Once a Potter, Always a Potter

by WarMunger98

Harry is not the only Potter left. He was lucky enough to have a little sister born just before James and Lily were murdered. Follow their journey through Hogwarts and beyond as the tackle love, mystery and a war. They will meet new friends and be reunited with lost family. M for violence, language and later sexual situations/scenes. Hinny. Slowly updating.

21. The Chamber of Secrets

Hey folks, I know this is probably a little late for you all but I tried to get it to you as soon as possible. Uni has been insane recently and so has work. If I'm not working 12+ hour days I'm doing assignments or Uni readings. I have the next couple of chapters planned out, with chapter 22 being basically a catch up of what Sirius and Remus have been doing whilst the Potters are at school. 23 will be the end of the school year and the start of holidays, followed by 24 being the end of holidays and the start of year 3. I know that there are a lot of elements in this story not yet explained and are being hinted at, and I can assure you that in years 3 and 4 things will become much clearer. So, for now, enjoy this rather long chapter and let me know what you think? On a side note, I am now aware that I've been spelling Angelina as Angela multiple times. I don't have the time to go back and fix it now but in the future I'll probably go through all my work again and fix mistakes and add bits and bobs. For now though, try to ignore it and in future I'll make sure names are proper. Thanks a lot guys, enjoy!"

The Chamber of Secrets: Chapter 21

"Bloody hell, this is going to be mission impossible."

Ron's words were more than accurate. Since making the revelation that Moaning Myrtle could very well be the last victim of the Chambers last opening, the boys had been hard pressed to try and find an opportunity to make their way back to the abandoned girl's bathroom.

"Following spiders into the Forbidden forest, sure that's easy." Ron groaned, "But when it comes to going back to where it all began, to a bloody bathroom…oh no, couldn't make it easy could they."

Harry would've chuckled at his friends moaning if it wasn't for the fact that his heart constantly raced. The attack on Rose had had a visible affect on Harry, who began to become jumpier, short tempered and snappy. "We have to find a way Ron. We've got no other choice."

"I appreciate that mate, but it's rather difficult don't you think?" Ron said.

"Of course, I know that!" Harry snapped before sighing, "Sorry, I'm on edge again…I shouldn't have snapped at you." `

Ron just shrugged and flung his arm around Harry's neck. "It's okay Harry, I know for a fact that if it were Ginny who was attacked, I'd be frantic."

"Yeah…" Harry couldn't help but feel like that statement would come back to haunt Ron.

The two boys were currently sitting in Transfiguration class, waiting for McGonagall to begin her lecture. But before she began her lesson, she informed the student body of a rather forgotten aspect of the school year. "I trust that everyone has been busy revising for their exams, which I shall remind you begin one week from now on the first of June."

A great big cacophony of groaning and whining erupted from the classroom. "What? Exams! How can yeh expect us teh do exams when all this is happening?" Seamus complained.

"Mr Finnigan, unless you are petrified yourself, I expect that you will still commit fully to your studies." McGonagall pursed her lips, "That is why the school is remaining open after all, for each and every one of you to receive an education."

The student body muttered and groaned amongst each other as the realisation that they'd soon be put under the pressure hit them full on. "But professor, it's a bit hard to study with everything going on…it's the least of our worries really." Neville spoke up, rather shyly.

"Mr Longbottom…" McGonagall let out a tired sigh, "I understand that for each and every one of you, this year has been a rather frightful time. But Professor Dumbledore's final orders were to continue the school year with some form of normality, including exams. However, due to current circumstances, if one should fail their exam, they shall get the opportunity to resit the exam at the beginning of the next school year."

Harry could've sworn he heard McGonagall mutter 'Merlin willing' under her breath as she finished. With the revelation that they wouldn't be forced to repeat a subject if they failed the exam, most of the students in the classroom reduced their complaints to a minimum, allowing McGonagall to begin the lesson without the threat of a mutiny.

"Bloody hell…" Ron muttered, "Have you been revising?"

Harry shook his head. "No." Truth be told, he hadn't been putting much into his studies since Rose was petrified.

He'd begun to revise previously but with recent events transposing, Harry couldn't find the energy to commit to revising. For the last two months, Harry had been fully committed to finding out all he could about the Chamber of Secrets, all thought of homework a side note to his otherwise occupied time. So as Harry sat there, trying to concentrate on the task of turning a pair of rabbits into slippers, he looked back on the year and remembered very little of what he had learnt. Towards the end of the lesson, Harry decided that he couldn't cope with the mounting pressure on his life. School, his sister, the Chamber of Secrets. It was all too much.

Making his way up to McGonagall, Harry chewed on his lip as his head of house looked up from the pile of text books she was stacking. "Potter? Is there something you need?"

"Um…I…I don't really know." Harry stuttered.

"Mr Potter, what do you mean you don't know?"

Harry let out a tremendous sigh as he hung his head. "I can't cope."

A wave of sympathy went out from McGonagall as she stepped up and placed a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Potter…Harry…I can't imagine what you must be going through right now. Two of your best friends and your very own sister have been attacked in a place of education." McGonagall sighed, "And there is nothing to be done except wait. I can only imagine the frustration and anger you must feel."

"Not anger professor. I'm just…tired." Harry said.

"I understand Harry. If you're worried about the exams, please don't. I know you, like many others, have probably been sitting in class listening to the lesson in one ear before it all flies out the other." Harry chuckled at McGonagall's observation, "But Harry, it is only your second-year exams. They are not complicated and whatever you need to know for the exam you can learn in a few days. Don't stress yourself Potter."

Nodding his head in understanding, Harry looked up at his head of house and smiled. "Thank you, Professor McGonagall. I think there are a few of us that need a reminder that it's not the end of the world."

"Indeed, you do my dear boy. Now go on, hurry along to class, before Weasley busts a gasket. He looks like he has ants in his pants." McGonagall gave Harry a rare smile as her eyes fluttered over to the anxious looking Ron, who was quietly waiting at the back of the class.

Looking over at his best mate, Harry couldn't help but chuckle as he looked at the anxious looking Ron. Putting the redhead out of his misery, Harry bayed his farewells to McGonagall and hurried along after Ron.

"Everything okay?" Ron asked as Harry approached.

"Yes...no." Harry sighed again, "Just worried you know? And tired."

Ron hummed in sympathy as the two boys travelled along the hallways, hurrying along to charms class. "I think there's a lot of people in the same boat right now."

"Yeah."

"Just remember, there's plenty of people who'll help you keep your head above water." Ron gave his best mate a genuine smile, cracking Harry's gloomy exterior as a grin spread across his face.

With McGonagall and other teachers giving students the forceful motivation to study, most of the student population found themselves cramming in as much study as possible. Towards the end of the week, McGonagall once more gave the school news, addressing the entire Great Hall one morning.

"Your attention please!" McGonagall's voiced boomed out across the hall, "I'm very happy to announce that finally we have some good news."

"Dumbledore's coming back?"

"The heir of Slytherin is dead?"

"Quidditch is back on?"

McGonagall shook her head at every answer, giving Woods a pointed look for the last comment. "No, none of that I'm afraid. Professor Sprout has informed me that the Mandrakes will be ready to harvest by the end of next week. Which means we can begin to prepare the potion to revive our paralysed comrades."

There were murmurs across the hall as students discussed the new information amongst themselves. Upon hearing the news, Harry felt a rush of good fortune and relief, knowing his sister would be healed in a few days. "But what about the heir of Slytherin?" One of the sixth year Ravenclaws spoke up.

McGonagall pursed her lips at the question. "They are yet to be apprehended, meaning restrictions on movement will still be in place until the end of the year."

The Great Hall burst into chatter again as students suddenly felt the hope quashed out of them again. "I can assure you that over the summer holidays, myself and all the other staff will work diligently to make sure that the next year will be safe for everyone to return. Thank you all for listening."

McGonagall put an end to the discussion by sitting back down in her seat, entering a hushed conversation with Flitwick. Harry did the same, except Ron and Luna were his confidants. "So, nobody knows who's behind the attacks still."

"It seems so." Luna answered, "Perhaps they should hold a discussion with the castles ghosts?"

"I doubt they've seen anything we haven't. Afterall. Sir Nicolas got petrified as well, they're at much as risk as the rest of us." Harry said.

Ron and Luna both frowned but agreed, Luna somewhat less. "We still need to ask Myrtle about how she died." Ron reminded them.

Just as Harry was about to answer, a very paranoid looking Ginny came over, sitting next to Harry, gripping onto his arm. "Ginny? What's the matter?" Ron asked.

Looking around with frantic eyes, Ginny looked at her brother as if he was a stranger. "Gin, are you okay?" Harry's voice seemed to break her out of whatever anxious trance she was in, as she jumped away suddenly and looked at Harry with fear.

"He wants you…" She said cryptically.

"Who wants me?" Harry asked, a little worried.

Ginny shook her head violently. "Can't say."

"Ginny…" Ron said exasperated, "Just spit it out!"

Ginny shook her head again as tears began to flow from her eyes. "I can't! I can't! I can't!"

Thinking quickly, Harry grabbed Ginny's hand and brought her to a stop. "Gin…look at me."

Stopping her frantic movements for just a moment, Ginny looked into Harry's dark emerald eyes, sighing in relief. "That's better." Harry smiled.

Not willing to let go of the gaze, Ginny still shuddered. "I have to tell you... I have to tell you…but I can't."

"Why can't you tell us Gin?" Harry asked.

"He…won't…let…me."

Frowning, Harry cupped Ginny's face in his hands. "You can tell me anything. You know that."

Ginny looked like she wanted to break into a million pieces, her eyes were shiny with tears and her lip quivered. "I can't." Her tiny voice answered.

"Is it about the chamber?" Harry asked in barely a whisper.

Ginny nodded, about to say something when a voiced distracted her. "Are you done eating Ginny?" Percy's voice broke the moment between Ginny and Harry, causing the former to rush up and away from the scene, "Ah, thank you. I was just about to ask for that seat."

Ginny looked at her brother with frantic eyes before fleeing the scene. "Percy!" Ron shouted in anger, "She was about to tell us something!"

"What?" Percy looked frantic himself, "Oh, um, what about?"

"About the chamber of secrets." Harry answered.

Percy sighed in relief before shaking his head. "I don't think it was about the chamber. She um…she caught me doing something the other day in a classroom."

Ron grinned as he pressed his brother for more information. "What were you doing hey Perce?"

"None of your business." Percy ruffled, digging into his breakfast with as much enthusiasm as his brothers, albeit with more class.

Knowing he wouldn't get anything else out of his brother, Ron dropped the subject. Still, Harry couldn't help but feel worried about Ginny and her words. She was becoming more erratic and crazed, scaring him.

"What are you thinking?"

Harry's train of thought was broken as he looked back at Ron. "That Ginny is in danger."

Ron nodded in agreement, looking towards the doors to the Great hall where she fled. "I agree. What can we do?"

"I'll keep an eye on her." Luna said.

Both boys nodded their thanks. Although Ginny was a part of their lives, the fact that she was both a year below and a girl made monitoring her all the more difficult. Different classes, different dormitories, completely segregated apart from meal time and in the common room. Harry made a promise then that if Ginny was still unwell by the time exams were done, he'd get to the bottom of what was plaguing her.

The boys got their chance to speak to Myrtle though at the end of their DADA class, thanking their lucky stars that Lockhart was just as incompetent as always. The man continued to sprout nonsense about how Hagrid was the culprit and that the extra security precautions were unnecessary.

"I keep telling Professor McGonagall, all these precautions are entirely unnecessary. Afterall, we all know it was the groundskeeper that was the culprit." Lockhart gave the students a toothy grin as he escorted them down the hallway towards the history room. "Besides, with myself here at Hogwarts, you're all safe."

There were mutterings amongst the students, all of which were thoroughly sceptical of the man's abilities. Harry however saw an opportunity arise. "I think you're absolutely correct Professor. You surely have better things to do than escort us?"

Lockhart took a couple of seconds to analyse what Harry had said before he broke into a toothy grin. "My point exactly Mr Potter! I could be doing so much more right now…like answering fan mail."

"Then let us take ourselves to class, it's only just around the corner now. I'm sure we'll be fine." Harry put on his best look of innocence that he was sure anybody but Lockhart would see through.

"Yes, yes, I think I'll do just that!" Brushing off imaginary dirt off his cloak, Lockhart turned on his heal and left the students be, "Tata my lovely students, remember to complete that essay on my adventure in the heart of Siberia!"

"Fat chance of that." Ron muttered under his breath.

As Lockhart departed, the remaining students all gave each other a look before moving back down the hall at a rapid pace, all except Harry and Ron. "Come on, now's our chance to see Myrtle." Harry said.

Ron looked confused for a moment before Harry grabbed him around the collar and yanked him in the opposite direction of the classroom. They didn't get very far though unfortunately, as the last voice they wanted to hear came from behind them. "Potter! Weasley! What are you doing out of class?"

McGonagall's appearance sent shivers down Harry's spine, who only then just realised the mistake that he had made in assuming the deputy headmistress was in the classroom waiting for them, when she was clearly taking her own class towards their next lesson. "Um…Professor…we can explain!" Ron began to speak.

"We were heading to the infirmary…to see…to see Rose and Hermione!" Harry interrupted, "We miss them terribly you see, Alec as well. We haven't seen them in weeks now since we've been so busy revising."

Ron looked utterly surprised at the pure lie that Harry had just told their head of house, but didn't question it. "Yeah, what Harry said. Wanted to see our friends, that's all."

"I see." Instead of berating them, McGonagall seemed to almost tear up. "Oh boys, I understand how hard this must all be for you both. Go on, tell Poppy that I allowed you in to see them both. I'll inform Professor Binns of your absence." Giving the pair a stiff nod, McGonagall left the two Gryffindors to their business, shocking the pair of them.

"That was brilliant!" Ron exclaimed, "You're better than the twins!"

Harry blushed. "I feel bad about lying to McGonagall though."

"What she doesn't know won't hurt her." Ron reassured.

His reassurance did nothing to quell Harry's anxiousness. Instead, he put his mind to the task and led Ron through the corridors and straight to the infirmary, knowing that they had no other choice now but to visit. Pomfrey was reluctant to let them in at first, stating that there was no use talking to a petrified individual. It took a small amount of pleading and puppy dog eyes from the two boys to finally be let in. But Madam Pomfrey was right, there really was no point talking to the petrified. Harry and Ron both spent a good amount of time just looking at their injured friends, and in Harry's case sibling.

Holding onto Rose's petrified hand, Harry couldn't help but shed a few tears as he looked at the frozen fear on his sister's face. "We'll be together again soon Rose, I promise."

Feeling his friends' pain, Ron came over and held his hand against Harry's back. "You alright mate?"

"I will be, once we find out who did this."

Grunting in agreement, Ron took a seat next to Harry on Rose's bed. "What if we don't get to the bottom of it thought?"

"We have to. I promised my sister that I'd protect her and I failed!" Harry sobbed, "I failed…"

Rubbing circles along his mates back, Ron silently comforted Harry as his sobs escalated and then diminished into tiny hiccups. When Ron turned back to look at Hermione, it was then that he noticed something clutched in the young Witches hand. "Harry…what's that?"

Looking up from his sister, Harry peered over to where Ron was pointing. "I dunno…a piece of paper? Try and get it out."

Ron jumped up immediately, making sure the coast was clear before prying the piece of parchment from Hermione's frozen hands. "Got it!"

"What is it?" Harry asked.

Ron unfurled it and had a look. "Looks like a piece from a book. An old one at that."

"What's it say?"

Ron skim read it before passing it to Harry with a pale look. "A Basilisk."

Harry looked confused until he read through the page as well. "Bloody hell."

Hermione had torn a page out of a book on mythical creatures, a page specifically about the King of the Serpents, known as the Basilisk. It had the ability to kill with its stare and grew to monstrous sizes due to living hundreds of years. What caught Harry's attention though was the fact that it could be killed by the crowing of a rooster and that spiders fled from its presence.

"That's why the heir of Slytherin killed Hagrid's roosters!" Harry concluded, "And why Aragog and the spiders were so scared of it."

"Read the bottom part Harry." Ron insisted.

Looking at the very bottom of the page, Harry noticed the neat scrawl of his other best friend. 'Pipes.' Was all it said.

"It's been using the pipes, that's why I can hear it all over the school!"

Ron nodded, his head working out the details. "And that's why everyone is petrified. No one has actually seen the Basilisk, only seen it indirectly."

"Correct! Colin through his camera." Harry listed.

"Justin through Sir Nicolas, and of course you can't kill a ghost." Ron added.

"Alec and the Ravenclaw through the mirror in the bathroom."

"The girls through Hermione's mirror…"

Harry sucked on his lip for a moment. "And Mrs Norris…"

Ron scratched his head in thought as well. "How'd she cop it then?"

"The water that was on the floor, it must've come out of the bathroom!"

Then it all suddenly clicked into place. "Myrtles bathroom!" They said in unison.

"Bloody hell, you mean to say we could've been Basilisk food at any stage while brewing that potion?" Ron paled, "I'm gonna kill Hermione."

They both sat there, hope flowing through their veins as they realised they had finally figured it out, thanks to Hermione. "So what do we do now?" Ron asked, "Tell McGonagall?"

"We'll head straight to the staff room, it's almost end of lessons, they'll all head there."

They were about to head out of the infirmary when Harry doubled over in pain. He felt as if his insides were being retched from the inside out, his throat seizing up. Collapsing to his knees, Harry was soon surrounded by the arms of Ron.

"Are you okay mate? What the hell just happened?"

Harry shook his head as he tried to breath, unable to speak. Just as soon as the pain came on, it went away, granting Harry freedom to speak and to breath once more. "I…I don't know."

Looking concerned, Ron was about to grab Madam Pomfrey when Harry stopped him. "We don't have…time." Harry struggled, "We need to tell…the teachers."

Nodding his understanding, Ron helped Harry back onto his feet, giving him a moment or two to steady himself before letting him go. "Are you sure you're going to be okay?"

"Yeah…just, lets maybe not run there?"

Letting out a weak chuckle, Ron agreed, earning a grin back from Harry who grimaced slightly in pain. Once Harry felt strong enough to head off, the duo made a beeline towards the staffroom, avoiding the major hallways as they didn't particularly want to get caught by Filch. When they got to the staff room, they found it void of teachers, only the few meagre furnishing and various break time cooking utensils in sight.

"Where are they?" Ron asked.

Ron's question was quickly answered as the amplified voice of Professor McGonagall echoed down the halls. "All students are to return to their dormitories at once! Teachers are required to head to the staff room immediately."

Fear spiked in the two boys' hearts as they realised that there had been another attack. "No…we're too late." Ron lamented.

"We've still got time!" Harry insisted.

"What're we gonna do then? Head back to the tower?"

Harry shook his head. "No, we'll wait here and see what they say. Look, we can hide in there!"

Their hiding spot was an old wardrobe that was full of thick teachers cloaks that had been abandoned now that the weather had warmed up. Fitting in amongst the musty smelling garments, Ron and Harry both crinkled up their noses but said nothing as the first teachers began to pour into the staff room.

McGonagall arrived last, pale as snow as she held her pointed hat in her hands and almost ripped it in two. "It's happened…"

"What's happened Minerva?" Flitwick asked.

"A…A student has been taken…by the monster."

There were gasps and fright amongst the staff. "Where have they been taken?" Professor Sprout asked.

"To the c-chamber of s-secrets." McGonagall stuttered, fear dripping from her voice.

Snape, who was busy destroying the back of a chair by clenching it too tight, raised his voice. "How are we sure a student has been taken?"

"The Heir of Slytherin left a message." McGonagall pursed her lips, "Beneath where the first message was written. It said, her skeleton will lie in the Chamber forever."

"Who was taken?" Madam Hooch asked as she practically collapsed into a chair.

Biting her lip, McGonagall waited for a moment before saying. "G…Ginny Weasley."

There was a rushing in Harry's ear akin to a raging river as he felt his heart shatter. His bones wobbled as she felt himself collapse onto the floor of the wardrobe right next to the now shaking Ron. Reaching out with his hand, Harry gripped onto Ron's tightly, fearing that if he let go, he'd be sucked up into some sort of void that was now filling his insides.

The two boys were shaken out of their panic-stricken comas as they heard the door slam open and felt its vibration. For a moment, a brief moment, Harry let himself believe that Dumbledore had come back to save them all. Instead…they got Lockhart.

"Sorry about that, dozed off a little. It's so very tiring teaching these students after all, not nearly as gifted as I was back in the day."

Everyone turned to look at Lockhart, hatred and annoyance clearly in their eyes, making Lockhart stumble for a moment. Before the man could say anything else to embarrass himself, Snape stepped forward with a snarl. "Just the man we need."

"Whatever for?" Lockhart tried to smile but it came out as an awkward grimace.

"A student has been taken into the Chamber of Secrets. A man of your…expertise should be able to rescue them easily."

Lockhart visibly gulped as he looked around at his fellow teachers. "Well…um…you see…"

"That's right Gilderoy, you are the Defence teacher after all." Sprout said, "You were just saying the other night how you knew where the entrance to the chamber was all along, did you not?"

Slowly backing up against the wall, Lockhart held his hands up in defence as his fellow teachers surrounded him. "Look, see here now…"

"And you were just saying to me this morning how you wish you had a crack at Hagrid before he was arrested." Snape said.

"Or how you wished you had free reign of the investigation since it was decidedly buggered up to begin with." Flitwick added.

The former vestige of the sickeningly handsome man was gone, replaced by a quivering mess. Lockhart was chewing on his lip, stemming its movements as he looked close to collapsing. "So now's your chance Lockhart." McGonagall pressed, "Tonight, everyone will be gone and you'll have free reign to do as you please, to tackle the monster and rescue the young student."

Nodding his head frantically, Lockhart made to leave through the door. "Oh yes of course! I'll go prepare in my…in my office right now! Tatatoodalooseeyoulater!" Lockhart's goodbye was as rushed as his exit, worsened only by his bludgeoning of his knee into the side.

Once Lockhart was gone, the other teachers turned to each other and began to plan. "With that idiot out from under our feet, we can act freely." McGonagall began to take charge, "Heads of houses, secure your students in their dorms and inform them that the Hogwarts express will take them home first thing tomorrow morning. This evening, meet back here. We'll preform a thorough search of the school. Now, excuse me, I need to send a letter off to Albus."

One by one the teachers flooded out of the staff room, off to perform their tasks or simply relax their nerves after the distressing news they'd just heard. Knowing the coast was clear, Harry opened up the wardrobe, a little shaky on his feet. "Come on Ron, we need to head back to the tower."

When Ron didn't reply, Harry turned around to see what the matter was. Harry felt his heart drop as he saw his best mates' shoulders shaking as silent tears began to roll down his cheeks. "Oh Ron…I'm sorry."

Looking up, Ron's eyes were pleading, begging Harry to help as he sat there. "How could this happen…Ginny…"

"I know mate, I know all too well." Harry sighed, "We're not giving up on her yet though. But we need to regroup, think things out."

Ron nodded and accepted the hand that Harry held out to him, exiting the wardrobe. With as much stealth as they could muster in their shell-shocked state, Harry and Ron made it back to Gryffindor Tower, being welcomed by a rather sober mood. News had spread quickly, as it always did in Hogwarts, so almost everyone was aware of what was happening. The twins were huddled in a corner with Lee Jordan, Angela and Katie, comforting their friends.

"Ron! You're okay!" Fred called out once he saw his younger brother.

"Harry, you too!" George added, relieved to find them both okay.

The two boys wandered over to the small group, taking a seat next to the twins as the others left the family be. "Where's Percy?" Harry asked.

"He's gone to tell Mum and Dad what's happened." Fred explained.

"Since none of us are in any state to write." George added.

Harry sympathised with the Weasley's, knowing how hard it must feel to be in their situation right now. He knew his sister would be okay, eventually, but he could not say the same about Ginny. On the outside he was strong, but deep inside Harry was a mess. Ginny was special to him, he knew, so to have her missing was like having a part of him missing. He tried not to think about the possibilities that may be surrounding her, instead focusing on being strong for the Weasley boys. As the chatter in the room quietened, Harry had time to think about what happened in the infirmary. The outburst had him thinking all sorts of thoughts, as he'd never experienced that sort of pain before in his life. Not even the beatings Vernon would often instil on him were close to the pain he felt. Just as Harry began to shut his eyes, dozing into a slumber, Ron's voice woke him back up.

"Do you think she's dead?"

Jerking awake, Harry fixed Ron a stare, comprehension of his words coming through eventually. "No."

Ron jerkily nodded his head. "You think she's alive?"

"I don't really know Ron, but all we can do is hope."

Chewing on his lip, Ron thought for a moment, trying to work out how to approach the question. "Are we just going to sit here then?"

Harry shrugged, too numb to really give an answer. "I don't know."

"Why don't we go to Lockhart? Tell him what we know?"

"What?" Harry raised his eyebrow, "You really think that idiot could actually do anything?"

Ron just shrugged. "It's worth a try isn't it?"

Harry couldn't help but agree. He didn't particularly want to stay holed up in Gryffindor Tower whilst Ginny could potentially be in pain. "Yeah, you're right. Better than doing nothing."

The two boys waited a little longer until most of the common room had cleared out for the night. The house elves had brought dinner up for them but hardly anyone touched it, not even Ron, they were all too anxious of the awaiting news. There was no resistance to them leaving through the portrait hole, everyone either too dour or in their own thoughts to really care about two second years sneaking out. The hallways were eerily quiet as the duo made their way towards the DADA classroom and office, not even a ghost could be seen in sight. Slipping into the empty classroom, the two boys noticed the sight of light creeping out underneath the door leading to the DADA professors' private quarters. Inside, the sounds of hurriedly shuffling feet and rampart manipulation of objects made Harry and Ron give each other a questioning look.

"What on Earth is going on in there?" Ron asked quizzed.

Harry shrugged as he rapped his knuckles on the door. There was silence from within until they both heard the steady sounds of footfalls head towards the door, the door opening just a tad. "Mr Potter! Oh, um…Mr Weasley. Um, what do I owe this pleasure?"

"Professor, we have some information that you might like to hear, about the Chamber of Secrets." Harry explained.

The news seemed to only damper the spirits of the already pale man. "Oh, I see. How fortunate. Perhaps you could inform Professor McGonagall whilst I continue to prepare."

"But you're the Dark Arts teacher, you're the one who's going to be facing whatever's down there." Ron said.

Harry had just about enough of Lockharts stalling, pushing the door open much to Lockharts protest, revealing that the office was now stripped bare of all the furnishings he'd brought with him. "Professor…"

"Going on a trip, are you?" Ron's voice was laced with anger.

"Now look here!" Lockhart tried to look intimidating, failing miserably, "You can't just barge into a teachers' private quarters! I should give the pair of you detention."

Ron looked furious now as he bunched his fists up. "You never had any intention of saving my sister, did you!"

Lockhart had the decency to look ashamed as he continued to pack his luggage. "I regret to inform you both that urgent news has pulled me away. I'm sure the other professors will be able to handle things."

"Urgent news!" Harry was beginning to share Ron's anger, "An innocent student has been kidnapped! How's that for urgency you overstuffed popinjay! I have a good mind to shove your wand so far up your arse that you'll be shooting sparks out of your nose for weeks to come!"

Both Lockhart and Ron looked at Harry with shock, although the latter couldn't help but feel pride over his friend's passion. "Harry…Harry my boy, you don't honestly expect me to risk my life, do you?"

"Of course, I do!" Harry shot back, "Bloody hell, we all did last year. We saved the Philosophers stone!"

Ron nodded his head in agreement. "Yeah! What have you done since coming here? Run away from Cornish pixies, just like how you're running away now!"

"Boys…"

"Did you even do anything you said you did in your books!" Harry demanded.

There was a sliver of a smile on Lockhart as he shook his head at Harry's question. "Oh Merlin no. You expect that I'd put this pretty face in danger? No, I merely seek out those who had actually achieved what they had and gathered the information from them before 'revising' their memories."

Ron looked disgusted. "So you altered peoples memories just so you could be famous, that's sick."

"You're giving it all too little credit Mr Weasley. Memory charms are quite difficult to pull off, but I just so happen to be a natural." Lockhart explained. The man continued to walk around the room, gathering his things as Harry and Ron watched him.

Once he was done, Lockhart once more turned to the boys with a sickening smile. "I think that's everything packed. Just one last thing to do now…"

Pulling out his wand, Lockhart pointed it at the two boys. "Sorry boys, hope you understand one day…"

"Expelliarmus!"

Lockhart found himself being thrown through the air, his wand flying straight towards Ron's outstretched hand, before landing and tumbling over his trunk. Ron quickly disposed of the Professors wand by tossing it out of an open window, into the gardens below. "You bastard! You tried to memory charm us!" Ron cried.

Harry stalked over to the cowering professor; his wand trained on him as his eyes shone like bright emeralds. "You really shouldn't have let Professor Snape teach us that one."

Raising his hands up in surrender, Lockhart looked at his captors with fear. "Wh-what do you expect me to do! I don't even know where the chamber is!"

"Lucky for you, we do. Plus, we know what's inside." Ron stated.

Tying the professors hands up in front of him, the two boys marched Lockhart out of his office and down the corridor, making their way towards the bathroom where Myrtle died. Along the way, Lockhart continued to protest, denying that he had any skill whatsoever to combat whatever may be down in the chamber.

Arriving out the all too familiar bathroom, the boys entered and looked around for the resident ghost. "What on earth are we doing in here? I thought this place was abandoned." Lockhart exclaimed.

"It is, except for the one thing we're looking for. Myrtle!" Harry called out for the ghost girl.

A ghostly wail came up from the pipes before a great gush of water erupted out of the toilet stalls. Harry and Ron, who were use to the experience, quickly backed out the way. But Lockhart, all too unfamiliar with the room, ended up being drenched in the foul-smelling liquid. "Oh Merlin…I smell like shit."

"Matches your personality then doesn't it." Ron joked, as Harry joined him in laughing.

Myrtle, who was now sitting on top of the toilet stall wall, looked down at her visitors. "Oh, it's only you. Who's this then?"

"His name is Lockhart, he's the 'Dark Arts professor'." Harry explained, "Not that he's any good at it."

Myrtle giggled as she floated around the room. "Sounds like my defence professor, he never did find who killed me."

"About that." Ron interrupted, "How did you die?"

The ghost girl looked almost excited to be asked. "Oh it was horrible, absolutely diabolical!" She wailed with dramatic intent.

"Myrtle…" Harry warned.

"Yes, yes. It happened right here, in this very cubicle!" Myrtle flew into said cubicle, "I came in here to cry because that cretin Olive Hornby was teasing me about my glasses again. So, there I was, crying, when all of a sudden, I heard someone come in. At first, I thought it was one of the girls coming in to tease me again, but then I heard them speak in some funny language."

Ron and Harry gave each other a look, not liking where this was going. "Go on Myrtle."

"Yes well, I had no idea what was being said, all I knew was that it was a boy!" The ghost looked mortified at the prospect, even though her death was a substantially bigger issue, "So I ripped open the door to tell him to bugger off out of the girls loo…and then I died."

Myrtle looked almost pleased by the end of her story, her face swelling with giddiness. "But how did you die Myrtle?" Ron pressed.

"Oh, I have absolutely no idea. All I remember was seeing a pair of great big yellow eyes, and then I just sort of seized up and floated away."

Harry and Ron gave each other another exasperated look. "Where did you see the eyes Myrtle?"

The ghost pointed over to a basin by the wall. "Over there."

Giving the ghost a funny look, Harry and Ron wandered over, not believing what Myrtle was saying. As they examined the basin, Harry got closer to the faucet, rearing back when he stumbled across what they were looking for. "A snake!"

"Where!" Lockhart panicked, jumping up onto a basin.

"No you idiot, there's a snake carved into the faucet." Harry shook his head.

Peering closer, Ron examined it with his finger before an idea popped into his head. "Parseltongue, to open it you need to speak Parseltongue! That's the odd language Myrtle heard."

Harry seemed to come to the same conclusion, although he didn't look particularly happy about it. "How are we supposed to open it then?"

"You're a Parseltongue Harry, you can open it."

"But I've only ever done it whilst there's been a snake."

Ron shrugged. "Just picture one."

Looking rather sceptical, Harry let Ron step out of the way before shutting his eyes. "Open up."

Peering out one eye, Harry was annoyed to find the wall still standing. "Nope, still English." Ron confirmed.

Feeling miffed, Harry shut his eyes again, picturing a great big slithering snake. "Open up."

There was a sound that came from directly in front of Harry. Opening his eyes once more, Harry gasped as he looked down into the hole that now stood where the wall once was. "Blimey…"

"You've got that right. Looks like a slide of some sort, must go down for miles." Ron stated.

Peering down, Harry threw a loose tile down into the depths, waiting for the sound of it hitting the bottom to reverberate up, but nothing came. Feeling worried, Harry gave Ron a look of determination. "I'm going down there."

"So am I."

"Well then, it seems as if you've got everything under control." Lockhart awkwardly shuffled towards the door, "I'll just be off then!"

"Not so fast." Ron pointed his wand at the wizard, "We're not finished with you."

The boys escorted Lockhart over to the entrance at wand point, Harry jabbing his holly wand into his back every now and then just for good measure. "You're going in first."

"But boys! I'd be useless for you!" Lockhart pleaded, "I'll just get in your waaaAHHH!"

Harry shut the man up by pushing him down into the hole, a satisfied smirk on his face. "Alright, my turn." Lowering himself down, Harry gave Ron a short nod as he let himself go into the depths.

The tunnel was slimy and cold, jarring bits of metal forming an unsmooth surface, propelling Harry into the air every so often. Behind him he could hear Ron coming along, facing the same bumpy ride. He got a shock however when he heard Ron scream out in pain a little while into the trip. He had no time to worry about his friend however as the tunnel levelled out and propelled him out. Much like when travelling by floo, Harry had no luck landing on his feet, instead sliding across the floor and gathering slime, muck and filth all over himself. The room he'd landed in was tall, like a vaulted Cathedral, with moss all over the walls. Towards the back, there was a giant circle door, adjourned with snakes. Lockhart was already down, looking rather shell shocked at the experience and just as filthy but looking unharmed at least.

The same could not be said for Ron, who appeared a few seconds behind Harry, landing even more awkwardly as his wand flew up into the air. "MY LEG!" The boy screamed.

Rushing over, Harry examined the leg Ron was currently clutching, paling and almost retching as he saw a bit of bone sticking out from Ron's ankle. "What happened?"

"A-a bump tw-twisted my a-ankle." Ron managed to get out through gritted teeth. Tears were falling freely from his eyes as he wailed in pain.

Knowing he had to do something, Harry thought back to the various charms they had learned in the year in an effort to stem Ron's pain. "Um…um…Anodynon!"

Almost immediately, Ron's pain subsided, relief flooding his face. "Oh Merlin, that's better." It still however did not fix the piece of white bone sticking out from Ron's ankle, "MERLIN!"

"Calm down Ron, it's okay. Brackium Emendo!" Unlike Lockhart's attempt on Harry all those months ago, Harry's attempt on Ron was much more successful, bone fusing back together leaving a gash. Following up with a quick bandaging charm, Harry was satisfied with his work. "How do you feel?"

"Better." Ron stated. That quickly changed however when Harry gave him a hand up, only to let him back down on the ground as Ron screamed out in pain, "Not better!"

"I'm sorry!" Harry felt bad about causing his friend pain.

Ron just shook his head. "It's okay, it's a lot better than it was."

A cough to their side brought both boys attention back to their captor. "As touching as this little scene is, I'm afraid this whole fiasco really must come to an end." Lockhart had somehow freed himself from his binds, having also picked up Ron's discarded wand.

"What do you think you're doing!" Harry exclaimed.

"Well you know my secret, don't you? I can't exactly let you know what happened. No, I'll just wipe your memories and tell everybody that unfortunately the student down in the chamber was already dead and that you two lost your minds in insanity. I'll be a hero again!"

The pair looked on in horror at the realisation, until Harry stood up, a look of defiance in his eyes. "No, I won't let you."

"What're you going to do? Sting me to death!" Lockhart chuckled, "It's over Potter, just accept it."

Unwilling to back down, Harry knew that what Lockhart was saying was true. But that didn't mean he was going to go down without a fight. "Obliviate!" Lockhart shouted.

A thin blue line shot towards Harry, causing him to shut his eyes in anticipation. But instead, he felt his wand arm move as it pulled up and cast some sort of shield in front of him. Amazed, Harry barely registered that the memory charm Lockhart had produced was screaming back towards him, knocking him backwards.

"Blimey! What the hell was that Harry!" Ron exclaimed.

"I…I dunno. I didn't do anything."

Each of them looked at each other, before looking at Lockhart, who was steadily getting to his feet. "I say, where am I?"

"Um, professor? Are you okay?" Harry called out.

It took a moment for Lockhart to realise he wasn't alone. "Oh, hello there. Can you tell me where I am?"

"You're in the chamber of secrets Professor." Harry answered.

"I see. And where is that exactly?"

"Hogwarts." Ron said.

The professor began to look around the room. "And who are you?"

"Professor, are you sure you're okay?"

Lockhart just grinned stupidly. "Yes, positive. Um, who are you two though?"

The boys shook their head, understanding now that their professor had lost his memory. "There's nothing we can do; we have to press on." Harry said.

"Harry, I don't think I can move my leg." Ron grimaced as he tried to put some pressure on it, "You have to go without me."

"Ron…I don't know if I can do it without you." Harry said.

Ron shook his head. "You have to. Please…for the sake of my sister. Please."

Grim determination sunk into Harry as he nodded his head and gave his word. "I promise, I'll get Ginny back safely."

"Thank you mate. I'll look after Lockhart, although I think he's more a danger to himself now."

Harry agreed thoroughly, watching the former professor pick at his clothes. "Rather slimy, aren't I?"

"Good idea Ron. I'll be back, I promise." Retrieving Ron's wand, Harry handed it back to his friend, careful to keep an eye on Lockhart in case he was just faking his condition.

With Ron as comfortable as possible in his condition, Harry left the entrance and headed down towards the back of the cavern, towards the circle door. On closer inspection, Harry noticed that there were two intertwined serpents with sparkling emerald eyes carved into the door. Guessing what happened next, Harry pictured the snake in his mind again and opened the door with a hiss.

The snakes slithered away, unlocking the stone circle and allowing it to roll away, revealing it's secrets. Behind the door was a long, vaulted hallway, with dark stone columns lining the way. There were sconces lit with an eery green light, the light reflecting off the mirky water that surrounded the causeway up to the centre room. Wand in hand, Harry stalked along the causeway, jumping at every shadow that he cast on the walls. Eventually he reached a turn in the hallway, revealing a massive statue, as tall as the chamber itself. Gasping, Harry took a moment to observe the statue, the towering structure forcing him to crane his next in order to see its face. It was obviously of a human, although the face had been worn down by years of damp conditions. Turning his attention back down to what lay in front of him, Harry felt his heart seize up as he made out the tiny figure in black robes that lay between the feet of the statue.

"GINNY!"

Sprinting straight on towards her, Harry paid no heed of the carving of giant snakes that lined each of the columns. No, his attention was placed squarely on Ginny, who laid motionless, face down on the damp floor, her shining, flaming red hair standing out amongst the dull green and black. As Harry reached Ginny, he collapsed onto his knees, wand tossed carelessly to the side as he flipped her over.

"Please…please Gin, don't be dead."

Turning her over, Harry saw that her eyes were closed, her delicate porcelain skin looking sickly white now. Tears began to flood Harry's eyes as he gripped the front of her robes, shaking her in an effort to wake her.

"GIN! Please! Wake up! You have to wake up!"

"She won't wake." There was a soft voice next to Harry, one that made him shiver.

"Tom Riddle." Harry said simply, standing to face the figure, "I thought you were dead."

The figure smirked. "Oh, I'm but a shade of the memory of Tom Riddle."

"What do you mean she won't wake? Is she…is she dead."

Riddle shook his head. "No, she's asleep, but she won't wake."

"What've you done to her!" Harry demanded.

Riddle chuckled, dark and sour sounding, as he circled around the two. "I haven't done anything. It was young Ginevra here that awoke me. Preserved for 50 years in a simple diary."

"Don't you dare use that name!" Harry snarled. Only he could use that name, he had no idea why but he felt possessive of it.

"Ginny then." Riddle said, "She's been feeding me her life force over the past year, slowly awakening the memory of my former self."

Harry shook with anger as he realised that Riddle was the one behind Ginny's behaviour. "You've been forcing her to unleash the monster."

"I have. And now she's going to give me her life in exchange for my own."

"NO!" Harry shouted, "I won't let you!"

The shade smirked as he spied something on the ground, away from Harry's feet. "First rule of wizard duels Potter, never leave your wand unattended."

Paling as he realised what Riddle meant, Harry made a desperate leap for his wand but failed to reach it in time as the shade picked it up and twirled it in his fingers. Riddle only held it for a moment however, as he suddenly let go of it violently, giving a shout of pain. "What magic is this!"

Harry took the opportunity to grab his wand back, leveling it against the shade. "Tell me how to wake her up!"

"Why would I do that. I've been waiting months to have a conversation with you, Harry Potter."

A sick sort of feeling spread from Harry's gut as Riddle said his name. "Why do you want to talk to me."

"I want to know how a mere baby defeated the greatest dark lord of history." Riddle snarled.

Harry smirked. "Guess Lord Voldemort wasn't as tough as he said he was, Hey Riddle?"

Anger crossed Riddle's face. "Don't you use that name! Lord Voldemort shall forever be known in history as the immortal wizard, genius of the dark arts!"

"Then I guess the Lord Voldemort shouldn't pick on eleven-year-old girls, especially when she's friends with the boy who lived." Harry rarely ever used his title, but he knew it would get on the nerves of Riddle.

Riddle's face contorted in an ugly manner as he stalked towards Harry. "I guess I'll have to rectify that mistake!"

Trying to take a swing at Harry, the shade found that his fist went straight through Harry, earning a smirk from the boy. "Guess you're not quite as corporeal as you'd like."

"No matter." Riddle said, "Soon Ginny will be dead, and I will be more alive than ever before."

"That's not going to happen !"

Riddle just let out another dark chuckle. "Do you know what she wrote in her diary? She wrote about how much she loved little Harry Potter, how she wished you'd be hers."

Harry felt a swell of love and affection for Ginny in that moment, knowing full well what he'd say when they had the time to talk. "I would've told her what I'm telling you right now."

"And what's that?"

"That I'll always be hers."

Riddle laughed bitterly. "How sweet. Young love. But that won't save you from the greatest sorcerer of all time."

It was Harry's turn to laugh this time. "You? The greatest sorcerer of all time? I'm sorry to disappoint you Tom, but that title belongs to Albus Dumbledore, the same man who saw through your charm and your lies and knew what you were all along…"

"And what is that…" Riddle snarled.

"A coward who preys on the weak. Well Tom, now it's time you face someone strong."

Riddle paused for a moment before he broke out into laughter. "You think that you're stronger than me? Tom Riddle, Lord Voldemort! You are an ant compared to my power. And Dumbledore? The mere memory of my actions has driven him from the school."

"He's not gone though, not really."

Riddle looked confused now and was about to retort when familiar singing began to float up from the back of the chamber. Harry turned and felt his heart swell with courage as the bright vision that was Fawkes appeared flying around the corner, heading straight towards Harry. In his talons was a grey sack of sorts, that Harry didn't realise was the sorting hat until Fawkes dropped it by his feet.

"Fawkes!" Harry exclaimed. The Phoenix in question chirped happily as he landed on Harry's shoulder, giving the boy an affectionate nip, "Don't tell Hedwig, she'd get jealous."

"That's a phoenix…" Riddle looked gobsmacked, "And that's the sorting hat!"

A deep laugh erupted through the chamber as Riddle threw his head back and cackled maniacally. "This is what the great Albus Dumbledore sends his champion? A raggedy old hat and a song bird? Feeling brave now Harry? Knowing this is the best your precious headmaster could come up with."

Harry didn't listen to the words Riddle was spewing, he felt braver than he ever had before. With Fawkes on his shoulder, singing his song and the sorting hat at his feet, Harry felt invincible.

"Now, tell me Harry Potter, tell me everything you know about how you defeated me. Twice now in fact!"

"I don't know." Harry said simply, "All I know is that my mother's death protected me from you."

Riddle sneered. "Your mothers' death?"

Seizing on the opportunity to enrage Riddle further, Harry pressed the topic. "That's right, my muggle-born mother protected me from the darkest wizard in history. Her sacrifice turned you into a haggard, ugly, foul beast that has to survive off unicorn blood and human hosts to survive. And you? You're just a bad memory."

"A bad memory you say?" Riddle sneered, "Not for long."

Harry knew what Riddle meant as he had noticed that slowly, the once ethereal shade was beginning to become more solid. "So lets end this then Riddle!" Harry quickly fired off a volley of spells, only to watch in horror as they passed through Riddle.

"Don't you understand Potter, neither of us can harm each other in this form. But…I certainly know what can." Heading towards the foot of the statue, Riddle looked up and reached out with his hands.

"What're you doing!" Harry shouted, but Riddle ignored him.

"Speak to me, Slytherin, greatest of the Founders!" Riddle hissed in Parseltongue up to the mighty statue.

Harry watched, too frightened to move, as Slytherins mouth opened wider and wider, revealing a slithering tangle of scales. Shutting his eyes, Harry pressed himself against the back wall of the chamber, he felt Fawkes take off and leave him just as a heavy thump landed on the floor. Feeling disheartened and scared for his life, Harry took off running along the wall, trying to flee from the giant snake he knew was there. Tripping along the rugged flagstones, Harry bit down hard on his tongue, the metallic taste of blood flooding his mouth. With no time to stop, knowing the snake was merely metres away from him, Harry tried to run only to find himself being smashed into a wall by a scaley object. There was hissing and the sounds of battle above him as the now winded Harry tried to get up once more. He had to know what was happening though, so with trepidation, Harry slowly peaked one eye open. The sight that greeted him was not one he was expecting. Fawkes was busily making dive attacks against the giant, sickly green snake. Flashes of Gold and red disappeared behind the monstrous green form before a splatter of dark blood splashed against the cold stones. Harry felt his heart leap into his mouth as the giant snakes head turned, revealing that it's once luminous yellow eye had been torn out and bloodied by Fawkes' attacks.

"Leave the bird! Attack the boy! You can still smell him!" Riddle hissed in command.

Blinded and confused, the Basilisk continued to thrash about, trying to grasp Fawkes with his sabre like teeth. Meanwhile, Fawkes continued to pipe his song of encouragement, filling the heart of Harry with courage and bravery. Unfortunately, though, it did nothing to help Harry's physical ability. As the Basilisk thrashed and waved its mighty tail around, the very end of it whacked Harry in the middle again, sending him flying into the wall. Groaning, Harry felt something soft and floppy hit his face. Looking down into his lap to see what had hit him, Harry realised that it was the sorting hat that the Basilisk had swept up with its tail.

Regaining his senses, Harry had barely a moments notice before the giant tail once more headed straight towards him. Ducking out just in time, Harry found himself shoving the hat onto his head, trying to provide himself some sort of protection.

"Finally, I've waited long for you to place me on your head." An unfamiliar, deep voice rattled in Harry's head. It was one that Harry had never heard before, and most definitely did not belong to the sorting hat. It was deep and slightly rough sounding, with a Scottish Burr that sounded very much like McGonagall's.

Confused and a little frightened, Harry answered the voice. "What? Who are you? Are you in the sorting hat?"

"I am part of the sorting hat, just as much as the sorting hat is part of me."

"That makes no sense!" Harry cried.

There was a chuckle of mirth that came from deep within the hat. "We shall discuss what does and does not make sense another time. For now, I suggest you grit your teeth."

"What?" Harry suddenly felt the hat contract, as if a hand was squeezing it, before a large object collided with his head from within, "Ouch! Bloody hell."

Ripping that hat off of his head, Harry spied the shiny object that had almost knocked him out. It was a sword, shiny and tinged with silver, reflecting his surprised face in the tall blade. The handle was embedded with blood red rubies, a roaring lion's head on each end of the guard and a Griffins head pommel.

Harry had very little time to admire the rest of the sword however, as the Basilisk had thrown Fawkes off its pursuit, backing Harry into a corner. Just as the beast lunged, Harry managed to duck himself out of the way, hitting the wall with some force. Another lunge ended with the Basilisks forked tongue lashing against Harry's robes, giving him a fright. With his wand in one hand and the sword in the other, Harry sent a barrage of cutting curses and a Bombardia, forming a gash in the side of the Basilisk. Crying out in anger and pain, the Basilisk went on the attack again, with Riddle egging it on.

"Sniff him out! Attack him, kill him and I promise you all the mudblood flesh you could ever feast yourself on!"

Seeing an opening, Harry lunged out with the sword where he made the gash, the sword slicing through the snake flesh like hot knife through butter. A spray of crimson blood covered Harry's face, blinding him as he wiped the liquid from his eyes and glasses. The brief lapse of concentration was all the Basilisk needed to form its final strike. With nowhere else to go, Harry prepared himself for what was to come. Just as the Basilisk went to strike, Harry lunged up with the sword, piercing the very roof of the Basilisks mouth and spearing its brain, killing it instantly. Harry realised at that moment that there was a white-hot pain spreading in his arm. Looking down, he grimaced when he saw a Basilisk fang protruding from his arm.

Sliding away from the beast, Harry limped his way towards the gobsmacked shade of Riddle. "Impossible. A second year defeated the greatest monster Slytherin has ever unleashed."

"Guess he didn't…expect a Gryffindor…to be so brash." Harry gave a defiant snarl before collapsing next to the unconscious Ginny, using the sword as a rest.

"And yet, you're still destined to die by my hands Potter." Riddle laughed, "You and your precious Ginevra will perish down here, whilst I regain the power of my former glory."

"I told you…not…to use…that name." Harry grunted, his vision blurring. Looking down at his wound, Harry pulled the fang out from his arm, a deep gash exposing the white of his bone, tendons loose and hanging on barely by a thread.

Riddle looked positively thrilled at Harry's state. "Say goodbye Harry Potter. You'll become just another memory of the many who stood in my way."

Harry knew he had to do something. Instinct took over, as he spied the diary sitting next to Ginny. Gripping onto the fang, Harry ripped open the book and looked up at Riddle. "What are you doing!" A panicked Riddle demanded.

"I said…you shouldn't…use that name…fuck face." With an almighty plunge, Harry stabbed the diary's pages, black ink flooding from the hole.

"NOOOO!" Riddle screamed as holes of bright light began to erupt from his form as Harry repeatedly struck the diary over and over again with the fang.

Making one last attempt to lunge at the boy, Riddle screamed in anger as Harry delivered the final blow, a stab straight through the very cover of the leather diary. Exploding into bright shards of white light, Harry had to cover his eyes, preserving what eyesight he had left. Knowing that Riddle was now gone, Harry collapsed onto the cold floor, the sword tumbling with a rattle next to him.

He thought he must've stayed there for years, before the sounds of rustling robes and a gasp beside him brought his attention back to reality.

"H-Harry…" Ginny's small voice reached out. "HARRY!"

Shaken awake by Ginny's concern, Harry could barely make out the flaming red hair of his friend. "Gin…You're…safe now."

"NONONONO!" Ginny screamed as she gripped onto Harry's robes, "You're dying! You can't die!"

"It's okay Gin, you…you're safe." Harry tried to smile but failed.

A sobbing Ginny buried her face into Harry's chest, her whole body heaving as she felt her heart shatter. "You can't…you can't die on me again…"

"Gin…" Harry could hardly hear what Ginny was saying, "I…I have to tell…you something."

"You're going to get better Harry, you have to! You can tell me then…"

"Gin…" Harry coughed, "I…I…love…" There was a final cough before Harry felt himself shut his eyes, his mind wandering away.

An almighty sob ripped through Ginny as she shook Harry continually. "HARRY! WAKE UP!"

The last thing Harry heard was the sound of Fawkes' song, and the feeling of the Phoenix's claws landing onto Harrys leg.

"Wh-what?" Ginny stuttered as she watched the magnificent Phoenix eye Harry with a sombre look. She half expected him to cry. Of course, when pearly white tears began to flow out of the bird's eyes, she could hardly believe what she was seeing.

Fawkes' tears were flowing freely into the wound on Harry's arm, steam and hissing appearing from the wound. Slowly, flesh began to mend and the wound on Harry's arm looked as if it had never existed. Still, Harry didn't wake. Annoyed, Fawkes' leant down and nipped at Harry's nose. When there was still no movement from him, the Phoenix reared up his head and let out an almighty song that made the very foundations of the chamber rattle.

There was a coughing and spluttering from Harry as he found himself being propelled back into the world of the living. The colours began to come back to him as he opened his eyes, taking in his position.

"Gin…" Harry sighed in relief, "You're okay."

With another sob, Ginny dashed forward to claim Harry in her arms, hugging him tightly, fearing he'd be ripped from her again. "You're alive…you're alive…you're alive." She kept chanting over and over.

"I'm alive Gin, it's okay."

Harry felt Ginny shaking her head next to him. "It's all my fault. You almost died because of me…Rose, Hermione, Penelope, Alec, Colin. They all were attacked because of me!"

Harry pulled Ginny out of the hug they were in and looked her straight in the eye. "Don't you dare think that Gin. It was Tom Riddle who made you do all that. No one is going to blame you and if they do…" Harry nodded off towards the pile of ashes that remained of Riddle's shade, "They'll have me to deal with."

For the first time in months, Ginny felt herself smile, broad and Happy. She lunged forward again, this time capturing Harry's lips with her own in a searingly hard kiss. Surprised, Harry felt himself slowly sink into the kiss, his eyes shutting as he arms wrapped around Ginny's middle. They must've stayed like that for a good while, because the next thing Harry remembered was the need to breath. Pulling back, Harry took in a great big gasp of air as he smiled dopily. "Now…that's a kiss."

Ginny giggled but frowned again. "Harry…"

"Gin?"

Chewing her lip, Ginny thought for a moment. "I…I'm scared."

"About what love?" Harry didn't realise what he'd just called Ginny, nor did she.

"They'll expel me, I know they will."

Harry shook his head. "No way is that going to happen. Your mum and dad will fight tooth and nail to keep you in Hogwarts, and Dumbledore will believe you."

The answer seemed to placate Ginny, if only for a moment. A soft trill off to Harry's side brought his attention to the golden and red phoenix that was currently sitting on his leg. "Fawkes. I don't know what I can do to thank you."

Fawkes gave his answer by sticking his chest out. Harry knew straight away what he wanted. "Dumbledore was right, you are a mercenary for scratches." Chuckling, Harry went to work scratching the bird, earning a happy trill.

Ginny smiled as she watched Harry interact with Fawkes. She knew from that moment on that what she had for Harry wasn't a crush, not even a fancy. She loved Harry Potter, and nothing would ever stop that.

"Harry?" Ginny spoke up.

"Yes Gin?"

"How are we suppose to get out of here?"

Harry thought for a moment, standing up and helping Ginny get to her shaky feet. "Ron's waiting for us at the end of the tunnel, lets see if he's figured out a way.

"Ron's here!" Ginny gasped.

"He hurt his ankle pretty bad on the way down, so he couldn't walk." Harry explained.

Tucking the sword, sorting hat and diary into his belt, Harry slung Ginny's arm around his shoulder. When it appeared that she couldn't walk at all, Harry tucked his arm under her legs and carried her bridal style.

"Harry, you must be exhausted. I can walk." Ginny meekly complained.

"Nonsense, you're just barely heavier than Rose and I can carry her easy enough." Harry grinned, "Besides, I like having you so close to me."

Ginny didn't complain, she liked being close to Harry as well. Tucking her head into Harry's neck, she shut her eyes and let her weary body rest. Fawkes had descended onto Harry's shoulder, coming along for the ride as well.

"Bloody hell mate, I appreciate all you've done for me but you're a bit heavy especially since I'm carrying the both of you." Harry complained.

Letting out a huff, Fawkes beat his wings a bit, not letting go of Harry's shoulder as the boy felt himself suddenly become lighter. "Woah! Warn me next time you do that hey?" Still not satisfied, Fawkes gave an annoyed trill, "Alright, I'm sorry. Thank you, Fawkes, you were brilliant. I don't know what I would've done without you."

The Phoenix puffed his chest out in pride before giving Harry a friendly nip on the ear. Making for an odd sight, the trio trundled down the chamber corridor until they got to the entrance. "Ginny!" Ron cried out.

Exhausted but alive, Ginny peeked her head out from Harry's neck, smiling weakly at her brother. "Ron…you came to save me."

"I didn't exactly do much." He blushed, "I mean, Harry saved you."

Ginny shook her head. "You tried, out of everyone…Dumbledore, teachers, even my parents, it was you two who came and saved me. Thank you."

Ron ducked his head and blushed, looking up and giving Harry a strange look. "We'll talk later." He said quietly.

Nodding his head, Harry set Ginny down gently. "How's Lockhart?"

"Is that my name?" The memory lost Professor called out. Ron had obviously tied him up again as he was sitting against the rock, a stupid grin on his face, "Odd sort of hospitality isn't it? It this your home miss?"

Ginny gave her brother and Harry a look. "What happened to him?"

"He tried to memory charm us." Ron explained, "Harry deflected it back."

Harry shrugged as Ginny look up at him. "I didn't really mean to do it."

Reaching up, Ginny pecked Harry on the cheek, causing a splutter from Ron. "Ginny!"

"What? Harry earned a lot more than that today." She argued.

Ron sighed but smiled, he was just glad his sister was safe. "So, any idea how we get out of here?"

Harry peered up at Fawkes and grinned. "I think so."

It took a little convincing, but the Phoenix finally agreed to haul everyone back up the pipe once Harry agreed to come back at least once or twice a month to give him pets. Everyone gripped onto each other, Harry onto Ginny and Ron onto Ginny. Lockhart just stood there, looking doppy as Ron gripped his sleeve. With tremendous force, the group found themselves propelled upwards, the inertia giving everyone a thrill.

"IT'S ALMOST LIKE MAGIC!" Lockhart called back from his spot.

It didn't take Fawkes long to haul everyone to the surface, dumping them all off unceremoniously on the floor of the bathroom.

"Oh, you all survived."

Harry looked up to see Myrtle staring down at them from her cubicle, a sad frown on her face. "Yes Myrtle, we survive." Harry sighed, "Try not too look so down about it."

Harry's words seemed to set Myrtle off as the ghost began to wail and disappeared down a toilet. "Don't tell Hermione, she'll skin me alive."

Ron snorted. "Deal."

With Ron's ankle being buggered and Ginny sapped of her life energy, Harry had to figure out a way to get everyone to the infirmary. Fawkes thankfully came up with a solution as he gripped Ron by his robes and hoisted him up to his feet. "Thanks Fawkes!" Ron said.

Trudging along the halls of Hogwarts, the group were surprised to not see any teachers rushing about in the panic. Just as Harry was about to turn down the way to the infirmary, Fawkes trilled and guided them towards the headmaster's office. "Are you gonna be okay Ron?" Harry was concerned that they should seek medical attention.

"I'll be fine. With Fawkes carrying me the only thing that is hurting it my pride." Ron grimaced.

Shaking his head, Harry was just glad that Ron hadn't lost his sense of humour. Twisting and turning through the hallways of Hogwarts, Harry felt a surreal sensation, like he couldn't yet believe what had happened. At some point, Ginny had managed to start walking properly again, although she had refused to let go of Harry's arm. It felt nice again, to have her so close to him, feeling like she was his Ginny again. Reaching the entrance to the headmaster office, Fawkes let out a trill, the stone guardian stepping out of the way and allowing the group into the office. Inside, there were a cluster of family members and teachers all crowded around the headmasters' desk. Harry's heart skipped a beat as he saw that Dumbledore was once more back and sitting behind the desk.

"We can't just sit here and do nothing Albus! It's been over an hour since Fawkes left!" The familiar sound of McGonagall's burr warmed Harry's heart.

"My dear Minerva, I think you'll find our heroes have already returned." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled as he looked directly at Harry, although his smile didn't quite reach his eyes.

Those that were present, including Mrs and Mr Weasley, Sirius, Remus, Juni, Alex and McGonagall, turned to face the direction the group had appeared from. "GINNY!" Mrs Weasley didn't wait a moment before her arms were around her daughters, sobbing into her hair, "You're safe…Thank Merlin."

Harry let go of Ginny in time before he got knocked over by Molly, but soon found himself being crushed in a bone crushing hug from his grandmother. "My baby boy, thank God you're okay!"

"I'm alright Grandma, just tired and a little sore."

"I bet." Alex smiled ruefully as he took his grandson in his arms. Molly was busy fussing over Ron now, looking at his wound and grimacing as Arthur held his daughter.

Sirius and Remus were the last to greet Harry, each taking a turn to wrap their arms around the boy. "Don't you ever scare us like that again pup." Sirius sniffed as he felt tears sting his eyes, "I'm sure Moony will back me up when I say you had us worried to death."

"Absolutely." Remus chuckled, "Although we won't say we're not proud. Your father would be chuffed right now."

Harry smiled weakly as his uncles brought him over to a chair. Before he sat, he extracted the various objects from his belt. The diary, the sorting hat and the sword of Gryffindor.

"Albus…is that what I think it is?" McGonagall gasped.

"The Sword of Gryffindor, indeed it is Minerva. Only a true Gryffindor, brave and courage, would've been able to summon it." Dumbledore's voice was full of pride as he beamed at Harry, "And to have Fawkes assist you, well…you must've shown true loyalty to myself down there lad."

"I think he just wanted pets." Harry chuckled. As to prove his point, Fawkes swooped off of Ron, who'd been taken by his father, and landed on Harry's shoulder. Harry automatically reached up to scratch the beautiful bird.

Sirius and Remus looked gobsmacked at how Harry and Fawkes were, as were everyone else in the room, McGonagall in particular. "I've had to promise him to come back twice a month to pet him, in exchange for lifting us out of the chamber."

"Is that so? I think that can be arranged." Dumbledore smiled, "Now, before we begin, I think Mr Weasley should head to the infirmary to see to that wound. You did an excellent job dressing it Mr Potter but I do believe Poppy should see it over. 10 points to Gryffindor for the medical aid."

Remus volunteered to take the boy, leaving Arthur and Molly to learn what had happened down in the chamber. "Could you take Lockhart with you? He's lost his memory."

"Yes, so it appears. How did that happen Potter?" McGonagall asked, a not so secret smirk on her face.

Harry informed them of all Lockhart had told them, before informing them of the attack he attempted to make on himself and Ron. "And you say your wand just…thought for itself?" Dumbledore creased his brow.

"Yeah, I had no idea what to do but my wand just…worked."

"Interesting." Dumbledore mused.

"What's interesting is how he's been able to deceive everyone for the last decade." McGonagall bristled, "Or the fact that he tried to wipe the memory of two students. If the man hadn't lost his memory, I would be dangling him off the astronomy tower."

There were murmurs of agreement across the room, although Dumbledore couldn't help but chuckle. "I think I would quite happily pay to see that Minerva."

With the basics explained, everyone was quite eager to find out what happened to Ginny and Harry in the chamber. The Weasley's had taken a seat around the table, Ginny making sure her chair was as close as possible to Harry's as her hand went out to grip his. Nobody dared say anything about the move, although McGonagall and Molly looked like they wanted to interfere.

"Now Harry, would you mind telling us what happened down in the chamber tonight?" Dumbledore asked kindly.

Starting from the top, Harry told everyone how they had discovered Hermione's research. From there, he told them how they figured out it was in Myrtles bathroom that the entrance to the chamber was, and went to recruit Lockhart. The details of the chamber were a little harder for Harry to talk about, his description of Ginny's dying form making him choke up as he squeezed her hand gently.

"Oh, my babies…" Molly whimpered as she reached out to place her hand on Ginny's cheek.

"There was a voice in the sorting hat when I put it on as well. It wasn't the sorting hat; it was something else." Harry added.

Everyone shared a rather concerned look, although their curiosity was peaked. "And you say Riddle's shade could not pick up your wand?"

"No sir, he sort of just dropped it, like it was hot."

Folding his fingers together, Dumbledore thought for a moment before holding out his hand. "May I examine your wand Harry?"

Nodding his consent, Harry fetched it from his pockets and gave it to the headmaster. Rolling it around in his fingers, Dumbledore hummed and ah'd as he observed it. "There is a powerful magical resonance in your wand Harry, something that I've not come across before. It is not an ordinary wand." Dumbledore's tone was serious, as were his eyes, "I would go and have a talk with Mr Ollivander if I were you."

Taking his wand back a little shakily, Harry nodded and pocketed his wand. "Shall I continue?"

"Please, go on."

Harry gulped as he realised, he'd have to come to the most difficult part. He explained to them the combat he faced with the Basilisk, before finally killing it but at the cost of being mortally wounded. At this point, Ginny was whimpering as she shuffled her chair closer to Harry, tears in her eyes.

"Why didn't you just leave me?" She asked Harry, her voice tiny and unsure.

Harry looked at her with disbelief. "You really think I'd leave you down there…?"

"You could've died."

"But I didn't." Harry said firmly, "And I'd do it all over again, just for you."

Molly stood up at this point and came around to wrap Harry in a bone crushing hug. "Thank you…thank you so much Harry, you lovely boy."

Returning the hug, Harry petted Molly on the back until she was satisfied she'd thoroughly squeezed the life out of him and replaced it with love. "You're very welcome Mrs Weasley. I'd do anything for your family."

"Oh Harry." There were tears in her eyes as Molly ran her hand across Harry's cheek, "You wonderful boy. We owe you a debt."

"You don't owe me a thing Mrs Weasley. The Weasley's have done enough for me already."

Arthur coughed from his seat, looking rather misty eyed himself. "Face it lad, after that you're as much a Weasley as the rest of us."

Harry ducked his head and blushed, hiding the smile on his face. "Anyway, after I killed the Basilisk, I stabbed the diary with the fang. The shade of Riddle ended up exploding into bright pieces of light and the diary leaked some sort of black ooze."

"What made you stab the diary Harry?" Dumbledore asked, his eyes watching the diary with a mixture of interest and hate.

"Intuition I suppose." Harry said, "It just felt like he right thing to do."

McGongall interrupted at this point. "And how exactly did you survive a Basilisk bite Mr Potter?"

"Fawkes used his tears to heal me." Harry explained.

The bird in question trilled in delight and pride. "Well done indeed Fawkes." Dumbledore complimented his companion, "I would like to know though how Miss Weasley was enchanted to perform these tasks."

Ginny paled as she shrunk in her seat, squeezing Harry's hand even harder. "She was bewitched by the diary. Riddle's memory was tied to it. It's in no way her fault." Harry defended Ginny fiercely.

"I see." Dumbledore mused, "So even all the way in Albania his influence has reach here. We will need to be especially careful in the future."

Ginny's parents were looking just as pale as their daughter, especially Molly who looked close to passing out. "Oh my baby…"

Finishing up his story, Harry also explained the investigation his friends had done throughout the year, earning an impressed look from McGonagall, even as she pursed her lips. "Thank you for informing us Harry. I do believe now though that Miss Weasley should head to the infirmary. I dare say she would enjoy a nice hot cup of cocoa and a good night's rest." Dumbledore smiled.

"But…Harry…will Harry come too?" Ginny looked frightened.

"Ginny…" Molly was about to chastise her daughter before Dumbledore interrupted.

"Harry will be along shortly. As much as I trust Fawkes healing abilities, I think Madam Pomfrey should still have a look over." Dumbledore reassured Ginny, "There are just a few last things we need to discuss."

That seemed to placate Ginny, who willingly went with her parents down to the infirmary. As she passed Harry, she held onto his hand just a tad longer before letting go, her eyes shiny with tears. Once it was just Harry and his family left, Dumbledore dismissed McGonagall to allow for as much privacy as possible. "Oh, and before you leave Minerva, perhaps you could advise me on the best rewards possible for Mr Potter and Mr Weasley?"

"I would say nothing less than an award for special services to the school and 200 points each." McGonagall smiled, pride in her eyes as she looked down at Harry, "And perhaps a little bit of leeway the next time there's a giant monster on the loose."

Harry ducked his head again, although inside he felt especially giddy and proud of himself for his achievement. "Thank you, professor."

"No, thank you Mr Potter. Hogwarts is all the better having yourself here." McGonagall smiled.

Now properly alone, Dumbledore turned his attention to Harry. "Lad, I can only imagine how you felt facing Riddle down in the chamber, even if he were just a memory."

Harry shrugged. "I think I was more afraid of the Basilisk. Riddle's shade was sort of just an annoyance. He pissed me off."

"Language Harry!" Juni chastised.

"Remarkable bravery for one so young Harry." Dumbledore praised, "I'm sure you're wishing to ask the all-important question though, are you not?"

"Yes sir." Harry thought for a moment before asking, "Why is Riddle so fascinated with me?"

That drew the attention of everyone in the room, although Sirius looked as if he already knew the answer. "I know you want to tell the boy Sirius, but not yet." Dumbledore eyed the man, "This summer, we shall tell him. The subject matter is too hard after tonight's events."

Sirius looked like he wanted to argue but held his tongue. "Fine, I'll hold you to that Albus."

"What I can tell you though Harry, is that Voldemort has always had a fascination with your family. Your father and mother were especially deadly towards his efforts, brave fighters the pair of them. James even came close to defeating him in a duel once, before other followers of Voldemort arrived." Dumbledore explained. There was a certain amount of pride in his voice as he explained.

"So…he wants me because of my parents?"

"Yes and no Harry. The memory of your parents still likely enrages him, but it is you and your name that he is after. Sirius and I will tell you, after your birthday."

A little miffed, Harry just sighed and nodded, not asking any more question. Just as Dumbledore was going to wrap up the meeting, the door to Dumbledores office was slammed open, revealing a pompous and smug looking Lucius Malfoy, a worried looking Dobby following after. "Dumbledore, I heard a student has been taken into the chamber. The Governors board will be asking for your resignation."

Everyone looked up at Malfoy senior, annoyance crossing their face. "Malfoy, what're you doing here." Sirius growled as he stood up to face him.

"Black." Lucious sneered, "Why am I not surprised to find you here in such…lowly company."

Alex ruffled his hackles as he realised Malfoy was referring to himself and his wife. He was about to get up and thump him when Juni placed a hand on his arm. She didn't need to say anything, the meaning was clear. Besides, the glare she was giving Malfoy was enough to kill. "Now now Lucius, I'm sure you didn't interrupt this meeting just to give outdated opinions. How can I help you?" Dumbledore fixed the man a fake smile to accompany the fake politeness.

"As I said, the Governors board has decided your time is up and is wanting a resignation from you."

"Whatever for?" Dumbledore said, "Young Harry Potter here has not only saved the student but also slayed the beast that has been attacking the school for the last year."

Malfoy's eye twitched at the revelation. "I see. Well, let us hope that Mr Potter is always there to protect the school."

"Oh, don't worry, I will be." Harry said fiercely.

Malfoy sneered as he flexed his hands. "Well, no matter, the board has still asked for your resignation."

"And I'm sure that they'll all equally confess that they were neither bribed nor threatened when voting on this order, would they Lucius?" Dumbledore said evenly.

There was another twitch from Malfoy's eye before he finally gave up and pivoted on his heels. "Fine, I guess you get to stay another year. But mark my words, you're time is short Dumbledore. Come Dobby!"

The rather bruised and beaten house elf followed his master from the room, his big eyes begging Harry as he went by. Chewing his lip in thought, Harry stood up and grabbed the diary. "I'll be right back sir!"

Rushing from the room, Harry half hopped half ran as he managed to get his shoe and slimy sock off to shove into the diary. Catching up to Malfoy, Harry called out as he raised the diary in his hand. "Mr Malfoy!"

Turning around, Lucius sneered as he spied Harry. "Potter. What do you want?"

"Here, I thought you might like this back." Harry smirked as he thrust the book into Malfoy's hand.

There was a funny looking grin on Malfoy's face as he looked at the book. "And why would you think this is mine hm? Ugh!" Turning the page, Malfoy spotted Harry's mangy sock, tossing it to the side.

"I saw you slip it into Ginny's cauldron that day in Diagon Alley."

"I would like to see you prove that, Potter." Malfoy sneered as he shoved the book back in Harry's hands.

"Master has presented Dobby with clothes…"

Both Harry and Malfoy switched their attention to the house elf. "What?!" Malfoy said.

"Master has presented Dobby with a sock! Master has freed Dobby!" Dobby was ecstatic, jumping in the air as he waved the sock around.

Malfoy meanwhile had turned a bright red, reaching for his cane. "You filthy cretin! You cost me my best house elf!" Pulling his wand from the cane, Harry was about to do the same until Dobby stepped in front.

"Mister Malfoy will not harm Harry Potter."

"Stand out the way you stupid house elf!" Malfoy raised his wand to attack, only to find himself propelled down the corridor, flying a fair distance away, as Dobby sent him away with his own magic.

"Dobby…that was brilliant!" Harry said in delight, "And you're free now!"

The elf turned to look up to Harry, his big green eyes staring up at him. "Thank you Harry Potter, how can I ever repay you?"

Harry bent down to be eye to eye with the elf, a hand going to his shoulder. "Well for one thing, perhaps try not to maim me when 'saving me'."

The elf had the decency to blush. "Dobby is very sorry for that Harry Potter."

"It's alright Dobby, I understand." Harry smiled, "Secondly, I want you to keep an eye on my sister for me. If ever there is a time that I am unable to help her, unable to get to her whether I'm injured or captured, I need you to save her."

Dobby nodded his head enthusiastically. "Rose Potter shall be under Dobby's protection until the day Dobby dies!"

Giving a rueful smile, Harry petted Dobby's shoulder. "Come on, let's go inform the others of what happened."

The odd duo made their way back to Dumbledore's office, the guardian moving away for them both again to allow them access. Everyone enquired about what had happened, with Harry telling them simply that Dobby was no longer a house elf to the Malfoys, that he was a free elf.

"That was a very noble thing you just did Harry." Dumbledore smiled, "I have an offer for Dobby, if he is willing to take it."

Dobby looked up in awe at the great Albus Dumbledore and nodded. "Dobby is willing!"

Smiling, Dumbledore just held up his hand. "Come work for us here at Hogwarts Dobby, I shall pay you at least 10 Galleons a week and allow you weekends off."

"Headmaster Dumbledore is too generous! Dobby will work for free and take no time off."

"No Dobby, I won't allow that. I must pay you. 5 Galleons then?"

Dobby thought for a moment before nodding. "Fine, Dobby will take 5 Galleons. But only one day off a month!"

"Five."

"Two."

"Four."

"Three."

Dumbledore sighed. "Fine, three days off a month."

Dobby looked triumphant as he bounced with joy. Harry just shook his head; he still didn't quite understand House Elves.

"Now that everything is settled, I think it's time you head to the infirmary Harry. You'll be interested to know that Madam Pomfrey will be distributing the Mandrake juice soon."

"Rose will be awake!" Harry jumped up in excitement, "Is she okay?"

"She will be, Madam Pomfrey says that there will be no lasting consequences, thankfully."

Too excited to sit still, Harry looked to his Grandparents and Uncle with big puppy dog eyes, begging them to go see his sister. "Best we go be there for when she wakes up then." Alex smiled.

Dumbledore smiled as well as he watched Harry's mood improve. "Go see your sister Harry. Sirius, if you could stay for a moment, there's something I would like to discuss with you."

Sirius gave Dumbledore a funny look but agreed with a nod. "Go on pup, go see Rosey, let her know I'll be down later."

Giving Sirius a quick hug, Harry left the room with his grandparents in tow, heading straight towards the infirmary. When they got there, the Weasley's were huddled around Ron and Ginny's beds which were placed opposite the petrified students. Lennox Henderson had also been called in, standing by his son, watching as Pomfrey finished up her preparations.

"Harry!"

Ron's call garnered Harry's attention, who went straight over. "How's the leg mate?"

"It's better. Madam Pomfrey said that thanks to you I get to keep my leg. If I'd left it, she'd probably have to amputate it." Ron grimaced.

Giving his own little grimace, Harry just shrugged and gave his mates leg a pat. "Just glad you're okay Ron."

Before Harry could walk away, Ron reached out and pulled Harry closer by his sleeve. Startled, Harry stiffened until he felt Ron wrap his arms around him. "Thanks for saving my sister mate. I owe you."

"Like I said to your mum and dad, you don't owe me anything Ron. You're my best friend, you'd do the same for me." Harry said.

Pulling back, the boys gave each other a grin before Ron let Harry go. Walking over to Ginny, who was busy being tucked in by Mrs Weasley, Harry sidled up and placed his hand on hers. "How're you feeling?"

"Tired." She said simply, "Thank you."

"What for?"

Ginny gave Harry a mock glare as the boy grinned. "What do you think?"

"Being devilishly handsome?"

Blushing, Ginny rolled her eyes. "Glad to see your ego is still alive and well."

"You know I would never leave you, right?"

There was a space of silence between them as they just sat there, looking into each-others eyes. "We'll talk about everything. Once you're rested." Harry said.

Not willing to argue, Ginny smiled and nodded. "Okay."

"Get some sleep Gin."

Walking away, Harry went over to stand by Colin, who had just been fed the Mandrake Juice. Madam Pomfrey was working her way across the students, from first to last attacked. Slowly, the little first year began to move his fingers, then his eyes, before suddenly he tumbled into a frenzy of movements.

"AHH! SNAKE!"

"Colin! It's okay, it's okay mate." Harry reached out and gripped his arms, "The snakes gone, it's dead."

"R-Really?" Colin looked disbelieved, "I-it was so big though!"

Harry smiled. "The bigger they are the harder they fall."

"Um, how long have I been asleep?"

Harry chewed his lip. "The entire year basically. Just after the first Quidditch match."

Colin looked just about ready to cry before Harry reached out. "Hey, it's going to be okay. Over the Holidays you can catch up on all the things you missed and be ready in time for second year. Besides, first year isn't that hard."

Looking a little relieved, Colin nodded his head but still didn't look quite happy. "I want my mum…"

"We're going home soon Colin, I'm sure you can head home sooner than usual." Harry said.

Hearing the distress in the little boys voice, Juni walked over to see what was happening. "Hello, my name is Juniper, I'm Harry's grandmother." She introduced herself.

"This is Colin Creevey Gran. He's only a first year."

Juni frowned as she looked at Colin. Pulling up a chair, she sat by him. "How about I keep an eye on you tonight okay? I'm going to be here looking after Harry and Rose anyway, and then we can see about getting you home early okay?"

Colin nodded his head, chewing his lip as he felt tears sting his eyes. "Thank you Mrs Potter."

"Evans sweetheart, Mrs Evans. You can call me Juniper though."

"Thank you Juniper."

Harry smiled down at the pair, feeling his heart swell with love. "BLOODY SHIT FUCK GIANT SNAKE!"

The cry from the other bed drew Harry's attention as Madam Pomfrey had just awoken Alec and the Ravenclaw boy. "Alec!" Lennox cried out.

Both Harry and Lennox ran over. "Thank God, you're awake." Lennox cried as he hugged his son, "I was so worried."

"Dad! There's a bloody great big snake loose! I have to tell Harry!"

"It's alright mate." Harry spoke up, "It's gone. I killed it."

The two Henderson's looked at Harry, a little gobsmacked. "Fair dinkum?"

"What?" Harry asked confused.

"Truly, did you actually kill it?" Alec repeated.

Nodding his head, Harry explained what had happened since he'd been petrified. "Blimey, poor girls. Ginny too, can't imagine what she's going through."

"It's been tough." Harry admitted.

"Still, saved the day again hey Potter." Alec grinned, "Should put you on the payroll by now."

Harry laughed whilst Lennox flicked Alec on the ear. "Stop being a brat you cheeky mutt. Go on, get some sleep and let Harry see to the others."

Alec rolled his eyes but did what he was told, shooting Harry a wink. "Seeya mate."

Penelope and Hermione were next, waking up almost at the same time as Penelope shook with a fright. Hermione though was more worried about informing her friends and was desperately looking around for Harry.

"Harry!" She cried once she saw him, "Did you get my note?"

"I did Hermione. We worked it all out, thanks to you." Harry smiled.

The bushy haired witch blushed. "I'm glad I could help."

"'Mione!"

Ron had hoppled over to Hermione's bed, a grin on his face. "Ron! What happened?"

"Oh, nothing much, just broke a few bones." Ron lied.

Not quite believing it, Hermione pursed her lips before offering out her arms. "Come on then, give me a hug you lugs!"

Not wasting another second, Harry and Ron went in to give their other best friend a tight hug, happy that they were reunited again. "MR WEASLEY!" Madam Pomfrey's voice broke the reunion, "I told you to stay off that leg for at least two days!"

"Sorry Madam Pomfrey…" Ron lamented as he hobbled back to his bed.

"And you, Mr Potter! You should've come straight to me to see to that arm."

"I will in second, let me just see my sister first…please?"

Consenting with a nod, Madam Pomfrey got the last of the Mandrake Juice and headed over to Rose's bedside. Pouring it into the girl's mouth, Pomfrey stood back and let Harry have his space as he watched the magic work. Slowly, Rose's eyes began to blink and then her fingers moved. After a few more seconds her entire body became unstuck as she shot upright. Looking around, Rose let her eyes settle on her brother, tears filling them immediately.

"I'm sorry!" She flung her arms around his neck, "I should've listened! I should've stayed with you!"

Harry felt tears pool into his own eyes as he shook his head. "It's not your fault! I should've been there to protect you!"

The siblings sat there for a good couple of minutes, both crying their eyes out as they reunited. Eventually Rose pulled back, wiping her tears away. "What have I missed?" She asked meekly.

Harry informed her of the recent events, trying to skip over his own injury until Rose extracted it out of him. When he was done, Rose was close to breaking into tears again. "You need to be more careful! I almost lost you…"

"I'm alright sis, it all worked out in the end."

"But what if it didn't!" She argued, "Then what? I would've been alone…the last Potter."

Harry wrapped his sister into his arms again and let his hand gently run down her back. "That's not going to happen Rose. I love you very much. I have to do better though next time." Harry said as he pulled back, "I should've protected you…"

"Enough Harry." Rose chastised, "You saved Ginny and you saved the whole bloody school. I was stupid for not listening to you and going off without you. I should've been more careful."

"You're okay now though, that's the main thing."

Rose nodded before she grabbed Harry's arm and yanked it. "Let me see your arm anyway."

Turning it over to where Harry had been stabbed, Rose gasped as she saw the faint scar that covered where the huge wound had been previously. "You need to let Madam Pomfrey see to that."

"I will. I just needed to know you'd be okay."

"I will be, now go on, go get yourself checked out." Rose insisted.

Giving his sister one last kiss on her brow, Harry went to submit himself to the torture that was Madam Pomfrey's medical check-ups. Laying there in bed, Rose begin to think about what Harry had told her. With a heavy heart and an even heavier sigh, she shut her eyes and tried to think happy thoughts before Madam Pomfrey came along and gave her a dreamless sleeping potion. After that, she knew no more.

Fate watched as his champion once more proved himself worthy of his title. The boy was beyond anything anyone could imagine, shaping to become the very figure that the world would need. However, Fate saw that dark forces were extending their tendrils, waiting to make a move. The war was approaching, dark storms and dark tides were lashing against the door. Nigh is the time for peace, nigh is the time for sanity. The time of madness and war had come.