Chapter Seventeen
"How is he?" Asked McGonagall as Mrs. Weasley, Remus, and Tonks walked out of the hospital wing.
"He's asleep for now, at least he doesn't have to feel anymore pain right now," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Can we see him?" Asked Sarah pleadingly.
"I'm afraid not Sarah. Mr. Lenoge told us that no one is to bother him tonight," said Tonks sincerely.
"Were his wounds taken care of?" Asked Hermione while a tear trickled down here cheek.
"Yes sweetheart. They did a marvelous job with them, and they believe that he will have very little scaring from his other cuts. However, he will always carry the one on his right thigh," sighed Mrs. Weasley as she slumped down beside her husband on a bench.
"Okay now I think everyone she be off to bed now. It is past your curfew," said Dumbledore while raising his hand to stop the protesting that were coming from Harry's order. "I know you wish to stay by his side tonight, but I cannot permit that, and yes you will probably not see him before you leave tomorrow morning for your Christmas break, but he is fine. Leave Hogwarts tomorrow with a light heart young ones because Harry will be just fine, and will be up and around in no time," said Dumbledore.
"He doesn't even now how the others faired yet," said Ron.
"He does in deed Ron. He asked just before we left him for the night, and he was greatly relieved to hear that they were all up and moving about," said Remus.
"Well I guess that's that then isn't it," said Ron as he and the rest of Harry's order left to retire back to their dormitories. ```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` ```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` ``````
"That was too close a call there Albus," growled Moody. "The boy almost died on the way back to Hogwarts."
"I am aware of the situation Alastor," said Dumbledore calmly.
"Then what are you going to do about it!" hissed Mrs. Weasley as she continued to give apprehensive glances back towards the Hospital Wing where Harry lay asleep.
"That I do not know," said Dumbledore quietly.
"I'll tell you what we all do," said Tonks looking appalled. "I think we should all show a little more respect for what Harry and his order have done tonight. I am not saying to encourage them into battle," said Tonks as Mrs. Weasley opened her mouth to object. "I am merely stating that if Harry and his order had not risked their lives today to help us in that battle then the numbers you see in this hall right now would be minus a dozen or more. Me included," said Tonks gaining a pink tinge to her cheeks.
"She's right," growled Moody. "I don't like it one bit that the boy and his friends were there, but they are effective in their own right. If it wasn't for his quick actions and his flyers good aim, then Laslo, Trinna, and I would be awaiting burial right about now."
"As I," said Mr. Weasley while Molly looked aghast.
"Minerva is there something you are wanting to add," said Dumbledore while the twinkle came alive in his blue eyes once again.
"It's just, Oh Albus, did you see what he turned into. He has become an Animagus, and a beautiful one at that. He is following the line of Gryffindors," said McGonagall proudly.
"Kind of ironic though that it was a griffin that mauled him don't you think," said Mundungus earning him a hard smack in the back of the head by Tonks while she muttered angrily under her breath.
"Ouch, for heaven's sakes I was just merely stating a fact," whined Mundungus while rubbing the back of his head.
"Well I am shocked you even knew what the word ironic means," said McGonagall icily.
"Ah now, it is getting late, maybe we should all retire for the night. I expect you all to be ready for Harry tomorrow is that correct?" Asked Dumbledore.
"Yes of course," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Then shall I continue on as planned," said McGonagall.
"Will you need any help with him Minerva, I mean what if he gets weak and can't walk?" Asked Remus.
"Do not worry about that Remus, Harry and I will arrive just fine," said McGonagall.
"Okay," said Remus gloomily as he looked to the ground.
"Is that disappointment I see Remus?" Asked McGonagall jokingly. "Then I assume the two of you made up?"
"Yes they did, and about bloody time too," said Tonks. "But it was the sweatiest thing I've ever seen," she added as an afterthought.
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"How are you doing Harry," Asked McGonagall worriedly the next morning as they began their short walk towards Grimmauld Place. McGonagall was not happy in the least the Dumbledore's plan to get Harry to Grimauld Place was for them to apparate a short distance away from Grimmauld Place, and walk the remaining few yards, but she went along with it none the less. However, she told Dumbledore very frankly that she didn't like him encouraging Harry to brake the law seeing as he is not old enough to apparate legally.
"Just fine," lied Harry. In all actuality though Harry felt like he could puke, pass out, and die all at the same time.
"Harry you are looking quite pail," said McGonagall.
"Just a little tired," said Harry as he stumbled a little and grimaced as he righted himself once again.
"It hurts doesn't it," said McGonagall softly.
After Harry gave McGonagall a calculating stare he finally admitted that he was in pain. "Oh Harry, why didn't you say something sooner?" Asked McGonagall.
"Because I didn't want anyone to see me needing help when we got there. Can you keep them at bay though when we arrive, I feel like I could use a little rest when we get there?" Asked Harry.
"Of course dear, but you will tell me or one of the others if there is anything we can do for you won't you?" Asked McGonagall receiving a nod in reply from Harry.
"You know I can't tell you how proud I am of you for mastering you Animagus form. I wish you would have told me, but I am very impressed none the less. However, you will need to register, but for now Dumbledore has consented to keep it a secrete from everyone as I am sure you wanted," said McGonagall as she looked fondly over towards Harry.
"Thank you professor," said Harry as they prepared to go into Grimmauld Place.
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"HARRY, MOM HARRY IS HERE," Screamed Ron as he, the twins, and Ginny came bounding through the foyer. As the screams from Ron rang through Harry's ears he suddenly felt the urge to vomit all over the floor, and steadied himself against the wall in case the twins decided to give him a slap on the back.
"Now, now, Mr. Potter is probably exhausted from our trip so I think he is going to go rest for a while alone. You can all talk to him when he comes down for dinner," said McGonagall as she winked towards Harry.
"Thank you," mouthed Harry as McGonagall shooed Ron, Ginny, and the twins into the living room while Harry slowly crept up the stairs as he kept a firm grasp on the hand railing. What Harry hadn't told McGonagall was he was not doing well at all, in fact he really felt quite ill at the moment. As Harry arrived in his knew room which was once Sirius's old room Harry fell face down on the mattress, and tried to still the spinning room, but it wasn't working. Quickly and quite ungracefully he lurched for the waste bin and emptied his stomach of its contents before slumping to the floor and resting his head against the side of the bed. Why is it so hot in here, thought Harry as he slowly pulled himself on to the bed and fell into a restless sleep.
"Unbelievable, Harry has been here for four hours now, and I haven't got to say one word to him yet," complained Ron.
"Harry will come down when he is ready," said Mrs. Weasley as she cast a nervous glance over at McGonagall.
"But he missed dinner mummy," said Ginny.
"Don't worry Gin, I'm sure Ron took care of that for me," said Harry as he made his way into the drawing room where everyone was sitting.
"Oh Harry dear, are you hungry, I still have your dinner waiting on you?" asked Mrs. Weasley.
"No," said Harry as he felt his stomach lurch ford again, but he hid it with a smile. He was somewhat shocked with how he was filling now. He was going from nauseous and weak to fine after resting for a few minutes each time he felt a spell come on, so he decided he wouldn't worry anyone about it.
"Well you are looking loads better mate, you want to play some Wizard's Chess with me?" Asked Ron.
"How about I watch you and Remus play," said Harry as he set down on the floor.
"What's the matter Harry, afraid Ronnikens will embarrass you in front of everyone," laughed Fred as Harry mock glared at him.
"You leave him alone this instant you two. Harry needs to rest," Mrs. Weasley said with a hint of laughter in her voice too. Harry was shocked at her happy demeanor right now, and very thankful she stood up for him. He was afraid if he pushed it he would get sick in front of everyone again, and that would be difficult to hide, thought Harry as he rested against Tonks legs that hung over the seat of the couch.
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"HAH, CHECK MATE!" Hollered Ron as he finally beat Remus in a heated chess match.
"Well done Ron, I'll have you know that very few people are able to beat me," boasted Remus. However, I never had much competition at school with Harry's father and all," smirked Remus as he turned around to see Harry's reaction. "What in the he." started Remus as Tonks was trying to shush him up with her finger pressed firmly to her lips, while they were in a huge smile.
"Bloody Hell Harry, you beginning to look more like Tonks each day," said Moody as he walked into the room.
"What?" Asked Harry confused as he looked up at Moody. "Your hair. UURRGH. why did you do that for," glared Moody after Tonks hit him in the face with a pillow.
"Tonks, what did you do?" Asked Harry as he removed Tonks's hands from his hair where she had been playing with it over the duration of Ron and Remus's chess match.
"Nothing Harry, I was just giving you a more dashing look," smiled Tonks as she fell into a fit of giggles.
"Will someone tell me what is going on?" Said Harry.
McGonagall finally conjured up a mirror and took pity on Harry by showing him his reflection in the mirror. "It looks awfully familiar to the time your fathers friends played a trick on him when he tried to work up the nerve to ask your mother out on their first date," laughed McGonagall.
"Really, will you tell us the story," said Harry.
"Well, I believe Remus knows the story better maybe he should tell it," said McGonagall.
"Of course," smiled Remus as he began to retail the tell of when James asked Lily on their first date, which carried on for the rest of the evening.
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The next morning Harry awoke more nauseous then he had ever been and spent the next two hours in the bathroom vomiting.
"Harry sweetheart are you okay?" Asked Mrs. Weasley through the bathroom door.
Panicking Harry quickly lifted himself off the floor with the help of the sink, and began to wash his face. "Yeah, I'm fine Mrs. Weasley," said Harry but his voice was hoarse from vomiting, but with the water running Mrs. Weasley apparently didn't notice.
"Okay dear, but if you need anything then you know where to find me," she said as Harry faintly heard her walk away.
Great, just great. Why the hell am I sick one minute and fine the next. It makes no bloody since, and why is my leg throbbing. Oh yeah Harry you big dolt it has just been ripped open by a griffin, thought Harry darkly. Slowly exiting the bathroom after making sure the coast was clear he snuck back into his room and crawled back onto the bed where he lay staring up at the dusty ceiling.
While Harry lay stone still on his bed afraid to let anyone see him while he had a bout of his sickness everyone else spent the following morning putting up Christmas decorations.
"Is Harry okay?" Asked Remus when he noticed Harry wasn't with the rest hanging up Christmas decorations.
"I'm not sure, but I think being here for Christmas is just hitting Harry a little harder then we thought it would," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Well has anyone checked on the boy today," growled Moody as he hobbled over.
"Yes, he was in the bathroom when I awoke, but he said he was fine," said Mrs. Weasley.
"The boy is a strange one I'll tell you that much. Heart of a lion and tough as nails, but strange," growled Moody.
"He is not strange Alastor, he just handles things different then most people would because he has never had anyone he could confide in. Then when he get one it is taken from him," said McGonagall.
"Yes the kid has had one of the worst lives imaginable," growled Moody.
"Yes well, lunch should be ready by now, so I think everyone should go eat while I see if Harry wants anything," said Mrs. Weasley.
Harry could hear Mrs. Weasley softly calling his name up the stairs, but he just wasn't feeling well enough to join them, so he continued to lay their till she stopped calling his name.
It was around nine o'clock at night when Harry heard a knock on his door and then opened before he gave a reply.
"Wotcher Harry! You want anything to eat?" Asked Tonks as she sat down on the side of Harry's bed.
"No I just want to get some sleep, kind of tired," lied Harry as he turned his back towards Tonks.
"Well I just wanted to tell you that Remus, Moody, and Mr. Weasley were taking Ron, Ginny, and the twins to Diagon Alley tomorrow, but Mrs. Weasley told them they could not take you." said Tonks.
"What, why not?" Asked Harry turning to face Tonks now with a very flustered face.
"Well gosh Harry, lets see you haven't stepped out of your room all day, and I don't think you have eat one thing today either," said Tonks.
"I haven't got to go there in three years," said Harry hotly.
"Sorry, but it's probably for the best," said Tonks as she rubbed his back after he turned away from her again.
"Says you," grumbled Harry causing Tonks to laugh.
"It's not funny," growled Harry.
"Sure it is sweetheart, you just don't see the humor in it like I do," said Tonks.
"And what humor would that be?" said Harry.
"That the savior of our wizarding world gets how did you put it to me last year, Molly coddled and not allowed to go with everyone else, and has to stay here with McGonagall, Molly, and me.
"Still not funny," said Harry as he turned his head to look at her where she was now changing her nose all shapes to make him laugh.
"Hah, Hah," said Harry which earned him a mock glare from Tonks before she hugged him goodnight and left the room.
Well I don't know why I'm so upset I probably wouldn't have felt like going anyway thought Harry, as he set hunched against the wood frame of his bed. He was determined he would not fall asleep in hopes that he would not be sick in the morning, but within ten minutes he was asleep none the less.
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The next morning rolled around and everyone was in high spirits as they were gathering their things to do some last minute Christmas shopping. "Okay, everyone you all have fun, and stay safe," said Mrs. Weasley as she watched her children, husband, Remus, and Moody walk out the front door.
"Are you sure Harry can't come mum, I mean his Christmas break has been pretty rotten so far, and this would cheer him up?" Asked Ron.
"No dear, he needs his rest, but he should be up by the time you get back," said Mrs. Weasley as she closed the front door.
"Maybe I should go check on him," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Molly he's fine, and a word to the wise, I don't think he was to happy about not getting to go with the others so maybe you should let him sleep for a while," said Tonks.
"I couldn't let him go, what if he got sick or something while he was out," said Mrs. Weasley.
"My sentiments exactly Molly, now how about a cup of tea, and we will just wait for Harry to come down, shall we," said McGonagall.
"Very well," sighed Mrs. Weasley as she cast a sorrowful glance up towards Harry's bedroom.
"UUHHGG!" groaned Harry as he wiped his mouth from puking into the waste bin again. It's the worst its ever been thought Harry as sweat was rolling off his brow. Maybe some tea will make me feel better, thought Harry as he tried to stand, but as soon as he stood he slumped to the floor with a loud thud.
"What was that?" Asked Tonks as she stopped from taking a sip of her tea.
"Harry are you all right dear," yelled Mrs. Weasley from her seat.
"Do you think he has become ill?" Asked McGonagall.
"I'll go check," said Tonks.
"Wait give him a few minutes to get changed, and then will go up and check on him," said Mrs. Weasley.
"GRRR!" Growled Harry as he pushed himself up onto two very wobbly legs. "Just hungry that's all it is, just hungry," muttered Harry as he slowly limped to the door and pulled it open. "Just hungry, there is nothing wrong with me, it's like Tonks said, "I didn't eat anything last night." "That's all," continued Harry as he slowly limped to the stairs, and down them one slow step at a time.
"Well there he comes now," said Mrs. Weasley brightening immensely as she set off in making him some breakfast. "Harry dear what would you like for breakfast?"
"Ah, Harry did you hear Mrs. Weasley ask you what you wanted to eat?" Asked McGonagall after he didn't reply.
Harry could vaguely hear someone saying his name, but the pounding in his head was so loud that he could barley keep himself standing up right after he got off the last stair.
"Harry dear, I'm just going to make you some toast and tea, okay?" Asked Mrs. Weasley still not receiving an answer.
"Mr. Potter this is not funny," said McGonagall exasperatedly.
"Mrs. Weasley," croaked Harry. "Tonks," he said before he pressed his forehead against the cool surface of the wall.
"Harry did you call for us," said Mrs. Weasley with a slight panic to her voice as the three of them started to walk out of the kitchen.
"Mrs. Weasley groaned Harry before he slumped to the floor with a soft thump while trying to get ever ounce of coldness out of the wall and onto his face.
"HARRY!" Yelled Mrs. Weasley as the three of them ran over to him.
"Get Mr. Lenoge now Tonks," said McGonagall.
"How?" Asked Tonks, as she became panic stricken.
"The parchment on the kitchen table is a direct link to him, tell him it's an emergency as she and Mrs. Weasley were trying to tug Harry over to the couch.
"Right," said Tonks as she ran into the kitchen and bowled over the kitchen table.
"Bugger," she groaned as she scribbled an urgent message that quickly disappeared before she ran back in to where Harry was now laying on the couch half conscious.
Shortly afterwards the doorbell rang immediately followed by the wails from the portrait of Sirius's mother. "Where is he," said Mr. Lenoge as he, April, and Mary came running into the living room where Harry was now laying in great pain. "Oh dear," said Mr. Lenoge as he kneeled down to exam Harry.
"Everyone leave us for a minute while I check him over," said Mr. Lenoge. Regretfully everyone in the room left Mr. Lenoge to check Harry over.
"What could possibly be making him so ill all of a sudden asked," Mrs. Weasley with an ashaned face.
"TELL, tell us what you know," said Tonks trying to keep her anger under control from her lack of knowledge on what was making Harry so sick.
As Mary and April looked at each other Mary finally began to speak softly. "I'm not sure, but Mr. Lenoge may be able to identify what is ailing him and give him a potion."
"What do you mean, maybe?" Asked McGonagall.
"Pa-Patients normally do not fair well when they become ill after a surgery or an attack such as Harry has suffered. Their immune systems are down and are not able to fight infections as they would normally. Let us hope that Mr. Lenoge can come up with an explanation to his sudden illness and fast," she said looking very grim.
Ten minutes later Mr. Lenoge walked into the kitchen looking crest fallen. "What is the news?" Asked April.
"I'm afraid that Harry has slipped into some sort of coma while I was examining him," said Mr. Lenoge.
Mrs. Weasley began sobbing loudly while Tonks put her face into her hands and cried. "I-I must inform the headmaster of this," said McGonagall as she rose to leave with tears streamed down her face.
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It was now about eight o'clock that night and everyone was sitting in the kitchen while Mr. Lenoge, April, and Mary tried to bring down Harry's fever.
"The boy is looking grim," growled Moody towards Dumbledore.
"Harry is strong, he will make it through this," said Dumbledore quietly.
"AAAAHHHHGGGG!"
"Harry," yelled Ron as he tried to get to where his best friend was now moaning in pain.
"You can do nothing for him," choked out Remus as Mary came walking back into the room.
"H-H-He is awake now, but." Mary couldn't finish her sentence.
"MARY COME BACK IN HERE," Yelled April as Harry was starting to make loud moans.
"No stay where you are," she said before she left the kitchen as she seen Mrs. Weasley leaving with her.
"Oh My Goodness," could be heard coming from the living room from one of the mediwitches. Ten minutes later Mr. Lenoge entered the kitchen to tell them what was happening.
"Tell us something," pleaded Remus.
"That I can do now," said Mr. Lenoge. "It appears that Harry's wound in his right thigh has become infected badly and we must go back in to see the cause of it. I am here now because I will need you again Remus to hold him down because I cannot give him a potion since I do not know how bad his infection is," said Mr. Lenoge.
"You can't make him go through that again," said Tonks.
"If I do not then we will lose him before the night is up," said Mr. Lenoge as he and Remus left the kitchen where the occupants now were all hanging their heads low.
"It's always him, why does it always have to be him," muttered Ron as his mother put a comforting arm around his shoulder.
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Back in the living room Mary gingerly unwrapped Harry's leg where his thigh was swollen and his stitches where pulling though red flesh surrounding it. "Harry honey, I am so sorry, but we have to cause you even more pain," said April softly as she stroked the hair out of his face.
"No, No Please No!" said Harry as he felt Remus grasp firmly on his leg above his knee. "NO!" Moaned Harry as he tried to wriggle out of their grasp.
"Sweetie hold still," said April as she tried to calm him down, but it was not working. "Mary go get a few more of the men, he knows now how bad this is going to hurt."
"Arthur I need you and perhaps Dumbledore to help us hold him down," said Mary as she ran into the kitchen.
"Why do you have to hold him down," cried Ginny.
Mary looked as if she was going to reply, but instead hung her head low and motioned for Dumbledore and Arthur to follow her to where Harry was.
"Okay Harry, I know how bad this will hurt, but if I don't do this then you won't make it," said Mr. Lenoge.
"I don't care," cried Harry as Arthur and Dumbledore began to hold him down as well.
With a nod Mr. Lenoge began to reopen the wound in his leg, as Harry's cries rang out throughout the house.
As Mr. Lenoge finished reopening Harry's wound yellow puss poured from his wound. "Well there is what is making him so sick," said Mr. Lenoge as he began to clean out the wound, with a spoon like instrument, as the rest fought to hold Harry down. "What the heck!" said Mr. Lenoge as the instrument he was using hit something hard in the depth of his wound which sent pain coursing through Harry's body.
"Stop, please stop." cried Harry.
"What's the problem?" Asked April as the poking Mr. Lenoge was now doing in Harry's leg was too much for Harry to take, and began to tremble.
"Hold him still, hold him very still," said Mr. Lenoge as he pulled a sharp knife out of his medical bag.
"What are you doing," Asked Mr. Weasley alarmed.
"I have to extract what ever it is that I am prodding now. This is what is causing his infection," said Mr. Lenoge.
"NO." Yelled Harry as he got a look at the knife in Mr. Lenoge's hand.
"Harry don't look honey, don't look sweetheart. Here look in my eyes and squeeze my hand when it hurts," said Mary.
"Please don't let him," cried Harry as he held her hand.
"I'm so sorry honey," cried Mary as tears streamed down her face before she gasped as Harry began squeezing her hand.
"HARRY!" Cried Mary and April as his eyes began to roll in the back of his head.
"Hurry it up down there," said April.
"I almost got it. Almost. There I got it. It's a claw from the griffin. It must have broken off during the battle," said Mr. Lenoge as he held it up to the light.
"Harry can you hear me sweetheart?" Asked Mary.
"UUMMM!" moaned Harry as he leaned over the side of the couch and puked.
"Let it out honey," said April as she rubbed his back.
"Okay Harry where done, all I need to do now is bandage you back up, and you'll be playing Quidditch in no time. Guys why don't you go tell everyone in the kitchen that he will be just fine, while Mary and April help me clean his leg up and stuff. You should be able to see him in about thirty minutes," said Mr. Lenoge.
"Great. Harry you did great bud," said Remus as he and the rest released their hold on him where there was now dark bruises on his skin from where they had been holding him down.
"Arthur how is he? He made it didn't he?" Cried Mrs. Weasley as Arthur, Remus, and Dumbledore walked back into the kitchen with blood down the front of their cloaks.
"Yes, he made it, but." started Arthur but he couldn't finish his sentence as he became choked up.
"Harry has just been through a very traumatic experience, and will not be up to any horsing around," said Dumbledore as he looked over towards the twins.
"Can we go see him," Asked Tonks. Her hair was no longer vibrant and spikey, but raven black and her face no longer held its once rosy complexion.
"Mary will come in to get you when he is ready to see people. Just don't let him over exert himself," said Dumbledore, but now I must go back to Hogwarts to take care of some urgent matters. Alastor, if you could join me," finished Dumbledore as he and Alastor left the kitchen.
Twenty minutes later Mary walked into the kitchen and told them they could now see him.
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I AM SO SORRY! I missed my updating day. I fell behind because of some very difficult exams and family matters I have had this week. I promise it will not happen again and thank you KS for your update to remind me. I know there are several brilliant stories that are rarely updated, but I intend to continue on updating each and every Saturday till this story is finished. I hope you and the rest are not too mad at me and will continue to read even though I missed my updating day. I'll try to not let it happen again. Thank you for your reviews and concerns and have a great week and have fun reading. Until next Saturday.. P.S. Everyone pray for my Grandmother will you? Thank you.
"How is he?" Asked McGonagall as Mrs. Weasley, Remus, and Tonks walked out of the hospital wing.
"He's asleep for now, at least he doesn't have to feel anymore pain right now," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Can we see him?" Asked Sarah pleadingly.
"I'm afraid not Sarah. Mr. Lenoge told us that no one is to bother him tonight," said Tonks sincerely.
"Were his wounds taken care of?" Asked Hermione while a tear trickled down here cheek.
"Yes sweetheart. They did a marvelous job with them, and they believe that he will have very little scaring from his other cuts. However, he will always carry the one on his right thigh," sighed Mrs. Weasley as she slumped down beside her husband on a bench.
"Okay now I think everyone she be off to bed now. It is past your curfew," said Dumbledore while raising his hand to stop the protesting that were coming from Harry's order. "I know you wish to stay by his side tonight, but I cannot permit that, and yes you will probably not see him before you leave tomorrow morning for your Christmas break, but he is fine. Leave Hogwarts tomorrow with a light heart young ones because Harry will be just fine, and will be up and around in no time," said Dumbledore.
"He doesn't even now how the others faired yet," said Ron.
"He does in deed Ron. He asked just before we left him for the night, and he was greatly relieved to hear that they were all up and moving about," said Remus.
"Well I guess that's that then isn't it," said Ron as he and the rest of Harry's order left to retire back to their dormitories. ```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` ```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` ``````
"That was too close a call there Albus," growled Moody. "The boy almost died on the way back to Hogwarts."
"I am aware of the situation Alastor," said Dumbledore calmly.
"Then what are you going to do about it!" hissed Mrs. Weasley as she continued to give apprehensive glances back towards the Hospital Wing where Harry lay asleep.
"That I do not know," said Dumbledore quietly.
"I'll tell you what we all do," said Tonks looking appalled. "I think we should all show a little more respect for what Harry and his order have done tonight. I am not saying to encourage them into battle," said Tonks as Mrs. Weasley opened her mouth to object. "I am merely stating that if Harry and his order had not risked their lives today to help us in that battle then the numbers you see in this hall right now would be minus a dozen or more. Me included," said Tonks gaining a pink tinge to her cheeks.
"She's right," growled Moody. "I don't like it one bit that the boy and his friends were there, but they are effective in their own right. If it wasn't for his quick actions and his flyers good aim, then Laslo, Trinna, and I would be awaiting burial right about now."
"As I," said Mr. Weasley while Molly looked aghast.
"Minerva is there something you are wanting to add," said Dumbledore while the twinkle came alive in his blue eyes once again.
"It's just, Oh Albus, did you see what he turned into. He has become an Animagus, and a beautiful one at that. He is following the line of Gryffindors," said McGonagall proudly.
"Kind of ironic though that it was a griffin that mauled him don't you think," said Mundungus earning him a hard smack in the back of the head by Tonks while she muttered angrily under her breath.
"Ouch, for heaven's sakes I was just merely stating a fact," whined Mundungus while rubbing the back of his head.
"Well I am shocked you even knew what the word ironic means," said McGonagall icily.
"Ah now, it is getting late, maybe we should all retire for the night. I expect you all to be ready for Harry tomorrow is that correct?" Asked Dumbledore.
"Yes of course," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Then shall I continue on as planned," said McGonagall.
"Will you need any help with him Minerva, I mean what if he gets weak and can't walk?" Asked Remus.
"Do not worry about that Remus, Harry and I will arrive just fine," said McGonagall.
"Okay," said Remus gloomily as he looked to the ground.
"Is that disappointment I see Remus?" Asked McGonagall jokingly. "Then I assume the two of you made up?"
"Yes they did, and about bloody time too," said Tonks. "But it was the sweatiest thing I've ever seen," she added as an afterthought.
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"How are you doing Harry," Asked McGonagall worriedly the next morning as they began their short walk towards Grimmauld Place. McGonagall was not happy in the least the Dumbledore's plan to get Harry to Grimauld Place was for them to apparate a short distance away from Grimmauld Place, and walk the remaining few yards, but she went along with it none the less. However, she told Dumbledore very frankly that she didn't like him encouraging Harry to brake the law seeing as he is not old enough to apparate legally.
"Just fine," lied Harry. In all actuality though Harry felt like he could puke, pass out, and die all at the same time.
"Harry you are looking quite pail," said McGonagall.
"Just a little tired," said Harry as he stumbled a little and grimaced as he righted himself once again.
"It hurts doesn't it," said McGonagall softly.
After Harry gave McGonagall a calculating stare he finally admitted that he was in pain. "Oh Harry, why didn't you say something sooner?" Asked McGonagall.
"Because I didn't want anyone to see me needing help when we got there. Can you keep them at bay though when we arrive, I feel like I could use a little rest when we get there?" Asked Harry.
"Of course dear, but you will tell me or one of the others if there is anything we can do for you won't you?" Asked McGonagall receiving a nod in reply from Harry.
"You know I can't tell you how proud I am of you for mastering you Animagus form. I wish you would have told me, but I am very impressed none the less. However, you will need to register, but for now Dumbledore has consented to keep it a secrete from everyone as I am sure you wanted," said McGonagall as she looked fondly over towards Harry.
"Thank you professor," said Harry as they prepared to go into Grimmauld Place.
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"HARRY, MOM HARRY IS HERE," Screamed Ron as he, the twins, and Ginny came bounding through the foyer. As the screams from Ron rang through Harry's ears he suddenly felt the urge to vomit all over the floor, and steadied himself against the wall in case the twins decided to give him a slap on the back.
"Now, now, Mr. Potter is probably exhausted from our trip so I think he is going to go rest for a while alone. You can all talk to him when he comes down for dinner," said McGonagall as she winked towards Harry.
"Thank you," mouthed Harry as McGonagall shooed Ron, Ginny, and the twins into the living room while Harry slowly crept up the stairs as he kept a firm grasp on the hand railing. What Harry hadn't told McGonagall was he was not doing well at all, in fact he really felt quite ill at the moment. As Harry arrived in his knew room which was once Sirius's old room Harry fell face down on the mattress, and tried to still the spinning room, but it wasn't working. Quickly and quite ungracefully he lurched for the waste bin and emptied his stomach of its contents before slumping to the floor and resting his head against the side of the bed. Why is it so hot in here, thought Harry as he slowly pulled himself on to the bed and fell into a restless sleep.
"Unbelievable, Harry has been here for four hours now, and I haven't got to say one word to him yet," complained Ron.
"Harry will come down when he is ready," said Mrs. Weasley as she cast a nervous glance over at McGonagall.
"But he missed dinner mummy," said Ginny.
"Don't worry Gin, I'm sure Ron took care of that for me," said Harry as he made his way into the drawing room where everyone was sitting.
"Oh Harry dear, are you hungry, I still have your dinner waiting on you?" asked Mrs. Weasley.
"No," said Harry as he felt his stomach lurch ford again, but he hid it with a smile. He was somewhat shocked with how he was filling now. He was going from nauseous and weak to fine after resting for a few minutes each time he felt a spell come on, so he decided he wouldn't worry anyone about it.
"Well you are looking loads better mate, you want to play some Wizard's Chess with me?" Asked Ron.
"How about I watch you and Remus play," said Harry as he set down on the floor.
"What's the matter Harry, afraid Ronnikens will embarrass you in front of everyone," laughed Fred as Harry mock glared at him.
"You leave him alone this instant you two. Harry needs to rest," Mrs. Weasley said with a hint of laughter in her voice too. Harry was shocked at her happy demeanor right now, and very thankful she stood up for him. He was afraid if he pushed it he would get sick in front of everyone again, and that would be difficult to hide, thought Harry as he rested against Tonks legs that hung over the seat of the couch.
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"HAH, CHECK MATE!" Hollered Ron as he finally beat Remus in a heated chess match.
"Well done Ron, I'll have you know that very few people are able to beat me," boasted Remus. However, I never had much competition at school with Harry's father and all," smirked Remus as he turned around to see Harry's reaction. "What in the he." started Remus as Tonks was trying to shush him up with her finger pressed firmly to her lips, while they were in a huge smile.
"Bloody Hell Harry, you beginning to look more like Tonks each day," said Moody as he walked into the room.
"What?" Asked Harry confused as he looked up at Moody. "Your hair. UURRGH. why did you do that for," glared Moody after Tonks hit him in the face with a pillow.
"Tonks, what did you do?" Asked Harry as he removed Tonks's hands from his hair where she had been playing with it over the duration of Ron and Remus's chess match.
"Nothing Harry, I was just giving you a more dashing look," smiled Tonks as she fell into a fit of giggles.
"Will someone tell me what is going on?" Said Harry.
McGonagall finally conjured up a mirror and took pity on Harry by showing him his reflection in the mirror. "It looks awfully familiar to the time your fathers friends played a trick on him when he tried to work up the nerve to ask your mother out on their first date," laughed McGonagall.
"Really, will you tell us the story," said Harry.
"Well, I believe Remus knows the story better maybe he should tell it," said McGonagall.
"Of course," smiled Remus as he began to retail the tell of when James asked Lily on their first date, which carried on for the rest of the evening.
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The next morning Harry awoke more nauseous then he had ever been and spent the next two hours in the bathroom vomiting.
"Harry sweetheart are you okay?" Asked Mrs. Weasley through the bathroom door.
Panicking Harry quickly lifted himself off the floor with the help of the sink, and began to wash his face. "Yeah, I'm fine Mrs. Weasley," said Harry but his voice was hoarse from vomiting, but with the water running Mrs. Weasley apparently didn't notice.
"Okay dear, but if you need anything then you know where to find me," she said as Harry faintly heard her walk away.
Great, just great. Why the hell am I sick one minute and fine the next. It makes no bloody since, and why is my leg throbbing. Oh yeah Harry you big dolt it has just been ripped open by a griffin, thought Harry darkly. Slowly exiting the bathroom after making sure the coast was clear he snuck back into his room and crawled back onto the bed where he lay staring up at the dusty ceiling.
While Harry lay stone still on his bed afraid to let anyone see him while he had a bout of his sickness everyone else spent the following morning putting up Christmas decorations.
"Is Harry okay?" Asked Remus when he noticed Harry wasn't with the rest hanging up Christmas decorations.
"I'm not sure, but I think being here for Christmas is just hitting Harry a little harder then we thought it would," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Well has anyone checked on the boy today," growled Moody as he hobbled over.
"Yes, he was in the bathroom when I awoke, but he said he was fine," said Mrs. Weasley.
"The boy is a strange one I'll tell you that much. Heart of a lion and tough as nails, but strange," growled Moody.
"He is not strange Alastor, he just handles things different then most people would because he has never had anyone he could confide in. Then when he get one it is taken from him," said McGonagall.
"Yes the kid has had one of the worst lives imaginable," growled Moody.
"Yes well, lunch should be ready by now, so I think everyone should go eat while I see if Harry wants anything," said Mrs. Weasley.
Harry could hear Mrs. Weasley softly calling his name up the stairs, but he just wasn't feeling well enough to join them, so he continued to lay their till she stopped calling his name.
It was around nine o'clock at night when Harry heard a knock on his door and then opened before he gave a reply.
"Wotcher Harry! You want anything to eat?" Asked Tonks as she sat down on the side of Harry's bed.
"No I just want to get some sleep, kind of tired," lied Harry as he turned his back towards Tonks.
"Well I just wanted to tell you that Remus, Moody, and Mr. Weasley were taking Ron, Ginny, and the twins to Diagon Alley tomorrow, but Mrs. Weasley told them they could not take you." said Tonks.
"What, why not?" Asked Harry turning to face Tonks now with a very flustered face.
"Well gosh Harry, lets see you haven't stepped out of your room all day, and I don't think you have eat one thing today either," said Tonks.
"I haven't got to go there in three years," said Harry hotly.
"Sorry, but it's probably for the best," said Tonks as she rubbed his back after he turned away from her again.
"Says you," grumbled Harry causing Tonks to laugh.
"It's not funny," growled Harry.
"Sure it is sweetheart, you just don't see the humor in it like I do," said Tonks.
"And what humor would that be?" said Harry.
"That the savior of our wizarding world gets how did you put it to me last year, Molly coddled and not allowed to go with everyone else, and has to stay here with McGonagall, Molly, and me.
"Still not funny," said Harry as he turned his head to look at her where she was now changing her nose all shapes to make him laugh.
"Hah, Hah," said Harry which earned him a mock glare from Tonks before she hugged him goodnight and left the room.
Well I don't know why I'm so upset I probably wouldn't have felt like going anyway thought Harry, as he set hunched against the wood frame of his bed. He was determined he would not fall asleep in hopes that he would not be sick in the morning, but within ten minutes he was asleep none the less.
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The next morning rolled around and everyone was in high spirits as they were gathering their things to do some last minute Christmas shopping. "Okay, everyone you all have fun, and stay safe," said Mrs. Weasley as she watched her children, husband, Remus, and Moody walk out the front door.
"Are you sure Harry can't come mum, I mean his Christmas break has been pretty rotten so far, and this would cheer him up?" Asked Ron.
"No dear, he needs his rest, but he should be up by the time you get back," said Mrs. Weasley as she closed the front door.
"Maybe I should go check on him," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Molly he's fine, and a word to the wise, I don't think he was to happy about not getting to go with the others so maybe you should let him sleep for a while," said Tonks.
"I couldn't let him go, what if he got sick or something while he was out," said Mrs. Weasley.
"My sentiments exactly Molly, now how about a cup of tea, and we will just wait for Harry to come down, shall we," said McGonagall.
"Very well," sighed Mrs. Weasley as she cast a sorrowful glance up towards Harry's bedroom.
"UUHHGG!" groaned Harry as he wiped his mouth from puking into the waste bin again. It's the worst its ever been thought Harry as sweat was rolling off his brow. Maybe some tea will make me feel better, thought Harry as he tried to stand, but as soon as he stood he slumped to the floor with a loud thud.
"What was that?" Asked Tonks as she stopped from taking a sip of her tea.
"Harry are you all right dear," yelled Mrs. Weasley from her seat.
"Do you think he has become ill?" Asked McGonagall.
"I'll go check," said Tonks.
"Wait give him a few minutes to get changed, and then will go up and check on him," said Mrs. Weasley.
"GRRR!" Growled Harry as he pushed himself up onto two very wobbly legs. "Just hungry that's all it is, just hungry," muttered Harry as he slowly limped to the door and pulled it open. "Just hungry, there is nothing wrong with me, it's like Tonks said, "I didn't eat anything last night." "That's all," continued Harry as he slowly limped to the stairs, and down them one slow step at a time.
"Well there he comes now," said Mrs. Weasley brightening immensely as she set off in making him some breakfast. "Harry dear what would you like for breakfast?"
"Ah, Harry did you hear Mrs. Weasley ask you what you wanted to eat?" Asked McGonagall after he didn't reply.
Harry could vaguely hear someone saying his name, but the pounding in his head was so loud that he could barley keep himself standing up right after he got off the last stair.
"Harry dear, I'm just going to make you some toast and tea, okay?" Asked Mrs. Weasley still not receiving an answer.
"Mr. Potter this is not funny," said McGonagall exasperatedly.
"Mrs. Weasley," croaked Harry. "Tonks," he said before he pressed his forehead against the cool surface of the wall.
"Harry did you call for us," said Mrs. Weasley with a slight panic to her voice as the three of them started to walk out of the kitchen.
"Mrs. Weasley groaned Harry before he slumped to the floor with a soft thump while trying to get ever ounce of coldness out of the wall and onto his face.
"HARRY!" Yelled Mrs. Weasley as the three of them ran over to him.
"Get Mr. Lenoge now Tonks," said McGonagall.
"How?" Asked Tonks, as she became panic stricken.
"The parchment on the kitchen table is a direct link to him, tell him it's an emergency as she and Mrs. Weasley were trying to tug Harry over to the couch.
"Right," said Tonks as she ran into the kitchen and bowled over the kitchen table.
"Bugger," she groaned as she scribbled an urgent message that quickly disappeared before she ran back in to where Harry was now laying on the couch half conscious.
Shortly afterwards the doorbell rang immediately followed by the wails from the portrait of Sirius's mother. "Where is he," said Mr. Lenoge as he, April, and Mary came running into the living room where Harry was now laying in great pain. "Oh dear," said Mr. Lenoge as he kneeled down to exam Harry.
"Everyone leave us for a minute while I check him over," said Mr. Lenoge. Regretfully everyone in the room left Mr. Lenoge to check Harry over.
"What could possibly be making him so ill all of a sudden asked," Mrs. Weasley with an ashaned face.
"TELL, tell us what you know," said Tonks trying to keep her anger under control from her lack of knowledge on what was making Harry so sick.
As Mary and April looked at each other Mary finally began to speak softly. "I'm not sure, but Mr. Lenoge may be able to identify what is ailing him and give him a potion."
"What do you mean, maybe?" Asked McGonagall.
"Pa-Patients normally do not fair well when they become ill after a surgery or an attack such as Harry has suffered. Their immune systems are down and are not able to fight infections as they would normally. Let us hope that Mr. Lenoge can come up with an explanation to his sudden illness and fast," she said looking very grim.
Ten minutes later Mr. Lenoge walked into the kitchen looking crest fallen. "What is the news?" Asked April.
"I'm afraid that Harry has slipped into some sort of coma while I was examining him," said Mr. Lenoge.
Mrs. Weasley began sobbing loudly while Tonks put her face into her hands and cried. "I-I must inform the headmaster of this," said McGonagall as she rose to leave with tears streamed down her face.
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It was now about eight o'clock that night and everyone was sitting in the kitchen while Mr. Lenoge, April, and Mary tried to bring down Harry's fever.
"The boy is looking grim," growled Moody towards Dumbledore.
"Harry is strong, he will make it through this," said Dumbledore quietly.
"AAAAHHHHGGGG!"
"Harry," yelled Ron as he tried to get to where his best friend was now moaning in pain.
"You can do nothing for him," choked out Remus as Mary came walking back into the room.
"H-H-He is awake now, but." Mary couldn't finish her sentence.
"MARY COME BACK IN HERE," Yelled April as Harry was starting to make loud moans.
"No stay where you are," she said before she left the kitchen as she seen Mrs. Weasley leaving with her.
"Oh My Goodness," could be heard coming from the living room from one of the mediwitches. Ten minutes later Mr. Lenoge entered the kitchen to tell them what was happening.
"Tell us something," pleaded Remus.
"That I can do now," said Mr. Lenoge. "It appears that Harry's wound in his right thigh has become infected badly and we must go back in to see the cause of it. I am here now because I will need you again Remus to hold him down because I cannot give him a potion since I do not know how bad his infection is," said Mr. Lenoge.
"You can't make him go through that again," said Tonks.
"If I do not then we will lose him before the night is up," said Mr. Lenoge as he and Remus left the kitchen where the occupants now were all hanging their heads low.
"It's always him, why does it always have to be him," muttered Ron as his mother put a comforting arm around his shoulder.
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Back in the living room Mary gingerly unwrapped Harry's leg where his thigh was swollen and his stitches where pulling though red flesh surrounding it. "Harry honey, I am so sorry, but we have to cause you even more pain," said April softly as she stroked the hair out of his face.
"No, No Please No!" said Harry as he felt Remus grasp firmly on his leg above his knee. "NO!" Moaned Harry as he tried to wriggle out of their grasp.
"Sweetie hold still," said April as she tried to calm him down, but it was not working. "Mary go get a few more of the men, he knows now how bad this is going to hurt."
"Arthur I need you and perhaps Dumbledore to help us hold him down," said Mary as she ran into the kitchen.
"Why do you have to hold him down," cried Ginny.
Mary looked as if she was going to reply, but instead hung her head low and motioned for Dumbledore and Arthur to follow her to where Harry was.
"Okay Harry, I know how bad this will hurt, but if I don't do this then you won't make it," said Mr. Lenoge.
"I don't care," cried Harry as Arthur and Dumbledore began to hold him down as well.
With a nod Mr. Lenoge began to reopen the wound in his leg, as Harry's cries rang out throughout the house.
As Mr. Lenoge finished reopening Harry's wound yellow puss poured from his wound. "Well there is what is making him so sick," said Mr. Lenoge as he began to clean out the wound, with a spoon like instrument, as the rest fought to hold Harry down. "What the heck!" said Mr. Lenoge as the instrument he was using hit something hard in the depth of his wound which sent pain coursing through Harry's body.
"Stop, please stop." cried Harry.
"What's the problem?" Asked April as the poking Mr. Lenoge was now doing in Harry's leg was too much for Harry to take, and began to tremble.
"Hold him still, hold him very still," said Mr. Lenoge as he pulled a sharp knife out of his medical bag.
"What are you doing," Asked Mr. Weasley alarmed.
"I have to extract what ever it is that I am prodding now. This is what is causing his infection," said Mr. Lenoge.
"NO." Yelled Harry as he got a look at the knife in Mr. Lenoge's hand.
"Harry don't look honey, don't look sweetheart. Here look in my eyes and squeeze my hand when it hurts," said Mary.
"Please don't let him," cried Harry as he held her hand.
"I'm so sorry honey," cried Mary as tears streamed down her face before she gasped as Harry began squeezing her hand.
"HARRY!" Cried Mary and April as his eyes began to roll in the back of his head.
"Hurry it up down there," said April.
"I almost got it. Almost. There I got it. It's a claw from the griffin. It must have broken off during the battle," said Mr. Lenoge as he held it up to the light.
"Harry can you hear me sweetheart?" Asked Mary.
"UUMMM!" moaned Harry as he leaned over the side of the couch and puked.
"Let it out honey," said April as she rubbed his back.
"Okay Harry where done, all I need to do now is bandage you back up, and you'll be playing Quidditch in no time. Guys why don't you go tell everyone in the kitchen that he will be just fine, while Mary and April help me clean his leg up and stuff. You should be able to see him in about thirty minutes," said Mr. Lenoge.
"Great. Harry you did great bud," said Remus as he and the rest released their hold on him where there was now dark bruises on his skin from where they had been holding him down.
"Arthur how is he? He made it didn't he?" Cried Mrs. Weasley as Arthur, Remus, and Dumbledore walked back into the kitchen with blood down the front of their cloaks.
"Yes, he made it, but." started Arthur but he couldn't finish his sentence as he became choked up.
"Harry has just been through a very traumatic experience, and will not be up to any horsing around," said Dumbledore as he looked over towards the twins.
"Can we go see him," Asked Tonks. Her hair was no longer vibrant and spikey, but raven black and her face no longer held its once rosy complexion.
"Mary will come in to get you when he is ready to see people. Just don't let him over exert himself," said Dumbledore, but now I must go back to Hogwarts to take care of some urgent matters. Alastor, if you could join me," finished Dumbledore as he and Alastor left the kitchen.
Twenty minutes later Mary walked into the kitchen and told them they could now see him.
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I AM SO SORRY! I missed my updating day. I fell behind because of some very difficult exams and family matters I have had this week. I promise it will not happen again and thank you KS for your update to remind me. I know there are several brilliant stories that are rarely updated, but I intend to continue on updating each and every Saturday till this story is finished. I hope you and the rest are not too mad at me and will continue to read even though I missed my updating day. I'll try to not let it happen again. Thank you for your reviews and concerns and have a great week and have fun reading. Until next Saturday.. P.S. Everyone pray for my Grandmother will you? Thank you.