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Chapter 10 - A welcome return
Harry ate his lunch alone in the Great Hall, he assumed it was because he was later then usual but he was concerned that none of his friends were in the hall. He had looked for Hermione for a while after he saw Selina but he hadn't found her, he assumed she was busy so he decided to leave her alone. A few Slytherins were pointing and laughing at him from the other side of the Hall but he was used to that. Idiots, Harry thought, they always have to do what Malfoy and his cronies tell them. He finished his plate and headed back to his Common Room. Only 20 minutes until Defence Against the Dark Arts, he noticed from his timetable. He smiled at this. DADA was by far his best subject, and this years teacher just could NOT be any worse than Umbridge?
He turned a corner and almost sent Hermione and Ginny flying. Hermione instantly looked down at the floor. "Hi" she said to him quietly. "Hi," he replied, giving her a very odd look. "Erm, she said, very flustered, "I saw you talking to Cho earlier." Harry shrugged at this. "Oh yeah, she needed a chat.." He stopped short his eyes on Hermione. Why did she look so unhappy? "Anyway", Ginny said, quickly, "Hermione needs to chat to you now Harry, I'll leave you two to it" and she hurried away, seemingly relieved. "Lets go in here", Hermione said, jerking her towards an abandoned classroom. Harry followed Hermione in; still unsure of what he had done to upset his friend. "Ok, Harry," Hermione began; Harry noticed she seemed to be finding the right words to say. "I saw - someone - who gave me a message to give you, I saw him when I was sent out of Potions". Harry quickly felt his temper rise. "Yeah, I know that was Ron's fault, I'll." "Harry please!" Hermione snapped, "this is more important than Ron!" She looked down. Harry stared at her and then said slowly "Who Hermione, who gave you the message?" Hermione swallowed "He said you had to protect someone, a him, and that all was not as it seemed and." Hermione gasped in pain as Harry grabbed her arms. "WHO?" He actually shook her. "Sirius!" Hermione cried, then gave a sob. "It was Sirius Harry, I swear". Harry just looked in to her eyes for a moment then turned away. He felt his scar burn and grimaced. "Why show himself to you?" He whispered, not looking at her. "Sorry?" she asked him. "He should have come to ME" I need him Hermione!" he roared at her. She gaped at him in despair and tried to put her arms round him. He pushed her away. "Just leave alone ok?" and with that he ran, leaving Hermione staring after him, her hand over her mouth.
Harry ran and ran, he certainly didn't want any Slytherins see him cry. He shouldn't have shouted at Hermione like that but the unfairness of it was too much for him to cope with. He had pleaded with Sirius to come and see him, help him and now he had come back but it was Hermione he had wanted to talk to. It didn't make any sense to Harry. He was still deep in thought when he headed past the DADA classroom. Someone grabbed him. "This way, I think Harry. You are in my class I believe" came a familiar voice. Harry swung round, "Professor Lupin!!!" Harry was so happy, he could have hugged him. Lupin grinned back. "It seems the Ministry are desperate to appease Dumbledore at the moment", he told him, then added in a quiet voice "though I have no idea why!" Harry laughed. "Its great, Professor, really!" Lupin rubbed his nose then. "I'm expecting some rough treatment of course, many parents still regard me as dangerous and one certain teacher is more than happy to help them believe it." Harry frowned, he knew Lupin was talking about Snape. "Not that that is going to bother me, I have a job to do" he added, serious now. "Professor Lupin", "Hi again, Sir!" "Good to see you again Professor!" All the other students were as happy to see Lupin again was Harry was, especially Hermione who actually gave him a kiss on the cheek! Harry took her to one side "I'm sorry, Hermione. I was upset" she smiled at him. "Its fine Harry, I don't understand why he came to me anymore than you do, but I think we should tell Lupin." She inclined her head towards their teacher. Harry went to agree but then a pain flew though his arm and he cursed. Hermione saw him turn away from her and grabbed his left arm. He looked back at her and smiled. "Best not to I think," he said to her" not until we know what Sirius meant". She didn't agree with this but shrugged. Harry should deal with all this his own way. She held out her hand to Harry, who was now rubbing his arm, "Lets go in", she said to him. He glanced at her "Yeah ok, lets" but didn't say anything else to her. Hermione noticed that Harry continued to rub his right arm as he walked into the classroom and sat down. She sat beside him. She looked round at Ron, who was also watching Harry. She frowned.
Lupin stood at the front of his class and waited for silence. He didn't have to wait long, everyone was excited about him being back. "So, how have you all been and what have my, ahem, replacements been like then?" Everyone started shouting at once. "Awful Professor, "you are the best, Sir" they all yelled. Lupin held up a hand and laughed. "Well, I was replaced by a madman and a ministry spy who, well, is quite mad, but I will take that as a compliment! I must add one other thing, if any of you have a problem that I am a werewolf or fear for your safety, you should speak now. Professor Snape has kindly volunteered to teach anyone who feels threatened". No one said a word and Lupin gave them a small smile. "OK, on with business". They all sat up straight. "Now, I understand from the Headmaster that you were all held back last year. Although some of you find your own answers to that problem." He looked at Harry, who gave him a small smile. "For those of you who don't know, Harry Potter was teaching a small group DADA lessons, to be prepared for Voldemorts, come now, you know you must not be afraid of the name, return. He proved to be a fine teacher. Now, Myself, Professor Dumbledore and Harry of course, believe it is best to continue this group. I advise all of you too go and learn as much from Harry as you can. He is after all, the only person in this room who has faced Voldemort." Harry went red at this and found his hand clutching his right arm again. "Harry, I would like you too see me after this lesson, to discuss the best times for the meetings." Harry nodded. "Good," Lupin said, then turning back to the class.
"Right", he said, clasping his hands together, "today, aim going to teach you a new spell. It should be used only in defence as can be just as dangerous to the caster if used in attack as to the victim as the spell can backfire terribly. The spell is called "protecta" and had the power to force numerous enemies to the ground and hold them there." Harry looked her Hermione, who gave him a knowing smile. "A couple of you know this spell already, I've been told. Miss Granger, Mr Longbottom, step up here please." Neville and Hermione joined Lupin at the front of the class. Many were surprised. They all expected Hermione to know the spell but Neville? Harry knew better. He had watched how hard Neville had worked in the DADA lessons. It was no surprise to him that Neville had continued his studies through the summer. Lupin was speaking quietly to the two pupils and then gestured to a table in the corner. They headed over there and sat down, talking in low voices. "The rest of you will read about Protecta and begin trying it on each other. Ron, perhaps you would partner Harry?" They glanced at one another and Ron nodded once. "Good!" Lupin said, still very jolly, "Get started then".
Harry and Ron moved to a space over the side of the room and both got out their wands. They glared at each other, not saying a word. Harry decided he should speak first. "After three?" Ron shrugged. They counted together and both cried "protecta" at the same time. The spells collided in between them and flew harmlessly to each side. "One at a time, you too" called Lupin to them, who was helping Dean and Seamus untangle them selves from the ground. "OK, Harry said, "you first". "Protecta", Ron yelled at once". Harry fell to the ground and lay there gasping. He couldn't move a muscle. "Excellent Ron." Lupin called, beaming at him. "The release spell is "Seperante". Ron just continued to look down at Harry, who was completely helpless. Harry looked back. "Ron, RON!" Lupin snapped. "The release spell!" Everyone was now looking at Harry and Ron. "Seperante" Ron whispered and the force holding Harry lifted. He got to his feet and pointed his wand at Ron. The anger was coursing through him and he yelled "PROTECTA". Ron was caught full on by Harry's powerful spell and went flying backwards through the air and smashed into the wall the other side of the room. "Harry" Hermione was by Ron's side. "Take the spell off him, now. He's hurt." "Seperante" Harry snapped. Lupin gazed at him and watched as Hermione helped Ron to his feet. He pushed her away in anger and she backed off. Harry was looking at his one time best friend with mounting dislike. Ron stared back, hand on his wand. Everyone was still watching the 2 Gryffindors until Lupin calmly called "Ok, all of you, back to your desks please. I think it best if you start copying down the uses of the "Protecta" spell from your books. You can finish this after class. Now please". They all sat down and got out their books, Ron and Harry completely ignoring each other. Neville and Hermione continued to work away from the rest of the group, muttering to each other. Eventually, the bell rang.
Lupin watched as Ron, jumped up, grabbed his books and rushed out, not looking at anyone else. "Harry, Hermione" he called "May I have a quick word with you both?" The two of them stopped and watched everyone else file out. "Harry" Lupin began, perching himself on his desk, "I want to know what is going on between you and Ron please". "I don't know to be honest with you Sir, he's been like it for ages." Harry looked down and kicked the floor. "He hates me, blames me for Percy's death". "Yes, I heard it was Ron who found his brother." Lupin then stared into space, grimly. "You must try to be patient with him Harry, Ron is a good friend to you and stood by you last year. Not that many people were willing to do that. Just give him time". Harry nodded but gave Hermione a very unconvinced look. Hermione shook her head. "I don't know why Ron is acting so nastily to Harry and ,myself, Professor Lupin", she told him. "He just seemed to have switched off, I'm worried for him". Lupins face became sympathetic. "I know, Hermione but please, just hang on in there, he will come round". Lupin turned to Harry. "How have you found starting school again Harry, other than Ron of course." "OK", Harry said "Other people have been much nicer to me than last year anyway!" "That's good," Lupin smiled. "Lupin looked at him with respect. "You are very strong Harry, James and Sirius would be proud of you." Harry turned away and Hermione looked at him with concern. Lupin swallowed. "Is there anything either of you feel you should tell me, anything that is worrying you? Harry, who had been rubbing his arm, looked up. "No Professor, we are find, right Hermione?" "Yes" she added quickly, "fine Sir". Lupin gave them both quizzical looks and then said with a smile "OK, you two, I think it's best now if." Lupin swung round to the door as Snape came flying into the room, very red in the face. "Lupin, you just come with me, now". Lupin grabbed his wand "I'm behind you Severus." Snape nodded and waited by the door. "You two, come with us, I can't leave you here.." and they all ran out of the room behind Snape.
They rushed down the corridor and into a dimly lit room, where a big crowd had gathered. "Move aside" ordered Snape and the mob parted. The two professors rushed through and both looked at each other in fear. Harry and Hermione reached them and saw what they were looking at and gasped. Michael Corner, a Ravenclaw, lay on the ground. His fists were clenched in tight fists and his face was screwed up painfully, as if he was fighting against something. "He's alive", Lupin said, answering Harry's worse fears, "but barely. It looks like he's been put under the Cruciatus Curse for hours." Snape knelt down beside Lupin. "He's been like this for hours. This room is hardly used. If he had been here for much longer.." He and Lupin exchanged dark looks. Lupin stood up. "We must get him to the sick bay." He turned to the watching crowd. "Ernie, Justin, Seamus, would you please take him." They all stepped forward without a word, picked the unconscious boy up and carried him away. There was a scream as they passed the people at the back. "Michael, what's happened to him, is he dead?" Hermione rushed back through the crowd. "Ginny, its ok, he's not dead. He'll be fine." Ginny moaned "No, I can't stand this. First Percy, now Michael. Why is this happening." Hermione looked over at Harry and he mouthed "Take her out". Hermione nodded and helped Ginny out of the room. Snape's eyes seemed to linger on Harry for a moment, then he turned to Lupin and told him, "I must tell Dumbledore, remove the crowd for me." Harry then called out "who found him?" Snape turned round with a funny look at Harry. "Your young friend Mr Weasley Potter, and if he hadn't, Mr Corner would now be dead". The whole crowd gasped, some Ravenclaws cried as Snape pushed through the crowd and swept away.
Harry noticed something on the ground, he glanced at Lupin, he was telling the crowd to disperse, and then picked up the object. It was a rose. Harry gazed at the crumpled flower in his hand in horror. His arm instantly started to burn so badly it made him cry out. Lupin turned and looked at him. "You ok Harry?" he asked him, worry on his lined face. "Yes sir, I'm j- just gonna go to the c-common room now." Lupin nodded and watched as Harry headed through the disappearing crowd. He got half way down the hall when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned and saw a very pale Ron looking at him. Harry looked back. "That's what Percy looked like Harry". Ron stammered. "Ron, please talk to me." Harry responded, his eyes watery. "Ron opened his mouth then looked past Harry and his face changed. Harry turned around and glared as Malfoy and Selina walked towards him, looking excited. "Is it true, was Corner attacked?" Harry just started at him with hatred and tried to pull Ron away with him. Ron knocked Harry back and ran past Malfoy and Selina, not looking back. "You just keep upsetting him Potter." Harry moved close to Malfoy "Piss off, you sad loser and take your girlfriend with you." Malfoy went red but continued to smirk. "Ever heard this rhyme, Potter?" He started to chant, making gestures with his arms. "Roses are red, violets are blue, Someone's attacked a poor Ravenclaw, all I want to know is who?" He then laughed. "Think about it Potter!" he hissed to Harry then headed into the room with Selina, Crabbe and Goyle, obviously wanting a piece of the action.
Harry held onto his arm, the pain was getting worse and worse. At that moment his Scar sprang alive, pain searing across his forehead. He knew, Voldemort was happy. He turned and ran as fast as he could, he didn't know where he was going. He was thinking desperately. Where was I today before DADA? Why can't I remember? He stopped and leant against a wall, breathing hard. He covered his eyes. "Harry", said a playful voice and he looked up quickly. "What's wrong, my sweet?" He stood up slowly. The beautiful woman was stood in front of him and she was smiling lovingly at him. "Rosenna?" He whispered, not really wanting her to reply. She laughed. "Shhhhh! That's our secret." He leant against the wall for support. She moved closer to him. "It's begun, Harry. You did a very good job earlier today." He shook his head in denial. "You're lying." She giggled and leaned forward to touch him, he flinched. "I can't touch you, my sweet, not yet. But I will, when I have the blood. You will help me Harry, you have no choice." Harry looked at her pleadingly. "Leave me alone, please." She shook her head roughly. "Can't do that, Baby. I promised my honey that I would use you." She stood up again. "Ill be back, my sweet. We've got great times ahead. See you soon!" and with that she disappeared. Harry crouched there for a moment then screamed at the top of his lungs "I won't! I'll fight you! I'm not your plaything! You hear me?" All of a sudden, both his arm and forehead blew up with pain, he fell to the floor, writhing. "Stop," he shouted. "What do you say?" Came the hated voice in his head. "Please" Harry whimpered. "Please what?" the voice said again. "Please, My Lord" Harry shouted, the pain too much for him to bear. He heard cold, high-pitched laughter in his head and the pain slowly went away, leaving Harry curled up in a ball on the floor. He shook there for a moment, trying to get his senses back. He got up onto his knees that screamed in a mixture of pain and fury. "SIRIUS" he bellowed. "HELP ME, PLEASE. I CAN'T TAKE ANYMORE. HELP ME PLEASE, MUM AND DAD, I NEED YOU SO MUCH!" but nothing happened. He lay on the ground, held his stomach and sobbed and sobbed.
Chapter 10 - A welcome return
Harry ate his lunch alone in the Great Hall, he assumed it was because he was later then usual but he was concerned that none of his friends were in the hall. He had looked for Hermione for a while after he saw Selina but he hadn't found her, he assumed she was busy so he decided to leave her alone. A few Slytherins were pointing and laughing at him from the other side of the Hall but he was used to that. Idiots, Harry thought, they always have to do what Malfoy and his cronies tell them. He finished his plate and headed back to his Common Room. Only 20 minutes until Defence Against the Dark Arts, he noticed from his timetable. He smiled at this. DADA was by far his best subject, and this years teacher just could NOT be any worse than Umbridge?
He turned a corner and almost sent Hermione and Ginny flying. Hermione instantly looked down at the floor. "Hi" she said to him quietly. "Hi," he replied, giving her a very odd look. "Erm, she said, very flustered, "I saw you talking to Cho earlier." Harry shrugged at this. "Oh yeah, she needed a chat.." He stopped short his eyes on Hermione. Why did she look so unhappy? "Anyway", Ginny said, quickly, "Hermione needs to chat to you now Harry, I'll leave you two to it" and she hurried away, seemingly relieved. "Lets go in here", Hermione said, jerking her towards an abandoned classroom. Harry followed Hermione in; still unsure of what he had done to upset his friend. "Ok, Harry," Hermione began; Harry noticed she seemed to be finding the right words to say. "I saw - someone - who gave me a message to give you, I saw him when I was sent out of Potions". Harry quickly felt his temper rise. "Yeah, I know that was Ron's fault, I'll." "Harry please!" Hermione snapped, "this is more important than Ron!" She looked down. Harry stared at her and then said slowly "Who Hermione, who gave you the message?" Hermione swallowed "He said you had to protect someone, a him, and that all was not as it seemed and." Hermione gasped in pain as Harry grabbed her arms. "WHO?" He actually shook her. "Sirius!" Hermione cried, then gave a sob. "It was Sirius Harry, I swear". Harry just looked in to her eyes for a moment then turned away. He felt his scar burn and grimaced. "Why show himself to you?" He whispered, not looking at her. "Sorry?" she asked him. "He should have come to ME" I need him Hermione!" he roared at her. She gaped at him in despair and tried to put her arms round him. He pushed her away. "Just leave alone ok?" and with that he ran, leaving Hermione staring after him, her hand over her mouth.
Harry ran and ran, he certainly didn't want any Slytherins see him cry. He shouldn't have shouted at Hermione like that but the unfairness of it was too much for him to cope with. He had pleaded with Sirius to come and see him, help him and now he had come back but it was Hermione he had wanted to talk to. It didn't make any sense to Harry. He was still deep in thought when he headed past the DADA classroom. Someone grabbed him. "This way, I think Harry. You are in my class I believe" came a familiar voice. Harry swung round, "Professor Lupin!!!" Harry was so happy, he could have hugged him. Lupin grinned back. "It seems the Ministry are desperate to appease Dumbledore at the moment", he told him, then added in a quiet voice "though I have no idea why!" Harry laughed. "Its great, Professor, really!" Lupin rubbed his nose then. "I'm expecting some rough treatment of course, many parents still regard me as dangerous and one certain teacher is more than happy to help them believe it." Harry frowned, he knew Lupin was talking about Snape. "Not that that is going to bother me, I have a job to do" he added, serious now. "Professor Lupin", "Hi again, Sir!" "Good to see you again Professor!" All the other students were as happy to see Lupin again was Harry was, especially Hermione who actually gave him a kiss on the cheek! Harry took her to one side "I'm sorry, Hermione. I was upset" she smiled at him. "Its fine Harry, I don't understand why he came to me anymore than you do, but I think we should tell Lupin." She inclined her head towards their teacher. Harry went to agree but then a pain flew though his arm and he cursed. Hermione saw him turn away from her and grabbed his left arm. He looked back at her and smiled. "Best not to I think," he said to her" not until we know what Sirius meant". She didn't agree with this but shrugged. Harry should deal with all this his own way. She held out her hand to Harry, who was now rubbing his arm, "Lets go in", she said to him. He glanced at her "Yeah ok, lets" but didn't say anything else to her. Hermione noticed that Harry continued to rub his right arm as he walked into the classroom and sat down. She sat beside him. She looked round at Ron, who was also watching Harry. She frowned.
Lupin stood at the front of his class and waited for silence. He didn't have to wait long, everyone was excited about him being back. "So, how have you all been and what have my, ahem, replacements been like then?" Everyone started shouting at once. "Awful Professor, "you are the best, Sir" they all yelled. Lupin held up a hand and laughed. "Well, I was replaced by a madman and a ministry spy who, well, is quite mad, but I will take that as a compliment! I must add one other thing, if any of you have a problem that I am a werewolf or fear for your safety, you should speak now. Professor Snape has kindly volunteered to teach anyone who feels threatened". No one said a word and Lupin gave them a small smile. "OK, on with business". They all sat up straight. "Now, I understand from the Headmaster that you were all held back last year. Although some of you find your own answers to that problem." He looked at Harry, who gave him a small smile. "For those of you who don't know, Harry Potter was teaching a small group DADA lessons, to be prepared for Voldemorts, come now, you know you must not be afraid of the name, return. He proved to be a fine teacher. Now, Myself, Professor Dumbledore and Harry of course, believe it is best to continue this group. I advise all of you too go and learn as much from Harry as you can. He is after all, the only person in this room who has faced Voldemort." Harry went red at this and found his hand clutching his right arm again. "Harry, I would like you too see me after this lesson, to discuss the best times for the meetings." Harry nodded. "Good," Lupin said, then turning back to the class.
"Right", he said, clasping his hands together, "today, aim going to teach you a new spell. It should be used only in defence as can be just as dangerous to the caster if used in attack as to the victim as the spell can backfire terribly. The spell is called "protecta" and had the power to force numerous enemies to the ground and hold them there." Harry looked her Hermione, who gave him a knowing smile. "A couple of you know this spell already, I've been told. Miss Granger, Mr Longbottom, step up here please." Neville and Hermione joined Lupin at the front of the class. Many were surprised. They all expected Hermione to know the spell but Neville? Harry knew better. He had watched how hard Neville had worked in the DADA lessons. It was no surprise to him that Neville had continued his studies through the summer. Lupin was speaking quietly to the two pupils and then gestured to a table in the corner. They headed over there and sat down, talking in low voices. "The rest of you will read about Protecta and begin trying it on each other. Ron, perhaps you would partner Harry?" They glanced at one another and Ron nodded once. "Good!" Lupin said, still very jolly, "Get started then".
Harry and Ron moved to a space over the side of the room and both got out their wands. They glared at each other, not saying a word. Harry decided he should speak first. "After three?" Ron shrugged. They counted together and both cried "protecta" at the same time. The spells collided in between them and flew harmlessly to each side. "One at a time, you too" called Lupin to them, who was helping Dean and Seamus untangle them selves from the ground. "OK, Harry said, "you first". "Protecta", Ron yelled at once". Harry fell to the ground and lay there gasping. He couldn't move a muscle. "Excellent Ron." Lupin called, beaming at him. "The release spell is "Seperante". Ron just continued to look down at Harry, who was completely helpless. Harry looked back. "Ron, RON!" Lupin snapped. "The release spell!" Everyone was now looking at Harry and Ron. "Seperante" Ron whispered and the force holding Harry lifted. He got to his feet and pointed his wand at Ron. The anger was coursing through him and he yelled "PROTECTA". Ron was caught full on by Harry's powerful spell and went flying backwards through the air and smashed into the wall the other side of the room. "Harry" Hermione was by Ron's side. "Take the spell off him, now. He's hurt." "Seperante" Harry snapped. Lupin gazed at him and watched as Hermione helped Ron to his feet. He pushed her away in anger and she backed off. Harry was looking at his one time best friend with mounting dislike. Ron stared back, hand on his wand. Everyone was still watching the 2 Gryffindors until Lupin calmly called "Ok, all of you, back to your desks please. I think it best if you start copying down the uses of the "Protecta" spell from your books. You can finish this after class. Now please". They all sat down and got out their books, Ron and Harry completely ignoring each other. Neville and Hermione continued to work away from the rest of the group, muttering to each other. Eventually, the bell rang.
Lupin watched as Ron, jumped up, grabbed his books and rushed out, not looking at anyone else. "Harry, Hermione" he called "May I have a quick word with you both?" The two of them stopped and watched everyone else file out. "Harry" Lupin began, perching himself on his desk, "I want to know what is going on between you and Ron please". "I don't know to be honest with you Sir, he's been like it for ages." Harry looked down and kicked the floor. "He hates me, blames me for Percy's death". "Yes, I heard it was Ron who found his brother." Lupin then stared into space, grimly. "You must try to be patient with him Harry, Ron is a good friend to you and stood by you last year. Not that many people were willing to do that. Just give him time". Harry nodded but gave Hermione a very unconvinced look. Hermione shook her head. "I don't know why Ron is acting so nastily to Harry and ,myself, Professor Lupin", she told him. "He just seemed to have switched off, I'm worried for him". Lupins face became sympathetic. "I know, Hermione but please, just hang on in there, he will come round". Lupin turned to Harry. "How have you found starting school again Harry, other than Ron of course." "OK", Harry said "Other people have been much nicer to me than last year anyway!" "That's good," Lupin smiled. "Lupin looked at him with respect. "You are very strong Harry, James and Sirius would be proud of you." Harry turned away and Hermione looked at him with concern. Lupin swallowed. "Is there anything either of you feel you should tell me, anything that is worrying you? Harry, who had been rubbing his arm, looked up. "No Professor, we are find, right Hermione?" "Yes" she added quickly, "fine Sir". Lupin gave them both quizzical looks and then said with a smile "OK, you two, I think it's best now if." Lupin swung round to the door as Snape came flying into the room, very red in the face. "Lupin, you just come with me, now". Lupin grabbed his wand "I'm behind you Severus." Snape nodded and waited by the door. "You two, come with us, I can't leave you here.." and they all ran out of the room behind Snape.
They rushed down the corridor and into a dimly lit room, where a big crowd had gathered. "Move aside" ordered Snape and the mob parted. The two professors rushed through and both looked at each other in fear. Harry and Hermione reached them and saw what they were looking at and gasped. Michael Corner, a Ravenclaw, lay on the ground. His fists were clenched in tight fists and his face was screwed up painfully, as if he was fighting against something. "He's alive", Lupin said, answering Harry's worse fears, "but barely. It looks like he's been put under the Cruciatus Curse for hours." Snape knelt down beside Lupin. "He's been like this for hours. This room is hardly used. If he had been here for much longer.." He and Lupin exchanged dark looks. Lupin stood up. "We must get him to the sick bay." He turned to the watching crowd. "Ernie, Justin, Seamus, would you please take him." They all stepped forward without a word, picked the unconscious boy up and carried him away. There was a scream as they passed the people at the back. "Michael, what's happened to him, is he dead?" Hermione rushed back through the crowd. "Ginny, its ok, he's not dead. He'll be fine." Ginny moaned "No, I can't stand this. First Percy, now Michael. Why is this happening." Hermione looked over at Harry and he mouthed "Take her out". Hermione nodded and helped Ginny out of the room. Snape's eyes seemed to linger on Harry for a moment, then he turned to Lupin and told him, "I must tell Dumbledore, remove the crowd for me." Harry then called out "who found him?" Snape turned round with a funny look at Harry. "Your young friend Mr Weasley Potter, and if he hadn't, Mr Corner would now be dead". The whole crowd gasped, some Ravenclaws cried as Snape pushed through the crowd and swept away.
Harry noticed something on the ground, he glanced at Lupin, he was telling the crowd to disperse, and then picked up the object. It was a rose. Harry gazed at the crumpled flower in his hand in horror. His arm instantly started to burn so badly it made him cry out. Lupin turned and looked at him. "You ok Harry?" he asked him, worry on his lined face. "Yes sir, I'm j- just gonna go to the c-common room now." Lupin nodded and watched as Harry headed through the disappearing crowd. He got half way down the hall when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned and saw a very pale Ron looking at him. Harry looked back. "That's what Percy looked like Harry". Ron stammered. "Ron, please talk to me." Harry responded, his eyes watery. "Ron opened his mouth then looked past Harry and his face changed. Harry turned around and glared as Malfoy and Selina walked towards him, looking excited. "Is it true, was Corner attacked?" Harry just started at him with hatred and tried to pull Ron away with him. Ron knocked Harry back and ran past Malfoy and Selina, not looking back. "You just keep upsetting him Potter." Harry moved close to Malfoy "Piss off, you sad loser and take your girlfriend with you." Malfoy went red but continued to smirk. "Ever heard this rhyme, Potter?" He started to chant, making gestures with his arms. "Roses are red, violets are blue, Someone's attacked a poor Ravenclaw, all I want to know is who?" He then laughed. "Think about it Potter!" he hissed to Harry then headed into the room with Selina, Crabbe and Goyle, obviously wanting a piece of the action.
Harry held onto his arm, the pain was getting worse and worse. At that moment his Scar sprang alive, pain searing across his forehead. He knew, Voldemort was happy. He turned and ran as fast as he could, he didn't know where he was going. He was thinking desperately. Where was I today before DADA? Why can't I remember? He stopped and leant against a wall, breathing hard. He covered his eyes. "Harry", said a playful voice and he looked up quickly. "What's wrong, my sweet?" He stood up slowly. The beautiful woman was stood in front of him and she was smiling lovingly at him. "Rosenna?" He whispered, not really wanting her to reply. She laughed. "Shhhhh! That's our secret." He leant against the wall for support. She moved closer to him. "It's begun, Harry. You did a very good job earlier today." He shook his head in denial. "You're lying." She giggled and leaned forward to touch him, he flinched. "I can't touch you, my sweet, not yet. But I will, when I have the blood. You will help me Harry, you have no choice." Harry looked at her pleadingly. "Leave me alone, please." She shook her head roughly. "Can't do that, Baby. I promised my honey that I would use you." She stood up again. "Ill be back, my sweet. We've got great times ahead. See you soon!" and with that she disappeared. Harry crouched there for a moment then screamed at the top of his lungs "I won't! I'll fight you! I'm not your plaything! You hear me?" All of a sudden, both his arm and forehead blew up with pain, he fell to the floor, writhing. "Stop," he shouted. "What do you say?" Came the hated voice in his head. "Please" Harry whimpered. "Please what?" the voice said again. "Please, My Lord" Harry shouted, the pain too much for him to bear. He heard cold, high-pitched laughter in his head and the pain slowly went away, leaving Harry curled up in a ball on the floor. He shook there for a moment, trying to get his senses back. He got up onto his knees that screamed in a mixture of pain and fury. "SIRIUS" he bellowed. "HELP ME, PLEASE. I CAN'T TAKE ANYMORE. HELP ME PLEASE, MUM AND DAD, I NEED YOU SO MUCH!" but nothing happened. He lay on the ground, held his stomach and sobbed and sobbed.
