Ok. Everyone knows the drill. Still here goes nothing -
Harry Potter & the other characters of J.K. Rowling are strictly hers (though this plot here is mine J). I am not the original writer (though I wish I could be) & I do not wish to make money from this. Most Importantly, I DO NOT want to get sued. So if anyone has any problems with anything I write, then just tell me.
There's plenty more...blah blah blah....forget it & let the story begin :).
Note: US English has been used here.
HARRY POTTER & THE POWER OF HOGWARTS
Chapter 6 – Prisoners of Azkaban
With a cold and commanding voice, which stunned both Remus and Tonks, Harry told them what they had feared most for the past months but had never thought would happen so soon, and now of all times.
"Remus, stay here with me. Tonks, go and contact the other Order members – Azkaban will be attacked within 10 minutes time from now."
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"WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?" Tonks shot up from her seat.
"I meant what I just said. Now go – we don't have time" Harry told her as calmly as he could.
"Look Harry – if this is a joke then it is a bad one" Remus interjected in between.
"Why the hell should I joke about such a thing Remus? Do you think I am mad? Azkaban will be attacked in 10 minutes, believe me."
"Are you sure Harry? I mean, you were just sitting there and then came up with this as if it's the most obvious thing." She said and continued "I just can't go to the headquartes and say that 'Harry asked me to tell you about an attack on Azkaban'." Apparently Tonks didn't believe what Harry had just said. "Plus we don't have Dumbledore here."
"WHAT??" this time the shout came from Harry. "Where is he?"
"He has gone to the International Conference of Wizards this morning. It was something very urgent – at least that's what he said" Remus replied, unsure of what to do now. He looked uncertainly at Harry and Tonks. An uneasy silence settled for some seconds.
Harry finally broke the silence. "TONKS…we have 9 more minutes. The death-eaters are gathering. If you don't believe me then go and find that slimy, greasy git. Ask him if he has been summoned or not." Harry was getting impatient now. "OR you can just sit there doing nothing. Just don't blame me later on." Harry turned away and marched up to his room. Seeing no other option left Tonks went out and apparated away.
In the meantime Harry had started to gather his required things. He revealed all the pockets in his pants. He then strapped one of Sirius's pistol holster onto his left arm (Harry had enchanted it to fit anywhere on his body). He loaded one of the guns using gold-colored bullet cartridges while the other had normal bullets. He put the pistol with the golden bullets in one of the empty pockets on the left hand side of his pant and was in the process of fitting the other pistol in the holster when Remus came in. One look at Harry gave Remus a clear idea of what Harry was up to.
"Harry, you sure about this? I mean, you really want to come with me?"
Harry felt grateful to Remus. At least his new godfather was treating him as an adult and not telling him off like a kid. He turned around to face Remus. His face showed nervousness as he opened his mouth.
"Remus, I want you to do something. I am going to Azkaban and you are going to stay here. When…"
"WHAT? ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?" Remus interjected, unable to believe what he had just heard.
He had got the expected reaction from Remus. This was going to be a bit difficult. "NO, I am not out of my mind. Look Remus, I have a plan. You know that you can't stop me – no one can, not today." Remus just stared blankly at Harry. He knew that Harry had made up his mind and there was no chance of his stopping him unless he used the full body-bind spell. "But you can help me out with my plan."
"What plan? Look Harry, I am not going to let you go there alone. I believe you that Azkaban will be attacked but I can't let you be alone." Remus's voice was defiant. "I am not planning to help you in a plan to get yourself killed."
"But I need you here. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT." Harry was beginning to getting annoyed. As calmly as he could, he continued "Would you have questioned Dumbledore if he had asked you to wait someplace?" Harry knew Remus wouldn't be able to give a fitting answer to this.
"I wouldn't. But you are no Dumbledore and I can't let you take such a risk. You know it as much as I do."
Harry looked at his watch – 6 minutes left.
"OK. OK. Calm down." It was more like Harry was trying to calm himself rather than Remus. He took a deep breath and started explaining "Look, there will be Order members there and if I am not mistaken, Tonks will inform the ministry aurors. So you see, you have nothing to be worried about." Harry was getting desperate but tried not to show it.
"Harry…" Remus said, fear apparent in his voice "…you know that they may never arrive in time. They could…"
"Remus!!! Hold on…HOLD ON. Let me explain." Harry checked his watch again – 5 minutes left. He went through his plan as quickly as possible. It was a good 3 minutes before he could finally persuade Remus to play along (phew).
2 minutes left.
"Harry, you have to be very careful – you know that, don't you?" it was the 12'th time Remus had said this in the past 3 minutes. If this went on for some more time then Harry was sure it would be some kind of a record. But he understood that Remus just wanted him to be safe. He could also guess what tension Remus was going through now.
"I know. But you know that you have to be careful too, right?" Remus nodded grimly in reply. "Ok then, how am I to get there?" Harry asked both himself and Remus. For the first time, both of them realized that this was the most basic question. "I can apparate based on co-ordinates" Harry said hopefully though he still was not confident he would be able to do it. Remus looked up at this – and smiled. He now understood that there were a lot of things which Harry had practiced over the summer though he failed to understand how he got so much time.
"Sorry Harry." Remus looked dejected "I don't know where Azkaban is"
1 minute left.
"Think Harry think" Harry was saying to himself. After a few seconds, Harry's face brightened "I HAVE A MAP IN THE LIBRARY. They must have it there."
"We can try it but I don't think it will be of any help." One part of Remus was urging him on to look at the map because he knew that it would be a good way to kill time. After all, Azkaban was magically hidden from the whole world. Looking at the map would mean they would lose time – during which, Remus hoped, the fight would be over. But another part of Remus pushed ahead to help Harry. He didn't want to disappoint Harry. He knew that Harry would blame him later on. His better half took over "Azkaban is magically hidden, Harry. You won't be able to find it on any map."
20 seconds left.
Harry was pacing around. He had almost broken into a sweat. He knew that a few of the death-eaters had arrived at Azkaban to check if the coast was clear or not. Remus, on the other hand was constantly glancing at Harry. He was still thinking whether letting him go was a good thing or not. He didn't want to lose the last member of his family.
10 seconds left.
"GOT IT." Harry screamed out so loudly that Remus had to cover his ears. aHaH
"DOBBY".
"Yes Harry Potter?" Dobby arrived promptly.
"Dobby – Remus is going to stun me and then you will take me to Azkaban, ok?" Dobby started trembling at the name of Azkaban. That was the place where all bad, dark wizards went along with those filthy creatures. Not waiting for a answer, Harry turned to Remus. Remus and Dobby exchanged a quick glance and knew that there was no arguing with Harry now. Remus raised his wand (2 seconds left) and said "STUPEFY"
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Tonks had apparated to as near to the HQ. as possible. She reached the place at a run and stumbled in.
"SEVERUS SNAPE" the sound shook the whole house but no answer came. Tonight a meeting had been scheduled to discuss some of the things which Dumbledore had asked the Order to take care of while he was gone. Fortunately, some of the Order members had arrived early. Molly Weasley came out and saw Tonks running around and shouting Snape's name.
7 minutes left.
"He's not here" Mrs. Weasley said with slight contempt in her voice. She had not forgotten the happenings of the previous meeting.
"Where is he? Where is he?" Tonks had grabbed hold of her hands. The look on Tonks face made Mrs. Weasley forget her anger "He…" She looked around to see that Ron, Ginny and the twins were looking at her expectantly. Tonks followed her gaze and understood.
"Molly, forget them. This is much bigger. Tell me where Snape is. NOW" she was speaking as fast as she could while keeping her words clear. She looked at her watch – 6 minutes left according to Harry.
Mrs. Weasley looked at Mr. Weasley who nodded his approval. "He has been summoned" she said at last. Tonks gave a squeak an stumbled back – both her hands flying to cover her face. Her worst fears had been confirmed – Harry had been right. She slowly looked around to see that there were around 10 Order members present. Getting a grip on herself, she decided on her course of action. "OK EVERYBODY – LISTEN TO ME" she shouted to everyone even though there was no need for it. Everybody had been following her antics for some time now. "WHERE IS MCGONAGALL & KINGSLEY?"
"We are both here Miss. Tonks" McGonagall said. Kingsley Shacklebolt was by her side. Apparently, they both had arrived just as Tonks was making her query.
5 minutes left.
In a commanding voice Tonks started handing out orders "Kingsley – contact Mad-Eye and all the other aurors you can. Apparate to Azkaban as soon as possible. Professor McGonagall – summon as many Order members as you can. We have to go to Azkaban at once."
"May I ask why Miss. Tonks?" Professor McGonagall asked. Somewhere deep down, she knew the answer but was hoping against hope.
4 minutes left.
"Azkaban will be attacked in 4 minutes time." Tonks spoke as she glanced at her watch. There was pin-drop silence in the room now. Even the twins had stopped whatever they were doing. Ron was gaping at Tonks while Hagrid just looked bewildered. Dung looked like he had just tasted his nick-namesake – dung. Tonks realized she had to do something right NOW. "HELLO!!! Didn't you hear what I said? Kingsley, GO NOW." The auror recovered and ran out.
"How do you know Nymphadora?" McGonagall was not pleased at hearing this news though, for once, Tonks didn't get angry at been called by her first name. She knew that now was not the time for it.
3 minutes left.
"Later, Professor, Later. Just – get – everybody – over – to – Azkaban - now." McGonagall nodded her head and started barking orders. Many firecalls had been made within a minute's time. The room started to fill in with members who were rushing in, still thinking that this was some kind of joke. Dumbledore had been unreachable. Seeing no hope, an owl was sent to Dumbledore with the writing Azkaban under attack. With a minute left, everybody (except for the junior's) left HQ's to go to the nearest place from where apparation was possible. With 20 seconds left, there was a rush of pop's near 1 Grimmauld place. Everyone had left with all of them muttering the same words – GOD HELP US.
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"Thanks Dobby. Now get back and help Remus." Dobby gave a grim nod and left. Harry looked around at the island which was named Azkaban. Dobby had brought him to just outside the apparation wards and enervated him. It was an easy thing for house-elves to pop to any place they wanted. Dobby could even pop inside Azkaban if needed but there was no way possible for him to bring Harry with him – the anti-apparation wards around Azkaban were one of the strongest around the world. There was no way a house-elf could take a wizard in or out of Azkaban.
Harry walked inside the magical protections, noticing that the guard positions were surprisingly vacant, and looked around. What he saw left him awestruck. Azkaban was one of the biggest castles he had ever seen. It seemed to cover the entire horizon behind it. It looked to be black in color and was about 80 storeys high. It had two huge towers in the front and Harry assumed that there were similar towers at the back too. The middle portion was a huge stretch of corridors and, what looked to Harry as, cells. The towers were positioned in such a way that anyone on a tower would be able to cover all the cells. Obviously, the towers were for guards. Harry could compare this to only one thing he had seen before on a book of Dudley's – the tower of Babel. But surprisingly (again), the whole place seemed deserted.
He was brought back to reality by the vibration around his chest. The wizard radar around Harry's neck had started vibrating very hard. The vibration was the strongest he had ever felt. It was as if someone was hammering at his chest for 10 seconds. He took it out and assumed that there were around 60 death-eaters locked in the prisons and around innumerable outside. Harry looked at the way each death-eaters position was now overlapping another one's. Looking around, he found the names of the Order members and some ministry aurors. "Thank god they have arrived" Harry thought. Suddenly, shouts could be heard all over the castle. Harry started running towards the entrance when he saw light flashes above. The fight at Azkaban had begun.
He ran into what seemed like the entrance, only to find that it led to the dungeons. After running around for about 30 seconds, he found a staircase going upwards. All of a sudden, he felt a slight tingle in his body. Unable to understand what it was, he continued running until he came to the 2'nd floor. Two wizards were fighting there when one of them got hit by a green light. Harry was just raising his wand when the hooded wizard laughed and vanished. He blinked for a few seconds and understood – the tingle which he had felt was because of the destruction of the anti-apparation wards of Azkaban. Well, he was now going to use it to his advantage. Harry apparated to the third floor. Finding nothing there, he apparated to the fourth floor. Two wizards, one of whom was dressed in black robes and was hooded, were fighting each other. They had not noticed Harry. Harry saw the other wizard getting stunned by the death-eater. The death-eater was about to apparate away when he noticed Harry. Both raised their wands and a duel started.
"Stupefy" Harry muttered under his breath. The power of the spell was not diminished this time, not after a month of practice.
"Protego"
Harry apparated away as his own spell came rebounding towards him. He appeared right behind the death-eater and muttered "Stupefy" for the second time. After stunning the death-eater, Harry took out the pistol (which held the golden bullets) from his pant pocket and fired a shot. He apparated away before the bullet had even pierced the left leg of his now-stunned opponent.
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Remus had been waiting for a few minutes now. Dobby was beside him. Both were dead worried about Harry. But they had to wait – it was what Harry wanted them to do. After about 2 minutes since Harry had left, a 'thud' announced the arrival of the first death-eater. Both Remus and Dobby used their own type of magic to bind the death-eater. They then leviated the wizard to a corner of the room – which had been charmed to make it impossible to apparate. Both Remus and Dobby started their wait all over again. At least, Harry's plan had been put to action.
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Harry found nothing else for another couple of floors. All the cells seemed empty too. After apparating to the 10'th floor he heard screams & shouts from above. He ran to the stairs to see flashes of light. Slowly but steadily he climbed to the 11'th floor – gun in the left hand and his wand in his right hand. From the amount of noise around, he knew that the 11'th and the 12'th floor were filled with people fighting. Later on, he understood that he had come to the location of the high-security prisons, where most of the death-eaters were being kept. As he came up, he found himself in the war-zone.
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All the Order members had apparated to just outside Azkaban. Some of the ministry aurors had accompanied Mad-Eye though many could not be contacted. According to what Tonks had said, the attack on Azkaban was supposed to begin in seconds. Mad-Eye took them to a secret entrance from where they were teleported to the 11'th floor. The 11'th and 12'th floor were the high-security prisons of Azkaban and if someone was going to attack Azkaban, they had to come here. After getting on the 11'th floor, McGonagall asked some of the members to go to the 12'th floor. Everyone waited as Tonks counted down to 0. Everyone looked around but found nobody. There were some collective sighs across the corridor. Hagrid was about to say something when Mad-Eye raised his hand. The first 'crack' sound announced the entry of a death-eater using a portkey. Everyone wondered how the anti-portkey barrier had been broken but knew that this was not the time when they would get their answers. All of a sudden, the air was filled with cracks and the Order and aurors started firing spells at random. The battle at Azkaban had begun.
About 30 seconds after the first 'crack', everyone felt the anti-apparation wards go down. All of them continued fighting and cursing Dumbledore inwardly for not being there.
McGonagall was dueling a hulk of a wizard who seemed to be moving around at ease before Moody stunned him. Tonks stunned 3 death-eaters and turned around to start her 4'th duel. Moody was trying to be at all places at once. It certainly wasn't helping him that his magical eye could see everyone who was in danger. He watched as Mundungus get stunned. A few of the Order members, who were from other countries, were also struck to the ground. More Order members and aurors were arriving to help them but they were horribly outnumbered. No one had guessed that Voldemort would have recruited so many death-eaters in such a small span of time. More and more death-eaters were been stunned but a large number of Order members had been lost too. Some had even been killed in this short span of time. Curses were flying everywhere mingled with one or two streaks of green light. Moody had just stunned another death-eater when his magical eye spotted something which sent shivers down his spine. A jet of green light was headed towards Minerva McGonagall.
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Tonks was fighting her fourth duel. She had stunned 3 death-eaters easily but this fourth one was a very difficult opponent. He had sent off a series of curses towards Tonks who had barely avoided them. Tonks then sent off four stunners in quick succession before apparating away from her opponent. The increased distance seemed to help her. She saw the death-eater send a jet of black light towards her and only barely managed to stay out of its path. The light hit the wall behind her causing portions of the wall to melt away. Tonks fired off advanced curses she had learnt in her auror classes. She failed to hit him with any of them. The death-eater then sent the killing curse towards her. She quickly apparated to the back of the death-eater and stunned him. Feeling relieved, she turned around – only to find a death-eater pointing his wand at her and muttering a curse. 'Shit' – she thought as she knew she didn't have any time to either apparate or put up a shield. But before she could think of anything else the death-eater stiffened and fell to the floor – leaving her facing Kingsley. He had seen her plight and stunned the death-eater.
"Thanks King. I owe you one." She smiled. But then she saw the smile on Kingsley face vanish, the expression replaced with one of true horror. She followed his gaze and was shocked. A ray of green light was heading towards Minerva McGonagall.
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Harry had just reached the 11'th floor when a body came flying towards him. He ducked just in time to see a stunned death-eater hit the wall behind him. He looked around to see that many people were down on the floor and, thankfully, no one had noticed his late entrance. The corridor of the 11'th floor was huge. It seemed to be the width of a football field and people were jumping all over the place, dueling. He stunned 2 death-eaters in quick succession and fired two bullets at them. He knew that sending a stunned death-eater was better than sending one who would fire a curse as soon as they landed at his home. At least, Remus and Dobby would have less to handle. He was fighting another death-eater when he saw a jet of green-light out of the corner of his eyes. He quickly flattened himself against the floor. The killing curse grazed his back and hit the death-eater who was fighting him. Harry quickly got up and turned at an angle of 45 degrees – all in one fluid motion. He was just in time to see a spell coming towards him. Almost subconsciously, he setup a shield with his glove, knowing fully well that the spell wasn't one of the unforgivables. The shield absorbed the spell and Harry felt as if his power had gone up a notch. He sent a strong stunning spell towards his opponent (he was still unable to preserver the power which he got from absorbing a curse on the shield). Almost simultaneously, he fired a round from his gun. His opponent never got the chance to feel the pain inflicted by the bullet or the pull behind his navel as the stunning spell hit him milliseconds before the bullet hit.
Harry turned and looked around. He saw Tonks dueling with someone, while Hagrid seemed to be throwing one of the death-eaters over the balcony of the 11'th floor. Moody was fighting another death-eater while McGonagall was dueling for her 8'th time. He saw McGonagall just in time to see her stun her opponent and take on another death-eater. She seemed to be gaining the upper hand when another death-eater, who had just killed a Order member, raised his (or her) wand. Harry saw the death-eater lip the alphabets "Ava…" when his instincts took over. He knew he had to do something and something quick. Without even thinking, he apparated to inches to the left of McGonagall where, out of the corner of his eye, he saw a jet of green light speeding towards them.
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Moody was oblivious to all that was happening around. He knew it was a matter of a few milliseconds before the inevitable happened – Minerva would be dead. Just as he had given up all hope (he was praying with all his might that McGonagall would unknowingly move out of the way) he saw a average sized wizard apparate just inches from her. He saw the wizard throw himself at McGonagall. Both the wizard and McGonagall rolled on the floor as the green light hit McGonagall's opponent. The wizard turned around on the floor and sent a string of curses towards the death-eater. McGonagall was too stunned to get up. The wizard and the death-eater were engaged in a very fast and furious duel. Moody took this opportunity to apparate beside McGonagall and helped her up.
"What happened?" McGonagall's voice was unstable.
"That guy just saved you." Moody said, pointing towards the wizard who was fighting the death-eater. "That death-eater had sent the killing curse at you when he apparated to your left and threw you down."
"Who is he? I don't think he is in the Order. He also doesn't seem to be wearing auror clothes." McGonagall had recovered by now. She was now able to think properly again after learning how close she had been to death.
"Dunno" Moody said as he started fighting another death-eater. McGonagall took on another one who had just stunned a auror. As Moody stunned another death-eater, he was thinking "How the hell did Potter get here?"
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Harry was very grateful when he saw (or rather felt) the green light passing over them. He had somehow managed to save Hogwarts the trouble of having to recruit a new Headmistress. He turned around and shot some spells so as to give him time to get up. By the time the death-eater had avoided his third spell, Harry was up on his feet. There was now a strange feeling in his chest. He knew he could do something. He knew that he could now save some people rather than be the reason they got killed. He had to survive and protect others. He had to live up to the expectations of his parents – and Sirius. He may not like being the Boy-Who-Lived but he would fulfill his responsibility. He knew that it was the way his parents would like it – it was the reason Sirius had come to save him. Responsibility. All of a sudden this new force seemed to be driving him – a force which constantly reminded him of his responsibility and which understood the fact that people may die in this war. But this force also made him make sure that he would minimize the losses of this war.
"Impedimenta" Harry muttered under his breath. No sooner was the curse on it's way to it's target that he apparated away. His opponent moved out of the way of the curse and saw Harry reappear about 20 feet from where he previously had been.
"Illud Legio" the man under the hood whispered a spell which caused the bones of a persons body break into innumerable pieces. He saw his target apparate away again.
"Ferveo Comburo" Harry said when he reappeared behind the death-eater. With satisfaction, he saw the spell hit the left arm of his target where there would now be painful burns.
The death-eater had become very angry. He was one of the best duelers and was hardly ever beaten. Even the Dark Lord had said that he was his finest servant along with Bellatrix. How – could – a – simple – wizard – hit – him – with – a – spell? He also wondered that how come this wizard was SO fast. He wasn't getting enough time to even aim properly. "Reducto" he muttered under his breath. With satisfaction he saw that the spell would hit his opponent. But his satisfaction turned into surprise when he saw his spell vanish into thin air, inches from it target. He was sure that he had not seen his opponent mutter a spell to setup a shield.
"Stupefy" The death-eater barely managed to get out of the way. The power behind the spell made him concerned for the first time since this duel had begun. This was not going to be a walkover by any means.
"Visum Contorqueo" Harry muttered the Sight-Twister curse. Harry knew that his stunner would not hit it's target and had sent this curse as fast as he could. The death-eater stopped it with a 'Protego' shield. Harry rolled over his back and came up, resting on one of his knees while the other was folded.
"Econtra Dextera" the Reverse-Hand curse was sent on its way by Harry.
"Protego" "Perverto Mundus" two quick spells were cast by the death-eater. The second spell was supposed to make the targeted person see an illusion of the world being upside down.
Harry apparated away again to reappear closer to the death-eater. He fired off some curses and apparated away again. The death-eater apparated away and sent counter-curses towards Harry. Even though it was a duel for life and death, both seemed to be enjoying the competition.
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Remus had been waiting for over 4 minutes after the first prisoner had come in. He had grown restless and was worried.
"Damn, why did Harry have to use a muggle gun for propelling portkeys? Otherwise I could have persuaded him to stay and gone myself. I have to learn how to use a gun myself. Who knows what's happening there? Why…" Remus's thoughts were interrupted by a 'thud'. He and Dobby quickly secured the new prisoner. They were surprised when two quick 'thuds' announced new arrivals. Remus seemed to lighten up a bit. He seemed proud and happy – proud that Harry had stunned four death-eaters and happy for the fact that Harry was still ok (hopefully).
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Tonks and Kingsley were watching the duel between unknown wizard and the death-eater. They had seen how this wizard had save McGonagall's life. Neither knew that the wizard who was fighting so skillfully was Harry. They had never seen one who dodged curses so fast. It seemed that this guy had incredible reflexes. He also had an unconventional method of fighting – he apparated all over the place and shot curses at his opponent. Sometimes he would even reduce the distance between himself and his opponent, just to roll away at the last second.
"Who's that guy, King?"
"Dunno. But whoever it is – he knows what he is doing. That death-eater looks very good to me." Kingsley said.
"Yeah. That wizard – he isn't an auror, I am sure of that. He isn't in the Order, is he? There are so many foreigners that I have lost track of them." Tonks seemed a bit disappointed at not knowing the wizard personally. "But those two are REALLY good. I haven't seen a duel like this." Tonks was appreciating their skills. Her eyes flew wide when she saw the wizard apparate in mid-air near a pillar – his body bent at an angle of 45 degrees to the pillar – and shoot off a curse in mid-air. The wizard then kick-off the pillar to the other side of the corridor – just in time to avoid a hex sent by the death-eater. The death-eater seemed startled at this move but had managed to put up a strong shield to stop the curses from hitting him. She looked at Kingsley who seemed to be staring at the whole action.
"Wow…where did he learn THAT?" Kingsley said in appreciation. Tonks gave him a nudge and headed towards the 12'th floor. Kingsley followed her, glancing back for a last look at the action.
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"Neo Aranea" the death-eater cast a spell which would trap the target in a web. Harry jumped out of the way and disapparated in mid-air. He reappeared just inches from the death-eater and kicked him in his chest with all his strength. The death-eater stumbled and rolled over while Harry landed on one of his legs smoothly. Before Harry could cast another spell, the death-eater had his wand ready.
"Illud Concido" the death-eater pointed his wand towards the ceiling above Harry's head. Harry heard the sound of the spell hitting the target and portions of the ceiling falling down. He did the only thing which came to his mind – he put up a shield with his glove.
"Electriano Claustrum" Harry said, moving his wand in a very complex action. A bolt of electricity shot out. His opponent moved aside but not before a part of his robes had been pierced by the effect of Harry's spell. He had been surprised at Harry's choice of spells and his movements. This guy in front of him seemed to be above the skills of a normal wizard.
"Crucio" the death-eater was now getting fed up with this upstart. He had not expected someone to last that long against him.
Harry jumped out of the way and threw a spell as he was landing "Phoebus Coma". At once, the death-eater was blinded by the light. Harry saw his chance and tried to stun him only to see the death-eater apparating away microseconds before the stunner would have hit him. Harry looked around for the death-eater to reappear but he didn't.
"Shit. I almost had him" Harry groaned inwardly. He knew how close he had been to capturing one of the more powerful death-eaters. But deciding not to waste time, he started to take on a death-eater who had appeared before him. They fought for sometime before he too apparated away leaving a frustrated Harry behind. He looked around to see that the 11'th floor was more balanced now even though the fight was going on fiercely. The light wizards seemed to be matched at 1:2 now rather than what had seemed like 1:7 or 1:8 at the start. Harry saw Moody and McGonagall fighting off some more wizards while Hagrid seemed to be crushing 2 wizards simultaneously. The ministry aurors were also doing a fine job. He was about to engage in battle again when a fierce laughter rang out from the floor above him. Knowing the source of the laughter, Harry took off at full speed towards the stairs. He knocked down two wizards with the butt of his pistol as he reached the stairs. As he rushed up, he put the gun with the gold bullets into his pant pocket. He didn't want to portkey away the person whose laughter caused him so much pain. Rather he wanted to get rid of that person. For the first time in this battle, anger had overtaken him.
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Tonks and Kingsley had rushed up to the 12'th floor to find a disastrous scene awaiting them. Most of the ministry aurors were withering in pain while a few were still holding their ground. The number of death-eaters seemed to be too great for the aurors and the Order members to handle. They gave a nod to each other and lunged forward – each stunning a death-eater apiece. The morale of rest of the light wizards seemed to be lifted by this. In the few minutes, Tonks and Kingsley had stunned over 7 death-eaters. Still they knew that those stunned were the lesser skilled one's. Both started firing curses as each got engaged in a new battle. After a few more minutes, Tonks had defeated her opponent though Kingsley seemed to be having a tough fight. Tonks was about to go to Kingsley's help when a death-eater apparated right in front of her. To her horror she noticed that it seemed to be the same death-eater who had been fighting the unknown wizard on the 11'th floor. But as her luck would have it, this death-eater seemed to be covering his eyes as though he had been blinded. She quickly stunned him and apparated away.
As she apparated to another part of the corridor, Tonks saw one of the death-eaters attack Arthur Weasley. Mr. Weasley stunned him before starting to fight another one. Molly Weasley had her back to a wall while she was fighting away death-eaters. Though she was not a fast mover, her spells had enough power in them to take care of the average death-eater. Arthur Weasley was always around her, just in case someone too powerful chose to fight her. Right now, that seemed to be the case. Both Arthur and Molly Weasley were fighting off a single death-eater. After a long battle they were able to make him apparate away with an injured leg before they had the chance to stun him. Tonks was relieved to see that. But the next moment, a high pitched laughter was heard over all the others. Some even stopped fighting to see who it was. What Tonks saw made her feel giddy. She felt as if the ground had been moved away from under her. The source of the laughter stood about 50 feet away from her. But the real source of concern and tears for Tonks was what lay at the feet of the woman who had given off the high-pitched cold-blooded laughter – it was the dead body of Kingsley Shacklebolt.
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Mad-Eye Moody had also heard the laughter. His magical eye immediately searched for Harry. He knew that Harry would do anything to get back at the person who had caused so much grief to him. His worst fears were confirmed when he saw Harry rushing towards the stairs. As if on cue, all the death-eaters apparated away from the 11'th floor to the 12'th floor. All the light wizards exchanged a puzzled look and they too apparated away to the 12'th floor, aiming for the farthest corner of the corridor. McGonagall was about to take a step forward but Moody pulled her back. No one had noticed their arrival and he wanted to strike at the right time.
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"NOOOOOOOO. It can't be." Tonks screamed out. All eyes were now on Tonks. "Enervate" the woman in the black robes said, pointing to the wizard who had been stunned by Tonks before (the one who had a duel with Harry on the 11'th floor). She then looked around to see Tonks who had collapsed on her knees.
"Oh…Nymphadora Tonks. It's always such an emotional moment whenever I meet my blood-relatives. I really am touched to see you here." Bellatrix Lestrange said in a mocking voice, as she lowered her hood to reveal a face which was decorated by the most evil smile one could imagine (unless one had seen Voldemort himself). "Is this…oh…sorry…WAS this your boyfriend? But who would have a relationship with someone like you?" she seemed to be thinking aloud.
"Lestrange, you have spoken enough." Tonks had finally gotten up on her feet. "Lets see what you make out of ME." There was a grim determination on her face. Out of the corner of her eye she noticed that the remaining Order members and aurors (even the young wizard whom she didn't know, had just come running up) had gathered on the 12'th floor but she paid no heed to them. Everyone had stopped fighting and were looking at what was about to happen.
"OK. As you wish, my – dear – N Y M P H A D O R A" Bellatrix said. Before Tonks even had a chance to raise her wand Bellatrix was mouthing the words "Crucio".
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Harry had raced up to the 12'th floor. He looked around to see the awful mess around. It was sickening to see the dead bodies and the injured people lying around. He wanted to throw up but knew that he couldn't. This was not the time for it. This was the time for his revenge. He looked around to locate the source of the laughter. He then heard the evil voice speak again "OK. As you wish, my dear N Y M P H A D O R A". He saw Bellatrix raise her wand towards Tonks. No…he couldn't let anything happen to anyone…not Tonks of all people…he had to do something NOW. His mind was racing against time. He looked at the grim determination on Tonks face as she was raising her wand but he also saw the fear in her eyes. He understood that she knew she wouldn't be able to counter Bellatrix's curse in time. He faintly heard the beginning of the incantation "Cru…" and was relieved to know that it wasn't the killing curse. He also understood why Bellatrix was going to cruciate Tonks – she just loved to hurt people. She loved to torture people REAL bad before killing them. But he couldn't let her harm Tonks. He then did what his mind told him to do - he apparated right in front of Tonks.
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Moody saw what was happening. He saw Harry run up the stairs and stop – about a hundred feet from where Tonks was. None of them were able to hear the incantation as they were too far from the scene but Moody used his magical eye to see the movement of Bellatix's lips. He saw her mouthing the words "Crucio". As soon as he heard her say the word, he got the shock of his life – Harry had apparated right in front of Tonks. 'Shit' was all he said under his breath.
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Tonks had heard the incantation clearly. She knew what was about to hit her and she knew very well that she wouldn't be able to cast any spell before the curse hit her. She prepared herself for the pain which she knew would be coming – pain which was beyond the description of words – which made one wish they were dead rather than having to live through this pain. But she couldn't give up. Not for Sirius, not for Kingsley. She wouldn't give up. She continued to raise her wand when it was abruptly brought down by a body apparating in front of her from nowhere. The person had stuck out both his hands and pushed her away. Before Tonks could do anything, she found herself lying on the floor, about 10 feet to the left of where she had been previously, and saw a screaming, withering body at the place where she would have been. She then noticed that it was the same unknown wizard she had seen before.
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As Harry reached Tonks, he pushed her away. He knew that he didn't have the time to jump out of the way. As the spell hit him, he saw that Tonks was out of the way. The next thing he knew was pain – pain tearing him from head to toe like a hundred knives plunging into him. But this pain was considerably less than what he had felt when Voldemort had cruciated him. After all, Voldemort was much more powerful than Bellatrix. Plus he was wearing dragon-hide clothes. Though the pain was bearable to an extent, he didn't show it. He wanted to take Bellatrix by surprise. All he wanted to do now was to somehow hold onto his wand and he thanked god when he felt the holly wood stick still in-between his fingers. At least, he had held onto his wand despite all this pain. At least, until now.
"AAAAAAAAAAAggggggggggggggggg…" Bellatrix shouted in anger as she ended the spell. "WHO DARED TO COME BETWEEN ME AND MY PREY?" she bellowed. It seemed that she thought someone had denied her a very fundamental human right. She watched as Harry slowly and painfully got up with his back towards her. "HOW DARE YOU NOT ANSWER ME?" the voice could be heard all over Azkaban. No one moved a muscle. The aurors knew they were outnumbered by far too many while Mad-Eye held the other group back where he had cast a disillusionment charm on everyone. Tonks just lay where she had been thrown down. She saw the wizard in front of her straighten to his full height and noticed for the first time that something was common about him. Even in the darkness which covered up most of his face, something definitely was familiar about him. She saw the wizard turn around to look Bellatrix in the eye. It had started raining outside by now. A flash of lightning made her heart leap into her mouth. Even for the briefest moment possible, there was no mistaking that unruly black hair – not after she had observed it so closely and had wanted to run her hands through it more than once. She looked around and gulped. Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived was surrounded by over 40 death eaters and he was facing one of the most feared and powerful death-eater.
"THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE – WHO ARE YOU?" Bellatrix had her wand pointed towards Harry.
"It's such a pity that Voldemort's most trusted servant can't even recognize his worst enemy." Harry mocked her. Throughout the hall, shivers ran through people at the mention of the dark lord's name. "How can you bring me to him if you can't even recognize me?" Harry watched as he saw the recognition dawn on Bellatrix's face.
"Harry Potter"
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"Harry Potter? Alastor, what does it mean?" McGonagall was beside herself in fear and panic. Dumbledore would be mad at her if something happened to Harry. They had taken every precaution in the world for the past 5 years to keep this boy safe only for him to ruin it up in one night. Maybe this one someone else – god let this be someone else. "Alastor?"
"It means what you understand Minerva." Alastor moved one pace forward with his wand raised. The others followed his actions. They knew his first move would be the signal for the final attack tonight – maybe even the final attack ever for many of them.
On the other end, Molly Weasley was going mad. What was Harry doing here? She wanted to rush out to him but Arthur Weasley held her back. He was the more sensible of the two of them. He trusted Harry's decision making and did not want to interfere. He knew that both of them could end up losing their lives without being able to help Harry. They had to wait now. Nothing could be done, at least not now.
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"Harry Potter. How dare you come in between us?" Bellatrix was still beside herself in anger.
"How dare I? Really Lestrange, it is my business and birth-right to come between all you and your half-blood lord does." Harry maintained his mocking tone though his body was still hurting a lot.
"STOP BOY. How dare you speak about the dark lord like that? I will make you pay for it." Bellatrix aimed her wand again but then her lips curled up in a smile – she could also play the insult game. "Potty boy, how is your godfather? Oops, I forgot…I accidentally killed him." She made her tone as insulting as possible for a human being.
"I know Lestrange. That's why I am here. I want to make sure that you don't do that to anyone else"
In a sing-song tone, which caused even many death-eaters to shiver, she said "I could do it to you if you ask me nicely." Bellatrix's voice made every bit of Harry's body tremble with anger but his subconscious mind calmed him.
"I don't think Tom would like it." Harry said much to the bewilderment of many people around. Many death-eaters didn't even know who Tom was. "By the way, why did Tom send you all? Is he too afraid to come here himself?"
"MIND YOUR TONGUE BOY. DON'T YOU DARE TALK ABOUT THE DARK LORD LIKE THAT. You are not worthy enough for that." Bellatrix's voice was filled with anger now. Harry knew that the time for his attack will be soon. Keeping his eyes on Bellatrix, he said "Tonks, would you please go over there while I and Lestrange have a private chat?" The tone of his voice was more of a statement than a question. Tonks, who had been silently watching all this, nodded her head and apparated away, even though she wanted to stay beside Harry and help him. Relieved that no one else would get hurt right now, Harry got ready for the attack. He knew that as long as Bellatrix was in front of her, none of the other death-eaters would fight him. No one wanted to be at the receiving end of Bellatrix's anger for taking away her prey from her. As Harry was speaking to Tonks, Bellatrix continued to meet his gaze. Once Tonks apparated away, Harry shouted "TONKS. I asked you to go away. This is between me and Lestrange. Why did you apparate to her back? Now lower your wand and go away."
"What?" Bellatrix said, turning her head to see who was behind her. Harry had been waiting just for this. The aching in his body had gone down sufficiently for him to start his quick movements again. Though he knew Bellatrix was ruthless and cunning, he still had hoped that this trick might work. And it did. As Bellatrix was turning her head backwards, Harry had flicked his left arm, causing the gun, with the normal bullets, to come sliding down. None of the death-eaters notice this. All of them were expecting Harry to use his wand. As soon as Bellatrix saw that no one was behind her, she was filled with rage. She knew that she had fallen for the centuries old trick but what caused her anger to go up two more notches was that she had been tricked by Harry Potter – a 16 year old kid. She quickly turned her head, noticing Harry's left hand coming up. Relief washed over her – apparently the kid had been unable to use this time to raise his wand. But the relief was for a fraction of a second only. She faced Harry just in time to see 2 bullets being fired out of a muggle weapon and saw Harry apparate away.
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The corridor on the 12'th floor was even bigger than that on the 11'th floor. Harry had decided that he would use the full corridor width to his advantage. Just as Bellatix's came round to face him once again, his gun had been aimed. He fired two quick shots and apparated away before even hearing the sound of her scream – both in pain and frustration.
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Moody had not moved a muscle during all this time. He had seen Bellatrix fall for the trap. What he had not expected was that Harry would use a muggle-weapon. But he felt that it was one of Harry's better ideas. Most of the wizards usually watched out for the wand hand of their opponent. None of them would have expected Harry to come up with something like this. His magical eye looked at McGonagall who seemed to be on her edge. She seemed mad at Harry. Even though Moody himself was mad at Harry, he was feeling quite proud of him. Harry was fighting much better than most of the aurors he had seen. Maybe Harry was fighting at a level equal to Moody's himself – if not better.
Tonks had also apparated near them. She was nervously watching all this. "Why did Harry have to do this? My god, he took on a cruciatus knowing fully well what would happen." She shivered at the thought of how much pain Harry must have felt. Tonks's thoughts were now racing. "How can I help him? He will die…he will die. What will I tell Remus – that I let Harry die? GODDAMNIT – WHY THE HELL DOES HE HAVE TO BE SO NOBLE AND ALWAYS HAVE TO ACT THE HERO? WHY?" She seemed to be going nowhere. She watched the others. They were all prepared to rush in on Moody's signal, who was one step in front of the others. She turned back to watch Harry as she heard him shouting her name. She saw Bellatrix fall into his trap and knew the moment had come. Harry was going to attack Bellatrix and she had to help him. But how – to this she had no answer.
Moody had been watching Harry raise his gun. "Everyone – watch out for muggle bullets. They can cause real pain" Moody whispered to the other members. Moody saw Harry fire the first shot and understood. It was time for them to take care of the other death-eaters while Harry took on Bellatrix. He rushed out, followed by others. About 15 death-eaters fell, stunned, before they even understood what was happening. Moody calculated in his mind – about 25 death-eaters versus 15 light wizards. They had a fair chance of living now.
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Upon seeing the light wizards rush out from the other end of the corridor, Arthur Weasley and Molly Weasley started to battle again. They HAD TO win today.
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Tonks saw everybody rush towards the death-eaters the moment Harry had fired his shots. She wanted to attack herself but could not bring her to itself. It would be unfair to Harry if she left him. But wait – Harry didn't want anyone to die…not after what had happened to Sirius. She couldn't let her affections for Harry overcome her duty. Harry wouldn't want that. With a vengeance, Tonks rushed out of her cover, shooting off spells at speeds she never had thought she could do.
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Harry apparated away 30 feet to the left of where he had been before, at an angle of 60 degrees from Bellatrix. With satisfaction he saw that one of his bullets had hit Bellatrix on her left shoulder. She was crying out in pain but more so out of anger. Before he had was able to raise his wand, Bellatrix spun around and fired off 2 spells towards him. Harry apparated away to her back and fired away a curse. This time, Bellatrix apparated away after she saw the spells coming towards her. Both Harry and Bellatrix were now facing each other, 50 feet apart. The duel had only just begun.
Bellatrix fired off a series of spells towards Harry. Harry saw the streaks of lights coming towards him.
"Accio Ostium" he said pointing to one of the prison cell doorways. The door broke away and sped towards him. The door and the spells collided in mid-air, about 20 feet away from him. It was blasted to pieces by the combined force of the 2 spells.
Harry had expected this. Before the impact had even taken place, he had fired off a stunning spell followed by a Reducto hex. He knew that his curses will reach the doorway area after it had been blasted apart.
Bellatrix saw the door getting shattered by the spells. She had barely seen it when she saw two streaks of light coming towards her. She apparated away to her left, just micro seconds before the spells would have hit her. She sent a 'Humus Fragosus' spell near Harry feet. Harry rolled away as the area where he had been standing caved in, revealing a hole.
Before Harry had time to recover, he saw a Reducto curse flying towards him followed closely by a 'Humus Contremisco' curse. This curse was supposed to hit the ground near the victim and cause a tremor which would throw him off balance. To Bellatrix's elation she saw that Harry had no chance to move out of the way. But her elation turned into anger and surprise when both the streaks of light seemed to vanish a few inches before it hit their target.
"Cruor Exhaustus" Bellatrix used a very dark spell this time. This spell would drain off the blood of anyone who got hit by it. Harry saw the spell coming towards his chest and jumped backwards. He was flying parallel to the floor as the spell grazed his vest without causing any damage. In one smooth motion, he rolled over his back and turned to face Bellatrix.
"Reputo Insophismata" Harry said. The spell was more powerful than usual because of the energy his shield had absorbed previously. This was a very ancient spell which caused the victim to think illogically. All the things around them seemed to make no sense at all. Bellatrix saw the blue light coming towards her and cast a powerful black shield which caused the spell to rebound towards Harry. Harry had already apparated to 50 feet on the other side before the spell came back. He had his gun ready and fired two quick shots before apparating away again. he came back to his original place to hear Bellatrix screaming in pain. Apparently, she hadn't been prepared for such quick action and muggle weapons.
"Avada Kedavra" Bellatrix bellowed but her anger caused her to misdirect the spell a little bit. Knowing she had missed, she quickly cast two rapid-fire stunning spells.
Seeing the state Bellatrix was in, Harry decided to try one of the most complicated spells in his knowledge. He put up his shield again and let it absorb the 2 stunning spells, much to the anger of Bellatrix. He knew that he had just gained some power from his shield absorbing the 2 spells and he wanted to use this power. "Accio Ostium Intentio" He said, pointing his wand towards Bellatrix. This was a very complex spell which caused specified objects to fly towards a target. It required a huge amount of control. Harry knew that if he had to overcome Bellatrix, he had to take some risks. With great concentration, he cast the spell – hoping he would be able to control it. At once, he heard all the doors in the corridor blasting away from their hinges with a huge bang. They all sped towards Bellatrix at incredible speeds. Bellatrix saw her chance now. She knew the spell and knew that the castor had to point towards the target till the last second possible for the objects to hit their target, otherwise the objects would be out of control and could hit anything and everything. Bellatrix knew that either she could apparate away from her position now or she could curse Potter. If she apparated away, she would miss this chance. She decided she would rather take on the hit and curse Potter than miss this chance.
"Reducto" "Ossis Contero" she sent off two quick spells (the second of which was intended to crush all the bones in Harry's body) towards Harry who was resting on one of his knees with his wand pointed towards her. Though she desperately wanted to finish off Potter, she knew her master would be furious with her, so she sent curses which were sure to cause pain. Harry tried to put up a shield and succeeded in it though he knew the shield would not be able to survive the combined forces of the two curses. Apparently, he had been unable to concentrate too much on the shield because of his other spell. Both Harry and Bellatrix saw the inevitable yet both held their ground. This battle was more than just survival – it was about survival with respect.
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Tonks had taken on a gigantic death-eater. She was fighting with a purpose – to make Harry proud of her. She was fighting with all her determination. Out of the corner of her eye, she had noticed that Moody and McGonagall were winning in their duels. In that split moment, she was hit with a 'Blinding-light' spell, which caused her to be momentarily blinded. She did the only thing which came to her mind – she apparated away to the 11'th floor. In a second, she had performed the counter-curse and had apparated back to the 12'th floor. She found herself at point-blank range from the death-eater but luckily, his back was facing towards her. Apparently, he had moved some paces in search of Tonks. She muttered a quick 'Stupefy' when a blast shook the whole floor. All the doors (one of which was just in front of her) had blasted off their hinges. She threw herself towards the ground and watched the scene - her eyes went wide in shock. All the doors were flying towards Bellatrix while two curses were flying towards Harry.
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Moody was having a difficult time with this death-eater. This was the same guy who had been fighting Harry on the 11'th floor. He had been moving with great speed and agility before but now seemed to have slowed down a bit. Obviously, the duel with Harry had taken a toll on him. Moody then used the same technique which Harry had used though he did it faster. He blinded the death-eater with a flash of light and then apparated to his back. To his surprise, the death-eater had apparated away. Moody looked around to see that the death-eater was standing about 15 feet away from him with his back towards a cell. Moody knew he would be hit with a curse when a small explosion seemed to shake the whole floor. He looked at the death-eater to see that he had been knocked out by a door which had hit him from behind. He quickly moved out of the way and his magical eye looked around. Many aurors and death-eaters had been knocked out by doors which had blasted off their hinges. His magical eye locked on a scene which had the attention of every member (who had not been stunned or knocked out) on the 12'th floor – iron and wooden doors flying towards Bellatrix and two streaks of light flying towards Harry.
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Remus had started pacing along the room while Dobby was popping nervously around. They hadn't had a single prisoner for the past 40 minutes. Either there was heavy fighting going on or Harry was injured or Harry was d… "No, Harry is OK." He reassured himself before starting to pace around again.
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Harry saw the two streaks of light heading towards him. He recognized the Reducto curse but not the second one. Whatever it was, he knew that it had to be very painful. With grim determination, he held his wand towards his target – knowing well that Bellatrix couldn't avoid getting hit this time. He felt the Reducto curse hitting his shield. But instead of getting absorbed or reflected, he felt the shield break apart. At the same time, he saw all the doors crash into Bellatrix with a huge 'boom'. Each door bashed into the previous one causing greater impact. At last he saw the last of the doors crash into the pile of wood, iron and what he hoped – maybe flesh and blood. His satisfaction lasted for just a millionth of a millisecond before the bone-crusher spell caught him flush in the chest. Luckily, the dragon hide vest absorbed quite a lot of the power of the spell but he still felt his most of ribs break. He was blasted back about 10 feet from where he had been. Blood gushed out of his mouth while he lay flat on his back.
Harry knew he was alive, and thanked Sirius for it. He desperately fought off the blackness which threatened to overtake his body and mind. After what seemed to be an eternity, which in reality was only a few seconds, he slowly got up. More blood spluttered from his mouth at this but he knew he had to get up. He simply had no choice. He slowly sat up with his body-weight supported on his left hand. He looked around to see most of the aurors and death-eaters were down on the ground. He saw that except for Hagrid, Mad-Eye and Tonks, no one seemed to move. Hagrid was still clutching the twisted hand of one of the death-eaters who had been hit by a door while Mad-Eye's magical eye was spinning around, taking in everything he could see and watching out for the least amount of movement. Tonks seemed to be staring at him with what seemed to be tears in her eyes. She seemed too weak stand-up, leave alone move. Slowly, Harry tried to get up on his feet but failed. The pain was just too much to bear. He was about to call Tonks over when one of the doors in the pile seemed to move.
"No…she's still got strength in her." Harry now almost wished that the impact had killed her. He knew that he wouldn't stand a chance against Bellatrix in this condition. He saw around 3-4 doors getting blasted off the pile. Bellatrix somehow managed to crawl out through the gap in the pile. Harry dragged himself backward until his back hit the wall. He turned around by an angle of 30 degrees to face Bellatrix.
"Well done Potter. You..uh…are…uh…uph….tough" she managed to say with great difficulty. Her breathing seemed to come in small gasps, much like Harry's. She was dragging herself along the floor. Her legs seemed to be broken and she was covered with blood. This sight made Harry smile a bit but he quickly stopped. The pain caused by the smile was too much. Bellatrix was also in great pain. She looked around to see that three light wizards were still there. She tried to raise her wand towards Harry even though her arm was twisted in strange angles. Harry saw the move and fired 3 bullets at her. With satisfaction, he saw one of the bullets hit her near her wrist. Both of them cried out in pain – Harry for the effort caused in raising his left arm and firing, Bellatrix at the impact of another bullet. Bellatrix held onto her wand for dear life. She knew she didn't have a chance now but was happy to see Harry was hurt badly. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Moody raising his wand. With a last effort and an ear splitting cry, she touched a shining badge-like thing on her left shoulder. Even as Moody's spell raced towards her, a series of 'whooshes' caused her to be teleported away to another place along with most of the remaining death-eaters.
"Damn. A mass portkey." Moody growled. He then turned back towards Harry who seemed to splutter up more blood. He moved towards Harry and growled "Potter, if you die then I will come after you in hell." Harry just gave a weak smile and whispered "Tonks".
"TONKS" Moody growled. Seeing no response from her, Moody shouted out for the second time "NYMPHADORA". This seemed to bring her back to her senses and she rushed towards them.
"HARRY – why did you do this?" Tonks shouted as she ran towards him. Harry held up his hand to stop her from hugging him. He knew that he had very little time left.
"Moody, see you in hell" Harry said with great difficulty and a smile. Moody scowled back at him which Harry understood was Moody's way of smiling. Harry grabbed Tonks's hand and replaced his gun in the forearm hostler. He took out his other gun (the one with the golden bullets) and touched a particular round shaped blob on the lower side of the muzzle. Both he and Tonks felt a pull behind their navel as the portkey got activated.
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"What happened?" Minerva McGonagall said as soon as she was enervated by Moody. One by one, all of the remaining aurors and Order members were enervated. "I asked what happened." McGonagall said in her professor like tone, which was quavering in shock.
"You got hit by one of those doors." Moody said pointing to the pile of wood, iron and blood.
"Where's Potter and Lestrange?" McGonagall was starting to remember what she had seen just before getting knocked out.
"Gone" Moody replied.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN GONE?" McGonagall shouted at the top of her lungs and immediately knew it was the wrong thing to do because of the pain it caused. A sudden fear gripped her "Is Potter alive?" she asked, praying that her worst fears had not come true.
"Yes. He apparated away after the fight" Moody said. Moody looked at Hagrid who silently turned away his head. They knew that Harry was already in deep trouble – one because he was doing underage magic before a group of ministry aurors and secondly because McGonagall was a strict disciplinarian. They didn't want to get him into any more trouble by saying that Harry had used a portkey (though Moody was very happy about it. At least, Potter was learning to keep himself alive) added to the fact that it was an illegal one. Both Moody and Hagrid were sure that Harry would have to face another trial for all this.
"Apparated away? Where the hell did he learn to apparate? He doesn't even have an apparation license. What the hell was he doing here? What…" Moody cut short McGonagall's ranting.
"You should thank him. Because of him you are still alive. I don't know how many people would have done what he did for you." Moody was definitely angry now. Professor McGonagall looked at Moody and pursed her lips. Of course, she was grateful to Harry but that didn't give him the license to endanger his life. She decided she would wait for her chance to question Harry, or rather lecture Harry.
Everyone was now helping clear up the debris. All of them had a grim look on their faces – there had been far too many casualities on their side added to the fact that Azkaban had been wiped clean of death-eaters.
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"50 minutes. WHERE THE HELL IS HE?" Remus shouted out in desperation. Dobby cowered at a corner. He too was very worried now. They had no way of knowing what was happening. All they had managed to do was stun the death-eaters 2 more times in these past 50 minutes. "I just hope he is here soon" Remus said out loud but not speaking to anyone in particular. As if in answer to his prayer, he heard a loud 'thud' and a grimace of pain. Instantaneously he raised his wand but stopped dead at the scene before him. Tonks had appeared with someone who looked quite a bit like the boy he had seen 50 minutes before. Remus and Dobby stood stunned at the state of Harry Potter.
"WHAT ARE YOU GUYS STARING AT?" Tonks bellowed, causing both Remus and Dobby to come out of their stupor. "Help him before he dies."
Remus went near and was about to touch him when Harry said "Dobby" Dobby appeared near him, with tears in his eyes. "Take us…ooph…to my room in…aaahhhh…the trunk." Dobby nodded and stunned all of the 3 wizards around him. In three cracks, all of them were inside Harry's trunk. Dobby then went on to enervate them.
"Where are we?" Tonks asked, surprised at the sudden change of place. "Later…" came the whisper from Harry. He held up his right hand, which still had his wand in a tight grip, and pointed towards a doorway. Remus and Tonks looked at each other and nodded. They picked up Harry and moved towards the doorway. As they reached the door, Harry was mentally 'asking the door' to let Tonks and Remus in. All of them entered the Room-of-Requirement in the 5'th compartment of the trunk.
"What is this place?" Tonks looked around the large empty room. Harry was mentally wishing the room to provide more time. He also wished the room to provide anything which Tonks and Remus wanted. Then he asked for all the requirements to get his wounds healed. Opening his eyes for the first time in about 30 seconds, he saw Tonks and Remus staring wide-eyed at all the things which had appeared in the room.
"Just ask for what you want…aahhhhhh" Harry just managed to say this before darkness finally engulfed him.
"HARRY POTTER. DON'T YOU DARE DIE ON ME" Tonks bellowed, her vision corrupted by the tears welling up in her eyes. She and Remus took Harry to a bed which had appeared near them. Remus started to take off Harry's shirt while Tonks helped. They had difficulty in taking off his vest (where did he get these, Tonks wondered) but eventually it came off. Dobby was also trying his best to help them. At last, they were able to rest Harry properly. Remus looked around and found some medicines. He quickly went over what he had learnt in school and forced a bottle of medicine in Harry's mouth (Quick Bone Mending Syrup). This medicine was supposed to mend bones in 1-3 days time, depending on the severity of the injury. Also, it was supposed to stop any kind of blood clotting inside Harry's body. Both Remus and Tonks were inwardly cursing themselves for not having paid any attention to all the things which Madam Pomphrey had said to them over the years. They were both worried to death. They now had nothing else to do but wait – which they did with baited breath.
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Harry had been walking in a large, almost endless, white room. He had been walking for a long time and, to his surprise, didn't feel tired. There was no pain or sorrow here – only relief and happiness. At last, he saw some blurred figures ahead. He moved forward to get a better view at them.
"Mum, Dad" Harry saw two smiling figures waving at him. His heart was filled with warmth. At last he was going to see them. Wait – there was also Sirius standing beside his father. He was also waving to him.
"C'mon son. We'll all be happy here" His dad called out at him. "You won't have to take on the burden of the world on your shoulders."
"Yes son." His mom was now urging him to come forward.
"But Mom, Dad – I have to be there. They need me." Harry said in a disappointed voice. He wished he could go over to them but a certain portion of his heart kept him from going.
"Hey Harry. You don't need to be there. They don't love you Harry, they are just using you. We love you" Sirius was now calling him. Harry took one step forward but stopped. His face had become full of determination.
"NO. I have to stay. I have to protect these people. I HAVE TO STAY" he shouted out these last 4 words as the figures and the large white room disappeared from his view.
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2 days had passed in the trunk since Harry had been brought in. Remus and Tonks had been taking shifts watching over him. Dobby was always present – even when he was not needed. He had not slept for the past 2 days. Neither Remus nor Tonks had been able to convince him to get some sleep (What if Harry Potter gets up and asks for his Dobby?). They were both touched by the feelings of Dobby. Currently he sat in a corner of the room from where Harry's bed was visible to him. Tonks was the one who was watching over him now. Her bruises and cuts had been mended within hours after coming back from Azkaban.
Tonks had explained everything to Remus. Remus had been very upset with himself for having let Harry go ahead with his plan. He had told Tonks all about Harry's plan and showed her the prisoners. Tonks looked at Remus with rounded eyes. This was a real asset for them. Even the ministry may not have found any prisoners and here were four of them. She was very impressed with Harry's idea of using a bullet-portkey. Later, Remus, Tonks and Dobby had taken them to the 5'th compartment. They were thinking of a secure place to keep these prisoners when 4 cells appeared out of nowhere. They just wished for these cells to be apparation-proof, summon-proof and all the things they could think off. Dobby had taken care of providing food to the prisoners in their cells. The prisoners had initially tried to break the walls of the cell (their wands had been taken away by Remus) but had given up after a few tries. They knew they were in some prison though they didn't know where. All they hoped for was to come out alive from here since nothing seemed to work here. The first time food had appeared before them had left them stunned but they had gotten used to it after the 2'nd time. A small self-cleaning toilet was also present which was of immense help to them and they thanked god that they did not have to live with their shit around. None of the prisoners knew about the others but they knew they had to stay there until their captors let them go.
Tonks was sitting near Harry. She was lost in her thoughts. Her mind was replaying everything which had happened at Azkaban. She remembered how impressed she was to see the unknown wizard fighting a powerful death-eater. She looked at Harry's face and wondered how he had done all the moves there. He had fought better than all of the other light wizards there. He had shown tremendous skill added to the fact that he had saved McGonagall's life – not many people would do something like that. Tonks thought about how Harry had taken on the Cruciatus from Bellatrix. She could never imagine whether she would have done such a thing if she had been in Harry's place. It seemed to have become almost his second nature to take on other people's burdens and save others. Tonks was sure that Harry would risk his life for anyone and everyone. He would never make any discrimination. She ran her hand through his hair and the scar came into view. What a burden this world had put on him, Tonks thought. She felt sure she would have gone mad if she had been in his position. She looked at him and saw what years of malnutrition had done to him. Though he had filled up in some places, he would always be a slim guy. But one thing was sure – those people on whom the sun named Harry Potter had shined would bask in its warmth for the rest of their lives.
"I HAVE TO STAY" these words startled Tonks. Remus and Dobby got up from their respective positions seeing that Harry was moving a bit. They came up to him and saw Harry trying to open his eyes. After a while, he was successful in this. He looked around at the 3 of them and gave a weak smile. Both Remus and Tonks gave a sigh of relief and smiled back.
"HARRY POTTER IS OK" Dobby started popping all over the place "HARRY POTTER IS OK" Harry gave a feeble smile and said "Hello werewolf, hi tonkie" The last word caused Dobby to freeze. He looked at Tonks with apprehension and fear in his eyes. Remus gave a laugh at Dobby's frightened look and Harry smiled. Tonks looked a bit angry but got over it very quickly and joined in the laughter. Relieved, Dobby started bouncing in excitement again.
"You had us worried. You are a read bad godson, do you know that?" Remus said with a smile. He had smiled for the first time in 2 days.
"Yeah. And you will be a bad godfather if you blame yourself for what happened." Harry said knowing fully well that Remus must have been doing just that. Remus didn't meet his gaze. "Remus, Sirius did what he had to and I did what I had to. You are as much to blame for my condition as I am to blame for Sirius's death" Harry's voice was pretty grave now. He had to sort out some things.
"Yeah Remus. Don't go blaming yourself for what happened. At least Harry has a point." Tonks chipped in. Remus gave the slightest of nods.
"How long have I been out?" Harry asked to both of them ytrying to get up but not finding enough strength in himself. He gave up the effort.
"According to that clock - 2 days and 8 hours" Tonks said, pointing to the clock on the farther wall. "But you should rest some more. By the way Har, why did you scream?"
"Nothing – just a dream." Harry said, neither telling the full truth nor lying. It seemed like he didn't want to talk about it. Tonks understood this and did not press further.
"AND WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU DOING IN AZKABAN?" Tonks burst out. She had kept herself controlled for quite some time now, but not anymore. "You have any idea about what it felt seeing you take the cruciatus? Have you any idea what it was to see you challenge Bellatrix when most of the aurors in their right minds wouldn't do that? Have you any idea what it was to see you fight like hell there? Do you know how it felt seeing you sitting there while two curses were heading towards you? DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT I WENT THROUGH?" Tonks was sobbing now and had collapsed on the bedside.
Harry looked at Remus for some support but found none. He knew that he had to repair this whole thing. Someone once had said – you reap what you sow. It was time for Harry to face the situation.
"Tonks" Harry said in a delicate whisper "Please look at me." He waited for Tonks to look up. He still felt pain while moving his body parts and knew he needed some more rest. Though his ribs felt like they had joined perfectly, they felt a bit brittle to him. Better wait for another day than start jumping around, Harry thought. After a few long seconds Tonks looked up. "I am sorry. I didn't know it would hurt you guys so much – that it would hurt you so much." Harry's voice was filled with emotion. Everyone, including Dobby, were gazing at him now. "I couldn't help it"
"WHAT COULDN'T YOU HELP? KILLING US OUT OF FRIGHT?" Tonks burst out again at what seemed to be a half-explanation to her.
"Please Tonks. I have to do what I have to do. You guys know that Voldemort is after me" Both Remus and Tonks flinched a bit at his name. Dobby gave a tiny squeak. "I have to fight him and his followers."
"And who gave you the license to take on the responsibility to stop You-Know-Who?" Remus asked this time. They were not going to give in without a fight. They had to knock some sense into Harry's thick head. "Why don't you stop now Harry? You know, you don't have to take revenge from him. No one will think any less of you if you don't jump into this war every time you get chance"
"You don't understand." Harry said knowing fully well that he couldn't say more – he daren't say more. "We have to end this war and I have to help."
"No mister, you don't have to" Tonks snapped. "You have to live for the people who love you. You just can't take their emotions for a ride. Who do you think you are – superman?"
"Superman! Who is that?" Remus asked in bewilderment.
"Never mind Remus. Forget it" Harry wanted to finish this topic as soon as possible.
"Forget what Harry, forget what? You gave us the creeps today, do you know that?" Tonks said this in a whisper though everyone was able to hear it. "Swear that you won't do that again…swear." Tonks looked at Remus for some support. Remus nodded his head in agreement.
"I won't…even though…I can't" Harry paused before turning his head away.
"Why, Harry why?" Remus and Tonks chorused. It may have been funny at other times but their voices were dead serious. They had to know what was the reason behind Harry's actions.
"Because it is my destiny" Harry said without turning his head.
"Look Har, if you start to say something like old Trelawney, then I will knock your head off" Tonks was becoming impatient. "We – make – our – own – destiny." She said this very slowly, as if she was trying to teach a 5-year old boy something very basic.
"We don't – at least not me." Harry spat out. His emotions were threatening to break his walls.
"Look Harry. I understand your position" Remus said in a soothing voice. "You feel it your duty to avenge your parents. Maybe if I had been in your position, I would have done the same. But listening to the elders helps sometime, young man. We don't have grey hair for nothing" Harry turned to face Remus. He knew that there was no other way out this time. He had to tell them or they would do this to him every time he did something like that. It would better be now rather than sometime later.
"I know Remus. I really hope you were right. You know, I want to live like some other teenager but I can't…I GODDAMN CAN'T." Harry spat out these words. Tonks looked at him with concern and was about to say something but Harry cut her off.
"Don't say anything about destiny – mine's written." He said with a look towards Tonks. "Tonks, did you know that Wormtail slipped away right through our fingers?" Tonks nodded and said "Yes. Remus told me."
"Did you know that I knew about it before it happened – though I didn't know the correct meaning till it actually happened."
"What do you mean?" Tonks asked, not sure whether she was supposed to understand what Harry was saying or not. Remus gave a questioning look at Harry.
"Professor Trelawney made a prophecy that it would happen…" Harry looked at both of them who were looking startled "…before it actually happened. She made the prophecy in front of me."
"WHAT???" Remus was out of his chair. Tonks kept opening and closing her mouth as if trying to say something but seemed unable to find the right words.
Harry then explained what had happened that day – and that night. When he finished, both Remus and Tonks were looking at each other and then at Harry. They were stunned beyond words.
"You mean that old hag can really say something about the future?" Tonks was the first one to regain her voice.
"That was her second true prophecy" Harry stated.
"Second? Then there must be a first…I am really dumb…there has to be a first for something to be second" Tonks was cursing herself for being so stupid. "What was the first?"
Harry took a deep breath and looked around. He motioned Dobby to come close and mentally asked the room to let no one – except the Remus, Tonks and Dobby – hear what he was about to say. When Dobby came close, he saw that Dobby looked terrified.
"Don't be frightened Dobby. I trust you. After all, you are my friend." Harry said putting to rest the fears in Dobby's mind. Dobby's face broke into a short grin before becoming serious. Remus and Tonks exchanged a look.
"What I am about to say is known to only 2 people. No one else knows and I would prefer it to be kept in that way." Everyone around Harry nodded their heads.
"Who else knows?" Remus asked before Harry could continue.
"No prizes for guessing." Harry said.
"Dumbledore?" Tonks asked, knowing the answer well enough. Harry just nodded. Everyone went silent. Harry closed his eyes and took a long, deep breath before opening his eyes again. It was time.
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A/N:
Ok guys, here's the 6'th chapter. 6 chapters in 6 weeks – I hope I am doing ok. Today is JKR's birthday and Harry's too. Just couldn't miss out this opportunity when my whole chapter is based on July 31'st. So, a happy birthday to the goddess and her angel J.
I have used many cut-scenes in this chapter and tried to make the fight as enjoyable as possible. I didn't have time to go through it as I have been very busy in my work. I typed out this in 7 hours flat. So forgive any typos or other mistakes. If you guys are disappointed, then just say it in your reviews. And thanks to everyone who read this.
skeeter007 – As to the setup of Harry/Fudge, it is towards the start where Harry goes through Malfoy's papers and makes a quick firecall to fix an appointment. About why Harry let Percy go – it will come later on. J Hope you enjoy this chapter.
Kateydidnt – I haven't read Acceptance of Fate but I hope that my story isn't too much like it. Otherwise it would only mean a waste of time for all who read this. Like I had said in my previous chapter's notes, some of the things are common with some story's like Harry buying some stuff etc. But otherwise it's a different thing – at least I hope so.
As for the ministry detecting the Dark Mark – the ministry HAS to have some way of detection because their officials have to jump all over the country to obliviate the muggles who have seen a attack and the mark. They can't go on placing wards around each and every house. So, it has to be some device.
Bushido – Thanks for your review. I have this problem with 'suddenly' – had this since school while writing essays. I hope I have improved in the latter chapters. And thanks for your views – this is the first time I am writing a story. I don't think I will use a beta now but I will keep it in mind. And you should have kept the CAPS lock off. I had thought you were really shouting at me.
And all the guys who reviewed – Thanks for your reviews. Please know that they are very much appreciated and give me a real kick-in-the-back to continue writing.
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