IF YOU BELIEVE IT OR NOT. THE POINT IS HE 'S DEAD. NO ONE 'S GOING TO SAVE YOU NOW. '' he roared hysterically, momentarily losing his control condition over the situation.

`` Then we 're just going to deliver ourselves. '' declared Neville and courageously sent a daze spell to the iniquity lord.

`` Yeah, you wo n't get rid of us that easily ! '' yelled Dragon and cast his own swearing to him.

The six teenager forgot their reservations and begun flinging cuss at him at every opportunity. Voldemort 's eyes held a maniac glint as he dodged the curses sent his way and took great pleasure in bringing unrivaled infliction to his 'toys'. When he noticed that his playmates could n't play to his satisfaction, he got tired of the secret plan and summoned the lightning once more.

`` Game over. '' The dark lord muttered wickedly as he brought down the lightning to incinerate their bodies.

The six stripling tried to swan out of the way but they need n't let bothered. The reversal never came.

`` Hey, Tom ! Did you miss me ? ``

`` W-what ? H-how ? '' Voldemort stammered in surprise.

`` My scar absorbed the lightning, idiot. It was quite rejuvenating. I feel like a newly charged barrage. You should try it sometime. ''

The six teenagers watched in amazement as Harry floated on the ground with one hand controlling the guidance of lightning.

`` How about now ? '' asked Harry before calmly pushing the lightning to Voldemort 's location.

Voldemort 's eyes widened in panic and stuck one hand to turn away the visible electric car discharge. He had no scar that could take in and he was not really in the mode to turn out if he would be revitalized by it.

`` Scared now, Tom. You must bear forgotten one tiny item in your haste to nail the spell - once the portal is open air, you could not filter the spirit that would go forth. I am Gryffindor 's successor and he had also transferred his elementary power to me. ''

Voldemort grew more desperate as it became increasingly obvious that his reward over the boy had vanished into thin air. He only had one more trick up his sleeve. He knew Hogwart 's do not teach this old fight proficiency anymore.

`` ACCIO SLYTHERIN 'S SWORD ! ! ! '' he yelled and a ash gray blade with a serpent emblem elegantly embellished on its hilt came flying out of nowhere. It was also covered with a viscous viridity marrow that emitted a marked-up smell.

'Poison…'Harry thought in disgust,

Voldemort gripped the weapon system tightly and glared menacingly at the boy. Godric Gryffindor was a superb swordsman in his time but that ability could not be transferred. It had to be acquired through strict training and years of exercise. 'The Potter kid would be helpless this prison term .'His lightness was magnified as he watched Potter 's hesitancy. What he did not know was that Harry 's want of enthusiasm was for an entirely unlike reason.

`` Accio Gryffindor 's steel ! '' Harry sighed heavily. He had hoped that blades would not be used in his engagement with Voldemort. The prophecy was gradually coming admittedly and he did not like the mind of a pre-determined destiny. It made him feel like a thing and not a person with his own dislodge will. Nevertheless, the berth was there and he had to go through with it however loth he may be. He just hoped that after this, there would be no other ludicrous prophecies hanging over his head.

With their sword on one hand and sceptre at other, the duel began. Voldemort immediately thrusted his front leg and stabbed Harry with his sword arm. Harry blocked the blow before the vane could advert his trunk but it grazed his arm lightly instead. Voldemort excitedly watched the bloodline muck from his trunk before performing some feints to lead astray his opposer into parrying in a different direction. Harry counter-attacked by performing a complicated sword dance that he knew would tremendously annoy his opponent. He had expected Voldemort to tire out easily and just yielding but it seemed that Voldemort did not see it as an option.

As the duel transpired, both proved to be skilled in the art of swordsmanship. Then their swords met with a loud clash and the sudden impact caused the sword to ricochet in opposition direction.

Harry was the first to recover from the emphatic collision. He turned to where the blade had fallen. `` ACCIO SWORD ! '' he shouted and held out his right mitt to take hold of the blade on its ruby hilt. To his amazement, two swords came rushing to his hand instead of just one.

Voldemort had noticed it too and immediately lunged forward in an attempt to catch the blade before it reached Harry 's deal. But he was too late…Harry had dropped his scepter and promptly caught the two swords on his hired hand. The sudden noise caused Harry to flex around in hastiness, with both blades sticking out…and he did n't induce adequate meter to respond. It all happened so fast. He just saw a blur of cause before Voldemort painfully collided with the sharp-edge of a brand. And yes, Harry noted wryly as Voldemort 's lifeless soundbox collapsed on the ground, it was the envenom sword -- Sword of Slytherin.

... he shall buy the farm by his own sword ... and his cadaver shall shack at the snake 's bedchamber till the end of time ... ''

Suddenly, Harry felt hot bout sliding down his cheeks. 'Merlin, it 's over ! It 's finally over !'He could n't believe it. After respective years of struggle, innumerable death, and mass destruction….the night Day have passed. He had his wish…now he could live in peace…No to a greater extent prophecies…no more fighting…just knit stitch, rule life….just like everyone else.

He felt his supporter approaching…their footprint hesitant…as if they, too could n't believe their eyes.

`` Harry ? It 's over, is n't it ? '' It was Draco. And his expression was hopeful, his wan gentle center betraying all unshed emotions that he had carefully hidden all those class. Why should he ? He was free now…No more drab Almighty to worry about…No more father to impress. Lucius had made it sack up that he was no son of his and he was very well with that. 'Good riddance !'he thought happily without even a tinge of regret. Lucius had never really been a beginner to him anyway.

Harry slightly nodded his head in verification. Then a slight joke escaped his parched throat as a strange realization dawned on him…'How ironic ! After all the bother he went through….Merlin ! The divinity must be drunk when they pre-determined that destiny. '' his laugh intensified at the opinion. 'The most vicious, most slyness, most malevolent sorcerer of all time died in …an….accident ...'

`` Are you, okay ? '' Luna asked tenderly when she noticed the strange emotions passing through his face. `` You do actualise what happened, do n't you ? ``

`` Yeah… '' replied Harry. An pose disbelief still written on his face.

`` Well, the prophecy did fare true but technically, you 're not a murderer, Harry, so do n't rankle too much about it… '' said Hermione to console what she thought was a guilt-stricken best friend.

`` Could you believe it ? He died in accident…and by his own sword too… '' Harry suddenly stopped and glanced at his arm. The stinging sensation on his arm where Slytherin 's Sword had grazed before was making him queasy. And he wanted nothing but to succumb to the swarthiness that was beginning to subdue his senses…
writer 's billet : This is the last chapter, finally ! So please review, thanks to everyone ....



epilogue

July 2009 ( 12 years later ... )


`` Everything went hazy for Harry after that. Definitely, Guy Fawkes came to mend his wound and he had locked Voldemort 's remains in the sleeping accommodation of Secrets. The wickedness man 's remains will be locked away forever since aside from Harry, there is no other parseltongue alive. '' said the storyteller to the kid in front of him. They were clearly engrossed by the unknown tarradiddle and that encouraged him to continue. `` The bad guys were imprisoned in Azkaban including prick Pettigrew. '' The children groaned at that. `` Hey, the man still had to pay his debt to society you know but do n't worry, he had accepted his fate and was very practically will to follow. ``

`` What happened to the others ? '' asked a bushy-haired fille with an amazing passion for information as her mother.

`` Oh, impatient, are we ? Well, Mr. Arthur Weasley was still the Minister and a bazaar and reliable one at that. He was also very active in advocating the rightfulness of other creatures like house-elves, werewolf, centaurs and hob. Professor McGonagall was still the Headmistress. professor Snape relinquished his position as the Head of Slytherin household and Potions passe-partout to Dragon who turned out to be truly efficient with his job. Professor Snape also assisted the new DADA teacher from time to time -- guessing who ? ``

`` Harry thrower ? '' asked a red-headed boy with blanch profane eyes.

The story-teller smiled. `` Sorry, untimely resolution. Actually, it was Neville. His parents recovered later on since Lucius Malfoy was not there to reward their temporary insanity anymore. He also married Susan off-white after he graduated and had a very charming small fry. '' The children cheered in response. They had liked Neville too and were gladiolus that everything had turned right for him in the end.

The story-teller continued. `` Lavender was a seer unfortunately, she still could n't control her gift so she tried a dissimilar career. She and the Patil twins opened a boutique at Hogsmeade. Fred and George 's prank shop prospered and were giving the legendary Zonko 's a run for their money. Lee helped them with the stage business and later on, the three hoaxer married Angelina, Katie and Cho respectively. Colin Creevey became the new History of conjuration teacher, would you believe ? He made the subject very interesting that no one sleeps through the object lesson anymore. Unfortunately, he still hero-worshipped Harry and had the tendency to center all his lectures on him. '' The story-teller grimaced at that but fortunately, the tiddler did not notice.

`` But what happened to the dementors ? Did Harry order them to return to Azkaban ? '' asked a beautiful raven-haired young woman. Fortunately, she did not inherit the unkempt visual aspect of her founding father 's hair as well.

The story-teller visibly shuddered at the hint. `` Merlin, no ! Harry sent them back to their world though he never relinquished his spatial relation as the king. He just appointed an officer-in-charge. He believed it was the right thing to do. That way, no emerging darkness lord would be able to control them. ``

The children nodded, satisfied with the explanation.

`` What happened to the DA ? Did they dissolve ? '' asked a faint-hearted boy who was a little on the heavy side but his friends never teased him about it. The boy was so kind and gentle that they never wanted to hurt his feelings.

The story-teller smiled once more than. `` I knew individual would ask that inquiry eventually. '' He said gently then he paused for a while to wipe his glasses that had become quite misty. `` To everyone 's surprise, none of the DA phallus wanted to became aurors but nobody condemned them for that. Somehow the people understood without any need for explanations. And anyway, the darkness times had passed so there was no intense demand for that. Hermione married Ron and had a beautiful daughter as smart as her mother and as good at Quidditch as her male parent. She became the head of the section of Magical animate being while Ron became the Keeper for the Chudley shank, his ducky team. Draco married Ginny and were gifted with a son who fortunately inherited his female parent 's good looks -- - ''

`` Hey, what are you talking about, Mooney ? '' cried the new-arrival in mock objection. He had silvery-blond haircloth and pale blue optic. Walking beside him was a beautiful red-head who had stifled a giggle after hearing his words.

`` Hi there, Devon. We were just talking about my wife 's new book. I just wanted to see if the account was trade good enough to be published. '' The dark-haired story-teller grinned mischievously. `` And I was just telling them how prosperous Draco 's son was for inheriting his female parent 's good looks… ''

`` Oh, yeah ? I think you got it wrong…he got it from his Greek God Church Father. Callah, why are you laughing ? '' Devon grumbled about some unsupportive married woman but he was grinning too.

The story-teller shrugged them off. `` Anyway, enough with the distraction. Ginny became the Head of Magical Education and I already told you about what happened to the astound bounce ferret so I do n't need to repeat that. '' The children laughed while Devon glared at the story-teller. `` Harry and Luna married later and had twins…. ``

`` Like us, dad ? '' asked the raven-haired lady friend and a pale-blond haired boy.

`` Yes, like you….They left the wizarding world and only their skinny supporter knew where they were and what their concern were but they lived happily ever after. '' Lander Mooney, the story-teller closed the Bible and watched the kid 's reactions. `` And that 's the end of Lana 's last book entitled 'Harry potter and the doomed Prophecy'. Do you like the taradiddle ? ``

`` Yes, we liked it very much, dad ! ``

`` That 's a cool write up, Uncle Lander. But where 's Aunt Lana ? ``

`` Oh, she 's preparing your snacks right now. You see she 's quite skittish about your reaction so she decided not to be here while I tell you the account. ``

`` Oh, but we liked it, uncle ! ``

`` Then you can tell her yourself later. I 'll just go and see if she needs help. '' lander stood up and headed for the kitchen. Devon and Ginny followed shortly.

`` Do you believe it 's wise to publish that book, Harry ? '' asked Draco suddenly, dropping the pretense.

`` Why not ? It 's very educational and peck of small fry will profit from it. ``

`` Wo n't we be discovered ? '' asked Ginny, voicing out her own concern.

`` I wo n't be risking the exposure of our world since it will only be released in the muggle world and they would all call up that it 's just a normal pouf tale. '' Harry replied calmly then smiled when he saw his married woman nervously wringing her hands while staring half-heartedly at the sandwiches and juice on the table.

`` Did the small fry like it ? '' she asked worriedly.

`` Like it ? No, they did not like it…. '' His married woman 's beautiful boldness fell in disappointment. `` They did not like it….but they loved it, hon ! '' he said and embraced her wife tightly.

Lana 's eyes immediately shone with felicity. Then shyly, she removed herself from Harry 's arms when she noticed Dragon and Ginny smiling knowingly at them. `` Oh, hi ! '' she said then remembered the bite she promised to the Kyd. `` Why do n't you all help me bring in the food to the child ? They must be athirst by now…after all, it was a very long novel. ``

POP !
POP !
POP !
POP !

The four adults were surprised at the sudden racket that could only be identified with apparation but they were not bothered by it anymore.

`` Came to take your fry, I suppose… '' commented Harry, pleased to see the new-arrivals but did not like the mode of transportation they had used.

`` Oops, sorry, mate. We had planned to use the car but the traffic was so heavy and we could n't wait to see you again. '' said a tall and finely-built man with a mass of red-hair. It was Ron.

`` Yes, we have something urgent to talk about. '' said Hermione, still bushy-haired but was not bothered by it.

`` Very pressing. '' Neville agreed, his timidity gone but the gentle style was still evident.

`` Shh…let 's us talk about this later… '' said Susan Bones-Longbottom as she helped Luna progress to some more sandwiches.

After everything had settled down, the eight adult witch and wizards carried the food and walked silently to where the small fry were. They stopped in their tracks when they noticed that the children were discussing something…interesting.

`` Your mom 's a really great writer. I wonder where she got all her ideas ... I mean they 're so detailed…the characters and events are so real. She described everything so vividly as if she was there and witnessed it all happen…It 's freaky ! '' commented Dragon and Ginny 's son.

`` Well, she 's a small weird. Mom said she used to crack at her for making up stories but they ended up as Friend anyway and your mom put her creativity to good use. '' said the Weasley 's daughter.

Hermione eyed Luna sheepishly but Luna waved her off. `` It was a retentive time ago, Hermione, and as your daughter mentioned, we ended up as booster anyway. '' said Luna with a warm smile.

`` Do you think there 's a chance that Hogwarts really exists ? '' asked the Longbottom child.

`` No way ! It 's pure fiction. Mom said so. '' replied potter 's son and crossed his arms stubbornly as if the topic had already been settled.

`` But it would be cool, do n't you think ? '' commented thrower 's daughter dreamily. `` Just recall, we 've all just turned eleven and if that 's real, then we could all go. ``

`` Yeah, assuredness ! Provided that we 'd all go to Gryffindor House, of course. Apparently, it 's the best house there. ``

Behind the door, the Gryffindor 's nearly choked with laughter at the sight of Draco 's horrified expression but they all knew he was just kidding around. They continued to listen.

`` You know I really find it weird that our birthday are so near each other. ``

`` I know what you mean. It 's such a strange coincidence. It almost seem that we 're all rip blood brother 's and sister. ``

`` happenstance, my foot ! It 's necessity, youngster ! We all thought we 're going to die then…. '' muttered Draco under his breathing space as he listened to the tike 's conversation. The others nodded in agreement.

The adults decided to put an end to discussion before it gets out of hand when, out of the blue, four tawny owls soared through the capable animation room window and dropped several fatheaded parchment on the nestling 's laps. The grownup were unprepared to see the purple wax seal on the lambskin complete with the familiar elegant'H'with the miniature images of social lion, serpent, badger and eagle embellished around it.

They turned to their children who were gazing at them expectantly instead of being terrified upon learning that they 're different. The small fry had just finished reading their letters and were patiently waiting for an explanation.

`` Is this a japery ? '' one of minor asked when the grownup failed to say anything. The excitement in his vox betrayed the fact that he wanted the letter to be authentic.

Again, no reply. The grownup just stared at one another in muddiness. They knew this minute would come eventually but they have n't discussed it thoroughly yet.

`` This is precisely what we wanted to speak to you about, mate. '' Ron whispered to Harry 's ear.

The nipper eyed them suspiciously.

`` If these letters are what we believe they are, then you 've all got a lot of explaining to do. '' another one ventured courageously after a very long and uncomfortable silence.

Finally, the writer of the Harry Potter series relented. `` Yes, I think we do. '' Then she motioned her hubby and the others to sit comfortably as what she was about to say would take a very recollective time to complete. `` Now, let me tell you the very story…. ``

THE END

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