Disclaimer : No matter how hard I wish, I don't own Harry Potter!
Chapter 36
A Stranger's Return
Enjoy!
Harry sat up in bed. Sleep seemed to be running from him. He stretched out, in hope of releasing the soreness that had emerged in his back from his restlessness. Harry glanced at the clock on his nightstand. He wasn't surprised to find it barely past two in the morning. Harry absentmindedly scratched at his head, making the already ruffled untidy black hair, messier. Glancing at Magnus who was coiled up and asleep. He wished he could take a sleep potion, as got to his feet. Walking to his trunk, that was sitting at the end of his bed. If anything could put him to sleep, it was reading.
Opening his trunk he found that books had filled a good portion of the room inside. Shifting some aside he found the book that was proving disconcerting. A black dragon hide cover with silver encrusting the title. Advancing in the Dark Arts. The author had chosen wisely to leave there name off the book. As the book explained in great detail some horrid spells. Even Harry couldn't find it in himself to even tease about trying them out on the Zabini brothers. They were just too wrong. Harry had found this book in Dumbledore's private library. He had just assumed that this library had been the four founders private library as well.
Looking back inside the trunk. He noticed the corner of the marauder's map. Harry grabbed this also. It was usually a waste of time to look at it this time of night. But what the hell, thought Harry.
' Yeah, what the hel- ' mumbled Ginny in her sleep. Harry smiled.
He carried both pieces back to his bed and climbed in. Tucking his feet into his covers to hide them from the night's chill. Opening the book first Harry leafed through the pages, uninterested. Wondering who in the name of Merlin's ghost would actually try these out. What had startled Harry was the flood of names that poured his mind. Malfoy, all three of them. Bellatrix, Voldemort, Death Eaters. All the countless number of them... So many names. Harry sighed and laid down the book. Deciding that he would have to take it back to the library soon. It was starting to disgust him. Instead Harry picked up the map.
"I solemnly swear that I am up to no good" Harry muttered as he gave it a light tap with his wand. Black ink started to appear and spread like spider webs forming the outlines of Hogwarts. Black splotches appeared and names were written above them. While most were in there rightful dormitory's, he noticed that McGonagall and Mr. Weasley were having a late night meeting. He wondered if there had been any new developments that might have caused a meeting at this hour.
' A private meeting, intrestin- ' mumbled Ginny again in her sleep. Harry smirked as he continued to look over the moving dots on the map.
Noticing Mrs. Norris was on the first floor and Filch was right outside the Gryffindor common room. Didn't that bloke ever sleep?
' Don't think so- ' replied Ginny.
Harry shook his head with a small laugh escaping his lips. He looked out over the grounds of Hogwarts. He saw Hagrid was not in his cabin and thought he must be off with the giants in there cave. Harry knew Hagrid was not going to rest until he had transformed them into soft cuddling giants, who still didn't know there own strength.
' Hagrid's mental. Ron's righ- ' mumbled Ginny in her sleep again. Harry snorted. Ron would have given his left arm to hear Ginny say that he was right. Even if she was asleep when she said it.
Smiling Harry let his eyes roam over the Quidditch pitch. He missed the game. It was the first year at Hogwarts he had not played Quidditch. Harry frowned and anger soared through him. Damn Voldemort for ruining his life like this. He would kill him. He would. Or he would die trying...No! he would kill him, he would!
'That's right Harry, go get'm. ' muttered Ginny. Harry smiled and letting his eyes roam over the map again and over the black dot labeled Regulus and over into the dark forest- REGULUS!
Harry snapped his eyes back over the dot. The label said Regulus Black! But that was impossible. He's dead.
So was Pettigrew.
The maps simply lying!
The map never lies!
Harry's eyes went wider that voice sounded much like Moony's. He knew where he had heard that before. Harry had spotted Peter Pettigrew a friend of his fathers during his Hogwarts years on the map in his third year. Moony had told him then, that the map was always right. The marauders had made sure of this.
' Never lies ' muttered Ginny sleepily. Harry gave himself a mental shake.
Giving the dot still labeled Regulus coming toward the castle a final glance. Harry leaped out of his bed and tore open Ron's red bed hanging's. He immediately made a sound of disgust as he saw Hermione laying curled up in Ron's arms. He held her sound and tight. Normally Harry would have just pulled the curtains back across, and hide them from anyone's view, but this was important.
"Ron! Wake up! Hermione! Wake up!" said Harry in a fierce whisper. Trying not to wake up Dean, Seamus, or Neville.
"What Harry we're trying to sleep" grumbled Ron. Harry knew this would sink in eventually and stood and waited hoping it would not take too long. Suddenly Ron's eyes shot open as did Hermione's.
"Oh my goodness Harry we-" began Hermione, but Harry put a silencing charms on them and tapped his mouth for them to be quiet. Hermione nodded, but Ron continued to look horrified that he had been caught. Hermione pushed the cover's at her chest to make sure she was covered. Harry removed the charms with another wave of his hand.
"We've got to get down to the grounds" whispered Harry.
"Why?" asked Ron. Harry shoved the map under both of their faces as he didn't trust it to lay on their laps. At least until they showered.
"What is it Harry?" asked Hermione as she wiped the corner of her eye with one hand and continued to hold up the covers with the other. Harry was feeling very weird and awkward.
"Right there it say's Regulus Black. So can you please let me leave so we all can get dressed" said Harry.
"Oh" said Hermione looking at the dot. Then realization must have registered because her eyes shone with there normal anxiousness. "Come on Ron we have to get up"
"Regulus. Isn't that Sirius's brother?" asked Ron. Harry started to retort, but Hermione beat him to it.
"Well done Ron. Now can we please get up" snapped Hermione. Harry turned on his heal. Grabbing some clothes from his trunk he walked into the bathroom.
' Ginny? ' said Harry. He knew she was sleeping, but he needed her help. ' Ginny baby. I need you to wake up '
' Why? ' said a very sleepy Ginny.
' Regulus just showed up on the map. We need to get down to him. I have a few questions for him to answer '
' Harry? '
' Yeah Gin? '
' Just making sure I wasn't dreaming again. ' came Ginny's sleepy thought. Harry paused in his action of getting dressed. A warm feeling surrounded him. Ginny's thoughts and dreams were really on him most of the time. This thought brought new founded strength to him.
' No it's real. It'll always be real wildfire. But right now we need to apprehend Regulus '
' Be right over in a flash. ' came Ginny's reply, but before Harry could finish pulling up his trousers, Ginny was standing in front of him. She transformed from her phoenix and gave a low whistle of approval. Harry blushed.
"Come on Gin. Seriously we need to go get Regulus." said Harry as he buttoned up and pulled on his trainers. Ginny undressed from her sleep wear, and Harry froze. His eyes automatically took in her lines of her womanly stature starting to show more prominently. Her triangle of curls he noticed had been groomed and tamed. It was Harry's turn to whistle, if he could get air down into his lungs. Harry noticed that she was taking pride in her body now a days, but even since the last time he had seen her he was sure, she had grown more feminine. A knock sounded on the door interrupting his day dreams. Harry gave himself a mental shake. Ginny grinned as she had been watching his eyes roam over her. Harry blushed.
"Harry we're ready" came Hermione's voice.
"Okay we'll be right out" hollered Ginny back.
"Ginny?" said Hermione sounding shocked.
"Hermione?" said Ginny echoing Hermione's surprise.
"What are you doing in there?" came Ron's voice.
"What's Hermione doing out there?" rounded Ginny. Harry noticed that Ginny was pulling on her clothes as she spoke so by this time she was lacing up her trainers. Harry opened the door. As he stuffed the map into his pocket.
"She flamed to my location, is all" he said.
"Oh I keep forgetting that you two could do that" said Hermione.
"Yeah, I wished I would have remembered it last week" said Ginny as she brushed past everyone. "So how are we going to capture him?" Harry smiled.
"Animagus forms anyone?" said Harry smirking. Ron nodded and immediately transformed. Hermione hesitated before nodding and transforming. Ginny followed after that. Harry made sure that Dean, Seamus and Neville were still sleeping and opened the long window in-between his and Neville's bed. Hermione flew out almost immediately. Harry grinned at the phoenix. ' Remind me to show you the effect you just had on me, later '
Ginny gave a metal laugh as Harry flicked his eyebrows at her and transformed. Ron climbed up on his back and Harry followed Ginny out the window. Harry took the lead with the phoenix on his right and the tawny owl on his left. A giant spider on his back. Harry found the spot where Regulus had been and landed a few paces away. He immediately smelled the air. He was right. Regulus's stench was still in the air. Uggh did he smell! Harry was quite sure the man hadn't showered in two weeks minimal.
"Ugghh think that bloke need's a shower" said Ron. Climbing off Harry and transforming back to normal. Harry and Hermione followed suite.
"Quiet Ron he might hear you" said Hermione whispering. Ginny transformed and Harry and her shared a look of annoyance.
"Follow me" said Harry as he transformed back into his griffin and followed his scent. The smell grew stronger as they went and when Harry knew he was only paces from him. He transformed back into himself. Spotting the crouching man up ahead. Harry took out the map and looked back over it. It was confirmed Regulus was the crouched man. Looking around them to make sure they were indeed alone. Harry whispered for Ron and Hermione to go around the other way. They took of in separate directions. Ginny made her way over across from Harry and waited. When he saw that everyone was in place he sent gold sparks in the air. Regulus saw these and stood up withdrawing a wand.
"Accio wand" shouted Ginny. Regulus had been expecting this and kept hold of his wand.
"Expelliarmus" shouted Harry. Regulus had clearly not been expecting this as the spell hit his back and knocked him toward Ginny a good few feet.
"Accio wand" shouted Ginny again, and this time with much more success as the wand came flying out of Regulus's hand and into Ginny's out stretched one.
"Enervate" muttered Harry.
"Regulus Black. How kind of you to drop in" said Ron coming up to stand beside Harry who continued to hold his wand pointed at Regulus's chest. Regulus grumbled and picked himself up to sit on his knee's. He pushed his matted hair out of his face and smiled up at them showing decaying teeth and Harry was sure he could smell his breath from where he stood still paces away from him.
"Harry Potter. The chosen one, the boy-who-lived-" began Regulus.
"Yeah and a load of other crappy names" said Harry. "What are you doing here?"
"In good time. What I would like to know is how did you sneak up on me?" asked Regulus. Harry smiled superciliously.
"No questions will be answered until we get you into the castle" said Hermione smartly. Regulus turned amused eyes on her.
"Four friends. Now let me see where does this look familiar? Yes as I do recall they called themselves the marauders. So here we stand again, only this time with the new generation" Regulus gave a small laugh. Harry tried hard not to cover his mouth.
"If your going to talk, I'm going to clean you up a little?" said Ginny and Hermione nodded in agreement. Both flicked their wands at Regulus and they repeated the Scourigify charm at least eleven times before Regulus was at least presentable. His breath a bit fresher. For which Harry was grateful.
"I should say thank you, but speaking that I am a Death Eater I don't think that it would fit, do you?" said Regulus. Harry furred his eyebrows. This was no ordinary Death Eater.
"Why are you here?" repeated Harry.
"I am here cause I have some information I wish to diverge. A colleague of yours I do believe lent me some information. I am merely returning the favor. Though I don't know why... you are as good as dead anyhow" sneered Regulus.
"Who sent you" said Ginny looking at Regulus with a hatred unlike any other.
"I send myself. For not even the dark lord know's I'm alive. Though by the time we have finished our discussion he might. I suggest we take the mudblo-" but Regulus's word were cut off. Both Harry and Ron both had their wands pointed and jabbed into his throat. Ginny's was pointed right at his heart, if there was one there.
"I will not hear that word coming from the likes of a vermin like you" said Ron his face bypassing pink and giving a red that glowed oddly in the moonlight. Moonlight? Harry looked to the sky. It was a full moon. Moony!
"I think we need to get inside" said Harry quickly. "It's a full moon. We don't want Regulus to get eaten by a werewolf do we?" said Harry, though his tone was mocking. Ginny smirked. Ron looked as if he was considering the idea. Hermione looked determinately back at Regulus. They walked Regulus to the steps of the entrance and with a wave of his wand Harry opened the doors.
"Becoming powerful huh Harry? Well I can tell you, you're going to need it" said Regulus. Harry didn't know why but this man didn't seem to be the type to go for someone like Voldemort. So why did he? Ginny gave a mental shrug.
"Where to?" asked Hermione as Ron sent a death glare at Mrs. Norris who raced off to find a hiding spot no doubt. Harry would have normally found this funny, but with his wand pointed into the back of a Death Eater he was slightly preoccupied.
"McGonagall's office. I believe we'll find her still up" said Harry laying a hint out to the two that couldn't hear his thoughts. Hermione lead the way, with Harry and Ron holding there wands into Regulus, daring him to move. Ginny had them covered from behind.
"Nimbus Lemon 2000" said Hermione. Harry hoped McGonagall hadn't changed the password yet, and was glad she hadn't as the gargoyle leaped aside and they all stepped up on the moving stairs. Hermione knocked on the door.
"Yes, come in" came McGonagall's curt voice. Though she sounded more stern and confused now. Hermione opened the door. "Miss Granger what pray tell are you-" but her words lost effect as Harry walked in with Regulus and Ron. Ginny closed the door behind him. Harry flicked his wand and a wooden chair appeared. "Oh"
"Sit down" he ordered. Regulus looked like he was about to retort, but Ron pushed his wand further into his side and Regulus closed his mouth and sat down.
"Well, headmistress McGonagall. Speechless I see. Well, I usually have that effect on witches" said Regulus smugly.
"Mr. Black to what do we owe this pleasure?" said Dumbledore. Regulus's eyes snapped to Dumbledore's frame. He clearly had not anticipated this. It was then that Harry noticed that Mr. Weasley had already left.
"Dumbledore?" he whispered. Dumbledore merely looked on at him with a blue twinkle in his eye. "I heard you had died. I even saw your white tomb"
"Yes, I'm told it was quite the funeral. Pardon me, but why are you here?" asked Dumbledore politely.
"I come in repayment for your information you gave me during the first war" said Regulus.
"Which is?" asked Ron. Regulus sneered up at the ginger haired man and Ron looked determined back at him. Harry was silently shocked.
"I do not know if you know that Lucius Malfoy escaped from Azkaban." said Regulus.
"So we have heard, but please continue" said Dumbledore. Harry remained quiet. He wanted to hear what Regulus had to say, or was it because his and Sirius's eye's are the same.
"Oh you've heard then you are well informed" said Regulus drawing out the conversation.
"We heard it just last week" said McGonagall avowedly.
"Not soon enough though" said Regulus. "Lucius escaped at the end of last July" Hermione gasped, Ginny just stared at Regulus infuriatingly.
"We were not aware that he had escaped that long ago" admitted Dumbledore. "But this isn't what you came here to tell us is it Mr. Black?" Harry heard the words but they didn't fit. Sirius was Mr. Black! This wasn't Sirius!
"No, Lucius was with me. I am the reason why he escaped. I helped him" said Regulus. Harry's eyes hardened and he felt his jaw clench hard.
"Excuse me but why would you do this? And how might be a good question too" said Dumbledore.
"I needed his help. With your information I learned that the dark lord was truly Tom Marvolo Riddle. A mere half blood. I was angered. I do not like the fact that a half blood has become this powerful. I didn't like it then and I don't like it now." said Regulus.
"So how did you help Mr. Malfoy escape?" asked McGonagall.
"A simple feat if you are an Animagus" sneered Regulus. Harry guessed he must have guessed how Sirius did it.
"An Animagus you are not" said Dumbledore. "So how?"
"It was simple. I apparated right outside the wards. From there made the grueling three day journey to the walls of Azkaban. Once I was there it was just a simple matter of getting by the Dementors."
"And how did you do this?" asked McGonagall. Regulus met her gaze.
"Simple, I avoided them. And when this was out of the question. I called upon my birthright" said Regulus.
"I take it you have invited a new spell that repels dementor's" said Dumbledore.
"Something like that yeah" said Regulus smugly.
"Then why become a Death Eater if you don't like Voldemort in power?" asked Harry. Anger seething into his veins as he listened.
"I became a follower of a powerful lord. A lord I believed to be a pure-blood. If Tom was, do you really think I would here at all?" said Regulus turning his eyes on Harry. "I am not your ally Potter. I am merely a wizard who wants a pure-blood in charge. I will not live to see the day when a mere half blood rules over witches, wizards, and muggle's alike."
"So what is it we can do for you?" asked Dumbledore. Making Regulus's gaze to meet his again.
"I want Tom Riddle gone" said Regulus.
"Don't we all" muttered Ron.
"I know how to accomplish this" said Regulus.
"Oh... and how would that be?" asked Dumbledore feigning.
"I want to deal" said Regulus. "I need a place to stay, a shower-"
"I'll say" muttered Ron again.
"-and a hot meal" finished Regulus. Sending a glare at Ron. Who glared back.
"I am sure the headmistress would take care of all this for you" said Dumbledore. "But you must tell us all you know"
"Fine." agreed Regulus.
"Let's start at the beginning shall we?" said Dumbledore. Harry stared hard at Regulus, but someone pushed him into a seat. Looking over he saw Ginny. She gave him a tight lip smile and took the seat next to his. She took a hold of his hand and Harry squeezed it gently.
"I was coming back from the meeting that night when Sirius found me" said Regulus. "We met up and after which I started my research on Tom. I found you to be... correct" Regulus looked at Dumbledore and Harry knew that Regulus was having a time admitting to Dumbledore he had been right. But Dumbledore ignored this.
"Please continue" he said as if hearing he was right was a natural thing.
' It is ' said Ginny.
"After which I discovered Tom was keeping secrets. And not just one, but six other secrets" said Regulus. "Tom had made himself six Horcruxes" he paused and waited for the sounds of horror. But Harry saw in his eyes the surprised look as he dawned comprehension. "You know about them? Don't you?"
"I am afraid so. A little late on the confirming part, but none the less. Yes we know about them" said Dumbledore.
"Great. I have been trying to find them. I discovered one being a locket-" began Regulus.
"In our possession" said Dumbledore.
"You were able to get it out of Grimmauld? said Regulus. "Oh of course the house would have passed to Sirius. So that was the reason I left one day and couldn't find my home again" But something else clicked with Harry.
"You. It was you that had made that book about me" said Harry. "We found it in your dad's study"
"Yes, but it didn't answer any of my questions did it?" said Regulus. Ginny smirked.
"Please continue with what you know" said Dumbledore. Once again shifting Regulus's gaze back to him. Harry was starting to think that Dumbledore wanted to keep Regulus's eyes on him.
"Well, I was going to offer my help with the finding of the remaining five" said Regulus. "I am quite capable."
"I am well aware of you capability's Mr. Black" said Dumbledore. Harry tensed at the name. He wished that Dumbledore would stop using it.
"So you will let me join in the hunt?" asked Regulus.
"Can you tell us where he keeps the snake?" asked Dumbledore. Harry looked at McGonagall. She seemed paled as she drank in every word of Regulus's.
"On him at all times. He doesn't think anyone knows what Nagini really is" said Regulus with a satisfied smile. " How you found out is quite interesting. How I found out was by mere coincidence"
"Oh really? And how was that?" asked Hermione. Regulus flicked his eyes to her and sneered. Harry saw Ron pull her chair closer to him. Hermione never let her glare falter.
"Well? How did you find out?" said Ginny. Regulus's eyes snapped to Ginny's then to Harry's. He saw the adam's apple on Regulus's throat bob up then down as he swallowed hard.
"I overheard a conversation between Tom and Severus. He was thee only one who knew what the dark lord was up to. Even assisted on getting him an artifact of sorts" said Regulus. But he suddenly noticed the whole room had gone quiet. Regulus smiled. Harry wasn't even for sure if their hearts were beating anymore.
"I am afraid you are mistaken, if Severus had known about these Horcruxes clear back then, he would have made me aware" said Dumbledore setting his now cold blue eyes on Regulus. But Regulus only continued to smiled.
"You sent him in there knowing he was a master of Occlumency. It was your mistake old man. Not mine. But Severus Snape is and always a Death Eater" said Regulus.
"That Bloody git" sneered Ron looking terribly upset.
"I do not believe you" said Dumbledore stubbornly.
"Believe what you want, but I know what I saw and what I saw was Severus helping Tom create a golden broach into a Horcrux." said Regulus. Harry exchanged looks with McGonagall, then they both with Dumbledore who seemed flabbergasted at this news. Regulus had hit the spot with the broach.
"Do you know what order they go in?" asked Hermione suddenly. Regulus sneered at her again. It was clear he was not going to talk to her because her heritage.
"Answer the question. Do you know what order they come in?" snapped Ginny getting angrier with every second. Regulus again looked at Ginny before turning his eyes on Harry.
' He's scared of me ' thought Harry. Ginny shot him a confused look.
"Order? No I do not know the order. But I can tell you a little of the lockets history" said Regulus.
"Go on" encouraged McGonagall. Dumbledore still seemed shocked, but Harry knew he was still listening.
"The locket was made specially. Salazar Slythrin held this and a ring in his greatest of care. Why? He loved his mother Salcette Slythrin a pure blood by all right. Was given the locket by her husband Salazar's father, whom he hated. Slyandro Slythrin did indeed love Salcette, he even nic-named her Saxtty. He personally designed this locket for Salcette. When she passed Slyandro gave the locket to his son. Salazar wore it everyday. Till he married. A wench whom the world seems to have forgotten the name of. But it was enough to give him an heir. The bloodline would endure. It would soon be in the hands of a filthy peasant by the name of Gaunt. The locket his daughter wore. The ring he wore himself. Like it was to be treasured. A treasure of the momentousness. Tom must have found out his heritage here because as far as I could tell he found the ring first. Then somehow gotten to the locket."
"We know all about the Gaunt's Mr. Black" said McGonagall.
"You do?" said Regulus. Though he seemed unimpressed now.
"There's something else, then I must retire for the night" said Regulus. The sun was now starting to rise. "The locket has natural protection spells on it. It will either take a certain sacrifice of sorts. Or it will take extreme amount of power or strength"
"What kind of spells?" asked Ron. Harry knew he was asking Hermione's questions now.
"Only one's who know that are dead aren't they? All I was able to uncover was that there were protection spells of sorts on the locket. I couldn't even perforate there defenses. More so than on the ring too I'm sure." said Regulus. "And no, I don't know why" he said as Ron went to open his mouth. Regulus smirked as Ron closed his mouth with a slight snap.
"Very well Mr. Black" said McGonagall shooting a look at Harry. "We will give you room and board. I will send a house elf for your disposal, just know this If that elf is harmed in anyway. You need not worry if Voldemort finds you. It will be me, or one of these four" she said in a clearly sharp tone. Regulus looked at her and gave a sneering smile.
"As you wish, Headmistress" he said.
"I will personally show you to your room. You must understand this as well. You will be locked into that room. Mr. Black. I have a school to run and do not wish to see it's uprising. You will stay in your room until you feel you need to tell us more, or we need you. All you will have to do is speak into the mirror over the fireplace and I will be with as soon as I am able. Is all this understood?" said McGonagall.
"Intelligibly" said Regulus with a glower.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley you will escort me, I should think" said McGonagall. Harry gave Ginny's hand a squeeze before rising to his feet again. He held his wand at his side.
"Do I not even get my wand back?" said Regulus. McGonagall cut her eyes at him in response. "Guess not" he shrugged and followed Ron to the door. Harry shared a doubtful look with McGonagall.
Harry and Ron was on either side of Regulus as the three followed McGonagall into a hallway Harry was sure he had never been in. He wondered if it was even on the marauders map. She stopped before a picture frame and spoke with it's occupant. Stepping back the picture frame opened and Regulus stepped into his room. It was equipped with a sitting room of sorts and Harry saw an opened door that an elf was making the bed and with a wave from its hand the fire in the room roared to life. He was sure there was a closet and a bathroom in there as well, but remained where he was. His eyes hard and ireful. But he couldn't stop himself. This man had helped him twice before. But Harry knew he couldn't be trusted.
"Just so you know Mr. Black" said McGonagall. Harry tried hard not to roll his eyes at the name again. As Regulus turned to face them. "That fire's not hooked to the floo network"
They left Regulus and after McGonagall had a few more words with the painting they re-climbed the stairs to her office. Harry fell back into his seat beside Ginny, she looked solemn. Harry took her hand as Ron fell back into his seat beside Hermione and McGonagall landed with a huff in her own. They all turned waiting eyes on Dumbledore.
"Well, I must say that was quite unexpected." he said as if discussing the next big feast.
"Why did he come here? I mean wouldn't this be the last place a Death Eater would want to be" asked Ron.
"That's the thing isn't?" said Hermione. "He doesn't want to be a Death Eater"
"Nor a member of the order either" entered Ginny.
"So what does he want then?" said Ron.
"He wants me to destroy Voldemort" said Harry. He tone a deeply controlled emotion of anger and confusion.
"We're all wanting that." said Ron.
"Yes, but he wants it for different reasons Mr. Weasley" said McGonagall.
"His reasons are quite different indeed" said Dumbledore. "If I am not mistaken. He wants a pure-blood in charge. If Tom had been just that he would not have been here tonight"
"That's what I heard too" said Hermione grimly.
"So we are correct in assuming that he can not be trusted" said Dumbledore as Harry meet his eyes. He knew Dumbledore had been reading his emotions and thoughts during the conversation. Harry was not ashamed.
"What are we to do with him then?" asked McGonagall.
"Allow him to hide here. Keep him where he is. I reckon that he will be happy right where he is. Though he won't like it past about two weeks, but for now he will be fine" said Dumbledore. Harry's mind suddenly filled with tons of questions.
"Sir, not meaning to change the subject or anything, but with Pete being a Death Eater could Voldemort had found out what Olivander was doing?"
"No Harry. No one but the Weasley's were aware of that. See each one had a certain password to get beyond that point. Without one of them, all might have been lost" said Dumbledore.
"Do I even want to know how you got the dragon down there?" asked Harry.
"She was born down there. As you could tell she does not act like a normal dragon would. She was born in captivity and has never let anyone but Charlie Weasley to touch her. Quite extraordinary would you agree?" said Dumbledore, eyes twinkling. Harry nodded.
"So you don't think that maybe Voldemort sent Regulus here to try and find out more information?" asked Harry. Dumbledore looked at him as if considering him for a moment.
"No Harry I do not believe this to be true. Regulus is here on his own free will. He is here I believe because having Lucius escape him, means that Tom will know soon that he is still alive. As skillful as Lucius is. Occlumency he only just barley got the hang off. His mind is easily read. No Regulus is in hiding. Hiding in the last spot a known Death Eater as Mr. Weasley as so pointed out to us, a follower of Voldemort's would be expected to be." said Dumbledore.
"So the memory of Regulus's talk with Lucius. Voldemort knew then he was onto him" said Harry.
"Yes I believe so. That would be the reason I suspect that Tom ordered his death. And quickly too" said Dumbledore. Harry nodded again.
"Professor do you... err... think that Snape is really a Death Eater?" asked Harry.
"Yes I do" answered Dumbledore flatly. Harry felt floored.
"What?" asked Harry and Ginny together. Dumbledore held up a hand to stop them.
"Severus Snape is and has been a Death Eater for a very long time"
"I mean do you think-" began Harry ready to re-word his question.
"I know what you mean Harry, and the truth be told It has placed some doubt in my head. Snape always did as I have asked" said Dumbledore.
"Yeah and then some" said Ginny. Dumbledore met her eyes.
"Sir, what she's meaning is, everything you asked of him could have easily fit into Voldemort's plan as well" said Harry. Dumbledore looked at him as if considering him again.
"I have to admit that would be true. If the case being that Severus has turned on the order than I think we should deal with him as we would a common Death Eater, If not than fate will show us in time." said Dumbledore. Harry nodded with the others. "Again though I urge caution"
"Professor, I had a question about the wands for Harry and Ginny?" asked Hermione. "Why would you have your wand saved for this purpose? Wizards are suppose to be buried with their wands"
"That is true Miss. Granger most wizards are buried with their wands so why wasn't I?" said Dumbledore smiling. Hermione nodded. "Easy, I knew that Voldemort or Harry would either have to get a new wand to have a proper fight. There is something you must understand about Tom Riddle. As insane as this may sound Tom fights fairly." said Dumbledore raising his hand again. To stop Harry and Ginny from protesting, out of sheer first hand experiences. "But he is honorable without bestowing the honor on himself. See his life's work is to be immortal. That is all. He wants to rule this world with the fear of the unknown."
"So why go around killing everyone?" asked Ron.
"Because he feels in order to be immortal is to be able to show power. It is this that is his weakness." answered McGonagall. Dumbledore bowed his head as if agreeing with her.
"So really he has no common sense about what it takes to be truly powerful" said Hermione.
"No Miss Granger. Tom is complex, yet simple. He doesn't want to face death. Many fear it because of what they do not know. They fear for the unexpected, the unknown" said Dumbledore. Harry nodded in understanding. McGonagall looked pale and exhausted. Harry meet Ginny's eyes before the four bid their goodbyes and left they could sleep for about three hours until they were due in charms and Ginny in Herbology. "One thing you four should never fear. Death is after all, like I have always said, the next great adventure"
Harry was exhausted. By the time break came he was tempted to sleep, but a half hour wasn't worth it. So he sat on the courtyard stone steps with Ginny sitting between his legs. He was absentmindedly rubbing her shoulders and neck as she lightly slept. Ron and Hermione were sitting beside them. Hermione though looking tired, was reading a book. Ron had his head laid up against her back. His mouth was gaped open and Harry knew that he was about to fall into a deep sleep.
"What are you reading Hermione?" asked Harry conversationally.
"A book that tells the property's so we can finish this thing once and for all" said Hermione determinedly. "Though truth be told. There's not much we don't already know. I really don't know what he's waiting for, by not telling us yet" said Hermione slamming her book and waking Ron and Ginny. "Oh sorry" she added meekly.
"S' okay" said Ginny as she leaned fully against him. Harry wrapped his arms around her.
"Hermione we already know everything that's in that book as well as any of the other's that have to do with it" said Ron stretching. Hermione fell back against Ron who immediately began to rub her shoulders now. Harry gave a grim smile. He wanted to be done with it. They had all but one of the Horcruxes, and he would bring the snake with him. Wouldn't he?
' Don't worry my griffin we'll get them all and destroy them and then kill Voldemort. Together ' said Ginny. Harry smiled a genuine smile and hugged her tighter as the bell sounded across to them. Ginny and Harry grudgingly got to there feet and headed to Defense with Ron and Hermione. It was turning out to be a long day.
Before dinner that evening Harry and Ginny practiced a few spells with there new wands and Hermione was pleased as Moony announced that she had master Occlumency and Ron was almost there, but couldn't seem to do it correctly if Hermione was smiling at him. For some strange reason... Harry and Ginny had learned a few more spells. Ginny a few more fire spells and even a lightening spell or two. Harry had even became real good at turning on his elemental powers too.
"Okay Harry let's practice a little more on your wisdom element" said Noviskie. Harry nodded and tapped into the magic that coursed through him. Allowing it to fill him up completely. Once again Harry felt he could understand anything. He knew a lot if not everything in a book.
' Everything huh? Don't happen to know thee order of the Horcruxes do you? ' asked Ginny. Harry concentrated. He forced his mind on the matter and to no avail though could he understand anything about the order. He came back to normal and looked at Noviskie.
"You tried to find the order of them didn't you?" asked Noviskie with knowing eyes. By this time Moony, Hermione and Ron were all paying attention. Harry nodded. "Didn't work though did it" Harry shook his head.
"Why not?" asked Hermione. "I mean to say he has the element of wisdom he should be able to tell us"
"Not necessarily Miss. Granger. See wisdom is what is learned from a book. Common sense is what is learned from life. No one can teach you the lessons about living. There is no replacement for that of which life brings" said Noviskie. Harry nodded. His head was completely filled. Harry forgot about dinner and collapsed in bed. He was hungry, but he was more tired than anything. Sleep did not avoid him. It came on swift wings and Harry flew off with it.
When he awoke he was surprised to find Ginny curled at his side. He didn't remember her coming to him last night. But yet here she was. Asleep and Harry had at some point acknowledged her as his arm was holding her close to him. Her head was resting on his chest and she had one arm wrapped around his middle and another laying out behind her. Harry smiled. A rumbling in his stomach made him frown. Harry squirmed. But another rumble had Ginny stirring and when she lifted her head to look sleepily at him, Harry smiled.
"Sorry.. I guess it wasn't such a good idea skipping dinner then" Ginny smiled at his cheek and lifted herself up and reached out the bed curtains that Harry didn't remember closing either. His smile got wider when she drew her hand back in with a tray of food. She took the lid that covered it off the top.
"I had Dobby bring this up last night. I knew you would be hungry and that you would go wondering around again, but I thought I would save you some time" Ginny blushed and Harry raised his hand. He tucked the red lock of her hair that had slipped in her face behind her ear, and cupped her cheek. He placed a soft kiss to her lips before pulling back.
"Thanks Gin." said Harry. He looked at the tray and saw there was enough for at least three people. "Want to join me?" Ginny nodded and took a piece of fruit and started eating while Harry tucked into one of the sandwiches. They ate until they were both comfortably full, but not stuffed. Harry lifted the tray off the bed and replaced it on his nightstand, before closing the curtains and making sure to place charms around the bed with a wave of his hand. He loved being able to do wandless magic. Ginny smiled at him as they resumed laying down, facing each other.
Harry held her around the middle. Ginny had her arm on his hip. He noticed she was wearing his shirt. And this feeling warmed him and made him smile. Ginny leaned forward and kissed him. Harry didn't pull away only to hold her closer. Ginny's tongue darted out and crossed over his lips. Harry smiled against her kiss and opened his mouth to let her deepen it. She took the opportunity to make her intentions clear by pushing him on his back and rolling with him. To where she laid sprawled out on top of him. Harry tangled his hands in her hair and held her face to his. Ginny moved her hips against his and even through the layers of clothing, he could feel her heat and her rising desire. She wanted him, and he needed her. Harry let the fire that was rolling within them both roar to life along with his body. He traced her back, down to her hips with his hands and pressed firmly on them, letting her feel the effect she was having on him. Ginny moaned against his lips.
Harry pushed up his shirt she wore and stripped it from her body. She wore nothing underneath and Harry vaguely wondered if she had planed this, but this thought seemed to excite him further. Ginny laughed in his mind and pushed her hips against his making Harry moan. He sat up and let her knees tuck in beside him He ran the length the bare skin that made up her sides and Harry trailed his kisses to her neck and collar bone, until he finally claimed a mound. It's bud hardening into a peaking bud. Ginny moaned as her head fell back. Her hair tickling an erotic dance against his legs. He knew she was ready. She was always ready for him.
Harry smiled inwardly and bit on her breast, Ginny gave a cry of pain and pleasure mixed. He moved to the next breast and preformed the same act of torture on it. Ginny was moving her hips in hopes to make contact with his, but Harry wouldn't allow her the deep penetration only he could give her. For she needed him now and the knowledge of this drove him to complete and udder madness. He slipped his hand down to the soft nest that rest between her thighs and slipped a finger in, to circle around her nub. Ginny moaned and soon grew frustrated that he was not quite touching her where she wanted him too.
"Harry please" she cried and Harry smiled as he let his finger come a bit closer but still not to touch her. Ginny gave a frustrated growl and finally Harry smiled and obliged by sweeping over her nub. Ginny gave a satisfied moan of pleasure out and Harry repeated his motion over her. His lips sucking harder at her breast. Ginny was panting and pushing her hips on his hand, wanting him in her. Harry finally inserted his finger inside her womanly sheath and Ginny all but shouted her delight. Harry withdrew and pushed in softly and tantalizingly slow. Ginny slammed her hips down to meet his rising hand and Harry withdrew and added another. He knew Ginny was working herself up. Harry could tell by the rise and fall of her chest. Her body was reacting to his in no other way that he'd known. Ginny quickly moved off him and Harry was momentarily shocked at the sudden change.
"Gin what-"
"Shh" said Ginny placing a finger to his lips and giving him a seductive smile that made Harry smile in return. Taking his old wand from his cloak she waved it front of her stomach. She then pulled off his robes that he'd fallen asleep in and soon had him completely bare, in his birth right and all his glory erect and protruding from his body. Ginny gave a satisfied smile before putting her lips to him and Harry gave a hiss of enjoyment. He loved her lips, loved the way she moved her mouth on him. But even Harry was shocked when he raised his head to watch and saw her take him all the way in her mouth. Harry was sure he was in her throat. The feeling was becoming to much. Harry moaned a deep since of yearning and Ginny stopped and in one swift move climbed on top of him straddling him and had him shoved deep inside her. But she didn't stop she kept moving her hips and Harry was groaning in his cogent want that he couldn't stop either.
He sat up and she tucked her legs behind him. Harry moved his legs to help her to keep moving against him. He claimed her lips in a possessive loving way before going to her breast again. When he felt Ginny's body tighten against his he bit hard on her breast and Ginny cried out in her climax. Harry moved her a few more times and meet his own ecstasy as Ginny bit his neck and sucked it hard. Harry had groaned out and took them both back to the bed. He rolled them to their sides and Ginny placed her bum in his groin. Harry smiled. He was breathing hard and his heart thumped against his chest. Ginny sighed in contentment and Harry hugged her that much closer.
"Love you" she whispered. Harry's smile grew into a broad grin.
"I love you too, wildfire" he whispered back. Harry was happy. Happy to be holding Ginny. Happy that he was able to do these type of things with her. For him there would be no other. No other could effect him the way she did. Her comfort, her lips, her words were even tantalizing to him. He felt Ginny wiggle her hips and push back in him. Harry cocked an eyebrow and gave in as he let his hands roam over her smooth flesh.
Ginny was growing. She was becoming more feminine. More seductive. More open about her sexuality. Intrigued, Harry let his hands cup her breast and Ginny arched her back to fill his hand with all of her. Harry was sure she had even grown there too. He skated his hands over her warm flesh stroking lovingly from breast to thigh and Ginny's skin grew quite hot. Harry traced down the valley of her breast and over her soft stomach and abdomen. Ginny gave a quiet moan out and Harry smiled into her hair.
He let his wondering hand feel the soft auburn nest and Harry this time took the time to appreciate her grooming. She no longer had curls, but she wasn't bare either. She was trimmed and Harry wondered briefly when she had done this. But he liked it, he could feel more of her naturalness. More of her wetness. Harry groaned as his want started to pine for her pleasuring cries again. He slipped a finger into her folds and Ginny threw her leg back and over his thigh to give him better access. Harry groaned liking the way her body covered and kept him. His finger dancing a pattern that he was making up as he went and soon he was pushing into her again. Ginny arched her hips forward and Harry's body hardened to the point it ached.
To far in his own desire to move Harry reached between them and found her center from behind. Ginny gave a startled gasp as Harry began rubbing on her. Ginny let her surprise pass, as her passion filled them and threatened to take them over. Harry parted her folds and drove his throbbing body into hers from where he laid behind her. Ginny tensed a bit and then relaxed. Harry groaned feeling her womanhood tighten in surprise around him. Squeezing him adamantly. He draped his hand over her hips and pushed them more towards him. The movement brought pleasure to both as they together gave a surprised pleasing moan. Harry didn't know what he was doing, but moved as their bodies commanded them. Harry withdrew to a point of withdrawal and pushed back in. Ginny gave a moan and Harry gritted his teeth. Leaving one hand on her hip to make sure she would not move to far from him.
Harry reached between her hot body and the mattress and found her breast. Plucking and teasing at it till Ginny was moaning and crying out for release. Harry groaned as his hips kept the smooth rhythm and when Ginny convulsed her hips against his, he felt her wet heat. Harry started pumping with a bit more speed into her and Harry felt her sensitive flesh making way for a dramatic climax. Though he knew Ginny would hold on to for a while. And she did. Harry was not disappointed in the least. Only allured further, she was holding on for him.
He drew patterns over her breast. His hand firmly on her abdomen, holding her tightly to him. Harry quickened the pace until he could hold on no longer. He spilled with a groan of completion, but kept his rhythm. Ginny must have felt his release as she cried out and came pouring out around him. Harry groaned in the sensation of her. She was brilliant. A masterful piece of wanton splendor. Magnificence beyond equivalence. Harry held her tightly to him and both too exhausted to move Ginny feel asleep quickly, and Harry fell asleep soon after with himself still in her. The feeling gave him a peacefulness that he had come to know as only having when he became one with Ginny.
"Sometimes I think I am the most stupidest witch to ever disgrace the halls of Hogwarts" cried out Hermione. The all sat in Dumbledore's library looking through more books, though even Hermione had been about to admit that the books weren't very affirmative. Harry and Ginny had been secretly waiting for the moment.
"You are not!" said Ron. "And you know it ... which come to think of it might make you a bit on the thick side... but no way near stupid Hermione." Hermione looked as if she was about to argue, but Ron had slipped a compliment in the remark as well. Harry and Ginny exchanged amused glances at watching Hermione in her quandary. Hermione settled for looking back at her book and ignoring him.
"I have found it! Just what Dumbledore intended for us to find" she said. Her tone gaining excitement as she talked.
"What?" said Harry and Ginny at the same time as Harry fell into the seat beside Hermione so he could look over her shoulder. Ginny fell graciously into his lap. Harry put his arms around her, as Hermione began to read.
"To make a Horcrux is forbidden by ministry officials. I for one would have to agree. The making of a Horcrux is vile and cruel. Not only to man kind, but to yourself as well. The want to make one is enough for a person to earn them a lifetime sentence in long time ward at St. Mungo's. So I will not divulge on how to make a Horcrux, but rather on how to destroy it.
Horcruxes are ignoble. They are the most distasteful thing a witch or wizard is to have created with magic thus far, but seeing as how they still can be made. I will tell you how to destroy it. A Horcrux is made from killing somebody. A human form. An animal or of sorts will not work. It must be a human. It can be placed within an animal, or an object, but the initial murder must be that from a human species. Not only is that thee only ingredient, but the Horcrux must be made at the time of the human death. It is said to be painful. That you could literally feel a part of your soul rip from your body and mind. Who would want such an experience? The wizarding and Muggle world are best without. I assure you, but if this being the case. Merlin help us all, then to destroy it. Is no simple feat.
One must be willing to sacrifice to accomplish this. For a Horcrux is nearly impossible to defeat, nearly... It takes a ready mind. An able body, and a passionate heart to accomplish this. I wish the person who ever has to face this luck. And may Merlin be smiling on you..."
"Sacrifice? What does that mean?" asked Ron. Harry sighed. He didn't like the sound of the word either.
"Maybe it's not what we're all thinking" said Hermione marking the page and setting it on the table in front of her.
"Oh what par tell are you thinking?" asked Ginny. Her face impassive.
"Well, normally sacrifice would mean to kill a breathing organism" said Hermione. "But I don't think so in this case"
"Why not?" asked Harry. He knew he sounded hopeful, but it was hard not too.
"Because if it takes a death to make a Horcrux than thee only way to destroy one is to-" began Hermione.
"Counter it" said Ginny as her face reflected the relief Harry was feeling.
"Right! So my guess is that it's a spell with probably a complicated wand movement or something" she said leafing through the pages of another book.
"A spell! That's all! Well, Harry could do that, or maybe you could Hermione" said Ron.
"No I don' think so" said Hermione grimly.
"Why not? Why couldn't one of us do it?" asked Ginny.
"Because it says a ready mind, but also an able body and a passionate heart. And while I may have two of those things Ginny you and I lack in an able body, and Ron no offense but you lack in a ready mind" said Hermione sending an apologetic look at Ron. Ron opened his mouth to retort, but Hermione leaned forward and planted her lips on his. Ron looked shocked but gave in quickly. Hermione pulled back. "Sorry, but we've got to be sure that the person who tries this is ready."
"Yeah and let's think about everyone who does know" said Ginny. "Noviskie, his heart's not so passionate anymore"
"Moony, doesn't have an able body" said Harry.
"McGonagall lacks in the able body mode too" said Hermione.
"Dumbledore's dead, so he lacks with the body thing too" said Ron thoughtfully.
"Well, obviously" snapped Ginny. Harry could tell that she was not really liking the sound of it anymore than he. But if this is what he had to do to have a normal life than he was going to accomplish it!
"There's no one else. It's got to be me. It is after been prophesied. I will destroy the Horcruxes, rest than we go after Voldemort" said Harry.
"Didn't Dumbledore say that he wasn't for sure if Tom could feel them or not?" said Hermione and Harry nodded his head. "If that's the case and he can feel them. He may come looking for you"
"Why would he do that?" asked Ron. "Sounds a bit thick don't you think?"
"No she's right" said Ginny. "Think about it. He's still got Nagini so he'll think we won't know about her. I mean no one supposedly does right?"
"Right, so that would mean that he would seek Harry out to try and destroy him, before he finds the last one. Nagini" said Hermione. Both Women looked satisfied that they had figured it out, but then as one frowned. "So-"
"When Harry destroys them, we might have what two days tops" said Ginny.
"At the most" agreed Hermione.
"Wait! Are you saying that after I destroy the Horcruxes that he will be coming to find me, to kill me before I can get to the snake" asked Harry. Ginny and Hermione nodded in unison. "Great, just making sure" he replied grimly. Ron shot him a look of uneasiness. They obviously knew they had been close to killing him off, but the realization was starting to dawn a little clearer.
"Harry" said Hermione quietly. Harry looked up at her, but she kept her eyes firmly to the ground. "I think I know how to destroy the Horcruxes"
"Really? How?" asked Harry a feeling erupted in his stomach and he immediately dreaded the answer, but knew it was thee only way.
"Avada Kedavra" she whispered. Ron started choking and Ginny nearly fell off his lap, if it had not been for Harry holding onto her.
"What?" said Harry. Unsure of what really to say.
"Think about it Harry. Once the souls are bared and showing. There's only one way to kill something like that" said Hermione meekly.
"Yeah, but what about the diary. All I did with it was pierce it with a fang" countered Harry. Trying desperately to not have to do the killing curse.
"Why can't he do something like that with the other's as well" said Ginny.
"Because Tom was starting to take form with the diary. he was almost alive again." said Hermione. "It would only make since"
"No way. What about the dementor's they could easily just kiss it right out of them" said Ron finding his voice again.
"Have you got a dementor in you're pocket Ron? Or somehow stashed one in you're dormitory? Because as far as I know thee only dementor's that are known to the wizardry kind are working for Voldemort" said Hermione sending him a look. Making it clear that she was not happy about this either. Harry saw Ron swallow hard and nod his head.
"Yeah you're right. She's right" said Ron looking up and meeting Harry's eyes, yet his tone was cautious. Harry lowered his eyes to the floor. Not wanting to met anyone else's eyes. He felt the feeling return. The feeling of the marked man. That was him. He was marked.
' No, not marked ' said Ginny as she placed a warm hand on his cheek and gently lifted his face to hers to meet her gaze. ' Chosen. And we are the chosen ones friends who will stand by him no matter the scenario ' Ginny vowed. Harry felt torn. He couldn't ask Ginny to go through that, or to even stand by him through that. ' That's why you're not asking Harry Potter. I'm telling you that's just how it is. I love you more than anything. I will not let you go through this alone. Because you're not. You will always have Ron, Hermione and you will always have me. I'll be there right where you need me Harry ' Harry placed a sweet hard kiss on her lips to tell her with more than words that he loved her, and he appreciated her with every moral fiber of his being.
"Umm.. Umm!" Harry tore his lips way from Ginny's and looked over at his best friends. "We're there for you too, mate." said Ron. Hermione nodded beside him.
"Through and through Harry" said Hermione. Harry nodded and smiled. Words would never be enough to tell his friends just how much he valued there friendship.
"So what's first?" asked Ginny breaking the thick silence that had pursued. Harry sighed.
"Simple. We need to gather all the Horcruxes together and prepare." said Harry.
"Where will we keep them till then? In here?" asked Ron looking around Dumbledore's library as if a secret hiding spot was suddenly going to yell 'over here!'
"Of course not Ronald" snapped Hermione. "I told you before, we're going to need a trunk. A magical one"
"Like Moody's" said Harry.
"Harry we never saw Moody's trunk. Are you sure it's safe?" asked Hermione nervously.
"As safe as it can get." said Harry. Hermione still looked doubtful.
"Hermione, this is Moody we're talking about here. Over watchful, over protective, and over paranoid Moody" said Ginny.
"Yeah , I guess it's safe then" said Hermione. They all knew Moody was paranoid and not by just a bit either. Still his psychotic behavior just might prove to be useful.
I am glad to see you're return" said Dumbledore as the fireplace came to life in emerald green flames and Harry and Ginny stepped through. They had followed Moony, and Tonk's was to be following Ron and Hermione. They had made the trip to Gringot's bank. The Horcruxes safely nestled in Harry's cloak pocket. Harry nodded, still feeling the tense that had formed in his stomach and muscles. Hermione and Ron stepped out a few moments later, and then Tonks. Both wished good luck to them all and left. Moody had dropped off his magical trunk for use of the order earlier. The only set of keys was sitting on McGonagall's desk.
"So the same trunk or different compartments?" asked McGonagall.
"Different" said Harry, Hermione, and Ginny at the same time. McGonagall looked up wearily up at Dumbledore's frame, who merely sat back smiling.
They placed the Hufflepuff cup in the third compartment around some old storage trunks that Moody had left. The locket in the fourth and the broach in the sixth. Each covered and hidden in place. The trunk would remain in McGonagall's office and the keys would remain with Harry. Who was starting to feel the end of the prophecy nearing. He hoped that he had fate on his side for once.
Ginny took his hand and Harry meet his eyes with hers, then Ron's, and Hermione's as they stood outside of McGonagall's office now. Some fifteen minuets later. They all held solemn looks of resolute determination. Nodding there head in almost unison. They headed for the Gryffindor common room. Harry had to prepare his mind, body and heart if he was to destroy the Horcruxes. He knew he could do it, with his friends and Ginny beside him. He felt he could conquer just about anything. Just about....
AN :
Okay! Here we are. Sorry this one took me a bit longer, but with the end nearing. I have to make sure I tie up the right strings. So I hope that you enjoyed this chapter. With the given history I have laid upon you, anyone want to change their theory on the order of the Horcruxes? The next chapter will tell the final tale on the order.
I hope this answered everyone's questions about whether or not Voldemort knew about the wands that Olivander was making. Because he might have suspected something was going on, but to confirm that he knew, no he did not!
Please review as I await for it eagerly.
(Note to muse : This means you too! lol )
Until next chapter, take care,
HogwartsAngel101