Harry Potter and the Pandora's Box

By: Ivan D. Wright


Chapter One: Fleeting Thoughts

It had been a little over three years since Lord Voldemort met his end at the hands of Harry Potter. Despite the tragic loss of Neville Longbottom and his parents, many across Wizarding Britain celebrated.

However, Harry Potter, the young man that saved the world again, had his doubts. The final battle at the Ministry of Magic had been… well… anti-climactic, to say the least. Sure, there was the grand battle between him, Dumbledore and Lord Voldemort but his end seemed so easy that it left Harry feeling odd.

He had voiced his concerns to the Headmaster, his friends, and even Sirius and Lupin but each and every one of them had waved off his concerns. Not that he blamed them really, who would want to worry that the most dangerous man in the world might not really be dead, when most of the Order of the Phoenix and several Ministry Officials saw him delivering the final blow to Voldemort?

Harry shook his head and looked at the sunset. Even after surrounding himself with such peaceful scenery, being around nature, Harry could not forget his inner turmoil.

Everyone was safe; there were no more attacks against him and his friends but why?

Harry slammed his tightly clenched fist to the ground. 'Why can't I shake this feeling?' he thought with frustration.

He had asked himself that question countless times. Desperate for answers and relief, Harry had sneaked into Grimmauld Place late at night, one night after he had graduated from Hogwarts to be exact. He had written Sirius a letter of explanation, along with an apology for 'borrowing' his bike, and took off immediately with Hedwig.

He knew no one would really worry. For all they knew, or cared, Harry's life was no longer targeted. Though, they did wonder what he was up to and how he was doing. He had received many owls during the time he had spent on the road, driving and flying aimlessly.

He had received updates on the lives of his friends due to their letters. Hermione was aiming to be a Transfiguration Professor and is currently under Professor McGonagall's tutelage.

Luna was already a reporter for The Quibbler, something that did not really surprise him. He would remind himself to pick up a copy somewhere in a Wizarding town and read one of her articles.

Ginny is working at her brothers' workshop in Diagon Alley. That one surprised him a little. He figured she would be working under Madam Malkin's with the way she dressed.

The one that had really surprised him was Ron. He had made it into the Auror's! He felt a surge of pride in knowing his friend was going to be part of weeding out those corrupt ministry officials. He'll be working along side Tonks and Kingsley, reporting directly under the new Minister of Magic, Amelia Bones.

It's been a year since his departure from them and he missed them terribly but he couldn't return to them yet. Not the way he was now.

Standing up and dusting himself off, Harry climbed over his, or rather Sirius', motorbike. The bike itself was nothing impressive but it held sentimental value to him. It's something of Sirius' and it was just like having his Godfather here with him. Starting up the bike he looked up top the tree where he was leaning on moments ago. "Hedwig, it's time to go."

There was a shuffle and finally Hedwig burst through the branches and leaves. The snowy white owl gave a hoot in acknowledgement and flew circles around him.

He hit the gas and began to ride with Hedwig flying behind him. 'Where to go now?' he wondered. Currently he was in Turkey, near the Mediterranean Sea. He had been to several countries already; France, Italy, Poland, Germany, and Greece. He had such an experience in each country; and he couldn't wait until he visited another.

Slowly the motorbike rose in altitude. Once at a high enough altitude, away from the eyes of Muggles, he switched on the autopilot and pulled out a map. 'Hmm' he thought as he placed his finger at his location. He was flying southeast, toward the Mediterranean Sea. Across from there lay the more of the Middle East.

Harry traced his finger from Israel to Palestine to Jordan then finally…

"What do you think of Saudi Arabia Hedwig?" he yelled.

His owl lowered her altitude and flew beside him. She hooted several times then gave him a reproachful look, Harry smiled. "I know it's hot there but come on now, where's your adventurous spirit?"

Again, she hooted several times then gave him another reproachful look.

"Of course I will make sure you will have plenty of water should we decide to travel through the desert."

Hedwig let out one last hoot before rising in altitude

"Alright! Saudi Arabia, here we come!"


Grimmauld Place remained the same as it always was; rundown and gloomy. However, despite the house's dark past, Sirius has made several changes here and there. The guestrooms had fresh new sheets, pillows and mattresses and not only that but the walls no longer had holes, due to some rat infestations.

The bathrooms, apart from the kitchen, were the cleanest part of the entire house. It held several towels, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste's and toilet papers. The walls, no longer wood, had been painted light blue and the floors, which were also wood, was now a light pink marble floor.

Mostly everything was going under renovations. The kitchens, the drawing room, and finally the owner's Master Bedroom.

Most of the now former members of the Order of the Phoenix were surprised when they entered the once gloomy and rundown house. While Sirius still needed to work on a few rooms and the hallways, Grimmauld Place was finally becoming homely.

No one could figure out the reason why Sirius had decided to create the change but one Hermione Granger, who was currently sitting at the table in Kitchen, could very well guess the reason.

His godson, her best friend, Harry Potter, had simply vanished from the face of the world. Normally this would have driven her to insanity with worry but she knew Harry was still alive and well. Their owls always returned to them without the mail they sent him.

This did not stop her from missing him, sadly.

He had departed one night after they graduated from Hogwarts. The Weasley's held a grand party after the graduation ceremony. It had lasted throughout the night. She could still remember the laughing faces of her friends as they danced around to whatever music the Weird Sister's were playing.

Everyone seemed to be having a great time, or so she thought. She had glanced over at Harry's direction and saw his uneasy, paranoid face.

She finished her conversation with Alicia Spinnet and walked over to him. His eyes seemed clouded and his eyebrows furrowed together; a clear indication that he was in deep thought.

He was sitting at a table, alone, wearing the tuxedo robes that were identical to the ones he wore at their Yule Ball in their fourth year. He looked handsome.

It was amazing to her how much Harry Potter had changed since he had killed He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named two years ago. He was no longer the pale, skinny, malnourished boy she remembered him being for the first 5 years she has known him.

He was taller though Ron was still taller than him. His body had filled out and contained muscles and his skin was no longer as pale. His face held the most drastic changes however. His jaw became more chiseled and his cheeks held little to no fat. His hair was slightly longer, he would have a mane of hair, like Godric Gryffindor, if he would let it grow out more but this was not what floored her.

No, what floored her most was his eyes; those piercing, green colored eyes. Every time she looked into them, when they talked, she could see how much he had matured. Yet, deep within those emerald eyes held sorrow, confusion and anger.

She did not know why and she was sure he was thinking about the cause of his inner turmoil. And so, there she was, standing right next to him, hoping to help her friend.

"Harry?" she said as she tapped his shoulder. She saw him snap out of his reverie and looked up at her.

"Yes Hermione? What's up?"

She stared into his eyes and barely managed not to lose herself in them. "Just wondering what has you in such a bind."

He furrowed his brows in thought, "What do you mean?"

"What I mean is," she looked at the dance floor, where many wizards and witches, their friends, were dancing. "Why are you not there having fun?"

Harry followed her line of sight then looked back up at her, "You know very well that I cannot dance and besides…" he hesitated.

She raised an eyebrow at him, "Besides what?"

He stood up, and then motioned for her to follow him into the Burrow. He led her into Ron's bedroom. Once inside, she closed the door and allowed him to silence the room with a spell.

"Well?" she asked him.

Harry had leaned against the wall near the window. He was looking at the party most likely she guessed.

"I've been thinking about Voldemort." He missed Hermione flinch at the name, "and about the final battle at the Ministry of Magic."

"What about it? Don't tell me you still feel uneasy?"

"I do and the feeling has intensified for the past several days. I need answers Hermione and I'm not getting them. I've gotten desperate that I've spent most of seventh year at the Department of Mysteries, the Atrium at the Ministry of Magic and Voldemort's hidden fortress searching for clues."

"What exactly are you looking for?"

"Hermione, don't you think it was a little too easy? A little far-fetched?" Hermione gave him a quizzical look and he sighed. "The final battle Hermione, he was too easily defeated."

Hermione shook her head. He had brought this up before. Too easily defeated, she almost scoffed but knew that it would only serve to hurt and infuriate her friend. It did not look easy, from what she was told. "You and Dumbledore overwhelmed him Harry. You're not weak, you know."

"I was back then. I have yet to wrap my head around the fact that Voldemort and I were almost even matched."

"If what you say is so then with Dumbledore's aid, both of you overwhelmed him. You killed him. Despite the reservations you may have about him still being out there, fact of the matter is Harry," he turned to look at her, "Most of the Order of the Phoenix and several Ministry Officials, even Fudge himself, saw you utter the Avada Kadavra curse. They all saw as its green light shot Voldemort, aimed directly at his heart."

Harry cursed in frustration and ran his hand in his hair. "There are still questions Hermione. Questions I desperately need answers to."

"Like what?" she nearly yelled. She was beginning to get angry. Why can't he accept that the threat was over? What was this obsession?

"His wand Hermione! Where is his wand?!" Harry had yelled in anger and frustration. "No matter how much I search through my memories, the Ministry and his Fortress, I cannot see it nor find it after he died. It just did not sprout legs and walk away, someone took it and I need to know why!"

"You have to let it go Harry! It's all over! The threat of death no longer hovers above your head. You need to let it go and enjoy your life now that the world is at peace." She nearly begged him, "Please Harry."

She saw him nod and look away, out the window. She mentally gave herself a pat on the back. "Thank you. I know it's still a difficult adjustment in getting into a normal life and I don't blame you for that. He has sought your death throughout your first five years at Hogwarts. You were constantly being targeted by Death Eaters and was constantly protected and trained for battle by the Order." She saw him close his eyes. "And it's okay Harry. It will take time getting used to a normal life. I'm here for you Harry, to help you."

Hermione walked toward him. The entire time they spoke, she had been leaning against the door, across from him. She let her hand cup his cheek and he turned to look at her. "I'm here to help Harry. You can always talk to me."

"I understand Hermione." He moved and wrapped his hand around hers, gave her a brief smile, before walking around her to the door. "Thank you."

Those were the last words he ever said to her before he vanished.

She gripped her cup of warm tea. She had wanted to kiss him before he pulled away. She didn't know why but she felt herself wanting to and now she was struggling with longing. She missed him. She missed him very dearly.

"A sickle for your thoughts?" she heard a deep voice say. She turned her attention to the door.

"Sirius, I was just thinking about Harry."

Sirius Black sighed, he had spent most of his time fixing up the place just to get his mind off his Godson, and he really did not want to talk about Harry. However, with the sad look Hermione has, he doubt he'd have any choice. "What about him?"

Hermione's eyes followed him as he took the seat across from her, indulging himself in the warm tea that was left in the teapot. "Just about the last time I saw him, our last conversation before he left."

"Oh? I didn't know you two had talked. Do you know why he left?"

Hermione took a sip of her tea before she answered him, "He's looking for answers." At Sirius's questioning look, she elaborated, "He still thinks Voldemort is out there."

Sirius grimaced, 'Ah' he thought, "I see. I remember when he told me about his questions, his doubts. I can't really believe him; after all, I saw it all on Dumbledore's pensieve."

"I know what you're going to say, 'He was shot with the Killing Curse from point blank range.' And you're right. I would say the same thing. Not to mention, Voldemort's head was severed just to make sure he'd stay dead."

"Yeah and the former Minister even ordered the body to be burned before ousted."

"I just don't see why he would have doubts."

"I guess it's just too difficult for him to accept and forget."

Hermione nodded, "Yes. I believe he blames himself for Neville's death, despite the fact that Voldemort had held his end of the bargain." She watched as Sirius grimace.

"He fought valiantly that night." Said a quiet voice. Hermione and Sirius turned their necks to the door and found the haggard frame of Remus Lupin.

"Remus," said Sirius, "How are you? Come have a cuppa."

Hermione watched as Remus' tired frame walked toward their table. He had changed the last time she saw him. While he maintained his haggard look, she saw that he walked upright, as if he were feeling proud of himself.

"How is life Mr. Lupin?"

"Much better despite how I look. Plenty of Bounties to be collected and to be honest, I love the workout."

"How many Dark Wizards have you caught so far? Making good money?"

"Seventeen so far, the organization tends to send out better Hunters after the high paying ones so I end up having the Bounties with the less pay. However, the pay is better than I could have expected."

"I bet," Sirius said with barking laugh, "If only I could join you."

"How come no one has sent someone after Pettigrew?"

With a sad look, Remus replied, "Don't you remember? Mostly every wizard believes he died the night the Potters died, well those that aren't with the Death Eaters and the Order."

"Ah, right, of course."

"Don't worry Hermione; I'm sure dear old Remus here keeps his eye out for the rat."

"Of course, the sooner I catch him, the sooner you could be exonerated."

Silence filled the room after that. After several moments of sipping their tea and eating several biscuits, Remus spoke up again.

"So, you were talking about Neville?"

"Ah, yes. Before that we were talking about Harry, wondering where he is." Sirius replied.

"I'm sure he's fine Sirius. I know we all miss him but I know Harry can take care of himself. He's no longer a child you know."

"But he's still the reckless type." Hermione said with a small giggle.

"If he weren't then he wouldn't have been in Gryffindor."

"Do you think he will come back?"

"Oh I'm sure he will Hermione, Harry has to give me back my bike after all. Not to mention, he has a lot of explaining to do."

"Indeed." Remus took a sip of his tea, "I know he must blame himself despite the fact he saved Neville before he died."

Hermione frowned, "But we know it wasn't his fault."

"Come now Hermione, you're brighter than that, you know as well as everyone else who knows him, why Harry would blame himself."

"But Sirius," Hermione looked at him with a little despair. "It was out of his control."

"And Harry is the type of person who would love to sacrifice himself to save others. I'm sure he was at the Battle of St. Mungo's he would have switched places with Neville or take the Killing Curse for him." Remus replied.

"It was such a horrid night," Sirius placed an elbow on the table and began to rub his temple with his index finger, "I can still remember it," he closed his eyes, "Dumbledore had gotten word that Harry had left Hogwarts. He called every Order member and moved with such haste that I thought he would break a hip."

"I was in the middle of talking with the Werewolves in the Forbidden Forest at the time," Remus interrupted before he let Sirius continue with the story.

"Aye and I was here sulking about." At Hermione's quizzical look he answered her, "I was stuck in the house with nowhere to go."

"Oh."

"Anyway, Dumbledore called everyone here and set out to tell them the situation. He had told them all about the letter and everyone, at the time, knew about Neville's disappearance. How Harry was to meet Voldemort at the Department of Mysteries in return for Neville's safety and transportation to St. Mungo's.

"He was about to finish ordering several Order members to St. Mungo's, to look after the boy, before there was a floo call from Dung, who was in the Leaky Cauldron, saying something about a raid there.

"And so, Dumbledore had everyone prepare for battle and Apparate there, myself included."

Sirius took a moment to take out whip out his wand to summon his bottle of Firewhiskey, "I can never forget the sight I arrived to." Sirius banished the remains of his tea before he poured himself some of the alcohol. "The moment I arrived I saw the St. Mungo's building burning. Poor Neville had watched his parents, who were inside there, burn to a crisp and they didn't even know it.

"Dumbledore had several of us put the fire out while the rest of the Order began a counter attack on the Death Eaters there. There was a sizable amount to them, near the hundreds. We had about fifty of us but we kicked their asses pretty well."

"Always outnumbered, never outgunned." Remus told him. "Am I right?"

"Damn right," Sirius took a swig of his Firewhiskey, "Anyway, we fought the Death Eaters while the others put out the fire. I had set Neville free, who was bound by ropes, and he joined in. He did incredibly well. No doubt he knew his parents could not have survived. The St. Mungo's building was entirely aflame. He was pleasantly surprised when he found Lucius Malfoy dueling Hestia Jones.

"I watched from the corner of my eyes as he stunned the Death Eater he was fighting and join Hestia. I, at the time, was fighting Rookwood. Dumbledore was fighting against seven of them if I remember right. Remus here had my back. I watched as Malfoy's eyes light up and began to duel with more fervor. Poor Hestia was overwhelmed and was taken out of the fight with a stunner.

"He and Neville began to duel one-on-one now. Stunners and such were used and I was very surprised when Neville began to use the Cruciatus Curse. He was angry, I was sure. In return, Malfoy hurled both the Cruciatus and the Killing Curses. Both were dodged by Neville. He slowly moved closer to him, closing the distance between them, before he summoned the block of concrete that was behind Malfoy. It hit his head and knocked him out and the block of concrete was banished by him.

"He hit him with a stunner and I saw him smile in triumph. I guess, to him that was enough revenge for the torture he suffered at his hands. He turned around and saw Dumbledore fighting against three Death Eaters now. He joined him and helped Dumbledore finish them but not before one of them spat the Avada Kadavra." Sirius took a swig from the bottle instead of his cup. "Oh I swear time slowed down at that moment. I finished with Rookwood; hit the bugger with a Petrificus Totalus, when I heard the spell. I turned around and saw it aiming at Dumbledore, who was rooted to the ground due to a spell."

Remus grabbed the bottle from Sirius and took a swig himself, Hermione watched and listened with keen interest, "Then what happened?" she asked wide eyed.

"Remus finished off one of the Carrow siblings, the sister I believe, when he saw the same thing I did. The green light of the Killing Curse was aiming straight at Dumbledore and he couldn't even move. We couldn't do anything either, by the time we would have uttered a spell or conjured something to take the spell he would have died. And so we watched, with horror, as Neville jumped in front of Dumbledore, arms wide open, and took the curse for him."

"Everyone stopped fighting when Dumbledore let out a battle cry." Remus said, "The Death Eater might have wet himself when he saw Dumbledore's face full of fury and anguish. He didn't even last five seconds against him. When he had finished with him, he picked up Neville's body and set him down near a phone booth. The battle resumed at that point. However Dumbledore had enough, he was quite angry, and with so much power, he quickly overwhelmed the remaining Death Eaters. They fled."

"By the time that happened," Sirius continued, "the fire was put out. I believe the fight took at least three hours. Once the Death Eaters had left, we began to mourn the death of Neville. I never knew the boy personally but I knew he suffered at the hands of the Death Eaters and Voldemort. He felt the Cruciatus Curse as much as his parents did. It was such a horrid way to end but I'm sure his parents were proud. He went down fighting; he went down protecting the Headmaster.

"Dumbledore realized just then why Neville was there in the first place. He had forgotten about Harry, we all did." Sirius snatched the bottle from Remus and took another swig, "So he ordered some of us to search St. Mungo's for survivors and to transport them to Hogwarts hospital wing. Snivellus was ordered to return to Hogwarts and to help Madam Promfrey brew any potions she might need.

"The rest of us were to go to the Ministry of Magic and rescue Harry. By the time we arrived several Death Eaters were watching Harry and Voldemort duel at the Atrium, near the statue of the Magical Brethren. We set out to work immediately. Dumbledore let us take care of the Death Eaters while he joined Harry. It was such a spectacular fight, despite the seriousness of the situation.

"After several minutes, we took down the Death Eaters and watched as the three of them dueled. Voldemort began to show strains of exhaustion at that point and when that happened he was quickly overwhelmed. He was disarmed with the Expelliarmus spell, thrown by Harry and Dumbledore. Dumbledore had collapsed and only Harry remained standing. We were all silent, we all watched with wide eyes."

Remus gave Hermione a sad smile, "I am sure Harry had looked forward to that exact moment. Voldemort was disarmed and frantic, searching for his wand. He looked straight into Voldemort's eyes, a difficult thing for most of us to do, before he muttered the Avada Kadavra curse. Before he did though, we heard the fireplaces come alive and out came the Minister with several other department heads.

"I'm very sure he was horrified at the state of the Atrium. The statue of the Magical Brethren was destroyed, along with the fountain but I'm sure what caught his eyes the most was the man who he claimed no longer existed. Anyway, I saw Harry mutter the Killing Curse at Voldemort. We all held our breath, we weren't sure weather or not if the sight before us was real.

"The spell hit Voldemort straight at his chest, his heart, and he fell. I'm sure you know what came next, Harry's collapse from exhaustion and our cheers, our celebration. He was, he is, dead."

"Yes." Hermione said, "But Harry refuses to see that. He didn't celebrate that night after he learned of Neville's demise. He blamed himself and began with the 'what ifs.' I'm sure it was a few days after this before he began to question weather or not You-Know-Who was actually dead. To him, it was 'too easy.'"

Sirius nodded, "He came to me and Remus with that last year, before your graduation party. We tried talking with him but he kept telling me his theories, his thoughts about the entire thing. Things like 'how could Voldemort, a strong dark wizard, fall to a boy who was only in his fifth year in school, despite the training the Order gave him, and the Headmaster? And what happened to his Wand?' I told him that it didn't matter, Voldemort was dead, struck with the Killing Curse I might add, and Voldemort wasn't going to need his wand while he was burning in bloody hell."

Remus converted to taking a sip of his tea instead of the Firewhiskey Sirius held protectively. "Harry stormed off and we never spoke after that, even during the graduation party. We were never angry with him, though we were worried. It was almost like an obsession."

"That's what I thought and still think too." Hermione said.

Sirius and Remus nodded, "The next thing I know, Harry had left with my Motorbike." Hermione saw as Sirius rummaged through his pockets, "He left a letter behind as well. I'm sure you know what- Aha! Here it is."

Sirius pulled out a folded piece of parchment. "It contained apologies for taking the bike without permission, not that I minded really, and told me the reason he was leaving."

"Out of curiosity, did he leave because he was searching for answers?"

Sirius grimaced, "Yes. I doubt he will find whatever he's looking for though."


At the moment, Harry Potter was hovering in midair with Hedwig standing on the handlebars. He surveyed his surroundings. 'Sand, there is so much sand.' He thought. It took him and Hedwig several days to reach Saudi Arabia and when they arrived, they were immediately lost.

He pulled out a map and tried to figure out where they were. Right now he was in the middle of nowhere but if he can get an idea as to where they are and the nearest town, he could rest for a few days. "Lets see," he said, "We're here, I think." He pointed at a spot near the border of Jordan. "According to this map… the Capital should be about five hundred… maybe six hundred miles away to the southeast." He said as he looked up to Hedwig.

She merely hooted in reply.

"I'm sorry you're cold however you wouldn't be if you wore the sweater Hermione made for you." He saw Hedwig give him a reproachful look, "Don't look at me like that, it's not my fault it's itchy."

Harry stroked Hedwig's feathers as he laid his head on the handlebars. "What am I doing Hedwig?" He noticed her staring, "We left a year ago searching for answers and have yet to find any. Am I really reading too much into this?"

She let out, what he thought was, a thoughtful hoot. "Probably, huh? I just don't understand it all. He was supposed to be the Darkest, strongest wizard of the age yet he fell after dueling with me and Dumbledore for an hour. Surely we didn't push him that much?"

He watched her amber eyes look away. "It's still such a mystery. I can't feel his presence in my head anymore." He rubbed his lightning shaped scar with his fingers, "I haven't felt any anger or joy from him in three years yet… I can't shake this feeling. It's driving me mad."

She looked at him owlishly and hooted several times.

"No I will not check myself into St. Mungo's Psychiatric Ward, thank you very much." Harry looked above him and stared at the stars. "The night he died, supposedly, I could feel his essence, his very life; wither away into nothingness when he was struck with the Killing Curse but why…?"

Harry closed eyes again and began to replay the memory in his mind's eye. Neville Longbottom had been kidnapped during the night. That remained a mystery, how he was kidnapped. In the morning of his disappearance, no one noticed his absence but as the day progressed, several of the professors became worried of his absence. Normally he would owl each of them if and when he would miss class and so, late in the afternoon McGonagall had Harry and his friends search for Neville and to make sure he was alright.

Harry had gone to Gryffindor Tower to search while Hermione searched the Hospital wing and Ron had gone to the grounds. No one had seen Neville in the common room throughout the day, nor has the Fat Lady seen him exit today though she did recall someone sneaking out during the night.

Raising his eyebrows in alarm, Harry had dashed into his room and pulled out the Marauder's map. "I solemnly swear I am up to no good."

He had stretched his map on his bed and began his search for Neville. He scanned Gryffindor Tower, Ravenclaw Tower, Slytherin and Hufflepuff's Dungeons and did not find him. Harry's eyes searched every classroom, every hallway, and every secret passageway to no avail.

He immediately recalled the Fat Lady's words, 'someone had sneaked out during the night. That person woke me up from a very pleasant dream!'

He put away the map and made his way toward Professor McGonagall's office. He would have gone to the Headmaster but unfortunately the High Inquisitor, Dolores Umbridge managed to drive him out.

He had met Hermione and Ron on the way, as well as Luna, a member of the D.A. who had made friends with him via Ginny. He quickly told them what he knew and soon relayed the story to McGonagall as well. About the Fat Lady's words and how he could not find Neville with his enchanted map.

He wasn't afraid about letting McGonagall know about his map, she was far more disturbed at Neville's disappearance to inquire further.

McGonagall had told them that she and several other professors were going to search Hogsmeade as well as Diagon Alley and so the four friends had departed with heavy hearts and their minds full of questions.

That night was much the same and while Ron and the rest of his roommates slept soundly, Harry couldn't. His eyes searched Neville's bed for any clues but to no avail. He was just about to close his eyes to try and sleep when a blue colored raven flew in, hovered over Harry's bed for a moment before dropping a letter and flying back out the window.

"What is this," he asked himself. He saw his name and opened the envelope. His eyes widened as he read:

To Mr. Harry Potter:

As you can see from the photograph attached to this letter, Mr. Longbottom is enjoying his time being under the Cruciatus Curse. I'm sure it's even more enjoyable, for me as well, knowing that it is my dear Bellatrix administering the curse. I do wonder how long the boy will last before he becomes just like his parents. Though, by the way Bella tells me, I'm sure it will not be very long!

The deal is this Mr. Potter. If you could come to the Department of Mysteries, at the Ministry of Magic at Midnight on the 21st of April, tomorrow night, I will have Neville Longbottom portkeyed to St. Mungo's.

Weather he is portkeyed alive or dead depends on you. Arrive alone. My Death Eater's will be watching and will report to me if you come near ministry with aid.

Lord Voldemort

Harry pulled out the photograph that was stashed within the envelope. It showed poor Neville, sitting in, what looked like, a dungeon. His eyes were open but were glazed over. Moments later he saw a black haired woman come closer to him. 'Bellatrix Lestrange' Harry thought.

She pointed her wand to Neville and saw a jet of red light strike Neville. Harry's stomach churned so much that it caused his hair to stand on end. Neville had opened his mouth to scream as Bellatrix tortured him with the Cruciatus Curse.

Harry gripped the letter before he rolled out of bed and grabbed his Invisibility Cloak. He made his way down toward the common room, intent on getting this to McGonagall. She had to let Dumbledore know!

He arrived at McGonagall's office, surprised to see her awake at an hour past midnight.

"Professor?" Harry's said underneath his cloak.

McGonagall's head snapped up toward the door then looked around her office. "Who's there?" She raised her wand up.

"Oh, wait a sec." Harry closed McGonagall's door, which was open when he came in, and took off his Invisibility Cloak. "Professor, I know where Neville is. Voldemort has him!"

It was there when he pulled out the letter and the photographs. She agreed with him to let Dumbledore know about it. However she would not get a reply for him until morning.

McGonagall had asked for Harry's Invisibility Cloak as to help avoid Umbridge and her Inquisitorial Squad, who had begun to spy on the Professors. McGonagall placed the letter and photograph in her robes and escorted Harry back to Gryffindor Tower. Both had said their goodnights. Harry had gone back to his bedroom while McGonagall had put on the cloak and made her way to Grimmauld Place.

Harry had awoken the next morning to a pair of amber eyes. Dumbledore's phoenix was staring at him. With a yell of fright that caused Fawkes to fly away, he fell on the floor. Groaning, he sat up and held his arm up. Fawkes landed and stuck her foot out, all the while glaring at him for scaring her. He apologized to her but not before warning her to not do it again.

He opened the piece of Parchment and read Dumbledore's letter. He wrapped the Parchment into a paper ball and banished it. How could Dumbledore tell him not to go!? How could he leave Neville to die? His own student!

No, Harry wouldn't let it end this way for Neville. He would go and rescue him alone.

And so, throughout the day, Harry spent the rest of the day preparing himself. He brewed several healing droughts, poured them in vials and pocketed them. He was much more proficient in potions now, due to the training the Order of the Phoenix put him through.

He was stronger; he could admit that, stronger than he was a year ago. He could feel it in his bones and see it in his exams. Transfiguration was more simple, Charms, he had no trouble with, and brewing potions was such an easy task he had no doubts that he could produce Polyjuice Potion flawlessly.

Professor's McGonagall, Flitwick, and, surprisingly, Snape had all helped him improve, albeit Snape did so reluctantly.

His Defense against the Dark Arts spells absolutely astounded his training partners and teachers, Tonks and 'Mad-Eye' Moody.

He was confident albeit a little nervous when he left Hogwarts in secret. McGonagall still had his Invisibility Cloak but Harry held his map. With a simple disillusionment spell, Harry avoided every prefect that came near and made his way to the Astronomy Tower. With a breath that steeled his nerves, Harry mounted his Firebolt and flew off into the night, intent on getting to the Ministry of Magic before midnight.

It took Harry an hour to reach London with thirty minutes to spare. He made sure to land in a secluded place before making his way over to the Phone booth that led to the Ministry of Magic.

After several moments, Harry was soon running inside the Ministry's Atrium. The entire place was dark with only a few lights available for those working the late night shift. The fountain of the Magical Brethren was there, showing the proud wizards and witches towering above the dark creatures.

He had made it in time; it was only a few minutes before midnight. Hopefully Voldemort had ordered his Death Eaters to set Neville free and hold up his end of the bargain.

Harry heard the voice of the elevator speak up, Department of Mysteries. He felt his forehead begin to throb and made his way further inside. He opened a door and found a circular room with about a dozen doors. When he walked in, the door shut behind him and the walls of the room began to spin.

Harry tensed, how was he supposed to find Voldemort? How was he to find the exit as well?

The walls had stopped spinning and Harry randomly opened a door. Inside was a large room with several desks aligned along the walls, as well as several doors, and a giant fish tank that held… brains?

Harry shuddered and slammed the door closed. What do these Unspeakables do here?

The room's walls began to spin once more and when they stopped Harry opened the door to his left. The moment he opened it, his scar felt like it was going to burst. It was throbbing so much!

Harry closed his eyes for a moment before opening them once again. This room, this large room, held numerous shelves and countless glowing glass orbs. He walked forward and the door closed behind him.

With a worried glance at the door, Harry trudged on forward, where he felt Voldemort would be.

He spared a glance one more at his surroundings. The shelves were so tall and so long that he could not see the end of it. Just what was this place?

The countless orbs each held a small plaque that had several letters written on them. He could not understand what it was, probably a code, and maybe initials for something.

He saw the numbers that were on a plaque on each shelf. Currently he was now on 87. He knew he must be getting closer to Voldemort and he felt his anger mount. The man, who killed his parents, kidnapped Neville and generally made his life a living hell was only a few more feet away.

He narrowed his eyes when he saw a cloaked figure standing next to row 97. The figure had his head down.

Harry grit his teeth when he felt his scar burn. It was him! "Voldemort!" he spat.

Voldemort lifted his grayed and gaunt face to acknowledge the boy in front him. "The Boy-Who-Lived…" he breathed, "We meet again, Harry Potter."

Harry took his wand from his robes, guarding against an impending attack. "I'm here, where's Neville? What is it you want?"

Voldemort pulled down his hood and looked straight into Harry's eyes. "The boy has been sent to St. Mungo's Hospital via portkey."

"How do I know you're telling the truth?"

"You get to leave this place alive and perhaps see him inside the place; if it hasn't been burned down, with him inside it, by now." He sneered. "Now that you're here Potter, I want you to do me a little favor before I let you free."

"Just this small favor and I'm free to go…" Harry repeated.

With annoyed look, Voldemort spat, "Yes Potter! Now do as I say so that I can leave this wretched place."

"What is it you want?"

Voldemort gave Harry a small smile. "I want you to retrieve a certain item for me. Something only you can give me."

"And then I go free. Right, where is it?" Harry could only agree. Despite his anger and hatred for the man before him, Harry wanted to be free of his presence just to make sure he could save Neville from the burning St. Mungo's building.

"The shelf, that is to my right. Row 97, search for the item I seek there."

"How would I know it's yours?"

"You will find the initials of your blasted Headmaster along with another person. Go."

And so Harry went to search, albeit he kept an eye out in case Voldemort decided to attack him. He scanned the initials D.J.U & C.A.F. and then another, and another. Finally, several feet away from Voldemort, Harry spotted it. A plaque read:

S.P.T. to A.P.W.B.D.

Dark Lord

&

Harry Potter

Harry spared a glance at Voldemort who was petting his snake Nagini. He stared intently at the Orb, curious as to what it was. The Glass Orb was warm in his hand and was the size of a baseball. Inside the orb was nothing of interest, just dark grey clouds; as if there was a storm inside of it.

Harry became alarmed and almost dropped the Orb when he heard a harsh voice whisper inside his head. A harsh familiar voice he heard once before… It spoke…

'The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches… Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies… And the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not… and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives… The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord will be born as the seventh month dies….'

Harry had spent several moments thinking, analyzing what it meant. This was obviously a prophesy, something he had read about in his textbooks. 'As the seventh month dies,' He thought, 'July 31st, my birthday. Neville's too!'

'And the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal…' Harry rubbed his scar, 'either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives.' Harry came to one conclusion. 'It's either kill or be killed then.'

Oh how he cursed his life! But he can mourn and yell later. At the moment there was a Dark Lord standing several feet to his right, watching him with curious and impatient eyes. 'If I let him have it and he hears it, I very much believe that he will have a change of heart in letting me go free.'

Grimacing as he thought of his only course of action he turned to Voldemort. He gripped his wand before speaking up, "Voldemort," Voldemort seemed to be in deep thought but stared at him. "I found what you were looking for. It has my name on it too."

He prayed to whatever gods were watching and listening for his plan to work.

"Catch."

Harry tossed the Prophesy high in the air toward Voldemort and as he had hoped, Voldemort's eyes followed the Prophesy, taking his eyes off Harry. Harry aimed his wand at Voldemort's chest and with a flourish of his wand, he yelled.

"Reducto!"

The jet of light hit Voldemort square in the chest before he was blown so far back that Harry could no longer see him. Harry's eyes were no longer on Voldemort, he knew it would even take him a while to stop, and were now on the Prophesy. "Accio Prophesy!"

Almost a second before the Glass Orb shattered and hit the floor, it flew toward Harry's opened hand. He pocketed it immediately and began to run towards the exit. As he past rows seventy and sixty-nine, he heard an angry yell of his last name. Voldemort had recovered from his spell and would be chasing him.

Harry ran even faster and when he reached the door leading to the circular room he flung it open and slammed it closed. He watched as the doors along the walls begin to spin and spin. When they stopped Harry could not help himself, "The exit, which one is the exit?"

As if the room itself were alive and heard Harry's wish, the door behind Harry opened. There it was; the hallway that led toward the elevators. Dashing, Harry slammed the door behind him, made his way to the elevators and pressed the button that ordered the elevator to come down.

It took the elevator several moments to come down. Harry ripped open the gate and flung himself inside. Closing the gate, Harry pressed the button that would take him to the Atrium.

The moment the elevator moved he saw the door that lead toward the circular room, open. While he did not see Voldemort's face, he could tell, by the way his scar throbbed, he was angry. Harry pulled out the Prophesy and threw it on the floor. He heard Trelawney's voice speak, of the prophesy, in a hushed but harsh tone. Voldemort, who was by now in the other elevator, would never hear it.

The elevator reached the Atrium and slamming the gate open, Harry made a mad dash toward the battered phone booth that was in the center of the fireplaces, a ways away from the fountain of the Magical Brethren. His Firebolt was inside the booth, ready for him, ready to flee the wretched place, away from Lord Voldemort. He needed to rescue Neville.

Unfortunately, this was not to be. As he made his way past the fountain of the Magical Brethren, all of the fireplaces, all eighteen of them, sprang to life. He half expected the Order of the Phoenix but his hopes were all but destroyed when he saw the skeletal masks and black robes worn by non other than the Death Eaters.

He dodged several stunners by hiding behind the statue of the Centaur. He watched as one of the spells tore the head off. He watched as it skidded, leaving scratches along the once waxed floor, before he gulped. Looks like this was as much help he was going to get from the Gods. He was on his own.

Harry closed his eyes as heard the chime of the elevator and the sound of a gate opening. His felt sick as his scar throbbed with horrid pain. He wobbled a bit before standing straight. He heard Voldemort's voice. "Enough! Stay your wands my dear Death Eaters. Come out Potter. We'll have a repeat of your fourth year."

Harry's eyes opened and watched Voldemort make his way to one side of the fountain, giving his back to his Death Eaters. Harry gripped his wand tightly, the chances of Neville survival dimmed the longer he stayed.

Moving away from the fountain, Harry, whose back was toward the elevators, faced Voldemort. He looked straight at Voldemort's red, glowing eyes, "You want the Prophesy, Voldemort?"

Several of the Death Eaters hissed at him. He heard the yell of a man, "He dares speak his name with his unworthy lips! How dare him!"

Voldemort merely lifted his hand and it was enough to silence the man with a yelp. Harry could feel his anger, literally. "Where is it, Potter?" he asked coldly.

He regretted his words the moment they left his mouth, "I shattered it in the elevator. See the shards?"

Indeed, inside the elevator, Voldemort could see the shards of what once contained his weapon, his advantage.

Harry winced in pain as Voldemort's anger increased tenfold. "I feel that you do."

Voldemort face contorted in anger before slipping into cold indifference. "You have irked me for so long for far too long Potter. Duel!"

Harry and Voldemort both bowed, though Voldemort with more grace than Harry could provide. He briefly wondered if his training was going to be enough. He steeled his nerves when he and Voldemort fired the first spell that came to mind.

"Avada Kadavra!"

"Avada Kadavra!"

Harry dodged and knew the spell had hit one of the elevators. Voldemort merely side stepped his spell and hardly even glanced at the Death Eaters behind him when Harry's spell connected with one of them.

Immediately, the rest of the Death Eaters scattered away, not wanting to be caught with another Killing Curse like their comrade had.

Harry let off a volley of spells, all aimed at Voldemort. "Stupefy, Stupefy, Avada Kadavra, Conjunctivitis, Reducto!"

Voldemort did the same, "Avada Kadavra! Reducto! Avada Kadavra! Incendio!"

Harry side stepped and jumped behind the fountain of the Magical Brethren. He knew his spells had missed Voldemort. He wasn't as strong as him but if he could delay him until the first workers of the Ministry arrived, hopefully the Auror's, he may get out of this alive.

"Do not hide from me Harry Potter! Coward!"

Harry rolled away from the fountain at once, angry. "Expelliarmus!" He yelled.

Voldemort aimed his wand at Harry, "Avada Kadavra!"

Harry watched, surprised, as his and Voldemort's spells connected. Suddenly he heard the echoing sound of Fawkes' song. He gripped his wand tightly as he prepared what was coming.

The stream of Harry's Expelliarmus jinx and Voldemort's Avada Kadavra Curse fought for dominance. Harry put as much power as he could expel into his wand to try and overcome Voldemort's curse. Harry gave a brief glance at Voldemort's face, it was twisted in concentration, was he having such a hard time fending him off? Was Harry just as strong as him?

Harry yelled loudly and gripped his wand arm, his right arm, with his left. He must not falter now! If he truly was as strong as Voldemort, he must defeat him! Defeat him… Harry's mind went over the words of the prophesy once more, 'He will have power the Dark Lord knows not…'

Just what was this power? He didn't feel anything special, anything that could conquer Lord Voldemort. Just across from him was the most powerful wizard in the world. He knew spells that Harry could only dream of! He had knowledge so extensive, so deep, of the Dark Arts that Harry cannot even begin to imagine!

Yet, why was Voldemort having such a hard time fighting him when last year he had merely taunted him, toyed with him? What was this feeling of unease?

Harry shook his head and focused once more. With renewed determination, Harry broke off the spell, side stepped the killing curse, which missed his cheek by mere inches, and fired off another spell, "Avada Kadavra!" Harry aimed at a spot, to Voldemort's left, where he knew Voldemort would only have a 50 chance of landing. "Reducto!"

The broken connection startled Voldemort, who was in deep concentration. He barely had time to side step the Killing Curse, which hit the fireplace behind him, before he was blasted off his feet as the Reducto Curse hit him squarely in the chest.

Several of his Death Eaters gasped as they watched their master skid along the black marble floor.

Voldemort was now near the Phone booth. Harry had almost expected him to flee but knew Voldemort would never be able to handle the embarrassment, the shame, if he fled now.

Voldemort was enraged! Harry could feel it. Voldemort stalked forward toward him and Harry stepped back. The entire Atrium was silent as Voldemort walked toward his previous position before he was blasted off.

Harry was breathing heavily by now and was surprised to see a bead of sweat forming on Voldemort's forehead.

Harry raised his wand as Voldemort did the same. Both simultaneously shouted, aiming at one another,

"Avada Kadavra!"

Harry was beyond angry, beyond furious. Before him was the man who had killed his parents, the one responsible for kidnapping Neville, the man whose very existence stroked fear in the hearts of innocent Wizards and Witches. He could not let him live!

Their spells connected once more and out of the corner of Harry's eyes, he saw the flames of the Fireplaces, all eighteen of them, come alive. He almost thought it was more Death Eaters, coming to reinforce their Master when Harry caught the sight of 'Mad-Eye Moody.

The Order of the Phoenix had arrived.

Harry braced himself and felt the connection of his curse reach his wand. He watched as Voldemort's spell did the same. Once again, both wizards were locked in a battle of wills.

He spared a glance at what was happening behind his opponent. Several more Order members arrived and began fighting against the Death Eaters and a moment later Harry felt someone disapparate beside him.

"Dumbledore!" Voldemort rasped.

"Need a hand, Harry?"

Harry knew that voice anywhere. He would have hugged Professor Dumbledore then and there if he wasn't engaged against a battle of wills with Voldemort.

"What do you think? Help me!"

Harry saw their spells interrupt when Dumbledore placed the statue of the wizard, from the fountain, in between them, causing the spells to smash against the torso and vanish.

Voldemort glanced behind him. "You think you have me cornered have you?" he stared directly at them both, his eyes glowing with utter hatred. "I'm not about to run away with my tail between my legs! Never! Avada Kadavra!"

Dumbledore and Harry both yelled, simultaneously, "Expelliarmus!"

For what would be the final time and a first, Harry's, Dumbledore's and Voldemort's wands connected. It was two against one and Voldemort was already weakened from his battle against Harry earlier. It had been an hour since he had been fighting, throwing spell after spell after spell against Harry Potter.

Harry knew he was nearing the end of his magical reserves. What he didn't know, at the time, was that Dumbledore was near his end too.

So together, with one final flourish of their wand, they both yelled, "Maxima!"

By now, the Death Eaters were subdued, tied up, stunned or dead. The Order of the Phoenix watched, with wide eyes, as Harry Potter and Albus Dumbledore's spells connected with Voldemort.

Voldemort staggered and fell to the floor, his wand flew away and he could not find it. His eyes searched the floors for any sign of his white, bony wand.

Harry had only time to fire one last spell before he succumbed to exhaustion. Dumbledore had collapsed beside him already. He aimed his wand at Voldemort's chest. 'It's over,' he thought, with one last flourish of his wand Harry yelled,

"Avada Kadavra! Be a forgotten memory, Riddle!"

Harry had only time to watch the Killing Curse strike Voldemort chest, right at the heart, before his vision went black.

Harry had awoken inside the Hospital Wing. Almost immediately, his friends had hugged him and he heard cheers surround him. It was there where he learned of Voldemort's fate, death by his hand.

Madam Promfrey had shooed the crowed out of the hospital wing before Dumbledore opened the privacy curtains that were beside Harry's bed. He had also learned that he had been asleep for several days, along with Dumbledore, who had woken up an hour earlier.

Unfortunately for Harry, he learned of Neville's tragic death as well as his parents, burned in the fire at the battle of St. Mungo's.

It took Harry several more days to recuperate, despite his pleading to Madam Promfrey that he was fine. He was not alone though, Dumbledore remained in the hospital wing with him, recovering as well.

It was almost comical trying to watch Dumbledore trying to sneak out of the hospital wing in the dead of night, only to be caught by Promfrey and ordered back to bed.

It would have been except he still held the feeling of unease he felt during the battle of the Ministry of Magic; the feeling of unease that kept growing throughout his years at Hogwarts.

Right now, as he stared at the stars in the middle of the Arabian Desert, Harry Potter knew he was not insane. He had long since forgiven himself for not being able to rescue Neville. He had visited Neville's and his parents' graves before departing from England.

Harry was broken out of his thoughts by the sound of a loud hoot.

He looked around and spotted a very small, very brown and a very familiar looking owl. He held his arm out as Pigwidgeon came close.

"Hello there, quite a surprise seeing you here. A letter from Ron I suppose?"

Pig said nothing but held out his foot. The small owl mellowed out throughout the years.

Harry let Pig stand on the handlebars, next to Hedwig, as he opened the letter; probably another pleading from Hermione, Ron, Luna or Ginny to return home. He wasn't going to, not yet. However, as he read the letter, he began to slowly change his mind. The letter read:

Harry,

You'd never guess who I bumped into over at Knockturn Alley. He was in his Animagus form but I recognized the rat anywhere! Oh bugger, I'm sure you figured it out already. Yes Harry, I have caught Peter Pettigrew! At the moment he's being held inside a locked cage at a high security cell inside the Ministry. If, though I already know it will happen, he is interrogated via Veritaserum this could prove Sirius's innocence! You should have seen the look on his face when Kingsley told him the news. Boy, he hugged me like there was no tomorrow. Anyway, with Dumbledore and I escorting Sirius, he and Pettigrew will have a trial which will prove, once and for all, who was the secret keeper for the Potters! Not to mention, the one responsible for the deaths of 13 muggles. I hope this letter reaches you in time. The hearing will be in January the 8th. Please come, I know it would mean a lot to Sirius if you came.

Ronald Weasley

Order of Merlin, Third Class.

'January the eighth, that's four days from now.' He looked up at Hedwig, who was staring at him curiously, "Well Hedwig, I guess it's time we returned home, for now."

Hedwig hooted in reply and together with Pig, they flew up. Harry turned the bike around and made his way home, back to England.


General Disclaimer: Harry Potter & co. does not belong to me.

A/N: Well, that's the first chapter of my story. I'm sure most of you, my dear readers, have many questions brewing inside your minds. And so, to answer the most likely of questions…

When did Harry kill Voldemort?

Harry killed Lord Voldemort during fifth year. Sirius is still alive.

The sequences of events were a bit difficult to write and hopefully most, if not all of you, managed to understand what has happened. And for those that are curious as to who Harry's love interest is, I have yet to decide if he will have any, have him commit to one woman, or make it a small harem.

One thing I will say though, it will definitely NOT be Harry/Ginny. Hate the pairing, annoys me to no end.

I have run the entire chapter through spell checker and have reread it so I know most of the chapter is error free.

Now onto the topic of reviews! I can take constructive criticism well. However if you flame me, your comment will be completely ignored and deleted. It'll just be a waste of my time and yours to do so. If you have nothing good to say, then don't say it at all. I can say that I immensely enjoy reading reviews from readers that enjoy the story! I'm sure all Authors from this site do.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the first chapter. Second should be coming around next weekend. Also, I have no Beta to look over my story so I'm pretty much doing proofreading on my own. If anyone would like to work with me, then please send me a PM.

Look forward to my next chapter: Imprisonment, Exoneration.

-Ivan D. Wright