Author's note: as with the first chapter, this story takes place in Harry's final year at Hogwarts, shortly before school let's out. Harry stumbles (ha-ha!) around, searching for the girl he loves after this terrible battle. Lemme see here…I do Not own these people, because If I did, I probably would've killed them off after the 2nd book (lol).Oh, whenever you see something in between to stars (*) it means it's thoughts, okay? Hmm…what else? Oh! I know! Please, Please, PLEASE Review- I wont write anymore w/o the reviews…and thanx to the people who reveiwed the first chapter J

Chapter Two: The Battle

Harry stumbled on, and tripped over some limb or another, and went down face first. He lay there for a moment, willing himself to get up. In his head, Voldemort cackled. Harry faught down a scream, and jumped up, slightly nausiated.

He looked down. *Great* he thought, wiping at the drying blood on the front of his battered robes. The fall had knocked a little more sense into him, and he sat down, thinking of what had just happened.

He was on Hogwarts grounds, facing Voldemort and his followers. He spared a glance over his shoulders. On his left: Astronel. On his right: Ron and Hermione. Behind them had to be at least 90% of the Hogwarts students/staff. They were ready to die with him.

He took Astronel's hand, and she squeezed it. She was terrified, but wouldn't show it…not to the creatures approaching them. He loved her, and a knot clenched in his stomach. He wanted to tell her to find safety…but he knew she wouldn't leave him; she'd rather die.

The Death Eaters drew their wands, as did the Hogwarts peope.

Voldemort's eyes were on Harry, and he raised one hand.

The Death Eaters charged, shooting spells everywhere, in a haze of green. Instantly, 20 Hogwarts people were dead. They just…crumpled. People screamed, and bright purples and reds flashed as spells were shot everywhere.

Ron and Hermione were weaving their way into the Death Eaters, stunning many of them. Astronel was gone in a flash after one last hand squeeze. She knocked down several people with spells-she was very powerful. That was the first and last time he saw her so vibrant…so alive.

Harry stepped up to Voldemort, who was waiting for him. Then… they dueled.