Chapter Thirteen

Sorry it has taken so long to get this up to those who were waiting for this chapter. A positive: this is only the first part of this chapter. This one was a little rushed so try to excuse any spelling errors or other mistakes due to be in there. I've had a few little hiccups over the past few weeks but hopefully I am back on track now. You are welcome to share your thoughts and opinions.

As always, these characters do not belong to me.

When Harry woke, it took a while for him to adjust and remember the events that led to his unconsciousness. His back felt heavy due to something pressing against it but the pain from his cuts were thankfully dulled. He wriggled feeling back into his fingers which were now beside his body. The cool surface floor was still against Harry's cheek, meaning Ginny hadn't moved him. Ginny! He opened one of his eyelids but without glasses he could see nothing of his surroundings except unnatural brightness. He had to move, wanted to move. He shifted his arms, wriggled his legs, grunting at the sore stiffness that met his muscles.

'Harry?' Ginny asked.

Harry heard the rustle of fabric from above his ear. He continued to wriggle and stretch his cramped muscles. He lifted his head a little only to drop it again from the pain in his neck. Soft fingers brushed against his hair. Harry clenched his fists, his legs kicking slowly in the air. He lifted his head again, determined to stay up. His eyes found the blurry version of Ginny, kneeling beside his head.

'Hey,' he croaked. His tongue was heavy and swollen. His throat grated uncomfortably from his screams. 'How long …'

Harry trailed off but Ginny understood. 'I just applied the last salves to your back. Your friend from the truck thought you might have wanted your glasses back.'

Ginny placed the glasses in his hand. Harry placed them on with a shaky hand, blinking to clear the blurriness. No wonder the voice sounded familiar. The boy from the truck had stolen the salves and the cream for his backs. Harry assumed it was a, 'returning the favour' sort of thing, if telling him he was weak could be classified in that respect. Harry would thank him anyway, if he ever got the chance.

If, Harry thought, shuddering with a twinge of trepidation. Harry's memory from the past few hours was slowly coming back. He wanted to completely block out the scenes from the torture and some were indeed gone, mostly from the times when he had passed out, but not everything. Certain scents hadn't left him, nor would they ever. Malfoy's sickening cologne, the charred flesh of his back.

Harry coughed and Ginny brushed his hair away from his face. He remembered the look on Malfoy's face as he was about to cut his face open. Harry was so worn out he waited for it, even begged silently for it if it meant the pain would be over. But it was stopped without the extra cut. Harry was given a reprieve from the unlikely hero that was Snape. And yet, it was what Snape had said that although consequently saved Harry from further torture, meant Harry's death was hurtling much closer.

Harry tried to quell his fear of Riddle's arrival as he continued to work out the kinks in his muscles. He couldn't stop their meeting, even if he wanted to. Harry had believed he had overcome this fear but when sitting in a house, safely hidden from prying eyes it only appeared to be a reoccurring nightmare. Now that reality was upon Harry, he couldn't fool himself any longer. He suspected the reason behind his fear was currently sitting beside him. Harry couldn't show her he was afraid. With a blank face, his propped himself up on his stronger arm and looked up at her.

The fear for Riddle was instantly replaced with guilt ridden pain as soon as his eyes fell on Ginny's pale face. Her eyes were rimmed red, circled with darkened shadows that looked frighteningly like bruising. Harry examined them closer and found it was from lack of sleep. He wondered how bad it was before he was thrown in with her. There was a slight tremor to her hands as they rested on his shoulder and elbow. Her smile was waned as she gazed at him and her hair fell in dank locks around her face.

Harry blanched, his face screwing up in anguish. He had caused this on her. His heart twisted as he continued to gaze into her dirty face. There was a small, brief second of relief when he saw she was physically fine but her face betrayed her inner pain; even when she tried to hide it from Harry's enquiring eyes.

Harry shoved his arms under his stomach as he lifted his weight up on shaky hands. Ginny cried out in alarm and tried to push him back down but he ignored her. He couldn't lie down anymore; he had to be beside her, weak muscles or not.

'If it heals too much,' Harry grunted out. 'They will be even more suspicious. Just leave the cuts to weep. I can handle a little more pain.'

Sweat built on his temples and his teeth clenched when his movements stretched some of the cuts but he didn't stop until he was sitting up. Ginny's arms were on his upper arms in support but he scooted in closer. He wrapped his arms around her, pressing his face into the crook of her neck where he could just capture a whiff of her flowery perfume. She snaked her arms up around the tops of his shoulders, so she wouldn't disrupt the healing of his cuts and hugged him just as tightly.

Harry felt tears leak from his eyes and hastily wiped them away before she noticed. He had to be strong for the both of them; he refused to let Ginny lose any more hope than she already had. They held each other for a long time, wanting to reassure the other that they were together, that this was real and that whatever happened they would still have each other until the end. Eventually, Harry had to pull away enough to look at her. Tears streamed down her cheeks and Harry's eyes watered again. She was never one for crying but the past few days would have been as trialling for her as they were for him. He brushed them away with his thumb, laughing softly when he left more dirty streaks across her face. His laugh got a weak smile in return.

'Sorry,' he murmured, placing his forehead on hers. She drew in a deep, shaky breath in response. 'I'm okay,' he told her and she made another choked noise. 'It's going to be alright. We're together now.'

'But for how long?' she asked in a small voice. Harry pulled her against his chest, alarmed to find her trembling; or maybe that was him.

'Hey, don't think like that,' Harry murmured, gently swaying them. 'They want us to feel like there's no hope left. You mustn't let those thoughts overpower you. Once they take me away,' Harry took a deep breath as Ginny stiffened. 'You have to continue to be strong. The Order will find us soon.'

'Look at what they did to you. What if scarring you like this isn't enough?' Ginny broke away enough to gaze at his eyes. 'Ever since we got here they shoved me in here and told me nothing. Nothing, Harry! Not the time, no insight about what they were doing. All I had was a mute guard who shoved food into here sporadically so even then I couldn't guess at the time. And then I heard you scream and … and …' Ginny shuddered.

Harry glanced away, pained. 'I didn't want to scream,' Harry said in a flat voice. 'I tried, Ginny. I tried so hard but I …' Tears fell from his face on their own accord and he took another breath to try and stem the flow. 'I didn't want them to hurt you and I end up doing it myself.'

Ginny kissed his temple. She cradled Harry's drooped head to her chest. His tears fell into her lap but she didn't seem to care.

'And here I said we had to be strong,' Harry laughed weakly.

He sat up and gently cupped her cheek with his hand. He smiled thinly at her before letting his gaze roam around their cell. Everything in there was white: the walls, tiled floor, roof, bed and a small sink. There was even a small toilet in the corner of the room and a pillow. Harry, on impulse, got to his feet, though it took a few goes to get his legs to work even with Ginny's help. After a few tentative steps his legs began to cooperate again.

Harry trudged over to the sink. There wasn't a tap but instead had a small gap that trickled water from a motion sensor. Harry took gulps of water between washing his face, arms and chest. He shook droplets from his hair as Ginny did the same. Once finished, he took her hand and lead her over to the bed. It was a hanging bed; meaning it had no legs that could be broken off and used as weapons. Harry scooted back on the bed so he was leaning against the opposite wall. He winced from the contact on his back but it didn't deter him. He grabbed the pillow and placed it on his lap. Ginny watched him with an enquiring look but sat beside him when he gestured to her. He gently pushed her down so she was lying on the bed with her head was on the pillow on his lap.

'You need to sleep,' Harry told her. 'I'm not going anywhere.'

Ginny sat up. 'No! I don't want to sleep if I only have limited time with you!'

'Ginny,' Harry said softly. He placed his hand back on her cheek. 'Please?'

'No!'

'Fine, you don't have to sleep but will you at least lie down?'

Ginny thought about it for a moment or two but eventually she did as he asked. Harry smiled again and started to thread her hair through his fingers. His other hand was captured immediately by Ginny's. Harry leant his head back against the wall and closed his eyes.

'I missed you,' Ginny said softly.

Harry chuckled. After all of the hours of interrogation, threats and whispers of truths Harry should know, the simplicity of that one phrase held more weight for both of them than anything else he had heard.

'And I you,' Harry sighed. 'Did they interrogate you?'

There was a pause in which Harry opened his eyes and looked at her. Ginny focused on their entwined hands instead of Harry's prying gaze.

'They tried,' her voice was small. Harry snarled and Ginny explained further. 'They didn't come in the cell at all. They just asked from outside. They wanted to know about the Order but mainly about you and me. I didn't answer anything they asked and then … then they threatened to hurt you if I didn't answer but I didn't think …' Ginny's breath hitched. 'Harry, it was my fault they tortured you. I didn't answer.'

'Oh Ginny, tell me you don't think that?' Harry asked sadly. She looked up at him, a little guiltily. 'They were going to do it anyway. I wasn't exactly compliant at my own interrogation and this was their payback.'

'What did they do the first time?' Ginny asked.

Harry shifted against the wall, his jaw clenched. He thought about the shocks, the way he squirmed and shook afterwards. He couldn't upset her further.

'Harry, what did they do?' Ginny asked again more forcefully.

'Don't feel guilty about anything,' Harry replied. 'If anyone should feel guilty it's me and I do. You are here because of me, just as I had feared would happen. I will take any punishment they deem fit to bestow if it means you are at least unharmed.' He smiled at her. 'A few cuts are worth that.'

'One day, you will tell me what really happened but for today, I will forgive you.'

Ginny squeezed his hand before bringing it to her lips. Harry closed his eyes again, smiling softly. His fingers worked out the knots in her hair. His own breaths started to calm and Harry noticed they began to fall into rhythm with Ginny's.

'How are you feeling?' Ginny asked.

'Better than before,' Harry replied honestly. 'The pain was almost unbearable when they threw me in here. Whatever you put on the cuts has really helped.'

'You really don't look at all like I expected,' Ginny admitted.

'Oh?'

'You took a really bad beating at the house. Really bad, Harry. I couldn't understand how you were walking afterwards. I thought … Well you should be at least purple on your face and especially your ribs but … I'm not complaining or anything and I wouldn't want you to be but …'

'It doesn't make sense?' Harry finished, opening an eye to see her nod. 'The guy you were calling out to when I was brought in, he has been helping me as well.'

Ginny raised an eyebrow and Harry went on to explain the tonics, the promise he had made about protecting Harry, the subtle hints he had been talking to her and then to his untimely arrival at Harry's torture and then finding out his name.

'I swear I have heard his name before, Gin. I just can't remember from where,' Harry finished, both eyes fixed on her.

'It does ring a bell and it certainly isn't a common name,' Ginny mused. She was lost in thoughts for a few seconds before she shrugged. 'I don't care who he is. He kept you alive and that's all I care about.'

'I don't think he wanted to, though,' Harry said. 'I could hear the contempt in his voice when he spoke to me. I just wish I knew what I did …'

'You'll work yourself up too much if you brood on it,' Ginny consoled. 'Come on, tell me something else. Where were they keeping you?'

Harry kept his eyes closed and sighed through an ironic smile. 'This isn't exactly a happy subject change, Gin. It's nothing like this. It's darker, danker and smellier.' Harry's grin widened. 'I don't think you would have liked it very much.'

'Are they going to take you back there after …' Ginny stopped but they both knew what she was talking about.

'I don't know, Ginny,' Harry lied. 'Let's not think about such things. I have you and that's all I need at the moment. That, and newer, thicker skin,' Harry added jokingly.

Ginny frowned at his attempt at lightening the mood. She closed her eyes and after a few more minutes of silence her breathing slowed and became even. He smiled fondly at Ginny's sleeping form, glad that he got to see her one last time before Riddle arrived. Harry knew he should try and get some sleep also but the emotions rolling through his head had him wide awake, even with his eyes closed. Now that she was asleep Harry could let the worry creep back into his eyes; the tension work its way back into his shoulders and the pit in his stomach clench painfully. He took deep breaths and focused on Ginny's hair threading through his fingers.

It was strange for Harry to think he had hours left to live. He had known from the moment he was captured it would probably lead to his execution but now that it was close he thought once again that he hadn't yet come to terms with it as much as he ought to. Harry sighed, looking down at the reason behind his anxiety. Ginny was strong and even if he left this world he was sure she would be able to get on with her life. Harry pictured if the roles were reversed and Ginny was the one about to die and he would be left to fend for himself. Harry's face screwed up in pain at the thought of losing Ginny. Harry wouldn't, no couldn't, live without her.

Harry rolled his shoulders making the cuts stretch and flare dully. The bandages were beginning to irritate his skin and he could feel the cuts on his lower back weeping from the cream. Harry breathed out, ignoring it. His gaze fell on Ginny once more and he found himself speaking quietly to her.

'If anything happens to you, I will never forgive myself. I know the time has come for me … for me to face Riddle and the odds are pretty stacked against me now. I am afraid, Ginny. So scared of what is going to come but I'm not going to run from it. I always used to think I had to be strong for you but now I see it was me that needed you to be strong. I fed off of your strength and that fuelled my own.

'Do you remember that day at school when the teams had to train together? You girls nearly beat us because the boys were too busy taunting and flirting. Remember Roger Davies always running behind you because he claimed to like the view? For some reason it who you and I that tripped and entangled each other.'

Harry chuckled quietly at the memory. 'That was the moment I saw you for the first time, like really looked at you. You grinned shyly at me and although your hair was a mess and your cheeks were red I, I was breathless. For the rest of the game, I couldn't take my eyes off of you which earned me a few knocks to the head. We talked all afternoon, even when I walked with Ron and Hermione back to your house. I should have asked you out there and then but I didn't think you would be interested. Then, well, I had to start to think of the good of others and I had to forget about my feelings for you. It wasn't easy, Gin and to be honest, I never did forget about you. I wish I could have given you everything you wanted …'

Harry sighed, rubbing his eyes.

'Hopefully Ron and Hermione will get here in time to rescue you. My life means nothing without you Ginny and I will think of you right until the very end. You have shown me how to smile in the hard times, to laugh through the pain.' Harry lowered his voice, dipping his head closer to hers.

The next words hovered on Harry's tongue, his lips parted in preparation to say it but instead he closed his mouth. He contemplated the reason behind his hesitation and found to his surprise an anxiousness he wasn't aware he had. By saying it in the open he was making himself vulnerable. He was positive Ginny would never take advantage of his feelings but with a nasty realisation he realised his vulnerability was already being taken advantage of by the Death Eaters. If they knew the extent of his true feelings, she would be dead and he would be broken beyond repair.

Minutes trickled by and still no one burst through the door. Harry felt his eyes drooping closed. He wanted to fight through it but knew that it was impractical. Harry wriggled into a more comfortable position against the wall, his eyes closing. He sighed as he fell asleep, his hand in Ginny's.

Harry was woken by Ginny's stirring frame. He blinked, wondering how much time had passed. She called for him groggily before her eyes found him. He smiled tiredly at her as she sat up and rubbed her eyes. He scooted to the edge of the bed beside her, stretching his back. Harry scratched the bandages, which had become irritable during his short nap. Ginny protested as he pulled off the bandages but he was too busy enjoying the cool breeze that relieved the scratches. Ginny grew upset when she saw the scars. He placed his hand gently on her cheek, forcing her to focus on his eyes. His smile was sad as he looked at her but she seemed to find some comfort in it.

She returned his smile and went to say something when the door opposite them burst open, making them both jump. Several Death Eaters strode into the room, four heading towards them. Harry's heart clenched in fear as he realised what was waiting for him outside but he wouldn't let Ginny see that.

'No!' Ginny cried. She grabbed Harry's hand tightly in an effort to keep him beside her.

'Ginny, it's okay,' Harry tried to reassure her. He was yanked away by two of them. They forced his arms behind his back, tying them together. They grabbed Harry's upper arms and dragged him backwards so he was still facing Ginny.

Ginny struggled against the other two Death Eaters that held her back, tears brimming in her eyes. She screamed at them to leave him there. Harry continued to reassure her, letting his Death Eaters pull him back without restraint. There was no point in struggling with them but Ginny's agitation was beginning to make Harry panic himself. She wriggled and squirmed, her eyes never leaving Harry's and the sight of her in distress was upsetting to him. His own eyes welled as he tried to calm her down with no avail.

'Harry! No, leave him alone! No, no, no, no! Harry!'

'Ginny! Ginny! It's fine! It'll be okay!'

'Harry! Harry, no! You can't take him, no! Harry!'

'Don't fight, Ginny! Ginny, listen to me! Look at me! It's okay! Ginny!'

He was only feet from the door when Ginny snapped entirely. She lashed out and struck one of her captives in the nose. As he recoiled, she got her arm free and punched the other Death Eater first in the stomach and then in the temple. He didn't even hit the ground before she raced across the room. His eyes were wide and fearful as he watched. She wouldn't be able to take all of them on; not on her own, but that wasn't why she escaped.

Before Harry's Death Eaters noticed her scuffle she had placed both hands on Harry's cheeks, her lips crushing his. Harry pushed closer to her, wanting to remember her kiss. It would have only been seconds before she was pulled away from him by her now bloody nosed guard. He snarled at her and she gasped in pain as he yanked her hands roughly behind her. Using his free hand, he slapped her hard across the face, causing her head to snap sharply to the side. Harry yelled out indignantly and now he was struggling against his guards, trying to get back to Ginny.

'No! No, no don't hurt her! She didn't mean … Ginny! Ginny! No, you have me! You have me! Hurt me instead!'

'Harry!' she screamed one last time desperately, her eyes still on his.

Tears ran down her cheeks; one of them red from the blow. Tied and held securely now, she could do nothing except watch Harry getting taking away from her. Harry watched the fight leave her eyes and helplessness replace it. Harry could almost see her heart breaking as they both knew where Harry was going. He had to tell her. He had to let her know before he left.

'Ginny, I –!'

The last words were silenced by the slam of the door between them. Harry slumped against the Death Eaters, despair threatening to rip out his heart. He let them drag him away, his eyes trained on the door that kept Ginny from him, his mouth open in shock and fear. Once they had turned the corridor and the room had disappeared from view, Harry struggled to keep his body from shaking. He would never see Ginny again, he thought anguished. He had to put that aside though, he had to focus on where he was going and if he could get away somehow.

They turned out of Ginny's corridor and marched down the adjoining one. Harry, who was near unconscious when they brought him to Ginny, had no idea where he was in their headquarters. This corridor had multiple doors but only on the left hand side. They stopped at a wooden one in the middle. The door had a small window near the top with metal bars instead of glass. Harry turned his head to look down the corridor towards Ginny, wanting to see her again but knowing it was useless.

Harry was pulled into the small room. He was shoved to his knees; his back towards the door. His arms were brought up and tied to chains hanging from opposite sides of the wall. This meant his arms were stretched out and slightly above his head; nowhere near anything he could grab or use to inflict damage. Harry was really beginning to despise their prison methods.

'Riddle's going to enjoy killing you, Potter,' one of them wheezed happily.

Harry recognised the voice as his ferrety friend before his torture. He ignored him, too drained to reply to his taunt although he remembered vaguely vowing he would rip out his heart at the nearest opportunity.

His head fell as his jailers left the room and he heard the door slam with finality. He let his hands hang from manacles and he closed his eyes. It took only minutes for his shoulders and arms to ache in protest from being raised above his head. His knees on the cold, hard stone floor was as equally painful but he remained silent, his eyes closed and tried not to let his misery overwhelm him. The scars on his back were a distant memory to him now.

Sometime later, Harry heard the door to his cell open. He had been in a sort of deadened stupor, the pain of his body numbing his mind of any thought. This is it, he thought glumly. He was about to become face to face with Riddle. His glasses slipped down his nose as he opened his eyes to small slits. The boots that came into view were small and worn and the voice that accompanied them even more so.

'Hey, you still conscious?'

Harry raised his head, his neck groaning at the movement. The small boy guard from the truck looked at him hopefully, a steaming bowl in both of his hands.

'How long have I been in here?' Harry asked, his voice barely audible.

'Six hours, give or take,' he replied nervously, waiting for his reaction.

Harry was too overcome with defeat that he didn't see it as a positive that Riddle was still so far away. He lifted his head slightly higher, his eyes now on the bowl. His stomach grumbled at the aromas wafting from it though his jaw felt heavy and motionless. The boy however took the grumbling as an incentive and came forward. He lifted out a spoonful of what Harry deduced was a stew of some kind and with a sheepish look, began to spoon feed him. Harry was too weary to feel embarrassed and ate what was given to him mechanically.

'I'm sorry about this,' the boy apologised eventually.

Harry shook his head before he accepted another spoonful. After half the bowl was eaten, Harry's brain began to slowly come back to life. The pains of his body were still numb and Harry found that with minimal movement they were virtually non-existent. Ginny's image popped into Harry's head and his heart constricted so he tried to focus on the boy feeding him stew. The boy's eyes flickered to Harry's face every once and a while but otherwise he kept his eyes averted. Harry's curiosity was ignited as he continued to stare at this boy, who had first lied for Harry and then risked his own safety to help heal his back.

'Why are you a Death Eater?' Harry asked him hoarsely.

The boy, to Harry's surprise, smiled bitterly at the bowl in his hands. He placed it on the ground and pulled from his bag a water bottle. Harry drank obediently, not caring that it was lukewarm and tasted almost stale. It was only after that did the boy answer him.

'Two years ago, my brother was killed by Death Eaters. He had wanted join the Order, help you and make this place more peaceful but instead he was murdered by these thugs simply walking home one night. I knew going to the authorities would do nothing but I wasn't about to sit back and let them get away with another murder. I got myself conscripted, so that I was close enough andwhen the Order finally took their stand, I would be able to do my part.'

He looked at Harry then, a small smile on his lips. 'Creevey, is the name. Dennis Creevey. My brother's name was Colin. It was a bittersweet thing when I saw you in that truck, Harry. I have wanted to meet you for a very long time but I knew that if I met you in these circumstances it would mean you were captured and you would be facing execution.'

Harry smiled as well though it was tainted heavily with sadness. 'It is an honour to meet you Dennis. You have my thanks for all you have done for me. If I had known of the risks you were taking for the Order I would have tried to do more for you.'

'Not much point of being undercover if the leader keeps trying to send you assistance,' Dennis said with a slight chuckle. 'I just wanted to do my part. It's helps when they think you are small and non-threatening.'

'That just proves how ignorant they are,' Harry said bitterly. 'You have done much for me, my friend but I need to ask you to do something extremely dangerous.'

'I am on your side, Harry. I want to help in anyway I can.'

'I know I have only a few hours left to live. The Order can only achieve so much in their rescue attempt. While everyone is focused on me, I want you to get Ginny out of here. Get yourself in as her guard, it will be easier then.'

'Don't you want me to try and save you?' Dennis asked, his voice calm.

'My life was always on an expiration date,' Harry said with an ironic smile. 'But Ginny's life means more to me than you can imagine. I never wished for her to be brought into this mess. I want her to have a life without this and that can only happen if she is free. Can you try to save her, please?'

A knock rapped sharply against the door. Dennis jumped, his eyes snapping towards the door.

'My time's up,' Dennis murmured before staring back to Harry. 'I will do as you ask.' Harry heard Dennis' retreating figure but before he left, he stopped and said one last thing. 'Riddle is due in two hours. May the Order make haste in coming for you both. I'm sorry, Harry Potter. I wish I could do more.'

The door opened and slammed behind Harry and he was once again left with his own thoughts about his impending death.

Harry found himself weaving in and out of states of delirium. The food and water had helped slightly but not long after Dennis left Harry's mind wandered off. It intrigued Harry when his mind threw up images of things he had thought he had long forgotten. He deduced it was just the price to pay when you knew you were going to die.

First came the memories of his continuous abuse at the hands of his aunt, uncle and cousin. Looking back on those years as a youth, his drive for justice and equality stemmed from those torturous moments. Harry was relieved when those memories were replaced by the meetings with Ron and Hermione, the growing of their friendship and then the adventures that had taken place afterwards.

Other friends flashed in and out of the memories as Harry grew from a child to a young adult. Sirius was among them, laughing and joking with him. As was Dumbledore, who taught Harry how to stay calm and evaluate situations so that the majority will be benefited. They weren't as bad as the next ones to come. Ginny smiling at him; watching her playing with Arnold; kissing her for the first time; watching as she slept peacefully; her desperation to keep him with her. Her face morphed into the Death Eaters he had killed and he relived every moment. He wanted to scream. Sirius' face appeared again, a small smile upon his lips as he charged forward to protect Harry, his body getting flung forward from the force of the bullets, and then the bright light followed by the deafening bang …

Harry could hear that bang clearer than his other memories. He frowned, even though his eyes were closed. BANG! There it was again. The walls even shook making his chains rattle. Harry felt some dirt drop upon his bare shoulders and down his back. How odd, Harry thought to himself. Minutes or even hours passed where Harry's mind was blank. The ground underneath his knees shook with the bangs. Muffled shouts came to Harry through the closed door. Running footsteps came and left. A small part of Harry's mind was curious about the sounds but Harry ignored it. He just wanted this over and done with.

More shouts and yells came from outside the door behind Harry. Shoes scuffed, small thuds echoed periodically and then a final crash followed by silence. Not a second passed before the door broke open with a bang as it slammed into the wall next to it. Harry didn't even flinch. He braced himself, his breaths surprisingly calm despite their expiration coming.

'Harry,' Ginny's voice sighed with relief. Harry's delirium had reached its peak.

Someone ran over to him. He could hear their panted breaths inches from his head but they weren't the deep breaths of the Death Eaters Harry was used to. Another set of panting came from the door. Hands grabbed either side of his cheeks and pulled his head up so he was facing the light. He groaned and squinted at the light, struggling to open his eyes. Brown eyes, framed by a pale face and ginger hair swam in front of his eyes.

'Ginny?' Harry breathed in disbelief as she gently placed glasses upon his nose. She gave him a soft smile before attacking the cuff at Harry's left hand. He stared at her in a breathless wonder.

'We need to hurry,' Dennis' anxious voice called from the door. Harry craned his neck but Dennis was out of view. He returned his attention to Ginny.

'Well you try and do it without a key and see how fast you go,' Ginny retorted. 'You're lucky my brothers showed me how to pick locks … Gotcha!'

Harry's wrist broke free with an audible click. Having no strength left, Harry collapsed against Ginny's knelt frame. He moaned, his muscles aching from the abrupt movement. Ginny grunted but continued to hold Harry's weight until she freed his other wrist. She caught him as his other arm fell and hugged him tightly. Harry desperately tried to raise his arms to hug her back, only managing to raise them to the small of her back before the pain became too much and he let them dangle beside her.

'How … how are you here?' Harry managed to choke out.

He broke away to stare at her, tears smarting his eyes. She was wearing a jacket now, her hair pulled up and out of her face. She was still pale but she had a determine look to her face, like she was ready to take on anyone. A cold breeze entered the room and Harry shivered, still shirtless from his torture. He shook his arms, working feeling back into them.

'Your friend got me once the Order started to attack,' Ginny replied.

She hoisted Harry up on his shaky legs. Harry was scared at how weak he had become. He stumbled with every second step. He leaned heavily on her, something he hated doing. She was patient, her arm wrapped around his waist while the other held his from the arm wrapped around her shoulders. Harry took steady breaths and could feel his body starting to respond to his need to move.

'The Order?' Harry said blankly. He winced as his left knee gave way, sending him crashing into Ginny.

'What else did you think those bangs were?' Dennis asked in disbelief. 'Come on. Riddle is here as well and is most likely gunning for you as much as your friends are.'

'Where is the quickest way out?' Ginny asked, heaving Harry back to his feet.

Harry looked at her again. She was listening intently to Dennis' instructions, periodically squeezing Harry's hand in assurance. A couple of times her eyes found his and she gave him an encouraging smile. He couldn't lose her, he thought to himself again. And yet, every Death Eater would be hunting him down once they realise he had escaped. With him being this weak, Ginny and even Dennis would do anything to protect him. He had to get his strength back and get them as far away from here and him as possible.

'No,' Harry interrupted their conversation. They looked at him. 'I have to stay. I have to help them fight.'

He stood up a little straighter, his feet beginning to get blood back into them. He still leant on Ginny but he would soon have enough feeling back that he would be able to walk on his own. He continued to shiver, from the cold or lack of energy, Harry thought it was both. He was panting slightly, sweat forming over his body.

'Harry, you can't,' Dennis said aghast.

'He's right, Harry,' Ginny said, more gently. 'You aren't strong enough.'

'I can't just run away,' Harry said, shaking his head. 'And Riddle won't let that happen.'

He ignored Ginny's concerned look and faced Dennis. He had an idea from something Sirius had told him but he kept it to himself, still unsure whether it would work or not. Plus, he didn't think Ginny would approve. 'Where is the closest infirmary? Or first aid room?'

'If we take the back corridors, there's a medicine stock room only a couple of minutes away,' Dennis replied.

Harry nodded. 'Get me there and we will stand a chance.' He walked towards the door, Ginny persistently aiding him. He gave her a knowing smile, which she returned with a frown.

'Pain killers aren't going to help you Harry,' Ginny said quietly as Dennis checked the corridor.

Harry's smile widened slightly. 'That's not what I am looking for.'

Ginny's frown deepened. She shook her head at Harry's lack of information but didn't enquire further. They followed Dennis down the sets of corridors, Harry trying his best to be helpful. His shoes scuffed and he stumbled frequently. Harry was frustrated that he was a constant burden but Ginny remained patient and encouraging and never once let him fall. He began to doubt whether he would be of assistance to the Order or a hindrance. He thought of his plan again and it gave him a little more confidence; they just had to get to the room.

Dennis streaked ahead, turning back to the two of them as they reached yet another corner. 'It's just around this corner. First door on the –.'

A large fist appeared from the other side of the wall and connected with Dennis' jaw. Dennis flew into the opposite wall, his head cracking sharply against it. He slumped halfway down the wall and somehow collected himself before he hit the ground. Three men, all Death Eaters, sprinted around the corner, stopping when they saw Harry and Ginny. They were all masked and about the same size as a healthy Harry. Dennis retreated a few steps, standing just in front of Ginny and Harry. Ginny tensed next to Harry as the Death Eaters growled at Dennis' betrayal. Harry subtly pushed Ginny behind him. They charged towards the three of them, not even bothering with weapons.

Harry broke away from Ginny, his hands raising, preparing to fight. Even only slightly elevated, his arms shook terribly and his knees were too weak to support his weight. Harry ended up falling against the wall opposite Ginny and just managed to keep himself on his feet. He would be no help in this fight. Ginny, however, met them head on, determined to protect Harry. Harry had no choice but to watch on, his heart in his throat.

Dennis engaged with one, holding his own despite being a foot or two smaller. He weaved in and out, light on his feet and looked to be almost dancing circles around his Death Eater. However, Harry's attention was on Ginny. Ginny ducked under his first punch, sidestepping his next one. He was thrown off-balance and this made him angry. He yelled and lunged at her but again, he was left empty handed. Ginny then executed a perfect one-two punch combo, which had Harry staring open mouthed at her. He didn't know she could fight but he shouldn't have been surprised either. Six protective older brothers would not leave their only sister defenceless. The Death Eater staggered backwards but Ginny advanced with him, hitting him again and again until he was subdued. The Death Eater swayed in front of her and as Ginny went to deliver the final blow, the last Death Eater caught Harry's eye.

Harry cried out, though his voice cracked and was barely a whisper. The Death Eater went straight for Ginny, and she had not noticed yet. She was too busy keeping the other one away from Harry. He was afraid. Afraid Ginny would get hurt for him. Afraid he would have to watch her die. Afraid he would be unable to do anything but flee from Riddle. But Ginny needed his him and when it came to her, nothing else should matter.

Harry sprang from the wall, diving at the last Death Eater. He tackled him inches from Ginny and the force from Harry's charge sent them crashing into the other wall. The Death Eater copped the full brunt of the impact, which gave Harry the advantage. They grappled against the wall, each trying to gain the upper hand. Without a shirt and covered in sweat, the Death Eater was unable to get a grip on him. Harry stayed in close and drove punch after punch into his ribs. He brought his elbow up and smashed his nose. The Death Eater recoiled and in doing so, slapped Harry in the face. Harry lost his footing and momentum, spinning away from the hit dazed and weak. Harry fell to one knee and the Death Eater yelled and charged forward. Ginny came from out of nowhere and kicked him squarely in the jaw. He collapsed and Harry gazed up at Ginny, awed.

'Are you okay?' she asked in a small voice, bending and getting him to his feet.

'You're amazing,' Harry said breathlessly, still gazing at her.

She laughed and blushed, kissing him softly on his cheek. 'Focus Harry.'

'Right,' Harry said. 'Right.' He glanced at the unconscious Death Eaters. Dennis was already grabbing his and dragging it to a nearby door. He looked back to the one in front of him. 'Help me get his clothes,' he told Ginny.

Ginny didn't ask questions but helped him get changed into the Death Eater's pants, black button up shirt and jacket. They were slightly large on him but they were better than what he had. Together they heaved, pushed and pulled him and his pal into the opened room where Dennis was waiting for them. Harry could hear more shouts and bangs from this corridor, not to mention the first rounds of gun fire. Harry deduced they were near an exit but he needed to get to the stock room first. He insisted he stood without assistance, though Ginny was close enough to him that they were bumping together as they walked.

'The room, Dennis?' Harry asked once they were together.

'Just that door on the right,' Dennis answered, pointing to the door while dabbing his lip with the other.

'I'll only be a couple of minutes. Check them for weapons and then we'll get out of here.'

Harry didn't wait for an answer. Though weak, the sounds of fighting had triggered the leader in Harry. He found if he focused on the tasks at hand rather than his own pains or issues, he could ignore them entirely. He strode to the door, Ginny beside him. The stock room was small, barely enough space with the shelves for the two of them to fit in. Harry scanned the shelves, hoping the thing he needed was in there. He shuffled around Ginny after inspecting his side and coming up empty.

'Harry, what are you looking for?' Ginny asked.

Harry could feel her worried eyes on him but he had just found it. They were only a couple of vials but that should be enough for him. He turned to her, holding up the three inch container and ripping off the lid. Ginny read the label, her eyes widening as she realised what he was doing.

'Harry, no! That's …'

'Pure adrenaline,' Harry finished, with a grin.

Ginny went to grab it but Harry was quicker. He stabbed the needle side into the vein at his elbow, releasing the liquid into his veins. Ginny's shocked reaction met his excited one as he felt it running through his veins, his heart pumping with it.

'It's the only way,' Harry explained to her, placing the other vial into the pocket on the inside of the jacket.

'Too much of that will kill you,' Ginny replied.

Harry reached out, his hand going to her cheek. 'It's the only way, to keep you safe,' he repeated. 'I won't let them take you from me and I have to have my strength back. I will have to do things, though; things that I never wanted you to see me do. I will have to kill, Ginny. They won't get away with what they have done.'

'I know,' she said quietly, unsurprised. She wasn't looking at him but she leant into his palm at her cheek. 'So will I.'

'I won't let it come to that.' Harry forced her to look at him. 'I'm sorry you have been put through this but I promise, you will come out of it.'

'As long as you're beside me at the end,' Ginny said, staring directly at him.

Harry stared at her, his jaw clenched. He couldn't promise he would live, couldn't promise her a life with him now that they were here. There was a thing before a fight, a slight flicker of a temptation to make big vows and promises to return. Harry knew he couldn't listen to them. He would never know how a fight would go, even if it was as meticulously planned by Hermione. A split second decision or an unexpected hitch could put the person who once was safe, in life threatening danger in the blink of an eye. And it's that second that can kill a person. It scared him that Ginny was about to be in that situation but they had no other option.

He gave her a small, sad smile and said. 'Dennis will be waiting for us.' He walked out, the adrenaline starting to kick in, with Ginny trailing closely behind him.

'This is all I could find,' Dennis said moments later, handing Ginny and Harry a knife each with its holster. Harry had to contain his protest of Ginny holding a weapon. It was logical but it didn't mean Harry had to like it.

Dennis went to hand over a small hand gun to Harry but he shook his head, pushing it back toward Dennis. 'You keep it. I prefer not to use them.'

Dennis shrugged and holstered the gun on his belt, on the other side to his own. 'Suit yourself. We should move.'

Harry let Dennis lead the way, making Ginny follow next so Harry could bring up the rear and also keep an eye on her. Dennis took off a brisk jog and Harry was relieved to find the adrenaline was working so far in his favour. Ginny kept checking back on Harry all the while the sounds of a fight was getting louder with each new corridor. Dennis explained as they ran that the maze of corridors was only a clever design made to confuse a stranger. The corridors were only few in numbers but because of the layout it seemed endless.

Harry was only slightly listening, his attention divided between his surroundings and Ginny. The sounds of the battle were now loud enough that Dennis had to shout to be heard. This caused all of them to quicken their pace, Harry more than the others. They entered the corridor where Harry and Ginny were first separated and it was utter chaos. Death Eaters and Order members alike fought to gain the upper hand. Bullets ricocheted in all directions. Harry managed to grab the back of Ginny's shirt and pull her from the doorway as bullets flew towards them. Harry roughly threw Ginny against the wall and covered her body with his while Dennis dove into a nearby door. Bits of wall, ceiling and floor rained around them, making it hard to see who was where.

Harry stuck his head out, still keeping Ginny guarded. After ducking back and forth a few times, Harry noticed it was only one lone Death Eater firing the bullets, not caring who he shot at. He had to eliminate this guy for both parties sake. He turned to Ginny and she seemed to understand what he was about to do. He smiled, kissed her forehead and then sprinted down the corridor. He leapt over his fellow Order members, dodged Death Eaters, who stared open mouthed at him as he passed. He withdrew his knife as the shooter zeroed in on him. If he was aiming at Harry he didn't hit him. Harry slid to the man's right side, his knife held tightly in a reverse grip in his left hand. Harry held his hand aloft, so it was level with his head as he slid on his knees. He sliced upward, catching the guy in the ribs. The Death Eater screamed. Harry rose and went to bring his fist across and knock him out but he was already falling with a gurgle. Ginny had followed him and, using the handle of her blade, knocked him in the temple once Harry had slid past.

Harry looked first at the Death Eater and then at Ginny, shocked and angered. Ginny was expressionless as she watched the man fall and even when she met Harry's gaze it was the same blank stare. It was a second before the rest of the people realised the shooter was dead. Order members who recognised Harry cried out his name in a cheer before falling upon the still stunned Death Eaters. Harry grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her down the hall, turning instinctively to the left.

Harry ran through the corridors, going off his dim memory of the first time they were lead down these paths and the volume of the sound.

'Harry wait,' Ginny panted. Harry paused and turned to face her, trying to mask his anger. 'What about Dennis?'

'He'll find us,' Harry said shortly. He took off at a brisk walk down the hall, the white walls closing in on him. He stopped abruptly and Ginny ran into him. 'Don't ever do that again,' he told her quietly.

'I thought I was amazing for doing that?' Ginny smirked a little.

'Don't joke, Ginny,' Harry said, his voice hardening.

'Fine! I'm not just going to watch you run off and try to kill yourself,' she snapped back.

'Well I don't want to turn around and find you dead because you tried to help me,' he snarled at her, eyes burning as he stared at her.

Ginny's eyes narrowed. 'Oh, and running head first into a battle when you're only half alive isn't suicide?'

'Ginny, I have to help!'

'Yeah and so do I!'

'No you –.'

A shout from the end of corridor broke off their argument. Six Death Eaters ran towards them, the little ferrety one that tormented Harry at the back, barking orders. Harry growled in frustration. He didn't need the adrenaline when he was as furious as he was. He engaged with the closest fighter without preamble and heard Ginny doing the same. He gritted his teeth, dealing with the boy in two well-placed punches. He met the next, wasting no time in disposing of him. Harry looked over and saw Ginny with another, her first one groaning on the floor clutching his nose. Harry cursed. He wanted to do most of the fighting so Ginny wouldn't have to but it seemed she knew of his tactic.

Harry was staring at her for too long. The fifth Death Eater slammed his foot into Harry's stomach followed by a powerful punch to Harry's exposed jaw. Harry was pushed off of his feet, his breath gasping from his lips. He rolled with his momentum until he was crouched but it was only a second before his attacker was upon him, lashing out with their leg. Harry dived to the side, getting to his feet. His back was to Ginny, which made it hard to focus on his attacker. Harry was surprised when he saw it was a female but quickly put that aside as she swung again at him. He dodged and blocked her onslaught, knowing he was in trouble. He got in a couple of hits but it appeared to have no effect on this woman. Harry heard Ginny struggling with her own and the little ferrety Death Eater taunting her.

'Come on sweetheart,' he wheezed out. 'Once we finish with your boyfriend you'll be all mine. I don't think I need to put your heart in a box. Don't you want to be with a real man? I can show a good time or at least, I will have a good time with you.'

Harry growled. His vision grew red from his anger at the Death Eater. He grabbed the exposed wrist of his Death Eater as she attempted to punch him. She whimpered in pain as Harry twisted it, making her drop to her knees. He kicked her hard in her solar plexus and she doubled over retching. Harry felt a slight pang of guilt but he had already turned to Ginny. He intercepted a blow met for her, and with his right hand, smashed his fist directly into the Death Eater's chest. The man's eyes bulged and Harry tossed his limp body to the side, his face a snarl.

The ferrety Death Eater had stopped talking and now looked at Harry with pure terror. He had crept forward but now he was backpedalling fast as Harry stalked towards him. He was longer their prey to torment; he was their predator. The Death Eater pulled out a small switch blade, pointing it timidly at Harry. This didn't stop Harry. He continued forward, dropping his right shoulder when the knife swiped at him. He went to drop his left shoulder but from the hours of hanging it was slower and he felt the sting as the blade sang across the skin of his bicep. He paused then to inspect the flesh wound, before glaring at the Death Eater and advancing again.

In a last desperate attempt the man cried and went for Harry's head. Harry caught the man's wrist, his injured arm flaring in pain. The man's eyes widened and Harry turned him and drove into a nearby wall, drawing his own knife as they went. The man's back hit the wall and Harry drove his knife through his chest, directly into his heart. He stared at the Death Eater and watched the fear stare back at him.

'Let's put your heart in a box,' Harry said flatly.

He pulled out his knife at the same time he let the man's wrist go. The ferrety Death Eater slumped to the ground, where he moved no more. Harry stared down at the man, not satisfied but not feeling guilty either. Harry was breathing deeply and suddenly he felt bone tired. Blood ran from his wound down his arm, dripping from his fingers. He took a staggered step away and flinched when a hand touched his shoulder. He spun ready to attack but stopped when he realised it was just Ginny. Her face was pinched with concern. Harry, who was ready for the panicked and even accused expression, was stunned and his eyes welled. She just saw him at his most dangerous and she really didn't care.

'You're bleeding,' Ginny murmured, her fingers hovering over his arm.

He smiled, bent down and ripped a scrap of cloth from one of the fallen Death Eaters' shirts. In the midst of the scuffle, their argument was forgotten. He handed it to her as he shrugged out off of his jacket. She tied it, a little too tightly for Harry's liking, around the wound.

'You okay?' Harry asked, brushing his fingers against a red mark on her throat.

Ginny nodded with a small smile. She looked at their fallen foes with a sigh. Another bang echoed throughout the building. The walls shook and Harry eyed them warily. The structure wouldn't hold out against the continuous explosions. Harry was beginning to suspect he was missing something important.

'What do we do with them?' Ginny asked.

'Leave them,' Harry said after a thought. 'We've wasted enough time. This is strange.'

'Why?'

'If you and I were top priority, why aren't there any more Death Eaters coming to get us?'

'Maybe they know we're already out?' Ginny suggested.

'We would have run into them by now.'

'The Order took them by surprise. Maybe they were in a meeting when we attacked.'

'Possibly …' Harry said, though he didn't quite believe it.

Movement came at them from the corridor behind them. Harry drew his knife and threw on instinct, embedding it on the corner of the wall where Dennis was sprinting around. Dennis yelled in fright and dived sideways at seeing the knife, where he collided with the wall. Harry breathed out his annoyance as Dennis swore loudly.

'I guess I'm lucky your aim is off,' Dennis said, breathless.

'Who said it was off?' Harry asked with a raised eyebrow.

Dennis opened his mouth to reply but seemed at a loss on what to say, so he closed it again. Harry rolled his eyes and sought out a bemused Ginny before they were met with more company from the main corridor. Ron and Hermione skidded to a halt, staring at Harry in shock. Harry had barely time to exclaim his wonder when Hermione shrieked his name and engulfed him in a hug. Through her bushy hair he could see Ron doing the same to his younger sister. Several more Order members followed after Ron and Hermione, each gaping at Harry or saying his name in relief. Hermione, however, talked over the top of them.

'Harry! Oh Harry, you're here! Are you okay? And Ginny! Thank goodness. We were so worried!'

'Hermione, let him breathe,' Ron said with a grin, coming over to hug his best friend.

'What's happening?' Harry asked, waving off other Order members.

Hermione and Ron shared a look before Hermione answered, biting her lip slightly. 'We should really get you out of here.'

'Hermione,' Harry said knowingly. His lips twitched.

The walls shook as yet another bang issued close to them. A few Order members looked around nervously. Harry frowned. The explosions, judging from their reaction, were not from Fred and George. He glanced at Ron, who shrugged and eyed Hermione, his concern showing. Hermione was worried as well and she gestured that they start to move towards the lobby, until she noticed Dennis.

'Who's this?' she asked. An Order member Harry recognised as Seamus Finnegan tightened his hand around his gun.

'A friend,' Ginny answered, smiling at Dennis. 'You can trust him.'

Hermione seemed satisfied with this and they started to jog through the last remaining corridors. Harry felt the sweat build on his brow and run down his back. His legs muscles started to seize and his shoulders had begun to ache. He flexed and stretched them as they jogged. Ginny, who was beside him, looked at him questionably. Harry stopped it and pushed forward so he was beside Ron and Hermione.

'So, are you going to tell me how you got here and what is the plan or do I have to make it up once I find the battle?'

'Are you up to fighting?' Hermione asked.

Harry shrugged. 'I've been cooped up for … How long were we there?'

'A week,' Ron replied.

'Huh, I guessed right then.'

'Always a surprise,' Ron smirked.

'I had some spare time,' Harry grinned back.

'An even bigger shock.'

'Well someone decided to take over my role.'

'You can have it back. How on earth did you manage to stay sane?'

'Don't overthink it.'

'Would you two stop that?' Hermione asked, exasperated. Harry and Ron turned to her and she blushed slightly. 'I mean, it's great you two are catching up but we need to get Harry out of here before Riddle sees him.'

'Riddle's here?' Harry asked, skidding to a stop.

Harry gazed at each of the Order members in turn, feeling slightly betrayed. Hermione looked apologetic. Ron shrugged but didn't look Harry in the eye. A few of the Order members shifted uncomfortably. Shouts issued from further down the hall, followed by a round of gun fire. Dennis ran to a nearby door and gestured everyone to follow him in. Harry guessed the room served the purpose of a small conference room from a desk filling up most of the space and the chairs haphazardly beside it.

'This room's hardly ever used,' Dennis explained as he closed the door. 'We'll be safe in here to talk for a few minutes.'

Harry nodded before rounding to Ron and Hermione. The fear of Riddle was still there but it was pushed to the back of Harry's mind. First and foremost now he was their leader and he needed to take control. He had a responsibility to get his people out alive and by doing that he had to face Riddle, regardless of his feelings. The Order members had arranged themselves in a loose circle around Harry, Ron, Hermione, Ginny and Dennis, facing the walls, ready to protect the others from the Death Eaters.

'Why didn't you tell me?' Harry asked Ron and Hermione in a hard voice.

'We thought it would be easier if we just got you out,' Ron said feebly.

'There is no easy way anymore, Ron,' Harry shook his head. He placed a hand on the desk, steadying his shaky legs but no one noticed that. 'I need to know everything. Please, Hermione. From the night Ginny and I were taken.'

'We don't really have the time …'

'Hermione,' Harry said in a tone that had no leeway for suggestions. 'Cliff notes version.'

Hermione looked at Ron, sighed and spoke again. 'I got a team together the moment you hung up on me. I had already guessed where you were from something Ginny mentioned to me when you first lent her the house. We were a suburb away when we saw the flare …'

'It was my fault we weren't there earlier,' Ron interrupted. 'We were going in the wrong direction because of me.'

'It wouldn't have mattered,' Harry consoled. 'The Death Eaters were pretty organized. If you were there, it probably would have ended in a massacre.'

'Yes, we realised this after we tried to track you,' Hermione continued, giving Ron an encouraging smile. 'As you probably guessed the trail was wiped, even with your help. It took Shacklebolt and Lupin three days to find it and by then we had reports that Riddle was moving swiftly. But our concern was on another thing.' Hermione glanced quickly at Ginny. 'Witnesses saw the two of you being dragged off and they identified the Death Eaters that took you. It caused an uproar with the public, especially because Ginny is famous. No offense Harry,' she added. Harry rolled his eyes. 'The government was forced to conclude that we were right all along. And you, Harry. Everyone finally saw you spoke the truth. Actually, thinking on it, you are probably nearly as popular as Ginny now.'

'Fantastic,' Harry murmured. His hands began to shake so he gripped the table. Sweat ran down his back, his shoulders slumped forward as if a huge weight had suddenly landed on him. He was panting slightly, his breaths slightly uneven. Ginny's eyes were on him so he rearranged his face.

'Thought it would please you,' Ron smirked.

'He should be,' Hermione said seriously. 'If it wasn't for his persistence, the government wouldn't be helping us now.'

'The government members are here?' Harry asked incredulously. He had to grip the table harder to remain upright.

Hermione nodded. 'They are angered and humiliated from Riddle's betrayal. They provided us with the supplies to find you here.'

'And information,' Hannah Abbott added from over her shoulder.

'Not to mention all of the family members you have helped over the years,' Terry Boot from behind Harry said.

'Don't forget us too. All of the Order is here,' Seamus Finnegan, who was beside Ron, said.

'We have to move then,' Harry murmured, awed by the sheer number of people. The building shook again. 'Where is all of the fighting?'

'In the main lobby room,' Ron answered suspiciously.

'When we heard Riddle was on the move, we had people tail him, hoping he would lead us to you. A few miles out, we knew of an abandoned mansion and well, Riddle was coming here. The twins took a small group and from the blueprints we borrowed from the government they snuck in through hidden entrances. We burst through the front gates before Riddle had even moved this morning and well, now you know everything.'

'I need to find Riddle,' Harry told Ron and Hermione. He faced the Order. 'Prepare to fight.'

They nodded with grim determination. Seamus lead the members from the room, pulling his gun from the holster. Harry went to follow but as he took his first step it was as though vertigo suddenly came over him. His vision wavered and the world tilted underneath his feet. He staggered and made himself fall into the wall instead of the floor but even so, he slid to his knees. Luckily the Order members had already run from the room so they didn't see their leader's weakness.

'Harry!' Ginny exclaimed, rushing over to catch him as he slid down the wall.

'Adrenaline's worn off,' Harry explained.

He smiled weakly through his abated breath. Ginny's worry was hardly quelled. Both Ron and Hermione were frowning in concern but Harry waved off their attempts to help as he rose shakily to his feet. He smiled again at Ginny and walked out of her grasp, towards the door, held open by Dennis. Harry faced the young man, who stood expressionless beside him. They stood facing each other and Harry placed a hand on his shoulder.

'Remember my request?' Harry asked.

Dennis' eyes flickered to Ginny and back to him. He nodded in understanding and Harry returned with a smile and bob of his own head.

'What request, Harry?' Ginny demanded, not missing Dennis' gaze.

Harry ignored her and ran out into the hallway, sprinting towards the lobby. Dennis was right behind him, telling him which path to take. They sprinted into the lobby and faltered. It was chaos. People raced to and from the room, some engaged in hand to hand combat, others firing shot after shot towards opponents. A few dashed past, carrying injured friends or comrades from the fray. Shouts, screams, gunshots, breaking furniture deafened Harry and the others as they tried to get their bearings in the room.

Harry heard the squeal of a girl beside them and ran towards it without a second thought. Harry kicked the Death Eater, placing himself between the girl curled up on the ground and her over large opponent. The Death Eater glared at Harry and was just about to attack when Ron, Hermione and Dennis intercepted him. Ginny ran to the girl's side, coaxing her to her feet and telling her to run. Harry scanned the room, found another group of allies in trouble and with Ginny hot on his heels, helped them overpower the Death Eaters.

Word soon spread that Harry Potter was freed and was helping the Order and government fighters alike. It seemed to boost the confidence of the Order. There was a shift in momentum and the Death Eaters were now the ones who were on the back foot. This was all in the space of ten minutes. The government fighters sensed victory but the Order members were more wary. The upper Death Eaters were scarce from the lobby fight as was Riddle. Harry noticed the Death Eaters still fighting were gathered in a loose semi-circle in front of a set of double doors leading out behind the mansion. After a quick word to Ron, Harry was told the backyard was a collection of villas for the occupants of the house. Harry ordered the charge to get outside and the Order attacked with a new ferocity.

Harry knocked out another Death Eater, breathing heavily. They had reached the doors and a small group of fighters ran out towards the villas. Harry fell back into the railing of the spiral stairs, dabbing his fingers to his bloody nose. His head pounded and his left eye was beginning to swell but that was the least of his concern. His problem was that he was growing weaker after every fight. He still had the extra needle full of adrenaline in his coat pocket but he wanted to save it until he really needed it.

Harry scanned the fighters, checking to see casualties. Most of the fighters were fine although all had accumulated injuries. While some attended to those injuries, others tied up Death Eaters, confiscating weapons and attended to those who needed further assistance. There was still resistance from a few Death Eaters and fighting could be heard from the maze of corridors. Harry ordered a few standing members to help those in the corridors.

He noticed Ginny at the main desk as Dennis walked over, enquiring over her health. Harry wiped the blood from his nose again as he watched her, trying to discern why he was so uneasy. Ron and Hermione joined Harry at the stairs at this point, to which Ron looked first at Harry and then to where he was staring.

'She's pretty good,' Ron said. He rubbed his shoulder. 'I mean, I hate her fighting but she seems to know how to handle herself.'

'Yeah …' Harry drifted off. His eyes left Ginny, searching for any other danger. Riddle had to be here. There was no way he would have left, not with Harry weakened and vulnerable.

Harry was just about to ask Ron and Hermione whether they had noticed the same thing when the wall to the corridor blew apart with an almighty bang, sending fragments of the building towards the people in the lobby. The three of them were thrown apart from the impact. Something hit Harry on the back of his head. As his eyes rolled into the back of his head, he heard nothing. Not the screams from his fellows, nor the aftereffects of the explosions. He was in, for what Harry could not believe in his semi-conscious state, a blissful silence.

And there was Part 2

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