This is a really short little chapter. The calm before the storm. It was originally going to be part of the next chapter, but I didn't have time to finish it so I figured you would all prefer to see something as opposed to waiting for a longer next chapter.
Chapter 42: Shatter
The morning dawned over Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Unlike the previous two mornings there was no laughter, no group of nervous but cheerful people gathered in the Great Hall.
Instead the halls were silent. There was no movement anywhere. Sometime during the night the youngest inhabitants had been moved out of the castle to Hogsmeade. As a result the internal population of the school had been dramatically reduced.
The remaining inhabitants of the school were spread strategically around the castle. Arthur had stayed up most of the night instructing people on where they were to start the battle and their roles in the fight.
Harry stood with his wand in his hand in front of the huge doors to the Entrance Hall. Standing with him were Arthur, Merlin, Hermione, Ron, Snape and Lupin.
Arthur threw a quick glance at the sky. "How much longer?" He asked.
Merlin's eyes were focused on the gate in the distance. "Not long now, the spell is so weak that it will break as soon as they attack."
Arthur drew his sword and turned to Harry. "Here, and remember this is your only chance. Don't over-extend yourself, make each blow count." Arthur held the sword out to Harry and for the first time The-Boy-Who-Lived closed his hand around the hilt of the greatest sword ever forged. Excalibur.
Harry could almost feel the magic in the blade. It seemed to hum in his hand; it was lighter than the practice swords they had been using. Harry could only hope that would help.
There was a crunch and rustle from above them and Harry looked up, tearing his eyes away from the blade in his hand. The fate of Albion lies in your hands. Kilgharrah examined Harry with his intense golden eyes. Harry swallowed and nodded. Then he turned slowly back towards the gate.
Merlin gave Harry a nod and a smile. "You can do this."
Hermione squeezed Harry's wrist. "We're all here behind you Harry."
"Yeah mate, we're not going anywhere." Ron added.
Harry's eyes skipped over Lupin who was smiling proudly at Harry, to Snape. The dark haired Potions master sneered and turned his attention away from Harry. Harry had the distinct feeling that Snape would be a turning point in this battle. If he turned on them, they were doomed.
A silver cat bounced around the corner and said in McGonagall's voice, "You-Know-Who has arrived at the gate. Get ready."
Above their heads the dragon lifted his head and spread his wings. According to Merlin there was no point hiding Kilgharrah, Voldemort already knew he was here.
PREPARE. The roar echoed around the entire school. The first loud sound that morning.
That sound was like the dam breaking, moments after the roar there was a sound like glass breaking and Harry knew that Merlin's spell was broken.
Harry lifted Excalibur as Arthur hefted another sword. The wizards drew their wands and Merlin raised his staff. Harry took a deep breath and set his shoulders. "Here they come."