A/N: Hey guys. Sorry about the delay. This chapter just didn't want to come out. I had to delete it and start over, twice. If I ever want to finish this story I'm going to have to move on. So I've decided to just go ahead and post it. Hope it's good enough. Thanks for reading.

WolfShadow713

Chapter 9 – Revelations and Parseltongue

Deciding that it wouldn't hurt to wait just a little longer to haul Wormtail in, Tonks sat down for a few minutes. Harry asked her about Lupin. The young metamorphmagus enthusiastically told him that Remus was doing great. In fact, thanks to him being a werewolf he was completely healed, not a scratch on him.

"I just wonder how you were able to get us out," Tonks said curiously. Apparently she didn't expect an answer for she went on without waiting for one. "Lucky the wards fell when they did, or we'd be goners huh? Where did you learn to side along Apparate someone anyway?"

So he had been right about the fact that no one else had seen the phoenix. Not wanting to go into detail, Harry didn't bother telling her the truth. "The night Malfoy let the Death Eaters into Hogwarts, I Apparated with Professor Dumbledore."

Tonks nodded. She glanced over at the Headmistress. "So when's the next meeting Professor? I keep forgetting to look at my coin. Any idea what we're going to talk about?"

Harry could see her hiding a smile. "It's tonight Nymphadora, but I'm afraid you will have to ask our new leader as to what we will be discussing."

"Oh, so you already elected a new leader then? Well who is it...Kingsley?"

The corners of her mouther twitching McGonagall shook her head.

"Arthur?"

Again a shake of the head.

"Was it one of the Weasleys? No? How about Professor Flitwick? Sprout?" Getting tired, Tonks threw her hands in the air. "Okay, fine. I give up. Who is it?"

"Mr Potter," Professor McGonagall said smiling.

Tonks eyes widened, then she jumped up and punched him on the shoulder. "Harry you prat! Why didn't you tell me you were our leader? Oh wait...I'm not going to get into trouble for hitting the leader am I?"

She ended up staying for over an hour. By the time Tonks left, soon followed by McGonagall, there wasn't much time left before the DA meeting. They would have needed at least an hour or two to talk about the Cottage like Harry wanted, so he decided to wait.

Remembering his part of the bargain with Slughorn, Harry decided to ask if one of them would go with him. "By the way guys, I had to make a deal with Professor Slughorn for the Veritaserum."

"So what does the greedy git want?" Ron asked darkly.

Harry tried not to grin. Even after Harry and Hermione had both assured him all last year, that the parties Slughorn threw were a waste of time, Ron had never completely gotten over the fact that he was never invited.

"Ronald Weasley!" Hermione scolded. "You can't talk about a Professor like that."

"Why not?" Ron asked. "It's the truth. He never thinks about anyone else unless there's something good in it for him."

"That's not the point. It's about―"

Knowing that the two could go on all night arguing Harry interrupted them. "I have to go back down to the Chamber of Secrets after the meeting."

Ron and Hermione both turned to look at him shocked. Ron's face was pale and Harry couldn't really blame him. The memories of seeing Ginny lying on the stone floor, looking like she was dead, was enough to make him sick to his stomach and dread returning. But he had promised something and he fully intended to follow through with it.

"Well I'm going with you," Hermione said straightening up. "Think about it Harry. You shouldn't go alone. What if something was to happen? Besides I never got to see it the first time."

"There's nothing to see Hermione," Ron said. He thought for a second then turned back to Harry. "Wait a minute. How are we going to get back up?"

It was a good question, which Harry had thought about since he had made the deal with Slughorn. Last time Fawkes carried them out, but this time there wouldn't be a phoenix there to help out. Or would there? Harry had this strange feeling that the phoenix from Grimmauld Place would come if he called but he was a hesitant to try. Then again, they would need a way out.

Feeling a might foolish, Harry shouted. "Argos! Can you come here for a minute?"

Nothing happened. Ron and Hermione both were looking at him with wide eyes. Harry knew what they were thinking. That he was crazy. That the pressure had finally gotten to be too much for Harry Potter. His face and neck burning Harry tried to explain.

"Uhm, well you see, er, there was this phoenix at Grimmauld Place..."

Even to his own ears it sounded stupid. Hermione opened her mouth to say something but never got the chance. There was a bright flash above them. Hermione screamed, practically jumping into Ron's arms, who just stood there staying open-mouthed at the fluttering black bird.

Harry had never felt so relieved in his life. He hadn't imagined the whole thing after all. Argos flew around the room twice, twilling a few notes which was enough to calm Harry. Then, surprising them, it flew down and settled on the back of Harry's chair.

Tentatively, Harry reached up and stroked the bird's feathers. "Guys, this is Argos," Harry said. Then deciding to try something, Harry glanced up into the black phoenix's eyes.

Argos, these are my best friends. Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, Harry thought hoping it would work. For a second he heard nothing, but then as clear as if he were whispering in his ear Argos answered.

You pick your flock well, young human. Their aura's are strong. Their chicks will be powerful.

Surprising Ron and Hermione, Harry burst out laughing. His friends just looked at him with questioning faces while Argos simply tilted his head.

Are they not mates? They share the same nimbus, and I feel the strong emotions between the two.

Sorry Argos, Harry thought, still feeling a bit weird at having a conversation without speaking. To make matters worse it wasn't even with a human, but a phoenix.

Does our link confuse you, human? Argos dipped his head and ruffled his wings.

Well, actually it kind of does, thought Harry. I don't know. It's just a bit strange that you're even here. Whose phoenix are you?

I am not bonded yet.

Er...okay. What exactly does that mean?

It means I―

"Harry? What's going on?" Hermione asked studying him and the phoenix both.

"Yeah mate," Ron said cautiously. "It looks like you two are talking, but I can't hear anything."

"That's it!" Hermione cried. She jumped up and ran to the other side of the room where all of the books were stacked on a table. Quickly shuffling through the pile she pulled one out and rejoined them. "I remember reading about that."

What has happened, human? The female's aura has shifted. What has happened to excite her so? Argos thought curiously.

Snorting, Harry answered. Hermione always gets like that when she's on to something. You quickly learn to leave her be and wait. But it's usually always something big that sets her off. Any idea?

"Any idea about what?" Ron asked.

Harry realized he must have said the last part out loud. Trying to hold a conversation in your head and pay attention to one outside was confusing. Thinking that Ron might know, Harry asked, "Any idea what Hermione's looking for?"

"Nah. You know how she is," Ron said grumbling. "She never tells us what she's on about, does she? First it was when she remembered Nicolas Flamel. Then it was finding out what the Slytherin's monster was, and then learning that Rita Skeeter was an illegal animagus. Who knows what it's about this time?"

Hermione was flipping through the book so fast, the images blurred together. Only when she stopped and scanned a page did Harry see the picture of a phoenix looking uncannily like Fawkes. About half the page down, Hermione started reading aloud.

"Unknown how it determines whom, the phoenix first appears in the aid of a person who's life energy is fading. After saving that person, the phoenix then disappears. It is thought that this is to give the witch or wizard time to cope with the fact that they had been chosen. From that point, the phoenix will only reappear if it is called."

"Blimey," Ron said gulping. He glanced at Harry. "You almost died. I never thought it was that bad."

Harry shrugged, not wanting to admit how scared he had actually been. Ron accepted this and didn't say anything else. Hermione skipped along the page until she caught another paragraph that sounded interesting.

"Initially the wizard, or witch, have a link with the phoenix allowing thoughts to be shared between the two. This link only lasts until the bonding is completed, at which point there is no need to talk. The wizard/witch will always be able to tell what the phoenix is feeling and thinking. It is believed that the phoenix shares the same connection. From that point the bond never dies until the wizard/witch die, or the witch/wizard performs an act of unforgivable hatred. Once either happens, the phoenix disappears, usually never seen again. There had been one case where―"

Once again, Hermione skipped along the book, turning the page. "Having a phoenix is a sign of great wizard/witch, as so far only extremely powerful witches/wizards have bonded. Even the dark wizard Grindelwald was once bonded with a phoenix. Until, that is, he committed his first killing. From that point, the promise of power and glory of the dark arts drew him away. His phoenix disappeared shortly thereafter."

"Wicked," Ron said smiling. "Do you know what this means Harry? Argos is going to be yours."

Shutting the book, Hermione shook her head. "Not only that Ron, but this proves that Harry's a powerful wizard."

"But I don't feel very powerful," Harry argued. "There's no way I can do the things Professor Dumbledore could, or even Voldemort for that matter."

Hermione bit her lip thinking. A minute later she smiled. "That's it Harry. The only reason you're not as powerful as either of them is because you haven't had the training they had. Or the knowledge of spells, for that matter."

"Wait a minute," Ron said. "Are you saying all we have to do is find someone to train us?"

"Exactly. Then we can study new spells, just like we did during the tournament and for the DA. With the three of us practicing, odds are we're bound to get the spellwork right," said Hermione. She glanced at her watch and leapt to her feet. "Oh my. Have you seen what time it is Harry?"

Harry looked at his own watch, his pulse quickening when he saw it was already a few minutes until nine. "There's no way we'll be able to make it on time. That's bloody brilliant. My first meeting and I'm going to be late."

"Maybe not," Hermione said, looking at Argos nervously. "Do you think he could, uh, flash us there? I mean, would he mind?"

Harry turned to the phoenix with a good question on his mind. I don't know why I didn't ask earlier, but can you understand what anyone else is saying? Or is it just me?

Argos hopped off the chair unto his shoulder. Yes human. I understand perfectly well what all animals speak. Albeit, it is only you I can converse with. Please tell the female that I can what you call, flash, you three to where ever you chose. She is very thoughtful by asking first, though.

Grinning Harry nodded. "He wants me to tell you yes he can and that he appreciates you asking about him."

Hermione beamed while Ron shook his head. "Blimey Harry, it's still strange to see you talking with a phoenix. Mind you, it's loads better than watching you have a chat with a snake."

"Ron has a point there," said Hermione. She glanced between Harry and Argos. "So how are we going to do this? What do we have to do?"

Harry posed the question to Argos who jumped off his shoulder and fluttered above him. Just as before, merely grab my tail feathers and have your friends hold on to you. Are you wanting to go to where my brother nested with his bondmate?

It took Harry a second to realize that Argos was talking about Fawkes and Dumbledore in the Headmaster office. "Can you do that? I know Fawkes did it...but will the wards admit us?" Only when he received another strange look from Ron and Hermione did he realize that he had yet again spoken aloud.

I really need to get a hang on this or people are going to start thinking I've gone crazy, Harry thought. Argos gave a warble that Harry figured as laughter.

Do not worry human. It will not be long before we bond. Then it will be instinct between us. As for the wards, they will not keep a phoenix out. What particular part of the building did you want to go to? The room of my brother's nest?

Yes, please.

Harry took a hold of Argos' tail, the familiar feeling of weightlessness enveloping him, and held out his other hand. "Hurry up guys. If I'm late, Tonks will probably beat me up. My arm still hurts from that punch earlier."

Ron sniggered. "You know, with everything that's been happening lately, I forget how much of a wimp you are."

So he wanted to play like that huh? Harry waited for Ron and Hermione to grab his hand then turned to Argos. Hey can you do me a favor? Harry explained his plan, to which the phoenix gave another warble.

Very well, human.

A burst of cold flames enveloped them. Hermione gasped, clinging to Harry's shoulder. Then they were being squeezed from all sides, the familiar blackness of apparition. When they reappeared, it wasn't in the new Headmistress's office but the wet darkness of the Forbidden Forest.

"Where are we?" Hermione asked, looking around. She squinted into the trees. "Are we in the Forbidden Forest, Harry? What happened? I thought―"

She was interrupted by scream loud enough to burst ear drums. Smirking Harry turned to Ron. His best mate was staring, horrified, at something in the trees. Clutching Harry's shoulder, Ron started shouting for him to flash them out. Thinking that Ron had paid enough, Harry ignored the hundreds of Acromantulas clicking their way towards them and asked Argos to take them away.

They arrived in the Headmistress' office to find the whole new DA there, sitting around the table. At Harry, Hermione, and Ron's appearance the others jumped, a few yelping in surprise. But Harry was far too busy laughing to care that he had almost given half of the room a heart attack.

As he fell into an empty chair, clutching his stomach, still roaring, Hermione stood over him glaring. "Harry James Potter! What was the meaning of that? Do you know how dangerous that was? What if Argos couldn't get us out of there? What then? Your and Ron's little squabbles are going to get us killed one of these days."

"Relax Hermione. Argos would never have left us. Didn't you noticed we never let go of him?" Harry asked wiping tears off his face. He smirked at Ron. "Of course some of us may have to launder our underpants, huh Ron?"

Scowling Ron punched Harry in the shoulder. "Shove off Harry. I'll get you back sometime." Ron sounded spiteful but Harry could see the mirth in his eyes, so he knew their friendship was as strong as ever. Hermione must have seen the same thing.

"Boys," she huffed and threw herself in a seat next to Ginny.

Upon seeing his girlfriend, Harry wanted to rush over and snog her brainless, but then he saw the whole room was staring at him. Remus and Tonks were grinning, looking amused while Mrs. Weasley couldn't decide between being angry at them for being in whatever danger Hermione had been talking about, or happy to see them again. However, the rest of the room was what made him uncomfortable. Although most tried to hide it, they were looking at him in awe.

It wasn't until Argos sung a few calming notes and flew over to Fawkes' old perch, which McGonagall had never thrown out, that Harry realized why. Of course, seeing three teenagers appear suddenly in a room where Apparition was impossible was shocking to anyone. Combine that with the fact Harry now had a phoenix was enough to explain their reactions.

"Brilliant Harry!" Fred shouted clapping his hands.

"You always knew how to make an appearance," George added.

"Of course, now it's going to be difficult―"

"To top this one."

"But we have complete faith in you."

"After all, you are the mighty Chosen One."

It was exactly what was needed. Thanks to the twin's cheerful outburst the uncomfortable silence in the room vanished. It wasn't until he rose, that Harry saw he was now sitting at the head of the table. Then seeing the patient, expectant faces watching him made him realize that he really was the leader of these people. And perhaps the most surprising thing was that he didn't dread the thought anymore. If these people wanted a leader, then he was going to be one.

Clearing his throat, Harry pulled his wand out and waved it at the door to the office. An odd squelching sound emitted as the door sealed itself. He, Ron, and Hermione, had all discussed this a few days ago. His best friends thought that if he was going to lead these people, they needed to know the truth...well not all of it. The horcruxes wouldn't be shared. Just the Prophecy, as they deserved to know what they were getting into by following him. Looking around at the faces, he knew he could trust them. Besides almost half the room now knew, thanks to Professor Lupin, so he might as well tell the rest.

He looked over at McGonagall. "Professor? Do you still have Dumbledore's Pensieve?" he asked looking over at McGonagall. She nodded. "Do you mind if I borrow it for a minute?"

"Very well Mr. Potter. I believe you know where it is stored?"

Harry nodded. He went over to the black cabinet against the wall and opened the latch. Sure enough the stone basin lay within, empty. Carefully picking it up, he carried it back to the table and set it down. He looked up sheepishly. "Er, how exactly do I do this?"

Professor McGonagall had a small smile on her face when she answered. "Simply place your wand on your temple and concentrate on the memory you want to withdraw. The nonverbal incantation is Secedo! Then all you have to do is slowly pull your wand away."

Still feeling a little nervous, Harry raised his wand and did as she instructed. Before he could bring the memory out to the point where he could see it, several gasps came from the room.

"My goodness," McGonagall whispered staring at him.

It wasn't until the memory released that Harry saw the reason for their shocked stares. While Dumbledore's, even Snape's, memories had been a bright silvery airy substance Harry's was different. There was the same silver cloud-like center alright, but twisting in arcs around it were small green threads.

He thought he must have did it wrong and was thinking about trying again, but then Hermione caught his eyes and slightly shook her head with a look that clearly said I'll explain it later.

"Right. Well, what do I do now?" Harry asked, but Professor McGonagall wasn't paying attention. She, along with anyone else sitting near him, was staring into the Pensieve. "Professor?"

"Hmmm?" she asked finally tearing her gaze away. "Yes Mr. Potter?"

Fighting the urge to shove the memory back into his head so the others would stop looking at it, Harry said, "What do I do now? How do I get it to play above the surface? I saw Dumbledore do it once. I don't think we would all fit inside."

"Just wave your wand over it," Professor McGonagall stated simply.

Harry gently scooted the Pensieve to the center of the table so everyone would get a clear view. He paused, figuring he ought to explain what he was about to happen. It would be a tad confusing to just start the memory without them knowing what it meant. "Everyone here has heard about Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Neville, Luna, and me going to the Department of Mysteries, right?"

Everyone nodded, looking curious. "Well the Daily Prophet was right about one thing. There was a prophecy that the Death Eaters wanted badly. Either Voldemort or I were the only ones able to retrieve it. It was accidentally smashed later, during the battle."

Harry took a deep breath. Ginny narrowed her eyes and said, "You heard it haven't you?"

"Yes. Not at the Ministry, but later."

"How though?" Charlie asked raising up and leaning his elbows on the table. "If it was smashed and you didn't hear it then, where else did you hear it from?"

"Dumbledore," said Harry. "He was the one to whom the prophecy was made. Later that night he used the Pensieve to show it to me."

"Well then, on with it," George grinning and gesturing to the basin on the table.

"Yeah, enough with the suspense―" Fred added.

"And show us already."

"After all―"

"How bad can it be?" George finished.

Deciding that the twins were right and that he had explained enough, Harry reached out and waved his wand over the basin. Soon, the translucent figure rose up, floating eerily like a ghost.

"Sybill?" McGonagall cried incredulously. "What is the meaning of this? Surely you jest."

Harry didn't say anything, although the twins did show remarkable courage by shushing her. The soft and misty voice of the Divination's Professor poured through the room capturing everyone's attention.

"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..."

Giving them time enough to digest it, when the slivery figure sank back into the stone basin, Harry slowly put the memory back into his head. He took twice as long as it would normally take to return the Pensieve to the black cabinet. Only when he was back in his chair did he look up.

The rest of the Weasleys, who didn't know beforehand, pretty much had the same reaction as Tonks. They just sat there staring at him wide eyed, although Harry was pretty sure he heard Bill curse under his breath. When Fleur slapped her groom to be on the shoulder, Harry almost smiled. Out of everyone there the worst reaction was Hagrid's.

The big man howled, burying his head in his huge hands. In between his sobs, Harry could hear Hagrid mumbling about it not being fair. He walked around the table to pat the half giant, which was a huge mistake. No sooner had Harry stopped beside him, that Hagrid turned around and practically threw himself against Harry, causing the latter to stumble backwards. Eventually, with the help of Mrs. Weasley and Professor McGonagall, Hagrid calmed down.

After that the meeting flew by. Harry informed them that Voldemort planned to attack during the wedding, which caused a mixed reaction among the Weasleys. Most of the men jumped up furious, while Mrs. and Mr. Weasley, along with Ginny, sat trying to comfort Fleur who had broken done crying.

Kingsley agreed to inform the Minister that he had heard word of a possible attack, and since Harry was going to be there, the attack was probable so some Aurors should be stationed at the Burrow. Everyone else in the DA agreed to help guard, which was no trouble as they all were going to be there in the first place.

When the meeting was over, and they were trickling out of the office, Harry stopped Tonks and Lupin. "Can you stay a minute?" After they both nodded, Harry turned around to say goodbye to the Weasleys. When he came to Ginny, it took all of his willpower to simply hug her.

"I love you too Harry Potter," Ginny whispered in his ear and was out of the door before he could respond.

Feeling as if he had just taken a whole bottle of calming draught along with an extremely powerful Cheering Charm, Harry went back to his chair and sank into it. Ginny Weasley loved him. Out of all the boys she could have, she had picked him. Grinning like a fool, Harry waited for Tonks and Lupin to join him, Ron, Hermione, and Professor McGonagall.

"Hey Harry," Lupin said stopping behind his seat, putting a hand on his shoulder. "So am I too assume that beautiful bird over there is the reason we survived? And that he has bonded to you?"

"Yeah, it flashed us out but we haven't bonded yet."

Lupin raised an eyebrow. "Really? Well from what I've heard, that's unusual."

"Why?" Harry asked curious. "Argos said that it won't be long."

"Well from what I've read , a phoenix usually doesn't flash a person until they have bonded. Of course, there's been less than five bondings in the past century to go on, so I might be wrong."

Harry smiled. "Actually, I think it's because we asked him."

Lupin chuckled, shaking his head. "I guess that would do it."

Tonks jumped up and took a seat on the table, swinging her legs. She turned to them. "So what is it you wanted Harry? Does Remus need to give you a little refresher course about―"

"No," Harry quickly answered, his face heating up. "Uhm, well, we were wondering if you and Professor Lupin would do us a favor?"

"Sure, just name it," Tonks said while Lupin nodded.

So that's what Harry did. He asked them to train him, Ron, and Hermione. He figured Tonks would be great at the physical part, as he had heard that the Auror program had an intensive training period. While Lupin could help with his magical skills. Surprising him, Professor McGonagall agreed to help them with their Transfiguration. Remembering how Professor Dumbledore had used it during his fight with Voldemort, Harry thankfully agreed.

"So when do we want to start this?" Lupin asked.

"I think we shouldn't worry about it until after the wedding," Hermione said.

"That sounds good," Harry said agreeing.

Tonks and Lupin left. Harry stood up, deciding it was time to leave also. There was still the matter of going back in the Chamber of Secrets. Argos flew off the perch, and down onto his shoulder. The three said goodnight to the Headmistress and left.

"Hey Harry, I bet Moaning Myrtle is still saving her stall for you," Ron joked. He suddenly stopped, giving Harry a glare. "Wait a minute. I'm not going to have to tell Ginny you left her am I?"

"You know Ron, I think Argos will flash you back to the forest if I was to ask him nicely," Harry said.

"Will you two please stop for a minute?" Hermione asked impatiently. She was leading them to the girls bathroom. "We're about to go somewhere dangerous and all you two can do is joke around."

"Relax Hermione," Ron said calmly. "Harry's already taken care of the Basilisk. The only thing we have to worry about is getting hit in the head from a falling rock."

Harry couldn't believe his luck. When they got to the bathroom, Moaning Myrtle wasn't there. Thankful that he didn't have to deal with the miserable ghost, he went straight to the sink with the tiny snake etched on the tap. Concentrating on the snake, imagining it squirming, Harry hissed, "Open."

Bright light covered the sink. Glowing it slowly began moving. As it sank below the floor, a large pipe was exposed. Harry peeked inside and wasn't all that surprised to see the pipe slimy and dark, just like it was before. Hermione however took one look into the hole and backed up looking nervous.

"Harry?" she squeaked. "Do you think Argos would mind flashing us in? Wouldn't it be easier? I mean think about it. Then we wouldn't have to get all dirty would we?"

How about it Argos? Can you take us? Harry thought, wondering why he didn't think of flashing in the first place.

I am sorry human. I can not take you to a place so seeped with dark magic. I can not flash to such a place.

"Oh, okay. Thanks anyway Argos," Harry said. He glanced at Hermione. "Sorry. He says the dark magic interferes with his ability to flash. Guess we're going this way after all. Look Hermione, you don't have to go. Just wait for us up here."

Hermione shook her head and squared her shoulders. "No, I'm going." Then before she could loose her nerve she ran and jumped into the pipe, screaming as she slid away. Calling her name, Ron went next. Chuckling, Harry followed.

Just like before, the pipe twisted many times. Smaller holes leading off from theirs were spaced out so often. Suddenly the pipe tilted downwards, causing him to pick of speed. In what seemed no time at all, it evened out and he shot into a dark cavern, coming to a stop at Hermione's feet.

"I don't care how many times I go down that thing. I'll never get used to it," Ron said grimacing as he wiped large glops of slime off his wand. "We should get the house elves down here to clean it."

"Ron!" Hermione cried whirling around to face him, her wand pointed over his shoulder. She had been in the middle of spelling the grime off her robes. "The house elves do enough as it is. How would you like to be ordered around all day?"

"Hermione we've been through this before. They...enjoy...it," Ron said pronouncing the words slowly.

"Honestly Ron, that's only because they don't know any better. If they knew what they were missing, I'm sure they would change their mind. Look at how much Dobby enjoys his freedom."

Ignoring them, Harry set off down the tunnel the only sound was the shattering of the small animal bones below his feet. From the crunching coming from behind him, he knew Ron and Hermione were following. They followed the path around a few turns and then came upon the giant snake skin.

"Oh my," Hermione gasped. Harry and Ron however hardly noticed it. After all, the two of them had seen it before. They walked around it and came to the part Harry hadn't been looking forward to. The cave in caused from Lockhart trying to use a memory charm, only to have it backfired, was in front of them. Over four years ago Ron had shifted some of the rock away to make a space big enough for Harry and Ginny to get back through. But they were quite bigger now so the hole was too small.

Harry was on his way to move the rocks by hand when Hermione tutted. "Harry. Are you or are you not a wizard? As long you're careful, you can levitate the rocks out of the way."

Feeling stupid that he hadn't thought of that, Harry pulled out his wand. A few moments later the three of them had created a sizable hole in the cave in. Argos flew through it first, his cry echoing from the other side. Harry motioned for his friends and clambered over the rocks. There was a scare when he almost fell halfway down the other side, but he managed to get his foot down in time.

It wasn't long before they came upon the snake door. Once again Harry hissed a few words in Parseltongue to open it. They stepped into the dimly lit chamber. Ron and Hermione both gaped at the huge columns towering all the way to the ceiling. As he walked to the far end of the chamber, Harry again had the feeling that the snakes intertwined around the columns were turning their heads to glare at him.

Instead of Ginny' small unconscious form laying on the ground near the statue of Salazar Slytherin, there was the huge form of the Basilisk. It looked as if it had just been killed the day before. Why hadn't it decomposed by now? After all, it had been over four years since he killed it.

"Bloody hell Harry!" Ron whispered quietly. "I know you said it was big, but this thing's enormous."

Before he could say anything Harry nearly fell on his backside as Hermione plowed into him, wrapping her arms around him. "Harry, what were you thinking? You could have been killed. How were you able to kill such a monster when you were only eleven? Weren't you scared?"

As Hermione pulled away, Harry's cheeks warmed. Couldn't they see that it was only luck? If it hadn't been for Fawkes' timely arrival, he would have been killed. Besides, he hadn't been thinking straight. All the time he was in the Chamber he had been thinking about Ginny. Even back then she had been important to him. The only thing that changed was that now instead of being Ron's sister she was the one he loved.

"I don't know Hermione," Harry said grimly glancing at the snake. He jumped slightly as Argos flew down and landed on his shoulder. The phoenix softly sang a few notes, calming him. "I guess I was too worried about Ginny and angry at Tom to be scared. I just did what I had to. No big deal."

"No big deal?" Ron asked incredulously. "Take a look at that thing. It has to be over sixty feet long, yet you killed it with a sword. That's a very big deal Harry. Who else can say they slain a Basilisk?"

A small smile crossed his face. Leave it to Ron to make him feel better. Harry walked over to the snake and knelt down beside its head. He didn't want to give Slughorn the fang he had destroyed Riddle's diary with since it was covered with ink. He carefully wrapped one hand around another of the Basilisk's fangs and pulled. It didn't budge.

"Merlin!" Harry panted. "Why hasn't this thing decomposed yet? I thought it would be easier than this."

"Well that's obvious isn't it?" Hermione stepped closer, studying the snake. She slowly ran a hand down the scaly hide. "Basilisk are so rare and full of dark magic, that not only do they live for hundreds of years, but it usually takes just as long for them to rot away."

After Harry gave another might tug, with no results, Ron joined them. "Why don't you try summoning it?"

It reminded Harry briefly of that night a couple of weeks ago where he had asked the same question of Dumbledore. Harry stepped back pulling Hermione with him and basically told Ron the same thing Dumbledore had told him. "Good question. Go ahead and try it."

Ron raised his eyebrow. "Uh, okay. If you're sure."

"Accio fang!" Ron yelled.

The Basilisk's head twitched then slowly lifted off the ground. For one horrifying second the picture of the entire snake flying towards Ron and crushing him, flashed through Harry's mind. He wanted to shout for Ron to stop the summoning spell but it was too late. With an odd squelching noise, one of the fangs slipped out and flew across the chamber.

Harry, after years of training from spotting the snitch, followed it. Ron, however, wasn't fast enough. Before he could even jump out of the way or stop the spell, the fang sank into his shoulder. He cried out, sinking to his knees.

"Ron!" Harry and Hermione both screamed. They rushed to his side to find the redhead trying to pull the fang out but his arm was shaking so bad he couldn't get a proper hold on it. When he looked up, his face was covered in sweat.

"That bloody hurt," he gasped. His face was getting paler by the second. "Remind me...not to do t-that a-a-again."

Ron's eyes rolled up into the back of his head and he fell sideways, his body making a small splash on the wet ground. Hermione knelt down, picked Ron's head off the floor and put in her lap, all the while sobbing.

"Argos!" Harry cried, realizing the phoenix was no longer on his shoulder. The bird appeared beside him. "Can you heal him? Please"

I will try, Argos thought to him and hopped unto Ron's chest. He leaned his head down over the gaping wound in the red head's shoulder. A few drops of sparkling tears fell from his beak, glittered over the wound for a few seconds then disappeared. The hole slowly started to heal over, but Ron didn't wake up. Color was returning to his face, which was the only sign that the phoenix tears were helping.

I have did all that I can human, Argos said settling himself back on Harry's shoulder. He received a large dose of venom. It is mostly gone now but the lingering drops of it must work through his system. He needs a few days rest.

Thanks Argos. You were great, Harry thought. He reached over and put a hand on Hermione's shoulder, squeezing lightly. "He's going to be okay Hermione. Argos said a few days in bed and he'll be good as new. Come on let's get him out of here."

Hermione nodded and carefully set Ron's head on the ground. She stood up and used the same spell Lupin and Sirius used in their third year to levitate Snape out of the shrieking shack. She started walking towards the entrance back to the tunnels, Ron floating ahead of her. Harry started to follow, but halfway there Hermione stopped him.

"Don't forget the fang Harry," she said tipping her head back in the direction where it lay.

"What? That can wait. I more worried about Ron. Don't you think―"

Hermione gave him a hard stare. "There's no point in us going through all of this and having nothing to show for it. Would Ron want you to break your promise just because something wrong happened?"

When she put it that way, Harry had to admit she was right. Reluctantly, he left Hermione there and went back to pick up the fang. He grabbed it and was straightening up when he locked gaze with one of the snake intertwined with the column. The way the eyes seemed to glow, Harry was sure it was alive. Fed up with everything that had been happening lately, he suddenly screamed.

"WHAT? What do you bloody want? Tell me!"

He realized Hermione probably thought he finally lost his mind and that he had lapsed into parseltongue while screaming but he didn't care. Oddly enough he felt tons better now. But it didn't last long. A hiss filled the air, and the snake head turned to him, actually all the snake heads. But what made him want to hurry up and get out of there was when the giant statue of Slytherin looked at him, his mouth opening.

"He who speaks the great language is welcome. Come forth and receive the key to my knowledge. For only my heir is worthy of such power, beware the non speaker for death waits in its stead. Enter and be enlightened," the stony voice ground out in parseltongue.

A line appeared in the rock between its legs creating a gap. It rumbled open, dust pouring out of the darkness within. As the stone came to a rest, torches flared inside illuminating a small room. Harry peeked inside. Rolls upon rows of parchment filled the walls. All the way around the room shelves of the scrolls were stacked from the floor to the ceiling twenty feet overhead. That is except for one spot.

Directly across the newly made gap was a golden snake head. Two large red gems, representing its eyes, reflected the firelight. Only when Harry took a step closer to examine it did he realize his mistake. The second he stepped foot in the room the eyes of the snake glowed and a brilliant shade of red light burst from them, shooting directly into Harry's chest.

He vaguely heard Hermione shout his name but he couldn't say a word. The pain ripping across his chest kept him from breathing, much less talking. It felt as if he was under the Cruciatus and being boiled from the inside at the same time. His scar erupted adding even more pain, but it was nowhere near as bad as his body. All the time he was concentrating on keeping the blackness at the edges of his vision away. Finally the pain abruptly stopped and images flashed across his sight.

The last thing he saw was a small house, half hidden behind a small forest of trees. Behind it in the distance, rose a snow covered mountain. Everything about the place looked alright, but he could feel the dark energy radiating from it. Briefly he wondered if this was the mysterious cottage everyone seemed to know about but him, but then he knew it wasn't. Something so steeped in dark magic couldn't possibly belong to the Potters...could it?

Although he didn't move a foot, the house was getting closer. A second later he was standing at the door, upon which was etched a pair of snakes forming two identical letters. He tentatively reached out and touched them. Squirming and hissing, they rearranged themselves, breaking off into smaller snakes forming a name.

Salazar Slytherin.

"Harry! Come on Harry, wake up! Please don't do this," Hermione's panicking voice rang through the air. The house suddenly vanished and he was laying on a cold damp floor. Hermione's face hovered above, tears falling from her eyes. He wanted to tell her to move, that she was getting him wet, but soon realized he didn't have the energy. As she grabbed him and starting shaking his shoulders, Harry closed his eyes and the darkness overtook him.