A/N: To my Mugglenet and FanFiction fans, if you are in fact reading this it means you've stuck with me despite my five month absence. You rock. A special thanks to Lurid, Femme, biggerstaff15, pottersmuse, and awful for reminding me why I do this. Enjoy.
Chapter 27 – Resolution
Monday afternoon fared better for Harry. Ron and Hermione had lightened his mood considerably during lunch. With them by his side, he was better able to ignore the actions of everyone else around him. During Charms, he was able to focus on Professor Flitwick's demonstration and master the new, complex charm quicker than even Hermione. He thought he heard a classmate whisper something about him using Dark Magic, but he decidedly ignored it. Even Double Potions had been rather uneventful. Snape had studied Harry with mild curiosity rather than hate. By the end of the lesson, Harry had procured a decent potion, earning an overdue sneer from the professor. All in all, afternoon classes were a fair improvement over the morning.
After their final lesson for the day, Harry followed Ron and Hermione into the common room. He had listened half-heartedly to Ron's incessant chatter about their upcoming Quidditch practice. While Harry usually enjoyed listening to the strategies that Ron came up with, Harry's heart just wasn't in it. All he wanted was to mount his Firebolt and chase the tension from his body as the wind whipped around him. He could care less about formations and practice drills, though he would never admit that to Ron.
As the Fat Lady's portrait swung shut behind Harry, the sound of angry voices met his ears. He peered around Ron and saw Ginny and Dean squared off. Harry tried to squash the feeling of glee that had erupted inside him. He really shouldn't be happy that his friend was obviously upset. Really, he shouldn't. But the fact that she was angry at the Great Git … well, Harry couldn't help but feel pleased about that. He stepped beside Ron who, along with Hermione, had frozen in their tracks unnoticed by the bickering duo.
"Dean, I do not need to explain myself!"
"I've told you how I feel about this, Ginny!"
Ginny planted her hands on her hips. "And I've told you that you're being completely unreasonable!"
"I'm your boyfriend! I think I've got a right!"
"Maybe you should have reminded yourself of that status before you went off to Hogsmeade without me!"
Dean rolled his eyes. "Don't bring that up again."
Ginny's eyes flashed. "Then stop being such a hypocrite!"
"It's hardly the same thing."
"It's exactly the same thing! You just refuse to see it that way. I've tried to meet you half way, Dean. I think I've done more than enough."
Dean shook his head. "You're blind to the truth!"
Ginny's eyes narrowed and her voice was low and threatening. "I am no such thing. If that's what you think, then you don't know me at all."
"How am I supposed to know you when you spend most of your time with them?"
"Who? My friends? You can't expect me to chuck them out of my life!"
Dean groaned. "That's not what I'm asking."
"Really? Because it seems as though you're giving me an ultimatum. You're making me choose between you and them!"
"No, I'm not!"
Ginny rolled her eyes. "For Merlin's sake, Dean. You talk about me being blind, meanwhile you've got your head so far up your arse you can't see what's right in front of you. Get over yourself."
Dean clenched his fists at his side. "This is pointless. I refuse to talk to you when you're like this."
Ginny held her hands out to her side. "Like what? Honest?"
Dean shook his head and turned around, noticing Harry, Ron, and Hermione for the first time. He glared at them. "Enjoying the show?"
Ron, Harry, and Hermione stared at Dean, speechless. Dean glanced at Ginny who was red-faced, though whether it was from embarrassment or anger was uncertain. Dean shoved his way between Ron and Harry and climbed through the portrait hole.
"Well?"
Ron, Harry, and Hermione turned to look at Ginny questioningly. Her hands were on her hips and her eyes were narrowed in anger.
"Well, what?" Ron replied.
Ginny crossed her arms. "Did you enjoy the show?"
Hermione shook her head and stepped hesitantly toward Ginny. "We're sorry, Ginny."
Ginny glared daggers. "The courteous thing would have been to let us know you were here. That was a private conversation."
"Of course, you're right, Ginny," Hermione replied, placatingly. "We should have said something."
Ron stepped forward, his eyes narrowing. "Has he done something to hurt you, Ginny?"
Ginny's face flushed with fury. "What is it with you boys who think I can't think or take care of myself? I don't need you telling me what to do, when to do it, or how I should behave! I wish you would all just sod off!"
Ginny glared at Ron, who stood with his mouth agape. She turned her gaze to Harry. His heart fluttered. This was the closest he had been to her in days, and he was amazed at how pretty she looked, even in her anger. Her eyes flickered, a flash of hurt shadowing her features. Ginny turned and stomped up the staircase to the girls' dormitory. Harry felt bereft.
"What did I say?" Ron asked in confusion.
"Oh, Ron," Hermione sighed. "She's embarrassed that we witnessed her fight with Dean. Your big brother instincts are not what she needs right now."
"If that git has done anything – " Ron began.
"You'll let Ginny handle it," Hermione interrupted.
Ron frowned. Hermione placed her hand on his arm. "She'll come to you if she needs you, Ron."
Ron glanced at Harry who had remained motionless. Harry had been missing Ginny so much over the last few days and their brief encounter made the ache worse. He felt bad that Ginny was so upset, and guilt spread through him for having been pleased that she and Dean were fighting. As much as he wanted Ginny for himself, she wasn't his. If he had been a true friend, he would have been more worried about her feelings than his own. She was hurting, and he was selfish. He was giving Dean a run for the title of Great Git.
Harry mumbled incoherently to Ron and Hermione before trudging up the staircase to his dormitory. He tossed his bag on the floor beside his trunk. His attention was drawn to the hangings around his bed. They were closed. He glanced at the other beds in the room, wondering if the house-elves had decided on a new routine; all of the other hangings were tied open. Harry's brows furrowed together in confusion. He raised his hand hesitantly to the heavy hangings. Thinking he'd rather be safe than sorry, he drew his wand with his right hand as his left hand pulled the heavy fabric aside. He quickly scanned his bed and gasped in surprise. Propped up against his pillow was a stuffed green dragon.
Harry crawled onto his bed and pulled the hangings closed. This was no ordinary stuffed dragon; this particular dragon belonged to one Ginny Weasley. Harry recognized it immediately as the dragon she had won on his birthday at the amusement park. Harry picked it up and smiled. A pleasant warmth spread through him as he remembered her excitement and the way she had laughed at the silly Muggle games. He noticed a small roll of parchment tucked into its collar. He grabbed the note and unrolled it, finding Ginny's slanted handwriting inside.
Norbert has been worried about you. I've agreed to let him stay with you so he can keep an eye on you. He's promised to behave. Let it be known that he will report to me should he feel you are: a) brooding, b) feeling unwarranted guilt, or c) keeping company with undeserving girls. He understands your need for being macho, so he will not be insulted should you decide to hide him in your trunk. But, please, don't forget about him. He really does care, even if he hasn't been around.
Yours,
Ginny
Harry could not stop the grin that spread across his face. He reread the letter quickly, chuckling softly. He stared at the last two words: 'Yours, Ginny.' Harry sighed as he fell back against his pillows. If only she was his. But, no, she belonged to the stupid prat that she had just been bellowing at. What had they been arguing about? They had both certainly been angry. It really wasn't his business, but he couldn't help but worry about Ginny. He hoped that Dean hadn't done anything to hurt her. Ron usually jumped to conclusions when it came to protecting his baby sister, and Harry hoped that was the case this time.
Harry twisted and tucked Norbert under his pillows. The last thing he needed was Ron yanking open his bed hangings to find Harry clutching a stuffed dragon belonging to his best mate's sister. Harry wasn't sure Ron would recognize the dragon, but it wasn't worth the risk. Ginny's gesture was innocent in nature, but Harry wasn't sure how Ron would react. What would Dean do if he knew? Harry mused. He shook his head. He didn't think Dean would take kindly to his girlfriend leaving one of her prized possessions for Harry, innocent or not.
Harry yanked his hangings open and jumped from his bed. He began to get ready for practice. His mind raced as he moved about the dormitory. While he still hadn't spoken to Ginny, she had made a point to show him that she was still there for him. She was obviously having problems of her own. Harry remembered Parvati telling him that Ginny wasn't happy with Dean. Is that what had preoccupied her lately? Was she trying to patch things up with the Great Git? Whatever the reason for her absence, the presence of Norbert had lifted Harry's spirits considerably. He grabbed his Firebolt, and bounded from the room. A few extra laps before practice was just the thing he needed to clear his head.
Parvati's steps were slow and hesitant. The sound of her heart pounded noisily in her head. The staircase was dimly lit. She could only see a few steps in front of her. No sound reached her from below. She knew there were people waiting down there for her; Erena had said so. But who? More Death Eaters? If it was more Death Eaters, why did they need to bring her here? Couldn't they do whatever they were planning to do to her in the prison in which she had been kept? Why did they have to come back here, to the store where the kidnapping had been orchestrated? What purpose did this place serve? Parvati shook her head, realizing it was very unlikely that she would ever find the answers to her questions.
Her feet found the bottom step far too soon. In front of her and to her left were blank, concrete walls. A dark hallway ran towards a room on her right. Light spilled through the doorway, lighting the far end of the hallway. With no other option, Parvati tried to steady her breathing and prayed silently. This was it. This was where she was going to live or die. She would not give up. She would fight until the end. She was not a coward.
She straightened her back and raised her jaw in determination. She walked towards the room, fighting the demons in her mind that weakened her resolve. The hallway was not long. She reached her destination quickly and stepped boldly into the brightly lit room.
Parvati's eyes scanned the room. It was empty except for the small group of Death Eaters gathered in front of a large fireplace. They turned as one to look at her in silence. One masked figure strode to her swiftly, grabbed her by the arm, and yanked her to the far side of the room. It was then that she noticed the chains on the walls. She fought against the panic that filled her belly. What kind of shop had a basement that looked like it had once held prisoners, or worse, tortured victims? She couldn't help but stare at the manacles. Horrible, terrifying thoughts spun threw her mind. What did wizards need shackles for? Weren't hexes and jinxes enough? Especially hexes of the Dark Magic kind, of which she fully expected these Death Eaters to be well trained. She was helpless. Why would they need to restrain her?
Parvati was pulled by her thoughts when, rather than being shackled, she was shoved to the floor. She fell to her knees, wincing as her kneecaps made contact with the cold, concrete floor. She felt the palms of her hands burn from catching her fall. She looked up at the faceless figure hovering over her.
"Why am I here?" she asked, foolishly.
She was answered with a backhand across the face. She yelped, her cheek feeling as though it had been broken open. The force of the hit threw her body against the wall. She sat slumped against it, touching her cheek tenderly. She winced and scowled at the menace before her. She learned from her mistake, however, and kept her mouth shut.
More waiting. Parvati was really starting to think that You-Know-Who was the most unorganized wizard of all time. She was tired of being taken from place to place, only to sit and wait. Why don't they get on with it already? She was sick of waiting; waiting for a signal, waiting for word, waiting for Him, waiting for death.
She could sense the same restlessness in the Death Eaters. They, however, seemed to be waiting excitedly. They were anticipating the next move. They were eager. They were ready.
The orange flames in the fireplace suddenly became bright green. Parvati leaned to the side, curious to see around the bodies blocking her view. Suddenly, a spindly figure appeared, spinning tightly before thin arms flew out to steady its arrival. The figure was draped in a thick shawl and several bracelets dangled from both wrists. Thin, frail fingers clutched tightly, protectively, to the shawl as the eyes of Sybill Trelawney widened in shock. Parvati gasped. Hope surged through Parvati. Had they sent for Professor Trelawney to take her back to Hogwarts? Were they letting her go?
"Professor!"
Professor Trelawney's eyes darted to the crumpled figure on the floor. Her eyes became impossibly wider. "Miss Patil? What are you … we've been so worried…why are there … where's Erena?" Trelawney's whispy voice trembled as she tried to make sense of the situation before her.
Parvati felt her throat constrict. Her eyes burned. This wasn't right. If Trelawney had been sent to get her, surely Parvati's presence wouldn't have been so unexpected. Instead, she was looking for Erena, the traitor. Panic gripped Parvati's insides once again.
"Professor! It's a trap! Get out of here! Erena's one of them!" Parvati yelled desperately.
Professor Trelawney eyed the Death Eaters that seemed to be closing in on her. She glanced hesitantly to the doorway.
"Erena?" she called.
Silence.
"Erena!" she called desperately.
"She won't come," a tall, thick Death Eater replied menacingly.
Professor Trelawney's large eyes turned to the Death Eater that had spoken. Her fingers clutched her shawl protectively. "Erena asked me to come," she stated, faintly. "She said she needed advice…"
"I'm sure she did," the Death Eater said, an air of arrogance in his voice.
Parvati watched helplessly. She wondered why You-Know-Who would have drawn Professor Trelawney into this mess. It was strange, really, to see her professor outside of her tower. Professor Trelawney had always seemed so knowledgeable and awe-worthy. But here, in the dank basement of an unassuming Hogsmeade shop, Professor Trelawney looked very small and feeble.
Professor Trelawney's eyes darted from the Death Eaters to the fireplace. Parvati could read her professor's mind as easily as any Legilimens, as could the Death Eaters who quickly blocked the path from Trelawney to the fireplace. Their movement, consequently, opened a pathway for Trelawney to Parvati. With a quick glance at the surrounding Death Eaters, Professor Trelawney scurried across the short distance to her prized pupil.
"Have you seen Erena?" Professor Trelawney whispered, kneeling beside Parvati.
Parvati swallowed a sob and tried to ignore the burning behind her eyes. Professor Trelawney was still under the delusion that Erena would help them. Parvati looked at Trelawney despairingly.
"I told you. She's one of them. She helped them take me and bring me down here," Parvati said, her voice strained.
Professor Trelawney shook her head dismissively. "Erena would never be involved with them."
"I saw her! She told them to bring me down here!" Parvati exclaimed, desperate for Professor Trelawney to comprehend the danger they were in.
Professor Trelawney would not listen to reason. She closed her eyes, breathing deeply. "No. She does not have the aura of a traitor. I know her well. Never have I detected any darkness in my readings or crystal gazing."
Parvati wanted to grab Professor Trelawney's shoulders to shake some sense into her. Death Eaters surrounded them whether or not Professor Trelawney had Seen anything in regards to Erena. Indeed, it would have been helpful had the professor Seen danger before Parvati had stepped foot in Hogsmeade. But reminiscing about past ruminations in her North Tower would not take Professor Trelawney or Parvati from this room. Parvati glanced at the Death Eaters. They had not moved from their positions after Trelawney had crossed the room.
Parvati lowered her voice to a bare whisper. "Professor, do you have your wand?"
"Excellent question, Miss Patil!"
Parvati's stomach dropped as she recognized the high, cold voice that had spoke to her. She dragged her eyes to the ominous red eyes that appeared as the crowd of Death Eaters parted and bowed to him. Professor Trelawney gasped and clutched Parvati's arm tightly.
Voldemort, leading an additional group of Death Eaters, strode into the small room. He smiled menacingly at Parvati, making her stomach turn uneasily. She felt a cold, eerie chill run down her spine and shivered under his gaze.
"Perhaps I need to acquire young girls to do my bidding, since none of you thought to disarm the professor," Voldemort sneered, glaring at his followers. He waved his wand half-heartedly, causing Professor Trelawney's wand to fly from her robes and into his hand. "Surely I do not need the girl to restrain the professor?"
Two Death Eaters darted forward and yanked Professor Trelawney to her feet. With sickening dread, Parvati watched as her professor was forced into the manacles hanging from the wall. Professor Trelawney's arms were stretched awkwardly above her head. Her eyes darted to Voldemort. Parvati could see her professor trembling as she stared in horror at the sight of the Dark Lord.
"I demand you let us go!" Professor Trelawney shrieked, her voice laced with fear.
Voldemort eyed Trelawney with amusement. He then broke into a cold, unnatural laugh.
"You are in no position to make demands, you stupid fool," he stated plainly.
Professor Trelawney seemed to shrivel under his glare, yet still she persisted.
"Let my pupil go."
Voldemort strode across the room, peering threateningly into Trelawney's face.
"Did you not hear me?" he hissed.
"Let her go," Professor Trelawney whispered.
Parvati shook her head in horror. What was Professor Trelawney thinking?
"Apparently your hearing is as foggy as your crystal ball," Voldemort stated plainly. He turned to one of the Death Eaters that had arrived with him and nodded.
"Crucio!"
In the next instant, a scream tore from Parvati's throat as pain like she had never felt before coursed through her body. She felt like she was on fire, and like she was freezing; like she was being cut and torn apart; as though her muscles were trying to rip themselves apart and her bones were being shattered to splinters. And then it stopped.
The cries of Professor Trelawney met Parvati's ears.
"She's just a girl! Leave her alone!"
"Crucio!"
The pain returned. Parvati was sure she was going to die. Surely only death could cause this much pain. Tears streaked her face as the curse was lifted. She lay on the floor panting.
Professor Trelawney struggled against her restraints. She had closed her eyes to the horror she had been made to witness, but could not stop sound from reaching her ears. When the screaming stopped, she opened her eyes and stared at the crippled figure on the floor. Parvati lay curled in the fetal position, her body trembling.
"What do you want?" Professor Trelawney asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Voldemort grinned menacingly. "Your cooperation."
Professor Trelawney glanced at Parvati's curled body on the floor. Their eyes met, and Parvati pled silently. Trelawney took a deep breath and nodded.
Voldemort turned and nodded at his followers. All but four Disapparated, leaving the setting much more intimate… and frightening. One Death Eater stood with his wand trained on Parvati, another with a wand trained on Trelawney, the third walked to the door and stood guard, while the fourth stood beside Voldemort.
"Administer the potion, Bella."
Voldemort's voice was low and commanding. The Death Eater at his side stepped forward obediently. The click-clack of heeled boots echoed throughout the concrete room. Parvati watched the Death Eater lower her mask as she stepped in front of Professor Trelawney.
"I prefer my victims to see their enemy," the Death Eater called Bella hissed into Trelawney's wan face.
"Lestrange?" Professor Trelawney whispered in fear.
Bella laughed, throwing her head back in glee. Parvati's stomach coiled. There was nothing kind in that taunting laugh.
"Open wide," Bella said in a sing-song voice, raising a vial from her robe pocket.
"What is it?"
Before the words had left Trelawney's mouth, the Death Eater watching over Parvati cried, "Crucio!"
Parvati's body convulsed on the floor, the pain slicing through her body. She prayed for it to stop; prayed for the ache to end; prayed for death. The curse was lifted and the ringing of Bella's squeals of delight reverberated off the stone walls.
"Any more questions?" Bella sneered in Trelawney's face.
Professor Trelawney shook her head, her face white and wet with tears. Parvati lay gasping on the floor, her breathing uneven. Trelawney knew if Parvati survived this, she would never be the same.
Bella clutched the back of Trelawney's head, pulling at her hair roughly and tilting her head back. Professor Trelawney knew any resistance would result in more torture for Parvati, so she opened her mouth, taking the liquid in. Bella jabbed her wand under Trelawney's jaw, forcing her mouth closed. Trelawney swallowed, her fate sealed as the potion burned down her throat.
Harry scanned the Quidditch pitch, finding it empty. He sighed in relief. As much as it annoyed his friends, particularly Hermione, Harry truly liked finding time for himself. He needed time to sort through his thoughts, work through his problems, and contemplate his fate. Sure, it may be considered brooding by most people. But, honestly, what was the big deal? He wasn't hurting anyone. He wasn't snubbing his friends, though he knew they often felt that way. He just needed time alone. And he had found it. He jumped on his broom and took to the sky. Immediately, the burdens of his life became momentarily a distant memory.
Harry set to zigzagging across the pitch, throwing in a Wronski Feint or Sloth Grip Roll now and again for good measure. His heart pounding and sweat trickling down his back, he was oblivious to his teammates beginning to gather below him. A scream of outrage from Ron finally drew Harry's attention. Ron seemed to be hacked off at Katie Bell as he stood bellowing in her face. Harry directed his Firebolt toward the group, curious to Ron's behaviour. He landed a few feet away and began to walk toward Ron, Katie, Dennis, Jack, and Andrew. He wondered where Ginny was.
"Did you tell her that attending Quidditch practice isn't an option?" Ron cried.
Katie shrugged. "I told her that you'd be upset if she wasn't here."
"And what did she say?"
Katie's face reddened. "I won't repeat what she said you could do to yourself."
Ron's face burned in anger. "Who the bloody hell does she think she is? Does she think just because she's my sister she can get away with this? No bloody way! If she can't make it to practice, then I'll find someone else who takes this game more seriously."
Ginny wasn't coming to practice? Harry couldn't believe it. Ginny never missed practice. She was usually the first one there, and the last to leave. What was going on?
Katie shrugged. "She wouldn't budge. I tried to convince her. I think throwing her off the team might be a bit extreme, though. We all have our off days."
Ron shook his head. "That's no excuse. We're a team, and we work and practice as a team. If I let her off the hook, then it gives everyone else a right to skip practice. I won't have it!" Ron exclaimed, his eyes flashing madly. "We're already wasting time. Sloper! Kirke! Get your arses on your brooms! What are you waiting for?"
Jack and Andrew jumped onto their brooms obediently and took to the sky. Ron then rounded on Dennis and Katie.
"You two, there's no reason you can't start without her. This will be a good way to practice two-person formations in case one of the Chasers is injured during play," Ron said. He watched as they mounted their brooms and soared to the center of the pitch before turning to Harry.
"Harry, go back to the dormitory and get Ginny. I don't care what her excuse is. She needs to be here."
Harry squirmed uncomfortably. "Ron," he began quietly, "you saw how upset Ginny was. Why don't you give her a break?"
Ron shook his head, his eyes blazing. "That's exactly why she needs to be up here. She's not doing herself any good by crying into her pillow. If you care at all about her, Harry, you'll go get her."
Harry glared at Ron. "Of course I care about her, but – "
"Then go get her," Ron interrupted.
"I can't go into the girls' dormitory," Harry argued, trying a different tack.
"So find someone who bloody well can!" Ron exclaimed. "You're the bloody Boy-Who-Lived, I'm sure you can figure out a way to get a girl out of her dormitory! And if you see Dean, give him a kick in the shins for whatever he did to my sister."
"That won't be necessary."
Ron and Harry spun on their heels to see Ginny marching towards them with her broom in hand.
"I could hear you screaming all the way to the castle," Ginny exclaimed, sending Ron a death glare. "Do you have to be such a prat?"
"You're late," Ron said, mirroring her glare.
"I'm here now, Captain."
"Katie and Creevey are already up there," Ron said. "You can go apologize to them for being late."
Ginny stuck her tongue out at Ron and straddled her broom. She darted a glance at Harry, and then kicked off from the ground.
Harry turned to Ron. "You really can be a sodding prat, mate."
Ron shrugged. "I'm her big brother. It's my job."
They grinned at each other before kicking off and joining practice.
Parvati watched in horror as Professor Trelawney swallowed the potion that had been poured into her mouth. A profound sense of foreboding drenched the still air in the room. The satisfied smirk on Voldemort's face mixed with the girlish glee on Bella's only saturated the sense of dread within Parvati further. Professor Trelawney squeezed her eyes shut and begun coughing and gasping desperately as if she were being choked. She struggled against her restraints, her body shaking violently as the potion seeped through her body. Parvati sat frozen in terror.
"Is it working, Master?" Bella whispered in excited awe.
"Quiet!" Voldemort hissed.
Bella cowered slightly and bowed her head in submission.
Professor Trelawney's body suddenly stilled and her breathing evened out. Her legs gave out, leaving her hanging like a rag doll from the manacles chained to the wall. If Trelawney's eyes had not been open, Parvati would have thought her asleep.
Voldemort's eyes gleamed. He whispered in excitement. "Excellent. It's just as I had hoped. If everything goes as planned, it will have indeed been worth spilling my own blood for the potion."
Voldemort walked towards Trelawney raising his wand. Professor Trelawney's head rose, her eyes wide open and captured in Voldemort's gaze.
"Yes, I see," Voldemort whispered. His eyes narrowed, deep in concentration. He stepped closer. "I see where it's hidden," he murmured. The Death Eaters in the room watched with intrigue, forgetting their watchful duty, including the Death Eater by the door who walked forward slowly in awe of his Master.
Voldemort closed his eyes, his wand drawing intricate patterns in the air in front of him. Parvati watched his mouth working the silent incantations. What on earth was it that Professor Trelawney would be privy to that would make her a target of Voldemort's? Was it really Professor Trelawney that Voldemort had been after all this time? Was Parvati just a pawn, and Trelawney the King that Voldemort wanted trapped? That made less sense to Parvati than her own capture had.
Professor Trelawney whimpered. In place of the blank gaze that had reflected in her eyes was a look of shock and fear. It seemed as though she were trying to tear her eyes away from Voldemort, but was powerless to do so.
A distant sound drew Parvati's attention away from the spectacle before her. She stared at the open doorway. For a flicker of a moment, she swore she had seen a shadow pass through the doorway. The open doorway. Parvati glanced back to the Death Eaters. They were completely engrossed in watching their Lord perform his sick, twisted magic. Parvati looked back at the door. Her path was clear. If she moved slowly, maybe she could get out and find help for Professor Trelawney before the Death Eaters noticed her absence. The thought of Erena waiting upstairs caused Parvati to hesitate. Another strangled whimper from Trelawney emboldened Parvati. With a last glance at her captors, she began to slowly and quietly crawl to the door.
Merlin, she wished she were closer. Her knees ached from being thrown to the floor earlier. Her hands were raw with cuts and scrapes. Her muscles screamed at her in protest, reminding her of being under the Cruciatus. But she plowed on. One step. Another step. And another. She dared not glance behind her. The extra movement may just be that which would give her away. Inch by inch she moved. Her breathing was shallow, but her heart beat madly. She could very well be performing the act that would seal her death. But she had waited for death long enough. She was going to take this chance. She had to.
The staccato whimpers of Trelawney echoed in the room, slicing through the heavy air. The Death Eaters remained silent and motionless beside Voldemort. His wand moved gracefully in beautiful arcs, belying the evil spells the movements cast. Parvati's eyes were locked on the doorway. She moved closer, closer, closer.
She paused and shook her head. Her eyesight was failing her. The image of the doorway seemed to shiver and then become still, shiver and still, time and time again. She was finally losing it. After all she had been through, it really shouldn't have been a surprise. Added to her botched eyesight was her addled hearing. She strained her ears, certain she could hear soft footsteps. And there, that was certainly the rustling of robes. She chanced a glance behind her. Nobody had moved. What on earth was going on? Voldemort's voice broke the silence.
"Yes!" he cried, triumphant. "Nearly there!"
His eyes shot open, his red gaze glowing venomously. His wand stilled and then flicked with fervor as he cried, "Invoco memorae!"
What happened next would become a blur in Parvati's memory. A cacophony of curses and hexes reverberated off the walls from invisible assailants, causing the Death Eaters to duck and cast shields. They whirled around, protecting their Master whose fury was palpable. The glow of his eyes made the former hue pale in comparison.
"You ingrates!" Voldemort screamed. "Is this the protection you offer me?"
He grabbed Bella, pressing his finger to the inside of her wrist. She winced, but maintained a fiendish gleam in her eye. Among the blazing streaks of red, green, purple, and blue hexes flying through the air was a series of resounding cracks as Death Eater after Death Eater Apparated into the room.
"I want them both brought back to me!" cried Voldemort in anger. "If my plans are foiled, whoever is responsible will pay dearly." He then turned and Disapparated.
Coward, Parvati thought silently. She looked around the room, crouching close to the ground. She realized the blur of movement she had seen by the door had been the invisible assailants that were now attacking the Death Eaters with a vengeance. As she scanned the room, she could catch glimpses of blurred movement among the Death Eaters. It was impossible to tell who was winning the battle. Parvati assumed the assailants were Aurors, but it was unclear how many there were. She wouldn't have minded joining the fray herself, but without a wand, she knew any effort on her part would be futile.
She looked behind her and saw a clear path to the doorway. Turning and looking to the back wall, she saw Professor Trelawney hanging limply, her eyes now closed. Parvati swallowed, a lump forming in her throat. Is she dead? Parvati wondered, her stomach twisting painfully. Without a wand, how was she supposed to unclasp the shackles imprisoning her professor? And even if Parvati could remove the manacles, how would she manage to carry an unconscious body undetected? But shouldn't she at least try? Would she be able to live with herself if she knew that she had left Professor Trelawney unconscious and defenseless, surrounded by Death Eaters?
Parvati cursed silently. It was an impossible situation. Either go alone and live with guilt, or try to take Professor Trelawney and get killed, for surely she would not be able to go unnoticed. The longer she sat and contemplated, the less likely that either option would lead to a successful escape. Parvati looked at her favourite professor, her heart twisting painfully. Her eyes burned as she bid a silent farewell before turning and pushing herself to her feet.
She took only one step before her legs gave out underneath her. The sting of a hex vibrated through her body. She pushed herself to her knees, determined. She crawled forward, only to be hit by a body-binding curse. She fell with a thud to the floor. Whoever had attacked must have been satisfied, for she was left lying frozen on the floor. She was uncertain how long she laid there staring at the blank, cold wall. The sound of shrieks and hexes whizzed around her. Her heart continued its incessant pounding in her head.
Suddenly, she felt her body relax. The curse had been lifted. Parvati pushed herself to her knees once again. She did not look back. She began crawling forward, desperate to try until the end. One, two, three inches further. The sound of conflict ensued, battling for dominance with the pounding of Parvati's heart. She was so close. She was nearly there. She was going to –
Parvati yelped as her body was raised into the air and then thrown forcefully against the wall. Pain shot through her body, her head cracking against the wall. She fell to the ground, gasping for breath.
"You're mine, pretty one!"
Parvati squeezed her eyes shut, recognizing the voice of the Death Eater that had come to her cell, his breath laced with Firewhiskey. She wanted to move, was desperate to run. She opened her eyes to find him looming over her. He smiled with sickening pleasure. Parvati silently begged for death. His eyes roamed over her broken body and Parvati was sure she had never felt more violated in her life.
"Oh yes, I will make you mine," he sneered, lowering his head to whisper in her ear.
Parvati whimpered. Tears trailed down her face. This was it. There was no hope.
"Please," she whispered. "Please, just kill me."
He laughed, a deep throated, toe curling laugh. "Don't worry, my pretty. You'll be killed, but not until the Dark Lord is through with you. And if I'm lucky, I'll have my opportunity to say goodbye."
Parvati cried and shook her head. The pain coursing through her body was too much. She wouldn't let him do this to her. She didn't deserve to die at his hands. There had to be more for her than this.
"Help!" she cried out.
Her voice was little more than a loud whisper.
His hand hit her face with force, driving the back of her head into the wall once again. She felt the sickening wet warmth of blood soaking her hair. With each pound of her heart, her head thudded in agony.
She swallowed and took a deep breath. "HELP!"
The Death Eater went for her neck this time, squeezing her throat with all his might. A litany of curses fell from his mouth, his eyes burned with fury, and Parvati knew that she was dying, and she felt at peace.
She closed her eyes. All sound fell away. In her mind's eye she pictured her family, she pictured her school friends, she pictured Harry. The pictures began to fade to darkness. She felt herself sliding, gliding, floating…
Parvati gasped and her eyes shot open. She took in a painful gulp of air. The Death Eater lay crumpled on top of her. He must have been hexed. Parvati's eyes darted around. She couldn't see anything around his bulk. She tried to push his body off her, but her muscles wouldn't cooperate. She tried to roll away, but found herself too close to the wall. She fought to breathe, each inhale causing a sharp pain in her side.
A hooded figure appeared over her. Her momentary hope dissipated when she saw the mask of a Death Eater. The limp body was pulled off her and shoved with distaste to the side. The Death Eater glanced around before squatting down in front of her.
"Miss Patil, I'm here to help you. You must trust me."
Parvati stared at the masked figure in front of her in confusion.
The Death Eater glanced around quickly again. "I'm the one who brought you food and water. If you'll let me, I can get you out of here."
Parvati's heart flooded with hope. She allowed the tears to fall as she nodded.
"We'll do a side-along Apparition. I can take you as far as the gates at Hogwarts. Someone will come for you there."
Parvati nodded to show her understanding. She allowed herself to be lifted into his arms. Every inch of her body protested to being moved, but she ignored it. With a quick turn, she felt the odd sensation she recalled from Apparating with her father as a child as she and her silent visitor Disapparated from the dark, hateful basement.
With a pop they appeared outside the Hogwarts gates. The Death Eater lowered her gently to the ground.
"I'm sorry I can't stay," he said as he straightened, "but I need to return before my absence is noted."
Parvati watched as the Death Eater turned toward the castle. He waved his wand, emitting a silver blaze that raced toward the castle. He turned and kneeled beside her.
"Someone from the school will be here for you shortly," he said softly. He paused and then said, "I'm sorry you had to endure so much. I'm sorry I couldn't have done more."
Parvati smiled weakly. "You saved me."
He nodded and pushed himself to his feet.
"Goodbye, Miss Patil."
He then turned and Disapparated.
Harry was beginning to think it had been a terrible idea to allow Ginny to practice, never mind force her into it. She had been completely reckless the entire practice. Not only was she pulling daring stunts, she was endangering the other teammates. Ron had shouted at her to the extent that his voice was hoarse. It was a tough and grueling practice. Everyone was dead tired, their muscles aching, and their uniforms soaked with sweat. Despite Ginny's behaviour, it had been a good practice. The team maneuvered flawlessly. They had established a form of silent communication, reading each other effortlessly and orchestrating plays that no other team at Hogwarts would have thought possible.
Harry descended to the ground slowly. He was worried about Ginny, but wasn't sure what to do about it. She hadn't spoken to him in days, and had barely spared him a glance all practice. He couldn't stand this weird silence that had settled over their friendship, and he was determined to put an end to it.
Harry landed, spotting Ginny and Katie making their trek back to the castle. He saw Kirke and Sloper helping Ron put the equipment away, so Harry decided that now was the time to act.
He jogged towards the girls, falling into step beside them.
"Good practice, yeah?" he commented.
Katie groaned. "If good means back-breaking, then yes, good practice."
Harry nodded and glanced at Ginny. She stared at the ground in front of her.
"You seemed to work particular hard, Gin," he commented, trying to draw her out.
Keeping her eyes trained on the grass in front of her, Ginny shrugged and said, "I s'pose."
They walked a few steps in silence. Ginny was not making this easy. Well, Harry wasn't going to let her get away with it.
"Listen, Ginny. Can we talk?"
Ginny stopped, planting a fist on her hip. "Harry, I am in no mood for a big brother talk."
Harry stopped, squaring his shoulders for battle. "First of all, I'm not your brother. Second, I need to talk to you about Norbert."
Ginny's face flushed in embarrassment and her eyes dropped to the ground. Katie, feeling as though she were intruding, waved awkwardly and jogged away, leaving Harry and Ginny alone. Harry stepped toward Ginny hesitantly.
"Will you talk to me?" he asked softly.
Ginny raised her eyes to Harry. He felt his heart constrict as he took in the lost and hurt look in Ginny's eyes.
"I've been a horrible friend," she said quietly.
"Yes, you have," Harry agreed. "But here's your chance to make it up to me."
"Okay," Ginny replied. "But please, no big brother stuff."
"I'm not your brother," Harry said, more vehemently than was necessary.
Ginny raised her eyebrow and shrugged.
Harry took a deep breath. He knew why he didn't want Ginny thinking of him as a brother, but that didn't give him permission to act like a prat. It was his own damn fault for being blind to her beauty when she was available, stupid prat that he was.
"Fancy a walk?" Harry asked, not wanting Ron or his other teammates to interrupt his chat with Ginny.
"Sure," Ginny said, slinging her broom over her shoulder. "Lead the way."
Harry nodded, turning to walk towards the lake. They walked in silence for awhile. The sun was sinking low towards the horizon, creating a glowing haze over the grounds. Harry glanced at Ginny. Her hair was tied back in a ponytail. Several wisps of hair had escaped, dancing lightly around her face. Her hair seemed to glow with the setting sun, making her the brightest thing in sight. Her cheeks still held a rosy glow from the exertion of a hard practice.
"Is there something on my face?" Ginny asked, self-consciously swiping her fingers across her cheeks.
Harry blushed, having been caught gawking at her. "Er … no… no, I don't think so."
Harry inwardly cringed at his ability to make a git of himself. He took a deep breath, wanting to detour the conversation before Ginny asked why he had been staring at her.
"So," Harry began awkwardly, "Norbert…"
Ginny turned abruptly, dropping her broom to the ground and clutching Harry's arms. "I'm so sorry, Harry. I know I haven't been a good friend, and I know leaving a stuffed dragon on your bed doesn't make up for me being totally absent in your life the last few days."
Harry smiled. "I liked the stuffed dragon bit." He felt a blush creep across his cheeks. "I know it's not macho, like you said, but I really did appreciate the gesture."
"It should have been me instead," Ginny said, shaking her head.
Harry's mind ran wild. "It should have been you in my bed?"
Ginny's eyes opened wide and her jaw dropped. "Harry!" she shrieked.
Harry grinned, his face deep red. "Well, that is what you said," he reasoned.
Ginny punched Harry in the shoulder, laughing. "You prat! You know that's not what I meant!"
Harry shrugged. "My loss, then."
Harry began to wonder what strange entity had entered his body. Was he actually flirting with Ginny Weasley? Was he mental? Did he have a death wish?
Ginny looked at Harry as though he were a puzzle to figure out. She eventually smiled and said, "I like this side of you, Harry. It doesn't come out nearly enough."
"What side is that?" Harry asked, eager to act in whatever way she found pleasing.
Ginny shrugged. "I don't know. Light-hearted, teasing, almost … playful." Her cheeks burned red as she ducked her head and dug her toe into the ground.
"Well, it's a heck of a lot easier to be those things when you're around," Harry said truthfully. He watched as Ginny smiled at the ground. He decided now may be the time to give her a nudge. "So, are you going to tell me why I haven't seen you in days?"
Ginny's smile turned into a frown. She plopped down to the ground, sitting cross-legged. Harry sat across from her, waiting silently.
"Harry…" Ginny began hesitantly.
"Yeah?"
Ginny's eyes darted up to Harry's before focusing on the grass again. She took a deep breath and asked, "How did you know to break up with Parvati?"
Harry's eyes widened. He hadn't expected her to ask him about relationship advice. Bloody hell!
"Um… I don't know. It was just… well… it got to be too much work," he answered lamely.
Ginny nodded. "Mum always says a good relationship requires a lot of work."
Harry frowned. "Are you saying I gave up too easily?"
Ginny raised her head in shock. "No! It's not that at all! I already told you, I thought you and Parvati were a horrible match."
"Right," Harry said, confused.
Ginny sighed, turning her frustration on the blades of grass in front of her, plucking at them with aggravation. "I'm trying to make my relationship with Dean work. I think maybe I gave up too quickly with Michael, not that I regret it or anything, but … I mean… we argued once and broke up. We didn't even try to work on it."
Harry felt his insides twist uncomfortably. Discussing Ginny's boyfriends with her was not something that he enjoyed doing, but at least she was talking to him again. He had to fight the very strong urge to tell Ginny to drop the Great Git. Then he could date her, and they could try some of the things that flashed through his mind at the thought of Ginny on his bed instead of Norbert…
Harry shook his head of the images flooding his mind. Now's not the time, Potter!
Clearing his throat, Harry asked, "So, your argument with Dean today was not the first?"
Ginny snorted. "Definitely not." She pulled her knees up in front of her, resting her chin on top of them. "The last week has been rough."
"Because of Hogsmeade?" Harry asked, remembering how hurt Ginny had been that the Great Git hadn't invited her to go with him.
"That's part of it. We argue over other stuff too. It seems all we do lately is argue. I don't want to just give up, but I don't want to keep going on like this either."
Harry watched Ginny. He wanted to break Dean's legs and throw him in the lake for the Giant Squid's dinner. Ginny looked at Harry, stirring the fluttering in his heart.
"When do I say enough is enough, Harry?" she whispered.
Harry swallowed. This was not something he could discuss with her. He wanted to tell her to toss him and throw a few Bat-Bogey hexes for good measure, but if she ever found out how he felt about her, would she think he had done it for selfish reasons? Was it for selfish reasons? His feelings were so jumbled he didn't know which way was up. This was definitely a decision Ginny had to make on her own.
"I can't answer that for you, Gin. I'm rubbish at relationships. All I'll say is that you deserve to be happy. You need to figure out what will make that happen."
Ginny stared morosely across the lake. "What if the thing that would make me the happiest is out of reach?"
Harry felt his insides twist at the sadness in her voice. He reached for her hand and squeezed it. "Nothing is out of reach, Gin."
She turned her eyes to him and smiled. "Maybe not for you."
He chuckled. "I wish that were true."
"I'm sorry I let my relationship troubles with Dean get in the way of our friendship, Harry."
"It's okay."
"No, it's not. I'm going to be the best friend a bloke could have from now on to make it up to you," Ginny stated firmly.
Harry felt his heart sink a little. "Brilliant," he said, less than enthusiastically.
Ginny took both of his hands in hers and straightened her posture. "First off, tell me about your conversation with Dumbledore."
Harry studied Ginny. Determination glowed from her eyes, and he knew she wouldn't be satisfied until he went over everything that had happened over the last few days. He smiled at her and shook his head, loving her tenacity and the way her eyes sparkled at him. He delved into explaining Dumbledore's plot to get Harry to stop blaming himself. He talked about his apology to Ron. They talked at length about the Daily Prophet article and everyone's reactions to it. Harry loved talking to Ginny about anything and everything. He loved the light laugh that fell from her lips as much as the deep, hearty chuckle that shook her whole body. He loved the burning anger and fierce loyalty that radiated from her when she thought he had been treated unfairly. He loved the doting care and sympathy she showed him when he explained with embarrassment what he had done to Professor Pandoran. He simply loved spending time with her.
Harry was listening intently to Ginny's tale of an incident in her Potions lesson that morning when a streak across the sky caught his attention.
"Did you see that?" he asked, jumping to his feet.
Ginny scrambled to her feet beside him. "No. What was it?"
The streak had disappeared from Harry's vision. He spun toward the gates to the school.
"It was a silver streak of something. It came from over there," he said pointing at the gates.
Ginny squinted. "There's someone at the gate."
Harry squinted as well. He could see a figure that seemed to be kneeling next to a dark shape on the ground. The figure rose and with a half-turn toward Harry and Ginny, Disapparated.
"Harry," Ginny said, "was that a…"
"Death Eater," Harry answered in a whisper.
They broke into a run simultaneously, pulling out their wands. Neither knew what the Death Eater had left behind, but if it was a weapon of some kind, they needed to alert their headmaster.
"Maybe you should go get Dumbledore," Harry said.
"Maybe you should," Ginny replied, running stride for stride with Harry.
Harry mentally shook his head. Of course, it was foolish to think he'd be able to talk Ginny away from a potentially dangerous situation. She was as stubborn as him, if not more so.
They slowed as they neared the gate. They eyed the shape nervously, trying to determine from a distance what it was.
Ginny gasped.
Harry froze.
Parvati shifted, her hair falling away from her face.
"Parvati!" Harry shouted, running at the gate.
Ginny was at his side. They tugged at the gate, fighting against its locks. Ginny fired unlocking spells and Harry tried a variety of blasting curses. Finally, the gate sprung open as Dumbledore and McGonagall appeared at their side.
"Is she okay?" Ginny asked, allowing Dumbledore and McGonagall to go to Parvati's side.
"There was someone else," Harry said, his voice choked. Relief washed over him to see Parvati alive, but he was soon nauseous when he saw the bruising on her cheek and McGonagall pull her hand away from Parvati's head, covered in blood. "A Death Eater," Harry continued, his voice tight.
"He rescued me," Parvati's quiet voice explained. "He saved me."
"Did you see his face?" Dumbledore asked quietly.
Parvati shook her head, and then winced. "No," she said, her teeth gritted. "But I know he's bald, and wears a hooped earring."
Harry's mouth opened in shock. His eyes darted from Dumbledore to McGonagall, who seemed to be having a silent conversation. He then looked at Ginny, who mouthed "Shacklebolt?"
Harry nodded, his heart racing. Had it been Shacklebolt in the Death Eater robes? Was he alive and working for Voldemort? Harry couldn't imagine the lengths Shacklebolt would have had to go through to convince Voldemort to not only keep him alive, but to allow him into his inner circle. Harry's respect for the Auror tripled.
"We need to get her to the hospital wing," McGonagall said, casting a worried glance at Dumbledore.
Dumbledore nodded. "Can you stand, Miss Patil?"
Parvati moved slightly and then shook her head, tears pooling in her eyes.
"We'll need a stretcher," McGonagall said. "A simple levitation may be too painful without any support."
Dumbledore nodded and silently conjured a stretcher beside Parvati. Dumbledore and McGonagall rolled her slowly and gently onto her back and onto the stretcher. She attempted to stifle her whimpers, but it was obvious that she was in a great deal of pain.
"Miss Patil," McGonagall said softly. "You need to stay awake. I believe your ribs are broken, but no matter the pain, I need you to stay awake."
Parvati nodded. She had come this far, she wouldn't give up now.
McGonagall levitated Parvati on the stretcher so that she floated several feet off the ground. McGonagall began maneuvering Parvati across the grounds towards the castle. Harry and Ginny stumbled behind, their minds lost in their own thoughts.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley."
Harry and Ginny turned at the sound of Dumbledore's voice. He had locked the gates and reset the wards guarding the school.
"Mr. Brooks has made sure that the corridors have been cleared. We do not want a scene when Miss Patil is brought in. I would ask you to keep this to yourselves tonight. The Patil family has the right to know about Parvati before the whole of Hogwarts."
Harry and Ginny nodded numbly.
"Furthermore, you must keep the information about the Death Eater that brought Miss Patil to us a secret. Do not tell anyone. It is vital to his survival that his whereabouts continue to be unknown."
Harry and Ginny nodded again.
Dumbledore surveyed them thoughtfully. "I am sorry you had to see Miss Patil in such a state, but rest assured, Madam Pomfrey will heal her in no time."
"Thank you, Professor," Ginny mumbled.
Dumbledore nodded and then set off to help Professor McGonagall. Harry and Ginny walked silently to their discarded brooms by the lake. By silent agreement, they walked to the water's edge and stared across the lake, taking in the beauty and peacefulness in the wake of such shock.
"Do you think she'll be okay?" Ginny asked quietly.
"I hope so," Harry replied softly. "She was in a lot of pain."
"Did you see … the blood?"
Harry nodded, his throat constricting. "Yeah," he choked out.
They watched the Giant Squid rise to the surface of the lake, stretching each of its arms in turn. Its movements were oddly graceful, creating a soothing ripple across the water which lapped at the shore in front of them. One final flourish, and the mysterious creature sank back to the depths below.
"I feel really stupid about my fight with Dean," Ginny whispered.
Harry turned to her questioningly. "Why?"
Ginny sighed. "I'm upset over a silly boy while Parvati's been going through Merlin knows what. My problems are foolish and insignificant."
"It does put a different perspective on things, doesn't it?" Harry replied.
Ginny had a faraway look as she gazed across the lake. "I need to talk to Dean," she said.
Harry's heart jumped. "Oh?"
"I'll tell him what I need to make me happy and see if he can give it to me," she replied.
It wasn't quite what he was looking for, but Harry was comforted by the fact that his girl would at least be happy.
"Ready to go?" Harry asked.
Ginny turned and locked her gaze with Harry's. Harry found it difficult to breathe as her eyes blazed into his. He fought the urge to pull her to him in a fierce embrace.
"As ready as I'll ever be," she said, bending down to pick up her broom and leading them on their path back to the castle.
A/N: Omg… this chapter has been a thorn in my side. I struggled with so many aspects, trying to get it just right. How did I do?