Directly in front of Harry, now descending the stairs, were three men
in black cloaks. Thinking they were death eaters, he shoved his hand
into his pockets for his wand, but upon taking a closer look at their
faces, he saw something that made him gasp. They had no eyes. He
could see dark, empty sockets where there should have been eyes.
Their skin was so pale he didn't think it had any color to it.
As the three of them reached the step before the one he was on, Harry suddenly came to his senses. Staggering backward, almost tripping, he caught his balance, and prepared to take off, to find help, when a familiar voice called out to him.
"It's alright Harry, they're on our side."
"Cole?" Harry asked, spinning around and looking up. He saw the older man coming down the stairs now, a wide grin spread across his face.
"You got it kiddo," he said, passing the three men and stopping in front of Harry, "it's just me, no bad guys here."
"What.who are they?" Harry stammered, looking nervously at the men, who were standing quite still, waiting.
"They are going to help patrol and protect the school," Cole explained. "They're called Inquisitors."
Harry nodded absently at Cole, unable to take his eyes from the three dark figures. Lowering his voice, he whispered, "Where are their eyes?"
"They don't have any," Cole replied simply, smiling at Harry. "Nor do they have a tongue, or ear drums, the ability to smell or feel."
Harry's jaw dropped and Cole couldn't help but laugh.
"Then.how.?" Harry began.
"Dumbledore will explain what you need to know," Cole interrupted with a smirk. "I'm off to show them the school, there will be more arriving shortly, and it's best they start patrolling right away." He paused for a moment, before his expression became serious. "You did wonderful this morning Harry. I was quite impressed. Most Psions can never make it through the introduction process as effortlessly as you did today."
"Well I wouldn't say effortlessly." Harry trailed off, looking questioningly at Cole. "Hang on, you were there? Or did Allison."
"I was there, yes," Cole replied. "I would never let Allison go about training you alone, she's very strong, but if something were to happen.well, her powers alone might not be strong enough."
"Could it really have been that bad.?" Harry asked, feeling quite thankful nothing had gone wrong.
Cole nodded, solemnly.
"In the past, people have lost their lives the first time a Psion came in contact with their psicrystals. You are not the first to go through the process without a casualty, but due to how little you knew about your powers, and how old you were when you finally gained control of them, the ease with which you got through it was amazing. You are truly, very powerful."
Harry stared up at Cole, speechless. He hadn't realized how much of a risk there had truly been.
"Will it always be that dangerous?" he asked, quietly.
The smile came back to Cole's face as he shook his head.
"No, not at all. The crystals know you, are part of you, and as such will not be considered as much of a danger."
"Good," Harry breathed, feeling deeply relieved. He smiled up at Cole, before glancing again at the Inquisitors.
"Can I.well.will they."
"They won't hurt you Harry," Cole said, reading his mind. "You can pass, I really need to get them going anyway."
"And about the training." Harry said, still anxious to start it.
"Allison and I will be starting on it immediately. As soon as it's been prepared, you will know. We don't want to put this off."
"Good, thank you," Harry said sincerely. He said good-bye to Cole, and started again up the stairs, holding his breath as he passed the Inquisitors. He almost expected to feel cold, empty, sad.as you would for a dementor. However, nothing happened, and before he knew it, he was at the top of the stairs. Glancing down at the empty stairwell, he sighed inwardly, and pushed the door open.
Dumbledore, who was sitting behind his desk, bent over some papers, looked up as he heard the door open.
"Hello Harry," he smiled, his eyes warm and kind. "Please come in, have a seat."
"Thank you professor," Harry replied pleasantly, crossing the room to the chair nearest the desk and lowering himself into it.
"I heard you did well this morning," the headmaster began. Harry nodded, grinning.
"From what Cole told me, yes."
"Yes, indeed you did. You ran into him on your way here, I expect?"
"Um.yes." Harry began. "He and the Inquisitors. At least that's what I think he called them."
Dumbledore nodded.
"Yes, the Inquisitors."
"What are they?" Harry asked quickly. "Why don't they have any.er.anything?"
A bemused smile crossed Dumbledore's face as He looked down at Harry.
"They don't need any, anything, as you put it. Their senses died when they became Inquisitors, essentially giving up their lives for their chosen path."
"Wait.so, they're dead?" Harry asked, stunned.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"Not dead, no. They no longer lead their life as a normal person would. You see, they are priests of Faerun, and as such give up certain lifestyles that others take for granted, to worship their deity."
"But why do they have to lose their eyes?" Harry asked. "Or their hearing.why give up so much?"
"It is the way of their religion Harry, we do not question it. They feel it is what is expected of them. When one studies to be an inquisitor, it is intense and painful. Not all who set out to do it make it through each task. However, those who complete their training, are rewarded for their sacrifices, with incredible mental abilities. They can hear, smell, taste, touch and communicate, using their minds."
"How?" Harry asked.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"One cannot know this, without actually becoming an Inquisitor. They are forbidden to share their knowledge of clairvoyant abilities with anyone else."
"Oh," Harry said, still feeling slightly uneasy about their strange new allies. "How will they be helping us then?"
Dumbledore's expression became dark, his brow furrowed. He met Harry's gaze firmly before speaking.
"I know you are aware of intruders finding their way into the school, unnoticed, but in the past few days, we've found many of them. Voldemort is sending his death eaters here in greater numbers now, and the Inquisitors will be able to identify them immediately. They are going to be introduced to each student and staff member today and tomorrow. Their brains are connected in such a way that by just one of them meeting someone, all of them will recognize that person. After that, any person that enters the school that has not been introduced, will be easily detectable by the Inquisitors. The second a brain pattern they are unaware of enters the school grounds, they will alert whoever is patrolling at that time and take them to the intruders."
"They'll take someone to them?" Harry asked. "You mean they can't fight on their own?"
Dumbledore's gaze flickered for a moment, and Harry leaned forward in his seat, intrigued.
"I have asked Cole, to make it so they do not use their powers, unless absolutely necessary. If three or four death eaters manage to get in, let us handle it. Only if the life of one of the students is in immediate danger, do I want them to use their own abilities."
"Why?" Harry asked, fascinated. "What can they do?"
Dumbledore's expression became darker still. He met Harry's gaze with great seriousness before speaking, in the gravest of tones.
"Their powers, when used to attack others, are beyond inhuman. It is the reverse of what was done to them when they gave up their senses. Any victim of an Inquisitor has their senses amplified to the point that is becomes too painful to live. Everything they see becomes agonizingly bright, everything they hear is so loud their eardrums throb within their heads, but refusing to burst and provide relief from the noise. Anything they touch, no matter how smooth, tears at their skin. Their sense of smell becomes so heightened they can catch each and every individual scent for miles, and everything they taste is so potent they choke, and cannot swallow. Most victims end up taking their own life to end their torment. No human being deserves to be tortured in this way, not even a death eater."
"Voldemort," Harry said emotionlessly as Dumbledore stopped speaking. "Voldemort deserves it."
The headmaster met Harry's gaze evenly.
"Voldemort will be defeated Harry. It is just a matter of time."
"Will he?" Harry asked, suddenly feeling bitter. "I wonder."
Dumbledore simply nodded and a silence fell over the room. Harry couldn't help but wish Voldemort would come to the school, and that an Inquisitor would find him and attack. As far as he was concerned, Voldemort would be getting off easy. He deserved so much more pain, much more suffering, than that would cause him, but just the same it would do.
"Promise me something Harry," Dumbledore spoke up, pulling him from his thoughts. Harry glanced up, startled to see the look of alarm in the headmaster's eyes. Everything about him seemed calm, but his eyes were mingled with concern and very faintly, alarm.
"What?" Harry asked, uncertainly.
"We all want to see Voldemort brought down. Moreover, when it happens, it surely will not feel as if it is enough, or what he deserves, but if it stops him then it will be sufficient. All I'm asking of you, is that you not rush into a battle that you are unprepared for."
"What if I don't have a choice?" Harry asked quickly.
"Then you do whatever you can," Dumbledore said firmly, "to get yourself out of there."
Harry nodded faintly, secretly promising himself the exact opposite. The next time he was near Voldemort would be the last time, one way or another.
Dumbledore was looking at him, skeptically, and Harry averted his eyes. The headmaster had always had an uncanny ability to know what he was really thinking and this was something he wanted to keep hidden. No one was going to change his mind, not about this.
In an attempt to change the subject, Harry asked something he'd been meaning to for quite some time now, but never got around to.
"How is Professor Snape doing?"
A sad expression flickered across the headmaster's face for a fleeting second, before it vanished. But Harry didn't fail to notice it.
"What is it?" he asked, feeling dread creeping up within him. "What's wrong?"
Dumbledore took a deep breath, his expression now unreadable.
"Professor Snape was doing as well as could be expected until a few days ago. We knew his illness was not simply a cold or a virus from the start, and that someone meant for him to be out of the way, at the very least. Allison has been putting a great deal of her time and energy into helping him, looking for a cure; as of yet, we still have not found one and the situation has become worse."
"What's happened to him?" Harry asked fearfully.
"He's in a coma, Harry," Dumbledore spoke solemnly, "It happened only a few days ago."
Harry's eyes widened in shock, and his mouth went dry.
"But." he began, unsure of what to say. His mind was racing and he felt very confused. What could Snape possibly have done.or what did he know? "What day, exactly?" he managed to ask, feeling the sudden need to know.
"The same day Voldemort managed to get you out of the school," the headmaster replied.
Harry shook his head, feeling bitter, angry.
"So Snape was, yet again, hurt because of me."
"Professor Snape was hurt because Voldemort wanted him to be," Dumbledore stated firmly. "At this time we do not know what the reason is, and for that matter there may not be one. Or at least one we could understand. Voldemort is very twisted, this might be his way of taking revenge on Severus for what his betrayal."
"Maybe," Harry mused, not believing it at all. "But it seems to be too much for just a coincidence in timing."
"Harry," Dumbledore began gently, "I realize you are upset about this, we all are. You gained control of your powers that night to some extent, the same happened for Mr. Malfoy. I don't see anyway that this could relate to Severus' condition, but as I said we still haven't determined anything specific." He paused a moment before continuing, speaking softer still, "As for what happened with Miss Chang."
"I've already thought of that," Harry cut him off before the headmaster could finish. "So his mysterious illness could be related to any of the three of us, or none at all."
Dumbledore nodded.
"Well then how do we find out?" Harry pressed. "What can we do?" He didn't think he could bear another person losing their life for him, and needed desperately to know if that was indeed the reason for Snape's affliction. He doubted very much, their could be an explanation unrelated to what had happened to him that night, and the look in the headmaster's eyes, despite what he was saying, revealed the same suspicion.
"I promise to keep you informed," Dumbledore spoke again, "of any change in his condition, and anything we find."
Harry nodded, feeling very tense. He needed to get out of there, needed to do something else.
"Are you alright Harry?" Dumbledore asked, and Harry turned to see the pure concern in the headmaster's gaze.
"I'm fine, thank you," Harry replied stiffly, truly not wanting to talk about anything.
"It isn't good to hold too much in, especially as much as you have on your shoulders."
"I'm not holding anything in," Harry said curtly, standing up. "Truly, I'm not. I'm just worried about Snape."
Dumbledore looked at him, through him, knowing completely that he was lying, but nodded.
"If you need to talk."
"I promise I'll come to you if I do," he said, now taking a step away from the chair.
A wry smile touched the headmaster's lips.
"I can see I am holding you up from much more important matters," he said jokingly, before becoming serious again. "And you are welcome here anytime you need to talk. Please remember that."
"I will," Harry said, forcing a smile. He thanked the headmaster and turned quickly, crossing the office in a flash, before starting back for his tower, relieved to be alone.
As he made his way back to the tower, he began to realize how hungry he was. Checking his watch he found dinner had been over for an hour, but he turned in the direction of the great hall anyway, having skipped every meal that day, his stomach was positively howling from hunger.
Making his way through the familiar corridors, he tried to occupy his mind. He didn't want to think about Snape, or Cho, or anyone else who'd been hurt because of him.
As he passed the hallway that led to the Owlery, he heard footsteps coming towards him and looked up. Mel was heading in his direction. She caught sight of him as he stopped, and waved, smiling.
"Hello Harry," she said pleasantly as she neared him. "I haven't seen you lately, how are you?"
Harry gaped at her for a moment, before realizing, she must have no idea what had happened. For once, Malfoy must've kept his mouth shut, as he would've been the only one to spread around the news.
"I'm.I'm fine," he said immediately, recovering quickly. "Just great." He smiled, actually quite glad for company that wouldn't be pressing him to talk about what had happened.
"So where are you headed then?" Mel asked.
"To find some food," Harry replied with a grin. "I'm starved, haven't eaten all day."
"Well that was silly of you," Mel chuckled, "what were you doing that caused you to miss every meal?"
Harry shrugged, deciding it was definitely better not to mention the crystals, or anything else he'd so recently found out.
"I lost track of time, I guess," he said sheepishly, before glancing down the hall she'd just come from. "I see you were off sending another letter."
"Yes, that I was," Mel grinned, before she began walking. "And now that you've mentioned it, I'm a bit hungry myself."
Harry trotted to catch up with her, before getting in step along side her.
"Oh, and you're teasing me for not eating, I see," he joked.
"Well I didn't skip all three meals, now did I?" she asked with a smirk. "Lost track of time my foot," she said, playfully jabbing him in the ribs.
"No really," Harry laughed, moving to block her hands, "I got caught up in what I was doing."
Mel glanced up at him with a wry smile, rolling her eyes.
"You don't have to tell me what you were doing," she said, knowingly. "It's obvious you don't want to."
Harry glanced down at her, smirking. She was very perceptive, but also very correct. He didn't want to tell her, not yet at least.
"So," he began after a brief silence. "What do you say we raid the kitchen again? Our choice of anything on the menu."
"Oh I'd love to," Mel replied quickly, with a broad grin. "That was so much fun last time, the house elves are just so cute!"
"You don't have any, I take it?" Harry asked.
Mel shook her head, appearing ashamed.
"No, we can't afford one."
Harry nodded.
"Well I've never had one either, though I think the Dursley's thought I was one.I can't be certain." He smiled down on her as she laughed.
"I think your reasons for not having one are quite a bit better than mine."
"I'd trade for your reasons any day," he said, sighing. "Believe me."
"Yes I can see how them confusing you with a house elf would be a bit, awkward? Humiliating?"
"Yes, all those years without clothes.the winters were very cold," Harry joked.
"I'll bet they were," Mel replied, laughing harder.
"Oh but you get used to it, sooner or later your feet get so numb from the snow that you don't feel the pain anymore. And I was only teased by the other kids for the first few years, then it just seemed normal to everyone." he trailed off, feigning sadness. "It was so horrible."
"Oooh, how terrible for you," Mel said, playing along for a moment, laying on the pity, before swatting his arm. "Dramatic today, are we?'
"Are you implying I'm not being honest?" Harry asked, a stunned expression on his face.
"Oh never," Mel said, quickly. "I'm outright telling you you're lying." She stuck out her tongue at him, playfully, before facing forward and quickening her pace.
"The wonderful friends I've made here," Harry commented as he caught up to her again. "I just love how I can count on you guys when you're needed."
"You can count on me," Mel said quickly, now her turn to sound insulted.
"Yes, I can," Harry replied with a sigh. "To always be sure to tease me, and hit me, my poor ribs," he said, now rubbing his chest, sorely, pretending to wince.
"Nope, not falling for it," Mel said, stifling a laugh. "Oh look, the kitchen, you finished yet? If the house elves see you like that they'll be sure to physically carry you to the hospital wing."
"Oooh you're right," Harry said, straightening up with a grin and raising his hand.
"Can I do it?" Mel asked suddenly, smiling.
Harry pulled his hand back, gesturing for her to go ahead.
Mel reached up and tickled the pear, laughing as it giggled, before the portrait opened, giving them access to the kitchen.
They walked inside together, looking around at the droves of busy house elves.
"Oh!" one of them exclaimed upon seeing them. The small elf scurried over happily and bowed. "What can we do for you young master and mistress?"
Harry and Mel exchanged glances, both stifling laughter.
"We were a bit hungry." Harry began, but before he could finish his sentence, the house elf snapped to attention. Spinning around, he called to several others nearby, demanding food be brought at once. As expected, the elves were more than happy to do so, and before another moment passed, Harry and Mel had trays of food in front of them filled with enough to feed ten people.
"I don't think.well.I don't think we need.quite so much." Harry said apologetically, trying not to laugh at the house elves' identically beaming faces.
"Take whatever you want then, young master," the first one said pleasantly.
Harry and Mel thanked the elves, taking plates from the trays and filling them. As they turned to leave, a thought suddenly struck Harry and he whirled around, calling the first elf back to him.
"Yes, young master?" the elf asked, eagerly. "Do you need more? We can."
"No no," Harry said quickly, smiling politely. "I definitely have enough food. I was wondering, if you could tell me.do you know if Dobby is here? Have you seen him lately?"
The house elf's gaze flickered with disdain for a second, before he hastily replied.
"Dobby is in Hogwart's, yes, but not in the kitchen. Not today."
"Oh," Harry said, disappointed. "Do you know where he is? Or if he'll be back?"
"No, not know when. Dobby will come back to the kitchen, after finished with other jobs."
"Would you tell him Harry was looking for him?" Harry asked. "And that I'd like to speak to him?"
The elf nodded, emphatically.
"Mebly will do that for you young master, sir, Mebly will."
"Thank you Mebly," Harry replied with a grin. Turning again, he saw Mel waiting for him by the entrance to the kitchen, and together they stepped into the hall.
"So," Harry began cheerfully as they walked. "Where are we eating this time? Back to the classroom again?"
"Well," Mel replied, almost shyly. "There is one place I'd like to go."
Harry eyed her, cautiously, smirking.
"Do I dare ask?" he joked. "You don't want to eat in your common room or anything, do you? Because as much as I'd love to join you, I don't feel I'd be welcome."
"No silly, not my common room," Mel replied, rolling her eyes and laughing. "I don't want you dead, contrary to what you may believe."
Harry pretended to wipe sweat from his brow, letting out his breath.
"I was worried there for a minute."
"There's just no talking seriously to you, is there?" Mel asked, shaking her head and smiling. "Actually I was thinking of someplace in the entirely opposite direction."
"What, my common room?" Harry asked, confused.
"No, higher," Mel replied.
"Are you gonna tell me?" Harry asked, grinning. "Or will we play guessing games until the food is cold?"
Mel sighed, heavily, but unable to keep from smiling.
"Well if you really can't figure it out.I guess I've no choice," she said, making it sound as if it were a great chore to even think about telling him.
Harry rolled his eyes.
"I want to go to the observatory."
Harry laughed.
"The observatory, ey? You would pick the furthest room in the whole school, wouldn't you? We'll be eating cold steak tonight."
"You'll be eating cold steak," Mel corrected him, smugly. "My dinner wasn't hot to begin with."
"Yes, I see that, what can I say" he shrugged. "I'm not a vegetarian."
"Hey neither am I," Mel said quickly. "I was in the mood for salad."
Harry just laughed at her.
"Anything you say," he replied teasingly. "But fine. The observatory it is. My food is already cold anyway," he shrugged. "Don't think it can get much worse."
"Good," Mel said with a triumphant grin. Seeing the stunned expression that crossed Harry's face she rushed on. "Not that your food is cold.that we're going to the observatory."
"Uh-huh," Harry replied in a disbelieving tone. "I know what you really meant."
"You know, I'm beginning to think you only enjoy my company because you like to tease me," Mel said.
"Tease you?" Harry asked, innocently. "When have I ever."
"Watch it there, mate," Mel cut him off with a smirk "I would hate for your gravy covered plate to end up splattered down those lovely robes."
Harry looked at her, feigning shock, but shut his mouth, more to keep from laughing then anything. They walked side by side, joking back and forth, all the way to the observatory.
When they finally reached the observatory, they found it locked. Mel pulled out her wand first, and easily opened the door for them.
"After you," Harry said, seeing her step aside to let him through. She smiled sweetly, stepping into the quiet classroom, Harry following right behind her. He shut the door softly, before crossing the room after Mel.
"It's so beautiful in here at night," Mel commented as she placed her food down on a desk and looked up. The ceiling was almost entirely made of glass, and the sky was cloudless, the stars shown brightly down on them, twinkling.
"You've been here at night before?" Harry asked, smirking.
Mel ducked her head, sheepishly.
"Well it's not as if I do anything bad," she said quietly. "I only ever come to see the stars. We're not allowed outside this late anymore as it is, so this is as close as I can get."
"Yeah," Harry sighed. "Sorry about that."
Mel turned her gaze on him, questioningly.
"About what?" she asked.
"The early curfews. I'm pretty much solely responsible for them," he said, guiltily.
"Harry," Mel said, her tone very no-nonsense. "We were never allowed out very late to begin with. Didn't you get into trouble our first year here for that? I know Draco did, and he went on about how it was your fault for.well for a long time."
"I'll bet he did," Harry replied, grinning. He remembered his first year so clearly. Even though there had been some close calls, and incidents he'd much rather forget, he wished to be back in that time. Everything was so much simpler then.
The two of them ate in silence, Harry not even noticing how bland his food tasted from being so cold. He was merely enjoying being with someone who wasn't badgering him about everything going on, and that he considered a friend.
"Not hungry?" Mel asked, breaking the silence.
"Hmm?" Harry murmured, looking up at her.
"You're barely picking at your food," she replied, nodding towards his plate. "For someone who hasn't eaten the entire day, I'd think you'd be eating a little bit more, even if it is cold."
"I guess I'm not as hungry as I thought," Harry said with a shrug, grinning.
Mel seemed to consider his response for a moment, before opening her mouth again to speak. Harry almost cringed. If he heard someone ask him if he was alright one more time, he would scream.
"Have you heard anything about the quidditch season yet?" she asked, lightly. "Has Dumbledore maybe given you a date even, that practices can resume?"
Harry felt a wave of relief sweep through him. Whether Mel was truly interested in what she'd asked, or she'd done it because she felt he'd needed to talk about something enjoyable, he was grateful.
"No word yet, he said, lifting his hands up briefly. "I guess I'll have to ask Dumbledore next time I see him."
"But he will definitely be keeping the season going, right?" Mel asked.
Harry shrugged.
"I honestly don't know," he replied, feeling that after all that had happened there was probably a good chance of it being cancelled. "But I hope he does, I don't want my last year here to be without quidditch."
"I feel the same," Mel replied with a nod, before a sly grin spread across her lips. "And besides that, you still owe me a broom ride."
"Ah, but you're wrong," Harry said quickly, grinning wickedly. "The broom ride was promised on the Firebolt." his expression became one of mock sadness as he went on, "which, unfortunately, is in no condition to fly."
"Harry Potter how mean of you!" she cried, pretending to be hurt. "You promised a ride on your broom, which the Moontrimmer is, in fact. And now you're trying to back out of it." she trailed off, sniffling dramatically.
"Oh stop, stop," he said, trying not to laugh at her fake tears. "If we're ever allowed down to the pitch again then yes I'll let you ride it," he said, shaking his head at her.
She smiled sweetly, scrunching up her nose for a second.
"And you say I'm mean," Harry commented. "I'm not the one manipulating you into letting me ride your broom."
"Manipulating? Me?" Mel cried, looking stunned, but Harry could tell she was trying not to smile.
"Yes you." Harry began, stopping abruptly and turning his head towards the door.
"What is it?" Mel asked, suddenly serious, looking from Harry to the entrance and back.
"I thought I heard something."
Harry and Mel sat perfectly still, straining their ears for any sounds. The room suddenly seemed quite dark, and the shadows long and ominous.
"What did it.?" Mel began in a whisper but stopped as Harry held his hand up to silence her. As quietly as possible, he pushed himself up, slowly standing, and slid his wand out of his pocket. Raising it in front of him, he aimed it at the door, just as it began to swing open.
Mel was up in a flash, standing next to Harry, her wand trained on the same mark at his. He was glad to see she didn't appear afraid, but rather determined.
The door creaked on its hinges, swinging slowly open, the noise magnified greatly in the spacious, empty room. Whoever was entering had a wand, as it was the first thing Harry caught sight of, the tip of it lit up. The figure moved into the room and Harry recognized her immediately, with just the reflection of light from her wand eerily illuminating her face.
"Marzia?" he called, causing her to spin towards him, startled.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, sounding worried, still scanning the room, nervously.
"Eating dinner," Harry replied, gesturing at the plates, but not taking his eyes from Marzia.
"In the observatory?" Marzia asked. "What was wrong with the great hall? You know you of all people shouldn't."
"I'm sorry, alright?" Harry cut her off testily. "But as you can see we're alive and well. No one's come after us, I doubt anyone would think to look in the observatory for us anyway." he trailed off, eyeing her suspiciously. "Why are you here, anyway? Is this part of the area you patrol? You looked like you were expecting to find someone."
"I was," Marzia replied simply, sounding faintly insulted. "Have both of you been introduced to the Inquisitors?"
"What? What has that got to do with.?" Harry began.
"Just answer the question, Harry."
"Yes, I have. I think I was one of the first to meet them," Harry replied evenly. Marzia nodded and turned her gaze on Mel.
"What about you?"
"They're the ones with no eyes, right? A man brought them down to the Slytherin common room earlier. Wanted to make sure we were all accounted for, and to know if any of us were not there and where he could find them."
Marzia looked somewhat puzzled by their answers, but spoke firmly.
"Then you both need to get out of here now."
"Wait a second," Harry said, stepping forward. "Why do we.?"
"Harry I don't know how much you've been told about the Inquisitors," Marzia spoke quickly, moving towards him, "but they are here to weed out anyone who doesn't belong. They find intruders and notify us, and I was just told there was someone they didn't recognize up here. Now as they've just arrived, it's understandable if they point us in the direction of a student because they may not have met them yet. But according to what you've just told me, they couldn't have been sensing either of you. So someone else is here.or at least nearby. It isn't safe here at this moment."
Harry sighed, frustrated.
"If it is a death eater.or anyone else Voldemort may have sent.why would they come up here? It doesn't make sense.it's too far from any students, especially during the holidays and."
"Harry please don't argue with me right now," Marzia cut him off sharply. "I need you both to head back to your dorms. Don't worry about the plates, they'll be taken care of later. Just please do as I ask. No stopping on the way, straight to your dorms."
Harry glared at her angrily. If someone was up there with them they'd had ample time to attack, or grab them, or do whatever it was they might be there for, but no one had shown themselves. He wasn't sure he believed her reason at all for being there, but decided it was pointless to argue right now. Looking apologetically at Mel, he shrugged, grinning weakly.
"Sorry," he muttered.
"It's okay," Mel whispered, glancing warily at Marzia. "Let's just get out of here, before she gets mad."
Harry nodded and together they started for the door. He didn't look at Marzia as he passed, feeling her eyes on him, watching him.
"Do you really think someone's up there?" Mel asked after they gotten far enough away from the observatory. Walking side by side, they moved leisurely through the hallways.
"I suppose there must be," Harry commented, shrugging noncommittally. "I just hope it really is a student that the Inquisitors didn't meet yet. I can't see how it could be a death eater.what would they want in the observatory?"
"Well, if they were looking for you," Mel began, somberly, "That is where they'd have found you."
"I know, but how would they know that?" Harry asked quickly. "It just doesn't feel right. I don't think Marzia was there for that reason at all."
"You did seem a bit.suspicious of her," Mel spoke softly. "Who is she? I mean, I know she's watching the school with Mr. Black, but do you know anything else about her?"
"It's.it's a long story." Harry trailed off. "Basically, I really trusted her when I first met her, and she saved so many people at Hogsmeade that day. But other things have been happened since then.and I just get the feeling she isn't really telling us the truth about.certain things." he stammered, shrugging.
"Oh," Mel said, softly, turning her gaze towards the floor.
"I really am sorry about dinner being interrupted though," Harry said quickly. "I was having fun."
"So was I," Mel replied, grinning up at him. She met his gaze directly before continuing. "I really never expected you to be like this Harry. I wish I'd met you sooner."
Harry felt the heat rising in his cheeks as they blushed, and turned his head.
"Oh, now I've embarrassed you," Mel said, laughing, blushing slightly herself. "Sorry."
"No, no.you didn't," Harry answered quickly, with an awkward grin. "I didn't expect you to be this way either."
"Because I'm in Slytherin?" Mel pressed, but she was smiling as she said it.
"I don't know," Harry replied honestly. "I'm sure at first that was why." he trailed off, before smirking down at her. "What about you? Why did you think I'd be different?"
"Draco," she replied simply.
"I figured as much," Harry nodded rolling his eyes. He glanced up to see the hallway that led to the Gryffindor tower was just a few feet away, and realized he didn't want to go back. He was truly enjoying Mel's company, and still didn't feel like dealing with his friends' questions.
"I guess this is where we part," Mel spoke up, looking in the direction Harry was. "But I truly meant what I said before, I had a lot of fun tonight. Maybe we can do this again some time?"
Harry nodded instantly, smiling.
"Definitely. It'll be our little thing.stealing dinner from the kitchen and eating in classrooms."
"Oh good," Mel laughed, smiling brightly. "And we'll never use the same room twice!"
"Exactly," Harry nodded, grinning. "No matter how cold my food gets en route."
"Well you'll just have to eat salad every once in a while.or a sandwich." Mel trailed off, grinning.
"How filling." Harry said, disgustedly, but still smiling.
They came to a stop in front of the hallway and looked at each other for a moment.
"Well," Mel spoke up first, "Good night Harry. See you soon."
"Good night Mel," Harry replied, smiling softly. "Be careful on you way back."
"You too," she replied, pointedly. Grinning once more, she turned away and headed down the hallway. Harry stood and watched her go for a moment, before turning with a sigh, and heading up the corridor to his tower.
Reaching the portrait hole, Harry gave the password and stepped through, already feeling anxious. As expected, his friends called out to him the moment the portrait swung shut, and he let out a heavy sigh. It was too early to go to bed, and if he'd tried, he had the feeling they'd probably come up there and badger him some more.
Trudging over to the corner of the room where the others were waiting, he plopped heavily into the empty chair.
"Bad day?" Hermione asked, seeing Harry's dull expression.
"No, not really," Harry replied, keeping his gaze fixed on his hands.
"Well.how did everything go this morning?" Ron asked, looking hopefully at his friend. "With the crystals?"
"Fine," Harry replied, vaguely.
"Fine?" Hermione asked, trying to get Harry to meet her eyes. "What happened? What was it like?"
"Nothing happened," Harry replied curtly. "I introduced myself to them and it was.it was fine."
"Are you mad at us?" Ginny asked suddenly.
"No!" Harry answered sharply. "What would I have to be mad at you for?"
"You tell us," Hermione replied evenly. "You're avoiding us any chance you get and when you're with us you seem.distant. Like you don't want to be with us."
"I'm sorry you think that," Harry said quickly, looking up at her for the first time. "I just don't want to talk about things right now."
"Well what do you want to think about then?" Ron asked, exasperatedly. "We can talk about whatever you want."
"Maybe I just don't feel like talking to you," Harry cut in crisply.
Ron sat back, a hurt expression on his face. He looked down at his hands, sadly.
"Harry, what's the matter?" Hermione asked, concern evident in her voice.
Harry sighed loudly, sitting forward in the chair.
"I already told you," he began, sounding annoyed. "I don't feel like talking. Why can't you just let me."
"You hold too much in Harry," Hermione cut in. "I know it hasn't been very long since.well since everything changed, but you're already acting very strange. You're not at all like yourself."
"Since everything changed?" Harry asked, laughing emptily. "What a discreet way of putting it."
"Say it however you want," Hermione went on quietly. "But this isn't like you. I just want to help you Harry.please if."
"You can't help Hermione, don't you see that? Unless in all your brilliance you've discovered a way to bring people back from the dead there's nothing you can do!"
He sat back in the chair with a huff, realizing quickly how loudly he'd actually spoken, as the common room had gone eerily silent.
"I'm going to bed," he muttered, feeling guilty as he caught Hermione's stunned expression. Standing abruptly, he headed for the door to the dorms and started up the stairs.
Harry had barely made it to the doorway for the seventh year dorms when he heard footsteps behind him. Not bothering to turn around he pushed the door open and stepped inside, letting it swing shut behind him. But before he could make it three steps, the door flew open. Turning around, he saw Hermione glaring angrily at him as she came into the room. Ron followed her, looking warily at Harry, and Ginny waited nervously by the door.
"You're all sleeping up here?" he asked, sardonically. "Well some of you will have to take the floor if."
"Stop it Harry," Hermione spoke evenly. He met her gaze, realized how very close to tears she was, and turned away quickly. He hated to see his friends upset, and couldn't explain why he felt so angry at them.
"Just go away," he whispered. "I don't want to talk right now."
"Well I think it's time you did," Hermione retorted. "You can't go on like this anymore.it's obvious how much pain you're in from."
"I think I can decide for myself when and if I want to talk," Harry said crisply. "Now I'm really tired and I want to sleep, so if you want to stay in here, fine but."
"Harry, please." Ginny spoke up from the doorway, tears running down her face. "You're being so mean."
Harry felt a lump in his throat and a wave of guilt washed over him, but he shook it away quickly.
"Why won't you just leave me alone?" he asked quietly, forcing his voice to remain steady. "Can't you see that's all I want?"
"Because we care about you," Hermione said, stepping forward cautiously. "And it hurts us to see you like this."
"Like what?" Harry asked, trying to shrug it off.
"Harry, it's okay to let things out, you don't always have to be brave in front of us," Hermione replied.
Harry could feel his hands shaking, clenching them into fists so his friends wouldn't see. He looked at the floor as he spoke.
"I have no right to let anything out," he said quietly. "Cho died, because of me. I watched Voldemort kill her right in front of my eyes and I couldn't stop it. I couldn't save her. Just like Cedric died because of me.and Mrs. Figg.and my mum." he trailed off no longer sure he could keep his voice steady and cleared his throat. His vision began to blur but he refused to let any tears fall.
"There was nothing you could've done," Ron finally spoke. Harry glanced at him, surprised to see tears in his eyes as well. "You had no way to fight Voldemort, to stop him, or even to escape."
Harry shook his head, unwilling to accept his explanation. He looked up, crossing his arms across his chest stubbornly.
"He thought she was my defender, he killed her. She died because of me.no way to argue that. Now I'm going to bed."
He turned on the spot and stalked across the room, putting his hand on the curtains to his four-poster.
"Wait!" Hermione cried before he could pull them back. She ran over to him, putting a hand on his arm, but he wouldn't turn around. "You're not the only one who's lost someone you know?" she asked, almost bitterly, tears streaking her face. "We all loved Cho, and we all miss her very much. Don't you understand that? I feel just as guilty about all of this as you do."
"What could you possibly have to feel guilty about?" he asked thickly.
"Cho was sleeping in my dorm that night, when we all went to bed. So in order for Voldemort to have gotten her from there someone would have had to take her from the dorm. She never had a bottle like the one you had, so it couldn't have been done that way; someone had to have been there. But I never heard anything, I slept through whatever happened. I know something did because when we woke up things near her bed were knocked over and the curtains around the bed were torn, but I never heard a sound. I could have helped her, and didn't."
She paused for a moment, waiting. When she got no response, she spoke softly.
"Please Harry, it will help so much to talk about it.don't hold it in anymore."
Harry shook his head, still refusing to turn around, ignoring the pleading in her voice.
"Good night Hermione," he said coldly and he felt her hand drop from his arm. He fought the urge to turn around, feeling her eyes on the back of his head, and with sudden resolve, he pulled the curtain back from the bed.
Harry inhaled sharply feeling his breath catching in his throat as he dropped his arm from the curtains, letting it fall limply at his side, not hearing Hermione scream. He took one step back from the bed, but could make his feet go no further.
Cho was lying on his bed; looking exactly as she had the last time he'd seen her. Her eyes wide with terror, a silent scream on her lips.
Taking a shaky step back towards the bed, he felt numb, drained, dead. He still wasn't hearing the commotion his friends were making and never saw Ginny rush from the room in hysterics to get the headmaster.
Raising his hand softly, leaning down towards her, he gently ran his fingers through her hair, cherishing the silkiness he remembered so well.
"Harry," Ron spoke quietly, his voice hoarse. "Harry, c'mon."
He stepped towards his friend, putting a hand firmly on his arm, but Harry shrugged it off violently, never taking his eyes from Cho. He caressed her pale dead skin, feeling all his pain threatening to spill over.
"I'm sorry.I'm so sorry," he whispered to her, pleading, a tortured expression on his face.
Hermione moved around to Harry's side, opposite Ron, crying freely.
"Harry." she sobbed, "she's dead.she can't hear you.please just.just." she broke off unable to finish. She leant against him for support, her legs weak, crying hard.
Harry wanted to scream. He felt murderous at that moment, and if Voldemort had been in the room with them there was no doubt in Harry's mind he would be able to kill the dark wizard. He would enjoy it.
He blinked back tears, trying to force down the lump in his throat, but it was too hard. Turning away, he started to run, he needed to get away, but he couldn't. Ron had taken hold of his arms and wouldn't release him.
"Let me go Ron, I mean it," he snarled, struggling. Freeing one arm, he instinctively pulled it back and swung at Ron, who barely ducked in time. Harry overbalanced and would have fallen, if Ron hadn't taken hold of him again.
"Don't do this Harry!" Hermione cried pleadingly as Harry again began to fight against his friend's grasp. "She's dead! Cho Is Dead! You can't change it by ignoring us or keeping in your anger! It's not your fault!" she yelled. Harry stopped struggling, looking miserably at Hermione. She moved forward slowly, visibly shaking, her eyes puffy and red, her face damp.
"It's not your fault," she repeated softly, staring up at him, pleading.
Harry met her gaze, letting her words sink in, and for the first time in his life, he allowed the misery to fill him. He let his chest fill up, let his eyes fill up, and at long last.he let go. His knees buckled as he leant on Hermione and she held him up, embracing him, letting him cry. He buried his face into her shoulder and couldn't hold it in any longer, it was far too much pain pent up inside.
There was no embarrassment, no shame. He let it come, and when Hermione could no longer keep him up, they slumped to the floor. Ron knelt down beside them, putting a comforting hand on both their shoulders, and when they looked up at him, they pulled him into their hug.
It felt so wonderful and miserable all at once, and Harry didn't try to stop it. He let his feelings out, releasing the misery, the pain, the torture. He cried for everyone he'd ever known and loved, for all the lives that had been lost and when he could no longer cry, the three of them just stayed there, holding each other, in silence.
Harry didn't know how long they sat there, but after a short while, he heard footsteps racing up the stairs, and up the hall. Sirius burst into the room, looking almost frantic. He looked immediately towards Harry's bed and a pained expression crossed his face. Turning his gaze away and glancing around, he immediately spotted the three of them on the floor, still holding each other.
"Harry." Sirius began sadly, looking defeated. He went to say more, but stopped as Dumbledore entered the room, followed by Remus and Ginny. The headmaster spotted the three students immediately, who were now beginning to stand.
"I am sorry," he spoke gravely, looking directly at Harry, "that this was allowed to happen."
Harry didn't answer, but nodded, accepting the apology.
"Harry I.I'm so." Sirius began, stopping as Harry moved to him, taking him in a fierce embrace. Sirius looked briefly startled but returned the hug.
"Who could have done this?" Remus asked, now standing near the bed, looking down at Cho, a disgusted expression on his face.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"I have my suspicions. We know there have been many intruders as of late."
"Yes but." Remus began loudly, before pausing and continuing almost in a whisper. "How would they get her body up here? Without anyone noticing, at that!"
"Saaneeraa," Hermione spoke up, her voice hoarse. "She could do it, if she didn't want someone to see what she was doing.well she could make them believe they weren't seeing it. Isn't that what she does? Messes with your mind?"
"You are quite correct, Miss Granger," Dumbledore spoke somberly. "Now before we discuss this any further, I think it's best to take the four of you out of here. You will use the rooms behind my office for the evening. As will Mr. Longbottom, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Finnigan and Mr. Malfoy."
"Malfoy?" Ron cried, horrified. "Why do you.?"
"Mr. Weasley, as I know you've been told, Draco Malfoy is Harry's defender. We know there have been many attempts to get to Harry and what has happened tonight is proof of how close they can get. I am taking no chances, Mr. Malfoy will be brought to my office as well." Dumbledore stopped speaking and looked at Lupin. "Remus, would you be so kind as to inform Draco of this and escort him upstairs?"
Remus nodded quickly, but headed for the door.
"Sirius," Dumbledore continued softly. "Will you please take everyone else up? I am going to find Cole, and see if we can't get more information on this, possibly from the Inquisitors."
Sirius nodded gently, as Harry finally let go of him.
"What about." Harry began, barely managing to even glance at the bed. "I mean, are you going to."
"Harry," Dumbledore interrupted softly. "Do not worry yourself with anything besides getting some well-needed rest. I promise you everything else will be handled in the most delicate manner possible."
Harry nodded, feeling fresh tears welling up in his eyes, though nothing as fiercely as before. He didn't blink them back, and they rolled silently down his cheeks. He leant on Sirius' shoulder sadly, and even through all the misery, he felt loved, wanted. His godfather put an arm around his back, comfortingly.
"It's going to be alright Harry," he whispered. "I know how hard it is to lose people you love.but I swear to you, the pain won't last forever." He dropped his arm as he felt his godson pull away slowly. Again, Harry did not respond, but nodded his thanks.
"C'mon," Sirius spoke again. "Let's get you upstairs," he said, pausing to look around the room, "all of you." The four students, all appearing disheveled and gloomy, walked silently out of the room with Sirius, leaving the headmaster behind. They went downstairs together and waited as Sirius rounded up the other three, obviously not giving them much of an explanation by the confused looks on their faces, before stepping through the portrait hole and starting for the office.
They walked through the hallways in silence. With Seamus and Dean present, no one wanted to say much about what had happened. They knew something was wrong as everyone looked like they'd been crying, but didn't ask any questions.
When they finally reached the office, Sirius gave the password and everyone filed upstairs one at a time. He brought them through the doorway that led to the back rooms, and to where they'd be sleeping. The first few bedrooms were all doubles, but as you moved further back, they grew in size, until they found two adjacent rooms with four beds each.
Dean and Seamus took the first room, which Neville was going to share as well, but he wanted to talk with Harry and the others, to see what had happened.
"Just give us a few minutes, please Neville?" Sirius whispered as he saw him start to follow them.
Neville nodded, appearing very concerned, but went to one of the empty beds. Sirius thanked him and followed the others into the next room.
Harry crossed to the furthest bed, lowering himself onto it slowly. Ron took the one next to his and Ginny and Hermione took the two across from theirs. Sirius walked over to his godson, lowering himself onto the bed and putting a comforting arm over his shoulders.
"I'm so sorry Harry," he said quietly. "That never should have happened to you."
Harry glanced up at his godfather, his eyes still puffy and red, trying to smile, weakly.
"I doubt," he began, hoarsely, "that there's anything you could have done to stop it. If Saaneeraa is the one who did it, which makes the most sense right now, then you would never have known, since I'm sure she wouldn't have wanted you to."
"It still shouldn't have happened," Sirius replied, sounding both angry and frustrated. "If I would have just."
"If you would have just nothing, Sirius," Harry cut him off. "It's not like we have bed checks before any of us go to sleep at night, you were out patrolling the school, protecting us, risking your life. What would have been so different about tonight that you would have come up to my dorm and find.and." he trailed off, seeing Cho's face again in his mind. He shut his eyes tightly, but the image remained.
"Hey," Sirius said gently, pulling his godson to him, letting him rest his head on his shoulder. "I'm sorry. I won't talk about it anymore."
"No," Harry said thickly. "I think that was the problem. I wouldn't talk about it.and it was hurting not to."
"I know," Sirius replied, quietly. "I could see it every time I looked at you, but I didn't want to push you.now, I wish I had. I should have been a better godfather.but I wasn't. I should've been there for you more."
"No." Harry said, pulling his head back and looking into his godfather's eyes sincerely. "Sirius you were there for me. You did ask me to talk.and told me I could come to you anytime. Even if you hadn't said those things I still would've known them. I didn't want to.I didn't want you to see me like.like this." he trailed off, looking down.
"Harry," Sirius said gently, waiting for his godson to look up at him. He smiled warmly. "You are braver than I ever could have been, and you're so young. You're only seventeen, and while I can very much understand not wanting to cry.to seem weak.it's sometimes what you have to do. Things don't go away by not thinking of them. Time does not heal all wounds.it just lets them fade. Talking about your feelings, getting things out in the open.that's where the healing is. You are so lucky to have friends that care for you, that love you like you are their family."
"And you," Harry cut in with a weak grin. "I'm lucky I have you too." He paused, looking around the room at the drained faces of his friends. "I owe all of you an apology." he began.
"No Harry." Ron said quickly, "don't.we know you were just."
"Ron, please," Harry cut in quietly. "Let me finish. I shouldn't have ever taken anything out on you guys. You were only trying to help me, and I did all I could to push you away. I know I said some things that were very insulting.and I'd do anything to take those words back.but I can't. Please, please.forgive me? I'm so, so sorry. I can't."
"Harry," Hermione broke in delicately. She stood up and crossed the room, smiling softly at him, her eyes still glassy from crying. She sat down on the bed next to him, looking both sad and happy at the same time. Not saying a word, reaching over, she put his arms around him in a welcoming hug, which he returned gladly. Ginny and Ron were already at their side as well, and crawled onto the opposite side of the bed, joining the embrace. The four of them sat that way in silence, and Harry felt tears streaming down his face.
"I want you to know now," he began thickly, "because I don't think I've ever said it.I love all of you.you are the best friends.the best family.anyone could ever hope for. Thank you so much for everything you've ever done for me."
"We love you too Harry," Ron said, his voice wavering.
Sirius stood up, smiling almost nostalgically at the four best friends. They loved each other deeply, and nothing could break their friendship, which had been proven repeatedly throughout their years at Hogwart's together. This was without a doubt one of the hardest trials they'd ever had to face, but they had, nonetheless.
Sighing contentedly, he took a few steps away from them, getting ready to sit down in a chair near the bed, when they heard voices from the next room, and they didn't sound pleasant.
As the three of them reached the step before the one he was on, Harry suddenly came to his senses. Staggering backward, almost tripping, he caught his balance, and prepared to take off, to find help, when a familiar voice called out to him.
"It's alright Harry, they're on our side."
"Cole?" Harry asked, spinning around and looking up. He saw the older man coming down the stairs now, a wide grin spread across his face.
"You got it kiddo," he said, passing the three men and stopping in front of Harry, "it's just me, no bad guys here."
"What.who are they?" Harry stammered, looking nervously at the men, who were standing quite still, waiting.
"They are going to help patrol and protect the school," Cole explained. "They're called Inquisitors."
Harry nodded absently at Cole, unable to take his eyes from the three dark figures. Lowering his voice, he whispered, "Where are their eyes?"
"They don't have any," Cole replied simply, smiling at Harry. "Nor do they have a tongue, or ear drums, the ability to smell or feel."
Harry's jaw dropped and Cole couldn't help but laugh.
"Then.how.?" Harry began.
"Dumbledore will explain what you need to know," Cole interrupted with a smirk. "I'm off to show them the school, there will be more arriving shortly, and it's best they start patrolling right away." He paused for a moment, before his expression became serious. "You did wonderful this morning Harry. I was quite impressed. Most Psions can never make it through the introduction process as effortlessly as you did today."
"Well I wouldn't say effortlessly." Harry trailed off, looking questioningly at Cole. "Hang on, you were there? Or did Allison."
"I was there, yes," Cole replied. "I would never let Allison go about training you alone, she's very strong, but if something were to happen.well, her powers alone might not be strong enough."
"Could it really have been that bad.?" Harry asked, feeling quite thankful nothing had gone wrong.
Cole nodded, solemnly.
"In the past, people have lost their lives the first time a Psion came in contact with their psicrystals. You are not the first to go through the process without a casualty, but due to how little you knew about your powers, and how old you were when you finally gained control of them, the ease with which you got through it was amazing. You are truly, very powerful."
Harry stared up at Cole, speechless. He hadn't realized how much of a risk there had truly been.
"Will it always be that dangerous?" he asked, quietly.
The smile came back to Cole's face as he shook his head.
"No, not at all. The crystals know you, are part of you, and as such will not be considered as much of a danger."
"Good," Harry breathed, feeling deeply relieved. He smiled up at Cole, before glancing again at the Inquisitors.
"Can I.well.will they."
"They won't hurt you Harry," Cole said, reading his mind. "You can pass, I really need to get them going anyway."
"And about the training." Harry said, still anxious to start it.
"Allison and I will be starting on it immediately. As soon as it's been prepared, you will know. We don't want to put this off."
"Good, thank you," Harry said sincerely. He said good-bye to Cole, and started again up the stairs, holding his breath as he passed the Inquisitors. He almost expected to feel cold, empty, sad.as you would for a dementor. However, nothing happened, and before he knew it, he was at the top of the stairs. Glancing down at the empty stairwell, he sighed inwardly, and pushed the door open.
Dumbledore, who was sitting behind his desk, bent over some papers, looked up as he heard the door open.
"Hello Harry," he smiled, his eyes warm and kind. "Please come in, have a seat."
"Thank you professor," Harry replied pleasantly, crossing the room to the chair nearest the desk and lowering himself into it.
"I heard you did well this morning," the headmaster began. Harry nodded, grinning.
"From what Cole told me, yes."
"Yes, indeed you did. You ran into him on your way here, I expect?"
"Um.yes." Harry began. "He and the Inquisitors. At least that's what I think he called them."
Dumbledore nodded.
"Yes, the Inquisitors."
"What are they?" Harry asked quickly. "Why don't they have any.er.anything?"
A bemused smile crossed Dumbledore's face as He looked down at Harry.
"They don't need any, anything, as you put it. Their senses died when they became Inquisitors, essentially giving up their lives for their chosen path."
"Wait.so, they're dead?" Harry asked, stunned.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"Not dead, no. They no longer lead their life as a normal person would. You see, they are priests of Faerun, and as such give up certain lifestyles that others take for granted, to worship their deity."
"But why do they have to lose their eyes?" Harry asked. "Or their hearing.why give up so much?"
"It is the way of their religion Harry, we do not question it. They feel it is what is expected of them. When one studies to be an inquisitor, it is intense and painful. Not all who set out to do it make it through each task. However, those who complete their training, are rewarded for their sacrifices, with incredible mental abilities. They can hear, smell, taste, touch and communicate, using their minds."
"How?" Harry asked.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"One cannot know this, without actually becoming an Inquisitor. They are forbidden to share their knowledge of clairvoyant abilities with anyone else."
"Oh," Harry said, still feeling slightly uneasy about their strange new allies. "How will they be helping us then?"
Dumbledore's expression became dark, his brow furrowed. He met Harry's gaze firmly before speaking.
"I know you are aware of intruders finding their way into the school, unnoticed, but in the past few days, we've found many of them. Voldemort is sending his death eaters here in greater numbers now, and the Inquisitors will be able to identify them immediately. They are going to be introduced to each student and staff member today and tomorrow. Their brains are connected in such a way that by just one of them meeting someone, all of them will recognize that person. After that, any person that enters the school that has not been introduced, will be easily detectable by the Inquisitors. The second a brain pattern they are unaware of enters the school grounds, they will alert whoever is patrolling at that time and take them to the intruders."
"They'll take someone to them?" Harry asked. "You mean they can't fight on their own?"
Dumbledore's gaze flickered for a moment, and Harry leaned forward in his seat, intrigued.
"I have asked Cole, to make it so they do not use their powers, unless absolutely necessary. If three or four death eaters manage to get in, let us handle it. Only if the life of one of the students is in immediate danger, do I want them to use their own abilities."
"Why?" Harry asked, fascinated. "What can they do?"
Dumbledore's expression became darker still. He met Harry's gaze with great seriousness before speaking, in the gravest of tones.
"Their powers, when used to attack others, are beyond inhuman. It is the reverse of what was done to them when they gave up their senses. Any victim of an Inquisitor has their senses amplified to the point that is becomes too painful to live. Everything they see becomes agonizingly bright, everything they hear is so loud their eardrums throb within their heads, but refusing to burst and provide relief from the noise. Anything they touch, no matter how smooth, tears at their skin. Their sense of smell becomes so heightened they can catch each and every individual scent for miles, and everything they taste is so potent they choke, and cannot swallow. Most victims end up taking their own life to end their torment. No human being deserves to be tortured in this way, not even a death eater."
"Voldemort," Harry said emotionlessly as Dumbledore stopped speaking. "Voldemort deserves it."
The headmaster met Harry's gaze evenly.
"Voldemort will be defeated Harry. It is just a matter of time."
"Will he?" Harry asked, suddenly feeling bitter. "I wonder."
Dumbledore simply nodded and a silence fell over the room. Harry couldn't help but wish Voldemort would come to the school, and that an Inquisitor would find him and attack. As far as he was concerned, Voldemort would be getting off easy. He deserved so much more pain, much more suffering, than that would cause him, but just the same it would do.
"Promise me something Harry," Dumbledore spoke up, pulling him from his thoughts. Harry glanced up, startled to see the look of alarm in the headmaster's eyes. Everything about him seemed calm, but his eyes were mingled with concern and very faintly, alarm.
"What?" Harry asked, uncertainly.
"We all want to see Voldemort brought down. Moreover, when it happens, it surely will not feel as if it is enough, or what he deserves, but if it stops him then it will be sufficient. All I'm asking of you, is that you not rush into a battle that you are unprepared for."
"What if I don't have a choice?" Harry asked quickly.
"Then you do whatever you can," Dumbledore said firmly, "to get yourself out of there."
Harry nodded faintly, secretly promising himself the exact opposite. The next time he was near Voldemort would be the last time, one way or another.
Dumbledore was looking at him, skeptically, and Harry averted his eyes. The headmaster had always had an uncanny ability to know what he was really thinking and this was something he wanted to keep hidden. No one was going to change his mind, not about this.
In an attempt to change the subject, Harry asked something he'd been meaning to for quite some time now, but never got around to.
"How is Professor Snape doing?"
A sad expression flickered across the headmaster's face for a fleeting second, before it vanished. But Harry didn't fail to notice it.
"What is it?" he asked, feeling dread creeping up within him. "What's wrong?"
Dumbledore took a deep breath, his expression now unreadable.
"Professor Snape was doing as well as could be expected until a few days ago. We knew his illness was not simply a cold or a virus from the start, and that someone meant for him to be out of the way, at the very least. Allison has been putting a great deal of her time and energy into helping him, looking for a cure; as of yet, we still have not found one and the situation has become worse."
"What's happened to him?" Harry asked fearfully.
"He's in a coma, Harry," Dumbledore spoke solemnly, "It happened only a few days ago."
Harry's eyes widened in shock, and his mouth went dry.
"But." he began, unsure of what to say. His mind was racing and he felt very confused. What could Snape possibly have done.or what did he know? "What day, exactly?" he managed to ask, feeling the sudden need to know.
"The same day Voldemort managed to get you out of the school," the headmaster replied.
Harry shook his head, feeling bitter, angry.
"So Snape was, yet again, hurt because of me."
"Professor Snape was hurt because Voldemort wanted him to be," Dumbledore stated firmly. "At this time we do not know what the reason is, and for that matter there may not be one. Or at least one we could understand. Voldemort is very twisted, this might be his way of taking revenge on Severus for what his betrayal."
"Maybe," Harry mused, not believing it at all. "But it seems to be too much for just a coincidence in timing."
"Harry," Dumbledore began gently, "I realize you are upset about this, we all are. You gained control of your powers that night to some extent, the same happened for Mr. Malfoy. I don't see anyway that this could relate to Severus' condition, but as I said we still haven't determined anything specific." He paused a moment before continuing, speaking softer still, "As for what happened with Miss Chang."
"I've already thought of that," Harry cut him off before the headmaster could finish. "So his mysterious illness could be related to any of the three of us, or none at all."
Dumbledore nodded.
"Well then how do we find out?" Harry pressed. "What can we do?" He didn't think he could bear another person losing their life for him, and needed desperately to know if that was indeed the reason for Snape's affliction. He doubted very much, their could be an explanation unrelated to what had happened to him that night, and the look in the headmaster's eyes, despite what he was saying, revealed the same suspicion.
"I promise to keep you informed," Dumbledore spoke again, "of any change in his condition, and anything we find."
Harry nodded, feeling very tense. He needed to get out of there, needed to do something else.
"Are you alright Harry?" Dumbledore asked, and Harry turned to see the pure concern in the headmaster's gaze.
"I'm fine, thank you," Harry replied stiffly, truly not wanting to talk about anything.
"It isn't good to hold too much in, especially as much as you have on your shoulders."
"I'm not holding anything in," Harry said curtly, standing up. "Truly, I'm not. I'm just worried about Snape."
Dumbledore looked at him, through him, knowing completely that he was lying, but nodded.
"If you need to talk."
"I promise I'll come to you if I do," he said, now taking a step away from the chair.
A wry smile touched the headmaster's lips.
"I can see I am holding you up from much more important matters," he said jokingly, before becoming serious again. "And you are welcome here anytime you need to talk. Please remember that."
"I will," Harry said, forcing a smile. He thanked the headmaster and turned quickly, crossing the office in a flash, before starting back for his tower, relieved to be alone.
As he made his way back to the tower, he began to realize how hungry he was. Checking his watch he found dinner had been over for an hour, but he turned in the direction of the great hall anyway, having skipped every meal that day, his stomach was positively howling from hunger.
Making his way through the familiar corridors, he tried to occupy his mind. He didn't want to think about Snape, or Cho, or anyone else who'd been hurt because of him.
As he passed the hallway that led to the Owlery, he heard footsteps coming towards him and looked up. Mel was heading in his direction. She caught sight of him as he stopped, and waved, smiling.
"Hello Harry," she said pleasantly as she neared him. "I haven't seen you lately, how are you?"
Harry gaped at her for a moment, before realizing, she must have no idea what had happened. For once, Malfoy must've kept his mouth shut, as he would've been the only one to spread around the news.
"I'm.I'm fine," he said immediately, recovering quickly. "Just great." He smiled, actually quite glad for company that wouldn't be pressing him to talk about what had happened.
"So where are you headed then?" Mel asked.
"To find some food," Harry replied with a grin. "I'm starved, haven't eaten all day."
"Well that was silly of you," Mel chuckled, "what were you doing that caused you to miss every meal?"
Harry shrugged, deciding it was definitely better not to mention the crystals, or anything else he'd so recently found out.
"I lost track of time, I guess," he said sheepishly, before glancing down the hall she'd just come from. "I see you were off sending another letter."
"Yes, that I was," Mel grinned, before she began walking. "And now that you've mentioned it, I'm a bit hungry myself."
Harry trotted to catch up with her, before getting in step along side her.
"Oh, and you're teasing me for not eating, I see," he joked.
"Well I didn't skip all three meals, now did I?" she asked with a smirk. "Lost track of time my foot," she said, playfully jabbing him in the ribs.
"No really," Harry laughed, moving to block her hands, "I got caught up in what I was doing."
Mel glanced up at him with a wry smile, rolling her eyes.
"You don't have to tell me what you were doing," she said, knowingly. "It's obvious you don't want to."
Harry glanced down at her, smirking. She was very perceptive, but also very correct. He didn't want to tell her, not yet at least.
"So," he began after a brief silence. "What do you say we raid the kitchen again? Our choice of anything on the menu."
"Oh I'd love to," Mel replied quickly, with a broad grin. "That was so much fun last time, the house elves are just so cute!"
"You don't have any, I take it?" Harry asked.
Mel shook her head, appearing ashamed.
"No, we can't afford one."
Harry nodded.
"Well I've never had one either, though I think the Dursley's thought I was one.I can't be certain." He smiled down on her as she laughed.
"I think your reasons for not having one are quite a bit better than mine."
"I'd trade for your reasons any day," he said, sighing. "Believe me."
"Yes I can see how them confusing you with a house elf would be a bit, awkward? Humiliating?"
"Yes, all those years without clothes.the winters were very cold," Harry joked.
"I'll bet they were," Mel replied, laughing harder.
"Oh but you get used to it, sooner or later your feet get so numb from the snow that you don't feel the pain anymore. And I was only teased by the other kids for the first few years, then it just seemed normal to everyone." he trailed off, feigning sadness. "It was so horrible."
"Oooh, how terrible for you," Mel said, playing along for a moment, laying on the pity, before swatting his arm. "Dramatic today, are we?'
"Are you implying I'm not being honest?" Harry asked, a stunned expression on his face.
"Oh never," Mel said, quickly. "I'm outright telling you you're lying." She stuck out her tongue at him, playfully, before facing forward and quickening her pace.
"The wonderful friends I've made here," Harry commented as he caught up to her again. "I just love how I can count on you guys when you're needed."
"You can count on me," Mel said quickly, now her turn to sound insulted.
"Yes, I can," Harry replied with a sigh. "To always be sure to tease me, and hit me, my poor ribs," he said, now rubbing his chest, sorely, pretending to wince.
"Nope, not falling for it," Mel said, stifling a laugh. "Oh look, the kitchen, you finished yet? If the house elves see you like that they'll be sure to physically carry you to the hospital wing."
"Oooh you're right," Harry said, straightening up with a grin and raising his hand.
"Can I do it?" Mel asked suddenly, smiling.
Harry pulled his hand back, gesturing for her to go ahead.
Mel reached up and tickled the pear, laughing as it giggled, before the portrait opened, giving them access to the kitchen.
They walked inside together, looking around at the droves of busy house elves.
"Oh!" one of them exclaimed upon seeing them. The small elf scurried over happily and bowed. "What can we do for you young master and mistress?"
Harry and Mel exchanged glances, both stifling laughter.
"We were a bit hungry." Harry began, but before he could finish his sentence, the house elf snapped to attention. Spinning around, he called to several others nearby, demanding food be brought at once. As expected, the elves were more than happy to do so, and before another moment passed, Harry and Mel had trays of food in front of them filled with enough to feed ten people.
"I don't think.well.I don't think we need.quite so much." Harry said apologetically, trying not to laugh at the house elves' identically beaming faces.
"Take whatever you want then, young master," the first one said pleasantly.
Harry and Mel thanked the elves, taking plates from the trays and filling them. As they turned to leave, a thought suddenly struck Harry and he whirled around, calling the first elf back to him.
"Yes, young master?" the elf asked, eagerly. "Do you need more? We can."
"No no," Harry said quickly, smiling politely. "I definitely have enough food. I was wondering, if you could tell me.do you know if Dobby is here? Have you seen him lately?"
The house elf's gaze flickered with disdain for a second, before he hastily replied.
"Dobby is in Hogwart's, yes, but not in the kitchen. Not today."
"Oh," Harry said, disappointed. "Do you know where he is? Or if he'll be back?"
"No, not know when. Dobby will come back to the kitchen, after finished with other jobs."
"Would you tell him Harry was looking for him?" Harry asked. "And that I'd like to speak to him?"
The elf nodded, emphatically.
"Mebly will do that for you young master, sir, Mebly will."
"Thank you Mebly," Harry replied with a grin. Turning again, he saw Mel waiting for him by the entrance to the kitchen, and together they stepped into the hall.
"So," Harry began cheerfully as they walked. "Where are we eating this time? Back to the classroom again?"
"Well," Mel replied, almost shyly. "There is one place I'd like to go."
Harry eyed her, cautiously, smirking.
"Do I dare ask?" he joked. "You don't want to eat in your common room or anything, do you? Because as much as I'd love to join you, I don't feel I'd be welcome."
"No silly, not my common room," Mel replied, rolling her eyes and laughing. "I don't want you dead, contrary to what you may believe."
Harry pretended to wipe sweat from his brow, letting out his breath.
"I was worried there for a minute."
"There's just no talking seriously to you, is there?" Mel asked, shaking her head and smiling. "Actually I was thinking of someplace in the entirely opposite direction."
"What, my common room?" Harry asked, confused.
"No, higher," Mel replied.
"Are you gonna tell me?" Harry asked, grinning. "Or will we play guessing games until the food is cold?"
Mel sighed, heavily, but unable to keep from smiling.
"Well if you really can't figure it out.I guess I've no choice," she said, making it sound as if it were a great chore to even think about telling him.
Harry rolled his eyes.
"I want to go to the observatory."
Harry laughed.
"The observatory, ey? You would pick the furthest room in the whole school, wouldn't you? We'll be eating cold steak tonight."
"You'll be eating cold steak," Mel corrected him, smugly. "My dinner wasn't hot to begin with."
"Yes, I see that, what can I say" he shrugged. "I'm not a vegetarian."
"Hey neither am I," Mel said quickly. "I was in the mood for salad."
Harry just laughed at her.
"Anything you say," he replied teasingly. "But fine. The observatory it is. My food is already cold anyway," he shrugged. "Don't think it can get much worse."
"Good," Mel said with a triumphant grin. Seeing the stunned expression that crossed Harry's face she rushed on. "Not that your food is cold.that we're going to the observatory."
"Uh-huh," Harry replied in a disbelieving tone. "I know what you really meant."
"You know, I'm beginning to think you only enjoy my company because you like to tease me," Mel said.
"Tease you?" Harry asked, innocently. "When have I ever."
"Watch it there, mate," Mel cut him off with a smirk "I would hate for your gravy covered plate to end up splattered down those lovely robes."
Harry looked at her, feigning shock, but shut his mouth, more to keep from laughing then anything. They walked side by side, joking back and forth, all the way to the observatory.
When they finally reached the observatory, they found it locked. Mel pulled out her wand first, and easily opened the door for them.
"After you," Harry said, seeing her step aside to let him through. She smiled sweetly, stepping into the quiet classroom, Harry following right behind her. He shut the door softly, before crossing the room after Mel.
"It's so beautiful in here at night," Mel commented as she placed her food down on a desk and looked up. The ceiling was almost entirely made of glass, and the sky was cloudless, the stars shown brightly down on them, twinkling.
"You've been here at night before?" Harry asked, smirking.
Mel ducked her head, sheepishly.
"Well it's not as if I do anything bad," she said quietly. "I only ever come to see the stars. We're not allowed outside this late anymore as it is, so this is as close as I can get."
"Yeah," Harry sighed. "Sorry about that."
Mel turned her gaze on him, questioningly.
"About what?" she asked.
"The early curfews. I'm pretty much solely responsible for them," he said, guiltily.
"Harry," Mel said, her tone very no-nonsense. "We were never allowed out very late to begin with. Didn't you get into trouble our first year here for that? I know Draco did, and he went on about how it was your fault for.well for a long time."
"I'll bet he did," Harry replied, grinning. He remembered his first year so clearly. Even though there had been some close calls, and incidents he'd much rather forget, he wished to be back in that time. Everything was so much simpler then.
The two of them ate in silence, Harry not even noticing how bland his food tasted from being so cold. He was merely enjoying being with someone who wasn't badgering him about everything going on, and that he considered a friend.
"Not hungry?" Mel asked, breaking the silence.
"Hmm?" Harry murmured, looking up at her.
"You're barely picking at your food," she replied, nodding towards his plate. "For someone who hasn't eaten the entire day, I'd think you'd be eating a little bit more, even if it is cold."
"I guess I'm not as hungry as I thought," Harry said with a shrug, grinning.
Mel seemed to consider his response for a moment, before opening her mouth again to speak. Harry almost cringed. If he heard someone ask him if he was alright one more time, he would scream.
"Have you heard anything about the quidditch season yet?" she asked, lightly. "Has Dumbledore maybe given you a date even, that practices can resume?"
Harry felt a wave of relief sweep through him. Whether Mel was truly interested in what she'd asked, or she'd done it because she felt he'd needed to talk about something enjoyable, he was grateful.
"No word yet, he said, lifting his hands up briefly. "I guess I'll have to ask Dumbledore next time I see him."
"But he will definitely be keeping the season going, right?" Mel asked.
Harry shrugged.
"I honestly don't know," he replied, feeling that after all that had happened there was probably a good chance of it being cancelled. "But I hope he does, I don't want my last year here to be without quidditch."
"I feel the same," Mel replied with a nod, before a sly grin spread across her lips. "And besides that, you still owe me a broom ride."
"Ah, but you're wrong," Harry said quickly, grinning wickedly. "The broom ride was promised on the Firebolt." his expression became one of mock sadness as he went on, "which, unfortunately, is in no condition to fly."
"Harry Potter how mean of you!" she cried, pretending to be hurt. "You promised a ride on your broom, which the Moontrimmer is, in fact. And now you're trying to back out of it." she trailed off, sniffling dramatically.
"Oh stop, stop," he said, trying not to laugh at her fake tears. "If we're ever allowed down to the pitch again then yes I'll let you ride it," he said, shaking his head at her.
She smiled sweetly, scrunching up her nose for a second.
"And you say I'm mean," Harry commented. "I'm not the one manipulating you into letting me ride your broom."
"Manipulating? Me?" Mel cried, looking stunned, but Harry could tell she was trying not to smile.
"Yes you." Harry began, stopping abruptly and turning his head towards the door.
"What is it?" Mel asked, suddenly serious, looking from Harry to the entrance and back.
"I thought I heard something."
Harry and Mel sat perfectly still, straining their ears for any sounds. The room suddenly seemed quite dark, and the shadows long and ominous.
"What did it.?" Mel began in a whisper but stopped as Harry held his hand up to silence her. As quietly as possible, he pushed himself up, slowly standing, and slid his wand out of his pocket. Raising it in front of him, he aimed it at the door, just as it began to swing open.
Mel was up in a flash, standing next to Harry, her wand trained on the same mark at his. He was glad to see she didn't appear afraid, but rather determined.
The door creaked on its hinges, swinging slowly open, the noise magnified greatly in the spacious, empty room. Whoever was entering had a wand, as it was the first thing Harry caught sight of, the tip of it lit up. The figure moved into the room and Harry recognized her immediately, with just the reflection of light from her wand eerily illuminating her face.
"Marzia?" he called, causing her to spin towards him, startled.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, sounding worried, still scanning the room, nervously.
"Eating dinner," Harry replied, gesturing at the plates, but not taking his eyes from Marzia.
"In the observatory?" Marzia asked. "What was wrong with the great hall? You know you of all people shouldn't."
"I'm sorry, alright?" Harry cut her off testily. "But as you can see we're alive and well. No one's come after us, I doubt anyone would think to look in the observatory for us anyway." he trailed off, eyeing her suspiciously. "Why are you here, anyway? Is this part of the area you patrol? You looked like you were expecting to find someone."
"I was," Marzia replied simply, sounding faintly insulted. "Have both of you been introduced to the Inquisitors?"
"What? What has that got to do with.?" Harry began.
"Just answer the question, Harry."
"Yes, I have. I think I was one of the first to meet them," Harry replied evenly. Marzia nodded and turned her gaze on Mel.
"What about you?"
"They're the ones with no eyes, right? A man brought them down to the Slytherin common room earlier. Wanted to make sure we were all accounted for, and to know if any of us were not there and where he could find them."
Marzia looked somewhat puzzled by their answers, but spoke firmly.
"Then you both need to get out of here now."
"Wait a second," Harry said, stepping forward. "Why do we.?"
"Harry I don't know how much you've been told about the Inquisitors," Marzia spoke quickly, moving towards him, "but they are here to weed out anyone who doesn't belong. They find intruders and notify us, and I was just told there was someone they didn't recognize up here. Now as they've just arrived, it's understandable if they point us in the direction of a student because they may not have met them yet. But according to what you've just told me, they couldn't have been sensing either of you. So someone else is here.or at least nearby. It isn't safe here at this moment."
Harry sighed, frustrated.
"If it is a death eater.or anyone else Voldemort may have sent.why would they come up here? It doesn't make sense.it's too far from any students, especially during the holidays and."
"Harry please don't argue with me right now," Marzia cut him off sharply. "I need you both to head back to your dorms. Don't worry about the plates, they'll be taken care of later. Just please do as I ask. No stopping on the way, straight to your dorms."
Harry glared at her angrily. If someone was up there with them they'd had ample time to attack, or grab them, or do whatever it was they might be there for, but no one had shown themselves. He wasn't sure he believed her reason at all for being there, but decided it was pointless to argue right now. Looking apologetically at Mel, he shrugged, grinning weakly.
"Sorry," he muttered.
"It's okay," Mel whispered, glancing warily at Marzia. "Let's just get out of here, before she gets mad."
Harry nodded and together they started for the door. He didn't look at Marzia as he passed, feeling her eyes on him, watching him.
"Do you really think someone's up there?" Mel asked after they gotten far enough away from the observatory. Walking side by side, they moved leisurely through the hallways.
"I suppose there must be," Harry commented, shrugging noncommittally. "I just hope it really is a student that the Inquisitors didn't meet yet. I can't see how it could be a death eater.what would they want in the observatory?"
"Well, if they were looking for you," Mel began, somberly, "That is where they'd have found you."
"I know, but how would they know that?" Harry asked quickly. "It just doesn't feel right. I don't think Marzia was there for that reason at all."
"You did seem a bit.suspicious of her," Mel spoke softly. "Who is she? I mean, I know she's watching the school with Mr. Black, but do you know anything else about her?"
"It's.it's a long story." Harry trailed off. "Basically, I really trusted her when I first met her, and she saved so many people at Hogsmeade that day. But other things have been happened since then.and I just get the feeling she isn't really telling us the truth about.certain things." he stammered, shrugging.
"Oh," Mel said, softly, turning her gaze towards the floor.
"I really am sorry about dinner being interrupted though," Harry said quickly. "I was having fun."
"So was I," Mel replied, grinning up at him. She met his gaze directly before continuing. "I really never expected you to be like this Harry. I wish I'd met you sooner."
Harry felt the heat rising in his cheeks as they blushed, and turned his head.
"Oh, now I've embarrassed you," Mel said, laughing, blushing slightly herself. "Sorry."
"No, no.you didn't," Harry answered quickly, with an awkward grin. "I didn't expect you to be this way either."
"Because I'm in Slytherin?" Mel pressed, but she was smiling as she said it.
"I don't know," Harry replied honestly. "I'm sure at first that was why." he trailed off, before smirking down at her. "What about you? Why did you think I'd be different?"
"Draco," she replied simply.
"I figured as much," Harry nodded rolling his eyes. He glanced up to see the hallway that led to the Gryffindor tower was just a few feet away, and realized he didn't want to go back. He was truly enjoying Mel's company, and still didn't feel like dealing with his friends' questions.
"I guess this is where we part," Mel spoke up, looking in the direction Harry was. "But I truly meant what I said before, I had a lot of fun tonight. Maybe we can do this again some time?"
Harry nodded instantly, smiling.
"Definitely. It'll be our little thing.stealing dinner from the kitchen and eating in classrooms."
"Oh good," Mel laughed, smiling brightly. "And we'll never use the same room twice!"
"Exactly," Harry nodded, grinning. "No matter how cold my food gets en route."
"Well you'll just have to eat salad every once in a while.or a sandwich." Mel trailed off, grinning.
"How filling." Harry said, disgustedly, but still smiling.
They came to a stop in front of the hallway and looked at each other for a moment.
"Well," Mel spoke up first, "Good night Harry. See you soon."
"Good night Mel," Harry replied, smiling softly. "Be careful on you way back."
"You too," she replied, pointedly. Grinning once more, she turned away and headed down the hallway. Harry stood and watched her go for a moment, before turning with a sigh, and heading up the corridor to his tower.
Reaching the portrait hole, Harry gave the password and stepped through, already feeling anxious. As expected, his friends called out to him the moment the portrait swung shut, and he let out a heavy sigh. It was too early to go to bed, and if he'd tried, he had the feeling they'd probably come up there and badger him some more.
Trudging over to the corner of the room where the others were waiting, he plopped heavily into the empty chair.
"Bad day?" Hermione asked, seeing Harry's dull expression.
"No, not really," Harry replied, keeping his gaze fixed on his hands.
"Well.how did everything go this morning?" Ron asked, looking hopefully at his friend. "With the crystals?"
"Fine," Harry replied, vaguely.
"Fine?" Hermione asked, trying to get Harry to meet her eyes. "What happened? What was it like?"
"Nothing happened," Harry replied curtly. "I introduced myself to them and it was.it was fine."
"Are you mad at us?" Ginny asked suddenly.
"No!" Harry answered sharply. "What would I have to be mad at you for?"
"You tell us," Hermione replied evenly. "You're avoiding us any chance you get and when you're with us you seem.distant. Like you don't want to be with us."
"I'm sorry you think that," Harry said quickly, looking up at her for the first time. "I just don't want to talk about things right now."
"Well what do you want to think about then?" Ron asked, exasperatedly. "We can talk about whatever you want."
"Maybe I just don't feel like talking to you," Harry cut in crisply.
Ron sat back, a hurt expression on his face. He looked down at his hands, sadly.
"Harry, what's the matter?" Hermione asked, concern evident in her voice.
Harry sighed loudly, sitting forward in the chair.
"I already told you," he began, sounding annoyed. "I don't feel like talking. Why can't you just let me."
"You hold too much in Harry," Hermione cut in. "I know it hasn't been very long since.well since everything changed, but you're already acting very strange. You're not at all like yourself."
"Since everything changed?" Harry asked, laughing emptily. "What a discreet way of putting it."
"Say it however you want," Hermione went on quietly. "But this isn't like you. I just want to help you Harry.please if."
"You can't help Hermione, don't you see that? Unless in all your brilliance you've discovered a way to bring people back from the dead there's nothing you can do!"
He sat back in the chair with a huff, realizing quickly how loudly he'd actually spoken, as the common room had gone eerily silent.
"I'm going to bed," he muttered, feeling guilty as he caught Hermione's stunned expression. Standing abruptly, he headed for the door to the dorms and started up the stairs.
Harry had barely made it to the doorway for the seventh year dorms when he heard footsteps behind him. Not bothering to turn around he pushed the door open and stepped inside, letting it swing shut behind him. But before he could make it three steps, the door flew open. Turning around, he saw Hermione glaring angrily at him as she came into the room. Ron followed her, looking warily at Harry, and Ginny waited nervously by the door.
"You're all sleeping up here?" he asked, sardonically. "Well some of you will have to take the floor if."
"Stop it Harry," Hermione spoke evenly. He met her gaze, realized how very close to tears she was, and turned away quickly. He hated to see his friends upset, and couldn't explain why he felt so angry at them.
"Just go away," he whispered. "I don't want to talk right now."
"Well I think it's time you did," Hermione retorted. "You can't go on like this anymore.it's obvious how much pain you're in from."
"I think I can decide for myself when and if I want to talk," Harry said crisply. "Now I'm really tired and I want to sleep, so if you want to stay in here, fine but."
"Harry, please." Ginny spoke up from the doorway, tears running down her face. "You're being so mean."
Harry felt a lump in his throat and a wave of guilt washed over him, but he shook it away quickly.
"Why won't you just leave me alone?" he asked quietly, forcing his voice to remain steady. "Can't you see that's all I want?"
"Because we care about you," Hermione said, stepping forward cautiously. "And it hurts us to see you like this."
"Like what?" Harry asked, trying to shrug it off.
"Harry, it's okay to let things out, you don't always have to be brave in front of us," Hermione replied.
Harry could feel his hands shaking, clenching them into fists so his friends wouldn't see. He looked at the floor as he spoke.
"I have no right to let anything out," he said quietly. "Cho died, because of me. I watched Voldemort kill her right in front of my eyes and I couldn't stop it. I couldn't save her. Just like Cedric died because of me.and Mrs. Figg.and my mum." he trailed off no longer sure he could keep his voice steady and cleared his throat. His vision began to blur but he refused to let any tears fall.
"There was nothing you could've done," Ron finally spoke. Harry glanced at him, surprised to see tears in his eyes as well. "You had no way to fight Voldemort, to stop him, or even to escape."
Harry shook his head, unwilling to accept his explanation. He looked up, crossing his arms across his chest stubbornly.
"He thought she was my defender, he killed her. She died because of me.no way to argue that. Now I'm going to bed."
He turned on the spot and stalked across the room, putting his hand on the curtains to his four-poster.
"Wait!" Hermione cried before he could pull them back. She ran over to him, putting a hand on his arm, but he wouldn't turn around. "You're not the only one who's lost someone you know?" she asked, almost bitterly, tears streaking her face. "We all loved Cho, and we all miss her very much. Don't you understand that? I feel just as guilty about all of this as you do."
"What could you possibly have to feel guilty about?" he asked thickly.
"Cho was sleeping in my dorm that night, when we all went to bed. So in order for Voldemort to have gotten her from there someone would have had to take her from the dorm. She never had a bottle like the one you had, so it couldn't have been done that way; someone had to have been there. But I never heard anything, I slept through whatever happened. I know something did because when we woke up things near her bed were knocked over and the curtains around the bed were torn, but I never heard a sound. I could have helped her, and didn't."
She paused for a moment, waiting. When she got no response, she spoke softly.
"Please Harry, it will help so much to talk about it.don't hold it in anymore."
Harry shook his head, still refusing to turn around, ignoring the pleading in her voice.
"Good night Hermione," he said coldly and he felt her hand drop from his arm. He fought the urge to turn around, feeling her eyes on the back of his head, and with sudden resolve, he pulled the curtain back from the bed.
Harry inhaled sharply feeling his breath catching in his throat as he dropped his arm from the curtains, letting it fall limply at his side, not hearing Hermione scream. He took one step back from the bed, but could make his feet go no further.
Cho was lying on his bed; looking exactly as she had the last time he'd seen her. Her eyes wide with terror, a silent scream on her lips.
Taking a shaky step back towards the bed, he felt numb, drained, dead. He still wasn't hearing the commotion his friends were making and never saw Ginny rush from the room in hysterics to get the headmaster.
Raising his hand softly, leaning down towards her, he gently ran his fingers through her hair, cherishing the silkiness he remembered so well.
"Harry," Ron spoke quietly, his voice hoarse. "Harry, c'mon."
He stepped towards his friend, putting a hand firmly on his arm, but Harry shrugged it off violently, never taking his eyes from Cho. He caressed her pale dead skin, feeling all his pain threatening to spill over.
"I'm sorry.I'm so sorry," he whispered to her, pleading, a tortured expression on his face.
Hermione moved around to Harry's side, opposite Ron, crying freely.
"Harry." she sobbed, "she's dead.she can't hear you.please just.just." she broke off unable to finish. She leant against him for support, her legs weak, crying hard.
Harry wanted to scream. He felt murderous at that moment, and if Voldemort had been in the room with them there was no doubt in Harry's mind he would be able to kill the dark wizard. He would enjoy it.
He blinked back tears, trying to force down the lump in his throat, but it was too hard. Turning away, he started to run, he needed to get away, but he couldn't. Ron had taken hold of his arms and wouldn't release him.
"Let me go Ron, I mean it," he snarled, struggling. Freeing one arm, he instinctively pulled it back and swung at Ron, who barely ducked in time. Harry overbalanced and would have fallen, if Ron hadn't taken hold of him again.
"Don't do this Harry!" Hermione cried pleadingly as Harry again began to fight against his friend's grasp. "She's dead! Cho Is Dead! You can't change it by ignoring us or keeping in your anger! It's not your fault!" she yelled. Harry stopped struggling, looking miserably at Hermione. She moved forward slowly, visibly shaking, her eyes puffy and red, her face damp.
"It's not your fault," she repeated softly, staring up at him, pleading.
Harry met her gaze, letting her words sink in, and for the first time in his life, he allowed the misery to fill him. He let his chest fill up, let his eyes fill up, and at long last.he let go. His knees buckled as he leant on Hermione and she held him up, embracing him, letting him cry. He buried his face into her shoulder and couldn't hold it in any longer, it was far too much pain pent up inside.
There was no embarrassment, no shame. He let it come, and when Hermione could no longer keep him up, they slumped to the floor. Ron knelt down beside them, putting a comforting hand on both their shoulders, and when they looked up at him, they pulled him into their hug.
It felt so wonderful and miserable all at once, and Harry didn't try to stop it. He let his feelings out, releasing the misery, the pain, the torture. He cried for everyone he'd ever known and loved, for all the lives that had been lost and when he could no longer cry, the three of them just stayed there, holding each other, in silence.
Harry didn't know how long they sat there, but after a short while, he heard footsteps racing up the stairs, and up the hall. Sirius burst into the room, looking almost frantic. He looked immediately towards Harry's bed and a pained expression crossed his face. Turning his gaze away and glancing around, he immediately spotted the three of them on the floor, still holding each other.
"Harry." Sirius began sadly, looking defeated. He went to say more, but stopped as Dumbledore entered the room, followed by Remus and Ginny. The headmaster spotted the three students immediately, who were now beginning to stand.
"I am sorry," he spoke gravely, looking directly at Harry, "that this was allowed to happen."
Harry didn't answer, but nodded, accepting the apology.
"Harry I.I'm so." Sirius began, stopping as Harry moved to him, taking him in a fierce embrace. Sirius looked briefly startled but returned the hug.
"Who could have done this?" Remus asked, now standing near the bed, looking down at Cho, a disgusted expression on his face.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"I have my suspicions. We know there have been many intruders as of late."
"Yes but." Remus began loudly, before pausing and continuing almost in a whisper. "How would they get her body up here? Without anyone noticing, at that!"
"Saaneeraa," Hermione spoke up, her voice hoarse. "She could do it, if she didn't want someone to see what she was doing.well she could make them believe they weren't seeing it. Isn't that what she does? Messes with your mind?"
"You are quite correct, Miss Granger," Dumbledore spoke somberly. "Now before we discuss this any further, I think it's best to take the four of you out of here. You will use the rooms behind my office for the evening. As will Mr. Longbottom, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Finnigan and Mr. Malfoy."
"Malfoy?" Ron cried, horrified. "Why do you.?"
"Mr. Weasley, as I know you've been told, Draco Malfoy is Harry's defender. We know there have been many attempts to get to Harry and what has happened tonight is proof of how close they can get. I am taking no chances, Mr. Malfoy will be brought to my office as well." Dumbledore stopped speaking and looked at Lupin. "Remus, would you be so kind as to inform Draco of this and escort him upstairs?"
Remus nodded quickly, but headed for the door.
"Sirius," Dumbledore continued softly. "Will you please take everyone else up? I am going to find Cole, and see if we can't get more information on this, possibly from the Inquisitors."
Sirius nodded gently, as Harry finally let go of him.
"What about." Harry began, barely managing to even glance at the bed. "I mean, are you going to."
"Harry," Dumbledore interrupted softly. "Do not worry yourself with anything besides getting some well-needed rest. I promise you everything else will be handled in the most delicate manner possible."
Harry nodded, feeling fresh tears welling up in his eyes, though nothing as fiercely as before. He didn't blink them back, and they rolled silently down his cheeks. He leant on Sirius' shoulder sadly, and even through all the misery, he felt loved, wanted. His godfather put an arm around his back, comfortingly.
"It's going to be alright Harry," he whispered. "I know how hard it is to lose people you love.but I swear to you, the pain won't last forever." He dropped his arm as he felt his godson pull away slowly. Again, Harry did not respond, but nodded his thanks.
"C'mon," Sirius spoke again. "Let's get you upstairs," he said, pausing to look around the room, "all of you." The four students, all appearing disheveled and gloomy, walked silently out of the room with Sirius, leaving the headmaster behind. They went downstairs together and waited as Sirius rounded up the other three, obviously not giving them much of an explanation by the confused looks on their faces, before stepping through the portrait hole and starting for the office.
They walked through the hallways in silence. With Seamus and Dean present, no one wanted to say much about what had happened. They knew something was wrong as everyone looked like they'd been crying, but didn't ask any questions.
When they finally reached the office, Sirius gave the password and everyone filed upstairs one at a time. He brought them through the doorway that led to the back rooms, and to where they'd be sleeping. The first few bedrooms were all doubles, but as you moved further back, they grew in size, until they found two adjacent rooms with four beds each.
Dean and Seamus took the first room, which Neville was going to share as well, but he wanted to talk with Harry and the others, to see what had happened.
"Just give us a few minutes, please Neville?" Sirius whispered as he saw him start to follow them.
Neville nodded, appearing very concerned, but went to one of the empty beds. Sirius thanked him and followed the others into the next room.
Harry crossed to the furthest bed, lowering himself onto it slowly. Ron took the one next to his and Ginny and Hermione took the two across from theirs. Sirius walked over to his godson, lowering himself onto the bed and putting a comforting arm over his shoulders.
"I'm so sorry Harry," he said quietly. "That never should have happened to you."
Harry glanced up at his godfather, his eyes still puffy and red, trying to smile, weakly.
"I doubt," he began, hoarsely, "that there's anything you could have done to stop it. If Saaneeraa is the one who did it, which makes the most sense right now, then you would never have known, since I'm sure she wouldn't have wanted you to."
"It still shouldn't have happened," Sirius replied, sounding both angry and frustrated. "If I would have just."
"If you would have just nothing, Sirius," Harry cut him off. "It's not like we have bed checks before any of us go to sleep at night, you were out patrolling the school, protecting us, risking your life. What would have been so different about tonight that you would have come up to my dorm and find.and." he trailed off, seeing Cho's face again in his mind. He shut his eyes tightly, but the image remained.
"Hey," Sirius said gently, pulling his godson to him, letting him rest his head on his shoulder. "I'm sorry. I won't talk about it anymore."
"No," Harry said thickly. "I think that was the problem. I wouldn't talk about it.and it was hurting not to."
"I know," Sirius replied, quietly. "I could see it every time I looked at you, but I didn't want to push you.now, I wish I had. I should have been a better godfather.but I wasn't. I should've been there for you more."
"No." Harry said, pulling his head back and looking into his godfather's eyes sincerely. "Sirius you were there for me. You did ask me to talk.and told me I could come to you anytime. Even if you hadn't said those things I still would've known them. I didn't want to.I didn't want you to see me like.like this." he trailed off, looking down.
"Harry," Sirius said gently, waiting for his godson to look up at him. He smiled warmly. "You are braver than I ever could have been, and you're so young. You're only seventeen, and while I can very much understand not wanting to cry.to seem weak.it's sometimes what you have to do. Things don't go away by not thinking of them. Time does not heal all wounds.it just lets them fade. Talking about your feelings, getting things out in the open.that's where the healing is. You are so lucky to have friends that care for you, that love you like you are their family."
"And you," Harry cut in with a weak grin. "I'm lucky I have you too." He paused, looking around the room at the drained faces of his friends. "I owe all of you an apology." he began.
"No Harry." Ron said quickly, "don't.we know you were just."
"Ron, please," Harry cut in quietly. "Let me finish. I shouldn't have ever taken anything out on you guys. You were only trying to help me, and I did all I could to push you away. I know I said some things that were very insulting.and I'd do anything to take those words back.but I can't. Please, please.forgive me? I'm so, so sorry. I can't."
"Harry," Hermione broke in delicately. She stood up and crossed the room, smiling softly at him, her eyes still glassy from crying. She sat down on the bed next to him, looking both sad and happy at the same time. Not saying a word, reaching over, she put his arms around him in a welcoming hug, which he returned gladly. Ginny and Ron were already at their side as well, and crawled onto the opposite side of the bed, joining the embrace. The four of them sat that way in silence, and Harry felt tears streaming down his face.
"I want you to know now," he began thickly, "because I don't think I've ever said it.I love all of you.you are the best friends.the best family.anyone could ever hope for. Thank you so much for everything you've ever done for me."
"We love you too Harry," Ron said, his voice wavering.
Sirius stood up, smiling almost nostalgically at the four best friends. They loved each other deeply, and nothing could break their friendship, which had been proven repeatedly throughout their years at Hogwart's together. This was without a doubt one of the hardest trials they'd ever had to face, but they had, nonetheless.
Sighing contentedly, he took a few steps away from them, getting ready to sit down in a chair near the bed, when they heard voices from the next room, and they didn't sound pleasant.