Neville blinked rapidly as he was pulled into consciousness, the lights burning his eyes.
"Enjoying your nap Longbottom?" A familiar voice mocked.
Lifting himself into a sitting position he rubbed his head. "Shut up Malfoy" He tried to piece his thoughts together, something bad had happened, he had a horrible sense of urgency and it was Malfoy who filled in the blank for him as his head continued to sting painfully as he observed his odd surroundings.
"Where's Potter?" Malfoy asked, a hard edge to his voice.
Neville felt himself go hollow as he leapt to his feet, swaying unsteady he swore.
Malfoy only raised a calculating eyebrow at him as he waited.
Neville swallowed uncomfortably before admitting. "Tom sort of took off" He said anxiously, glancing towards the large door. He had no sense of time, Tom could have been missing for hours. It was so hard to remember what had happened, Tom must had knocked him out, he blinked furiously as he rubbed the back of his head.
Malfoy's gaze sharpened and he looked livid, absolutely furious as he snapped. "Are you trying to kill Potter?" He hissed, grabbing Longbottom roughly by the arm and hauling him out of the echoing entrance hall.
Neville struggled before he managed to jerk his arm away from the Slytherin in disbelief as they came to stop in a side corridor, this had not been what he had expected to hear. "Of course not" He replied horrified at the implication. He would have been unable to stop Tom, that he was certain.
"Then why the hell are you giving the Dark Lord a reason to visit the castle?" Malfoy hissed, his eyes flashing dangerously as he held his own wand in his hand.
"You can't call him" Neville gaped, shocked at what Malfoy was really implying. Tom might be back soon, and then Voldemort wouldn't need to know anything.
"Correct" Malfoy said coldly. "I won't, but you will" He said, folding his arms and fixing him with a very hard stare.
Neville spluttered indignantly. "Of course I won't" He snapped. "If you think I'm crazy enough-" He didn't get to finish as Malfoy cut across him bluntly.
"You allowed for Potter to walk out of the castle." He hissed. Neville couldn't remember Malfoy looking so angry before. "You may not have been able to stop it but if the Dark Lord believe you to be hiding anything from him or did not alert him instantly you will suffer." Neville felt his heart sink as he listened, he really did have a lot to learn when it came to Voldemort, he had to tread carefully. Malfoy had certainly been an odd help to him.
"Why do you care?" Neville said bluntly, he didn't understand what Malfoy would gain if Voldemort killed him.
Malfoy didn't answer, instead he only repeated coldly "Call him now" He instructed. "Or we'll both suffer."
Neville raised an eyebrow at him. "Tom might be back soon. Surely he won't need to know-"
Malfoy cut across him. "You're wasting time" He hissed, grabbing Neville's arm and pulling it forward, at the same time moving his sleeve up to reveal the horribly shape of a skull imprinted on his arm.
Neville tried to yank his arm away but Malfoy kept a firm grip. Neville really didn't want to call Voldemort, after the disaster that was last time Harry could not take another hit like that. It was if Malfoy was reading his mind as he said sharply.
"It'll only be worse for Potter if you do not act now."
Neville swallowed uncomfortably, that much was true. He knew he could not really help Harry and at least Voldemort did not want Tom in control, perhaps he would be able to pull Harry back into his own body. If he acted wrongly now, Voldemort might really remove Harry from the castle.
Neville gritted his teeth as he acknowledged Malfoy's point. Harry would never forgive him. He moved his hand and firmly pressed it on his Dark Mark. Malfoy's only nodded satisfied as he let go of Neville's wrist.
"Come on" He said, as he walked promptly away. Neville sighed heavily as he followed the Slytherin up to the headmasters office.
Xxxxxxxxxx
Tom walked briskly up the dark Hogwarts grounds. It must have been around four in the morning as he stepped closer to the entrance hall. His head had been stinging painfully all night, obviously from his Lords fury at his disappearance but this didn't matter.
Tom had been successful, he had achieved what his Lord had asked him to do weeks ago. The thief had been identified, Grindelwald had been easy enough to get to, and easy enough to extract the information that he needed from the old Dark wizard.
Tom grinned as he glanced up at the tall Hogwarts towers, his mind wandering, he now knew the location of the wand, the wand so powerful that non could beat it. His Lord had been seeking it for awhile now and finally Tom could deliver.
He was worth more then being forced to endure nothingness, his Lord should value him above everything and that included Potter's frustrating hold he had. He would prove to his Lord that he should not be pushed aside so easily, that Tom had so much worth and would help him conquer this war.
He still held Longbottom's wand firmly in his grip as he remembered fondly how Grindelwald had screamed beneath his curse. Tom loved holding the power, it was truly satisfying to have such a result from his trip away from the school.
He entered the large entrance hall and his eyes immediately locked on to two seventh year students waiting anxiously. Longbottom had been resting on the steps leading up in the castle while Malfoy had been leaning casually against the large pile at the bottom of the stares. They turned to him, Longbottom shooting up hurriedly while Malfoy only raised his eyebrow as he pushed off lightly from the wall and steeped towards him.
"Where the hell were you" Longbottom hissed, making to grab Tom to stop him walking forwards. Impressively Malfoy was quick to react as he seized Longbottom's arm, pulling him around and glaring at him coldly. Longbottom looked like he was going to protest but for whatever reason he held his tongue. Tom smiled coldly, Malfoy certainly was a promising Death Eater, Longbottom too disregarding his defiance, but that was something he would only be too pleased to teach him.
Tom couldn't help but smile as he pondered, maybe his Lord would let him keep them both for himself.
Malfoy had locked eyes with Tom.
"The Dark Lord is in the castle and requests your presence" He said, with a slight nod of his head, his expression locked tight.
Tom smirked "He requests?" he said lightly "He must be in a good mood" He mumbled, although from his now stabbing forehead he knew that it was the opposite.
Longbottom was glaring furiously at him, of course Tom had knocked him out and fled the castle but he did not understand the significance of what he had found out.
Tom walked forwards, passing them both fluently as they both stood rooted to the spot.
"You will accompany me" Tom commanded clearly over his shoulder. They at once followed obediently without hesitation, although Longbottom was looking extremely wary of the events that had occurred.
Xxxxxxxxx
Tom stepped forwards carefully into Snape's office, his eyes locking at once on his Lords chilling red. His head nearly burst from the immense fury that was thundering through him, but he proceeded, coming to stop just before him his head bowed slightly to the floor.
Behind him he heard Malfoy and Longbottom drop to their knees, they would not stand until they were told to move. Snape was standing slightly behind Voldemort, his expression steeled.
Voldemort stepped up to him, his soft footsteps closing the gap between them. Tom didn't move until his Lord was before him. He looked up and at once felt the painful sting on his cheek as his Voldemort back handed him sharply across the face.
Tom hissed, raising his hand to his reddening cheek as he flushed, his eyes glaring, however he didn't speak out as Voldemort addressed him fiercely in parceltongue.
"You dare disobey me" He hissed, his eyes maddening. Tom felt like his forehead would rip apart.
"My Lord" Tom began, but at once regretted it as Voldemort advanced upon him, gripping his hair and twisting it painfully, pulling his head up to lock eyes on his furious red.
"Did I give you permission to speak?" He demanded. "Did I give you permission to control Potter's body and leave the castle?"
Tom clenched his teeth shut, resisting the urge to bring out the wand and retaliate. Voldemort was truly furious with him and Tom felt his own anger rise.
"I had somewhere to be" Tom hissed back between clenched teeth, his face inches from Voldemort's. "I acted for you My Lord"
Voldemort twisted his hand around painfully in his hair and threw him forcefully away. Tom landed sharply on the ground, as he flushed with embarrassment and fury.
"Your actions were not justified" Voldemort hissed as he advanced on him as Tom pulled himself up, an angry gleam in his eyes. "Whatever the reason you left the castle. Potter could have been lost, taken by the Order. This is not acceptable"
"I identified the thief my Lord." Tom hissed angrily, glaring at his Lord. Tom felt both anger and excitement rush through his head. However it seemed that Voldemort was still too furious as he continued furiously.
"And you thought it not worth telling me?" Voldemort threatened, his voice low and cold. "Instead of coming to me directly, you would throw everything away?"
"I have secured you the wand" Tom replied coldly, this was important, his Lord should see this as a priority. Snape had yet to move as he only waited silently behind his Lord, Malfoy and Longbottom still remained kneeling on the floor in submission. His Lord would surely only kill them if they moved or dared interfere, this was so much more then the business of death eaters they were dealing with.
All his Lord had to do was destroy the tomb of Dumbledore, then he would see the true gift that Tom had bought him. He would see the value in freeing him from being trapped in the school in Potter's worthless mind.
"The Thief is Grindelwald" Tom hissed before Voldemort could strike him once more, he could feel a bruise forming on his cold face as he stared up defiantly, hoping it would stay his Lords wand and cause him to realise the situation at hand.
He felt a rush of pain through his scar as he tried to ignore it, Voldemort was gazing at him intensely as he too came to the same conclusion that Tom had.
"Dumbledore" Voldemort hissed, turning abruptly to look at the empty painting before turning straight back to Tom. "The wand lies in his Tomb?" He demanded.
Tom nodded coldly as he crossed his arms, he had delivered a great gift to Voldemort, surely he would be rewarded however he was furious as Voldemort observed him carefully, a look of hunger and triumph on his face.
He commanded, hissing coldly. "I will deal with the wand", his red eyes focusing on Tom frostily. Tom jutted his chin out defiantly as he stood there firmly. He knew he should truly submit to his Lord, bow down before him and beg for his forgiveness but he would not be subjected to nothingness again.
"When will I be released?" Tom hissed back impatiently, not waiting for his Lord to speak. He felt a horrendous pain seer through the ache in his head. "You have the wand almost in your hand" He added.
Voldemort only surveyed him coldly. "I have told you this will only be temporary" He hissed. "Do not tempt me to make it more permanent with your disobedience." He threatened.
Tom glared but did not speak, holding his tongue as he shook from rage. It wasn't as if Potter could withstand being in control anyway, what was the point.
"Your arm" Voldemort hissed as he held his wand delicately.
Tom couldn't help but roll his eyes as he held out his arm, his head flashed with immense pain as at once the small band of light which he had removed early was once again shining around his wrist.
"Don't you dare remove it again" He hissed furiously.
Tom fixed Voldemort with a hard stare. "Yes My Lord" His tone was cold. He knew his Lord was justified in his fury but Tom was more then furious back. He was to be kept trapped in this prison.
Voldemort turned his attention away from him, still disregarding Snape.
"Stand" Voldemort finally commanded to Longbottom and Malfoy and they did so. Tom only shot them glances before he was Voldemort's key focus once more.
"Return the wand" Voldemort commanded coldly. Tom clenched his fists, before angrily stepping over to Longbottom. He held out the boys wand, Longbottom it seemed dared not look at him as he only reached forwards and took it promptly.
"Get Potter out of my sight" Voldemort commanded to the two young death eaters.
Malfoy responded fluently, bowing his head low and murmuring "Yes My Lord" Whereas Longbottom only stood their awkwardly. It seemed Voldemort had other thing on his mind then dealing with a disobedient death eater for Tom sank into unconscious once more.
Xxxxxxxxx
Harry woke up screaming.
He barely registered his body drenched in sweat as his arms thrashed around in a blind panic.
Neville was right by his side in an instant, pushing a glass of water to his lips as he shook violently, uncontrollably. He could see the white tomb, he could still hear Voldemort's triumphant laugh, he tried to stand up but found he had no strength to move.
"Lie down" He heard Neville's muffled voice. Everything was blurry as Harry felt his vision slip once more. The destroyed tomb of Albus Dumbledore nearly caused himself to throw up as he shifted back into the Gryffindor common room.
"Get Madam Pomfrey" Neville said hurriedly to what must have been Seamus. He vaguely heard someone leapt up.
Harry couldn't focus, he tried to move again but felt Neville push him down gently.
"Don't move" He said, Neville's voice sounded stronger now. "What happened?" He heard him ask, the worry apparent in his voice.
Harry couldn't answer, as he shook his head, lying their uncomfortably. He couldn't work out what had happened, he'd been in the room of requirements, but now he in Gryffindor tower. He had fallen into Voldemort's mind but he had barely been able to keep track of what had happened. His scar was on fire as he struggled through the pain. Voldemort was close, he was in Hogwarts and he had just ripped into Dumbledore's tomb. Harry didn't understand, why would Voldemort be breaking into it, nothing made sense anymore as he struggled to stay in his own mind.
Harry wasn't aware of when Madam Pomfrey or Professor McGonagall arrived, he was just completely terrified. He sat there completely frozen.
Xxxxxxxxx
"What happened?" Madam Pomfrey rounded on both Neville and Seamus.
She had spent several long minutes trying to pull Harry out from his complete state of shock. He hadn't reacted to any of them as he lay there almost motionless.
Neville couldn't say a word, his throat was constricted in horror. He only shook his head weakly as the healer scrutinised them both carefully.
McGonagall had an odd look on her face as she turned to him.
"Mr Longbottom, a word please" She instructed. Neville could only nod weakly and follow his Professor out.
Harry had been through so much tonight, it was still the early hours of the morning but his body hadn't really had chance to rest after Tom had taken off with it.
They stepped down into the deserted Gryffindor common room and she got straight to the point.
"We're going to remove Harry from the castle" She said firmly.
Neville felt his insides jump, this he had not expected.
"Can you do that?" He asked hurriedly, this was potentially great news.
McGonagall nodded. "Monday evening I will transfigure the parameters restricting Harry to the castle grounds, we shall move him into a safe house close to here. Voldemort will not be able to touch him"
Neville was astonished, but at her serious expression he faltered, he was missing something.
"Professor..." He began hesitantly. "Why are you telling me?"
It was probably safer to inform him of the plans to remove Harry from the castle then Harry, Tom might wake up, but McGonagall didn't know about that. He waited nervously as she frowned a sad expression crossing her face.
"I do not want to act against Harry's wishes but this cannot go on any longer." She stated.
Neville actually felt like his stomach had been flipped upside down. "Against Harry's wishes?" he started his mouth dry.
McGonagall nodded. "I could have removed him from the castle as soon as he regained his initial strength" She explained, Neville listened totally horrified, why had Harry not left yet.
McGonagall continued. "Harry insured me that he needed to stay inside the castle, he had something he needed to do before he could leave."
Neville couldn't believe it, what was more important then escaping, Harry was destroying himself, he had to run now.
"You want me to bring him to you" He said quietly filling in the blanks. "You want to force him to leave."
McGonagall truly looked remorseful for acting against Harry but she nodded. "Harry's safety is of up most important" She said, her voice firm. "I can sit back no longer."
He nodded as he swallowed, she was right, Harry had to leave but he immediately felt a horrible sinking feeling flooding through him.
Tom. McGonagall didn't know about him, if Harry was removed from the castle then everything could be lost, Tom could so easily manipulate them like he had the DA. Neville knew honestly that there was only one solution.
"Okay, but I'm coming too" He stated. He didn't want to leave Hogwarts but this was more important.
Oddly enough McGonagall didn't look surprised. "Then after dinner on Monday" She started. "Bring Harry to my office"
Neville nodded in understanding. He hoped whatever reason Harry was forcing himself to remain in the castle wouldn't be as important as his own life. He hoped he had made the right decision.
Xxxxxxxxx
It was Sunday evening when Neville found a surprising solution to his worries. He had been fully prepared to drag Harry out of the castle the next day so it was a shock when Harry had sat down next to him in the quiet common room. Nearly everyone was away for dinner and Harry had completely avoided people all weekend, it seemed after his night time wanderings with Tom he had remained shut off from communication.
The fire was crackling warmly despite the frost outside as Neville looked up from his homework he had been failing to concentrate on.
"I think there's a reason I can't focus in the room of requirements" Harry muttered.
Neville turned to him surprised, but he remained quiet, his jaw locked tight listening. Tom certainly had a horribly high frequency of waking up in the room of requirements but he hadn't truly believed it was anything more the coincidence.
"What do you mean?" Neville stated slowly but Harry only shook his head.
"The other night, I hardly remember anything" He began. "As soon as I was in the room of requirements I felt-" He cut himself off quickly but a new expression had broken out on Harry's face, one Neville was not used to seeing.
Harry looked so focused and determined that it caught Neville completely off guard.
"I need to get into the chamber of secrets" He said.
Neville looked at him taken aback, this he had not expected. Harry actually looked vaguely full of life, his eyes flickering with some hidden emotion. Neville couldn't remember the last time Harry had acted so animated, despite his sunken eyes and pale face.
"The Chamber of Secrets?" He whispered back, glancing around to make sure no one was near by. "Why?"
What had caused Harry to act like this, he blinked confused, something had happened.
Harry shook his head, he wasn't going to tell him, to clarify he said urgently "I need your help getting in" It was unnerving how much Harry was locked onto him, and Neville felt a horrible chill as he was strongly reminded of Tom.
Harry waited for him to respond as he made his decision carefully.
Neville didn't understand, but he couldn't refuse. Harry looked like he needed this.
"Sure" He said as casually as he could despite his misgivings "When?"
Harry was silent for a moment. "As soon as possible, I need a distraction, I can't get caught"
Neville tried to piece Harry's train of thought together. Something about the room of requirements needed him to enter the Chamber of Secrets. Completely at a loss but encouraged by Harry's reactions he continued.
"How about I do it?" Neville asked "Or Seamus" He added quickly, Harry was right, he couldn't get caught.
Harry only shook his head refusing to say more.
Neville swallowed, completely disorientated with the situation now, unable to grasp Harry's attitude. Harry wasn't in a sane mind right now, so really his unpredictable behaviour and mood swings should be expected, he just hadn't thought that they would be so drastic.
Neville didn't know what Harry was planning but he wasn't going to fail him. "I can probably get you twenty minutes tomorrow night?" He started, he didn't know why he was agreeing, he had to get Harry out of the castle then.
"The Carrows and Snape can't find out" Harry insisted. Neville could detect the fear into his voice.
"They won't" Neville said confidently, despite his own misgivings. Harry wasn't well, he really shouldn't be encouraging this, for if it failed changes are Harry would only fall in deeper and never return out the other side.
Harry nodded before saying almost awkwardly "I'll need to borrow a wand"
Neville felt his insides freeze, was Harry really asking for this, was Harry actually going to fight.
"Harry" He asked hesitantly. "Are you sure about this...?" He asked, scanning his friends face with uncertainly.
He was surprised when Harry locked him with such a fierce gaze as he nodded and dropped his voice to a whisper, one that was full of such raw emotion. "Neville. If I manage this I can leave the castle. I don't have a reason to be at Hogwarts any longer."
Neville was stunned as he stared at Harry in disbelief. He wouldn't have to force Harry away, as long as they achieve what needed to be done before he had to take him to McGonagall then he wouldn't need to deceive him.
"What? How?" Neville said cautiously, trying to feign ignorance.
Harry shook his head, clearly not wanting to discuss it for which Neville was relieved. "Can you get me a wand?" He asked again. Neville could see Harry's whole body trembling, whether it be from fear or some other emotion.
Neville nodded feeling sick and shaky, he had a horrible feeling that this was it for Harry. This truly was his last chance, his ultimatum and if he didn't manage whatever he needed to, he wouldn't make it out alive. He just hoped they could flee the castle before Voldemort cottoned on.
Xxxxxxxxxxxx
It was apparent that the DA were treading very carefully on any matters regarding Harry. They were all on edge around him now, and Neville couldn't blame them. But that was no reason to treat Harry any differently, however the topic they were now discussing was a tricky one.
The room of requirements was full, pretty much everyone from the DA was present aside from Ginny. For whatever reason the red head was absent.
The silence still stretched on, Neville was surprised no one spoke so he sighed heavily.
"Listen, we have to do this" He began once more.
"No Neville" Seamus cut across him, staring at him with a steely expression "We don't"
Neville actually opened his mouth to retort but found he had nothing to say, the complete shock of Seamus's words stunned him.
"He's right Neville" Luna said gently, staring at him with sad eyes. "I want to help Harry too, but you're making it seem like this is life or death for him."
Neville held her gaze an swallowed heavily. "I think it is" He admitted before pushing on before she or anyone else could retort "But that's why it matters so much, Harry says it is worth it" He said quietly.
Luna's intense gaze didn't leave him as he continued. "When this is done he can leave the castle-"
However this only caused Luna's gaze to sharpen. "I don't understand" She cut across. "You're making it seem like Harry had a choice whether he is here or not"
Neville nodded, not sure how his friends would take this next bit of news. "I spoke to Professor McGonagall" He started hesitantly, remembering their conversation. It had been astonishing to find out that she was planning on acting but a relief at the same time. He only had to make sure that Harry had done whatever it is he needed to. He opened his mouth to speak clearly as he informed them all what his Professor had told him earlier. "She can move Harry out of the castle" He admitted.
"I don't follow?" Seamus said frowning.
Neville expanded. "The only reason she hasn't done this yet is because Harry refuses to leave. He says that he has to do something and this seems like it." Everyone was looking horrified as he continued. "Harry will leave of his own free will and be safe when this is done." He tried to reassure them despite his own personal worries and misgivings.
"That's stupid" Seamus said, his voice sharp. "It's killing him. He's not in the right frame of mind to make that decision. He should have left already"
Neville shook his head in agreement. "You're right. Which is why McGonagall will remove him from the castle on Monday, regardless if Harry cooperates or not." He had been stunned that she had wanted to act so soon, particularly as it coincided with Harry acting.
"But that's tomorrow?" Parvati gaped. "You want us to get Harry into the Chamber tomorrow? Why are we doing this? Wouldn't it be better if he just left?"
Neville sighed heavily, he didn't think they would understand. "Because Harry wants to" Something told him this had to be done, the way Harry had reacted clearly made it important.
"That's not a good enough reason" Seamus argued. "Harry should not have a say in this"
"I don't think Harry realises he can leave now" Neville cut across. "He can't take it any more. Each day is a grind for him, each moment is suffering. I truly think You Know Who has convinced him that where ever he will go Harry can't escape" He paused, trying to make this clear to everyone "For some reason Harry is certain this is the only way to be safe. Once this is done everything will be okay." Neville summed up.
"I think we should just help get him out of the castle" Seamus said crossing his arms. "And nothing to do with the Chamber."
Neville sighed heavily and instead addressed everyone else. "You don't have to help, but please Harry needs this" And he truly believed this, which is why he had such a determination to get them to understand.
There was again a horrible silence which fell upon the occupants in the room. Many of them were looking very wary and sceptical at the idea.
"What about Tom?" Lavender whispered quietly. "Even if we help get Harry out of the castle, McGonagall doesn't know and we can't tell her. He might hurt her." She reasoned.
Neville nodded, and repeated what he had told McGonagall. "That's why I'm leaving too"
"What-?" Seamus started as the others all burst out their surprise, but Neville cut across them all sharply.
"Harry is more important then anything right now." He argued fiercely. "And we're not doing any good sitting in the castle playing by You Know Who's rules"
"We can still fight" Ernie started but Neville shook his head.
"You can carry on. Snape still needs to learn his place, but for Harry the time is now. He has to run and I'm not going to let Tom hurt anyone again" This one time, he would help Harry and then there was no looking back, he would leave Hogwarts for good. So it was a huge comfort when the Ravenclaw smiled at him gently.
"Okay" Luna said nodding firmly. "I'm with you"
Neville had never felt more relieved to have someone on his side before.
He nodded and turned to the others, waiting expectantly.
"Do we have to go into the chamber ourselves?" Lavender started hesitantly. Neville didn't get a chance to answer.
"The Chamber of Secrets?" A sharp voice cut across them.
Neville turned and sure enough Ginny was walking towards them from the entrance of the room, a hard expression on her face.
Neville nodded as she spoke, addressing them all.
"There is only one thing of value down there" Ginny said, her gaze hard and calculating.
Neville looked at her astonished, but he didn't get a chance to question before Ginny spoke again clearly getting straight to the point.
"A Basalisk fang"
Neville blinked surprised. Why would Harry need a Basalisk fang, his thoughts raced unable to find an answer, fortunately it seemed Ginny had one.
"Why does Harry want one of them?" Seamus cut across before he could speak, voicing his own wonder.
Ginny however locked onto him as she seemed to understand at once.
"Do you know what that means?" She said firmly, her eyes shinning in determination.
Neville shook his head, as did the others around him. Luna too was frowning, curious to see what the young Weasley would tell them.
"Harry's going to destroy him" She stated firmly.
"Destroy who?" Neville said blinking, now he was lost.
Ginny's gaze sharpened onto his own as she crossed her arms, Neville was surprised to see that she was smiling.
"Tom" She answered.
There was only a moments silence before she continued. Neville could feel his heart pounding, is this what Harry meant about being free.
"When Harry freed me from Tom before" Ginny said speaking slightly softly now. "It was with a Basalisk Fang. He destroyed the Diary and in turn I was okay again."
Everyone else looked elated at this news but Neville only felt a horrible despair, something didn't add up as Ernie spoke excitedly.
"So that's what Harry means" He summed up. "When Tom is destroyed he can leave the castle without harming anyone."
Ginny nodded, her eyes shinning in determination. "I believe so"
Neville had to speak up, he couldn't let them be so naive to the truth.
"I don't think that's right Ginny" He said softly, shaking his head, his stomach felt like it had been ripped out.
Ginny tilted her head to the side but thankfully she didn't interrupt she only waited silently for his reason.
Neville shook his head. "I don't think Harry knows about Tom"
Her gaze narrowed but again she only waited as he pieced together his thoughts. "Even now Harry is trying to protect us. When You Know Who was here..." Neville felt his throat run dry, he still felt terrible for what had happened and his involvement. He swallowed as he continued "Harry wanted nothing more then to keep me safe and in extension this applies to us. If Harry knows about Tom, he wouldn't stay in the castle." He concluded. "He wouldn't risk our lives"
Ginny frowned, and Neville knew his point had hit home as he waited, giving her time to contemplate the situation. At last she nodded, everyone else was waiting silently.
"Okay" Neville was surprised when she agreed. "But regardless, I will help"
Neville couldn't help it as a smile stretched across his face, he nodded firmly, he had never been more thankful of her support before. "Tomorrow then?"
Ginny only nodded.
Xxxxxxxxxxx
It was dinner time on Monday and as usual Harry had hardly touched anything on his plate. His thoughts were racing wildly. A Horcrux, he was sure there was one in the room of requirements. He could remember the impending doom, the horrible feeling of weakness, of Voldemort being strangely nearby as he had sat in the meadow conjured up by the room.
It had been odd to have his thoughts so jumbled before but now Harry was certain the Horcrux was the reason for his missing hours on Friday night. The feeling had been so familiar to him, as if Nagini had been by his side again.
He took a deep breath as he continued to think, it made sense for Voldemort to hide one in the castle, it meant so much to him after all. It also made sense for him to hide one in the room of requirements, no one would ever think to look there.
Harry felt nervous as he readied himself, he had to act and fast and then finally he could find Ron and Hermione again.
Neville had drafted in most of the DA to help and thankfully had decided to play everything cautiously, everyone was currently on look out, it was of key importance that they could identify exactly where Snape or the Carrows were. Maybe he could do this after all.
Thankfully Snape was currently in his office, whereas Alecto and Amycus sat at the teachers table in discussion.
McGonagall was also missing as was a number of his Professor's who were normally present.
Neville fidgeted beside him and Harry firmly gripped Luna's wand in his hand. It felt odd to be armed, he hadn't properly done any magic in a long time, he wasn't even sure if he could focus that much.
He glanced towards the entrance as saw the sign, his own stomach twisting.
Ginny had entered the great hall, to anyone else it looked so casually as she only sat down on the left hand side of the Gryffindor table. Harry swallowed nervously, that meant the cost was clear and Snape was still in his office, if she had sat on the right they had to wait.
Neville stood up slowly beside him as Harry followed quietly behind, they passed Ginny without a glance and left the great hall.
Dinner was a great cover, students were continuously moving freely into the Great Hall so it was unlikely anyone would find it suspicious that he had left. At first Harry had been convinced that Neville would cause a distraction but he was right in acting quietly.
However they had hardly made it down a side corridor when someone spoke.
"Potter" Harry felt himself freeze at the familiar voice cutting through him as he halted. Beside him Neville had already turned and snapped.
"What do you want Malfoy?"
Harry had to go now, if Malfoy was here then sure enough there was a possibility he could be followed.
Malfoy didn't answer and Harry steeled himself as he turned around to face the Slytherin.
At once his own dull eyes locked on Malfoy's. The Slytherin's gaze had sharpened as Harry felt his heart rate increase, this was his only chance, he couldn't go on any longer.
Malfoy frowned as he in turn scanned across to Neville. The Slytherin was cottoning on and fast.
"What are you planning?" He accused. Harry was surprised that the question was targeted towards Neville who only forced a cold grin onto his face.
"What makes you think we're planning anything?" He replied, offhandedly shrugging. Harry knew that Neville had a tight grip on his own wand, ready to strike. Harry couldn't bring himself to grip Luna's wand hidden in his pocket, he was just frozen in place.
Malfoy's gaze swept back across to Harry as he spoke clearly. "I hope you know what you're doing Longbottom"
Harry stood their mutely, his lips locked shut as the blond continued.
"The headmaster wants to see you in his office" Malfoy instructed, Harry couldn't place the emotion in his voice. "I am supposed to take you there now."
Harry's mouth went dry. This couldn't have come at a worse time, what could Snape possibly want now. Voldemort wasn't in the castle that was certain.
Harry felt sick as his mind flashed back to the manor, they couldn't be taking him back. His had gripped around the wand but he couldn't bring himself to raise it
"What does he want?" Harry asked warily, completely locked on Malfoy.
Malfoy replied seriously. "He says he has something important to tell you, I don't know anything else" He answered his gaze sharp as he glanced between the two of them once more.
Harry stilled as Neville was clearly getting anxious. He raised his wand to direct it at the Slytherin.
Malfoy flicked his eyes back to Neville before disregarding the wand completely as he focused back on Harry.
"Ten minutes" Harry found himself saying automatically. He only needed to stall.
Neville glanced at him, his brow furrowing but Harry didn't turn to look or answer, he only watched Malfoy who's expression had set.
Malfoy crossed his arms and was silent as his eyes pierced directly through him. Harry could only wait uncomfortably, he only needed a little more time, he had to do this now.
Malfoy steadied himself as he surveyed them both and he at last said deadly serious.
"10 minutes" He agreed.
Harry couldn't believe it as he stood rooted to the spot, was Malfoy really doing this.
Malfoy only nodded curtly as his gaze didn't leave Harry's, he stood rooted to the spot as he spoke clearly.
"I hope you know what you're doing" He said tightly.
Harry felt stunned, a confusing mix running through him as his head worked fast, he didn't understand why Malfoy had said yes. Neville however seemed to react before him.
"Come on" He said pulling Harry away from the Slytherin who was only watching them both carefully.
They tore off into a run.
Harry felt hollow and lost and a rising sense of fear as the approached Moaning Myrtles bathroom, he had already lost track of the time. Snape and Malfoy could be already be looking for him already and he hadn't even entered the chamber.
Fortunately they saw no one as they entered, Harry even registered that Myrtle was absent as he stepped towards the tap.
His eyes locked on the small snake twisted around the silver tap. Only a few more steps and it would be done.
"Wait here" Harry instructed to Neville.
Neville looked like he was going to protest as he was completely silent. Harry didn't have the energy to deal with him just now, his scar although normally burning was quite uncomfortable right now.
After an awkward silence Neville nodded which was good as they could be discovered if they lingered any longer. A deep uncontrollable sense of urgency was running through Harry as he moved to the gaping hole in the floor.
He entered the chamber.
Xxxxxxxxxx
Neville waited anxiously. He wanted to go with Harry but he couldn't leave the entrance unguarded. Malfoy was surely looking for them now, or had alerted Snape and in turn Voldemort of Harry's suspicious movements.
So it was a complete relief when Harry emerged twenty minutes later, wand in hand.
Harry looked ready to collapse, as if using magic had drained him entirely but he now had such a look of determination on his face. He clutched a Basilisk Fang tightly in his grip.
"Deal with Malfoy" Harry said, his voice strangely distant as he addressed Neville. He turned to him alarmed.
"Where are you going Harry?" He said, his eyes darting around. "We have to get you out of here now." He insisted. McGonagall would be waiting for them, they had to find her before Snape found them.
But Harry shook his head fiercely. This had to be done, he was so close now, only a little bit more and then he could leave.
"Stall Malfoy" He said thickly. "It isn't done yet"
"Harry-" Neville began to plead but Harry wasn't listening. He had already began to step away.
"I can't go yet" Harry said as he gripped the Basilisk Fang tightly in his grip.
"We have to leave the Castle now, McGonagall can do it" Neville insisted, hoping that Harry would come with him. Harry continued to walk and it was with a heavy heart that Neville raised his own wand.
Harry was quicker and it was because had not expected his friend to curse him that he sank into unconsciousness.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Harry stepped into the room of requirements and at once felt the intense pressure consume him. He staggered as he gripped the Basilisk Fang loosing in his grip. This was the place.
He forced himself to step forwards as the immense presence of another Horcrux made itself so obviously clear. There was no barriers between them, now Harry and the Horcurx were in the same part of the room of requirements there was nothing stopping the suffocating link between them.
Harry took a steadying breath as he barely managed to observe the room. It was piled high with hidden treasures that students had hid over the centuries, a thin path of free floor space guided Harry deeper into the room.
He couldn't fail, he had to go on. It was a very real possibility that Harry would lose consciousness like the other times. If Voldemort could possess him now or even glimpse where he was then all would be lost, Voldemort would know and he would come.
It was surprisingly comforting holding the deadly poisonous fang in his hand, at least this time he had a definite way out if anything went wrong. Snape would not be able to save him like he had from Nagini. If Harry pierced his own skin, even slightly, it would be the end.
Harry stepped forwards cautiously, the Horcrux was close, he could feel it through his very skin as if his whole body was falling to it, losing the fight.
Not much longer, that was all he could repeat to himself as he endured the weakness flooding through him.
Voldemort could easily possess him if Harry fled but it was something he was willing to chance, he would keep the Basilisk Fang close to him, he would never be controlled again.
It was these thoughts that kept Harry focused as he approached a piece of Voldemort's soul.
His heart was hammering he stepped around a large pile of precariously balanced books and his eyes narrowed in on a small crown.
Harry nearly slipped then and there as he fell to his knees. It was as if the Horcrux had locked onto him, locked on and was forcing itself into his very being. It was fighting back, it must know that it's end was potentially nearing.
He had to go on. Nothing else mattered. Harry stood, his eyes locked onto crown as he stepped towards it. Voldemort had tormented him too long, and Harry would finish this. This one last task, then surely he had done enough.
The room was eerily quiet as he approached, the only sound was his heart beating loudly in his chest.
The crown sat innocently upon a large bust and it almost caused Harry to falter as his mind flew back to almost over a year ago, Harry had been in this exact spot before. Snape's potions book, the Half Blood Prince, it was hidden right here, Harry had even moved the Horcrux to remember where he had marked the spot.
It made him feel sick and shaky but it was this realisation which held his mind.
He stood before it, he couldn't hesitate any longer, Harry had to act now while he still had the strength to stand.
He drew the basilisk fang high and drew breath before plunging it into the crown. His head erupted in agony.
Harry's eyes widened in astonishment and understanding as his vision shifted to a dark place he didn't recognise.
Harry felt everything shift again but it was in terms of rage, as he was trapped in Voldemort's body. He could feel Voldemort's fury, his confusion, but most of all his fear.
"Ravenclaw's diadem, Nagini" Voldemort's eyes widened in a horror as he realised the truth, that Harry knew about his deepest secret.
Harry couldn't tell which part was him and which part was Voldemort. He could only feel a deep sense of fear and dread embedded into his very soul.
Harry struggled but he fell back into his own body in shock. Instead of the relief after he had slain Nagini, Harry instead only knew fear as his vision swam back into the room of requirements.
He knew, Voldemort knew. Harry panicked wildly as he scrambled up from the floor, his scar was burning fiercely, clamping his hand to his head he hissed through his teeth.
He had to think clearly but the pain was tremendous. Voldemort was coming now, staggering along numbly Harry tried to concentrate.
He drew a sharp breath his thoughts stitching together in desperation.
"Ginny" He barely whispered. If Voldemort was aware that Harry knew about the Horcrux's he would find out about Ron and Hermione. Harry couldn't guarantee his own escape but he had to secures Ginny's now. If Voldemort got to him he would find her.
Cursing he broke into a run, his own body rushing with adrenaline, he burst out of the room of requirements in desperation.
He could feel Voldemort breaking through his mind, ripping into his thoughts, gritting his teeth Harry concentrated on Ron and Hermione. He could picture their faces so clearly and it was them that held his mind as Voldemort tried to control him. Sprinting through the corridors now Harry hurtled onwards, his scar burning all the more fiercely.
He came to a split in the corridor, one way led to the great hall and the other to the common room. Harry could not remember where Ginny would be. She had been watching out for him as he slipped away unnoticed but had she stayed in the great hall.
He made his decision, hissing in agony. Voldemort could not break through, not yet, not know. He was getting nearer.
Harry entered the great hall in a blind panic, pushing past a group of first years who spluttered indignantly. He didn't stop though, he forced his way onwards scanning the Gryffindor table. His heart sank in desperation as Ginny's red hair was absent from the table.
He stumbled, grasping onto the edge of the table clutching his scar in agony. Voldemort was almost here, he had no time.
"Harry" Harry heard his name, but his vision was blurring, his focus shifting.
"Harry" His voice was called again, he felt himself being shaken as he fought to hold on. Voldemort's angry presence was approaching, he was on the Hogwarts grounds.
"Ginny" Harry whispered, his eyes darting in the darkness, he could not tell who was beside him.
"Ginny?" The voice was faint "Is she okay?"
"Get her out of the castle" Harry whispered back frantically as he clenched his eyes shut, he could barely hold on. "The Weasley's, they need to run, all of them"
"What do you mean?"
"Now" Harry said hurriedly "He is coming. He'll destroy her"
The grip from the other person squeezed his shoulder firmly before releasing him "I'm on it" The unknown person left and Harry felt relief flood through him. Ginny would be safe, all of the Weasley's they had to be, there was no other option.
His vision was clearing as he stopped panicking, an odd sense of calm washing over him. If this was the end then he had done all he could. He just had no strength anymore. Harry fell to his knees facing away from the main door as the first screams erupted. He had no time to save himself but that didn't matter anymore.
Harry tried to block out the burning in his scar as he felt Voldemort approach behind him. He dared not move, he remained kneeling on the floor facing away from Voldemort as students rushed past him in an attempt to be as far from the Dark Lord as they could.
Harry felt the wand tip on the back of his neck. The screams had silenced as students clung to the outer walls in horror. Harry could see McGonagall staring at him in fear, there was nothing that she could do.
Harry's mind erupted suddenly into his deepest memories, flashing by like a flip book, he didn't even try to concentrate, there was no way he would be able to stop Voldemort on his onslaught against him.
The memories were flashing by and Harry could see nothing else, nothing until everything slowed. The cave was forming in his head, the locket a fake, missing. He heard and felt Voldemort's deathly scream of fury rushing through him as Harry was hurled away from him in one swoop of his wand.
He fell a distance away, rolling, his head smashing against the floor in agony as his vision blurred. He blinked rapidly as he felt his bones crack, his body break but he only staggered to his feet, forcing himself to move, he would not die begging from the floor. Voldemort was approaching again, his anger immense.
As Harry's vision swam, his head throbbing he saw a figure please themselves directly in front of him.
McGonagall was standing before him, blocking Harry from Voldemort's path.
"You shall not touch him" She hissed raising her wand towards Voldemort.
"No" Harry staggered.
Harry felt his chest compress tightly, could barely remain standing as Gryffindor's, Ravenclaw's and Hufflepuff's moved forwards to block Voldemort's path to Harry. Teachers also moved to stand beside him raising their wands. Harry panicked, no one else could die because of him.
Voldemort hissed so only Harry could understand. "You will come to me" Voldemort was terrifying, his rage was fierce.
Everyone stilled, but did not move from around Harry as the Carrows and Snape moved to be beside their Lord. Harry knew he had to, Voldemort was blind to reason, he would destroy anyone who stood in his way. They couldn't protect him now, Voldemort would destroy him, nothing would stop that.
Harry barely managed to speak "Kill me" He hissed. This had to end now, there was nothing else to it.
Harry could feel Voldemort's fury burning into his soul, pressing against his very being. He had no time to move as people went flying away from him as Voldemort advanced, no one stopped the Dark Lord as they were blasted off their feet. No one prevented him from reaching Harry, he threw them aside easily.
Harry was not aware of where anyone landed, his whole focus was on Voldemort who stood before him.
"Who else knows?" Voldemort hissed furiously as he pointed his want directly at Harry's head. Harry couldn't protect his mind as Voldemort threw himself into his memories. Harry staggered as he fell to his knees once more, they burned in protest with the rest of his body as Ron and Hermione swam into his mind immediately and he felt Voldemort hiss angrily as he withdrew.
"The Weasley's" He screamed at the Carrows. "Find them, bring them to me now" He demanded.
"The Weasley girl is at Hogwarts" Alecto only managed to stutter as both and her brother rushed out of the hall.
Voldemort towered over Harry, glaring down at him coldly.
Harry must have looked mad as he laughed almost hysterically
"They're gone"
Harry could barely hold on, his scar was in agony, ripping through his entire being. Harry said it again, this time louder as he clutched at his head. "You won't find her, she left the castle long ago" He knew this was a lie, but Ginny needed more time, all of the Weasley's did, they had to be safe.
Voldemort stared intently at Harry, his eyes burning, as people watched frightened around the room. Now Harry was able to focus on his surroundings if only vaguley. It was a small relief as those that had been thrown from Voldemort's way were being helped up by others as they stared on in horror. McGonagall's head was bleeding, she looked barely able to stand.
"The mudblood Granger" Voldemort addressed Snape "Where is she?" He demanded, Harry had never felt so much fear for his friends.
Snape bowed low "My Lord, she has not been seen, her family have disappeared completely"
Harry had never known such a rush of relief, Hermione was clever enough to cover everything. Voldemort hissed furiously.
"The Weasley boy?" Harry could detect the fear in Voldemort's voice.
Snape bowed lower this time, it was apparent he wasn't going to deliver the Dark Lord the news he wanted. "He was reported ill, he hasn't attended Hogwarts"
Voldemort screamed in fury, as Snape fell to the ground underneath his Lord's curse, his screams echoing through the hall.
Voldemort turned back to Harry "I will burn them" He threatened, his voice deadly.
"You won't find them" Harry hissed back, but he barely had time to think as his memories where flung into once more.
But Harry could give him nothing, he didn't know where they were. Voldemort withdrew from his mind and started pacing, Harry's scar was still burning intently and he knew Voldemort was frightened.
Harry couldn't help it, he stood slowly, his whole body shaking violently. Voldemort turned furiously towards him distracted. Harry forced all of his remaining courage together.
Clenching his teeth together from the pain in his head and his body he said as coldly as he could "Dumbledore destroyed the ring"
Voldemort erupted swiping his wand angrily as Harry felt his feet leave the floor, he was lifted into the air as his throat constricted, he couldn't breath as the pressure increased. Everything was going fuzzy as his body thrashed about in the air, desperate for release. He thrashed against the pain, his vision dimming.
Harry could only vaguely hear the screams and sobs of the students scared to flee from the hall as he felt the life leave him.
So it was with a very nasty sharp surprise that Harry fell to the floor, his body crumpling. Harry clutched at his neck, gasping for breath, struggling to get his lungs to clear as his throat burned.
Through the aches and pains Harry barely managed to raise his head as he asked once more the question that Voldemort had always refused to answer him.
"Why won't you kill me?" He hissed madly but Voldemort was ignoring him. It seemed the that he was attempting to calm himself instead of ripping Harry into pieces.
He didn't understand, there was no reason for Voldemort to keep him alive, not now he had been destroying parts of his soul. What did Voldemort have to gain from him living, what was more precious then his Horcrux's.
And that's when the cold hard reality hit him. His mind had been clouded before but now it was terrifyingly clear.
Nothing was as valuable to Voldemort then his Horcrux's, nothing. Harry's eyes widened in fear as he automatically pushed himself away from the Dark Lord, his breath short and sharp. He finally understood, he finally knew why he had been put through all this torment. Why he had been subjected to such horrors. Voldemort didn't want him alive, Voldemort needed him alive.
I'm not sure if you've noticed but I like cliff hangers...
This chapter felt a little messy...so I hope you enjoyed it. Harry had to find out sooner of later! Thanks for reading as always and thank you to everyone for reviewing, favouriting and following. Please let me know what you think, we're approaching the final 4 or 5 chapters now...