Chapter 7
The tunnel to Voldermorts palace
As the Gryffindor quidditch team entered the great hall Sunday
morning, students once again bombarded them. The fact that this was the
first shut out victory in Hogwarts history, and the amazing way the game
ended seemed to keep people energized. The school was buzzing with
excitement, and talking about the day's plans when Harry noticed Cho
sitting rather quietly at the Ravenclaw table.
'Cho, what's the matter" Harry said walking up to her, and startling her by placing a hand on her shoulder. "Oh Harry, nothing at all, I was just up studying late last night, and am just a little tired. Hey, do you want to sit down. I needed to talk to you about the Halloween Ball. I don't know what to wear."
"Well either do I, but if you want to join us today at Hogsmeade, I am sure we can pick out the perfect costumes." Cho just smiled at the thought of spending the day with Harry. She had wanted to do this since they first arrived, but she noticed how busy he was with quidditch, his finals, and playing pranks on Malfoy. 'Sure, but if you want to share the same carriage as Ron and Hermione, I suggest we go now." Cho had pointed at the retreating Hermione, and Ron, and the two jumped up running over to catch them.
"Leaving without us are you." Harry said to Ron giving him a playful punch in the arm. Ron just smiled back, and pointed at Hermione. "She has that prefect meeting today, so she wanted to get our costumes before she needed to leave." "Hermione, I thought our meeting wasn't until 2:00" Cho blurted out behind Harry causing him to practically leap out of his skin "What do you mean our." Harry said turning to her.
"The Prefect meetings today, to discuss decorations for the Halloween dance. Harry I am the Ravenclaws prefect, didn't you know that?" Harry stared at her, he had no idea. "Well then lets keep going, I want a little time together before you two ditch us." He said breaking the silence. The two girls just looked at each other, and laughed as the four of them made there way out to the waiting carriages. Once getting to Hogsmeade, Harry and Ron were at the mercy of the two girls. Besides being dragged from shop to shop by there dates to the dance, the two were forced to walk right past Honeyducks, and were rapidly getting tired, and thirsty.
"No wonder they were in such a hurry, we have been here for three hours, and nothing" Ron said as the four made there way into the last clothing store. "All right, alright," Harry blurted out getting the attention of the group. "Ron, follow me, Ladies, wait here for just a minute, and well be right back." Harry grabbed Ron's arm, and lead him over to the men's costumes. "Ron, if we let them pick, we will never be able to leave. Lets find what we like, then tell them to match it. "I don't know Harry, Hermione may not like this." "Sure she will, were the men, we get some say in all this, or would you rather wait for them to decide, and end up going as raggedy Ann, and Andy." He said pointing to a couple of Hufflepuff students ringing up there purchases of just that. Ron gave Harry a yah right look, and the two of them busied themselves searching for costumes. Returning to the girls five minutes later, Harry and Ron showed them what they had chosen, and advised them to match. Cho seemed to take the news the best; she shot out of the store only to return ten minutes later with a few packages under her arms. Harry was glad to see her return so happy, because the second she had left, Ron and Hermione started arguing.
"Ron, how am I suppose to match this" she said holding up his costume. "I'm not sure, all I know is I like this one." "Well I don't, go find something else." "I will not, what's wrong with this." "Nothing really, but if we are going as a couple, we need to be able to match." "Your right, I am sorry" He said obviously loosing his nerve to argue with Hermione. "Ron, I think you picked out a great costume, how about you Cho?" Cho had finally returned, and Harry new she could help. "Leave it to me" She said grabbing Hermione's arm, and throwing her packages to Harry. The two girls walked arm in arm over to the men's area, only to return with a bag. "Were ready you two." Hermione said visibly happy with what her and Cho decided on. Harry grabbed Ron's costume, and walked up to the cash register.
'So are you two planning on showing us your costumes" he asked watching Cho and Hermione talk and laugh about the packages. "Nope" She said, "By the way, Hermione will be getting ready with me in the Prefect Common area, so you two can pick us up there." She said turning back to Hermione. Harry just smiled, he could tell Cho and Hermione were becoming good friends, and enjoyed the reaction Ron got when she said no.
After paying for his and Ron's costumes Harry and his friends Headed to the three broomsticks. As they were walking past a little shop just next to it, Harry noticed Malfoy, Crabb, and Goyle trying on musketeer outfits. "Ron, take a look over there. I think the invisible transformation charm will work wonders on that. "Harry, that is disgusting" Cho said noticing what he was looking at, and hearing the name of the charm. "Ah, the name is misleading Cho. My father came up with a charm that we can place over the portrait hole of the Slytherins, and once the victims; in whom we choose of course, walk under it, their clothes are transformed. The brilliance of this charm is that the victims can't see the changes, only everybody else. Cho started laughing. "Can I be there when you do it? I would love to help." "Sure, but since when are you the trouble maker?" "Well to be honest since you asked me to this dance." "Why is that?" Harry asked obviously confused. "Well if you really want to know I am getting threats from a lot of girls, especially from those close to your friend Malfoy." 'Threats, what type of threats?" Harry was now very concerned. "Calm down. I can handle myself. Anyway I enjoy a good prank, you should know that. Did you not see me rolling around on the floor when you glued Malfoy to that Slytherin girl."
'Ya, but still what type of threats." "Well Harry, you are more popular with the ladies than I think you know." "I told you Harry" Hermione said smiling as the four sat down in the Three Broomsticks. "After the day you asked Cho to the dance, you have been labeled as a ladies man." Harry just shook of Hermione's comment, turning to order four butterbeers.
An hour after entering the Three Broomsticks, Harry and Ron watched as Hermione, and Cho jumped on a carriage, and started off. "Ron, can you believe how lucky we are." "I never thought I would see the day Harry, never thought." "Well what now." The two spent the rest of the day enjoying the shops, and talking about Cho, and Hermione. When it was time to head back to Hogwarts, they quickly went to Honeyduckes, loaded their bags with candy, and jumped on the last carriage to Hogwarts. "I wonder if we will see Hermione, and Cho again tonight" Ron said turning to his friend. "Ron, I am sure that we will see them during dinner."
Harry however was wrong. It seems that it was taking the prefects a long time to come up with decorations, and Dumbledore had allowed them to stay in his office during dinner, and had Dolby bring them up some food. When Harry and Ron tried to question them at breakfast the next morning, they just reassured them that the ball would be great, and that they had managed to book a wizarding band "The warlocks." Harry and Ron not wanting to push the subject said goodbye to Cho, and the three Gryffindors headed of for DADA.
"Harry, Dumbledore told me last night that because of you know who gaining support of the dementors, that we need to learn the patranous. When we left last night, Professor Lupin, and Snuffles entered, and right before the door closed, I heard Sirus ask when they planned on attacking. I think Harry, that Voldermort may be thinking of using Dementors to attack, and that Professor Lupin is planning on having you demonstrate to the class how to do one." Hermione said looking at the anxious faces of Harry and Ron "So, anything else you haven't told us." "No, that's all I heard, but I want to talk to Remus after class." "So do I, what do you think they meant by attack?" Ron asked. Harry just shook his head. "Will find out short enough, lets take our seats." He said, as they took their seats in the front of the class.
Just as Hermione had advised, the DADA lesson was all about dementors. Because Harry had learned all he could 2 years earlier, he spent most of the class helping others with the theory. When it came to the end of the class, Remus turned to Harry, and asked if he was up to demonstrating a Patranous. Harry just smiled, and agreed. When Professor Lupin pulled out a box, Harry new that it was a Boggart, and prepared himself for the Dementor. When Professor Lupin pulled the cover off of the box. Harry was ready. He stepped forward, but instead of a Dementor approaching him, it was Voldermort. Harry was face to face with his enemy. Harry didn't have time to think. His head was pounding with pain, and his scar was burning. Just as Harry felt himself fall to his knees Professor Lupin jumped into action. He turned on the Boggart getting its attention, and forced it back into the box. It was only a matter of minutes before Harry's scar had stopped hurting, but when he opened his eyes he was on the floor, and struggled to stand up. "Harry are you ok" Remus asked, coming to his side to help him to a seat. "This bloody scar. If it didn't cripple me every time I saw Voldermort, I could defend myself." "Harry, I am sorry. I did not expect Voldermort. I expected a Dementor." "I did to. It appears I am no longer afraid of them." "I see that now, but lets get you to the hospital wing, I am sure Poppy would skin me alive If I didn't send you." Remus turned to Hermione, and Ron; who were standing behind him, and asked that they make sure Harry go straight to see Madame Pomfrey. They both nodded, and walked out each holding one of Harry's arms. Even though he could stand Harry was still very much in pain, and appreciated his friends help.
By the time he had reached the hospital wing, the bell had rung signaling the end of class, and Harry suddenly came to a realization as to what happened. "Great, I can't wait to hear what Malfoy is going to say." "Don't worry about him Harry" Hermione said cheerily. "Who knows, maybe he won't find out." When they entered the wing, Madame Pomfrey came running over to them. "What happened now." She asked looking at the way Hermione and Ron were holding onto Harry. "Ron, you tell her." Harry said. Ron let out a sigh, and briefly replayed the last twenty minutes. When he was done Madame Pomfrey thanked them for their help, but asked that they get back to class. "Harry you need to get some rest." She said flicked her wand changing Harry from his school robes, to his pajamas. Once done she then levitated him onto a bed, and gave him a sleeping potion. Harry said goodbye to his friends, and drank the disgusting potion with one big gulp. When he woke up five hours later, he heard his stomach growl.
"Must be past supper" he said as he sat up in his bed. Just then he noticed someone was holding his hand. Harry looked down to see a hand on his. The interesting thing is that the hand was all he could see. He slowly pulled his hand away, and stared intently. When he realized what was going on. He slowly reached down and pulled an invisibility cloak off of Cho, She was sitting in a chair next to him sleeping. By the looks of it she had come in to see him, and had fallen asleep waiting for him to wake up. Harry smiled as he saw how peaceful she looked, but when he heard Madame Pomfrey came in he quickly threw the cloak back over Cho, and laid back waiting for Poppy to enter. "Good your up, you must be hungry. Harry if you feel all right, you may change and head to the great hall for dinner." Harry nodded his head. After getting dressed, Harry walked over to a sleeping Cho. He pulled the invisibility cloak off of her, and just as He was about to shake her shoulder, he again noticed how peaceful she looked. Instead of shaking her, he gently moved her hair of her face, and with the back of his hand he softly felt her check. It was warm, and smooth. He couldn't help but outline her lips with his finger. He wanted so badly to kiss her, but thought better of it. He decided rather just to wake her up, so reached over taking her hand in his, and gave it a small squeeze. Cho immediately lifted her head. "Your awake. I was hoping you would wake up before I had to leave." She said before looking around to notice it was starting to get dark outside. "What time is it" Harry looked at his watch. "Dinner time, come on, let's go." He said taking her hand in his. She smiled and gave her acceptance of him holding her hand by interlocking there fingers.
Harry and Cho walked out from behind the curtains, and were headed for the hospital doors when they burst open. Harry could hear the sounds of men enter the room, but couldn't see anything. They were to far back in the room, and the doors were around the corner to where they stood. "Are you sure he is here." One man said to the others. "My son said he was, unless he got out early he should be behind those curtains." "Avery, make sure you transform something to put in his place. We can't afford anything to go wrong." Harry looked at Cho, and motioned her not to make a sound. He took her invisibility cloak, and threw it over them both. "Stay close" he whispered as the two of them moved to the back of the room. "They won't bump into us back her, lets listen to what they say." As soon as they were against the wall, Harry heard a man yell "Stupify," Followed by the sound of someone hitting the floor. "Madame Pomfrey" Harry whispered. "They must have stunned her." Harry then watched as the Death Eaters came into view, and threw back the curtain where they had just been. They stopped dead in their tracks. "Lucius, your son said he would be here. Where is he?" "He's here, I heard someone talking before we came in. check every inch." Harry could feel Cho tense up when she saw the four men start searching in every direction. "Stay close to me, we need to move." Harry whispered as he pulled out his wand. The two of them walked as silently as they could weaving in and out of the searching Death Eaters. Just as they got to the door they heard Lucius tell the others to stop. "We've been here to long, someone is coming, lets go." Harry and Cho slipped out behind them as they hurried out the door. Cho was the first to speak. "Harry, lets follow them, we can see how they got in, and where they're going." Harry nodded his head, and they were off.
Harry was very surprised at the direction the death eaters were headed. They ran straight past the main door, and headed in the direction of the dungeons. Harry and Cho were having a hard time staying under the cloak, and following the quickly retreating death eaters, so when they past the lowest classroom, Harry turned to Cho. "I have never been this far below the school, have you." Cho started to say "N." when Harry stopped her. The Death Eaters had stopped in front of a statue of Salzar Slytherin. One of them muttered what Harry thought was Fangs, and the statue jumped aside. Harry watched as the four men walked down a stairway leading to a dimly lit hall. "Should we follow" Harry asked looking at Cho. When she nodded they both jumped in. Cho, and Harry walked one in front of the other following the sounds of the four men. Since they were now safe from being seen, the four men had stopped running, and were now carrying on a casual conversation. Well casual as it could be. "Master will not be happy when we return without Potter. You know he needs Potter dead to unlock the Gate to Hogwarts." "Nott you coward, the Dark Lord knows this was a unlikely attempt, but sent us just in case. I will tell my son to continue his service. Potter will be unguarded again, and when that happens, we will be there." "Do you think Draco could convince Potter to follow him down to the lower portions of the dungeon, we could wait for him behind the statue once we hear his voice coming, we could ambush him." "Wormtail, you may be able to sacrifice your friends, but I am not going to put my son in harms way. He is doing enough keeping us informed"
"Now stop talking all of you, were almost there." Harry stopped when he heard the name Wormtail. If only He could have captured him 2 ½ years ago, everything would have been different. After standing for a moment in silence, he turned to Cho, and signaled her to keep moving. He was slightly nervous, but desperately wanted to see where this tunnel came out. Cho silently agreed, and they started walking. "I can't here them, we need to run and catch up." She said pulling on Harry's cloak to get his attention, Harry quickened his step, and they ran the remainder of the hall until finally coming to a stop when the hall opened up to a small room. The first thing Harry noticed was a large wooden door. The Mark on the door was that of the Dark lords, and it made Harry's blood run cold. The two of them sat there is silence watching as one of the four death eaters knocked. Harry heard Cho hold back a scream when the eyes of the skull turned bright red, and the snake that was coming out of the mouth of the skull moved to reveal a doorknob. "The same man that knocked reached out and pulled the door open. Harry moved with Cho to see a large wall full of portkeys. He watched as all four walked over, and picked one up. Within seconds they were gone. Wanting to get a better look in the small room, Harry ran forward leaving Cho behind. He wanted to see what was on the wall, but just as he got close enough the door swung close.
"Lets go" he said looking around for Cho. Umm where are you?" Cho started laughing, She walked behind Harry quiet as a mouse, and grabbed his sides trying to startle him. Harry not expecting this turned around with force. He thought that someone was trying to grab him, so before he new it he had knocked Cho right into the wall. He only new it was her because the force knocked her out of the invisibility cloak. "Cho, are you Ok" he asked immediately running to her side. She was lying on the ground, and was bleeding from a small cut above the head. "I guess that was not the best timing," she laughed as Harry let out a sigh, "You scared the hell out of me" Harry stopped laughing though, when he noticed a cut on her head. "Are you okay" he asked as he picked her up grabbing the cloak. "Ya, just a little soar." Harry threw the cloak back over them. "Just in case someone comes," he said. With that they started walking back to the castle. "So, let me take a look at my handy work." Moving Cho's now bloody hair out of the way. Harry noticed that it was worse than he once thought. It was quiet deep, and was bleeding freely. "Well, how does it look" she asked. Harry didn't answer. "That bad huh" "Well, I don't want to frighten you but I think you may be staying in the hospital wing tonight." She just laughed. "Will you stay with me?" Harry however did not have time to answer, Cho started stumbling, and grabbed her head. It seems that she had lost to much blood, and was getting dizzy. Harry sat her down. He knew if she kept walking that she would end up fainting, and their was no way he would leave her hear alone to get help. "Let me look at that again" he said turning Cho toward him. This time however when he reached out with his hand to wipe away the blood he felt energized. He saw the blood on Cho's head slowly disappear, and the color in her checks return. Once the feeling started to fade, Harry removed his hand. It was glowing white. The fact is they were both glowing white. Harry looked at his hand and watched the light fade. Once the light was gone he looked back at Cho. She was staring at him with fear in her eyes. She had noticed the transformation of Harry, and watched as it disappeared, and the light fades into his hand. "Its ok Cho." He said noticing the look on her face. She looked back at him tears in her eyes.
"Harry, it happened again." Harry nodded, but stopped when he looked from her eyes to where her cut had been. He reached his finger up, and touched the spot where she had been bleeding. "It's gone," he said touching her face. Whatever just happened, it healed your cut. Cho reached up as well. Harry was correct the cut was gone. "Harry, lets get out of here, I don't feel safe." Harry agreed, and after helping Cho up they started to make there way back to the castle. "Here take my hand. The cut may be gone, but I don't know if you will faint on me." She accepted his hand, and interlocked her arm in his. Harry treated her with such care on the way back. Even though she said she felt better than she has in weeks, Harry refused to let her go, and after 2 hours of walking, they were finally back at the statue. "How do you open it" Cho asked looking at Harry. "I'm not sure, we can see right into the hall beyond, but no one is there." Harry put his hand up to try and push the statue aside, but instead of touching the statue, he fell through it. "It looks as if we can walk through it." He said looking back at the statue, "Follow me." Cho took only a few steps forward when she felt the hard marble of the dungeon floor.
"I think we need to see Dumbledore." He said, lets hurry. The two of them took very little time climbing the many steps to the great hall, expecting to walk in, and still see students, When they entered to find Dumbledore with the rest of the teachers, they came to a halt. It looked as if they were about to start a search party, and Harry then realized it was almost 12:00. Looking back up he noticed Ron, and Hermione standing in their pajamas, and assumed they went to see him, but found Miss Pomfrey stunned instead. As he and Cho entered the room Dumbledore stopped talking. "There you two are, Where have you been, we have been looking everywhere." Everyone else in the room turned to the open door. Only they did not see Cho, and Harry. They were both still under the cloak. Harry realized this, and pulled the cloak off of them. Harry then motioned for Cho to follow him, as they headed up to the front table. "Don't worry" he said to Cho, "I'm used to retelling everything." When they finally reached the table, Harry and Cho took a seat. Dumbledore advised the rest of the teachers, including Ron, and Hermione to return to bed, and asked that McGonagall, Figgs, Lupin, and Pomfrey follow Harry Cho, and himself to his office, I am sure these two will tell us everything we need to know.
Once arriving in the headmasters office, Harry and Cho took a seat in front of his desk, and Harry went into detail. Dumbledore only stopped him once to excuse Madame Pomfrey, but besides that did not interrupt Harry at all. When Harry finally finished, He looked up to see Dumbledore's face, and knew by the look, that he was not at all pleased to find that his school had some how been broken into, and the fact Harry had not come to get help was not making the matter any better. Turning to look at Cho Harry however couldn't help but smile. She had fallen asleep holding his hand, and she seemed to be having a good dream because she was smiling.. Harry stood up to face Dumbledore, Sirus, and Remus, and asked if he would be al right to take Cho back to her dorm. When Dumbledore nodded, Harry turned to wake her up. "So what next," he asked looking at Sirus.
"Harry, we will go down and destroy that tunnel." Dumbledore said. Just then Harry remembered something he forgot. He turned to Dumbledore "I remember seeing a nametag over a group of Portkeys, it said headquarters. Do you think it means Voldermorts Headquarters? Harry noticed as Dumbledore's eye twinkled at the thought. "Harry, I am ok with you walking miss Chang to her room, but please hurry back to your own." "I will," he said as he woke Cho.
Once out of Dumbledore's office, Harry and Cho made their way towards Ravenclaw tower. They were both tired, so neither of them spoke much. As they turned the corner leading to the portrait whole Cho stopped and turned Harry to face her. "Harry, what going on between us?" she asked. Harry just stared. He new how he felt, and what he wanted to say, but did not have the courage to tell her. Instead he said something he thought safe. "Cho, now is not the time to discuss this.." Harry stopped though mid sentence. He was planning on just saying he wanted to become better friends first, but he new he needed to be honest. He reached out and touched Cho's check with his hand, and looked at her beautiful blue eyes. He took in a deep breath, and started over. "I'm sorry. Even though I am scared, I can never lie to you." With that Harry softly kissed Cho's lips, "Cho, I love you, I always have. Ever since the first time I saw you I wanted to hold you in my arms. Please don't be mad at me for kissing you, but I felt that I had to be honest, I know how I feel, but also know that those feelings can betray me. Voldermort is still after me; you witnessed what he can do tonight. He can use you against me. Until he is defeated I cannot allow you to be put into danger, I was stupid to allow you to get hurt tonight." Reaching out to touch her head where he had healed her. He let out a sigh of frustration. "I don't know what I would do If I lost you. Please understand." Cho reached out, and grabbed Harry's hand. "I understand Harry." With that she turned and walked away, Harry watched as she made her way to the portrait. When she turned one last time, Harry could see a smile on her face, but a tear in her eye, she mouthed 'I love you to". And disappeared into her dorm. As soon as the portrait closed Harry started mumbling. "That didn't just happen" "Yes it did" came a voice from behind him causing Harry to turn sharply, and pull out his wand. "Whoa Harry, calm down."
Harry recognized the voice as Sirus "You scared me" He said looking to where the voice came from. "I see that, but Dumbledore asked that I make sure you make it back to your tower." Harry just laughed leave it to his Godfather to be there when he made a complete fool of himself. "How long were you standing there" Harry hoped that Sirus was not there the whole time. "Long enough." He said. Harry quickly responded. "That's not a good enough answer. HOW LONG WERE YOU THERE." Sirus put his arm around Harry's shoulder, and started off towards Gryffindor tower. "Anything you want to talk to me about" He said. "You know, you and your father have a lot in common, I remember when your Dad first told Lily how he felt. It started off just like you "well Lily you know." and just like you, he stopped mid sentence, and declared his undying love her here. Funny that is. I never expected that to rub off on you." By that statement Harry new Sirus had heard the whole conversation.
"Sirus" He asked. "Do you think it was right to let her now the truth. I mean, If Voldermort finds out, do you think he might hurt her to get to me." "Harry, I think what you said was courageous. As for Voldermort, I am not sure what he is capable of. If he thought he could use Cho against you, it is a possibility. However. I am sure she is aware of the risk, but just in case you missed what she mouthed to you before leaving. She is also in love with you, and it should be her decision as well." "Sirus, I have a lot of questions to ask you, some really weird things have happened to me the past few weeks, and I need to know what's going on. "Harry, I know you have questions, but when the time is right, you will figure them out yourself. Trust us on this Harry it is very important that you figure this out on your own. Now go to bed, don't stay up to long." Harry and Sirus had talked all the way to Gryffindor tower, Harry said the password, and as the portrait swung open he gave Sirus a hug, and thanked him for the talk. Once inside He made his way through the empty common room, and walked over to the couch in front of the fire. "That did not just happen" He said pulling a pillow over his face.
When Harry finally believed that he in fact had just told Cho he loved her, he pulled the pillow away from his face, and let out a sigh. "I can't let her be harmed for me." He thought. Just then Ron, Hermione, and Ginny walked over. Harry knew by the looks on their faces that they were worried about him. "I'm fine," he said looking at each of them. Really, "I have just had a long night, and a lot of emotions running through me. That's all" Harry new that he wasn't going to get out of this that easy, so when no one questioned him any further he was both shocked, and very Happy. "Well it's late, and we have class in the morning, best be off to bed." With that Harry, and Ron got up to leave, but Hermione, and Ginny stayed back. Harry's doubts about going to bed early were suddenly back full force. "Ron, are you going to interrogate me." He asked giving his friend an I knew this was to good to last look. Ron simply answered, "What are best friends for." Even though Harry was extremely tired, he new his friends cared for him, and that thought made him smile.
Once Harry was changed, and ready for bed, he sat down next to Ron, and told him everything. When he was done he made Ron swear not to tell anyone about what he had said to Cho, and that he healed here wound. Ron reluctantly agreed. He was very happy for Harry, and new that Hermione, and Ginny would be to, but was shocked at how close Harry had come to being captured by Death Eaters. "Lucky you had that invisibility cloak." Ron said getting up to leave. "Um Harry, where did you get the invisibility cloak." He asked. Harry simply laughed. "Its Cho's"
Ron just nodded his head, and left the four posters headed back down to the waiting girls. Fifteen minutes later he opened the door, and came back in. "Those two, I swear they made me retell them everything word for word. I am shocked I did it in less than three days let alone fifteen minutes." "You didn't tell them everything did you." Harry said looking a little nervous. "No lover boy, but they knew I was holding something back, I could feel their glares." "Good boy" Harry said. "Now if you don't mind I am going to sleep."
'Cho, what's the matter" Harry said walking up to her, and startling her by placing a hand on her shoulder. "Oh Harry, nothing at all, I was just up studying late last night, and am just a little tired. Hey, do you want to sit down. I needed to talk to you about the Halloween Ball. I don't know what to wear."
"Well either do I, but if you want to join us today at Hogsmeade, I am sure we can pick out the perfect costumes." Cho just smiled at the thought of spending the day with Harry. She had wanted to do this since they first arrived, but she noticed how busy he was with quidditch, his finals, and playing pranks on Malfoy. 'Sure, but if you want to share the same carriage as Ron and Hermione, I suggest we go now." Cho had pointed at the retreating Hermione, and Ron, and the two jumped up running over to catch them.
"Leaving without us are you." Harry said to Ron giving him a playful punch in the arm. Ron just smiled back, and pointed at Hermione. "She has that prefect meeting today, so she wanted to get our costumes before she needed to leave." "Hermione, I thought our meeting wasn't until 2:00" Cho blurted out behind Harry causing him to practically leap out of his skin "What do you mean our." Harry said turning to her.
"The Prefect meetings today, to discuss decorations for the Halloween dance. Harry I am the Ravenclaws prefect, didn't you know that?" Harry stared at her, he had no idea. "Well then lets keep going, I want a little time together before you two ditch us." He said breaking the silence. The two girls just looked at each other, and laughed as the four of them made there way out to the waiting carriages. Once getting to Hogsmeade, Harry and Ron were at the mercy of the two girls. Besides being dragged from shop to shop by there dates to the dance, the two were forced to walk right past Honeyducks, and were rapidly getting tired, and thirsty.
"No wonder they were in such a hurry, we have been here for three hours, and nothing" Ron said as the four made there way into the last clothing store. "All right, alright," Harry blurted out getting the attention of the group. "Ron, follow me, Ladies, wait here for just a minute, and well be right back." Harry grabbed Ron's arm, and lead him over to the men's costumes. "Ron, if we let them pick, we will never be able to leave. Lets find what we like, then tell them to match it. "I don't know Harry, Hermione may not like this." "Sure she will, were the men, we get some say in all this, or would you rather wait for them to decide, and end up going as raggedy Ann, and Andy." He said pointing to a couple of Hufflepuff students ringing up there purchases of just that. Ron gave Harry a yah right look, and the two of them busied themselves searching for costumes. Returning to the girls five minutes later, Harry and Ron showed them what they had chosen, and advised them to match. Cho seemed to take the news the best; she shot out of the store only to return ten minutes later with a few packages under her arms. Harry was glad to see her return so happy, because the second she had left, Ron and Hermione started arguing.
"Ron, how am I suppose to match this" she said holding up his costume. "I'm not sure, all I know is I like this one." "Well I don't, go find something else." "I will not, what's wrong with this." "Nothing really, but if we are going as a couple, we need to be able to match." "Your right, I am sorry" He said obviously loosing his nerve to argue with Hermione. "Ron, I think you picked out a great costume, how about you Cho?" Cho had finally returned, and Harry new she could help. "Leave it to me" She said grabbing Hermione's arm, and throwing her packages to Harry. The two girls walked arm in arm over to the men's area, only to return with a bag. "Were ready you two." Hermione said visibly happy with what her and Cho decided on. Harry grabbed Ron's costume, and walked up to the cash register.
'So are you two planning on showing us your costumes" he asked watching Cho and Hermione talk and laugh about the packages. "Nope" She said, "By the way, Hermione will be getting ready with me in the Prefect Common area, so you two can pick us up there." She said turning back to Hermione. Harry just smiled, he could tell Cho and Hermione were becoming good friends, and enjoyed the reaction Ron got when she said no.
After paying for his and Ron's costumes Harry and his friends Headed to the three broomsticks. As they were walking past a little shop just next to it, Harry noticed Malfoy, Crabb, and Goyle trying on musketeer outfits. "Ron, take a look over there. I think the invisible transformation charm will work wonders on that. "Harry, that is disgusting" Cho said noticing what he was looking at, and hearing the name of the charm. "Ah, the name is misleading Cho. My father came up with a charm that we can place over the portrait hole of the Slytherins, and once the victims; in whom we choose of course, walk under it, their clothes are transformed. The brilliance of this charm is that the victims can't see the changes, only everybody else. Cho started laughing. "Can I be there when you do it? I would love to help." "Sure, but since when are you the trouble maker?" "Well to be honest since you asked me to this dance." "Why is that?" Harry asked obviously confused. "Well if you really want to know I am getting threats from a lot of girls, especially from those close to your friend Malfoy." 'Threats, what type of threats?" Harry was now very concerned. "Calm down. I can handle myself. Anyway I enjoy a good prank, you should know that. Did you not see me rolling around on the floor when you glued Malfoy to that Slytherin girl."
'Ya, but still what type of threats." "Well Harry, you are more popular with the ladies than I think you know." "I told you Harry" Hermione said smiling as the four sat down in the Three Broomsticks. "After the day you asked Cho to the dance, you have been labeled as a ladies man." Harry just shook of Hermione's comment, turning to order four butterbeers.
An hour after entering the Three Broomsticks, Harry and Ron watched as Hermione, and Cho jumped on a carriage, and started off. "Ron, can you believe how lucky we are." "I never thought I would see the day Harry, never thought." "Well what now." The two spent the rest of the day enjoying the shops, and talking about Cho, and Hermione. When it was time to head back to Hogwarts, they quickly went to Honeyduckes, loaded their bags with candy, and jumped on the last carriage to Hogwarts. "I wonder if we will see Hermione, and Cho again tonight" Ron said turning to his friend. "Ron, I am sure that we will see them during dinner."
Harry however was wrong. It seems that it was taking the prefects a long time to come up with decorations, and Dumbledore had allowed them to stay in his office during dinner, and had Dolby bring them up some food. When Harry and Ron tried to question them at breakfast the next morning, they just reassured them that the ball would be great, and that they had managed to book a wizarding band "The warlocks." Harry and Ron not wanting to push the subject said goodbye to Cho, and the three Gryffindors headed of for DADA.
"Harry, Dumbledore told me last night that because of you know who gaining support of the dementors, that we need to learn the patranous. When we left last night, Professor Lupin, and Snuffles entered, and right before the door closed, I heard Sirus ask when they planned on attacking. I think Harry, that Voldermort may be thinking of using Dementors to attack, and that Professor Lupin is planning on having you demonstrate to the class how to do one." Hermione said looking at the anxious faces of Harry and Ron "So, anything else you haven't told us." "No, that's all I heard, but I want to talk to Remus after class." "So do I, what do you think they meant by attack?" Ron asked. Harry just shook his head. "Will find out short enough, lets take our seats." He said, as they took their seats in the front of the class.
Just as Hermione had advised, the DADA lesson was all about dementors. Because Harry had learned all he could 2 years earlier, he spent most of the class helping others with the theory. When it came to the end of the class, Remus turned to Harry, and asked if he was up to demonstrating a Patranous. Harry just smiled, and agreed. When Professor Lupin pulled out a box, Harry new that it was a Boggart, and prepared himself for the Dementor. When Professor Lupin pulled the cover off of the box. Harry was ready. He stepped forward, but instead of a Dementor approaching him, it was Voldermort. Harry was face to face with his enemy. Harry didn't have time to think. His head was pounding with pain, and his scar was burning. Just as Harry felt himself fall to his knees Professor Lupin jumped into action. He turned on the Boggart getting its attention, and forced it back into the box. It was only a matter of minutes before Harry's scar had stopped hurting, but when he opened his eyes he was on the floor, and struggled to stand up. "Harry are you ok" Remus asked, coming to his side to help him to a seat. "This bloody scar. If it didn't cripple me every time I saw Voldermort, I could defend myself." "Harry, I am sorry. I did not expect Voldermort. I expected a Dementor." "I did to. It appears I am no longer afraid of them." "I see that now, but lets get you to the hospital wing, I am sure Poppy would skin me alive If I didn't send you." Remus turned to Hermione, and Ron; who were standing behind him, and asked that they make sure Harry go straight to see Madame Pomfrey. They both nodded, and walked out each holding one of Harry's arms. Even though he could stand Harry was still very much in pain, and appreciated his friends help.
By the time he had reached the hospital wing, the bell had rung signaling the end of class, and Harry suddenly came to a realization as to what happened. "Great, I can't wait to hear what Malfoy is going to say." "Don't worry about him Harry" Hermione said cheerily. "Who knows, maybe he won't find out." When they entered the wing, Madame Pomfrey came running over to them. "What happened now." She asked looking at the way Hermione and Ron were holding onto Harry. "Ron, you tell her." Harry said. Ron let out a sigh, and briefly replayed the last twenty minutes. When he was done Madame Pomfrey thanked them for their help, but asked that they get back to class. "Harry you need to get some rest." She said flicked her wand changing Harry from his school robes, to his pajamas. Once done she then levitated him onto a bed, and gave him a sleeping potion. Harry said goodbye to his friends, and drank the disgusting potion with one big gulp. When he woke up five hours later, he heard his stomach growl.
"Must be past supper" he said as he sat up in his bed. Just then he noticed someone was holding his hand. Harry looked down to see a hand on his. The interesting thing is that the hand was all he could see. He slowly pulled his hand away, and stared intently. When he realized what was going on. He slowly reached down and pulled an invisibility cloak off of Cho, She was sitting in a chair next to him sleeping. By the looks of it she had come in to see him, and had fallen asleep waiting for him to wake up. Harry smiled as he saw how peaceful she looked, but when he heard Madame Pomfrey came in he quickly threw the cloak back over Cho, and laid back waiting for Poppy to enter. "Good your up, you must be hungry. Harry if you feel all right, you may change and head to the great hall for dinner." Harry nodded his head. After getting dressed, Harry walked over to a sleeping Cho. He pulled the invisibility cloak off of her, and just as He was about to shake her shoulder, he again noticed how peaceful she looked. Instead of shaking her, he gently moved her hair of her face, and with the back of his hand he softly felt her check. It was warm, and smooth. He couldn't help but outline her lips with his finger. He wanted so badly to kiss her, but thought better of it. He decided rather just to wake her up, so reached over taking her hand in his, and gave it a small squeeze. Cho immediately lifted her head. "Your awake. I was hoping you would wake up before I had to leave." She said before looking around to notice it was starting to get dark outside. "What time is it" Harry looked at his watch. "Dinner time, come on, let's go." He said taking her hand in his. She smiled and gave her acceptance of him holding her hand by interlocking there fingers.
Harry and Cho walked out from behind the curtains, and were headed for the hospital doors when they burst open. Harry could hear the sounds of men enter the room, but couldn't see anything. They were to far back in the room, and the doors were around the corner to where they stood. "Are you sure he is here." One man said to the others. "My son said he was, unless he got out early he should be behind those curtains." "Avery, make sure you transform something to put in his place. We can't afford anything to go wrong." Harry looked at Cho, and motioned her not to make a sound. He took her invisibility cloak, and threw it over them both. "Stay close" he whispered as the two of them moved to the back of the room. "They won't bump into us back her, lets listen to what they say." As soon as they were against the wall, Harry heard a man yell "Stupify," Followed by the sound of someone hitting the floor. "Madame Pomfrey" Harry whispered. "They must have stunned her." Harry then watched as the Death Eaters came into view, and threw back the curtain where they had just been. They stopped dead in their tracks. "Lucius, your son said he would be here. Where is he?" "He's here, I heard someone talking before we came in. check every inch." Harry could feel Cho tense up when she saw the four men start searching in every direction. "Stay close to me, we need to move." Harry whispered as he pulled out his wand. The two of them walked as silently as they could weaving in and out of the searching Death Eaters. Just as they got to the door they heard Lucius tell the others to stop. "We've been here to long, someone is coming, lets go." Harry and Cho slipped out behind them as they hurried out the door. Cho was the first to speak. "Harry, lets follow them, we can see how they got in, and where they're going." Harry nodded his head, and they were off.
Harry was very surprised at the direction the death eaters were headed. They ran straight past the main door, and headed in the direction of the dungeons. Harry and Cho were having a hard time staying under the cloak, and following the quickly retreating death eaters, so when they past the lowest classroom, Harry turned to Cho. "I have never been this far below the school, have you." Cho started to say "N." when Harry stopped her. The Death Eaters had stopped in front of a statue of Salzar Slytherin. One of them muttered what Harry thought was Fangs, and the statue jumped aside. Harry watched as the four men walked down a stairway leading to a dimly lit hall. "Should we follow" Harry asked looking at Cho. When she nodded they both jumped in. Cho, and Harry walked one in front of the other following the sounds of the four men. Since they were now safe from being seen, the four men had stopped running, and were now carrying on a casual conversation. Well casual as it could be. "Master will not be happy when we return without Potter. You know he needs Potter dead to unlock the Gate to Hogwarts." "Nott you coward, the Dark Lord knows this was a unlikely attempt, but sent us just in case. I will tell my son to continue his service. Potter will be unguarded again, and when that happens, we will be there." "Do you think Draco could convince Potter to follow him down to the lower portions of the dungeon, we could wait for him behind the statue once we hear his voice coming, we could ambush him." "Wormtail, you may be able to sacrifice your friends, but I am not going to put my son in harms way. He is doing enough keeping us informed"
"Now stop talking all of you, were almost there." Harry stopped when he heard the name Wormtail. If only He could have captured him 2 ½ years ago, everything would have been different. After standing for a moment in silence, he turned to Cho, and signaled her to keep moving. He was slightly nervous, but desperately wanted to see where this tunnel came out. Cho silently agreed, and they started walking. "I can't here them, we need to run and catch up." She said pulling on Harry's cloak to get his attention, Harry quickened his step, and they ran the remainder of the hall until finally coming to a stop when the hall opened up to a small room. The first thing Harry noticed was a large wooden door. The Mark on the door was that of the Dark lords, and it made Harry's blood run cold. The two of them sat there is silence watching as one of the four death eaters knocked. Harry heard Cho hold back a scream when the eyes of the skull turned bright red, and the snake that was coming out of the mouth of the skull moved to reveal a doorknob. "The same man that knocked reached out and pulled the door open. Harry moved with Cho to see a large wall full of portkeys. He watched as all four walked over, and picked one up. Within seconds they were gone. Wanting to get a better look in the small room, Harry ran forward leaving Cho behind. He wanted to see what was on the wall, but just as he got close enough the door swung close.
"Lets go" he said looking around for Cho. Umm where are you?" Cho started laughing, She walked behind Harry quiet as a mouse, and grabbed his sides trying to startle him. Harry not expecting this turned around with force. He thought that someone was trying to grab him, so before he new it he had knocked Cho right into the wall. He only new it was her because the force knocked her out of the invisibility cloak. "Cho, are you Ok" he asked immediately running to her side. She was lying on the ground, and was bleeding from a small cut above the head. "I guess that was not the best timing," she laughed as Harry let out a sigh, "You scared the hell out of me" Harry stopped laughing though, when he noticed a cut on her head. "Are you okay" he asked as he picked her up grabbing the cloak. "Ya, just a little soar." Harry threw the cloak back over them. "Just in case someone comes," he said. With that they started walking back to the castle. "So, let me take a look at my handy work." Moving Cho's now bloody hair out of the way. Harry noticed that it was worse than he once thought. It was quiet deep, and was bleeding freely. "Well, how does it look" she asked. Harry didn't answer. "That bad huh" "Well, I don't want to frighten you but I think you may be staying in the hospital wing tonight." She just laughed. "Will you stay with me?" Harry however did not have time to answer, Cho started stumbling, and grabbed her head. It seems that she had lost to much blood, and was getting dizzy. Harry sat her down. He knew if she kept walking that she would end up fainting, and their was no way he would leave her hear alone to get help. "Let me look at that again" he said turning Cho toward him. This time however when he reached out with his hand to wipe away the blood he felt energized. He saw the blood on Cho's head slowly disappear, and the color in her checks return. Once the feeling started to fade, Harry removed his hand. It was glowing white. The fact is they were both glowing white. Harry looked at his hand and watched the light fade. Once the light was gone he looked back at Cho. She was staring at him with fear in her eyes. She had noticed the transformation of Harry, and watched as it disappeared, and the light fades into his hand. "Its ok Cho." He said noticing the look on her face. She looked back at him tears in her eyes.
"Harry, it happened again." Harry nodded, but stopped when he looked from her eyes to where her cut had been. He reached his finger up, and touched the spot where she had been bleeding. "It's gone," he said touching her face. Whatever just happened, it healed your cut. Cho reached up as well. Harry was correct the cut was gone. "Harry, lets get out of here, I don't feel safe." Harry agreed, and after helping Cho up they started to make there way back to the castle. "Here take my hand. The cut may be gone, but I don't know if you will faint on me." She accepted his hand, and interlocked her arm in his. Harry treated her with such care on the way back. Even though she said she felt better than she has in weeks, Harry refused to let her go, and after 2 hours of walking, they were finally back at the statue. "How do you open it" Cho asked looking at Harry. "I'm not sure, we can see right into the hall beyond, but no one is there." Harry put his hand up to try and push the statue aside, but instead of touching the statue, he fell through it. "It looks as if we can walk through it." He said looking back at the statue, "Follow me." Cho took only a few steps forward when she felt the hard marble of the dungeon floor.
"I think we need to see Dumbledore." He said, lets hurry. The two of them took very little time climbing the many steps to the great hall, expecting to walk in, and still see students, When they entered to find Dumbledore with the rest of the teachers, they came to a halt. It looked as if they were about to start a search party, and Harry then realized it was almost 12:00. Looking back up he noticed Ron, and Hermione standing in their pajamas, and assumed they went to see him, but found Miss Pomfrey stunned instead. As he and Cho entered the room Dumbledore stopped talking. "There you two are, Where have you been, we have been looking everywhere." Everyone else in the room turned to the open door. Only they did not see Cho, and Harry. They were both still under the cloak. Harry realized this, and pulled the cloak off of them. Harry then motioned for Cho to follow him, as they headed up to the front table. "Don't worry" he said to Cho, "I'm used to retelling everything." When they finally reached the table, Harry and Cho took a seat. Dumbledore advised the rest of the teachers, including Ron, and Hermione to return to bed, and asked that McGonagall, Figgs, Lupin, and Pomfrey follow Harry Cho, and himself to his office, I am sure these two will tell us everything we need to know.
Once arriving in the headmasters office, Harry and Cho took a seat in front of his desk, and Harry went into detail. Dumbledore only stopped him once to excuse Madame Pomfrey, but besides that did not interrupt Harry at all. When Harry finally finished, He looked up to see Dumbledore's face, and knew by the look, that he was not at all pleased to find that his school had some how been broken into, and the fact Harry had not come to get help was not making the matter any better. Turning to look at Cho Harry however couldn't help but smile. She had fallen asleep holding his hand, and she seemed to be having a good dream because she was smiling.. Harry stood up to face Dumbledore, Sirus, and Remus, and asked if he would be al right to take Cho back to her dorm. When Dumbledore nodded, Harry turned to wake her up. "So what next," he asked looking at Sirus.
"Harry, we will go down and destroy that tunnel." Dumbledore said. Just then Harry remembered something he forgot. He turned to Dumbledore "I remember seeing a nametag over a group of Portkeys, it said headquarters. Do you think it means Voldermorts Headquarters? Harry noticed as Dumbledore's eye twinkled at the thought. "Harry, I am ok with you walking miss Chang to her room, but please hurry back to your own." "I will," he said as he woke Cho.
Once out of Dumbledore's office, Harry and Cho made their way towards Ravenclaw tower. They were both tired, so neither of them spoke much. As they turned the corner leading to the portrait whole Cho stopped and turned Harry to face her. "Harry, what going on between us?" she asked. Harry just stared. He new how he felt, and what he wanted to say, but did not have the courage to tell her. Instead he said something he thought safe. "Cho, now is not the time to discuss this.." Harry stopped though mid sentence. He was planning on just saying he wanted to become better friends first, but he new he needed to be honest. He reached out and touched Cho's check with his hand, and looked at her beautiful blue eyes. He took in a deep breath, and started over. "I'm sorry. Even though I am scared, I can never lie to you." With that Harry softly kissed Cho's lips, "Cho, I love you, I always have. Ever since the first time I saw you I wanted to hold you in my arms. Please don't be mad at me for kissing you, but I felt that I had to be honest, I know how I feel, but also know that those feelings can betray me. Voldermort is still after me; you witnessed what he can do tonight. He can use you against me. Until he is defeated I cannot allow you to be put into danger, I was stupid to allow you to get hurt tonight." Reaching out to touch her head where he had healed her. He let out a sigh of frustration. "I don't know what I would do If I lost you. Please understand." Cho reached out, and grabbed Harry's hand. "I understand Harry." With that she turned and walked away, Harry watched as she made her way to the portrait. When she turned one last time, Harry could see a smile on her face, but a tear in her eye, she mouthed 'I love you to". And disappeared into her dorm. As soon as the portrait closed Harry started mumbling. "That didn't just happen" "Yes it did" came a voice from behind him causing Harry to turn sharply, and pull out his wand. "Whoa Harry, calm down."
Harry recognized the voice as Sirus "You scared me" He said looking to where the voice came from. "I see that, but Dumbledore asked that I make sure you make it back to your tower." Harry just laughed leave it to his Godfather to be there when he made a complete fool of himself. "How long were you standing there" Harry hoped that Sirus was not there the whole time. "Long enough." He said. Harry quickly responded. "That's not a good enough answer. HOW LONG WERE YOU THERE." Sirus put his arm around Harry's shoulder, and started off towards Gryffindor tower. "Anything you want to talk to me about" He said. "You know, you and your father have a lot in common, I remember when your Dad first told Lily how he felt. It started off just like you "well Lily you know." and just like you, he stopped mid sentence, and declared his undying love her here. Funny that is. I never expected that to rub off on you." By that statement Harry new Sirus had heard the whole conversation.
"Sirus" He asked. "Do you think it was right to let her now the truth. I mean, If Voldermort finds out, do you think he might hurt her to get to me." "Harry, I think what you said was courageous. As for Voldermort, I am not sure what he is capable of. If he thought he could use Cho against you, it is a possibility. However. I am sure she is aware of the risk, but just in case you missed what she mouthed to you before leaving. She is also in love with you, and it should be her decision as well." "Sirus, I have a lot of questions to ask you, some really weird things have happened to me the past few weeks, and I need to know what's going on. "Harry, I know you have questions, but when the time is right, you will figure them out yourself. Trust us on this Harry it is very important that you figure this out on your own. Now go to bed, don't stay up to long." Harry and Sirus had talked all the way to Gryffindor tower, Harry said the password, and as the portrait swung open he gave Sirus a hug, and thanked him for the talk. Once inside He made his way through the empty common room, and walked over to the couch in front of the fire. "That did not just happen" He said pulling a pillow over his face.
When Harry finally believed that he in fact had just told Cho he loved her, he pulled the pillow away from his face, and let out a sigh. "I can't let her be harmed for me." He thought. Just then Ron, Hermione, and Ginny walked over. Harry knew by the looks on their faces that they were worried about him. "I'm fine," he said looking at each of them. Really, "I have just had a long night, and a lot of emotions running through me. That's all" Harry new that he wasn't going to get out of this that easy, so when no one questioned him any further he was both shocked, and very Happy. "Well it's late, and we have class in the morning, best be off to bed." With that Harry, and Ron got up to leave, but Hermione, and Ginny stayed back. Harry's doubts about going to bed early were suddenly back full force. "Ron, are you going to interrogate me." He asked giving his friend an I knew this was to good to last look. Ron simply answered, "What are best friends for." Even though Harry was extremely tired, he new his friends cared for him, and that thought made him smile.
Once Harry was changed, and ready for bed, he sat down next to Ron, and told him everything. When he was done he made Ron swear not to tell anyone about what he had said to Cho, and that he healed here wound. Ron reluctantly agreed. He was very happy for Harry, and new that Hermione, and Ginny would be to, but was shocked at how close Harry had come to being captured by Death Eaters. "Lucky you had that invisibility cloak." Ron said getting up to leave. "Um Harry, where did you get the invisibility cloak." He asked. Harry simply laughed. "Its Cho's"
Ron just nodded his head, and left the four posters headed back down to the waiting girls. Fifteen minutes later he opened the door, and came back in. "Those two, I swear they made me retell them everything word for word. I am shocked I did it in less than three days let alone fifteen minutes." "You didn't tell them everything did you." Harry said looking a little nervous. "No lover boy, but they knew I was holding something back, I could feel their glares." "Good boy" Harry said. "Now if you don't mind I am going to sleep."