Thanks to Angeltears, btw I love your story too. Dreamer, I'm glad you
like my story, keep reviewing pur-lease!! And finally - Matt, thanks for
your comments, please keep them coming. OK -
Chapter 12 - Quidditch and a kiss
Harry slept through the next few nights more soundly than he had done before that year. OK, so maybe his lessons with Snape weren't much better than last year and he did have a long way to go, but now he didn't feel so lost. If only he could find a way to keep Rosenna and Voldemort out of his head. He touched his car automatically. He hadn't felt any pain from it for a couple of days now. He burned with shame, remembering how Voldemort had made him say "My Lord". He would never tell anyone about that. He glanced at Ron's bed. Ron had got up already. Harry rubbed his eyes. Ron always got up so early these days. He never gave Harry any chance to talk to him. Ignoring him hurt Harry more than any punch Ron could have thrown. He was Harry's best friend and Harry missed Ron more than he would ever admit. He knew the day was Saturday and then smiled to himself. The Quidditch season got under way today.
He loved Quidditch. The only time he felt free these days was when he was flying on his firebolt. The team had changed a lot though. He had been made Captain by McGonagall in their first practice session. Harry was overjoyed at this news and had decided to put a lot of work into it, especially as he found out that Malfoy was captain of Slytherin. Harry's team now included Ron who was Keeper and Ginny who was a chaser. Ron, he thought. Will he even talk to me? Listen to my tactics? Harry sighed and got to his feet. "Hi Harry," Neville called. "Looking forward to beating those bloody Slytherins today? I spoke to Ginny and she said you were doing really well in the practices as Captain." Harry smiled at Neville. "Yeah, its going ok, thanks Neville. I'm a bit nervous though to be honest." Neville just shrugged. "You'll be great. Our team is so much better than Slytherins this year. Everyone is playing well, even Ron." "Neville!" hissed Dean, who was stood behind him. Harry sighed, turned round and saw Ron in the doorway, looking furious. He walked towards Neville. "Sorry, didn't quite catch that?" Neville stammered "erm, oh, hi there Ron, I was just saying how well you've erm been doing lately, as keeper, y'know?" Ron glared at him. "That's weird, I thought you said that everyone was playing well, even me, why even me Neville." He stepped towards Neville who backed away from him. "I didn't mean that Ron. please.." Ron actually got out his wand and stood so close to Neville that he touched his cheek with it. Harry shoved Ron away from Neville and stood over him. "Get out!" Harry pushed Ron towards the door. "Go to the Slytherin common room, you'd fit in better there, believe me." Ron and Harry stood glaring at each other for a moment. Ron then turned and walked towards the door. He stopped but didn't turn around. "Hermione asked me tell you that she is waiting for you in the Great Hall," he then walked out and slammed the door. Harry gazed after him. "What has happened to him Harry?" Seamus asked, helping to pick Neville up off the floor. "He's gone mad," snapped Neville. "I'm sorry about his brother Harry, but at least he didn't lose someone and be forced to see what was left of them once a week" Harry felt a lump in his face and put his hand out towards Neville's shoulder. Neville gave Harry a small smile and then said, "lets go to the Hall." Seamus, Dean, Neville and Harry headed to the Hall.
The Great Hall was full and all the students were chatting happily. As the Gryffindors entered, the Slytherins booed and jeered. Harry merely smiled at them and sat beside Hermione, who reached out and took his hand. "You nervous?" Harry smiled back at her. "No, not really. Just badly want to beat that smirk off his face." He glanced over at Malfoy, who was grabbed his forehead and whining in pain. Harry's face darkened. "Ignore him." Hermione said, pleadingly. She changed the subject quickly. "I'm glad Ron found you. It was good of him to go and find you." Harry frowned. Hermione sighed. "what happened" she moaned. "He had a go at Neville, he was awful Hermione." She shook he head. "Well, you know what Professor Lupin said, we have to give him time. Harry nodded but he couldn't help feeling that Ron's time had nearly run out. Ginny appeared between Harry and Hermione. "You all set boss?" she asked him. Harry grinned at Ginny. "Yeah Ginny, sure. You nervous?" Ginny laughed. "No way, I can't wait!" Hermione smiled at both of them. "Got everything sorted out then you two?" "Oh yeah, Hermione" Ginny said quickly, nearly bouncing. "We can't go wrong. Harry's tactics are brilliant, he's getting us to.." Harry shed with a look and Ginny covered her mouth. "Oh God, sorry. Getting carried away. Oh c'mon Harry, lets go, I can't wait to play Quidditch with you." Harry shook his head and leaned over and kissed Hermione's cheek. She smiled. "See you after the match," he said to her. "See you later" she said to him and waved to Ginny. They were nearly out of the hall, when someone grabbed Harry's arm. He turned around and sighed when he saw Cho. "Hi Harry," she said, grinning. "Eh, hi Cho. Ginny looked impatiently at Harry. Cho walked towards Harry and whispered into his ear. "I'll be cheering for you today. Remember my offer from a few days ago. Well, the dates still on Harry. I'm waiting for your answer." She kisses him on the lips sexily, then went slowly back to her seat, sitting down but not before quickly giving Hermione a rotten glance. Harry sighed and turned to Ginny who was giving him a very odd look. "What?" Harry asked her. All she said was "hmmm" and tutted. She headed out. "Ginny, what?" Harry demanded running after her but she wouldn't tell him.
Then walked around the corner and were heading down a corridor, towards the Entrance Hall. All of a sudden, a voice yelled "tripena" and Harry felt something like a rope go round his ankles and he lost his footing and felt to the ground with a loud bump. Ginny was shouting at someone, laughs and jeers were ringing in the air, as Harry sat up, checking his ankle. He looked round into the faces of Malfoy, Crabbe, Goyle, Millicent and Pansy and standing a few paces infront of them with her wand trained on Harry was Selina Umbridge. "Whoopsie Daisy Potter" she sang and they all laughed louder. Malfoy stepped towards him. "You really should be more careful you know Potter, that's the second trip jinx you've been caught by. And you are supposed to be the DADA king of our year! Weird!" Harry got to his feet and Ginny was still shouting blue murder at Malfoy and Umbridge. Selina turned round and snapped "quieto" and Ginny found her lips stuck together. Harry turned to Selina. "Take the jinx off her, now" Umbridge gave Harry a look, but waved her wand and Ginny gasped for air. Malfoy waved his wand and Harry fell over again. Harry leapt to his feet and turned on Malfoy. "You stupid, sad little git. Is this how you think you can beat me. Underhandedly? Daddy would be proud Draco." Malfoy froze, as did all the other Slytherins. Harry was fuming. "I'm glad that bastard Lucius is dead. No one has ever deserved death more. You deserve to be fatherless Malfoy. You were a pathetic little Daddy's boy. That's all you still are, just minus a Daddy now. You are pathetic." Malfoy had gone a very dark shade of red. Selina put her hand on his but he knocked her away. Tears were streaming down his face. Ginny was staring at Harry. "Come on," he snapped to her. They both turned their backs on the Slytherins. "Draco?" whispered Selina. Malfoy let out a roar and flew down the corridor, pushed past Ginny and jumped infront of Harry, wand at the ready. "You don't turn your back on me Potter," he hissed sinisterly. Harry shrugged and said "If you can't take a couple of home truths Malfoy." but he didn't finish his sentence. Malfoy smacked him round the face, Harry fell down and Malfoy roared "crucio" and Harry bit his lip to keep himself from screaming. He fell to the ground. Then someone yelled "Expelliarmus" and Malfoy's wand flew out of his hand. The pain disappeared. Everyone looked round and gasped when they saw Hermione and Dumbledore, with his wand out and a face like thunder. "Mr Malfoy, could you come with me please?" Malfoy glared at Dumbledore. "I've got Quidditch in a minute" he mumbled. "You won't miss Quidditch Mr Malfoy, but I would like a word with you." Malfoy hesitated, then picked his wand up and walked towards Dumbledore. Hermione and Ginny were helping Harry up off the floor. He turned to Dumbledore. "Professor, Thank you" Harry said. Dumbledore turned and looked at him. "I don't think you should thank me Harry. Obviously, I cannot allow Unforgivable Curses in my school but I was very disappointed to hear what you said to Mr Malfoy. I would have thought that you would understand more than anyone else what it is like to lose parents, after really losing three yourself. Sirius would have been ashamed to hear you speak like that, Harry." Dumbledore gave him one more look with those amazing blue eyes then turned and walked away. Malfoy followed him, his head down. Harry watched them go. His anger had now vanished and shame was flooding through him. The Slytherins were glaring at Harry. Selina walked towards him. "You wait Potter, you've got some fun times ahead." She then walked away, the group of Slytherins following her. "Eh Harry," Hermione began "I think Dumbledores right." "Alright Hermione, you don't need to have a go at me too," he snapped at her. "Are you coming Ginny?" Ginny frowned. "See you later Hermione," Ginny said sadly. Harry marched on again as Ginny ran to catch up with him. He shouldn't have yelled at Hermione like that, he knew. But he couldn't bear to hear what he knew she was going to say - because he was thinking the same thing.
Harry and Ginny arrived in the Gryffindor common room a few minutes later. Harry stormed straight past the whole team without saying a word and headed into a cubicle. Harry didn't want any of his team to see him cry. He was so ashamed of himself. He got changed into his Quidditch robes as quickly as he could. After drying his eyes and calming himself down and he walked out of the cubicle and held his head up high. He noticed Ginny had got changed too. She smiled at him when she saw him. He smiled back, gratefully. Ron gave him a look but didn't say anything. "OK," Harry snapped "You all know what you have to do. I want to win today, badly. We know we are the best team here by far. Today we are going to prove it." The speech had certainly helped. They were all nodding and smiling, all of them apart from Ron. "Right", Harry said, getting to his feet. "Lets get to it" and they all got up and followed him out. The all got on the brooms outside and at Harry's signal, all kicked off the ground and flew up into the air. The Slytherins flew into the air at the same moment. Harry and Malfoy were soon facing each other, both of them trying to stare the other out. Madam Hooch walked onto the pitch below them and called the two captains down to her. They landed on the ground at the same time. "Right, I want you two to do all you can to keep this match clean and fair, understand?" Harry nodded but Malfoy just smiled at Madam Hooch. "OK, shake hands," The two of them glared at each other but did shake hands for a moment, both looking away. They then flew back up to their positions, facing one another. Madam Hooch then threw the quaffle into the air and blew her whistle. The match began.
The match was the most violent Harry had ever played in. The Slytherins started to foul the Gryffindors in anyway they could. The score was soon 20- 10 to Slytherin and all the Gryffindor players had taken knocks. Harry had been pushed out of the way by Crabbe, but Madam Hooch hadn't seen. The shove had sent Harry spinning out of control and he had to use all his experience to just stay on the broom. Suddenly the whistle blew, Harry looked downwards. Goyle and Crabbe had sent both bludgers straight at Ginny and one had hit her in the chest, the other in the face causing her to cry out in pain. The Slytherin crowd were cheering, Malfoy was laughing and Harry was fuming. As Lee Jordan had left last year, Dean had taken over commentating duties and it seemed his language would be as colourful as Lee's had been. He was shouting blue murder at Crabbe and Goyle. Harry then realised Ginny's nose was bleeding so he decided to call a time out. He signalled to Hooch and she stopped the match. All the Gryffindors zoomed to the ground, while the Slytherin crowd jeered them. "You alright Ginny," Harry asked her. "Course I am", she answered, pinching her nose. "Ready to carry on?" "Let me back at them Harry". She looked ready for war. "I've been awarded two penalties Harry, please let me take them?" He grinned at her. Weasleys were built of strong stuff. "OK, everyone lets get on with this." They flew back in the air, except Ron who seemed to be in his own little world. "Eh Ron, do you even care about Ginny." Ron looked at him, annoyance on his face. "Of course I do, but I knew she could take a little nose bleed, we aren't all wimps." Harry sighed, he was so tired of this attitude. "Look Ron, could you make a bit more effort in front of those rings please?" What is that suppose to mean?" Ron snapped. "Well, with that second ring, you seemed to move out of the way of the quaffle rather than try to stop it. Just try harder ok?" and with that Harry kicked himself off the ground, leaving Ron fuming behind him and he headed back to his position.
"Welcome back Potter," Malfoy yelled at him. Harry ignored him. Ginny scored with both her penalties so the score was now 20-30 to Gryffindor. Harry now turned his full attention to finding the snitch. All of a sudden, there it was! Flying near the Ravenclaw stand. Harry instantly dive and headed towards it. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Malfoy change direction and fly after the snitch too. He also realised that Malfoy was closer to it than he was. He was flying as fast as he could and gaining on Malfoy when suddenly his arm started to burn again. He tried to ignore the pain and kept his eye on the snitch. A serene voice spoke in his head. "Harry, my sweet. You seem to have been ignoring me lately. Can't have that, especially since you did such an admirable job on one of my sisters whelps." Harry desperately tried to ignore the voice but she was getting louder. "At last you have lowered your defences, allowed me in." Harry frowned, then concentrated all his might on closing his mind to her - and he felt it was working. Her voice was getting fainter, the pain lesser, when suddenly, his scar burst with pain as well, and that hurt, really hurt. Harry screamed and took his hands off his broom. "You will not fight us Potter, you will obey, or you will suffer." Harry tried to clear his mind, stop his emotions but it was no good. He screamed again from the pain, desperately trying to stay in the air. Malfoy had realised what was happening behind him from the crowds noise. He watched Harry struggling and an evil look came over his face. He stopped chasing the snitch and flew back, towards Harry. "This is what I think of your plea, Albus Dumbledore" he said to himself.
Harry was slowly passing out from the pain. It was taking all his strength to keep Voldemort and Rosenna at bay, and that strength was leaving him quickly. "Harry, fly at the Ravenclaw stand my dear", Rosenna whispered lovingly. Harry shook his head but he felt her will in his head - he WANTED to obey her. "Do it Harry" Voldemort hissed. "Kill them, kill as many of them as you can Potter. Fly at them." "Help me," Harry whimpered, he knew he couldn't last much longer. That's when he saw him. Malfoy was heading straight for him at full speed. He was going to knock him off his broom. Harry couldn't move, couldn't take the risk. He watched Malfoy's smirking face as he got closer and closer.. BANG. Harry gasped in shock. Ron had barged Malfoy out of Harry's path and Malfoy had spun away, out of control. Ron grabbed Harry's arm. "Fight Harry," he hissed, "you are stronger than this." Harry was shocked to feel power surging into his arm where Ron had hold of it. The voices were growing faint and the pain was weaker. He looked at Ron. "stronger together" Harry whispered. Ron nodded. "Now, go and catch that damned snitch." Harry gave him a grin and sped away. He was gaining on the Snitch but, glancing behind him, he saw Malfoy was gaining on him. Harry outstretched his hand. Nearly, nearly, a bit closer and then "YESSSSSSS!!" Harry pulled out of his dive, the snitch in his hand. They'd won! The noise was amazing. He raced to the ground, where the rest of his team were waiting to hug him. He passed Malfoy and called "Good game." Draco merely glared at him and tapped his forehead, then flew towards the Slytherin dressing room. Harry ignored him, he was use to Malfoys temper tantrums at losing by now. He landed and ran towards his teammates and gave them all hugs. He went to Ron who gave him weird look. "Thanks Ron," Harry said quietly. Ron pushed past him. "Oh Come ON Ron. You don't have to act like this anymore." Ron turned back to Harry. "I helped us win Harry, that's all. Nothing has changed. Leave me alone." Harry felt rage inside him. "Fine" he shrieked. "That's how you want it, fine. Good riddance." And with that, Harry marched away to the dressing room to change, he was fuming. He'd had enough of Ron, he'd given up on him. Ron walked Harry march away, with mixed feelings. "Take care, mate. It's for the best." He muttered then walked away slowly.
He was just heading past the Slytherin Dressing room when he was grabbed and dragged inside. Malfoy pushed Ron against the wall and Ron could see he was furious. "What was all that about Weasley? You helped Potter! You could have completely messed up the Dark Lord and his Lady's plan!" Ron pushed Malfoy away. "You were going to kill him!" Malfoy raised an eyebrow. "I wasn't, don't be a fool. Potter is needed alive, you know that. Anyway, I didn't think you cared." Ron sighed. "I don't care. I don't care about Harry, Hermione, you, the big plan, anything. All I care about is the name. Give it to me Malfoy, you promised." Malfoy laughed. "I told you, you get your revenge when I've got mine. And besides, I can't do you favours now. The Dark Lord is very displeased with you." Ron looked at Malfoy, unsure of what to do. "Get out, I'll be in touch." Ron didn't move. "When Malfoy, when do I get that name." Malfoy shoved Ron against the wall again. "When the plan is sorted Ron, or at least when you've done your bit. It's ok, it wont be long now." He threw Ron towards the exit. Ron gave Malfoy one more dark look than walked towards the door. "Oh Ron" Malfoy called. "I almost forgot. The Dark Lord wants you to be punished. Ron stopped, his heart sinking. He knew what that meant. "Crucio" shouted Malfoy. Ron fell to the ground but tried his hardest not to scream. He realised that this hurt more than last time. Malfoy took his wand away and the pain stopped. Malfoy smiled at Ron then nodded to a waiting Crabbe and Goyle. They dragged him up and, checking no one was looking, threw him outside.
Ron fell to the ground, rolled over and picked himself up. He knew he deserved that pain for what he was doing. He had turned against everyone - his best friends, his family, the Order - he had no one left. He didn't need anyone, well except for Percy maybe. He swallowed and then carried on walking towards the Gryffindor dressing room. Someone stepped into his path, making him jump. "Christ, Luna!" Ron exclaimed, "Why are you here?" Luna grabbed his arm. "I know what happened, I saw. You have to tell Harry about Malfoy Ron, you have to tell him that Malfoy has promised you the name of the Death Eater that killed your brother. You have to stop what you are doing, before someone gets hurt." Ron was gazing at Luna. "How do you know all that?" "I've been watching you Ron." She said simply. "Please tell Harry or Hermione, before it's to late." Ron walked on, Luna racing to walk beside him. "Its already to late for me Luna." She shook her head violently. "No, it's not. Ron." "IT IS" He screamed at her and she gave a little scream. He grabbed her shoulders. "Don't you understand, it was my fault! Percy came to me after the Daily Prophet announced Voldemort's return. He told me he was sorry and wanted to make it up to the family, to join the Order. I told him he had no chance and had betrayed his family. I just wanted to hurt him. And I did. He was devastated sand ran off." Ron was kneeling on the floor, his hands covering his face but continued to speak. "When he didn't show up after a while, I told Mum and Dad but they said I had no right to say that to Percy. They said that he was my brother and he had made the wrong choice. I should have forgiven him. We all started searching everywhere for him but it was me that found him. They had done some terrible things to him. His mind was gone, he had been tortured. I had to do something for him. He was like a vegetable. So, I took out my wand and - and - used the curse I'd heard mad Moony talk about and then that was it - Percy was dead." He fell to the ground then, sobbing. Luna touched his shoulders, she was in tears too. "So, you see, I killed Percy in every way. I killed him." He got to his feet and pushed her away from him, rubbing his eyes. "That's why I have to do what I'm doing. I don't deserve Harry's friendship. I have to redeem myself. I have to kill whoever tortured Percy. Luna, keep away from me. You don't need all this." "I want all this," she stammered moving towards him. "I care about you Ron, a lot." She got closer to him and then kissed him on the cheek. He gave her one look then grabbed her and kissed her properly on the lips. The kiss lasted a few moments until Ron pulled away. He smiled at her. "You're a lovely girl Luna, if things could have been different." He shook his head. "But they are not. I have to go now Luna, remember stay away from me, I don't want you to get hurt." He gave her one last long look than walked away. Luna called after him twice but he ignored her. Luna got to her feet, wiping her eyes. He wouldn't listen to her, she realised that. She had no choice. He had to try to help him the only way she could. She would have to tell Harry everything. She walked towards the school. Then stopped, leant against the wall, and vomited. Afterwards, she felt calmer and more like herself. So, in her usual dreamy way, she entered the school building and headed straight towards the Gryffindor Common Room.
Chapter 12 - Quidditch and a kiss
Harry slept through the next few nights more soundly than he had done before that year. OK, so maybe his lessons with Snape weren't much better than last year and he did have a long way to go, but now he didn't feel so lost. If only he could find a way to keep Rosenna and Voldemort out of his head. He touched his car automatically. He hadn't felt any pain from it for a couple of days now. He burned with shame, remembering how Voldemort had made him say "My Lord". He would never tell anyone about that. He glanced at Ron's bed. Ron had got up already. Harry rubbed his eyes. Ron always got up so early these days. He never gave Harry any chance to talk to him. Ignoring him hurt Harry more than any punch Ron could have thrown. He was Harry's best friend and Harry missed Ron more than he would ever admit. He knew the day was Saturday and then smiled to himself. The Quidditch season got under way today.
He loved Quidditch. The only time he felt free these days was when he was flying on his firebolt. The team had changed a lot though. He had been made Captain by McGonagall in their first practice session. Harry was overjoyed at this news and had decided to put a lot of work into it, especially as he found out that Malfoy was captain of Slytherin. Harry's team now included Ron who was Keeper and Ginny who was a chaser. Ron, he thought. Will he even talk to me? Listen to my tactics? Harry sighed and got to his feet. "Hi Harry," Neville called. "Looking forward to beating those bloody Slytherins today? I spoke to Ginny and she said you were doing really well in the practices as Captain." Harry smiled at Neville. "Yeah, its going ok, thanks Neville. I'm a bit nervous though to be honest." Neville just shrugged. "You'll be great. Our team is so much better than Slytherins this year. Everyone is playing well, even Ron." "Neville!" hissed Dean, who was stood behind him. Harry sighed, turned round and saw Ron in the doorway, looking furious. He walked towards Neville. "Sorry, didn't quite catch that?" Neville stammered "erm, oh, hi there Ron, I was just saying how well you've erm been doing lately, as keeper, y'know?" Ron glared at him. "That's weird, I thought you said that everyone was playing well, even me, why even me Neville." He stepped towards Neville who backed away from him. "I didn't mean that Ron. please.." Ron actually got out his wand and stood so close to Neville that he touched his cheek with it. Harry shoved Ron away from Neville and stood over him. "Get out!" Harry pushed Ron towards the door. "Go to the Slytherin common room, you'd fit in better there, believe me." Ron and Harry stood glaring at each other for a moment. Ron then turned and walked towards the door. He stopped but didn't turn around. "Hermione asked me tell you that she is waiting for you in the Great Hall," he then walked out and slammed the door. Harry gazed after him. "What has happened to him Harry?" Seamus asked, helping to pick Neville up off the floor. "He's gone mad," snapped Neville. "I'm sorry about his brother Harry, but at least he didn't lose someone and be forced to see what was left of them once a week" Harry felt a lump in his face and put his hand out towards Neville's shoulder. Neville gave Harry a small smile and then said, "lets go to the Hall." Seamus, Dean, Neville and Harry headed to the Hall.
The Great Hall was full and all the students were chatting happily. As the Gryffindors entered, the Slytherins booed and jeered. Harry merely smiled at them and sat beside Hermione, who reached out and took his hand. "You nervous?" Harry smiled back at her. "No, not really. Just badly want to beat that smirk off his face." He glanced over at Malfoy, who was grabbed his forehead and whining in pain. Harry's face darkened. "Ignore him." Hermione said, pleadingly. She changed the subject quickly. "I'm glad Ron found you. It was good of him to go and find you." Harry frowned. Hermione sighed. "what happened" she moaned. "He had a go at Neville, he was awful Hermione." She shook he head. "Well, you know what Professor Lupin said, we have to give him time. Harry nodded but he couldn't help feeling that Ron's time had nearly run out. Ginny appeared between Harry and Hermione. "You all set boss?" she asked him. Harry grinned at Ginny. "Yeah Ginny, sure. You nervous?" Ginny laughed. "No way, I can't wait!" Hermione smiled at both of them. "Got everything sorted out then you two?" "Oh yeah, Hermione" Ginny said quickly, nearly bouncing. "We can't go wrong. Harry's tactics are brilliant, he's getting us to.." Harry shed with a look and Ginny covered her mouth. "Oh God, sorry. Getting carried away. Oh c'mon Harry, lets go, I can't wait to play Quidditch with you." Harry shook his head and leaned over and kissed Hermione's cheek. She smiled. "See you after the match," he said to her. "See you later" she said to him and waved to Ginny. They were nearly out of the hall, when someone grabbed Harry's arm. He turned around and sighed when he saw Cho. "Hi Harry," she said, grinning. "Eh, hi Cho. Ginny looked impatiently at Harry. Cho walked towards Harry and whispered into his ear. "I'll be cheering for you today. Remember my offer from a few days ago. Well, the dates still on Harry. I'm waiting for your answer." She kisses him on the lips sexily, then went slowly back to her seat, sitting down but not before quickly giving Hermione a rotten glance. Harry sighed and turned to Ginny who was giving him a very odd look. "What?" Harry asked her. All she said was "hmmm" and tutted. She headed out. "Ginny, what?" Harry demanded running after her but she wouldn't tell him.
Then walked around the corner and were heading down a corridor, towards the Entrance Hall. All of a sudden, a voice yelled "tripena" and Harry felt something like a rope go round his ankles and he lost his footing and felt to the ground with a loud bump. Ginny was shouting at someone, laughs and jeers were ringing in the air, as Harry sat up, checking his ankle. He looked round into the faces of Malfoy, Crabbe, Goyle, Millicent and Pansy and standing a few paces infront of them with her wand trained on Harry was Selina Umbridge. "Whoopsie Daisy Potter" she sang and they all laughed louder. Malfoy stepped towards him. "You really should be more careful you know Potter, that's the second trip jinx you've been caught by. And you are supposed to be the DADA king of our year! Weird!" Harry got to his feet and Ginny was still shouting blue murder at Malfoy and Umbridge. Selina turned round and snapped "quieto" and Ginny found her lips stuck together. Harry turned to Selina. "Take the jinx off her, now" Umbridge gave Harry a look, but waved her wand and Ginny gasped for air. Malfoy waved his wand and Harry fell over again. Harry leapt to his feet and turned on Malfoy. "You stupid, sad little git. Is this how you think you can beat me. Underhandedly? Daddy would be proud Draco." Malfoy froze, as did all the other Slytherins. Harry was fuming. "I'm glad that bastard Lucius is dead. No one has ever deserved death more. You deserve to be fatherless Malfoy. You were a pathetic little Daddy's boy. That's all you still are, just minus a Daddy now. You are pathetic." Malfoy had gone a very dark shade of red. Selina put her hand on his but he knocked her away. Tears were streaming down his face. Ginny was staring at Harry. "Come on," he snapped to her. They both turned their backs on the Slytherins. "Draco?" whispered Selina. Malfoy let out a roar and flew down the corridor, pushed past Ginny and jumped infront of Harry, wand at the ready. "You don't turn your back on me Potter," he hissed sinisterly. Harry shrugged and said "If you can't take a couple of home truths Malfoy." but he didn't finish his sentence. Malfoy smacked him round the face, Harry fell down and Malfoy roared "crucio" and Harry bit his lip to keep himself from screaming. He fell to the ground. Then someone yelled "Expelliarmus" and Malfoy's wand flew out of his hand. The pain disappeared. Everyone looked round and gasped when they saw Hermione and Dumbledore, with his wand out and a face like thunder. "Mr Malfoy, could you come with me please?" Malfoy glared at Dumbledore. "I've got Quidditch in a minute" he mumbled. "You won't miss Quidditch Mr Malfoy, but I would like a word with you." Malfoy hesitated, then picked his wand up and walked towards Dumbledore. Hermione and Ginny were helping Harry up off the floor. He turned to Dumbledore. "Professor, Thank you" Harry said. Dumbledore turned and looked at him. "I don't think you should thank me Harry. Obviously, I cannot allow Unforgivable Curses in my school but I was very disappointed to hear what you said to Mr Malfoy. I would have thought that you would understand more than anyone else what it is like to lose parents, after really losing three yourself. Sirius would have been ashamed to hear you speak like that, Harry." Dumbledore gave him one more look with those amazing blue eyes then turned and walked away. Malfoy followed him, his head down. Harry watched them go. His anger had now vanished and shame was flooding through him. The Slytherins were glaring at Harry. Selina walked towards him. "You wait Potter, you've got some fun times ahead." She then walked away, the group of Slytherins following her. "Eh Harry," Hermione began "I think Dumbledores right." "Alright Hermione, you don't need to have a go at me too," he snapped at her. "Are you coming Ginny?" Ginny frowned. "See you later Hermione," Ginny said sadly. Harry marched on again as Ginny ran to catch up with him. He shouldn't have yelled at Hermione like that, he knew. But he couldn't bear to hear what he knew she was going to say - because he was thinking the same thing.
Harry and Ginny arrived in the Gryffindor common room a few minutes later. Harry stormed straight past the whole team without saying a word and headed into a cubicle. Harry didn't want any of his team to see him cry. He was so ashamed of himself. He got changed into his Quidditch robes as quickly as he could. After drying his eyes and calming himself down and he walked out of the cubicle and held his head up high. He noticed Ginny had got changed too. She smiled at him when she saw him. He smiled back, gratefully. Ron gave him a look but didn't say anything. "OK," Harry snapped "You all know what you have to do. I want to win today, badly. We know we are the best team here by far. Today we are going to prove it." The speech had certainly helped. They were all nodding and smiling, all of them apart from Ron. "Right", Harry said, getting to his feet. "Lets get to it" and they all got up and followed him out. The all got on the brooms outside and at Harry's signal, all kicked off the ground and flew up into the air. The Slytherins flew into the air at the same moment. Harry and Malfoy were soon facing each other, both of them trying to stare the other out. Madam Hooch walked onto the pitch below them and called the two captains down to her. They landed on the ground at the same time. "Right, I want you two to do all you can to keep this match clean and fair, understand?" Harry nodded but Malfoy just smiled at Madam Hooch. "OK, shake hands," The two of them glared at each other but did shake hands for a moment, both looking away. They then flew back up to their positions, facing one another. Madam Hooch then threw the quaffle into the air and blew her whistle. The match began.
The match was the most violent Harry had ever played in. The Slytherins started to foul the Gryffindors in anyway they could. The score was soon 20- 10 to Slytherin and all the Gryffindor players had taken knocks. Harry had been pushed out of the way by Crabbe, but Madam Hooch hadn't seen. The shove had sent Harry spinning out of control and he had to use all his experience to just stay on the broom. Suddenly the whistle blew, Harry looked downwards. Goyle and Crabbe had sent both bludgers straight at Ginny and one had hit her in the chest, the other in the face causing her to cry out in pain. The Slytherin crowd were cheering, Malfoy was laughing and Harry was fuming. As Lee Jordan had left last year, Dean had taken over commentating duties and it seemed his language would be as colourful as Lee's had been. He was shouting blue murder at Crabbe and Goyle. Harry then realised Ginny's nose was bleeding so he decided to call a time out. He signalled to Hooch and she stopped the match. All the Gryffindors zoomed to the ground, while the Slytherin crowd jeered them. "You alright Ginny," Harry asked her. "Course I am", she answered, pinching her nose. "Ready to carry on?" "Let me back at them Harry". She looked ready for war. "I've been awarded two penalties Harry, please let me take them?" He grinned at her. Weasleys were built of strong stuff. "OK, everyone lets get on with this." They flew back in the air, except Ron who seemed to be in his own little world. "Eh Ron, do you even care about Ginny." Ron looked at him, annoyance on his face. "Of course I do, but I knew she could take a little nose bleed, we aren't all wimps." Harry sighed, he was so tired of this attitude. "Look Ron, could you make a bit more effort in front of those rings please?" What is that suppose to mean?" Ron snapped. "Well, with that second ring, you seemed to move out of the way of the quaffle rather than try to stop it. Just try harder ok?" and with that Harry kicked himself off the ground, leaving Ron fuming behind him and he headed back to his position.
"Welcome back Potter," Malfoy yelled at him. Harry ignored him. Ginny scored with both her penalties so the score was now 20-30 to Gryffindor. Harry now turned his full attention to finding the snitch. All of a sudden, there it was! Flying near the Ravenclaw stand. Harry instantly dive and headed towards it. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Malfoy change direction and fly after the snitch too. He also realised that Malfoy was closer to it than he was. He was flying as fast as he could and gaining on Malfoy when suddenly his arm started to burn again. He tried to ignore the pain and kept his eye on the snitch. A serene voice spoke in his head. "Harry, my sweet. You seem to have been ignoring me lately. Can't have that, especially since you did such an admirable job on one of my sisters whelps." Harry desperately tried to ignore the voice but she was getting louder. "At last you have lowered your defences, allowed me in." Harry frowned, then concentrated all his might on closing his mind to her - and he felt it was working. Her voice was getting fainter, the pain lesser, when suddenly, his scar burst with pain as well, and that hurt, really hurt. Harry screamed and took his hands off his broom. "You will not fight us Potter, you will obey, or you will suffer." Harry tried to clear his mind, stop his emotions but it was no good. He screamed again from the pain, desperately trying to stay in the air. Malfoy had realised what was happening behind him from the crowds noise. He watched Harry struggling and an evil look came over his face. He stopped chasing the snitch and flew back, towards Harry. "This is what I think of your plea, Albus Dumbledore" he said to himself.
Harry was slowly passing out from the pain. It was taking all his strength to keep Voldemort and Rosenna at bay, and that strength was leaving him quickly. "Harry, fly at the Ravenclaw stand my dear", Rosenna whispered lovingly. Harry shook his head but he felt her will in his head - he WANTED to obey her. "Do it Harry" Voldemort hissed. "Kill them, kill as many of them as you can Potter. Fly at them." "Help me," Harry whimpered, he knew he couldn't last much longer. That's when he saw him. Malfoy was heading straight for him at full speed. He was going to knock him off his broom. Harry couldn't move, couldn't take the risk. He watched Malfoy's smirking face as he got closer and closer.. BANG. Harry gasped in shock. Ron had barged Malfoy out of Harry's path and Malfoy had spun away, out of control. Ron grabbed Harry's arm. "Fight Harry," he hissed, "you are stronger than this." Harry was shocked to feel power surging into his arm where Ron had hold of it. The voices were growing faint and the pain was weaker. He looked at Ron. "stronger together" Harry whispered. Ron nodded. "Now, go and catch that damned snitch." Harry gave him a grin and sped away. He was gaining on the Snitch but, glancing behind him, he saw Malfoy was gaining on him. Harry outstretched his hand. Nearly, nearly, a bit closer and then "YESSSSSSS!!" Harry pulled out of his dive, the snitch in his hand. They'd won! The noise was amazing. He raced to the ground, where the rest of his team were waiting to hug him. He passed Malfoy and called "Good game." Draco merely glared at him and tapped his forehead, then flew towards the Slytherin dressing room. Harry ignored him, he was use to Malfoys temper tantrums at losing by now. He landed and ran towards his teammates and gave them all hugs. He went to Ron who gave him weird look. "Thanks Ron," Harry said quietly. Ron pushed past him. "Oh Come ON Ron. You don't have to act like this anymore." Ron turned back to Harry. "I helped us win Harry, that's all. Nothing has changed. Leave me alone." Harry felt rage inside him. "Fine" he shrieked. "That's how you want it, fine. Good riddance." And with that, Harry marched away to the dressing room to change, he was fuming. He'd had enough of Ron, he'd given up on him. Ron walked Harry march away, with mixed feelings. "Take care, mate. It's for the best." He muttered then walked away slowly.
He was just heading past the Slytherin Dressing room when he was grabbed and dragged inside. Malfoy pushed Ron against the wall and Ron could see he was furious. "What was all that about Weasley? You helped Potter! You could have completely messed up the Dark Lord and his Lady's plan!" Ron pushed Malfoy away. "You were going to kill him!" Malfoy raised an eyebrow. "I wasn't, don't be a fool. Potter is needed alive, you know that. Anyway, I didn't think you cared." Ron sighed. "I don't care. I don't care about Harry, Hermione, you, the big plan, anything. All I care about is the name. Give it to me Malfoy, you promised." Malfoy laughed. "I told you, you get your revenge when I've got mine. And besides, I can't do you favours now. The Dark Lord is very displeased with you." Ron looked at Malfoy, unsure of what to do. "Get out, I'll be in touch." Ron didn't move. "When Malfoy, when do I get that name." Malfoy shoved Ron against the wall again. "When the plan is sorted Ron, or at least when you've done your bit. It's ok, it wont be long now." He threw Ron towards the exit. Ron gave Malfoy one more dark look than walked towards the door. "Oh Ron" Malfoy called. "I almost forgot. The Dark Lord wants you to be punished. Ron stopped, his heart sinking. He knew what that meant. "Crucio" shouted Malfoy. Ron fell to the ground but tried his hardest not to scream. He realised that this hurt more than last time. Malfoy took his wand away and the pain stopped. Malfoy smiled at Ron then nodded to a waiting Crabbe and Goyle. They dragged him up and, checking no one was looking, threw him outside.
Ron fell to the ground, rolled over and picked himself up. He knew he deserved that pain for what he was doing. He had turned against everyone - his best friends, his family, the Order - he had no one left. He didn't need anyone, well except for Percy maybe. He swallowed and then carried on walking towards the Gryffindor dressing room. Someone stepped into his path, making him jump. "Christ, Luna!" Ron exclaimed, "Why are you here?" Luna grabbed his arm. "I know what happened, I saw. You have to tell Harry about Malfoy Ron, you have to tell him that Malfoy has promised you the name of the Death Eater that killed your brother. You have to stop what you are doing, before someone gets hurt." Ron was gazing at Luna. "How do you know all that?" "I've been watching you Ron." She said simply. "Please tell Harry or Hermione, before it's to late." Ron walked on, Luna racing to walk beside him. "Its already to late for me Luna." She shook her head violently. "No, it's not. Ron." "IT IS" He screamed at her and she gave a little scream. He grabbed her shoulders. "Don't you understand, it was my fault! Percy came to me after the Daily Prophet announced Voldemort's return. He told me he was sorry and wanted to make it up to the family, to join the Order. I told him he had no chance and had betrayed his family. I just wanted to hurt him. And I did. He was devastated sand ran off." Ron was kneeling on the floor, his hands covering his face but continued to speak. "When he didn't show up after a while, I told Mum and Dad but they said I had no right to say that to Percy. They said that he was my brother and he had made the wrong choice. I should have forgiven him. We all started searching everywhere for him but it was me that found him. They had done some terrible things to him. His mind was gone, he had been tortured. I had to do something for him. He was like a vegetable. So, I took out my wand and - and - used the curse I'd heard mad Moony talk about and then that was it - Percy was dead." He fell to the ground then, sobbing. Luna touched his shoulders, she was in tears too. "So, you see, I killed Percy in every way. I killed him." He got to his feet and pushed her away from him, rubbing his eyes. "That's why I have to do what I'm doing. I don't deserve Harry's friendship. I have to redeem myself. I have to kill whoever tortured Percy. Luna, keep away from me. You don't need all this." "I want all this," she stammered moving towards him. "I care about you Ron, a lot." She got closer to him and then kissed him on the cheek. He gave her one look then grabbed her and kissed her properly on the lips. The kiss lasted a few moments until Ron pulled away. He smiled at her. "You're a lovely girl Luna, if things could have been different." He shook his head. "But they are not. I have to go now Luna, remember stay away from me, I don't want you to get hurt." He gave her one last long look than walked away. Luna called after him twice but he ignored her. Luna got to her feet, wiping her eyes. He wouldn't listen to her, she realised that. She had no choice. He had to try to help him the only way she could. She would have to tell Harry everything. She walked towards the school. Then stopped, leant against the wall, and vomited. Afterwards, she felt calmer and more like herself. So, in her usual dreamy way, she entered the school building and headed straight towards the Gryffindor Common Room.
