Okay before, you read the next chapters I have a few things to say:

A/N: First off, thanks to my reviewers. And to answer some questions, without giving much away, I will tell you that Harry leaving Hogwarts was a necessary direction for my story to go in, but yes, of course he will back at Hogwarts. And as far as Hermione and Ron's relationship, it is definitely not going to be easily fixed. From finding out that Ron kept Benjamin's death a secret, and the fact that Ron told Harry that he should go, Hermione is going to be very angry at Ron. Their new found romantic relationship is definitely going to be tested, and they just might find themselves back to square one. I used to a have definite amount of chapters planned for this story, but due to storyline circumstances, I honestly can't tell you how many chapters are left. But it's certainly going to go on longer than I anticipated. So many things are still happening, and are going to happen, and I hope you all stay on for the ride, because I love writing this story, and it has been apart of my life for a while now.
What to expect from this chapter-----First off this was one of the hardest chapters to write period, but also the most rewarding for me because it was so very challening. It's different from every chapter in this story. Taking Harry away from Hogwarts, and the normal surroundings, proved to be very difficult. But I did my very best and I all I have been doing in all of my free time is writing this chapter. So I've finally finished today. You can expect a lot of stuff to happen in this chapter, because well, it's very long. It's the longest chapter in this story. I didn't plan on it being this long but that's the direction it took, and I am greatly pleased with how it turned out to say the least. Harry's goes through a lot emotional wise in this chapter. Harry is fighting his desire to go back to Hogwarts on a daily basis, but thinks he can't go back since he thinks that's the only way to protect his friends. Harry tries to find a normal life by living as a full Muggle in downtown London. But when reminders of his old life come back to haunt him; an old friend, a letter, old photos, he thinks he can fight it. Harry, is finding himself mentally unstable, losing it more with each passing day, and feeling completely alone. When he keeps on running into a mysterious stranger, he believes his enemies are lurking and coming for him.

You can expect the next update, Ch. 23, up in between 1-2 weeks.

Please Please Review! I thrive on feedback.

Ch. 22- The Lonesome Road

The first place Harry found himself at was at Gringotts, where he had some of his wizard money converted into pounds. He would need muggle money now, since he figured cutting off all magical ties to his life was best. This saddened Harry more than he thought it would, but he would deal with his feelings later. He was on his own now, and as hard as that was, it was the way it had to be. In Downtown London Harry had ditched his trunk, and had purchased some kind of shoulder bag that he had put the things he needed to keep. (Well he wasn't ready to give up his wand yet that was for sure) He also ditched his cloak and just wore one of his muggle coats he had found on the bottom of his trunk that used to be Dudley's, and it was so big, it looked like it could fit two of him, possibly three of him. That didn't matter to Harry now though. As soon as he found a place to settle down at least temporarily, he could get a coat that actually fit him. But the most important thing Harry realized was the more he blended in, the better. Harry didn't want any unwanted attention drawn to himself. As Harry was walking down the deserted streets of London, he realized how tired he was. And how alone he was. There was an elderly man with a long black coat walking slowly in front of him. Loudly behind him, he could hear footsteps walking briskly. Other than that, it was like a never ending path of darkness. Harry then felt his whole body start to shiver, and he realized that he needed a find a place to stay and fast. It was cold and bitter out, and the snow was falling very hard. All Harry wanted now was to go to sleep and forget this day had ever happened; forget his whole life happened. If he could just lay down, he could be at peace. All Harry wanted to do get inside; so he picked up his pace, and practically broke into a run. He was on the outskirts of the city now, as he noticed, stopping to take a breath, looking at his surroundings. The heavy and thick snowflakes were fogging his glasses, which forced Harry to take them off. He was slowly losing the feeling in his face, then his hands, then his entire body. Well of course that was happening, since he had been outside in the bitter cold for several hours. Harry looked ahead of him, and the old man disappeared around the corner. The footsteps behind him got louder, as Harry swore he spotted a lighted sign way down the street for an inn. He began to cross the street, but then felt something touching his back.

Harry swore he heard a soft voice call out from behind him.

Harry turned around, but didn't see anyone behind him. He didn't have the patience to stand out here curiously, he realized. He began walking toward the inn, and nothing but doubts began to plague his thoughts. It was something he couldn't push out of his head, no matter how hard he tried. With every step he took, he began to regret this decision he had made. And with the ounce of fight he had left, that was what stopped him from turning right back around and going back. Leaving Hogwarts, and being on his own for the rest of his life was not what Harry wanted. But he swallowed his doubts, and continued walking on, knowing that this was his life from now on. This was how he it had to be and more importantly without his presence in everyone's life, he had a feeling his friends and everyone would finally be safe and happy. He heard footsteps coming from behind him again, but he just ignored it, and followed the lit inn sign from a distance. As it was coming closer into view, he felt something lightly touching his back again. Harry wasn't taking any chances, or maybe it was just out of habit, but he felt himself reach inside his bag and take hold of his wand, as he turned around. Harry prepared himself for the worst. After all he was Harry Potter, even in the muggle world. Voldermort wanted him dead no matter where he was. Harry knew that much.

Harry felt himself let out a scream when he realized it was a cloaked black hooded figure in front of him. He brought out his wand, ready to fight.

"Whoa, just what do you think you are doing? Hasn't anyone ever asked you for the time before?" He heard a female voice shout out.

Harry squinted his eyes, and looked a little closer. It wasn't a death eater, or a dementor, Harry realized relived. It was just a girl. She was Tall, wearing jeans, with a long black coat on, hood over her head.

"Oh, so you don't talk do you? Or are you deaf?"

Who was this girl, and why was she being so rude?

"Uh, are you going to take that thing out of my face, or are you planning on attacking me with that weird looking stick?" She asked while taking her hood down, and revealing long curly strawberry blonde hair. "Do I look like a monster to you?" She added coolly.

Harry didn't know who this girl was, but thankfully he didn't have any interest in finding out. He really had to be on his way, and making friends or even rude acquaintances wasn't high on his list of priorities. The point of running away, and being on his own to protect the people he loved, was exactly the reason why he couldn't let anyone else into his life. Actually, the less people who saw him or talked to him the better.

"Er------sorry", Harry finally spoke as he put away his wand back in his bag.

"Ok, whatever your name is, you almost attacked me with a stick. And all I get is a little sorry?"

Harry was ready to ignore this person and just walk away. He was just plain tired, but this girl was getting on his last nerves.

"Er-maybe you shouldn't sneak up on people on dark corners. Did you ever think about that? Especially with dark looming hoods over your head!" Harry felt his voice growing bitter.

The girl had a hugely sour look on her face. "It's zero degrees out if you haven't noticed", she said. Then she looked at Harry for a minute, not saying a word. "Have a nice life", the girl added as she put the hood over her head again and started to walk off.

"Wait," Harry said.

The girl turned around, but just barely.

"I'm sorry, er- I'm sorry I didn't mean to attack you". Why was he explaining himself to her? She was the one who sneaked up on him, in death eater form. For all he knew, she could be anyone. He just wanted to get inside and get inside fast.

But all she did was let out a laugh. "What, with that weak pathetic weapon you call a stick? My sucker punch is more of a threat than that", she said with a huge smirk on her face; as she walked off down the street.

Harry shook his head in anger and frustration. He tried to block out that horrid conversation with the one of the rudest people he had ever met. But it was hard. That just proved if anything, than this was going to be harder than he thought. He couldn't really afford to let anyone recognize him, know him at all. Harry started to run, even with his frozen limbs practically ready to shatter into a million pieces. Harry noticed that the girl was no where ahead of him anymore. She probably disappeared up ahead around the corner. Five minutes later, he made it into the inn. The sign read,The Pioneer.The sign was rather old because the electricity kept fading in and out. He walked into the entrance, and breathed a sigh of relief, that he was actually not in the bitter cold anymore. But the feeling returning back to his body wasn't a very pleasant feeling at all. Either way, he just wanted to lie down, and well, he would take it from there. After all he didn't have a plan anymore. He could do anything he wanted, go anywhere he wanted.

The inn wasn't very attractive looking inside. It was filled with dark and dull colors, and it was very dusty inside. A few plants rested by the window that looked like they were in desperate need of some water. It was also very silent inside too. A pin could drop and you would be able to hear it. There didn't seem to be many people staying here, Harry realized. The small lobby, if you could even call it that, was bare except for the person sitting at the front desk. A pale-faced man of about fifty, with a full head of slicked back salt and pepper hair, was sitting behind the desk, looking utterly miserable. His name tag read Billy. He was intently reading some kind of car magazine and didn't even notice Harry walk up to the desk. Nearly two minutes later and no recognition, Harry rang the bell. The man looked up finally, but he might not as well have. He looked extremely annoyed.

"May I help you?" the man asked quickly, still looking at his magazine.

"Er, uh- I need a room?" Harry mumbled.

The man then looked up from his magazine and started to stare at Harry.

Harry was waiting for him to say something, but he just kept looking at Harry's face.

"That's a ---------very interesting scar", he blurted gaping right at it.

Harry didn't know what to say. He didn't need this kind of attention. Magical world or not, he didn't need anyone noticing his scar. "Er----"

Then the man named Billy, stopped ogling his scar, and revealed a yellow and chipped smile.

"I'm sorry -----sir. You said you needed a room?"

"Yes", Harry replied.

"Just for the night?"

"Yes. No. Er- I dunno", Harry uttered rather quickly.

The man looked up him with a perplexed look plaguing his face.

What was Harry supposed to say? That he was Harry Potter, caused nothing but pain and destruction to the people he loved, and was on the run for the rest of his life? He didn't know what to say. Harry figured it would be best to stay here temporarily until he figured out what he was going to do. After all he had enough money-

"Sir, I have to ask, is everything alright? You-----look very-----distressed."

Harry realized he had gotten lost in his thoughts again. He looked back up at the man and just tried to think of the best answer he could come up with. "Er—I'm fine. I just need a room. I dunno how long I'll be staying."

The man glared at him, and had an expressionless look on his face for a minute. A few seconds later he shot him a half smile. He then started looking through some kind of book. "Third floor, room 318. That is our best room, I must say. I'm Billy, if you have any--------questions. I need your signature right here, "He said placing the book he was looking at right in front of Harry. The man pointed his finger for Harry to sign on an empty line.

Harry began to sign his name, but suddenly he stopped in his tracks. He couldn't sign his own name that was for sure. What name could he come up with in under a minute though?

"Sir, you do have a name, don't you?"

"Sorry, er- I'm just tired", Harry said outright, as he started to sign his signature. The man checked Harry's signature, and smiled. His disgusting yellow chipped teeth were right in Harry's face, and his nasty breath smelled of fish and beer. "Enjoy your stay with us at the Pioneer, Mr. Ron Hagrid,"he said as he slid a key over to Harry.

Harry took the key and put it in his coat pocket. The man muttered on and on about the nightly price and stuff that Harry tried to block out, like the weather, and asking for the millionth time if he sure he wasn't distressed. After paying the man, he moved toward the elevator. Harry had never been so relieved to not be around anyone. He had met enough people in the last few hours to last him a lifetime. First the rude girl he had met outside, then this man behind the desk, who was just plain weird. In a few minutes he would finally be up his room and alone. He pressed the up button for the elevator, but he heard the man behind the desk calling out behind him.

"Have a nice night, Mr. Hagrid", Billy called out.

Harry smiled to himself as the elevator door opened. It was going to get used to being known as Mr. Ron Hagrid. But that was the only thing that seemed to pop up in his head at the moment. After he walked in the very small and old elevator, he could see the man behind the desk had his nose buried deep inside his car magazine again. He pressed number three on the elevator, and some weird buzzing and clinking sound filled the air as the elevator started to move up. Great, Harry thought, all he needed to complete this day was to get stuck in this elevator.

If Harry didn't know any better, it seemed that he was probably the only one staying at the Pioneer. He didn't even want to fathom how this place stayed in business if that was the case. Well, Harry figured there had to be other people staying. You know, other desperate people like him. Harry continued on walking down the dimly lit, narrow hallway, which seemed to go on for eternity. Roughly two minutes later, he had finally found his room, which was hidden around some dark corner. After Harry unlocked the door and walked in, he immediately found himself wondering how this was the Pioneer's best room. If it was, then he hate to be in the other rooms. After finding a small (dusty) lamp on the bedside table, he could see the room more clearly. It looked like no one had stayed in this room for years. It was stuffy, rather small, and very dusty like the downstairs lobby had been. The bed was double sized at least, and comfortable was a horrid gray-ashy color. At least there was a small desk and some parchment, well paper, Harry quickly corrected himself. If he was going to live in the muggle world, he had to start acting, saying, and thinking everything muggle. Times like these, the only thing ever good out of living with the Dursley's was the fact that he had grown up in the muggle world. Unlike Ron, Harry laughed, who would be lost in a place like this. "What's this? What's that?" Harry could picture Ron asking him wide eyed. Harry quickly pushed thoughts of Ron and his old life aside. If he thought about Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Hagrid— something just occurred to Harry. How could he of forgotten? He forget to say goodbye to one of the people he cared about the most. Someone who has been there for him more times he could count. Harry felt guilt invade his entire body, as he laid down on the bed, and began to stare up at the ceiling. Harry was just so consumed with leaving, he didn't even think about Hagrid. Well, there was nothing he could do about it now. He was gone, and he just hoped that Hagrid would understand why he had to leave. That's all he could hope for. Maybe he would see him again one day. All of them. That was his one wish. Seeing the people he loved and not having to worry that people are trying to hurt them just to get to him. But he knew it was just wishful thinking. What was he doing? He had to stop this. This was his life, Harry told himself one more time. But the more important thing Harry was beginning to realize, that yes, this was his life now. But he was forced into this life. This was the last thing he wanted. He would give anything to just be with Ginny and his best friends right now at Hogwarts. He looked at the clock in the room and it read, 10:03 p.m. He would probably be sleeping right now, or possibly they would be in common room, staying up late, Ron and Hermione together, he and Ginny talking like old times. But the more he thought about old times, the clearer it was that even if he ever did go back, things would never be the same. Ron hated him, and wanted him out of his life. Ginny was in serious condition, and Harry hated not knowing if Ginny was going to be okay or not. And Hermione, she was just so upset about everything---- No, Harry said. Seeing Ginny lying there helpless, the look of pure hatred on Ron's face, and Hermione face so full of tears, he couldn't go back. Their pain made everything so raw-------so real, and it was like a neon sign flashing before his eyes. That's why he left, and that's why he couldn't ever go back.

A few minutes later, Harry took off his coat, and realized how dirty he was. After all, he left Hogwarts so fast; he had never changed his clothes after he found Ginny. His sweater and pants were full of dried blood stains. He had to get these clothes off and get rid of them. After Harry cleaned up and put on fresh clothes, he rolled up his old clothes and shoved them in a empty drawer that an old television rested on. Harry made his way over to the bed and sat down and dumped out the contents that he had kept in his bag. His wand, a picture of Ron, Hermione, and Ginny laughing in a brown photo frame, a few books, and a few other things that—but Harry stopped and realized how completely drained he was. All of this stuff could wait until tomorrow. He was so tired, he didn't know if he could keep his eyes open any longer. He put everything back in the bag except for the photo and his wand. He quickly placed his wand in the bedside drawer. He knew if he wanted to cut all ties from the magical world he was going to have to give it up, but Harry couldn't just yet. It still felt like it was a part of him, Harry said to himself. He then placed the photo of his friends on top of the night stand, After staring at it for a few moments, it was just to hard to bear, remembering happy times. What he was thinking, putting that picture up? He would never be able to move on if he had a constant reminder of his old life right in front of him. He slammed the frame face down, putting all thoughts out of his head about his past life once and for all. Harry slid under the covers and turned off the lamp beside him. Well this was it, Harry thought. His first night on his own. As hard as it was to leave, while walking away from the castle, he was left with a feeling of sadness but also excitement. For the first time, Harry thought he would finally feel free. Of everything. But lying here in this bed, in this strange inn, surrounded by even more peculiar people, he was left with one feeling in his heart, which was nothing but loneliness. Within minutes, Harry felt himself drifting off to sleep. Before he did, he swore he could feel tears rolling lightly down his cheeks.

A week had passed, and it was probably the most uneventful week in his life. Harry hadn't done much of anything really. And Harry didn't know what to think or to feel. This was all still very new, and he was still adjusting. He had never really been on his own before. Even when he was at the Dursley's, he had to constantly put up with Dudley, Vernon, and Petunia. Here, he was alone, and yes he had the everyday "good afternoon- goodnight Mr. Hagrid" from Billy, but that was as much as much as he communicated on a daily basis. Harry found himself watching muggle TV every day, which he had to admit, was one of the only things keeping him from being completely bored out of his mind. He had read a little, and he explored most of downtown London and found some interesting shops, which he spent most of his day in. Harry had even bought himself a coat that actually fit right. He had even bought some muggle stuff, like Laundry detergent, and a radio. Harry must admit, there is nothing like a meal from Hogwarts, and that was that truth. He had found some decent places to eat his meals but nothing could ever compare to the satisfied meals he would eat there with his friends—No Harry thought. He had been doing fine all week with not thinking of his old life. But, it would take a while, Harry told himself. From time to time, he would wonder how Ginny was doing. And what Ron and Hermione were doing without him. But that was as far as he would let himself think about his old life at Hogwarts. Those days were over, and the more time he spent away from there, the easier it became not to think about it. Sure, he missed his friends, but he didn't have the need to go back there he did a week ago. Out of mind, out of sight, Harry kept telling himself on a day-to-day basis. Harry sounded empty, but that's how he had to be. He couldn't let himself feel much of anything, because if he did, he knew what would happen, he would want to go back. So, out of mind, out of sight. It got easier everyday, Harry started to realize.

So here Harry was walking down the streets of downtown London. Thankfully, it wasn't nearly as cold out as it was last week when he arrived here. The sun was out, and Harry was beginning to feel better than he had in days. He even felt a smile creep up on his face. He was starting to get use to being on his own and living as a full muggle. He hadn't used magic since he got here, and to be honest, in a way, he did feel free. Even though he had only been gone a week, Hogwarts and his life there was beginning to feel like a distant memory. Sure he would always think of his friends from time to time, but that was it. This was his life now, and for the first time he actually felt like he meant it. Harry had just finished looking in one of his favorite shops called,Kim's Antiques, he had found since he got here. He had found some really interesting stuff in there, and Harry had felt at peace when he went there. It was quiet, and he just felt like he could block out the world. Harry felt his stomach rumble, and he realized that he hadn't eaten today. He wanted to eat someplace that was quiet, since had just bought a book which he really wanted to read. Harry walked up a few blocks and spotted a small café called the Bronze across the street. He ran across the street and walked in. It was a little crowded, but it seemed pretty calm inside. A candle was lit on every table, and it had two levels. Up the spiral staircase there was tons of bookcases and couches, where a couple people sat with their faces buried in books, Harry noticed peering up. As Harry took a seat at a table near the window, he began to glance around the café a little more. There was a young couple sitting in the corner booth, whispering in each other's ears. A few other people sat alone at tables; one woman reading a thick novel and drinking coffee, a girl eating a salad and typing on a laptop, and an older man biting into a sandwich, chatting on a phone at the same time. Harry could see himself coming here everyday. There was just something about this place that he felt drawn to for some reason. He couldn't explain it, but he felt at home here. Harry then spotted a menu on the side of the table and began to look at it. He was hungry, but he had no idea what-

"My name is Gemma. May I get you something?" Harry heard a female voice cut into his thoughts.

Harry put down the menu and looked up at the waitress.

"You", the waitress scoffed.

Harry sighed as he realized it was the rude girl that he had met outside last week. Only this time she didn't have a large black coat on. Instead she had a skirt, a red top on, with a black apron over it, and her hair reddish blonde hair was up and out of her face. And she was wearing a name tag, which said Gemma of course. This was the last thing he needed, Harry almost felt like saying aloud. He did not feel like putting up with this person, and he felt his patience starting to run thin.

"Well I forgot, since you don't speak, maybe you'd like to point to something you'd like on the menu", Gemma spat.

Harry looked up at her, not holding back. "Is there a reason why you're so rude?" He blurted.

The girl looked actually shocked that he said that to her. She shot him a half smile. "Oh so you actually do talk. That's nice to know. You do have a name, don't' you?"

"Er–Ha—Ron--------Er-----can I just order something?" Harry mumbled.

Gemma eyed him, and let out a smirk. "As you wish".

Harry told her and closed his menu. She walked away without saying a word. Harry was really beginning to like this place, but with that girl working here, he was afraid that was not going to be the case anymore. She returned a few minutes later with his soda and placed it down in front of him.

"Your meal should be up in a few minutes", she said hovering by his table.

"Er–okay", Harry said not looking at her.

A minute passed and she was still standing by his table. "Hey, about the other day. I'm sorry. I know you must think I'm a------but the point is, that's just how I am."

"Rude?" Harry asked not feeling any sympathy towards this girl.

"No. Realistic. When you've been pretty much on your own from the time you're sixteen, it's hard to trust–--people or give them the time of day. Well, anyway, I was having a bad day, and I took it out on you, I guess. "

Harry didn't want to know anything about this girl. And more importantly, he couldn't afford to. Again, he wasn't here to make friends. Harry didn't respond, and he purposely ignored her.

The girl peered at him, not really saying anything. Then she looked at him curiously. "I can honestly say I've never met quite as antisocial as you. Just kidding. Well, not really. But anyway---You're new around her, aren't you? Where you from?"

Harry tried his best to just ignore her. Maybe she would just go away.

"Hey what's your deal?" She asked flat out when she realized Harry was giving her the cold shoulder.

Harry was getting antsy. He couldn't take all this prying. What was this girl's interest in his life? Wasn't she getting the message that he wasn't interested in socializing?

"You look scared", Gemma said. "Your running away from something aren't you? Something nasty, right?"

Harry looked up at her directly for the first time.

"What?" Harry said. Why was she saying that?

"You know, you can only run away from what you're scared of for so long", Gemma told him softly.

"Er—-Why are you so interested in my life?" Harry demanded. Who was this girl?

"Geez, calm down. You're so jumpy. I was just giving you the best piece of advice I can give you. This is a big city. If you plan to stick around, you need all the friends you can get", She said. "Trust me I know".

All Harry knew was that there was something weird about this girl. He didn't know anything about her really, and he couldn't grasp it completely, but there was just something about her that gave him a bad feeling. Either way, he had to get out of here. And fast.

Then all of a sudden she got very close to him. "That's a very distinctive----scar. A lightening bolt. That's not something you see everyday, is it? Something happened to you, didn't it? That's why you ran." She said, staring at it, with the most mystified look on her face.

Harry felt like he was going to explode. She was getting to close, he realized. He had to leave this place now. He threw some money down on the table for the drink he ordered, and then quickly rose up from his seat. Before he knew it, something escaped from his mouth before he could stop it. "What do you know about me?" He shouted frankly. People started to stare. They put down their books and their food and were looking right at him. He was making a scene. Drawing attention to himself

"What? Where you going? What about your order?" Gemma asked, wide eyed.

"I'm not hungry anymore", Harry blurted as he walked away from the table, and ran for the door as briskly as possible.

"Ron, wait!" Harry heard Gemma shout faintly from behind him as walked out of the door.

Well, that was bad, Harry thought, walking back toward the PioneerWhat could he have been thinking, attracting attention to himself like that? First off, he couldn't believe the chances of running into that girl Gemma again in a city this big. But that was his luck, wasn't it? Why was she asking him so many questions? Harry didn't know, but he knew there was something awfully strange about her. Almost like—No, Harry thought to himself. She was just curious about his life, and who he was. But why though? She could be anyone, or anything, following him, Harry feared. But she could just also be a normal girl who lives in London, he realized. He didn't know what to think about this girl, so Harry just tried to put it out of his mind for awhile. She was either not what she seemed or he was just very very paranoid. Which one, he didn't know. But this was his life now, and she was not going scare him away.

Twenty minutes later, Harry was back at the Pioneer. Sure enough, Billy was at the front desk buried deep inside his daily car magazine. As always, he had seemed to notice Harry every time he had walked in and out this week.

"Good-evening, Mr. Hagrid", Billy called out like clockwork.

Harry nodded to him as he made his way into the shoddy elevator which seemed to make stranger noises every time he used it. As soon as he walked into his room, he felt unusual feeling enter him. Something was wrong. He heard this odd noise that he couldn't make out and for a minute in the dark, he felt frozen in fear. After all he didn't have his wand on him, and what if it was a--------Harry banished those thoughts and slowly turned on the lamp and was preparing himself for whatever he would find.

There on his bed, was Hedwig, chirping at him.

Harry couldn't believe his eyes. How in the world did Hedwig find him? Harry was happy to see her, but he thought Ron and Hermione were keeping her for Harry. More importantly, he was in the Muggle world. How did she find him? Harry asked himself over and over.

Harry sat down beside her, and Hedwig chirped even louder as Harry petted her. Out of the corner of his room, he noticed that she must of flown through the open window. Since his room is always stuffy, Harry likes to keep a window cracked at all times.

"You missed me girl, didn't you?" Harry whispered. Hedwig placed her beak in Harry's hand.

"Well, I missed you too, but how did you find me?" Harry asked her, fully aware that she couldn't answer back.

Suddenly this warm feeling entered his heart. He had missed Hedwig so much, and he didn't realize how much until now. He couldn't stop smiling and petting her. He had sort of pushed his old life in the back of his mind. But if anything was to remind him of his old life it was Hedwig. As utterly happy as he was to see her again, she only made things that much harder. Harry felt an ache in his heart, and he felt himself back to square one. What was he doing here? Was it really helping? Being away from his friends, the people he cared about the most? Hogwarts was his home, and he wanted to be there more than anything. But- No, Harry thought, fighting it. That's why he left, to make things better for them. As hard as it was—Wait, Harry stopped himself in mid thought. Hedwig was carrying an envelope. Harry slowly took it from her, and before he opened it, his mind began to race. Should he open this? Maybe it was better if he didn't. He laid it on the side for a moment, but he couldn't take it anymore. He practically ripped open the envelope. It was a letter. He had a feeling he knew who it was from. He then began to read.

Harry-

I don't know if you'll receive this letter, and it may be foolish of me to try and send this, but I don't care. Hedwig wasn't happy here Harry, and I tried my best to get her to stay here with me, but it couldn't be done. I knew she was going to leave, so I attached this letter, in hopes that she would find you one day soon.

I know I can't force you to come back Harry, but I felt no choice in at least trying. I miss you Harry, and I know this may not be much of a consolation, but I believe more than anything Ron misses you too. Well I wouldn't know, because let's just say I am not speaking to him anymore, but when I do see him from across the room or around here, I can see the pain in his eyes. Ron was ignorant to say the things he said to you that night, and you know Ron, he says things out of anger and pure idiocy, but you know he doesn't mean them. He was upset----He didn't really want you to leave. Nor I Harry. We need you here Harry, and I know you think you needed to leave, for us, to protect us, but the truth is Harry, you can't always protect us, and things are going to happen whether you're here or not. I can't try and understand what you're going through Harry, because I simply cannot. But we need you to come back Harry. I know you may feel you don't have the courage or the fight left, especially after everything that's happened this year, with the over-truth potion, with Benjamin's murder, and what happened to Ginny, but we need you now more than ever. I know you Harry. You're strong. I once told you were the bravest wizard I have ever met. And I still believe that without a doubt. We need to solve this, together Harry. Like all the other times. You don't' have to run away, or isolate your self from the world. We can fight this together, with the support of your friends. All I know is you can't hide forever Harry, and sooner or later, I know I'll see you back at Hogwarts. I know you must be wondering how Ginny is. The truth is, she's at St. Mungo's still. She's still in a coma Harry, and the doctors don't' know if she'll wake up for not. The longer she's in it, the more likely for her never to come out of it. Ginny needs you too, and I know that you feel responsible for what happened to her Harry, but it's not your fault. You must remember that. The only person who is responsible is the person who did it, and has caused havoc around the school all year. Harry, I can't do this alone. I know you more than anyone; want to find out who's behind all this once and for all. Before I go, you know that the new term is starting up again tomorrow. Everyone will be back. I hope to see you back as well. I hope your okay.

Hermione

Harry didn't even realize it, but hot tears were pouring down his face. The letter dropped to the floor, and in one instant all the reasons he had left didn't seem to make sense anymore. He needed to get back to Hogwarts. His friends needed him. Ginny needed him. And yes deep inside him, he would love nothing more to find out who was behind everything. Who had he been kidding? Did he honestly think he could run away and abandon everything and everyone that he cared about? He must have been insane. Absolutely insane. How could he of left Ginny like that? How could he leave his friends at a time like that? How could he have just left?

"Why?" Harry cried aloud, standing up. He paced frantically around the room not knowing what to do. He saw the frame of his friends face down on the night table and he grabbed it into his hands. Harry stared intently at the picture placing his hand onto each of his friend's faces. They all looked so happy, Harry thought.

"I shouldn't have left them. They need me. I need them. I----have to go back", Harry whispered in the air between sobs.

But then it seemed right before his eyes that his friend's faces seemed to morph into his worst nightmare. Ginny's happy smile turned into a lifeless body lying on the ground, Ron's goofy expression, turned into a look of deep hatred, and Hermione's calm and carefree face, turned into a mass of sobs.

"NOOOOO!" Harry shouted on the top of his lungs. What was happening to him? He felt dizzy and full of confusion. His mind felt like it was going on overdrive. But he knew he couldn't go back, as much as he yearned for it. He caused NOTHING BUT PAIN. If he went back, he would be selfish. He had to forget about them. Pretend like they never existed. He tried to push back his tears, but they kept flowing out. He took the picture in his hand and threw it against the mirror on the opposite side of the wall. The mirror shattered into a million different pieces, and one of the pieces hit him in the face. He felt blood trickle down his cheek, while his skin began to burn from the cut. Harry fell to the ground, and could see his reflection in the many pieces of glass lying there on the ground. He could see the blood dripping from the side of his face, his eyes bloodshot from his many tears, and the pure look of emptiness in his eyes. He was utterly alone; Harry realized looking at the broken frame and pieces of wood on the floor next to the glass. He didn't even recognize the person looking back at him. The walls began to close in, and the room seemed to be getting darker and darker. Then finally the whole room went to black.

Footsteps, was all Harry could hear when he woke up. Banging and echoing on the corridors of Hogwarts. Faster Faster Faster. He could almost taste the sweat dripping of his skin. Harry fell the ground, but when he opened his eyes, he was in the Gryffindor common room, and Ginny was staring right at him, her red hair looking more beautiful than ever.

Suddenly though Ginny backed away. "Harry, I feel the same way. I do. But now's not the right time. I'm- not ready", she told him softly.

"What?" Harry asked, extremely confused looking around the room, and then back at Ginny, not knowing what was happening. How did he get here? Back at Hogwarts? The last thing he remembered was being at the Pioneer-And when did Ginny---- Ginny. She was alive. She wasn't in a coma any longer, Harry just realized.

"Ginny, you're okay!" Harry shouted, feeling pure happiness pour out of his mouth.

Ginny looked him deep in the eyes, and then touched his face.

"Ginny, you're okay. I thought I lost you! Er-------It was my fault! I should of never of let you-"

"Shhhh", Ginny whispered to him leaning closer to his face.

"I dunno what's going on Ginny. Tell me", Harry mumbled, even more confused.

"Come back to me Harry", she whispered into his ear.

What? Harry thought. What was she talking about? He was sitting right here on the couch in the common room.

"Come back to me, "Ginny whispered again. "Come back home", she added.

"I am home", Harry blurted, not knowing why Ginny kept saying that.

Ginny shook her head. "No, your not. You're lost. You think you needed to leave. But you don't Harry. You can't blame yourself. You need to come home. So we can be together. I need you. You must know how much I------love you, Harry."

Harry never knew he could feel this good again. It's everything he ever wanted to hear. "I love you too", Harry told her, his heart soaring with pure joy.

Ginny smiled ever so softly. "I know you do". Then she moved closer and closer to him and before he knew it, her lips were on his. They were soft and light and Harry felt twinges of pleasure going through his entire body. This was all he ever wanted, and he couldn't believe it was happening. They got deeper in their embrace and then Harry stopped for a moment. He just wanted to stare at Ginny, and hold her in his arms. He began to look at her face, but in that moment Harry screamed out in terror.

"Ginny!" Harry bellowed.

Ginny's face was full of blood, and she was reaching out to him. She seemed to be moving farther and farther away from him, her hands still reaching out in front of her.

"Harry! Harry!" She called out. But her voice grew more silent as she kept calling his name.

Harry tried to grab onto her hand, but as soon as he got up off the couch, he fell onto the ground, and he found himself back on the ground in the pitch black corridors. Right before him, was Ginny's lifeless bloody corpse; just like he had found that dreadful night.

"I'm sorry Ginny", Harry said, which seemed to echo over and over again into the air.

Harry put his hand over her hand. Ginny's eyes shot open the moment he touched her.

"Don't let me die Harry", Ginny said, her eyes staring bleakly right at him.

Before Harry could answer, Ginny's face morphed into Ron's.

Harry realized he was in the great hall. It was crowded, but it was silent, and motionless, and Ron just staring at him.

"Quidditch is starting up again tomorrow, Harry. Aren't you excited mate?" Ron chuckled while eating a piece of chicken.

"Ron, what's going's happening?" Harry blurted looking deliriously at him.

"What's the bloody hell wrong with you?" Ron asked, curiously while sipping on pumpkin juice.

Then suddenly, out of thin air, Hermione appeared to be sitting right next to Ron.

"Ronald must you be so dramatic the time?" Hermione said her in usual annoyed voice, looking right at Ron. Then she glanced at Harry. "Oh Harry, you do look rather sick. Are you sure you're alright?"

"Er- I'm-"

"Maybe we should take him to the hospital wing", Benjamin added, sitting next to Hermione.

"Ben? You're alive?" Harry asked in pure shock.

Ben looked at Harry, a serious look emerging on his face. "Well, no. I'm okay though. Don't worry about me, Harry. But now it's up to you. You know that. No matter how much you run, you can never escape. You have to find the answers. Your friends can't do it alone, but with help from you, you can put a stop to everything."

Suddenly everything made sense to Harry. "I'm sorry Ben. That you had to die, and I couldn't stop it. I always managed to make things right. But I failed this time. Look at what happened to you. To Ginny. I tried to find out the answers, but I can't. There are none. And Voldermort's won this time".

Just then Ron, Hermione, And Benjamin disappeared, and Harmone walked by with her usual smile, long blonde hair, bright red robe, and ruby red revealer around her neck. She turned and stopped right in front of Harry.

She was silent for a moment, but then she smiled. "You have to know what to see", She said.

"WHAT?" Harry shouted. "What are you trying to tell me?"

Harmone simply vanished right in front him.

"NO!" Harry shouted as he tried to reach out for her. But she was gone.

Then Harry fell the ground again, and when he looked up he was in a place he did not recognize. It was dark and cold and he could only see a figure right in front of him. Suddenly the person in front of him seemed to morph from person to person. Ginny...Ron...Hermione...Benjamin...Dumbledore...Charlie...Hagrid...Snape...Harmone...then they all dissolved and Belle was standing right in front of him looking very weak. She said nothing. She tried to reach out to him, to help him off the ground. Harry reached out for her, but he screamed when, he realized there was a dagger in her hand. The dagger dissolved and a white light appeared and Belle disappeared. Then a dark figure appeared in front of Harry. Something was in their hands. A parchment, no. A picture? It had to be. Harry couldn't make it out. But it sure looked like a picture. He couldn't see who was on it though. The next moment, Harry was outside, facing Hogwarts. The same dark cloaked figure was walking toward Hogwarts, a dagger peaking out of their hand and the same picture in their other hand. The figure slowly shifted around, and peeled off their hood. Those cold death-like eyes, that snake-like face, that bloodcurdling laugh. It was Voldermort. He gave Harry a look of pure evil, and then a smirk curled onto his lips. He then turned back around, placed his hood back over his head, and walked toward Hogwarts.

"NO!" Harry shouted, as he went to take out his wand to try and stop him. But his wand wasn't there. He tried to run but couldn't move either. It was like there was a invisible wall blocking him. Harry tried to push through, but he couldn't. And Voldermort was getting closer and closer to Hogwarts. And Harry couldn't do anything to stop him. Closer. Closer. Closer.

Harry heard glass breaking the next moment, and he looked up and it was Gemma, holding a piece of glass in her hands. She was coming closer and closer and closer and then she----------------------

Harry's eyes shot wide open. His heart was practically beating of his chest; Sweat pouring down his whole body. He was in the Pioneer. He was lying on his bed. It was a dream, Harry realized full of relief. It was all coming back to him. What Ginny said, What Harmone and Ben had said. Then there was Belle and Voldermort and----Before he started to make sense of his dream, Harry rose up, and noticed something very strange. No glass. No broken mirror. The frame was still in tact on his bedside table. He felt his face, no cut. He knew he was out of it, but Harry swore that he had thrown the picture at the mirror. He remembered seeing the mirror shatter into a million pieces. He had seen his reflection in them. He couldn't just have imagined that could he of? No, Harry thought. He wasn't sure of much anymore, but he knew what happened right before he fell asleep. Something wasn't right. Something was wrong with him. And someone was doing something to him. And from his dream, he had a good idea who.

Harry grabbed his wand from inside his drawer, threw it in his bag and ran out of the door.

Twenty minutes later, Harry was across the street from the Bronze. Was it just a coincidence that Gemma was behind him, following him that night? Was it a coincidence that she just happened to be his waitress and was trying to get involved in his life? No, thought Harry. It was too good to be true. If anything that dream gave him clarity. Whatever was happening at Hogwarts was still happening, and Voldermort still wanted Harry, and he would stop at nothing to get him, by any means possible. Muggle world or not, it didn't matter. Voldermort still wanted him dead. Whoever, this girl was, Harry was going to find out right now. And if this girl was involved in what happened at Hogwarts. To Benjamin. To Ginny. He didn't know if he could control himself. Harry was about to cross the street and go in, but out of the corner of his eye, he saw Gemma. In an instant, he grabbed her by the arm and shoved her against the brick wall.

"Hey-what do you think you're doing?" She screamed looking purely terrified.

"Who are you?" Harry asked, pure viciousness pouring out from his voice.

She glared at him, horror in her eyes. "What are you talking about?"

"You know what I am talking about. Who sent you to follow me?" Harry asked outright.

Gemma looked like she had no idea what he was talking about. "What? You're crazy!"

Harry thought about it for a minute. Maybe he had, but he was sure she was behind how ever he was acting. He knew that she was working for Voldermort. She had to be.

"Tell me who sent you!" Harry shouted.

"Get your hands off of me!" Gemma cried, as she shoved Harry's hand off of her.

Harry then grabbed his wand out of his bag, and pointed it in her face. Her eyes began to widen.

"I'm sorry, Er----------I don't' want to use this. But I will if I have to. I came here to escape this life. I don't need it following me around. Just tell me who sent you".

Gemma tried to keep calm, but Harry could see panic stirring deep in her eyes. "I don't know what your problem is, but you know who I am. I just saw you a few hours ago. My name is Gemma. I'm twenty-one. I've worked at the Bronze and lived in an apartment right over there since I was sixteen. I don't know what's wrong with you, but you're really beginning to freak me out!"

"You're lying! Tell me who you really are!" Harry was about to put the wand up to her neck, but he stopped when he saw Gemma's terrified face. What was he doing? He didn't want to hurt anybody. He just needed to get out of here. It didn't matter where. Harry took the wand and put it back into his bag. Gemma had a look of pure relief on her face.

"I'm sorry", Harry blurted as he took off down the street.

He ran as fast as he could back to the Pioneer. For once, Billy wasn't at the desk, as he entered the lobby. Harry pressed the elevator button and as soon as it opened Harry ran inside. He couldn't believe what he had just done. What could he have been thinking? What if she was innocent? He had just attacked her without thinking and was seconds away from almost kil-----Harry wouldn't let himself finish that thought. He didn't know what to think or what to believe anymore. He didn't know what was or wasn't real. He had never felt so lost, so confused, so alone in his entire life. He thought leaving would make everything better. He thought everything would be okay. But he couldn't escape it. He couldn't escape his old life. It's who he was. He couldn't stop anything from happening. All he could do was try and stop it. Fight it. And that dream. That dream felt so real. So tangible, like he could just reach out and touch them. This was too much, Harry said to himself. He needed his friends. He needed to go back to Hogwarts. He needed to go home. He knew somewhere deep inside of him that he needed to go back and fight. And stop being a coward. And face his destiny. But even after realizing all of this, there was a small whisper inside of him that told him why he couldn't go back. No matter how much his friends, needed him, missed him, no matter how matter how many letters Hermione wrote him telling to come back, he just didn't know if he could. It was too hard, Harry realized. And that's why he couldn't go back. It wasn't just out of protection for his friends. He was scared. Terrified. He gave up. He surrendered. He didn't want to face what was coming. What was there when he went back. It was just too much to bear. Harry knew he should go back, he needed his friends, and he knew they needed him, but it was stone cold fear stopping him. Well, the only thing that mattered was getting out of here, Harry realized. He could figure out what he was going to do as soon as he left. As soon as he reached his room, the first thing Harry did was empty all his drawers and shoved everything in his bag. He looked through his drawers again to double check and realized he had forgotten that he had rolled up those clothes the night he got here, and threw them in there. He grabbed them and put them in his bag. He grabbed Hermione's letter and the photo frame of his friends and tossed them in there too. He realized Hedwig wasn't in the room any longer, but Harry knew that Hedwig would always be able to find him. Harry put his coat on, placed his bag over his shoulder, and looked around the room one more time.

"Well, this is it", Harry said aloud.

He didn't know where he was going. Maybe he would end up back at Hogwarts and do the right thing. And fight. Maybe he wouldn't. It was like that wall in his dream that separated him from reaching Voldermort. As much as he wanted to go back, he might not be able to break through the wall. His fear. His destiny.

Harry was about to leave, but he felt something. Heard something. Whispering in the air. Someone was in the room. Harry reached for his wand, but it was buried deep inside his bag. He couldn't get to it in time. It was too late, and then three black robed figures in cloaks appeared behind him. Harry could feel them menacing behind him. Death eaters were encircling him. He almost couldn't believe it. He couldn't believe they would risk exposing themselves in the muggle world. But that's how bad Voldermort wanted him dead. He didn't scream. He didn't say a word, and nothing but dreary silence filled the air. He knew what was going to happen if he didn't move. But Harry had no where to go. It was like there really was a wall up this time. And he literally couldn't get through it. Unrecognizable, with black hoods concealing their faces, the three death eaters just started at him, waiting to kill him.

No wand, no friends, no hope. It was fight or die. It was up to him. Because that was the only thing he had left.

Before he knew it, without looking, without thinking, Harry knew what he wanted to do. He reached inside his bag and found his wand and grabbed it out as swiftly as possible and held it out in front of him.

The three death eaters revealed daggers in their hands simultaneously coming toward him.

"EXPELLIARMUS!" Harry shouted, his wand right pointed directly at them. Their daggers flew across the room and then crashed to the ground. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see them pulling out their wands, and lunging toward him. In an instant, Harry made a break for the door. No matter what he would not look behind him. He could hear his feet hitting the ground, as he pressed the button for the elevator. Beads of sweat surged down his face. He then two shadows on the wall, and he knew they were coming for him. Then directly in front of him, a death eater appeared right before his eyes, their wand inches from Harry's face. Harry could see their eyes; cold, black, and pure evil.

"Harry. Did you think you could escape?" a male whispery voice, that Harry did not recognize filled the air.

Harry felt anger rise up in his throat. He wanted to say something but he felt like his mouth was locked shut. He just held his wand up firmly in place, trying to forget that his heart was beating a mile a minute.

Then Harry could feel two wands roughly aiming at his back. He could see the other two death eaters looming behind him.

Then Harry looked at the death eater right in front of him. He placed the tip of his wand onto Harry's cheek. "Do you think your friends are safe now?" The male whispery voice spat out.

Harry could feel his whole body shivering with fear. This time, no friends were coming to his aid. Dumbledore wasn't coming to come in and save the day. He was alone.

"That's too bad since you won't get to watch them die", Harry heard one of the death eaters behind him whisper in his ear. A female voice, one that sounded familiar, but he couldn't exactly place it. Their wands were still firmly digging into his back.

"IF YOU HURT THEM, I-"Harry tried to say, feeling pure venom rise up in his throat.

"You'll do what? Your not exactly in the position to be making threats, are you Mr. Potter?" The main death eater, spat out.

Harry tried to think of something, anything to say. His mind was drawing a blank. But he had to think of something. "You do realize you're in the muggle world, don't you? It's a pretty big risk, don't you think? The police will be here any second", Harry blurted, not really thinking.

Laugher filled the air, and then it was silent again.

"Hmmm. The Muggle world, we are in yes. The police as you so call them are the least of our concern. You choose a run down place to stay at with absolutely no people around. Please tell us whose coming to save you Mr. Potter?" The death eater replied nastily, his wand still firmly placed on the side of his face.

Harry realized what they said was true. No one would ever notice they were here. They could kill Harry, and no one would be any the wiser. And yes, to Harry's dismay there was no one coming to save him. No one.

"Alright. I've had enough small talk. Your time is up Potter. I'll be sure and say hello to your friends for you".

"NO!" Harry yelled. "YOU BETTER NOT TOUCH MY FRIENDS------YOU ARE BEHIND EVERYTHING. WHY DON'T YOU JUST STOP HURTING EVERYONE I CARE ABOUT, AND DEAL WITH ME-----YOU KNOW WHAT YOU WANT. WHAT V----OLERMORT WANTS! ME! I JUST WANT IT OVER! DEAL WITH ME AND LEAVE EVERYONE ELSE OUT OF IT"

The death eater in front of him slowly took his wand off of Harry's face. "Don't worry, Harry it will be all over soon!" he shouted, his black eyes, gleaming with pure joy.

He then lowered his wand, toward Harry and he knew what was coming next. Maybe it would be easier this way. It would all be over. It would be the end. But a small part of Harry told him to fight. But Harry knew he couldn't do this alone. This was it, Harry thought. The end.

"Avada Kedav-"the death eater started to say, while a green ray of light started to escape from his wand.

"Ron!" Harry heard a voice call out from behind him.

Harry turned around. It was Gemma, wand raised in the air.

"EXPELLIARMUS!" Gemma yelled, and the death eater's wand, in front of Harry, flew out of his hands before he could finish the death curse, and it hit the opposite end of the wall.

Without even realizing what was going on, a surge of energy went through Harry, and he broke out of the grasp of the two death eaters behind him. A flying punch sent one of them flying to ground, and he heard Gemma shout out, "STUBEFY!" and the other death eater fell onto the ground, face down.

"Run!" Harry heard Gemma scream. Harry realized the last death eater came lunging toward him.

"EVERTE STATUM!" Harry bellowed, and death eater went flying across the hallway.

When Harry looked turned, Gemma was gone. Harry didn't waste time to think about who she really was or how she found him. He was just always be grateful.

He ran for the door next to the elevator and took the stairs. He moved as quickly as he could down them. He only had one flight left, and he-

Harry grimaced in horror as he saw a body lying on the foot of the last stair. It was Billy; his eyes and mouth wide open, like he died of pure shock. Harry started to sprint, finally reaching the door to the lobby. He opened it, and continued to run, not knowing his destination, but never looking back, holding his wand tightly in his hands.