Well, a quick update! I've been looking forward to posting this and the
next chapter for so long. A LOT is about to happen. Please, please tell me
what you think. If it's rubbish, let me know and I will change it.
Thanks to my beta Victoria for checking over this chapter. If there are less mistakes than usual and you think it reads better, then it's all thanks to her! You're a star mate, cheers.
Thanks to these reviewers:
Nesia - I wanted to make Draco really interesting my story, I love his character so much and I didn't think he could be all bad! Just wait and see what Im going to do with him next! Please keep reading, thanks mate.
Claire - Thanks for reading and leaving the lovely compliments. I hope you keep reading and letting me know what you think! Thanks again.
crazy-weasley - See, it didn't keep you waiting to long! Please review again.
Ears91 - Thanks for the comments, hope you like this chapter.
Katani Petitedra - I can't wait to see what you make of this chapter, please review again.
Dreamer43 - Its always good to get your comments as you've reviewed nearly every chapter and the story is coming to end now. Thanks so much.
Danielle - Thanks for the review, I really appreciate it. Ah, I have special plans for Rosenna don't worry! And as for Neville, you'll have to read on! Enjoy.
Chapter 31 - The Return of Gryffindor
Rosenna finally stopped laughing and smiled first at Dumbledore and then Harry. "Welcome my friends," she said, her eyes twinkling, "to my coming home party." Voldemort laughed at this and took Rosenna's hand in his.
Dumbledore took a step forward and Hermione and Ron moved closer to Harry. "You have not won yet Rosenna," Dumbledore said, frowning at her. She laughed again.
Voldemort chuckled and turned to Harry. "Don't you want to come and retrieve your little friend Potter?" He then gave Neville a vicious kick. Harry clenched his fists and actually took a step towards Voldemort. Ron grabbed him. "Don't Harry," he hissed in his ear. "Neville is dead, you can't help him." Harry didn't say anything, shutting his eyes tightly. "Its all my fault Ron!" Harry gasped. "Don't be stupid Harry. If it's anyone's fault, it's mine. We need you Harry, please." Harry continued to gaze at Neville's body and watching his friend's blood continue to spread across the floor. "So much blood," Hermione muttered. Harry took her hand. "Ron's right," he whispered, "got to stay strong." She nodded, but tears were pouring down her face.
At that moment, at least a dozen Ravenscars appeared in the room, completely surrounding the group behind Dumbledore. They all raised their hands and chanted under their breaths. Harry realised he couldn't move any closer to Rosenna or Voldemort. He glanced at those around him including Hermione and Ron and saw that they were the same. Panic engulfed him.
The Ravenscars then stood completely still, waiting for Rosenna's commands. She was moving around the room, touching objects and furniture and laughing happily. "Tom, it is so good to feel alive again!" He nodded. "I remember how that felt Rosenna. It will feel even better when you hurt your enemies." He smirked at Harry.
Rosenna glided back up to Voldemort and took his hand. She turned back to the group in front of her, who were all waiting for Dumbledore to make a move. "Let me tell you all what is about to happen. You will each get down on your knees and worship me, or if you don't, you will all die a slow and horrible death. I will make sure to kill you one at a time and the others will be forced to watch. Choose, my 'friends'."
There was uneasy murmuring from the group but no one moved. Dumbledore continued to stare at Rosenna, his blue eyes unblinking. She stared back. Voldemort was obviously becoming restless. "My dear, we must join together." She smiled at him. "Soon," she whispered. "So, you have made your decisions. As you wish."
She waved her hand and two of the Ravenscars moved forwards. They grabbed Mad Eye Moody and pulled him, whilst he fought angrily, towards Rosenna. He was then thrown at her feet. She smiled sweetly at him. Dumbledore surged forward, actually forcing his way through the Ravenscars barrier, desperate to get to his friend. Rosenna glanced up once, waved her hand and Dumbledore was thrown back by her magic. Snape and Lupin grabbed him, keeping him on his feet. Voldemort laughed loudly. His Death Eaters including Peachy, Wormtail and Narcissa now surrounded him. Flint was stood beside Malfoy, who was still on the floor, cradling Selina's body.
Rosenna touched Moody's scruffy hair gently. She then met Dumbledore's eyes. "You want to stop this, Albus? It's easy. Get down on your knees. Set an example." He glared back at her. "Very well." She said with a sigh and shut her eyes, her hand on Moody's head. He began to moan and then scream. Smoke was coming from Rosenna's hand. Finally, Moody let out one more shriek and then fell forward and landed on the ground heavily. Rosenna smiled at the shocked faces of the students and Order in front of her. "Who's next?" She asked, gleefully.
There was a cry of panic from Dumbledore's army. Cho was kneeling on the floor howling. "I don't want to die!" she screamed over and over. "Shut up!" hissed Ginny who was stood next to her, trying to pull her to her feet. "Please." Cho continued to beg pathetically. Rosenna laughed. "It seems one of your little team has a brain Dumbledore. She then turned to Cho. "Step forward my dear and join Marcus and Draco. Your life will be spared." Cho nodded violently, tears still streaming down her face. She pushed Ginny away, almost knocking her to the floor and surged through the crowd, all of them trying to stop her. Finally, she arrived near the front and her eyes met Harry's. "Move out of my way!" She shouted at him. "We can't win this Harry. You are not going to be the boy who lived for much longer! You are going to DIE!" She had now become hysterical.
Harry very calmly pointed his wand at her and said, "Stupefy." Cho cried out in surprise and then fell into Harry's arms. He dumped her on the ground and turned back to Rosenna. "No one will be joining you bitch, if I have to stun everybody, I will." Dumbledore actually gave Harry a small smile. This show of bravery seemed to have a good affect on the rest of the army as well. They had seen Harry standing up to the very powerful being in front of him and it had livened them all up. They all raised their wands and waited for Dumbledore's order to fight.
Rosenna's eyes were now on Harry and Harry alone. How she hated this boy! She waved her hand furiously at Harry and he cried in pain. He was then flung forward towards Voldemort. Voldemort went to grab him but Dumbledore was quicker. He waved his wand and cried "reversa" and Harry was thrown back towards him. Dumbledore then moved in front of Harry, ready to protect him from any further attacks. Ron and Hermione quickly rushed to join Dumbledore and Harry; both of them had their wands ready.
Now Ron was at the front, he noticed Malfoy for the first time. He muttered "bastard," and raised his wand. He remembered how Malfoy had had Ron on his knees, begging him for the name of his brother's killer. How he had tortured Ron and made him hurt the people he loved. He was going to make Malfoy pay. Just as he was about to shout the curse, Malfoy look up and stared straight at Ron. Hermione and Harry saw the look too. Malfoys eyes were bright red and his face was tear stained. Malfoy was broken and Ron just couldn't curse him. It would have been like putting a dog down. Malfoy looked away from Ron and gently touched Selina's hair again, rocking her body backwards and forwards.
Harry looked up at Voldemort. "You killed Selina. Why?" Voldemort laughed. "You care Potter?" Harry glared at him. "She was loyal to you." Voldemort nodded. "Yes, but sweet Draco needed reminding whom his loyalty was with." Harry felt sick and glanced back at Malfoy. He knew how it felt to lose a loved one like that and he also realised he couldn't hate Malfoy at that moment.
Rosenna was losing her patience. "I am offering you all the chance to live. You will all be more powerful than you could ever imagine. Why stand beside a senile old man and a pathetic little boy and die with them. Look." She grabbed Neville by the hair and pulled his head up. The hug cut across his neck displayed to all of them. "This boy was your hope, the Heir of Gryffindor and look what we did to him. Join us!" She then dropped Neville to the floor again and stared at the army. They continued to look back. Rosenna swung round to face Harry, her face twisted with fury. "If this is really what you all want, then die," she hissed.
Her face then transformed again into it's usual beautiful self and she gave Harry a strange look. She then beckoned to her Ravenscars and snapped at them; "a young one this time." They once again moved into the group and this time moved directly for Ginny. She tried to pull towards Fred and George but she couldn't move. The Ravenscars grabbed her and dragged her out of the group. Lupin tried to make a grab for Ginny but he too was thrown back. Snape watched her go, his face unreadable.
Dumbledore shouted, "Stop, enough Rosenna!" Rosenna turned to Dumbledore, her face sneering. "You want me to stop? You know what you have to do." Dumbledore's eyes met Harry's. Harry shook his head, his eyes wide with fear. Dumbledore turned back to Rosenna, his face firm. "I will not kneel before a monstrosity like you Rosenna. But I promise you, harm anymore of my friends and students and you will pay." He spoke perfectly calmly and with no threat in his voice. It was simply a statement.
Rosenna just stared at him for a moment, her face turning ugly again. She nodded once and then snapped. "Bring her to me!" Ron tried to move forward but the spell was holding him back. Harry grabbed his friend, trying to support him. "Don't! Oh God, Ginny - ". Ron covered his face with his hand and sobbed. Harry shouted "Malfoy!" Draco looked up and blinked at Harry. Harry pointed furiously at Ginny. The Ravenscars made no attempt to stop him so he screamed, "Help her!" Malfoy just stared at Harry and then looked back down at Selina. "Malfoy! Please!" Harry shouted. Malfoy looked at him again and shook his head. He then turned back to his dead lover. He hadn't even closed her eyes. He couldn't give her peace, couldn't let her go.
Ginny was now kneeling at Rosenna's feet, both Ravenscars holding her down. She looked straight up at the evil witch. She was terrified but doing her best not show it. Rosenna looked up at Harry again. "Is this girl a special friend Harry? Like Luna was?" She laughed as Harry surged forward with fury but was thrown back by the barrier. Dumbledore helped Harry up. "Do not show your anger Harry. You must stay calm. The Ravenscars are feeding off our anger. It makes them stronger." Harry nodded but he glared at Rosenna. "I'm going to kill her." Dumbledore put his hand on his shoulder. "Wait for the opportune moment Harry." Harry glanced at him.
Just then, Harry gasped with pain and grabbed his forehead. Ron and Hermione were straight by his side. "What wrong?" Hermione hissed. "Scar," Harry stammered. Dumbledore spun round to Voldemort, who was smiling. "Problems Potter?" He asked. Rosenna chuckled. "Stop Tom." Dumbledore said clearly. The pain increased and Harry screamed. "Sorry, what was that Dumbledore?" Voldemort sneered. Snape had arrived at Harry's side and Voldemort stared at him. "Concentrate Potter." Snape said slowly and carefully. "Fight against him, throw him out of your head. You became too emotional and let him in. Shut him out, permanently." Harry's eyes met Snape's, which were unblinking. Harry began to fight back. The pain was getting fainter and he could hear Voldemort gasp in surprise. Harry shut his eyes tightly and used all the skills he had learnt from Snape and Dumbledore in one last effort. He heard Voldemort yell with pain and then his head was clear. He fell to his knees, trying to catch his breath.
Voldemort was also on his knees, watching Harry with shock on his face. He then got to his feet and deadly rage came over him. His eyes met Snape's. "Bring him here," he ordered to two Ravenscars. They obeyed, pushing into the crowd and grabbing Snape. He was then thrown at Voldemort. "Don't hurt him Tom!" Dumbledore shouted and was once again forcing his way through the barrier. Rosenna was watching all of this with interest, Ginny still kneeling at her feet. She was unhurt but was now trembling. Rosenna called to Dumbledore in a singsong voice. "Make another step and she dies Albus." Ron looked at Dumbledore, his eyes pleading. Dumbledore stopped. He stared at Snape, concern and fear on his face.
Voldemort was watching his old servant closely. "It was you helping the boy against me Severus, is that correct?" Snape just watched Voldemort. The Dark Lord backhanded Snape hard across the face, knocking him back. Dumbledore jumped forward in anger but Harry grabbed his arm. "Please Sir?" Dumbledore looked at him and then stared down at the floor.
"I asked you a question Severus," Voldemort said quietly. "Yes My Lord," Snape answered, his face pale. "James Potters son Severus?" Snape looked down. "You and I both know what James Potter did to you Severus and how his friends would laugh." Lupin and Harry both looked down. "Did Dumbledore want to help you then?" Snape was watching Voldemort. "I helped you Severus. I took you in. I gave you a home away from your enemies. I taught you power that you couldn't have imagined before. And I allowed you to torture James Potter for hours before you were found. And now, you protect his son from me." Severus was swallowing hard, not daring to look at Dumbledore. Voldemort moved closer to him. "I can help you again if you will let me, make you even more powerful then before. Join me Severus. Together, we will control this world and James Potter's son will be begging at your feet before we are through with him. Join Narcissa and Peachy, Severus, or return to your doomed friends and die with them. Its up to you."
Snape was now looking at Dumbledore, who was watching his Potions master closely. Harry felt very uneasy. The look on Snape's face was unreadable. "Come here Severus." Dumbledore said clearly. "Don't listen to his lies my boy. You are stronger than he is. Come here." There was a war going on inside Snape, and Harry could see he was going through hell. Finally, he walked slowly towards Dumbledore. Voldemort hissed with anger whilst Dumbledore smiled with relief. "Stand beside me and Lupin, Severus, it's where you belong." Snape froze. He stared at Dumbledore in surprise and then turned to look at Lupin. "I don't belong beside that Werewolf Dumbledore. The creature that tortured me many years ago, with that Whelps father." He pointed at Harry, saying his words with venom. He looked back at Dumbledore. "Maybe I don't belong with you after all." Voldemort laughed. "Good Boy Severus, join us. As you say, you belong with me." Snape just stared at Dumbledore. "I'm sorry." He whispered and then turned away from his saviour. "Severus!" Snape ignored him. "Professor Snape!" Dumbledore screamed. Snape turned slowly back to Dumbledore. "Find yourself a new Potions Master Dumbledore." He then stepped beside Narcissa, who smiled at him happily. "Lucius would be delighted Severus." She whispered and took his hand. He squeezed hers.
Rosenna was laughing loudly. "Aww, are you heart broken Albus?" He frowned at her, the pain evident on his face. "Watch this!" She hissed and clamped her down on Ginny's head. Ginny screamed in agony and writhed from the pain. Ron shouted in fury and both him and Harry tried to force their way through the barrier but were frown back. Dumbledore stared helplessly as Ginny's screams grew fainter. "Very well Rosenna!" Dumbledore suddenly shouted. Rosenna looked up at him. "You want me to kneel, I'll kneel. Release her." Rosenna giggled and lifted her hand. Ginny was barely conscious and tears were running down her face. She fell to the ground at Rosenna's feet, clutching her head. Rosenna looked at Dumbledore, waiting.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and the rest of Dumbledore's army stared in horror as Dumbledore slowly got down to his knees. All the Death Eaters except Malfoy and Snape cheered and jeered. Voldemort slowly clapped his hands. Harry covered his face with his hands. Rosenna moved back into the centre of the room to stand beside her Lord. Rosenna then turned to her Ravenscars. "Kill all of them, except for Harry Potter, he can watch his friends die. Bring him to us. You understand?" Each of them spoke in husky, breathy voices. "We do Madam," and they began to move forward.
Dumbledore instantly moved in front of Harry and Ron and Hermione did the same. Lupin and Tonks moved closer together, ready for what they presumed would be their last fight. Ron glanced worriedly at Ginny who still laid where she had fallen. She hadn't moved at all. Ron prayed that she was still alive. He glanced over at Fred and George and they nodded grimly to him. A Ravenscar reached out with its spidery, clawed hand to Harry and Dumbledore raised his wand. At that moment, Hermione screamed in shock. Everyone looked at her, including Rosenna and Voldemort. Hermione was pointing shakily at something behind Voldemort and both Dark Lord and Lady swung around and stared in horror.
Neville Longbottom had got to his feet and was staring at Rosenna calmly. She stared back but was shaking with rage and fear. She seemed rooted to the spot and couldn't even speak. Voldemort took a step back. The Ravenscar had froze, his hand still outstretched towards Harry. Harry moved away from the creature and was surprised it didn't follow him. He realised that all the other Ravenscars had stopped in their tracks too. Harry looked back at Neville, relief washing over him. He couldn't believe Neville was still alive. After all, his throat had been slashed from ear to ear. It was then that Harry realised that something was not quite right with Neville. He look fine but at the same time very pale. The wound in his throat seemed to have healed but blood was still dripping from it. Harry couldn't understand what was going on. He glanced over at Dumbledore, who was watching Neville intently. He had a strange look on his face, one of recognition. Ron had put his arm around Hermione, comforting her after her shock. Snape looked like he was going to faint. He and the other Death Eaters were waiting for commands from their masters.
Neville continued to move toward Rosenna, finally coming to a stop right in front of her. "Call your puppies off Rosenna." Rosenna scoffed and shook her head. She did not appear to have retrieved the ability to talk. Voldemort continued to stare, all colour had drained from his face. Neville smiled to her. "Very well." He then waved his hand and all the Ravenscars were flung across the room. Each of them bounced off the walls and dropped to the ground where the lay, unmoving. Rosenna mumbled something under her breath. Neville smiled. "Oh, its possible my old friend and YOU and him made it happen." Neville glanced at Voldemort and then his eyes met Harry's. "Hello again Harry." He said and Harry smiled. Harry took a step forward and suddenly realised, the barrier had been lifted, and they were freed. He moved forward but Neville raised a hand. "Please do not interfere Harry, I must finish this, as I should have done so many years ago." He turned back to Rosenna. "This time there will be no coming back," he told her firmly. She threw back her head and laughed. "You think you will be able to stop me old fool? Rowena isn't here this time, it's just you and me." Neville nodded. "And that's all I need."
Voldemort gave a cry of anger and made a grab for Harry, taking Dumbledore by surprise. Harry gasped in pain as Voldemort grabbed his wrist and dragged him away from the others. "Whatever is about to happen Potter, I WILL be rid of you now!" He raised his wand. Dumbledore rushed forward but was grabbed by Snape. "Severus!" he gasped but Snape just gazed with dead eyes. Just as Voldemort was about to cast the killing charm, he was sent flying back by a spell from Neville. Snape was also thrown clear. They and the other Death Eaters realised that they were now unable to move. Tonks, Shacklebolt and Lupin rushed forward, covering them with their wands. Snape glared up at Lupin with hatred and Lupin returned the look with just as much venom. Voldemort merely stared at Neville with shock. Neville then turned and waved his hand in the direction of Ginny. Harry was relieved to see her stir and slowly sit up. She covered her mouth with her hand at the sight of Neville, disbelief on her face. Dean rushed forward, helped Ginny up and pulled her out of harms way.
Rosenna had transformed into her grotesque, furious self and she was snarling at Neville. "Lets finish this now, Godric." She shrieked at him. "As you wish Rosenna," he replied calmly and turned to face her. Hermione was staring at Harry, open-mouthed. Ron was smiling at him. The rest of the order were whispering excitedly. Harry heard Fred shout in shock, "What did she just bloody well say?!" Despite himself, Harry laughed. He met Dumbledore's eyes for a moment and they nodded to each other. Their hope had finally arrived.
Thanks to my beta Victoria for checking over this chapter. If there are less mistakes than usual and you think it reads better, then it's all thanks to her! You're a star mate, cheers.
Thanks to these reviewers:
Nesia - I wanted to make Draco really interesting my story, I love his character so much and I didn't think he could be all bad! Just wait and see what Im going to do with him next! Please keep reading, thanks mate.
Claire - Thanks for reading and leaving the lovely compliments. I hope you keep reading and letting me know what you think! Thanks again.
crazy-weasley - See, it didn't keep you waiting to long! Please review again.
Ears91 - Thanks for the comments, hope you like this chapter.
Katani Petitedra - I can't wait to see what you make of this chapter, please review again.
Dreamer43 - Its always good to get your comments as you've reviewed nearly every chapter and the story is coming to end now. Thanks so much.
Danielle - Thanks for the review, I really appreciate it. Ah, I have special plans for Rosenna don't worry! And as for Neville, you'll have to read on! Enjoy.
Chapter 31 - The Return of Gryffindor
Rosenna finally stopped laughing and smiled first at Dumbledore and then Harry. "Welcome my friends," she said, her eyes twinkling, "to my coming home party." Voldemort laughed at this and took Rosenna's hand in his.
Dumbledore took a step forward and Hermione and Ron moved closer to Harry. "You have not won yet Rosenna," Dumbledore said, frowning at her. She laughed again.
Voldemort chuckled and turned to Harry. "Don't you want to come and retrieve your little friend Potter?" He then gave Neville a vicious kick. Harry clenched his fists and actually took a step towards Voldemort. Ron grabbed him. "Don't Harry," he hissed in his ear. "Neville is dead, you can't help him." Harry didn't say anything, shutting his eyes tightly. "Its all my fault Ron!" Harry gasped. "Don't be stupid Harry. If it's anyone's fault, it's mine. We need you Harry, please." Harry continued to gaze at Neville's body and watching his friend's blood continue to spread across the floor. "So much blood," Hermione muttered. Harry took her hand. "Ron's right," he whispered, "got to stay strong." She nodded, but tears were pouring down her face.
At that moment, at least a dozen Ravenscars appeared in the room, completely surrounding the group behind Dumbledore. They all raised their hands and chanted under their breaths. Harry realised he couldn't move any closer to Rosenna or Voldemort. He glanced at those around him including Hermione and Ron and saw that they were the same. Panic engulfed him.
The Ravenscars then stood completely still, waiting for Rosenna's commands. She was moving around the room, touching objects and furniture and laughing happily. "Tom, it is so good to feel alive again!" He nodded. "I remember how that felt Rosenna. It will feel even better when you hurt your enemies." He smirked at Harry.
Rosenna glided back up to Voldemort and took his hand. She turned back to the group in front of her, who were all waiting for Dumbledore to make a move. "Let me tell you all what is about to happen. You will each get down on your knees and worship me, or if you don't, you will all die a slow and horrible death. I will make sure to kill you one at a time and the others will be forced to watch. Choose, my 'friends'."
There was uneasy murmuring from the group but no one moved. Dumbledore continued to stare at Rosenna, his blue eyes unblinking. She stared back. Voldemort was obviously becoming restless. "My dear, we must join together." She smiled at him. "Soon," she whispered. "So, you have made your decisions. As you wish."
She waved her hand and two of the Ravenscars moved forwards. They grabbed Mad Eye Moody and pulled him, whilst he fought angrily, towards Rosenna. He was then thrown at her feet. She smiled sweetly at him. Dumbledore surged forward, actually forcing his way through the Ravenscars barrier, desperate to get to his friend. Rosenna glanced up once, waved her hand and Dumbledore was thrown back by her magic. Snape and Lupin grabbed him, keeping him on his feet. Voldemort laughed loudly. His Death Eaters including Peachy, Wormtail and Narcissa now surrounded him. Flint was stood beside Malfoy, who was still on the floor, cradling Selina's body.
Rosenna touched Moody's scruffy hair gently. She then met Dumbledore's eyes. "You want to stop this, Albus? It's easy. Get down on your knees. Set an example." He glared back at her. "Very well." She said with a sigh and shut her eyes, her hand on Moody's head. He began to moan and then scream. Smoke was coming from Rosenna's hand. Finally, Moody let out one more shriek and then fell forward and landed on the ground heavily. Rosenna smiled at the shocked faces of the students and Order in front of her. "Who's next?" She asked, gleefully.
There was a cry of panic from Dumbledore's army. Cho was kneeling on the floor howling. "I don't want to die!" she screamed over and over. "Shut up!" hissed Ginny who was stood next to her, trying to pull her to her feet. "Please." Cho continued to beg pathetically. Rosenna laughed. "It seems one of your little team has a brain Dumbledore. She then turned to Cho. "Step forward my dear and join Marcus and Draco. Your life will be spared." Cho nodded violently, tears still streaming down her face. She pushed Ginny away, almost knocking her to the floor and surged through the crowd, all of them trying to stop her. Finally, she arrived near the front and her eyes met Harry's. "Move out of my way!" She shouted at him. "We can't win this Harry. You are not going to be the boy who lived for much longer! You are going to DIE!" She had now become hysterical.
Harry very calmly pointed his wand at her and said, "Stupefy." Cho cried out in surprise and then fell into Harry's arms. He dumped her on the ground and turned back to Rosenna. "No one will be joining you bitch, if I have to stun everybody, I will." Dumbledore actually gave Harry a small smile. This show of bravery seemed to have a good affect on the rest of the army as well. They had seen Harry standing up to the very powerful being in front of him and it had livened them all up. They all raised their wands and waited for Dumbledore's order to fight.
Rosenna's eyes were now on Harry and Harry alone. How she hated this boy! She waved her hand furiously at Harry and he cried in pain. He was then flung forward towards Voldemort. Voldemort went to grab him but Dumbledore was quicker. He waved his wand and cried "reversa" and Harry was thrown back towards him. Dumbledore then moved in front of Harry, ready to protect him from any further attacks. Ron and Hermione quickly rushed to join Dumbledore and Harry; both of them had their wands ready.
Now Ron was at the front, he noticed Malfoy for the first time. He muttered "bastard," and raised his wand. He remembered how Malfoy had had Ron on his knees, begging him for the name of his brother's killer. How he had tortured Ron and made him hurt the people he loved. He was going to make Malfoy pay. Just as he was about to shout the curse, Malfoy look up and stared straight at Ron. Hermione and Harry saw the look too. Malfoys eyes were bright red and his face was tear stained. Malfoy was broken and Ron just couldn't curse him. It would have been like putting a dog down. Malfoy looked away from Ron and gently touched Selina's hair again, rocking her body backwards and forwards.
Harry looked up at Voldemort. "You killed Selina. Why?" Voldemort laughed. "You care Potter?" Harry glared at him. "She was loyal to you." Voldemort nodded. "Yes, but sweet Draco needed reminding whom his loyalty was with." Harry felt sick and glanced back at Malfoy. He knew how it felt to lose a loved one like that and he also realised he couldn't hate Malfoy at that moment.
Rosenna was losing her patience. "I am offering you all the chance to live. You will all be more powerful than you could ever imagine. Why stand beside a senile old man and a pathetic little boy and die with them. Look." She grabbed Neville by the hair and pulled his head up. The hug cut across his neck displayed to all of them. "This boy was your hope, the Heir of Gryffindor and look what we did to him. Join us!" She then dropped Neville to the floor again and stared at the army. They continued to look back. Rosenna swung round to face Harry, her face twisted with fury. "If this is really what you all want, then die," she hissed.
Her face then transformed again into it's usual beautiful self and she gave Harry a strange look. She then beckoned to her Ravenscars and snapped at them; "a young one this time." They once again moved into the group and this time moved directly for Ginny. She tried to pull towards Fred and George but she couldn't move. The Ravenscars grabbed her and dragged her out of the group. Lupin tried to make a grab for Ginny but he too was thrown back. Snape watched her go, his face unreadable.
Dumbledore shouted, "Stop, enough Rosenna!" Rosenna turned to Dumbledore, her face sneering. "You want me to stop? You know what you have to do." Dumbledore's eyes met Harry's. Harry shook his head, his eyes wide with fear. Dumbledore turned back to Rosenna, his face firm. "I will not kneel before a monstrosity like you Rosenna. But I promise you, harm anymore of my friends and students and you will pay." He spoke perfectly calmly and with no threat in his voice. It was simply a statement.
Rosenna just stared at him for a moment, her face turning ugly again. She nodded once and then snapped. "Bring her to me!" Ron tried to move forward but the spell was holding him back. Harry grabbed his friend, trying to support him. "Don't! Oh God, Ginny - ". Ron covered his face with his hand and sobbed. Harry shouted "Malfoy!" Draco looked up and blinked at Harry. Harry pointed furiously at Ginny. The Ravenscars made no attempt to stop him so he screamed, "Help her!" Malfoy just stared at Harry and then looked back down at Selina. "Malfoy! Please!" Harry shouted. Malfoy looked at him again and shook his head. He then turned back to his dead lover. He hadn't even closed her eyes. He couldn't give her peace, couldn't let her go.
Ginny was now kneeling at Rosenna's feet, both Ravenscars holding her down. She looked straight up at the evil witch. She was terrified but doing her best not show it. Rosenna looked up at Harry again. "Is this girl a special friend Harry? Like Luna was?" She laughed as Harry surged forward with fury but was thrown back by the barrier. Dumbledore helped Harry up. "Do not show your anger Harry. You must stay calm. The Ravenscars are feeding off our anger. It makes them stronger." Harry nodded but he glared at Rosenna. "I'm going to kill her." Dumbledore put his hand on his shoulder. "Wait for the opportune moment Harry." Harry glanced at him.
Just then, Harry gasped with pain and grabbed his forehead. Ron and Hermione were straight by his side. "What wrong?" Hermione hissed. "Scar," Harry stammered. Dumbledore spun round to Voldemort, who was smiling. "Problems Potter?" He asked. Rosenna chuckled. "Stop Tom." Dumbledore said clearly. The pain increased and Harry screamed. "Sorry, what was that Dumbledore?" Voldemort sneered. Snape had arrived at Harry's side and Voldemort stared at him. "Concentrate Potter." Snape said slowly and carefully. "Fight against him, throw him out of your head. You became too emotional and let him in. Shut him out, permanently." Harry's eyes met Snape's, which were unblinking. Harry began to fight back. The pain was getting fainter and he could hear Voldemort gasp in surprise. Harry shut his eyes tightly and used all the skills he had learnt from Snape and Dumbledore in one last effort. He heard Voldemort yell with pain and then his head was clear. He fell to his knees, trying to catch his breath.
Voldemort was also on his knees, watching Harry with shock on his face. He then got to his feet and deadly rage came over him. His eyes met Snape's. "Bring him here," he ordered to two Ravenscars. They obeyed, pushing into the crowd and grabbing Snape. He was then thrown at Voldemort. "Don't hurt him Tom!" Dumbledore shouted and was once again forcing his way through the barrier. Rosenna was watching all of this with interest, Ginny still kneeling at her feet. She was unhurt but was now trembling. Rosenna called to Dumbledore in a singsong voice. "Make another step and she dies Albus." Ron looked at Dumbledore, his eyes pleading. Dumbledore stopped. He stared at Snape, concern and fear on his face.
Voldemort was watching his old servant closely. "It was you helping the boy against me Severus, is that correct?" Snape just watched Voldemort. The Dark Lord backhanded Snape hard across the face, knocking him back. Dumbledore jumped forward in anger but Harry grabbed his arm. "Please Sir?" Dumbledore looked at him and then stared down at the floor.
"I asked you a question Severus," Voldemort said quietly. "Yes My Lord," Snape answered, his face pale. "James Potters son Severus?" Snape looked down. "You and I both know what James Potter did to you Severus and how his friends would laugh." Lupin and Harry both looked down. "Did Dumbledore want to help you then?" Snape was watching Voldemort. "I helped you Severus. I took you in. I gave you a home away from your enemies. I taught you power that you couldn't have imagined before. And I allowed you to torture James Potter for hours before you were found. And now, you protect his son from me." Severus was swallowing hard, not daring to look at Dumbledore. Voldemort moved closer to him. "I can help you again if you will let me, make you even more powerful then before. Join me Severus. Together, we will control this world and James Potter's son will be begging at your feet before we are through with him. Join Narcissa and Peachy, Severus, or return to your doomed friends and die with them. Its up to you."
Snape was now looking at Dumbledore, who was watching his Potions master closely. Harry felt very uneasy. The look on Snape's face was unreadable. "Come here Severus." Dumbledore said clearly. "Don't listen to his lies my boy. You are stronger than he is. Come here." There was a war going on inside Snape, and Harry could see he was going through hell. Finally, he walked slowly towards Dumbledore. Voldemort hissed with anger whilst Dumbledore smiled with relief. "Stand beside me and Lupin, Severus, it's where you belong." Snape froze. He stared at Dumbledore in surprise and then turned to look at Lupin. "I don't belong beside that Werewolf Dumbledore. The creature that tortured me many years ago, with that Whelps father." He pointed at Harry, saying his words with venom. He looked back at Dumbledore. "Maybe I don't belong with you after all." Voldemort laughed. "Good Boy Severus, join us. As you say, you belong with me." Snape just stared at Dumbledore. "I'm sorry." He whispered and then turned away from his saviour. "Severus!" Snape ignored him. "Professor Snape!" Dumbledore screamed. Snape turned slowly back to Dumbledore. "Find yourself a new Potions Master Dumbledore." He then stepped beside Narcissa, who smiled at him happily. "Lucius would be delighted Severus." She whispered and took his hand. He squeezed hers.
Rosenna was laughing loudly. "Aww, are you heart broken Albus?" He frowned at her, the pain evident on his face. "Watch this!" She hissed and clamped her down on Ginny's head. Ginny screamed in agony and writhed from the pain. Ron shouted in fury and both him and Harry tried to force their way through the barrier but were frown back. Dumbledore stared helplessly as Ginny's screams grew fainter. "Very well Rosenna!" Dumbledore suddenly shouted. Rosenna looked up at him. "You want me to kneel, I'll kneel. Release her." Rosenna giggled and lifted her hand. Ginny was barely conscious and tears were running down her face. She fell to the ground at Rosenna's feet, clutching her head. Rosenna looked at Dumbledore, waiting.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and the rest of Dumbledore's army stared in horror as Dumbledore slowly got down to his knees. All the Death Eaters except Malfoy and Snape cheered and jeered. Voldemort slowly clapped his hands. Harry covered his face with his hands. Rosenna moved back into the centre of the room to stand beside her Lord. Rosenna then turned to her Ravenscars. "Kill all of them, except for Harry Potter, he can watch his friends die. Bring him to us. You understand?" Each of them spoke in husky, breathy voices. "We do Madam," and they began to move forward.
Dumbledore instantly moved in front of Harry and Ron and Hermione did the same. Lupin and Tonks moved closer together, ready for what they presumed would be their last fight. Ron glanced worriedly at Ginny who still laid where she had fallen. She hadn't moved at all. Ron prayed that she was still alive. He glanced over at Fred and George and they nodded grimly to him. A Ravenscar reached out with its spidery, clawed hand to Harry and Dumbledore raised his wand. At that moment, Hermione screamed in shock. Everyone looked at her, including Rosenna and Voldemort. Hermione was pointing shakily at something behind Voldemort and both Dark Lord and Lady swung around and stared in horror.
Neville Longbottom had got to his feet and was staring at Rosenna calmly. She stared back but was shaking with rage and fear. She seemed rooted to the spot and couldn't even speak. Voldemort took a step back. The Ravenscar had froze, his hand still outstretched towards Harry. Harry moved away from the creature and was surprised it didn't follow him. He realised that all the other Ravenscars had stopped in their tracks too. Harry looked back at Neville, relief washing over him. He couldn't believe Neville was still alive. After all, his throat had been slashed from ear to ear. It was then that Harry realised that something was not quite right with Neville. He look fine but at the same time very pale. The wound in his throat seemed to have healed but blood was still dripping from it. Harry couldn't understand what was going on. He glanced over at Dumbledore, who was watching Neville intently. He had a strange look on his face, one of recognition. Ron had put his arm around Hermione, comforting her after her shock. Snape looked like he was going to faint. He and the other Death Eaters were waiting for commands from their masters.
Neville continued to move toward Rosenna, finally coming to a stop right in front of her. "Call your puppies off Rosenna." Rosenna scoffed and shook her head. She did not appear to have retrieved the ability to talk. Voldemort continued to stare, all colour had drained from his face. Neville smiled to her. "Very well." He then waved his hand and all the Ravenscars were flung across the room. Each of them bounced off the walls and dropped to the ground where the lay, unmoving. Rosenna mumbled something under her breath. Neville smiled. "Oh, its possible my old friend and YOU and him made it happen." Neville glanced at Voldemort and then his eyes met Harry's. "Hello again Harry." He said and Harry smiled. Harry took a step forward and suddenly realised, the barrier had been lifted, and they were freed. He moved forward but Neville raised a hand. "Please do not interfere Harry, I must finish this, as I should have done so many years ago." He turned back to Rosenna. "This time there will be no coming back," he told her firmly. She threw back her head and laughed. "You think you will be able to stop me old fool? Rowena isn't here this time, it's just you and me." Neville nodded. "And that's all I need."
Voldemort gave a cry of anger and made a grab for Harry, taking Dumbledore by surprise. Harry gasped in pain as Voldemort grabbed his wrist and dragged him away from the others. "Whatever is about to happen Potter, I WILL be rid of you now!" He raised his wand. Dumbledore rushed forward but was grabbed by Snape. "Severus!" he gasped but Snape just gazed with dead eyes. Just as Voldemort was about to cast the killing charm, he was sent flying back by a spell from Neville. Snape was also thrown clear. They and the other Death Eaters realised that they were now unable to move. Tonks, Shacklebolt and Lupin rushed forward, covering them with their wands. Snape glared up at Lupin with hatred and Lupin returned the look with just as much venom. Voldemort merely stared at Neville with shock. Neville then turned and waved his hand in the direction of Ginny. Harry was relieved to see her stir and slowly sit up. She covered her mouth with her hand at the sight of Neville, disbelief on her face. Dean rushed forward, helped Ginny up and pulled her out of harms way.
Rosenna had transformed into her grotesque, furious self and she was snarling at Neville. "Lets finish this now, Godric." She shrieked at him. "As you wish Rosenna," he replied calmly and turned to face her. Hermione was staring at Harry, open-mouthed. Ron was smiling at him. The rest of the order were whispering excitedly. Harry heard Fred shout in shock, "What did she just bloody well say?!" Despite himself, Harry laughed. He met Dumbledore's eyes for a moment and they nodded to each other. Their hope had finally arrived.
