OK, sorry this a bit late, I know I said next couple of days but I've been
signed off work and ordered to rest by my Doctor, which also meant no
computer! :(
I'm feeling better now though so on we go!
Thanks to:
Peachy Keen - Thanks again for the great review mate and the compliments. I really look forward to your comments and can't wait to see what you think of this chapter.
Emerald Earth - Yeah, it was supposed to be emotional and I'm really pleased I got it right. Please keep the great comments coming.
Katani Petitedra - Thanks for the review. Hope to hear from you again.
Pissed on Butterbeer - I'm glad you are continuing with your fan fic, I can't wait to read the next chapter. Thanks for the review, please let me know what you make of this chapter.
Yoshi - Welcome back! Great to see you've sorted out the trouble and I'm really pleased to hear from you. Hope this chapter lives up to the last. There are more surprises to come before I get to the end of the story so, keep reading! Also, thanks for the email.
Ok, that's the thanks sorted, time to carry this on.
Chapter 25 - The Truth
Harry and Lupin ran through the corridors. Lupin had tried many times to stop Harry and get him to explain but Harry didn't have the time. Dumbledore had got it so wrong. Harry had known he wasn't the Heir, he had felt it. Dumbledore had been so sure that Harry had actually started to believe him. Now, they had left the true Heir completely unprotected and open for attack! Harry glanced over his shoulder. Lupin was still following, a questioning look on his face. Harry didn't have time to explain, he HAD to get to Dumbledore before it was too late, if it wasn't already.
At that moment, someone jumped out in front of Harry with a squeal. He let out a yell, collided with the person and they both went flying over. Lupin noticed them to late and he also went over, with a small shout. "Harry," cried the person. "Hermione!" Harry exclaimed. "What are you doing here?" Hermione actually gave Harry a small punch. "What do you think? Looking for you! Where did you go, what happened, you just run off!" Harry gave a small chuckle. Professor Lupin picked himself up off the floor and helped Harry and Hermione up. Harry rubbed his bruised arm and turned to Hermione. "It's OK Hermione, I'm fine. Look, Professor Lupin and I have to see Dumbledore, come with us." Hermione shook her head in defeat but said, "OK then but I don't understand any of this." Lupin smiled at her. "Don't you worry about that Hermione, nor do I." The three of them set off together. Hermione took Harry's hand. He smiled to himself. He knew how worried about him she had been and that made him feel warm inside.
As they were approaching Dumbledore's office another figure stepped out in front of them. "Harry, I need to talk to you." Harry glared angrily at Ron. "I don't have time now, I'm in a hurry," he snapped and went to push past Ron. Lupin watched this with interest. Hermione gave Ron a strange look but didn't speak to him. Harry pulled her past him and Lupin followed, with a quick glance to Ron. Ron watched Harry go and tried one more time, "Harry, please. It's really important." Hermione stopped and pulled on Harry's hand, giving him a look. Harry sighed and turned round. "Ron, Ill come and find you later." Ron shook his head. "No, that will be to late - you don't understand." Anger raged through Harry then. "No, you don't understand Ron. It's typical of you. You've treated me, well like SHIT all year and then expect me to come running when you need to talk! Well, no, I will catch up with you later. Now leave us alone. If it's that desperate, I'm sure Malfoy will talk to you." With that, Harry swung round and stormed away. Hermione gave Ron a sympathetic glance but followed after Harry. Lupin saw the hurt look in Ron's eye and wasn't sure what to do. He decided that whatever happened to Harry was more urgent, gave Ron a reassuring smile and followed after Harry and Hermione. Ron watched them all go, a single tear rolled down his face, which he brushed away angrily. He had tried but now he really did have no choice. He glanced at his watch. It was 23.15. Malfoy had said tomorrow. He wanted to get this over and done with as soon as possible. With that thought, he set off and began his search for Neville.
Harry, Hermione and Lupin finally arrived outside Dumbledore's office. "I really hope he is here," Harry muttered nervously. Hermione glanced at him. Lupin moved in front of them, raised his hands and stated clearly "Gummy Bear." The door swung open and all three of them entered. Dumbledore was not in office, which was no surprise as it was late. All the old Headmasters in the Portraits were sleeping, or pretending too, as they had been last year. Harry remembered, to his shame, how he had wrecked Dumbledores office last year after Sirius' death. He shut his eyes, shutting out that painful memory. "Wait here both of you." Lupin said quickly, "Ill go and fetch the Headmaster." He hurried up the stairs then, leaving the two Gryffindors alone.
Harry then heard an "hmm" from behind him and he turned round. Phineas Nigellus was eying him closely. Harry smiled back. "How are you Harry Potter?" Phineas asked. "I'm OK, thanks." Harry replied. "Excellent, excellent," the portrait said but then seemed to run out of things to say. He nodded to Harry then went back to reading his book that had been painted with him. Harry gave the painting one last look, and then turned back to Hermione, who was watching him closely. "Harry, who is -?" Harry interrupted her. "He was an ancestor of Sirius's" Harry said softly and Hermione nodded to him, understanding. "Harry, what is this all about?" Hermione whispered. Harry hesitated then told her "Dumbledore was wrong about me, I'm not the Heir of Gryffindor, and I'm nothing." Hermione gasped. "How do you know that?" And she quickly added, "And you are not nothing, you're brilliant." Harry looked at her strangely at this remark and Hermione turned scarlet. At that moment, to Hermione's huge relief, Dumbledore appeared at the top of his steps. "Harry, Hermione, good evening." They both returned the greeting. "I understand you have something to tell me Harry. First of all, please sit down." Harry, Hermione and Lupin all sat on chairs that had appeared before them and Dumbledore sat in his huge armchair. Harry was desperate to get on with his story and Dumbledore noticed this. "Well, Harry, please begin." Harry's words came out in a rush. "Professor, we were wrong. I'm not the Heir. I met my Mum at our old house, well she wasn't really my mum but she wanted to help me and she told me HE was in danger. We have to find the true Heir now, please -." Dumbledore had raised his hand and called, "Harry please!" Harry paused and took a huge breath. "Begin again, tell me slowly." Harry nodded, took another breath and started from the beginning. "Well, I decided I needed to find out some things and I thought going back to where my Mum and Dad died would help me do that. I asked Professor Lupin for help and he agreed. He got me there using a port key. Rosenna was there and she made me see how my parents were killed." Lupin coughed at this and Hermione touched Harry's hand. Harry smiled at both of them and said, "It didn't worry me though, in fact it was the opposite. I saw how much they both loved me." Hermione smothered a sob; Lupin put a hand on her shoulder whilst Dumbledore smiled at Harry. "Please continue," he prompted. Harry cleared his throat and continued, "After that, Rosenna and Voldemort worked together to hurt me and tried to make me do as they wanted and I was losing the battle." He stopped and looked down at this point, somewhat embarrassed. Dumbledore waited for him to continue. Harry then remembered how important time was and looked up into those twinkling blue eyes again. "At that moment, my Mum appeared. Rosenna knew her, said she was long dead and that she couldn't stop her. Mum spoke back to her calmly and eventually, Rosenna left. My mother then told me she wasn't my Mum but wanted to help me, and your Professor," he added with a smile to Dumbledore. Dumbledore nodded and waited for Harry to finish. "Well, then she said she was a friend to Hogwarts, the Heir and the Chosen. She told me to get back to the school and help my schoolmates. She also gave me a message from my real Mum. Then, I just realised I wasn't the Heir, it just came to me. We have to help him now, before Rosenna or Voldemort get hold of him."
Dumbledore got to his feet, Harry was breathing quickly and Hermione and Lupin were both watching Dumbledore, waiting for his reaction. "Harry, I still believe you to be the Heir of Gryffindor." Harry shook his head. "You are wrong Professor and we are wasting time." Dumbledore looked concerned. "Harry, all the signs pointed to you." Harry frowned, "What signs?" Dumbledore walked over to his pensieve. "It was all here for me to see. The Heir has battled the Evil Powers, His parents are lost to him, He is his ancestors child and is brave and loyal, He will show stronger power then ever before this year and He was born at the end of the seventh month. It all points to you Harry." Harry thought for a moment, not understanding. Then he froze. "Harry?" Hermione said softly. "Oh my God," Harry murmured. "What is it Harry", snapped Lupin. "Its Neville." Harry shouted, making them all start. He leapt to his feet and rushed to Dumbledore. "All those signs could be me or Neville and I think its Neville." Dumbledore shut his eyes and covered his face with his hands. "Stupid old FOOL!"" He yelled and two potion bottles exploded. "But Harry, what about the power you've been showing as well as Neville?" Hermione asked, her eyes big and round. "I don't know, I've always been able to do weird things. Probably power I nicked off of Voldemort," he then turned back to Dumbledore. "Professor, its Neville we have to protect, please lets go now!" Dumbledore nodded. "Remus," he said turning to the Professor, "Hurry, round up all the other staff, we must find Neville Longbottom at once." Lupin nodded, said quickly, "at once Albus," and rushed off quickly. Dumbledore turned to Harry and Hermione. "Go back to the Gryffindor Tower you two and see if Neville is there." They nod and Harry enquired, "Professor, where will you be?" Dumbledore was putting his cloak on and had picked up a jar. " must go to the ministry, I believe we will need to get some Aurors together. Come back here and send Fawkes to find me when you find Neville, now hurry Harry, Hermione!" Harry grabbed Hermiones hand and together they raced out of the office. The two Gryffindors arrived at their common room as quickly as they could. There were no Professors prowling the corridors, Harry guessed they had all been rounded up by Lupin. Hermione kept her hand grasped in Harry's all the way to the common room. Harry himself had never felt so hopeless, not even when he had seen Sirius fall through that cursed veil.
Harry and Hermione screamed the password to the Fat Lady's portrait and she opened quickly for them, shock on her face. As soon as they entered, Harry and Hermione began shouting Neville's name. Harry up to the boys dormitory and threw the lights on. "Neville, are you in here?" he hissed frantically. Seamus and Dean awoke with a start. "Harry, what the hell are you doing?" shouted Seamus whilst Dean murmured something about Westham winning the FA Cup. His eyes grew wide as he saw the fear on Harry's face. "What's up?" he enquired. "Have either of you two seen Neville?" Harry asked quickly, his voice slightly shaking. "Yeah, he was revising a Herbology paper in the common room, said he wanted to finish it before he came up to bed. Why? Isn't he there now?" Harry rolled his eyes in frustration. "No Seamus, he isn't." Seamus yawned and shrugged. "Well Harry, I don't know then. Maybe he's gone off to meet a girl, he's been acting quite strangely lately." Dean laughed and Harry turned away to head back to the common room. Hermione had moved up the steps behind him. "I saw him talking to Ron just recently." Harry froze and Hermione gaped at him. Harry turned slowly back to Dean. "When did you see Ron with Neville?" Dean sighed. "Only about ten minutes ago, just before I came up. They were whispering together, it looked quite heated. It was weird though," Dean added with a slight shake of his head. Harry swallowed. "What was weird Dean?" Dean turned back to Harry and smiled. "Well, I saw them come up here and thought they were going to bed but when I came up, they weren't here and I never saw them come down. Guess I must have just missed them." Harry looked back at Hermione who had gone pale. "Harry," she gasped. "Your cloak." Harry went white and rushed over to his trunk. He tore through his things, throwing his clothes everywhere. He then stopped, slowly stood up and turned back to Hermione. "It's gone," he said, feeling sicker with every second. "He'll be taking him out of the castle." Hermione said. "How do you know that?" Harry snapped. Hermione raised her eyes to the heavens. "BECAUSE Harry, you cannot apparate into or out of this BLOODY CASTLE!" Harry gazed at her. "OK, no need to shout Hermione." Hermiones eyes had filled with tears. "I'm sorry Harry, I just wish you would one day read Hogwarts - A History!" Harry actually laughed despite himself and hugged Hermione. He then pushed her away from him and held her hand. "Should we go after them." Hermione shook her head. "They could be anywhere." Harry nodded. "We have to tell Lupin. Do you know the where they could be meeting?" Hermione wiped her face and sniffed. "Dumbledore's Office, they will probably be waiting for instructions." Harry nodded again and hissed, "lets go." The two of them ran down the stairs and out of the common room as fast as they could. Dean and Seamus watched them go, glanced at each other and Seamus asked Dean. "Do you think something's up?" Dean shrugged. "Dunno. If they need us they'll be back. Night Seamus." Seamus turned off the light next to him, snuggled down and called, "Night Dean." The room was silent as they both gently dozed.
Just outside of the school grounds, two boys appeared out of thin air. "Keep to the shadows!" Ron hissed to Neville. The other boy nodded and tightened his robes around him. "What did you say was wrong with Harry Ron? Where is Hermione?" Neville whispered. Ron pulled Neville along with him, keeping a good eye out. "Harry just said it was important that he saw you Neville and I have no idea where Hermione is." Neville eyed Ron nervously. Something felt wrong to him. I thought you two weren't speaking?" Neville asked quietly. "Well," Ron said quickly, "we made up." Neville gazed out into the blackness in front of him. The only light was coming from the tip of Ron's wand. "Where are we going Ron? This looks like the road to Hogsmead." Ron continued to drag Neville along behind him, constantly looking at his watch. "It is the road to Hogsmead," Ron answered Neville simply. "Oh." Neville said with a nod and moved his hand closer to his wand. Ron was just acting to strangely. They quickened their pace, Ron hissing "faster," to Neville every so often. A few minutes later, the lights of Hogsmead appeared before them. Ron seemed to sigh when he saw them. Neville realised that Ron was trembling. "Are you all right Ron?" Neville asked. "Fine!" Ron snapped back. "We're almost there," he whispered, more to himself than Neville. "What was Harry doing so far away from school?" enquired Neville. Ron glared at him, which Neville couldn't see of course. "I have no idea, he called me and I came. That's all. Look Neville, we have to hurry, over here." Ron shoved Neville off the road, just beside a small hut. "He's in there Neville." Ron said, his eyes down at the ground. Neville edged towards the hut and hesitated by the door. Ron hadn't moved, he was still staring at his feet. "Neville," Ron said almost in a whisper. "Ron, the door wont open, its locked!" Neville called, tugging at the huge wooden door. "I'm sorry Neville." Ron called back and Neville turned round to look at him. "Sorry?" he asked. At that moment, the light on Ron's wand went out. "Ron, I can't see you." Neville called. Ron then screamed into the night, his wand high above his head, "Mosmordre!" Neville gasped and fell back as a glittering ball of green light erupted from Ron's wand and transformed into the grotesque Mark of the Dark Lord. Ron stared up at it. Neville could see Ron's face in the light and he was staring up at what he had just created, his eyes wide with terror.
Harry and Hermione raced into Dumbledores office to find all the Professors gazing out if the window. All except one. Snape was standing across from Harry and Hermione, rubbing his arm, his eyes on Harry's. Professor Lupin turned as Harry and Hermione entered. He marched quickly over to Harry. "Professor, I have to talk to you, Harry begun but was interrupted by a frenzied scream by Hermione. Harry turned abruptly and saw her by the window. "Hermione?" he whispered and walked over to her. His eyes met hers and then he looked out of the window. He shut his eyes, them opened them again. He gazed at the huge skull covered the night sky. "The Dark Mark. But who?" Professor Sprout whispered. Harry and Hermione exchanged horrified glances. "Ron." Harry said loudly. All the Professors turned to stare at Harry, who put his head in his hands. Hermione let out a loud sob. Lupin walked towards Harry and put his hand on his shoulder. "Harry, what is happening?" Harry looked up and stared straight at Snape, who gazed straight back. "What is happening Professor Lupin, I would say that is obvious," a calm voice said from behind them.
All the Professors, Harry and Hermione turned round to see Dumbledore in the middle of the room. Fudge stood next to him and they were surrounded by lots of Aurors. Dumbledores eyes were on Harry's. Harry's scar suddenly exploded with pain, he let out a cry of anguish and fell to his knees. Hermione and Lupin rushed to his side and helped him up. "Harry?" Dumbledore prompted gently. Harry gasped for breath. The pain was already lessening. "Voldemort is happy Professor." Dumbledore ignored the stricken looks and gasps from the aurors around him and nodded to Harry. "I expected as such Harry." Dumbledore told him. Dumbledore turned to the group of Aurors and the Professors, who were now stood together. "My friends, our most crucial battle is about to begin. It is a battle we must win. I must warn you, it will mean going up against Voldemort and Rosenna. I know you are all brave and prepared and I'm proud to stand alongside you." The gaggle of aurors and Professors were silent through Dumbledores speech and as it came to an end, there was only one noise and that was the sound of Fudge fainting. Dumbledore glanced at the minister and said, "erm, perhaps some water to pour over our poor minister?" Fudge coughed and gurgled immediately, getting back to his feet. Hermione and Harry exchanged snickers. Dumbledore nodded to Fudge. "Minister, welcome back." Fudge smiled politely to Dumbledore, who turned again to the aurors and professors. "We must begin our plans. Please gather round all of you."
Neville got slowly to his feet. As the Dark Mark had appeared in sky, he had let out a shriek of horror and fallen back into the mud. Ron turned to look at him, now pointing his wand straight at Neville. They then heard a loud POP behind them and they both swung round. "Neville!" cried a female voice. "Aunty Peachy." Neville gasped. "My darling boy. It has been so long. I have missed you Neville. Who would have thought you would have grown up to be so important." Neville glared at her. "I don't know what you are talking about!" Peachy laughed. "Of course you don't! You are your Mothers son after all." Neville bristled at this. "Don't you say another word about my Mum." Peachy laughed again but didn't speak. Neville pulled out his wand and Peachy gasped in mock fear. "Answer me one thing 'Auntie,' did you know about my Mum and Dad?" Peachy raised an eyebrow. "Know what my love?" Neville gripped his wand tighter. "That Death Eaters were planning to torture them?" Peachy let out a loud cry and smiled insanely at Neville. "Know, my dear boy! I led the Lestranges and Barty Crouch to your parents little hideaway! I laughed as your Mother lost her mind and your Father sobbed, forced to watch before it was his turn! It is my happiest memory. Well, until now!" She then raised her wand but Neville was quicker. "Stupefy," he cried and with a yell, his Aunt fell to the ground. Neville turned to Ron who was just watching, making no move to stop him. Neville stepped towards his Aunt and stood over her. He felt all the pain and suffering he had felt as far back as he could remember and pointed his wand at his Aunt. "Neville, don't be a killer." Ron said softly. "It will haunt you forever." Neville turned to look at Ron and at that moment, a voice screamed "stupefy!" and Neville fell forward on top of his Aunt.
Malfoy, Selina and Marcus Flint walked towards Ron. Flint pulled Neville up and Selina revived Peachy. Peachy stared at the unconscious Neville with hatred and then turned to the others. "Lets get out of here, the Dark Lord is getting impatient". Malfoy nodded, then turned to Ron with a sneer. "Good signal Ron, the Dark Mark was perfect. Hogsmead is already in a panic!" Selina stepped beside Draco. "It's delicious," she said with a smile and licked her lips. Ron looked over to the village and saw that people were already running towards them, lights dancing before them. The Dark Mark was still shining above them. "Don't hurt Neville, he hasn't done anything to you Malfoy. He isn't me or Harry." Selina let out a cry of laughter but Malfoy remained silent. "We had better go my Love," he whispered to Selina and began to pull her away to where Flint and Peachy were waiting with the prone Neville. Ron moved towards Malfoy and grabbed hold of him. "Wait Malfoy, you promised. The name" Ron snarled. Malfoy looked at Selina and she smiled. "You should tell him dearest," Selina said in a cheerful tone. "You're right sweetie. OK Ron." He beckoned for Ron to come closer. Ron did so, his heart beating loudly. It was going to happen. He was going to find out what had caused him so much pain and agony. He waited with baited breath. Malfoy sighed once. "Ron, the Death Eater who tortured Percy was - Bellatrix Lestrange." Ron froze, he couldn't say a word. Malfoy was staring at him. "Oh but you killed her didn't you? To think, I could have told you then. It must have slipped my mind!" Then he began to laugh, as did Selina. Malfoy hit Ron in the stomach, winding him and when he was down on the ground, he kicked him. "Well, see you Ron. I think we can leave you here for the Hogsmead mob. Good luck!" Selina and Malfoy ran to where the others were waiting and Ron gasped "no!" as he watched Peachy and Flint hold onto the other three and all five of them apparated away.
Ron looked up into the sky. The Dark Mark was still above him. The hideous skull seemed to be laughing at him too. He glanced towards Hogsmead and saw the villagers seemed to have stopped their race towards him but he couldn't find it in his heart to care. He now realised what he had done, how stupid he had been but of course it was far too late. He picked up his wand and looked at it for a moment. The faces of his parents, brothers and sister came into his head, then followed by Neville, Hermione and lastly Harry. He couldn't stand the pain. He had shamed his friends. He knew Neville would die. His thoughts once again went to Hermione and what he would never get to tell her. Tears ran down his face. The dark mark glittered above him like a frightening Omen. He shut his eyes tightly, raised his wand and pointed it straight at his broken heart ---
To be continued.
Well, I guess that is a cliffhanger! Sorry to end the chapter like this but I'm tired now and I have to leave you wanting more don't I? Please give me your comments, I want to know what you think is going to happen. Next update will be with you soon. Just please - REVIEW! I need feedback! I ant to know what I'm doing ok as these chapters are so important to me! Please? Thank you!
Thanks to:
Peachy Keen - Thanks again for the great review mate and the compliments. I really look forward to your comments and can't wait to see what you think of this chapter.
Emerald Earth - Yeah, it was supposed to be emotional and I'm really pleased I got it right. Please keep the great comments coming.
Katani Petitedra - Thanks for the review. Hope to hear from you again.
Pissed on Butterbeer - I'm glad you are continuing with your fan fic, I can't wait to read the next chapter. Thanks for the review, please let me know what you make of this chapter.
Yoshi - Welcome back! Great to see you've sorted out the trouble and I'm really pleased to hear from you. Hope this chapter lives up to the last. There are more surprises to come before I get to the end of the story so, keep reading! Also, thanks for the email.
Ok, that's the thanks sorted, time to carry this on.
Chapter 25 - The Truth
Harry and Lupin ran through the corridors. Lupin had tried many times to stop Harry and get him to explain but Harry didn't have the time. Dumbledore had got it so wrong. Harry had known he wasn't the Heir, he had felt it. Dumbledore had been so sure that Harry had actually started to believe him. Now, they had left the true Heir completely unprotected and open for attack! Harry glanced over his shoulder. Lupin was still following, a questioning look on his face. Harry didn't have time to explain, he HAD to get to Dumbledore before it was too late, if it wasn't already.
At that moment, someone jumped out in front of Harry with a squeal. He let out a yell, collided with the person and they both went flying over. Lupin noticed them to late and he also went over, with a small shout. "Harry," cried the person. "Hermione!" Harry exclaimed. "What are you doing here?" Hermione actually gave Harry a small punch. "What do you think? Looking for you! Where did you go, what happened, you just run off!" Harry gave a small chuckle. Professor Lupin picked himself up off the floor and helped Harry and Hermione up. Harry rubbed his bruised arm and turned to Hermione. "It's OK Hermione, I'm fine. Look, Professor Lupin and I have to see Dumbledore, come with us." Hermione shook her head in defeat but said, "OK then but I don't understand any of this." Lupin smiled at her. "Don't you worry about that Hermione, nor do I." The three of them set off together. Hermione took Harry's hand. He smiled to himself. He knew how worried about him she had been and that made him feel warm inside.
As they were approaching Dumbledore's office another figure stepped out in front of them. "Harry, I need to talk to you." Harry glared angrily at Ron. "I don't have time now, I'm in a hurry," he snapped and went to push past Ron. Lupin watched this with interest. Hermione gave Ron a strange look but didn't speak to him. Harry pulled her past him and Lupin followed, with a quick glance to Ron. Ron watched Harry go and tried one more time, "Harry, please. It's really important." Hermione stopped and pulled on Harry's hand, giving him a look. Harry sighed and turned round. "Ron, Ill come and find you later." Ron shook his head. "No, that will be to late - you don't understand." Anger raged through Harry then. "No, you don't understand Ron. It's typical of you. You've treated me, well like SHIT all year and then expect me to come running when you need to talk! Well, no, I will catch up with you later. Now leave us alone. If it's that desperate, I'm sure Malfoy will talk to you." With that, Harry swung round and stormed away. Hermione gave Ron a sympathetic glance but followed after Harry. Lupin saw the hurt look in Ron's eye and wasn't sure what to do. He decided that whatever happened to Harry was more urgent, gave Ron a reassuring smile and followed after Harry and Hermione. Ron watched them all go, a single tear rolled down his face, which he brushed away angrily. He had tried but now he really did have no choice. He glanced at his watch. It was 23.15. Malfoy had said tomorrow. He wanted to get this over and done with as soon as possible. With that thought, he set off and began his search for Neville.
Harry, Hermione and Lupin finally arrived outside Dumbledore's office. "I really hope he is here," Harry muttered nervously. Hermione glanced at him. Lupin moved in front of them, raised his hands and stated clearly "Gummy Bear." The door swung open and all three of them entered. Dumbledore was not in office, which was no surprise as it was late. All the old Headmasters in the Portraits were sleeping, or pretending too, as they had been last year. Harry remembered, to his shame, how he had wrecked Dumbledores office last year after Sirius' death. He shut his eyes, shutting out that painful memory. "Wait here both of you." Lupin said quickly, "Ill go and fetch the Headmaster." He hurried up the stairs then, leaving the two Gryffindors alone.
Harry then heard an "hmm" from behind him and he turned round. Phineas Nigellus was eying him closely. Harry smiled back. "How are you Harry Potter?" Phineas asked. "I'm OK, thanks." Harry replied. "Excellent, excellent," the portrait said but then seemed to run out of things to say. He nodded to Harry then went back to reading his book that had been painted with him. Harry gave the painting one last look, and then turned back to Hermione, who was watching him closely. "Harry, who is -?" Harry interrupted her. "He was an ancestor of Sirius's" Harry said softly and Hermione nodded to him, understanding. "Harry, what is this all about?" Hermione whispered. Harry hesitated then told her "Dumbledore was wrong about me, I'm not the Heir of Gryffindor, and I'm nothing." Hermione gasped. "How do you know that?" And she quickly added, "And you are not nothing, you're brilliant." Harry looked at her strangely at this remark and Hermione turned scarlet. At that moment, to Hermione's huge relief, Dumbledore appeared at the top of his steps. "Harry, Hermione, good evening." They both returned the greeting. "I understand you have something to tell me Harry. First of all, please sit down." Harry, Hermione and Lupin all sat on chairs that had appeared before them and Dumbledore sat in his huge armchair. Harry was desperate to get on with his story and Dumbledore noticed this. "Well, Harry, please begin." Harry's words came out in a rush. "Professor, we were wrong. I'm not the Heir. I met my Mum at our old house, well she wasn't really my mum but she wanted to help me and she told me HE was in danger. We have to find the true Heir now, please -." Dumbledore had raised his hand and called, "Harry please!" Harry paused and took a huge breath. "Begin again, tell me slowly." Harry nodded, took another breath and started from the beginning. "Well, I decided I needed to find out some things and I thought going back to where my Mum and Dad died would help me do that. I asked Professor Lupin for help and he agreed. He got me there using a port key. Rosenna was there and she made me see how my parents were killed." Lupin coughed at this and Hermione touched Harry's hand. Harry smiled at both of them and said, "It didn't worry me though, in fact it was the opposite. I saw how much they both loved me." Hermione smothered a sob; Lupin put a hand on her shoulder whilst Dumbledore smiled at Harry. "Please continue," he prompted. Harry cleared his throat and continued, "After that, Rosenna and Voldemort worked together to hurt me and tried to make me do as they wanted and I was losing the battle." He stopped and looked down at this point, somewhat embarrassed. Dumbledore waited for him to continue. Harry then remembered how important time was and looked up into those twinkling blue eyes again. "At that moment, my Mum appeared. Rosenna knew her, said she was long dead and that she couldn't stop her. Mum spoke back to her calmly and eventually, Rosenna left. My mother then told me she wasn't my Mum but wanted to help me, and your Professor," he added with a smile to Dumbledore. Dumbledore nodded and waited for Harry to finish. "Well, then she said she was a friend to Hogwarts, the Heir and the Chosen. She told me to get back to the school and help my schoolmates. She also gave me a message from my real Mum. Then, I just realised I wasn't the Heir, it just came to me. We have to help him now, before Rosenna or Voldemort get hold of him."
Dumbledore got to his feet, Harry was breathing quickly and Hermione and Lupin were both watching Dumbledore, waiting for his reaction. "Harry, I still believe you to be the Heir of Gryffindor." Harry shook his head. "You are wrong Professor and we are wasting time." Dumbledore looked concerned. "Harry, all the signs pointed to you." Harry frowned, "What signs?" Dumbledore walked over to his pensieve. "It was all here for me to see. The Heir has battled the Evil Powers, His parents are lost to him, He is his ancestors child and is brave and loyal, He will show stronger power then ever before this year and He was born at the end of the seventh month. It all points to you Harry." Harry thought for a moment, not understanding. Then he froze. "Harry?" Hermione said softly. "Oh my God," Harry murmured. "What is it Harry", snapped Lupin. "Its Neville." Harry shouted, making them all start. He leapt to his feet and rushed to Dumbledore. "All those signs could be me or Neville and I think its Neville." Dumbledore shut his eyes and covered his face with his hands. "Stupid old FOOL!"" He yelled and two potion bottles exploded. "But Harry, what about the power you've been showing as well as Neville?" Hermione asked, her eyes big and round. "I don't know, I've always been able to do weird things. Probably power I nicked off of Voldemort," he then turned back to Dumbledore. "Professor, its Neville we have to protect, please lets go now!" Dumbledore nodded. "Remus," he said turning to the Professor, "Hurry, round up all the other staff, we must find Neville Longbottom at once." Lupin nodded, said quickly, "at once Albus," and rushed off quickly. Dumbledore turned to Harry and Hermione. "Go back to the Gryffindor Tower you two and see if Neville is there." They nod and Harry enquired, "Professor, where will you be?" Dumbledore was putting his cloak on and had picked up a jar. " must go to the ministry, I believe we will need to get some Aurors together. Come back here and send Fawkes to find me when you find Neville, now hurry Harry, Hermione!" Harry grabbed Hermiones hand and together they raced out of the office. The two Gryffindors arrived at their common room as quickly as they could. There were no Professors prowling the corridors, Harry guessed they had all been rounded up by Lupin. Hermione kept her hand grasped in Harry's all the way to the common room. Harry himself had never felt so hopeless, not even when he had seen Sirius fall through that cursed veil.
Harry and Hermione screamed the password to the Fat Lady's portrait and she opened quickly for them, shock on her face. As soon as they entered, Harry and Hermione began shouting Neville's name. Harry up to the boys dormitory and threw the lights on. "Neville, are you in here?" he hissed frantically. Seamus and Dean awoke with a start. "Harry, what the hell are you doing?" shouted Seamus whilst Dean murmured something about Westham winning the FA Cup. His eyes grew wide as he saw the fear on Harry's face. "What's up?" he enquired. "Have either of you two seen Neville?" Harry asked quickly, his voice slightly shaking. "Yeah, he was revising a Herbology paper in the common room, said he wanted to finish it before he came up to bed. Why? Isn't he there now?" Harry rolled his eyes in frustration. "No Seamus, he isn't." Seamus yawned and shrugged. "Well Harry, I don't know then. Maybe he's gone off to meet a girl, he's been acting quite strangely lately." Dean laughed and Harry turned away to head back to the common room. Hermione had moved up the steps behind him. "I saw him talking to Ron just recently." Harry froze and Hermione gaped at him. Harry turned slowly back to Dean. "When did you see Ron with Neville?" Dean sighed. "Only about ten minutes ago, just before I came up. They were whispering together, it looked quite heated. It was weird though," Dean added with a slight shake of his head. Harry swallowed. "What was weird Dean?" Dean turned back to Harry and smiled. "Well, I saw them come up here and thought they were going to bed but when I came up, they weren't here and I never saw them come down. Guess I must have just missed them." Harry looked back at Hermione who had gone pale. "Harry," she gasped. "Your cloak." Harry went white and rushed over to his trunk. He tore through his things, throwing his clothes everywhere. He then stopped, slowly stood up and turned back to Hermione. "It's gone," he said, feeling sicker with every second. "He'll be taking him out of the castle." Hermione said. "How do you know that?" Harry snapped. Hermione raised her eyes to the heavens. "BECAUSE Harry, you cannot apparate into or out of this BLOODY CASTLE!" Harry gazed at her. "OK, no need to shout Hermione." Hermiones eyes had filled with tears. "I'm sorry Harry, I just wish you would one day read Hogwarts - A History!" Harry actually laughed despite himself and hugged Hermione. He then pushed her away from him and held her hand. "Should we go after them." Hermione shook her head. "They could be anywhere." Harry nodded. "We have to tell Lupin. Do you know the where they could be meeting?" Hermione wiped her face and sniffed. "Dumbledore's Office, they will probably be waiting for instructions." Harry nodded again and hissed, "lets go." The two of them ran down the stairs and out of the common room as fast as they could. Dean and Seamus watched them go, glanced at each other and Seamus asked Dean. "Do you think something's up?" Dean shrugged. "Dunno. If they need us they'll be back. Night Seamus." Seamus turned off the light next to him, snuggled down and called, "Night Dean." The room was silent as they both gently dozed.
Just outside of the school grounds, two boys appeared out of thin air. "Keep to the shadows!" Ron hissed to Neville. The other boy nodded and tightened his robes around him. "What did you say was wrong with Harry Ron? Where is Hermione?" Neville whispered. Ron pulled Neville along with him, keeping a good eye out. "Harry just said it was important that he saw you Neville and I have no idea where Hermione is." Neville eyed Ron nervously. Something felt wrong to him. I thought you two weren't speaking?" Neville asked quietly. "Well," Ron said quickly, "we made up." Neville gazed out into the blackness in front of him. The only light was coming from the tip of Ron's wand. "Where are we going Ron? This looks like the road to Hogsmead." Ron continued to drag Neville along behind him, constantly looking at his watch. "It is the road to Hogsmead," Ron answered Neville simply. "Oh." Neville said with a nod and moved his hand closer to his wand. Ron was just acting to strangely. They quickened their pace, Ron hissing "faster," to Neville every so often. A few minutes later, the lights of Hogsmead appeared before them. Ron seemed to sigh when he saw them. Neville realised that Ron was trembling. "Are you all right Ron?" Neville asked. "Fine!" Ron snapped back. "We're almost there," he whispered, more to himself than Neville. "What was Harry doing so far away from school?" enquired Neville. Ron glared at him, which Neville couldn't see of course. "I have no idea, he called me and I came. That's all. Look Neville, we have to hurry, over here." Ron shoved Neville off the road, just beside a small hut. "He's in there Neville." Ron said, his eyes down at the ground. Neville edged towards the hut and hesitated by the door. Ron hadn't moved, he was still staring at his feet. "Neville," Ron said almost in a whisper. "Ron, the door wont open, its locked!" Neville called, tugging at the huge wooden door. "I'm sorry Neville." Ron called back and Neville turned round to look at him. "Sorry?" he asked. At that moment, the light on Ron's wand went out. "Ron, I can't see you." Neville called. Ron then screamed into the night, his wand high above his head, "Mosmordre!" Neville gasped and fell back as a glittering ball of green light erupted from Ron's wand and transformed into the grotesque Mark of the Dark Lord. Ron stared up at it. Neville could see Ron's face in the light and he was staring up at what he had just created, his eyes wide with terror.
Harry and Hermione raced into Dumbledores office to find all the Professors gazing out if the window. All except one. Snape was standing across from Harry and Hermione, rubbing his arm, his eyes on Harry's. Professor Lupin turned as Harry and Hermione entered. He marched quickly over to Harry. "Professor, I have to talk to you, Harry begun but was interrupted by a frenzied scream by Hermione. Harry turned abruptly and saw her by the window. "Hermione?" he whispered and walked over to her. His eyes met hers and then he looked out of the window. He shut his eyes, them opened them again. He gazed at the huge skull covered the night sky. "The Dark Mark. But who?" Professor Sprout whispered. Harry and Hermione exchanged horrified glances. "Ron." Harry said loudly. All the Professors turned to stare at Harry, who put his head in his hands. Hermione let out a loud sob. Lupin walked towards Harry and put his hand on his shoulder. "Harry, what is happening?" Harry looked up and stared straight at Snape, who gazed straight back. "What is happening Professor Lupin, I would say that is obvious," a calm voice said from behind them.
All the Professors, Harry and Hermione turned round to see Dumbledore in the middle of the room. Fudge stood next to him and they were surrounded by lots of Aurors. Dumbledores eyes were on Harry's. Harry's scar suddenly exploded with pain, he let out a cry of anguish and fell to his knees. Hermione and Lupin rushed to his side and helped him up. "Harry?" Dumbledore prompted gently. Harry gasped for breath. The pain was already lessening. "Voldemort is happy Professor." Dumbledore ignored the stricken looks and gasps from the aurors around him and nodded to Harry. "I expected as such Harry." Dumbledore told him. Dumbledore turned to the group of Aurors and the Professors, who were now stood together. "My friends, our most crucial battle is about to begin. It is a battle we must win. I must warn you, it will mean going up against Voldemort and Rosenna. I know you are all brave and prepared and I'm proud to stand alongside you." The gaggle of aurors and Professors were silent through Dumbledores speech and as it came to an end, there was only one noise and that was the sound of Fudge fainting. Dumbledore glanced at the minister and said, "erm, perhaps some water to pour over our poor minister?" Fudge coughed and gurgled immediately, getting back to his feet. Hermione and Harry exchanged snickers. Dumbledore nodded to Fudge. "Minister, welcome back." Fudge smiled politely to Dumbledore, who turned again to the aurors and professors. "We must begin our plans. Please gather round all of you."
Neville got slowly to his feet. As the Dark Mark had appeared in sky, he had let out a shriek of horror and fallen back into the mud. Ron turned to look at him, now pointing his wand straight at Neville. They then heard a loud POP behind them and they both swung round. "Neville!" cried a female voice. "Aunty Peachy." Neville gasped. "My darling boy. It has been so long. I have missed you Neville. Who would have thought you would have grown up to be so important." Neville glared at her. "I don't know what you are talking about!" Peachy laughed. "Of course you don't! You are your Mothers son after all." Neville bristled at this. "Don't you say another word about my Mum." Peachy laughed again but didn't speak. Neville pulled out his wand and Peachy gasped in mock fear. "Answer me one thing 'Auntie,' did you know about my Mum and Dad?" Peachy raised an eyebrow. "Know what my love?" Neville gripped his wand tighter. "That Death Eaters were planning to torture them?" Peachy let out a loud cry and smiled insanely at Neville. "Know, my dear boy! I led the Lestranges and Barty Crouch to your parents little hideaway! I laughed as your Mother lost her mind and your Father sobbed, forced to watch before it was his turn! It is my happiest memory. Well, until now!" She then raised her wand but Neville was quicker. "Stupefy," he cried and with a yell, his Aunt fell to the ground. Neville turned to Ron who was just watching, making no move to stop him. Neville stepped towards his Aunt and stood over her. He felt all the pain and suffering he had felt as far back as he could remember and pointed his wand at his Aunt. "Neville, don't be a killer." Ron said softly. "It will haunt you forever." Neville turned to look at Ron and at that moment, a voice screamed "stupefy!" and Neville fell forward on top of his Aunt.
Malfoy, Selina and Marcus Flint walked towards Ron. Flint pulled Neville up and Selina revived Peachy. Peachy stared at the unconscious Neville with hatred and then turned to the others. "Lets get out of here, the Dark Lord is getting impatient". Malfoy nodded, then turned to Ron with a sneer. "Good signal Ron, the Dark Mark was perfect. Hogsmead is already in a panic!" Selina stepped beside Draco. "It's delicious," she said with a smile and licked her lips. Ron looked over to the village and saw that people were already running towards them, lights dancing before them. The Dark Mark was still shining above them. "Don't hurt Neville, he hasn't done anything to you Malfoy. He isn't me or Harry." Selina let out a cry of laughter but Malfoy remained silent. "We had better go my Love," he whispered to Selina and began to pull her away to where Flint and Peachy were waiting with the prone Neville. Ron moved towards Malfoy and grabbed hold of him. "Wait Malfoy, you promised. The name" Ron snarled. Malfoy looked at Selina and she smiled. "You should tell him dearest," Selina said in a cheerful tone. "You're right sweetie. OK Ron." He beckoned for Ron to come closer. Ron did so, his heart beating loudly. It was going to happen. He was going to find out what had caused him so much pain and agony. He waited with baited breath. Malfoy sighed once. "Ron, the Death Eater who tortured Percy was - Bellatrix Lestrange." Ron froze, he couldn't say a word. Malfoy was staring at him. "Oh but you killed her didn't you? To think, I could have told you then. It must have slipped my mind!" Then he began to laugh, as did Selina. Malfoy hit Ron in the stomach, winding him and when he was down on the ground, he kicked him. "Well, see you Ron. I think we can leave you here for the Hogsmead mob. Good luck!" Selina and Malfoy ran to where the others were waiting and Ron gasped "no!" as he watched Peachy and Flint hold onto the other three and all five of them apparated away.
Ron looked up into the sky. The Dark Mark was still above him. The hideous skull seemed to be laughing at him too. He glanced towards Hogsmead and saw the villagers seemed to have stopped their race towards him but he couldn't find it in his heart to care. He now realised what he had done, how stupid he had been but of course it was far too late. He picked up his wand and looked at it for a moment. The faces of his parents, brothers and sister came into his head, then followed by Neville, Hermione and lastly Harry. He couldn't stand the pain. He had shamed his friends. He knew Neville would die. His thoughts once again went to Hermione and what he would never get to tell her. Tears ran down his face. The dark mark glittered above him like a frightening Omen. He shut his eyes tightly, raised his wand and pointed it straight at his broken heart ---
To be continued.
Well, I guess that is a cliffhanger! Sorry to end the chapter like this but I'm tired now and I have to leave you wanting more don't I? Please give me your comments, I want to know what you think is going to happen. Next update will be with you soon. Just please - REVIEW! I need feedback! I ant to know what I'm doing ok as these chapters are so important to me! Please? Thank you!
