I want to dedicate this chapter to my loyal reviewers ears91, Emerald Earth
and Peachy Keen. Thanks for the comments guys. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
I'm headed towards one huge finish so all I can say is, keep reading!
I'd better make a special note here. I've used actual sentences from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, to improve this chapter. I hope this is all right. Everyone knows what does and doesn't belong to me. So please, don't tell me off! Thank you!
Chapter 24 - Ghosts of the Past
Harry raced through the corridors, heading straight to the Defence Against The Dark Arts classroom. He passed many staring students on the way, including a bunch of Slytherins, who all started bowing and mocking him as he went by. Harry gritted his teeth and tried his utmost to ignore them. He had had to put up with double the amount of attention from people after all that had happened. Most of them all believed he was the Heir of Gryffindor, which meant that they were to awed to even speak to him or perhaps they are just scared of me, considering all the people who have got hurt because of me, Harry thought bitterly.
He was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't even notice Professor Snape and ran straight into him, managing to completely wind the potions master. "Potter! You idiot!" Snape yelled at him, trying to get his breath back. Harry forced himself not to smile, mumbled an apology and went to move past Snape. The professor grabbed Harry and pulled him back. "You will not push straight past me Potter! Learn some manners boy. I need to talk to you as it happens." Harry groaned and Snape glared at him. "Sorry Sir, I'm kind of busy at the moment." Snape gave Harry a look of utter dislike and he tightened his grip on the boys arm. Harry frowned and tried to pull away. "I told you Potter, I told you to be careful and follow rules but no, the son of the great James Potter STILL believes himself more important than - ". Harry ripped his arm free of Snape's grip and moved right up close to the greaser professor. "Don't you say another word about my Dad, you pathetic, gross FREAK!" Snape grabbed Harry by the throat, making him gasp in pain. "I thought we had an understanding Potter. I thought you had finally decided to grow up. Obviously I was wrong. You had to run off to Hogsmead, against the instructions of the Headmaster, Your head of House and even the ministry of magic. And look what happened. We lost a fine Professor and an excellent fighter." Snape moved his face closer to Harry's and sneered at him. "I guess even though your time together was mercifully cut short, that fool Sirius Black still rubbed off on you and filled your head with his - ". Snape stopped talking and stared at Harry. His hands were starting to burn and he was finding it increasingly harder to hold on to the boy. Harry was glaring at Snape, swallowed once and then pushed the Potions Master with one hand. Snape rocketed back, flew through the air and landed in a heap the other end of the corridor. Harry was breathing heavily, desperately trying to regain control. He didn't want to see Rosenna just at that moment.
Snape slowly got to his feet, holding his wrist, which was bleeding. Snape walked towards Harry, staring straight at him. "What happened there Potter?" Harry shrugged and turned to leave. "Wait!" Snape called after him. Harry paused. "That power that went through you Potter, it was immense." Harry looked back at Snape and smiled. "Yeah well, Heir of Gryffindor and all that." Snape shook his head. "Even the Dark Lord doesn't have that sort of power -." He stopped and glared at Harry. "Who knows?" Harry shrugged. Snape shook his head at Harry. "You don't understand how important this could me Potter." Harry laughed. "Oh, so now I am important? I thought I was a nothing." Snape approached Harry. "Don't get clever boy!" Harry grinned at him. "Where were you?" "What?" Snape hissed. "Dumbledore, Lupin, Moody and Tonks. They were all there but where were you when it all happened." Snape smirked. "I was elsewhere, working for the cause." Harry scoffed. "I bet you were, Snivellus!" Snape's face went black and he grabbed for his wand. "Don't you ever call me that again Potter!" Harry laughed in Snape's face. "Why? I think it suits you!" Snape moved closer to Harry, his wand out in front of him and said quietly, "Potter, if I truly am working for the Dark Lord again, what's to stop me killing you right here, right now?" Harry's smile had faded and he was now watching Snape closely. "Dumbledore," Harry said simply. Snape tightened his grip on his wand and Harry swallowed. "You see Dumbledore here Potter?" Harry met Snape's stare. "Go on then, prove what a big man you are or maybe my Dad was right about you all along. By the way, is your underwear any cleaner these days than it was back then?" Snape was now fuming and it was taking all his self control not to attack Harry. Harry glared back at him, his hand covering his own wand -. "What is happening here", a quiet voice snapped from behind them.
Harry whirled round in the direction of the voice, and sighed, with some relief, "Professor Lupin." Snape quickly put his wand away and turned around too, scowling at the Dark Arts Professor. "Lupin, I, ahem, didn't see you there." Lupin raised an eyebrow. "Obviously, Severus. What exactly were you and Harry talking about?" Snape had apparently recovered and his sneer had returned to his face. "That's private, I'm afraid Professor Lupin." Lupin gave Snape a suspicious look and turned to Harry. "Are you all right Harry?" Harry nodded at Lupin. "Right then Potter," Snape snapped, spinning Harry round to face him, "Professor Dumbledore wishes us and him to begin your special lessons again. You will be at my Office at 8pm, is that understood." Harry gave him a small nod. "I asked you a question!" Snape threw at him. "Yes SIR!" Harry cried back. "Good, do not be late!" With that, Snape turned and swept away down the corridor, his black robes flowing behind him.
Lupin watched him go, then turned to Harry with a frown. "So?" Harry gave him an innocent look. Lupin smiled, despite himself. "Sometimes, you are so much like James it scares me." Harry laughed quietly. "Why are you here Harry, shouldn't you be at quidditch practice?" Harry frowned and looked at his watch. He swore under his breath. "Yes, I should be. I completely forget with all that's been happening." Lupin shrugged. "Well, it is understandable. You had better head off though Harry, you are Captain, should set a good example." Harry nodded. Lupin smiled at him and walked back towards his office. Harry hesitated, then ran after him. "Wait, Professor, please." Lupin, his hand on the door knob, turned to look at Harry, his eyes questioning. "Can I speak to you for a moment? Its quite private." Lupin sighed, his eyes on Harry's. He then opened the door, smiled at him and said, "All right Harry, come on in." Harry grinned at Lupin gratefully and walked into his office. Lupin closed the door behind them and beckoned for Harry to sit down.
"Well then Harry, what can I do for you?" Lupin asked as he sat at his desk. Harry cleared his throat and replied. "I wanted to ask you some questions, about my parents." Lupin smiled. "I can't say I'm surprised. What would you like to know?" Harry hesitated, not sure how to put what he wanted to ask so he decided just to come out and say it. "Did they know I was the Heir of Gryffindor?" Lupin coughed, almost spilling his drink. Harry gave him a reproachful look and glanced down. "Harry, I'm sorry. It was just the shock of hearing you say that. I know of course but I still can't get used to the idea. In answer to your question, neither James nor Lily ever mentioned that to me and I'm pretty sure Sirius never knew either." They both swallowed at the mention of Harry's godfather's name. Harry looked up and rubbed his eyes. "It feels weird, like, I don't know." Lupin was looking at him with concern now. "Tell me Harry, how do you feel?" Harry turned back to Lupin. "I feel like this is wrong, like this isn't what I am." Lupin eyed him. "Do you mean, the Heir?" Harry stood up at this and began pacing. "I don't know. I can feel strong power inside me and at times I can do really amazing things but this Heir thing? It just doesn't feel right." Lupin was staring at Harry now. "Harry, it is important to everybody that you accept what you are. Perhaps if you went to see Dumbledore -".
Harry banged his fist on the table and cried "NO!" Lupin slowly got to his feet. "This isn't about Dumbledore," Harry said calmly. "This is about ME. I need to know who I am, what I am. I'd like you to help me learn that." Lupin blinked at Harry. "What do you mean?" he asked softly. "I want to go back to the beginning. I'd like you to take me to where my Mum and Dad died and where all this started for me." Lupin began to shake his head. "Harry, I don't know if that is a good -". Harry moved closer to the Professor. "You are the only one left who knew my Dad so well that I can ask, please?" Lupin hesitated. "I have a right to do this," Harry told him, his eyes defiant. "Please Moony?" he added, softly. Lupin swallowed at Harry's use of his old nick- name and thought for a moment. He looked into Harry's desperate eyes and knew he had to give in. "All right Harry, I'll help you. I just want you to think very carefully about the emotions you are about to let yourself in for. You felt the memories in that place when you were there before didn't you, when you didn't even know. This is going to be very tough." Harry nodded in agreement. "I know, Sir. But I want to do this." Lupin nodded once and went to the other side of the room. "We'll need to use a port key." Lupin picked up book, waved his wand and whispered an incantation. He then turned back to Harry. "Come here Harry." Harry walked slowly up to Lupin and held out his hand. "Do you want me to come with you?" Lupin asked him softly. "Thanks Sir but I'd look to do this on my own." Lupin nodded once and held the book out to Harry saying, "remember, when you want to come back to Hogwarts, just touch the book again." Harry whispered, "Thank you," to Lupin, took the book from him and felt the room begin to spin.
When Harry opened his eyes again, he was stood in a very dusty and bare room. It was cold and Harry wrapped his robes round him tightly. He looked around. The room was very small and had no furniture at all. Harry walked towards a door in the corner of the room and went through. He found himself in a hallway, three rooms surrounding him, including the one he had just been in. He headed to the one in front of him and walked into what was left of a kitchen. He stood in the room, a strange calm feeling spreading over him. It seemed to make him feel slightly closer to his parents, standing in the house he knew they were once in. He walked out then and went through the door to the living room. Armchairs were still in the room, one turned over. He walked to it and gently lifted it back up again. Gazing at the floor, he was sure he could almost hear laughing and giggling, from a far off time. He shook his head slightly and walked back out again. He then headed up the stairs.
As soon as he reached the landing, an uneasy feeling spread over him. He stood there for a moment, trying to work out what he was feeling. Something happened just there, he knew it did. He walked through the door in front of him and found himself back in the big room where the Orders meeting was held at the beginning of the year. He was sure this had been his parents' bedroom, which could mean that the room next door - . Harry bounded out of the room and rushed next door. He froze, his eyes growing big in shock. The tiny room was full of debris and was covered in cobwebs and dust. However, right in the middle of the room, now in pieces but Harry could still make out what it once was, lay a cot. Tears sprang to Harry's eyes but he quickly wiped them away. Emotion was now flooding through him. He stepped further into the room and picked up a leg of the cot. This was where it happened, he thought. This is where I got the scar. This is where it all began.
He sat on the ground for a moment, still gazing at what was left of the cot. He wiped his eyes, refusing to cry. He didn't come here to cry, he came to get some kind of, well, understanding of who he really was. He just felt that the memories of this place could help him. Perhaps he was wrong. Perhaps this really was nothing but the remains of an old house long forgotten by the wizarding world. He slowly got to his feet and started to walk out of the room, to head back downstairs to the port key. It was at that moment that he head a voice shout. The voice was filled with despair and utter shock. "Lily! It's him. I saw him walking towards the house. Take Harry and go." Harry almost fainted from the shock. "Dad?" he stammered. He shot out on to the landing and grabbed hold of the wall in support. A blurry image of his Mum and Dad were stood in front of him. "Mum?" he murmured, one tear falling from his eye. He held his hand out towards her but of course she couldn't see him. "James, this can't be? Peter, the spell - ". James was almost beside himself. "They must have got to Peter Lily, he's probably dead or -" James went silent and Lily gazed at him, it was obvious what they were both thinking. Harry realised at that moment that his parents knew that they had been betrayed by one of their best friends.
Harry watched his Father run towards his Mother and grab her arms. "Lily, you have to get out now, he's coming!" Lily shook her head fiercely. "I won't leave you, I can't." Jams actually shook her. "You have too. Harry is all that matters, you have to get him out, NOW!" Lily let out a sob. "I can fight him too. I - won't - go - without - you," she said this through clenched teeth. Harry was very impressed with his Mum's bravery. He continued to watch the scene in front of him, not believing his eyes. "Don't worry about me Lily, all right. I'm a survivor, I will catch you and Harry up. Now, please, go get our son." Lily let out one more sob and ran into the room where the cot was. She reappeared a moment later and Harry's mouth fell open at another shock, even though he knew it was coming. He stared at the one year old child in his mother's arms. He stared at himself. James walked over to the baby Harry. "Never forget that I love you Harry," he whispered and kissed the boys forehead. Harry covered his mouth with his hand. James then turned to Lily and kissed her, she kissed back, clinging to him. "I love you," he told her. "I love you too," she replied and hugged her husband tightly. At that moment, they all heard a gate go, Voldemort was nearly at the front door. "GO LILY!" James shouted, kissed Lily once more, glanced one last time at Harry and fled downstairs. Lily screamed "No", then ran into the main bedroom, still holding baby Harry in her arms, who was now crying himself. Harry went to follow her, when he heard a voice from behind him. "Enjoying the show?"
Harry whirled round and stared straight into the smiling face of Rosenna. "I would have supplied popcorn Harry, but things have been so busy recently, what with you being all naughty and fighting me." Harry glared at her with utter hatred. "Get out of here." Rosenna merely giggled at this and began to look around. "So, this is where you parents died and the "Boy Who Lived," was, well, born. Not very much really is it?" Harry trembled with anger but refused to rise to the bait. He could feel Voldemort in his head, just waiting for a reason to hurt Harry. "Did you make me see all that, my parents last moments together?" Rosenna laughed. "Yes, I did actually. You don't have to thank me." Harry actually laughed. "Thank you? For making me see this?" Rosenna looked hurt by this. "I merely thought you would appreciate seeing how it all began. Isn't that why you came here Harry?" Harry turned away from her. Rosenna gave out a childish giggle. "Well Harry, lets keep the show going, best bit to come!" Harry spun back round when he saw his Mum reappear from the bedroom, Harry tucked safely under one arm and her wand in the other. She crept forward, glancing down the stairs. All was quiet. "James?" she whispered. At that moment, Lord Voldemort appeared at the bottom of the stairs, he held what must have been James wand in his hand. "I'm sorry Mrs Potter", he hissed with glee, "your Husband fought bravely but in the end - ". He stepped aside, allowing Lily to see James' body. His eyes were open and staring at her and there was pure shock on his face. Harry shut his eyes in horror. Lily gasped and rushed to the other side of the landing.
She put Harry down and started to tug at the locks around the window, which were obviously supposed to keep the monster that was locked in with her, out. "It's no use Lily. You don't have to join James, muggle born, just move aside and give me the boy." Lily shook her head, grabbed Harry and ran to the big bedroom. She slammed the door behind her. Harry watched the evil Lord shake his head and smile. He waved his wand once and the door burst open, revealing a terrified Lily standing in front of Harry, keeping him out of Voldemorts view. "Stand aside," Voldemort told Lily, "and you may live." Harry's heart broke as he watched his Mother cry. "Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!" Harry let out a sob and covered his mouth again. Voldemort had a look of annoyance on his face. "Stand aside, you silly girl . stand aside, now ." Lily moved closer to her son, who had now stopped watching and was watching his Mother. Lily then fell to her knees. "Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead!" Voldemort was watching her with interest now. He then attempted to push Lily out of the way. Lily grabbed at Harry, still attempting to protect him. "Not Harry! Please . have mercy . have mercy ." Voldemort started to laugh, his shrill laugh got louder and louder. He pointed his wand at Lily, sighed and cried "Avada Kedavra!" Harry screamed "NO!" and fell to his knees. Of course no one heard him. He watched his mothers' body crumple and fall, dead before she hit the ground. Her hand was still clinging tightly to her son's leg. Voldemort kicked Lily's body away from Harry and smiled down at him. Harry slowly looked up. "It ends here," Voldemort murmured and once again raised his wand. He screamed with pleasure, "Avada Kedavra," and then it happened. The spell struck baby Harry on his forehead, and rebounded straight at Voldemort. The Dark Lord didn't see the spell coming quickly enough, it hit him in the stomach. He screamed in total agony, much to Harry's satisfaction and then started to slowly disintegrate until there was nothing left but a baby, sitting on the floor, sobbing. The image vanished until Harry was stood on his own, not quite believing what he had just seen.
Rosenna appeared by his side. "So Harry, has that helped you at all? Now you know what happened?" Harry turned to her. "It has actually. Now, get the hell out of my house!" Rosenna's face became ugly and she waved her hand. Harry's arm burned and he cried out in pain. "Seeing your parents die gives you strength boy?" Harry looked up at her. "No. Seeing how much my parents loved me gives me strength." Rosenna lowered her hand and the pain went. Harry tried to catch his breath and he smiled at the evil woman. "Thank you Rosenna." She shook her head and sneered at him. She then laughed again and walked towards him. "As you can see Harry from your little memory show in here, my powers are nearly fully returned. Only one more act to perform." Harry stared at Rosenna with hatred. "I told you to get out, now." Rosenna whined playfully, then she smiled. "We will win Harry, whatever you or any of your friends do. You cannot save him Harry, or your world. Plans are afoot to bring him to me as we speak. The time is nearly here. Soon, he will die at my hand, his blood flowing into me." Harry gazed at Rosenna, not understanding a word. Her face turned scary and she snarled at Harry. And you, Boy who Lived, you will pay for defying me, as will those useless baggage that you call friends. Maybe you can watch them die horribly first, after what you did to Tom, I think you deserve that." Harry was speechless. He stood, fists clenched. "For the last time, you crazy old Bitch, GET OUT OF MY HOME!" Rosenna started to laugh and she raised her hand again. The force of the pain threw Harry back, across the room. Voldemort was now speaking in his head again. "Potter, you will be given to me to do with as I wish, I will cause you more pain then you can ever imagine." Harry had his hands over his ears, desperately trying to block out the hated voice. His head felt like it was going to explode. He was using all his strength but the pain wasn't weakening. Rosenna was moving closer to him, smiling sweetly. Harry could hear her speaking as if from a long way off - "Soon, Harry, very soon now. I can feel it . can you?" Suddenly, Rosenna screamed and the link to Voldemort was lost. The pain faded straight away and Harry was able to sit up. He gasped in shock again at what he saw. His Mother was stood in front of him, protecting him from Rosenna's gaze.
"How?" Rosenna was saying with a small shake of her head. "How can you be here? Your dead, long dead." Lily smiled. "Rosenna, you never did understand, not like her." Rosenna snorted. "She's dead too. But I'm not and now my lover and myself are going to control this world. The world you left for me, 'Lily.'" Lily took a step towards Rosenna, her smile never fading. "It won't work Rosenna, the power of good has always been stronger than that of evil. Just like this boy," Lily jerked her head towards Harry. "He is more powerful then you could ever be as he knows how to love." Rosenna laughed. "You are as pathetic as ever." Lily chuckled softly. "Be gone from this place Rosenna, you don't belong here." Rosenna gave her a look. "You can talk, you're a ghost." Rosenna nodded. "Once again, there is so much you do not understand. Until the next time Rosenna." Rosenna drew herself to her full height. "Next time? Next time, I will be a God. Farewell, my old friend." Rosenna then disappeared. Lily sighed, then turned to Harry, who was watching her with amazement. "Harry, come, stand up." Lily stepped towards her son and gestured him to get on his feet. Harry did so, very shakily. "You should head back to Hogwarts, this place can offer you no more." Harry looked around the room again, then turned back to the vision of his Mother. "You aren't my Mother are you?" he said, with a smile. She grinned back. "No, I'm not Harry. But I do have her memories, her feelings. I can tell you how much she loved you and how proud you would make her now." Harry looked down. "Thank you," he whispered. "I guess you were also, Luna, Sirius, Quirrell and Malfoy?" She smiled again. "Yes. I'm sorry for the shocks I have given you and your friends. I had no choice." Harry nodded, then asked, "So, who are you?" She gave him a small smile. "I can tell you yet Harry, it's not the time. All you need to know is that I'm your friend and I wish to save Hogwarts, the Heir and the Chosen." Harry stared at her. "The Chosen? What do you mean?" "The Alezina, Harry." Harry opened his mouth to ask more questions but Lily raised her hand. "No more questions Harry, my time is nearly up. The port key back to Hogwarts is still downstairs, in the spare room." Harry nodded and moved towards the stairs. "One more thing Harry. I have a message for you from your Mother." Harry turned around slowly to look at Lily. "Yes?" he asked, his voice slightly breaking. "She asked me to tell you - "You cannot wallow in memories, my son. Your schoolmates need you, Dumbledore needs you. More than you could ever know. That's all I can give you Harry. Go back to school now, stop the plans being put into action. For everyone's sake." Harry nodded once to Lily, she smiled and then vanished. Harry walked slowly down the stairs and headed straight for the spare room. The port key was exactly where he had left it. He looked around the room one last time, then picked up the book. He felt once again the room began to spin and shut his eyes -."
Harry felt his feet touch ground again and opened his eyes nervously. He was back in Lupin's office and the Professor was standing in front of him, looking concerned. "Harry? Are you all right?" Harry smiled up at him and nodded. "I'm OK Professor." Lupin put a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Did you get what you needed from there?" Harry thought for a moment then turned to Lupin. "Yes, I think I did." He then started towards the door. "Harry, where are you going?" Harry span back to him and said quickly. "To see Professor Dumbledore, I've got loads to tell him, come on." Lupin snapped. "One moment, what have you find out?" Harry grinned. "That I'm not the Heir of Gryffindor, for a start." Lupin's mouth fell open. He shook his head to Harry, then quickly followed him out of the door.
Ron had been searching for Harry for hours. He desperately wanted to talk to him. He couldn't make up his mind what he should do. He had been blanked completely by Gryffindors, one 2nd year had actually thrown him Slytherin robe, telling him that he belonged in that, not in the colours of Gryffindor. Ron had met Dean and Seamus, who had blanked him. He had shouted after them, begging them to tell him where Harry was but they had ignored him. He had kept walking until finally coming face to face with Hermione. She had screamed and shouted him, telling him about McGonagall and Hagrid never getting better and asking him if he was happy. He had stared at her, not knowing what to say as she had broken down in tears and told him that neither her nor Harry wanted anything to do with him, ever again. She had then run off, leaving Ron with tears streaming down his face, his last hope fading away.
It was at that moment that Ron came to his decision. He didn't have any friends left so why not do Malfoy's last job? It would all be over after that and he would have his name. He could close a chapter of his life and begin again, doing whatever it took to make things up to Harry and Hermione. With thoughts of his best friends running through his head, he started his journey to the Slytherin common room.
Malfoy was stood outside the Common Room, waiting for Ron as he approached. He straightened up and smiled as Ron moved next to him. "I was wondering how much longer I would have to wait for you Weasley." Malfoy snapped. "Well, I'm here now aren't I?" Ron threw back. "What do you want me to do Malfoy?" Malfoy sneered at him. "You get the honour of putting the Dark Lady's final plan into action. You get to bring him to us, then it's all over. You won't ever have to talk to me again, if you don't want to." Ron snorted. "That'll be a tough one for me to think about Malfoy." Malfoy smirked. "You're a comedian Weasley. So, will you do it?" Ron swallowed. "If I do this final thing, it will all be finished, for ever?" Malfoy nodded, "just as promised," he whispered. "And," he added, "you get to find out who tortured your brother and put all those fun curses I taught you into practice. Well, what do you say?" Ron thought for a moment then slowly nodded his head. Malfoy chuckled. "So, what do I have to do?" Ron repeated. Malfoy turned to face him. "Bring me Neville Longbottom - tomorrow."
OOOH ERRR!! So, what do you all think? This really was an important chapter for me and I wanted to get it right so do you think I pulled it off? Please read and review people. Though I'm not writing to get reviews, it certainly helps if I know people are enjoying what I'm doing. Next chapter will be up in a couple of days. Until next time, enjoy!
I'd better make a special note here. I've used actual sentences from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, to improve this chapter. I hope this is all right. Everyone knows what does and doesn't belong to me. So please, don't tell me off! Thank you!
Chapter 24 - Ghosts of the Past
Harry raced through the corridors, heading straight to the Defence Against The Dark Arts classroom. He passed many staring students on the way, including a bunch of Slytherins, who all started bowing and mocking him as he went by. Harry gritted his teeth and tried his utmost to ignore them. He had had to put up with double the amount of attention from people after all that had happened. Most of them all believed he was the Heir of Gryffindor, which meant that they were to awed to even speak to him or perhaps they are just scared of me, considering all the people who have got hurt because of me, Harry thought bitterly.
He was so lost in his own thoughts that he didn't even notice Professor Snape and ran straight into him, managing to completely wind the potions master. "Potter! You idiot!" Snape yelled at him, trying to get his breath back. Harry forced himself not to smile, mumbled an apology and went to move past Snape. The professor grabbed Harry and pulled him back. "You will not push straight past me Potter! Learn some manners boy. I need to talk to you as it happens." Harry groaned and Snape glared at him. "Sorry Sir, I'm kind of busy at the moment." Snape gave Harry a look of utter dislike and he tightened his grip on the boys arm. Harry frowned and tried to pull away. "I told you Potter, I told you to be careful and follow rules but no, the son of the great James Potter STILL believes himself more important than - ". Harry ripped his arm free of Snape's grip and moved right up close to the greaser professor. "Don't you say another word about my Dad, you pathetic, gross FREAK!" Snape grabbed Harry by the throat, making him gasp in pain. "I thought we had an understanding Potter. I thought you had finally decided to grow up. Obviously I was wrong. You had to run off to Hogsmead, against the instructions of the Headmaster, Your head of House and even the ministry of magic. And look what happened. We lost a fine Professor and an excellent fighter." Snape moved his face closer to Harry's and sneered at him. "I guess even though your time together was mercifully cut short, that fool Sirius Black still rubbed off on you and filled your head with his - ". Snape stopped talking and stared at Harry. His hands were starting to burn and he was finding it increasingly harder to hold on to the boy. Harry was glaring at Snape, swallowed once and then pushed the Potions Master with one hand. Snape rocketed back, flew through the air and landed in a heap the other end of the corridor. Harry was breathing heavily, desperately trying to regain control. He didn't want to see Rosenna just at that moment.
Snape slowly got to his feet, holding his wrist, which was bleeding. Snape walked towards Harry, staring straight at him. "What happened there Potter?" Harry shrugged and turned to leave. "Wait!" Snape called after him. Harry paused. "That power that went through you Potter, it was immense." Harry looked back at Snape and smiled. "Yeah well, Heir of Gryffindor and all that." Snape shook his head. "Even the Dark Lord doesn't have that sort of power -." He stopped and glared at Harry. "Who knows?" Harry shrugged. Snape shook his head at Harry. "You don't understand how important this could me Potter." Harry laughed. "Oh, so now I am important? I thought I was a nothing." Snape approached Harry. "Don't get clever boy!" Harry grinned at him. "Where were you?" "What?" Snape hissed. "Dumbledore, Lupin, Moody and Tonks. They were all there but where were you when it all happened." Snape smirked. "I was elsewhere, working for the cause." Harry scoffed. "I bet you were, Snivellus!" Snape's face went black and he grabbed for his wand. "Don't you ever call me that again Potter!" Harry laughed in Snape's face. "Why? I think it suits you!" Snape moved closer to Harry, his wand out in front of him and said quietly, "Potter, if I truly am working for the Dark Lord again, what's to stop me killing you right here, right now?" Harry's smile had faded and he was now watching Snape closely. "Dumbledore," Harry said simply. Snape tightened his grip on his wand and Harry swallowed. "You see Dumbledore here Potter?" Harry met Snape's stare. "Go on then, prove what a big man you are or maybe my Dad was right about you all along. By the way, is your underwear any cleaner these days than it was back then?" Snape was now fuming and it was taking all his self control not to attack Harry. Harry glared back at him, his hand covering his own wand -. "What is happening here", a quiet voice snapped from behind them.
Harry whirled round in the direction of the voice, and sighed, with some relief, "Professor Lupin." Snape quickly put his wand away and turned around too, scowling at the Dark Arts Professor. "Lupin, I, ahem, didn't see you there." Lupin raised an eyebrow. "Obviously, Severus. What exactly were you and Harry talking about?" Snape had apparently recovered and his sneer had returned to his face. "That's private, I'm afraid Professor Lupin." Lupin gave Snape a suspicious look and turned to Harry. "Are you all right Harry?" Harry nodded at Lupin. "Right then Potter," Snape snapped, spinning Harry round to face him, "Professor Dumbledore wishes us and him to begin your special lessons again. You will be at my Office at 8pm, is that understood." Harry gave him a small nod. "I asked you a question!" Snape threw at him. "Yes SIR!" Harry cried back. "Good, do not be late!" With that, Snape turned and swept away down the corridor, his black robes flowing behind him.
Lupin watched him go, then turned to Harry with a frown. "So?" Harry gave him an innocent look. Lupin smiled, despite himself. "Sometimes, you are so much like James it scares me." Harry laughed quietly. "Why are you here Harry, shouldn't you be at quidditch practice?" Harry frowned and looked at his watch. He swore under his breath. "Yes, I should be. I completely forget with all that's been happening." Lupin shrugged. "Well, it is understandable. You had better head off though Harry, you are Captain, should set a good example." Harry nodded. Lupin smiled at him and walked back towards his office. Harry hesitated, then ran after him. "Wait, Professor, please." Lupin, his hand on the door knob, turned to look at Harry, his eyes questioning. "Can I speak to you for a moment? Its quite private." Lupin sighed, his eyes on Harry's. He then opened the door, smiled at him and said, "All right Harry, come on in." Harry grinned at Lupin gratefully and walked into his office. Lupin closed the door behind them and beckoned for Harry to sit down.
"Well then Harry, what can I do for you?" Lupin asked as he sat at his desk. Harry cleared his throat and replied. "I wanted to ask you some questions, about my parents." Lupin smiled. "I can't say I'm surprised. What would you like to know?" Harry hesitated, not sure how to put what he wanted to ask so he decided just to come out and say it. "Did they know I was the Heir of Gryffindor?" Lupin coughed, almost spilling his drink. Harry gave him a reproachful look and glanced down. "Harry, I'm sorry. It was just the shock of hearing you say that. I know of course but I still can't get used to the idea. In answer to your question, neither James nor Lily ever mentioned that to me and I'm pretty sure Sirius never knew either." They both swallowed at the mention of Harry's godfather's name. Harry looked up and rubbed his eyes. "It feels weird, like, I don't know." Lupin was looking at him with concern now. "Tell me Harry, how do you feel?" Harry turned back to Lupin. "I feel like this is wrong, like this isn't what I am." Lupin eyed him. "Do you mean, the Heir?" Harry stood up at this and began pacing. "I don't know. I can feel strong power inside me and at times I can do really amazing things but this Heir thing? It just doesn't feel right." Lupin was staring at Harry now. "Harry, it is important to everybody that you accept what you are. Perhaps if you went to see Dumbledore -".
Harry banged his fist on the table and cried "NO!" Lupin slowly got to his feet. "This isn't about Dumbledore," Harry said calmly. "This is about ME. I need to know who I am, what I am. I'd like you to help me learn that." Lupin blinked at Harry. "What do you mean?" he asked softly. "I want to go back to the beginning. I'd like you to take me to where my Mum and Dad died and where all this started for me." Lupin began to shake his head. "Harry, I don't know if that is a good -". Harry moved closer to the Professor. "You are the only one left who knew my Dad so well that I can ask, please?" Lupin hesitated. "I have a right to do this," Harry told him, his eyes defiant. "Please Moony?" he added, softly. Lupin swallowed at Harry's use of his old nick- name and thought for a moment. He looked into Harry's desperate eyes and knew he had to give in. "All right Harry, I'll help you. I just want you to think very carefully about the emotions you are about to let yourself in for. You felt the memories in that place when you were there before didn't you, when you didn't even know. This is going to be very tough." Harry nodded in agreement. "I know, Sir. But I want to do this." Lupin nodded once and went to the other side of the room. "We'll need to use a port key." Lupin picked up book, waved his wand and whispered an incantation. He then turned back to Harry. "Come here Harry." Harry walked slowly up to Lupin and held out his hand. "Do you want me to come with you?" Lupin asked him softly. "Thanks Sir but I'd look to do this on my own." Lupin nodded once and held the book out to Harry saying, "remember, when you want to come back to Hogwarts, just touch the book again." Harry whispered, "Thank you," to Lupin, took the book from him and felt the room begin to spin.
When Harry opened his eyes again, he was stood in a very dusty and bare room. It was cold and Harry wrapped his robes round him tightly. He looked around. The room was very small and had no furniture at all. Harry walked towards a door in the corner of the room and went through. He found himself in a hallway, three rooms surrounding him, including the one he had just been in. He headed to the one in front of him and walked into what was left of a kitchen. He stood in the room, a strange calm feeling spreading over him. It seemed to make him feel slightly closer to his parents, standing in the house he knew they were once in. He walked out then and went through the door to the living room. Armchairs were still in the room, one turned over. He walked to it and gently lifted it back up again. Gazing at the floor, he was sure he could almost hear laughing and giggling, from a far off time. He shook his head slightly and walked back out again. He then headed up the stairs.
As soon as he reached the landing, an uneasy feeling spread over him. He stood there for a moment, trying to work out what he was feeling. Something happened just there, he knew it did. He walked through the door in front of him and found himself back in the big room where the Orders meeting was held at the beginning of the year. He was sure this had been his parents' bedroom, which could mean that the room next door - . Harry bounded out of the room and rushed next door. He froze, his eyes growing big in shock. The tiny room was full of debris and was covered in cobwebs and dust. However, right in the middle of the room, now in pieces but Harry could still make out what it once was, lay a cot. Tears sprang to Harry's eyes but he quickly wiped them away. Emotion was now flooding through him. He stepped further into the room and picked up a leg of the cot. This was where it happened, he thought. This is where I got the scar. This is where it all began.
He sat on the ground for a moment, still gazing at what was left of the cot. He wiped his eyes, refusing to cry. He didn't come here to cry, he came to get some kind of, well, understanding of who he really was. He just felt that the memories of this place could help him. Perhaps he was wrong. Perhaps this really was nothing but the remains of an old house long forgotten by the wizarding world. He slowly got to his feet and started to walk out of the room, to head back downstairs to the port key. It was at that moment that he head a voice shout. The voice was filled with despair and utter shock. "Lily! It's him. I saw him walking towards the house. Take Harry and go." Harry almost fainted from the shock. "Dad?" he stammered. He shot out on to the landing and grabbed hold of the wall in support. A blurry image of his Mum and Dad were stood in front of him. "Mum?" he murmured, one tear falling from his eye. He held his hand out towards her but of course she couldn't see him. "James, this can't be? Peter, the spell - ". James was almost beside himself. "They must have got to Peter Lily, he's probably dead or -" James went silent and Lily gazed at him, it was obvious what they were both thinking. Harry realised at that moment that his parents knew that they had been betrayed by one of their best friends.
Harry watched his Father run towards his Mother and grab her arms. "Lily, you have to get out now, he's coming!" Lily shook her head fiercely. "I won't leave you, I can't." Jams actually shook her. "You have too. Harry is all that matters, you have to get him out, NOW!" Lily let out a sob. "I can fight him too. I - won't - go - without - you," she said this through clenched teeth. Harry was very impressed with his Mum's bravery. He continued to watch the scene in front of him, not believing his eyes. "Don't worry about me Lily, all right. I'm a survivor, I will catch you and Harry up. Now, please, go get our son." Lily let out one more sob and ran into the room where the cot was. She reappeared a moment later and Harry's mouth fell open at another shock, even though he knew it was coming. He stared at the one year old child in his mother's arms. He stared at himself. James walked over to the baby Harry. "Never forget that I love you Harry," he whispered and kissed the boys forehead. Harry covered his mouth with his hand. James then turned to Lily and kissed her, she kissed back, clinging to him. "I love you," he told her. "I love you too," she replied and hugged her husband tightly. At that moment, they all heard a gate go, Voldemort was nearly at the front door. "GO LILY!" James shouted, kissed Lily once more, glanced one last time at Harry and fled downstairs. Lily screamed "No", then ran into the main bedroom, still holding baby Harry in her arms, who was now crying himself. Harry went to follow her, when he heard a voice from behind him. "Enjoying the show?"
Harry whirled round and stared straight into the smiling face of Rosenna. "I would have supplied popcorn Harry, but things have been so busy recently, what with you being all naughty and fighting me." Harry glared at her with utter hatred. "Get out of here." Rosenna merely giggled at this and began to look around. "So, this is where you parents died and the "Boy Who Lived," was, well, born. Not very much really is it?" Harry trembled with anger but refused to rise to the bait. He could feel Voldemort in his head, just waiting for a reason to hurt Harry. "Did you make me see all that, my parents last moments together?" Rosenna laughed. "Yes, I did actually. You don't have to thank me." Harry actually laughed. "Thank you? For making me see this?" Rosenna looked hurt by this. "I merely thought you would appreciate seeing how it all began. Isn't that why you came here Harry?" Harry turned away from her. Rosenna gave out a childish giggle. "Well Harry, lets keep the show going, best bit to come!" Harry spun back round when he saw his Mum reappear from the bedroom, Harry tucked safely under one arm and her wand in the other. She crept forward, glancing down the stairs. All was quiet. "James?" she whispered. At that moment, Lord Voldemort appeared at the bottom of the stairs, he held what must have been James wand in his hand. "I'm sorry Mrs Potter", he hissed with glee, "your Husband fought bravely but in the end - ". He stepped aside, allowing Lily to see James' body. His eyes were open and staring at her and there was pure shock on his face. Harry shut his eyes in horror. Lily gasped and rushed to the other side of the landing.
She put Harry down and started to tug at the locks around the window, which were obviously supposed to keep the monster that was locked in with her, out. "It's no use Lily. You don't have to join James, muggle born, just move aside and give me the boy." Lily shook her head, grabbed Harry and ran to the big bedroom. She slammed the door behind her. Harry watched the evil Lord shake his head and smile. He waved his wand once and the door burst open, revealing a terrified Lily standing in front of Harry, keeping him out of Voldemorts view. "Stand aside," Voldemort told Lily, "and you may live." Harry's heart broke as he watched his Mother cry. "Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!" Harry let out a sob and covered his mouth again. Voldemort had a look of annoyance on his face. "Stand aside, you silly girl . stand aside, now ." Lily moved closer to her son, who had now stopped watching and was watching his Mother. Lily then fell to her knees. "Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead!" Voldemort was watching her with interest now. He then attempted to push Lily out of the way. Lily grabbed at Harry, still attempting to protect him. "Not Harry! Please . have mercy . have mercy ." Voldemort started to laugh, his shrill laugh got louder and louder. He pointed his wand at Lily, sighed and cried "Avada Kedavra!" Harry screamed "NO!" and fell to his knees. Of course no one heard him. He watched his mothers' body crumple and fall, dead before she hit the ground. Her hand was still clinging tightly to her son's leg. Voldemort kicked Lily's body away from Harry and smiled down at him. Harry slowly looked up. "It ends here," Voldemort murmured and once again raised his wand. He screamed with pleasure, "Avada Kedavra," and then it happened. The spell struck baby Harry on his forehead, and rebounded straight at Voldemort. The Dark Lord didn't see the spell coming quickly enough, it hit him in the stomach. He screamed in total agony, much to Harry's satisfaction and then started to slowly disintegrate until there was nothing left but a baby, sitting on the floor, sobbing. The image vanished until Harry was stood on his own, not quite believing what he had just seen.
Rosenna appeared by his side. "So Harry, has that helped you at all? Now you know what happened?" Harry turned to her. "It has actually. Now, get the hell out of my house!" Rosenna's face became ugly and she waved her hand. Harry's arm burned and he cried out in pain. "Seeing your parents die gives you strength boy?" Harry looked up at her. "No. Seeing how much my parents loved me gives me strength." Rosenna lowered her hand and the pain went. Harry tried to catch his breath and he smiled at the evil woman. "Thank you Rosenna." She shook her head and sneered at him. She then laughed again and walked towards him. "As you can see Harry from your little memory show in here, my powers are nearly fully returned. Only one more act to perform." Harry stared at Rosenna with hatred. "I told you to get out, now." Rosenna whined playfully, then she smiled. "We will win Harry, whatever you or any of your friends do. You cannot save him Harry, or your world. Plans are afoot to bring him to me as we speak. The time is nearly here. Soon, he will die at my hand, his blood flowing into me." Harry gazed at Rosenna, not understanding a word. Her face turned scary and she snarled at Harry. And you, Boy who Lived, you will pay for defying me, as will those useless baggage that you call friends. Maybe you can watch them die horribly first, after what you did to Tom, I think you deserve that." Harry was speechless. He stood, fists clenched. "For the last time, you crazy old Bitch, GET OUT OF MY HOME!" Rosenna started to laugh and she raised her hand again. The force of the pain threw Harry back, across the room. Voldemort was now speaking in his head again. "Potter, you will be given to me to do with as I wish, I will cause you more pain then you can ever imagine." Harry had his hands over his ears, desperately trying to block out the hated voice. His head felt like it was going to explode. He was using all his strength but the pain wasn't weakening. Rosenna was moving closer to him, smiling sweetly. Harry could hear her speaking as if from a long way off - "Soon, Harry, very soon now. I can feel it . can you?" Suddenly, Rosenna screamed and the link to Voldemort was lost. The pain faded straight away and Harry was able to sit up. He gasped in shock again at what he saw. His Mother was stood in front of him, protecting him from Rosenna's gaze.
"How?" Rosenna was saying with a small shake of her head. "How can you be here? Your dead, long dead." Lily smiled. "Rosenna, you never did understand, not like her." Rosenna snorted. "She's dead too. But I'm not and now my lover and myself are going to control this world. The world you left for me, 'Lily.'" Lily took a step towards Rosenna, her smile never fading. "It won't work Rosenna, the power of good has always been stronger than that of evil. Just like this boy," Lily jerked her head towards Harry. "He is more powerful then you could ever be as he knows how to love." Rosenna laughed. "You are as pathetic as ever." Lily chuckled softly. "Be gone from this place Rosenna, you don't belong here." Rosenna gave her a look. "You can talk, you're a ghost." Rosenna nodded. "Once again, there is so much you do not understand. Until the next time Rosenna." Rosenna drew herself to her full height. "Next time? Next time, I will be a God. Farewell, my old friend." Rosenna then disappeared. Lily sighed, then turned to Harry, who was watching her with amazement. "Harry, come, stand up." Lily stepped towards her son and gestured him to get on his feet. Harry did so, very shakily. "You should head back to Hogwarts, this place can offer you no more." Harry looked around the room again, then turned back to the vision of his Mother. "You aren't my Mother are you?" he said, with a smile. She grinned back. "No, I'm not Harry. But I do have her memories, her feelings. I can tell you how much she loved you and how proud you would make her now." Harry looked down. "Thank you," he whispered. "I guess you were also, Luna, Sirius, Quirrell and Malfoy?" She smiled again. "Yes. I'm sorry for the shocks I have given you and your friends. I had no choice." Harry nodded, then asked, "So, who are you?" She gave him a small smile. "I can tell you yet Harry, it's not the time. All you need to know is that I'm your friend and I wish to save Hogwarts, the Heir and the Chosen." Harry stared at her. "The Chosen? What do you mean?" "The Alezina, Harry." Harry opened his mouth to ask more questions but Lily raised her hand. "No more questions Harry, my time is nearly up. The port key back to Hogwarts is still downstairs, in the spare room." Harry nodded and moved towards the stairs. "One more thing Harry. I have a message for you from your Mother." Harry turned around slowly to look at Lily. "Yes?" he asked, his voice slightly breaking. "She asked me to tell you - "You cannot wallow in memories, my son. Your schoolmates need you, Dumbledore needs you. More than you could ever know. That's all I can give you Harry. Go back to school now, stop the plans being put into action. For everyone's sake." Harry nodded once to Lily, she smiled and then vanished. Harry walked slowly down the stairs and headed straight for the spare room. The port key was exactly where he had left it. He looked around the room one last time, then picked up the book. He felt once again the room began to spin and shut his eyes -."
Harry felt his feet touch ground again and opened his eyes nervously. He was back in Lupin's office and the Professor was standing in front of him, looking concerned. "Harry? Are you all right?" Harry smiled up at him and nodded. "I'm OK Professor." Lupin put a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Did you get what you needed from there?" Harry thought for a moment then turned to Lupin. "Yes, I think I did." He then started towards the door. "Harry, where are you going?" Harry span back to him and said quickly. "To see Professor Dumbledore, I've got loads to tell him, come on." Lupin snapped. "One moment, what have you find out?" Harry grinned. "That I'm not the Heir of Gryffindor, for a start." Lupin's mouth fell open. He shook his head to Harry, then quickly followed him out of the door.
Ron had been searching for Harry for hours. He desperately wanted to talk to him. He couldn't make up his mind what he should do. He had been blanked completely by Gryffindors, one 2nd year had actually thrown him Slytherin robe, telling him that he belonged in that, not in the colours of Gryffindor. Ron had met Dean and Seamus, who had blanked him. He had shouted after them, begging them to tell him where Harry was but they had ignored him. He had kept walking until finally coming face to face with Hermione. She had screamed and shouted him, telling him about McGonagall and Hagrid never getting better and asking him if he was happy. He had stared at her, not knowing what to say as she had broken down in tears and told him that neither her nor Harry wanted anything to do with him, ever again. She had then run off, leaving Ron with tears streaming down his face, his last hope fading away.
It was at that moment that Ron came to his decision. He didn't have any friends left so why not do Malfoy's last job? It would all be over after that and he would have his name. He could close a chapter of his life and begin again, doing whatever it took to make things up to Harry and Hermione. With thoughts of his best friends running through his head, he started his journey to the Slytherin common room.
Malfoy was stood outside the Common Room, waiting for Ron as he approached. He straightened up and smiled as Ron moved next to him. "I was wondering how much longer I would have to wait for you Weasley." Malfoy snapped. "Well, I'm here now aren't I?" Ron threw back. "What do you want me to do Malfoy?" Malfoy sneered at him. "You get the honour of putting the Dark Lady's final plan into action. You get to bring him to us, then it's all over. You won't ever have to talk to me again, if you don't want to." Ron snorted. "That'll be a tough one for me to think about Malfoy." Malfoy smirked. "You're a comedian Weasley. So, will you do it?" Ron swallowed. "If I do this final thing, it will all be finished, for ever?" Malfoy nodded, "just as promised," he whispered. "And," he added, "you get to find out who tortured your brother and put all those fun curses I taught you into practice. Well, what do you say?" Ron thought for a moment then slowly nodded his head. Malfoy chuckled. "So, what do I have to do?" Ron repeated. Malfoy turned to face him. "Bring me Neville Longbottom - tomorrow."
OOOH ERRR!! So, what do you all think? This really was an important chapter for me and I wanted to get it right so do you think I pulled it off? Please read and review people. Though I'm not writing to get reviews, it certainly helps if I know people are enjoying what I'm doing. Next chapter will be up in a couple of days. Until next time, enjoy!
